Abstract: An improved electrode headset is provided for the acquisition of electroencephalographic (EEG) brain signals detected at the scalp of a human subject. The headset includes an elastic fabric cap having a chinstrap, which cap is fitted closely to the scalp. The cap has openings at those selected locations on the scalp to which removable and disposable electrodes are to be removably connected to the scalp. A positioning unit, of a generally flat and flexible plastic material, is attachable to the cap by corresponding hook-and-loop fasteners on the outer surface of the cap and the inner surface of the positioning unit. The positioning unit has a base portion and two opposite leg portions, each with slits. Flat beams are adjustably connected through the slits to the leg portions and base portion. Each beam carries a screw member which adjustably applies pressure to electrode holders and a flexible electrode extractor strap to which the electrode holder is attached.

Abstract: A system for determining if signals present at bioelectric sensors derive from an intended source or from different, localized sources or artifacts includes a first sensor placed to detect the electric potential of interest and generate a first electric signal possibly representative of the electric potential of interest and a second sensor placed near the first sensor and preferably a relatively large distance away from the source. The second sensor detects the electrical potential of interest and generates a second electrical signal which also possibly represents the electrical potential of interest. An electronic circuit determines whether a difference between the electrical signals exceeds a certain threshold, thus indicating that either one or both of the signals is a measure of an artifact and not the electric potential of interest.

Abstract: An electrode arrangement (10) comprises a knitted electrically conductive electrode portion (12) containing electrically conductive yarn and at least one portion (14) of moisture impermeable electrically conductive material attached to the electrode portion (12). During use the electrode portion (12) and portion of material (14) are applied to a wearers skin. The moisture impermeable material portion (14) is of silicon loaded with carbon black. The moisture impermeable portion (14) encourages perspiration of a user and the perspiration trapped between the skin and moisture impermeable portion (14) reduces skin to electrode contact resistance to increase efficiency of detection of user heart rate or other electrical signals generated by a user.

Abstract: Methods for manufacturing a medical electrical lead for spinal cord stimulation include coupling distal portions of each of a pair of lead bodies to one another. The distal portions each include a plurality of electrode surfaces coupled thereto. Each of the distal portions may further include a column of conductive rings coupled thereto, wherein each electrode surface of the first and second portions is coupled to a corresponding conductive ring of the first and second portions, respectively.

Abstract: A self-locating mounting apparatus for holding objects such as sensors at specific positions on a subject's head includes a central mount constituted by a plurality of inextensible elements adapted to fit over the top of a subject's head. In addition, the mounting apparatus includes an adjustable circumferential band adapted to circle the subject's head and connect the central mount to inextensible side elements via sliding joints. A plurality of biasing elements provide a force for biasing sensor mounting units on the mounting apparatus against a subject's head, allowing for long-term sensing while minimizing interference forces on the mounting units. Advantageously, the mounting apparatus holds sensors within approximately 5 mm of their desired measurement positions over a range of subject head sizes.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for a sensor catheter tip includes a first electrode and a second electrode each having a central axis. The two electrodes are axially aligned and spaced apart along the axis. Each of the first and second electrodes comprises a contact aperture spaced from the center axis, and a contact element positioned within each of the contact apertures. The center axis of each of the first and second electrodes is substantially aligned, and the contact elements corresponding to each of the first and second electrodes are offset, thereby providing staggered contact points for each respective electrode.

Abstract: An adherent device is configured to adhere to the skin of the patient with an adherent patch, for example breathable tape, coupled to at least four electrodes. The device comprises impedance circuitry coupled to the at least four electrodes and configured to measure respiration of the patient to detect sleep apnea and/or hypopnea. The impedance circuitry may be used to measure hydration of the patient. An accelerometer can be mechanically coupled to the adherent patch such that the accelerometer can be coupled to and move with the skin of the patient. Electrocardiogram circuitry to generate an electrocardiogram signal may be coupled to at least two of the at least four electrodes to detect the sleep apnea and/or hypopnea.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are provided for creating and applying electrodes and electrode systems to a wound or skin. An electrode may be applied as a single electrode strip using a dispenser. An electrode may also be cut to size from a single sheet of electrode. Additionally, an electrode may be formed from a plurality of electrode segments which may be connected together. Electrodes can also be incorporated as part of drainage tubes. A medical electrode kit may be provided that includes multiple electrode segments and connectors, multiple electrodes, and multiple control modules. In addition, electrodes or electrode systems may be provided with a color scoring chart. An electrode system may be configured to interface with a selected body part. Electrode systems may include sensors and electrodes configured for application to areas outside of a wound or the skin intended to be treated.

