Abstract: An electrical stimulation treatment device includes a pair of application electrodes which are disposed at a site of the skin of a person to be treated where an electrical stimulation is to be given and which supply the electrical stimulation to the skin and a control unit which is connected electrically to the application electrodes to control a magnitude of a stimulation voltage which is supplied to the application electrodes, in which the control unit includes a calculation means for calculating a magnitude of the stimulation voltage which is to be output, depending on a first maximum stimulation voltage set for each person to be treated and an elapsed time or a stimulation frequency from the start of a stimulation session of a predetermined time, and an output means for outputting the stimulation voltage while increasing the voltage in a stepwise manner based on the calculation results of the calculation means.

Abstract: A power supply may provide a constant source of DC power through a first inductor-capacitor network, across a two-line conductor, and through a second inductor-capacitor network to a remote load. A modulator at the supply may modulate a carrier frequency with an information signal containing control data and may pass a modulated signal to the load via the conductor with the DC power. At the load, a demodulator may extract the control data, and operation of the load, such as a bank of LEDs subjected to dimming, may be modified based on the control data. The inductor-capacitor networks enable decoupling of the DC power and data for simple and low-cost implementations at comparatively low frequencies. In examples, the carrier frequency is at least 10 times the rate of the information signal yet below typical communication frequencies such as 525 KHz.

Abstract: A device providing treatment by radiofrequency field and electrotherapy to a patient comprises a control unit and an applicator comprising at least one radiofrequency electrode providing a radiofrequency field having a frequency in a range of 0.1 MHz to 25 GHz and an energy flux density in a range of 0.01 mW·mm?2 to 10 W·mm?2 configured to heat a body part of the patient, and at least one electrotherapy electrode providing an electric current causing contraction of a muscle of the body part of the patient, wherein the applicator is configured to be stationary during treatment and to be fixed in contact with a body of the patient. Additional devices providing treatment by radiofrequency field and electrotherapy to a patient and a method of treatment of a patient by radiofrequency and electrotherapy are also described.

Abstract: A multi-functional electrical stimulation (ES) system adapted to yield output signals for effecting faradic, electromagnetic, or other forms of electrical stimulation for a broad spectrum of different biological and bio-medical applications. The system includes and ES signal stage having a selector coupled to a plurality of different signal generators, each generator producing a signal having a distinct shape such as a sine, a square or sawtooth wave or a simple or complex pulse form, the parameters of which are adjustable in regard to amplitude, duration, repetition rate and other variables. The signal from the selected generator in the ES stage is fed to at least one output stage where it is processed to produce a high or low voltage or current output of a desired polarity whereby the output stage is capable of yielding an electrical stimulation signal appropriate for its intended application.

Abstract: Systems and methods for implementation of a disposable miniaturized implant for treatment of Post-Operative Ileums (POI), a miniaturized implant for treating chronic GI dysmotility (e.g., dysphagia, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), nausea, functional dyspepsia, blockage of transit, and gastroparesis, inflammatory bowel disease) and obesity, by providing electrical stimulation to the part of bowel going through surgery to expedite the healing process while recording the smooth muscle activities simultaneously, or providing stimulation on a treatment location of the GI tract or the branch of the vagus nerve. Systems and methods are also provided for non-invasive, transcutaneous stimulation of anatomy within the abdomen of the patient.

Abstract: Limited-number-of-use neuromodulator apparatuses that may be comfortably worn on the skin of a user to non-invasively apply transdermal electrical stimulation (TES). The apparatuses described herein may be include a flexible/bendable substrate and an elastomeric cover (e.g., formed of an elastomeric fabric). These apparatuses may be simplified, to run autonomously. These apparatuses may also include improved power management features.

Abstract: A stimulation apparatus for a patient may include an external system configured to transmit transmission signals and an implantable system configured to receive the transmission signals from the external system. The implantable system may include at least one implantable lead, a first implantable device for connecting to the implantable lead during a first time period, and a second implantable device for subsequently connecting to the implantable lead for a second time period.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for modulating a nerve of a patient by applying electrical stimulation to the nerve of the patient. The device includes a stimulation module that applies a signal to the nerve of the patient, and a controller that controls a signal to be applied to the stimulation module, wherein the signal to be applied to the stimulation module includes pulse bursts and a direct current (DC) waveform.

