Medical Use Or Attached To Human Body Patents (Class 439/909)
  • Publication number: 20080057784
    Abstract: A lead assembly includes a ring component having mechanical coupling features, and at least one polymer component mechanically coupled with the mechanical coupling features of the ring component. Elongate tubing is disposed over the polymer component and is secured with the polymer component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Applicant: CARDIAC PACEMAKERS, INC.
    Inventors: Paul E. Zarembo, Elliott Rodriguez Roman
  • Patent number: 7336985
    Abstract: A fetal heart rate electrode assembly, a connector for use therewith and a cable assembly including a housing assembly configured for engagement with the connector. The electrode assembly includes a drive knob configured and located for selective extension of a fetal scalp electrode beyond a distal end thereof. The connector comprises a rotationally omnidirectional contact assembly disposed within a dielectric housing including an annular groove on the exterior thereof The housing assembly includes longitudinally resiliently biased pin contacts for end face contact with the contacts of the connector disposed within an inner housing of the housing assembly having an O-ring and an annular retention element positioned to respectively wipe the exterior of the connector housing and grasp the connector housing at the annular groove when the connector is inserted thereinto. A system and methods of use are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Clinical Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Wm. Dean Wallace, Richard A. Dixon, Christopher A. Cutler, Steven R. Smith
  • Patent number: 7326083
    Abstract: A modular terminal assembly, which may be a connector assembly, for a medical electrical lead includes at least one contact conductor extending therefrom that may or may not be coupled to a lead body conductor. A lead body assembly, for the medical electrical lead that includes the lead body conductor may be selected from a group of different lead body assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce R. Mehdizadeh, Thomas C. Bischoff, Scott J. Robinson, Eric M. Stetz, James W. Millin
  • Patent number: 7322832
    Abstract: An RF antenna flexible circuit interconnect is disclosed with unique micro connectors. The RF antenna flexible circuit interconnect further includes a planer flexible body having an embedded RF transmission line with a first end and a second end. A first antenna micro connector is electrically coupled to the first end of the RF transmission line and a second antenna micro connector is electrically coupled to the second end of the RF transmission line. Each of the first and second antenna micro connectors include an antenna micro connector housing and an antenna central contact socket securely positioned within the antenna micro connector housing. The antenna central contact socket may also include inward bending fingers and may be designed to engage a pin that is inserted into the central contact socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Christine G. Kronich, Todd H. Schaefer, Gregory J. Haubrich
  • Patent number: 7311560
    Abstract: A return pad cable connector, in accordance with the present disclosure, for use with a disposable return pad, includes a cord having a conductive wire disposed therethrough which conductive wire interconnects the return pad cable connector to an electrosurgical energy source. The return pad further includes a connector operatively coupled to the cord, the connector having a conductive surface which is selectively engageable with a corresponding conductive surface disposed on the return pad, the conductive surface of the connector including a conductive adhesive disposed thereon and a non-conductive adhesive disposed above the periphery of the conductive surface of the connector for engagement with a corresponding non-conductive adhesive disposed above the periphery of the conductive surface of the return pad. The connector can include a magnet for magnetically coupling the connector to the conductive surface disposed on the return pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Sherwood Services AG
    Inventors: Chris J. Ehr, Arthur Schoenman
  • Patent number: 7309262
    Abstract: A connector assembly for coupling to an implantable medical device includes a core element formed of a first thermoplastic material shaped to receive a connector member for receiving a lead. The connector assembly further includes a circuit member positioned adjacent to the core element. The circuit member includes a portion extending along the core element to the connector member and an antenna structure extending over a portion of the core element outer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan J. Zart, Andrew J. Ries, Brian R. Burwick, John E. Nicholson, Jay K. Lahti, Gregory A. Theis
  • Patent number: 7305267
    Abstract: A medical device connector module includes a lead retention element extending through an opening in a sidewall of the connector module. The retention element includes a flow passage in fluid communication with a connector bore of the connector module and an outer surface of the sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne M. Hector
  • Patent number: 7303422
