Patents Issued in June 22, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170173297
    Abstract: A pillow may include a pillow form that includes a neck rest and a head rest, and a sleep controller that includes a body, at least one pair of vertically moving rods, and an actuating module configured to actuate the vertically moving rods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Rae Su PARK, Gi Houn PARK, Hyun Seung SHIN, Kyung Tae KIM
  • Publication number: 20170173298
    Abstract: Apparatus having corresponding methods and computer-readable media comprise a controller configured to i) determine a desired respiratory rate of a person, and ii) generate an audio signal having a periodic component, wherein a rate of the periodic component is based on the desired respiratory rate; and a speaker configured to produce sound based on the audio signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2015
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Applicant: Plantronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Evan Harris Benway, Jacob T Meyberg, Barry L Margerum
  • Publication number: 20170173299
    Abstract: An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a capsule container configured to contain at least one capsule, a discharge structure configured to discharge a material included in the capsule, a transceiver configured to transmit data to an external device or to receive data from the external device, and at least one processor. The at least one processor is configured to receive, user state information and biometric information from the external device via the transceiver, select at least one capsule in the capsule container on the basis of the received user state information and biometric information, determine a spray amount of a material contained in the selected at least one capsule, and spray the material via the discharge structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Keumkoo LEE, Joayoung LEE
  • Publication number: 20170173300
    Abstract: A catheter package includes an elongated case (210). A cap (218) is attached to the case by a flexible strap (214). The case receives the tubing portion of a catheter. The catheter has a funnel (224) attached to the tubing. The funnel has a seal portion releasably engageable with the case. The cap is releasably engageable with the funnel to retain the funnel in contact with the case. A user can flip the cap off the funnel to permit removal of the catheter from the case. A hydration device may be inserted in the case. Alternately, a tubular liner may be inserted in the case to separate liquid water on the outside of the liner from the catheter tubing on the inside of the liner. A window in the liner mounts a patch of filter material that permits the passage of water vapor into the interior of the liner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Applicant: Hollister Incorporated
    Inventors: David Hannon, Martin McMenamin, Adam J. Foley, Padraig M. O'Flynn, Stephen Collum, Enda F. Carter, Paul C. Fletter, Marine V. Richard, Daniel E. O'Brien, Vincent Naughton
  • Publication number: 20170173301
    Abstract: A retractable needle catheter insertion device is provided with a cannula and a needle positioned within the cannula to assist with insertion of the cannula. After insertion of the cannula into a patient, the needle can retract into a protective sleeve that contains the needle in order to reduce the chance that a medical practitioner will be inadvertently stuck by a used needle. The needle is carried by a needle support that is slidably disposed within the sleeve. A spring biases the needle support and needle toward a retracted position, and the device also includes an activation hub that works in conjunction with the needle support to control retraction of the needle. The retraction may be activated manually by the medical practitioner or may be activated automatically. A modular system and method of manufacturing is also provided in which catheters having either manually or automatic retraction can be manufactured using common parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Dante A. Tisci, David S. Noskowicz
  • Publication number: 20170173302
    Abstract: A balloon catheter for insertion in a vessel includes a catheter shaft and an inflatable balloon attached to the catheter shaft. Markings along a longitudinal axis of the catheter are provided in an interior of the balloon, such as for measuring a distance within the vessel. A first distance separating a first marking from a second adjacent marking may be different from a second distance separating the second marking from the third adjacent marking. The markings may also be used for ensuring the proper positioning of the balloon and, in particular, the working surface thereof, relative to a treatment area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Jim C. BEASLEY, Stephanie KLOCKE, Abtihal RAJI-KUBBA, Rob RIGHI
  • Publication number: 20170173303
