Source: https://patents.google.com/patent/JP5602612B2/en
Timestamp: 2019-12-11 14:26:11
Document Index: 327014453

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 21', 'art 21', 'art 21', 'art 21', 'art 21', 'art 21', 'art 41', 'art 21', 'art 41', 'art 61', 'arts 41', 'art 61', 'arts 41', 'art 71', 'art 71', 'art 71', 'art 71', 'arts 22', 'art 71', 'art 81', 'arts 22', 'art 81', 'art 91', 'art 101', 'art 106', 'art 2']

JP5602612B2 - Electrode unit and tissue stimulation system - Google Patents
Electrode unit and tissue stimulation system Download PDF
JP5602612B2
JP5602612B2 JP2010286564A JP2010286564A JP5602612B2 JP 5602612 B2 JP5602612 B2 JP 5602612B2 JP 2010286564 A JP2010286564 A JP 2010286564A JP 2010286564 A JP2010286564 A JP 2010286564A JP 5602612 B2 JP5602612 B2 JP 5602612B2
JP2010286564A
JP2012130579A (en
嘉郎 有働
2010-12-22 Application filed by オリンパス株式会社 filed Critical オリンパス株式会社
2010-12-22 Priority to JP2010286564A priority Critical patent/JP5602612B2/en
2012-07-12 Publication of JP2012130579A publication Critical patent/JP2012130579A/en
2014-10-08 Publication of JP5602612B2 publication Critical patent/JP5602612B2/en
The present invention relates to an electrode unit that applies electrical stimulation to a linear tissue and a tissue stimulation system.
Conventionally, stimuli that perform treatment by applying electrical stimulation directly or indirectly to living tissue (linear tissue) such as nerve tissue and muscle, such as a nerve stimulation device, pain relief device, epilepsy treatment device, and muscle stimulation device. Generators are known. These stimulation generators have a power source inside and are used by being embedded in a living body together with an electrode lead for transmitting electrical stimulation.
In general, an electrode lead applies electrical stimulation to biological tissue, or detects at least one electrode part for detecting electrical excitation generated in the biological tissue, and an electrical connector for electrically connecting to the stimulation generator; A lead body is provided between the electrode unit and the stimulus generator for transmitting electrical stimulation.
The electrode assembly (electrode part) for nerve stimulation described in Patent Document 1 has an electrode structure formed in a spiral shape and two electrodes arranged on the inner surface of the spiral of the electrode structure. doing.
The electrode structure is made of a biocompatible material that can expand and contract. The two electrodes are arranged spirally with respect to the axis of the nerve tissue and are configured to contact substantially the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface of the nerve tissue, and the electrode assembly is configured as a screw type. Yes.
US Pat. No. 4,997,511
However, when the electrode is in direct contact with the nerve tissue as in the electrode assembly of Patent Document 1, for example, if the electrode is implanted over a long period of several weeks or more, inflammation between the electrodes due to a foreign body reaction to the electrode causes a contact between the electrode and the nerve tissue. A calcified fiber capsule is formed between them, and the impedance increases to reduce the electrical stimulation effect. The fiber tissue that grows between the electrode and the nerve tissue compresses the nerve tissue and damages the nerve tissue. there's a possibility that. For this reason, as time passes after implantation, there is a concern that the electrical stimulation effect by the electrodes decreases.
This problem occurs not only when the electrode assembly is configured as a screw type, but also when the electrode is a cuff type configured to be arranged around the axis of nerve tissue.
The present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and provides an electrode portion with less burden on a linear tissue even when implanted for a long period of time, and a tissue stimulation system including the electrode portion. The purpose is to do.
The electrode part of the present invention is an electrode part formed in a curved shape so as to surround a predetermined linear structure, and the insulating member formed in a sheet shape with an elastic material, and the insulating member is in the curved shape At least two electrodes that can be applied with a voltage provided on one surface that is the inner surface of the curve, and the inner diameter of the curved shape in a natural state is larger than the outer diameter of the linear tissue The insulating member and at least two of the electrodes are arranged apart from the linear tissue , and the insulating member penetrates in the thickness direction of the insulating member and has a gap between at least two of the electrodes. The through-hole which forms is formed .
Further, in the electrode portion, in the insulating member, the edge of the axial end of the curved when the insulating member is in the curved shape, directed from the intermediate portion to the edge portion in the axial direction of said insulating member Therefore, it is more preferable that it is formed so as to be separated from the axis.
In the above electrode part, it is more preferable that a notch that penetrates in the thickness direction of the insulating member is formed at the edge of the insulating member.
Further, in the above electrode portion, the insulating member may be disposed on at least one of the one surface and the surface opposite to the one surface in a direction of a curved axis when the insulating member has the curved shape. More preferably, grooves extending in parallel are formed.
In the above electrode part, it is more preferable that the insulating member is formed such that both edges in the bending direction in which the insulating member is curved are separated from each other by a certain distance in a natural state where no external force is applied.
