Ph Patents (Class 600/361)
  • Patent number: 11224475
    Abstract: An electrosurgical probe with internal cooling for use in systems and methods for lesioning in bone and other tissue is disclosed. The probe includes a distal electrical insulator, a proximal electrical insulator, a distal electrical conductor defining a distal electrode with a closed distal end and a proximal electrical conductor defining a proximal electrode, the distal electrode longitudinally spaced apart and electrically isolated from the proximal electrode by the distal electrical insulator. The distal electrode has a closed proximal end formed by a distal face of the distal electrical insulator to thereby define a closed distal inner lumen for circulating the cooling fluid. The proximal electrode has a closed distal end formed by a proximal face of the distal electrical insulator and a closed proximal end formed by a distal face of the proximal electrical insulator to thereby define a closed proximal inner lumen for circulating the cooling fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2022
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC HOLDING COMPANY SÀRL
    Inventors: Neil Godara, Jason Woo, Emily Won
  • Patent number: 10349875
    Abstract: Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is used to measure parameters such as pH of muscle tissue of a patient that is affected by a cardiac arrest. Analysis of the pH and other parameters such as SmO2 facilitates distinguishing between an arrhythmia arrest and an asphyxia arrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: ZOLL MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Gary A. Freeman, Ulrich Herken, Christopher L. Kaufman, Annemarie Elizabeth Silver
  • Patent number: 9883819
    Abstract: Methods, devices and systems for acquiring information useful to support a patient in implementing and adhering to a medically prescribed therapy plan are provided. The therapy may incorporate biofeedback methods and/or personalized therapy aspects. A method includes steps of receiving, by a receiving device, biometric information associated with an ingestible event marker; analyzing, by a computing device having a microprocessor configured to perform a biometric information analysis, the biometric information; and determining a therapeutic recommendation at least partly on the basis of the analysis and/or integrating biofeedback techniques into patient therapy or activity. A system includes a biometric information module to receive biometric information associated with an ingestible event marker; an analysis module to analyze the biometric information; and a determination module to optionally determine and communicate a therapeutic recommendation at least partly on the basis of the analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Proteus Digital Health, Inc.
    Inventors: Marc Jensen, Robert Leichner, Patrick Beaulieu, Kit Yee Au-Yeung, Lawrence Arne, Mark Zdeblick, Andrew Thompson, George Savage, Timothy Robertson, Yashar Behzadi
  • Patent number: 9788744
    Abstract: A patient advisory device (“PAD”) and its methods of use. The PAD may be configured to alert the patient about an estimated brain state of the patient. In preferred embodiments, the PAD is adapted to alert the patient of the patient's brain state, which corresponds to the patient's propensity of transitioning into an ictal brain state, e.g., having a seizure. Based on the specific type of alert, the patient will be made aware whether they are highly unlikely to have a seizure for a given period of time, an elevated propensity of having a seizure, a seizure is occurring or imminent, or the patient's brain state is unknown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: CYBERONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Michael Bland, Kent W. Leyde, Neil G. McIlvaine, Shan Gaw, Peter Weiss, John F. Harris
  • Patent number: 9622675
    Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring neurological signals in a patient are provided. The system includes: an implantable sensor adapted to collect neurological signals; an implantable assembly configured to sample the neurological signals collected by the sensor; and a rechargeable communication device external to the patient's body, said communication device configured to wirelessly communicate with the implantable assembly and to transmit a communication error alert to a caregiver advisory device in the event of a communication error between the implantable assembly and the communication device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: CYBERONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Kent W. Leyde, John F. Harris
  • Patent number: 9227011
    Abstract: A sensor comprising a plurality of electrodes having a miniature size and a lower power consumption and a coating exterior to the electrodes, wherein the coating interacts with a target condition thereby producing a change in an electrical property of the electrodes, wherein the change is transduced into an electrical signal by the electrodes. Further a system for medication delivery comprising such sensor and a pill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: Medimetrics Personalized Drug Delivery B.V.
