Abstract: A method and apparatus for transdermal drug delivery to be provided to a patient's skin, includes performing a dermabrasion treatment of the patient's skin so as to lower a skin impedance to below a first value. It also includes providing at least one burst of electrical pulses to the patient's skin that has been dermabrasion treated, wherein each pulses in the at least one burst of electrical pulses is stabilized with respect to a current amount.

Abstract: Techniques are provided for generating plateau-shaped cardioversion shocks having reduced lead edge voltages. The reduced leading edge voltages are provided primarily to reduce the likelihood that any cardiac pain receptors will fire twice during a single cardioversion shock. Other techniques described herein relate to the generation of plateau-shaped shocks without reduced leading edge voltages. Still other techniques pertain to the generation of pre-pulse pain inhibition (PPI) pulses, particularly PPI pulses having chevron-shaped waveforms.

Abstract: A treatment method and device for promoting a localized increase in the flow of blood through a blood vessel in an area of the body, the method including the steps of: (a) providing a system including: (i) at least a first electrode operatively contacting a first portion of body tissue; (ii) at least a second electrode operatively contacting a second portion of body tissue; and (iii) a signal generator, operatively connected to the first electrode and the second electrode, for providing a plurality of electrical impulses to the electrodes; (b) applying the electrical impulses so as to subject the muscular tissue to at least one voltage differential, thereby inducing repeated, contracting, directional movement of muscular tissue associated within the blood vessel, so as to produce a localized increase in the flow of blood through the blood vessel.

Abstract: A treatment method and device for promoting a localized increase in the flow of blood through a blood vessel in an area of the body, the method including the steps of: (a) providing a system including: (i) at least a first electrode operatively contacting a first portion of body tissue; (ii) at least a second electrode operatively contacting a second portion of body tissue; and (iii) a signal generator, operatively connected to the first electrode and the second electrode, for providing a plurality of electrical impulses to the electrodes; (b) applying the electrical impulses so as to subject the muscular tissue to at least one voltage differential, thereby inducing repeated, contracting, directional movement of muscular tissue associated within the blood vessel, so as to produce a localized increase in the flow of blood through the blood vessel.

Abstract: A treatment method and device for promoting a localized increase in the flow of blood through a blood vessel in an area of the body, the method including the steps of: (a) providing a system including: (i) at least a first electrode operatively contacting a first portion of body tissue; (ii) at least a second electrode operatively contacting a second portion of body tissue; and (iii) a signal generator, operatively connected to the first electrode and the second electrode, for providing a plurality of electrical impulses to the electrodes; (b) applying the electrical impulses so as to subject the muscular tissue to at least one voltage differential, thereby inducing repeated, contracting, directional movement of muscular tissue associated within the blood vessel, so as to produce a localized increase in the flow of blood through the blood vessel.

Abstract: A method and neurostimulation system of providing therapy to a patient is provided. At least one electrode is place in contact with tissue of a patient. A sub-threshold, hyperpolarizing, conditioning pre-pulse (e.g., an anodic pulse) is conveyed from the electrode(s) to render a first region of the tissue (e.g., dorsal root fibers) less excitable to stimulation, and a depolarizing stimulation pulse (e.g., a cathodic pulse) is conveyed from the electrode(s) to stimulate a second different region of the tissue (e.g., dorsal column fibers). The conditioning pre-pulse has a relatively short duration (e.g., less than 200 ?s).

Abstract: An output circuit for use in an implantable cardiac defibrillation provides an output pulse having a waveform of virtually any desired shape. The device includes a sensing circuit that senses cardiac activity. An arrhythmia detector detects fibrillation responsive to the cardiac activity signal. The device further includes an output circuit that provides a stimulation output pulse when the arrhythmia detector detects a cardiac arrhythmia. The output circuit includes an H-bridge having a pair of switching devices which control the output pulse waveform with pulse-width modulation and a second pair of switching devices that control the output pulse polarity.

