Patents by Inventor Scott F. Drees
Scott F. Drees 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).
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Patent number: 10188857Abstract: In some examples, a lead identification system includes a first set of first lead indicators and a second set of second lead indicators. Each of the first lead indicators is configured to removably attach to at least one of a first therapy delivery element, a first epidural needle, or a first connector to uniquely identify at least one of the first therapy delivery element, the first epidural needle, or the first connector during implantation of the first therapy delivery element in the patient. Each of the second lead indicators is configured to removably attach to at least one of a second therapy delivery element, a second epidural needle, or a second connector to uniquely identify at least one of the second therapy delivery element, the second epidural needle, or the second connector during implantation of the second therapy delivery element in the patient.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2016Date of Patent: January 29, 2019Assignee: Nuvectra CorporationInventors: Richard North, Scott F. Drees, John M. Swoyer, Lawrence Kane, Jesse Geroy, Shahn S. Sage, Elliot W. Bridgeman, James Finley
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Patent number: 9889293Abstract: In various examples, an apparatus includes a stimulation lead including an elongate body including a distal end and a proximal end. At least one first electrode is disposed proximate the distal end of the elongate body and is configured to stimulate a first target nerve. At least one second electrode is disposed between the at least one first electrode and the proximal end of the elongate body and is configured to stimulate a second target nerve. At least one first fixation structure is disposed between the at least one second electrode and the proximal end of the elongate body. The at least one first fixation structure is configured to anchor the stimulation lead proximate the sacrum, wherein the at least one first fixation structure is located on the elongate body and spaced a first distance proximally along the elongate body from the at least one first electrode.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2016Date of Patent: February 13, 2018Assignee: NUVECTRA CORPORATIONInventors: Steven Siegel, Michele Spinelli, Scott F. Drees, Giancarlo Barolat, John M. Swoyer
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Publication number: 20170080217Abstract: In various examples, an apparatus includes a stimulation lead including an elongate body including a distal end and a proximal end. At least one first electrode is disposed proximate the distal end of the elongate body and is configured to stimulate a first target nerve. At least one second electrode is disposed between the at least one first electrode and the proximal end of the elongate body and is configured to stimulate a second target nerve. At least one first fixation structure is disposed between the at least one second electrode and the proximal end of the elongate body. The at least one first fixation structure is configured to anchor the stimulation lead proximate the sacrum, wherein the at least one first fixation structure is located on the elongate body and spaced a first distance proximally along the elongate body from the at least one first electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2016Publication date: March 23, 2017Inventors: Steven Siegel, Michele Spinelli, Scott F. Drees, Giancarlo Barolat, John M. Swoyer
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Patent number: 9511230Abstract: In various examples, an apparatus includes a stimulation lead including an elongate body including a distal end and a proximal end. At least one first electrode is disposed proximate the distal end of the elongate body and is configured to stimulate a first target nerve. At least one second electrode is disposed between the at least one first electrode and the proximal end of the elongate body and is configured to stimulate a second target nerve. At least one first fixation structure is disposed between the at least one second electrode and the proximal end of the elongate body. The at least one first fixation structure is configured to anchor the stimulation lead proximate the sacrum, wherein the at least one first fixation structure is located on the elongate body and spaced a first distance proximally along the elongate body from the at least one first electrode.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2014Date of Patent: December 6, 2016Assignee: Nuvectra CorporationInventors: Steven Siegel, Michele Spinelli, Scott F. Drees, Giancarlo Barolat, John M. Swoyer
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Publication number: 20160287864Abstract: In some examples, a lead identification system includes a first set of first lead indicators and a second set of second lead indicators. Each of the first lead indicators is configured to removably attach to at least one of a first therapy delivery element, a first epidural needle, or a first connector to uniquely identify at least one of the first therapy delivery element, the first epidural needle, or the first connector during implantation of the first therapy delivery element in the patient. Each of the second lead indicators is configured to removably attach to at least one of a second therapy delivery element, a second epidural needle, or a second connector to uniquely identify at least one of the second therapy delivery element, the second epidural needle, or the second connector during implantation of the second therapy delivery element in the patient.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2016Publication date: October 6, 2016Inventors: Richard North, Scott F. Drees, John M. Swoyer, Lawrence Kane, Jesse Geroy, Shahn S. Sage, Elliot W. Bridgeman, James Finley
