Sequential Local Electrical Stimulation for Precise Seizure Suppression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current deep brain stimulation (DBS) methods, such as WF stimulation, often cause excessive effects on adjacent structures due to electric field scattering, leading to side effects like memory and mood disorders, and are not suitable for critical or multiple epileptogenic areas, as they fail to precisely target and control seizure initiation zones in the hippocampus effectively.
Innovation Solution
A sequential local electrical stimulation device with an electrode array optimized for the target area's structure, using a stimulation generator and controller to apply sequential narrow-field stimulation, determining electrode arrangement, stimulation intensity, sequence, and interval based on the target area's anatomy to minimize impact on surrounding areas and effectively suppress seizures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wide-field stimulation is applied to the hippocampus, then seizure suppression efficacy is improved, but electric field scattering causes excessive effects on adjacent structures leading to side effects
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is divided into multiple independently controllable electrodes arranged in a matrix pattern within the hippocampus. The stimulation controller activates electrodes sequentially in a systematic manner, dividing the stimulation field into discrete local zones rather than applying a single broad wide-field stimulus. This segmentation enables precise targeting of seizure initiation zones while limiting electric field scattering to adjacent structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by varying stimulation parameters (intensity, duration, frequency) across different electrode locations based on the specific anatomical and functional characteristics of each region. The stimulation controller adjusts parameters locally for each electrode or electrode group, optimizing seizure suppression in critical areas while minimizing harmful effects in adjacent structures. This localized parameter optimization transforms the uniform wide-field approach into a differentiated local stimulation strategy.
2Reliability
If deep brain stimulation is applied to critical or multiple epileptogenic areas, then treatment effectiveness is improved, but conventional methods fail to precisely target and control seizure initiation zones
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary action by utilizing preoperative MRI imaging and computational modeling to predict the precise location and extent of epileptogenic zones before surgery. The electrode array is designed and positioned in advance based on these predictions, with the stimulation controller programmed to target specific anatomical regions identified as seizure initiation zones. This preliminary planning enables accurate targeting of critical or multiple epileptogenic areas while avoiding unnecessary stimulation of non-affected regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The stimulation controller incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor neural responses during and after stimulation. By analyzing changes in neural activity patterns, the controller can adjust stimulation parameters in real-time to optimize targeting precision. This feedback loop enables the system to adapt to individual patient anatomy and response characteristics, improving the precision of seizure initiation zone targeting while maintaining treatment effectiveness.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If sequential local electrical stimulation is applied, then unintended neural responses and side effects are reduced, but stimulation duration and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The stimulation controller implements periodic action by delivering electrical stimulation in a systematic sequence of discrete pulses rather than continuous stimulation. Each electrode is stimulated in a predetermined sequence with controlled intervals between pulses, creating a rhythmic pattern of activation. This periodic approach allows the nervous system to process and adapt to each stimulation pulse, reducing unintended neural responses while maintaining overall treatment effectiveness. The sequential periodic stimulation pattern efficiently covers the entire electrode array without requiring prolonged continuous stimulation.
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 device effectively suppresses seizures with reduced unintended neural responses and side effects by applying precise, sequential electrical stimulation, demonstrating superior efficacy in reducing seizure duration and neural rhythm suppression compared to conventional methods, while minimizing fringing field effects and tissue damage.
Implementation Method 1
A sequential local electrical stimulation device provides sequential narrow-field (SNF) stimulation capable of effectively improving symptoms in a short period of time while minimizing an impact of electric field scattering on areas surrounding a target area
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a sequential local electrical stimulation method. The sequential local electrical stimulation method according to the present disclosure includes determining a number and arrangement of electrodes included in an electrode array according to a structure of a target area, determining stimulation parameters including stimulation intensity, a stimulation sequence, and a stimulation pulse based on the structure of the target area, and sequentially applying stimulation in one direction from an outermost part of the electrode array by using the stimulation parameters.