Abstract: An implantable pressure monitor.

Abstract: Described herein is an apparatus that includes an endotracheal tube or airway device having a proximal end and a distal end and an occlusion cuff. The occlusion cuff includes a sensor for helping determine proper endotracheal or airway device placement.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an improved combination sensor tip that includes an ultrasound transducer and a pressure sensor both disposed at or in close proximity to the distal end of the combination sensor tip. The present invention also provides for an improved connector to couple a guide wire to a physiology monitor that reduces torsional resistance when maneuvering the guide wire.

Abstract: Disclosed are hypertension systems and related methods that include a blood pressure sensor located or implanted under the skin of a patient, and electronics, which may have the size and shape of a wrist watch, for example, that monitors the blood pressure of the patient by communicating with the implanted sensor.

Abstract: An injection system for injecting an injectate fluid into a blood vessel of the patient and for carrying out a blood pressure measurement of a patient. The injection system includes a catheter tube having a first end for penetrating the blood vessel of the patient, and a pressure sensor which is arranged close to a second end of the catheter tube and can sense a pressure of a liquid in the catheter tube as an indication of the blood pressure of the patient.

Abstract: Methods and systems for determining whether an implanted catheter used to deliver fluids to a selected internal delivery site is malfunctioning. The malfunctions may include that the infusion section of the catheter is not located at or has migrated away from the selected internal delivery site, is leaking, is blocked, etc. The determination is made by analyzing the pressure modulation of fluid within the catheter and determining whether the pressure of the fluid in the catheter is modulated by physiologic pressure changes experienced at the selected internal delivery site. The physiologic pressure modulations at the selected internal delivery site may be caused by, e.g., cardiac activity, respiration, changes in patient's posture, etc.

Abstract: An apparatus and methods for adaptive and autonomous calibration of pulse transit time measurements to obtain arterial blood pressure using arterial pressure variation. The apparatus and methods give pulse transit time (PTT) devices an ability to self-calibrate. The methods apply a distributed model with lumped parameters, and may be implemented, for example, using pulse transit time measurements derived from a wearable photoplethysmograph (PPG) sensor architecture with an intervening pressurizing mechanism.

Abstract: Disclose herein is a method of measuring pressures in a coronary sinus. In one embodiment, the method includes: introducing a distal portion of a lead or tool into the coronary sinus, wherein the distal portion includes first and second pressure sensors and at least one selectably expandable member; expanding the at least one expandable member such that the first and second sensors are isolated from each other within the coronary sinus; and taking pressure measurements with the first and second sensors when isolated from each other.

Abstract: A pressure sensing catheter having a pressure sensor and an antenna that is coupled to the pressure sensor, e.g., by a connector, are provided. The pressure sensor can be adapted to measure a pressure surrounding the catheter, and the antenna can be adapted to telemetrically communicate the measured pressure to an external device. In an exemplary embodiment, the antenna, pressure sensor, and/or connector are hermetically sealed, e.g., by the catheter and/or a coating, to prevent the antenna, pressure sensor, and connector from coming into contact with fluid, thereby allowing the catheter to be permanently implanted or otherwise used for long term use. Exemplary methods for manufacturing and using pressure sensing catheters are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an improved combination sensor tip that includes an ultrasound transducer and a pressure sensor both disposed at or in close proximity to the distal end of the combination sensor tip. The present invention also provides for an improved connector to couple a guide wire to a physiology monitor that reduces torsional resistance when maneuvering the guide wire.

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Multiple Sclerosis or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Multiple Sclerosis or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal jugular veins (IJV) or azygous veins (AZV). In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's IJV or AZV veins are provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an improved combination sensor tip that includes a pressure sensor and a second sensor other than a pressure sensor, both disposed at or in close proximity to the distal end of the combination sensor tip. The present invention also provides for an improved connector to couple a guide wire to a physiology monitor that reduces torsional resistance when maneuvering the guide wire.

