Electrode In Brain Patents (Class 600/378)
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Patent number: 8326434Abstract: A medical electrical lead electrode assembly includes an insulative carrier and at least one conductive component. The at least one conductive component includes an electrode portion disposed on a first side of the carrier and at least one tab extending away from the electrode portion, through the carrier to a second side of the carrier. The electrode portion of the at least one component includes an outward facing contact surface and an inward facing surface, the inward facing surface being disposed opposite the contact surface and against a surface of the first side of the carrier. The electrode assembly further includes a joint coupling a flexible elongate conductor to the tab of the at least one component on the second side of the carrier, and an insulative layer extending over the joint and the tab and the conductor, the insulative layer being bonded to the second side of the carrier.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Sean Patrick Skubitz, Mary Boatwright, Stephen L. Bolea, Jessica L. Tower, Michael E. Metzler
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Publication number: 20120302857Abstract: Proposed are a brain signal measurement system and the like, capable of carrying out in vivo placement of measurement units for measuring brain signals with a minimally invasive operation, as well as of easily adjusting the position of each measurement unit. The brain signal measurement device includes sensors to be provided in a space between a dura mater and an arachnoid mater, and a holding unit for holding the sensors. The sensors are connected by a shape-memory unit. The sensors are inserted through a hole penetrating through the scalp and so on, into a space between the dura mater and the arachnoid mater. The diameter of the hole can be equal to or smaller than 1 cm. By electrical heating, the shape-memory unit changes its shape to change positions of the sensors, and thus subdural electrodes can be placed with a minimally invasive operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2011Publication date: November 29, 2012Applicant: KYUSHU INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGYInventors: Toshitaka Yamakawa, Takeshi Yamakawa
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Publication number: 20120302856Abstract: A neural interface for measuring or stimulating brain neural activity, either as a standalone unit or as a part of a larger system of similar neural interfaces. The neural interface includes a bolt-shaped housing having a tool-engaging head and threaded shank with internal circuitry and at least one electrode. In use, the housing is threaded into a cranial bore such that the electrode contacts the outer surface of the meninges. The neural interface circuitry includes an SAR ADC that provides at least rail-to-rail operation to convert received signals from the electrode(s) into digital data that can be modulated and wirelessly transmitted by intra-skin or other suitable communication.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2010Publication date: November 29, 2012Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGANInventors: Sun-Il Chang, Euisik Yoon
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Patent number: 8320990Abstract: Elongate intrabody MRI-antenna probes include opposing distal and proximal portions. The distal portion includes at least one multi-turn conductor arranged as a stack of substantially flat loops, each with a substantially rectangular elongate shape. A flat loop can reside on each of a plurality of adjacent vertically stacked substantially planar layers, the flat loops cooperate to define a MRI receive antenna.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2009Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: MRI Interventions, Inc.Inventor: Kamal Vij
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Patent number: 8315686Abstract: An electrode device and a method of installing the electrode device in the vicinity of the brain. The electrode device includes a plurality of electrode assemblies, each with at least one electrode lead, extending from a common base. The base is configured to be positioned on an outside of the patient's cranium with each electrode assembly projecting individually through a hole in the patient's cranium such that the electrode lead is in the vicinity of the brain. The method of installation includes carving a recess out of the patient's cranium and inserting the base therein. Each of the electrode assemblies are placed in their respective holes in order to stimulate, monitor or record neurological activity. The electrode device may be used over long periods of time for chronic treatment or recording.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2009Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: New York UniversityInventors: Rodolfo R. Llinas, Mutsuyuki Sugimori
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Patent number: 8301257Abstract: A method for identifying, suppressing, and reversing epileptogenesis, which is considered to be a learned response due to brain plasticity. The method includes identifying three epileptogenic conditions, neuronal hyperexcitability, spatial overconnectivity, and temporal overconnectivity. A treatment that accounts for each of these conditions is then be administered to the subject to reverse, or “unlearn,” epilepsy.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2009Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research FoundationInventors: David Ambrose Hsu, Murielle Aline Hsu, John Matthew Beggs
