Patents Represented by Attorney Laura Haburay Bishop
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Patent number: 7285118Abstract: A brain stimulation lead such as a deep brain stimulation (DBS) lead is provided, which lead can also be used to create lesions safely and effectively due to inclusion of temperature sensing. The generating of radio-frequency (RF) lesions via a brain stimulation lead provides a new treatment option, for instance, when hardware-related or other complications necessitate lead removal. An existing implanted DBS lead was used to create lesions in the thalamus and subthalamus of patients with movement disorders. Various brain stimulation leads with temperature sensors are described. Various methods are disclosed, including creation of a lesion with a brain stimulation lead while sensing temperature with a sensor implanted as part of the lead or with a noninvasive sensing device. Another method includes creating a graduated lesion with a brain stimulation lead of the invention or with a chronic lesioning lead.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2003Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Assignee: Functional Neuroscience Inc.Inventor: Andres M. Lozano
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Patent number: 7167751Abstract: A method of using a small implantable stimulator(s) with at least two electrodes small enough to have the electrodes located adjacent to the vagus nerve. The small stimulator provides a means of stimulating the vagus nerve when desired, and may be implanted via a minimal surgical procedure.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2004Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Todd K Whitehurst, James P McGivern
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Patent number: 7155279Abstract: Introducing one or more stimulating drugs to the vagus nerve and/or one or more branches of the vagus nerve to treat movement disorders uses at least one implantable system control unit (SCU) with an implantable pump with at least one infusion outlet. Optional electrical stimulation may additionally be supplied by an implantable signal/pulse generator (IPG) with one or more electrodes. In certain embodiments, a single SCU provides one or more stimulating drugs and the optional electrical stimulation. In some embodiments, one or more sensed conditions are used to adjust stimulation parameters.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2004Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Todd K Whitehurst, James P McGivern
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Patent number: 7151961Abstract: Introducing one or more stimulating drugs to the brain and/or applying electrical stimulation to the brain is used to treat movement disorders. At least one implantable system control unit (SCU) produces electrical pulses delivered via electrodes implanted in the brain and/or drug infusion pulses delivered via a catheter implanted in the brain. The stimulation is delivered to targeted brain structures to adjust the activity of those structures. In some embodiments, one or more sensed conditions are used to adjust stimulation parameters.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2003Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Todd K Whitehurst, James P McGivern, Kelly H McClure
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Patent number: 7132173Abstract: Braze and electrode wire assemblies, e.g., used with an implantable microstimulator, include a wire welded in the through-hole of an electrode, which electrode is brazed to a ceramic case that is brazed to a metal ring that is welded to a metal can. The braze joints are step or similar joints that self-center the case, provide lateral support during braze assembly, and provide increased surface area that prevents braze material from exuding from the joints. The end of the ceramic case that is brazed to the metal ring need not be specially machined. The shell has a reference electrode on one end and an active electrode on the other, and is externally coated on selected areas with conductive and non-conductive materials.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2003Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventor: Jay Daulton
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Patent number: 7120992Abstract: Compact electronic modules, which may be used with implantable microstimulators and other medical and non-medical devices, and manufacture/assembly of such modules are described. Component and circuitry designs utilize unique redistribution techniques and attachment methods. A number of component designs and packaging configurations maximize the volume efficiency of electronic modules. Also included are improved processes and systems enabling the manufacture and assembly of such compact packages.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2003Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Tom Xiaohai He, Matthew I. Haller, Jordi Parramon, Goran N. Marnfeldt
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Patent number: 7054689Abstract: An implantable stimulator(s), small enough to be located near or adjacent to an autonomic nerve(s) innervating urinary and/or gastrointestinal structures, uses a power source/storage device, such as a rechargeable battery. Periodic recharging of such a power source/storage device is accomplished, for example, by inductive coupling with an external appliance. The small stimulator provides a means of stimulating a nerve(s) or other tissue when desired, without the need for external appliances during the stimulation session. When necessary, external appliances are used for the transmission of data to and/or from the stimulator(s) and for the transmission of power, if necessary. In a preferred embodiment, the system is capable of open- and closed-loop operation. In closed-loop operation, at least one implant includes at least one sensor, and the sensed condition is used to adjust stimulation parameters.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2001Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Todd K Whitehurst, James P McGivern, Carla M Mann