Abstract: The invention relates to a pressure transducer for measuring blood pressure for medical use, which can be connected by pressure to the vascular system of a patient, said transducer comprising a pressure measuring element for measuring the prevailing pressure in the fluid chamber, and also mechanical holding means for detachably mounting the pressure transducer onto the contact holder. The invention also relates to a contact holder for holding and for electrically contacting a pressure transducer for medical use.

Abstract: A pressure sensing catheter having a pressure sensor and an antenna that is coupled to the pressure sensor, e.g., by a connector, are provided. The pressure sensor can be adapted to measure a pressure surrounding the catheter, and the antenna can be adapted to telemetrically communicate the measured pressure to an external device. In an exemplary embodiment, the antenna, pressure sensor, and/or connector are hermetically sealed, e.g., by the catheter and/or a coating, to prevent the antenna, pressure sensor, and connector from coming into contact with fluid, thereby allowing the catheter to be permanently implanted or otherwise used for long term use. Exemplary methods for manufacturing and using pressure sensing catheters are also provided.

Abstract: Embodiments include a cardiac rhythm management system having a lead that includes an omni-directional pressure sensor that is configured to resist tissue in-growth and provide reliable and consistent pressure readings from within a patient's vasculature. Embodiments of the cardiac rhythm management lead may also include a variety of pacing and shocking electrodes.

Abstract: A catheter tip device and methods for manufacturing a catheter tip device are disclosed, the device comprising a transducer module attached to a capsule, wherein the transducer module comprises a carrier including a recessed die-attach area, a transducer die located in the recessed die-attach area, and at least one conductive lead deposited onto the carrier and interconnected to the transducer die. The recessed die-attach area has an outer perimeter greater than the outer perimeter of the transducer die forming a groove between at least one edge of the transducer die and the outer perimeter in which an adhesive agent is located to attach the transducer die to the recessed die-attach area. The methods of manufacturing the catheter tip device involve the use of an array of carriers.

Abstract: A lead of an implantable medical device system having an elongated lead body, a sensor coupled to the lead body and extending from a proximal end to a distal end, and a distal lead adaptor having a first arm extending distally from the distal end of the sensor to a first arm end, a second arm extending distally from the distal end of the sensor to a second arm end, and a third arm extending between the first arm end and the second arm end, wherein the first arm, the second arm, and the third arm form an open portion.

Abstract: A method of determining ventricular dysfunction, particularly right ventricular dysfunction and device for determining dysfunction of the heart and determining a cardiac output are discussed.

Abstract: An anchor for an implantable medical device, for example, and implantable physiologic sensor, includes a proximal hub portion, an intermediate portion extending radially and distally from the hub portion, and a distal portion extending distally from the proximal portion and adapted to engage an inner surface of a target vessel for securing the implantable medical device therein. The anchor can assume a collapsed configuration for delivery through a catheter, and an expanded configuration for fixation within the vessel once deployed. The intermediate portion extends from the proximal portion at an oblique angle, allowing the anchor to be retracted and re-collapsed within the delivery catheter after initial deployment, if re-positioning or removal of the implantable medical device is necessary or desired.

Abstract: A method of measuring blood pressure and velocity proximally and distally of a stenosis in a vessel carrying blood includes the steps of providing a guide wire having both a pressure sensor and a velocity sensor disposed on a distal region of the guide wire, introducing the guide wire into the vessel, advancing the guide wire to position the pressure sensor and the velocity sensor proximally and distally of the stenosis, and measuring the blood pressure and velocity proximally and distally of the stenosis with the pressure sensor and the velocity sensor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pressure sensor module for use in catheters having a pressure sensor operable to provide a signal representative of pressure. The pressure sensor includes a sensing side and a pressure reference side. At least one signal transmission media is coupled to the sensor for transmitting the signal representative of pressure. A convex-shaped carrier is provided having a slot formed to expose the sensing side of the sensor. The convex-shaped carrier is adapted for receiving the sensor such that the sensing side of the sensor is adjacent the slot. A bonding material is provided for mounting the sensor to the carrier. The pressure sensing module provides ease of installation and manufacture because the module may easily be bonded to and installed within a catheter.

