Patents Issued in November 24, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160339205
    Abstract: An intermittent catheter has a catheter shaft extending between a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, with a drainage funnel associated with the distal end portion of the catheter shaft. A hydration device encircles at least a portion of the drainage funnel and defines a hydrating fluid-containing reservoir in fluid communication with at least one fluid-release port. The hydration device is configured to be manipulated by a user to move the at least one fluid-release port from a closed condition to an open condition to flow at least a portion of the hydrating fluid out of the reservoir via the at least one fluid-release port for covering at least a portion of the catheter shaft. After or while applying hydrating fluid to the catheter shaft, the hydration device may be dissociated from the drainage funnel for handling the intermittent catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Adam J. Foley, Martin McMenamin, Padraig M. O'Flynn
  • Publication number: 20160339206
    Abstract: In some aspects, systems for delivering a therapeutic agent to a selected site in a subject can include a substantially rigid guide cannula defining an axial bore having an open proximal end and an opening near its distal end; and a delivery cannula configured to fit within the guide cannula axial bore, the delivery cannula being pre-formed in a non-straight predetermined shape that differs from a shape of the guide cannula axial bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventor: Miles G. Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20160339207
    Abstract: A catheter having a catheter shaft that has a more uniform construction throughout its length and is able to provide more than one deflection curvature. The catheter shaft includes a flexible outer tubular member, and a less flexible inner tubular member extending through the outer tubular member in a proximal section of the catheter shaft, wherein the inner tubular member is afforded longitudinal movement relative to the outer tubular member. The catheter also includes at least one puller wire extending through the inner tubular member to deflect a distal deflection section of the catheter shaft, wherein longitudinal movement of the inner tubular member relative to the outer tubular member enables an operator to select and set a deflection curvature of the distal deflection section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: CHRISTOPHER THOMAS BEECKLER, Rowan Olund Hettel
  • Publication number: 20160339208
    Abstract: A medical device is provided, including: a sheath portion (10); a pair of operation wires (30); and a turning operation portion (60) in which the sheath portion (10) is bent in a direction corresponding to the pulled one operation wire (30) through a turning operation. The turning operation portion (60) includes a wire fixation panel (64) around which the operation wires (30) are wound on a side peripheral surface; and a penetration portion (63c) and a closing portion (63d) which are provided further radially outwards than the side peripheral surface of the wire fixation panel (64) and at a position facing the side peripheral surface, so as to be integrated with the wire fixation panel (64).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicant: SUMITOMO BAKELITE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kenichi KANEMASA, Shinetsu HARATA
  • Publication number: 20160339209
    Abstract: An umbilical line-securing device adapted to nonadhesively maintain an umbilical line at a location relative to an umbilical stump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2014
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventor: David DeIulio
  • Publication number: 20160339210
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for accessing the internal and external tissues of the heart are disclosed. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein provide access to the external surface of the heart through the pericardial space for localized delivery of substances to the heart tissue. In addition, various disclosed embodiments provide access to the internal surface of the heart for aspiration and delivery of substances to a targeted region without disturbing or interfering with nearby structures or surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Ghassan S. Kassab, Jose A. Navia, SR.
