Vestibular Electrode Array Guidance with Real-Time Placement Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical devices face challenges in accurately implanting vestibular electrodes near target structures like the otolithic organs due to their fragile nature and the difficulty in avoiding non-target structures during insertion, leading to potential damage and ineffective stimulation.
Innovation Solution
The use of a stylet to guide the vestibular electrode array with real-time feedback mechanisms, such as fluoroscopy and electrophysiological measures, combined with optical fiber bundles for visualization, ensures precise placement of the electrodes near the target vestibular nerve, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional blind insertion technique is used to implant vestibular electrodes, then the implantation process is simple, but the accuracy of electrode placement is poor and non-target structures may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs real-time feedback mechanisms including fluoroscopic imaging and electrophysiological monitoring to guide electrode insertion. The fluoroscopy system provides continuous visual feedback of electrode position relative to target structures, while electrophysiological signals confirm proper placement near the vestibular nerve, resolving the contradiction between placement accuracy and procedural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical fiber bundle as an intermediary tool that transmits light to illuminate the surgical field and enables visualization of the implantation site. This intermediary device bridges the gap between the surgeon and the deep vestibular structures, allowing precise electrode placement without direct visualization of the target area
2Reliability
If electrode array is inserted without guidance to reach target structures, then the insertion process is quick, but the risk of damaging fragile otolithic organs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by obtaining fluoroscopic images and identifying target structures before electrode insertion. The surgical team plans the insertion trajectory in advance based on pre-operative imaging and intra-operative fluoroscopy, ensuring that the electrode array will reach the target without damaging the otolithic organs. This preliminary planning reduces the risk of tissue damage while maintaining efficient implantation timing
Solution Approach 2:
Real-time fluoroscopic feedback during insertion allows the surgeon to monitor electrode array position continuously and adjust the insertion depth and trajectory to avoid the fragile otolithic organs. The electrophysiological feedback confirms proper placement near the vestibular nerve, ensuring reliable stimulation while minimizing tissue damage risk
3Measurement precision
If real-time feedback mechanisms are used during implantation, then the precision of electrode placement is improved, but the complexity and cost of the procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluoroscopic imaging system serves multiple functions: it provides anatomical visualization for target identification, guides electrode insertion trajectory, monitors real-time electrode position, and confirms final placement. This multi-functional system achieves high placement precision without requiring multiple separate specialized devices, thereby managing procedural complexity while maintaining accuracy
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 allows for precise and controlled implantation of vestibular electrodes, enhancing the accuracy of electrical stimulation and reducing the risk of stimulating non-target structures, thereby improving therapeutic efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
an optical fiber bundle (220) coupled to the elongate carrier (142) such that implantation of the elongate carrier (142) can be monitored via the optical fiber bundle (220)
Implementation Method 2
fluoroscopy and electrophysiological measures
Implementation Method 3
electrophysiological measures
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
Techniques and electrode array designs can facilitate implantation of a vestibular electrode array proximate a target treatment location of the recipient's vestibular system. An example vestibular electrode array can include a variety of mechanisms to provide fine control of the vestibular electrode array's position in the vestibular space. Further, the position can be guided by real time feedback mechanisms, such as fluoroscopy or electrophysiological measures to assist with optimizing the position of the vestibular electrode array.