System and method for displaying stimulation field generated by electrode array

摘要

An implantable pulse generator includes a current steering capability that allows a clinician or patient to quickly determine a desired electrode stimulation pattern, including which electrodes of a group of electrodes within an electrode array should receive a stimulation current, including the amplitude, width and pulse repetition rate of such current. Movement of the selected group of electrodes is facilitated through the use of remotely generated directional signals, generated by a pointing device, such as a joystick. As movement of the selected group of electrodes occurs, current redistribution amongst the various electrode contacts takes place. The redistribution of stimulus amplitudes utilizes re-normalization of amplitudes so that the perceptual level remains fairly constant. This prevents the resulting paresthesia from falling below the perceptual threshold or above the comfort threshold.

主权项

1. A programmer for a tissue stimulator that generates a stimulation field adjacent an array of electrodes, comprising:
a user-controlled input device configured for generating control signals; a processor configured for generating stimulation parameter values that can be used by the tissue stimulator to modify the stimulation field adjacent the electrodes, the processor further configured for generating display signals that can be used to display the modified stimulation field, the displayed modified stimulation field comprising at least one line surrounding at least a portion of selected ones of the electrodes; control circuitry configured for generating programming signals containing the stimulation parameter values; and a transmitter configured for transmitting the programming signals to the tissue stimulator.