    Abstract: Steerable medical delivery devices that have a steerable portion and an external controller. The steerable portion has a first tubular member comprising a flexible polymeric tubular member that comprises a wall of solid material along the steerable portion, the first tubular member configured to preferentially bend, and a second tubular member, wherein one of the first and second tubular members is disposed within the other, wherein the first and second tubular members are permanently axially fixed relative to one another at a fixation location distal to the steerable portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Amr SALAHIEH, Jonah LEPAK, Emma LEPAK, Tom SAUL, Jean-Pierre DUERI, Brice Arnault DE LA MENARDIERE, Clayton BALDWIN
  • Publication number: 20170173304
    Abstract: A needle device, such as a catheter assembly, includes a catheter tube attached to a catheter hub, a needle attached to a needle hub, and an optional needle guard for covering the needle tip in a protective position. Different markets can utilize the same needle device by separately forming an extension clip having a gripping member or gripping pad for attaching to the needle device for those markets that require the gripping member or pad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2015
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Applicant: B. Braun Melsungen AG
    Inventor: Hui Kuun TEOH
  • Publication number: 20170173305
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a treatment kit comprising: a guide having a distal end and a proximal end; a position determination device for determining the position of the distal end of the guide in the body of a patient; and a catheter intended to be inserted into the body of the patient. The guide is graduated between its distal end and its proximal end, the graduations of the guide making it possible to measure a length of insertion of the guide into the body of the patient, and the catheter is adapted so as to be cut to a predetermined length that is determined based on the length of insertion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Laƫtitia VIN, Thomas WALTER
  • Publication number: 20170173306
    Abstract: Splittable needles for use in catheterizations are described. The splittable needles are formed of equal or unequal longitudinal parts that precisely align and lock for secure access to subject's vessels. The splittable needles are provided with a clamp, which has radially protruding handles and alignment and locking mechanisms. The splittable needles precisely split and separate into respective individual parts following pressing of clamp handles together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2015
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Gautam Kumar, Sivakkumar Arjunon, Yegor Podgorsky, Ajit Yoganathan
  • Publication number: 20170173307
    Abstract: Most spinal cord therapies are administered systemically, with only a small portion of the therapeutic reaching the spinal cord. A novel method for delivering therapeutics directly to the spinal cord is provided. The method uses a duel-balloon catheter to isolate the microvasculature around a region of the spinal cord. Once isolated, one or more therapeutics are delivered directly to the spinal cord blood supply. This allows for smaller, safer therapeutic does to be utilized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Applicants: University of South Florida, United States Department of Veterans Affairs
    Inventors: Svitlana Garbuzova-Davis, Cesario Venturina Borlongan, Harry Ronald van Loveren, Peter Richard Nelson
  • Publication number: 20170173308
    Abstract: Catheter having a hypotube with a skive defined by a first angled cut, an axial cut, and a second angled cut. A midshaft member includes a guidewire lumen and an inflation lumen in fluid communication with an inflation lumen of the hypotube, the inflation lumen of the midshaft member configured to receive at least a portion of the hypotube. A distal tubular shaft member extends distally from the midshaft member. The distal tubular shaft member has a guidewire lumen and an inflation lumen defined therein, the guidewire lumen of the distal tubular shaft member in fluid communication with the guidewire lumen of the midshaft member. The inflation lumen of the distal tubular shaft member is in fluid communication with the inflation lumen of the midshaft member and a balloon is coupled to the distal tubular shaft member and in fluid communication with the inflation lumen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Applicant: ABBOTT CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Bruce M. Wilson, Kerry J. Williams
  • Publication number: 20170173309
