Abstract: An implantable bioresorbable radio frequency (RF) coil for high-resolution and high-specificity post-surgical evaluating or monitoring with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is disclosed. The coil includes a bioresorbable conductor configured to be resorbed within a patient while the coil is implanted in the patient. In one embodiment, the target application of this coil is the evaluation or monitoring (via MRI) of peripheral nerve regeneration following surgical repair.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for the positioning of an electrode of an implantable medical lead includes a housing and an electrode subassembly. The housing includes a proximal end for connecting to the lead and a distal end. The housing defines a housing lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The housing lumen includes internal screw threads extending along at least a portion of the housing lumen. The electrode subassembly is disposed at least partially within the housing lumen. The electrode subassembly includes a needle electrode and a coupler. The needle electrode is disposed coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the housing lumen. The coupler is disposed at a proximal end of the needle electrode. The coupler includes external screw threads engaged with the internal screw threads of the housing lumen such that rotation of the coupler moves the needle electrode along the longitudinal axis of the housing lumen.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions for and methods of altering the electric impedance to an alternating electric field in a target site of a subject. Disclosed are compositions for methods of improving transport of a nanoparticle across a cell membrane of a cell.

Abstract: A subcutaneously implantable device includes a housing, a clip attached to a top side of the housing that is configured to anchor the device to a bone, and an electrode that is configured to contact an organ. The clip includes a top portion that is rigid, a bottom portion that is rigid, and an intermediate portion between the top portion and the bottom portion that is configured to permit movement of the top portion with respect to the bottom portion and thereby apply force onto the bone between the top portion and the bottom portion.

Abstract: Various embodiments of an electronic package and implantable medical device are disclosed. The electronic package includes a nonconductive substrate having a first major surface, a second major surface, and an opening disposed through the substrate between the first major surface and the second major surface. The package also includes a conductive layer hermetically sealed to the first major surface of the substrate and over the opening; a conductor block disposed in the opening and extending beyond the second major surface of the substrate, where the conductor block is electrically connected to the conductive layer; and an electronic device disposed adjacent to the first major surface of the substrate and electrically connected to the conductive layer. The package also includes a nonconductive cover disposed over the electronic device and the nonconductive substrate and hermetically sealed to the substrate, where the electronic device is disposed within a cavity of the cover.

Abstract: A controller and associated multi-axis sensor system for augmenting the automatic intelligent delivery of one or more drugs is provided. The controller and associated multi-axial sensor system are based on the detection and determination of particular physical lifestyle events. As a specific example, a pump augmentation system includes a six-axis accelerometer sensor, a gyroscopic pitch sensor and a controller. The controller is configured to receive motion data from the six-axis accelerometer sensor and orientation data from the gyroscopic pitch sensor. The controller provides a pump instruction signal for changing a delivery rate of a drug to a user based on the motion data and the orientation data. The system and methods are particularly suited for treating a user with Parkinson's disease.

Abstract: Seals used within lead passageways of implantable medical devices for creating a seal to implantable medical leads inserted into the lead passageways include a body defining a lead passageway with an axial dimension. The body further defines a first circumferential protrusion extending radially a first distance into the lead passageway, and the body further defines a second circumferential protrusion separated from the first circumferential protrusion along the axial dimension. The second circumferential protrusion extends radially a second distance into the lead passageway, the second distance being less than the first distance. The body further defines a first circumferential depression immediately adjacent the first circumferential protrusion and between the first circumferential protrusion and the second circumferential protrusion.

Abstract: Devices and methods for providing neurostimulation to a patient, particularly in trial systems assessing suitability of a permanently implanted neurostimulation, are provided herein. In one aspect, a trial neurostimulation lead includes a coiled conductor coupled to a proximal contact connector having a retention flange that withstands tensile force from tension in the lead so as to maintain the electrical connection during a trial period. In another aspect, a trial neurostimulation system includes a lead extension that includes a regression stopper between the implanted distal connector and proximal lead disposed outside the body to prevent regression of the lead through a secondary incision, thereby preventing infection and facilitating explant of the system. Methods of assembling and utilizing such leads and systems are detailed herein.