Abstract: A bio-monitoring apparatus is disclosed in the present invention which is characterized in that a bio-sensing electrode without a stud member or male portion of a snap fastener is directly integrated with a signal processing module through a conductive layer formed therebetween so as to form the bio-monitoring apparatus functions to transcutaneously sense physiological statuses of a being. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the structure of the bio-sensing electrode is further simplified to a contacting layer coupled to the signal processing module through the conductive layer so as to reduce attenuation of signal intensity during signal transmitting. Meanwhile, without the stud member disposed in the electrode, not only the thickness of the electrode is certainly reduced, but also the feeling of comfort is capable of being improved while the electrode is adapted to contact a being.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device and assembly for electrically and/or chemically stimulating individual ganglion and a plurality of ganglia of the nervous system, and particularly to ganglia of the sympathetic nerve chain. A device is provided that generally wraps around an individual ganglion and conforms to the shape of the ganglion without exerting excessive pressure on the ganglion to damage the ganglion. An assembly is also provided that includes an axially elongated shaft that can be positioned adjacent to the sympathetic nerve chain and that can receive a plurality of ganglion stimulators that can slidably engage with the outer surface of the shaft. As additional ganglia are desired to be stimulated, each of the plurality of ganglion stimulators can be added to the shaft to engage the outer surface of the shaft and can be positioned adjacent to the ganglia desired to be stimulated.

Abstract: A plurality of electrode pairs, each of which is constituted by two electrodes of the plurality of biomedical electrodes are set and at least one of an electrical impedance value between two electrodes forming a pair and a resistance value between the two electrodes, for each of the electrode pairs is measured. An attachment state of each of the electrode pairs is judged by comparing the impedance value or the resistance value, with a predetermined range of numeric values. An electrode in an inappropriate attachment state is identified from the plurality of electrode pairs based on the judged attachment state o each of the plurality of electrode pairs.

Abstract: An impedance measurement system for measuring skin impedance in a small skin region includes an electrode unit having a plurality of current supply electrodes for supplying a constant current and a plurality of measurement electrodes separate from the current supply electrodes for measuring a response signal of skin, a current source for supplying the constant current to the current supply electrodes, a signal processing unit, connected to the measurement electrodes, for receiving response signals generated in the skin in response to the applied constant current, for generating a potential difference signal, for removing noise from the potential difference signal, and for amplifying the noise-removed potential difference signal, a signal conversion unit for converting the potential difference signal received from the signal processing unit from analog into digital format, and an image display unit for converting the digital potential difference signal into an image signal and for displaying the image signal.

Abstract: A medical sensor having at least one electrode configured to be placed on a patient for medical monitoring and a motion sensor integrated in the medical sensor with the electrode, the motion sensor configured to detect patient motion and provide electrical signals in response thereto.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to methods and systems for monitoring bioelectric potentials. In some instances, an electrode is applied to a patient's skin. The electrode may be at least partly inserted into the patient's skin, such as by inserting at least part of one or more teeth underneath the skin.

Abstract: The invention is a precordial pad for positioning EKG electrodes on a patient for anatomically correct and repeatable placement. Data can be transmitted from the EKG pad of the invention by wire or wireless means. The pad includes a sizing aid, and a positioning device. The invention is also a system for obtaining and sending EKG data.

Abstract: Methods of implanting at least one lead for a cardio defibrillator using body surface potential (BSP) electrodes are disclosed. The methods may include installing defibrillation electrodes in a patient, attaching at least three BSP electrodes to the patient's skin, creating a potential difference between the defibrillation electrodes, and measuring the resulting body surface potential at the three BSP electrodes. Once the resulting BSP is measured, the methods may include determining the amplitude of a resultant vector formed by the measured BSP potential differences. The location of a defibrillation electrode may then be manipulated to increase the amplitude of the resultant vector formed by the measured BSP potential differences.

Abstract: A system for detecting and analyzing electrical activity in the anatomy of an organism underlying an electrode array provides signals corresponding to electrical activity adjacent each electrode. Such signals are correlated to the underlying anatomy of the organism and representative outputs presented through various types of output devices. Such outputs may include variations in coloration or other qualities in correspondence with representations of underlying anatomical structures. The system includes electrode structures and methods for producing and attaching electrode arrays to the organism. The exemplary form of the invention is used in connection with the diagnosis of muscle activity in the lower lumbar regions of humans. Levels of muscle activity detected are analyzed by correlation with the muscular structures underlying the electrode array. Forms of the invention may be used in other applications.

