Prototype closed-loop deep brain stimulation systems inspired by Norbert Wiener

Implantable neurostimulators have rapidly become established methods of treating a variety of neurological disor-ders. The development of implantable neural interfaces enable the testing of Norbert Wiener´s hypotheses regarding neural disorders and their relationship to ideas of cybernetics. However, currently deployed medical devices of this kind are open-loop. For example, DBS for treatment of tremor does not take into account the variable and intermittent nature of the tremor. Closing the loop through sensors and real-time communication to the implanted neurostimulator could result in lower average power dissipation and reduced side effects from unneeded stimulation. In this paper we present a closed-loop DBS platform for investigating control strategies for the management of essential tremor. We demonstrate a system capable using a variety of sensors including inertial measurements, electromyography and neurostimulator electrode readings. This sensed data is used to modify stimulation (within limits pre-set by a clinician), thus resulting in a closed-loop system.