    Abstract: Described in one aspect is a multi-pressure monitoring system for cell or other therapy includes a first catheter having a first lumen for accepting a treatment device, a second lumen for inflating a balloon, a pressure sensor for monitoring fluid pressure within the first lumen, and a flow restrictor such as a hemostasis valve for limiting the exchange of fluids into and out of the first lumen while treatment devices are present or exchanged in the first lumen. Also disclosed is a method of using the first catheter with a first pressure monitor coupled to the first pressure sensor along with a second catheter attached to a second pressure sensor coupled to a second pressure monitor. The second catheter is positioned within the first lumen of the first catheter during treatment operations and the first and second pressure monitors are used to verify proper pressures throughout the procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Frank J. Fischer, JR., James R. Randolph, Neal E. Fearnot, Jimmy L. Taylor, JR., Gary B. Shirley
  • Publication number: 20170173310
    Abstract: The body has a fluid inlet port for receiving pressurized fluid and a fluid outlet port connected to the retention balloon. A first passage connects the fluid inlet port and the fluid outlet port. A second passage in the body is connected to the balloon fluid return path and is at the pressure of the retention balloon. A valve prevents fluid flow through the first passage when actuated. The valve includes a pressure-responsive member movable to a position to obstruct fluid flow in response to fluid pressure in the second passage exceeding the predetermined level. Flexible means such as a membrane defines a normally open portion of the first fluid passage, which is closed by the moveable means bearing on the membrane when pressure exceeding the predetermined level actuates the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Christopher Gregory, Yun Jin, John B. Cline
  • Publication number: 20170173311
    Abstract: The present invention discloses systems and methods to alert a medical operator that a surgical drain has been sutured in place within a patient's body. A readily removable sheath is provided at a distal end of a surgical drain. The sheath is configured to be placed within a surgical wound along with the surgical drain, and after the surgical drain is placed, to be removed from the surgical drain and withdrawn from the patient's body, leaving the surgical drain in place. As the medical operator attempts to withdraw the sheath from the drain and the patient's body, in the event that a suture has inadvertently passed through the body of the surgical drain, such inadvertently placed suture will obstruct the removal of the sheath, in turn alerting the medical operator that the surgical drain has been inadvertently sutured and allowing them to correct the drain placement during the same surgical procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2015
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventor: Douglas TURNER
  • Publication number: 20170173312
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein includes materials, devices, systems, and methods for utilizing a stent (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700), reducing movement of a stent within an ureter, securing the stent within the ureter, aiding in insertion or retrieval of a stent from the ureter, preventing irritation of the trigone, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, a stent is disclosed including at least one retaining structure (228, 328, 428, 528, 628, 728) positioned at least proximate a bladder configured to irritate a trigone less than a curled retaining structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2015
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Beatrice Wan, Robert H. Orr, III, Richard Reineke, Jill Walthall, Mitch Loy
  • Publication number: 20170173313
    Abstract: A method of implanting a prosthetic in a penis includes moving a dilation portion of a dilator in a distal direction and in a proximal direction within the corpora cavernosum, dilating a first portion of tissue in the corpora cavernosum, and leaving a second grooved portion of the tissue in the corpora cavernosum un-dilated and vascularized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventor: Jeffrey Brian Taylor
  • Publication number: 20170173314
    Abstract: A nasal applicator tip for introducing a viscous medicament along internal nasal walls is provided. The nasal applicator tip may include an elongated tube extending from a base end to a socket end, wherein the socket end forms an enclosure having an opening, and wherein the base end is adapted to removably and fluidly connect to a source of viscous material. An applicator ball may be rotatably housed in the enclosure so as to protrude from the opening and allow viscous medicament to flow between its circumference and the enclosure. A user of the nasal applicator tip may removably attach it to a desired source of viscous material so that the user may selectively engage the protruding portion of the applicator ball and a predetermined portion of the nasal wall for medicating and/or moistening purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2015
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventor: Shanna NELSON
