Patents Issued in September 10, 2019
  • Patent number: 10406316
    Abstract: A cleaning device for a medical instrument including a flushing chamber, the flushing chamber having a lumen sized and configured to accept a distal end portion of the medical instrument during a cleaning process. The flushing chamber has an inlet port and an outlet port. Proximal and distal sealing members of the flushing chamber seal about the medical instrument when the instrument is inserted into the lumen of the flushing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Zachary Thomas Garvey, John Robert Moberg, Lance Nevala, Lucas Schneider
  • Patent number: 10406317
    Abstract: A microcatheter system is disclosed which may include a microcatheter, one or more microcatheter extensions, and/or a microcatheter hub. In an embodiment, the microcatheter has a plurality of zones where the outside diameter of each zone from the distal to the proximal end has an outside diameter that is the same as or greater than the previous zone while the inside diameter is constant throughout the microcatheter length. In a further embodiment, a unique joining mechanism is employed for coupling a microcatheter to a microcatheter extension or to a microcatheter hub. In a further embodiment, the microcatheter has at least one perforation along a sidewall of the microcatheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: Paul Saphier
  • Patent number: 10406318
    Abstract: Balloon catheter includes an outer shaft having a hypotube and a monolithic single-layer distal outer member, a balloon in fluid communication with an inflation lumen, and an inner tubular member having a guidewire lumen defined therethrough. The outer shaft has the inflation lumen defined therethrough. The monolithic single-layer distal outer member is necked to a reduced diameter along an entire length thereof. A proximal end of the monolithic single-layer distal outer member is coupled to the hypotube. A distal section of the hypotube comprises a skive defined by a first angled cut, an axial cut, and a second angled cut. The balloon has a proximal balloon shaft coupled to a distal end of the monolithic single-layer distal outer member. The inner tubular member extends distally from a proximal port in the monolithic single-layer distal outer member through at least a portion of the balloon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Kerry J. Williams, George Doratt, Jeremy Fennelly
  • Patent number: 10406319
    Abstract: Catheters, sheaths, or other tubular devices are provided that include a proximal end, a distal end sized for introduction into a patient's body, and a steerable distal portion. The tubular device includes a primary lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends; an auxiliary lumen adjacent the primary lumen; and one or more reinforcement members including windings extending helically along at least the distal portion, at least some of the windings passing between the primary and steering element lumens and at least some of the windings surrounding both the primary and steering element lumens. In one embodiment, a steering element is slidably disposed within the auxiliary lumen. Apparatus and methods for making such tubular devices are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: CLPH, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen A. Leeflang, Christian S. Eversull
  • Patent number: 10406320
    Abstract: A medical device delivery system includes a sock removal mechanism, which also locks a deployment handle. The ability to lock the handle allows a medical device to be safely and effectively deployed to a treatment site without prematurely deploying a medical device. The sock can cover and/or restrain the medical device. The sock removal mechanism can release and retract the sock when separated from the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian C. Holm, Shane P. Rogers, Justin W. Sokel
  • Patent number: 10406321
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for inserting a conventional flexible catheter with a pre-attached connector on the proximal end into a vessel, such as a vein or artery in a cardiovascular system, while monitoring blood pressure. The catheter drive assembly has an external drive input for advancement and retraction of the flexible catheter. The catheter drive assembly has cylindrical catheter drives that can be engaged to or disengaged from the flexible catheter without causing damage to the flexible catheter. The flexible catheter distal end provides fluid communication to a disposable blood pressure transducer. The flexible catheter is completely encapsulated within a protective sleeve and within the catheter drive assembly, creating an aseptic insertion environment, eliminating the need for sterile barrier protection. Once the flexible catheter is inserted to the desired position, the protective sleeve and catheter drive assembly are removed from the flexible catheter leaving the flexible catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: Johnathan Ivan Macy
  • Patent number: 10406322
    Abstract: A catheter assembly includes a protective tip defining an interior chamber between its proximal and distal ends. A protective lubricious sleeve is positioned within the interior chamber. A catheter of the assembly is configured to be advanced proximally into and through the interior chamber to position at least a portion of the catheter within the protective sleeve, with the protective sleeve being retained upon the catheter as at least a proximal portion of the catheter exits the proximal end of the protective tip and is advanced through a body lumen. A second sleeve may be associated with the protective tip and configured to extend distally from the protective tip to remain outside of the body lumen during use and receive a more distal portion of the catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Hollister Incorporated