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Enhanced methods for determining iso-loudness contours for fitting cochlear implant sound processors
Patent number: 7043303Abstract: Methods are taught to simplify the cochlear implant fitting process for various cochlear prostheses and stimulation strategies, including high rate stimulation strategies. For instance, patient self-programming is made possible. In addition, auto-fitting is made possible (particularly useful for very young patients and other patients for whom it is challenging to obtain feedback) using iso-neural response contours which can be linearly transposed to arrive at iso-loudness contours. Furthermore, M iso-loudness contours (or iso-neural contours) can be linearly transposed to determine T iso-loudness contours. In addition, wider pulse widths can be used to generate an iso-loudness contour whose shape can be used (via linear transposition) to program high-rate, narrow pulse width stimulation.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2003Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventor: Edward H. Overstreet -
Patent number: 7033326Abstract: Leads and introduction tools are proposed for deep brain stimulation and other applications. Some embodiments of the present invention provide lead designs with which may be placed with a stylet, while others do not require a stylet. Some lead embodiments use standard wire conductors, while others use cable conductors. Several embodiments incorporate microelectrodes and/or microelectrode assemblies. Certain embodiments of the present invention provide introduction tools, such as cannula and/or cannula systems, which ensure proper placement of, e.g., leads.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2001Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Anne M. Pianca, Carla M. Mann
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Patent number: 7013177Abstract: Systems and methods for introducing one or more stimulating drugs and/or applying electrical stimulation to the brain to alleviate pain use at least one implantable system control unit (SCU), producing electrical pulses delivered via electrodes implanted in the brain and/or producing drug infusion pulses, wherein the stimulation is delivered to targeted areas in the brain. In some embodiments, one or more sensed conditions are used to adjust stimulation parameters.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2002Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Todd K. Whitehurst, Carla Mann Woods, Paul M. Meadows
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Patent number: 7006870Abstract: An implantable stimulator(s) with at least one infusion outlet and/or at least one electrode, is implanted with the outlet(s) and/or electrode(s) located adjacent to a pudendal nerve(s) and potentially other nerve(s) innervating the reproductive organs, such as the cavernous nerve(s). Stimulation of such nerve(s) is provided via stimulating drugs and/or electrical stimulation as a therapy for erectile dysfunction. The stimulator uses a power source/storage device, such as a rechargeable battery. Periodic recharging of such a battery is accomplished, for example, by inductive coupling with an external appliance. The stimulator provides means of stimulating a nerve(s) when desired, without the need for external appliances during the stimulation session. When necessary, external appliances are used for the transmission of data to and/or from the stimulator(s) and for the transmission of power. The system is capable of open- and closed-loop operation.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2003Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Todd K. Whitehurst, James P. McGivern
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Patent number: 7003352Abstract: Introducing one or more stimulating drugs to the brain and/or applying electrical stimulation to the brain is used to treat epilepsy. At least one implantable system control unit (SCU) produces electrical pulses delivered via electrodes implanted in the brain and/or drug infusion pulses delivered via a catheter implanted in the brain. The stimulation is delivered to targeted brain structures to adjust the activity of those structures. The small size of the SCUs of the invention allow SCU implantation directly and entirely within the skull and/or brain. Simplicity of the preferred systems and methods and compactness of the preferred system are enabled by the modest control parameter set of these SCU, which do not require or include a sensing feature.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2003Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventor: Todd K. Whitehurst
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Patent number: 6970741Abstract: An implantable system control unit (SCU) includes means for measuring tissue impedance or other condition to determine allograft health, in order to predict or detect allograft rejection. The SCU also includes at least two electrodes coupled to means for delivering electrical stimulation to a patient within whom the device is implanted, and may also include a reservoir for holding one or more drugs and a driver means for delivering the drug(s) to the patient. In certain embodiments, the system is capable of open- and closed-loop operation. In closed-loop operation, at least one SCU includes a sensor, and the sensed condition is used to adjust stimulation parameters. Alternatively, this sensory “SCU” sounds an alarm, communicates an alarm to an external device, and/or is responsive to queries regarding sensed information, such as tissue impedance.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2002Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Todd K. Whitehurst, James P. McGivern, Kelly H. McClure, Goran N. Marnfeldt, James R. Thacker
