U.S. patent application number 15/419038 was filed with the patent office on 2017-06-22 for system and method for treatment of pain related to limb joint replacement surgery.
The applicant listed for this patent is SPR Therapeutics, LLC. Invention is credited to Maria E. Bennett, Joseph W. Boggs, II, John Chae, Warren M. Grill, Kathryn Stager, Amorn Wongsarnpigoon, Rosemary Zang.
Application Number | 20170173329 15/419038 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49117414 |
Filed Date | 2017-06-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170173329 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Boggs, II; Joseph W. ; et
al. |
June 22, 2017 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TREATMENT OF PAIN RELATED TO LIMB JOINT
REPLACEMENT SURGERY
Abstract
It has been discovered that pain felt in a given region of the
body can be treated by stimulating a peripheral nerve at a
therapeutically effective distance from the region where pain is
felt to generate a comfortable sensation (i.e., paresthesia)
overlapping the regions of pain. A method has been developed to
reduce pain in a painful region following limb joint replacement by
stimulating a peripheral nerve innervating the painful region with
an electrode inserted into tissue and spaced from the peripheral
nerve. This method may be used to help alleviate postoperative pain
in patients following total knee arthroplasty surgery or other limb
joint replacement surgeries.
Inventors: |
Boggs, II; Joseph W.;
(Chapel Hill, NC) ; Bennett; Maria E.; (Beachwood,
OH) ; Wongsarnpigoon; Amorn; (Chapel Hill, NC)
; Chae; John; (Strongsville, OH) ; Grill; Warren
M.; (Chapel Hill, NC) ; Stager; Kathryn;
(University Heights, OH) ; Zang; Rosemary; (Avon
Lake, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SPR Therapeutics, LLC |
Cleveland |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
49117414 |
Appl. No.: |
15/419038 |
Filed: |
January 30, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14547493 |
Nov 19, 2014 |
9555245 |
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15419038 |
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|
13791710 |
Mar 8, 2013 |
8965516 |
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14547493 |
|
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61608106 |
Mar 8, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61N 1/0502 20130101;
A61N 1/0558 20130101; A61B 17/3468 20130101; A61N 1/36017 20130101;
A61N 1/36071 20130101; A61N 1/36021 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61N 1/36 20060101
A61N001/36; A61B 17/34 20060101 A61B017/34; A61N 1/05 20060101
A61N001/05 |
Claims
1. An electrical stimulation device comprising: at least one
percutaneous lead adapted for insertion within tissue of an animal
body; and a pulse generator operatively coupled with the at least
one lead, wherein the pulse generator is configured to stimulate at
least one nerve innervating a region of pain following a limb joint
replacement surgery.
2. The electrical stimulation device of claim 1, wherein the limb
joint replacement surgery is a total knee arthroplasty.
3. The electrical stimulation device of claim 1, wherein the limb
joint replacement surgery, including, without limitation, total and
partial limb joint replacement, is selected from a group consisting
of: a shoulder, elbow, wrist, finger joint, hip, knee, ankle and
toe joint.
4. The electrical stimulation device of claim 1, wherein
stimulating the at least one nerve results in paresthesia to the
painful region.
5. The electrical stimulation device of claim 1, wherein the at
least one nerve is selected from a group consisting of a femoral
nerve, a sciatic nerve, lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, and an
obturator nerve.
6. The electrical stimulation device of claim 5, wherein the at
least one nerve includes the branches therefrom.
7. The electrical stimulation device of claim 1, wherein the
stimulation will not block motor or sensory function of a limb.
8. A kit for treatment of pain following limb joint replacement
surgery, the kit comprising: a needle insertable into an animal
body tissue; at least one percutaneous electrode lead operatively
inserted into the needle, wherein the needle and at least one
percutaneous lead are inserted into an insertion point of the
animal body, whereby the needle is removable from the animal body
tissue and the at least one percutaneous electrode lead is retained
within the animal body; and a pulse generator operatively coupled
with the at least one electrode lead, wherein the pulse generator
is configured to stimulate at least one nerve innervating a region
of pain following a limb joint replacement surgery.
9. The kit of claim 8, further comprising a test needle.
10. The kit of claim 8, wherein the needle is an introducer
needle.
11. The kit of claim 8, further comprising an anchor attached to
the at least one electrode lead, the anchor configured to
operatively retain the at least one electrode lead at the insertion
point during withdrawal of the needle from the animal body.
12. The kit of claim 8, wherein the limb joint replacement surgery
is wherein the limb joint replacement surgery is selected from a
group consisting of: a shoulder, elbow, wrist, finger joint, hip,
knee, ankle and toe joint.
13. The kit of claim 8, wherein the stimulation will not block
motor or sensory function of the at least one nerve.
14. The kit of claim 8, wherein stimulating the at least one nerve
results in paresthesia in at least a portion of the painful
region.
15. The kit of claim 12, wherein the paresthesia generally relieves
pain in the painful region.
16. The kit of claim 12, wherein locating the insertion point
resulting in paresthesia to the painful region does not require
verbal feedback from a patient.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 14/547,493, entitled "System and Method for Treatment of Pain
Related to Limb Joint Replacement Surgery," filed on Nov. 19, 2014,
which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/791,710
entitled "System and Method for Treatment of Pain Related to Limb
Joint Replacement Surgery" filed on Mar. 8, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No.
8,965,516, which claims the benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/608,106 entitled "Systems and Methods for Bodily
Conditioning and Treatment of Pain Related to Surgery" filed on
Mar. 8, 2012, which are all hereby incorporated in their entirety
by reference.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to a system and a
method to deliver electrical stimulation to treat post-operative
pain following limb joint replacement surgery.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Limb joint replacement surgery is often able to provide
patients with a remarkable improvement in their health. However,
these surgeries often require significant rehabilitation often
eliminating it as a treatment alternative for patients. Moreover,
the pain associated with these surgeries can cause a delay in
rehabilitation potentially reducing the efficacy of such
treatments. In order for patients to begin rehabilitation promptly
to increase the likelihood of success of such surgeries, it is
imperative that the pain following the limb joint replacement
surgery be managed.
[0004] While existing systems and techniques can offer some relief
and ancillary benefits to individuals requiring therapeutic relief,
many issues and the need for improvements still remain. For
example, non-narcotic analgesics, such as acetaminophen or
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), have relatively
minor side effects and are commonly used for several types of pain.
However, they are rarely sufficient in managing moderate to severe
postoperative pain.
[0005] The use of narcotic analgesics, such as opioids, has shown
only minor success with inconsistent results. Narcotics carry the
risk of addiction and side effects, such as constipation, nausea,
confusion, vomiting, hallucinations, drowsiness, dizziness,
headache, agitation, and insomnia. Further, narcotics may impair a
patient's ability to undergo rehabilitation.
[0006] Electrical stimulation systems have been used for the relief
of chronic pain, but widespread use of available systems for the
treatment of postoperative pain is limited. There exist both
external and implantable devices for providing electrical
stimulation to activate nerves and/or muscles to provide
therapeutic relief of pain. These "neurostimulators" are able to
provide treatment and/or therapy to individual portions of the
body. The operation of these devices typically includes the use of
an electrode placed either on the external surface of the skin or a
surgically implanted electrode. In most cases, surface
electrode(s), cuff-style electrode(s), paddle-style electrode(s),
or spinal column electrodes may be used to deliver electrical
stimulation to the select portion of the patient's body.
[0007] One example of the neurostimulators identified above is
transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). TENS has been
cleared by the FDA for treatment of pain. TENS systems are external
neurostimulation devices that use electrodes placed on the skin
surface to activate target nerves below the skin surface. TENS has
a low rate of serious complications.