Abstract: Techniques for determining the location of a physiological midline are disclosed. A first technique evaluates the response to stimulation of spinal electrodes at peripheral electrodes on different sides of the body. In this technique, a spinal electrode's position relative to a physiological midline is determined based on a relationship between responses to its stimulation observed on different sides of the body. A second technique evaluates the response of spinal electrodes to stimulation of peripheral electrodes on different sides of the body. In this technique, a spinal electrode's position relative to a physiological midline is determined based on the different responses that it observes to stimulation on different sides of the body.

Abstract: Embodiments herein relate to systems and methods for thawing cells using magnetic particles, such as Curie-magnetic or Néel-magnetic particles. In an embodiment, a cell storage medium for cryopreservation is included. The cell storage medium can include a cryoprotective agent; and a plurality of particles comprising a magnetic material. In an embodiment, a method for thawing a frozen cell sample is included. The method can include obtaining a frozen cell sample comprising particles, the particles comprising a magnetic material and applying an alternating electromagnetic field to the frozen cell sample to induce heating of the magnetic material. Other embodiments are also included herein.

Abstract: A lead engagement device is configured to be positioned in a lead lumen. The lead engagement device includes a hypotube. The hypotube includes a wall having an inner surface defining an inner lumen and an outer surface. The wall defines a longitudinal axis of the hypotube. A plurality of lead engagement fingers extend outwardly and proximally from the outer surface at acute angles, and planes in which the acute angles are disposed extend diagonally relative to the longitudinal axis. The plurality of lead engagement fingers are configured to translate relative to the lead and permit relative motion between the lead engagement device and the lead when applying a first force to the lead engagement device. The plurality of lead engagement fingers are configured to engage the lead and inhibit relative motion between the lead engagement device and the lead when applying an opposite second force to the lead engagement device.

Abstract: A projectile for piercing a casing of a mine containing an explosive material. The projectile includes a projectile body having a nose portion and a tail portion and a longitudinal axis, a switch, and electrodes separated such that in use an electrical discharge can flow between them through an explosive material contained within a mine, or to initiate an energetic material provided between the electrodes to detonate an explosive material contained within a mine. Also provided is a method of mine disposal.

Abstract: An electrode contact for an electrode lead for neurostimulation comprises a contact body including a contact surface for contacting human or animal neural tissue. The electrode contact furthermore comprises an arm section for contacting at least one electrical supply lead, wherein the arm section, originating from the contact body, extends laterally in a first spatial direction which runs parallel to a main extension plane of the contact surface. The arm section includes at least one cut-out for guiding through the at least one electrical supply lead.

Abstract: A cryoablation method, system, and device that allows for real-time and accurate assessment and monitoring of PV occlusion and lesion formation without the need for expensive imaging systems and without patient exposure to radiation. The system includes a cryoballoon catheter with a cryoballoon, a distal electrode, a proximal electrode, and a temperature sensor. Impedance measurements recorded by the electrodes may be used to predict ice formation, quality of pulmonary vein occlusion, and lesion formation.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a catheter for delivering an implantable medical lead to an implantation site near an ostium leading to a proximal region of a coronary sinus. The catheter includes a distal end, a proximal end opposite the distal end, a tubular body extending between the distal and proximal ends, an atraumatic fixation structure defining a distal termination of the distal end, and a lead receiving lumen. The atraumatic fixation structure is configured to enter the ostium and passively pivotally anchor with the proximal region of the coronary sinus. The lead receiving lumen extends along the tubular body from the proximal end to an opening defined in a side of the tubular body near the distal end and proximal the atraumatic fixation structure.

Abstract: A monolithic implantable medical device component includes multiple portions on a single substrate. The portions can be electrically connected to an electronics module, which may include output connectors and input connectors to and from the various portions of the substrate. A portion of the monolithic component to be disposed within, attached to, embedded in, or otherwise combined with a magnet retention feature, such as a plate.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a substrate, an array of channels disposed in the substrate, wherein first ends of the channels are exposed to an outside the apparatus, a material disposed in the channel that promotes growth of neural tissue, a plurality of electrodes disposed at second ends of the channels, wherein each channel is aligned with a respective one of the electrodes, and a chip electrically connected to the electrodes.