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Patent number: 8280479Abstract: The present invention discloses a flexible 3D microprobe structure, which comprises at least one probe, a base and a hinge portion. The probe is connected to the base via the hinge portion. The probe forms a bend angle with respect to a normal of the base by attracting the probe through an electrostatic force to make the hinge portion bend with respect to the base, and thus to form a 3D structure having the bend angle. The probe, the base and the hinge portion are made of a flexible polymeric material to reduce the inflammation response of creatures. Further, a fixing element is used to enhance the structural strength of the flexible 3D microprobe structure.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2009Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: National Tsing Hua UniversityInventors: Da-Jeng Yao, Chang-Hsiao Chen, Shih-Chang Chuang, Yen-Chung Chang
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Patent number: 8280478Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to strategies pertaining to implantation of an implantable medical device between a scalp and a skull of the patient. The invention pertains to collection of data such as data pertaining to the skull of the patient, the scalp of the patient, the vascular structure or neurological structures in the head of the patient, and the like. The data may be in the form of images, such as images generated by X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging, CT-scan and fluoroscopy. A surgeon can use the collected data to determine, for example, whether the patient is a candidate for a cranial implantation, whether the patient's skull and scalp can support the implantation, what configuration of device should be implanted, where the device should be implanted, and how the surgical incisions should be made.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2009Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Ruchika Singhal, Carl D. Wahlstrand, Robert M. Skime, Steven J. Urquhart
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Patent number: 8280499Abstract: An implantable monitoring device includes a flexible lead body that includes at least one sensing element. The device also includes a rigid main body connected to the flexible lead body at an attachment point. The rigid main body is generally centered about a longitudinal axis defined by the flexible lead body when the lead body is unflexed. The device further includes a measurement circuit, which is housed within the rigid main body and electrically coupled to the at least one sensing element of the flexible lead body and at least another sensing element on an outside surface of the rigid main body. The measurement circuit is configured to measure a potential difference between the at least one sensing element of the flexible lead body and the at least another sensing element of the main body.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2012Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Greatbatch Ltd.Inventors: Brian P. Brockway, Perry A. Mills
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Publication number: 20120238855Abstract: A wireless system for brain monitoring/mapping of neurological-disorder patients includes a plurality of electrodes each configured for surface abutment of brain tissue and main circuitry for placement outside a body of a patient and configured to transmit power at radio frequencies and send and receive data using infrared energy. Remote circuitry is provided for subcutaneous implantation in a head of the patient. The remote circuitry is connected to the plurality of electrodes and includes a multiplexer sampling signals from the plurality of electrodes. The multiplexer outputs electrode signals to an amplifier and A/D converter for transmission to the main circuitry. The remote circuitry is configured to (a) receive transmitted power at radio frequencies from the main circuitry, (b) capture and digitize full-bandwidth EEG signals from each of the electrodes, and (c) send data to and receive data from the main circuitry using infrared energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2012Publication date: September 20, 2012Inventors: Bruce Lanning, James A. Nolan, Gregory J. Nuebel, Dennis D. Spencer, Hitten P. Zaveri
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Patent number: 8255061Abstract: A microsystem comprising a substrate having an aperture formed therethrough. The aperture includes a first cross-section and a second cross-section—the first cross-section being smaller than the second cross-section to define a ledge therebetween. A probe member is disposed within the aperture of the substrate, such that a backend of the probe member defines a cross-section that is greater than the first cross-section of the aperture and smaller than the second cross-section such that the probe member engages the ledge. A plurality of probe shanks extend from the probe member. Each of the probe shanks includes a plurality of leads disposed there along. Each of the leads extending from the probe shanks to an opposing side of the probe member.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2009Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: The Regents of The University of MichiganInventors: Gayatri Eadara Perlin, Brendan E. Casey, Mayurachat Ning Gulari, Kensall D. Wise
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Patent number: 8249690Abstract: The invention relates to a brain stimulation electrode line (10) for electric stimulation of the brain areas with an elongated flexible electrode line body (12) having on or near its distal end at least one stimulation electrode (18) designed for delivering electric pulses to surrounding body tissue in the event of use. The brain stimulation electrode line (10) is characterized in that the electrode line body has on its distal end at least one ultrasonic transducer (20), which is arranged so that it can detect reflected ultrasound in a detection range aligned distally along the longitudinal direction of the electrode line body (12).Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2009Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Biotronik CRM Patent AGInventor: Thomas Doerr