Further, in the above electrode portion, the insulating member may be formed so that the one surface has an oval shape when viewed in parallel with the axial direction of the curvature when the insulating member has the curved shape. More preferred.
In the above electrode part, it is more preferable that the electrode part further includes a protruding part that protrudes from the one surface of the insulating member and separates the one surface from the linear tissue.
Further, another electrode portion of the present invention is an electrode portion formed in a curved shape that is curved so as to surround a predetermined linear structure, and an insulating member formed in a sheet shape with an elastic material, and the insulating member Is disposed between one edge of the curved surface of the insulating member, and at least two electrodes to which a voltage can be applied. and at least two gap holding members of the electrode is separated from the linear structure, Bei example, said insulating member has a through which a gap is formed between at least two of the electrodes with penetrating in its thickness direction It is characterized in that a hole is formed .
Moreover, the tissue stimulation system according to the present invention includes the electrode unit according to any one of the above, a stimulation generation unit that generates an electrical stimulation applied to the linear tissue, the electrode unit, and the stimulation generation unit. And a lead for electrically connecting the two.
According to the electrode unit and the tissue stimulation system of the present invention, it is possible to prevent the electrical stimulation effect by the electrode from being reduced even when implanted for a long period of time.
It is a perspective view when the electrode part of 1st Embodiment of this invention is a curved shape. It is a perspective view when extending the curve of the electrode part to make it flat. It is sectional drawing explaining a state when the electrode part is attached to a nerve tissue. It is a top view of a tissue stimulation system provided with the electrode part. It is a figure which shows the state of a patient's nerve tissue. It is a figure explaining the electrode implantation method using the tissue stimulation system. It is a figure explaining the electrode implantation method using the tissue stimulation system. It is sectional drawing explaining the state of the surrounding structure | tissue of the electrode part immediately after implanting the conventional electrode part. It is sectional drawing explaining the state of the surrounding structure | tissue of an electrode part when the conventional electrode part is implanted and it passes for a long time. It is sectional drawing explaining the state of the surrounding structure | tissue of the electrode part immediately after implanting the electrode part of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing explaining the state of the surrounding structure | tissue of an electrode part when the electrode part is implanted and it passes for a long time. It is sectional drawing explaining the state when the same electrode part is twisted. It is a perspective view when the electrode part of 2nd Embodiment of this invention is a curved shape. It is a perspective view when extending the curve of the electrode part to make it flat. It is sectional drawing explaining the state of the surrounding structure | tissue of an electrode part when the conventional electrode part is implanted and it passes for a long time. It is sectional drawing explaining the state of the surrounding tissue of the electrode part immediately after implanting the electrode part of 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing explaining the state of the surrounding structure | tissue of an electrode part when the electrode part is implanted and it passes for a long time. It is a perspective view when the electrode part of the modification of 2nd Embodiment of this invention is a curved shape. It is a perspective view when extending the curve of the electrode part to make it flat. It is a perspective view when the electrode part of the modification of 2nd Embodiment of this invention is a curved shape. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along a cutting line A1-A1 in FIG. It is a perspective view when the electrode part of the modification of 2nd Embodiment of this invention is a curved shape. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along a cutting line A2-A2 in FIG. It is a perspective view when the electrode part of the modification of 2nd Embodiment of this invention is a curved shape. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A3-A3 in FIG. 24. It is a perspective view when the electrode part of the modification of 2nd Embodiment of this invention is a curved shape. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line A4-A4 in FIG. It is a perspective view when the electrode part of the modification of 2nd Embodiment of this invention is a curved shape. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of FIG. It is a perspective view when the electrode part of the modification of 2nd Embodiment of this invention is a curved shape. FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A5-A5 in FIG. 30. It is a perspective view when the electrode part of the modification of 2nd Embodiment of this invention is a curved shape. It is a perspective view when the electrode part in the modification of embodiment of this invention is a curved shape. It is sectional drawing of the cutting line A6-A6 in FIG. It is sectional drawing explaining a state when the electrode part in the modification of embodiment of this invention is attached to the nerve tissue.
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of an electrode unit according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12. This electrode part is for applying a voltage to a linear tissue such as a nerve tissue, for example.
As shown in FIG. 1, the electrode unit 1 of the present embodiment is formed to have a curved shape that is curved so as to surround the nerve tissue N in a natural state where no external force is acting, and applies an external force. Thus, as shown in FIG. 2, it can be deformed into a flat shape extending flat. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the electrode portion 1 includes an electrode support (insulating member) 2 formed in a sheet shape with an elastic material, and an inner surface of the curve when the electrode support 2 has a curve shape. And a pair of electrodes 3 to which a voltage can be applied.
The electrode support 2 is formed of a soft insulating material such as silicone rubber so as not to damage the nerve tissue N. The electrode support 2 is for preventing the current flowing through the electrode 3 from leaking to the outside.
