Patents Issued in May 25, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170143940
    Abstract: A steerable sheath catheter for providing access into body vasculature, the catheter including a sheath handle with an actuator and a control mechanism operative to selectively deflect a tip section of the catheter, and a feedback mechanism that provides, for example, tactile feedback that is felt by the user as the control mechanism passes a neutral position while deflecting the tip section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Mark Flygare, Richard D. Jenkins, Jon Jensen, Gregory R. McArthur, Richard Paul Jenkins
  • Publication number: 20170143941
    Abstract: Embodiments include a catheter anchoring device for securing a percutaneous medical catheter inserted at a skin puncture site to a skin of a body. The catheter anchoring device may include a catheter capture portion coupled to a skin attachment portion. The catheter capture portion may be configured to engage with a portion of the catheter protruding from the skin when the catheter is subcutaneously placed in a body. The skin attachment portion may be configured to adhesively attach the anchoring device to the skin, wherein the skin attachment portion is primarily attached to the skin overlaying and lateral to the subcutaneously located catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Scott D. Augustine, Randall C. Arnold
  • Publication number: 20170143942
    Abstract: A valve insertion device for traversing a wire guide through a valve within an intraluminal passage. A wire guide is positioned near the outflow of a valve within an intraluminal passage. Alongside the wire guide, a pressure sensor is positioned to detect the pressure of the fluid in the intraluminal passage. As the valve opens, the fluid pressure at the outflow of the valve increases. This information is sent from the pressure sensor to a control system. From this information, the control system can determine when the valve will open and can actuate an advancement system to move the wire guide to traverse the open valve. After traversing the valve, various catheters and sheaths may be advanced over the wire guide through the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: John C. Sigmon, JR., Jillian Haac, Michelle D. Martinez, Shaun D. Gittard, Devesh Amatya, Vihar C. Surti
  • Publication number: 20170143943
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods including balloon catheters are described. In one embodiments, a balloon catheter assembly may comprise a tubular member having a proximal portion and a distal portion with a lumen extending between the proximal portion and the distal portion and a balloon member having a proximal waist portion, a distal waist portion, and an expandable region therebetween, the balloon member disposed proximate the distal portion of the tubular member and bonded to tubular member. The assembly may further comprise a first sleeve member covering a first portion of the tubular member and a portion of the balloon member proximal waist portion and a second sleeve member covering a second portion of the tubular member and a portion of the first sleeve member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: Boston Scientific Corporation
    Inventors: Katherine M. Prindle, Daniel James Horn, Joel Munsinger
  • Publication number: 20170143944
    Abstract: The cervical canal dilation device of the present invention relates to controlled injection of liquid or gel to the cervical canal in order to obtain a desired predetermined dilation while causing the treated woman minimal discomfort. The injection of a substance having a liquid or gel characteristics into the cervical canal is done while the inner and outer orifices (internal os and external os) of the canal are sealed by two reversibly inflatable balloons, referred to as the “dilating balloons”. An inflatable balloon at the tip or near the tip of the cervical canal dilation device anchors the device (in the uterine cavity linked to the internal os) to the desired position in the cervix canal for the dilation treatment. The amount of fluid or gel injected into the cervix canal can be calculated apriori to expand the width of the canal to the desired dimension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Omer Harpaz, Amnon Weichselbaum
  • Publication number: 20170143945
    Abstract: Tissue dilation systems are disclosed. The present systems provide percutaneous access to one or more target structures located in a patient's body. The tissue dilation systems include two or more tissue dilation tubes telescopically arranged and moveable relative to each other. The tissue dilation tubes can be preassembled prior to use by utilizing a dilation tube retention assembly which can maintain the dilation tubes in a substantially fixed position and release the tubes therefrom in order to dilate a patient's tissue. Methods of producing the present systems and using the present systems in surgical procedures are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Brad Culbert, Mark C. Boomer, Christopher Warren, Fausto Olmos
  • Publication number: 20170143946
    Abstract: A device for dispensing a foam medication into a human or animal ear includes a supply of foamable medicine held within a container. The medicine is advanced through a delivery tube that is configured to engage an ear without entering the ear canal to an extent that it contacts the eardrum. The delivery tube has an enlarged end portion that prevents the device from being inserted too far into an ear, and the enlarged end portion has a series of openings oriented in two different directions to deliver foam into the ear forward of the device and around the circumference of the delivery tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Roy J Martin
  • Publication number: 20170143947
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating inflammatory bowel diseases is provided. The apparatus includes a handle, a shaft extending distally from the handle, and an end effector disposed on a distal end of the shaft. The shaft is configured to be advanced within the colon of a patient. The end effector includes a radiating portion and a nozzle disposed thereon. The radiating portion is configured to emit energy therefrom and the nozzle is configured to emit a fluid therefrom. A method of treating inflammatory bowel diseases is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: REBECCA J. COULSON, DARION R. PETERSON, JAMES D. ALLEN, IV, ANTHONY B. ROSS, WILLIAM H. NAU, JR.
