Implantable Neuromodulation System Magnetic Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nerve stimulation and neuromodulation systems for urinary incontinence are invasive, costly, and associated with higher risks of complications, necessitating a less invasive and more efficient method for treating conditions like urge incontinence, urinary frequency, and chronic pain.
Innovation Solution
An implantable neuromodulation system comprising a portable transmitter and an implantable receiver with flexible insulated leads and electrodes, generating pulsed, alternating magnetic fields to deliver stimulating pulses to targeted tissues, allowing adjustable treatment protocols for effective muscle and nerve stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional invasive nerve stimulation systems are used, then effective neuromodulation can be achieved, but the procedure becomes more invasive, costly, and prone to complications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct electrical contact (mechanical/electrical connection) with magnetic field coupling. The implantable receiver uses a magnetically coupled interface that eliminates the need for percutaneous connections, reducing mechanical trauma and infection risk while maintaining effective neuromodulation delivery to target tissues
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the external transmitter and implantable receiver. This magnetic coupling acts as a mediator that transfers energy and control signals without requiring direct physical penetration, thereby reducing invasiveness while preserving system functionality
2Ease of operation
If implantable devices are made more flexible and adaptable, then ease of placement and patient comfort improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the neuromodulation system into three separate components: an external programmable transmitter, an implantable receiver, and flexible insulated leads with electrodes. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the leads can be made flexible for easy placement while the transmitter handles complexity through programmability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates flexible insulated leads that can adapt to patient anatomy and movement. The flexibility allows the leads to conform to tissue contours and withstand physiological movements without damage, simplifying the implantation procedure and improving patient comfort
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
The system provides a less invasive and cost-effective means of modulating bladder function, reducing complications and improving treatment outcomes for urinary incontinence and other neuromuscular disorders with adjustable treatment protocols and reduced risk of tissue damage.
Implementation Method 1
The transmitter is programmable with a treatment protocol to cause the transmitter to generate a pulsed, alternating magnetic field in accordance with the treatment protocol. When the transmitter is placed in close proximity to the receiver, the alternating magnetic field pulses generated by the transmitter cause the receiver to operably generate stimulating pulses
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable neuromodulation system and method of treating a patient through neuromodulation of a patient's body tissue. The neuromodulation system includes a portable transmitter and an implantable receiver. The implantable receiver includes one or more electrodes disposed on the distal end of one or more elongated, flexible insulated leads. The transmitter is programmable with a treatment protocol to cause the transmitter to generate a pulsed, alternating magnetic field in accordance with the treatment protocol. When the transmitter is placed in close proximity to the receiver, the alternating magnetic field pulses generated by the transmitter cause the receiver to operably generate stimulating pulses delivered via the electrode(s) to the targeted tissue of the patient.