  • Publication number: 20170173315
    Abstract: Presented herein are implantable systems and methods for long-term delivery of treatment substance to the ear of a recipient of an implantable auditory prosthesis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Kristien Johanna Maria Verhoeven, Daniel Smyth, Jonathon Kirk, Claudiu G. Treaba, Marcus Andersson
  • Publication number: 20170173316
    Abstract: A micro-needle device (100, 200, 300) for delivering a dental local anesthetic that includes a micro-needle array (102, 202, 302) and a hollow spheroid shaped container (108, 208, 308). The micro-needle array has a base (104, 204, 304)and two or more of an elongate micro-needle (106, 206, 306). The elongate micro-needle has an interior surface (110, 210, 310) defining an opening (112, 212, 312) through the elongate micro-needle and the base has a first major surface (114, 214, 314) and a second major surface (116, 216, 316) through which the opening of the elongate micro-needle passes to provide a passage across the base. The hollow spheroid shaped container includes an inside surface (120, 220, 320), where the first major surface of the base and the inside surface of the hollow spheroid shaped container define a volume that is in fluid connection with each opening of the two or more of the elongate micro-needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2015
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Andreas Syrek, Marc Peuker, Mathias Bertl, Martin Preininger, Emir Jelovac, Ryan P. Simmers
  • Publication number: 20170173317
    Abstract: A microneedle cartridge is provided comprising a pair of concentric cylinders wherein an inner cylinder supports a microneedle array block and moves up and down an inside cylinder, driven by a central rod which connects the microneedle array to a drive motor. An inner baffle cylinder fits inside the inner cylinder and surrounds the central rod, isolating the microneedle array from the internal cavity of the machine. Fabric gaskets treated with antimicrobial solution are placed at the locations where the inner baffle cylinder meets the inner cylinder and where the inner cylinder meets the outer cylinder. A piston rod cradle at the bottom of the cartridge engages a cup-shaped polymer reciprocating piston rod that interacts with the device motor through a connecting metal piston. A removable, autoclavable metal nosecone covers the cartridge assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Applicant: Esthetics Education LLC
    Inventors: Kristin Groop, Lawrence G Groop
  • Publication number: 20170173318
    Abstract: A multi-site injection system includes a plurality of medicament delivering needles/microprotrusions, a needle/microprotrusion support, a supply of medicament, and a mechanism for providing the medicament to the plurality of needles/microprotrusions in order to effect delivery into a stratum corneum of a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Steven D. Kimmell, Scott J. Gerondale
  • Publication number: 20170173319
    Abstract: A tattoo machine having a body adapted to receive a return spring. The body of the tattoo machine defines a channel which is configured to selectively receive the return spring. The channel is defined through a bottom surface of the tattoo machine body and may be closed on the bottom surface by a cap or retaining means. The return spring may be inserted, removed or replaced without disassembling the body, motor and slide components of the machine. The tattoo machine may be configured or adapted for use with traditional tattoo tubes and needles, or for use with tube and needle cartridges having an internal membrane or bias element acting on the needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Mike McGuire, Charles Anthony Reid
  • Publication number: 20170173320
    Abstract: The device includes a manipulation mechanism for maneuvering a base into position proximate a subcutaneous port. Arms extending from the base enable the device to receive the port and substantially immobilize the port relative to the device. The manipulation mechanism also enables a user to substantially immobilize the device relative to a patient. With the subcutaneous port substantially immobilized by the device, the user has greater confidence and accuracy when inserting a needle into the port. Further, embodiments of the device provide protection to the user to prevent inadvertent sticking of the user as the needle is introduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventor: Sadiel E. Garcia-Menocal
  • Publication number: 20170173321
    Abstract: Enteral connectors having coupling features for providing removable or permanent coupling engagement with a syringe connector. In some example embodiments, the syringe connector includes an ENFit compatible female connector. In other example embodiments, the syringe connector includes a threaded tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Applicant: NEOMED, INC.