  • Publication number: 20160339211
    Abstract: Balloon catheter includes an outer shaft including a hypotube and a monolithic multilayer distal outer member and having an inflation lumen defined therethrough, a balloon in fluid communication with the inflation lumen, and an inner tubular member having a guidewire lumen defined therethrough. The monolithic multilayer distal outer member has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The monolithic multilayer distal outer member has an inner layer comprising a first polymer having a tensile strength greater than about 8,000 psi and an outer layer comprising a second polymer having a flexural modulus of less than about 130,000 psi at room temperature. A proximal end of the monolithic multilayer distal outer member is coupled to the hypotube. The monolithic multilayer distal outer member is necked to a reduced diameter along at least a portion of a length thereof. The balloon has a proximal balloon shaft coupled to a distal end of the monolithic multilayer distal outer member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicant: ABBOTT CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Jeong S. Lee, Kenneth L. Wantink
  • Publication number: 20160339212
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a device is provided comprising a balloon configured to expand to an expanded state in response to introduction of a fluid at a first pressure, wherein the fluid perfuses through the balloon above a second pressure, the second pressure being the same or greater than the first pressure. In various embodiments, a method comprising fabricating a balloon configured to expand to an expanded state in response to introduction of a fluid at a first pressure, wherein the fluid perfuses through the balloon above a second pressure, the second pressure being at or greater than the first pressure, disposing the balloon on an elongate member having a lumen, placing the lumen in fluid communication with an interior volume of the balloon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: John E. Bacino, Carey V. Campbell, Edward H. Cully, Benjamin M. Trapp, Michael J. Vonesh
  • Publication number: 20160339213
    Abstract: A method for secluding a body vessel at two points is disclosed wherein a chemical agent is maintained at a first point in the vessel for a period of time and wherein a chemical agent is delivered to a second point in the vessel for a period of time. The method can employ a double or triple balloon catheter and can be used for various treatments, including for sclerotherapy of veins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventor: David Martin
  • Publication number: 20160339214
    Abstract: The present invention provides insertable medical devices having elastic surfaces associated with bioactive agent-containing microparticulates and a coating material. Upon expansion of the elastic surfaces the microparticulates can be released to a subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: James Howard Arps, Andrew G. Bach
  • Publication number: 20160339215
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed toward a semi-compliant to non-compliant, conformable balloon useful in medical applications. Conformable balloons of the present disclosure exhibit a low or insignificant straightening force when in a curved configuration and at inflation pressures greater than 4 atm. Balloons of the present disclosure are constructed of material that can compress along an inner length when the balloon is in a curved configuration. In further embodiments, balloons of the present disclosure can be constructed of material that sufficiently elongates along an outer arc when the balloon is in a curved configuration. As a result, medical balloons, in accordance with the present disclosure, when inflated in a curved configuration, exhibit kink-free configurations and do not cause a significant degree of vessel straightening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Carey V. Campbell, Matthew E. Maulding, Benjamin M. Trapp
  • Publication number: 20160339216
    Abstract: A system for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease is provided by moving cerebrospinal fluid containing particles know to contribute to onset of Alzheimer's disease from a source of cerebrospinal fluid to the stomach or bladder, where the particles are safely digested by gastric acid or excreted, the system including an implantable pump, an inlet catheter, an outlet catheter, and a one-way valve. The system further includes at least one filter to filter harmful particles from the cerebrospinal fluid and return the filtered cerebrospinal fluid back to the source of cerebrospinal fluid, where the harmful particles blocked by the filter may be rinsed off the filter and transported to the stomach or bladder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicant: ECOLE POLYTECHNIQUE FEDERALE DE LAUSANNE (EPFL)
    Inventors: Tim LENIHAN, Bruce MEADOWS
  • Publication number: 20160339217
    Abstract: Implantable drug delivery devices include a housing having a closed drug reservoir lumen bounded by a first wall structure and a hydrophilic second wall structure, and a drug contained in the drug reservoir lumen, wherein the first wall structure is impermeable to the drug and the second wall structure is permeable to the drug. Methods of providing controlled release of drug to a patient include deploying a drug delivery device in the patient releasing a drug from the drug reservoir lumen via diffusion through the second wall structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Heejin Lee, Karen Daniel, Matthew Sansone
  • Publication number: 20160339218
    Abstract: An applicator includes a roller, a treatment composition component, a cutaneous measurement component, and a controller. The roller contacts a portion of skin at a contact location and subsequently a target location. The treatment composition component selectively deposits a composition on a roller surface at a deposition location that is on the roller surface a circumferential distance away from the contact location. The cutaneous measurement component generates one or more parameters associated with the target location on the portion of skin. The target location is a target distance from the contact location that is equal to or greater than the circumferential distance. The controller controls the treatment composition component to selectively deposit the treatment composition on the roller surface in response to the one or more parameters associated with the target location on the portion of skin generated by the cutaneous measurement component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicant: L'OREAL