    Inventors: Padraig M. O'Flynn, Martin T. Moran, Adam J. Foley, James J. Fitzpatrick
  • Patent number: 10406323
    Abstract: The invention relates to a catheter device, having a catheter (1), an actuation device (8) at a first end of the catheter and also a mechanical transmission element (9, 10) for transmitting a movement along the catheter to the actuation device, the actuation device having a coupling element (14) which is connected to the transmission element (9, 10) and can be actuated by the latter relative to the longitudinal direction of the catheter in a first degree of freedom, and also a conversion element (15) which can be actuated by the coupling element and which converts the actuation movement at least partially into a movement in a second degree of freedom. As a result, a combined movement at the distal end of the catheter can be produced particularly simply for compression and release of a functional element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: ECP ENTWICKLUNGSGESELLSCHAFT MBH
    Inventor: Mario Scheckel
  • Patent number: 10406324
    Abstract: An actuating member for making a flexible elongated member perform a predetermined action includes a push/pull member having a tip side and a base end side, the push/pull member including: a first moving portion and a second moving portion that are located on the base end side of the push/pull member and are movable relative to one another along an axis of the push/pull member, a first extending portion that extends from the first moving portion towards the tip side of the push/pull member, and a second extending portion that extends from the second moving portion towards the tip side of the push/pull member; an operating member that is rotatable about an axis that intersects an axis of the push/pull member, the operating member being configured such that rotation of the operating member causes movement of the first moving portion and the second moving portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Satoru Suehara
  • Patent number: 10406325
    Abstract: An anchoring mechanism and method for anchoring a device within a biological conduit include an expandable element configured for retaining the device at a desired angle relative to a central axis of the biological conduit. A steering mechanism is preferably provided for orienting the device prior to operation of the anchoring mechanism. The anchoring mechanism and method are employed in drug delivery devices, brachytherapy devices or for anchoring a catheter or sheath to provide a working channel for reliable guidance of a wide range of tools to a target location within the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventor: Dorian Averbuch
  • Patent number: 10406326
    Abstract: Methods and devices to facilitate positioning of a catheter into a vessel. Devices include axially concentric assemblies of a piercing needle and a dilator that guides an outer catheter into a vessel, such as a blood vessel. The assemblies described herein can include retraction mechanisms and/or lock mechanisms to control needle positioning during catheterization processes as well as improved valves that prevent leakage of fluid from the proximal end of the devices. The devices and method include the use of novel valves to prevent undesired leakage of fluids through the proximal end of the catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: I-V Access Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Clint Solomon
  • Patent number: 10406327
    Abstract: The present application discloses a needle tip shielding device for protection of a needle tip of a needle. The needle tip shielding device comprises a fixing arrangement having a proximal side and a distal side, which fixing arrangement is comprising at least one engaging element, which engaging element is resilient and resiliently striving from a compressed state towards an expanded state, in which expanded state the shortest distance between a point of said engaging element and the central axis of said needle tip shielding device is longer than the shortest distance between said central axis and any other point of said needle tip shielding device. A catheter instrument comprising the needle tip shielding device and a method for manufacturing is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Vigmed AB
    Inventors: Lennart Holm, Robert Domonkos
  • Patent number: 10406328
    Abstract: An intravenous catheter system having a retractable needle system and a body system is disclosed. The retractable needle system includes a housing, a needle, a docking feature, and an optional anti-shearing mechanism. The body system includes a body, at least one hub, a catheter connector, at least one plug, a plug recoil mechanism, a locking mechanism, a flash chamber, and a flash window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: BLIVIC, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Emmert, Hoyt Frenzel
  • Patent number: 10406329