    Inventors: Benjamin Martin DAVIS, Aaron N. INGRAM, Mariann CARY, Mark M. COSTELLO, Tony DOHERTY, Adrian McDERMOTT
  • Publication number: 20170173322
    Abstract: A connector-with-integrated-check-valve for minimizing microbial migration to catheter-tubing is formed from three parts: a connector-for-catheter-tubing that is hollow and with an internal valve seat; an elastomer disc shaped gate; and a connector-for-extension-tubing that is hollow and with support-surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventor: Celeste V. Bonham
  • Publication number: 20170173323
    Abstract: Provided is a method of transfecting cells of the cochlea with an agent by electroporation, and in certain embodiments using a cochlear implant to provide at least one electroporation electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventor: Gary David Housley
  • Publication number: 20170173324
    Abstract: An EMS exercise device is provided which includes EMS electrodes and at least one sacrificial anode, preferably a dedicated sacrificial anode for each EMS electrode. The at least one sacrificial anode is connected to the EMS electrodes in an electrically conductive manner in order to protect the EMS electrodes and/or other elements in the electrically conductive connections from corrosion. In addition, an EMS electrode with a sacrificial anode, an EMS garment a sacrificial anode, an EMS signal cable a sacrificial anode, an EMS pulse generating unit a sacrificial anode, and an EMS undergarment with a sacrificial anode for an EMS exercise device are provided, and a method for operating an EMS exercise device, for which a sacrificial anode is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Hansjürgen Horter, Peter Ɩsterreicher, Jürgen Decker, Jonas Peinze
  • Publication number: 20170173325
    Abstract: A method for stimulating a human leg, a stimulation system, and a garment including the stimulation system are disclosed. The method comprises: measuring, by a measuring unit, an electrical characteristic indicative of a physiological condition in a portion of the leg via a subset of skin electrodes comprised in a plurality of skin electrodes integrated in a leg part of a garment arranged to be worn about at least a part of the human leg; determining, by evaluating the measured electrical characteristic, if the portion of the leg is to be stimulated; and if it is determined that the portion is to be stimulated, applying a stimulation via a subset of stimulation units, comprised in a plurality of stimulation units being arranged in the leg part of the garment, such that the portion of the leg is stimulated. A stimulation system and a garment comprising such as stimulation system are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Applicant: Stichting IMEC Nederland
    Inventor: Seulki Lee
  • Publication number: 20170173326
    Abstract: The present disclosure refers to systems for electrical neurostimulation of a spinal cord of a subject in need of nervous system function support. In one example, a system comprises a signal processing device configured to receive signals from the subject and operate signal-processing algorithms to elaborate stimulation parameter settings; one or more multi-electrode arrays suitable to cover a portion of the spinal cord of the subject; and an Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) configured to receive the stimulation parameter settings from the signal processing device and simultaneously deliver independent current or voltage pulses to the one or more multiple electrode arrays, wherein the independent current or voltage pulses provide multipolar spatiotemporal stimulation of spinal circuits and/or dorsal roots. Such system advantageously enables effective control of nervous system functions in the subject by stimulating the spinal cord, such as the dorsal roots of the spinal cord, with spatiotemporal selectivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Jocelyne BLOCH, GrƩgoire COURTINE, Nikolaus WENGER, Silvestro MICERA, Marco CAPOGROSSO
  • Publication number: 20170173327
    Abstract: In general, the disclosure describes techniques for providing conditional electrical stimulation to a patient for pelvic health. An implantable medical device (IMD) may adjust the delivery cycle of the electrical stimulation applied to a patient in response to receiving a delivery cycle parameter associated with one or more of the following: a time in a time schedule, a control device output from a control device, and physiological information from a physiological information sensing device. As an example, the IMD may monitor a status of one or more inputs of the IMD and adjust the delivery cycle of the electrical stimulation applied to the patient based on the status of the input(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Xuan K. Wei, Eric H. Bonde
  • Publication number: 20170173328
    Abstract: This application describes a miniature implantable neurostimulator system for sciatic nerves and their branches. The implanted miniature neurostimulator is implanted in the leg and stimulates these nerves for the treatment of urinary or bowel incontinence. The miniature implantable neurostimulator has a low duty cycle permitting a small size with medically-acceptable longevity. The system includes a wireless programmer and patient-activated key fob.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Alan OSTROFF, Peter JACOBSON
  • Publication number: 20170173329