    Abstract: An implantable electrical connector includes a male portion and a female receptacle. The male portion includes a number of wires that terminate in a pattern of conductive areas. The male portion is inserted into a female receptacle and guides in the female receptacle limit the insertion of the male portion to a single direction. A locking mechanism such as a setscrew on the female receptacle forces conductive areas of the exposed conductors onto connecting pins within the female receptacle. The setscrew itself is electrically isolated from the conductive areas. Each pin in the female receptacle is surrounded by a rigid seal that engages a compressible insulating member under compression of the locking mechanism to prevent an electrical connection forming between adjacent pins in the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Neurostream Technologies
    Inventors: Joaquin Andres Hoffer, Gary B. Jenne
  • Patent number: 7297115
    Abstract: A ultrasound platform is used to generate, process and display ultrasound images using a probe connected via a sterilizable connector. The probe is used to take ultrasound images, and can be a sterilizable finger mounted probe. The sterilizable connector includes a connector housing which has been sealed to prevent moisture from entering it, and a multi-wire cable which is electrically coupled to the probe at a first end and coupled to the connector housing at a second end. The multi-wire cable has its second end sealed with the connector housing to prevent moisture from entering the sealing between the multi-wire cable and the connector housing. A plurality of electrical contacts are formed on at least one surface of the sterilizable connector. A mating connector is used to electrically couple the sterilizable connector to a standard connector for directly connecting to the ultrasound platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Black Toe Medical III, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth N. Bates, William McDonough, Ronald Schutz, Evan Dudik
  • Patent number: 7274963
    Abstract: A modular header and method of fabricating same for making electrical connection between an array of feed-through pins extending through a wall of a hermetically sealed enclosure of an implantable medical device and lead connector receptacles within the header in which the header is fabricated using a pre-formed molded header module, together with a set or harness of interconnected flexible conductors incorporated and sealed by an overlayer of medical grade polymer material. The assembled modular header is capable of complete pretesting prior to assembly onto an implantable medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott A. Spadgenske
  • Patent number: 7274964
    Abstract: A medically implantable electrical connector includes a housing having a bore with an internal groove therein along with a pin sized for insertion into the housing bore. A film removing spring is disposed in the housing groove dynamic loading of the spring in the groove by the pin causing scraping of film from the groove and pin surfaces to provide lowered electrical resistance therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Bal Seal Engineering Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Peter J. Balsells
  • Patent number: 7274956
    Abstract: A connector for connecting a flexible elongate member having a sensor mounted thereon to a physiology monitor includes a housing, an electrical contact member disposed within the housing, the electrical contact member having a plurality of axially spaced contact members, a cable having a plurality of conductors being electrically connected to respective axially spaced contact members, and a sleeve having an opening therein which communicates with an internal passage of the housing. The sleeve is moveable between an open position and a closed position. An interlock mechanism may also be provided to prevent the sleeve from moving from the open position to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Eric V. Mott, T. Sean Winterer
  • Patent number: 7270568
    Abstract: A lead adapter is disclosed which includes a connector portion having a connector configured for reception by an electrical stimulation device and a receptacle portion electrically connected to the connector portion and having at least two receptacles for operatively accepting lead connectors, wherein at least one of the receptacles of the receptacle portion is configured to operatively accept a different type of lead connector than another receptacle of the receptacle portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Oscor Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas P. Osypka
  • Patent number: 7270580
    Abstract: An electrode assembly for use with a living subject includes a substrate having first and second openings extending therethrough, and a first terminal at least partially received within the first opening. The first terminal includes an end portion having a first size. At least a portion of the first terminal configured to conduct electrical current. A second terminal is at least partially received within the second opening. The second terminal includes an end portion having a second size that is different than the first size of the first terminal end portion. At least a portion of the second terminal is configured to conduct electrical current. The assembly also includes a first electrolytic element configured to transfer electrical current between the skin of a living subject and the first terminal, and a second electrolytic element configured to transfer electrical current between the skin of a living subject and the second terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Cardio Dynamics International Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick Walton Bradley, Gail Dawn Baura
  • Patent number: 7255609