Abstract: Method for calibrating a nerve stimulation device comprising (a) providing the user with an initial stimulus at a sub-sensory level and obtaining feedback regarding whether the stimulus is felt; (b) if it is not felt, increasing the stimulation level by a first level variation and again obtaining feedback; (c) repeating the previous step until feeling the stimulus is reported; (d) reducing stimulus by the initial level variation; (e) repeating the process from the previously established level while using a second level variation is used which is smaller than the first level variation; (f) once stimulus feeling is reported, the level is again reduced by the second level variation; (g) this level, achieved after the second “crossing” of the threshold, can be used as the sensory threshold value; (h) additional calibration rounds can be conducted using ever-lower level variations for each subsequent round to more accurately the sensory threshold is determined.

Abstract: A transcutaneous neurostimulation therapy system can include an electrostimulation electronics unit, including first and second neurostimulation output which can be respectively coupled to first and second neurostimulation skin electrodes, and the electrostimulation electronics unit can include or be coupled to a rechargeable battery. The transcutaneous neurostimulation therapy system can also include battery charging circuitry configured for being coupled via the first and second neurostimulation output terminals to the electrostimulation electronics unit for charging the battery of the electrostimulation electronics unit through the first and second neurostimulation skin electrodes.

Abstract: A method for operating a wireless power transmission system includes providing a driving signal for driving a transmission antenna, the driving signal based, at least, on an operating frequency for the wireless power transmission system. The method includes receiving, by at least one transistor of an amplifier of the wireless power transmission system, the driving signal at a gate of the at least one transistor and inverting a direct current (DC) input power signal to generate an AC wireless signal at the operating frequency. The method includes receiving, at a damping transistor of a damping circuit, damping signals for switching the damping transistor to control signal damping during transmission or receipt of wireless data signals in-band of the AC wireless signal. The method includes selectively damping, by the damping circuit, the AC wireless signals, during transmission of the wireless data signals, based, at least in part, on the damping signals.

Abstract: A method for operating a wireless power transmission system includes providing a driving signal for driving a transmission antenna of the wireless power transmission system, the driving signal based, at least, on an operating frequency for the wireless power transmission system. The method further includes receiving, at a damping transistor of a damping circuit, damping signals for switching the damping transistor to one of an active mode and an inactive mode to control signal damping during transmission or receipt of wireless data signals. The method further includes selectively damping, by the damping circuit, the AC wireless signals, during transmission of the wireless data signals if the damping signals set the damping circuit to the active mode.

Abstract: A method for operating a wireless power transmission system includes providing, a driving signal for driving a transmission antenna. The method further includes receiving, by at least one transistor of an amplifier, the driving signal at a gate of the at least one transistor and inverting a direct current (DC) input power signal to generate an AC wireless signal. The method further includes determining an operating mode for signal damping during transmission or receipt of wireless data signals by selecting one of a switching mode and an activation mode for the operating mode and determining damping signals based on the operating mode. The damping signals are configured for switching the damping transistor to control signal damping during transmission or receipt of wireless data signals. The method further includes selectively damping, by the damping circuit, the AC wireless signals, during transmission of the wireless data signals based on the damping signals.

Abstract: A method for operating a wireless power transmission system includes providing, a driving signal for driving a transmission antenna. The method further includes receiving, by at least one transistor of an amplifier, the driving signal at a gate of the at least one transistor and inverting a direct current (DC) input power signal to generate an AC wireless signal. The method further includes determining an operating mode for signal damping during transmission or receipt of wireless data signals by selecting one of a switching mode and an activation mode for the operating mode and determining damping signals based on the operating mode. The damping signals are configured for switching the damping transistor to control signal damping during transmission or receipt of wireless data signals. The method further includes selectively damping, by the damping circuit, the AC wireless signals, during transmission of the wireless data signals based on the damping signals.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for increasing an amount of air and/or oxygen passing through an airway of an individual, reducing airway restrictions in an individual, increasing airway patency and/or maintaining airway patency in an individual, decreasing snoring, obstructive sleep apnea, or a combination thereof, in an individual. The method may comprise stimulating at least four regions of the individual's neck, where two of the at least four regions of the individual's neck are anterior triangle regions on opposing sides of the individual's midline, and another two of the at least four regions of the individual's neck are anterior triangle regions on opposing sides of the individual's midline, posterior to the two of the at least four regions. The present disclosure also discusses related devices and systems.