Abstract: A micro dermal tone skin stimulator system (2) that uses sale, painless, low-level electrical impulses to “reprogram” muscles to assure nearly original muscle shape and to support skin tissues with healthier blood circulation and more youthful firmness. The system comprises a portable hand-held unit with fully-integrated components, including a housing (22), battery pack, an internal circuit board, and an integrated pair of spherical toning probes (24A & 24B) for delivering stimulation to the skin. The circuit board generates a positive low-voltage square wave with 60 ms pulse duration for five cycles, then a negative square wave for five cycles, which repeats, delivering an adjustable 0 to 400 micro-amps output (adjustable by potentiometer).

Abstract: A device for in vivo electroporation therapy comprising an electrode applicator with at least two pairs of electrodes arranged relative to one another to form an array and a power supply. The device is used to generate an electric field in a biological sample and effect introduction of selected molecules into cells of the sample.

Abstract: Systems and methods for blocking nerve impulses use an implanted electrode located on or around a nerve. A specific waveform is used that causes the nerve membrane to become incapable of transmitting an action potential. The membrane is only affected underneath the electrode, and the effect is immediately and completely reversible. The waveform has a low amplitude and can be charge balanced, with a high likelihood of being safe to the nerve for chronic conditions. It is possible to selectively block larger (motor) nerve fibers within a mixed nerve, while allowing sensory information to travel through unaffected nerve fibers.

Abstract: An electrotherapeutic device for simultaneously generating positive, negative, or multiple polarities. The device includes a power source section and pulse generating sections for inputting prescribed high-voltage oscillating frequency signals to bipolar output sections. The bipolar output section can select poles according to a switching operation after amplifying and waveform-shaping the signals emitted from the pulse generating sections. Also, the device includes an operating time controlling section with alarm function. Thus, the bipolar electrotherapeutic device pulses currents of positive(+) and negative(?) poles or multiple poles(+, ?, +, ?, +) without short circuiting to allow for safe use in seeking abnormal areas in a human body to control and remove accumulated anions and cations.

Abstract: An electronic acupressure aide and stimulating device implemented using a hand-held or palm-held electronic computing device or another computing device which may be a designated unit. The electronic acupressure aide and stimulating device allows a practitioner to apply a pulse sequence to a set of predetermined acu-points such as those related to acupressure, acupuncture, trigger points or Jin-Shin Jyutsu, to name a few. A displayed chart related to the acu-points identifies the health condition and the pulse sequence.

Abstract: A method of producing percutaneous electrode array is disclosed for applying therapeutic electrical energy to a treatment site in the body of a patient. The array comprises a plurality of electrode microstructures which are inserted into the epidermis, thereby overcoming the inherent electrical impedance of the outer skin layers and obviating the need to prepare the skin surface prior to an electro-therapy treatment. The array preferably includes an adhesion layer to help keep the electrode microstructures inserted into the epidermis during the duration of the therapeutic treatment, and temperature and condition monitoring devices to ensure proper treatment and enhance patient safety.

Abstract: Electrobiological stimulation is carried out transcranially by applying high frequency squarewave bursts exhibiting no d.c. term across the cranial region. Such stimulation is commenced employing ramp generators and positive and negative voltage converters which evolve the requisite baseform and burst frequencies having a voltage waveform which is square in nature. Both voltage and current are sensed and subjected to comparator logic in conjunction with predetermined thresholds and windows. Overcurrent detection and overvoltage detection is provided in hard wired fashion to assure rapid shutdown response. D.C offset detection is provided along with waveform balance tests to further assure the safety of the system. Diagnostic procedures as well as therapeutic procedures may be carried out with a system version which provides for the application of a stimulus in conjunction with safety monitoring and controller based development of stimulating waveforms, all of which exhibits no d.c. term.

Abstract: A leakage detection system for use in an implantable cardiac stimulation device, such as a cardioverter defibrillator. The leakage detection system includes a switch bank and a controller that regulates the switching arrangements of various switches. The leakage detection system causes pulse generators to generate a pulse-train waveform comprised of a sequence of pulses of opposite polarities, and to deliver these pulses in a preselected temporal relation. The controller detects the current leakage from the pulse generator to the tissues by sensing and analyzing the voltage or current of the pulse generator, leads, and electrodes. The pulsatility and alternating polarities of biphasic pulse-train waveforms increase the stimulation threshold of the motor or sensory nerves and excitable tissues.

