Neurostimulation Therapy Optimization via Session Log
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The process of selecting optimal neurostimulation therapy parameters for implantable medical devices is time-consuming and requires trial and error, with selected programs often becoming inadequate due to varying patient symptoms over time, necessitating repeated programming efforts.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system where multiple neurostimulation therapy programs can be delivered simultaneously via an implantable medical device, with a clinician programmer used to specify and test parameter sets, record feedback, and maintain a session log for efficient program selection and updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional single-program testing and selection method is used, then thorough evaluation of therapy effectiveness is achieved, but the programming process becomes time-consuming and requires repeated adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the therapy evaluation process by dividing it into multiple parallel program tests instead of sequential single-program evaluation. The system presents multiple candidate programs to the patient simultaneously or in rapid succession, collecting feedback for each program independently. This segmentation allows thorough evaluation of multiple therapy options without requiring repeated programming sessions, as all evaluations occur during a single clinic visit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple candidate programs with different parameter sets before the clinic visit. These programs are prepared in advance based on patient history and clinical guidelines, allowing the clinician to quickly present and evaluate multiple options during the visit rather than developing and testing programs sequentially during the limited clinic time.
2Reliability
If multiple programs are tested and evaluated, then optimal therapy selection is improved, but the complexity of program management and record-keeping increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements comprehensive feedback mechanisms where patient responses to each program are automatically captured, stored, and associated with the specific program parameters. The feedback includes patient-reported effectiveness ratings and side effect observations. This structured feedback system simplifies program management by automatically organizing the complex data from multiple program tests, making it easy for clinicians to compare results and select the optimal program without manual record-keeping.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies of program configurations and their associated evaluation data, storing them in structured databases. Instead of manual paper records, the system maintains electronic replicas of each program's parameters, patient feedback, and clinical outcomes. This digital copying and storage approach manages the complexity of multiple program evaluations by providing automated data organization, retrieval, and comparison capabilities.
3Reliability
If programs are updated as symptoms change, then treatment efficacy is maintained, but repeated programming efforts are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic program management where the optimal program selection is not fixed but can be updated based on changing patient symptoms and feedback. The system allows for periodic re-evaluation of programs using the same efficient multi-program testing framework, enabling clinicians to update therapy parameters as needed while leveraging previously collected patient data and feedback to guide adjustments. This dynamic approach maintains treatment efficacy without requiring complete re-programming, as the system builds upon existing program configurations and patient response patterns.
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable medical device (IMD) delivers neurostimulation therapy to a patient according to a parameter set, which may consist of a number of programs that are delivered substantially simultaneously. When programming the IMD, a clinician programmer may maintain a session log for the patient that includes a listing of programs delivered to the patient and rating information provided by a clinician and the patient for programs of the list. The listing may be ordered according to the rating information in order to facilitate the selection of programs for a parameter set. A program library that may include particularly effective programs organized according to a directory structure may be stored in a memory. The IMD and/or a patient programmer may store usage information that provides an objective assessment of therapy use by the patient, and allows a clinician to later improve the therapy based on the usage information.