[0008] Application of TENS has been used to treat pain with
inconsistent results, and it has low patient compliance, because it
may cause additional discomfort by generating cutaneous pain
signals due to the electrical stimulation being applied through the
skin. Additionally, the overall system is bulky and cumbersome.
Further, TENS requires that surface electrodes be placed near the
site of pain, which would be near the incision site for
post-operative pain. This may impair healing or increase the risk
of infection for the patient.
[0009] Moreover, several clinical and technical issues associated
with surface electrical stimulation have prevented it from becoming
a widely accepted treatment method. First, stimulation of cutaneous
pain receptors oftentimes cannot be avoided resulting in
stimulation-induced pain that limits patient tolerance and
compliance. Second, it is difficult to stimulate deep nerves and/or
muscles with surface electrodes without stimulating overlying, more
superficial nerves and/or muscles resulting in unwanted
stimulation. Finally, clinical skill and intensive patient training
is required to place surface electrodes reliably on a daily basis
and adjust stimulation parameters to provide optimal treatment. The
required daily maintenance and adjustment of a surface electrical
stimulation system is a major burden on both patient and
caregiver.
[0010] Peripheral nerve stimulation may be effective in reducing
pain, but it previously required specialized surgeons to place
cuff- or paddle-style leads around the nerves in a time consuming
procedure. This is particularly problematic to treat post-operative
pain in that additional surgeries may be required to actually treat
the pain--typically not a preferred approach, especially to treat
pain following a separate surgery.
[0011] These above-mentioned methods of implementation have
practical limitations that prevent widespread use.
[0012] Nevertheless, undergoing a surgical procedure, and
recovering therefrom, is generally a painful process, emotionally
and physically. There remains room in the art of surgical
preparation and/or pain management for improved systems and methods
to be used to ready an animal body for surgery and/or to assist in
the recovery of the body after a surgical operation. There is,
therefore, a need from an improved pain treatment system and method
for relief of post-operative pain, especially pain following limb
joint replacement surgery.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The invention provides systems and methods for placing one
or more leads in tissues for providing electrical stimulation to
tissue to treat pain in a manner unlike prior systems and
methods.
[0014] The invention provides an electrical stimulation device
having at least one percutaneous lead adapted for insertion within
tissue of an animal body and a pulse generator operatively coupled
with the at least one lead, wherein the pulse generator is
configured to stimulate at least one nerve innervating a region of
pain following the limb joint replacement surgery.
[0015] The invention further provides a kit for treatment of pain
following limb joint replacement surgery having a needle insertable
into an animal body tissue, at least one percutaneous electrode
lead operatively inserted into the needle, wherein the needle and
at least one percutaneous lead are inserted into an insertion point
of the animal body, whereby the needle is removable from the animal
body tissue and the at least one percutaneous electrode lead is
retained within the animal body, and a pulse generator operatively
coupled with the at least one electrode lead, wherein the pulse
generator is configured to stimulate at least one nerve innervating
a region of pain following a limb joint replacement surgery.
[0016] The invention also provides methods to alleviate pain
following a limb joint replacement surgery including inserting at
least one electrode within a therapeutically effective distance
from at least one nerve, and applying electrical stimulation
through the at least one electrode to affect the at least one nerve
innervating a region of pain following the limb joint replacement
surgery, wherein the electrical stimulation does not cause
pain.
[0017] Other features and advantages of the inventions are set
forth in the following specification and attached drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] Operation of the invention may be better understood by
reference to the detailed description taken in connection with the
following illustrations, wherein:
[0019] FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic anatomic views, respectively
anterior and lateral, of a human peripheral nervous system.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a schematic anatomic view of a human spine,
showing the various regions and the vertebrae comprising the
regions.
[0021] FIG. 3 is an anatomic view of the spinal nerves of the
lumbar plexus.
[0022] FIG. 4 is an anatomic view of the spinal nerves of the
sacral plexus.
[0023] FIG. 5 is an anatomic view of the femoral nerve and sciatic
nerve innervation of the leg.
[0024] FIGS. 6A to 6C are views showing a percutaneous lead that
can form a part of a peripheral nerve stimulation system.
[0025] FIG. 7 is a view of a package containing a peripheral nerve
stimulation system.
[0026] FIGS. 8A/B and 9A/B are representative leads that can form a
part of a peripheral nerve stimulation system.
[0027] FIGS. 10A and 10B are schematic anatomic views of a system
for applying peripheral nerve stimulation to a femoral nerve.
[0028] FIGS. 11A and 11B are schematic anatomic views of a system
for applying peripheral nerve stimulation to a sciatic/tibial
nerve.
[0029] FIGS. 12A and 12B are schematic sectional anatomic views of
systems for applying peripheral nerve stimulation to a femoral
nerve and a sciatic/tibial nerve.
[0030] FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 13C are schematic sectional anatomic
views of a system for applying peripheral nerve stimulation along a
sciatic/tibial nerve.
[0031] FIG. 14 is a frontal view showing the peripheral nerve
stimulation system and TKA incision.
[0032] FIGS. 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D are idealized, diagrammatic
view showing peripheral nerve stimulation systems.
[0033] FIG. 16 is a view of the areas of pain and paresthesia on a
diagram of the body.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0034] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary
embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are
illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood
that other embodiments may be utilized and structural and
functional changes may be made without departing from the
respective scope of the invention. Moreover, features of the
various embodiments may be combined or altered without departing
from the scope of the invention. As such, the following description
is presented by way of illustration only and should not limit in
any way the various alternatives and modifications that may be made
to the illustrated embodiments and still be within the spirit and
scope of the invention.
[0035] Any elements described herein as singular can be pluralized
(i.e., anything described as "one" can be more than one). Any
species element of a genus element can have the characteristics or
elements of any other species element of that genus. The described
configurations, elements or complete assemblies and methods and
their elements for carrying out the invention, and variations of
aspects of the invention can be combined and modified with each
other in any combination.
I. The Peripheral Nervous System--Anatomic Overview
[0036] As generally shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the peripheral
nervous system consists of nerve fibers and cell bodies outside the
central nervous system (the brain and the spinal column) that
conduct impulses to or away from the central nervous system. The
peripheral nervous system is made up of nerves (called spinal
nerves) that connect the central nervous system with peripheral
structures. The spinal nerves of the peripheral nervous system
arise from the spinal column and exit through intervertebral
foramina in the vertebral column (spine). The afferent, or sensory,
fibers of the peripheral nervous system convey neural impulses to
the central nervous system from the sense organs (e.g., the eyes)
and from sensory receptors in various parts of the body (e.g., the
skin, muscles, etc.). The efferent, or motor, fibers convey neural
impulses from the central nervous system to the effector organs
(muscles and glands).
[0037] The somatic nervous system (SNS) is the part of the
peripheral nervous system associated with the voluntary control of
body movements through the action of skeletal muscles, and with
reception of external stimuli, which helps keep the body in touch
with its surroundings (e.g., touch, hearing, and sight). The system
includes all the neurons connected with skeletal muscles, skin and
sense organs. The somatic nervous system consists of efferent
nerves responsible for sending central nervous signals for muscle
contraction. A somatic nerve is a nerve of the somatic nervous
system.
A. Spinal Nerves
[0038] A typical spinal nerve arises from the spinal cord by
rootlets which converge to form two nerve roots, the dorsal
(sensory) root and the ventral (motor) root. The dorsal and ventral
roots unite into a mixed nerve trunk that divides into a smaller
dorsal (posterior) primary ramus and a much larger ventral
(anterior) primary ramus. The posterior primary rami serve a column
of muscles on either side of the vertebral column, and a narrow
strip of overlying skin. All of the other muscle and skin is
supplied by the anterior primary rami.
