Neuromodulation Trigger Windows for Adaptive Therapy Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable and wearable stimulation systems for neurological disorders struggle with inaccurate time-based therapy delivery due to variations in patient schedules and activities, making it difficult to achieve ideal time or event-based stimulation schedules.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that uses trigger windows and requirements to adjust neuromodulation therapy based on patient-specific triggers, such as user inputs or sensor signals, allowing for adaptive therapy changes based on actual events rather than fixed time schedules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed time-based stimulation schedules are used, then therapy delivery is simplified and standardized, but accuracy and personalization deteriorate due to patient schedule variations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing trigger windows and requirements in advance, then automatically detects and responds to patient-specific events (medication intake, sleep periods, exercise) without requiring real-time manual scheduling adjustments. This preliminary configuration enables accurate, personalized therapy delivery while maintaining system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms by monitoring patient responses to stimulation and automatically adjusting therapy parameters based on observed effects. This feedback loop continuously optimizes therapy accuracy while adapting to changing patient needs, resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If time-based stimulation schedules are used, then therapy delivery is straightforward, but personalization and adaptability worsen due to inaccurate time estimates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically detecting patient events (medication intake, sleep, exercise) and adjusting therapy schedules without requiring manual input or complex configuration. The implantable device autonomously monitors and adapts to patient behavior patterns, providing personalized therapy while minimizing user burden and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary approach by introducing trigger windows and requirements as intermediate structures that bridge fixed time schedules and variable patient events. These intermediaries allow the system to adapt to patient-specific triggers while maintaining a manageable level of complexity through structured event detection.
3Measurement precision
If fixed time points are used for therapy changes, then system operation is simple, but measurement precision of patient events deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies segmentation by dividing the continuous time schedule into discrete trigger windows with specific requirements. Each window is configured to detect particular patient events (medication, sleep, exercise) with high precision, while the overall system remains simple through modular, standardized window configurations that can be independently adjusted.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for delivering a neuromodulation therapy. For a neuromodulation system implanted in a patient, trigger parameters including multiple trigger conditions and responses may be set. The trigger parameters may include a first trigger window condition with a first trigger response and a second trigger window condition with a second trigger response. Upon reaching a trigger window start time, observation for the trigger conditions may be initiated. In response to observing the first trigger window condition, the first trigger response may be executed to change the neuromodulation therapy delivered to the patient. In response to observing the second trigger window condition, the second trigger response may be executed. The trigger conditions may include user inputs, and/or sensed signals from internal or external sensors, while responses may include changes to stimulation parameters. Patient verification may be required before implementing therapy changes based on observed trigger conditions.