Abstract: A medical probe includes a shaft and an expandable flexible distal-end assembly. The shaft is configured for insertion into a cavity of organ of a patient. The expandable flexible distal-end assembly, which is fitted at a distal-end of the shaft, includes a flat flexible backing sheet, including irrigation channels, and two flexible substrates having respective arrays of electrodes disposed thereon, the substrates attached one on either side of the backing sheet.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to neural electrode technology for measuring a biosignal of a human or applying a neural signal to the human, and a neural electrode assembly includes a body that is inserted into a uterus in a non-invasive manner, a recording neural electrode formed to measure a uterine contraction-evoked neural signal, the recording neural electrode being coupled to the body, and a stimulating neural electrode formed to stimulate a nerve entering the uterus to suppress the uterine contraction, the stimulating neural electrode being coupled to the body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to comprehensive systems, devices and methods for delivering energy to tissue for a wide variety of applications, including medical procedures (e.g., tissue ablation, resection, cautery, vascular thrombosis, treatment of cardiac arrhythmias and dysrhythmias, electrosurgery, tissue harvest, etc.). In certain embodiments, systems, devices, and methods are provided for treating a tissue region (e.g., a tumor) through application of energy.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is the method to assess the pelvic floor muscle injury, comprising the steps of applying the measuring probe into the anus, generation of electric current signals of constant amplitude, using a current generator, and applying the signals into the pelvic floor muscles by means of application electrodes (EA1) and (EA2), detection of electric voltage signals from the pelvic floor muscles by means of a plurality of measuring electrodes (EP1), EP2 . . . EPn, analysis of electric current and voltage signals for amplitude values and phase dependencies of their waveform, wherein the electric current signals and the electric voltage signals from the pelvic bottom muscles constitute signals variable in time, of the frequencies ranging from 2 kHz to 200 kHz. The object of the invention is also an electrode based measuring probe and apparatus implementing the method of assessment pelvic floor muscles injury.

Abstract: Systems and methods for the concurrent treatment of multiple oral diseases and defects while promoting general oral hygiene utilizing electricity are provided for non-human animals. Electrodes are used to deliver an electrical current to the gingival tissues of a mouth in order to achieve a number of therapeutic, prophylactic, and regenerative benefits. These benefits include killing oral microbes, increasing oral vasodilation, reducing oral biofilm, improving oral blood circulation, reversing oral bone resorption, promoting oral osteogenesis, treating gum recession, and fostering gingival regeneration. Other benefits include the treatment of gingivitis, periodontitis, and oral malodor, and other systemic diseases correlated with oral pathogens.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for performing predictive permeation on the skin of a patient, particularly where the skin has no corneum. For this purpose, a device is provided which has an elongated probe, with an electrode array that extends along an active segment of the probe. Also, a voltage source is connected to the electrode array to generate an electric field. Operationally, an electro-conductive emulsion is applied onto the skin of the patient where the predictive permeation procedure is to be performed and the probe is positioned to contact the skin to be treated. The emulsion then interacts with the electric field that is generated by the electrode array to increase the permeability of the skin. Particles from a blood sample of the patient are included in the emulsion, and are introduced into the skin during the predictive permeation procedure to increase skin density.

Abstract: An intra vaginal device (10) including an elongated hollow body (11) with side wall portions (15, 16 and 24). Secured to each wall portion (15 and 24) is a sensor (19), while secured to the wall portion (16) is a sensor (20). The sensors (19) simply measure forces directly applied by the bi-lateral contraction of the pubococcygeus, while the sensor (20) provides an indication of the puborectalis contraction forces.

Abstract: In some examples, a technique for delivering electrical stimulation therapy to a patient includes determining, by processing circuitry, one or more cycle settings associated with delivery of the electrical stimulation therapy, determining, by the processing circuitry, a cycle time period associated with each cycle setting, and delivering, by a medical device, electrical stimulation therapy based on the determined cycle settings and the determined cycle time periods. Each cycle setting may define an on-cycle, during which electrical stimulation is delivered, and an off-cycle, during which electrical stimulation is not delivered. The technique further may include delivering electrical stimulation to the patient to provide one or more reminders to the patient, such as a reminder to void or a reminder of the existence of electrical stimulation.

