Abstract: Disclosed are a system and a method for noninvasively and continuously monitoring blood pressure. Also disclosed is a method for making such a device. The system includes a semiconductor chip comprising a transducer array of individual pressure or force sensors and associated circuitry providing control signals to and/or processing signals from these sensors, all of the above integrated in the chip. Also disclosed is a specific sensor structure provided on said chip. The invention further encompasses a system for measuring and/or tracking the blood pressure waveform and for combining the latter with related blood values like the heartbeat, derived from the above or other measuring devices.

Abstract: An alternating current responsive composite is disclosed. The composite includes a polymeric material and a polar material that is substantially dispersed within the polymeric material. The polar material is responsive to the presence of an alternating current.

Abstract: A biomedical return electrode for electrosurgery or radiofrequency (RF), a biomedical electrode pad (100), a system (300), and a method of treating tissue using a biomedical return electrode are disclosed. The biomedical return electrode comprises an electrode conductor (114) for receiving electrical energy from tissue via a return path, and a thermochromic liquid crystal (TLC) layer (116) coupled to the conductor (114). The TLC layer (116) changes colour at one or more sites dependent upon the conductor temperature at each site. The TLC layer (116) changes colour in a predetermined range of temperatures from about 40° C. to about 50° C. to alert an operator about the risk of a burn occurring. The biomedical electrode pad (100) comprises at least one such biomedical return electrode and a conductive body (112) to form a contact with tissue. The system (300) comprises an apparatus for delivering electrical energy to tissue and such a biomedical electrode pad (100).

Abstract: An ECG lead set including an ECG electrode assembly and a lead set hub. ECG electrode includes at least one electrode configured to receive biopotential signals from a patient, a plug connector for connecting said ECG electrode assembly, a web, connected between the at least one electrode and the plug connector and configured to form an electrical connection therebetween. The lead set hub includes at least one receptacle configured to receive the plug connector of the ECG electrode assembly.

Abstract: A medical electrode for conducting an electrical current to or from the skin of a patient. The electrode comprises a thin, flexible metallic conductor, a layer of electrolyte in electrical contact with the conductor and positioned to be in electrical contact with the skin when the electrode is applied to a patient, and an insulating layer overlying the conductor, wherein a peripheral edge of the metallic conductor is sealed with an insulating material so that the peripheral edge of the conductor is substantially out of electrical contact with the electrolyte. This tends to increase the shelf life of the electrode because the more highly worked (e.g., from being die cut during manufacture), and thus higher energy state, peripheral edge is electrically isolated.

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: An electrode having a plurality of electrically conductive segments, each segment being electrically isolated from adjacent segments. The segments are adapted to control living tissue, typically a neuromuscular pathway for delivery of stimulation signals to a desired pathway. The segments may be selectively chosen for the delivery of the stimulation signals, so as to avoid delivery of stimulation signals to tissue in contact with segments not chosen.

Abstract: A fibre or fabric comprising silicon for use as a medical fibre or fabric. The silicon present can be biocompatible, bioactive or resorbable material and may also be able to act as an electrical conductor. In addition, porous silicon may be used as a slow release means for example for drugs or fragrances, or as a collector for example for sweat. Novel fibres, fabrics and methods of preparation of these are also described and claimed.

Abstract: A self-adhering sensor for non-invasively attaching to a portion of a skin is provided. The sensor comprises a biocompatible substrate, and an array of solid nanoelectrodes coupled to the biocompatible substrate and configured to self-adhere to the skin. Also provided is a sensor for attaching to a portion of a skin, where the sensor comprises an array of solid electrodes configured to self-adhere to the skin, where each of the solid structures comprises a stem and one or more projections extending out from the stem, where both the stem and the projections are solid. The stem comprises a mechanical stopper to control the extent of penetration of the solid electrodes into the skin. The sensor further comprises an electrolyte coating disposed on one or more of the solid structures.

Abstract: Biochip for capacitive stimulation and/or detection of biological tissues. The biochip has a carrier structure, at least one stimulation and/or sensor device, which is arranged in or at the carrier structure, and at least one dielectric layer, one layer area of which is arranged at the stimulation and/or sensor device and the opposite layer area of which forms a stimulation and/or sensor area for capacitive simulation and/or detection of biological tissues, wherein the dielectric layer comprises TiO2.

