Miniature Wireless Deep Brain Stimulation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional deep brain stimulation (DBS) procedures require two surgical procedures, one for implanting electrodes in the brain and another for the neurostimulator, posing risks and inconveniences due to the size of the neurostimulator and the need for general anesthesia.
Innovation Solution
A miniature, self-contained DBS system that can be entirely implanted within the brain, powered by an electromagnetic field, eliminating the need for a separate neurostimulator and allowing for outpatient procedures, with features like batteryless operation and wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional neurostimulator device is implanted in the chest, then deep brain stimulation can be delivered, but the device size requires a second surgical procedure and poses risks associated with larger implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the neurostimulator electronics and the electrode lead into a single integrated implantable device. The neurostimulator chip, capacitor, and electrode contacts are all housed within one compact device that can be implanted directly in the brain, eliminating the need for separate chest implantation of a neurostimulator and separate lead implantation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions within a single implant: it stores electrical charge in an internal capacitor, delivers controlled electrical stimulation through electrode contacts, and can be programmed remotely via wireless communication. This multi-functional design consolidates what were previously separate components into one universal implantable unit.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a conventional neurostimulator is implanted in the chest, then continuous DBS can be provided, but the device requires battery replacement and poses risks due to its size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the energy storage function from the stimulation delivery function by using a large capacitor that can be rapidly charged via wireless power transfer. This allows the device to accumulate sufficient energy for continuous stimulation without requiring a large battery, thereby reducing device size and associated risks while maintaining continuous operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical battery replacement procedure with wireless power transfer technology. An external device can wirelessly transmit energy to recharge the internal capacitor, eliminating the need for surgical battery replacement and reducing the size requirements of the implanted device while ensuring continuous operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If extension wire is routed subcutaneously from brain to chest, then neurostimulator can be implanted separately, but this requires additional surgical procedures and increases implantation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the neurostimulator electronics and electrode lead into a single integrated unit that is implanted directly in the brain. This eliminates the need for subcutaneous extension wires and separate chest implantation, reducing surgical complexity while maintaining the ability to deliver deep brain stimulation.
4Measurement precision
If patient remains awake during brain surgery, then proper stimulation areas can be identified, but patient experiences discomfort and requires local anesthesia
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated device allows for intraoperative testing and programming directly at the implantation site. The device can be programmed and tested during the same surgical procedure, allowing real-time verification of stimulation effects while the patient is awake, thereby ensuring proper electrode placement without requiring separate testing procedures.
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
This approach simplifies the implantation process, reduces risks, and offers more functionality such as monitoring physiological parameters, with the potential for reduced side effects and improved treatment efficacy through minimally invasive procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an implantable inductor on which a voltage is induced when subjected to an electromagnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable system and method for deep brain stimulation (DBS) treatments. The implantable system is sufficiently small and self-contained to enable implantation of the entire system within the brain, or optionally within the brain and the surrounding tissue. The system comprises an implantable inductor on which a voltage is induced when subjected to an electromagnetic field, and an implantable device comprising a housing, stimulating elements at an exterior surface of the housing, and electronics within the housing and electrically connected to the implantable inductor. The electronics produces a brain-stimulating current from the voltage induced on the implantable inductor and then delivers the brain-stimulating current to the stimulating elements. Deep brain stimulation is performed by subjecting the inductor to an electromagnetic field to induce a voltage on the inductor that powers the electronics to produce and deliver the brain-stimulating current to the stimulating elements.