    Abstract: It has been discovered that pain felt in a given region of the body can be treated by stimulating a peripheral nerve at a therapeutically effective distance from the region where pain is felt to generate a comfortable sensation (i.e., paresthesia) overlapping the regions of pain. A method has been developed to reduce pain in a painful region following limb joint replacement by stimulating a peripheral nerve innervating the painful region with an electrode inserted into tissue and spaced from the peripheral nerve. This method may be used to help alleviate postoperative pain in patients following total knee arthroplasty surgery or other limb joint replacement surgeries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Joseph W. Boggs, II, Maria E. Bennett, Amorn Wongsarnpigoon, John Chae, Warren M. Grill, Kathryn Stager, Rosemary Zang
  • Publication number: 20170173330
    Abstract: Provided is a transcranial current stimulation apparatus. A transcranial current stimulation apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention, which is put on or attached to the head of a user to apply an electrical stimulation to the brain, comprises: a first anode which comes into contact with a first part of the head and through which a first current flows; and a first cathode which comes into contact with a second part of the head and has a different amount of current from the first current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventor: Kiwon LEE
  • Publication number: 20170173331
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided that includes midplane treatment electrodes, configured to be disposed over a superior sagittal sinus, outside and in electrical contact with a skull of a head of a subject identified as at risk of or suffering from Alzheimer's disease; and lateral treatment electrodes, configured to be disposed between 1 and 12 cm of a sagittal midplane of the skull. Control circuitry is configured to treat the subject by electroosmotically driving fluid from a subarachnoid space to the superior sagittal sinus, by applying one or more treatment currents between (a) one or more of the midplane treatment electrodes and (b) one or more of the lateral treatment electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Applicant: RAINBOW MEDICAL LTD.
    Inventor: Yossi GROSS
  • Publication number: 20170173332
    Abstract: According to an embodiment, a system for acquiring ECAP recordings at a later session for a cochlear implant patient is disclosed. The system includes a receiving unit configured to receive, corresponding to an electrode, a stored prior individual value from a plurality of stored prior individual values of ECAP /an ECAP prior growth function, the plurality of stored prior individual values or the ECAP prior growth function being obtained at a previous session. Furthermore, a processing unit configured to process the received prior individual value /ECAP growth function to determine a stimulus signal value corresponding to the received individual value /a selected point on the ECAP prior growth function, instruct a signal delivery unit to provide to the electrode a first stimulus signal comprising a first level that is same or above said stimulus signal value, and determine a resulting ECAP generated in response to said first stimulus signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Applicant: Oticon Medical A/S
    Inventor: Edward OVERSTREET
  • Publication number: 20170173333
    Abstract: A cochlear implant includes electrodes and a processor for generating frequency-modulated electrical pulse trains in one or more of the electrodes responsive to dividing data representing audio spanning frequency-bands into bins associated with each frequency-band, each bin representing an energy level of the data within the frequency-band within a time-period; associating each frequency-band with a phase probability that starts at an initial phase probability value (PPV), resets to a minimum PPV after generating a pulse, and increases from the minimum PPV to a maximum PPV over a time-period; for each bin, assigning a power probability as a normalized intensity being a number between a minimum power probability and a maximum power probability representing the energy level of the bin, and generating a pulse in an electrode associated with the frequency-band associated with the bin when a random number generated is less than the power probability divided by the phase probability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Claus-Peter Richter, Reagan Roberts
  • Publication number: 20170173334
    Abstract: A magnet arrangement for an implantable medical device is described. An implantable coil case contains a communications coil and is made of biocompatible resilient material with a top lateral surface. A magnet receptacle is located within the coil case and has a receptacle opening in the top lateral surface. An implant magnet fits within the magnet receptacle and has opposing end surfaces, and a center body region located between the end surfaces. An elastic opening clamp is located radially around the receptacle opening and is configured to normally be closed around the receptacle opening to maintain the implant magnet within the magnet receptacle. The elastic opening clamp also is configured to cooperate with a surgical handling tool to expand the receptacle opening to permit the implant magnet to be removed from the magnet receptacle through the receptacle opening without needing to move the coil case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventor: Martin Zimmerling
  • Publication number: 20170173335