Abstract: A method of forming an electrode array includes the steps of positioning a workpiece on a mold part defining an opening and a channel and having undercuts, compressing the workpiece into the mold part to form a contact, and introducing resilient material into the mold part to form a flexible body.

Abstract: A method is provided for optimization of a stimulation specificity and an energy consumption of implanted electrodes in excitable tissue of a patient. The method may involve electrically stimulating excitable tissue between one or more combinations of electrode pairs in a cluster of electrodes, or electrically stimulating excitable tissue between one or more combinations of electrode pairs in two or more clusters of electrodes. The two electrodes of the electrode pairs may not belong to a same cluster. Each of the electrodes may be located on a physically separated entity, such that the tissue surrounds and separates each electrode from all other electrodes, thereby allowing tissue between the electrodes to be stimulated. An electrode pair or pairs which give rise to a lowest energy consumption while still giving a therapeutic effect may be chosen.

Abstract: Paraffin-embedded tissue, which may be disposed on a solid substrate, is prepared by a dry technique that removes paraffin from tissue without adding any liquid to the tissue, thereby rendering the tissue substantially free of paraffin. The dry technique may entail applying heat energy to the tissue effective to melt the paraffin and thereby render it flowable, and applying an electric field. The electric field is effective to impart electrical charge to the paraffin and to move the paraffin out from the tissue due to electrical charge repulsion or attraction, which may be assisted by moving an electrode utilized to generate the electric field relative to the paraffin. The electric field, or both the electric field and the heat energy, may be applied until the tissue is substantially free of paraffin.

Abstract: A system for differential recording connectable to an electrical lead with at least two electrodes, including: the lead having a distal end; at least one amplifier electrically connectable to the at least two electrodes, wherein the at least one amplifier subtracts a signal recorded by one of the at least two electrodes, from a signal recorded by the other one of the at least two electrodes to generate a differential signal; a memory configured for storing said differential signal and reference indications of electrical signals associated with neural tissue; a processing circuitry for detection of an anatomical position, wherein the processing circuitry calculates an anatomical position of the electrical lead based on processing of the differential signal and the reference indications of electrical signals associated with the neural tissue.

Abstract: Disclosed is a magnetic-piezoelectric micro robot capable of a hyperthermia treatment, an electrotherapy and a cell therapy. The magnetic-piezoelectric micro robot includes a body and a stimulus generating layer formed at a surface of the body including a magnetic particle and a piezoelectric particle and generating heat from the magnetic particle and generating an electrical stimulus from the piezoelectric particle by an external stimulus, wherein one of a hyperthermia treatment by the magnetic particle or an electrotherapy by the piezoelectric particle is performed or both are performed simultaneously.

Abstract: An apparatus includes an elongate thin film body extending from a first end to a second end. A plurality of electrodes is disposed on the thin film body. A plurality of electrode connection traces each coupled to a respective one of the electrodes. A plurality of attachment structures is placed at predetermined locations about the thin film body. An outer molding surrounds the thin film body. The attachment structures provide connection points for the outer molding, thus allowing for adhesion between the outer molding and the thin film body.

Abstract: The present invention promotes the activation of various physiological functions according to the stimulation of the body by superimposing a reference wave microcurrent of a low frequency and a main wave microcurrent of a high frequency into a preset pattern, or by additionally superimposing a multiple superimposed wave microcurrent discretely having a frequency of a larger magnitude sequentially than the main wave microcurrent and applying it to living organisms, and enables that the use and expandability can be increased by providing an additional configuration in which a multifunctional portable housing that can select AC electric stimulation and DC electric stimulation is worn on the wrist of the human body, thereby enabling the application of an electrical stimulation tailored to the body or disease/health condition of a user.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for the treatment of chronic inflammatory disorders that include an implantable microstimulator and an external charger/controller wherein the microstimulator is configured to operate using closed-loop feedback. The feedback for the microstimulator can be electrical activity of the vagus nerve and/or heart sensed by the microstimulator. The feedback can be used to modulate the stimulation duration, intensity, frequency, on-time and off-time.