Abstract: A method of monitoring physiological parameters for diagnosis and treatment of congestive heart failure in a patient. The method includes implanting at least one sensing device in a cavity of the patient's cardiovascular system, preferably so that the sensing device passes through and is anchored to a septum of the heart and, to minimize the risk of thrombogenicity, a larger portion of the sensing device is located in the right side of the heart and a smaller portion of the sensing device is located in the left side of the heart. Electromagnetic telecommunication and/or wireless powering of the sensing device is performed with an external readout device. The method can be used to perform effective monitoring, management, and tailoring of treatments for patients suffering from congestive heart failure, as well as many other diseases.

Abstract: A transmitter unit with a detachable energy source is provided for a sensor guidewire. The transmitter unit is adapted to be connected to a proximal end of a sensor guidewire provided, at its distal end, with a sensor to measure a physiological parameter inside a patient. In some embodiments, the transmitter unit is adapted to wirelessly communicate by a communication signal with a communication unit, arranged in connection with an external device, in order to transfer measured physiological data to the external device. The detachable energy source can be a battery pack provided with connecting electrical connecting surfaces. Preferably, the connection is protected from penetrating fluids by a protective seal.

Abstract: A two part measuring device for a medical application, including a disposable first part for measuring the data of a patient, and a second part releasably secured to the first part for transmitting the data.

Abstract: Many people do not have a physical feeling for what normal and abnormal blood pressure levels mean in relation to the forces exerted on the heart and blood vessels. A blood pressure simulation apparatus provides human subjects a means to physically feel simulated blood pressure levels through tactile feedback. Both normal and abnormal blood pressure cycles are simulated. Interfacing of the apparatus to an electronic blood pressure monitor is provided.

Abstract: A measuring device for medical applications in at least one example embodiment includes a first part provided with measuring means for measuring data of a patient, and a second part provided with communication means for sending the data. In at least one example embodiment, the second part is releasably connected to the first part.

Abstract: Various different implementations of lead systems are disclosed for use with implantable stimulation systems. Generally, the lead systems incorporate, within an elongate lead body, one or more electrical conduits that connect to one or more distal electrodes, and a liquid-filled pressure transmission catheter lumen that extends proximally from a distal entry port. Use of the lead systems allows accurate pressure sensing at a location near where the electrodes are positioned. In addition, a defibrillator lead is disclosed having such features, and a system using that lead is capable of directly monitoring pressure within a heart chamber, and using that information to confirm the delivery of a defibrillation pulse.

Abstract: An anchored implantable pressure monitor.

Abstract: An implantable pressure monitor.

Abstract: A pressure measurement arrangement for measuring a line pressure of a product is described wherein product hold-up inside of disposable parts is minimized, comprising: a reusable pressure sensor comprising a measurement diaphragm, a fitting, the fitting comprising: a tubular opening extending through said fitting, for the reception of a disposable elastomeric tube, an aperture extending through an outside wall of the fitting into the tubular opening; and mounting structure, for mounting the pressure sensor on the aperture, such that the measurement diaphragm is exposed to an inside of the tubular opening; wherein the disposable tube is inserted in the tubular opening of the fitting during measurement; and an outside wall of the disposable tube comprises a thin flexible portion, which conforms to the measurement diaphragm when the disposable tube is pressurized by the line pressure.

Abstract: An implantable medical system includes a first die substrate with a first outer surface. The system also includes a second die substrate with a second outer surface. Furthermore, the system includes a medical device with a first portion that is mounted to the first die substrate and a second portion that is mounted to the second die substrate. The first and second die substrates are fixed to each other and substantially hermetically sealed to each other. Also, the medical device is substantially encapsulated between the first and second die substrates. The first portion is electrically connected to the second portion. Moreover, the first and second outer surfaces of the first and second die substrates are directly exposed to a biological material.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for powering and/or recharging medical devices implanted within the body are described. An illustrative implantable sensor for sensing one or more physiologic parameters within a body lumen includes a housing having an exterior wall that has an inner surface and an outer surface and that defines an internal cavity. A portion of the housing includes an electrically conductive material that functions as a first electrical conductor. A flexible piezoelectric layer is disposed adjacent to a portion of the exterior wall and a second electrical conductor is disposed adjacent to the piezoelectric layer. The piezoelectric layer is configured to displace in response to periodic pressure pulses within the body lumen and generate a voltage differential between the first and second electrical conductors.