    Abstract: Catheter having an elongate tubular shaft including an inflation lumen and a guidewire lumen defined therein, the guidewire lumen extending along at least a distal length of an inner tubular member of the elongate tubular shaft. The catheter includes a distal tip member having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal tip member is monolithic and the proximal end of the distal tip member is secured to a distal end of the inner tubular member. The catheter includes a balloon having a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion of the balloon sealingly coupled to the distal portion of the elongate tubular shaft. The distal portion of the balloon is sealingly coupled to the distal tip member and the balloon defines an inner chamber in communication with the inflation lumen, wherein the proximal end of the distal tip member is disposed within the inner chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: ABBOTT CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Bruce M. Wilson, Kerry J. Williams
  • Patent number: 10406330
    Abstract: Catheters or other tubular devices and methods for using them to perform a medical procedure are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, a tubular device includes an elongate tubular member comprising a proximal end, a distal end sized for introduction into a patient's body, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends; an expandable member on the distal end comprising an outer impermeable membrane with an inner surface surrounding a substantially enclosed interior space; and a fiber network within the interior space coupled to the inner surface and configured to limit expansion of the membrane when inflation media is directed into the interior space from the lumen to expand the membrane to an expanded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: Timothy A. M. Chuter
  • Patent number: 10406331
    Abstract: A subcutaneous implantable device has one or more adjustable settings with a setting device configured to selectively change between the one or more adjustable settings. An indicator, having an ultrasound reflection enhancement, indicates each particular setting of the one or more adjustable settings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: INTEGRA LIFESCIENCES SWITZERLAND SÀRL
    Inventor: Donald Barry
  • Patent number: 10406332
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods may be used for delivery of an implant to a bodily cavity. The implant may include a hub and a plurality of legs, and may be moveable between a low-profile and expanded configuration. The systems may include a crimping device having a crimping member with a plurality of arms. The plurality of arms may engage the plurality of legs of the implant, and may move the legs to move the implant to the low-profile configuration. In some instances a delivery device may aid in crimping and/or delivery of the implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Intersect ENT, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony J. Abbate
  • Patent number: 10406333
    Abstract: A dilation device for an intrabody lumen, for example, a urethra partially occluded by an enlarged prostate in the form of a curved element configured to be implanted around the lumen and add resilience to the lumen, and a method for dilating such a lumen by implanting a dilation device around the outside of the lumen with at least part of the dilation device embedded in surrounding, thereby preventing clinically significant compression of the lumen. Also, an implantation device for such a dilation device in the form of a mounting device configured to carry the dilation device; and a releasably attached movable holder, with the mounting device and holder configured to deliver the dilation device though a working channel to a desired position in a lumen, and to implant the dilation device through a wall of the lumen to a position surrounding the lume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: ProArc Medical Ltd.
    Inventor: Yair Feld
  • Patent number: 10406334
    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: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Cochler Limited
    Inventors: Kristien Johanna Maria Verhoeven, Daniel Smyth, Jonathon Kirk, Claudiu G. Treaba, Marcus Andersson
  • Patent number: 10406335
    Abstract: Methods, devices, and medicaments that include a drug are provided for use in the treatment of the prostate by locally administering the drug into the bladder of a patient to achieve a sustained concentration of the drug in urine in the bladder sufficient to produce a therapeutic concentration of the drug in the prostate. The drug may be delivered into the bladder from an intravesical drug delivery device inserted into the bladder, wherein the device continuously releases the drug into the urine in the bladder over an extended period of hours or days.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: TARIS Biomedical LLC
    Inventor: Dennis Giesing
  • Patent number: 10406336
    Abstract: Embodiments herein relate to an implantable device comprising a casing, a semi-permeable membrane plug at or near a first end of the casing, a piston, beads, and an opening for release of the beads from the implantable device within a body of a human or an animal; wherein the implantable device is configured to be implanted within the body of the human or the animal during delivery of the beads into the body of the human or the animal; wherein the beads comprise a core and a shell with the core being enclosed by the shell and the beads contain a drug; and wherein the implantable device is configured to produce a desired flow rate of elution of the drug from the implantable device when the implantable device is implanted within the body of the human or the animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: Neil S. Davey
  • Patent number: 10406337