Abstract: A cover sheet (1) used in a body measuring apparatus having electrodes for supplying current to a human body or for measuring a difference in electrical potential between two sites of the body. The cover sheet has electric conductive area portions (2) corresponding to the electrodes of the body measuring apparatus and having a electric conductivity in thickness direction, and insulation area portions (3) spacing adjacent electric conductive area portions (2) and having electrically insulating property at least along a plane direction. The cover sheet is used to prevent cross-infection and can be used safely without slip and prepared cheaply without affecting to impedance, with assuring completely insulation between adjacent electrodes. Conductivity is created with conductive solid (“dry type”) or conductive liquid (“wet type”). The cover sheet is fed automatically by a sheet dispenser.

Abstract: A cardiac monitoring system that detects electrical signals from a patient's heart and wirelessly transmits the signals digitally to a remote base station via telemetry. The base station converts the digital signals back to analog electrical signals that can be read by an electrocardiograph (ECG) monitor.

Abstract: Provided are a wearable physiological signal detection module and a measurement apparatus having the same. A physiological signal detection module including a measuring electrode implemented by a dry electrode having good conductivity to detect various physiological signals is detachably disposed inside the clothing closely adhered to user's skin. The measuring electrode can be in stable contact with the user's skin as well as the detection module can be conveniently worn for a long time. The various physiological signals detected by the measuring electrodes are wirelessly transmitted to an external device, thereby conveniently monitoring the physiological signal of the user in real time.

Abstract: A sensor array apparatus for monitoring medical signals includes a flexible substrate adapted for positioning relative to the torso of a patient. The flexible substrate includes a central segment defining a central axis and is adapted to generally conform to an area extending along the sternum of a patient. The flexible substrate further includes an upper segment extending traversal across the central segment and adapted to generally conform to the chest area of a patient and a lower segment extending traversal across the central segment and adapted to generally conform to the abdominal area of the patient. The apparatus further includes a medical electrode disposed on at least one of the segments and a connector in electrical communication with the medical electrode and adapted to connect to an electronic monitoring system.

Abstract: A quick-connecting dual electrode assembly for use in procedures such as impedance cardiography includes a body having a cable side and a patient side, and three eyelets arranged therein. A distal snap assembly having a distal stud (108) is secured in a first eyelet (101a) of said three eyelets (101a, 102a, 105a) near an end of the body. An additional stud (105) is arranged in a second eyelet (105a) near a center of the body, wherein the distal stud (108) and the additional stud (105) are electrically joined by a jumper assembly. A proximal snap assembly having a proximal stud (106) secured in a third eyelet (102a) at an opposite end from where the distal stud (108) is arranged proximally to the additional stud (105), so that a distance between the proximal stud (106) and the additional stud (105) is substantially less than a distance between the distal stud (180) and the additional stud (105).

Abstract: A method for coupling an ECG monitor with an incompatible ECG lead set includes the steps of providing an ECG adapter including an adapter body having at least one monitor connector adapted for coupling to an input of an ECG monitor and at least one lead set receptacle adapted for coupling to a connector of an ECG lead set incompatible with the input of the ECG monitor, coupling the at least one monitor connector of the adapter body with the input of the ECG monitor and coupling the at least one lead set receptacle of the adapter body with the connector of the ECG lead set to thereby electrically couple the ECG lead set with the ECG monitor.

Abstract: A system for detecting and analyzing electrical activity in the anatomy of an organism underlying an electrode array provides signals corresponding to electrical activity adjacent each electrode. Such signals are correlated to the underlying anatomy of the organism and representative outputs presented through various types of output devices. Such outputs may include variations in coloration or other qualities in correspondence with representations of underlying anatomical structures. The system includes novel electrode structures (200, 224, and 284) and methods for producing and attaching electrode arrays (240 and 280) to the organism. The exemplary form of the invention is used in connection with the diagnosis of muscle activity in the lower lumbar regions of humans. Levels of muscle activity detected are analyzed by correlation with the muscular structures underlying the electrode array. Forms of the invention may be used in other applications.

Abstract: In a body surface bio-potential sensor, and an apparatus for detecting biomedical signals having the same, the body surface bio-potential sensor includes a flexible membrane having a wire layer, a plurality of electrodes attached on a first surface of the membrane at predetermined intervals, each of the plurality of electrodes having a plurality of needles on a surface thereof, each of the plurality of needles having a predetermined height, and a cohesive layer covering the first surface of the membrane, the cohesive layer exposing regions of the flexible membrane corresponding to positions of the plurality of electrodes.