[0039] The nerve roots that supply or turn into peripheral nerves
can be generally categorized by the location on the spine where the
roots exit the spinal cord, i.e., as generally shown in FIG. 2,
cervical (generally in the head/neck, designated C1 to C8),
thoracic (generally in chest/upper back, designated T1 to T12),
lumbar (generally in lower back, designated L1 to L5); and sacral
(generally in the pelvis, designated S1 to S5). All peripheral
nerves can be traced back (proximally toward the spinal column) to
one or more of the spinal nerve roots in either the cervical,
thoracic, lumbar, or sacral regions of the spine. The neural
impulses comprising pain felt in a given muscle or cutaneous region
of the body pass through spinal nerves and (usually) one or more
nerve plexuses. The spinal nerves begin as roots at the spine, and
can form trunks that divide by divisions or cords into branches
that innervate skin and muscles.
B. Nerves of the Sacral Plexus
[0040] The sacral plexus provides motor and sensory nerves for the
posterior thigh, most of the lower leg, and the entire foot.
[0041] 1. The Sciatic Nerve
[0042] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 4, the sciatic nerve (also known as
the ischiatic nerve) arises from the sacral plexus. It begins in
the lower back and runs through the buttock and down the lower
limb. The sciatic nerve supplies nearly the whole of the skin of
the leg, the muscles of the back of the thigh, and those of the leg
and foot. It is derived from spinal nerves L4 through S3. It
contains fibers from both the anterior and posterior divisions of
the lumbosacral plexus.
[0043] The nerve gives off articular and muscular branches. The
articular branches (rami articulares) arise from the upper part of
the nerve and supply the hip-joint, perforating the posterior part
of its capsule; they are sometimes derived from the sacral plexus.
The muscular branches (rami musculares) innervate the following
muscles of the lower limb: biceps femoris, semitendinosus,
semimembranosus, and adductor magnus. The nerve to the short head
of the biceps femoris comes from the common peroneal part of the
sciatic, while the other muscular branches arise from the tibial
portion, as may be seen in those cases where there is a high
division of the sciatic nerve.
[0044] The muscular branch of the sciatic nerve eventually gives
off the tibial nerve (shown in FIG. 1A) and common peroneal nerve
(also shown in FIG. 1A), which innervates the muscles of the
(lower) leg. The tibial nerve innervates the gastrocnemius,
popliteus, soleus and plantaris muscles and the knee joint. It also
goes on to innervate all muscles of the foot except the extensor
digitorum brevis (which is innervated by the peroneal nerve).
C. Nerves of the Lumbar Plexus
[0045] The lumbar plexus (see FIG. 3) provides motor, sensory, and
autonomic fibers to gluteal and inguinal regions and to the lower
extremities. The gluteal muscles are the three muscles that make up
the buttocks: the gluteus maximus muscle, gluteus medius muscle and
gluteus minimus muscle. The inguinal region is situated in the
groin or in either of the lowest lateral regions of the
abdomen.
[0046] 1. The Iliohypogastric Nerve
[0047] The iliohypogastric nerve (see FIG. 3) runs anterior to the
psoas major on its proximal lateral border to run laterally and
obliquely on the anterior side of quadratus lumborum. Lateral to
this muscle, it pierces the transversus abdominis to run above the
iliac crest between that muscle and abdominal internal oblique. It
gives off several motor branches to these muscles and a sensory
branch to the skin of the lateral hip. Its terminal branch then
runs parallel to the inguinal ligament to exit the aponeurosis of
the abdominal external oblique above the external inguinal ring
where it supplies the skin above the inguinal ligament (i.e. the
hypogastric region) with the anterior cutaneous branch.
[0048] 2. The Ilioinguinal Nerve
[0049] The ilioinguinal nerve (see FIG. 3) closely follows the
iliohypogastric nerve on the quadratus lumborum, but then passes
below it to run at the level of the iliac crest. It pierces the
lateral abdominal wall and runs medially at the level of the
inguinal ligament where it supplies motor branches to both
transversus abdominis and sensory branches through the external
inguinal ring to the skin over the pubic symphysis and the lateral
aspect of the labia majora or scrotum.
[0050] 3. The Lateral Cutaneous Femoral Nerve
[0051] The lateral cutaneous femoral nerve (see FIG. 3) pierces
psoas major on its lateral side and runs obliquely downward below
the iliac fascia. Medial to the anterior superior iliac spine it
leaves the pelvic area through the lateral muscular lacuna. In the
thigh it briefly passes under the fascia lata before it breaches
the fascia and supplies the skin of the anterior thigh.
[0052] 4. The Obturator Nerve
[0053] The obturator nerve (see FIG. 3) leaves the lumbar plexus
and descends behind psoas major on it medial side, then follows the
linea terminalis and exits through the obturator canal. In the
thigh, it sends motor branches to obturator externus before
dividing into an anterior and a posterior branch, both of which
continue distally. These branches are separated by adductor brevis
and supply all thigh adductors with motor innervation: pectineus,
adductor longus, adductor brevis, adductor magnus, adductor
minimus, and gracilis. The anterior branch contributes a terminal,
sensory branch which passes along the anterior border of gracilis
and supplies the skin on the medial, distal part of the thigh.
[0054] 5. The Femoral Nerve
[0055] The femoral nerve (see FIG. 3 and also FIG. 10A) is the
largest and longest nerve of the lumbar plexus. It gives motor
innervation to iliopsoas, pectineus, sartorius, and quadriceps
femoris; and sensory innervation to the anterior thigh, posterior
lower leg, and hindfoot. It runs in a groove between psoas major
and iliacus giving off branches to both muscles. In the thigh it
divides into numerous sensory and muscular branches and the
saphenous nerve, its long sensory terminal branch which continues
down to the foot.
[0056] The femoral nerve has anterior branches (intermediate
cutaneous nerve and medial cutaneous nerve) and posterior branches.
The saphenous nerve (branch of the femoral nerve) provides
cutaneous (skin) sensation in the medial leg. Other branches of the
femoral nerve innervate structures (such as muscles, joints, and
other tissues) in the thigh and around the hip and knee joints. As
an example, branches of the femoral nerve innervate the hip joint,
knee joint, and the four parts of the Quadriceps femoris (muscle):
Rectus femoris (in the middle of the thigh) originates on the ilium
and covers most of the other three quadriceps muscles. Under (or
deep to) the rectus femoris are the other 3 of the quadriceps
muscles, which originate from the body of the femur. Vastus
lateralis (on the outer side of the thigh) is on the lateral side
of the femur. Vastus medialis (on the inner part thigh) is on the
medial side of the femur. Vastus intermedius (on the top or front
of the thigh) lies between vastus lateralis and vastus medialis on
the front of the femur. Branches of the femoral nerve often
innervate the pectineus and sartorius muscles.
II. The System
[0057] Shown in FIG. 7 is an electrical stimulation device 164
configured to treat post-operative pain, especially pain following
limb joint replacement surgery. Here, a limb joint replacement
surgery is defined to include a shoulder, elbow, wrist, finger
joint, hip, knee, ankle and toe joint, but to exclude the back,
neck and head. The electrical stimulation device may include one or
more leads 12 having one or more electrodes 14 adapted for
insertion into in any tissue of the body in electrical proximity
but away from nerves. This location of leads 12 may improve
recruitment of targeted nerves for therapeutic purposes, such as
for the treatment of pain. It is to be appreciated that the present
electrical stimulation device is intended only to treat regions of
pain that include any limbs or joint replacements, including arms
and legs in both humans and animals.
A. Stimulation of Peripheral Nerves
[0058] FIGS. 15A-15D show a peripheral nerve system and method that
incorporates features of the present teachings. As shown in FIGS.
