Device for interacting with neurological tissue and methods of making and using the same

Abstract

Described herein are microelectrode devices to provide localized neural recording or neural stimulation to a neurological target. The device includes a plurality of electrodes disposed along the shafts of deployable flexible pins. The deployable flexible pins are enclosed within an elongated probe shaft, and can be expanded from their enclosure. Additionally, a specifically manufactured outer housing can be coupled to at least a portion of the elongated probe shaft. During deployment of the flexible pins the outer housing of the microelectrode device reduces friction between the flexible pins and the probe shaft and reduces delamination of the flexible pins during deployment.

Description

BACKGROUND

Medical devices can interact with tissue of a subject to diagnose or treat the subject. For example, the subject can have neurological pathologies, which need to be diagnosed and treated.

SUMMARY

Neural recording and neurostimulation devices can be used in the cochlea, the retina, the peripheral nervous system, the spine, the brain, and other parts of the body. Generally, neural recording can be performed in deep brain structures by surgically inserting conductive electrodes and amplifying neurological signals using external electronic equipment. Neurostimulation can be performed by surgically implanting conductive electrodes in the target, and using an implantable pulse generator to apply electrical signals to the conductive electrodes.

The conductive electrodes can be inserted into the deep brain structures through stereotaxy or endoscopy procedures. During these procedures a lead cannula can be implanted near the target tissue. The conductive electrodes can be fed through the cannula to the target tissue.

Described herein are microelectrode devices to provide highly localized neural recording or neural stimulation to a neurological target. The device includes a plurality of electrodes disposed along the shafts of deployable flexible pins. The deployable flexible pins are enclosed within an elongated probe shaft, and can be expanded from their enclosure. Additionally, a specifically manufactured protective housing can be coupled to at least a portion of the elongated probe shaft. During deployment of the flexible pins, the protective housing of the microelectrode device reduces friction between the flexible pins and the probe shaft and thus reduces the risk of delamination to the flexible pins during deployment.

According to one aspect of the disclosure, an implantable microelectrode device includes an elongated shaft having an outer wall and a distal end. The elongated shaft defines an internal lumen therethough and the outer wall defines a plurality of windows therein. An end cap is coupled with the distal end of the elongated shaft. The end cap has a frustum end projecting into the internal lumen of the elongated shaft. The device also includes a protective tube coupled with the outer surface of the elongated shaft. A portion of the protective tube covers a portion of each of the plurality of windows. The device also includes a probe assembly. The probe assembly includes a plurality of flexible pins. Each of the plurality of flexible pins can be deployed through a different one of the plurality of windows. Each of the plurality of flexible pins exit the elongated shaft at an angle defined by the frustum end of the end cap and a distal end of the protective tube.

In some implementations, the protective tube is configured to substantially reduce a friction induced on the plurality of flexible pins during deployment through the plurality of windows. Compared to a device without the protective tube, the protective tube may reduce the friction induced on the plurality of flexible pins during deployment by between about 50% and about 20%. The protective tube can include a polymeric material. In some implementations, the protective tube and the plurality of flexible pins include a same substrate material. The plurality of flexible pins can be configured to slide along the frustum end of the end cap projecting into the internal lumen and the protective tube. The coefficient of friction between the protective tube and the plurality of flexible pins may be between about 0.5 and about 0.01 or between about 0.2 and about 0.01.

In some implementations, the microelectrode device can also include a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) component that can include a first plurality of MEMS legs. Each of the first plurality of MEMS legs can be aligned and coupled with an outer face of one of the plurality of flexible pins. The device can also include a second plurality of MEMS legs that can be coupled to the first plurality of MEMS legs by a foldable strip. Each of the second plurality of MEMS legs can be aligned and coupled with an inner face of one of the plurality of flexible pins. The MEMS leas can include at least one electrode.

In some implementations, at least one electrode is disposed on each of the plurality of flexible pins. The probe assembly can further include a central pin that is deployed through a central channel of the end cap. The frustum end of the end cap can define the minimum exit angle of the flexible pins from the elongated shaft. The protective tube can define the maximum exit angle of the flexible pins from the elongated shaft. In some implementations, the device includes at least four windows.

The device can include a translation system. The translation system can include a translation ring and a translator rod. The translation system can be configured to convert a rotational movement of the translation ring into an axial movement of the translator rod. The translator rod is coupled to the probe assembly. In some implementations, the translation system includes a second translation ring that is configured to convert a rotational movement into an axial movement to deploy the central pin.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method for obtaining neurological activity data includes implanting a microelectrode device within a vicinity of a neurological target. The device includes an elongated shaft having an outer wall and a distal end. The elongated shaft defines an internal lumen and the outer wall defines a plurality of windows. The device also includes an end cap coupled with the distal end of the elongated shaft. The end cap has a frustum end projecting into the internal lumen of the elongated shaft. The device also includes a protective tube coupled with the outer surface of the elongated shaft. Portions of the protective tube cover a portion of each of the plurality of windows. The device further includes a probe assembly that includes a plurality of flexible pins. Each of the plurality of flexible pins includes a plurality of electrode sites. The method also includes deploying at least one of the plurality of flexible pins through a different one of the plurality of windows. The plurality of flexible pins can deploy at an exit angle defined by the frustum end of the end cap and a distal end of the protective tube. The method further includes recording the neurological activity using the plurality of electrode sites.

In some implementations, the method can include coupling the microelectrode device with a stereotactic apparatus. The plurality of flexible pins may be deployed by rotating a translator ring of the microelectrode device. In some implementations, the microelectrode device can include multiple translator rings to enable independent deployment of the flexible pins. The plurality of flexible pins can be retracted and the neurological probe can be removed from the neurological target. The position of the neurological probe within the brain of a subject can be determined responsive to the recorded neurological activity. The method can include coupling the neurological probe with a neural recording and neurostimulation device.

In some implementations, the protective tube is configured to substantially reduce a friction induced on the plurality of flexible pins during deployment through the plurality of windows. The protective tube can include a polymeric material. The protective tube and the plurality of flexible pins can include a same substrate material. A minimum of the exit angle can be defined by the frustum of the end cap, and a maximum of the exit angle can be defined by the distal end of the protective tube. In some implementations, the at least four windows are defined in the outer wall of the elongated shaft. In some implementations, the method includes sliding the plurality of flexible pins along the frustum end projecting into the internal lumen and the protective tube.

In some implementations, the method includes applying a rotational force to a rotational translation system. The rotational translation system can include a translator rod. The rotational translation system is configured to convert the rotational force applied to the rotational translation system into an axial movement of the translator rod. The translator rod can be coupled to the probe assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The figures, described herein, are for illustration purposes. Various aspects of the described implementations may be shown exaggerated or enlarged to facilitate an understanding of the described implementations. In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer to like features, functionally similar or structurally similar elements throughout the various drawings. The drawings are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present teachings in any way. The systems and methods may be understood from the following illustrative description with reference to the following drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one implementation of a microelectrode device.

