Concentric Split Ring Electrodes for Radial Selectivity in Deep Brain Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Deep brain stimulation technologies face challenges in achieving radial selectivity of current, leading to unwanted stimulation of neighboring neural tissue and prolonged therapeutic effects due to the radial symmetry of conventional ring electrodes.
Innovation Solution
The use of radially segmented electrode arrays with concentric split ring electrodes, where the base portions of the split ring electrodes are insulated from each other, allowing for more directed current steering and selective stimulation of target tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional ring electrodes are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but radial selectivity of current is minimal leading to unwanted stimulation of neighboring neural tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The ring electrode is divided into multiple segmented electrodes arranged radially around the lead body. Each segment can be independently controlled to provide selective stimulation in specific radial directions, thereby achieving radial selectivity while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the radially segmented electrode array provide different functional properties, allowing current to be directed selectively toward specific neural targets while minimizing stimulation of adjacent tissue. This local differentiation enables precise control over current distribution patterns
2Productivity
If conventional ring electrodes are used, then the electrode structure is simple, but the duration of time to achieve therapeutic effect is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is segmented radially to enable independent activation of specific segments, allowing faster achievement of therapeutic effects by directing current precisely to the target tissue without waiting for diffusion to neighboring areas, thus reducing the time to reach therapeutic threshold
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode system allows dynamic control of current distribution by selectively activating different segments based on real-time therapeutic needs, enabling rapid adjustment of stimulation patterns to achieve optimal therapeutic effect more quickly
3Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional ring electrodes are used, then energy consumption is lower due to simpler structure, but side effects increase due to non-selective stimulation
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful non-selective stimulation is extracted and eliminated by replacing the conventional ring electrode with a radially segmented design that confines current to specific radial sectors, thereby reducing side effects while the energy cost of this selectivity is managed through efficient segment control
Solution Approach 2:
The potential harm of current spreading to neighboring tissue is converted into a benefit by using the segmented structure to deliberately direct current only where needed, transforming what would be harmful diffusion into useful targeted stimulation that reduces side effects
Data Source
AI summary
A device for brain stimulation includes a lead body having a longitudinal surface and a distal end. The device further includes at least one ring array. The at least one ring array includes a plurality of split ring electrodes disposed on the distal end of the lead body. Each of the plurality of split ring electrodes includes a stimulating portion and a base portion coupled to the stimulating portion. The split ring electrodes of the at least one ring array are arranged about the circumference of the lead body. At least a portion of the base portion of at least one of the plurality of split ring electrodes is disposed below, and insulated from, at least a portion of the stimulating portion of another of the plurality of split electrodes.