    Inventors: Jeff Shimizu, Hans Zou, Johan Frederik Dijksman, Anke Pierik, Judith Margaret Rensen
  • Patent number: 9217724
    Abstract: A potentiometric sensor includes a housing, in which a reference half cell space and a separated, measuring half cell space are formed. The reference half cell space contains a reference electrolyte and at least one part of a first potential sensing electrode for sensing a reference potential, and the measuring half cell space is liquid-tightly sealed by a measuring membrane, and contains an inner electrolyte and at least one part of a second potential sensing electrode for sensing a measuring half cell potential. A passageway extends through a wall of the housing, and opens into the reference half cell space, and is sealed relative to a medium surrounding the housing. The potentiometric sensor has a way for producing through the passageway an electrolytic contact between the reference electrolyte and the medium surrounding the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft für Mess- und Regeltechnik mbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Thilo Trapp, Torsten Pechstein
  • Publication number: 20150141767
    Abstract: Provided are devices and methods capable of interfacing with biological tissues, such as organs like the heart, in real-time and using techniques which provide the ability to monitor and control complex physical, chemical, biochemical and thermal properties of the tissues as a function of time. The described devices and methods utilize micro scale sensors and actuators to spatially monitor and control a variety of physical, chemical and biological tissue parameters, such as temperature, pH, spatial position, force, pressure, electrophysiology and to spatially provide a variety of stimuli, such as heat, light, voltage and current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Applicants: THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY IN ST. LOUIS
    Inventors: John A. ROGERS, Igor EFIMOV, Sarah GUTBROD, Lizhi XU, Andrew BONIFAS, Richard Chad WEBB, Ahyeon KOH
  • Publication number: 20150112175
    Abstract: A body-mountable urea sensing device includes an electrochemical sensor embedded in a polymeric material configured for mounting to a surface of an eye. The electrochemical sensor includes a working electrode, a reference electrode, and a reagent localized near the working electrode that selectively reacts with urea. A potentiometric voltage between the working electrode and the reference electrode is related to a concentration of urea in a fluid to which the electrochemical sensor is exposed; the voltage is measured by the body-mountable device and wirelessly communicated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Huanfen Yao, Zenghe Liu
  • Publication number: 20150080692
    Abstract: The invention provides an electrophysiological analysis system, in particular for detecting pathological states. This system comprises: electrodes intended to be placed in different regions of the body that are well away from each other; an adjustable DC voltage source for generating successive DC voltage pulses varying in magnitude from one pulse to another, the duration of the pulses being equal to or greater than about 0.2 seconds; a switching circuit for selectively connecting a pair of active electrodes to the voltage source and for connecting at least one other high-impedance electrode; and a measurement circuit for recording data representative of the current in the active electrodes and potentials on at least certain high-impedance connected electrodes in response to the application of said pulses. The range of voltages covered causes, from one pulse to another, the appearance or disappearance of electrochemical phenomena in the vicinity of the active electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: Impeto Medical
    Inventors: Philippe Brunswick, Nicolas Bocquet
  • Publication number: 20140378792
    Abstract: An anti-fouling sleeve for an endotracheal tube, a method of placement, and the tools for placement. The anti-fouling sleeve occupies the entire length of endotracheal tube, and can be installed permanently or made removable and disposable. The sleeve may be instrumented with sensors and/or a UV light source to reduce and potentially eliminate biofilm formation. Once placed inside the endotracheal tube the sleeve expands to conform to the inner diameter of the tube. After use, any accumulated biofilm on the inner portion of the sleeve is removed leaving the inner portion of the endotracheal tube essentially sterile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: William S. Krimsky, Murat Yasar, Gregory J. Hiemenz, Amit Navin Shah
  • Patent number: 8901366
    Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for quantitatively or semi-quantitatively determining the volume of a test sample of urine is provided. The method includes contacting the test sample with a fluidic medium of a lateral flow device having a volume indicator disposed thereon and determining the volume of urine in the test sample based on the distance traveled by the volume indicator along the fluidic medium, the distance traveled by the volume indicator corresponding to the volume of urine in the test sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Kimberly Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Xuedong Song, RameshBabu Boga, Ning Wei
  • Publication number: 20140296675