Abstract: Methods for treating gastrointestinal conditions, conditions associated with sympathetic and/or parasympathetic activity in the gastrointestinal organs, and conditions associated with central sympathetic and/or parasympathetic activity in a patient with therapeutic gastrointestinalneuromodulation and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present technology is directed to methods that at least partially inhibit sympathetic neural activity in nerves proximate a gastrointestinal artery of a gastrointestinal organ of a patient. Sympathetic drive in the patient can thereby be reduced in a manner that treats the patient for the gastrointestinal condition.

Abstract: A vaginal speculum includes a spreading element and at least two electromyographic sensors. At least one of the electromyographic sensors is mounted in or on the spreading element. The electromyographic sensors generate signals indicative of electromyographic activity in a vagina, cervix, or uterus.

Abstract: Electrode structures for transvascular nerve stimulation combine electrodes with an electrically-insulating backing layer. The backing layer increases the electrical impedance of electrical paths through blood in a lumen of a blood vessel and consequently increases the flow of electrical current through surrounding tissues. The electrode structures may be applied to stimulate nerves such as the phrenic vagus, trigeminal, obturator or other nerves.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides a device, wherein the device comprises a skin patch, configured to attach to the skin surface of the perineum of a subject suffering from premature ejaculation, wherein the skin patch contains electrodes configured to deliver electrical impulses transcutaneously to the bulbcavernosus muscle of the subject, wherein the transcutaneously delivered electrical impulses are configured to treat premature ejaculation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to comprehensive systems, devices and methods for delivering energy to tissue for a wide variety of applications, including medical procedures (e.g., tissue ablation, resection, cautery, vascular thrombosis, treatment of cardiac arrhythmias and dysrhythmias, electrosurgery, tissue harvest, etc.). In certain embodiments, systems, devices, and methods are provided for treating a tissue region (e.g., a tumor) through application of energy.

Abstract: Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system having a recharging system with self-alignment, a system for mapping current fields using a completely wireless system, multiple independent electrode stimulation outsource, and IPG control through software on Smartphone/mobile device and tablet hardware during trial and permanent implants. SCS system can include multiple electrodes, multiple, independently programmable, stimulation channels within an implantable pulse generator (IPG) providing concurrent, but unique stimulation fields. SCS system can include a replenishable power source, rechargeable using transcutaneous power transmissions between antenna coil pairs. An external charger unit, having its own rechargeable battery, can charge the IPG replenishable power source. A real-time clock can provide an auto-run schedule for daily stimulation. A bi-directional telemetry link informs the patient or clinician the status of the system, including the state of charge of the IPG battery.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for treatment of tissue in a body lumen with an electrode deployment device. Embodiments typically include a device with a plurality of electrodes having a pre-selected electrode density arranged on the surface of a support. The support may comprise a non-distensible electrode backing that is spirally furled about an axis and coupled to an expansion member such as an inflatable elastic balloon. In some embodiments, the balloon is inflated to selectively expose a portion of the electrode surface while maintaining the electrode density.

Abstract: There is disclosed an electro-stimulation device having co-operating male/female locking engagement between an internal electrode connector and an externally facing contact electrode. This arrangement aids easy assembly of the electrostimulation device especially when using a unitary device body to form a self-contained device. The device may be arranged to deliver constant target current to a muscle for electro-stimulation of that muscle. The device may be a completely self-contained device with no external means for the adjustment and control of the electro-stimulation delivered to the muscle during treatment.

Abstract: Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system having a recharging system with self-alignment, a system for mapping current fields using a completely wireless system, multiple independent electrode stimulation outsource, and IPG control through software on Smartphone/mobile device and tablet hardware during trial and permanent implants. SCS system can include multiple electrodes, multiple, independently programmable, stimulation channels within an implantable pulse generator (IPG) providing concurrent, but unique stimulation fields. SCS system can include a replenishable power source, rechargeable using transcutaneous power transmissions between antenna coil pairs. An external charger unit, having its own rechargeable battery, can charge the IPG replenishable power source. A real-time clock can provide an auto-run schedule for daily stimulation. A bi-directional telemetry link informs the patient or clinician the status of the system, including the state of charge of the IPG battery.

