OCT Scanning Probe for Deep Brain Stimulation Target Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional deep brain stimulation (DBS) procedures face challenges in accurately localizing surgical targets due to the small size of structures like the subthalamic nucleus and internal globus pallidus, and the lack of three-dimensional spatial information during electrode implantation, leading to potential misplacement of electrodes.
Innovation Solution
An optical coherence tomography (OCT) scanning probe is developed, featuring a tubular housing with electrodes, an optical fiber scanner, and an auxiliary localization component. The optical fiber scanner emits a light beam that passes through a light transmittable portion, interacting with the auxiliary localization component to create characteristics in the tomographic image, allowing for precise positioning of the electrode relative to the surgical target.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If MRI and MER are used for target localization, then surgical target location can be confirmed, but three-dimensional spatial information is insufficient for accurate electrode positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical coherence tomography imaging capability to the microelectrode probe, transforming it from a one-dimensional electrophysiological recording device to a three-dimensional imaging device. The OCT scanner includes an optical fiber scanner and light source that can capture cross-sectional images of brain tissue, providing comprehensive spatial information about the electrode position relative to the surgical target in three dimensions, thereby resolving the information deficiency of conventional MRI and MER methods.
2Measurement precision
If microelectrode recording probe is inserted for detecting physiological signals, then surgical target location can be determined, but electrode position cannot be accurately located during implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the microelectrode recording function with optical coherence tomography imaging function into a single integrated probe. The probe includes both electrophysiological recording electrodes and an OCT scanning system with optical fiber, optical element, and light source. This combination allows simultaneous acquisition of electrophysiological signals and three-dimensional anatomical images, enabling real-time verification of electrode position relative to the surgical target and ensuring precise electrode placement.
3Productivity
If conventional DBS procedures are followed, then DBS electrode can be implanted, but inaccurate localization leads to potential misplacement of electrodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback by integrating OCT imaging into the DBS procedure. The optical coherence tomography system continuously captures images of the brain tissue during probe insertion and electrode implantation, providing immediate visual feedback about the probe position relative to the surgical target. This feedback mechanism allows surgeons to adjust the insertion path and depth in real-time, ensuring accurate electrode placement and improving the reliability of the DBS procedure.
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 OCT scanning probe enables accurate localization and positioning of the electrode during DBS, improving the therapeutic effectiveness by providing three-dimensional spatial information and ensuring the electrode is correctly placed within the target region.
Implementation Method 1
A light beam emitted from the optical fiber scanner passes through the light transmittable portion to obtain a tomographic image
Implementation Method 2
An interaction of part of the light beam with the auxiliary localization component causes a characteristic in the tomographic image, with the characteristic corresponding to the auxiliary localization component
Data Source
AI summary
An OCT scanning probe includes a tubular housing, at least one electrode, an optical fiber scanner and an auxiliary localization component. The electrode is disposed on an outer surface of the tubular housing. The optical fiber scanner is disposed in the tubular housing and includes an optical fiber and an optical element. The optical element is disposed on an emitting end of the optical fiber and at corresponding position to a light transmittable portion of the tubular housing. The auxiliary localization component is disposed on the tubular housing, and overlaps part of the light transmittable portion. A light beam emitted from the optical fiber scanner passes through the light transmittable portion to obtain a tomographic image. An interaction of the light beam with the auxiliary localization component causes a characteristic in the tomographic image, with the characteristic corresponding to the auxiliary localization component.