    Abstract: Systems and methods of stimulating or activating fluids for use in wound treatment systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Brian Locke, Timothy Mark Robinson, Richard Daniel John Coulthard
  • Patent number: 10406338
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the nasal clip is infused with a volatile medicant and/or therapeutic aromatic that volatilizes under body temperature to permeate into the septum mucosa of a user's nose. In a second embodiment, the nasal clip has limbs that are pre-stressed to engage the septum mucosa so that the intermittent stimulation caused by the frequency of each heart beat and the heat in the inhaled warm breath help release the volatile medicants and aromatic materials. In a third embodiment, the nasal clip is integrated with an oxygen delivery cannula to allow delivery of oxygen with the medicant and/or therapeutic aromatic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: Richard A. Davi
  • Patent number: 10406339
    Abstract: An applicator and method for applying a microneedle device to a skin surface. The applicator can include a first portion comprising a microneedle array, and a second portion coupled to the first portion via a connector. The connector can be configured to yield or fracture by changing from a first state in which the connector is intact to a second state in which the connector is yielded or fractured when a threshold application force is applied to at least one of the first portion and the second portion in a direction substantially perpendicular with respect to the first portion. The method can include pressing the applicator in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first portion to press the microneedle array into the skin surface until the threshold application force is met or exceeded and the connector is changed to its second state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Ryan P. Simmers
  • Patent number: 10406340
    Abstract: A vascular access port and catheter for use in association with same. The port has a length greater than its height and an access face that is angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the port. The catheter has a first end for association with a port, and a second end with an angled intra-vascular flange. Apart from the flange is an extra-vascular retaining ring. The wall of the vessel is disposed between the intra vascular flange and extra vascular retaining ring to hold the catheter in place without the need of sutures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: KAST AXESS, INC.
    Inventor: Steven R. Klepac
  • Patent number: 10406341
    Abstract: A connector (10) for connecting a syringe to a gastrostomy tube (12), the connector (10) comprises a bayonet style locking member (16) with a locking projection (40) for locking the connector (10) to the gastrostomy tube (12). The locking projection (40) forms a receiving recess (42) for receiving and locking at least one wing (70) of an end portion (56) of the gastrostomy tube (12). Further, the invention relates to a connector assembly having such a connector (10) and to a method for connecting a syringe to a gastrostomy tube (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: KPR U.S., LLC
    Inventors: Alan Fitzgerald, Ciara Deighan, Paul J. Daly
  • Patent number: 10406342
    Abstract: A medical connector coupling assisting tool for use with a lock connector part interconnecting at least two medical connectors, each of which includes a construction part, includes: at least two insertion parts configured to be inserted into respective portions defined by the constriction parts such that the insertion parts are thereby detachably mounted on the constriction parts; and a coupling part formed integrally with the at least two insertion parts and coupling the insertion parts together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Ueda, Akifumi Yoshikawa
  • Patent number: 10406343
    Abstract: Cap and cleaning devices antiseptically maintain patient fluid line access valves to minimize the risk of infection via catheters. The devices have a cap that may contain a dry pad impregnated with an antimicrobial agent. The cap covers the access portion of the access valve when not in use. The devices have a hood that contains a wet pad impregnated with a cleaning solution and, optionally, an antimicrobial agent. The wet pad cleans the access portion of the access valve prior to and optionally, after the access valve is utilized to access the patient fluid line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Minh Quang Hoang, Jonathan Karl Burkholz
  • Patent number: 10406344
    Abstract: A drug transfer assembly including a connector connectable to a portion of an intravenous line adapted for connection to a patient's bloodstream and an adapter cap removably connectable with the connector is disclosed. The connector is formed of a rigid material and the adapter cap is formed of a pliable material. With the adapter cap connected to the connector, the adapter cap protectively surrounds and shields the connector. The adapter cap provides a cushioning surface which prevents rubbing of the connector against the skin of a patient. In this manner, the adapter cap prevents the connector of a drug transfer assembly from causing irritation and/or infection to the skin of a patient. Furthermore, the adapter cap provides a protective shield which prevents the connector of a drug transfer assembly from becoming contaminated with undesirables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Becton Dickinson and Company Limited
    Inventor: Milan Ivosevic
  • Patent number: 10406345