Abstract: A neurostimulation system is disclosed herein. The neurostimulation system includes an implantable pulse generator and an implantable therapy lead configured to be electrically coupled to the implantable pulse generator. The implantable therapy lead includes a flexible paddle electrode array with flexible electrodes. Each flexible electrode has a segmented configuration having first and second electrode segments and a flexible bridge or living hinge joining together the first and second electrode segments.

Abstract: A neuromodulation therapy is delivered via at least one electrode implanted subcutaneously and superficially to a fascia layer superficial to a nerve of a patient. In one example, an implantable medical device is deployed along a superficial surface of a deep fascia tissue layer superficial to a nerve of a patient. Electrical stimulation energy is delivered to the nerve through the deep fascia tissue layer via implantable medical device electrodes.

Abstract: A kit for treating lung disease includes at least one lead having at least one contact, and a pulse generator configured to connect to the least one lead. The pulse generator is programmed to generate electrical signals for transmission through the at least one lead and for release by the at least one contact in a predetermined location of an epidural space to mitigate lung disease symptoms.

Abstract: The epicardial pacing system and related method includes an epicardial catheter configured to be disposed in the middle mediastinum of the thorax of a subject for use in electrical pacing of the heart at one or more locations on the epicardial surface. The epicardial pacing catheter may include at least one electrode whereby the electrode is insulated on at least one side to allow pacing of the heart without damage to adjacent anatomical structures.

Abstract: One aspect is a feedthrough system including a) a feedthrough including i) an insulating body, ii) an electrically conductive pathway, wherein an end of the electrically conductive pathway is level with a surface of the insulating body, iii) an electrically conductive pad, wherein the electrically conductive pad is attached to the level end of the electrically conductive pathway, b) an electrical contact element including a metal, wherein the electrical contact element is attached to the level end of the electrically conductive pathway by a joint microstructure, or wherein, when the feedthrough includes an electrically conductive pad, the electrical contact element is attached to the electrically conductive pad by a joint microstructure. Furthermore, the present embodiment refers to a process for preparing the inventive feedthrough system, and to a device including the inventive feedthrough system.

Abstract: Disclosed herein, in some embodiments, are medical device systems including an elongate medical device having a proximal end including one or more sensor connectors, a distal end including one or more sensors or emitters communicatively coupled to the one or more sensor connectors, and a drive connector including one or more sensor connector attachments configured to detachably couple to the one or more sensor connectors. The one or more sensor connector attachments can be configured to drive the one or more sensors or emitters of the elongate medical device.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a probe apparatus includes a shaft having a distal end, a tube containing separate powder granules of a ferrite, the tube being fixed to the distal end of the shaft, a coil disposed around the tube, and electrical wires connected to the coil so as to read out a signal generated across the coil due to an externally-applied magnetic field.

Abstract: Systems and methods for heart stimulation in accordance with embodiments of the invention are illustrated.

Abstract: An electrode assembly includes a substrate, a plurality of electrodes, and a wiring assembly. The substrate includes an elongate body extending from a first end to a second end in a first direction and a plurality of electrode connection structures connected with the elongate body. Each electrode connection structure defines a first coupling end, a second coupling end, and a first opening positioned between the first coupling end and the second coupling end. The electrodes are positioned within the plurality of electrode connection structures. A portion of each electrode extends through the first opening of the respective electrode connection structure. The wiring assembly extends along the substrate and forms an electrical connection with each of the plurality of the electrodes.