15A-15D, the system and method may identify a region where there is
a local manifestation of pain. The region of pain may comprise any
appropriate portion of the body, e.g., tissue, skin, bone, a joint,
or muscle. The system and method may identify one or more spinal
nerves located distant from the region where pain is manifested,
through which neural impulses comprising the pain pass. A given
spinal nerve that is identified may comprise a nerve trunk located
in a nerve plexus, or a division and/or a cord of a nerve trunk, or
a nerve branch, or a nerve plexus provided that it is upstream or
cranial of where the nerve innervates the region affected by the
pain. The given spinal nerve may be identified by medical
professionals using textbooks of human anatomy along with their
knowledge of the site and the nature of the pain or injury, as well
as by physical manipulation and/or imaging, e.g., by ultrasound,
fluoroscopy, or X-ray examination, of the region where pain is
manifested. A desired criteria of the selection may include
identifying the location of tissue in a therapeutically effective
distance from the nerve or passage, which tissue may be accessed by
placement of one or more stimulation electrodes, aided if necessary
by ultrasonic or electro-location techniques. A therapeutically
effective distance may be defined to mean the placement of a lead
either in contact with, or more preferably adjacent to a nerve. The
nerve identified may comprise a targeted peripheral nerve. The
tissue identified may comprise the "targeted tissue."
[0059] The electrodes 14 of the electrical stimulation device 164
may be percutaneously inserted using percutaneous leads 12. The
system and method may place the one or more leads 12(B) with its
electrode 14(B) in the targeted tissue in electrical proximity to
but spaced away from the targeted peripheral nerve. The system and
method may apply electrical stimulation through the one or more
stimulation electrodes 14(B) to electrically activate or recruit
the targeted peripheral nerve that conveys the neural impulses
comprising the pain to the spinal column.
[0060] The system and method may apply electrical stimulation to
peripheral nerves throughout the body. By way of a non-limiting
example, the peripheral nerves may comprise one or more spinal
nerves in the brachial plexus, to treat pain in the shoulders (see
FIG. 15C), arms and hands (see FIG. 15D); and/or one or more spinal
nerves in the lumbar plexus, to treat pain in the thighs, knees,
and calves (see FIGS. 15A and 15B); and/or one or more spinal
nerves in the sacral plexus, to treat pain in the thighs, calves,
and feet (see FIGS. 15A and 15B); and/or one or more spinal nerves
in the cervical plexus, to treat pain in the shoulders (see FIG.
15C).
[0061] For example, if the pinky finger is the location of pain
following a limb joint replacement surgery, the system and method
may identify and stimulate the ulnar nerve at a location upstream
or cranial of where the nerve innervates the muscle or skin of the
pinky finger, e.g., in the palm of the hand, forearm, and/or upper
arm. If electrical stimulation activates the target peripheral
nerve sufficiently at the correct intensity, then the patient will
feel a comfortable tingling sensation called paresthesia in the
same region as their pain, which overlaps with the region of pain
and/or otherwise reduce pain.
[0062] It is to be appreciated that the sensation could be
described with other words such as buzzing, thumping, etc. Evoking
paresthesia in the region of pain confirms correct lead placement
and indicates stimulus intensity is sufficient to reduce pain.
Inserting a lead 12 percutaneously may allow the lead 12 to be
placed quickly and easily. Placing the lead 12 in a peripheral
location, i.e., tissue, where it is less likely to be dislodged,
may address lead migration problems of spinal cord stimulation that
may otherwise cause decreased paresthesia coverage, decreased pain
relief, and the need for frequent patient visits for
reprogramming.
[0063] Placing the lead 12 percutaneously in tissue in electrical
proximity to but spaced away from the targeted peripheral nerve may
also minimize complications related to lead placement and movement.
In a percutaneous system, an electrode lead 12, such as a coiled
fine wire electrode lead may be used because it is
minimally-invasive and well suited for placement in proximity to a
peripheral nerve. The lead may be sized and configured to withstand
mechanical forces and resist migration during long-term use,
particularly in flexible regions of the body, such as the shoulder,
elbow, and knee.
[0064] As FIG. 6A shows, the electrode lead may include a fine wire
electrode 14, paddle electrode, intramuscular electrode, or
general-purpose electrode, inserted via a needle introducer 30 or
surgically implanted in proximity of a targeted peripheral nerve.
Once proper placement is confirmed, the needle introducer 30 may be
withdrawn (as FIGS. 6B and 6C show), leaving the electrode 14 in
place. Stimulation may also be applied through a penetrating
electrode, such as an electrode array comprised of any number
(i.e., one or more) of needle-like electrodes that may be inserted
into the target site. In both cases, the lead may be placed using a
needle-like introducer 30, allowing the lead/electrode placement to
be minimally invasive. In a representative embodiment, the lead 12
may include a thin, flexible component made of a metal and/or
polymer material. By "thin," it is contemplated that the lead may
not be greater than about 0.75 mm (0.030 inch) in diameter.
However, the present teachings are not limited to such dimensions.
Any appropriate lead 12 may be utilized. The lead 12 may also
include one or more coiled metal wires with in an open or flexible
elastomer core. The wire may be insulated, e.g., with a
biocompatible polymer film, such as polyfluorocarbon, polyimide, or
parylene. The lead 12 may be electrically insulated everywhere
except at one (monopolar), or two (bipolar), or three (tripolar),
for example, conduction locations near its distal tip. Each of the
conduction locations may be connected to one or more conductors
that may run the length of the lead and lead extension 16 (see FIG.
6C) or a portion thereof. The conductor may provide electrical
continuity from the conduction location through the lead 12 to an
external pulse generator or stimulator 28 (see FIG. 6C).
[0065] The conduction location or electrode 14 may include a
de-insulated area of an otherwise insulated conductor that may run
the length of an entirely insulated electrode or a portion thereof.
The de-insulated conduction region of the conductor may be formed
differently, e.g., it may be wound with a different pitch, or wound
with a larger or smaller diameter, or molded to a different
dimension. The conduction location or the electrode 14 may include
a separate material (e.g., metal or a conductive polymer) exposed
to the body tissue to which the conductor of the wire is
bonded.
[0066] The lead 12 may be provided in a sterile package 62 (see
FIG. 7), and may be pre-loaded in the introducer needle 30.
Alternatively, the lead may be introduced via the same needle that
is used to inject anesthetic or analgesics during peripheral nerve
blocks, which are often used post-limb joint replacement surgery.
The package 62 may take various forms and the arrangement and
contents of the package 62 may be as appropriate related to the use
thereof. As shown in FIG. 7, the package 62 may include a sterile,
wrapped assembly. The package 62 may include an interior tray made
from any appropriate material, e.g., from die cut cardboard,
plastic sheet, or thermo-formed plastic material, which may hold
the contents. The package 62 may also desirably include
instructions for use 58 regarding using the contents of the package
to carry out the lead 12 location and placement procedures, as will
be described in greater detail below. The lead 12 may possess
mechanical properties in terms of flexibility and fatigue life that
provide an operating life free of mechanical and/or electrical
failure, taking into account the dynamics of the surrounding tissue
(i.e., stretching, bending, pushing, pulling, crushing, etc.). The
material of the electrode 14 may discourage the in-growth of
connective tissue along its length or an applicable portion
thereof, so as not to inhibit its withdrawal at the end of its use.
However, it may be desirable to encourage the in-growth of
connective tissue at the distal tip of the electrode 14, to enhance
its anchoring in tissue.
[0067] Embodiments of the lead 12 shown in FIG. 12A may include a
minimally invasive coiled fine wire lead 12 and electrode 14. The
electrode 14 may also include, at its distal tip, an anchoring
element 48. In the illustrated embodiments, the anchoring element
48 may take the form of a simple barb or bend (see also FIG.
6C).