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Patent number: 8244372Abstract: In one embodiment, a neurostimulation lead comprises an elongated body of insulative material, comprising a first end portion and a second end portion; a plurality of terminals longitudinally positioned along the first end portion; a plurality of electrodes longitudinally positioned along the second end portion; a plurality of conductors electrically coupling the plurality of electrodes to the plurality of terminals; a flexible metal longitudinal stiffener positioned within the elongated body wherein the stiffener has a plurality of longitudinal zones and each zone has a different column strength, the column strength of one or more zones of the plurality of longitudinal zones being defined by cuts or gaps in the stiffener, the stiffener causing the neurostimulation lead to exhibit a greatest amount of column strength adjacent to one end portion of the elongated body and to transition to a lower column strength toward a medial portion of the elongated body.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2009Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.Inventors: Enri Zhulati, Terry D. Daglow, Brian Franz, Sojan Abraham
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Patent number: 8241201Abstract: A method and device for connecting a bone conductor transducer contained in a housing to the skull bone for the transmission of vibrations characterized by, that the housing has at least one surface, which is placed against the bottom plane of a recess shaped in the temporal bone with a static force exceeding the dynamic signal forces.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2009Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Osseofon ABInventor: Bo Hakansson
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Patent number: 8229539Abstract: A brain probe includes: a core probe made from a metal; and n electrode plates attached so as to cover an entire side surface circumference of the core probe and forming n side planes providing an n-angular cross section (n is an integer equal to or greater than 3). Each of the electrode plates is manufactured by a LSI manufacturing process, and provided with at least one electrode and a lead-out wiring extending in a longitudinal direction of a side plane from each of the at least one electrode.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2011Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignees: Tohoku-Microtec Co., Ltd., Tohoku UniversityInventors: Makoto Motoyoshi, Mitsumasa Koyanagi, Hajime Mushiake, Tetsu Tanaka, Norihiro Katayama
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Publication number: 20120184837Abstract: The invention relates to a probe for stimulation and recording of neural activity in the brain, the probe comprising an axially extending shaft. In one embodiment, at least one stimulation electrode partially encircles the shaft besides at a gap, wherein one or more recording electrodes are located in the gap.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2012Publication date: July 19, 2012Applicant: SAPIENS STEERING BRAIN STIMULATION B.V.Inventors: Hubert Cécile François Martens, Ke Wang
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Patent number: 8224417Abstract: The implantable device system of the preferred embodiments includes a guide tube, a first electrical subsystem, and a second electrical subsystem. The first electrical subsystem is connected to the second electrical subsystem. The guide tube functions to facilitate the insertion of at least one first electrical subsystem and is adapted to allow the first electrical subsystem(s) to move freely with the tissue, allowing the placement of the first electrical subsystem without disconnecting the second electrical subsystem. The implantable device system may be implanted into the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerve, muscle, or any other suitable anatomical location. The guide tube of the system, however, may be alternatively used in any suitable environment and for any suitable reason.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2008Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: NeuroNexus Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Rio J. Vetter
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Patent number: 8195266Abstract: Microelectrode assemblies and related methods are disclosed for bio-stimulating and/or bio-sensing a target tissue. The assemblies can include a two-side substrate, an array of microelectrodes, each of the microelectrodes including a nano-wire embedded within the substrate and extending from a proximal end to a distal end and through the substrate, each nano-wire having a diameter preferably less than 1 ?m. The substrate can include portions made of nano-porous material(s) through which the microelectrodes pass. The substrate with the embedded nano-wires can effectively be fluid impermeable. The proximal ends of the nano-wires can be adapted to be connected to an electronic device and the distal ends are adapted to be disposed in a biological environment for bio-stimulating a target tissue and/or bio-sensing activities of the target tissue. Suitable alloys such as platinum, platinum-iridium, and/or other noble-metal-alloyed compositions can be used for the nano-wires.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Doheny Eye InstituteInventors: John J. Whalen, III, James D. Weiland, Mark S. Humayun
