A novel surgical tool for stimulation paddle delivery to the dorsal root ganglion of the spine

Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation is a novel method of treating chronic pain in which a lead with a set of electrodes is placed on the nerve root of the spinal cord above the pain site. This method shows promise over traditional spinal cord stimulation due to the its localized nature as opposed to stimulating the entire dorsal column. Paddle stimulators have been shown to have more targeted therapy, are more energy efficient, and be more versatile by having a larger number of electrode contacts than traditional cylindrical leads. The major challenge with delivering a paddle electrode is accessing the DRG without damaging the root. This project seeks to create a novel surgical tool to assist in delivering a stimulating paddle into the intervertebral foramen via a stylet-retractor mechanism. The tool has a footprint 50% smaller than the available space through which to traverse to access the DRG and can overcome the estimated 1.7 lb force of the surrounding ligaments. The device obtained positive feedback during cadaver labs with orthopedic surgeons and could be manufactured in the future as a viable product.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science in Engineering

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Mechanical Engineering

Grantor

The University of Texas at Austin

Year dc:date.issued

2018

Author dc:creator

• Varughese, Tiffany Rachel

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Cullinan, Michael (Professor of mechanical engineering)

• Dorsal root ganglion

Language dc:language.iso

en

Identifier URI

http://dx.doi.org/10.26153/tsw/11798

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repositories.lib.utexas.edu:2152/84827