TMS Device Irregular Pulse Sequence Motor Threshold
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) methods require a lengthy and error-prone determination of motor threshold intensity, leading to inaccurate and unreliable measurements due to high variability in motor-evoked potentials (MEP) and habituation effects from repetitive stimulus intensities, which limits the flexibility and accuracy of diagnostic assessments.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a pre-determined pulse sequence with irregularly varying intensities and interstimulus intervals, allowing for simultaneous measurement of motor threshold, recruitment curve, and MEP average values in a single sequence, thereby reducing the number of pulses needed and minimizing human error, and enhancing the objectivity and reliability of TMS measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If iterative algorithms are used to determine motor threshold intensity, then the measurement can be adapted to individual patients, but the examination time becomes lengthy and the results become unreliable due to habituation effects and high variability in MEP responses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using a fixed pulse sequence with predetermined intervals between stimuli of different intensities. This standardized periodic approach eliminates the variable inter-stimulus intervals in iterative methods, reducing habituation effects and improving measurement reliability while maintaining individual threshold determination through the analysis of MEP responses to the fixed sequence
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-determining the optimal pulse sequence, intensities, and intervals before the examination. This preliminary optimization of the stimulus protocol eliminates the need for time-consuming iterative adjustments during the actual measurement, reducing examination time while maintaining accuracy through pre-calculated parameters based on physiological principles
2Loss of information
If multiple separate measurements are performed to determine motor threshold, recruitment curve, and MEP average values, then comprehensive diagnostic information is obtained, but the examination time increases and variability in results increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining the determination of motor threshold, recruitment curve, and MEP average values into a single integrated pulse sequence measurement. By incorporating stimuli of multiple different intensities within one standardized sequence, the patent simultaneously obtains all three diagnostic parameters in one examination session, eliminating the need for separate measurement protocols and reducing total examination time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a single pulse sequence that serves multiple diagnostic functions. The fixed sequence with varied intensities universally provides data for determining motor threshold, constructing recruitment curves, and calculating MEP averages, making the measurement protocol multi-functional and eliminating redundant examinations
3Ease of operation
If iterative algorithms with user input are used to adjust stimulus intensity, then flexible adaptation to patient responses is achieved, but human error increases and objectivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing an automated analysis system that processes MEP responses to the fixed pulse sequence without requiring continuous user input or judgment. The system automatically determines motor threshold, constructs recruitment curves, and calculates MEP averages from the recorded data, eliminating human error and subjectivity while maintaining flexible adaptation to individual patient responses through algorithmic analysis
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 significantly shortens examination time, improves measurement reliability, and reduces variability, enabling faster and more accurate assessment of central nervous system characteristics without the need for iterative threshold determination, thus providing more stable and repeatable results.
Implementation Method 1
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) offers a method to stimulate the motor areas of the human brain
Data Source
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AI summary
The present publication discloses a device and method for generating magnetic pulses and directing them to brain. The device in accordance with the invention comprises means (15) for generating short, high energy current pulses (18), means (7) for controlling amplitude (16) of the current pulses (18), means (1) for generating high energy electromagnetic field stimulation pulses from the current pulses (18) and directing them to brain, and means (6, 14) for measuring biologic responses to the stimulation pulses. In accordance with the invention the device includes means (7) for creating such a pulse sequence (17) of electromagnetic pulses where the amplitude (18) varies irregularly.