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.