Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling an implantable cardioverter defibrillator utilizes a back-biasing precharge circuit to precondition the heart before delivery of a biphasic electrical countershock. The back-biasing precharge circuit delivers a low voltage pulse to the implantable defibrillation electrodes that is opposite to the polarity of the initial phase of the biphasic countershock. In the event of a continuing cardiac arrhythmia which is not successfully converted by a single countershock, subsequent countershocks are delivered having alternating polarities from the preceding countershock such that both the polarity of the back-biasing pulse and the biphasic countershock are reversed as compared to the immediately preceeding countershock.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for vibrating an auditory element, such as a stapes, within an ear to improve hearing. A piezoelectric transducer is interposed within an inner circumference of the stapes, such as between the neck and footplate. An electrical input signal is applied to the transducer to vibrate an oval window or perilymph of the cochlea, either directly or through the stapes. The vibrator has small size and low power consumption, which are particularly advantageous for partial middle ear implantable (P-MEI) or total middle ear implantable (T-MEI) hearing aid systems.

Abstract: An electrical method and apparatus for stimulating cardiac cells causing contraction to force hemodynamic output during fibrillation, hemodynamically compromising tachycardia, or asystole. High level electrical fields are applied to the heart to give cardiac output on an emergency basis until the arrhythmia ceases or other intervention takes place. The device is used as a stand alone external or internal device, or as a backup to an ICD, atrial defibrillator, or an anti-tachycardia pacemaker. The method and apparatus maintain some cardiac output and not necessarily defibrillation.