Abstract: An electrode providing electrical contact with a patient's skin includes a conductive member adapted for connection to an external electrical apparatus and a non-liquid film for electrically interfacing to said patient's skin, the liquid film being electrically and mechanically connected to said conductive member. The non-liquid film includes an electrically conductive organic polymer plasticized with a polyhydric alcohol with said organic polymer being derived from a monomeric mixture comprising from about 15 to 30 pph acrylic acid, 0.5 to 30 pph N-vinylpyrrolidone and 0.01 to 2 pph of a crosslinking agent. The monomeric mixture may further comprise from about 0.5 to 8 pph of a thickening agent selected from the group consisting of N-vinylpyrrolidone/acrylic acid copolymers, N-vinylpyrrolidone/vinylacetate copolymers, and N-vinylpyrrolidone/vinylimidazole copolymers.

Abstract: An implantable microstimulator includes a plastic housing having a first end; an electronic subassembly; and a conductive plastic electrode disposed at the first end of the plastic housing and in electrical communication with the electronic subassembly. The microstimulator forms a hermetically sealed structure. Optionally, the microstimulator also includes a second electrode disposed at a second end of the plastic housing and in electrical communication with the electronic subassembly. The second electrode may also be a conductive plastic electrode.

Abstract: An electrode providing electrical contact with a patient's skin includes a conductive member adapted for connection to an external electrical apparatus and a non-liquid film for electrically interfacing to said patient's skin, the liquid film being electrically and mechanically connected to said conductive member. The non-liquid film includes an electrically conductive organic polymer plasticized with a polyhydric alcohol with said organic polymer being derived from a monomeric mixture comprising from about 15 to 30 pph acrylic acid, 0.5 to 30 pph N-vinylpyrrolidone and 0.01 to 2 pph of a crosslinking agent. The monomeric mixture may further comprise from about 0.5 to 8 pph of a thickening agent selected from the group consisting of N-vinylpyrrolidone/acrylic acid copolymers, N-vinylpyrrolidone/vinylacetate copolymers, and N-vinylpyrrolidone/vinylimidazole copolymers.

Abstract: Textile-based electrodes include a fabric portion having stretch-recovery non-conductive yarns and an electrically conductive region having stretch-recovery electrically conductive yarn filaments. The electrodes can further include float yarns and can be configured in a textured or ribbed construction. When incorporated into a garment, the electrodes can be used to monitor biophysical characteristics, such as the garment wearer's heart rate.

Abstract: A system for treating a wide-neck aneurysm comprising a mesh-like sleeve fabricated from a class of polymer filaments that carry conductive particles therein to provide the filaments with a specified resistivity. The releasable mesh-like sleeve is introduced to the site of a targeted vascular malformation by the working end of a catheter that carries an electrode arrangement at its distal terminus. The system further provides an electrical source and controller (i) that modulates power delivery to the polymer matrix which can then fuse the sleeve to the wall of a blood vessel to span across the vascular malformation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dry physiological recording electrode that can be used without skin preparation or the use of electrolytic gels. The dry physiological recording electrode comprising a substrate having an upper and a lower surface, and at least one penetrator(s) protruding from the upper surface of the substrate. The penetrator(s) is capable of piercing through the stratum corneum or outer layer of the skin, and transmitting an electric potential from the lower layers of the epidermis through the penetrator(s) which can be measured, or detecting agents from the lower layers of the epidermis primarily the stratum germinativum layer. At least one epidermis stop may be provided resulting in the formation of detritus troughs interposed between adjacent penetrator(s) and epidermis stops. The present invention also includes a method of sensing biopotentials in the skin.

Abstract: A biomedical electrode is provided wherein the electrode comprises a conductor in contact with a conductive medium, the conductor comprises an electrically conductive surface comprising an active source of silver and the conductive medium comprises a peroxide scavenger. The biomedical electrode typically will include a non-conductive backing having a first side comprising a first major surface and a second side comprising a second major surface, the electrically conductive surface being associated with the second major surface of the non-conductive backing, and the conductive medium comprises an electrically conductive adhesive associated with the conductive substrate, the electrically conductive adhesive being a pressure sensitive adhesive comprising the at least one peroxide scavenger. A method for the manufacture of the foregoing electrodes is also provided.

