TTField-based Neurological Disorder Treatment Systems
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept disclosed herein relates to novel applications of Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) technology in veterinary medicine, stroke rehabilitation, ADHD treatment, chronic pain management, and Parkinson's disease treatment, utilizing implantable transducer arrays and real-time monitoring to deliver targeted TTFields therapy.
Background and Problem Solved
The original Optune system, as described in the original patent, is limited to treating human tumors. However, the core technology of TTFields has the potential to be applied to various other medical fields. The new inventive concept addresses the problem of limited TTFields applications by expanding its use to treat neurological disorders in veterinary medicine, rehabilitate stroke victims, enhance cognitive function in individuals with ADHD, treat chronic pain in amputees, and improve motor function in individuals with Parkinson's disease.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises implantable transducer arrays, configured to deliver TTFields to specific target regions in the brain or spinal cord, and controllers or wearable devices that adjust the TTFields in response to real-time data from the patient. The transducer arrays are designed for implantation within the patient's body, and the controllers or wearable devices monitor and adjust the TTFields to ensure optimal treatment. In veterinary medicine, the system is adapted for treating neurological disorders in animals. For stroke rehabilitation, the method involves implanting a transducer array in the affected region and monitoring motor function recovery. In ADHD treatment, the system targets the prefrontal cortex, and in chronic pain management, the system is adapted for treating residual limb pain in amputees. For Parkinson's disease treatment, the system targets the basal ganglia.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications of TTFields technology, expanding its use beyond tumor treatment to address various neurological disorders. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the core technology to these new fields, incorporating real-time monitoring and adjustment of TTFields to ensure effective treatment.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include varying the design and placement of the transducer arrays, using different types of sensors or monitoring devices, or incorporating additional features such as AI-powered optimization of TTFields delivery. Variations may also include adapting the system for treating other neurological disorders or conditions.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the veterinary medicine, neurology, and medical device industries. The target market includes veterinary clinics, hospitals, and medical research institutions, as well as companies developing treatments for neurological disorders.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering focused on electromagnetic field-based neurological interventions, with expertise in transducer array design, neurological disorder treatment, and implantable medical device technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device researcher with advanced degree, experience in neural stimulation technologies, understanding of electromagnetic field interactions with biological tissues, and familiarity with implantable medical device design and neurological treatment approaches
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core TTFields technology disclosed in US 11857782 provides a fundamental platform for neurological interventions that can be systematically adapted to multiple medical conditions by modifying electrode array placement and targeting specific neural regions. The source patent's fundamental approach of using implantable electrode arrays for delivering electromagnetic fields naturally suggests potential applications beyond tumor treatment. The PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of the core technological framework by applying known electromagnetic stimulation principles to different neurological disorders.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,782 |
|---|---|
| Title | Delivering tumor treating fields (TTFields) using implantable transducer arrays |
| Assignee(s) | Novocure GmbH |