Abstract: In one aspect, a magnetic-field sensor includes main coil circuitry configured to generate a first magnetic-field signal at a first frequency; a first channel; a second channel; a subtractor circuit configured to subtract a second channel output signal from a first channel output signal to form a subtraction signal; an adder circuit configured to combine the first channel output signal and the second channel output signal to form a summation signal; processing circuitry configured to receive the summation signal and to provide a magnetic-field sensor output signal indicating a position of the target; feedback circuitry configured to receive the subtraction signal and to provide a first feedback signal to the processing circuitry, and a second feedback signal; and a secondary coil circuitry configured to receive the second feedback signal and to generate, based on the second feedback signal, a second magnetic-field signal to reduce the first magnetic-field signal received.

Abstract: A system for electrical brain stimulation including a plurality of electrodes arranged around the patient's brain (either directly or indirectly through layers of dura, skull or skin) such that axes connecting each electrode pair intersect at a predetermined focal point, and a ground-independent switching circuit configured to selectively activate and deactivate electrodes via a plurality of ground-independent switches. Electrodes are sequentially activated and deactivated.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and techniques are described for adjusting therapy parameters defining electrical stimulation therapy delivered by multiple electrodes while maintaining a ratio of a value of a therapy parameter between the multiple electrodes. In one example, a device defines a relationship for multiple electrodes that defines a ratio of a value of a therapy parameter between the multiple electrodes. The device performs a master adjustment that adjusts each value of the therapy parameter for each respective electrode of the multiple electrodes by an amount specified by the relationship to maintain the ratio of the value of the therapy parameter between the multiple electrodes. The device controls delivery of electrical stimulation therapy according to the master adjustment.

Abstract: The spreading of cancer cells in a target region can be inhibited by imposing a first AC electric field in the target region for a first interval of time, with a frequency and amplitude selected to disrupt mitosis of the cancer cells; and imposing a second AC electric field in the target region for a second interval of time, with a frequency and the amplitude selected to reduce motility of the cancer cells. The amplitude of the second AC electric field is lower than the amplitude of the first AC electric field.

Abstract: A device for controlling the functioning of a cardiac prosthesis, the device for controlling includes a control path, the control path having a control system designed and arranged to monitor and regulate the electrical supply of a cardiac prosthesis; a first insulating system designed and arranged to electrically insulate the cardiac prosthesis from the electrical supply; and a controller designed and arranged to monitor and regulate the electrical supply.

Abstract: An Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) or External Trial Stimulator (ETS) system is disclosed that is capable of sensing an Evoked Compound Action Potential (ECAP), and (perhaps in conjunction with an external device) is capable of adjusting a stimulation program while keeping a location of a Central Point of Stimulation (CPS) constant. Specifically, one or more features of measured ECAP(s) indicative of its shape and size are determined, and compared to thresholds or ranges to modify the electrode configuration of the stimulation program.

Abstract: A novel therapeutic biphasic or multiphasic pulse waveform and method are provided. The novel therapeutic biphasic or multiphasic pulse waveform may be used in a defibrillator, or in another medical device that delivers therapeutic electrical stimulation pulses to a patient.

Abstract: A novel therapeutic biphasic or multiphasic pulse waveform and method are provided. The novel therapeutic biphasic or multiphasic pulse waveform may be used in a defibrillator, or in another medical device that delivers therapeutic electrical stimulation pulses to a patient.

Abstract: The spreading of cancer cells in a target region can be inhibited by imposing a first AC electric field in the target region for a first interval of time, with a frequency and amplitude selected to disrupt mitosis of the cancer cells; and imposing a second AC electric field in the target region for a second interval of time, with a frequency and the amplitude selected to reduce motility of the cancer cells. The amplitude of the second AC electric field is lower than the amplitude of the first AC electric field.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed relating to the stimulating of tissue including nerve tissue based on combinations of capacitors and resistors. Application and removal of voltage to an electrical circuit is taught as part of a method of creating voltage waveforms for nerve and other tissue with such waveforms creating neural signals. The electrical circuits taught may, include a first electrical node grounded through a first resistor; a second electrical node grounded through a second resistor; a first capacitor connected to both the first electrical node and the second electrical node; a second capacitor separating the second electrical node from a biological grounding point and direct current sources connected to the two nodes.