  • Publication number: 20170143948
    Abstract: A device for treating cutaneous blemishes and dermatologic diseases that includes an application bell operatively connected to a feeding assembly is described. The bell is shaped to be removably leant on a cutaneous surface to be treated and with which it defines a treatment chamber. The feeding assembly includes, in its turn, a pump which realizes—in the treatment chamber—an environment having a pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure, and an oxygen delivering device activated subsequently to the pump, to deliver—in the treatment chamber—an oxygen flow. The feeding assembly provides for a controlling unit to selectively activate, in time sequence, the pump and the oxygen delivering device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: FLAEM NUOVA S.P.A.
    Inventors: Riccardo ABATE, Roberto ALBERTELLI, Mauro BERTELLI
  • Publication number: 20170143949
    Abstract: Disclosed are composite microneedles arrays including microneedles and a film overlaying the microneedles. The film includes a plurality of nano-sized structures fabricated thereon. Devices may be utilized for interacting with a component of the dermal connective tissue. A random or non-random pattern of structures may be fabricated such as a complex pattern including structures of differing sizes and/or shapes. Devices may be beneficially utilized for delivery of an agent to a cell or tissue. Devices may be utilized to directly or indirectly alter cell behavior through the interaction of a fabricated nanotopography with the plasma membrane of a cell and/or with an extracellular matrix component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Russell Frederick Ross
  • Publication number: 20170143950
    Abstract: A pellet delivery system is provided that comprises a needle having an inner surface defining a passageway. The needle has a first portion that extends along a longitudinal axis and a curved second portion comprising an opening that is in communication with the passageway. The second portion extends transverse to the longitudinal axis. A pellet is positioned in the passageway. A plunger is slidably positioned in the passageway. The plunger comprises a shaft having a rounded tip configured to push the pellet through the first and second portions and out of the opening without the pellet becoming stuck within the passageway or the opening. Implants, systems, constructs, instruments and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Brian D. Koch, Lloyd M. Snyder
  • Publication number: 20170143951
    Abstract: An image transfer sheet for producing a temporary tattoo having a base release sheet upon which a tattoo image is formed. The tattoo image comprising an image layer composed of a permanent adhesive and a water soluble adhesive having one or more inks integrated therewith. Wherein, after the tattoo image has been applied to a user and then subjected to water, the water soluble adhesive breaks apart and the permanent adhesive no longer has the ability to bond thereby allowing the tattoo image to easily be removed from the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Elyse Clark, Mark G. Lang
  • Publication number: 20170143952
    Abstract: A sheath for producing a fully sealed access to the interior of a vessel of an animal or human body comprises a base sheath having a tubular body defining a pass-through channel. The base sheath is adapted to be inserted into the vessel through a vessel aperture. A wall of the tubular body of the base sheath has a through channel. This channel extends in the wall from the distal end towards the proximal end. The channel can be present separately from the pass-through channel of the base sheath or can form a sideways extension of the pass-through channel, at least at the distal end. Such through channel is adapted to conduct blood from the vessel to the proximal end of the sheath when the sheath has been inserted into a vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Thorsten Siess, Christoph Nix, Frank Kirchhoff, Patrick Hunziker
  • Publication number: 20170143953
    Abstract: Formation of a sterile connection includes inserting a first aseptic coupling device into a second aseptic coupling device, removing a first membrane from the first aseptic coupling device and a second membrane from the second aseptic coupling device, and rotating a locking clip on the first aseptic coupling device to compress a first seal member of the first aseptic coupling device with a second seal member of the second aseptic coupling device to form a sterile fluid passageway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Randall Scott Williams, Patrick Thomas Gerst, Jeremy Henry Nichols, Todd Charles Andrews