    Abstract: A connector assembly for connecting a wire lead to a biomedical electrode. The connector assembly has a base housing. A metal conductor is disposed within the base housing. The metal conductor is formed from a single piece of sheet metal, wherein the metal conductor has a flat front section and a rear section that is curved into at least one spring structure. A lever is provided that has a front end and a tail end. A locking pawl extends from the lever and locks the snap connection in place. The locking pawl can be released by pressing inwardly on the sides of the base housing. When the sides of the base housing are pressed together, wedge elements advance under the lever and lift the front of the lever. The result is a release mechanism that applied only a minimal amount of lateral forces to the biomedical electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Stephen T. Epstein
  • Patent number: 7244150
    Abstract: A connector includes a unitary body defining a hollow center region configured and arranged to receive a proximal contact portion of a lead. The unitary body may define connector pockets and seal features within the hollow center region. The connector pockets can be spaced-apart and may define openings through the unitary body. The seal features may be disposed between the connector pockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Advanced Bionics Corporation
    Inventors: Randall Lee Brase, Robert Randall Tong
  • Patent number: 7241180
    Abstract: A connector for a medical electrical lead includes a single connector, which delivers three or more conductors to an implantable medical device (IMD). The connector includes integrated multiple electrode rings and conductors, and has a modular system of connector and spacer blocks for routing the conductors to a lead body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas Rentas Torres
  • Patent number: 7234977
    Abstract: A connector for connecting to an energy source such as a pulse generator for a cardiac stimulator system. The connector assembly includes a pin, at least one ring and a sleeve composed of an insulative hard polymer molded between the pin and ring such that the sleeve provides electrical insulation between the pin and ring and mechanically couples the pin and ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy Westlund, Gwen Crevensten, Christopher M. Zerby, Paul E. Zarembo, Brian D. Soltis, Gregory R. Ley
  • Patent number: 7229307
    Abstract: An electrosurgical system is provided which includes an electrosurgical energy source; a return pad including a conductive surface; and a return pad cable connector selectively connectable to the electrosurgical generator. The return pad cable connector includes a cord having a conductive wire disposed therethrough, the conductive wire have a first end which connects to the electrosurgical energy source; and a connector operatively coupled to the cord. The connector includes a conductive surface which is selectively engageable with a corresponding conductive surface disposed on the return pad and is in electrical contact with a second end of the conductive wire, the conductive surface of the connector including a conductive adhesive disposed thereon; and a non-conductive adhesive disposed about the periphery of the conductive surface of the connector for engagement with a corresponding non-conductive adhesive disposed about the periphery of the conductive surface of the return pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: Sherwood Services AG
    Inventors: Chris J. Ehr, Joe D. Sartor
  • Patent number: 7228177
    Abstract: A lead is connected to an integrated circuit in an implantable medical device in a lead bonding region that includes a lead-receiving recessed region. At least a portion of a lead conductor is bonded in the lead-receiving recessed region, making an electrical and mechanical connection to the integrated circuit that is strong and potentially biostable. In some embodiments, a filler material is provided around the recessed portion of the integrated circuit that receives the lead conductor, and a metal coating is provided around an outer surface of the filler material for additional mechanical stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Rogier Receveur
  • Patent number: 7217163
    Abstract: A contact connection adapter for producing an intermittent electrical contact between two plugs has a main body and two socket-like receptacles placed thereon for the plugs. The cross-sections of the receptacle receiving the plugs to be connected intersect peripherally in this case in such a way that the plugs press against one another at their lateral contact faces and produce an electrical contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Biotronik CRM Patent AG
    Inventor: Tassilo Landgraf
  • Patent number: 7214068
    Abstract: A laser ribbon bond pad array connector is disclosed for electrically connecting a RF module to an IMD circuit board in an implantable medical device. The array connector includes a connector body with a plurality of electrically isolated bonding fingers embedded in the connector body. Each bonding finger includes a solder pad that is on a first surface of the connector body and a laser ribbon bond pad that is on a second surface of the connector body. The first and second surfaces are spaced apart in angular relations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Christine G. Kronich, Todd H. Schaefer, Scott J. Robinson
  • Patent number: 7210968