Abstract: A method of delivering pulsed electrical energy to a target tissue region includes delivering a first therapeutic pulse, the delivering of the first therapeutic pulse includes delivering a first pulse for a first time period, the first pulse having a first voltage amplitude. A second pulse is delivered immediately after the first pulse for a second time period, the second pulse having a second voltage amplitude configured to electroporate the target tissue region, the second time period being less than the first time period. A third pulse is delivered without delay after the second pulse for a third time period, the third pulse having a third voltage amplitude being at least one from the group consisting of substantially the same as the first amplitude, larger than the first amplitude, and less than the first amplitude.

Abstract: An example of a system for programming a neurostimulator may include a storage device and a user interface. The storage device may be configured to store waveform building blocks. The user interface may include a display screen, a user input device, and an interface control circuit. The interface control circuit may include a waveform composer configured to allow for composition of one of more building blocks and composition of a pattern of neurostimulation pulses using selected one or more waveform building blocks. The waveform composer may include a library controller and waveform building block editors. The library controller may be configured to display a library management area on the screen. The displayed library management area allows a user to manage the stored waveform building blocks. The waveform building block editors may each be configured to allow the user to compose a type of the waveform building blocks.

Abstract: A system and method are provided to deliver interleaved stimulation to nerve tissue of interest. The system and method comprises an array of stimulation electrodes. The array is configured to be implanted proximate to nerve tissue of interest. An implantable medical device (IMD) is coupled to the array. The IMD includes memory storing a composite resultant pulse (CRP) sequence comprising first and second component sequences of first and second resultant pulse trains, respectively. One or more pulses from at least one of the first or second component sequences are temporally shifted relative to a corresponding target component sequence. The IMD further comprises a pulse generating circuit and switching circuit coupled to an output of the pulse generating circuit and the array. The switching circuit is configured to connect the pulse generating circuit to different combinations of the electrodes.

Abstract: A neuromodulation system and method of providing sub-threshold therapy to a patient. An anodic perception threshold of super-threshold electrical energy and a cathodic perception threshold of super-threshold electrical energy are determined for a plurality of electrode sets. A ratio between the anodic perception threshold and the cathodic perception threshold is calculated for each of the electrode sets. An effective electrode set is selected based on the ratio between the anodic perception threshold and the cathodic perception threshold.

Abstract: A method for treating a disorder of a patient. The method comprises transcutaneously delivering electrical energy to a targeted tissue site at a frequency of at least 50 KHz, thereby treating the disorder.

Abstract: A method, device and/or system for generating arbitrary waveforms of a desired shape that can be used for generating a stimulation pulse for medical purposes such as for spinal cord stimulation therapy, including the option of using such arbitrary waveforms for charge balancing purposes.

Abstract: A dynamic support system includes a control system for controlling inflation and deflation of at least one actuator having an inlet connectable to the a control unit of the dynamic support system. The control unit may be in communication with a sensor and may control inflation and deflation of the at least one actuator in response to information provided by the sensor.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are disclosed for treating a spinal disorder by applying a source of direct current to a spinal cord in animals, including humans. Trans-spinal direct current stimulation (tsDCS) uses direct current via cathodal and/or anodal stimulation to induce cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and/or cell migration at or near the area of the spinal cord being treated, and up-regulates or down-regulates protein expression by cells at or near the area of the spinal cord being treated.

Abstract: In some examples, a method may include delivering an electrical stimulation therapy to a patient, the electrical stimulation therapy comprising a first electrical stimulation pulse delivered to the patient via a first electrode and a second electrical stimulation pulse delivered to the patient via a second electrode, wherein the first electrical stimulation pulse and second electrical stimulation pulse are delivered as paired pulses with respect to each other and a combination of the first electrical stimulation pulse and the second electrical stimulation pulse evoke a compound action potential within the patient; sensing the compound action potential evoked by the combination of the first electrical stimulation pulse and the second electrical stimulation pulse; and adjusting one or more parameters of the electrical stimulation therapy based on the sensed compound action potential.