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include a system having at least one sensor configured to monitor a muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) level of a patient who is undergoing cardiac arrest and to generate a signal representing SmO2 level; a user interface device; a processor communicably coupled to the user interface device, the processor configured to cause the user interface device to present an array of two or more possible nodes of a clinical decision support tree, wherein at least one of the nodes indicates cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) treatment of the patient with no ventilation, and wherein at least another of the nodes indicates CPR treatment of the patient with active ventilation; determine which of the two or more possible nodes should be emphasized based on the SmO2 level; and update the array of the two or more possible nodes based on the determination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventors: Gary A. FREEMAN, Annemarie Elizabeth SILVER
  • Publication number: 20140275838
    Abstract: We report a method of a method for detecting an epileptic seizure, comprising providing a first body signal reference value; determining a current body signal value from a time series of body signals; comparing the current body signal value and the first reference value; determining a work level of the patient; determining whether the current body signal value comprises an ictal component, based on the work level and the comparing; issuing a detection of an epileptic seizure in response to the determination that the current body signal value comprises the ictal component; and taking at least one further action (e.g. warning, delivering a therapy, etc.), based on the detection. We also report a medical device system configured to implement the method. We also report a non-transitory computer readable program storage unit encoded with instructions that, when executed by a computer, perform the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Flint Hills Scientific, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Ivan Osorio
  • Patent number: 8818477
    Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for determining an anaerobic threshold and/or an oxygen consumption rate in a human or animal subject. The methods include exposing a tissue of the subject to illumination radiation, collecting emitted radiation from the tissue, the emitted radiation including a portion of the illumination radiation reflected or transmitted from the tissue, processing the emitted radiation to form a spectrum of the tissue, and determining, based on the spectrum of the tissue, the anaerobic threshold and/or the oxygen consumption rate of the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: University of Massachusetts
    Inventor: Babs R. Soller
  • Publication number: 20140235960
    Abstract: A nasogastric/orogastric (Ng/Og) device includes a main lumen configured for at least one of gastric decompression, enteral feeding and enteral medication administration. An expandable esophageal cuff is carried by the device body and configured in a normally expanded position such that when inserted within the esophagus, the esophageal cuff conforms to the interior surface of the esophagus and emesis and/or reflux is blocked from passing out of the stomach and past the esophageal cuff. A vacuum lumen is carried by the device body and connected to the expandable esophageal cuff. When vacuum is applied, the esophageal cuff is contracted against the device body to permit the device to be inserted and placed within the esophagus. When the vacuum is released, the esophageal cuff expands against the interior surface of the esophagus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: PNEUMOFLEX SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: W. Robert ADDINGTON, STUART P. MILLER
  • Publication number: 20140228661
    Abstract: A novel set of biopsy-gun related tools are developed in order to make a better safer sampling and diagnosis, comprising a set of tools that takes the sample, releases a drug impregnated plug and additionally may inject drugs, measure pH and the molecular content of the penetrated tissues. A novel technology aiming to minimize the penetrated tissue damage, using a small diameter needle with capabilities for immediate spectroscopic analysis of the tissue, and followed by sampling and plugging of the tissue when needed. The invention describes a set of variable diameter thin tubes used to guide and insulate the penetrated organs, and a final operation of plugging the wounds with absorbable substances, impregnated with drugs. The supplementary low intensity radiation sources could increase the processes' accuracy and safety, offering the opportunity of gathering supplementary x-densitometry information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventors: Liviu Popa-Simil, Radu Kramer
  • Publication number: 20140206947
