Segmented Electrode Array for Deep Brain Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Deep brain stimulation devices face challenges in achieving radial selectivity of current, leading to unwanted stimulation of neighboring neural tissue and prolonged therapeutic effect due to the radial non-selectivity of ring-shaped electrodes.
Innovation Solution
The development of a lead with segmented electrodes, which are divided by partitioning arms and coupled to the lead body through fixing lumens, allowing for more precise control of current distribution and steering in three-dimensional space by varying the configuration and positioning of segmented electrodes along the lead.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If ring-shaped electrodes are used on the lead, then current can be delivered to target neurons, but radial selectivity of current is minimal causing unwanted stimulation of neighboring neural tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing a single ring-shaped electrode into multiple segmented electrodes arranged circumferentially around the lead. Each segmented electrode can be independently controlled to deliver current, allowing selective stimulation of target neurons while minimizing stimulation of neighboring neural tissue through geometric configuration and independent activation patterns.
2Productivity
If ring-shaped electrodes are used, then current delivery is simple, but the duration of time to achieve proper therapeutic effect is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented electrode array enables more rapid achievement of therapeutic effects by allowing selective activation of specific segments to target neurons more precisely. The independent control of each segmented electrode permits optimized current distribution patterns that can achieve therapeutic thresholds faster than a single ring electrode, despite the increased complexity of the electrode configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of the segmented electrodes, where each segment can be independently activated or deactivated based on real-time therapeutic needs. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt current distribution patterns to achieve optimal therapeutic effects more quickly, transforming a static ring electrode into a dynamically adjustable array.
3Manufacturing precision
If segmented electrodes are used to improve radial selectivity, then current distribution control is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented electrode structure divides the electrode into multiple circumferential segments that can be independently controlled. This segmentation provides precise control over current distribution in the radial direction, allowing selective stimulation of target neurons while minimizing spread to neighboring tissue, though it increases manufacturing complexity compared to a single ring electrode.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A method of manufacturing a device for brain stimulation includes forming a lead body having a distal end section and coupling at least one pre-electrode to the distal end section of the lead body. The pre-electrode defines a divider with a plurality of partitioning arms, and has a plurality of fixing lumens. A portion of the pre-electrode aligned with the portioning arms is removed to divide the pre-electrode into a plurality of segmented electrodes. Each of the plurality of segmented electrodes defines at least one of the plurality of fixing lumens at least partially disposed through the segmented electrode. A material is introduced through the at least one fixing lumen to couple the plurality of segmented electrodes to the lead body.