Abstract: The present invention provides a medical device for measuring cervical dilation, where the medical device is positionable about a hand having first and second fingers, with each finger having a tip and a side surface. The medical device may include a housing, a first extension element movably coupled to the housing, a second extension element movably coupled to the housing, and a dilation indication mechanism to measure a distance between the first and second extension elements. The medical device may also include a first lateral pressure sensor positionable about a side surface of the first finger, a second lateral pressure sensor positionable about a side surface of the second finger, a third pressure sensor positionable about a tip of the first finger, and a fourth pressure sensor positionable about a tip of the second finger.

Abstract: There is disclosed a medical device for implantation in a body comprising: one or more sensors for sensing a physiologically or clinically relevant parameter; and telemetric communications means for telemetrically transmitting data related to a parameter sensed by the one or more sensors to a remote device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new mechanical sensor approach to maneuvering catheters and other cardiac devices into blood outlets, with particular application to maneuvering cardiac devices into the coronary sinus and beyond. Additionally, the inventive sensing device provides assessment of the viability of branching veins and other potential device sites, such as within the coronary venous system.

Abstract: An implantable pressure monitor.

Abstract: An anchored implantable pressure monitor.

Abstract: The present invention provides a medical device for measuring cervical dilation, where the medical device is positionable about a hand having first and second fingers, with each finger having a tip and a side surface. The medical device may include a housing, a first extension element movably coupled to the housing, a second extension element movably coupled to the housing, and a dilation indication mechanism to measure a distance between the first and second extension elements. The medical device may also include a first lateral pressure sensor positionable about a side surface of the first finger, a second lateral pressure sensor positionable about a side surface of the second finger, a third pressure sensor positionable about a tip of the first finger, and a fourth pressure sensor positionable about a tip of the second finger.

Abstract: An exemplary pressure cavity is disclosed that is durable, stable, and biocompatible and configured in such a way that it constitutes pico to nanoliter-scale volume. The exemplary pressure cavity is hermetically sealed from the exterior environment while maintaining the ability to communicate with other devices. Micromachined, hermetically-sealed sensors are configured to receive power and return information through direct electrical contact with external electronics. The pressure cavity and sensor components disposed therein are hermetically sealed from ambient pressure in order to reduce drift and instability within the sensor. The sensor is designed for harsh and biological environments, e.g., intracorporeal implantation and in vivo use. Additionally, novel manufacturing methods are employed to construct the sensors.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pressure sensor module for use in catheters having a pressure sensor operable to provide a signal representative of pressure. The pressure sensor includes a sensing side and a pressure reference side. At least one signal transmission media is coupled to the sensor for transmitting the signal representative of pressure. A convex-shaped carrier is provided having a slot formed to expose the sensing side of the sensor. The convex-shaped carrier is adapted for receiving the sensor such that the sensing side of the sensor is adjacent the slot. A bonding material is provided for mounting the sensor to the carrier. The pressure sensing module provides ease of installation and manufacture because the module may easily be bonded and installed within a catheter.

Abstract: The invention provides techniques for the diagnosis and treatment of a narrowing lumen with a smart balloon catheter. The smart balloon catheter includes pressure and diameter sensing features along with a feedback system to control the dilation of the balloon. Ambient pressure of the lumen is detected with multiple pressure sensors located on the distal end of the catheter and displayed on a monitoring device. Ambient pressure results are used to position the distal end of the catheter within the narrowing lumen. A controlled gradual, or stepwise, dilation of the balloon occurs. The pressure sensors detect the ambient pressure of the lumen outside the of the balloon, and the pressure within the balloon. Distances sensors measure the distance between the center of the catheter and the expanded balloon surface. The diameter of the balloon at different cross-sections is determined and displayed on the monitoring device. The volume of the balloon, and the waist of the narrowing lumen, are determined.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for invasive bodily fluid pressure measurements using a pressure sensing assembly that is partially reusable. An embodiment includes a system for measuring a bodily pressure level having a support structure that includes at least one reusable pressure transducer that has a sensing face positioned on an exterior portion of the support structure, and a disposable pressure plenum having an inlet in fluid communication with a selected location within the body of a living being that is configured to be removably and slidably engaged with the support structure.

