MRI-Compatible Stimulation Program for Implantable Pulse Generators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable electrical stimulation systems face challenges during MRI scans due to increased power consumption, leading to reduced or failed stimulation of patient tissue, as existing systems are not MRI-compatible and suffer from battery drain.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for generating an MRI-compatible stimulation program by modifying existing stimulation parameters, such as reducing energy consumption by altering electrode selection and stimulation parameters like current, voltage, or pulse width, to ensure continued effective stimulation during MRI procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard stimulation parameters are used during MRI scans, then therapeutic stimulation can be provided, but battery power is depleted rapidly causing system failure
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically modifies stimulation parameters (voltage, current, pulse width, frequency) when MRI scan is detected, reducing power consumption while attempting to maintain therapeutic effectiveness. The processor adjusts at least one parameter to a reduced value during the MRI scan duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The stimulation program dynamically adapts parameters based on the operational state. Different parameter sets are used for different states (normal vs. MRI scan), allowing the system to optimize performance for each condition. The system transitions between stimulation programs based on detected state changes.
2Loss of energy
If stimulation parameters are reduced to conserve battery during MRI, then power consumption decreases, but stimulation effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies a modified stimulation program that provides partial stimulation during MRI scans rather than full stimulation. This partial action is sufficient to maintain basic therapeutic effectiveness while significantly reducing power consumption. The reduced parameters are adjusted to provide the minimum necessary stimulation during the constrained MRI environment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the system maintains full stimulation parameters during MRI, then therapeutic efficacy is preserved, but the stimulator becomes incompatible with MRI procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The stimulator system is designed to perform multiple functions: normal therapeutic stimulation during routine operation and modified low-power stimulation during MRI scans. The single device adapts to both MRI and non-MRI environments, eliminating the need for separate MRI-compatible and non-MRI stimulators. The system universally handles both operational contexts through automatic parameter adjustment.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and systems for generating an MRI-compatible stimulation program based at least in part on a first set of stimulation parameters of a first stimulation program are presented. For example, a method or system (via a processor) can include receiving the first set of stimulation parameters, wherein the first set of stimulation parameters indicates a first set of stimulation electrodes; modifying the first set of stimulation parameters to generate a second set of stimulation parameters of the MRI-compatible stimulation program by at least one of 1) reducing a value of at least one stimulation parameter of the first set of stimulation parameters or 2) replacing, in the first set of electrodes, a case electrode with at least one electrode of the lead; and initiating a signal that provides the IPG with the MRI-compatible stimulation program.