Segmented Electrodes for Neural Stimulation Leads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical stimulation leads with ring electrodes lack the ability to direct stimulation current to specific positions, leading to unwanted stimulation of neighboring neural tissue and potential side effects due to undirected current distribution.
Innovation Solution
The development of electrical stimulation leads with segmented electrodes that include internal lead-retention features, allowing for precise current steering by using segmented electrodes that extend only partially around the circumference, enabling radial positioning and three-dimensional targeting of neural tissue stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ring electrodes are used to provide stimulation, then the stimulus current can be delivered to target neurons, but the current cannot be directed to specific positions around the ring electrode resulting in unwanted stimulation of neighboring neural tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the continuous ring electrode into multiple discrete segmented electrodes spaced around the circumference of the lead. Each segmented electrode can be independently controlled to deliver stimulation current to specific angular positions, enabling precise spatial control and directionality of the stimulus while avoiding unwanted stimulation of neighboring neural tissue.
2Measurement precision
If segmented electrodes are used to direct stimulation current to specific positions, then radial positioning accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the electrode structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode structure is segmented into multiple discrete elements around the circumference, each capable of independent current delivery. This segmentation enables precise radial positioning control while the modular nature of the segments helps manage structural complexity through standardized fabrication processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented electrodes are integrated within the lead structure with conductors embedded in the lead body that electrically couple to the segmented electrodes. This nested arrangement where electrodes and conductors are integrated into the lead body reduces overall assembly complexity while maintaining the functional benefits of segmented current steering.
3Device complexity
If conventional ring electrodes are used, then the lead structure remains simple, but the ability to steer current radially is lost
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the electrode structure into multiple independently controllable elements around the circumference, the patent enables current steering capability while maintaining a relatively simple lead structure. The segmented design provides adaptability for targeting different neural structures radially without requiring complex external steering mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic control of current distribution by allowing independent activation of different segmented electrodes. This dynamic capability permits the system to adapt current steering to different target locations and neural structures while the physical lead structure remains simple and stable.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3B
Figure 3C~4
AI summary
A stimulation lead includes a lead body. Terminals and electrodes are disposed along opposing end portions of the lead body and are electrically coupled to one another via conductors. The electrodes include segmented electrodes. Each of the segmented electrodes includes a proximal end, a distal end, an exterior surface, an interior surface opposite the exterior surface, a first side-wall extending radially between the interior surface and the exterior surface from the distal end to the proximal end, and a second side-wall opposite to the first side-wall and extending radially between the interior surface and the exterior surface from the distal end to the proximal end. At least one of the segmented electrodes defines an open cavity that is formed along the first side-wall of the segmented electrode and extends from the distal end to the proximal end, and that facilitates adhesion of the segmented electrode to the lead body.