    Abstract: A computer implemented method and system is provided for managing neural stimulation therapy. The method comprises under control of one or more processors configured with program instructions. The method delivers a series of candidate stimulation waveforms having varied stimulation intensities to at least one electrode located proximate to nervous tissue of interest. A parameter defines the candidate stimulation waveforms is changed to vary the stimulation intensity. The method identifies a first candidate stimulation waveform that induces a paresthesia-abatement effect, while continuing to induce a select analgesic effect. The method further identifies a second candidate stimulation waveform that does not induce the select analgesic effect. The method sets a stimulation therapy based on the first and second candidate stimulation waveforms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2015
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Xiaoyi Min, Alexander Kent, Richard Williamson
  • Publication number: 20170173336
    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 outsource, and 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: March 8, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Saif Khalil, Raghavendra Angara, Miles Curtis, Christopher Biele, Daniel Fellmeth
  • Publication number: 20170173337
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for the treatment of pain through activation of select neural fibers. The neural fibers may comprise one or more afferent neural fibers and/or one or more efferent neural fibers. If afferent fibers are stimulated, alone or in combination with efferent fibers, a therapeutically effective amount of electrical stimulation is applied to activate afferent pathways in a manner approximating natural afferent activity. The afferent fibers may be associated with primary receptors of muscle spindles, golgi tendon organs, secondary receptors of muscle spindles, joint receptors, touch receptors, and other types of mechanoreceptors and/or proprioceptors. If efferent fibers are stimulated, alone or in combination with afferent fibers, a therapeutically effective amount of electrical stimulation is applied to activate intrafusal and/or extrafusal muscle fibers, which results in an indirect activation of afferent fibers associated therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Maria E. Bennett, Joseph W. Boggs, Warren M. Grill, John Chae
  • Publication number: 20170173338
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for catheters for use in electrical neuromodulation. The catheter of the present disclosure includes an elongate body having a first end and a second end. The elongate body includes a longitudinal center axis that extends between the first end and the second end. The elongate body further includes three or more surfaces that define a convex polygonal cross-sectional shape taken perpendicularly to the longitudinal center axis. The catheter further includes one or more electrodes on one surface of the three or more surfaces of the elongate body, where conductive elements extend through the elongate body. The conductive elements can conduct electrical current to combinations of the one or more electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Steven L. Waldhauser, Steven D. Goedeke, Duane G. Frion
  • Publication number: 20170173339
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a method for treating a patient in which a catheter having an electrode array is moved through the pulmonary trunk of the patient towards a branch point that helps to define the beginning of a left pulmonary artery and a right pulmonary artery of the heart. The electrode array is positioned in the right pulmonary artery where the electrodes contact a posterior surface, a superior surface and/or an inferior surface of the right pulmonary artery. The one or more electrodes can be positioned to contact the posterior surface, the superior surface and/or the inferior surface of the right pulmonary artery at a position superior to the branch point. The electrode array can also be positioned in the right pulmonary artery no more than three times the diameter of the pulmonary trunk to the right of the branch point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Steven L. Waldhauser, Steven D. Goedeke
  • Publication number: 20170173340
    Abstract: An example of a system may include a lead including a distal electrode portion. The distal electrode portion may be configured to at least partially encircle a sympathetic chain in a lumbar region or thoracic region. The distal electrode portion may include at least one electrode oriented toward the sympathetic chain when the distal electrode portion at least partially encircles the sympathetic chain. The distal portion may include at least one anchoring site configured for use to mechanically secure the distal electrode portion to tissue proximate to the sympathetic chain. The lead may have a strain relief proximate to the distal electrode portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Akshay Ashok Gupte, Bryan Allen Clark
  • Publication number: 20170173341
    Abstract: In some examples, a method may include delivering an electrical stimulation therapy to a patient, the electrical stimulation therapy comprising a first electrical stimulation pulse delivered to the patient via a first electrode and a second electrical stimulation pulse delivered to the patient via a second electrode, wherein the first electrical stimulation pulse and second electrical stimulation pulse are delivered as paired pulses with respect to each other and a combination of the first electrical stimulation pulse and the second electrical stimulation pulse evoke a compound action potential within the patient; sensing the compound action potential evoked by the combination of the first electrical stimulation pulse and the second electrical stimulation pulse; and adjusting one or more parameters of the electrical stimulation therapy based on the sensed compound action potential
