Segmented Stimulation Lead Layout for Precise Neural Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Percutaneous stimulation leads for spinal cord stimulation often suffer from poor targeting of the stimulation field and interference from electromagnetic artifacts, leading to reduced therapeutic efficacy and increased side effects.
Innovation Solution
The use of segmented electrodes on the lead body, where stimulation and sensing occur over non-overlapping partial circumferences, and the implementation of masked electrodes with insulated portions to enhance targeting and reduce electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a percutaneous stimulation lead is used for spinal cord stimulation, then the stimulation can be delivered to the spinal cord, but the stimulation field targeting is poor and electromagnetic artifacts interfere with sensing
Solution Approach 1:
The lead is divided into multiple segmented electrodes along its length, with each segment capable of independent stimulation and sensing functions. This segmentation allows the lead to deliver targeted stimulation to specific spinal cord segments while reducing electromagnetic interference through spatial separation of stimulation and sensing functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful electromagnetic artifacts are extracted and isolated from the sensing process by using dedicated stimulation electrodes that are spatially separated from the sensing electrodes. The artifacts generated by stimulation electrodes do not interfere with the sensing electrodes, effectively removing the interference problem from the sensing function.
2Manufacturing precision
If segmented electrodes with non-overlapping partial circumferences are used, then targeting precision is improved and electromagnetic artifacts are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrodes are segmented into discrete sections along the lead body, with each segment having a defined angular extent. This segmentation enables precise targeting of specific spinal cord regions while maintaining a relatively simple overall lead structure that can be manufactured using standard techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the lead have different functional properties - some segments are designed for stimulation while others are designed for sensing, and each segment has a specific angular coverage. This local differentiation of function and geometry enables precise targeting without requiring the entire lead structure to be complex.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If masked electrodes with insulated portions are implemented, then electromagnetic interference is reduced and targeting is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Insulating coatings are applied selectively to specific portions of the electrode surfaces, creating masked regions that prevent electromagnetic field generation in certain directions while leaving other regions exposed for stimulation. This localized application of insulation simplifies manufacturing compared to creating complex three-dimensional electrode structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The masked electrodes create asymmetric electromagnetic field patterns by insulating specific portions of otherwise circular or symmetric electrode structures. This asymmetry enables directional control of the stimulation field while maintaining simple symmetric base electrode geometries that are easy to manufacture.
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 configuration allows for precise delivery of stimulation energy to neural targets, reduces power consumption, and minimizes electromagnetic artifacts, resulting in improved therapeutic outcomes and reduced side effects.
Implementation Method 1
A first electrode includes a plurality of first segments at a first longitudinal location. One of the first segments is electrically coupled to a sensing circuit as a sensing segment that senses biopotentials over a first partial circumference of the lead body.
Implementation Method 2
A signal generator is electrically coupled to the second electrode. A processor is coupled to the signal generator and the sensing circuit. The processor is operable to apply a stimulation signal to the neural pathway via the second electrode.
Data Source
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AI summary
A lead body is operable to be implanted proximate a target nerve tissue of a patient. A sensing electrode is configured to sense biopotentials over a first partial circumference of the lead body. A stimulation electrode is configured to deliver stimulation energy over a second partial circumference of the lead body. A signal generator is electrically coupled to the stimulation electrode and a sensing circuit is coupled to the sensing electrode. A processor is operable to apply a stimulation signal to the stimulation electrode via the signal generator and, via the sensing circuit, sense an evoked response to the stimulation signal that propagates along a neural pathway.