Implantable Neurostimulator with Adaptive Electrode Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nerve stimulation devices face challenges in optimizing electrode configuration to minimize energy consumption, maximize therapeutic effect, and reduce side effects, such as cough triggering, while achieving spatially selective stimulation of target nerves.
Innovation Solution
An active implantable medical device with a control unit and neurostimulation lead that iteratively searches for an optimal stimulation configuration by varying electrode activation, polarity, and current distribution, using a splitter circuit to determine the best configuration based on measured physiological parameters and adverse effect indicators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If non-differentiated excitation of all nerve fibers is used to achieve therapeutic effect, then the therapeutic effect is achieved, but the electrical current required is much higher than necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the nerve stimulation into different spatial zones using multiple independently controllable electrodes. By dividing the nerve into segments and selectively stimulating only the relevant segments containing target axons, the device achieves therapeutic effect while minimizing the total current required, avoiding unnecessary stimulation of non-target regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating spatially selective stimulation fields through controlled current distribution across multiple electrodes. Each electrode or electrode pair can be independently activated to create localized stimulation zones, ensuring that current is concentrated where therapeutic effect is needed rather than distributed uniformly across the entire nerve.
2Reliability
If overall undifferentiated stimulation of a nerve is used, then the desired therapeutic effect is achieved, but undesirable effects in other organs, muscles or sensory feedback are induced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the nerve into functionally distinct regions and selectively stimulates only those segments containing axons that innervate the target organ. This spatial segmentation prevents activation of axons innervating non-target organs, thereby reducing side effects while maintaining therapeutic efficacy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates localized stimulation fields by controlling current distribution across multiple electrodes, concentrating the electrical field in specific spatial zones. This ensures that only axons passing through the stimulated zone are activated, preventing unwanted effects in distant organs while achieving the desired therapeutic effect locally.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrode configurations are tested to find optimal stimulation, then spatially selective stimulation is achieved, but the complexity of device configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic configuration capabilities where the device can automatically switch between different electrode activation patterns and current distribution schemes. The system dynamically adapts the stimulation configuration based on real-time feedback from physiological sensors, allowing spatially selective stimulation without requiring complex manual reconfiguration by clinicians.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through automated algorithms that independently determine optimal electrode configurations and current distribution patterns. The device autonomously tests and evaluates different configurations based on measured physiological responses, selecting the optimal configuration without external intervention, thereby reducing configuration complexity while maintaining adaptability.
4Reliability
If iterative search for optimal configuration is performed, then the best stimulation configuration is found, but the time required for optimization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-programming multiple candidate electrode configurations and current distribution patterns before the iterative search begins. The system has a library of pre-defined configurations that guide the optimization process, reducing the search space and enabling faster convergence to the optimal configuration while maintaining high optimization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where physiological responses are continuously monitored during the iterative configuration search. The system uses real-time feedback from sensors to evaluate the effectiveness of each tested configuration and dynamically adjusts the search strategy, accelerating convergence to the optimal configuration while ensuring high optimization accuracy through data-driven decision making.
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 device automatically determines an optimal electrode configuration that reduces energy consumption, enhances therapeutic efficacy, and minimizes side effects by selectively stimulating target nerve fibers with lower activation thresholds and reduced power usage.
Implementation Method 1
The generator (10) is a pulse generator which applies, in a known manner, pulses to the electrodes (13)
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a pulse generator coupled to a neurostimulation lead placed around the nerve and a set of electrodes individually connected to the generator by a splitter circuit controlled to preferentially stimulate certain regions of the nerve relative to other regions. The device performing an iterative search of an optimal configuration operating by selection of a plurality of different stimulation configurations, storing of a cardiac physiological parameter measured for each selected stimulation configuration, and designation as optimal stimulation configuration of the one of said selected different stimulation configurations, depending on at least the stored values of the physiological parameter measured for different electrode configurations.