RF-Coupled Head Neurostimulator Layout for Multi-Region Pain Relief
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional implantable neurostimulation systems designed for spinal cord stimulation are inadequate for treating chronic head pain due to anatomical and physiological differences between the head and spinal canal, leading to issues such as inadequate therapeutic response, patient discomfort, cosmetic concerns, increased surgical risks, and suboptimal electrode placement.
Innovation Solution
A head-mounted, radiofrequency-coupled neurostimulation system with extended leads and multiple electrode arrays is designed for simultaneous stimulation of frontal, parietal, and occipital regions, featuring a unibody IPG with internal electronics and surface electrodes optimized for head anatomy, reducing the need for multiple implants and minimizing surgical complications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional spinal cord stimulation leads are used for head pain treatment, then the system can be implanted, but therapeutic response is inadequate and patient comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing leads with different characteristics for different regions of the head. The system uses multiple electrode arrays positioned at specific locations (frontal, parietal, occipital regions) with optimized electrode configurations for each region, rather than using a uniform lead design throughout. This region-specific optimization improves therapeutic response while maintaining patient comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the neurostimulation system into multiple independent electrode arrays distributed across different leads, with each array targeting specific head regions. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each array's parameters and positioning, improving overall therapeutic efficacy while reducing discomfort in any single region.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate implants are used to cover all head regions, then comprehensive neurostimulation is achieved, but device complexity and surgical risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a single IPG device that can control multiple electrode arrays across different leads simultaneously. The IPG contains a programmable controller that can activate any combination of electrode arrays in any configuration, providing comprehensive head region coverage through one multi-functional implant rather than multiple separate implants.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple electrode arrays and leads into a coordinated system controlled by a single IPG. The arrays are designed to work together as an integrated system, with the controller able to stimulate multiple regions simultaneously or in various combinations, reducing the need for multiple separate implant devices while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional electrode placement methods are used, then implantation is straightforward, but electrode positioning precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the electrode arrays with specific geometric patterns and spacing optimized for each head region before implantation. The leads are manufactured with electrodes already positioned at precise intervals and orientations, eliminating the need for complex intraoperative positioning adjustments while ensuring accurate placement in the frontal, parietal, and occipital regions.
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 system provides effective, simultaneous neurostimulation across multiple head regions, improving therapeutic outcomes, reducing patient discomfort and surgical risks, and lowering medical costs by minimizing the number of required implants.
Implementation Method 1
The IPG may have a component, or extension, containing an internal radiofrequency receiver, the purpose of which is to couple to an external power source and control unit
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided for driving an implantable neurostimulator lead, the lead having an associated plurality of electrodes disposed in at least one array on the lead. The system comprises an implantable pulse generator (IPG), the IPG including an electrode driver, a load system for determining load requirements, an IPG power coupler, and an IPG communication system. The system also includes an external unit, which includes an external variable power generator, an external power coupler, an external communication system, and a controller for varying the power level of the variable power generator.