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Patent number: 9314640Abstract: A method of visualizing a user interaction with a clinician programmer is disclosed. A user engagement with respect to a screen of the clinician programmer is detected via one or more sensors associated with the screen of the clinician programmer. One or more locations on the screen of the clinician programmer corresponding to the user engagement is determined. An external monitor is communicatively coupled to the clinician programmer. The external monitor displays one or more cursors that graphically represent the one or more locations on the screen of the clinician programmer corresponding to the user engagement, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2015Date of Patent: April 19, 2016Assignee: Greatbatch Ltd.Inventors: Scott F. Drees, Norbert F. Kaula, Yohannes Iyassu, Scott G. Leyh, Richard J. Polefko, Stephen C. Trier, Raymond L. Yoder
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Publication number: 20160045750Abstract: A method of visualizing a user interaction with a clinician programmer is disclosed. A user engagement with respect to a screen of the clinician programmer is detected via one or more sensors associated with the screen of the clinician programmer. One or more locations on the screen of the clinician programmer corresponding to the user engagement is determined. An external monitor is communicatively coupled to the clinician programmer. The external monitor displays one or more cursors that graphically represent the one or more locations on the screen of the clinician programmer corresponding to the user engagement, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2015Publication date: February 18, 2016Inventors: Scott F. Drees, Norbert F. Kaula, Yohannes Iyassu, Scott G. Leyh, Richard J. Polefko, Stephen C. Trier, Raymond L. Yoder
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Publication number: 20150134041Abstract: In various examples, an apparatus includes a stimulation lead including an elongate body including a distal end and a proximal end. At least one first electrode is disposed proximate the distal end of the elongate body and is configured to stimulate a first target nerve. At least one second electrode is disposed between the at least one first electrode and the proximal end of the elongate body and is configured to stimulate a second target nerve. At least one first fixation structure is disposed between the at least one second electrode and the proximal end of the elongate body. The at least one first fixation structure is configured to anchor the stimulation lead proximate the sacrum, wherein the at least one first fixation structure is located on the elongate body and spaced a first distance proximally along the elongate body from the at least one first electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2014Publication date: May 14, 2015Inventors: Steven Siegel, Michele Spinelli, Scott F. Drees, Giancarlo Barolat, John M. Swoyer
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Publication number: 20130131756Abstract: An implantable pulse generator includes one or more structural features for accommodating the shape of a portion of a patient's limb, such as the shape of the patient's calf. In one embodiment, an implantable pulse generator includes a first node interconnected to a second node by an elongated housing member, the elongated housing member including a convex surface substantially matching a curvature of the patient's limb, such as a portion of the patient's arm or leg. Alternatively, an articulating housing is associated with the implantable pulse generator for enabling a surgeon to bend the housing to substantially conform to the patient's limb, such as a portion of the patient's arm or leg.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2013Publication date: May 23, 2013Inventors: Giancarlo Barolat, Scott F. Drees
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Publication number: 20130041445Abstract: The present invention relates to a percutaneous insertion-capable lead, wherein insertion made through a percutaneous insertion structure. For one embodiment of such lead, the electrode-supporting stimulation portion of the lead includes at least one waisted region, relative to a transverse dimension of the lead, to facilitate lead steerability.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2012Publication date: February 14, 2013Inventors: John H. Erickson, Scott F. Drees, Terry Daglow, John Connell Munson, JR.
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Patent number: 8359101Abstract: In one embodiment, a method electrically stimulates an area in a spinal disc. The method comprises: implanting at least one steerable lead at a placement site for stimulating a spinal disc such that the lead is disposed exterior and immediately adjacent to and circumferentially along an annulus of the spinal disc, the at least one lead including a plurality of electrodes distributed along a majority of a circumference of the annulus; connecting the lead to a signal generator; and generating electrical stimulation pulses using the generator to stimulate targeted portions of the spinal disc, wherein the stimulation of the targeted portion of the spinal disc sufficiently stimulates nerve tissue within the spinal disc to prevent communication of pain signals originating in the spinal disc without damaging tissue of the spinal disc.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2011Date of Patent: January 22, 2013Assignee: Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.Inventors: Philip M. Finch, Scott F. Drees, John Erickson
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Patent number: 8340784Abstract: The present invention relates to a percutaneous insertion-capable lead, wherein insertion made through a percutaneous insertion structure. For one embodiment of such lead, the electrode-supporting stimulation portion of the lead includes at least one waisted region, relative to a transverse dimension of the lead, to facilitate lead steerability.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2009Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.Inventors: John H. Erickson, Scott F. Drees, Terry Daglow, John Connell Munson, Jr.