[0068] The anchoring element 48 may be sized and configured so
that, when in contact with tissue, it takes purchase in tissue, to
resist dislodgement or migration of the electrode 14 out of the
correct location in the surrounding tissue. Desirably, the
anchoring element 48 may be prevented from fully engaging body
tissue until after the electrode 14 has been correctly located and
deployed.
[0069] Alternative embodiments of the electrode lead 12 shown in
FIGS. 9A and 9B may also include, at or near its distal tip or
region, one or more anchoring element(s) 70. In the illustrated
embodiments, the anchoring element 70 may take the form of an array
of shovel-like paddles or scallops 76 proximal to the proximal-most
electrode 14 (although a paddle 76 or paddles may also be proximal
to the distal most electrode 14, or may also be distal to the
distal most electrode 14). The paddles 76 as shown may be sized and
configured so they will not cut or score the surrounding tissue.
The anchoring element 70 may be sized and configured so that, when
in contact with tissue, it takes purchase in tissue, to resist
dislodgement or migration of the electrode out of the correct
location in the surrounding tissue (e.g., muscle 54). The anchoring
element 70 may be prevented from fully engaging body tissue until
after the electrode 14 has been deployed. The electrode 14 may not
be deployed until after it has been correctly located during the
implantation (lead placement) process, as previously described. In
addition, the lead 12 may include one or more ink markings 74, 75
(shown in FIG. 9A) to aid the clinician in its proper
placement.
[0070] Alternatively, or in combination, stimulation may be applied
through any type of nerve cuff (spiral, helical, cylindrical, book,
flat interface nerve electrode (FINE), slowly closing FINE, etc.),
paddle (or paddle-style) electrode lead, cylindrical electrode
lead, echogenic needle (i.e., visible under ultrasound) and/or
other lead that is surgically or percutaneously placed within
tissue at the target site.
[0071] The lead 12 may exit through the skin and connect with one
or more external stimulators 28 (this approach is shown in FIG.
6C). Further, the lead 12 may be connected as needed to internal
and external coils for RF (Radio Frequency) wireless telemetry
communications or an inductively coupled telemetry to control the
implanted pulse generator 28. The implanted pulse generator 28 may
be located some distance (remote) from the electrode 14, or an
implanted pulse generator may be integrated with an electrode(s)
(not shown), eliminating the need to route the lead subcutaneously
to the implanted pulse generator.
[0072] The introducer 30 (see FIG. 6A) may be insulated along the
length of the shaft, except for those areas that correspond with
the exposed conduction surfaces of the electrode 14 housed inside
the introducer 30. These surfaces on the outside of the introducer
30 may be electrically isolated from each other and from the shaft
of the introducer 30. These surfaces may be electrically connected
to a connector 64 at the end of the introducer body (see FIG. 6A).
This may allow connection to an external stimulator 28 (shown in
FIG. 6A) during the implantation process. Applying stimulating
current through the outside surfaces of the introducer 30 may
provide a close approximation to the response that the electrode 14
will provide when it is deployed at the current location of the
introducer 30.
[0073] The introducer 30 may be sized and configured to be bent by
hand prior to its insertion through the skin. This may allow the
physician to place the lead 12 in a location that is not in an
unobstructed straight line with the insertion site. The
construction and materials of the introducer 30 may allow bending
without interfering with the deployment of the lead 12 and
withdrawal of the introducer 30, leaving the lead 12 in the
tissue.
[0074] Representative lead insertion techniques will now be
described to place an electrode lead 12 in a desired location in
tissue in electrical proximity to but spaced away from a peripheral
nerve. It is this lead placement that may make possible the
stimulation of the targeted nerve or peripheral nerves with a
single lead 12 to provide pain relief.
[0075] To determine the optimal placement for the lead 12, test
stimulation may be delivered through needle electrodes. Needle
electrodes may be used because they may be easily repositioned
until the optimal location to deliver stimulation is determined. A
test needle may be used to generate paresthesia.
[0076] At least one lead(s) may be placed in tissue near a targeted
peripheral nerve. The lead may be inserted via the introducer 30 in
any appropriate manner, which may be similar in size and shape to a
hypodermic needle. The introducer 30 may be any size. By way of a
non-limiting example, the introducer 30 may range in size from 17
gauge to 26 gauge. Before inserting the introducer 30, the
insertion site may be cleaned with a disinfectant (e.g., Betadine,
2% Chlorhexidine/80% alcohol, 10% povidone-iodine, or similar
agent). A local anesthetic(s) may be administered topically and/or
subcutaneously to the area in which the electrode and/or introducer
will be inserted.
[0077] The position of the electrodes may be checked by imaging
techniques, such as ultrasound, fluoroscopy, or X-rays. Following
placement of the lead(s), the portion of the leads which exit the
skin may be secured to the skin using covering bandages and/or
adhesives.
[0078] Electrical stimulation may be applied to the targeted
peripheral nerve during and after placement of the electrode. This
may be used to determine whether stimulation of the targeted
peripheral nerve can generate comfortable sensations or paresthesia
that overlap with the region of pain and/or reduce pain.
[0079] In a percutaneous system 10 (as FIGS. 6A to 6C) shown, the
lead 12 may be percutaneously placed near the targeted peripheral
nerve and exit at a skin puncture site 16. A trial or screening
test may be conducted in any appropriate clinical setting (e.g., an
office of a clinician, a laboratory, a procedure room, an operating
room, an intensive care unit, an acute rehabilitation facility, a
subacute rehabilitation facility, etc.). During the trial, the lead
12 may be coupled to an external pulse generator 28 and temporary
percutaneous and/or surface return electrodes, to confirm
paresthesia coverage and/or pain relief of the painful areas.
[0080] If the clinical screening test is successful, the patient
may proceed to treatment with an external pulse generator 28 (as
shown in FIG. 6C) and temporary percutaneous and/or surface return
electrodes. The treatment period may range from minutes to hours to
days to weeks to months. By way of a non-limiting example, the
treatment period may be between approximately three and 21
days.
[0081] Alternatively, a fully implanted pulse generator may be used
if an external stimulator is considered too cumbersome for the
patient.
[0082] Electrical stimulation may be applied between the lead and
return electrodes (uni-polar mode). Regulated current may be used
as a type of stimulation, but other type(s) of stimulation (e.g.,
non-regulated current such as voltage-regulated) may also be used.
Multiple types of electrodes may be used, such as surface,
percutaneous, and/or implantable electrodes. The surface electrodes
may be a standard shape or they may be modified as appropriate to
fit the contour of the skin.
[0083] In embodiments of a percutaneous system, the surface
electrode(s) may serve as the anode(s) (or return electrode(s)),
but the surface electrode(s) may be used as the cathode(s) (active
electrode(s)) if necessary. When serving as a return electrode(s),
the location of the electrode(s) may not be critical and may be
positioned anywhere in the general vicinity, provided that the
current path does not cross parts of the body (e.g., the heart),
through which stimulation could be harmful.
[0084] The electrode lead may be placed via multiple types of
approaches. By way of a non-limiting example, when the targeted
peripheral nerve includes one or more nerves of the lumbar plexus
or sacral plexus, the approach may be either a posterior (shown in
FIG. 10A) or an anterior approach (shown in FIG. 11A). This may be
similar to those used for regional anesthesia of the same targeted
peripheral nerve, except that the approach may be used for
placement through an introducer of stimulation lead(s) in
electrical proximity to but spaced away from a peripheral nerve,
and not for regional anesthesia. Unlike regional anesthesia, the
approach to nerves of the lumbar plexus or sacral plexus may not
involve the application of anesthesia to the nerve, and, when the
introducer is withdrawn, the lead(s) may be left behind to desired
stimulation of the target peripheral nerve.
