Abstract: A tool-less connector with multiple contacts and a compact design is provided. Therefore, a connector that is normally tunneled through body tissue will now require only a minimally invasive subcutaneous tunnel, which should reduce tissue healing time, patient discomfort, and risk of infection. In addition, providing additional contacts allows enhanced stimulation protocols. One embodiment of the present invention provides a connector pin containing multiple in-line contacts. Each “line” consists of a row of independent contacts arranged in a linear array running along the long axis of the pin. In other embodiments of the invention, the mating receptacle of the connector allows for multiple contacts while minimizing the space required for the increased number of contacts. Additional embodiments provide features that, for instance, prevent the contacts on the connector pin to touch the contacts in the receptacle until all contacts are appropriately aligned.

Abstract: A tool-less connector with multiple contacts and a compact design is provided. Therefore, a connector that is normally tunneled through body tissue will now require only a minimally invasive subcutaneous tunnel, which should reduce tissue healing time, patient discomfort, and risk of infection. In addition, providing additional contacts allows enhanced stimulation protocols. One embodiment of the present invention provides a connector pin containing multiple in-line contacts. Each “line” consists of a row of independent contacts arranged in a linear array running along the long axis of the pin. In other embodiments of the invention, the mating receptacle of the connector allows for multiple contacts while minimizing the space required for the increased number of contacts. Additional embodiments provide features that, for instance, prevent the contacts on the connector pin to touch the contacts in the receptacle until all contacts are appropriately aligned.

Abstract: A straight-forward and tool-less mechanism is provided for securing lead wires to an implantable neurostimulator, or similar medical device. In one embodiment, a clip lock mechanism is pivotally connected to the enclosure of the medical device, which enclosure also includes at least one receptacle with contacts to the components within the device. The proximal end of the lead wires terminate in a connector, including at least one plug and at least one pin with contacts corresponding to the electrodes or other devices along the distal end of the lead. The pin is inserted into the receptacle, thus completing the connection between the pin and receptacle contacts, and the clip is pivoted over the plug. The plug preferably has depressions that provide a clear visual and tactual indication of the position of the properly placed clip.

Abstract: A tool-less connector with multiple contacts and a compact design is provided. Therefore, a connector that is normally tunneled through body tissue will now require only a minimally invasive subcutaneous tunnel, which should reduce tissue healing time, patient discomfort, and risk of infection. In addition, providing additional contacts allows enhanced stimulation protocols. One embodiment of the present invention provides a connector pin containing multiple in-line contacts. Each “line” consists of a row of independent contacts arranged in a linear array running along the long axis of the pin. In other embodiments of the invention, the mating receptacle of the connector allows for multiple contacts while minimizing the space required for the increased number of contacts. Additional embodiments provide features that, for instance, prevent the contacts on the connector pin to touch the contacts in the receptacle until all contacts are appropriately aligned.

Abstract: An adapter for extending a sensing and stimulation delivery lead in a body stimulation system, such as a cardiac pacer or cardioverter defibrillator, includes a resilient, electrically insulative housing with a longitudinal barrel extended through the majority of the housing length for the insertion of a lead terminal connector. Two spaced apart transverse bores are formed in the housing, open to barrel and to the housing exterior. Two connector assemblies are mounted in the housing and positioned to receive respective pin and ring terminals of the lead when inserted into the barrel. Each connector assembly can be adjusted to secure the lead in the housing, by a tool inserted through one of the transverse bores. Each connector assembly is isolated from the housing exterior by a seal means mounted in the associated bore. Each seal means includes a seal member elastically deformable to admit a tool to the associated connector assembly via a passage through the seal member.

Abstract: A bistable penile prosthesis (20) designed to be surgically implanted in the penis for the treatment of erectile impotence. The prosthesis includes an articulated column (26) enclosed within an outer elongated sheath (28). The articulated column (26) has segments (250) including interlocking means for reducing radial slippage between the facing ends of adjacent ones of the segments (250) whereby the likelihood of the segments (250) becoming disjointed is reduced.

Abstract: A bistable penile prosthesis (20) designed to be surgically implanted in the penis for the treatment of erectile impotence. The prosthesis includes an articulated column (26) and an actuator apparatus (30) enclosed within an outer elongated sheath (28). The actuator apparatus (30) is configured and disposed for alternately compressing the articulated column (26) and tensioning a tension member (32) whereby frictional resistance increases causing an erect state, and stretching the articulated column (26) and relaxing the tension member (32) whereby frictional resistance decreases causing a flaccid state under volitional control by the patient. The actuator (30) includes a cam member (68) defining a pathway for travel therealong by a cam follower member (86) in only one direction.

Abstract: A penile prosthesis (20) designed to be surgically implanted in the penis for the treatment of erectile impotence. The prosthesis comprises an articulated column (26) having alternating joints (56) enclosed with a switch (30) within an outer elongated sheath (28). The switch (30) is aligned for reversibly extending the articulated column (26) against the ends of the sheath and tensioning a tension member (32) whereby frictional resistance at the joints (56) increases causing an erect state.

Abstract: A penile prosthesis (20) designed to be surgically implanted in the penis for the treatment of erectile impotence. The prosthesis comprises an articulated column (26) having alternating joints (56) enclosed with a switch (30) within an outer elongated sheath (28). The switch (30) is aligned for reversibly extending the articulated column (26) against the ends of the sheath and tensioning a tension member (32) whereby frictional resistance at the joints (56) increases causing an erect state.