    Inventors: Vincenzo Casasanta, III, Joseph W. Grez, Zane Bowman Allen Miller
  • Publication number: 20160339219
    Abstract: An applicator for treating skin conditions includes at least one treatment composition component and a reflection edge component. The at least one treatment composition component is configured to selectively deposit a treatment composition at a deposit location on the portion of skin. The reflection edge component is operably coupled to an electromagnetic energy detector. The reflection edge component includes circuitry configured to monitor a level of the one or more parameters as the applicator traverses the portion of skin and to control the at least one treatment composition component to selectively deposit the treatment composition to the deposit location on the portion of skin based on one or more inputs indicative of a decrease in reflection of an electromagnetic energy interrogation stimulus from the portion of skin at the deposit location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicant: L'Oreal
    Inventors: Vincenzo Casasanta, III, Joseph W. Grez, Zane Bowman Allen Miller
  • Publication number: 20160339220
    Abstract: An applicator includes a discontinuity identification component and at least one treatment composition component. The discontinuity identification component is operably coupled to an electromagnetic energy interrogation component and the discontinuity identification component is configured to determine a treatment status based on an interrogation response to an electromagnetic energy stimulus indicative of an absorption difference of greater than a target amount. The at least one treatment composition component is operably coupled to the discontinuity component and the at least one treatment composition component is configured to selectively deposit a treatment composition on the portion of skin responsive to one or more inputs from the discontinuity component indicative of a target treatment status.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicant: L'OREAL
    Inventors: Vincenzo Casasanta, III, Joseph W. Grez, Zane Bowman Allen Miller
  • Publication number: 20160339221
    Abstract: An apparatus and related method provide an effective treatment of skin itch and skin rash, primarily for the scalp. The apparatus may be utilized on the scalp of an individual applied between rows of tightly braided hair. The apparatus may apply a therapeutic treatment such as a moisturizing treatment directly to the scalp while being used to relieve the scalp of the itch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventor: Miisha Patterson
  • Publication number: 20160339222
    Abstract: A pulse photodynamic therapy (or pulse PDT) treatment of acne is described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicant: GALDERMA RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
    Inventor: Hans Christian WULF
  • Publication number: 20160339223
    Abstract: A microneedle system and method for production thereof. From a board a web grating is produced which has a plurality of grating nodes each defined by three apertures and which has web grating wedges. The microneedle system comprising a board and a plurality of openings delimited circumferentially by a web grating, having at each opening at least one web grating wedge having a needle-shaped tip which projects from the board and which is oriented at least approximately normal to the board. Web grating wedges having needle-shaped tips protrude into each aperture from at least three different directions. In order to produce openings, at least all the web grating wedges which protrude into an aperture are bent by a punch and the needle-shaped tips thereof are oriented normal to the plane of the web grating. At least two web grating wedges are arranged at each opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicant: LTS LOHMANN THERAPIE-SYSTEME AG
    Inventors: SEBASTIAN SCHERR, KARSTEN HEUSER
  • Publication number: 20160339224
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for sterile connection of single-use medical articles, consisting of an outlet connector (1), which has an outlet cylinder (4) that is equipped with a seal (6) and that is closed at one of its ends. A union nut (8) is provided on the outlet connector (1), and of an inlet connector (2), which can be connected with the outlet connector (1) and which is closed at one of its ends. The outlet connector (1) and the inlet connector (2) are respectively closed at their ends turned toward one another with a perforation seal (9, 9?).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicant: Heinz Meise GmbH
    Inventor: Heinz MEISE
  • Publication number: 20160339225
    Abstract: A cassette for operatively connecting administration set tubing to an infusion pump includes a thumb tab having a thumb surface, and a tubing connector having an in-line occluder spaced laterally from the thumb tab. The cassette is configured such that a user's hand will cradle the cassette by pressing a thumb of the user's hand against the thumb surface and wrapping at least one finger of the user's hand around and under the thumb tab, whereby a user may apply pressure to tubing connected to the tubing connector at a location corresponding to the in-line occluder in a direction generally opposite to a direction in which the thumb is pressed against the thumb surface, thereby bypassing the in-line occluder and allowing flow through the tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Jeffery T. Juretich, Michael A. Marshall
  • Publication number: 20160339226
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a connector for connecting flow channels, flow regulators and/or reservoirs for directing flow. In some embodiments, the connector is a medical connector for connecting fluid flow controlling elements used in medical applications, particularly in infusion systems, such as tubes, syringes, needles, catheters and fluid reservoirs. The connector reduces the risk of contamination during handling and enhances safety when administering therapeutic solutions into a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventor: Andrew I SEALFON