FIG. 2A is a planar view of an exemplary inner stent sub-assembly, suitable for use in the microelectrode device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 2B and 2C are views of an exemplary microelectrode probe assembly, suitable for use in the microelectrode device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 2D-2F illustrate the subcomponents of the microelectrode probe assembly, suitable for use in the microelectrode device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 2G-2J illustrate various views of foldable extension legs, suitable for use in the microelectrode device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3A-3H illustrate various views of an example connection pad, suitable for use in the microelectrode device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3I, 3J, and 3K illustrate various views of coupling a polymeric insulation layer to a flexible cable, suitable for use in the microelectrode device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4A is a planar view of an exemplary outer stent sub-assembly, suitable for use in the microelectrode device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4B is a planar view of the outer stent sub-assembly of FIG. 4A with a protective tube.

FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of the outer stent sub-assembly of FIG. 4B.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the tip of the microelectrode device of FIG. 1 in an undeployed state.

FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the tip of the microelectrode device of FIG. 1 in an undeployed state.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the tip of the microelectrode device of FIG. 1 in a deployed state.

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the tip of the microelectrode device of FIG. 1 in a deployed state.

FIGS. 6C-6H illustrate the tip of the microelectrode drive with an independently controllable central pin.

FIGS. 6I and 6J illustrate the tip of the microelectrode drive with a fixed central pin.

FIG. 7A is a planar view of an exemplary translation system, suitable for use in the microelectrode device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the translation system of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary translation system, suitable for use in the microelectrode device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7D is an exploded view of the exemplary translation system of FIG. 7C.

FIG. 7E illustrates a cross-sectional view of the translation system of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7F is a side view of the translator rod and guiding tube of the exemplary translation system of FIG. 7C.

FIGS. 7G-7J illustrate the guiding structures moving along the guiding tube of the translation system of FIG. 7C.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are side and cross-sectional views, respectively, illustrating an exemplary indexing system suitable for use in the microelectrode device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 8C-8G illustrate how the various components of the indexing system fit together.

FIGS. 9A-9E illustrate the systematic disassembling of the translation system.

FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate views of an example translation system with multiple translator rings.

FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C illustrate how the translation system interacts with an example stereotactic apparatus.

FIG. 12 illustrates the interaction of the translation system and a portion of a stereotactic frame to prevent removal of the microelectrode device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The various concepts introduced above and discussed in greater detail below may be implemented in any of numerous ways, as the described concepts are not limited to any particular manner of implementation. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes. Medical devices discussed herein can perform neural recording and neurostimulation operations to interact electrically with tissue. In the case of neural recording, physiological measurements can be performed on neurological tissue to diagnose or treat a patient. In the case of neurostimulation, an electric charge can be transferred to the tissue in order to create a therapeutic outcome or to generate a diagnosis.

Described herein are microelectrode array devices, and methods of fabrication and use of the same, to provide localized and efficient electrical stimulation of a neurological target, such as individual neurons, groups of neurons, and neural tissue as may be located in an animal nervous system, such as deep within a human or animal brain. In small, difficult to find brain targets such as the Pedunculopontine Nucleus, or in targets that require localized levels of neural stimulation, such as the Subthalamic Nucleus, many microelectrodes are required in the brain region to find the target using electrophysiological recording. A higher number of microelectrodes can increase the chance of finding the neurons required for therapeutic stimulation. The microelectrode or group of microelectrodes that are closest to the target brain region can be used for chronic, therapeutic stimulation or inhibition.

The stimulation can be highly localized. In some implementations, the stimulation is localized by using small electrodes—for example between about 2 μm and about 2 mm in either of diameter or width. The relative spacing between such microelectrode elements can be between about 2 μm and about 2 mm. In some examples, microelectrodes of about 150 μm in diameter, with about a 1000 μm spacing are used to stimulate neural tissue. An array of such microelectrode elements may include one or more such elements (e.g., sixteen elements), each disposed at a respective position or site.

Smaller microelectrode elements can provide neurological stimulation that is highly localized and efficient because an array of such microelectrodes can identify the stimulation region of interest. For example, one or more microelectrode elements of such an array of microelectrode elements can be used to record neuronal activity in the vicinity of the detecting or recording microelectrode elements. Such refinement offered by the relatively small size or spacing of the microelectrode elements can be used to obtain a highly localized map of neuronal activity in the region surrounding the implant. A suitably dimensioned microelectrode array having multiple microelectrode elements positioned in a general vicinity of a neurological target, can be used to locate a precise neurological target without further repositioning, by identifying those one or more microelectrode elements located in a very specific region of the neurological target. The microelectrode array can be programmed to stimulate in a very specific region, for example, using a certain number of the microelectrode elements to actively stimulate the surrounding neurons or neuronal tissue, while other electrode elements of the array remain inactive.

In some embodiments, the microelectrode arrays are positioned in three-dimensional spaces, rather than implanted as linear arrays or two-dimensional arrays on films. The microelectrode arrays can be positioned along shafts, which radiate from a central lumen in order to cover the target tissue.

In some embodiments, an elongated device that includes microelectrode arrays having elements with relatively small size or spacing can be used to obtain a highly localized map of neuronal activity in the region surrounding the implant. For example, such a device configured with a linear array of microelectrodes positioned along a length of a distal end of the device can be placed into a patient's brain. The elements of the microelectrode array can envelop a region including the neurological target. Neurological activity can be independently detected by one or more of the microelectrode elements. The detected activity may be captured in a recorder or display device, allowing a clinician to identify which one or more of the microelectrode elements is positioned closest to the intended target. Knowing a respective location of each of the microelectrode elements along the device, and determining the distance to a reference, such as the patient's skull, a precise location of the target can be determined as the distance along a trajectory of the device. The distance is measured from the reference to the particular microelectrode element. The location of the target can be determined without any repositioning of the elongated device, thereby simplifying the medical procedure.

In some embodiments, the device is for acute intra-surgical use; being removed after the target has been located. The device can be replaced with a chronic probe or positioned at the determined target location. The device can be left in place as a chronic device, with the same microelectrodes or different ones used to record or stimulate the neurological target over an extended period of time.

In some implementations, the microelectrode device described herein includes inner and outer stent subassemblies. The outer stent subassembly can include an elongated shaft that defines an internal lumen. Multiple windows are defined in the wall of the elongated shaft towards elongated shaft's distal end. The microelectrode device also includes an end cap coupled with the distal end of the elongated shaft. A portion of the end cap includes a frustum end. The frustum end of the end cap projects into the internal lumen of the elongated shaft. A protective tube can be coupled with an outer surface of the elongated shaft. The protective tube can cover a portion of each of the windows. The microelectrode device can also include a probe assembly. The probe assembly is configured to slid through the internal lumen of the elongated shaft. The probe assembly can include flexible pins. Each of the flexible pins arc aligned with one of the windows defined in the elongated shaft such that the flexible pins can deploy through the window. The angle at which the flexible pins are deployed through the window is defined, at least in part, by the frustum end of the end cap and a distal end of the protective tube.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary implementation of a microelectrode device 100. The microelectrode device 100 can include at least one elongated microelectrode lead assembly 105. The lead assembly 105 can include at least one outer stent sub-assembly 240 and at least one inner stent sub-assembly 270. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the microelectrode device 100 is in a deployed state. In the deployed state, the distal end of the inner stem sub-assembly 270 can be visible as its microelectrode probe assembly protrudes out of the outer stent sub-assembly 240. At least one translation system 300 (also referred to as a controller 300) can be coupled with the proximal end of the lead assembly 105.