The pair of electrodes 3 are provided so as to extend in parallel to the bending direction D1 in which the electrode support 2 is curved, with a space in the direction of the axis C1 of the curve when the electrode support 2 has a curved shape. The electrode 3 is formed of a metal having elasticity and high biocompatibility, and is formed in a curved shape in a natural state. That is, in the present embodiment, due to the elastic force of the electrode 3, the shape of the electrode portion 1 is naturally curved to maintain a gap between the electrode support 2 and the nerve tissue N and to have a flat shape. Can be transformed. In the present embodiment, the electrode unit 1 has a so-called cuff type configuration.
As shown in FIG. 3, when the electrode part 1 is used for a nerve tissue N having an outer diameter L1 of, for example, 1.5 mm, the electrode part 1 having an inner diameter L2 of 2.5 mm when it is curved is selected. Thus, it is preferable that the one surface 2a is separated from the nerve tissue N by a distance of about 0.5 mm over the entire circumference. More generally, it is preferable to select the electrode portion 1 having a large inner diameter of 0.2 mm or more and 2 mm or less with respect to the outer diameter L1 of the nerve tissue N.
Subsequently, a tissue stimulation system including the electrode unit 1 of the present embodiment will be described.
As shown in FIG. 4, the tissue stimulation system 10 includes the above-described electrode unit 1, a nerve stimulation device (stimulation generation unit) 11 that generates electrical stimulation to be applied to the nerve tissue N, the electrode unit 1, and nerve stimulation. A lead body (lead) 12 that electrically connects the device 11 is provided.
The nerve stimulation device 11 has a power source (not shown) and detects an electrical signal generated by the nerve tissue N as a potential difference between the pair of electrodes 3. The nerve stimulating device 11 causes one of the pair of electrodes 3 to function as an anode and the other as a cathode to generate a predetermined potential difference between the pair of electrodes 3. Thereby, the nerve stimulation apparatus 11 can detect the signal of the nerve tissue N acquired by the electrode unit 1, and can apply electrical stimulation to the nerve tissue N by a potential difference as necessary.
The lead body 12 has a known configuration. For example, a coil (not shown) that electrically connects the electrode 3 and the nerve stimulation device 11 and an insulating and flexible tube 13 that covers the outer periphery of the coil. And have.
Next, using the tissue stimulation system 10 configured as described above, for example, an electrode implantation method for attaching the electrode unit 1 to a nerve tissue N that is a vagus nerve in the superior thoracic vena cava as shown in FIG. Will be described.
First, the surgeon specifies the nerve tissue N to be treated (specific process). Specifically, a trocar (not shown) is attached to the chest of the patient, a thoracoscope is inserted into the thorax through the trocar, the inside of the thorax is observed with a thoracoscope, and the nerve tissue N to be treated is specified. Then, an incision treatment tool such as a knife (not shown) is inserted into the thoracic cavity via the trocar, and a peripheral tissue M such as a membrane located around the desired nerve tissue N (see FIG. 5) is incised to obtain the nerve tissue N. To expose.
Next, the electrode part 1 whose inner diameter is larger than the outer diameter of the specified nerve tissue N by a predetermined length is selected (selection step). That is, the nerve tissue N specified in the specifying step is observed with a thoracoscope, and the outer diameter of the nerve tissue N is measured. Then, as shown in FIG. 3, for example, when the outer diameter of the nerve tissue N is 1.5 mm, the electrode portion 1 having an inner diameter L2 of 2.5 mm when it is curved is selected. Thus, it is preferable to select the electrode part 1 whose inner diameter is about 1 mm larger than the outer diameter of the nerve tissue N to be attached. Then, the selected electrode unit 1 is connected to the lead body 12 to configure the tissue stimulation system 10.
Subsequently, the electrode portion 1 having a curved shape is stretched into a flat shape (flattening step). As shown in FIG. 6, the electrode portion 1 is inserted into the chest cavity through the trocar in a state where the edge portion (base end side) 2b in the bending direction D1 of the electrode support body 2 having a curved shape is gripped by the grasping forceps T. To do. Further, a gripping forceps (not shown) inserted from the trocar holds the edge (tip side) 2c opposite to the edge 2b of the electrode support 2, and a predetermined force is applied so that the bending of the electrode 1 is extended by both gripping forceps. The electrode portion 1 is stretched into a flat shape by applying torque.
Next, the edge 2c of the electrode part 1 deformed into a flat shape is inserted between the nerve tissue N and the surrounding tissue M (positioning step). At this time, the edge 2c of the electrode 1 is inserted between the nerve tissue N and the surrounding tissue M while detaching the grasping forceps that have held the edge 2c from the electrode support 2. The portion of the electrode portion 1 on the side of the edge portion 2c where the applied torque is released returns to the original curved shape surrounding the nerve tissue N.