Abstract: According to this technique of packaging a sensor device implantable in a living body so as to provide protection of the sensor device and to the living body itself, an electrical conductor of the sensor device is sealed in an insulating substrate extending between proximal and distal ends. The distal end of the electrical conductor is externally connected to an external sensor on the sensor device and the proximal end of the electrical conductor is externally connected to a distal end of a lead wire extending proximally to a pulse generator and these connections are embedded in an insulative sheath. The external sensor, substrate, and insulative sheath are encapsulated in a thin film of hermetic material without interference with the lead wire. In another embodiment, a layer of insulating material may underlie the hermetic material to encapsulate the external sensor and the substrate.

Abstract: A stretchable electronic circuit or electronic device and a polymer-based process to produce a circuit or electronic device containing a stretchable conducting circuit. The stretchable electronic apparatus has a central longitudinal axis and the apparatus is stretchable in a longitudinal direction generally aligned with the central longitudinal axis. The apparatus comprises a stretchable polymer body and at least one circuit line operatively connected to the stretchable polymer body. The circuit line extends in the longitudinal direction and has a longitudinal component that extends in the longitudinal direction and has an offset component that is at an angle to the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal component and the offset component allow the apparatus to stretch in the longitudinal direction while maintaining the integrity of the circuit line.

Abstract: There is disclosed a surgical lead comprising two percutaneous lead bodies bonded together. The inventive lead body results in the equivalent of a surgical lead body with columns of electrodes either adjacent to or offset from each other. A bridge of urethane material is used to bond together the percutaneous lead bodies and still provide suitable flexibility of the lead. The surface of the electrodes may be coated, in part, with a suitable non-conductive coating to effectively direct the electrical stimulation signals toward the targeted stimulation area. Significantly, the resulting lead is sized to fit within a needle having a similar cross-section, thereby permitting the percutaneous implantation of the inventive lead.

Abstract: An electrode belt for impedance tomography shall be improved such that it has a simple design and makes possible good contacting of the electrodes (2) with the body of the test subject to be examined. The electrode belt (1) has at least 16 electrodes (2) on an electrode holder or belt material (3), which is elastic at least in some sections. The belt formed of one or more belt material sections completely surrounds a test subject to be examined on the circumference of the body. Electrode feed lines (63) extend along the electrode holder (3). The electrode feed lines and are connected to a feed line (6) at least at one feed point (4) on the electrode holder (3).

Abstract: A portable lead alignment device is provided for aligning, organizing and storing in a pre-assembled fashion the leads extending from an EKG apparatus. The device includes an elongate flexible support with at least one linear array of chest lead alignment tunnels disposed thereon. Each tunnel snugly accommodates a chest lead so that the lead can be slid longitudinally relative to the support. However, the tunnels prevent the leads from being separated from the device. The lead alignment device may further include a plurality of ground lead organizers for releasably retaining the ground leads in a neat looped arrangement on the support.

Abstract: A sensor array apparatus for monitoring medical signals includes a flexible substrate adapted to generally conform to a topography of a skin surface. The flexible substrate includes a central portion arranged about a central focal point and a plurality of finger-like projections extending radially outwardly from the central portion. A medical electrode is disposed on at least one of the finger-like projections, preferably, each of the finger-like projections. Connector, in electrical communication with the medical electrode, is adapted to connect to an electronic system.

Abstract: The invention is a precordial pad for positioning EKG electrodes on a patient for anatomically correct and repeatable placement. Data can be transmitted from the EKG pad of the invention by wire or wireless means. The pad includes a sizing aid, and a positioning device. The invention is also a system for obtaining and sending EKG data.

Abstract: A system for generating a signal indicative of a state of a user's body. The system has a housing assembly and first and second spaced electrodes on the housing situated so that an electrical impulse can be generated a) through the first electrode to a first user appendage in operative contact with the first electrode and b) from a second user appendage in operative contact with the second electrode to the second electrode, to thereby allow generation of a user impedance signal. The user impedance signal is useable to identify a state of a user's body. The housing has an electrically insulating barrier assembly defined between first and second discrete contours at or adjacent to which the first and second electrodes are respectively located. The insulating barrier assembly resides between first and second user appendages in operative contact with the first and second electrodes so as to block direct contact between the first and second user appendages.

