Neurostimulation Lead Positioning via Virtual Representation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic programmers for neurostimulation devices are inefficient during implant procedures, requiring time-consuming manual adjustments of electrode positions and configurations, leading to increased surgery time and patient discomfort.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a touch-sensitive screen and computer processor that provides a virtual representation of an implant lead, allowing for predefined electrode activation patterns and automatic activation of subsets of electrodes, receiving patient feedback to recommend optimal lead positioning and electrode configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual programming and adjustment of electrodes is used, then the clinician can control the stimulation parameters, but the process becomes time-consuming and increases surgery duration
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-defines multiple electrode activation patterns and subsets before the implant procedure. During surgery, the clinician can directly select from these pre-configured patterns without needing to manually program each electrode configuration, significantly reducing the time required for electrode positioning and testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages electrode subset activation and pattern switching based on clinician selection. The electronic programmer autonomously handles the complex sequencing and activation of electrode subsets, eliminating the need for manual adjustment of each electrode and reducing surgical time while maintaining clinical control.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual testing and adjustment of lead position is performed, then the clinician can optimize stimulation coverage, but patient discomfort increases due to prolonged procedure time
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides pre-defined electrode activation patterns that are designed to cover different spinal regions. These patterns are prepared in advance, allowing the clinician to quickly test different lead positions and configurations without prolonged manual adjustment, thereby reducing patient discomfort while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode array is divided into multiple subsets that can be independently activated. This segmentation allows the system to test different portions of the lead systematically and quickly, enabling precise lead positioning determination without requiring prolonged continuous stimulation that would increase patient discomfort.
3Manufacturing precision
If repeated testing and repositioning is conducted, then optimal electrode configuration is achieved, but the complexity of the procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrode activation patterns and subsets are pre-configured and stored in the device memory before implantation. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex real-time programming during surgery, reducing procedural complexity while maintaining the ability to achieve optimal electrode configuration through systematic testing of pre-defined patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses virtual representations and pre-stored electrode activation patterns that can be quickly loaded and tested. Instead of creating new configurations from scratch during surgery, the clinician selects from copied pre-defined patterns, simplifying the programming process while maintaining configuration accuracy.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure involves a method of determining electrode configuration and positioning for neurostimulation. A virtual representation of an implant lead is provided. The implant lead is configured to deliver electrical stimulation to a patient via one or more of a plurality of electrodes located on the implant lead. A predefined electrode activation pattern is provided. The electrode activation pattern identifies a plurality of subsets of the electrodes that can be activated one subset at a time. The electrodes in each subset are programmed with their respective electrical stimulation parameters. The subsets of the electrodes are activated one subset at a time. Each activated subset of electrodes delivers electrical stimulation to a different region of a spine of the patient.