Abstract: A percutaneous electrode array is disclosed for applying therapeutic electrical energy to a treatment site in the body of a patient. The array comprises a plurality of electrode microstructures which are inserted into the epidermis, thereby overcoming the inherent electrical impedance of the outer skin layers and obviating the need to prepare the skin surface prior to an electro-therapy treatment. The array preferably includes an adhesion layer to help keep the electrode microstructures inserted into the epidermis during the duration of the therapeutic treatment, and temperature and condition monitoring devices to ensure proper treatment and enhance patient safety.

Abstract: A method and system for selective inhibition of somatic nerve fibers in a mixed nerve containing both somatic and autonomic nerve fibers where the method finds use in treatment of chronic pain, spastic muscles and for sensory and motor control of a bladder. The methods and systems utilize alternate phase rectangular electrical pulses. An electrical pulse generator is coupled to a nerve. An alternate phase high frequency, low amplitude pulse is first applied to selectively inhibit somatic nerves when present in a mixed nerve. An alternate phase low frequency, high amplitude phase pulse subsequently supplied to stimulate the autonomic nerve fibers and in the case of the sacral root will permit a controlled voiding of the bladder and bowel.

Abstract: Increased myocardial voltage is achieved by configuring a shocking circuit of an ICD to generate a defibrillation pulse waveform having a positive phase with three distinct voltage peaks. The shocking circuit employs three capacitors along with switching circuitry for selectively discharging the capacitors so as to generate the defibrillation pulse waveform. More specifically, the switching circuitry generates a first step of the pulse waveform by discharging the capacitors while connected in parallel, then generates a second step of the pulse waveform by discharging the capacitors while the two of the three capacitors are connected in parallel and the third is connected in series, and finally generates a third step of the pulse waveform by discharging the capacitors while connected in series.

Abstract: A pulse generating apparatus has two like output channels that apply generated pulse signals of selected characteristics to two electrodes attached to a strap, each electrode receiving a different signal. The strap is attached to the foot so that the electrodes are positioned to stimulate with an electrical signal the abductor hallucis muscle of the foot to correct an imbalance due to overpowering by the adductor hallucis muscle. The signal strengthens the abductor hallucis muscle so that eventually it regains strength sufficient to counter balance the imbalance effect of the stronger adductor hallucis muscle and alleviate the bunion condition. The electrical signal generator generates signals that are pulses that are adjustable in frequency, modulation, pulse width and amplitude with modified square waves.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing therapeutic electric current to a treatment site of a patient is disclosed, which provides two oscillating or pulsing electric alternating currents, of frequencies which differ from each other by as little as 1 Hz and up to about 250 Hz, but each being of frequency at least about 1 KHz. The apparatus requires only one feed electrode adapted to feed the electric currents to selected feed sites on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, and only one return electrode adapted to be positioned on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, locally to the treatment site. The apparatus includes a feedback subsystem to detect impedance changes in the patient and accordingly adjust the output of the apparatus.

Abstract: A method of treating shoulder dysfunction involves the use of a percutaneous, intramuscular stimulation system. A plurality of intramuscular stimulation electrodes are implanted directly into select shoulder muscles of a patient who has suffered a disruption of the central nervous system such as a stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or cerebral palsy. An external microprocessor based multi-channel stimulation pulse train generator is used for generating select electrical stimulation pulse train signals. A plurality of insulated electrode leads percutaneously, electrically interconnect the plurality of intramuscular stimulation electrodes to the external stimulation pulse train generator, respectively. Stimulation pulse train parameters for each of the stimulation pulse train output channels are selected independently of the other channels. The shoulder is evaluated for subluxation in more than one dimension.

Abstract: An implantable electrical method and apparatus for the treatment of cancer tumors based on the usage of various levels of electrical fields and current to assist in specific ways to reduce tumor size. The appropriate voltage, currents, and time duration as well as the usage of adjunctive pharmacological therapy are taught.

Abstract: Apparatus and methodology are disclosed, which impose an electric current signal of reversing polarity between electrodes through viral-laden tissue.

