Patents by Inventor Christopher Nightengale

Christopher Nightengale has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Interrogation device and method
    Patent number: 5885219
    Abstract: An interrogation device is used to locate a nerve within the body. The device uses a piezoelectric crystal to locate a pulsing vessel proximate with the nerve. As the device is guided toward the nerve, it can emit an electric signal to stimulate the nerve. The operator can then watch for any physical reaction from the patient in response to nerve stimulation. As the device closes upon the nerve, pressure is applied with the needle to the vessel, thus compressing the vessel, diminishing the doppler response. Once the surface of the nerve is located, it can be accurately anesthetized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Inventor: Christopher Nightengale
  • Interrogation device and method
    Patent number: 5779642
    Abstract: An interrogation device is used to locate a nerve within the body. The device uses a piezoelectric crystal to locate a pulsing vessel proximate with the nerve. As the device is guided toward the nerve, it can emit an electric signal to stimulate the nerve. The operator can then watch for any physical reaction from the patient in response to nerve stimulation. As the device closes upon the nerve, pressure is applied with the needle to the vessel, thus compressing the vessel, diminishing the doppler response. Once the surface of the nerve is located, it can be accurately anesthetized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Christopher Nightengale