Neural Electrode Array Simultaneous CAP Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring compound action potentials (CAPs) in neural tissue face challenges due to the low amplitude of the CAP signal compared to the stimulus voltage, requiring impractical amplification and introducing errors from sequential measurements, which complicates the precise determination of neural therapy locations and monitoring during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using an array of electrodes positioned proximal to neural tissue to simultaneously apply a stimulus and measure CAP responses, allowing for the determination of optimal therapy locations by generating a neural sensitivity map, which can be used intra-operatively or post-operatively to guide neural therapy and monitor spinal cord health.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If sequential measurement methods are used to measure compound action potentials, then measurement equipment complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to errors introduced between sequential measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions into a single simultaneous measurement system. Multiple electrodes are used to record compound action potentials at different locations at the same time, eliminating the need for sequential measurements and the errors they introduce, while maintaining manageable system complexity through integrated electrode arrays and simultaneous signal processing.
2Measurement precision
If high amplification is used to resolve low amplitude CAP signals, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases due to impractical amplifier requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function across multiple electrodes rather than relying on a single high-gain amplifier. By distributing the measurement across several electrodes and processing signals simultaneously, the system achieves the necessary signal resolution without requiring impractical amplifier amplification levels, thus reducing overall device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple electrodes are used to simultaneously measure CAP responses, then measurement precision improves by eliminating sequential measurement errors, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the electrode array multi-functional by using the same electrodes for both stimulation and measurement purposes. This universal approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated measurement electrodes, reducing device complexity while maintaining the precision benefits of simultaneous multi-point measurement.
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 enables precise and efficient determination of neural therapy locations, reduces errors in measurement, and provides real-time monitoring of neural activity, optimizing the placement and effectiveness of neural therapies while minimizing neurological damage during surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
An electrical pulse applied to the dorsal column by an electrode causes the depolarisation of neurons, and generation of propagating action potentials
Implementation Method 2
The CAP recorded is the result of a large number of different fibres depolarising. The propagation velocity is determined largely by the fibre diameter and for large myelinated fibres as found in the dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) and nearby dorsal column the velocity can be over 60 ms−1
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a desired location at which to apply a neural therapy. An array of electrodes is positioned proximal to neural tissue. A stimulus is applied from the array which evokes a neural compound action potential response in the neural tissue proximal to the array. A plurality of electrodes of the array simultaneously obtain respective measurements of the neural compound action potential response. From the measurements of the neural compound action potential response a desired location for a neural therapy is determined.