    Abstract: A connector assembly for an implantable medical device including a casing includes a header having a receptacle with an electrical contact for engageably receiving an electrical terminal on a proximal end of a lead and a fastener assembly for simultaneously releasably clamping the lead to the header within the receptacle and firmly attaching the header to the casing. The header is mounted on the casing and has a distal notched region with an upper surface and a first channel in its upper surface aligned with, and being a partial extension of, the receptacle. The fastener assembly includes a lead-lock component engageably received within the notched region of the header and with a second channel therein which is aligned and juxtaposed with the first channel, the channels taken together being an extension of the receptacle. A fastener system firmly mounts the lead-lock component to the header at the notched region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: Pacesetter, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Gister, Russell Klehn, Christopher Fleck
  • Patent number: 7204703
    Abstract: The invention provides an extension cable system for connecting electrodes to a medical device such as an External Pacing Generator. The system further provides a connector separator for maintaining electrode receiving connectors in a fixed relationship relative to each other to avoid contact between electrically exposed regions of the electrodes. The extension cable system comprises electrically conductive leads electrically connected to a plug adapted to an electrical socket of a medical device, dielectrically shrouded electrode receiving connector(s) that form an electrical connection with a filamentous electrode or electrically conductive wire, and a connector separator for gripping and maintaining the electrode receiving connectors in a predetermined and rigid relationship relative to each other. The electrode receiving connectors comprise outer shrouds that can be threadably rotated to operate wire receiving chucks to receive electrode wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Remington Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Hendrixson
  • Patent number: 7182604
    Abstract: A return pad cable connector, in accordance with the present disclosure, for use with a disposable return pad, includes a cord having a conductive wire disposed therethrough which conductive wire interconnects the return pad cable connector to an electrosurgical energy source. The return pad further includes a connector operatively coupled to the cord, the connector having a conductive surface which is selectively engageable with a corresponding conductive surface disposed on the return pad, the conductive surface of the connector including a conductive adhesive disposed thereon and a non-conductive adhesive disposed above the periphery of the conductive surface of the connector for engagement with a corresponding non-conductive adhesive disposed above the periphery of the conductive surface of the return pad. The connector can include a magnet for magnetically coupling the connector to the conductive surface disposed on the return pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Sherwood Services AG
    Inventors: Chris J. Ehr, Arthur Schoenman
  • Patent number: 7184840
    Abstract: An implantable lead for a medical device with an isolated contact connection for connecting a conductor to a contact reduces the opportunity for conductor material to migrate to a contact or into a patient. The implantable lead comprises a lead body having a proximal end and a distal end, at least one conductor, at least one contact carried on the proximal end, at least one contact carried on the distal end, at least one coupling. The lead has an exterior surface. The conductor is contained in the lead body and extends from the lead proximal end to the distal end. The conductor is electrically insulated. The contact carried on the proximal end is electrically connected to the conductor. The coupling has a conductor coupling and a contact coupling. The conductor coupling is placed over the conductor and attached to the conductor. The contact coupling exits the lead body and has a weld to connect the contact coupling to the contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Stolz, Mary Lee Cole, Xavier E. Pardo
  • Patent number: 7177673
    Abstract: A medical telemetry system includes a first detection section for detecting a first vital sign signal using a first sensor, a transmitter 10 which modulates a signal detected by the first detection section and transmits the modulated signal by radio wave transmission, a receiver 30 which receives the detection signal that has been transmitted by radio wave transmission and demodulates the received signal, having a connector 32 for transmitting the demodulated signal to a vital sign signal input section of the vital sign signal monitor 20, wherein the connector 32 of the receiver is connectable with a commonly used vital sign signal input section of each of various types of vital sign signal monitors 20.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Nihon Kohden Corporation
    Inventors: Fumiyuki Matsumura, Iwao Takahashi, Tadashi Nakayama
  • Patent number: 7175478
    Abstract: A modular electric terminal connector, in particular for a monobody defibrillation probe. This terminal includes a stacking of elementary cylindrical parts, alternatively conducting and insulating, each of which includes a central cavity receiving the sheath of a cable comprising several connection wires. An axial pin, placed on a casing at the free extremity of stacking, is connected to a respective connection wire to form an axial contact of the terminal. Rods passing through homologous borings formed in each part ensure axial and angular alignment of the various parts of stacking. The unit is solidarized by injection of an adhesive under pressure. Suitable openings make it possible to connect by laser welding the conducting elementary parts to the wires located in the sheath to form the annular contacts of the terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: ELA Medical S.A.S.
