Programmable ICD Energy Level for Patient-Specific Defibrillation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) face inefficiencies due to a fixed maximum defibrillation energy level, which varies among patients, leading to larger device size, longer charging times, and shorter longevity, as they need to accommodate a range of defibrillation thresholds (DFTs).
Innovation Solution
The ICD features a programmable energy level that allows physicians to adjust the maximum defibrillation energy deliverable, within the capacitor's energy capacity, using an external system for communication and energy level control, enabling flexible device performance based on individual patient needs without the need for multiple device models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the ICD energy level is increased to accommodate higher patient DFTs, then the defibrillation effectiveness is improved, but the device size increases and longevity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a programmable ICD energy level that can be dynamically adjusted based on individual patient DFT measurements. The device transitions from a fixed energy level design to a dynamic, adaptable energy level that optimizes the balance between defibrillation effectiveness and device longevity for each patient.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the energy level parameter from a fixed value to a programmable value that can be set within a range (e.g., 20-40 joules). This allows the ICD to be customized for each patient's specific DFT, avoiding the compromise of designing for the highest possible DFT in the population.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the ICD energy level is increased to ensure adequate defibrillation for all patients, then the adaptability to different DFTs is improved, but the capacitor charging time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The programmable energy level allows the capacitor charging time to be optimized dynamically for each patient. Instead of charging to a fixed high level that ensures adequacy for all patients, the system charges to the specific level needed for each patient's DFT, reducing unnecessary charging time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent avoids excessive capacitor charging by allowing the energy level to be set at the minimum adequate level for each patient rather than charging to the maximum possible level. This partial action approach delivers only the necessary energy required for effective defibrillation.
3Reliability
If the ICD is designed with a fixed high energy level to accommodate the highest DFT patients, then the reliability for high DFT patients is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple device models needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal ICD platform that can serve all patient DFT ranges through programmable energy levels. Instead of manufacturing multiple device models with different fixed energy levels, a single device design with programmable capability replaces the need for multiple specialized models.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the device from having fixed energy level parameters to having programmable parameters. This allows a single device model to be configured for different energy levels (e.g., 20J, 30J, 40J) based on patient needs, eliminating the complexity of maintaining multiple device models.
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
This approach reduces waste and manufacturing costs, simplifies implantation procedures, and enhances device performance by allowing precise energy adjustments, thereby improving energy efficiency and extending device longevity while maintaining energy efficiency and reducing the need for multiple device versions.
Implementation Method 1
The energy of the shock pulse is provided by one or more defibrillation capacitors of the ICD
Implementation Method 2
The capacitor charging circuit charges the defibrillation capacitor in preparation for the delivery of each of the defibrillation shock pulses
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) has a programmable ICD energy level corresponding to the maximum defibrillation energy deliverable with each defibrillation shock pulse. The ICD energy level is programmable within the maximum energy capacity of the defibrillation capacitor(s) of the ICD. In various embodiments, after a user enters the ICD energy level, one or more corresponding ICD performance parameters are presented. Restrictions are applied to the energy level programming of the ICD to ensure the predictability of the one or more ICD performance parameters.