Abstract
FIU inventors have developed an ECG-triggered
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation system which reads data from existing
electrocardiography (ECG) equipment to automatically compute and deliver an electromagnetic
pulse to the brain at the best time and optimal intensity. Empirical evidence
suggests that if the magnetic stimulus is not synchronized with the cardiac
cycle, there is potential for detrimentally slowing down the heart rate.
However, if the same stimulus is synchronized to select moments of the cardiac
cycle, minimal or no heart rate alteration will occur. Furthermore, the
integration of ECG with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) allows for the
precise analysis and interpretation of the state of the patient heart, the ECG,
and provides a more complete assessment of a given patient.The software of this technology can detect individual
cardiac wave deflections as well as the intervals between them. This technology
is capable of processing this data from the ECG for computing and delivering a
prescribed intensity of magnetic stimulation at a precise time in the cardiac
cycle. Therefore, such a system allows for the timely and safe delivery of the
brain stimulation, all while continuously monitoring the ECG signal. The same
mechanism which automates the different functions of the TMS is also able to
abort the stimulation if any unwarranted effects such as abnormal cardiac
rhythm or other abnormalities are observed by the ECG.
Benefit
Easy stimulus synchronizationFully automatedImproves upon patient safetySimultaneous ECG monitoring and delivery of magnetic stimulusUseful for a wide range of neurological applicationsCompatible with existing ECG technology
Market Application
This brain magnetic stimulation can be used for administering electromagnetic stimulations for the treatment of depression, Alzheimer’s disease, migraine headaches, autism, attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other neurological disorders. Additionally, this technology can be used for brain mapping of the eloquent cortex for pre-surgical evaluations
Brochure