Subsequently, while operating the grasping forceps T, the electrode unit 1 is returned to the curved shape arranged so as to surround the nerve tissue N as shown in FIG. . At this time, the electrode unit 1 is placed in a state where the nerve tissue N and the electrode unit 1 are separated from each other by a certain distance. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 7, the surrounding tissue M is sutured with a suture U or the like, and the electrode portion 1 is embedded in the body.
Next, the state of the surrounding tissue of the electrode unit 1 when a long period of time has elapsed since being implanted in the body as described above will be described in comparison with a conventional electrode unit.
First, a conventional electrode part will be described in the case where the electrode part has a cuff type configuration.
As shown in FIG. 8, in the conventional electrode portion E1, the electrode E3 provided on the inner surface of the electrode support E2 having a curved shape is in contact with almost the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface of the nerve tissue N. They are arranged in close contact with the nerve tissue N. After the electrode part E1 is implanted, a foreign body reaction occurs with respect to the electrode part E1, and a fibrous tissue (not shown) grows from the tissue in contact with the electrode part E1. In the electrode part E1, since there is no sufficient gap between the electrode support E2 and the nerve tissue N, blood vessels that supply nutrients to the growing fibrous tissue cannot grow, and the fibrous tissue becomes necrotic and necrotic. Cells become the nucleus of calcium phosphate deposits, and fibrous tissue is calcified. Calcified tissue is harder and more impedance than normal fibrous tissue.
In addition, when the electrode part E1 moves due to heart pulsation or body movement, the electrode part E1 and the nerve tissue N rub against each other and cause inflammation. When the electrode portion E1 is implanted for a long time, as shown in FIG. 9, the calcified fibrous tissue N1 grows not only around the electrode portion E1 but also around the nerve tissue N, and the nerve tissue N1. Squeeze. As a result, the nerve tissue N eventually becomes necrotic, and the electrical stimulation effect by the electrode part E1 is reduced or disappears.
Then, the case where the electrode part 1 of this embodiment is implanted is demonstrated.
When the electrode part 1 is implanted, as shown in FIG. 10, the nerve tissue N is inserted into the electrode part 1 without contacting the electrode part 1, that is, from one surface 2 a of the electrode support 2. The gap S1 is formed in a separated state. After the operation of implanting the electrode unit 1, the gap S1 is filled with a leachate (not shown) such as blood. The exudate has conductivity, and electrical stimulation of the nerve tissue N is possible by passing an electric current through the exudate. However, since the electrode unit 1 is indirectly connected to the nerve tissue N via the exudate, no external force is applied to the nerve tissue N even if the electrode unit 1 moves due to the pulsation of the heart or the like.
And when electrode part 1 is implanted and it passes for a long time, as shown in Drawing 11, crevice S1 between electrode support 2 and nerve tissue N is filled up with fibrous tissue N1. At this time, since the blood vessel for supplying nutrients to the nerve tissue N is also formed in the gap S1, calcification of the fibrous tissue N1 is difficult to be caused.
The grown fibrous tissue N1 is a flexible tissue and serves as a cushion (buffer material) that holds the nerve tissue N. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 12, even when the electrode unit 1 is twisted by an external force, the fibrous tissue N1 disposed around the nerve tissue N moderates the way the nerve tissue N is deformed. Thus, the nerve tissue N is prevented from being damaged. The fibrous tissue N1 has a lower impedance than the calcified tissue generated when the conventional electrode portion E1 is planted, and the nerve tissue N can be electrically stimulated by the electrode portion 1. .
As described above, according to the electrode portion 1 of the present embodiment, the electrode portion 1 is arranged so as to surround the nerve tissue N in a state where the one surface 2a of the insulating member 2 is separated from the nerve tissue N. Is done. Therefore, a gap S1 is formed between the electrode support 2 and the nerve tissue N, and a blood vessel for supplying nutrients to the nerve tissue N is formed in the gap S1 together with the fiber tissue N1. Therefore, calcification of the fibrous tissue N1 is suppressed, and the burden on the nerve tissue N when the electrode portion E1 is planted over a long period of time can be reduced.
Further, according to the tissue stimulation system 10 of the present embodiment, an electrical signal generated by the nerve tissue N is detected by the nerve stimulation device 11 through the pair of electrodes 3 and the lead body 12 of the electrode unit 1, and An electrical stimulation can be applied to the nerve tissue N by the nerve stimulation device 11.
Note that a method using a normal nerve stimulation apparatus without using the tissue stimulation system of the present embodiment is also conceivable. In this case, by forming a gap between the electrode support 2 and the nerve tissue N, the calcification of the fiber tissue is suppressed, and the burden on the nerve tissue N when the electrode portion is planted over a long period of time is reduced. Let
In this case, similarly to the tissue stimulation system 10 described above, an electrode portion whose inner diameter is larger than the identified outer diameter of the neural tissue N by a predetermined length is selected (selection step). Next, an electrode part is inserted between the nerve tissue N and the surrounding tissue M (positioning step). Then, the electrode part is placed in a state where the nerve tissue N and the electrode part are separated from each other by a certain distance (placement process). By performing the above steps, a gap can be formed between the electrode support 2 and the nerve tissue N regardless of the shape of the electrode.