    Abstract: A system for facilitating resuscitation includes: a first electrode assembly having a therapy side and a first motion sensor; a second electrode assembly having a therapy side and a second motion sensor; processing circuitry operatively connected to and programmed to receive and process signals from the first and second motion sensors to estimate at least one of a chest compression depth and rate during administration of chest compressions and to compare the chest compression depth or rate to a desired range; and an output device for providing instructions to a user to administer chest compressions based on the comparison of the estimated chest compression depth or rate to the desired range. One or both of the electrode assemblies may be constructed so that the conductive therapeutic portion is able to maintain substantial conformance to the anatomy of the patient when coupled thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: ZOLL MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Annemarie Silver, Fred Geheb, Lisa Campana, Paolo Giacometti, Gideon Butler, Gary A. Freeman, Christopher Joseph Desmarais, Ian Durrant
  • Patent number: 10406346
    Abstract: A method and device for promoting healing of an injury in a living being are provided. Such method and device are based upon an injury covering portion, which portion comprises an electroactive polymer, such as poled polyvinylidine difluoride (PVDF) or a copolymer of PVDF. The electroactive polymer has either pyroelectric properties, piezoelectric properties, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE ADMINISTRATOR OF NASA
    Inventors: Lisa A. Scott-Carnell, Emilie J. Siochi, Kam W. Leong
  • Patent number: 10406347
    Abstract: A system for wound treatment includes adjunctive wound therapy devices and substrates comprising multiple first reservoirs and multiple second reservoirs. Selected ones of the multiple first reservoirs include a reducing agent, and first reservoir surfaces of selected ones of the multiple first reservoirs are proximate to a first substrate surface. Selected ones of the multiple second reservoirs include an oxidizing agent, and second reservoir surfaces of selected ones of the multiple second reservoirs are proximate to the first substrate surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Vomaris Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffry Skiba, Inder Raj S. Makin
  • Patent number: 10406348
    Abstract: A device for delivery of electrical current to an area of the skin includes a first pad shaped in the form of a base having four finger-shaped protrusions; a second pad shaped in the form of a palm having a single thumb-shaped protrusion, where the first pad and the second pad each comprises a conductive layer and preferably has tabs on the edges; a first electrical connection system electrically connected to the conductive layer of the first pad; a second electrical connection system electrically connected to the conductive layer of the second pad; a controller circuit connected to the first electrical connection system and second electrical connection system; and a wearable power source. Alternatively, the device may also have the shape of a foot or other body part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventors: Justin H. Huelman, Véronique Paule-Alberte D Peiffer
  • Patent number: 10406349
    Abstract: In some examples, the disclosure relates to a medical device comprising a lead including an electrically conductive lead wire; and an electrode electrically coupled to the lead wire, the electrode including a substrate and a coating on an outer surface of the substrate, wherein the lead wire is formed of a composition comprising titanium or titanium alloys, wherein the substrate is formed of a composition comprising one or more of titanium, tantalum, niobium, and alloys thereof, wherein the coating comprises at least one of Pt, TiN, IrOx, and poly(dioctyl-bithiophene) (PDOT). In some examples, the lead wire may be coupled to the lead wire via a weld, such as, e.g., a laser weld.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Shi, Darren A. Janzig, Bernard Q. Li, Richard T. Stone, Dale F. Seeley, Peng Cong
  • Patent number: 10406350
    Abstract: Described herein are microelectrode array devices, and methods of fabrication and use of the same, to provide highly localized and efficient electrical stimulation of a neurological target. The device includes multiple microelectrode elements arranged along an elongated probe shaft. The microelectrode elements are dimensioned and shaped so as to target individual neurons, groups of neurons, and neural tissue as may be located in an animal nervous system, such as deep within a human brain. Beneficially, the neurological probe can be used to facilitate location of the neurological target and remain implanted for long-term monitoring and/or stimulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: ECOLE POLYTECHNIQUE FEDERALE DE LAUSANNE
    Inventors: Andre Mercanzini, Philippe Renaud
  • Patent number: 10406351
    Abstract: The present application is directed to devices and methods that can treat dementia or other brain disorders via electrical stimulation. Embodiments disclosed herein utilize brain stimulation of brain areas involved in memory and cognition through an intraventricular approach. Brain stimulation is combined with CSF flow in an intraventricular electrode having one or more passageways to permit fluid to flow therethrough. For example, an intraventricular electrode shunt catheter can be safely placed in any part of the ventricular system and through any foramen or aqueduct of the ventricular system without fear of obstruction to CSF flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: Sherwin Hua
