Neuroprosthesis Implantation via Surface Electrode Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for implanting neuroprostheses for genital area neuromodulation require invasive procedures, are costly, and depend on precise anatomical knowledge, limiting accessibility and increasing risks due to the need for separate test and permanent implantation steps, as well as requiring specialized skills.
Innovation Solution
A preoperative test method using removable adhesive electrodes for indirect nerve stimulation in the genital area, allowing data collection to determine the feasibility of neuroprosthesis implantation without surgery, and an implantation system with a curved hollow needle applicator for precise electrode placement, enabling non-invasive testing and simplified implantation by non-medically trained personnel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a test array or test neuroprosthesis is implanted before the final permanent neuroprosthesis, then the success of nerve stimulation can be verified, but the patient faces increased risks due to multiple implantation procedures and the overall cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing surface electrode testing before permanent implantation to verify nerve stimulation efficacy. This preliminary non-invasive test allows assessment of whether the neuroprosthesis will be effective, avoiding the need for a separate test array implantation and reducing overall surgical risks while maintaining reliability verification
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses surface electrodes as a temporary copy or surrogate for the permanent implanted electrodes. This copying approach allows the same stimulation function to be tested externally before commitment to surgical implantation, eliminating the need for a separate test implantation procedure
2Measurement precision
If invasive implantation methods are used to place electrodes close to nerves, then precise nerve stimulation is achieved, but the procedure requires specialized surgical skills and increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical surgical implantation system with a non-invasive surface electrode system for testing. This substitution eliminates the need for specialized surgical skills and complex implantation procedures while maintaining the ability to achieve precise nerve stimulation through externally applied electrodes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces surface electrodes as an intermediary between the external world and the target nerves. This intermediary approach allows nerve stimulation to be tested without direct invasive contact, simplifying the procedure while maintaining precision through proper surface electrode placement and stimulation parameter optimization
3Reliability
If separate test and permanent implantation steps are performed, then nerve stimulation success can be confirmed, but the overall treatment cost increases and accessibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the test and permanent implantation steps by using surface electrodes for testing that can directly transition to or inform the permanent implantation procedure. This consolidation eliminates the need for a separate paid test array implantation, reducing overall treatment cost while maintaining reliable confirmation of stimulation success through the same electrode system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-service or non-specialist administration of the test procedure through surface electrodes that can be applied and controlled without requiring specialized surgical training. This increases accessibility and reduces costs by allowing the test to be performed by non-specialist personnel, eliminating the need for expensive separate test implantation procedures
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a preoperative test method, to an implantation system (20) and to an implantation method for implanting a neuroprosthesis in the area of the pubic bone (31), wherein implantation is ultimately simplified and made more effective directly or indirectly by the subject-matters of the invention.