Abstract: A medical system includes an implantable lead having a plurality of electrode contacts, a pulse generator coupled to the lead and configured to generate electrical pulses to be delivered to a patient through the plurality of electrode contacts, and an electronic programmer coupled to the pulse generator. The electronic programmer programs the pulse generator to generate the electrical pulses. The pulse generator is programmed to generate an electrical stimulation to be applied to the patient via one of the electrode contacts on the implantable lead. A determination is received as to whether the patient, in response to the electrical stimulation, exhibited a bellows response or a toes response. A stimulation parameter of the electrical stimulation is ramped up in response to a determination that the patient did not exhibit the bellows response or the toes response and that the patient did not feel pain in response to the electrical stimulation.

Abstract: There is provided a method for treating a male impotent patient comprising stimulating at least one portion of the patient's normal penile tissue or the prolongation thereof to at least restrict the blood flow leaving the penis to achieve erection. To improve the erection effect the method further comprises gently constricting the penile portion or the prolongation thereof to restrict the venous blood flow in the penile portion, and then stimulating the constricted penile portion to cause contraction of the penile portion to at least further restrict the blood flow leaving the penis to achieve erection.

Abstract: An electrosurgical balloon includes an inflatable balloon body formed of a non-conductive substrate material. One or more electrodes are disposed on an exterior surface of the balloon body. The electrodes can include a pair of bipolar electrodes, and the balloon body can have at least one fluid outlet hole configured to provide fluid to the pair of bipolar electrodes. A second inflatable balloon body can be disposed inside the first inflatable balloon body. The electrosurgical balloon can be incorporated into a catheter assembly, in which the electrosurgical balloon is a balloon electrode tip at a distal end of a catheter.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for providing treatment to a tissue in body lumens are described. The system may include a catheter, an expansion member coupled with a distal portion of the catheter, an ablation structure including one or more longitudinal electrode segments, and an ablation structure support coupled to the ablation structure configured to at least partially unfurl as the expansion member expands and furl as the expansion member contracts. The ablation structure may include multiple separately wired and/or separately controlled longitudinal electrodes, longitudinal electrode zones, or both, such that each longitudinal electrode or longitudinal electrode zone may be selectively enabled or selectively disabled. In some instances, one or more springs are coupled to the ablation structure configured to promote unfurl or furl around the expansion member. In some instances, one or more protection elements are be positioned along the catheter.

Abstract: A skin surface electrode used in the treatment of incontinence. The electrode has one or more conductive regions and an egress through which bodily fluid may pass without substantially adversely affecting tissue contact in the conductive regions of the electrode. The electrode is configured for placement proximate a patient's perineal tissues. An incontinence treatment system includes an electrode, wearable signal generator and interface module.

Abstract: Provided is a perineal probe including a substantially cylindrical support rod in an insulating material, defining an axial direction and a circumferential direction, an end portion, constituting the inner end of said support rod, a grip for said perineal probe positioned on the support rod at the opposite end of said end portion, four electrodes positioned on the outer surface of the support rod, wherein each electrode extends for a circumferential portion ranging from 60° to 180°, wherein the electrodes are two by two aligned in an axial direction and reciprocally distanced in a circumferential direction, are in addition two by two aligned in a circumferential direction and distanced in an axial direction, and wherein each electrode is connected to a different electric output.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for treatment of tissue in a body lumen with an electrode deployment device. Embodiments typically include a device with a plurality of electrodes having a pre-selected electrode density arranged on the surface of a support. The support may comprise a non-distensible electrode backing that is spirally furled about an axis and coupled to an expansion member such as an inflatable elastic balloon. In some embodiments, the balloon is inflated to selectively expose a portion of the electrode surface while maintaining the electrode density.