  • Patent number: 10406352
    Abstract: An ophthalmic stimulator for temporarily constricting a pupil of an eye comprises an irradiation control system, to generate an irradiation control signal, an irradiation source, coupled to the irradiation control system, to generate an irradiation, and an irradiation delivery system, coupled to the irradiation control system, to receive the irradiation from the irradiation source, and to deliver a patterned irradiation to an iris of the eye, wherein the irradiation control system controls at least one of the irradiation source and the irradiation delivery system with the irradiation control signal so that the patterned irradiation causes a temporary constriction of the pupil of the eye, without causing a permanent constriction of the pupil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventors: Ronald Michael Kurtz, Gergely T. Zimanyi
  • Patent number: 10406353
    Abstract: An electrical stimulation lead includes a lead body having a distal end portion, a proximal end portion, and a longitudinal length; and electrodes disposed along the distal end portion of the lead body. The electrodes include a first set of electrodes and a second set of electrodes. The electrodes of the first set are spaced apart by a first distance and the electrodes of the second set are spaced apart by a second distance that is greater than the first distance and the first set is spaced apart from the second set by a third distance that is greater than or equal to the second distance. The lead also includes terminals disposed along the proximal end portion of the lead body; conductors electrically coupling the terminals to the electrodes; and anchoring units disposed along the distal end portion of the lead body and proximal to the first set of electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC NEUROMODULATION CORPORATION
    Inventor: David Ernest Wechter
  • Patent number: 10406354
    Abstract: A medical tool includes a rotation mechanism that further includes a warning feature. The warning feature provides an indication when the rotation mechanism has achieved a number of rotations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: PACESETTER, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas B. Eby, Bradley Knippel, Daniel Coyle, Jennifer Heisel, Bernhard Arnar, Brett Hillukka, Tracee Eidenschink, Paul Paspa, Joseph Ramon Callof
  • Patent number: 10406355
    Abstract: A system and method for conditioning surfaces of a body in vivo includes providing an electrical energy source, coupling the electric energy source to the surface, and delivering electropositive current from the electrical energy source to the surface so as to generate a sub-threshold current density on the surface. In preferred embodiments, the sub-threshold electropositive current density is between about 0.001 and about 1.0 mA/cm2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian D. Pederson
  • Patent number: 10406356
    Abstract: Systems and methods for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) include at least one electrically stimulating electrode coupled to a pulse generator. Individuals with GERD are treated by implanting a stimulation device within and/or proximate the patient's lower esophageal sphincter, gastric fundus, or other nearby gastrointestinal structures and applying electrical stimulation to the patient's lower esophageal sphincter and/or fundus, in accordance with certain predefined protocols. Electrical stimulation provided by the disclosed systems results in an increase in the length of the high pressure zone of the LES and/or modulation of the receptive relaxation response of the fundus to decrease gastric pressure, creating a longer barrier to the reflux of gastric contents or increasing functional lower esophageal pressure respectively, thereby treating GERD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: EndoStim, Inc.
    Inventors: Virender K. Sharma, Shai Policker
  • Patent number: 10406357
    Abstract: An electrical venous stimulation apparatus comprising an electrical signal generator, the signal generator configured to generate a specified electrical output signal. The apparatus also includes a plurality of electrodes in electrical communication with the signal generator and configured to be placed in electrical communication with a subject. The electrical output signal sent to the subject includes an output voltage, electrical current, and waveform that changes with time in a preprogrammed repeating cycle. The output voltage, electrical current, and waveform are configured to elicit a physiological response that stimulates a plurality of peripheral nerves in the subject, activates a venous muscle pump mechanism in one or more limbs of the subject, and non-invasively alter the physiology of target vein(s), wherein the target vein(s) is caused to distend from under the surface of the subject's skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: NOVINTUM MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY GMBH
    Inventor: David Bruce Phillips
  • Patent number: 10406358
    Abstract: A device to relieve pain in the body of humans by inducing a controlled positive/negative electric charge at the painful site. Providing enhanced transport and targeted delivery of pain relieving classifications of drugs including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and steroid drug compounds (corticosteroids), and important intrinsic anti-inflammatory agents. A shielded transmission electrode applies alternating positive and/or negative charge stimulating or repressing the enhanced delivery or repression of drugs to the injury site for increased therapeutic treatment dependent on known therapeutic properties of so prescribed drugs inputted to a charge generating micro-controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: Todd M. Bertoch