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Publication number: 20120232615Abstract: The present disclosure provides a modular neurostimulator system. The system includes a stage one implant that can be externally powered and controlled. The stage one implant is made of one or more leads as well as a passive receiver and an external controlling and powering device. The receiver and the external device can be utilized either as a long-term trial system, or as a permanent system. Since the receiver and the external device can have limited costs and features, they are suited for a long-term trial without risk of infection and excessive upfront cost. The system may also include a stage two implant that includes an implantable power supply and/or control elements connectable to one or more previously implanted stage one implants. A method of treatment for limb peripheral nerves using such a modular system is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2012Publication date: September 13, 2012Inventors: Giancarlo Barolat, Scott F. Drees, Norbert F. Kaula
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Publication number: 20120101548Abstract: In one embodiment, a method electrically stimulates an area in a spinal disc. The method comprises: implanting at least one steerable lead at a placement site for stimulating a spinal disc such that the lead is disposed exterior and immediately adjacent to and circumferentially along an annulus of the spinal disc, the at least one lead including a plurality of electrodes distributed along a majority of a circumference of the annulus; connecting the lead to a signal generator; and generating electrical stimulation pulses using the generator to stimulate targeted portions of the spinal disc, wherein the stimulation of the targeted portion of the spinal disc sufficiently stimulates nerve tissue within the spinal disc to prevent communication of pain signals originating in the spinal disc without damaging tissue of the spinal disc.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2011Publication date: April 26, 2012Inventors: Philip M. Finch, Scott F. Drees, John Erickson
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Patent number: 8086317Abstract: In one embodiment, a method electrically stimulates an area in a spinal disc. The method comprises: implanting at least one steerable lead at a placement site for stimulating a spinal disc such that the lead is disposed exterior and immediately adjacent to and circumferentially along an annulus of the spinal disc, the at least one lead including a plurality of electrodes distributed along a majority of a circumference of the annulus; connecting the lead to a signal generator; and generating electrical stimulation pulses using the generator to stimulate targeted portions of the spinal disc, wherein the stimulation of the targeted portion of the spinal disc sufficiently stimulates nerve tissue within the spinal disc to prevent communication of pain signals originating in the spinal disc without damaging tissue of the spinal disc.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2010Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.Inventors: Philip M. Finch, Scott F. Drees, John Erickson
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Publication number: 20110046695Abstract: In one embodiment, a method electrically stimulates an area in a spinal disc. The method comprises: implanting at least one steerable lead at a placement site for stimulating a spinal disc such that the lead is disposed exterior and immediately adjacent to and circumferentially along an annulus of the spinal disc, the at least one lead including a plurality of electrodes distributed along a majority of a circumference of the annulus; connecting the lead to a signal generator; and generating electrical stimulation pulses using the generator to stimulate targeted portions of the spinal disc, wherein the stimulation of the targeted portion of the spinal disc sufficiently stimulates nerve tissue within the spinal disc to prevent communication of pain signals originating in the spinal disc without damaging tissue of the spinal disc.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2010Publication date: February 24, 2011Inventors: Philip M. Finch, Scott F. Drees, John Erickson
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Publication number: 20100286553Abstract: The present disclosure provides systems and methods for screening vagus nerve stimulation to determine the potential efficacy of permanent stimulation systems. In one aspect, the system includes temporary electrode assemblies adapted for temporary placement on or in the body adjacent the vagus nerve. In another aspect, a method is provided to place a stimulating electrode adjacent the posterior of the carotid sheath.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2009Publication date: November 11, 2010Inventors: Claudio A. Feler, Scott F. Drees
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Patent number: 7831306Abstract: In one embodiment, a method electrically stimulates an area in a spinal disc. The method comprises: implanting at least one steerable lead at a placement site for stimulating a spinal disc such that the lead is disposed exterior and immediately adjacent to and circumferentially along an annulus of the spinal disc, the at least one lead including a plurality of electrodes distributed along a majority of a circumference of the annulus; connecting the lead to a signal generator; and generating electrical stimulation pulses using the generator to stimulate targeted portions of the spinal disc, wherein the stimulation of the targeted portion of the spinal disc sufficiently stimulates nerve tissue within the spinal disc to prevent communication of pain signals originating in the spinal disc without damaging tissue of the spinal disc.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2006Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.Inventors: Philip M. Finch, Scott F. Drees, John Erickson
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Publication number: 20090132017Abstract: The present invention relates to a percutaneous insertion-capable lead, wherein insertion made through a percutaneous insertion structure. For one embodiment of such lead, the electrode-supporting stimulation portion of the lead includes at least one waisted region, relative to a transverse dimension of the lead, to facilitate lead steerability.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2009Publication date: May 21, 2009Inventors: John H. Erickson, Scott F. Drees, Terry Daglow, John Connell Munson, JR.
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Patent number: 7069083Abstract: A method for electrically stimulating an area in a spinal disc is presented. The method comprises implanting a lead with one or more electrodes in a placement site in or adjacent to one or more discs at any spinal level from cervical through lumbar, connecting the lead to a signal generator, and generating electrical stimulation pulses using the generator to stimulate targeted portions of the disc. Additionally, a system for relieving pain associated with a spinal disc is presented that comprises a lead with one or more electrodes, an introducer for introducing the lead to a placement site in or adjacent to the disc, a removable stylet for guiding the lead to the placement site in the disc, and a generator connected to the lead for generating electrical pulses to the lead for stimulating the disc.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2002Date of Patent: June 27, 2006Assignee: Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.Inventors: Philip M. Finch, Scott F. Drees, John Erickson