  • Publication number: 20170143954
    Abstract: A writing utensil for providing active nerve stimulation to the fingertips of a user. The writing utensil has a body portion, a tip portion with a marking tip, and an active stimulator with active stimulation surfaces retained adjacent to the distal end of the body portion to be engaged by the fingertips of the user. The active stimulator has an active state where active stimulation is provided to the fingertips of the user and an inactive state where active stimulation is not provided. The active stimulator can comprise mechanical movement mechanisms where nodules, such as rotatable cam nodules with eccentric portions, periodically extend in relation to the active stimulation surfaces. Additionally or alternatively, the active stimulator can comprise electrical pulse mechanisms for imparting electrical impulses to fingers disposed in contact therewith. Active nerve stimulation can be provided simultaneously, in series, or in some other pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Raymond M. Messina
  • Publication number: 20170143955
    Abstract: Delivery devices, systems, and methods for delivering implantable leadless pacing devices are disclosed. An example delivery device may include an intermediate tubular member and an inner tubular member slidably disposed within a lumen of the intermediate tubular member. A distal holding section may extend distally of a distal end of the intermediate tubular member and define a cavity therein for receiving an implantable leadless pacing device. The device may further include a handle assembly including at least an intermediate hub portion affixed adjacent to the proximal end of the intermediate tubular member and a proximal hub portion affixed adjacent to the proximal end of the inner tubular member. A longitudinally extending groove having a proximal end and a distal end may be disposed in the intermediate hub portion. A first locking mechanism may be configured to releasably couple the intermediate hub portion and the proximal hub portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: CARDIAC PACEMAKERS, INC.
    Inventors: BRIAN SOLTIS, BENJAMIN J. HAASL, ALLAN C. SHUROS, BRIAN L. SCHMIDT, JAMES P. GOODMAN
  • Publication number: 20170143956
    Abstract: There is disclosed an electro-stimulation device having co-operating male/female locking engagement between an internal electrode connector and an externally facing contact electrode. This arrangement aids easy assembly of the electrostimulation device especially when using a unitary device body to form a self-contained device. The device may be arranged to deliver constant target current to a muscle for electro-stimulation of that muscle. The device may be a completely self-contained device with no external means for the adjustment and control of the electro-stimulation delivered to the muscle during treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Ian Gregson, Nicholas John White, David Murray, Kenneth Timmerman
  • Publication number: 20170143957
    Abstract: An oral care implement having conductive protrusions. In one embodiment, the oral care implement includes a handle and a head coupled to the handle. Furthermore, the oral care implement includes a power source. A plurality of conductive protrusions may be electrically coupled to the power source. The plurality of conductive protrusions may include a base proximate the head and a distal end spaced from the head. Furthermore, at least one of the conductive protrusions may taper from the base to the distal end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Patrik Johansson, Harsh Mahendra Trivedi, Douglas Hohlbein
  • Publication number: 20170143958
    Abstract: A device for cosmetic treatment of human skin, including: a needle for inserting into the skin; a DC power source electrically connected to the needle for providing negative current to the needle; an anode that is electrically connected to the DC power source to receive positive current, and that is adapted to be placed in contact with the skin of the person into which the needle is inserted to form a closed electrical circuit; at least one RF transmitter coupled to the needle for radiating the area around where the needle is inserted to provide heat while the needle is deployed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Pinchas Shalev, Zion Azar