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 32. However, the same parts as those of the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, the description thereof will be omitted, and only different points will be described. explain.
As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the electrode portion 21 of the present embodiment includes an electrode support 22 instead of the electrode support 2 of the electrode portion 1 of the first embodiment.
The insulating member 22 is formed with a through hole 22 a that penetrates the insulating member 22 in the thickness direction and forms a gap S <b> 2 between the pair of electrodes 3.
The through hole 22a is formed in the electrode support 22 so as to extend in the bending direction D1.
Next, the state of the surrounding tissue of the electrode unit 21 when the electrode unit 21 configured as described above is attached to the nerve tissue N will be described in comparison with the above-described conventional electrode unit E1.
When the conventional electrode part E1 is attached to the nerve tissue N, there is not a sufficient gap between the electrode support E2 and the nerve tissue N, so that in addition to the problem of damage to the nerve tissue N, the fibrous tissue N1 is calcified. This causes a problem that the impedance of the fibrous tissue N1 increases. An increase in the impedance of the fibrous tissue N1 makes it difficult for current to flow through the nerve tissue N, and the effect of stimulating the fibrous tissue N1 decreases. Usually, current flows through various paths from one electrode 3 to the other electrode 3. When the impedance of the path through the nerve tissue N is smaller than the impedance of other paths, the nerve tissue N can be stimulated.
When a long period of time elapses after implanting the conventional electrode part E1, a calcified fibrous tissue N1 having a high impedance is generated around the nerve tissue N as shown in FIG. The impedance of the path increases. A leachate N2 may be generated at the interface between the electrode part E1 and the nerve tissue N. In general, the exudate is blood or body fluid, and has a lower impedance than fiber tissue. Therefore, the current flows from one electrode E3 to the other electrode E3 through the exudate N2 (arrow indicated by a solid line in FIG. 15), the current flowing through the nerve tissue N is further reduced, and the stimulation effect of the nerve tissue N Decrease. In FIGS. 15 to 17, arrows indicated by solid lines indicate paths through which current flows, and arrows indicated by dotted lines indicate paths through which no current flows.
Since the through-hole 22a is not formed in the conventional electrode part E1 like the electrode part 21 of this embodiment, the fibrous tissue N1 gradually grows from the end face E4 of the electrode support E2. When the length of the electrode support E2 in the direction of the axis C2 is relatively long, the growth of the fibrous tissue N1 takes time, so no nutrition is given to the cells of the fibrous tissue N1 around the nerve tissue N. Cells of tissue N1 may be necrotic. Necrosis of cells around the nerve tissue N promotes calcification of the cells of the fibrous tissue N1.
Then, the case where the electrode part 21 of this embodiment is implanted is demonstrated.
Immediately after implanting the electrode part 21, as shown in FIG. 16, there is a gap S3 between the electrode part 21 and the nerve tissue N, and this gap S3 is filled with the exudate N2. When a voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes 3, current flows through various paths. However, since the exudate N2 is a conductive liquid, the nerve tissue N can be electrically stimulated.
When the electrode portion 21 is implanted for a long time, the fibrous tissue N1 grows around the electrode portion 21, as shown in FIG. Similarly to the above-described conventional electrode part E1, in the electrode part 21 of this embodiment, the leachate N2 may be generated at the interface between the electrode part 21 and the fibrous tissue N1. However, since there is a gap S3 between the electrode portion 21 and the nerve tissue N and the pair of electrodes 3 is not connected by the exudate N2, the current between the pair of electrodes 3 is not passed through the exudate N2 without flowing into the nerve tissue N. Current is prevented from flowing through the.
In this case, the lowest impedance between the pair of electrodes 3 is a path that passes through the nerve tissue N, and the nerve tissue N can be electrically stimulated. When the ratio of the distance between the electrode 3 and the nerve tissue N with respect to the distance between the pair of electrodes 3 is ½ or more, the amount of current flowing through the path not passing through the nerve tissue N increases to stimulate the nerve tissue N. Since the efficiency is deteriorated, it is desirable that the ratio of the distance between the electrode 3 and the nerve tissue N to the distance between the pair of electrodes 3 is smaller than ½.
According to the electrode portion 21 of the present embodiment configured as described above, it is possible to prevent the electrical stimulation effect due to the electrode 3 from being reduced even when it is implanted for a long period of time.
Further, since the gap S2 is formed between the pair of electrodes 3 by the through-hole 22a, the growth of the fibrous tissue N1 filling the gap S2 is accelerated and the necrotic tissue is less likely to be generated, and the calcification of the fibrous tissue N1 is prevented. Is prevented from rising. Thereby, the nerve tissue N can be electrically stimulated reliably.
