Patents by Inventor Dennis D. Dykstra

Dennis D. Dykstra has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 4932936
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for pharmacological control of spastic urethral sphincters, particularly in patients with spinal cord injuries, includes a special monopolar electrode/needle (30) adapted for insertion through a cystoscope (46) in electrical isolation therewith but connection with an electromyograph (12) for precise determination of injection sites so that a toxin, such as botulinum A, can be injected directly into skeletal muscle tissue, rather than connective tissue, to denervate and thus relax the sphincter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1990
    Assignee: Regents of the University of Minnesota
    Inventors: Dennis D. Dykstra, Abraham A. Sidi
  • Patent number: 4759377
    Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for mechanical stimulation of nerves to evoke reflexive response, particularly sacral reflex latentency, comprises a hammer (30) having opposite distal and proximal ends. A normally open switch (36) with an extending switch arm (38 ) is mounted on the distal end of the handle (32) and positioned to close upon impact. The switch (36) is adapted for connection to an electromyograph. The switch (36) is preferably partially recessed within an enlargement (40) of the distal end of the handle (32). The switch (36) closes in response to tapping on the patient with the hammer (30) to effect manual stimulation and trigger recording of the reflexive response sensed via an electrode (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1988
    Assignee: Regents of the University of Minnesota
    Inventor: Dennis D. Dykstra