  • Publication number: 20170143959
    Abstract: An implantable medical device is provided for the suppression or prevention of pain, movement disorders, epilepsy, cerebrovascular diseases, autoimmune diseases, sleep disorders, autonomic disorders, abnormal metabolic states, disorders of the muscular system, and neuropsychiatric disorders in a patient. The implantable medical device can be a neurostimulator configured to be implanted on or near a cranial nerve to treat headache or other neurological disorders. One aspect of the implantable medical device is that it includes an electronics enclosure, a substrate integral to the electronics enclosure, and a monolithic feed-through integral to the electronics enclosure and the substrate. In some embodiments, the implantable medical device can include a fixation apparatus for attaching the device to a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Carl Lance Boling, Benjamin David Pless, Ryan Powell, Anthony V. Caparso
  • Publication number: 20170143960
    Abstract: A device is disclosed that can predict an onset of an apnea or disordered breathing in a patient. The device can include a number of contacts adapted to make contact with the patient's tongue, and a control circuit configured to receive a first signal from the number of contacts, and predict an onset of an apnea or disordered breathing in the patient based, at least in part, on one or more characteristics of the first signal at a first time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Steven Thomas Kent, Harold Byron Kent, Christopher Fisher, Ronald W. Young, Karena Yadira Puldon, Robert Douglas Kent, Laurence Wylie Harter
  • Publication number: 20170143961
    Abstract: This invention concerns a device for the temporary treatment of the heart rate, also known as an external pacemaker, integrated with a supply system that makes it possible to increase the operation of the device and to allow more time to replace the main battery of the system compared with prior art devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: ALBERTO CALABRO', ANTONIO FASANO
  • Publication number: 20170143962
    Abstract: An exemplary auditory prosthesis system includes a sound processor apparatus that is configured for external use by a patient and includes 1) a position sensor that detects a positioning of the sound processor apparatus and 2) a control module that is communicatively coupled to the position sensor and performs a predetermined action with respect to the auditory prosthesis system in accordance with the detected positioning of the sound processor apparatus. Corresponding auditory prosthesis systems and methods are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2014
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Lakshmi N. MISHRA
  • Publication number: 20170143963
    Abstract: A method comprising detecting an epileptic event in a patient; applying an electrical therapy to a first target area in at least one of a brain region or a cranial nerve of said patient in response to said detecting; receiving a body signal responsive to the electrical therapy, wherein said body signal is selected from an autonomic signal, a neurologic signal, a metabolic signal, an endocrine signal, or a tissue stress marker signal; determining whether said body signal indicates that said electrical therapy has an efficacious effect; and terminating the application of said electrical therapy if the response indicates that the electrical therapy has an efficacious effect. An apparatus capable of performing the method. A non-transitive, computer-readable storage device for storing data that when executed by a processor, perform the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: FLINT HILLS SCIENTIFIC, LLC
    Inventor: Ivan Osorio
  • Publication number: 20170143964
    Abstract: A neuromodulation system comprises a plurality of electrical terminals configured for being respectively coupled to a plurality of electrodes, a user interface configured for receiving input from a user that selects one of a plurality of different shapes of a modulating signal and/or selects one of a plurality of different electrical pulse parameters of an electrical pulse train, neuromodulation output circuitry configured for outputting an electrical pulse train to the plurality of electrical terminals, and pulse train modulation circuitry configured for modulating the electrical pulse train in accordance with the selected shape of the modulating signal and/or selected electrical pulse parameter of the electrical pulse train.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Changfang Zhu