Abstract: An electrode array is provided for a system for recording electrocardiogram signals. The array includes a sheet-like holding element, with a first electrode, a second electrode and a third electrode for connection to the skin of a patient. The electrodes are arranged at the holding element. A transmitting device is arranged at the holding element. A system is also provided for detecting electrocardiogram signals that includes the electrode array. The electrode array as well as the system for detecting electrocardiogram signals fastens a plurality of electrodes on the body of a patient without these having to be connected to one another based on the provision of a reference potential terminal (6). The reference potential terminal (6) is connected to the first electrode (3) and to the second electrode (4) and makes available a reference potential. The reference potential terminal (6) and the third electrode (5) are connected to the transmitting device.

Abstract: A medical electrical lead for establishing an electrical connection with a tissue of the body, the lead having a lead body and a semi-cylindrical cuff. In the preferred embodiment the semi-cylindrical cuff features one or more electrodes. The semi-cylindrical cuff having a long flap which wraps about the cuff and a short flap which wraps about the long flap. The semi-cylindrical cuff is relatively stiff as compared to the short flap. The short flap, in turn, is relatively the same stiffness as the long flap. The stiffness of each flap may be varied, however, so that one is more or less than the other, and in turn, than the cuff. Through such a multi-flap construction the electrodes may be positioned proximal to a nerve in such a manner that the mechanically induced damage may be minimized or even entirely eliminated. Finally, a method of implanting such an electrode is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for unobtrusively measuring bioelectric signals developed by an individual includes multiple sensors, one or more of which constitutes a capacitive sensor, embedded into or otherwise integrated into an object, such as a chair, bed or the like, used to support the individual. The object serves as mounting structure that holds the sensors in place. The sensors are preferably arranged in the form of an array, with particular ones of the sensors being selectable from the array for measuring the bioelectric signals which are transmitted, such as through a wireless link, for display and/or analysis purposes.

Abstract: An ECG measurement device including: an ECG patch including a main body including a first side and a second side, the first side attached to the body of the subject; an electrode unit including at least three electrodes departed from each other at predetermined intervals and installed to the first side of the main body and conductive gel being applied to the periphery of each of the electrodes and receiving a pseudo ECG signal of the subject via the electrodes; and a first connector installed to the second side of the main body, corresponding to an installation position of each of the electrodes, electrically connected to the electrodes, physically attached and electrically connected to a predetermined controller to transmit the pseudo ECG signal to the controller; and an ECG measurement controller including a second connector physically attached and electrically connected to a first connector of the ECG measurement patch and receiving a pseudo ECG signal from the ECG measurement patch; an A/D converter conve

Abstract: An interface unit for receiving a body part of a subject at which a noninvasive hematocrit measurement is to be obtained includes a narrow monitoring element with a receptacle for receiving at least a portion of the body part and contacts that are configured for establishing electrical communication with contacts of electrodes that are to be positioned over the receptacle before the body part is placed therein. In addition, the monitoring element may include a pressure port that communicates pressure into the receptacle. The interface unit also includes a cover which is configured to partially enclose the body part, to ensure that electrical communication is established between the contacts and the electrodes, and to facilitate the application of pressure to the body part. The electrodes may be in the form of electrically isolated electrode pairs, which may be formed as a strip with minimal material wastage.

Abstract: Electrodes designed in accordance with the present invention may selectively employ arc shaped contacts; variations in contact number, positioning, spacing, and/or distribution; variations in contact area, size, or periphery; and/or on-electrode conductive links or interconnections between particular contacts to provide enhanced efficiency neural stimulation, and/or increased electrode reliability.

Abstract: Multiple electrode assemblies provide an electrical connection between a patient's body and monitoring equipment. A multiple electrode assembly requires only half as many assemblies as a conventional single electrode assembly to attach a patient to multiple pieces of equipment. Less time is required to attach the patient to the monitoring equipment. There is less patient discomfort since fewer assemblies are attached to the patient. The placement of fewer assemblies also leads to a reduced cost. The assemblies can take on a number of different shapes and lead attachment configurations to accommodate a wide range of monitoring functions.

Abstract: A wireless electrode patch and system for measuring the physiological condition of a subject, more particularly to an electrode patch for ECG monitoring, and a method of sensing, analyzing and/or transmitting or relaying a physiological signal. The wireless electrode patch and system is lightweight, compact and reusable. The wireless electrode patch provides a low, power system for extended battery life and use. The wireless electrode patch and system allows for good reliable measurement of physiological signals from the subject. The wireless electrode is simple enough to apply as a single patch but versatile enough to be reconfigured as more than one patch.