    Abstract: The current invention discloses a treatment device having a heat source, a power source, a heat applicator and a lighting mechanism. The power source includes at least one battery having superior properties such as prolonged electricity production and prompt recharging. The heat applicator includes a heat conductive layer made from nanofibers, providing highly efficient heat distribution to the targeted regions. The lighting mechanism employs light emitting nano fibers to treat targeted regions. The power source provides energy to the light source, which generates light so that the applicator may distribute to an injury site or wound bed of a user. The heat source may be an exothermic chemical reaction designed to last for several hours supplying heat to the treatment device or an electronically produced heat. The treatment device further comprises a plurality of electrodes for electrical stimulation treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventors: Jonathan Isserow, Laura Isserow
  • Publication number: 20140194714
    Abstract: The invention provides an electrophysiological analysis system, in particular for detecting pathological states. This system comprises: electrodes intended to be placed in different regions of the body that are well away from each other; an adjustable DC voltage source for generating successive DC voltage pulses varying in magnitude from one pulse to another, the duration of the pulses being equal to or greater than about 0.2 seconds; a switching circuit for selectively connecting a pair of active electrodes to the voltage source and for connecting at least one other high-impedance electrode; and a measurement circuit for recording data representative of the current in the active electrodes and potentials on at least certain high-impedance connected electrodes in response to the application of said pulses. The range of voltages covered causes, from one pulse to another, the appearance or disappearance of electrochemical phenomena in the vicinity of the active electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: Impeto Medical
    Inventors: Philippe Brunswick, Nicolas Bocquet
  • Publication number: 20140121475
    Abstract: A multifunctional invasive cardiovascular diagnostic measurement host is disclosed that interfaces a variety of sensor devices, such as guide wire-mounted pressure sensors, flow sensors, temperature sensors, etc, and provides a multi-mode graphical user interface providing a plurality of displays in accordance with the various types of sensors and measurements rendered by the sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Howard David Alpert, Paul Michael Hoseit
  • Patent number: 8706208
    Abstract: A passive wireless gastroesophageal sensor includes a LC resonance circuit, two or more electrodes and a passive batteryless Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) circuit connected to the LC resonance circuit and the one or more electrodes. The electrodes are configured to measure an impedance within a gastroesophageal tract. The passive batteryless RFID circuit transmits a frequency modulated signal using the LC resonance circuit that varies between a first frequency corresponding to a non-acid reflux condition and a second frequency corresponding to an acid reflux condition based on the measured impedance in response to a signal received from a detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventors: Jung-Chih Chiao, Thermpon Ativanichayaphong
  • Patent number: 8702617
    Abstract: Respiratory diseases related to gastroesophageal reflux disease in a patient are diagnosed by detecting esophageal or pharyngeal impedance and pH in the patient, detecting oxygen saturation in the patient, and diagnosing the respiratory diseases from the esophageal or pharyngeal impedance, the pH, and the oxygen saturation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: University of Rochester
    Inventor: Jeffery H. Peters
  • Patent number: 8696567
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a bedside or point of care assay for properly positioning a feeding tube in the stomach of a patient based on detecting the presence of a hydrolytic enzyme found in the stomach by an ester substrate which can be impregnated on a pH strip. The application of this test reduces the risk of tube misplacement and the resulting harm to the patient that occurs in the event of tube misplacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Ingenza Ltd.
    Inventors: Reuben Carr, Lucy Farley
  • Publication number: 20140088391
    Abstract: Systems and methods of use for continuous analyte measurement of a host's vascular system are provided. In some embodiments, a continuous glucose measurement system includes a vascular access device, a sensor and sensor electronics, the system being configured for insertion into communication with a host's circulatory system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: DEXCOM, INC.
    Inventors: Jacob S. Leach, Peter C. Simpson, Richard C. Yang, Mark Brister
  • Publication number: 20140088372
    Abstract: Systems, apparatus and methods including a contact lens that facilitates collection and/or processing of information associated with sensed features are provided. In one aspect, a system can include a contact lens and an analysis component external to the contact lens. The contact lens can include: a substrate; and a circuit, disposed on or within the substrate. The circuit can include: a plurality of sensors configured to sense respective features associated with a wearer of the contact lens; and a communication component configured to communicate information indicative of sensed features. The analysis component can be configured to: receive the information indicative of the sensed features; and generate statistical information based, at least, on the information indicative of the sensed features.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: GOOGLE INC.