When the three electrodes 3 extending in parallel with the bending direction D1 and spaced in the direction of the axis C1 are provided on one surface 2a of the electrode support 22 as in the electrode portion 31 shown in FIGS. The through holes 22a may be formed between a pair of electrodes 3 adjacent to each other in the direction of the axis C1.
The same applies to the case where four or more electrodes 3 are provided in the electrode section.
In the present embodiment, the configuration of the electrode unit 21 can be variously modified as described below.
For example, like the electrode part 41 shown in FIG. 20 and FIG. 21, it replaces with the through-hole 22a of the electrode part 21 of the said 2nd Embodiment between the pair of electrodes 3 in the electrode support body 22, and the electrode support body 22 When viewed in the thickness direction, a pair of substantially circular through holes 22b may be formed. In the present modification, the pair of through holes 22b are formed so as to face each other with the axis C1 interposed therebetween when the electrode portion 41 has a curved shape.
Further, as in the electrode portion 51 shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, a large number of through holes 22 c that penetrate in the thickness direction of the electrode support 22 may be formed in the electrode support 22. The inner diameter of the through hole 22c is set smaller than the inner diameter of the through hole 22b of the electrode part 41 of the modified example.
Like the electrode part 61 shown in FIG. 24 and FIG. 25, while forming several through-holes 22d between a pair of electrodes 3 in the electrode support body 22, in the edge part of the axis line C1 direction of the electrode support body 22, A plurality of notches 22e penetrating in the thickness direction of the electrode support 22 may be formed. In the present modification, the through hole 22d is formed in a long hole shape whose major axis is set in the direction of the axis C1.
By configuring the electrode parts 41, 51, 61 in this way, nutrition is easily supplied to the fibrous tissue N1 that grows between the electrode part 61 and the nerve tissue N, and the nerve tissue N is prevented from being necrotized. be able to.
Moreover, the current leaking from the electrode part can be reduced by configuring like the electrode parts 41, 51 and 61.
In the electrode portion 71 shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the electrode support 22 is formed such that both edge portions 22h and 22i on the bending direction D1 side are separated from each other by a certain distance in a natural state where no external force is applied. Yes. The distance B at which both edge portions 22h and 22i are separated can be appropriately set such as a value shorter than the outer diameter L1 of the nerve tissue N, a value longer than the outer diameter L1 of the nerve tissue N, and the like. When the electrode unit 71 is attached to the nerve tissue N that moves due to the pulsation of the heart, the distance B is preferably shorter than the outer diameter L1. On the other hand, when the nerve tissue N to which the electrode part 71 is attached hardly moves, the distance B is preferably longer than the outer diameter L1.
When the surfaces extending from the inner surfaces of both edge portions 22h and 22i are arranged substantially parallel to each other, the distance B is the inner diameter of the electrode support 22 in the natural state of the curved shape.
By configuring the electrode part 71 in this way, when the electrode part 71 is attached to the nerve tissue N, it is not necessary to deform the electrode part 71 into a flat shape, and thus the procedure is simplified, and the nerve tissue N is damaged in the procedure. The possibility of making it possible can be reduced.
However, if the electrode support 22 is formed only of an elastic body having a relatively small elastic coefficient such as silicone rubber, it is difficult to maintain the gap between the nerve tissue N and the electrode portion 71. The electrode support itself may have increased rigidity, or the electrode support may have a structure such as a shape maintaining member (not shown) for maintaining the curved shape inside the electrode support.
Further, after attaching the electrode portion 71 to the nerve tissue N, the suture thread is wound around the outer peripheral surface of the electrode support 22 or a spring clip is attached to the outer peripheral surface of the electrode support 22, You may hold | maintain both the edge parts 22h and 22i of the electrode part 71 in the state mutually contact | abutted, spacing apart the nerve tissue N. FIG. The suture is preferably made of a highly biocompatible material such as polypropylene, and the spring clip is preferably made of a highly biocompatible material such as NiTi.
When a suture is used, it is preferable to form a groove in the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surface of the electrode support 22. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the suture from moving in the direction of the axis C1 on the outer peripheral surface of the electrode support 22 and to prevent the suture from being detached from the electrode support 22.
Like the electrode portion 81 shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the edge portions 22j and 22k on the side of the axis C1 direction of the electrode support 22 are arranged in the direction from the intermediate portion in the direction of the axis C1 of the electrode support 22 toward the edge. You may form so that it may space apart from C1. The electrode support 22 of the present embodiment is formed so as to be separated from the axis C1 by having a tapered shape that becomes thinner toward the edge in the direction of the axis C1.
In general, by elongating a portion outside the pair of electrodes 3 in the electrode support 22, current leaking from the electrode support 22 to the outside can be reduced. Since the electrode part 81 of this modification has the edge parts 22j and 22k, even when the part outside the pair of electrodes 3 in the electrode support 22 is long, even if the electrode part 81 is twisted by an external force, Damage to the nerve tissue N can be suppressed.
In addition, the edge part formed so that it may space apart from the axis line C1 as it goes to an edge part from the intermediate part of the electrode support body 22 should just be formed in at least one of the axis line C1 directions.