  • Publication number: 20170143965
    Abstract: A stimulator and a method for the treatment of intractable pain syndromes by electrical stimulation of the spinal cord is disclosed in which implantable electrodes positioned around a targeted area of the spinal cord transmit an interferential current that has a base medium frequency alternating current between 500 Hz-20 KHz. A digital signal processor generates a sine-wave-like waveform from a pulse generator which after further processing is used to generate at least two circuits for use in producing the beat frequency signal. An effective area of stimulation is controlled by the quantity of electrodes, positioning of the electrodes and electrode cross pattern orientation. Amplitude modulation of electrical circuits created at the electrode placements also augments the effective area of stimulation. The stimulator and method reduce accommodation of the body to the electrical stimulation and provide deeper penetration of the resultant signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: William J. Carroll
  • Publication number: 20170143966
    Abstract: Systems and methods for treating a cognitive disease or disorder are provided. A treatment method comprises: selecting a target volume of brain tissue to be stimulated; identifying at least one avoidance volume of brain tissue; selecting a first stimulation lead comprising at least one stimulation element; identifying at least one proposed trajectory for placement of the first stimulation lead based on the target volume and the at least one avoidance volume; placing the first stimulation lead along a placement trajectory selected from the at least one proposed trajectory; attaching the first stimulation lead to a stimulator; and stimulating the target volume with the first stimulation lead at least one stimulation element to treat at least one of a cognitive disease or a cognitive disorder. Systems include a stimulator with one or more stimulation leads and an image analyzer for identifying a proposed trajectory for placing the stimulation leads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Donald E. Reymers, Mark Rise, Daniel J. O'Connell, R. Maxwell Flaherty, J. Christopher Flaherty
  • Publication number: 20170143967
    Abstract: A cholinergic deep brain stimulator is provided that can be used to increase brain acetylcholine levels. This increase in acetylcholine levels improves cognition and may be used to remediate disorders in which cognitive loss is a prominent symptom including Alzheimer's Disease, vascular dementia, traumatic brain injury, or drug addiction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: David T. Blake, JR., Ruifeng Liu, Jonathan M. Crawford, Christos Constantinidis, Alvin V. Terry, JR.
  • Publication number: 20170143968
    Abstract: Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward apparatuses, systems, and methods that include a single pass implantable lead configured to be coupled to the implantable medical device and arranged to sense and pace the chambers of a patient's heart. The lead may include a proximal region having a plurality of electrodes, a distal region having at least one electrode, and an intermediate region therebetween. The system can sense and pace the right atrium, the left atrium, the right ventricle, and the left ventricle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Lili Liu, Matthew J. Miller, Kyle K. Hoecke, Ronald W. Kunkel
  • Publication number: 20170143969
    Abstract: We disclose multi-electrode, energy-recycling, resonant stimulation circuits and strategies for energy-efficient blocking of action potentials in nerve. Our schemes increase the probability that most of the electrical stimulation is directed through the nerve rather than dissipated in ohmic extracellular solution alongside it via mechanical and electrical means; they use energy-recycling and resonant-amplification strategies that recycle and amplify capacitive nerve energy such that the nerve itself becomes an integral part of the circuit creating its oscillatory blocking waveform; they use traveling-wave strategies with distributed multi-electrode stimulation that alters the timing and intensity of stimulation at various points along the nerve to synchronize blocking stimulation with wave propagation in the nerve in an energy-efficient fashion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: Rahnix, Inc.