Abstract: Provided is a perineal probe including a main axis coinciding with the direction of insertion of said probe and a main body, the main body including: a lower surface, an upper surface, opposite said lower surface, a lateral surface, extending between the lower surface and the upper surface and including two opposite main portions substantially parallel to the main axis, at least two lower electrodes, arranged on the lower surface and reciprocally separated along said main axis, at least two lateral electrodes arranged along said main portions of said lateral surface.

Abstract: A device for endometrial ablation having an elongated shaft with a working end comprising an expandable-contractable frame, a compliant energy-delivery surface carried by the frame, the surface and the frame being configured to engage against the interior of a patient's uterine cavity when the working end is inserted into the cavity and the frame is expanded.

Abstract: A diagnostic device (10) for pathologies of tubular anatomical structures comprises a tubular elongated structure (12, 28) developing between a proximal end and a distal end and is adapted to be inserted in the tubular anatomical structure, means (22) for locally dilating the walls of the tubular anatomical structure being associated with the distal end of said elongated structure, said means for locally dilating being movable between a closed position for introducing the device and at least one open position for viewing and evaluating the pathology, and control means being associated with the proximal end of the elongated structure, said control means being operatively connected to said means for locally dilating, in order to move them between the closed position and the open position, and vice versa.

Abstract: A compressible electrode for the stimulation of the musculature of the pelvic floor complex e.g. for the treatment of anterior and posterior pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, is reversibly compressible and has electro-conductive elements. The compressible electrode may be used with all the usual control units and treatment regimes for the electro-stimulation of the musculature and nerves of the vagina and/or anus. The compressible electrode may be inserted into the vagina or anus through the use of an applicator. In the compressed state the compressible electrode may be of tampon proportions and after use may easily be removed.

Abstract: The present disclosure involves a method of measuring a physiological feedback from a patient in response to electrical stimulation. A stimulation parameter of a sacral nerve stimulation therapy is ramped up. The sacral nerve stimulation therapy includes electrical pulses generated by a pulse generator based on programming instructions received from an electronic programmer. The electrical pulses are delivered to a patient via a stimulation lead that is implanted in the patient. Via an anal electrode device that is at least partially inserted inside an anal canal of the patient, a compound motor action potential (CMAP) is measured from an anal sphincter of the patient while the stimulation parameter of the sacral nerve stimulation therapy is being ramped up. A stimulation threshold is determined based on the measured CMAP.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in performing ablation or coagulation of organs and other tissue includes a metallized fabric electrode array which is substantially absorbent and/or permeable to moisture and gases such as steam and conformable to the body cavity. Following placement of the ablation device into contact with the tissue to be ablated, an RF generator is used to deliver RF energy to the conductive regions and to thereby induce current flow from the electrodes to tissue to be ablated. As the current heats the tissue, moisture (such as steam or liquid) leaves the tissue causing the tissue to dehydrate. Suction may be applied to facilitate moisture removal. The moisture permeability and/or absorbency of the electrode carrying member allows the moisture to leave the ablation site so as to prevent the moisture from providing a path of conductivity for the current.

Abstract: A probe system for electro-stimulation and bio-feedback training of muscles in the pelvic floor region, in particular for pelvic floor physiotherapy and diagnosis, includes a probe having a probe body which is insertable into a vagina or a rectum, and a plurality of electrodes which are positioned at several locations along the length and around the circumference on the outer surface of the probe, the probe system further includes a control unit, operationally coupled to the probe, adapted for receiving EMG signals from each of the electrodes and for processing each of the signals for mapping the response of the muscles in the pelvic floor region.