The outer stent sub-assembly 240 can provide a protective housing through which the inner stent sub-assembly 270 slides when driven by the translation system 300. In some implementations, the walls of the outer stent sub-assembly 240 form an elongated shaft that defines an internal lumen. The inner stent sub-assembly 270 can run through the internal lumen of the outer stent sub-assembly 240. The translation system 300 can be controlled by an operator and can enable the operator to select to what length each of the flexible pins of the microelectrode probe assembly is deployed.

FIG. 2A illustrates an example inner stent sub-assembly 270. The inner stent sub-assembly 270 includes a microelectrode probe assembly 600 coupled to the distal end of a stent tube 271. The microelectrode probe assembly 600 is also illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 2C. In some implementations, the stent tube 271 makes up the majority of the length of the inner stent sub-assembly 270. The inner stent sub-assembly 270 can vary in length and diameter but is generally at least about 28 cm long, (e.g., at least 20 cm long, at least 25 cm long, at least 28 cm long, at least 30 cm long, etc. and around 1.27 mm in diameter (e.g., in the range of 1.0-2.0 mm in diameter).

FIGS. 2B and 2C illustrate views of the exemplary microelectrode probe assembly 600. As described above, the microelectrode probe assembly 600 can be coupled to the distal end of the stent tube 271. As revealed by the cut-a-way view of the stent tube 271, the stent tube 271 can be hollow. The stent tube 271 can also be solid or non-hollow. An electrical connection (such as a conductive wire or flexible PCB cable) can run through the stent tube 271 (e.g., through the hollow space) from the translation system 300 to the electrodes of the microelectrode probe assembly 600. The electrical connections can electrically couple the electrodes to a pulse generator or controller. For example, a stimulation signal can be delivered to the electrodes for delivery to the tissue surrounding the implanted electrodes. Additionally, recorded signals can be passed from the electrodes to a feedback system of the pulse generator or external data recorder.

With reference to FIGS. 2B and 2C, among others, the microelectrode probe assembly 600 can include four flexible pins 202a, 202b, 202c and 202d (collectively referred to as flexible pins 202). The flexible pins 202 can include a plurality of electrodes 610 disposed along their shafts. The four (or other number) of flexible pins 202 can project in an anterior, posterior, lateral, or medial direction. The flexible pins 202 can be manufactured by laser cutting the distal portion of the stent tube 271. The flexible pins 202 can also be manufactured separately from the stent tube 271 and then coupled, by gluing or laser welding, to the stent tube 271. The separate manufacture of the flexible pins 202 is discussed farther in relation to FIGS. 2D-2E, among others.

The microelectrode probe assembly 600 also includes a central pin 204 along the same longitudinal axis as the inner stent sub-assembly 270. The central pin 204 can be a flattened wire, and in some implementations, can be separate from the flexible pins 202. The central pin 204 can be coupled to the microelectrode probe assembly 600, by gluing or laser welding. The central pin 204 can include a plurality of electrodes 610 disposed along its shaft.

The components of the inner stent sub-assembly 270 can be manufactured from biocompatible materials. In some implementations, the materials are selected to withstand implantation for 24 hours. The material can also be selected such that they remain biocompatible for durations greater than 24 hours. The non-conducting components of the microelectrode probe assembly 600 can be manufactured from polyimide. The conducting components of the microelectrode probe assembly 600 (e.g., the electrodes 610) can be manufactured from platinum, platinum-iridium, and gold, for example.

The microelectrode probe assembly 600, the flexible pins 202, and the electrodes 610 can be sized and shaped for a specified neurological application. For example, the microelectrode probe assembly 600 may be at least partially placed within the central nervous system of a patient or other subject. The microelectrode probe assembly 600 may be placed within other parts or organs of the body, such as the epidural space of the spine, or other locations within the peripheral nervous system, or within an organ such as the liver or heart. The diameter and length of the microelectrode probe assembly 600 and flexible pins 202 may vary depending on the particular anatomical target. In some implementations, there are 2-4, 4-8, 8-12, and 12-16 flexible pins 202. In some implementations, each flexible pins 202 includes 2-4, 4-8, 8-12, 12-16, and 16-32 electrodes 610 per flexible pin 202.

The electrodes 610 can be sized or spaced to record from or stimulate neurons. The microelectrode probe assembly 600 can be used to detect or record neuronal activity at the neurological target. Neuronal activity naturally occurring within the neurological target gives rise to local electromagnetic fields that can be detected by one or more of the microelectrode elements of the microelectrode array. For example, electric fields produced by neurons can polarize one or more of the microelectrode elements. Such polarization gives rise to an electrical potential with respect to a reference, such as electrical ground, or another one of the electrodes 610. The detected electromagnetic fields are conducted from one or more of the electrodes 610 to a device external to the microelectrode device 100. The signals are conducted from the electrode 610 through the internal electrical conductors within the hollow stent tube 271. The external device that is connected to the microelectrode device 100 can be to one or more additional medical devices, which can further processing of the detected electrical activity. For example, the electrodes 610 can be coupled to a display device or recording device for displaying or recording electrical activity from the neurological target.

In some implementations, one or more of the electrodes 610 are used to electrically stimulate a neurological target. For example, one or more externally generated electrical signals can be applied to one or more of electrode 610. These electrical signals can be conducted through the internal electrical conductors to one or more of the electrodes 610. Depending on the amplitude and polarity of the electrical signals, an electrical field can be induced by the polarized electrodes 610. Electrical fields induced by such polarization can interact with one or more neurons at a target site.

FIGS. 2D and 2E illustrate the subcomponents of the microelectrode probe assembly 600. In general the microelectrode probe assembly 600 includes the microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) components and the stent tube 271. FIG. 2D illustrates the MEMS components 620 and 630, and FIG. 2E illustrates the stent tube 271. The MEMS component 630 includes the electrodes for the flexible pins 202. The MEMS component 630 is divided into three regions: the connection array 500, the shoulder 631, and the MEMS legs 605. The MEMS component 620 includes a connection array 500 and a single MEMS leg 605, and is used to create the central pin 204. FIG. 2E illustrates the stent tube 271 before the MEMS components 630 and 620 are added. The connection array 500 includes a plurality of connection pads 510. The connection array 500 can provide a point of connection to each of the electrodes 610 in the microelectrode probe assembly 600.

FIG. 2F illustrates a profile view of an assembled microelectrode probe assembly 600. As illustrated in FIG. 2F, each of the MEMS legs 605 are coupled to, and aligned with, a flexible pin 202. The central MEMS component 620 can be coupled with the central pin 204 and the MEMS main component 630 is wrapped around the distal end of the stent tube 271, such that each MEMS leg 605 aligns with a flexible pins 202 of the stent tube 271. In some implementations, the MEMS components are coupled with the stent tube 271 with a biocompatible adhesive.