Further, as in the electrode portion 91 shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, in the electrode support 22, the edge portion on the curved direction D1 side of the one surface 2a and the other surface 2d which is the surface opposite to the one surface 2a. A cutting groove (groove portion) 22l extending in parallel with the direction of the axis C1 may be formed in 22h. In this modification, a spring member 92 that urges and abuts both edge portions 22h and 22i on the bending direction D1 side of the electrode supporting body 22 in the bending direction D1 is built in the electrode supporting body 22. Yes.
In general, the outer diameter of the nerve tissue N varies depending on the region and the patient. Therefore, it is desirable that the gap can be adjusted appropriately by changing the inner diameter of the electrode portion in accordance with the outer diameter of the nerve tissue N. By configuring the electrode part 91 in this way, even when the outer diameter of the nerve tissue N is smaller than the initial prediction, the electrode support 22 is cut along the cutting groove 22l to obtain a curved shape. The inner diameter of the electrode support 22 is reduced, and the distance from the electrode portion 91 to the nerve tissue N can be adjusted.
Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the number of types of electrode portions necessary for dealing with nerve tissues N having different outer diameters.
The cut groove 22l only needs to be formed on at least one of the one surface 2a and the other surface 2d.
Further, the electrode portion may be provided with an adjusting mechanism capable of adjusting the curved shape in a direction in which the radius of curvature at which the electrode support is curved is increased.
As in the electrode part 101 shown in FIG. 32, when the insulating member 22 has a curved shape, one surface 2a may be formed in an oval shape when viewed in parallel to the direction of the axis C1. . For example, when the outer diameter L1 of the nerve tissue N is 1.5 mm, the shape of the one surface 2a is an ellipse having a major axis of 2.5 mm and a minor axis of 1.5 mm.
In general, since the cross section of the nerve tissue N has a shape close to a circle, by configuring the electrode portion 101 in this way, the electrode portion 101 and the nerve tissue N are disposed on the long diameter side of the one surface 2a. A gap is reliably formed on the surface. For this reason, the calcification of the fibrous tissue N1 can be prevented and the nerve tissue N can be electrically stimulated reliably.
In this modification, the one surface 2a is formed in an oval shape when viewed in parallel to the direction of the axis C1. However, the shape of the one surface 2a is not limited to the oval shape, and the one surface 2a has a length of two diameters intersecting each other, for example, a mathematical (geometric) elliptical shape. What is necessary is just to form so that it may mutually differ.
As mentioned above, although 1st Embodiment and 2nd Embodiment of this invention were explained in full detail with reference to drawings, the concrete structure is not restricted to this embodiment, The structure of the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention Changes are also included. Furthermore, it goes without saying that the configurations shown in the embodiments can be used in appropriate combinations.
For example, in the first embodiment and the second embodiment, when it is difficult to maintain the gap between the electrode support and the nerve tissue N only by the elastic force of the electrode, such as when the electrode is thin, As shown in FIG. 33 and FIG. 34, the electrode support may be configured so that the shape maintaining member 105 formed of a wire such as a wire is incorporated.
As the shape maintaining member 105, it is desirable to use a shape memory alloy such as nickel titanium which is biocompatible and elastically deformable. The outer diameter of the shape maintaining member 105 is preferably about 0.2 mm.
In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the electrode portion is disposed between both edges in the bending direction D1 of the insulating member, and the gap is maintained to separate the insulating member and the pair of electrodes 3 from the linear tissue N. You may comprise so that a member may be provided. The length of the gap holding member in the bending direction D1 is appropriately adjusted according to the outer diameter of the linear tissue N that is symmetric to the treatment.
An electrode implantation method for attaching an electrode portion to the linear tissue N using a tissue stimulation system including this gap holding member is as follows. Note that description of parts common to the electrode embedding method described in the first embodiment is omitted.
First, the surgeon specifies the nerve tissue N to be treated (specific process).
Next, the distal end side of the electrode part is inserted between the linear tissue N and the surrounding tissue M (installation step). At this time, the electrode portion may be inserted after being stretched into a flat shape.
Subsequently, by disposing a gap holding member (not shown) between the distal end side and the proximal end side of the electrode portion, the electrode portion is separated from the linear tissue N, and in this state, the electrode portion is placed in the thoracic cavity. (Intervention process).
In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 35, the electrode support 2 protrudes from the one surface 2a, and the protruding portion 106 separates the one surface 2a from the nerve tissue N. May be provided.
It is preferable that the protrusion 106 is disposed at a position facing the axis C1 of the electrode support 2 when it has a curved shape, and has a small contact area with the nerve tissue N.
By disposing the protruding part 106 at a position facing the axis C <b> 1, the one surface 2 a can be reliably separated from the nerve tissue N. In addition, since the contact area between the protruding portion 106 and the nerve tissue N is set to be small, the influence on the nerve tissue N can be reduced.