    Inventor: Jean Francois Ollivier
  • Patent number: 7177701
    Abstract: A lead stimulation/recording system is provided, which is a combination of a permanent DBS stimulating lead and a recording microelectrode. The DBS lead has a lumen extending from the proximal to the distal end of the lead, the lumen having an opening on each end of the lead. The microelectrode is configured and dimensioned to be insertable into the DBS lead from either the distal or proximal opening of the DBS lead, thereby permitting the microelectrode to be placed before, concurrently with, or after placement of the DBS lead. In addition, the system may be used with known microelectrode recording systems and methods of inserting the electrodes, such as the five-at-a-time method, the dual-microdrive method, or the single microdrive method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Advanced Bionics Corporation
    Inventor: Anne M Pianca
  • Patent number: 7174218
    Abstract: An adapter system is provided for adapting and connecting a leadless microstimulator to a separate monopolar, bipolar, or tripolar electrode. Advantageously, the microstimulator does not need to be physically modified. The adapter system encloses the microstimulator and electrically connects the microstimulator to the selected, separate electrode via an extension lead or leads. The adapter has two forms: a monopolar adapter having a single opening or a bipolar adapter having two openings. The separate electrode is equipped with at least one extension lead having a connector that can be inserted into the opening of the monopolar adapter or the bipolar adapter and connect to the microstimulator that is placed within the monopolar or bipolar adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Advanced Bionics Corporation
    Inventor: Janusz A Kuzma
  • Patent number: 7171265
    Abstract: A method and system for detecting lead adequacy and quality for leads used in devices that sense or deliver low levels of electromagnetic energy. The system includes leads attached to a package substrate having known electrical or optical characteristics. The package is adapted to interface with a testing device that allows an operator to ascertain whether the leads are appropriate for a desired task. The operator need not remove the leads from the package to perform the test. The lead testing system may be freestanding or integrated into a lead utilizing instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Harbinger Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold H. Hoium, Stephen J. Ryan
  • Patent number: 7158837
    Abstract: A permanent implantable lead having an elongated lead body with a proximal end and a distal end. A multifilar conductor having electrically active elements for providing electrical communication between connectors at the proximal end and electrical components between the proximal and distal ends of the lead body, wherein hulls facilitate resilient, low profile, efficient connection between the multifilar conductor and electrical components and seals secure the position of the electrical components. The hulls are located radially outward of the conductor and radially inward of the electrical components and the seals are located radially outward of the electrical components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Oscor Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas P. Osypka, Ronald A. Van Den Nieuwenhof, Mohammed Islam
  • Patent number: 7150655
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for electrically connecting a medical glucose monitor to a glucose sensor set, as well as for testing the operation of the glucose monitor, monitor cable and glucose sensor set are provided. In one embodiment, an electric cable comprises a cable member, a first connector and a second connector. The cable member in turn comprises at least one insulated conductor, a conductive shielding layer disposed around the at least one insulated conductor; and an insulating layer disposed around the conductive shielding layer. A glucose monitoring system test plug provides for a releasable electrical connection with the electric cable. In one embodiment, the test plug comprises a housing and a fitting affixed thereto which is adapted to electrically couple the test plug with the electric cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: MiniMed Inc.
    Inventors: John J. Mastrototaro, Richard E. Purvis, Edgardo C. Halili, Eric Johnson
  • Patent number: 7134919
    Abstract: A multiple-use connection system includes an elongate body having an axial tail-receiving passage and having lengthwise sides, and at least two essentially parallel rows of axially-spaced pin receptacles transverse to the tail-receiving passage, the pin receptacles of one of the parallel rows being exposed along one of the lengthwise sides. A patchbay for selectively connecting pairs of connector pins with ones of a plurality of tail conductors includes an insulating body having an axial passageway adapted for receiving a tail and having pairs of aligned pin receptacles, the pairs of pin receptacles being axially spaced from one another, one pin receptacle of each of the pairs of pin receptacles having an exposed portion adapted for being directly probed, where selective placement of pairs of aligned pins into the insulating body effects electrical connection of a pair of pins to a selected one of the tail conductors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Ad-Tech Medical Instrument Corp.