    Inventors: Ehsan Saeedi, Babak Amirparviz
  • Publication number: 20140012098
    Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for determining a physiological condition within a mammal based on pH and/or temperature measurements. In one aspect, the invention is an apparatus for measuring a physiological condition within a mammal comprising: a probe for insertion into a body lumen of the mammal, the probe housing a first circuit board operably coupling a pH sensor for measuring pH and generating a pH signal indicative of the measured pH, a memory device storing parametric data unique to the pH sensor, and a first interface connector located at a proximal portion of the probe; a handle for manipulating the probe, the handle housing a second circuit board operably coupling a microprocessor for processing the pH signal, and a second interface connector; the probe connected to the handle in a manner that allows the probe and handle to be repetitively engaged and disengaged from each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventor: Harry T. RIETH
  • Patent number: 8600471
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to catheters, for example a catheter which is adapted such that the user is able to determine whether it has been correctly positioned within 5 the subject. Also included in the present disclosure are means for detecting the position of the catheter and combinations of a catheter and processors for determining the positioning of the catheter. The present disclosure also relates to methods of determining the position of a catheter in, for example, a human or animal body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: The University of Hull
    Inventors: Jay Wadhawan, John Greenman, Magdi El-Habbal, Linda Shields, Cameron Imrie, Barbara Elliott
  • Publication number: 20130303862
    Abstract: A system and method allows diagnosis of a patient for physiological abnormality such as a neurological deficiency. An involuntary reflex cough event is induced within the patient that activates the nucleus ambiguus and medial motor cell column of the patient and stimulates involuntary cough activated paraspinal muscles in the pelvis of the patient. An electromyogram (EMG) is obtained from the involuntary cough activated paraspinal muscles while inducing involuntary reflex cough and determining its duration. The intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) is determined and the IAP is correlated with the EMG duration of the involuntary cough event within a processing device to diagnose a physiological abnormality such as a neurological deficiency within the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: W. Robert ADDINGTON, Stuart P. MILLER, Robert E. Stephens, Michael M. PHELIPA, Mary W. BRIGANTI
  • Publication number: 20130274562
    Abstract: An apparatus for medical diagnosis and/or treatment is provided. The apparatus includes a flexible substrate, an intermediate bus disposed on the flexible substrate, and a plurality of sensing elements disposed on the flexible substrate and coupled to the intermediate bus. The plurality of sensing elements and intermediate bus are disposed on the flexible substrate such that the sensing elements are disposed at areas of minimal strain of the flexible substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventors: Roozbeh Ghaffari, Stephen P. Lee, Brian Elolampi
  • Publication number: 20130144143
    Abstract: The probe structure capable of measuring a pH level according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a probe unit inserted into an experiment target; a fixing body connected to a terminal of the probe unit and fixing the probe unit; an electrode array disposed at a front end of the probe unit and sensing a neural signal from the experiment target and a pH level; a reference electrode disposed at the front end of the probe unit to be spaced apart from the electrode array by a predetermined interval and sensing a reference signal for pH level measurement; an electric wire electrically connected to the electrode array and the reference electrode; and a measured signal collecting electrode integrated at the fixing body and collecting measured signals transmitted through the electric wire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Inventors: Jin Seok KIM, Jun-Kyo Francis SUH
  • Patent number: 8444554
    Abstract: The invention relates to an in vivo sensing device having a specific gravity of about 1 or a volume to weight ratio that enables it essentially to float. In one embodiment the in vivo sensing device consists of an image sensor system and a buoyant body. The buoyant body, which is attached to the sensor system or which can optionally house one or more elements of the sensor system, keeps the sensor system essentially floating in a body lumen liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Given Imaging Ltd.
