Implantable Neural Stimulation Electrode Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cylindrical spinal cord stimulation leads cause collateral stimulation and energy wastage due to full circumference current distribution, and large paddle leads require invasive surgical implantation, while small paddle leads are inadequate for certain applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of implantable neural stimulation electrode assemblies comprising a first and second electrode unit configured in a side-by-side arrangement, allowing percutaneous implantation and assembly in vivo to form a larger paddle-type array, reducing collateral stimulation and invasive procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cylindrical leads with ring-type electrodes are used, then current is delivered completely around the lead body, but this causes collateral stimulation and energy wastage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the necessary portion of current delivery by using a single-sided electrode array that directs current specifically toward the spinal cord, eliminating current flow in unnecessary directions and thereby reducing energy wastage while maintaining effective stimulation coverage
2Area of stationary object
If large paddle leads are used, then more neurological structures are covered, but invasive surgical implantation is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large paddle lead into multiple smaller electrode units that can be percutaneously implanted separately and then assembled together in vivo to form the complete large-area electrode array, thereby achieving both extensive coverage and minimally invasive implantation
3Ease of manufacture
If small paddle leads are used, then percutaneous implantation is possible, but they are inadequate for many SCS applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple small percutaneously-implantable electrode units together after implantation to form a large-effective electrode array, thereby achieving both the implantation accessibility of small leads and the coverage area of large leads
4Ease of operation
If cylindrical leads are used, then implantation is simplified, but additional fixation devices are required to prevent migration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a cylindrical (round) lead configuration to a flat paddle-shaped configuration, which provides increased surface area contact with the tissue and inherent stability, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for additional fixation devices while maintaining implantation simplicity
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 efficient current delivery to target neural tissue, reduces energy wastage, and facilitates percutaneous implantation of large electrode arrays, minimizing patient discomfort and complications while maintaining effective stimulation.
Implementation Method 1
one or more conductive rings spaced apart from each other at the distal end of the lead body... deliver electrical pulses to neurological tissue or muscle tissue
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable neurostimulation electrode assembly comprises a first electrode unit and a second electrode unit configured to be arranged in a side-by-side configuration. The first electrode unit includes a dielectric first paddle, a plurality of first electrodes carried by the first paddle, and a guideline. The guideline has a distal section affixed to the first paddle and a proximal section having a length configured to extend externally of a patient. The second electrode unit has a dielectric second paddle and a plurality of second electrodes carried by the second paddle. The second paddle is configured to travel along the guideline and contact the first paddle in the side-by-side configuration. As a result, the first and second electrode units of this embodiment can be passed percutaneously through the same percutaneous entry hole and assembled in vivo at the stimulation site to form a larger paddle-type electrode array without surgical implantation.