Abstract: Methods for systematically testing a plurality of therapy programs in a spinal cord modulation system, and associated systems are disclosed. A representative method comprises loading a plurality of therapy programs into a signal generator, wherein individual therapy programs include parameters specifying electrode configuration, signal amplitude, and/or signal frequency. The programs are automatically activated for an automatically instructed period of time. The method includes automatically changing from one therapy program to another after the instructed period of time. The patient is queried for patient input corresponding to the therapy programs. The patient input is received via a remote. The patient input is correlated with a corresponding time of day and recorded in the signal generator. Thereafter, the patient input is retrieved from the signal generator.

Abstract: Modulation of target effector organs in vertebrate beings using direct current stimulation for stimulation of spinal cord at regions of autonomic innervation, using direct current for peripheral nerve stimulation, by modulating central autonomic outflow and combinations thereof.

Abstract: A method for controlling a position of a patient's tongue includes attaching at least one electrode to the patient's hypoglossal nerve, applying an electric signal through the electrode to the hypoglossal nerve to stimulate at least one muscle of the tongue at least until the number of obstructive sleep apnea occurrences are reduced from an initial level to a treatment level, and reducing the application of the electric signal while the number of obstructive sleep apnea occurrences remain generally at or below the treatment level.

Abstract: A medical stimulation device such as a cochlear implant configured to provide stimulation of one or more spatially-restricted contiguous portion(s) of the spiral array of auditory nerve fibers in the cochlear (“discrete stimulation regions”). Each discrete stimulation region is defined by the constructive and/or destructive interference of stimulating and limiting signals simultaneously applied to electrode channels of an implanted electrode array, the stimulating and limiting signals being determined based upon transimpedance measurements of intracochlear electrode channels of the implanted electrode array representing specific spread functions of an individual recipient. The stimulating signal is preferably applied through a targeted electrode channel; that is, one or more successive electrodes which is/are adjacent to the discrete stimulation region.

Abstract: Neurostimulation systems and methods for providing therapy to a patient suffering from a symptom of a disease that latently responds to electrical stimulation therapy are provided. First electrical stimulation energy is conveyed to or from a tissue region of the patient in accordance with a first set of stimulation parameters, thereby affecting the symptom. A predetermined period of time estimated for the symptom to resolve in response to electrical stimulation therapy is allowed to elapse. Second electrical stimulation energy is conveyed to or from the tissue region in accordance with a second set of stimulation parameters different from the first set of stimulation parameters.

Abstract: A method for controlling a position of a patient's tongue includes attaching at least one electrode to the patient's hypoglossal nerve, applying an electric signal through the electrode to the hypoglossal nerve to stimulate at least one muscle of the tongue at least until the number of obstructive sleep apnea occurrences are reduced from an initial level to a treatment level, and reducing the application of the electric signal while the number of obstructive sleep apnea occurrences remain generally at or below the treatment level.

Abstract: An external control device for use with a neurostimulator coupled to electrodes. The external control device comprises a user interface configured for receiving input from a user, and including a display screen configured for displaying graphical representations of the electrodes. The external control device further comprises a controller/processor configured for, in response to the input from the user, linking a subset of the electrodes together, and globally assigning at least one of the same stimulation amplitude value and same on/off state to each of the electrodes. The controller/processor may also be configured for, in response to the input from the user, assigning at least one stimulation parameter value to one of the electrodes, copying/cutting the at least one stimulation parameter value from the one electrode, and pasting the at least one stimulation parameter value to the other electrode and modifying current values of other electrodes to maintain 100% current.