Abstract: A shocking circuit is provided for use in an ICD for generating rounded multi-step defibrillation shocking pulse waveforms having reduced voltage peaks to minimize pain within a patient receiving the shocking pulse. The shocking circuit includes a set of capacitors, a resistive-capacitive (RC) filter, and low pain waveform control unit for selectively discharging the capacitors through the RC filter to generate the rounded pulse waveform. In one example, a pair capacitors are provided for generating a two-step pulse. The low pain waveform control unit initially discharges the capacitors in parallel to generate a first step of the pulse waveform while periodically shunting a portion of charge through the RC filter to reduce peak voltage. The low pain waveform control unit then discharges the capacitors in series to generate a second step of the pulse waveform while also periodically shunting a portion of charge through the RC filter to reduce peak voltage.

Abstract: An electro-therapy apparatus and method for providing therapeutic electric current to a treatment site of a patient, having means for providing two oscillating or pulsing electric alternating currents, of frequencies which differ from each other by as little as 1 Hz and up to about 250 Hz, but each being of frequency at least about 1 KHz. The apparatus and method requires only one feed electrode adapted to feed the electric currents to selected feed sites on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, and only one return electrode adapted to be positioned on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, locally to the treatment site. The apparatus includes a feedback subsystem to detect impedance changes in the patient and accordingly adjust the output of the apparatus.

Abstract: Systems and methods for blocking nerve impulses use an implanted electrode located on or around a nerve. A specific waveform is used that causes the nerve membrane to become incapable of transmitting an action potential. The membrane is only affected underneath the electrode, and the effect is immediately and completely reversible. The waveform has a low amplitude and can be charge balanced, with a high likelihood of being safe to the nerve for chronic conditions. It is possible to selectively block larger (motor) nerve fibers within a mixed nerve, while allowing sensory information to travel through unaffected nerve fibers.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for non-invasive treatment in lieu of cosmetic surgery is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a combination of a high and low voltage pulse generators connected to two or more electrodes placed on a treatment site of the patient's body. High voltage pulses, delivered to the electrodes, create an electric field that kills subcutaneous fat cells. Low voltage pulses, delivered to the same or individual electrodes provide transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), blocking the signals of discomfort or pain that may arise from the high voltage pulsing.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for treating viral infections delivers electrical stimulation to the skin or mucosa of a patient. The electrical stimulation is applied as a series of electrical pulses having different electrical characteristics. The apparatus may include a housing having at least two electrodes supplied with both AC and DC voltage, and powered by a battery. The electrodes are designed so as to maximize contact with the patient.

Abstract: An apparatus relating to a human-body potential controlling electrotherapeutic device is disclosed herein. The device includes a power source section and pulse generating sections for inputting prescribed high-voltage oscillating frequency signals to bipolar output sections. The bipolar output section can select poles according to a switching operation after amplifying and waveform-shaping the signals emitted from the pulse generating sections. Also, the device includes an operating time controlling section with alarm function. Thus, the bipolar electrotherapeutic device pulses currents of positive(+) and negative(−) poles or multiple poles(+, −, +, −, +) without short circuiting to allow for safe use in seeking abnormal areas in a human body to control and remove accumulated anions and cations.

Abstract: A circuit for generating a sign-correlated simultaneous pulsatile stimulation. The circuit includes a plurality of circuit paths coupled in parallel between a voltage rail and ground. Each circuit path includes an electrode coupled to the voltage rail via a first current source and to the ground via a second current source, the first current source and the second current source having opposite sign. A remote ground electrode is coupled to the voltage rail via a first switch and to the ground via a second switch. The stimulation is achieved by activating all current sources of the same sign and switching the remote ground electrode to create current in the remote ground electrode equal to the sum of all single electrode currents.

Abstract: An electrical stimulation apparatus and method for providing electrical stimulation to tissue. The electrical stimulation apparatus includes a base unit and an electrode module. The base unit is configured to be hand portable and contains a first electrical circuit and a first battery for supplying electrical energy to the first electrical circuit. A second electrical circuit and a second battery provide a time/date function. The base unit supports an LCD to provide a visual indication of the various functions of the electrical stimulation apparatus. The electrode module is programmable to enable the prescribing physician to set the treatment protocol for the electrical stimulation apparatus. The present apparatus is particularly well suited for the treatment of herpes simplex and herpes zoster.

