Skull-Mounted Lead Anchoring Apparatus with Rotating Grippers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current anchoring devices for intracranial probes often damage the leads due to uneven gripping force distribution and have limited adjustability, especially when using large multi-channel probe arrays, and they do not provide a stable mounting for the skull-mounted portion.
Innovation Solution
A secure anchoring system with rotating members and a ratchet mechanism that allows for adjustable positioning of the lead, using a base secured to the skull with tabs and screws, and a cover to capture the lead, ensuring even force distribution and stability, while being compatible with MRI and allowing for adjustment of the lead's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If thin bars are used to grip the lead, then the anchoring device can be compact, but the lead may be damaged by crushing between the thin bars
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping mechanism is divided into multiple independent gripping elements (first and second gripping elements) that can independently adjust their position and gripping force. This segmentation allows the gripping force to be distributed across multiple contact points along the lead, preventing localized crushing damage while maintaining a compact overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping elements are made adjustable and repositionable along the lead, allowing dynamic adaptation to different lead positions and gripping requirements. This dynamic capability enables optimal force distribution while preventing damage, as the gripping elements can be positioned to avoid concentrated stress points on the lead.
2Ease of manufacture
If the slot has a fixed orientation relative to the cranium, then the anchoring device is simple to construct, but it limits adjustability for optimal lead placement
Solution Approach 1:
The slot is designed with rotational capability relative to the cranium, transforming it from a fixed structure to a dynamic one. This allows the slot orientation to be adjusted during surgery to accommodate different lead placement requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall device construction. The rotational mechanism provides versatility without significantly complicating the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring device incorporates adjustable parameters including slot orientation and gripping element position, allowing modification of geometric parameters to optimize lead placement. This enables adaptation to various surgical scenarios while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized adjustment mechanisms rather than custom-designed configurations.
3Device complexity
If a small opening is provided for receiving the lead, then the anchoring device is compact, but it restricts adjustment of lead position for optimal placement
Solution Approach 1:
The opening is segmented into multiple adjustable gripping zones rather than a single fixed aperture. This segmentation allows the lead to be introduced through a compact opening while providing multiple adjustable gripping points along the lead shaft, enabling position optimization without requiring a large initial opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping elements are designed to be movable and repositionable along the lead after insertion, allowing dynamic adjustment of the effective opening size and position. This dynamic capability enables optimal lead placement while maintaining a compact device, as the gripping elements can be positioned along the lead rather than requiring a permanently large opening.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for securing an implantable lead within tissue of a patient includes a base adapted to be secured to a patient's skull adjacent a craniotomy. The base has an upper surface and a lower surface with a central passage therebetween. The central passage is adapted to receive the implantable lead therethrough. The apparatus also has a cover that is releasably coupled to the base so as to substantially cover the central passage and capture the implantable lead therebetween. A first rotating member is also coupled with the base and the first member is rotationally movable so as to meet and engage the implantable lead at a plurality of positions within the central passage.