Abstract: Surfactants useful for enhancing the electrical conduction of electrodes attached to the surface of a patient. The surfactants are also useful in transport of materials in and out of the body of a patient (animal or human) and in the measurement of disease states. Typical surfactants particularly useful in the invention are broadly represented by protein/fatty acid based compounds. The protein/fatty acid compounds may be lipopolypeptides. In some embodiments the lipopolypeptides may be acyl peptides. Typical acyl peptides are Lamepon S™, MayTein C™ and MayTein CT™.

Abstract: Bioadhesive Compositions which comprise a hydrophobic polymer wherein the concentration of the polymer at the surface of the adhesive is greater than its concentration in the bulk of the adhesive are described; and biomedical electrodes, fixation products and wound dressings containing them.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dry physiological recording electrode that can be used without skin preparation or the use of electrolytic gels. The dry physiological recording electrode comprising a substrate having an upper and a lower surface, and at least one penetrator(s) protruding from the upper surface of the substrate. The penetrator(s) is capable of piercing through the stratum corneum or outer layer of the skin, and transmitting an electric potential from the lower layers of the epidermis through the penetrator(s) which can be measured, or detecting agents from the lower layers of the epidmermis primarily the stratum germinativum layer. At least one epidermis stop may be provided resulting in the formation of detritus troughs interposed between adjacent penetrator(s) and epidermis stops. The present invention also includes a method of sensing biopotentials in the skin.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dry physiological recording electrode that can be used without skin preparation or the use of electrolytic gels. The dry physiological recording electrode comprising a substrate having an upper and a lower surface, and at least one penetrator(s) protruding from the upper surface of the substrate. The penetrator(s) is capable of piercing through the stratum corneum or outer layer of the skin, and transmitting an electric potential from the lower layers of the epidermis through the penetrator(s) which can be measured, or detecting agents from the lower layers of the epidmermis primarily the stratum germinativum layer. At least one epidermis stop may be provided resulting in the formation of detritus troughs interposed between adjacent penetrator(s) and epidermis stops. The present invention also includes a method of sensing biopotentials in the skin.

Abstract: A TENS electrode formed by multiple layers, wherein a layer of self-adhesive conductive gel base onto which the conductive body is mounted. An isolating pad mounted on the conductive body, and a lead wire securely sandwiched in between the conductive body and the isolating tape. The conductive body is made of carbon fiber to provide the advantages of low impedance and superior softness. Further, since the conductive body is made of nonmetallic material, any electromagnetic interference is avoided.

Abstract: A medical electrical lead comprising an elongated conductor including one or more wires made of a modified MP35N alloy; wherein the MP35N alloy is formed from a melt composition modified to reduce an amount of titanium-based inclusion forming elements.

Abstract: An electric field sensor employs a capacitive pick-up electrode in a voltage divider network connected to a body emanating an electric field. The system is relatively insensitive to variations in the separation gap between electrode and body, reducing sensor motion artifacts in the output signal and stabilizing its low frequency response. The pick-up electrode may be positioned at a “stand off” location, spaced from intimate contact with the surface of the body. This is equivalent to providing low level capacitive values for the capacitive coupling between the pick-up electrode and the body whose electric field is to be monitored. Or a series limiting capacitor may be provided in the input stage. Human body-generated electrical signals may be acquired without use of conductive gels and suction-based electrodes, without direct electrical contact to the body, and even through thin layers of clothing.

Abstract: An electrode having a substrate with a first layer covering at least a portion of the substrate, and a second layer covering at least a portion of the first layer is disclosed. The first layer includes a porous layer consisting of a carbide, nitride or carbonitride of at least one of the metals titanium, vanadium, zirconium, niobium, molybdenum, hafnium, tantalum or tungsten. The second layer includes iridium. In a method according to the present invention, a substrate is provided. A first layer is provided over at least a portion of the substrate, and a second layer is provided over at least a portion of the first layer. The first layer includes a layer consisting of a carbide, nitride or carbonitride of at least one of the metals titanium, vanadium, zirconium, niobium, molybdenum, hafnium, tantalum or tungsten. The second layer includes iridium.

