STN-DBS Electrode Positioning for Motor Symptom Progression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) methods for treating Parkinson's disease do not effectively slow the progression of motor symptoms, and there is no clear indication of the most efficacious brain region for treatment outcomes, despite being the standard of care.
Innovation Solution
Administering STN-DBS by positioning a DBS electrode in the dorsal-lateral and anterior region of the subthalamic nucleus and applying electrical current, potentially combined with other therapies like levodopa or dopamine agonists, to slow or reverse motor symptom progression.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If STN-DBS is administered using standard targeting methods, then motor symptoms are treated, but disease progression is not slowed and speech/balance problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by precisely targeting the dorsal-lateral and anterior region of the STN, which is a specific sub-region of the subthalamic nucleus. This localized targeting approach distinguishes the invention from standard STN-DBS methods that target the broader STN region, thereby achieving differentiated therapeutic effects that slow disease progression while avoiding speech and balance problems associated with broader stimulation
2Reliability
If STN-DBS is administered to treat motor symptoms, then symptom relief is achieved, but there is no indication of slowing disease progression
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by administering STN-DBS in the early stage of Parkinson's disease, before extensive neuronal loss and disease progression have occurred. This timing strategy is intended to prevent or slow further progression while treating existing symptoms, rather than attempting to reverse advanced disease damage
3Ease of operation
If standard STN-DBS targeting is used, then motor symptoms are managed, but therapeutic outcomes are limited compared to potential benefits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the electrode placement coordinates to specifically target the dorsal-lateral and anterior region of the STN, rather than using standard STN targeting parameters. This coordinate modification represents a quantitative change in the stimulation parameters that leads to improved therapeutic outcomes including slowing of disease progression
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 leads to slowing of motor symptom progression, reduced stimulation parameters, and decreased need for post-operative dopaminergic medication, with improved therapeutic outcomes compared to standard treatments.
Implementation Method 1
administering to said subject subthalmic nucleus (STN) deep brain stimulation (DBS) by positioning a DBS electrode in the margin of the dorsal-lateral and anterior region of the subthalamic nucleus and applying electrical current to said subject through said electrode
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to the treatment of patients with Parkinson's Disease using subthalmic nucleus deep brain stimulation to a specific region of the brain. By positioning the electrode in the margin of the dorsal-lateral and anterior region of the subthalamic nucleus, improved benefits are obtained.