  • Publication number: 20160339227
    Abstract: A spring-loaded bag connector having a spring-loaded valve and a housing comprising a fluid inlet portion and a fluid outlet portion. The spring-loaded bag connector is configured to connect with a fluid collection bag to generate a self-closing collection bag. Additionally, the spring-loaded bag connector is configured to couple with a second coupling element, such as a coupling connector, to facilitate the drainage and collection of waste to a fluid collection bag. Uncoupling of the bag connector and the second coupling element results in minimal fluid contamination on the outer surfaces of the bag connector system. The bag connector systems provided herein are included in medical appliances for body waste management.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Mingliang Lawrence TSAI, Tinh Nguyen DEMARY
  • Publication number: 20160339228
    Abstract: A medical stopcock which allows easier switching operation of plural branch-tubes. The main body of the stopcock comprises a chamber part with a nearly spherical inner surface, and an upstream branch-tube, a downstream branch-tube and a merge-branch-tube all extending from the chamber part. A valve body of the stopcock comprises a nearly spherical valve main body and a rod-shaped operating part with a guide hole linking the inner surface of the chamber part to the outside. In operation, the rod-shaped operating part is moved along the guide hole through the use of the horizontal flow passages and the vertical flow passage to allow the predetermined branch-tubes out of the upstream branch-tube, the downstream branch-tube and the merge-branch-tube to communicate with one another or to shut-off the communication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicant: Board of Supervisors of Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College
    Inventors: Alireza HAMIDIAN JAHROMI, David Hilton BALLARD, Jeffery Adam WEISMAN, Horacio Ruben Vincent D'AGOSTINO
  • Publication number: 20160339229
    Abstract: Methods and devices for monitoring and/or controlling delivery of a fluid to a patient monitor a level of the fluid and generate an alarm and/or block flow of the fluid through a flexible delivery tube to the patient in response to detecting that the fluid level has dropped below a predetermined level. A device for monitoring and/or controlling delivery of the fluid to a patient is removeably mountable to a fluid delivery assembly having the delivery tube. When the device is configured to control delivery of the fluid, the device automatically reconfigures from a first configuration in which fluid is allowed to flow through the delivery tube to a second configuration in which the delivery tube is in a deformed state via the device to block flow of fluid through the delivery tube upon the device detecting that the fluid level is below the predetermined level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Orlando Hung, Gleb Sekretta, Benjamin Garvey, Lee Babin, Alistair Trower
  • Publication number: 20160339230
    Abstract: Immobilization systems are provided for treatment of an injured area. The system includes a splint for placement around an injured area, a therapeutic device coupled to the splint to effectuate treatment to target tissues around the injured area and a wireless interface configured to communicate with the device to transmit treatment data to the device. Methods for treatment of an injured area are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Javier Muñoz, Toni Climent, Luis Monzón, Lucas Pedrajas, Juan Monzón
  • Publication number: 20160339231
    Abstract: A circumferential headset for use in delivering electrical stimulation to the skin surface of the head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Amit DAR, Jonathan BAR-OR, Amir COHEN, Ron BELSON
  • Publication number: 20160339232
    Abstract: In some embodiments, without limitation, the invention comprises an apparatus for cutting an endocardial lead within a patient. The apparatus comprises a generally flexible tubular member having a proximal end and distal end. At least one blade or cutting surface is affixed to the distal end of the tubular member. The apparatus optionally includes an adjustment mechanism adapted to adjust the blade or cutting surface between an extended position and a retracted position. The blade or cutting surface engages the endocardial lead to cut the lead. Various embodiments include a v-shaped groove defining the cutting surfaces. Other embodiments may comprise a rotatable blade of an inner shaft rotating within the tubular member and cutting the lead received within the v-shaped groove, and blades or cutting surfaces functioning like guillotines or scissors retracting into a distal end of the tubular member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Andrew Archuleta, David Atwell, Kenneth D. Harlan, Thomas E. Plasket, Kevin D. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20160339233
    Abstract: Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward methods, apparatuses, and systems that include an implantable medical device comprising an implantable lead, a suture sleeve having an interior surface defining a lumen of the suture sleeve that receives the implantable lead, and an engagement feature configured to non-removeably secure the suture sleeve to the implantable lead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Andrew L. De Kock, Christopher A. Fuhs, G. Shantanu Reddy, Diana K. Ma, David A. Durand, Daniel J. Cooke
  • Publication number: 20160339234
    Abstract: An implantable electric lead arrangement for a medical implant system includes an implantable electric lead with parallel lead wires wound in an elongated helix about a central longitudinal axis. At least one support wire is parallel to the lead wires and has a higher strain energy absorption capacity than the lead wires to mechanically strengthen the lead wires against external impact force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Martin Zimmerling, Fabrice Béal, Davide De Luca, Dominik Hammerer, Stefan Hofer, Philipp Schindler
  • Publication number: 20160339235