Abstract: An electro-therapy apparatus and method for providing therapeutic electric current to a treatment site of a patient, having means for providing two oscillating or pulsing electric alternating currents, of frequencies which differ from each other by as little as 1 Hz and up to about 250 Hz, but each being of frequency at least about 1 KHz. The apparatus and method requires only one feed electrode adapted to feed the electric currents to selected feed sites on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, and only one return electrode adapted to be positioned on or beneath the epidermal or mucous surface of the patient, locally to the treatment site. The apparatus includes a feedback subsystem to detect impedance changes in the patient and accordingly adjust the output of the apparatus.

Abstract: A method of activating at least two electrodes in a multichannel electrode array using channel specific sampling sequences is presented. A channel specific sampling sequence is defined for each electrode, the sequence having a particular duration, pulse amplitude distribution, and number of pulses. A weighting factor is applied to the channel specific sampling sequence. Each electrode in the multichannel electrode array is then simultaneously activated using sign-correlated pulses, the sign-correlated pulses based on parameters of spatial channel interaction reflecting geometric overlapping of electrical fields from each electrode, non-linear compression, and each electrode's weighted channel specific sampling sequence.

Abstract: Asymmetric charge-balanced stimulation waveforms are defined and used for CNS stimulation with selective stimulation of either neuronal cell bodies or axon fibers of passage in favor of the other. A pre-pulse is followed by an opposite polarity stimulation pulse, with the pre-pulse being relatively low-amplitude and long-duration as compared to the stimulation pulse. The pre-pulse and stimulation pulse are charge-balanced to prevent tissue damage and electrode corrosion. The polarity of the pre-pulse and stimulation pulse control the selectivity of stimulation with respect to neuronal cell bodies versus axon fibers of passage. The waveform used in the stimulation method optionally includes a zero-amplitude phase having a duration of 0 to 500 microseconds.

Abstract: A process for treating a biological or synthetic object subjected to an electrical field in a surrounding liquid medium for a predetermined pulse time (t1), the electrical field being formed by at least two electrodes including actuating at least once during the pulse time (t1) each of the electrodes as an anode and as a cathode, to cause at each electrode a polarity reversal and alternating electrolytic increases and reductions in pH of at least a portion of the liquid medium, subjecting the object during the pulse time (t1) to a number of electrical partial pulses which have a frequency in the range of 1 kHz to 1 MHz and which possess partial pulse durations, with sequentially reversing polarity or field direction such that the partial pulses possess sequentially varying partial pulse durations (t11, t12), pulse forms, and/or pulse amplitudes, and selecting the partial pulse durations (t11, t12), pulse forms, and/or pulse amplitudes such that, due to the electrolytic increases and reductions in pH value, su

Abstract: The characteristics of a full-tilt exponential waveform are developed through use of a charge burping model or through use of a transthoracic cell response model. These characteristics are implemented within a pulse delivery circuit, which itself is implemented within an internal defibrillator or within an external defibrillator. The pulse delivery circuit includes at least one switch which starts and stops the delivery of the defibrillation pulse. Delivery of the defibrillation pulse is started by the switch when there is sufficient stored energy to deliver a desired pulse. Delivery of the defibrillation pulse is stopped by the switch when the current flowing through the switch is substantially zero and the exponential waveform of the pulse is substantially fully decayed.

Abstract: A living body stimulating apparatus for obtaining extensive therapeutic effects as well as soft feel of stimulation. Rectangular wave pulses output at a preset recurring frequency are subjected to pulse width modulation. Thus, the recurrence of a rectangular wave pulse group (S) which includes a plurality of higher frequency signal components than the rectangular wave pulses is imparted to a human body through electrodes (24). As a human body has a capacitive property, the higher frequency the signal component has, the lower impedance it will result in. As a result, the waveform of the rectangular wave pulse group (S) is distorted as a whole, thus providing softer feel of stimulation as compared with rectangular wave pulses of the same current and frequency. In addition, due to the higher frequency signals components being included, more extensive therapeutic effects can be expected.