Abstract: Bioadhesive Compositions which comprise a hydrophobic polymer wherein the concentration of the polymer at the surface of the adhesive is greater than its concentration in the bulk of the adhesive are described; and biomedical electrodes, fixation products and wound dressings containing them.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dry physiological recording electrode that can be used without skin preparation or the use of electrolytic gels. The dry physiological recording electrode comprising a substrate having an upper and a lower surface, and at least one penetrator(s) protruding from the upper surface of the substrate. The penetrator(s) is capable of piercing through the stratum corneum or outer layer of the skin, and transmitting an electric potential from the lower layers of the epidermis through the penetrator(s) which can be measured, or detecting agents from the lower layers of the epidmermis primarily the stratum germinativum layer. At least one epidermis stop may be provided resulting in the formation of detritus troughs interposed between adjacent penetrator(s) and epidermis stops. The present invention also includes a method of sensing biopotentials in the skin.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dry penetrating device, one embodiment of which can be used as a physiological recording electrode that can be used without skin preparation or the use of electrolytic gels. The dry physiological recording electrode comprising a substrate having an upper and a lower surface, and at least one penetrator(s) protruding from the upper surface of the substrate. The penetrator(s) are capable of piercing through the stratum corneum or outer layer of the skin, and transmitting an electric potential from the lower layers of the epidermis through the penetrator(s) which can be measured, or detecting agents from the lower layers of the skin primarily the stratum germinativum layer. At least one epidermis stop may be provided resulting in the formation of detritus troughs interposed between adjacent penetrator(s) and epidermis stops. The present invention also includes a method of sensing biopotentials in the skin.

Abstract: An EKG structure comprising geosynthetic material associated with at least one conducting element wherein the structure comprises at least one core element substantially enclosed by at least one sheath, one or both comprising the geosynthetic material; the use thereof as an electrode, a method for treating substrate with the EKG structure, the treated substance obtained thereby

Abstract: Tracking a motion of a body by obtaining two types of measurements associated with the motion of the body, one of the types including acoustic measurement. An estimate of either an orientation or a position of the body is updated based on one of the two types of measurement, for example based on inertial measurement. The estimate is then updated based on the other of the two types of measurements, for example based on acoustic ranging. The invention also features determining range measurement to selected reference devices that are fixed in the environment of the body.

Abstract: A non-polarizable, silver/silver chloride biomedical electrode that is protected against corrosion during its shelf life by an organic corrosion retarding agent, preferably selected from the group consisting of mercaptans and azoles.

Abstract: A biomedical electrode is provided wherein the electrode comprises a conductor in contact with a conductive medium, the conductor comprises an electrically conductive surface comprising an active source of silver and the conductive medium comprises a peroxide scavenger. The biomedical electrode typically will include a non-conductive backing having a first side comprising a first major surface and a second side comprising a second major surface, the electrically conductive surface being associated with the second major surface of the non-conductive backing, and the conductive medium comprises an electrically conductive adhesive associated with the conductive substrate, the electrically conductive adhesive being a pressure sensitive adhesive comprising the at least one peroxide scavenger. A method for the manufacture of the foregoing electrodes is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a paste, which can undergo screen printing, for producing a porous polymer membrane. Said paste contains at least one polymer, one or more solvents for the polymer having a boiling point of >100° C., one or more non-solvents for the polymers (pore-forming agents) having a higher boiling point than that of the solvent(s), and contains a hydrophilic viscosity modifier.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring an electrophysiological signal within a magnetically sensitive apparatus comprises a stretchable elastic cap having a plurality of electrode holders designed to be filled with a conductive electrolyte. Electrodes are disposed within the electrode holders and leads extend from the electrodes. The electrodes and the leads are made of a non-ferromagnetic conductive material.

