Spinal Cord Electrode Targeting for Closed-Loop Blood Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing therapies fail to effectively manage autonomic dysfunction, particularly blood pressure instability, following spinal cord injuries due to the lack of understanding of the sympathetic nervous system connectome post-injury, necessitating a targeted and precise stimulation approach.
Innovation Solution
A system and method involving a neuromodulation and neurostimulation system with a rationally designed electrode targeting sympathetic pre- and post-ganglionic neurons through specific spinal cord levels (T9-L1) using closed-loop controllers and novel stimulation paradigms to modulate blood pressure control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional blood pressure management therapies are used, then treatment is provided, but they fail to effectively manage autonomic dysfunction and blood pressure instability post-SCI
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing electrodes with specific geometric configurations (e.g., inter-electrode distances of 2-5mm, specific electrode arrays) to target particular regions of the spinal cord (T9-L1 segments) where sympathetic preganglionic neurons are located. This localized targeting enables precise modulation of sympathetic outflow to control blood pressure without affecting other spinal functions, thereby resolving the contradiction between effective blood pressure management and targeting precision.
2Measurement precision
If non-specific spinal cord stimulation is applied, then stimulation is provided, but it cannot specifically target sympathetic pre- and post-ganglionic neurons for effective blood pressure control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs segmentation by dividing the spinal cord into specific functional segments (T9-L1) and using segmented electrode arrays with distinct electrode pairs targeting different sympathetic outflow regions. Each electrode pair can be independently controlled to stimulate specific sympathetic pathways, enabling precise targeting of preganglionic and postganglionic neurons. This segmented approach achieves high targeting accuracy while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular electrode design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing adjustable and reconfigurable electrode configurations that can be dynamically programmed to target different sympathetic regions. The stimulation parameters (amplitude, frequency, pulse width) and electrode selection can be dynamically adjusted based on real-time blood pressure feedback and patient response, allowing the system to adapt to changing physiological conditions while maintaining precise neuronal targeting.
3Reliability
If traditional open-loop stimulation is used, then stimulation can be applied, but it lacks real-time feedback for stabilizing blood pressure during fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by integrating blood pressure sensors that continuously monitor arterial pressure and provide real-time feedback to the stimulation controller. The system compares measured blood pressure against target values and automatically adjusts stimulation parameters (amplitude, frequency, electrode selection) to maintain blood pressure within the desired range. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables reliable blood pressure stabilization during both hypotensive and hypertensive episodes, resolving the contradiction between stabilization reliability and automation extent.
4Manufacturing precision
If broad-area spinal cord stimulation is applied, then coverage is provided, but it cannot achieve precise control of sympathetic circuitry for biomimetic blood pressure regulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing electrodes with specific geometric configurations (e.g., inter-electrode distances of 2-5mm, specific electrode arrays) to target particular regions of the spinal cord (T9-L1 segments) where sympathetic preganglionic neurons are located. This localized targeting enables precise modulation of sympathetic outflow to control blood pressure without affecting other spinal functions, thereby resolving the contradiction between effective blood pressure management and targeting precision.
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
Enables precise and biomimetic control over blood pressure by specifically targeting sympathetic neurons, stabilizing blood pressure and reducing life-threatening fluctuations post-spinal cord injury.
Implementation Method 1
at least one stimulation unit configured and arranged to provide a stimulation pulse... the stimulation unit is constructed to comprise a lead, and wherein the lead is capable and configured to provide stimulation to the spinal cord at level T9-L1
Data Source
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AI summary
A system (10) for activating a sympathetic circuitry in response to electrical stimulation, comprising: at least one stimulation unit (14) comprising a lead (20) for electrical stimulation of a spinal cord, wherein the lead (20) is configured to stimulate functional cardiovascular hotspots in the spinal cord, and wherein the lead (20) comprises electrodes that are designed to target sympathetic pre- and post-ganglionic neurons responsible for blood pressure control.