Abstract: Systems and methods for applying stimulating current to a patient for treating insufficient uterine contractions are provided. The system includes stimulation electrodes of a balloon electrode array device, a ring electrode array device, an electrode probe device, or a mesh electrode array device. Some aspects of the invention also provide a connector and cable device for coupling the stimulation electrodes to electronics for generating and providing the stimulating current to the stimulation electrodes.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to apparatus and methods for tightening tissue of the female genitalia by heating targeted connective tissue with radiant energy, while cooling the mucosal epithelial surface over the target tissue to protect it from the heat. Embodiments include a treatment tip that comprises both an energy delivery element and a cooling mechanism. As the treatment tip contacts the epithelial mucosa, the tip cools the mucosa by contact, and delivers energy thought the epithelium to the underlying tissue, thereby creating a reverse thermal gradient. The effect of the applied heat is to remodel genital tissue by tightening it. Such remodeling may include a tighter vagina and a tighter introitus. The tightening may be a consequence of thermal denaturation of collagen as well as a longer term healing response in the tissue that includes an increased deposition of collagen.

Abstract: A method for treating urinary incontinence is provided. The method includes providing a device having an expandable portion having an outer surface, a first electrode, and a second electrode, the first and second electrodes coupled to the outer surface of the expandable portion and configured to cause a contraction of a muscle in communication with the electrodes. The method further includes causing the expandable portion to inflate such that the first and second electrodes contact vaginal walls and causing a contraction of a muscle in communication with the electrode.

Abstract: The invention relates to a rectal stimulator device for the treatment of rectal, fecal and/or urinary incontinence. The device comprises a) an ovoid-shaped stimulator provided with a microcontroller and an electronic circuit for receiving treatment instructions, electrodes for transmitting electrical pulses to the pelvic floor musculature and instructions to the microcontroller, and a battery and b) a stimulator grip member.

Abstract: A system and method for treating anorectal dysfunction includes implanting, in a minimally invasive manner, an electro-medical device for stimulation of two or more separate and distinct anatomical or histological structures of the anorectal region. Electrodes operably connected to the device are positioned proximate the target anatomical or histological structures. The device provides either the same or different stimulation algorithms to each anatomical or histological structure. Smooth muscle, such as the internal anal sphincter, is provided with a continuous stimulation algorithm, while skeletal muscle, such as the external anal sphincter, is provided with an on demand stimulation algorithm. Varying stimulation algorithms applied to multiple structures results in improved anorectal function without developing muscle fatigue and tolerance.

Abstract: A device for stimulating nerves adjacent the vagina includes a nerve stimulating element coupled to a main body. The nerve stimulating element is positioned and designed to stimulate the vesical, Frankenhauser's and/or inferior hypogastric plexuses. The device may reside in the vaginal formices. An implant is also provided which has a nerve stimulating element in contact with a uterosacral ligament. The device positioned in the vagina may be used to charge a power source for an implant, which may be a capacitor.

Abstract: A device for stimulating nerves adjacent the vagina includes a nerve stimulating element coupled to a main body. The nerve stimulating element is positioned and designed to stimulate the vesical, Frankenhauser's and/or inferior hypogastric plexuses. The device may reside in the vaginal fornices. An implant is also provided which has a nerve stimulating element in contact with a uterosacral ligament.

Abstract: A stimulation device for creating a pleasurable sensation in a user is provided. The stimulation device includes an expandable portion configured to assume a plurality of states of expansion between minimum expansion and maximum expansion and a vibrating element extending away from the outer surface of the expandable portion.

Abstract: A device for stimulating nerves adjacent the vagina includes a nerve stimulating element coupled to a body. The nerve stimulating element is positioned to stimulate the vesical, Frankenhauser's and/or inferior hypogastric plexuses. The device may reside in the vaginal fornices.

Abstract: An electro-stimulation device for the treatment of anterior and posterior pelvic floor muscle dysfunction is reversibly compressible and is fully self-contained. The device requires no external power sources or control and may be inserted into the vagina or anus through the use of an applicator. In the compressed state the device may be of tampon proportions and after use may easily be removed. The device utilizes a compressible electrode component.

Abstract: A device for stimulating nerves adjacent the vagina includes a nerve stimulating element coupled to a body. The nerve stimulating element is positioned and designed to stimulate the vesical, Frankenhauser's and/or inferior hypogastric plexuses. The device may reside in the vaginal fornices.