    Inventors: Rahul Sarpeshkar, Woradorn Wattanapanitch
  • Publication number: 20170143970
    Abstract: Sample and hold circuitry for monitoring electrodes and other voltages in an implantable neurostimulator is disclosed. The sample and hold circuitry in one embodiment contains multiplexers to selected appropriate voltages and to pass them to two storage capacitors during two different measurement phases. The capacitors are in a later stage serially connected to add the two voltages stored on the capacitors, and voltages present at the top and bottom of the serial connection are then input to a differential amplifier to compute their difference. The sample and hold circuitry is particularly useful in calculating the resistance between two electrodes, and is further particularly useful when resistance is measured using a biphasic pulse. The sample and hold circuitry is flexible, and can be used to measure other voltages of interest during biphasic or monophasic pulsing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Jess W. Shi, Emanuel Feldman, Jordi Parramon
  • Publication number: 20170143971
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a grip sensor for quantifying pain experienced by a patient during spinal cord stimulation (SCS). The grip sensor includes an electronics enclosure, an annular outer shell substantially surrounding the electronics enclosure and sized to be held by the patient, a pressure sensor embedded in the outer shell and communicatively coupled to the electronics enclosure, the pressure sensor configured to measure a grip strength of the patient as SCS is applied to the patient, and a plurality of galvanic skin response sensors communicatively coupled to the electronics enclosure and configured to measure an electrical impedance of the skin of the patient as SCS is applied to the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Alexander Kent, Edward Karst, Gene A. Bornzin
  • Publication number: 20170143972
    Abstract: An example of a system for modulating neuroinflammation at a tissue site in a patient includes a neuromodulation output circuit, a memory, and a control circuit. The neuromodulation output circuit may be configured to deliver the neuromodulation. The memory may be configured to store a neuromodulation parameter set selected to modulate neural activity at the tissue site and a sensed biomarker parameter. The biomarker parameter may include a measure of a biomarker or a measure of a derivative of the biomarker. The biomarker may be indicative of the neuroinflammation at the tissue site. The control circuit may be configured to control the delivery of the neuromodulation using the neuromodulation parameter set and adjust one or more parameters of the neuromodulation parameter set using the biomarker parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Bradley Lawrence Hershey, Changfang Zhu
  • Publication number: 20170143973
    Abstract: Devices and methods are provided to treat acute and chronic heart failure by using one or more implantable or non-implantable sensors along with phrenic nerve stimulation to reduce intrathoracic pressure and thereby reduce pulmonary artery, atrial, and ventricular pressures leading to reduced complications and hospitalization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: RMX, LLC
    Inventor: Amir J. TEHRANI
  • Publication number: 20170143974
    Abstract: A therapeutic neuromodulation system configured for providing therapy to a patient. The therapeutic neuromodulation system comprises a plurality of electrical terminals configured for being respectively coupled to a plurality of electrodes implanted within tissue, analog output circuitry configured for delivering therapeutic electrical energy between the plurality of electrical terminals in accordance with a set of modulation parameters that includes a defined current value, a voltage regulator configured for supplying an adjustable compliance voltage to the analog output circuitry, and control/processing circuitry configured for automatically performing a compliance voltage calibration process at a compliance voltage adjustment interval by periodically computing an adjusted compliance voltage value as a function of a compliance voltage margin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Jess Weiqian Shi, Jordi Parramon, Goran N. Marnfeldt
  • Publication number: 20170143975
    Abstract: This disclosure describes, among other embodiments, systems and related methods for selecting electrode combinations to be used during nerve pacing procedures. A first set of electrode combinations of a nerve pacing system, such as a phrenic nerve pacing system for diaphragm activation, may be mapped (or tested) to determine the location of the electrode combinations relative to a target nerve. Once the general location of the target nerve is known, a more localized second set of electrode combinations may be tested to determine the most suitable electrode combinations for nerve stimulation. At various stages of the mapping process, electrode combinations that are non-optimal may be discarded as candidates for use in a nerve pacing procedure. The systems and methods described herein may allow for the selection of electrode combinations that are most suitable for stimulation of the left and right phrenic nerves during diaphragm pacing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Joaquin Andres HOFFER, Gautam SADARANGANI, Marc-Andre NOLETTE, Viral THAKKAR, Bao Dung TRAN
  • Publication number: 20170143976
