Methods for establishing parameters for neural stimulation, including via performance of working memory tasks, and associated kits

摘要

Methods for establishing parameters for neural stimulation, including via performance of working memory tasks, and associated kits, are disclosed. A method in accordance with one embodiment includes engaging a patient in a function controlled at least in part by a target neural population, and applying electromagnetic signals to the target neural population. A target parameter in accordance with which the electromagnetic signals are applied is adjusted, based at least in part on a characteristic of the patient's performance of the function. Electromagnetic signals are applied to the patient with the adjusted target parameter, and the patient's response to the electromagnetic signals, including the characteristic of the patient's performance, is evaluated. Based at least in part on the evaluation of the patient's response, an embodiment of the method includes determining whether to apply further electromagnetic signals to the patient, establishing a value of the target parameter for applying further electromagnetic signals to the patient, and/or adjusting another target parameter in accordance with which the electromagnetic signals are applied to the patient.

主权项

1. A method for treating a mood and/or anxiety disorder in a patient, comprising:
engaging the patient suffering from the mood and/or anxiety disorder in a function controlled at least in part by a target neural population; positioning at least one electrode below the patient's skull above the dura matter over the target neural population of the frontal lobe and applying electromagnetic signals to the target neural population via the at least one electrode; adjusting a target parameter in accordance with which the electromagnetic signals are applied to the patient, based at least in part on a characteristic of the patient's performance of the function; applying the electromagnetic signals to the patient with the adjusted target parameter; evaluating the patient's response to the electromagnetic signals, including the characteristic of the patient's performance; and based at least in part on the evaluation of the patient's response: (a) determining whether to apply further electromagnetic signals to the patient; (b) establishing a value of the target parameter for applying further electromagnetic signals to the patient; and/or (c) adjusting another target parameter in accordance with which the electromagnetic signals are applied to the patient, wherein the method further comprises: determining a parameter limit based at least in part on a value of the target parameter when the characteristic of the patient's performance of the function changes by or to a target level; and applying additional electromagnetic signals to the patient as treatment for a neurological dysfunction, with a value of the target parameter at or below the parameter limit; wherein the target neural population is a first target neural population, and wherein applying additional electromagnetic signals to the patient includes applying the additional electromagnetic signals to a second target neural population different than the first.