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Patent number: 8195267Abstract: In some embodiments, an implantable microelectrode is provided with a shank comprised of a laterally extending platform whose thickness and/or configuration contributes to reduced tissue encapsulation, with at least one electrode site disposed at least partially on or in the laterally extending platform. Novel methods of designing, making, and using an implantable microelectrode or biosensor resulting in reduced tissue encapsulation are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2007Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Inventors: John P. Seymour, Daryl R. Kipke
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Patent number: 8195268Abstract: Each micro electrode of a high-density micro electrode array is connected to the same conducting wire. Serial switches enable sequential electrical connection of the micro electrode array. Given reasonable temporal resolution, the separation interval of two consecutive instances of the same micro electrode entering the ON state matches the temporal resolution. The micro electrode array has simple layout and small area, thereby maximizing the number of micro electrodes installed per unit area.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2009Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: National Taiwan UniversityInventors: Chii-Wann Lin, Jyh-Horng Chen, Feng-Chi Yang
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Patent number: 8190250Abstract: A system for a neurostimulation device comprises at least one processor configured for estimating at a plurality of spatial points a respective plurality of electrical field vectors resulting from a stimulation lead operating in accordance with a set of stimulation parameters, determining an amplitude of each electrical field vector and an angle between each electrical field vector and a vector aligned with an axis of the stimulation lead, and estimating a tissue of volume activation about the stimulation lead based on the determined amplitude and angle of each electrical field vector.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2010Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventor: Michael A. Moffitt
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Publication number: 20120123236Abstract: An intracranial implant to position a fiber bundle to a specified region of a brain of an animal. The implant may include a base support to be fixed to a skull of the animal over an orifice drilled in the skull, a hollow conduit arranged through the base support to guide the fiber bundle to the brain of the animal through the drilled orifice and a first locking member arranged on the base support, to cooperate with a ferrule of the fiber bundle, the first locking member configured to lock the fiber bundle to the specified region of the brain of the animal.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2010Publication date: May 17, 2012Applicant: MAUNA KEA TECHNOLOGIESInventors: Nicolas Boularot, Arnaud Cressant
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Patent number: 8180438Abstract: An implantable monitoring device includes a flexible lead body that includes at least one sensing element. The device also includes a rigid main body connected to the flexible lead body at an attachment point. The rigid main body is generally centered about a longitudinal axis defined by the flexible lead body when the lead body is unflexed. The device further includes a measurement circuit, which is housed within the rigid main body and electrically coupled to the at least one sensing element of the flexible lead body and at least another sensing element on an outside surface of the rigid main body. The measurement circuit is configured to measure a potential difference between the at least one sensing element of the flexible lead body and the at least another sensing element of the main body.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2009Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Greatbatch Ltd.Inventors: Brian P. Brockway, Perry A. Mills
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Patent number: 8170638Abstract: A method of fabricating a MEMS flexible substrate neural probe is provided. The method can include applying an insulation layer on a substrate, and depositing a plurality of metal traces on the insulation layer and electroplating each of the plurality of traces. The method also can include encapsulating the insulation layer and metal traces deposited thereon with an insulation layer. Additionally the method can include etching the insulation layer to form a plurality bond pad sites and probes to form a flexible ribbon cable having a plurality of bond pad sites disposed on a surface of the flexible cable and a plurality of neural probes extending from the flexible cable. The method further can include separating the substrate from the insulation layer and depositing insulation on each of the neural probes, each probe comprising insulated portion and exposed metallic tip.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2007Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc.Inventors: Toshikazu Nishida, Erin E. Patrick, Justin Sanchez
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Patent number: 8167640Abstract: In some embodiments, an apparatus includes an electrical connector having a side wall defining a lumen and an elongate opening. The lumen is configured to receive at least a conductive portion of an electronic implant. The elongate opening divides the side wall into a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the side wall is configured to move relative to the second portion of the side wall between a first position and a second position. The first portion of the side wall is electrically conductive and includes a protrusion. The protrusion is configured to contact the conductive portion of the electronic implant such that the conductive portion of the electronic implant is electrically coupled to the first portion of the side wall when the first portion of the side wall is in the second position.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2009Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Bioness Inc.Inventors: Francisco Ochoa, Timothy Raymond Odell, Jeryle Walter