Abstract: A system and method for the intra corporal, measuring of blood pressure includes a substantially rigid sensor structure and an antenna structure, which are separate components. The anchor structure is used to mount the within an appropriate location in the cardiovascular system, such as in the cardiac septum. The substantially rigid sensor structure includes at least one capacitive pressure sensor. Measured values are transmitted telemetrically from the sensor structure to an extra corporal monitoring device.

Abstract: A system and method for the intra corporal, telemetric measuring of blood pressure, particularly within the heart or a great vessel, includes a substantially rigid sensor chip mounted in a holder and an antenna. The holder is anchored within an appropriate location in the cardiovascular system, such as in the cardiac septum, via a catheter or other minimally-invasive procedure to position at least one capacitive pressure sensor on the chip in the blood flow to be sensed. Measured values are transmitted telemetrically from the chip to an extra corporal monitoring device.

Abstract: A flexible elongate member such as a pressure guide wire (1000) includes an electrical device such as a pressure sensor (1002). The pressure sensor (1002) is electrically connected to conductive bands (304), (306) and (308) located on electrical connector (300). The electrical connector is attached to core wire (602) and shaft or hypotube (704). The use of electrical connector (300) helps minimize the assembly time of pressure guide wire (1000), as well as minimize some of the assembly problems associated with prior art designs such as pressure guide wire (100).

Abstract: A medical blood pressure transducer that provides an identifier to a monitor that conveys characteristics of the transducer. The monitor can use the information to decide whether to function, or in calibration of the system. The transducer may be part of a disposable blood pressure monitoring system, and may include two transducers closely-spaced to provide two separate but identical outputs. In this way, the transducer may be connected to both a patient monitor and a cardiac output monitor at the same time measurements from a single line can be simultaneously supplied to two separate monitoring devices (for example a patient monitor and a cardiac output monitor). The identifier for the transducer may be circuitry, specifically a resistance/capacitance (RC) combination that possesses a characteristic time constant.

Abstract: The present invention provides a medical device for measuring cervical dilation, where the medical device is positionable about a hand having first and second fingers, with each finger having a tip and a side surface. The medical device may include a housing, a first extension element movably coupled to the housing, a second extension element movably coupled to the housing, and a dilation indication mechanism to measure a distance between the first and second extension elements. The medical device may also include a first lateral pressure sensor positionable about a side surface of the first finger, a second lateral pressure sensor positionable about a side surface of the second finger, a third pressure sensor positionable about a tip of the first finger, and a fourth pressure sensor positionable about a tip of the second finger.

Abstract: A ventricular shunt systems and methods of preventing hydrocephalus are described herein. In one aspect, the ventricular shunt system has at least one pressure sensor that is configured to be selectively electromagnetically coupled to an ex-vivo source of RF energy and is variable in response to the pressure in a patient's ventricle.

Abstract: The present invention is of system, device, and method for detecting and localizing obstruction in a blood vessel. More particularly, the present invention is of a balloon catheter having an expandable balloon which comprises a plurality of strain gauges operable to report relative degrees of expansion of local portions of a wall of the expandable balloon. Incomplete expansion of a local portion of the balloon, under common pressure within the balloon, indicates presence of an obstruction, such as a region of plaque, within the blood vessel.

Abstract: A method of treating cardiovascular disease in a medical patient is provided. The method includes the steps of generating a sensor signal indicative of a fluid pressure within the left atrium of the patient's heart, and delivering an electrical stimulus to a location in the heart. The electrical stimulus is delivered based at least in part on the sensor signal. The method also includes the steps of generating a processor output indicative of a treatment to a signaling device. The processor output is based at least in part on the sensor signal. At least two treatment signals are provided to the medical patient. The treatment signals are distinguishable from one another by the patient, and are indicative of a therapeutic treatment. The treatment signals are based at least in part on the processor output.