Splittable Neurostimulation Lead With Multi-Proximal Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable electrical stimulation systems face challenges in increasing stimulation coverage without increasing the lateral circumference of the lead or using lead adaptors to divide conductive wires, which can lead to incompatibility with existing control modules and reduced electrode density.
Innovation Solution
A lead with a junction that couples the distal end to multiple proximal ends, where conductive wires are split into groupings for each proximal end, allowing for increased electrode density without enlarging the lead's circumference, and a splitable member for minimally invasive implantation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the number of electrodes is increased to enhance stimulation coverage, then the stimulation coverage is improved, but the lateral circumference of the lead must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The lead is divided into multiple proximal ends (first proximal end, second proximal end, etc.) with separate terminals and conductive wire groupings for each. This segmentation allows multiple electrodes at the distal end to be connected to multiple proximal ends, enabling increased electrode density without increasing the lateral circumference of any single lead body.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single linear lead configuration to a multi-dimensional structure where conductive wires are grouped into different proximal ends. This dimensional reorganization allows multiple electrodes to be accessed through multiple proximal connection points, effectively increasing electrode capacity without expanding the lead's cross-sectional area.
2Adaptability or versatility
If lead adaptors are used to divide conductive wires, then wire division is achieved, but compatibility with existing control modules is reduced and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lead is designed with multiple proximal ends that can directly connect to existing control modules without requiring additional adaptors. Each proximal end functions as an independent connection point, allowing the lead to interface with standard control module ports while providing enhanced electrode configuration capabilities.
3Quantity of substance
If the number of electrodes is increased, then stimulation coverage is improved, but electrode density is reduced due to lead circumference constraints
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the lead into multiple proximal ends with separate terminal groups, the invention maintains high electrode density at the distal end while providing multiple connection pathways proximally. This allows closely spaced electrodes to be connected without requiring a larger lead circumference.
Data Source
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AI summary
An insertion kit includes a lead and a splitable member configured and arranged for receiving the lead when implanting the lead into a patient. The lead has a distal end and at least two proximal ends. The lead includes a plurality of electrodes disposed at the distal end, a plurality of terminals disposed at the proximal ends, and a plurality of conductive wires coupling the plurality of electrodes electrically to the plurality of terminals. The lead also includes a junction coupling the distal end of the lead to the proximal ends of the lead. The splitable member defines a lumen for receiving the distal end of the lead and is configured and arranged to divide into at least two parts for removal of the splitable member from the lead upon implantation of the lead into the patient.