  • Patent number: 10406359
    Abstract: Providing stimulation signals for an implanted auditory prosthesis including receiving first and second sound signals at first and second sound input devices, each of the first and second signals having a signal-to-noise ratio; determining a signal parameter related to said signal-to-noise ratio of each of the first and second signals; selecting one of the first and second signals which has the greater signal-to-noise ratio; and generating stimulation signals for the implanted auditory prosthesis based on said selected sound signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Cochlear Limited
    Inventor: Peter Busby
  • Patent number: 10406360
    Abstract: A system and method for eye treatment. The system and method utilize an electro acupuncture stimulator. The electro acupuncture stimulator includes a positive lead and a negative lead. The system further includes a pair of first needles, a second needle and a diode. The pair of first needles are electrically connected to one of the positive lead and the negative lead. The diode is electrically connected to the other of the positive lead and the negative lead. The second needle is electrically connected to the diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: Richard Charles Niemtzow
  • Patent number: 10406361
    Abstract: In electrically stimulating neural tissue it is important to prevent over stimulation and unbalanced stimulation which would cause damage to the neural tissue, the electrode, or both. It is critical that neural tissue is not subjected to any direct current or alternating current above a safe threshold. Further, it is important to identify defective electrodes as continued use may result in neural damage and further electrode damage. The present invention presents system and stimulator control mechanisms to prevent damage to neural tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Jay Greenberg, Kelly Hobart McClure, James S. Little, Rongqing Dai, Arup Roy, Richard Augustin Castro, John Reinhold, Kea-Tiong Tang, Sumit Yadav, Chunhong Zhou, David Daomin Zhou, Pishoy Maksy
  • Patent number: 10406362
    Abstract: Methods for treating polycystic ovarian syndrome with a neuromodulation device that modulates sympathetic neural activity are described herein. The neuromodulation device is an apparatus for the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome. In one aspect, the apparatus decreases the neural activity of a postganglionic ovary-innervating sympathetic nerve. Modulation in neural activity may be achieved using an apparatus comprising one or more stimulators each configured to apply a signal to a postganglionic ovary-innervating sympathetic nerve of the patient, a controller coupled to the one or more stimulators, the controller controlling the signal to be applied by each of the one or more stimulators, such that the signal decreases the neural activity of the nerve to produce a physiological and/or biochemical response in the patient, wherein the physiological and/or biochemical response comprises an improvement in one or more symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Galvani Bioeletronics Limited
    Inventors: Hans Jakob Kristoffer Famm, Hernan E. Lara, Victor Eugene Pikov, Arun Sridhar
  • Patent number: 10406363
    Abstract: A method of detecting an improvement in a seizure condition of a patient includes identifying a first EEG synchronization of the seizure condition of the patient; applying a therapy configured to improve the seizure condition of the patient; and identifying a second EEG synchronization of the seizure condition of the patient subsequent to application of the therapy, wherein an improvement of the seizure condition of the patient is demonstrated by a reduced EEG synchronization of the patient such that the second EEG synchronization is less than the first EEG synchronization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: LivaNova USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Shivkumar Sabesan
  • Patent number: 10406364
    Abstract: A method for assessment, optimization and logging of the effects of a therapy for a medical condition, including (a) receiving into a signal processor input signals indicative of the subject's brain activity; (b) characterizing the spatio-temporal behavior of the brain activity using the signals; (c) delivering a therapy to a target tissue of the subject; (d) characterizing the spatio-temporal effect of the therapy on the brain activity; (e) in response to the characterizing, optimizing at least one parameter of the therapy if the brain activity has not been satisfactorily modified and/or has been adversely modified by the therapy; (f) characterizing the spatio-temporal effect of the at least one optimized parameter; and (g) logging to memory the at least one optimized parameter. A computer readable program storage unit encoded with instructions that, when executed by a computer, performs the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Flint Hills Scientific, LLC
    Inventor: Ivan Osorio
  • Patent number: 10406365
    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: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventors: Young-Tae Kim, Mario Romero-Ortega, Muthu Wijesundara, Caleb Nothnagle