    Inventors: Shlomo Lewkowicz, Daniel Gat, Arkady Glukhovsky, Semion Khait, Gavriel Joseph Iddan, Harold Jacob, Christopher Paul Swain
  • Patent number: 8323192
    Abstract: Disclosed is an ambulatory system for monitoring one or more physiological parameters in a body lumen, such as the esophagus. The system includes an implantable probe having a sensor for the physiological parameter and a transmitter for transmitting data to an external receiver. The probe may be used for monitoring any of various physiological parameters, including pH, temperature, and pressure, within the esophagus or other body lumens. Methods and deployment catheters are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Endonetics, Inc.
    Inventors: John T. Kilcoyne, Ross Tsukashima, George M. Johnson, Christopher Klecher
  • Patent number: 8275438
    Abstract: Systems and methods of use for continuous analyte measurement of a host's vascular system are provided. In some embodiments, a continuous glucose measurement system includes a vascular access device, a sensor and sensor electronics, the system being configured for insertion into communication with a host's circulatory system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: DexCom, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter C. Simpson, Michael J. Estes, Paul V. Neale, Robert Boock, Jacob S. Leach, Richard C. Yang
  • Patent number: 8262878
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a means of combining and configuring specific hydrophilic and dielectric materials in such a way as to allow an antimony/reference electrode pH sensor to be packaged and stored dry yet become fully hydrated to an activated state after exposure to aqueous liquids. The sensor is packaged and stored dry to maintain component stability and minimize component degradation. When the user removes the sensor from the package and the sensor tip is submerged in a hydration (ion conduction) media or solution, the hydrophilic coating along with the impregnated reference wick, absorb the fluid to create an electrolytic gel inside the reference wick, which activates the pH sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Sierra Medical Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Erich H. Wolf, Charles Bankert, Ross Tsukashima, Elmer Custodio
  • Publication number: 20120190940
    Abstract: A prosthetic component suitable for long-term implantation is provided. The prosthetic component includes electronic circuitry and sensors to measure a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system. The prosthetic component comprises a first structure having at least one support surface, a second structure having at least one feature configured to couple to bone. The electronic circuitry and sensors are hermetically sealed within the prosthetic component. Sensors can be used to monitor synovial fluid in proximity to the joint to determine joint health. The prosthetic component can include a temperature sensor or a pH sensor. The temperature or pH of the synovial fluid can be correlated to a variety of joint conditions. Measurements over time can be analyzed for trends. The temperature or pH can be calibrated for the patient. For example, calibration can be for temperature or pH of a patient healthy joint. The measurements are compared against this patient reference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: ORTHOSENSOR
    Inventors: Marc Stein, Andrew Chase
  • Publication number: 20120184834
    Abstract: Improved wiring arrangements for sensor catheters are provided to reduce wire-to-wire cross-talk wherein wires connecting the sensor of the sensor catheter to a processing unit are divided into a plurality of wire bundles contained within respective sheaths, with the wires in wire bundle twisted together reduce electromagnetic signal interference among the individual wires, or between wire bundles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: VOLCANO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Gregory Kent Williams, Stephen Charles Davies, Gerald L. Litzza
  • Patent number: 8057388
    Abstract: A microsensor array system, comprising a pad, a plurality of actuators attached to the pad, and a plurality of microprobes, wherein substantially each microprobe in the plurality of microprobes is attached to a respective actuator in the plurality of actuators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Stephen D. Russell, Paul R. de la Houssaye, Jamie K. Pugh, William Pugh, Dennis E. Amundson, Howard W. Walker
  • Patent number: 7892179
    Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for determining a physiological condition within a mammal based on pH and/or temperature measurements. The invention is for determining vaginal health and/or fertility status in a female mammal based on pH and/or temperature measurements of vaginal and/or cervical fluids or tissue. The invention is suited for taking either in vivo or external measurements. In one aspect, the invention is an apparatus comprising an elongated probe portion and a handle portion. In one embodiment, the circuitry of the apparatus is strategically split between the probe portion and the handle portion to facilitate a plug-and-play type of device. In another embodiment, an elongated probe is provided that has a hermetically sealed internal cavity that houses the circuitry while leaving the temperature sensor and the pH sensor exposed for direct contact with the desired biological fluid. In a further embodiment, an ISFET is used as the pH sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Harry T. Rieth