    Inventor: David A. Putz
  • Patent number: 7128600
    Abstract: A lead adapter is disclosed which includes a connector portion having a connector configured for reception by an electrical stimulation device and a receptacle portion electrically connected to the connector portion and having at least two receptacles for operatively accepting lead connectors, wherein at least one of the receptacles of the receptacle portion is configured to operatively accept a different type of lead connector than another receptacle of the receptacle portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Oscor Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas P. Osypka
  • Patent number: 7110827
    Abstract: Low resistivity, implantable electrical connectors and biomedical leads having the connectors mechanically coupled in a non-welded attachment to low resistivity wires to extend implanted device battery life. One electrical connector includes an electrically conductive housing having a longitudinal aperture and an inner facing circumferential channel. A spring disposed within the channel can contact an inserted electrode. The housing can include at least one hole adjacent a mechanically deformable side wall for mechanically securing an electrical conductor inserted within the hole. The low resistivity, implantable, biocompatible electrical connectors and leads can be used in neurological and cardiac applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Shahn S. Sage, Jeffrey S. Gagnon, Jane L. Kohnen
  • Patent number: 7104801
    Abstract: An arrangement for preventing lead wires on a patient monitoring or treatment device from becoming tangled. The arrangement comprises a plurality of electrically conductive lead wires, each having a fixed end and a free end, the fixed end being electrically coupled to the patient monitoring or treatment device. A mating connector is coupled to the free end of each of the plurality of electrically conductive lead wires. Each mating connector is electrically mateable with an electrode and also mateable with another mating connector to attach the free ends of at least two of the plurality of electrically conductive lead wires together. In one embodiment, a mounting member is provided that includes means for releasably connecting the mating connectors to store the mating connectors during periods of non-use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: The General Electric Company
    Inventors: Donald E. Brodnick, Marvin J. Zellmer
  • Patent number: 7081026
    Abstract: A device (1) electrically connects a connecting line (2) to an electrode (44), in particular a medical engineering skin electrode, with a contact member (3) for plug connection to a contact pin (43) of the electrode (44). The contact member (3) has an energy storing element (4) for spring biasing of the contact member (3) into contact with the contact pin (43) of the electrode (44). The device (1) has at least one actuating element (8,9) mounted to be deflected such that the contact member (3) may be actuated to an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Nicolay Verwaltungs-GmbH
    Inventor: Dieter Schwarz
  • Patent number: 7070455
    Abstract: A stackable electrical connector assembly includes a plurality of contact housings with each housings having a bore therethrough alignable with adjacent housing bores. The adjacent housings define, in combination, spaced apart radial spring grooves. A plurality of electrically conducting garter springs are disposed in corresponding spring grooves with each spring including a lead extending to an exterior of adjacent housings. A cable having a plurality of wires is provided with each wire attached to a corresponding lead. The housings are modular enabling the contacts to provide a different number of terminal connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Bal Seal Engineering Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Peter J. Balsells
  • Patent number: 7066761
    Abstract: An electrosurgical system is provided which includes an electrosurgical energy source; a return pad including a conductive surface; and a return pad cable connector selectively connectable to the electrosurgical generator. The return pad cable connector includes a cord having a conductive wire disposed therethrough, the conductive wire have a first end which connects to the electrosurgical energy source; and a connector operatively coupled to the cord. The connector includes a conductive surface which is selectively engageable with a corresponding conductive surface disposed on the return pad and is in electrical contact with a second end of the conductive wire, the conductive surface of the connector including a conductive adhesive disposed thereon; and a non-conductive adhesive disposed about the periphery of the conductive surface of the connector for engagement with a corresponding non-conductive adhesive disposed about the periphery of the conductive surface of the return pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Sherwood Services AG
    Inventors: Chris J. Ehr, Joe D. Sartor
  • Patent number: 7065397
    Abstract: ECG-related adaptor/sensor structure and methodology which enables various selectable operational communication to occur both unidirectionally and bidirectionally between the adaptor/sensor structure, and remote structure which is intended to receive ECG-related physiologic data from the adaptor/sensor structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Inovise Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter M. Galen, Martin Baumer
  • Patent number: 7059878
    Abstract: The invention provides an extension cable system for connecting electrodes to a medical device such as an External Pacing Generator. The system further provides a connector separator for maintaining electrode receiving connectors in a fixed relationship relative to each other to avoid contact between electrically exposed regions of the electrodes. The extension cable system comprises electrically conductive leads electrically connected to a plug adapted to an electrical socket of a medical device, dielectrically shrouded electrode receiving connector(s) that form an electrical connection with a filamentous electrode or electrically conductive wire, and a connector separator for gripping and maintaining the electrode receiving connectors in a predetermined and rigid relationship relative to each other. The electrode receiving connectors comprise outer shrouds that can be threadably rotated to operate wire receiving chucks to receive electrode wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Remington Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Hendrixson
  • Patent number: 7058452
    Abstract: In a process for manufacturing a female connector for a pacemaker, a tubular ceramic insert is formed with a longitudinal bore and with two radial holes connecting internal contact surfaces with external contact surfaces. The radial holes are filled with conductive material and the internal and external contact surfaces are metallized. The ceramic insert is covered with a layer of metal except for an area around each of the external contact surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical AB
    Inventor: Kenneth Dahlberg
  • Patent number: 7052480
    Abstract: Apparatuses, devices, systems and methods for detecting access disconnection during medical therapy are provided. The present invention includes an electric circuit coupled to, for example, a blood circuit used during dialysis therapy. The electric circuit can inject an electrical signal into the blood circuit such that changes in an electrical value in response to access disconnection, such as needle drop-out or catheter drop-out, can be effectively detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.