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Publication number: 20120101356Abstract: An optical stimulation probe has a probe body inserted into a subject, an electrode formed on the probe body and collecting a response signal from the subject, a light irradiator attached to the probe body and irradiating an optical signal and a reflecting surface formed on the probe body on the path of the optical signal. The reflecting surface changes the course of the optical signal irradiated from the light irradiator to the direction where the electrode faces by reflecting the optical signal. The electrode may be formed on a side portion of the probe body such that it faces a direction perpendicular to a length direction of the probe body, and the optical signal reflected by the reflecting surface may travel along a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the probe body, such that the direction where the electrode faces and the direction along which the reflected optical signal travels are parallel to each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2011Publication date: April 26, 2012Applicant: KOREA INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGYInventors: JinSeok KIM, Eui-Sung YOON, Hyun-Joon SHIN, Jun-Kyo Francis SUH
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Patent number: 8165682Abstract: A system and method for predicting and avoiding a seizure in a patient. The system and method includes use of an implanted surface acoustic wave probe and coupled RF antenna to monitor temperature of the patient's brain, critical changes in the temperature characteristic of a precursor to the seizure. The system can activate an implanted cooling unit which can avoid or minimize a seizure in the patient.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2006Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Uchicago Argonne, LLCInventors: Nachappa Gopalsami, Stanislav Kulikov, Ivan Osorio, Apostolos C. Raptis
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Patent number: 8155724Abstract: Herein disclosed are an electrode and a method for making an electrode having an enhanced electrically effective surface providing an increased signal to noise ratio. The electrode having a metal surface selected from gold, tungsten, stainless steel, platinum, platinum-tungsten, platinum-iridium, and combinations thereof; and an electrically conductive coating on said metal surface, said coating consisting essentially of polymerized pyrrole.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2010Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Florida State University Research Foundation, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Schlenoff, Gilbert Case
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Publication number: 20120041294Abstract: In vivo multi-channel recording is a powerful tool in exploring the real time neural activity associated with specific behavioral outputs. A prominent strength of this technique is that a large number of neurons can be, in theory, simultaneously recorded such that the activity of a small neural circuitry can be formulated and assessed. The present application provides for a new, adjustable multi-electrode system (AMES). Electrodes in this AMES, once installed into the brain, can be individually adjusted such that each electrode can be independently protruded until it reaches an optimal position to acquire neuronal signals. Thus, every electrode within the multi-electrode system is able to acquire valid signals. This adjustable multi-electrode system substantially improves the efficacy of signal acquisition and offers an unprecedented power for in vivo recordings.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2010Publication date: February 16, 2012Inventor: Yun Bai
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Patent number: 8093205Abstract: Devices and methods for treating diseases associated with loss of neuronal function are described. The methods are designed to promote proliferation, differentiation, migration, or integration of endogenous progenitor stem cells of the central nervous system (CNS). A therapy, such as an electrical signal or a stem cell enhancing agent, or a combination of therapies, is applied to a CNS region containing endogenous stem cells or a CNS region where the endogenous stem cells are predicted to migrate and eventually reside, or a combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2004Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventor: Lisa L. Shafer
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Patent number: 8086294Abstract: A method and system for assessing a quality of life index to adjust an implanted device to optimize patient-specific feature signals and treatment therapies. Accumulated energy of intracranial electroencephalogram (IEEG) signals is calculated over multiple data channels during seizures over a fixed time period. Accumulated energy of a treatment control is calculated over the multiple data channels over all times of activation of the implanted device over the fixed time period. The accumulated energy of both the IEEG signals and treatment control are weighted by seizure and treatment factors to determine a quality value for the fixed time period. A quality of life index is determined as a weighted average of current and previous quality values for a plurality of fixed time periods.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2007Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: The Trustees of the University of PennsylvaniaInventors: Javier Ramón Echauz, Brian Litt, Rosana Esteller, George John Vachtsevanos