[0085] In other embodiments, when the targeted peripheral nerve
includes the sciatic nerve (see FIG. 12A), the introducer(s) 30
and/or lead(s) 12 may be directed towards the sciatic nerve using a
posterior approach, such as the transgluteal approach or subgluteal
approach, which are both well described and commonly used in
regional anesthesiology. This approach may allow lead placement
near a targeted peripheral nerve with a simple, quick (e.g., less
than 10 minutes) procedure.
[0086] The landmarks for the transgluteal approach may include the
greater trochanter and the posterior superior iliac spine. The
introducer 30 may be inserted distal (e.g., approximately 2 cm to 6
cm, preferably 4 cm, in a preferred embodiment) to the midpoint
between the greater trochanter and the posterior iliac spine. As a
non-limiting example of patient positioning, the patient may be in
a lateral decubitus position and tilted slightly forward. The
landmarks for the subgluteal approach may include the greater
trochanter and the ischial tuberosity. The introducer may be
inserted distal (e.g., approximately 2 cm to 6 cm, preferably 4 cm,
in the preferred embodiment) to the midpoint between the greater
trochanter and the ischial tuberosity.
[0087] By way of a non-limiting example, when the targeted
peripheral nerve includes the femoral nerve (see FIG. 12A),
percutaneous leads 12 may be directed towards the femoral nerve
using an anterior approach. The landmarks may include the inguinal
ligament, inguinal crease, and femoral artery. The subject may be
in the supine position with ipsilateral extremity slightly
(approximately 10 to 20 degrees) abducted. The introducer may be
inserted near the femoral crease but below the inguinal crease and
approximately 1 cm lateral to the pulse of the femoral artery.
[0088] The size and shape of tissues, such as the buttocks,
surrounding the target nerves may vary across subjects, and the
approach may be modified as appropriate to accommodate various body
sizes and shapes to access the target nerve.
[0089] Introducer placement may be guided by the individual's
report of stimulus-evoked sensations (paresthesia) as the
introducer is placed during test stimulation.
[0090] As shown in FIG. 12B, more than a single lead 12 may be
placed around a given peripheral nerve, using either an anterior
approach (e.g., femoral nerve) or a posterior approach (e.g.,
sciatic nerve). As FIGS. 13A, B, and C show, one or more leads 12
may be placed at different superior-inferior positions along a
peripheral nerve and/or along different peripheral nerves.
[0091] As FIG. 10B (anterior approach, e.g., femoral nerve) and 11B
(posterior approach, e.g., sciatic nerve) show, the lead 12 may be
coupled to an external pulse generator 28 worn, e.g., on a belt,
for a temporary stimulation regime. In this arrangement, the lead
12 may be covered with a bandage 50, and a surface electrode 54 may
serve as a return electrode. The external/percutaneous system shown
in FIGS. 10B and 10B may be replaced by an implanted system using
an implanted pulse generator 60 and tunneled leads 62. In this
arrangement, the case of the implanted pulse generator 60A may
include the return electrode.
[0092] Control of the stimulator and stimulation parameters may be
provided by one or more external controllers. Alternatively, a
controller may be integrated with the external stimulator. The
implanted pulse generator external controller (i.e., clinical
programmer) may be a remote unit that uses RF (Radio Frequency)
wireless telemetry communications (rather than an inductively
coupled telemetry) to control the implanted pulse generator. The
external or implantable pulse generator may use passive charge
recovery to generate the stimulation waveform, regulated voltage
(e.g., 10 mV to 20 V), and/or regulated current (e.g., about 10 mA
to about 50 mA). Passive charge recovery may be one method of
generating a biphasic, charge-balanced pulse as desired for tissue
stimulation without severe side effects due to a DC component of
the current.
[0093] The neurostimulation pulse may by monophasic (anodic or
cathodic), biphasic, and/or multi-phasic. In the case of the
biphasic or multi-phasic pulse, the pulse may be symmetrical or
asymmetrical. Its shape may be rectangular or exponential or a
combination of rectangular and exponential waveforms. The pulse
width of each phase may range between e.g., about 0.1 .mu.sec. to
about 1.0 sec., as non-limiting examples.
[0094] Pulses may be applied in continuous or intermittent trains
(i.e., the stimulus frequency changes as a function of time). In
the case of intermittent pulses, the on/off duty cycle of pulses
may be symmetrical or asymmetrical, and the duty cycle may be
regular and repeatable from one intermittent burst to the next or
the duty cycle of each set of bursts may vary in a random (or
pseudo random) fashion. Varying the stimulus frequency and/or duty
cycle may assist in warding off habituation because of the stimulus
modulation.
[0095] The stimulating frequency may range from e.g., about 1 Hz to
about 300 Hz. The frequency of stimulation may be constant or
varying. In the case of applying stimulation with varying
frequencies, the frequencies may vary in a consistent and
repeatable pattern or in a random (or pseudo random) fashion or a
combination of repeatable and random patterns.
[0096] In a representative embodiment, the stimulator may be set to
an intensity (e.g., 1-2 mA (or 0.1-40 mA, or 0.01-200 mA), 100-300
us (or 40-1000 us, or 1-10,000 us)) sufficient to activate the
targeted nerve at some distance X1 (e.g., 1 mm) away (from the
targeted peripheral nerve). If the stimulus intensity is too great,
it may generate muscle twitch(es) or contraction(s) sufficient to
disrupt correct placement of the lead. If stimulus intensity is too
low, the lead may be advanced too close to the targeted peripheral
nerve (beyond the optimal position), possibly leading to incorrect
guidance, nerve damage, mechanically evoked sensation (e.g., pain
and/or paresthesia) and/or muscle contraction (i.e. when the lead
touches the peripheral nerve), inability to activate the target
nerve fiber(s) without activating non-target nerve fiber(s),
improper placement, and/or improper anchoring of the lead (e.g.,
the lead may be too close to the nerve and no longer able to anchor
appropriately in the muscle tissue).
[0097] Patient sensation may instead be used to indicate lead
location relative to the targeted peripheral nerve as indicator(s)
of lead placement (distance from the peripheral nerve to electrode
contact). Any combination of stimulus parameters that evoke
sensation(s) may be used. The stimulation parameters may include,
but are not limited to frequency, pulse duration, amplitude, duty
cycle, patterns of stimulus pulses, and waveform shapes. Some
stimulus parameters may evoke a more desirable response (e.g., more
comfortable sensation, or a sensation that may be correlated with
or specific to the specific target nerve fiber(s) within the
targeted peripheral nerve. As an example, higher frequencies (e.g.,
100 Hz or 12 Hz) may evoke sensation(s) or comfortable
paresthesia(s) in the region(s) of pain or in alternate target
region(s).
[0098] While stimulation is being applied, the lead 12
(non-limiting examples of the lead could include a single or
multi-contact electrode that is designed for temporary
(percutaneous) or long-term (implant) use or a needle electrode
(used for in-office testing only)) may be advanced (e.g., slowly
advanced) towards the targeted peripheral nerve until the desired
indicator response (e.g., patient sensation, and/or pain relief) is
obtained. The intensity may then be decreased (e.g., gradually
decreased) as the lead 12 is advanced (e.g., advanced slowly)
closer to the targeted nerve until the desired indicator
response(s) may be obtained at smaller intensity(ies) within a
target range (e.g., 0.1-1.0 mA (or 0.09-39 mA, or 0.009-199 mA),
100-300 us (or 40-1000 us, or 1-10,000 us)).
[0099] In the present teachings, the electrode 14 may be placed and
anchored at about 1 millimeter to about 100 millimeters spaced from
the target nerve, more preferably from about 1 millimeter to about
50 millimeters spaced from the target nerve. The electrode may
touch the nerve, however, this is sub-optimal. The electrode
spacing from a targeted nerve may depend on various factors, and
similar stimulation settings may invoke different responses even if
spaced at similar distances. Thus, electrode spacing from the nerve
may be about 10 to about 20 millimeters for one target nerve at a
given stimulation intensity while the spacing may be about 20 to
about 40 millimeters for a second target nerve at the same
stimulation intensity.
