MRI Compatible Cannula with Integrated Antenna for Deep Brain Stimulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) systems lack MRI compatibility, necessitating alternative configurations for real-time imaging guidance during implantation procedures.

Innovation Solution

Development of MRI-compatible cannula and microelectrode systems with internal MRI antennas, allowing for real-time MRI guidance and electrical signal measurement in deep brain procedures, featuring concentric tubes and RF decoupling circuits to isolate MRI and recording functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional DBS lead systems are used, then electrical stimulation can be delivered to target cranial tissue, but the systems are not MRI compatible and cannot provide real-time imaging guidance during implantation procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveMRI compatibilityVSAvoidlead system configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lead system is segmented into separate functional modules: an MRI-compatible cannula with integrated antenna for imaging guidance, and a separate stimulation lead for electrical delivery. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system MRI compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cannula is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a delivery conduit for the stimulation lead and as an integrated MRI antenna for real-time imaging guidance. This universal design eliminates the need for separate imaging equipment and simplifies the overall system configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If real-time MRI guidance is implemented during implantation, then precise lead placement can be achieved, but the system complexity increases due to integration of MRI antennas and decoupling circuits

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelead placement accuracyVSAvoidantenna and circuit integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The MRI antenna is merged with the cannula structure, and the recording electrodes are integrated into the same platform. This combining of functions into a single integrated system reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall device architecture while maintaining precise measurement capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

RF decoupling circuits are introduced as intermediary elements that mediate between the MRI transmit coil and the receive antenna/electrodes. These circuits act as buffers that enable simultaneous operation of transmit and receive functions without mutual interference, managing system complexity through controlled intermediate stages.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If RF decoupling circuits are used to isolate MRI and recording functions, then simultaneous MRI imaging and electrical signal recording can occur, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimultaneous imaging and recording capabilityVSAvoiddecoupling circuit configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs dynamic switching mechanisms that allow the cannula and electrodes to operate in different modes (MRI receive antenna during imaging, recording electrodes during electrical signal detection) as needed. This dynamic adaptability enables versatile simultaneous operation while managing complexity through controlled mode transitions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 precise, real-time imaging and electrical signal measurement for accurate placement of DBS leads, enhancing the precision and safety of deep brain stimulation procedures while maintaining MRI compatibility.

Implementation Method 1

The antenna is advanced in the cannula and used to obtain MRI signals and hence, images

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMRI signal reception: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

an RF decoupler circuit in communication with the inner member with the decoupler circuit configured to decouple the MRI antenna during an MRI RF excitation transmission

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRF decoupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

a recording electrode on a distal portion thereof used to obtain and/or measure microrecordings of local tissue

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical signal detection: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS8108028B2MRI systems having MRI compatible universal delivery cannulas with cooperating MRI antenna probes and related systems and methods
Publication Date: 2012.01.31 SURGIVISION INC
  • US8108028B2 patent drawing
  • US8108028B2 patent drawing
  • US8108028B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In vivio deep brain medical probe systems include: (a) an NMRI compatible cannula comprising a plurality of concentric axially extending tubes with a receiving bore; and (b) an elongate antenna member with a conductor and an insulating layer configured to slidably advance through cannula bore to define an MRI receive antenna.