A Novel Closed-Loop Electrical Brain Stimulation Device Featuring Wireless Low-Energy Ultrasound Power and...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Neuroscience
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Deep brain stimulation (DBS) systems require efficient power and data transmission for closed-loop functionality.
• Current DBS technologies face challenges with miniaturization, energy efficiency, and wireless communication.
• Ultrasound-based communication offers a potential solution for overcoming these limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a prototype electrical neuromodulation system.
• To evaluate an energy-efficient, closed-loop ultrasound-based mechanism for communication, data transmission, and recharging.
• To demonstrate the system's performance at clinically relevant settings.

Main Methods:

• Designed and fabricated closed-loop DBS prototypes utilizing ultrasonic wideband (UsWB) communication and custom electronics.
• Implanted two devices short-term in Göttingen minipigs for evaluation.
• Tested stimulation parameters, data transmission through scalp tissue, and UsWB recharging capabilities.

Main Results:

• Successfully achieved stimulation, communication, reprogramming, and recharging protocols for over six hours.
• Demonstrated communication rates of 64 kbit/s with a 0.05% error rate.
• Achieved 80% recharge capacity in under 9 minutes, with independent bilateral stimulation confirmed.

Conclusions:

• The developed system is feasible for clinical application, performing effectively at relevant depths and settings.
• Ultrasound wideband (UsWB) enhances energy efficiency, enabling device miniaturization and reduced power storage needs.
• The system supports intelligent closed-loop stimulation, remote monitoring, and integration into the Internet of Medical Things.