[0100] If specific response(s) (e.g., desired response(s) and/or
undesired response(s)) may be obtained at a range of intensities
that are too low, then the lead may be located in a non-optimal
location (e.g., too close to the target nerve(s)). In such
situations, therefore, the clinician may adjust the lead location
until the appropriate responses are achieved from the patient.
[0101] The stimulus intensities may be a function of many
variables. The stimulus intensities set forth herein are meant to
serve as non-limiting examples only, and may need to be scaled
accordingly. As a non-limiting example, if electrode shape,
geometry, or surface area were to change, then the stimulus
intensities may need to change appropriately. For example, if the
intensities were calculated for a lead with an electrode surface
area of approximately 20 mm.sup.2, then they may need to be scaled
down accordingly to be used with a lead with an electrode surface
area of 0.2 mm.sup.2 because a decrease in stimulating surface area
may increase the current density, increasing the potential to
activate excitable tissue (e.g., target and non-target nerve(s)
and/or fiber(s)). Alternatively, if the intensities were calculated
for a lead with an electrode surface area of approximately 0.2
mm.sup.2, then the intensities may need to be scaled up accordingly
to be used with a lead with an electrode surface area of 20
mm.sup.2. Alternatively, stimulus intensities may need to be scaled
to account for variations in electrode shape or geometry (between
or among electrodes) to compensate for any resulting variations in
current density. In a non-limiting example, the electrode contact
surface area may be 0.1-20 mm.sup.2, 0.01-40 mm.sup.2, or 0.001-200
mm.sup.2. In a further non-limiting example, the electrode contact
configuration may include one or more of the following
characteristics: cylindrical, conical, spherical, hemispherical,
circular, triangular, trapezoidal, raised (or elevated), depressed
(or recessed), flat, and/or borders and/or contours that are
continuous, intermittent (or interrupted), and/or undulating.
[0102] Stimulus intensities may need to be scaled to account for
biological factors, including but not limited to patient body size,
weight, mass, habitus, age, and/or neurological condition(s). As a
non-limiting example, patients that are older, have a higher
body-mass index (BMI), and/or neuropathy (e.g., due to diabetes)
may need to have stimulus intensities scaled higher (or lower)
accordingly.
[0103] As mentioned above, if the lead is too far away from the
targeted peripheral nerve, then stimulation may be unable to evoke
the desired response (e.g., comfortable sensation(s) (or
paresthesia(s)), and/or pain relief) in the desired region(s) at
the desired stimulus intensity(ies). If the lead is too close to
the targeted peripheral nerve, then stimulation may be unable to
evoke the desired response(s) (e.g., comfortable sensation(s) (or
paresthesia(s)), and/or pain relief) in the desired region(s) at
the desired stimulus intensity(ies) without evoking undesirable
response(s) (e.g., unwanted and/or painful sensation(s) (or
paresthesia(s)), increase in pain, and/or generation of additional
pain in related or unrelated area(s)). In some cases, it may be
difficult to locate the optimal lead placement (or distance from
the targeted peripheral nerve) and/or it may be desirable to
increase the range stimulus intensities that evoke the desired
response(s) without evoking the undesired response(s) so
alternative stimulus waveforms and/or combinations of leads and/or
electrode contacts may be used. A non-limiting example of
alternative stimulus waveforms may include the use of a pre-pulse
to increase the excitability of the target fiber(s) and/or decrease
the excitability of the non-target fiber(s).
[0104] This stimulation may be used pre-operatively or
intra-operatively to limit or prevent post-operative pain. Those
skilled in the art will recognize that, for simplicity and clarity,
the full structure and operation of all devices and processes
suitable for use with the present teachings are not being depicted
or described herein.
III. Example of a Method of Use
[0105] Following a total knee arthroplasty ("TKA"), the majority of
patients experience moderate to severe acute pain, and a lesser
number continue to experience moderate to severe subacute pain.
Acute and subacute postoperative pain may limit early functional
recovery, which is critical to full rehabilitation. The patients
experience different types of pain, including nociceptive,
inflammatory, and neuropathic pain. The knee is innervated by the
femoral, lateral femoral cutaneous, obturator, and the sciatic
nerves. Anesthetic block of these nerves individually or as a group
may reduce acute pain following a TKA. Accordingly, electrical
stimulation of nerves that innervate, or portions of which
innervate, a portion of the body (specifically a limb or joint) to
undergo limb joint replacement surgery, where such stimulation
occurs before, during and/or after limb joint replacement surgery
may be used to reduce pain and enhance recovery. In this example,
if the targeted peripheral nerve includes nerves of the femoral and
sciatic nerves and/or their nerve branches, the method may
include:
[0106] 1) Place the patient in a comfortable and/or appropriate
position.
[0107] 2) Ask the patient to shade their area of pain on a diagram
of the body. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the shaded areas
indicate where the patient was experiencing pain.
[0108] 3) Prepare the lead insertion site with antiseptic and local
subcutaneous anesthetic (e.g., 2% lidocaine) may be used as
well.
[0109] 4) Locate the site of skin puncture with appropriate
landmarks, such as the inguinal crease and femoral artery (for the
femoral nerve) and the interior and lateral (ventral) to the
midpoint of the line connection greater trochanter and ishical
tuberosity (for the sciatic nerve).
[0110] 5) Insert a sterile percutaneous electrode lead 12 preloaded
in the introducer needle 30 at a predetermined angle based on the
landmarks used. The lead may be of any appropriate configuration,
such as by way of a non-limiting example, a single fine wire with
one lead to target each nerve.
[0111] 6) Place a surface stimulation return electrode in proximity
to the lead insertion site. The surface electrode may be placed
adjacent to the insertion site. Its position is not critical to the
therapy and it may be moved throughout the therapy to reduce the
risk of skin irritation, but care should be taken to place the
electrode distant from the surgical incision to generally avoid
infection.
[0112] 7) Couple the lead 12 to the external pulse generator 28 and
to the return electrode. Set the desired stimulation parameters on
the external pulse generator 28, or through a controller. Test
stimulation may be delivered using a current-regulated pulse
generator, for example. The external pulse generator 28 may be a
battery-powered stimulator, for example.
[0113] 8) Advance the introducer slowly until the subject reports
the first evoked sensation in the region experiencing pain.
Progressively reduce the stimulus amplitude and advance the
introducer more slowly until the sensation can be evoked in the
painful region at predetermined stimulus amplitude (e.g., 1 mA).
Stop the advancement of the introducer, and increase the stimulus
amplitude in small increments (e.g., 0.1 mA) until the
stimulation-evoked tingling sensation (paresthesia) expands to
overlay the entire region of pain. The electrode may be located at
an area to generate maximal paresthesia coverage of the religion of
pain, as defined by a patient shaded diagram of the body. During
stimulation, the patient is asked to estimate how much of the area
of pain is covered by paresthesia. For example, as in FIG. 16, the
shaded regions indicate where the patient experiences paresthesia
during stimulation.
[0114] 9) Withdraw the introducer 30, leaving the percutaneous lead
12 in proximity but away from the target nerve. Further, a
plurality of leads may be placed percutaneously near or
approximately adjacent to the nerves innervating the regions of
pain, and stimulation may be applied to determine optimal stimulus
parameters and lead locations.
[0115] 10) Cover the percutaneous exit site and lead 12 with a
bandage. A bandage may also be used to secure the external portion
of the lead 12 (or an extension cable may be used to couple the
lead 12 to the external pulse generator) to the skin. It is
expected the length of time to place the lead 12 to be less than 10
minutes, although the process may be shorter or longer.