  • Patent number: 7813781
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining information concerning ischaemia using a pH sensor. Embodiments of the invention can be used to determine ischaemia caused by a number of factors, including acute compartment syndrome and vascular disorders, e.g. scepticaemia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Grampian Health Board
    Inventor: Alan John Johnstone
  • Publication number: 20100217101
    Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for determining a physiological condition within a mammal based on pH and/or temperature measurements. The invention is for determining vaginal health and/or fertility status in a female mammal based on pH and/or temperature measurements of vaginal and/or cervical fluids or tissue. The invention is suited for taking either in vivo or external measurements. In one aspect, the invention is an apparatus comprising an elongated probe portion and a handle portion. In one embodiment, the circuitry of the apparatus is strategically split between the probe portion and the handle portion to facilitate a plug-and-play type of device. In another embodiment, an elongated probe is provided that has a hermetically sealed internal cavity that houses the circuitry while leaving the temperature sensor and the pH sensor exposed for direct contact with the desired biological fluid. In a further embodiment, an ISFET is used as the pH sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Harry T. Rieth
  • Patent number: 7736320
    Abstract: The present invention is a system for monitoring a patient's breath chemistry comprising a plurality of components, including a self-condensing pH sensor distally mounted on a catheter, a transmitter with hydration sensing circuitry for the pH sensor, and, a processing receiver/data recorder. The specifically designed self-condensing pH sensor located on the distal end of the catheter is designed to be inserted into the patient's airway. Monitoring of a patient's breath pH is accomplished by using the miniaturized self-condensing pH sensor, providing for real-time monitoring of patient airway pH values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Sierra Medical Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Ross Tsukashima, Erich H. Wolf, Jeffery D. Schipper, Charles S. Bankert, Leo R. Roucher, Thomas Germain Wallner
  • Publication number: 20100087782
    Abstract: A system, device and method are presented for utilizing stretchable active integrated circuits with inflatable bodies. The invention allows for such operative features to come into direct contact with body structures, such as the inner wall of a lumen. Such direct contact increases accuracy of measurement and delivery of therapy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventors: Roozbeh Ghaffari, Gilman Callsen, William J. Arora, Benjamin Schlatka
  • Publication number: 20100036213
    Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for determining a physiological condition within a mammal based on pH and/or temperature measurements. In one aspect, the invention is directed to an apparatus for measuring a physiological condition within a mammal comprising: a tubular housing extending along a longitudinal axis from a distal end to a proximal end, the housing having an internal cavity; a first opening in the elongated housing forming a first passageway into the internal cavity; an ion-sensitive field effect transistor (ISFET) for measuring pH within a body lumen of the mammal, the ISFET positioned in the internal cavity, the ISFET aligned with the first opening so that at least a portion of the ISFET is exposed via the first opening; and a first seal between the ISFET and the housing forming a hermetic seal about a perimeter of the first opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventor: Harry T. Rieth
  • Publication number: 20100016699
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to catheters, for example a catheter which is adapted such that the user is able to determine whether it has been correctly positioned within 5 the subject. Also included in the present disclosure are means for detecting the position of the catheter and combinations of a catheter and processors for determining the positioning of the catheter. The present disclosure also relates to methods of determining the position of a catheter in, for example, a human or animal body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Jay Wadhawan, John Greenman, Magdi EI Habbal, Linda Shields, Cameron Imrie, Barbara Elliott
  • Publication number: 20100010328