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Patent number: 6950707Abstract: Systems and methods for introducing one or more stimulating drugs and/or applying electrical stimulation to the brain to at least treat or prevent obesity and/or other eating disorders uses at least one system control unit (SCU) producing electrical pulses delivered via electrodes implanted in the brain and/or producing drug infusion pulses, wherein the stimulating drug(s) are delivered to targeted areas in the brain.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2001Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventor: Todd K. Whitehurst
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Patent number: 6941171Abstract: A method and system for treatment of incontinence, urgency, frequency, and/or pelvic pain includes implantation of electrodes on a lead or the discharge portion of a catheter adjacent the perineal nerve(s) or tissue(s) to be stimulated. Stimulation pulses, either electrical or drug infusion pulses, are supplied by a stimulator implanted remotely, and through the lead or catheter, which is tunneled subcutaneously between the stimulator and stimulation site. For instance, the system and method reduce or eliminate the incidence of unintentional episodes of bladder emptying by stimulating nerve pathways that diminish involuntary bladder contractions, improve closure of the bladder outlet, and/or improve the long-term health of the urinary system by increasing bladder capacity and period between emptying.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2001Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Carla M. Mann, Todd K. Whitehurst, James P. McGivern, Gerald E. Loeb, Frances J. R. Richmond
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Patent number: 6922590Abstract: Systems and methods for introducing one or more stimulating drugs and/or applying electrical stimulation to the brain to at least treat or prevent diabetes uses at least one system control unit (SCU) producing electrical pulses delivered via electrodes implanted in the brain and/or producing drug infusion pulses, wherein the stimulating drug(s) are delivered to targeted areas in the brain.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2001Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventor: Todd K. Whitehurst
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Methods and systems for direct electrical current stimulation as a therapy for prostatic hypertrophy
Patent number: 6901294Abstract: A small implantable stimulator(s) includes at least two electrodes for delivering electrical stimulation to surrounding tissue. The small stimulator provides means of stimulating the prostate with direct electrical current, such as relatively low-level direct current, without the need for external appliances during the stimulation session. The stimulator may be configured to be small enough to be implanted entirely within the prostate. Open- and closed-loop systems are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2002Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Todd K. Whitehurst, James P. McGivern, Janusz A. Kuzma -
Patent number: 6901296Abstract: A small implantable stimulator(s) includes at least two electrodes for delivering electrical stimulation to surrounding tissue. The small stimulator provides means of stimulating a neoplasm with direct electrical current, such as relatively low-level direct current, without the need for external appliances during the stimulation session. The stimulator may be configured to be small enough to be implanted entirely within a neoplasm. Open- and closed-loop systems are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2002Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Todd K. Whitehurst, James P. McGivern, Janusz A. Kuzma
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Patent number: 6885895Abstract: Systems and methods for introducing one or more stimulating drugs and/or applying electrical stimulation to tissue affecting the penis to treat erectile dysfunction (for instance, following prostate surgery) uses at least one implantable system control unit (SCU) producing electrical pulses delivered via electrodes and/or producing drug infusion pulses, wherein the stimulating drug(s) are delivered via one or more pumps and infusion outlets.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2002Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Todd K. Whitehurst, James P. McGivern
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Patent number: 6879695Abstract: A personal sound link module (60) is inserted into a tunnel (40) made through the soft tissue connecting the retro-auricular space (50) with the ear canal (30). The module contains an acoustic transducer (65), located at the distal part (68) of the module, close to or inside the ear canal, an antenna (64) that receives and also potentially sends signals to a remote source, signal processing circuitry (67), telemetry circuitry (69), a power source (66) that powers the module, and possibly a microphone (63). Signals transmitted from a remote source are received through the antenna and telemetry circuitry, processed, and presented to the acoustic transducer, where they are converted to sound waves broadcast into the user's ear canal. The remote source may be a radio station, radio receiver, CD player, DVD player, tape player, audio system, telephone, TV receiver or station, or other source of audio signals intended to be heard privately by the user.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2002Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Assignee: Advanced Bionics CorporationInventors: Albert A. Maltan, Janusz A. Kuzma