[0116] 11) The external pulse generator 28 may be programmed to 100
Hz, 15 .mu.s with amplitude sufficient to generate maximum
paresthesia coverage. The parameter may include 100% duty cycle
(for both femoral and sciatic) for 24 hours per day. The
stimulation may be on for the duration of the acute or subacute
pain of the patient. Patients may receive the stimulation therapy
for a predetermined time, such as by way of a non-limiting example,
two to four weeks.
[0117] 12) It is possible that stimulation intensity may need to be
increased slightly during the process due to causes such as
habituation or the subject becoming accustomed to sensation.
However the need for increased intensity may be unlikely and
usually only occurs after several days to weeks to months as the
tissue encapsulates and the subject accommodates to stimulation. It
is to be appreciated that the need for increased intensity may
happen at any time, which may be due to either lead migration or
habituation, but may also be due reasons ranging from nerve damage
to plasticity/reorganization in the central nervous system.
[0118] 13) Prior to insertion of the lead and introducer needle, a
sterile test needle may be used to deliver stimulation and
determine the desired site of insertion.
[0119] 14) If paresthesia cannot be evoked with the initial lead
placement, redirect the introducer 30.
[0120] 15) If stimulation fails to elicit paresthesia in a
sufficient region (e.g., .gtoreq.50%) of pain, then a second
percutaneous lead (not shown) may be placed to stimulate the nerves
that are not activated by the first lead 12, i.e., the nerves
innervating the region of post-operative pain.
[0121] Percutaneous electrical stimulation of nerves innervating
the knee as discussed in the example above may be used to generate
paresthesia to provide pain relief for any type of post-op pain
following a limb joint replacement surgery (e.g., immediate acute
phase=0 to 3-5 days; post acute or subacute phase=3-5 days to 30
days). In this approach, one might use the femoral and sciatic
nerves, or they may also stimulate the lumbar plexus to target the
femoral, obturator, and/or lateral femoral cutaneous nerves.
Additionally, there may be an anterior approach as well as a
posterior approach to targeting these nerves.
[0122] An alternative embodiment may include using a needle
electrode/lead and placing it during insertion of needles used
during anesthetic peripheral nerve block. Additionally, in a
different embodiment the pulse trains may be varied, as varied
pulse shapes may improve selectivity of activation of
paresthesia-fibers versus pain fibers. Percutaneous electrical
stimulation of nerves may provide some pain relief as anesthetic
block without many of its drawbacks. This therapy may be provided
as a temporary therapy or as a permanent implant. Acute pain relief
may allow patients to recover sufficiently enabling them to begin
rehabilitation, which is critical to regaining normal function and
natural pain relief. It is generally thought that if 50%
paresthesia coverage is achieved, then there is a 70% success rate.
Oftentimes after the stimulation therapy, the pain will never
return to the patient.
[0123] Although TKA is discussed herein, it is to be understood
that the systems and methods may be employed to condition a body
before or after any limb joint replacement surgery. While
stimulation of the femoral and/or sciatic nerves should generally
provide relief of pain following a limb joint replacement surgery
of the leg, more distal peripheral nerves may be targets for
surgeries related to distal portions of the leg (foot, ankle
surgery, e.g.). For arm/hand limb joint replacement surgery-related
pain, nerves near the brachial plexus, near or below the shoulder,
elbow, or wrist may be targeted.
[0124] In peripheral nerve stimulation, the lead may be placed in a
tissue by which the targeted nerve passes, but stimulation actually
relieves pain that is felt distal (downstream) from where the lead
is placed. In peripheral nerve stimulation, the lead may be placed
in a tissue that is conveniently located near a nerve trunk that
passes by the lead on the way to or from the painful area. The key
is that the lead may be placed in a tissue that is not the target
(painful) tissue, but rather a tissue that is located away from the
painful region, which is a safer and more convenient location to
place the lead.
[0125] Peripheral nerve stimulation may be easily used by
clinicians, including, but to limited to, general surgeons,
orthopedic surgeons, and anesthesiologists, who are used to placing
needles deeper in the tissue near peripheral nerves. For example,
anesthesiologists are accustomed to placing needles distant from
the areas of pain to numb the areas of pain. Anesthesiologists
often already use ultrasound and the electro-location techniques
that may be needed to place leads to access peripheral nerves. This
may result in the system and method to be used in practice with
little or no training.
[0126] Peripheral nerve stimulation may provide
stimulation-generated paresthesia (that ideally overlap with the
area of pain) but may not require evoking a muscle contraction to
place the lead correctly. The target regions in which pain is felt
and which are targeted for generation of paresthesia may not be the
same region in which the lead is placed. This may be useful because
physicians (e.g., anesthesiologists) who will typically be placing
the lead are accustomed to using paresthesia (sensory feedback
description of from the patient) to guide lead placement and tuning
of stimulation parameters.
[0127] Imaging (e.g., ultrasound or an alternate imaging technique,
e.g., fluoroscopy) may be used to improve lead placement near
peripheral nerves. Ultrasound may improve lead placement in the
form of increasing the total speed of the procedure. Specifically,
ultrasound may shorten the procedure's duration by locating the
lead in a more optimal location. Doing so may: improve recruitment
of the target fibers in the target nerve and minimize recruitment
of non-target fibers in either the target nerve and/or in
non-target nerve(s); and minimize risk and/or damage to the patient
during placement of the lead by avoiding blood vessels, organs,
bones, ligaments, tendons, lymphatic vessels, &/or other
structures that may be damaged. One reason that imaging may be
useful is that some peripheral nerves are (but do not have to be)
located relatively deeply. Alternatively, fluoroscopy may be
desirably avoided, thus lessening the cost of the procedure and the
risk of radiation exposure.
[0128] In the present system and method, the patient may not need
to give verbal, written, or other type of feedback or indication of
what they feel as the lead is being advanced towards the peripheral
nerve if imaging is used to guide lead placement. In addition, any
known method for non-verbal communication can be used, including
those used by anesthesiologists. This allows for the system to be
placed in an unconscious patient, e.g., in a sedated patient or
intra-operatively. However, patient feedback during lead
advancement may improve lead placement in some patients. The
patient may indicate sensations during tuning of stimulus
intensity. As non-limiting examples, those sensations reported by
the patient may include first sensation (minimum stimulus intensity
that evokes a sensation), level of comfort, maximum tolerable
sensation, pain, qualities or descriptions of the sensations.
Alternatively, if the system is used preoperatively, as there will
not be any patient feedback of post-operative pain to guide the
paresthesia coverage, the optimal coverage would be a region that
is likely to be painful following the limb joint replacement
surgery (e.g., in the case of a TKA, both the front and back of the
knee).
[0129] The region in which the patient perceives
stimulation-induced sensations or paresthesia may be an important
indicator of the potential success of the therapy. This may help
screen potential candidates and may help determine the appropriate
stimulation parameters (including but not limited to lead
location). Further, such parameters may be adjusted so that the
region in which paresthesia is perceived overlaps with the region
of pain.
[0130] As an alternative to using perception of stimulation induced
sensations and/or paresthesia, the level of pain or change in the
intensity of pain during or due to stimulation may be used to
adjust stimulation parameters (including but not limited to lead
location). For example, if a patient is experiencing "very high"
pain before stimulation, no sensory or motor responses are evoked
and during stimulation, if the pain decreases to "low", the system
would be considered satisfactory in the patient.
[0131] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been
illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the
foregoing detailed description, it is to be understood that the
present invention is not to be limited to just the embodiments
disclosed, but that the invention described herein is capable of
numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without
departing from the scope of the claims hereafter. The claims as
follows are intended to include all modifications and alterations
insofar as they come within the scope of the claims or the
equivalent thereof.
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