Cognitive function within a human brain

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for improving cognitive function within a human. The invention utilizes an implanted device, such as an implantable signal generator or an implantable pump, to affect tissue elements within a Papez circuit of the human brain as well as tissue upstream or downstream from the Papez circuit. The implanted device delivers treatment therapy to thereby improve cognitive function by the human. A sensor may be used to detect various symptoms of the cognitive disorder. A microprocessor algorithm may then analyze the output from the sensor to regulate delivery of the stimulation and/or drug therapy.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method for treating a human cognitive disorder selected from the group consisting of Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) by means of an implantable signal generator and a lead having a proximal end coupled to the signal generator and a distal portion having at least one electrode, the method comprising:
 (a) implanting a stimulation portion of the at least one electrode in a position chosen to stimulate the nucleus basalis of Meynert of a brain;   (b) coupling the proximal end of the lead to the signal generator; and   (c) treating the cognitive disorder by operating the signal generator to stimulate the nucleus basalis of Meynert.