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Publication number: 20110313270Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a neural probe system comprising: a carrier, at least one planar microelectrode attached to the carrier, the planar microelectrode comprising a set of two or more conductive segments, the set being confined in an area of from 15 ?m2 to 8000 ?m2, and electrical connections assuring that at least two sub-sets of conductive segments within the set are individually switchable to a same input and/or output line so that the surface area and/or the shape of the microelectrode electrically connected to the line can be varied.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2011Publication date: December 22, 2011Applicants: Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, K.U. LEUVEN R&D, IMECInventors: Hercules Pereira Neves, Guy Orban
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Patent number: 8078252Abstract: In some preferred embodiments, without limitation, the present invention comprises an implantable, intracranial neural interface node which is an integrated and minimally invasive platform system and supports cross-modal neural interfaces to the cerebrum and other associated structures in the central nervous system. The neural interfaces comprise electrical and chemical interfaces for neural recording, electrical stimulation, chemical delivery, chemical sensing, chemical sampling, cell delivery, genetic material delivery and/or other functions of interest.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2010Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Inventors: Daryl R. Kipke, Justin C. Williams, Jamille Hetke, Jaimie Henderson, P. Charles Garell
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Patent number: 8068892Abstract: The present invention relates to electrode assemblies, neurostimulation systems and methods for implanting and using same. In exemplary embodiments, the electrode includes a body having a conductive contact surface dimensioned and configured to contact a patient's skull; and an electrode head associated with the body. The electrode head is sized for subcutaneous positioning adjacent the subject's skull, and the electrode body is of a length and configured such that the electrode body extends at least partially through the patient's skull but does not contact the patient's dura mater. As these electrodes need not directly contact the brain nor penetrate the dura mater to be effective in neurostimulatory applications, they avoid many of the disadvantages, e.g. increased risk of infection and invasive implantation procedures, associated with conventional electrode design.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2008Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: Aaken LabsInventor: Michael J. Russell
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Patent number: 8065012Abstract: Disclosed are several apparatuses and methods for applying intracranial electrical stimulation to treat or enhance the neural function of the patient. In accordance with the invention, intracranial electrical stimulation can be administered to treat brain damage, brain disease, and/or brain disorders. Additionally the intracranial electrical stimulation can be applied to a normal healthy brain to enhance neural-function or control sensory functions. The electrical stimulation site(s) of the brain are located where neuroplasticity is occurring, expected to occur, or in a region where neuroplasticity is not occurring. The intracranial stimulation is expected to produce a lasting effect on the intended neural activity by applying subthreshold stimulation to the increasing the resting membrane potential of the neurons at the stimulation site.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2007Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.Inventors: Andrew D. Firlik, Jeffrey Balzer, Bradford Evan Gliner, Alan J. Levy, Carlton B. Morgan, Katrina S. Firlik
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Patent number: 8038685Abstract: An apparatus for securing an implantable lead within tissue of a patient includes a base adapted to be secured to a patient's skull adjacent a craniotomy. The base has an upper surface and a lower surface with a central passage therebetween. The central passage is adapted to receive the implantable lead therethrough. The apparatus also has a cover that is releasably coupled to the base so as to substantially cover the central passage and capture the implantable lead therebetween. A first rotating member is also coupled with the base and the first member is rotationally movable so as to meet and engage the implantable lead at a plurality of positions within the central passage.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2008Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Cranial Medical Systems, Inc.Inventor: Purvis Bedenbaugh
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Patent number: 8024022Abstract: The electrode array is a device for making electrical contacts with cellular tissue or organs. The electrode array includes an assembly of electrically conductive electrodes arising from a substrate where the electrodes are hermetically bonded to the substrate. The electrodes also include an insulating layer which leaves at least one zone or at least one hole exposed for making focused electrical contact with the tissue. A hole passing completely or partially through the electrode may further provide an anchor to the living tissue, thereby stabilizing the array with respect to the tissue being examined. Also, a method of manufacture of an electrode array and associated circuitry is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2006Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Alfred E. Mann Foundation for Scientific ResearchInventors: Joseph H. Schulman, Guangqiang Jiang, Charles L. Byers