    Inventors: James Han, Thomas P. Hartranft, Thomas D. Kelly, Angel Lasso
  • Patent number: 7039456
    Abstract: This invention relates to a conductance path mechanism of a wireless heartbeat transmitter comprising a circuit board, a spiral spring, a U-shaped contact rod integrally molded to both side of a bottom cover and a rubber conductible sheet. A horizontal portion of said U-shaped contact rod is totally inserted inside a foundation of a bottom cover to form a steady mechanism of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: Shui Jung Chen
  • Patent number: 7035689
    Abstract: A connector system for use with a sealed implantable medical device has a lead receiving channel with an open end for slidably receiving a connecting lead tip pin of an electrical lead and includes an electrically conductive connector body and a tip assembly coaxial with the connector body mounted on the proximal end thereof for slidably engageably receiving the lead tip pin. The tip assembly includes an electrically conductive retention mechanism for achieving and maintaining electrical continuity with the lead tip pin and for firmly engaging the lead tip pin as it is inserted into the lead receiving channel. The retention mechanism includes a tubular carrier coaxial with the connector body, a plurality of bearing members rotatably mounted on the tubular carrier engageable with the lead tip pin, and a resilient member biasing the bearing members into engagement with the lead tip pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Pacesetter, Inc.
    Inventors: Rodney J. Hawkins, Edward G. Rourke
  • Patent number: 7003351
    Abstract: An electrical contact for use in the header assembly of an implantable tissue stimulator includes a metal housing having a base and a sidewall where the opening in the base is adapted to receive the terminal of a medical lead therethrough. An electrical contact support member is welded to the edge of the sidewall and affixed to the support member are a plurality of spring members that are tangent to an imaginary circle whose diameter is slightly less than the outside diameter of the lead terminal contact rings. When the contacts are axially aligned in the device header, the terminal of an electrical lead may be longitudinally inserted into the header to establish electrical contact with device feedthrough wires that are joined to the electrical contacts in the header.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Devon N. Tvaska, Gregory L. Sundberg
  • Patent number: 6984145
    Abstract: A connector assembly releasably affixes a lead on an implantable medical device. The lead includes a lead body. The connector assembly comprises a support, a side clamp defining with the support confronting surfaces configured to receive a proximal end portion of the lead body. A fastener is adapted to be received by the support for urging the side clamp toward the support and for clamping the proximal end portion of the lead body between the confronting surfaces. The fastener may extend through the side clamp and may be threadedly received by the support. Further, the support may carry a retainer for inhibiting the removal of the fastener from the support. The side clamp and the support may define additional confronting surfaces configured to receive a proximal end portion of an additional lead body, the fastener being adapted to urge the side clamp toward the support to clamp the proximal end portion of the additional confronting surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Pacesetter, Inc.
    Inventor: Wisit Lim
  • Patent number: 6939181
    Abstract: An assembly and method for connecting between two electrical components, according to which an electrical current path is established between the two components, and an additional path is established for transmitting any electrical noise generated during operation of the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: John X. Murphy, Manfred Luedi, Alan Bredon, Mitchell Sherry, Eddie Abshire
  • Patent number: RE39233
    Abstract: A consolidated monitoring cable arrangement allows multiple cables extending between a surgical gurney, or other type of patient support platform, and a peripheral monitoring stand to be consolidated into a single cable. The present use of multiple cables has the disadvantage that the region between a gurney and a monitoring stand is cluttered. This can present a hazard to medical personnel, particularly when an emergency situation requires that concentration be focused on the needs of the patient. In a primary form, the subject cable arrangement uses two boxes, one on the gurney and another on the monitoring stand; a detachable cable connects the two boxes. Shorter cables of uniform length are used to connect a patient on the gurney and equipment on the monitoring stand to a respective box. Besides the aforementioned safety advantage, this cable arrangement reduces the expense of frequent replacement of damaged cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventor: John E. McGrath