Abstract: Electrobiological stimulation is carried out transcranially by applying high frequency squarewave bursts exhibiting no d.c. term across the cranial region. Such stimulation is commenced employing ramp generators and positive and negative voltage converters which evolve the requisite baseform and burst frequencies having a voltage waveform which is square in nature. Both voltage and current are sensed and subjected to comparator logic in conjunction with predetermined thresholds and windows. Overcurrent detection and overvoltage detection is provided in hard wired fashion to assure rapid shutdown response. D.C offset detection is provided along with waveform balance tests to further assure the safety of the system. Diagnostic procedures as well as therapeutic procedures may be carried out with a system version which provides for the application of a stimulus in conjunction with safety monitoring and controller based development of stimulating waveforms, all of which exhibits no d.c. term.

Abstract: In an ICD, a highly efficient biphasic defibrillation pulse is generated by switching at least two charged capacitors from a parallel connection to various combinations of a parallel/series connection or a series connection during the first phase of the defibrillation pulse. Such mid-stream parallel/series connection changes of the capacitors and steps up the voltage applied to the cardiac tissue during the first phase. A stepped-up voltage during the first phase, in turn, gives an extra boost to, and thereby forces additional charge (current) into, the cardiac tissue cells, and thereby transfers more charge to the membrane of the excitable cardiac cell than if the capacitors were continuously discharged in series. Phase reversal is timed with the cell membrane reaching its maximum value at the end of the first phase.

Abstract: A non-invasive method for the treatment of sores having substantially zero electrical activity, including the steps of: (a) situating a pair of spaced-apart electrodes in contact with healthy tissue on opposite sides of an area containing cells to be treated, and (b) externally inducing a percutaneous flow of electrical current between said electrodes through said area by establishing an external bipolar voltage wave form across said electrodes at a frequency of between 2 Hz and 10 Hz. Preferably, at least one of the positive and negative voltage half cycles contains at least two peaks. The treatment method is particularly appropriate for bedsores.

Abstract: A non-invasive method for the treatment of sores having substantially zero electrical activity, including the steps of: (a) situating a pair of spaced-apart electrodes in contact with healthy tissue on opposite sides of an area containing cells to be treated, (b) externally inducing and maintaining a percutaneous flow of electrical current between the electrodes through the area by establishing an external voltage wave form across the electrodes, (c) monitoring the area for independent electrical activity, wherein the sores are sores having substantially zero electrical activity, and (d) if the independent electrical activity is not sustained: reapplying step (b). The treatment method is particularly appropriate for bedsores.

Abstract: Augmentation of electrical conduction and contractility by biphasic stimulation of muscle tissue. A first stimulation phase has a first phase polarity, amplitude, and duration. The first stimulation phase, which acts as a conditioning mechanism, is administered at no more than a maximum subthreshold amplitude. A second stimulation phase has a second polarity, amplitude, and duration. The two phases are applied sequentially. Contrary to current thought, anodal stimulation is applied as the first stimulation phase, followed by cathodal stimulation as the second stimulation phase. In this fashion, pulse conduction through muscle is improved, together with an increase in contractibility. Furthermore, this mode of biphasic stimulation reduces the electrical energy required to elicit contraction. In addition, the conditioning first stimulation phase decreases the stimulation threshold by reducing the amount of electrical current required for the second stimulation phase to elicit contraction.

Abstract: Augmentation of electrical conduction and contractility by biphasic cardiac pacing. A first stimulation phase is administered to the cardiac blood pool. This first stimulation phase has a predefined polarity, amplitude and duration. A second stimulation phase is then administered to the cardiac blood pool. This second phase also has a predefined polarity, amplitude and duration. The two phases are applied sequentially. Contrary to current thought, anodal stimulation is first applied and followed by cathodal stimulation. In this fashion, pulse conduction through the cardiac muscle is improved together with the increase in contractility.

Abstract: The ultra-wide band rf-enhanced chemotherapy for treatment of cancer and other intracellular diseases provides for increasing drug effectiveness. It also provides a means of treatment of inoperable cancers. The invention uses ultra-wide band short pulses to provide high electric field strength in diseased areas of a patient to induce electroporosis preferentially in the region to be treated by chemotherapy. The effect is to make the interiors of the cells in the affected region open to the chemotherapeutic agent. The treatment can be enhanced in its effectiveness thereby. It also enables treatment with reduced doses of the therapeutic agent and reduces side effects in other areas of the patient through the reduction of the total dosage. The invention makes specific use of the polarization of UWB fields and the very short duration of the pulsed electromagnetic fields induced into the region to be treated to minimize the absorbed rf energy associated with the treatment, making the heating of tissue negligible.