    Abstract: A medical electrical lead and a method of its use. The lead has an elongated lead body having an outer circumference and provided with an electrode. A push tube is mounted circumferentially around the lead body and the lead body is longitudinally movable with respect thereto. A fixation helix is mounted to the push tube, extending along a generally helical axis around the outer circumference of the lead body. The lead may be employed by advancing the lead to a desired location for the fixation helix and then rotating the push tube to secure the helix to tissue. The lead body may then be moved longitudinally with respect to the push tube to place the electrode in a desirable location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: John L. Sommer, Linda L. Franke
  • Publication number: 20160339236
    Abstract: An active implantable medical device (AIMD) for use with a medical lead carrying at least one lead electrode. The AIMD comprises interior electronic circuitry configured for performing a medical function via the medical lead, an electrically conductive case containing the interior electronic circuitry, at least one electrical terminal configured for electrically coupling the electronic circuitry respectively to the lead electrode(s), and an inductive element coupled in series between the electrical terminal(s) and the case. The inductive element is configured for hindering the shunting of electrical current from the at least one electrical terminal to the case that has been induced by electromagnetic interference (EMI) impinging on the medical lead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Joseph Bocek, Kiran Gururaj, Matthew McDonald, Gaurav Gupta, Mizanur Rahman, Ross Venook
  • Publication number: 20160339237
    Abstract: Modulation of target effector organs in vertebrate beings using direct current stimulation for stimulation of spinal cord at regions of autonomic innervation, using direct current for peripheral nerve stimulation, by modulating central autonomic outflow and combinations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Zaghloul Ahmed, Nader Yaghoubi
  • Publication number: 20160339238
    Abstract: Modulation of target effector organs in vertebrate beings using direct current stimulation for stimulation of spinal cord at regions of autonomic innervation, using direct current for peripheral nerve stimulation, by modulating central autonomic outflow and combinations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Zaghloul Ahmed, Nader Yaghoubi
  • Publication number: 20160339239
    Abstract: Methods and systems for providing therapy related to urological disorders which relate to stimulation of the saphenous nerve (SAFN) either alone or in combination with the posterior tibial nerve (PTN), medial plantar nerve (MPN) or lateral planar nerve. In embodiments nerves are stimulated by percutaneous, transcutaneous, and/or implanted stimulators. In embodiments the SAFN is stimulated below the level of the knee or near the medial malleolus. Embodiments also disclose improving nerve stimulation, including SAFN stimulation, using systems and methods termed enhanced transcutaneous electrical stimulation (eTENS) since these enhance the excitation of neural tissue. In an embodiment, systems and methods are provided to increase the chance of providing the selective modulation of specific (targeted) neural substrate, while decreasing the risk of activation of adjacent (non-targeted) nervous tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: PAUL B. YOO, MICHAEL SASHA JOHN
  • Publication number: 20160339240
    Abstract: An electrostimulator is provided with: a control unit for determining initial stance, midstance, terminal stance, initial swing, or terminal swing on the basis of detection signals of detection units; and first through third electrodes for outputting electrical stimulation to muscles spanning a knee joint. The control unit outputs electrical stimulation to the first through third electrodes during midstance, and stops the outputting of electrical stimulation from the first through third electrodes during initial swing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2014
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicant: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Izumi MIHARA, Ryo ICHIMURA, Keita INUI
  • Publication number: 20160339241
    Abstract: A method of treating a neurological condition in a patient, the method including the step of applying an electrical stimulation from conductors to the patient's head at a stimulation application site. In some embodiments, the electrical stimulation includes a composite electrical signal further comprising at least one signal form configured to provide long-term treatment of the neurological condition and at least one signal form configured to provide analgesia for short-term pain relief. The invention also provides an electrical stimulation apparatus having an electrical signal generator adapted to provide an electrical signal form configured to provide long-term treatment of a neurological condition and to provide an electrical signal form configured to provide analgesia for short-term pain relief.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Jeffrey B. HARGROVE, William G. MAVITY, Lauren R. BRIGGS, Roger Michael GENGREAU
  • Publication number: 20160339242
    Abstract: A system for trigeminal nerve stimulation includes a pulse generator, which includes a user control configured to receive a user adjustment and a microcontroller configured to receive electric stimulation parameters and operate the pulse generator to produce electrical pulses according to the electric stimulation parameters during a treatment session. A method for nerve stimulation includes receiving, by a pulse generator, electric stimulation parameters, and producing, by the pulse generator, electrical pulses according to electric stimulation parameters during a treatment session. The electric stimulation parameters include at least one user-set parameter, which includes a current amplitude that is responsive to the user adjustment of the user control, and at least one physician-set parameter, which includes an upper bound and a lower bound for the current amplitude.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicants: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, NEUROSIGMA, INC.
