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A tripolar current-steering stimulator ASIC for field shaping in deep brain stimulation
Virgilio Valente1, Andreas Demosthenous, Richard Bayford
1Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University College of London, London WC1E 7JE, UK. v.valente@ee.ucl.ac.uk
IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Circuits and Systems
|July 16, 2013
Summary
This study introduces a novel deep brain stimulation (DBS) stimulator ASIC. The new design offers improved current control for more precise electrical field shaping, potentially reducing side effects and enhancing treatment efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neuroscience
- Electrical Engineering
Background:
- Clinical deep brain stimulation (DBS) efficacy varies significantly, often due to current spread beyond the target area, leading to side effects.
- Existing DBS systems lack precise control over the electric potential distribution around the electrode, limiting therapeutic precision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel stimulator Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) designed for enhanced selectivity and electric field shaping in DBS.
- To overcome the limitations of current DBS systems by offering improved control over current delivery.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a tripolar current-steering output stage ASIC in 0.35-μm CMOS technology.
- Implementation of three current sourcing/sinking channels capable of generating various biphasic current pulse shapes (square, exponential-decay) with adjustable time constants.
- Validation of field shaping capabilities through potential distribution mapping using a multicontact DBS electrode in saline.
Main Results:
- The ASIC occupies a core area of 0.71 mm² and delivers up to 1.85 mA cathodic current with fine 4 μA steps from a 12 V supply.
- The device supports biphasic current pulses with five distinct time constants up to 28 ms.
- Experimental validation confirmed the ASIC's ability to shape the electric field distribution.
Conclusions:
- The developed DBS stimulator ASIC offers superior electric field shaping and selectivity compared to conventional systems.
- This advancement holds potential for improving DBS therapy by increasing efficacy and reducing the incidence of side effects.
- The ASIC represents a significant step towards more controlled and personalized neuromodulation therapies.