Abstract: Implantable medical devices have modular lead bores that are constructed from individual lead bore modules. A given modular lead bore utilizes the number of individual lead bore modules necessary for the particular implantable medical device. Each lead bore module has a lead bore passageway and a feedthrough passageway. An electrical contact is present within the lead bore passageway of each lead bore module and the electrical contact is aligned to the lead bore passageway of a lead bore module. Hermetic feedthrough assemblies are also present within the lead bore passageway of each lead bore module. A feedthrough pin passes through a hermetic feedthrough assembly within a feedthrough passageway of each lead bore module. Each feedthrough pin is electrically coupled to a corresponding electrical contact and the medical device circuitry.

Abstract: Diagnostic screening tests that can be used to identify if a patient is a good candidates for an implantable vagus nerve stimulation device. One or more analyte, such as a cytokine or inflammatory molecule, can be measured from a blood sample taken prior to implantation of a vagus nerve stimulator to determine the patient's responsiveness to VNS for treatment of an inflammatory disorder.

Abstract: A microsensor and method of manufacture for a microsensor, comprising an array of filaments, wherein each filament of the array of filaments comprises a substrate and a conductive layer coupled to the substrate and configured to facilitate analyte detection. Each filament of the array of filaments can further comprise an insulating layer configured to isolate regions defined by the conductive layer for analyte detection, a sensing layer coupled to the conductive layer, configured to enable transduction of an ionic concentration to an electronic voltage, and a selective coating coupled to the sensing layer, configured to facilitate detection of specific target analytes/ions. The microsensor facilitates detection of at least one analyte present in a body fluid of a user interfacing with the microsensor.

Abstract: An implant unit configured for implantation into a body of a subject is provided. The implant unit may include a flexible carrier unit including a central portion and two elongated arms extending from the central portion, an antenna, located on the central portion, configured to receive a signal, at least one pair of electrodes arranged on a first elongated arm of the two elongated arms. The at least one pair of electrodes may be adapted to modulate a first nerve. The elongated arms of the flexible carrier may be configured to form an open ended curvature around a muscle with the nerve to be stimulated within an arc of the curvature.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods of altering the electric impedance to an alternating electric field in a target site of a subject, comprising introducing a nanoparticle to a target site in the subject; and applying an alternating electric field to the target site of the subject, wherein the electric impedance in the target site of the subject to the alternating current is altered. Disclosed are methods for improving transport of a nanoparticle across a cell membrane of a cell, the method comprising applying an alternating electric field to the cell for a period of time, wherein application of the alternating electric field increases permeability of the cell membrane; and introducing the nanoparticle to the cell, wherein the increased permeability of the cell membrane enables the nanoparticle to cross the cell membrane.

Abstract: A method for optimization of the stimulation pattern of a set of implanted electrodes in excitable tissue of a patient is disclosed, wherein it comprises the steps of: (a) choosing a first group of a certain number of from said set of implanted electrodes, (b) stimulating the excitable tissue electrically by said first group of electrodes, (c) registering information provided by the patient, (d) assigning each electrode of said first group of electrodes a value related to said information, wherein these steps are repeated for one or more further groups of said certain number of electrodes chosen from said set of implanted electrodes, wherein each electrode may be included in one or several groups, wherein the total assigned value for each electrode is calculated, and wherein electrodes having a total assigned value exceeding a predetermined value or a predetermined number of the electrodes having the highest total assigned value are chosen to be included in said stimulation pattern, as well as a method for tr

Abstract: A system comprises a hand-held burr hole device insertion tool having a first end and a second end, the first end configured for simultaneous application of a normal force to two or more attachment points of a burr hole device component is disclosed.

Abstract: Devices and methods of use for introduction and implantation of an electrode as part of a minimally invasive technique. An implantable baroreflex activation system includes a control system having an implantable housing, an electrical lead, attachable to the control system, and an electrode structure. The electrode structure is near one end of the electrical lead, and includes a monopolar electrode, a backing material having an effective surface area larger than the electrode, and a releasable pivotable interface to mate with an implant tool. The electrode is configured for implantation on an outer surface of a blood vessel and the control system is programmed to deliver a baroreflex therapy via the monopolar electrode to a baroreceptor within a wall of the blood vessel.