    Inventors: Ian A. Cook, Christopher M. DeGiorgio, Leon Ekchian, Patrick Miller, Colin Kealey
  • Publication number: 20160339243
    Abstract: Methods, devices, and systems induce neuromodulation by focusing a source of stimulation through a skull/brain interface in the form of an aperture formed in the skull, a naturally occurring fenestration in the skull, or a transcranial channel. Methods, devices, and systems identify where to locate skull/brain interfaces, accessories that can be used with the interfaces, and features for controlling stimulation delivered through the interfaces. Multiple indications for the skull/brain interfaces include diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders and conditions such as epilepsy, movement disorders, depression, Alzheimer's disease, autism, coma, and pain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Brett Wingeier, Daniel Chao, Benjamin Pless, Thomas Tcheng
  • Publication number: 20160339244
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treatment of hypertension and heart failure by increasing vagal tone and secretion of endogenous atrial hormones by excitory pacing of the heart atria. Atrial pacing is done during the ventricular refractory period resulting in atrial contraction against closed AV valves, and atrial contraction rate that is higher than the ventricular contraction rate. Pacing results in the increased atrial wall stress. An implantable device is used to monitor ECG and pace the atria in a nonphysiologic manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Howard Levin, Mark Gelfand
  • Publication number: 20160339245
    Abstract: Presented herein are dynamic current steering techniques in which a dynamic stimulation pulse is delivered to a recipient as current stimulation applied across a plurality of stimulation channels. The current stimulation is weighted and applied in a pattern that results in a time varying progressive change in the location of a locus of the current stimulation across the plurality of channels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Stefan Jozef Mauger, Zachary Mark Smith
  • Publication number: 20160339246
    Abstract: Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system having a recharging system with self alignment, a system for mapping current fields using a completely wireless system, multiple independent electrode stimulation outsources, and IPG control through software on Smartphone/mobile device and tablet hardware during trial and permanent implants. SCS system can include multiple electrodes, multiple, independently programmable, stimulation channels within an implantable pulse generator (IPG) providing concurrent, but unique stimulation fields. SCS system can include a replenishable power source, rechargeable using transcutaneous power transmissions between antenna coil pairs. An external charger unit, having its own rechargeable battery, can charge the IPG replenishable power source. A real-time clock can provide an auto-run schedule for daily stimulation. A bi-directional telemetry link informs the patient or clinician the status of the system, including the state of charge of the IPG battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Saif Khalil, Raghavendra Angara, Miles Curtis, Christopher Biele, Daniel Fellmeth
  • Publication number: 20160339247
    Abstract: Methods and/or devices may be configured to monitor ventricular activation times and modify an atrioventricular delay (AV delay) based on the monitored ventricular activation times. Further, the methods and/or devices may determine whether the AV delay should be modified based on the measured activation times before modifying the AV delay.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Subham Ghosh, Robert W Stadler
  • Publication number: 20160339248
    Abstract: An implantable device and associated method for delivering multi-site pacing therapy is disclosed. The device comprises a set of electrodes including a first ventricular electrode and a second ventricular electrode, spatially separated from one another and all coupled to an implantable pulse generator. The device comprises a processor configured for selecting a first cathode and a first anode from the set of electrodes to form a first pacing vector at a first pacing site along a heart chamber and selecting a second cathode and a second anode from the set of electrodes to form a second pacing vector at a second pacing site along the same heart chamber. The pulse generator is configured to deliver first pacing pulses to the first pacing vector and delivering second pacing pulses to the second pacing vector. The pulse generator generates a recharging current for recharging a first coupling capacitor over a first recharge time period in response to the first pacing pulses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Anthony W. Schrock, Jean E. Hudson, Karen J. Kleckner, John D. Wahlstrand, Michael W. Heinks, Michael L. Hudziak, Subham Ghosh, Aleksandre T. Sambelashvili
  • Publication number: 20160339249