Abstract: In an ICD, a highly efficient biphasic defibrillation pulse is generated by switching at least two charged capacitors, e.g., three capacitors, from a parallel connection to various combinations of a parallel/series connection or a series connection during the first phase of the defibrillation pulse. Such mid-stream parallel/series connection changes of the capacitors steps up the voltage applied to the cardiac tissue during the first phase. A stepped-up voltage during the first phase, in turn, gives an extra boost to, and thereby forces additional charge (current) into, the cardiac tissue cells, and thereby transfers more charge to the membrane of the excitable cardiac cell than if the capacitors were continuously discharged in series. Phase reversal is timed with the cell membrane reaching its maximum value at the end of the first phase.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for in vivo electroporation therapy. Using electroporation therapy (EPT) as described in the invention, tumors treated by a combination of electroporation using the apparatus of the invention and a chemotherapeutic agent caused regression of tumors in vivo. In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of EPT utilizing low voltage and long pulse length for inducing cell death. One embodiment of the invention includes a system for clinical electroporation that includes a needle array electrode having a “keying” element that determines the set point of the therapy voltage pulse and/or selectable array switching patterns. A number of electrode applicator designs permit access to and treatment of a variety of tissue sites. Another embodiment provides a laparoscopic needle applicator that is preferably combined with an endoscope for minimally invasive EPT.

Abstract: The ultra-wide band rf-enhanced chemotherapy for treatment of cancer and other intracellular diseases provides for increasing drug effectiveness. It also provides a means of treatment of inoperable cancers. The invention uses ultra-wide band short pulses to provide high electric field strength in diseased areas of a patient to induce electroporosis preferentially in the region to be treated by chemotherapy. The effect is to make the interiors of the cells in the affected region open to the chemotherapeutic agent. The treatment can be enhanced in its effectiveness thereby. It also enables treatment with reduced doses of the therapeutic agent and reduces side effects in other areas of the patient through the reduction of the total dosage. The invention makes specific use of the polarization of UWB fields and the very short duration of the pulsed electromagnetic fields induced into the region to be treated to minimize the absorbed rf energy associated with the treatment, making the heating of tissue negligible.

Abstract: Augmentation of electrical conduction and contractility by biphasic stimulation of muscle tissue. A first stimulation phase has a first phase polarity, amplitude, and duration. The first stimulation phase, which acts as a conditioning mechanism, is administered at no more than a maximum subthreshold amplitude. A second stimulation phase has a second polarity, amplitude, and duration. The two phases are applied sequentially. Contrary to current thought, anodal stimulation is applied as the first stimulation phase, followed by cathodal stimulation as the second stimulation phase. In this fashion, pulse conduction through muscle is improved, together with an increase in contractility. Furthermore, this mode of biphasic stimulation reduces the electrical energy required to elicit contraction. In addition, the conditioning first stimulation phase decreases the stimulation threshold by reducing the amount of electrical current required for the second stimulation phase to elicit contraction.

Abstract: Augmentation of electrical conduction and contractility by biphasic cardiac pacing. A first stimulation phase is administered to the cardiac blood pool This first stimulation phase has a predefined polarity, amplitude and duration A second stimulation phase is then administered to the cardiac blood pool. This second phase also has a predefined polarity, amplitude and duration. The two phases are applied sequentially. Contrary to current thought, anodal stimulation is first applied and followed by cathodal stimulation. In this fashion, pulse conduction through the cardiac muscle is unproved together with the increase in contractility.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for introducing molecules such as genes and pharmaceutical compounds into living blood cells of a patient for therapeutic purposes. A device is placed into contact with the body of the patient for generating an electric field at a preselected location within a selected blood vessel. Preselected molecules are infused into the selected blood vessel. Simultaneously an electric signal is applied to the applied device to repeatedly subject a quantity of blood flowing within the selected blood vessel past the preselected location to electric fields of a predetermined amplitude and duration. The parameters of the electric fields are precisely controlled in order to make the walls of preselected cells in the blood transiently permeable to permit the molecules to enter said preselected cells without killing said cells.