Vestibular Stimulation Electrode

C12344: Vestibular Stimulation Electrode

Novelty:

A novel vestibular stimulation electrode lead to be used with an implanted stimulation module in patients with impaired vestibular function.

Value Proposition:

Over one-third of all Americans over the age of 40 have vestibular dysfunction. Damaged or impaired vestibular systems can cause balance problems, such as unsteadiness, vertigo, and vision difficulties. A number of vestibular stimulation approaches have been developed to replace the natural mechanisms of balance sensation in patients with impaired vestibular systems; however existing electrode leads often fit poorly to human anatomy and are difficult for surgeons to handle and insert. This vestibular stimulation electrode lead not only satisfies these complicated problems, but also, its mechanical properties can be specifically tailored according to the surgeons needs. Additional advantages of this innovative vestibular stimulation electrode lead include:

Technical Details:

Researchers have developed a vestibular stimulation electrode lead for conducting electrical stimulation signals generated by an implanted vestibular stimulation module. First, the stimulation signals are carried from the stimulation module to a vestibular entry location via the extra-vestibular lead branch. The design of the vestibular stimulation electrode lead includes a stopper collar element and an intra-vestibular electrode array. The discrete angles formed by the stopper collar and intra-vestibular electrode array result in a patient-specific geometry that limits insertion of the intra-vestibular electrode array beyond the target location within the vestibular structure, preventing possible damage to the inner ear.

Looking for Partners:

To develop & commercialize the technology as a vestibular implant for patients with vestibular dysfunction.

Stage of Development:

Proof of Concept

Data Availability:

Prototype