Method for deep brain stimulation targeting based on brain connectivity

Abstract

Due to the lack of internal anatomic detail with traditional magnetic resonance imaging, preoperative stereotactic planning for the treatment of tremor usually relies on indirect targeting based on atlas-derived coordinates. To overcome such disadvantages, a method is provided that allows for deep brain stimulation targeting based on brain connectivity. For example, probabilistic tractography-based thalamic segmentation for deep brain stimulator (DBS) targeting is suitable for the treatment of tremor.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 512,584 filed Jul. 28, 2011, entitled A METHOD FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION TARGETING BASED ON BRAIN CONNECTIVITY, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein for all purposes by this reference.BACKGROUND OF INVENTION[0002]1. Field of Invention[0003]This application relates, in general, deep brain stimulation targeting based on brain connectivity and more particularly to methods of use.[0004]2. Description of Related Art[0005]The efficacy of deep brain stimulation (DBS) critically depends on accurate and precise targeting of subcortical targets. The lack of preoperative methods to either structurally or functionally delineate thalamic nuclear anatomy usually necessitates indirect targeting of the thalamus based on atlas-derived coordinates. Although indirect targeting of the thalamus is generally robust, variability in cortical and subcortical anatomy an...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a way to target deep brain stimulation electrodes based on brain connectivity patterns and measures. This method is superior to previous methods because it identifies targets based on individual anatomy and connectivity, and can target therapeutic brain electrodes in regions of the brain where there is normally insufficient contrast to identify internal structure. Overall, this approach can improve the effectiveness and precision of deep brain stimulation therapy.

Problems solved by technology

Preoperative identification of a precise anatomical or physiological target is even more complicated in the thalamus where there are no readily visible nuclear boundaries that provide patient-specific details to guide targeting.

While these techniques are valid, their utility or reliability with respect to DBS targeting has not been evaluated.

Moreover, in some cases, implementation of the described methodologies requires expertise and resources (e.g., 4.7 T MRI) that are not conventionally available to most physicians.

Despite its increased application in the basic sciences, the value of using connectivity-based thalamic segmentation to guide DBS implantation has not been extensively evaluated.

Images