FIGS. 2G, 2H, and 2I illustrate a profile, side, and end views, respectively, of a microelectrode probe assembly 600 with foldable extension legs 611. The foldable extension legs 611 (also referred to as MEMS legs 611) extend past the MEMS legs 605 and are then folded along the inner face of each of the flexible pins 202. The each of the foldable extension legs 611 are aligned and coupled with an inner face 612 of one of the flexible pins 202. In this configuration, the microelectrode probe assembly 600 includes electrodes 610 on bath the inner face 612 and outer face 613 of the flexible pins 202. The foldable extension legs 611 are coupled with the MEMS legs 605 by a foldable strip 640 that folds over the distal tip of each of the flexible pins 202.

FIG. 2J illustrate a profile and end view, respectively, of a microelectrode probe assembly 600 with foldable extension legs 611. In the example microelectrode probe assembly 600 of FIGS. 2J and 2H, the foldable strips 640 fold over a side face 641 of each of the flexible pins 202.

Referring to FIG. 2F, among others, each of the MEMS components 620 and 630 include a connection array 500. The connection array 500 can include a plurality of connection pads for establishing an electrical connection with the electrodes disposed on the MEMS components 620 and 630.

FIG. 3A illustrates an enlarged, top-view of an example connection pad 510. FIG. 3B illustrates a side-view of the connection pad 510. Each of the connection pads 510 are electrically coupled with an electrode 610 through an electrical conductor embedded within the polymeric insulation layer 512 MEMS component. A conductive pad 511 is positioned on top of the polymeric insulation layer 512 and over the conductive electrical line embedded within the polymeric insulation layer 512. A through hole 514 is made in the conductive pad 511. Within the through hole 514, a cross-shaped cut 513 is etched through polymeric insulation layer 512. In one embodiment conductive pad 511 is includes gold. The conductive pad 511 can be deposited on the polymeric insulation layer 512 by galvanic deposition onto a platinum layer.

FIGS. 3C and 3D illustrate a side view and top view, respectively, of connection pad 510 with a conductive wire 550 passing through the hole 514 in conductive pad 511. The other end of this electrical conductive wire 550 is connected to an external electronic device or controller. The cross-shaped cut 513 enables that region of polymeric layer 512 to be flexible and temporarily hold the electrical conductive wire 550 in place once it is inserted. In one embodiment the wire can be secured underneath with a non-conductive adhesive. On the surface 551 of the conductive pad 511 a conductive adhesive is used to secure the wire and establish an electrical contact between the wire 550 and conductive pad 511. In some implementations, a PCB cable with via pins is used rather than (or in addition to inserting) conductive wire 550 through the conductive pad 511.

FIGS. 3E, 3F, 3G, and 3H illustrate various views of an example connection array 500 coupled to a flexible PCB cable 560. The flexible PCB cable 560 can include a plurality of via pins 565, which are aligned with the connection pads 510 in the connection array 500. The flexible PCB cable 560 can provide electrical to a plurality of connection arrays 500. The via pins 565 can be inserted through the cross-shaped cut 513 and the through hole 514 in conductive pad 511—similar to how wire 550 was inserted through the through hole 514. An electrical bond between the conductive pad 511 and via pin 565 can be formed through a conductive adhesive. In some implementations, mechanical strength is provided by encapsulating the above described components within a non-conductive adhesive.

FIGS. 3I, 3J, and 3K illustrate various views of coupling the polymeric insulation layer 512 to a flexible cable 560. In FIGS. 3I, 3J, and 3K, the flexible pcb cable 560 is coupled with the polymeric insulation layer 512 using wire-bonding. An electrical connection can be established between two conductive pads 511 (e.g. gold pads) by using a bond wire 1600 (e.g., gold wire about 25 μm in diameter) that is coupled with each of the conductive pads 511. In some implementations, the bond wire 1600 is coupled with the conductive pads 511 using ultrasound vibrations and vertical pressure. The conductive pad 511 of the flexible pcb cable 560 can be accessed through window 1700, which passes through the layers of the polymeric insulation layer 512. The window can be 300 μm×300 μm. In some implementations, the window 1700 is at least 50% larger than the conductive pad 511.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate example views of the tip of an exemplary outer stent sub-assembly 240. The outer stent tube 261 can run the length of the outer stent sub-assembly 240. The outer stent tube 261 can form an elongated shaft. The walls of the outer stent tube 261, as an elongated shaft, can define an internal lumen through which the inner stent sub-assembly 270 can freely slide. The outer stent tube 261 can vary in length and diameter but, for example, can be at least about 28 cm long, (e.g., at least 20 cm long, at least 25 cm long, at least 28 cm long, at least 30 cm long, etc.) and around 1.27 mm in diameter (e.g., in the range of 1.0-2.0 mm in diameter). The internal diameter of the outer stent tube 261 can be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the inner stent sub-assembly 270, such that the inner stent sub-assembly 270 can freely slide within the outer stent tube 261.

An end cap 262 can be coupled to the distal end of the outer stent tube 261. In some implementations, the end cap 262 is coupled to the outer stent tube 261 by gluing or laser welding. At its distal end, the outer wall of the outer stent tube 261 can define four windows 265. The windows 265 can be defined towards the distal end of the outer stent sub-assembly 240. When assembled, one window 265 can align with each of the flexible pins 202. Embodiments with more or fewer flexible pins 202 also include more or fewer, respectively, windows 265 such that each flexible pins 202 is associated with one window 265. The width 241 of each window 265 can be slightly wider (e.g., within 20%) than the width of the flexible pins 202 associated with the window 265.

FIG. 4B illustrates the tip of the outer stent sub-assembly 240 with a protective tube 250 coupled to the outer surface of the outer stent tube 261. A distal end of the protective tube 250 covers a portion of each window 265 and guides each of the flexible pins 202 out of the window 265. In some implementations, the protective tube 250 runs along a substantial portion of the outer stent tube 261. In some embodiments, the protective tube 250 only covers a portion of the outer stent tube 261 near the windows 265.

FIG. 4C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the tip of the outer stent sub-assembly 240. The end cap 262 includes a proximal frustum (or frustoconical shaped end 263, which is coupled within the outer stent sub-assembly 240. The end cap 262 can couple to the outer stent sub-assembly 240 so that the frustum end 263 projects into the internal lumen defined by the walls of the outer stent tube 261. Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, among others, the frustum end 263 of the end cap 262 or the protective tube 250, can enable the flexible pins 202 to exit the outer stent sub-assembly 240 at a predetermined trajectory (or angle). The trajectory of the central pin 204 can be controlled by the central channel 267.