Abstract: An ECT, EEG, EMG, ENG or impedance pneumography hospital electrode is designed for use on neonates in high humidity environments, such as in a high humidity incubator. The electrode includes a silver-silver/chloride sensor; a signal transmitting lead connected to the sensor; and an electrically conductive, self-adhesive gel which electrically connects the sensor to the patient's skin. The conductive, self-adhesive gel is formed from a hydrogel which is hydrophilic in nature. In order to stabilize the adhesiveness of the gel in the high humidity environment, the gel is provided with an adjunct non-hydrophilic adhesive member which provides improved adhesion to the skin while maintaining contact between the conductive gel and the patient's skin. The use of the adjunct adhesive member enables the electrode assembly to be used in the high humidity environment for extended periods of time without becoming detached from the patient's skin.

Abstract: A biological electrode includes an electrode element having electroconductivity with respect to a living body, the biological electrode used by disposing said electrode element at a predetermined position, and the electrode element being made of biodegradable material.

Abstract: A medical electrode includes a first conductive polymerizable gel layer for electrically coupling the electrode to a body and a flexible porous electrical conductor disposed on the first gel layer. A second conductive polymerizable gel layer disposed on the flexible porous electrical conductor and polymerized with the first layer through the porous conductor. An electrical connector disposed in connect with the second gel layer enables the electrical connection to an outside power source, or monitoring device, and an insulative backing is adhered to the second gel layer to prevent inadvertent contact therewith.

Abstract: A system for detecting and marking the positions of peripheral nerves is disclosed. A reusable electrode array comprising a plurality of electrodes is combined with a disposable skin attachment system comprising hydrogel islands. In use, the electrode array is connected to a peripheral nerve detection instrument. The disposable skin attachment system is then attached to an electrode sensor region. The skin attachment system is then adhered to an area of skin, detection is carried out, and then the electrode array is peeled back from the skin, leaving a skin marking guide in place. The skin marking guide is then used to mark areas of interest to a therapist.

Abstract: A layered electrode having a large tissue contact area of the portion of the electrode that is electrically active and providing low polarization losses, high pacing impedance and low chronic stimulation voltage. In a fundamental embodiment, the electrode tip has an outer layer of microporous material which is permeable to conductive body fluids which covers a layer of insulating material which is provided with at least one perforation through the thickness of the material. The at least one perforation provides a localized, high current density path. Both of these layers in turn cover the exterior surface of an electrically conductive, preferably metal, electrode body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dry physiological recording electrode that can be used without skin preparation or the use of electrolytic gels. The dry physiological recording electrode comprising a substrate having an upper and a lower surface, and at least one penetrator(s) protruding from the upper surface of the substrate. The penetrator(s) is capable of piercing through the stratum corneum or outer layer of the skin, and transmitting an electric potential from the lower layers of the epidermis through the penetrator(s) which can be measured, or detecting agents from the lower layers of the epidmermis primarily the stratum germinativum layer. At least one epidermis stop may be provided resulting in the formation of detritus troughs interposed between adjacent penetrator(s) and epidermis stops. The present invention also includes a method of sensing biopotentials in the skin.

Abstract: A non-polarizable, silver/silver chloride biomedical electrode that is protected against corrosion during its shelf life by an organic corrosion retarding agent, preferably selected from the group consisting of mercaptans and azoles.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for permeabilization of a cell structure consisting of a single cell, an intracellular structure or an organelle comprising the following steps: (a) microelectrodes, preferably two carbon fibre electrodes or hollow fibre electrodes, are provided, (b) the microelectrodes are connected to a power supply, (c) the electrodes, individually controlled by high-graduation micromanipulators, are placed close to the cell structure at an appropriate inter-electrode distance, and (d) a highly focused electric field of a strength sufficient to obtain electroporation is applied between the electrodes. The method may be used in order to transfer cell impermeant solutes, such as drugs or genes, into the cell structure or out of the cell structure, in biosensors, in the treatment of tumours and neurodegenerative diseases and in the study of biophysical processes.

Abstract: A method of and an apparatus for performing electrophysiological mapping of myocardial tissue. An electrode at a distal portion of a sensing catheter electrically contacts the tissue permitting the catheter to conduct a sensed signal to analysis and display equipment. The electrode is formed of a biocompatible metal. This basic structure is coated with a material with micro texturizes the electrode surface to increase the effective surface area without significantly increasing the electrode footprint.