    Abstract: An exemplary computer-implemented method is disclosed for detection of onset of depolarization on far-field electrograms (EGMs) or electrocardiogram (ECG)-or ECG-like signals. The method includes determining a baseline rhythm using a plurality of body-surface electrodes. The baseline rhythm includes an atrial marker and a ventricular marker. A pre-specified window is defined as being between the atrial marker and the ventricular marker. A low pass filter is applied to a signal within the window. A rectified slope of the signal within the window is determined. A determination is made as to whether a time point (t1) is present such that the rectified slope exceeds 10% of a maximum value of the rectified slope. A point of onset of a depolarization complex in the signal is determined. The point of onset occurs at a largest curvature in the signal within the window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Subham Ghosh
  • Publication number: 20170143977
    Abstract: According to at least one aspect, a wearable cardiac device is provided. The wearable cardiac device includes a garment worn about a torso of a patient, at least one sensing electrode to monitor cardiac activity of the patient, and a controller including a plurality of separate and distinct modules distributed about and/or integrated into the garment. The plurality of separate and distinct modules includes, for example, an operations module coupled to the at least one sensing electrode and configured to detect at least one cardiac condition of the patient and/or a communications module coupled to the operations module to communicate with an external device. In some examples, the wearable cardiac device may be configured as a treatment device and include an energy storage module coupled to at least one therapy electrode and configured to store energy for at least one therapeutic shock to be applied to the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Thomas E. Kaib, Shane S. Volpe, Gregory R. Frank, Gary A. Freeman, Mark Jerome Owens
  • Publication number: 20170143978
    Abstract: One embodiment is an electrical stimulation arrangement that includes a lead having a lead body and first contacts disposed along a first end surface of the proximal end portion of the lead body; and a lead extension having a lead extension body and second contacts disposed along the second end surface of the distal end portion of the lead extension body. Several of the first and second contacts form contact pairs with each contact pair containing one first contact and one second contact. For each contact pair, either the first contact or second contact is a male pin and the other of the first contact or second contact is a female socket configured and arranged to mate with the male pin when the proximal end portion of the lead body is mated to the distal end portion of the lead extension body forming a connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: John M. Barker
  • Publication number: 20170143979
    Abstract: In general, techniques are described for labeling an implantable medical device (IMD). In one example, an IMD can include a housing including electronic circuitry. The IMD can include a header coupled to the housing and includes a core. The core can define a bore and include a first metal label positioned adjacent to the at least one bore. The IMD includes a lead assembly including at least one lead having a distal end and a proximal end, the at least one lead including a second metal label, the distal end including at least one electrode and the proximal end received within the bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Michael J. Kane, Michael Keane, John O'Rourke
  • Publication number: 20170143980
    Abstract: Delivery devices, systems, and methods for delivering implantable leadless pacing devices are disclosed. An example delivery system may comprise a delivery device, an implantable leadless pacing device, and a tether. The tether may be made of a material which allows for a lubricious, strong, no stretch, no memory tether. The tether may releasably secure the implantable leadless pacing device to the delivery device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: CARDIAC PACEMAKERS, INC.
    Inventors: BRIAN SOLTIS, KURT G. KOUBAL, BENJAMIN J. HAASL, RONALD W. KUNKEL, BRIAN L. SCHMIDT
  • Publication number: 20170143981
    Abstract: An external charger for an implantable medical device is disclosed which can automatically detect an implant and generate a charging field. The technique uses circuitry typically present in an external charger, such as control circuitry, a Load Shift Keying (LSK) demodulator, and a coupling detector. An algorithm in the control circuitry periodically issues charging fields of short duration in a standby mode. If the coupling detector detects the presence of a conductive material, the algorithm issues a listening window during which a charging field is generated. If an LSK reply signal is received at the LSK demodulator, the external charger can charge the implant in a normal fashion. If a movement signature is detected at the LSK demodulator indicative of a predetermined user movement of the external charger, a charging field is issued for a set timing period, to at least partially charge the IPG battery to restore LSK communications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Daniel Aghassian
  • Publication number: 20170143982
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a medical device to provide neurostimulation therapy to a patient's brain. The device can be surgically implanted and can remain in the patient until end of life. The present disclosure also describes accessories which guide the implantation of the device, and the components that form a leadless stimulator implantation kit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Andre Mercanzini