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Patent number: 8024045Abstract: A burr hole assembly for use in neurosurgery. In one aspect, the burr hole assembly comprises a burr hole portion and one or more sensors, such as EEG sensors, temperature sensors, intracranial pressure sensors, or motion sensors. In certain embodiments, an input/output unit, which may include a multiplexer, provides a coupling between the sensors and a brain stimulation system which operates in cooperation with the burr hole assembly. In another aspect, the burr hole assembly comprises a burr hole portion and a rotation mechanism which operates in cooperation with an electrode lead. In certain embodiments, the burr hole assembly includes a control system for controlling the rotation mechanism. Also disclosed are systems comprising a burr hole assembly and various components of a brain stimulation system, such as pulse generators, electrode leads, lead extension, or external control systems.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Intelect Medical, Inc.Inventors: Keith Carlton, Alan Greszler, Scott Kokones
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Publication number: 20110218417Abstract: A bio-probe having a base and a tip and also including a set of at least four conductors extending longitudinally along the bio-probe, the conductors being coated with dielectric material. Also, at least four of the conductors define a spot where the dielectric material has been removed, thereby defining an electrical contact site. In addition, the bio-probe is less than 2.5 mm thick in its greatest transverse dimension along a longitudinal portion extending from the tip to a point 6 cm proximal of the tip.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2011Publication date: September 8, 2011Inventors: Jerome Boogaard, Robert Lucas, Mike DiGiacomo, Sergey Varivoda
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Patent number: 8010200Abstract: A lead stimulation/recording system is provided, which is a combination of a permanent DBS stimulating lead and a recording microelectrode. The DBS lead has a lumen extending from the proximal to the distal end of the lead, the lumen having an opening on each end of the lead. The microelectrode is configured and dimensioned to be insertable into the DBS lead from either the distal or proximal opening of the DBS lead, thereby permitting the microelectrode to be placed before, concurrently with, or after placement of the DBS lead. In addition, the system may be used with known microelectrode recording systems and methods of inserting the electrodes, such as the five-at-a-time method, the dual-microdrive method, or the single microdrive method.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2007Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventor: Anne M. Pianca
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Publication number: 20110208031Abstract: A neural probe includes a probe, wherein a tip of the probe is tapered; an insulating layer covering the probe, and one or more metallic traces, wherein the metallic traces are provide along the length of the probe. The probe also includes one or more contacts provided on the tip of the probe, wherein each of the one or more metallic traces terminates at the one or more contacts, and the one or more contacts provide an array of nanosized metallic pillars. The neural probe may also incorporate a lightguide. The lightguide may include an insulating layer providing a first cladding layer on the probe, a core layer provided on top of the first cladding layer, wherein the metallic traces and contacts are provided in the core layer with a core material, and a second cladding layer provided on top of the core layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2011Publication date: August 25, 2011Applicant: University of HoustonInventors: John C. Wolfe, Wei-Chuan Shih
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Patent number: 8005526Abstract: Bioelectrodes having enhanced biocompatible and biomimetic features are provided. Methods of making and using the bioelectrodes are further provided. A biologically integrated bioelectrode device and method for detecting electronic signals using a bioelectrode comprising a first electrically conductive substrate and a biological component. The bioelectrode also comprises a conductive polymer electrically coupling the first electrically conductive substrate and the biological component to define a bioelectrode. The bioelectrode can transmit or receive an electrical signal between the electrically conductive substrate and the biological component and conductive polymer.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2006Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: The Regents of The University of MichiganInventors: David C. Martin, Sarah Richardson-Burns, Donghwan Kim, Jeffrey L. Hendricks, Laura Povlich, Mohamad Reza Abidian, Matthew Meier
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Patent number: 8000788Abstract: An implantable medical device such as an implantable pulse generator that includes EEG sensing for monitoring and treating neurological conditions, and leadless ECG sensing for monitoring cardiac signals. The device includes a connector block with provisions for cardiac leads which may be used/enabled when needed. If significant co-morbid cardiac events are observed in patients via the leadless ECG monitoring, then cardiac leads may be subsequently connected for therapeutic use.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2007Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Jonathon E. Giftakis, Nina M. Graves, Jonathan C. Werder, Eric J. Panken