    Abstract: A probe for use in a patient having a vessel carrying blood to ascertain characteristics of the blood having a cannula adapted to be inserted into the vessel of the patient. The cannula has a length so that when the distal extremity is in the vessel of the patient the proximal extremity is accessible outside of the patient. A gas sensor assembly is carried within the distal extremity of the cannula for determining gas characteristics of the blood in the vessel. A pressure sensor is carried within the distal extremity of the cannula for determining the pressure of the blood in the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventors: Harry D. Nguyen, Jim F. Martin, Margaret R. Webber, Paul Douglas Corl
  • Patent number: 7630747
    Abstract: An apparatus for use with a patient having a vessel carrying blood to ascertain characteristics of the blood. The apparatus includes a display module and a probe having a distal extremity adapted to be inserted into the vessel of the patient and having a proximal extremity coupled to the display module. The probe includes a sensor in the distal extremity for providing an electrical signal to the display module when the probe is disposed in the blood. The probe can have an antithrombogenic surface treatment for inhibiting the adhesion of blood components to the probe when disposed in the blood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Keimar, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul D. Corl, Harry D. Nguyen, Amos Gottlieb, Margaret R. Webber
  • Patent number: 7620454
    Abstract: A gastro-electric stimulation system includes an INS for producing an electrical stimulation signal, at least one medical electrical lead, and at least two electrical contacts. The medical electrical lead has a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being connected to the INS, the distal end being adapted for placement in or near a patient's stomach or appropriate nerve or nerve portion. The electrodes are disposed near the distal end of the medical electrical lead, and are electrically connected through the medical electrical lead to the INS to receive the electrical stimulation signal and convey such signal to the selected electrode implant position. The electrical stimulation signal is provided in an amount and manner adapted to increase the pH of the gastric acid in the patient's stomach and/or to decrease the amount of gastric acid produced thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Dinsmoor, Warren L. Starkebaum
  • Patent number: 7616979
    Abstract: The invention provides a devices, methods and systems to measure and record uterine tissue environment components such as pH during the course of uterine artery occlusion. The uterus becomes ischemic due to the occlusion thereof, and its pH drops sharply within minutes of uterine artery occlusion and remains relatively low for a period of time. The return of normal pH is an indicator of return of blood to the ischemic tissue. In use, a catheter with a pH measuring tip is advanced through the patient's vaginal canal and into the patient's uterine cavity until the pH measuring active electrode on the distal end of the catheter contacts or penetrates the uterine fundus. The active electrode detects the pH and a signal representing pH is transmitted to a pH recording and monitoring device which preferably displays the pH. The signal may be transmitted through a conductor or by a radio transmitter. Components other than pH may be monitored such a pCO2, and pO2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Vascular Control Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Jones, Jill Uyeno, Fred H. Burbank, Greig E. Altieri
  • Patent number: 7610157
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for a noninvasive optical determination of the pH of a substance in a compartment in a closed system comprising a compartment wherein a substance resides which is permeable to at least one wavelength of light, a light source and light detecting device configured to obtain spectral data for a substance for at least one wavelength, a processor adapted to determine the pH of the substance by correlating the spectral data with predetermined spectral data for a known substance at a known pH at the at least one wavelength, and wherein the processor is further configured to control the release of the substance from the compartment to its end use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Peter Miller, Andrew Michael Leach
  • Publication number: 20090264720
    Abstract: A wearable blood chemistry monitoring device is disclosed which comprises a wearable automated blood chemistry monitoring device comprising (A) a mini pump which can be, for example a peristaltic pump or syringe pump; (B) a portable form factor mechanical apparatus which preferably includes a rotatable disc with a hole which fits over the pump; (C) at least one measurement element for measuring at least one blood parameter, preferably on the disc, and preferably a series of glucose strips arranged radially in a spoke-like pattern on the disc; (D) a catheter connected to the pump via a tube; (E) a computerized device adapted to automatically measure blood analytes and blood parameters; (F) a belt adapted to hold the housing, a waste bag, and a flush solution bag; wherein the pump and disk are arranged in the housing so that a hole in a disk fits over the pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Applicant: The Cooper Health System
    Inventors: Marc C. Torjman, Michael E. Goldberg