Evaluation of RF localization for deep brain implants

This paper presents first results of an advanced study based on numerical simulations concerning the applicability of RF techniques for the localization of functional medical probes located in the ventricular system of the brain. The functional implant contains a dipole antenna that transmits short pulses in the frequency range of 3.1 <; f[GHz] <; 5.1. The localization concept is based on angle of arrival determination at several reference stations located around the skull of the phantom. The investigation of three test cases shows that the accuracy is significantly impaired if the spherical wave front is overlapped by a guided wave in the bone layer of the skull. Reasonable localization accuracy can be achieved if the reference stations are located at positions where the skull bone is thin.