Image-Guided Variable-Spot ERG for Localized Retinal Function
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retinal disease diagnosis and therapeutic evaluation methods lack spatial targetability and high-resolution functional characterization, particularly in retinal disorders like dry AMD and retinitis pigmentosa, due to challenges in isolating functional responses from localized retinal regions and collateral effects.
Innovation Solution
An image-guided variable spot stimulation-based electrophysiology device integrating OCT and fundus imaging with variable spot ERG, enabling high-resolution, spatially targeted light stimulation and electrical signal measurement using multiple wavelengths and operation modes for precise functional assessment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional ERG methods are used for retinal functional assessment, then overall retinal function can be measured, but spatial resolution and targetability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the retinal assessment by dividing the retina into multiple localized regions and using variable spot stimulation to target specific areas (e.g., macula, peripheral retina) independently. This allows spatially resolved functional assessment of different retinal regions, overcoming the limitation of conventional full-field ERG that only provides overall retinal function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges OCT imaging capability with ERG functional assessment into a single integrated system. The OCT component provides high-resolution structural guidance for precise spot targeting, while the ERG component measures functional responses. This combination achieves both high spatial resolution and comprehensive functional assessment without requiring separate devices.
2Measurement precision
If full-field stimulation is used for ERG, then overall retinal response is obtained, but localized functional changes cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability by allowing the stimulation spot size and position to be variable and adjustable based on the specific clinical need. The system can switch between small localized spots for detecting focal changes and larger spots for broader assessment, providing both localized detection capability and stimulation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by delivering light stimulation to specific localized regions of the retina rather than uniform full-field stimulation. This enables detection of localized functional changes in specific retinal areas (e.g., geographic atrophy regions, treated areas) while maintaining the ability to adjust stimulation parameters for different clinical scenarios.
3Measurement precision
If high-resolution variable spot stimulation is implemented, then spatially resolved functional assessment is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges OCT imaging capability with ERG functional assessment into a single integrated system. The OCT component provides high-resolution structural guidance for precise spot targeting, while the ERG component measures functional responses. This combination achieves both high spatial resolution and comprehensive functional assessment without requiring separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional system that performs both structural imaging (OCT) and functional assessment (ERG) within a single device platform. This universal system can adapt to different assessment needs by adjusting stimulation parameters and analyzing different functional responses, reducing the need for multiple separate devices.
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
Facilitates precise, spatially resolved functional evaluation of retinal health, allowing early disease detection and therapeutic efficacy assessment by distinguishing different photoreceptor functions and reducing collateral responses, thus guiding targeted interventions.
Implementation Method 1
variable spot optical stimulation of light-activatable biological specimens to determine changes in the functional health
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to an image guided variable spot stimulation-based electrophysiology assessment device for different biomedical applications. Specifically, the invention relates to application of the device to perform image-guided functional assessment upon variable spot optical stimulation of light-activatable biological specimens to determine changes in the functional health during disease progression and therapy. More specifically, the invention relates to the application of the device in the diagnosis of visual and neurological disorders.