Abstract: A therapeutic micro-current delivery device includes a first electrode in electrical contact with a user at a first user location, a second electrode in electrical contact with the user at a second user location, a power source operable to provide a first voltage potential at the first electrode and a second voltage potential at the second electrode, and a micro-current control circuit in electrical communication with the first electrode, second electrode and power source. Electrical contact of the first electrode at the first user location and electrical contact of the second electrode at the second user location completes an electrical circuit. The micro-current control circuit generates a micro-current Iramped through a user between the first location and the second location that increases from a start current Istart to an end current Iend over a rise time trise. Oral care devices and micro-current control methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A hybrid method is provided for modulating upper airway function in a subject. The method includes applying first and second therapy signals to the subject to modulate at least one extrinsic laryngeal muscle and at least one intrinsic laryngeal muscle to synergistically control laryngeal motion and vocal fold movement, respectively.

Abstract: The present disclosure involves a method of generating different stimulation waveforms as a part of sacral nerve stimulation therapy. A first stimulation waveform having a first stimulation waveform characteristic is generated. The first stimulation waveform is delivered to a first body part of a patient at least in part via a first channel. A second stimulation waveform having a second stimulation waveform characteristic is generated. The second stimulation waveform characteristic is different from the first stimulation waveform characteristic. The second stimulation waveform is delivered to a second body part of the patient at least in part via a second channel that is separate and independent from the first channel. The first body part and second body part correspond to different organs or different types of nerves.

Abstract: A method for controlling a position of a patient's tongue includes attaching at least one electrode to the patient's Hypoglossal nerve and applying an electric signal through the electrode to at least one targeted motor efferent located within the Hypoglossal nerve to stimulate at least one muscle of the tongue. Methods may also include the use of more than one contact to target more than one motor efferent and stimulating more than one muscle. The stimulation load to maintain the position of the tongue may be shared by each muscle. The position of the patient's tongue may be controlled in order to prevent obstructive sleep apnea.

Abstract: A therapeutic neurostimulation system configured for providing therapy to a patient. The neurostimulation system comprises a neurostimulation lead having an array of electrodes arranged along a longitudinal axis configured for being implanted along a spinal cord of a patient, a neurostimulation device configured for delivering electrical stimulation energy to active ones of the electrode array, and control/processing circuitry for instructing the neurostimulation device to configure an active electrode as a cathode, and two active electrodes longitudinally flanking and laterally offset from the cathode as anodes, selecting a ratio of stimulation amplitude values for the two anodes based on a known longitudinal location of the implanted neurostimulation lead relative to the spinal cord, and instructing the neurostimulation device to distribute the electrical stimulation energy between the two anodes in accordance with the selected stimulation amplitude value ratio.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to detect anomalies in the conductors of leads attached to implantable medical devices based on the dynamical electrical changes these anomalies cause. In one embodiment, impedance is measured for weak input signals of different applied frequencies, and a conductor anomaly is detected based on differences in impedance measured at different frequencies. In another embodiment, a transient input signal is applied to the conductor, and an anomaly is identified based on parameters related to the time course of the voltage or current response, which is altered by anomaly-related changes in capacitance and inductance, even if resistance is unchanged. The method may be implemented in the implantable medical device or in a programmer used for testing leads.

Abstract: Medical system lead adapters distribute stimulation signals from a port of a medical device to both a primary medical lead and a secondary medical lead. The lead adapters provide for the selectable bridging of secondary lead contacts to thereby provide for customized stimulation patterns. The lead adapters may include a primary lead connector, a secondary lead connector, and a pin connector. A pin is selected to provide a particular stimulation pattern for the secondary lead and is inserted into the pin connector to thereby bridge together contacts of the pin connector that are also connected to contacts of the secondary lead connector.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of stimulating an excitable tissue (e.g., in vitro, in vivo) with a primary electrical stimulus through a primary electrode at a primary stimulation frequency, to produce a propagating action potential in the excitable tissue. The invention is carried out by concurrently stimulating the excitable tissue with a secondary electrical stimulus through at least one secondary electrode at a secondary stimulation frequency. The primary and secondary stimulation frequencies are preferably different from one another. The secondary electrical stimulus preferably has an amplitude not more than one third that of the primary electrical stimulus. Preferably, propagation of the action potential in the excitable tissue is enhanced (e.g., when propagation of action potentials in the tissue is otherwise unstable, partially blocked, or fully blocked). Apparatus for carrying out the method is also described.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for stimulating tissue employing local current imbalance to facilitate more effective stimulation regimens.