Abstract: A medical electrode includes a first conductive polymerizable gel layer for electrically coupling the electrode to a body and a flexible porous electrical conductor disposed on the first gel layer. A second conductive polymerizable gel layer disposed on the flexible porous electrical conductor and polymerized with the first layer through the porous conductor. An electrical connector disposed in connect with the second gel layer enables the electrical connection to an outside power source, or monitoring device, and an insulative backing is adhered to the second gel layer to prevent inadvertent contact therewith.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for biopotential sensing and stimulation are provided including a sensory component, a biopotential sensor electrode, and a biopotential sensory electrode system. The sensory component includes a first layer of electrically conductive material coupled among a biopotential signal source and a dielectric layer. A second layer of electrically conductive material is coupled among the dielectric layer, resistive elements, a charge balancing current source and sink, and circuits of the associated biopotential electrode. The biopotential sensor electrode includes the sensory component, conditioning components, an interface, and a power source. Stimulation components may also be included to provide stimulation signals to the biopotential signal source. The interface transfers signals to external instrumentation using wireless or wired connections. The power source includes batteries, solar cells, and telemetry power sources.

Abstract: An electrophysiological electrode includes multiple layers of materials to isolate liquid electrolytic gels from the conductive inks on the flexible circuit of the electrode substrate. Such an electrode has a much longer shelf life under normal storage conditions than other electrodes of such construction with high salt content liquid electrolytic gel, and is able to maintain acceptable impedance upon its eventual use.

Abstract: A medical electrode includes a first conductive polymerizable gel layer for electrically coupling the electrode to a body and a flexible porous electrical conductor disposed on the first gel layer. A second conductive polymerizable gel layer disposed on the flexible porous electrical conductor and polymerized with the first layer through the porous conductor. An electrical connector disposed in connect with the second gel layer enables the electrical connection to an outside power source, or monitoring device, and an insulative backing is adhered to the second gel layer to prevent inadvertent contact therewith.

Abstract: A fabric, in the form of a woven or knitted fabric or garment, including a flexible information infrastructure integrated within the fabric for collecting, processing, transmitting and receiving information concerning—but not limited to—a wearer of the fabric. The fabric allows a new way to customize information processing devices to “fit” the wearer by selecting and plugging in (or removing) chips/sensors from the fabric thus creating a wearable, mobile information infrastructure that can operate in a stand-alone or networked mode. The fabric can be provided with sensors for monitoring physical aspects of the wearer, for example body vital signs, such as heart rate, EKG, pulse, respiration rate, temperature, voice, and allergic reaction, as well as penetration of the fabric.

Abstract: An electrolyte (70) for use in a single-use biomedical electrode assembly (A, B, C, D) designed for receiving body-generated electrical signals at a patient's skin surface includes: Component Range (%) Skin penetration agent 10-25  Thickener 0-10 Alkali metal or alkaline earth 1-13 metal chloride Alkali metal or alkali earth 1-13 metal nitrate Surfactant 0.001-5    Soluble silver salt, as silver   0-0.01 Buffer 0-10 Water Q.S. The skin penetration agent improves penetration of the outer, dead skin layers by the electrolyte, thereby improving pickup of minute electrical signals generated within the patient's body. A preferred skin penetration agent includes sodium 2-pyrrolidone-5 carboxylate at a concentration of 15-20% by weight of the electrolyte composition.

Abstract: An ECG electrode and method of making and using such. The electrode can have a domed electrode element attached to a housing containing an interface disk to which the concave side of the domed electrode connects. Within the housing a signal lead wire has one end attached to the non-skin-contacting side of the dome and another end connected to a signal transition circuit and a buffer amplifier circuit. The domed electrode element can be made by forming a metal disk into a dome and providing an oxide layer over the convex surface of the dome. The convex surface of the domed electrode can ensure reliable ECG signal acquisitions with lower radial forces generally than other electrode types, when positioned adjacent the skin of the patient and when coupled to cardiac activity monitoring equipment and a defibrillator for cardiac sensing capabilities.