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Lisa M. Johanek, Nathan A. Torgerson, Louis Vera-Portocarrero
  • Publication number: 20170173342
    Abstract: Systems and methods may facilitate selection of a vector for delivering electrical stimulation to a patient's heart. One illustrative method may include delivering electrical stimulation at a first voltage to each vector in a first set of two or more vectors of a multi-vector medical system, determining whether the delivered electrical stimulation at the first voltage resulted in capture for each of the vectors in the first set of two or more vectors, identifying those vectors of the first set of two or more vectors that were determined to result in capture as a second set of vectors, delivering electrical stimulation at a second voltage that is lower than the first voltage to each vector in the second set of vectors, and determining whether the delivered electrical stimulation at the second voltage resulted in capture for each of the vectors in the second set of vectors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Holly E. Rockweiler, Sunipa Saha, Keith L. Herrmann, Yinghong Yu, Joel A. Krueger
  • Publication number: 20170173343
    Abstract: A medical device is configured to deliver a high-energy electrical stimulation pulse to a patient that produces a post-stimulation polarization signal. A cardiac signal analyzer of the medical device is configured to detect a cardiac electrical signal superimposed on the post-stimulation polarization signal, determine at least one feature of the detected cardiac electrical signal, compare the feature to criteria that differentiate an intrinsic cardiac event during the post-stimulation polarization signal from an evoked response signal and identify the detected cardiac electrical signal as the intrinsic cardiac event if the feature meets the criteria.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2017
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Saul E. GREENHUT, Michael T. HEMMING
  • Publication number: 20170173344
    Abstract: A powered case is provided that includes a case, configured to hold an electroactive medical device with an integrated battery; an energizing system, configured to provide electric energy; and an energy transfer system, configured to receive energy from the energizing system; and to transfer the received energy to the integrated battery of the electroactive medical device. Further, a medical device system is provided that can include an electroactive medical device, including an integrated battery; and a powered case, including a case, configured to hold the electroactive medical device with the integrated battery; an energizing system, configured to provide electric energy; and an energy transfer system, configured to receive energy from the energizing system; and to transfer the received energy to the integrated battery of the electroactive medical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2015
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: John Alfred Campin, Michael F. Mattes
  • Publication number: 20170173345
    Abstract: A wireless powering system for an implantable medical device includes a first unit having a power source and an inductive coil. A second unit has an energy storage component and in alternate embodiments one or two inductive coils. The implantable medical device includes an inductive coil and a functional load. A method of wirelessly powering an implantable medical device is also included. The embodiments provide a method for wireless powering of an implantable medical device. Through the use of a three tiered inductive power system, power can be wirelessly transmitted from near the skin of the patient to the location of the implant. The implant can be reduced in size and can have a longer lifespan due to the elimination of an integrated battery. The versatility of the implant can allow for improved and more secure fixation to the tissue of interest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Inventors: Parinaz Abiri, Tzung K. Hsiai, Ahmad Abiri
  • Publication number: 20170173346
    Abstract: An implantable medical device for implantation into a patient may include a housing, a pulse generation circuit disposed at least partially within the housing, a plurality of electrodes electrically coupled to the pulse generation circuit, the plurality of electrodes being exposed external to the housing, and a controller operatively coupled to the pulse generation circuit. The controller may be configured to command the pulse generation circuit to deliver a phasic conducted communication pulse via at least two of the plurality of electrodes. Additionally, the phasic conducted communication pulse may comprise a first phase having a first polarity followed by a second phase having an opposite second polarity, wherein the second phase may have a duration of less than 60 microseconds, and wherein the first phase having may have a duration of between five percent and eighty percent of the duration of the second phase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Publication date: June 22, 2017
    Applicant: CARDIAC PACEMAKERS, INC.
    Inventors: Michael J. Kane, Brian L. Schmidt, Brendan Early Koop