Leadless Neurostimulator with Integrated Antenna
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current deep brain stimulation (DBS) technologies face challenges in providing efficient and minimally invasive neurostimulation solutions with integrated power supply and communication systems for long-term implantation in neurological disorders treatment.
Innovation Solution
A leadless neurostimulation device featuring a MEMS film with electrodes, a stimulation source, and a power supply, coupled with a tether and antenna for wireless communication, allowing for surgical implantation and remote programming, and utilizing a micro-antenna for efficient energy transfer and data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional DBS systems with separate implants and leads are used, then reliable neural stimulation can be achieved, but the device complexity and surgical invasiveness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the neural stimulator, power supply, and communication antenna into a single integrated leadless implantable device. This merging eliminates the need for separate pulse generators and extension leads, reducing surgical complexity while maintaining reliable neural stimulation through integrated electrode arrays directly on the implant surface
Solution Approach 2:
The implantable device performs multiple functions within a single unit: neural stimulation through integrated electrodes, power storage through onboard capacitors or batteries, wireless communication for programming and monitoring, and potentially neural recording. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed while ensuring reliable therapy delivery
2Reliability
If traditional DBS leads and extension cables are used, then electrical connection can be established, but the risk of tissue damage and infection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the external lead and extension cable components from the traditional DBS system. By integrating all electrical connections directly into the implantable device with no external leads required, the system removes the pathways for tissue damage and infection while maintaining reliable electrical connection between the power source and neural targets
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode arrays are integrated directly onto the surface of the implantable device housing, with electrodes nested within or on the same structure as the power supply and electronics. This nested integration eliminates the need for separate lead wires extending from the device, reducing tissue exposure and infection risk while ensuring stable electrical connections
3Duration of action of stationary object
If integrated power supply is included in the stimulator, then long-term implantation is enabled, but the device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs high-energy-density power storage technologies such as lithium-ion batteries or supercapacitors with optimized capacity parameters to extend implantation duration. The power supply parameters are carefully selected to provide long-term operation (years) while minimizing volume through advanced energy storage materials and compact cell design
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply components (batteries or capacitors) are nested within the implantable device housing, with the energy storage element integrated into the same structural envelope as the electronics and electrodes. This nested arrangement maximizes space utilization, enabling long-term power supply without proportionally increasing overall device volume
4Ease of operation
If wireless communication antenna is integrated, then remote programming is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication antenna is merged with the structural components of the implantable device, such as using the device housing itself as part of the antenna structure or integrating the antenna into the same manufacturing process as the electrode arrays. This merging enables wireless programming and monitoring capabilities while minimizing additional complexity through shared structural elements
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and minimally invasive neurostimulation with reduced risk of tissue damage, long-term implantation capabilities, and real-time monitoring and control, effectively treating neurological disorders such as movement disorders and psychiatric conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The antenna can be used to program the stimulation capsule
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure describes a medical device to provide neurostimulation therapy to a patient's brain. The device can be surgically implanted and can remain in the patient until end of life. The present disclosure also describes accessories which guide the implantation of the device, and the components that form a leadless stimulator implantation kit.