  • Publication number: 20170143983
    Abstract: Provided is a portable controller and associated method that provides a patient or caregiver the ability to recharge and alter the parameters of an implanted medical device, while allowing the patient substantially unobstructed mobility. To enable mobility, the controller may be worn on a belt or clothing. The controller also allows the patient to turn device stimulation on and off, check battery status, and to vary stimulation parameters within ranges that may be predefined and programmed by a clinician. The controller communicates with the medical device to retrieve information and make parameter adjustments using wireless telemetry, and it can send and receive information from several feet away from the implanted medical device. Charging of a battery contained in the implanted medical device is achieved via an inductive radio frequency link using a charge coil placed in close proximity to the medical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Robert B. Strother, James E. Barber, Joseph J. Mrva, Christopher A. Thierfelder, Maria E. Bennett, Geoffrey B. Thrope, Danny R. Pack, Stuart F. Rubin
  • Publication number: 20170143984
    Abstract: A medical apparatus operable to induce localized hyperthermia in a patient via an electromagnetic field emitted by an antenna of an applicator connected to an output of the medical apparatus includes a signal generator, a bidirectional coupler, and a controller. The signal generator generates a radio frequency signal as a function of an operating parameter to a single cable to an applicator. The bidirectional coupler provides the radio frequency signal generated by the signal generator to the output and receives a reflected signal from the output at the applicator. First and second low pass filters isolate the radio frequency signal and reflected signal from a temperature sensing signal transmitted via the single cable to at least one temperature sensor of the applicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Thomas Otten, George Clark
  • Publication number: 20170143985
    Abstract: An optrode arrangement for delivering optical stimulation to target tissue in a patient, the optrode arrangement comprising an implantable optrode comprising at least one electrically powered light emitter and an electrical circuit and control lines for controlling the light emitter, whereby an associated controller has two modes of operation: a stimulation mode in which it is configured to control the light emitter to deliver optical stimulation to the target tissue and a diagnostic mode in which it is configured to determine a condition of the light emitter and/or the optrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: University of Newcastle Upon Tyne
    Inventors: Patrick DEGENAAR, Hubin ZHAO
  • Publication number: 20170143986
    Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are implemented in connection with light-responsive ion channel molecules. One such method is implemented using a light-activated ion channel molecule that responds to a light stimulus. The method includes engineering the light-activated ion channel molecule in a cell; and activating the ion channel molecule, in response to light stimulus that is provided to the ion channel molecule and that has properties that do not activate a ChR2 ion channel, to allow ions to pass through the light-activated ion channel molecule.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Karl Deisseroth, Feng Zhang, Viviana Gradinaru
  • Publication number: 20170143987
    Abstract: According to various aspects and embodiments, a system and method for treating a target condition are provided. The treatment system may comprise a launch platform, a light source, and a controller coupled to the light source. The launch platform may include a substrate, a layer of absorption material, and a layer of microparticles comprising at least one therapeutic agent. The microparticles may be launched from the launch platform using light energy emitted from the light source and directed to a target condition for purposes of delivering a therapeutic agent to the target condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Noel Elman, David Veysset, Keith Nelson
  • Publication number: 20170143988
    Abstract: The invention provides anionic water-soluble tetracyclic and pentacyclic bacteriochlorophyll derivatives (Bchls) containing at least one, preferably two or three, negatively charged groups and/or acidic groups that are converted to negatively charged groups at the physiological pH, preferably Bchls having a group COO<?>, COS<?>, SO3<?>, PO3<2?>, COOH, COSH, SO3H, and/or PO3H2 bound through an ester or amide bond to one or more of the positions 17<3>, 13<3>, and 3<2> of the tetracyclic or pentacyclic Bchl molecule, for photodynamic therapy and diagnosis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Avigdor Scherz, Alexander Brandis, Ohad Mazor, Yoram Salomon, Hugo Scheer
  • Publication number: 20170143989
    Abstract: There is provided a wound healing composition which comprises at least one oxidant, at least one photoactivator capable of activating the oxidant and at least one healing factor chosen from hyaluronic acid, glucosamine and allantoin in association with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In addition, a method of topically treating wounds using at least one oxidant and at least one photoactivator capable of activating the oxidant followed by illumination of said photosensitizer is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Remigio Piergallini, Nikolaos Loupis, Francesco Bellini