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of the tip of the microelectrode device 100 in its undeployed (or default) state. FIG. 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the tip of the microelectrode device 100 in its undeployed state. In the undeployed state, each of the flexible pins 202 can be positioned on the frustum end 263 of the end cap 262 and aligned with one of the windows 265. The central pin 204 is aligned with the central channel 267. In the undeployed state, each of the flexible pins 202 can be contained within the outer stent sub-assembly 240 to enable the device to be implanted. Implanting the microelectrode device 100 in the undeployed state provides a smooth exterior profile that can reduce the trauma caused by the microelectrode device 100 as it passes through surrounding tissue en route to the target tissue.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate the tip of the microelectrode device 100 when the microelectrode probe assembly 600 is in its deployed state. The angle 552 of deployment (or exit angle) is defined in part by at least the outer diameter of the microelectrode device 100, the size and shape frustum feature 263 of the end cap 262, and the placement of the protective tube 250. For example, as the inner stent sub-assembly 270 is driven through the outer stent sub-assembly 240, the inward facing side of the flexible pins 202 comes into contact with the frustum feature 263 of the end cap 262. This drives the flexible pins 202 out of the outer stent sub-assembly 240. On their outward facing edge, the flexible pins 202 are guided by the protective tube 250. In some implementations, the frustum feature 263 determines the exit angle 552 of the flexible pins 202 and the protective tube 250 to ensure that the flexible pins 202 do not over extend past the desired exit angle 552. The protective tube 250 can provide the upper limit to the exit angle the flexible pins 202 as the flexible pins exit the windows 265 and the frustum feature 263 of the end cap 262 can provide the minimum exit angle. For example, if the protective tube 250 extends over a larger portion of the windows 265 toward the most distal end of the end cap 262, the exit angle of the flexible pins 202 would be shallower when compared to implementations where the protective tube 250 extends of a smaller portion of the windows 265.

FIGS. 6C-6H illustrate the tip of the microelectrode drive 100 with an independently controllable central pin 204. FIGS. 6C-6H illustrate the deployment of the central pin 204 through the central channel 267 prior to the deployment of the flexible pins 202. In some implementations, the central pin 204 is deployed after the flexible pins 202. In other implementations, only one of the central pin 204 or the flexible pins 202 is deployed.

As illustrated in FIG. 6A, among others, the windows 265 can be slightly wider than the flexible pins 202 (e.g., within 20%). In some implementations, the width 241 of the window 265 is substantially similar to the width of the flexible pins 202 such that the flexible pins 202 can freely exit the outer stent sub-assembly 240, but the windows 265 can control the lateral position of the flexible pins 202 during deployment. For example, the windows 265 reduce unwanted rotation of the flexible pins 202 as they exit the outer stent sub-assembly 240.

In some implementations, the flexible pins 202 and protective tube 250 are configured to reduce delamination of the flexible pins 202 during deployment. Delamination can be caused by friction between the flexible pins 202 and the outer walls of the windows 265. In some implementations, the possibility of delaminating the flexible pins 202 or microelectrode probe assembly 600 is reduced by sliding the flexible pins 202 along the frustum feature 263 and protective tube 250 rather than the walls of the windows 265. The protective tube 250 can be made out of a polymeric material that is the same or similar to the material used to manufacture the microelectrode probe assembly 600 or the flexible pins 202. The material can be selected to reduce the friction between the protective tube 250 and the frustum feature 263. The protective tube 250 and the frustum feature 263 can be manufactured to reduce abrasion during the deployment of the flexible pins 202 when compared to a device without a protective tube 250. In some implementations, the coefficient of friction of the flexible pins 202 against the protective tube 250 or the frustum feature 263 is between about 0.5 and about 0.01, between about 0.3 and about 0.01, or less than about 0.1. The coefficient of friction of the flexible pins 202 rubbing against the protective tube 250 constructed from a polyimide material may be about half as much when compared to a device where the flexible pins 250 rub against a stainless steel shaft. In some implementations, the coefficient of friction between the flexible pins 202 and the protective tube 250 is achieved because the outer faces of the flexible pins 202 and the protective tube 250 include the same substrate material, such as a polymeric material.

In some implementations, the protective tube 250 and the frustum feature 263 are manufactured from the same material as the flexible pins 202 to limit delamination. For example, the protective tube 250, the flexible pins 202, or the frustum feature 263 can be manufactured from polyimide. In some implementations, the selected material has a low coefficient of friction (COF). For example, the selected material can have a COF less than 0.5, less than 0.2, or less than 0.1. The relatively low COF enables the flexible pins 202 to smoothly slide out of the outer stent sub-assembly 240 during deployment. A low COF reduces the risk of delamination by reducing the force applied to the flexible pins 202 as they exit the outer stent sub-assembly 240.

FIGS. 6A and 6B, FIGS. 6I and 6J, among others, illustrate the deployment of the microelectrode probe assembly 600. In some implementations, as illustrated in FIG. 6I, the central pin 204 is fixed in the deployed state. The deployed central pin 204 can reduce tissue coring, a process by which the central channel 267 (without the central pin 204 deployed) can cut through tissue. To reduce the likelihood of coring, the central pin 204 can be fixed in the deployed state and any gap between the central channel 267 and the central pin 204 can be filled. In some implementations, the filling forms a cone-like transition between the base of the central pin 204 and the central channel 267. In some implementations, recording can be made with the central pin 204 during the implantation process to, for example, determine the position of the microelectrode probe assembly 600. FIG. 6J illustrates the deployment of the flexible pins 202, which does not change the position of the central pin 204.

FIG. 7A illustrates a side view of an exemplary translation system 300, and FIG. 7B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the translation system 300. The translation system 300 can drive the inner stent sub-assembly 270 through the outer stent sub-assembly 240 to deploy and retract the flexible pins 202. As described in relation to FIG. 1, the translation system 300 is coupled to the proximal end of the lead assembly 105. As illustrated in FIG. 7A, the housing of the controller 300 includes a translator ring 311, a removable end cap 310, and a main body housing 312.

Referring to FIG. 7B, the internal components of the translation system 300 include a locking pin 313, a translator rod 330, and guide pins 320. In some implementations, the translation system 300 drives the inner stent sub-assembly 270 by converting a rotational movement of the translator ring 311 into an axial movement of the translator rod 330 along the length of the microelectrode device. The translator ring 311 and the translator rod 330 can act as a lead screw to axially drive the translator rod 330 and the inner stent sub-assembly 270. The internal bore of the translator ring 311 can include a thread that mates with threads on the translator rod 330. As an operator rotates the translator ring 311, the threads of the translator ring 311 impart a force on the threads of the translator rod 330 and an axial movement is induced on the translator rod 330. The translator rod 330 can be coupled with the inner stent sub-assembly 270 of the probe assembly 600 by laser welding or gluing. In some implementations, the translator rod 330 is coupled within the translation system 300 such that it only has one degree of movement along the central axis of the translation system 300.

In some implementations, the controller does not have a translator ring 311, but rather the flexible pins 202 are deployed using a push-pull rod. For example, the push-pull rod can be coupled to the inner stent sub-assembly 270 along its linear axis. As an operator pushes or pulls the push-pull rod, the motion is directly translated to the inner stent sub-assembly 270 and the flexible pins 202.