Abstract: A stimulation electrode assembly comprises an elongated lead sized and configured to be implanted within an adipose tissue region. The lead includes an electrically conductive portion to apply electrical stimulation to nerve or muscle in the adipose tissue region and at least one expandable anchoring structure deployable from the lead to engage adipose tissue and resist dislodgment and/or migration of the electrically conductive portion within the adipose tissue region.

Abstract: A wearable neuromodulation device (1), configured for insertion into a pelvic orifice of the human body for treating urinary incontinence, faecal incontinence, muscle wastage, spasm and/or spasticity by applying electrical stimulation signals to pudendal nerves through the wall of the rectum or vagina, comprises at least one sensor, such as an electromyographic (EMG) sensor (11) or pressure sensor (12, 13), configured to detect conditions that indicate a requirement for stimulation. The device (1) is autonomous but may be arranged to communicate with an external device (28) comprising an alarm (33), to alert a user to their condition, and/or means (34) for allowing the user to control the stimulation applied by the device. Alternatively, or additionally, the device (1) may communicate with a computer (37) to store patient data for review by a medical professional and/or permit updating of device software.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating pelvic pain and related urinary and sexual dysfunction includes a rod having a first end and a second end. A pressure applicator is attached to the second end of the rod. The pressure applicator is adapted to be inserted into a patient's body cavity for engagement with a myofascial trigger point. A sensor produces an output signal in response to deflection of the rod when pressure is applied to the myofascial trigger point by the pressure applicator.

Abstract: Methods and related systems for treating patients suffering from several disorders including bladder dysfunction, erectile dysfunction, and bowel elimination disorders are disclosed and described. The method can include identification of the disorder followed by the step of accessing a pudendal nerve of the patient. A microelectrode array having a plurality of electrodes thereon is inserted into the pudendal nerve of the patient. A controller is electronically associated with the microelectrode array which is programmed to provide selective activation and/or blocking of various muscles using the microelectrodes of the array. The selective stimulation can be tuned to selectively activate or block at least one muscle selected from the group consisting of the external urethral sphincter, the detrusor muscle, the anal sphincter, and the cavernous smooth musculature of the penis.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention provide a system and method for treating insufficient uterine contractions after labor and delivery. The system includes a control module and a current source controlled by the control module to produce stimulating current at a frequency greater than or equal to about 5.0 Hertz. The system also includes one or more stimulation electrodes to provide the stimulating current to the patient in order for the patient to produce tonic uterine contractions.

Abstract: A device for sealing a cervical opening includes a support structure, and a seal coupled to the support structure, the seal having a surface for abutting against tissue next to the cervical opening, wherein the seal is tiltable relative to the support structure. A device for sealing a cervical opening includes a support structure, and a member coupled to the support structure, wherein the member is inflatable to create a seal for abutting against cervical tissue. A device for sealing a cervical opening includes a seal having a surface for contacting tissue next to the cervical opening, an opening formed on the surface of the seal, and a vacuum port, wherein the opening is in fluid communication with the vacuum port.

Abstract: Systems and methods for applying stimulating current to a patient for treating insufficient uterine contractions are provided. The system includes stimulation electrodes of a balloon electrode array device, a ring electrode array device, an electrode probe device, or a mesh electrode array device. Some aspects of the invention also provide a connector and cable device for coupling the stimulation electrodes to electronics for generating and providing the stimulating current to the stimulation electrodes.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in performing ablation or coagulation of organs and other tissue includes a metallized fabric electrode array which is substantially absorbent and/or permeable to moisture and gases such as steam and conformable to the body cavity. The array includes conductive regions separated by insulated regions arranged to produce ablation to a predetermined depth. Following placement of the ablation device into contact with the tissue to be ablated, an RF generator is used to deliver RF energy to the conductive regions and to thereby induce current flow from the electrodes to tissue to be ablated. As the current heats the tissue, moisture (such as steam or liquid) leaves the tissue causing the tissue to dehydrate. Suction may be applied to facilitate moisture removal. The moisture permeability and/or absorbency of the electrode carrying member allows the moisture to leave the ablation site so as to prevent the moisture from providing a path of conductivity for the current.