Abstract: Disclosed technology includes technology for compensating for a balance dysfunction. A system can combine sensory substitution with balance dysfunction suppression. Dysfunctional balance information coming from a recipient's vestibular system is inhibited using stimulation. Balance information (e.g. how the recipient is positioned with respect to gravity, such as rotation along pitch and roll axes) is then passed to another sensory channel (e.g., visual, audible, or tactile sensory channels). Such a system can be implemented with a cochlear implant or another sensory prostheses having balance signals injected into the stimulation signal processing path.

Abstract: A method for inhibiting the formation of carbonyl compounds in a gas cylinder containing carbon monoxide wherein the gas cylinder is in fluid communication with a valve assembly wherein the valve assembly connects to a threaded opening in the gas cylinder by a threaded assembly by coating interior and exterior components of the valve assembly selected from the group consisting of an inlet port, an outlet port, a diaphragm and a lower spindle with an amorphous hydrogenated silicon compound. A valve assembly containing the coated interior and exterior components is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to method for predicting location and depth of abnormal tissue in breast tissue by prediction system. The prediction system predicts location based on 2D thermal image generated based on temperature values and intermediate temperature values. The intermediate temperature values are estimated using triangular and rectangular patterns formed on pre-defined model of breast, thermal conductivity of breast tissue, 2D coordinates on one of triangular and rectangular patterns and temperature values at steady state of breast tissue. The depth is predicted based on 3D thermal image of breast tissue generated using temperature values and intermediate temperature values and error parameter.

Abstract: An implanted neural micro interface device comprises microfilaments of various materials and forms embedded within a body. The microfilaments form interaction sites with surrounding neural tissue at their exit points from the implantable body. The body and filaments are configurable in a multitude of positions to provide increased engagement of a given neural tissue section as well as interaction and closed loop feedback between the microfilament sites. Such configurations allow for a range of recording, stimulating, and treatment modalities for the device within research and clinical settings.

Abstract: A transvascularly placed steerable microcatheter, further including internal steerability and the ability to articulate in a direction at right angles to its longitudinal axis at or near its distal end. The steerable microcatheter is generally fabricated from stainless steel, nitinol, or other metal and includes an outer tube, an inner tube, hub structures, and a distal articulating region. The steerable microcatheter can be advanced through a body lumen in its straight configuration and then be selectively articulated or curved to permit negotiation of tortuous curvature. The microcatheter is especially suited to robotic or powered control applications with user intervention or using artificial intelligence (AI).

Abstract: Representative methods, apparatus and systems are disclosed for providing concurrent electrical stimulation and electrical recording in a human or non-human subject, such as for neuromodulation, with the apparatus coupleable to an electrode array. A representative apparatus is typically an integrated circuit including: stimulation circuits, recording circuits, and blocking circuits responsive to control signals to block the stimulation voltage or current on an electrode from a corresponding recording circuit, while other recording circuits may simultaneously record electrical signals from other electrodes and generate recorded data.

Abstract: A device and method is disclosed for creating a lesion in adventitia tissue of a renal artery and/or a region of tissue surrounding the adventitia tissue while protecting intima and media tissue of the renal artery from injury. A catheter carrying a microwave antenna is positioned within the renal artery. Cooling fluid is circulated around the microwave antenna in thermal contact with the intima of the renal artery. Power is supplied to the microwave antenna to cause microwave energy to be emitted omnidirectionally from the microwave antenna. The power supplied to the microwave antenna and the cooling fluid circulated around the microwave antenna are controlled to cause the adventitia tissue and/or the region of tissue surrounding the adventitia tissue to be heated to a temperature sufficient to cause thermal damage while the intima and media tissue are maintained at a temperature where thermal damage does not occur.

Abstract: A catheter placement system designed to establish a conductive pathway through a sterile barrier from a sterile field to a non-sterile field. The catheter placement system can include a stylet having a first connector including a piercing component, and a sensing component, and a data-receiving component having a second connector. The data-receiving component can be designed for positioning in the non-sterile field under the sterile barrier. The first connector can be designed to conductively connect to the second connector of the data-receiving component through the sterile barrier via the piercing component without compromising the sterile field.