The translation system 300 includes a removable back cap 310. Removing the back cap 310 provides access to the inner stent sub-assembly 270. The back cap 310 can be unscrewed by hand or with a tool. In some implementations, the translator ring 311 can also be removed from the translation system 300 after removal of the back cap 310. After removal of the back cap 310 and the translator ring 311, an operator is provided adequate access to remove the translator rod 330 and the inner stent sub-assembly 270. In some implementations, the removal of the back cap 310 is a safety mechanism that enables an operator to expose the internal components of the microelectrode device 100 and retract the inner stent sub-assembly 270 and flexible pins 202 in the event of a mechanical failure within the translation system 300. The method of dismantling the translation system 300 is described further in relation to FIGS. 9A-9E.

The translation system 300 can include a centering pin 321 and one or more guide pins 320. In some implementations, the centering pin 321 is used to index the microelectrode device 100 in a stereotactic apparatus (e.g., a stereotactic apparatus used in deep brain stimulation surgery). For example, the centering pin 321 and the guide pins 320 may be placed in a vertical arrangement within the stereotactic apparatus to indicate the initial position of the microelectrode device 100 relative to the stereotactic apparatus. In some implementations, the guide pins 320 form a key that can mate with a lock on a stereotactic apparatus. The guide pins 320 prevent any rotational movement that may be induced when using translator ring 311 and also assist with the initial indexing of the microelectrode device 100 to the stereotactic apparatus.

In some implementations, the centering pin 321 also reinforces the portion of the outer stent sub-assembly 240 where the microelectrode device 100 is typically clamped to the stereotactic apparatus. In some implementations, guide pins 320 are separated from one another (as measured by the distance between their longitudinal axes) by about 4 mm. In some implementations, each guide pin 320 is spaced (as measured by the distance between their longitudinal axes) about 2 mm from the centering pin 321. The interaction of the translation system 300 with the stereotactic apparatus is discussed further in relation to FIGS. 9A-9E.

FIG. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the example translation system 300, and FIG. 7D illustrates an exploded view of the translation system 300. The translation system 300 includes guiding and indexing features for the deployment of the flexible pins 202. The translation system 300 includes a translator rod 330, which translates the rotation of the translator ring 311 into a linear movement along the central axis of the translation system 300. The translation system 300 also includes a plurality of ball (or other type of) bearings 432 that are held against the translator main body 312 by springs 431. The ball bearings 432 and springs 431 can be part of the indexing system. The translator rod 330 can include guiding structures 331 that fit into guiding slits 411 of the guiding tube 410. The guiding tube 410 can be inserted and fixed into the translator main body 312.

FIG. 7E illustrates additional detail about the translation system 300. The outer stent sub-assembly 240 can be coupled with the main body housing 312. The above described outer stent sub-assembly 240 can be coupled with the translation system 300, for example by inserting the outer stent sub-assembly 240 into the centering pin 321. In some implementations, the outer stent sub-assembly 240 is coupled to the centering pin 321 by laser welding or gluing. The controller 300 can include at least two mechanical stops 407. The first can be the default, undeployed position as illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, and the second can be the fully deployed position as illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B. Mechanical stop 470a can be encountered when the translator rod 330 is in contact with main body 312. Mechanical stop 470b can be encountered when the translator rod 330 is fully in contact with locking pin 313. In some implementations, the first mechanical stop can ensure the flexible pins 202 are not over-retracted within the outer stent sub-assembly 240. The second mechanical stop can ensure the flexible pins 202 are not over deployed. In some implementations, the second mechanical stop enables the flexible pins 202 to be deployed to a length of about 10 mm-8 mm, about 8 mm-6 mm, about 6 mm-4 mm, or about 4 mm-2 mm. The translation system 300 can include a plurality of intermediate steps, which allow the flexible pins 202 to be deployed a predetermined distance less than their fully deployed length.

FIG. 7F is a side view of the translator rod 330 and guiding tube 410, when the translator rod 330 is inserted into the guiding tube 410 and illustrated without the other components of the translation system 300. The guiding slits 411 of the guiding tube 410 can provide the translator rod 330 one degree of freedom, e.g., along the central axis of the translation system 300. In the example translation system 300, the guiding tube 410 can include three guiding slits 411, and the translator rod 330 includes three guiding structure 331. The guiding structures 331 slide into the guiding slits 411. Insertion of the guiding structures 331 into the guiding slits 411 can prevent the translator rod 330 from substantially rotating, and can limit the translator rod's movement to a single degree of freedom.

FIGS. 7G, 7H, 7I, and 7J provide additional images of how the guiding structures 331 move along the guiding tube 410 as the user rotates the translator ring 311. FIG. 7G represents the default state of the translation system 300. In FIG. 7I the translator ring 311 is hidden to illustrate that in the default state of the translation system 300, the translator rod 330 is toward the proximal end of the translation system 300. As the user rotates the translator ring 311 (as illustrated in FIG. 7H), the translator rod 330 is advanced, deploying the flexible pins 202. FIG. 7J illustrates the translation system 300 without the translator ring 311 to show that in the deployed state the translator rod 330 is in a position toward the distal end of the translation system 300.

The translation system 300 includes an indexing system to enable an operator to deploy the flexible pins 202 to predetermined lengths. FIG. 8A illustrates a side view of a partially constructed translation system 300, and FIG. 8B illustrates a cut away along plain 700 of the partially constructed translation system 300. In FIG. 8A, the translator ring 311 is pulled away from the translator main body 312 to expose the ball bearings 432 and springs 431 of the indexing system (collectively referred to as ball bearing-springs 433). The indexing system allows for control of the translator rod 330 between the undeployed and deployed state of the flexible pins 202. The indexing system enables a user to determine if the flexible pins are deployed, retracted, or at predetermined positioned therebetween.

FIG. 8B illustrates the back face 701 of the translator main body 312. The indexing system includes the ball bearing-springs 433 and indexing holes 314a and 314b. The ball bearing-spring system 433 is composed of ball bearings 432 of a diameter of 1 mm and a spring 431. The spring 431 holds the ball bearings 432 against the back face 701 of the translator main body 312. These springs 431 can be received by holes drilled into the translator ring 311. The indexing holes 314 can be semi-hemispherical holes milled into the back face 701 of the translator main body 312. The diameter of the indexing holes 314 can be approximately (e.g., +/−10%) the same diameter of the ball bearings 432, such that the indexing holes 314 can receive the ball bearings 432. As the translator ring 311 is rotated the ball bearings 432 fall into the indexing holes 314 to indicate predetermined amounts of deployment of the flexible pins 202. In some implementations, the ball bearing-spring system 433 reduces mechanical play that may be present in mechanical translation system 300. For example, the ball bearing-spring system 433 can provide a mechanical stability feature (e.g., a three contact point system) that can reduce the friction between the translator ring 311 and the translator main body 312.

The distance from the central axis of the translation system 300 can be different for one or more of the ball bearing-spring system 433. For example, FIG. 8B depicts ball bearing-spring systems 433a and 433b that can be radially offset to a slightly different difference than ball bearing-spring 433c. In this example, ball bearing-spring 433c is used in the indexing system while the ball bearing-springs 433a and 433b are used for mechanical stability. The indexing holes 314 can be offset the same distance from the central axis of the translation system 300 as the ball bearing-spring 433c. For example, when indexing hole 314a receives the ball bearings 432 of ball bearing-spring 433c the flexible pins 202 are fully retracted and when the translator ring 311 is rotated such that the indexing hole 314b receives the ball bearings 432 of ball bearing-spring 433c the flexible pins 202 are fully deployed. In some implementations, a plurality of indexing holes are placed along the radial path between indexing hole 314a and indexing hole 314b such that the flexible pins 202 may be deployed to specific lengths. The length of the track virtually drawn along that particular radius defines the maximum linear travel distance induced on translator rod 330. FIGS. 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F, and 8G illustrate how the translator ring 311, ball bearing-springs 433, and the other components of the indexing system fit together.

