Spinal Cord Stimulation Using 3D Anatomical Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal cord injury treatments face challenges in effectively improving multiple physiological functions due to a lack of clear guidelines on stimulation parameters for spinal cord epidural stimulation, with parameters being task- and individual-specific and the vast number of electrode configurations available.
Innovation Solution
The use of anatomical, electrical, and physiological specificity in spinal cord stimulation systems, including neuroanatomical 3D spinal cord reconstruction models, intra-operative evoked potentials, spatial-temporal electrophysiological mapping, and task-specific motor and autonomic mapping to optimize electrode lead placement and stimulation parameters for concurrent improvement of multiple physiological functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spinal cord epidural stimulation is used to improve multiple physiological functions, then functional recovery is enhanced, but the complexity of selecting and optimizing stimulation parameters increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spinal cord into multiple targetable regions (dorsal, ventral, lateral columns at different levels) and divides the stimulation parameters into distinct categories (electrode configuration, pulse characteristics, frequency). This segmentation allows independent optimization of each region and parameter type, reducing the overall complexity of managing multiple physiological functions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent systematically varies stimulation parameters including electrode configuration (anode-cathode pairs), pulse duration (20-500 microseconds), frequency (1-100 Hz), and amplitude to optimize stimulation for different physiological functions. This parameter-based approach allows flexible adjustment without changing the physical device configuration.
2Reliability
If multiple electrode configurations are tested to find optimal stimulation parameters, then stimulation effectiveness is improved, but the time required for parameter optimization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary anatomical mapping and identifies key spinal cord regions before finalizing stimulation parameters. Intraoperative evoked potential mapping is conducted beforehand to establish baseline responses, allowing faster optimization during the actual stimulation setup without extensive trial-and-error.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs real-time feedback through intraoperative evoked potential monitoring and postoperative functional assessment. This feedback loop allows rapid adjustment of stimulation parameters based on measured physiological responses, significantly reducing the time needed to optimize effectiveness compared to trial-and-error approaches.
3Measurement precision
If individualized stimulation parameters are used for each patient and task, then treatment precision is improved, but the difficulty of determining appropriate parameters increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by tailoring stimulation parameters to specific spinal cord regions and individual patient anatomy. Each patient receives customized electrode configurations and pulse parameters based on their specific injury level, completeness, and functional goals. This localized approach improves precision while providing a structured framework that reduces determination difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent systematically adjusts multiple parameters (electrode polarity, pulse duration, frequency, amplitude) to achieve individualized optimization. This multi-parameter approach allows fine-tuned customization for each patient-task combination while providing a comprehensive framework that makes determination more systematic and less difficult.
4Ease of manufacture
If a single spinal cord location is stimulated, then surgical implantation is simplified, but the ability to improve multiple physiological functions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single spinal cord stimulation device multi-functional by enabling selective activation of different electrode configurations within the implanted array. The same physical implant can target multiple spinal cord regions and serve different physiological functions (motor, sensory, autonomic) by reconfiguring which electrodes are active, achieving versatility without additional surgical implants.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfigurability to a static implanted device. The stimulation system can dynamically switch between different electrode configurations, pulse parameters, and target regions based on the desired physiological function, allowing a single implant to adapt to multiple therapeutic needs without requiring physical repositioning or additional hardware.
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 approach enables targeted and effective improvement of physiological functions such as lower extremity motor movement, bladder control, cardiovascular function, and respiratory function by tailoring stimulation to specific regions and needs of the spinal cord, enhancing the integration of sensory feedback and supraspinal control.
Implementation Method 1
improve physiological function in an individual with a spinal cord injury via electrical stimulation of the spinal cord
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to systems and methods for improvement of physiological function in an individual with a spinal cord injury via electrical stimulation of the spinal cord. A 3D model of the spinal cord is used to determine an initial position for an electrode array to deliver stimulation. Spinal cord electrical stimulation is configurable to target different physiological functions with surgical implantation of the neurostimulator at a singular location. Such systems and methods include (i) anatomical specificity to target the appropriate region of the spinal cord for stimulation, (ii) electrical specificity to provide the appropriate stimulation by delivery method, frequency, pulse duration, and other factors, and (iii) physiological specificity to evoke, suppress, increase, or decrease a specific physiological result.