In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the electrode support may have a mesh structure in which fine holes that do not pass through fibrous tissue but allow gas such as oxygen and body fluid to pass through are formed. Furthermore, you may comprise an electrode part by connecting two or more electrode support bodies provided with one electrode with a connection member.
In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the linear tissue is the nerve tissue N. However, the linear tissue is not limited to this, and may be applied to other linear biological tissues such as blood vessels and muscles. Can be applied.
A specific step of identifying a linear tissue to be treated;
A selection step of selecting an electrode portion whose inner diameter is a predetermined length larger than the outer diameter of the identified linear tissue;
A positioning step of inserting the distal end side of the electrode portion between the linear tissue and a peripheral tissue located around the linear tissue;
An indwelling step of indwelling the electrode part in a state where the linear structure and the electrode part are spaced apart by a certain distance;
An electrode implantation method comprising:
An insulating member formed into a curved shape that is curved so as to surround a predetermined linear structure in a natural state where no external force is applied, and the insulating member has the curved shape. An electrode embedding method using an electrode portion provided with an electrode provided on one surface to be an inner surface of a curve at a certain time and capable of applying a predetermined voltage,
A selection step of selecting the electrode part whose inner diameter is larger by a predetermined length than the identified outer diameter of the linear tissue;
A flattening step of extending the electrode portion having the curved shape into a flat shape;
A positioning step of inserting the distal end side of the electrode portion deformed into the flat shape between the linear tissue and a peripheral tissue located around the linear tissue;
Returning the electrode part from the flat shape to the curved shape arranged so as to surround the linear tissue, and placing the electrode part;
An installation step of inserting the distal end side of the electrode portion between the linear tissue and the peripheral tissue located around the linear tissue;
An interposing step of separating the electrode portion from the linear tissue by disposing a gap holding member between the distal end side and the proximal end side of the electrode portion;
1, 2, 31, 41, 51, 61, 71, 81, 91, 101 Electrode part 2, 22 Electrode support (insulating member)
2a One side 3 Electrode 10 Tissue stimulation system 11 Nerve stimulation device (stimulation generator)
12 Lead body (lead)
22a Through-hole 22e Notch 22h, 22i, 22j, 22k Edge 106 Projection C1 Axis D1 Curved direction N Nervous tissue (Linear tissue)
An electrode portion formed in a curved shape curved so as to surround a predetermined linear structure,
An insulating member formed into a sheet of elastic material;
At least two electrodes that can be applied with a voltage provided on one surface that is an inner surface of the curve when the insulating member has the curved shape;
The inner diameter in the natural state of the curved shape is set larger than the outer diameter of the linear tissue,
The insulating member and at least two of the electrodes are respectively disposed apart from the linear tissue ;
The electrode part, wherein the insulating member is formed with a through hole that penetrates in the thickness direction of the insulating member and forms a gap between at least two of the electrodes.
In the insulating member, the edge of the axial end of the curved when the insulating member is in the curved shape, to be separated from said axis toward the middle portion to the edge portion in the axial direction of said insulating member The electrode part according to claim 1 , wherein the electrode part is formed as described above.
Wherein the edge of the insulation member, the electrode unit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that notches extending through the thickness direction of said insulating member is formed.
The insulating member is formed with a groove extending in parallel to the axial direction of the curve when the insulating member has the curved shape, on at least one of the one surface and the surface opposite to the one surface. The electrode part according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the electrode part is provided.
It said insulating member is in a natural state where no external force is applied, any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that edges of the bending direction which itself is curved is formed to a predetermined distance apart from each other The electrode part according to one item.
The insulating member 4 when viewed parallel to the axis direction of the bending when the a curved shape, from claim 1, wherein one surface is characterized in that it is formed to be oblong The electrode part as described in any one of these.
Said insulating member said protrudes from one surface of the electrode portion according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it comprises a protrusion for spacing said one surface from the linear structure .
A gap holding member disposed between both edges of the insulating member in the bending direction and separating the insulating member and at least two of the electrodes from the linear tissue;
The electrode part according to any one of claims 1 to 8 ,
A stimulus generator for generating an electrical stimulus to be applied to the linear tissue;
A lead for electrically connecting the electrode part and the stimulus generating part;
A tissue stimulation system comprising:
JP2010286564A 2010-12-22 2010-12-22 Electrode unit and tissue stimulation system Active JP5602612B2 (en)
JP2010286564A JP5602612B2 (en) 2010-12-22 2010-12-22 Electrode unit and tissue stimulation system
JP2012130579A JP2012130579A (en) 2012-07-12
JP5602612B2 true JP5602612B2 (en) 2014-10-08
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JP2010286564A Active JP5602612B2 (en) 2010-12-22 2010-12-22 Electrode unit and tissue stimulation system
JP (1) JP5602612B2 (en)
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2010-12-22 JP JP2010286564A patent/JP5602612B2/en active Active
JP2012130579A (en) 2012-07-12
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