FIGS. 9A-9E illustrate an example of the systematic disassembling of the translation system 300. The translation system 300 can be disassembled as a safety mechanism to retract the flexible pins 202 if the translation system 300 becomes stuck. In some implementations, first, the removable end cap 310 is removed to reveal the locking pin 313 and the guiding tube 410. Next, the locking pin 313 is removed and then the guiding tube 410. Then, the translator rod 330 is removed to reveal the inner stent sub-assembly 270, which an operator may remove by hand to retract the flexible pins 202.

In some implementations, one or more of the flexible pins 202 are independently controllable. The translation system 300 can include different translator rings 311 to control the deployment of each of the independently controllable flexible pins 202. FIG. 10A illustrates a perspective view of a translation system 300 with two translator rings 311. FIG. 10B illustrates a side view of the translation system 300 with two translator rings 311. The translation system 300 with two translator rings 311 could be used, for example, to control a microelectrode device with an independently controlled central pin. For example, the first translator ring 311 could be used to control the deployment of the central pin and the second translator ring 311 could be used to control the deployment of the remaining flexible pins.

FIGS. 10C and 10D illustrate perspective and side views, respectively, or a translation system 300 with five translator rings 311. In some implementations, each of the flexible pins of the microelectrode device can be independently controlled. Accordingly, each of the flexible pins of the microelectrode device can be coupled to one of the five translator rings 311 to enable independent deployment and retraction of the flexible pins. In some implementations with independently deployable flexible pins, the surgeon could deploy only the flexible pins that are of diagnostic interest during a surgical procedure, and avoid deploying the flexible pins that may cause patient harm.

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate how the translation system 300 interacts with an example stereotactic apparatus 800. The holding piece 810 of the apparatus 800 includes a plurality of mating holes 815. The holes 815 are configured to mate with the guide pins 320 of the translation system 300. Once the guide pins 320 are mated with the holes 815, as illustrated in FIG. 11B, among other, the translation system 300 cannot rotate around its central axis.

FIG. 11C illustrates microelectrode device 100 in use with a stereotactic frame 1200. The stereotactic frame 1200 can be placed and fixed to the patient's head prior surgery. The caliper device 800 can be part of the stereotactic frame 1200 and can be used to interface with the microelectrode device 100 and can determine the microelectrode device's location relative to the patient's head. The insertion trajectory of the device 100 can be guided using a guiding tube 1210 which can interface with stereotactic apparatus 800 through the holding piece 810. With the microelectrode device 100 at a desired location, the pins can be deployed as illustrated in FIG. 11C.

In some implementations, the microelectrode device is configured to prevent extraction of the electrode device while the flexible pins are deployed into a patients tissue. In some implementations, the translation system 300 of the microelectrode device includes alarms to alert the surgeon when the flexible pins are deployed or a mechanism that prevents removal of the microelectrode device when the flexible pins are deployed.

The translation system 300 can include a visual or an audible alarm system such as LEDs or buzzers. When the flexible pins are in their retracted state, the alarm can be off. When one of the flexible pins is deployed, the alarm can activate. For example, when the flexible pins are retracted a red LED on the translation system 300 may be off. However, when one of the flexible pins are deployed power may be provided to the red LED to alert the surgeon that he should not remove the microelectrode device from the patient. The translation system 300 can include a second LED, such as a green LED, that indicates to the surgeon that the flexible pins are retracted and it is safe to remove the microelectrode device from the patient. The alarm can be powered by battery resident within the translation system 300.

The visual alarm of the translation system 300 can include a mechanical indicator which exposes a colored ring, or other static visible indicator, when one or more flexible pins are deployed. This visible indicator can remain visible until each of the flexible pins are retracted. The mechanical indicator may not require a power source to generate the alert to the surgeon.

The translation system 300 can physically prevent the removal of the microelectrode device form the patient when one or more flexible pins are deployed. FIG. 12 illustrates the interaction of the translation system 300 and a portion of a stereotactic frame 800 to prevent removal of the microelectrode device.

In some implementations, a portion of the stereotactic frame 800 can be electrically or mechanically connected to the translation system 300 to prevent the displacement of the microelectrode device in certain conditions, such as when the flexible pins are deployed. The stereotactic frame 800 could electrically, or mechanically, block the movement of the microelectrode device with respect to the patient's brain, if the flexible pins are not in a safe position.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example mechanical system for preventing the retraction of the microelectrode device when one or more flexible pins are deployed. A blocking mechanism 801 can be coupled to the translation system 300. The blocking mechanism includes a rotary extension 805. As one of the translation rings 311 are rotated to deploy one or more of the flexible pins, gears within the rotary extension 805 can rotate a blocking extension 515 over a lip of a holding piece 810. For example, if the surgeon attempted to retract the microelectrode device by pulling the translation system 300, the blocking extension 515 would hold the microelectrode device in place. With the flexible pins retracted, the blocking extension 515 would not catch the holding piece 810 and the microelectrode device could be withdrawn from the patient.

Various implementations of the microelectrode device have been described herein. These embodiments are giving by way of example and not to limit the scope of the present disclosure. The various features of the embodiments that have been described may be combined in various ways to produce numerous additional embodiments. Moreover, while various materials, dimensions, shapes, implantation locations, etc. have been described for use with disclosed embodiments, others besides those disclosed may be utilized without exceeding the scope of the disclosure.

Devices described herein as either acute or chronic may be used acutely or chronically. They may be implanted for such periods, such as during a surgery, and then removed. They may be implanted for extended periods, or indefinitely. Any devices described herein as being chronic may also be used acutely.

The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Modifications and variations can be made without departing from its spirit and scope of this disclosure. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses may exist within the scope of this disclosure. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The subject matter of the present disclosure includes the full scope of equivalents to which it is entitled. This disclosure is not limited to particular methods, reagents, compounds compositions or biological systems, which can vary. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments, and is not intended to be limiting.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural or singular terms herein, the plural can include the singular or the singular can include the plural as is appropriate to the context or application.

In general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). Claims directed toward the described subject matter may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, such recitation can mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). Any disjunctive word or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, can contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” includes the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, the disclosure is also described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

Any ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, etc. Language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” and the like include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken down into subranges as discussed above. Finally, a range includes each individual member.

One or more or any part thereof of the techniques described herein can be implemented in computer hardware or software, or a combination of both. The methods can be implemented in computer programs using standard programming techniques following the method and figures described herein. Program code is applied to input data to perform the functions described herein and generate output information. The output information is applied to one or more output devices such as a display monitor. Each program may be implemented in a high level procedural or object oriented programming language to communicate with a computer system. However, the programs can be implemented in assembly or machine language, if desired. In any case, the language can be a compiled or interpreted language. Moreover, the program can run on dedicated integrated circuits preprogrammed for that purpose.

