Implantable EEG Signal Capture Unit with Split Guide Sheath
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current implantable devices for detecting hypoglycemia are limited in their efficiency and accuracy, particularly in capturing and processing EEG signals for timely warning and intervention.
Innovation Solution
The method involves implanting a signal capture unit with electrodes that are inserted subcutaneously using a tubular guide sheath, which is progressively split for removal, and an EEG-based detector connected to a pump for administering glucose or glucagon, with wireless transmission and processing capabilities for early detection of hypoglycemia.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tubular guide sheath is used to pass electrodes through subcutaneous tissue during implantation, then the ease of operation during implantation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the additional guide sheath component
Solution Approach 1:
The guide sheath is divided into multiple segments that can be separated from each other. During implantation, the segmented guide sheath provides structural support and guidance, then after the electrode is positioned, the segments can be separated and removed, leaving only the electrode in place. This segmentation allows the guide sheath to fulfill its operational purpose while avoiding permanent addition of complex components to the implanted device.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide sheath acts as an intermediary tool during the implantation process. It facilitates the passage of the electrode through subcutaneous tissue by providing a protective tunnel and guidance, but it is not part of the final implanted device. The guide sheath is temporarily introduced, performs its mediating function, and then is removed, thus improving ease of operation without permanently increasing device complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple electrodes are bundled together for implantation, then the productivity of the implantation process is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the bundling structure
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrodes are combined into a single bundled structure that can be implanted together as one unit. This merging allows for simultaneous implantation of multiple electrodes through a single subcutaneous path, significantly improving implantation efficiency. The bundled structure is designed to be separable or configurable after implantation, allowing the electrodes to function independently while maintaining the simplicity of the implantation procedure.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for capturing EEG signals comprising an implantable signal capture unit (34) connected to a proximal end of at least one implantable electrode (32) is implanted by passing a tubular guide sheath (24,26) along a subcutaneous path from an implantation site, passing the distal end of a said electrode through said guide sheath to bring said signal capture unit to said implantation site, and withdrawing said guide sheath from the electrode while progressively axially splitting the guide sheath to enable its removal. The signal capture unit may have a housing having at least two electrode contacts on its for capturing EEG signals in operative connection with circuitry within said housing for receiving said EEG signals and for wireless transmission thereof for reception at a location exterior to the body of the patient.