Abstract: A portable electrocardiograph and method of use are disclosed. According to one aspect of the present invention, a portable electrocardiograph is provided which includes: a rectangular housing having at least a first outer surface and a second outer surface; a first electrode provided on the first outer surface of the housing; an electrode formation face provided on the second outer surface of the housing; and a second electrode provided within the electrode formation face; wherein the electrode formation face includes an electrode region in which the second electrode is positioned and a non-electrode region which is positioned so as to surround the electrode region.

Abstract: Described is an electrode array for measuring electrical activity in a subject's biological tissue, comprising an electrode support, a group of electrodes mounted on the electrode support, and an inter-electrode conductive medium having a given resistivity for controlling resistivity between the electrodes of the group. Also, described is a method for controlling the inter-electrode resistivity in the electrode array comprises providing the inter-electrode conductive medium having the given resistivity between the electrodes of the group, and interconnecting the electrodes of the group through this inter-electrode conductive medium to control resistivity between the electrodes.

Abstract: The invention is directed to techniques for electrode placement around a heart. A harness having one or more attachment sites may be secured around the heart, and electrodes may be secured at the attachment sites as desired by the physician for the patient. The electrodes may be, for example, pacing and sensing electrodes, defibrillation electrodes, or any combination thereof. The harness holds the electrodes in place and also impedes the progress of ventricular dilation. The electrodes attached to the harness may be used for any of several purposes, such as cardiac resynchronization, selective defibrillation, measurement of impedance, pacing and cardioversion.

Abstract: A multi-element probe comprising: a probe body comprising: a plurality of probe elements, each having a surface suitable for making electrical contact with a tissue of a subject; and an interface, comprising a conductive material, covering the probe-element surfaces, suitable for providing an interface between the elements and the tissue.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting dislodgement of a needle inserted into a patient includes a sensor for detecting wetness due to blood and a sensor holder to secure the sensor to the patient such that the sensor detects wetness due to blood loss from the patient upon dislodgement of the needle. Methods and apparatuses for detecting, monitoring and/or controlling blood loss from a patient due to needle dislodgement are also provided.

Abstract: A method concerning measurements by using an electrode array comprising three electrodes for central nervous system (CNS) monitoring from the forehead of a patient's head. A first electrode of said three electrodes is positioned between the eyebrows or immediately above the eyebrows of the patient. A third electrode of said three electrodes is positioned apart from the first electrode on the hairless fronto-lateral area of the forehead the patient. A second electrode is positioned between the first and the third electrodes on the forehead of the patient.

Abstract: A system for detecting and analyzing electrical activity in the anatomy of an organism underlying an electrode array provides signals corresponding to electrical activity adjacent each electrode. Such signals are correlated to the underlying anatomy of the organism and representative outputs presented through various types of output devices. Such outputs may include variations in coloration or other qualities in correspondence with representations of underlying anatomical structures. The system includes novel electrode structures (200, 224, and 284) and methods for producing and attaching electrode arrays (240 and 280) to the organism. The exemplary form of the invention is used in connection with the diagnosis of muscle activity in the lower lumbar regions of humans. Levels of muscle activity detected are analyzed by correlation with the muscular structures underlying the electrode array. Forms of the invention may be used in other applications.

Abstract: An ultra-miniature in-vivo electrode used for measuring the bioelectrical neural activity etc. in a living body with small cubic volume, slight burden to the living body, and high insulation performance, thereby facilitating long term stable measurements. Structurally the in-vivo electrode comprises conductors 13, 14 made of polymeric material having a through-hole 19 in each center so as to lead a measuring object 18; a intervening member 15 made of non-conductive polymeric material provided in between the conductors so as to insulate the periphery of the conductors; edge members 16, 17 provided in the outer edge of the conductors; a clad body 12 made of cylindrical insulant enclosing the periphery of them; measuring wires 21,22 to lead electricity to outside from each conductor 21, 22; a slit 26 which reaches the through-hole 19 from the outside surface being formed in all of the conductors, the intervening member, the edge members, and the clad body.

Abstract: Body function measuring apparatus which provides: (1) an indication of the body function being measured, and (2) a loose probe condition by determining that the difference between the rate of change of a first body function signal, developed by a first sensor in the probe, and the rate of change of a second body function signal, developed by a second sensor in the probe, exceeds a predetermined threshold.