Each such computer program can be stored on a storage medium or device (e.g., ROM or magnetic diskette) readable by a general or special purpose programmable computer, for configuring and operating the computer when the storage media or device is read by the computer to perform the procedures described herein. The computer program can also reside in cache or main memory during program execution. The analysis, preprocessing, and other methods described herein can also be implemented as a computer-readable storage medium, configured with a computer program, where the storage medium on configured causes a computer to operate in a specific and predefined manner to perform the functions described herein. In some embodiments, the computer readable media is tangible and substantially non-transitory in nature, e.g., such that the recorded information is recorded in a form other than solely as a propagating signal.

In some embodiments, a program product may include a signal bearing medium. The signal bearing medium may include one or more instructions that, when executed by, for example, a processor, may provide the functionality described above. In some implementations, signal bearing medium may encompass a computer-readable medium, such as, but not limited to, a hard disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, memory, etc. In some implementations, the signal bearing medium may encompass a recordable medium, such as, but not limited to, memory, read/write (R/W) CDs, R/W DVDs, etc. In some implementations, signal bearing medium may encompass a communications medium such as, but not limited to, a digital or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communications link, a wireless communication link, etc.). Thus, for example, the program product may be conveyed by an RF signal bearing medium, where the signal bearing medium is conveyed by a wireless communications medium (e.g., a wireless communications medium conforming with the IEEE 802.11 standard).

Any of the signals and signal processing techniques may be digital or analog in nature, or combinations thereof.

While certain embodiments of this disclosure have been particularly shown and described with references to preferred embodiments thereof, various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. An implantable microelectrode device, comprising: an elongated shaft having an outer wall and a distal end, the outer wall of the elongated shaft defining an internal lumen, the outer wall of the elongated shaft defining a plurality of windows toward the distal end;an end cap coupled with the distal end of the elongated shaft, the end cap defining a central channel, the end cap having a frustum end, the frustum end defining a projection into the internal lumen of the elongated shaft;a protective tube coupled with an outer surface of the elongated shaft and covering a portion of each of the plurality of windows; anda probe assembly to slide through the internal lumen of the elongated shaft, the probe assembly comprising: a central pin configured for deployment via the central channel;a plurality of flexible pins, each of the plurality of flexible pins configured for deployment through a corresponding window of the plurality of windows via sliding through the internal lumen, the deployment of each of the plurality of flexible pins through the corresponding window at an exit angle defined at least in part by the projection of the frustum end of the end cap into the internal lumen and a placement of a distal end of the protective tube over the corresponding window, the deployment of each of the plurality of flexible pins through the corresponding window independent of the deployment of the central pin via the central channel; andmicroelectromechanical system (MEMS) components having a first MEMS component disposed on the central pin and a second MEMS component disposed on one or more of the plurality of flexible pins.

2. The device of claim 1, comprising: the plurality of flexible pins configured to slide through the corresponding window.

3. The device of claim 1, comprising: the second MEMS component comprises a first plurality of MEMS legs, each of the first plurality of MEMS legs aligned and coupled with an outer face of one of the plurality of flexible pins.

4. The device of claim 3, comprising: a second plurality of MEMS legs coupled to the first plurality of MEMS legs by a foldable strip, each of the second plurality of MEMS legs aligned and coupled with an inner face of one of the plurality of flexible pins.

5. The device of claim 3, each of the first plurality of MEMS legs comprising at least one electrode.

6. The device of claim 1, comprising: the protective tube including a polymeric material.

7. The device of claim 1, comprising: a material of the protective tube having a coefficient of friction between about 0.5 and about 0.01 with respect to the plurality of flexible pins.

8. The device of claim 1, comprising: a material of the protective tube having a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and about 0.01 with respect to the plurality of flexible pins.

9. The device of claim 1, comprising: the protective tube and the plurality of flexible pins made of a same substrate material.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein a minimum of the exit angle is defined by the frustum of the end cap and a maximum of the exit angle is defined by the distal end of the protective tube.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of windows in the outer wall of the elongated shaft include at least four windows.

12. The device of claim 1, comprising: a translation system comprising a translation ring and a translator rod, the translation system configured to convert a rotational movement of the translation ring into an axial movement of the translator rod.

13. The device of claim 12, comprising: the translator rod coupled with the probe assembly.

14. The device of claim 12, comprising: a second translation ring configured to convert a rotational movement of the second translation ring into an axial movement to deploy the central pin through the central channel of the end cap.

15. The device of claim 1, comprising: an alarm configured to indicate when at least one of the plurality of flexible pins is deployed.

16. A method of obtaining neurological activity information, comprising: implanting microelectrode device within a vicinity of a neurological target, the microelectrode device comprising: an elongated shaft having an outer wall and a distal end, the outer wall of the elongated shaft defining an internal lumen, the outer wall of the elongated shaft defining the outer wall defining a plurality of windows;an end cap coupled with the distal end of the elongated shaft, the end cap defining a central channel, the end cap having a frustum end, the frustum end defining a projection into the internal lumen of the elongated shaft;a protective tube coupled with an outer surface of the elongated shaft and covering a portion of each of the plurality of windows; anda probe assembly to slide through the internal lumen of the elongated shaft, the probe assembly comprising microelectromechanical system (MEMS) components, a central pin, a plurality of flexible pin, the MEMS components having a first MEMS component disposed on the central pin and a second MEMS component disposed on one or more of the plurality of flexible pins each of the plurality of flexible pins comprising a plurality of electrode sites; anddeploying at least one of the central pin through the central channel or the plurality of flexible pins through a corresponding window of the plurality of windows via sliding through the internal lumen, the deployment of each of the plurality of flexible pins through the corresponding window at an exit angle defined at least in part by the projection of the frustum end of the end cap into the internal lumen and a placement of a distal end of the protective tube over the corresponding window, the deployment of each of the plurality of flexible pins through the corresponding window independent of the deployment of the central pin through the central channel.

17. The method of claim 16, comprising: coupling the microelectrode device with a stereotactic apparatus.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising: rotating a first translator ring of the microelectrode device to deploy at least one of the plurality of flexible pins through a different one of the plurality of windows.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: rotating a second translator ring of the microelectrode device to deploy the central pin through the central channel of the end cap.

20. The method of claim 16, further comprising: retracting at least one of the plurality of flexible pins through the different one of the plurality of windows.

21. The method of claim 16, further comprising: coupling the microelectrode device to a neural recording and neurostimulation device; andrecording neurological activity using the plurality of electrode sites.

22. The method of claim 16, comprising: sliding the plurality of flexible pins along the frustum end of the end cap and the distal end of the protective tube.

23. The method of claim 16, wherein a minimum of the exit angle is defined by the frustum of the end cap and a maximum of the exit angle is defined by the distal end of the protective tube.

24. The method of claim 16, wherein the plurality of windows in the outer wall of the elongated shaft include at least four windows.