    Abstract: A regenerative interface electrode comprising a multilayer or sandwiched stack of dies that are oriented at their distal ends with at least one layer inset such that it forms a groove into which a nerve may be positioned inside the groove. The die layers include electrodes that connect to the nerve, allowing the nerve to be modulated. The electrodes in the die layers are connected to a PCB, which may communicate with a recording device. The distal end of the sandwiched die layers forming the groove is inserted into a nerve tube, into which the nerve is inserted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventor: Young-Tae KIM
  • Publication number: 20160339250
    Abstract: A medical system includes an implantable lead having a plurality of electrode contacts, a pulse generator coupled to the lead and configured to generate electrical pulses to be delivered to a patient through the plurality of electrode contacts, and an electronic programmer coupled to the pulse generator. The electronic programmer programs the pulse generator to generate the electrical pulses. The pulse generator is programmed to generate an electrical stimulation to be applied to the patient via one of the electrode contacts on the implantable lead. A determination is received as to whether the patient, in response to the electrical stimulation, exhibited a bellows response or a toes response. A stimulation parameter of the electrical stimulation is ramped up in response to a determination that the patient did not exhibit the bellows response or the toes response and that the patient did not feel pain in response to the electrical stimulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Norbert Kaula, Yohannes Iyassu
  • Publication number: 20160339251
    Abstract: Systems and methods for closed loop spinal cord stimulation are provided. The systems and methods position a first electrode proximate to a dorsal column. The first electrode is electrically coupled to an implantable pulse generator (IPG). The systems and methods further program the IPG to deliver excitation pulses to the first electrode based on a stimulation level. The excitation pulses are emitted from the first electrode. The systems and methods further position a second electrode proximate to a dorsal root. The second electrode is electrically coupled to the IPG. The systems and methods further measure at the second electrode a first evoked potential waveforms resulting from the excitation pulses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2015
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventors: Alexander Kent, Edward Karst, Gene A. Bornzin
  • Publication number: 20160339252
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for delivering neurostimulation therapies to patients for treating chronic heart failure. A neural fulcrum zone is identified and ongoing neurostimulation therapy is delivered within the neural fulcrum zone. This neural fulcrum zone corresponds to a combination of stimulation parameters at which autonomic engagement is achieved, while the tachycardia-inducing stimulation effects are offset by the bradycardia-inducing effects, thereby minimizing side effects such as significant heart rate changes while providing a therapeutic level of stimulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Applicants: CYBERONICS, INC., EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Bruce H. KenKnight, Jeffrey L. Ardell, Imad Libbus, Badri Amurthur
  • Publication number: 20160339253
    Abstract: A method and neurostimulation system of providing therapy to a patient is provided. A plurality of electrodes are placed in contact with tissue of a patient, a conditioning pulse is conveyed from the plurality of electrodes in one of a monopolar manner and a multipolar manner, and a stimulation pulse is conveyed from the plurality of electrodes in a different one of the monopolar manner and the multipolar manner. As one example, the sub-threshold conditioning pulse may be a depolarizing pulse conveyed from the plurality of electrodes to render a first region of the tissue less excitable to stimulation, and the stimulation pulse may be conveyed from the plurality of electrodes to stimulate a second different region of the tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventor: Michael A. Moffitt
  • Publication number: 20160339254
    Abstract: A system and method for estimating the current delivered to a patient during voltage-regulated electrical stimulation therapy by an implantable medical device includes calculating a total charge delivered and a peak current delivered and the time at which the peak current was delivered using a proxy for the current delivered to the patient and a component such as a current controlled oscillator, the output of which is proportional to the current proxy together with memory for storing values relating to the output proportional to the current proxy. The stored values also may be used to construct a waveform approximating the current delivered to the patient during a therapy of voltage-regulated stimulation. The system and method may be implemented in an active implantable medical device such as an implantable neurostimulator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2016
    Publication date: November 24, 2016
    Inventor: Stephen T. ARCHER