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Publication number: 20110184269Abstract: An implantable probe for acquiring neural signals or for electrically stimulating neurons, the probe comprising: a support (ES) of flexible polymer material; an inorganic substrate (S?) fastened to said support and having thickness that is sufficiently small to present flexibility comparable to that of the support; at least one electrode (EL) carried by said substrate; and a layer (NC) of conductive material deposited by high temperature growth on a surface of said or each electrode and suitable for improving at least one property thereof selected from: electrical properties; biocompatibility properties; and biostability properties. A method of fabricating such a probe, including making electrodes on said inorganic substrate, thinning it, depositing said conductive layer thereon by growth at high temperature, and subsequently transferring the thinned substrate carrying the coated electrodes onto the support of flexible polymer material.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2009Publication date: July 28, 2011Inventors: Fabien Sauter-Starace, Bibari Olivier, Chabrol Claude, Catherine Pudda
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Patent number: 7979105Abstract: In some preferred embodiments, without limitation, the present invention comprises an implantable, intracranial neural interface node which is an integrated and minimally invasive platform system and supports cross-modal neural interfaces to the cerebrum and other associated structures in the central nervous system. The neural interfaces comprise electrical and chemical interfaces for neural recording, electrical stimulation, chemical delivery, chemical sensing, chemical sampling, cell delivery, genetic material delivery and/or other functions of interest.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2009Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignees: The Regents of the University of Michigan, Wisconsin Alumni Research FoundationInventors: Daryl R. Kipke, Justin C. Williams, Jamille Hetke, Jaimie Henderson, P. Charles Garell
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Patent number: 7957808Abstract: A method for programming a deep brain stimulator implanted in a target region of a brain of a living subject. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of creating an efficacy atlas; acquiring a position of each electrode contact of the at least one electrode; mapping the acquired position of each electrode contact of the at least one electrode onto a corresponding position in the efficacy atlas so as to determine the efficacy of stimulation at the acquired position; and selecting one or more electrode contacts having the highest efficacy for stimulation.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2007Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Vanderbilt UniversityInventors: Benoit M. Dawant, Pierre-Francois Dominique D'Haese, Peter E. Konrad
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Patent number: 7941202Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention comprise a customizable multichannel microelectrode array with a modular planar microfabricated electrode array attached to a carrier and a high density of recording and/or stimulation electrode sites disposed thereon. Novel methods of making and using same are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2006Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: NeuroNexus TechnologiesInventors: Jamille F. Hetke, Daryl R. Kipke, David S. Pellinen, David J. Anderson
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Patent number: 7937160Abstract: Methods and kits for delivering an electrode lead into the head of a patient are provided. A burr hole is formed within the cranium of the patient, and an electrode lead is threaded through the burr hole. The electrode lead is then placed in a pre-shaped two-dimensional geometry between the cranium and cortical brain tissue of the patient. An access anchor may be mounted into the burr hole to facilitate introduction and removal of the electrode lead and other devices. In some circumstances, it may be desirable to separate the dura mater overlying the cortical brain tissue from the cortical brain tissue to create a pocket in which the electrode lead may be manipulated. In this case, a tissue layer dissection device can be introduced through the burr hole, operated to separate the dura mater from the cranium, and then removed from the burr hole.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: Robert J. Garabedian, Michael P. Wallace, Gary Heit
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Publication number: 20110046470Abstract: In some preferred embodiments, without limitation, the present invention comprises an implantable, intracranial neural interface node which is an integrated and minimally invasive platform system and supports cross-modal neural interfaces to the cerebrum and other associated structures in the central nervous system. The neural interfaces comprise electrical and chemical interfaces for neural recording, electrical stimulation, chemical delivery, chemical sensing, chemical sampling, cell delivery, genetic material delivery and/or other functions of interest.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2010Publication date: February 24, 2011Inventors: Daryl R. Kipke, Justin C. Williams, Jamille Hetke, Jaimie Henderson, P. Charles Garell
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Patent number: 7887681Abstract: An electrode surface coating and method for manufacturing the electrode surface coating comprising a conductive substrate; a surface coating of platinum having a rough configuration and an increase in the surface area of 5 times to 500 times of the corresponding surface area resulting from the basic geometric shape of the electrode. A method for electroplating an electrode surface with platinum coating having a rough surface, comprising electroplating the surface of a conductive substrate at a rate such that the metal particles form on the conductive substrate faster than necessary to form shiny platinum and slower than necessary to form platinum black.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2005Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventor: Dao Min Zhou