Placed In Body Patents (Class 607/116)
  • Patent number: 8954162
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a method for implanting a medical device proximate to a target tissue site within an occipital region of a patient, such as proximate to an occipital nerve or a trigeminal nerve. The method comprises introducing an implant tool into a patient to define an insertion path to the target tissue site. The implant tool includes a shape memory cannula and a malleable needle at least partially disposed within an inner lumen of the cannula. The shape of the needle may be changed to accommodate different anatomical structures/features of the patient. Upon withdrawal of the needle from the cannula, the cannula may change shape, thereby changing the shape of the insertion path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric H. Bonde, Martin T. Gerber
  • Patent number: 8954163
    Abstract: A medical cable connector of a medical cable receives a medical lead while an electrical receptacle within the medical cable connector is placed into a distal position relative to an outer body of the medical cable connector. The electrical receptacle is retracted to a proximal position once insertion of the medical lead into the medical cable connector is completed. The electrical receptacle may be mounted to an inner body which moves relative to the outer body. A biasing member may be present to bias the inner body to a particular position. A slider may be present to provide a clinician with a surface to touch when applying force to position the electrical receptacle in the distal position for insertion of the medical lead. Various other features may be present to facilitate insertion of the medical lead and/or to maintain the position of the electrical receptacle relative to the outer body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Stetson, Carole A. Tronnes, David W. Lee
  • Patent number: 8954164
    Abstract: An electrical stimulator line protector, comprising a case having an upper surface and a lower surface, the case configured for implantation in the scalp or other subcutaneous areas of a patient; a storage slot disposed between the upper surface and the lower surface of the case, the slot configured to allow at least one electrical line to coil therearound, the upper surface, the lower surface and the slot to thereby shield the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Arnold B. Vardiman
  • Patent number: 8951241
    Abstract: A medical device is disclosed, which comprises a functional unit (C) for permanent or temporary placement in the urogenital tract of a human or animal body. The functional unit has at least one electrically conducting portion. A power source (G) supplies a current to the electrically conducting portion after placement of the functional unit in the urogenital tract. In this manner, the growth of bacteria on the functional unit can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignees: Universitat Zurich, ETH Zurich
    Inventors: Daniel Eberli, Lukas Hefermehl, Michael Gabi, Alexandre Lar-Magnac, Janos Voros
  • Publication number: 20150039057
    Abstract: An implantable nerve stimulation device has a sensor system, a data processor in communication with the sensor system, and a nerve stimulation system in communication with the data processor and constructed to provide electrical stimulation to at least one branch of at least one vestibulocochlear nerve. The nerve stimulation system includes an electrode array that has a first plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a superior branch of the vestibular nerve, a second plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a horizontal branch of the vestibular nerve, a third plurality of electrodes structured to be surgically implanted in electrical communication with a posterior branch of the vestibular nerve, and a common crus reference electrode structured to be surgically implanted into a common crus of the vestibular labyrinth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Applicant: THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Charles C. DELLA SANTINA, Gene Yevgeny FRIDMAN, Bryce CHIANG
  • Publication number: 20150039068
    Abstract: A stimulation lead includes a lead body having a longitudinal length, a distal portion, and a proximal portion; terminals disposed along the proximal portion of the lead body; an electrode carrier coupled to, or disposed along, the distal portion of the lead body; segmented electrodes disposed along the electrode carrier; and conductors extending along the lead body and coupling the segmented electrodes to the terminals. The electrode carrier includes a lattice region defining segmented electrode receiving openings. Each of the segmented electrodes extends around no more than 75% of a circumference of the lead and is disposed in a different one of the segmented electrode receiving openings of the electrode carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: Daniel James Romero
  • Publication number: 20150039067
    Abstract: The artificial percept of light may be created by electrically stimulating the neurons of the retina. While a photolithographed array internal to the retina provides superior resolution, an array external to the retina provides easier implantation and improved manufacturability. Therefore it is advantageous to supply a high-resolution electrode array internal to the sclera, near the fovea and a lower-resolution electrode array eternal to the sclera near the periphery of the retina. It is advantageous to encourage current to flow through the retina by providing a physically separate and distinct electrode array and return electrode. The high-resolution electrode array and lower-resolution electrode array may be return electrodes for the other, or completely separate return electrodes may be provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Robert J. Greenberg, Mark S. Humayun
  • Publication number: 20150039059
    Abstract: A guide catheter system includes a guide catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, an outer wall and a first, second and third electrode wherein the first, second and third electrodes are spaced longitudinally apart from each other on the outer wall of the catheter, and an electrical impulse generator connected to the guide catheter wherein the electrical impulse generator includes a circuit for selecting an adjacent pair of electrodes to use as a bipolar electrode system to send an electrical impulse and a method of use thereof to treat vasospasm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: ERIC A. MOKELKE, ROBERT SHIPLEY
  • Publication number: 20150039066
    Abstract: Systems, methods and devices are disclosed for directing and focusing signals to the brain for neuromodulation and for directing and focusing signals or other energy from the brain for measurement, heat transfer and imaging. An aperture in the skull and/or a channel device implantable in the skull can be used to facilitate direction and focusing. Treatment and diagnosis of multiple neurological conditions may be facilitated with the disclosed systems, methods and devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Brett WINGEIER, Benjamin PLESS
  • Publication number: 20150038979
    Abstract: One embodiment is a stimulation lead that includes a lead body having a longitudinal surface, a distal end, and a proximal end; and multiple electrodes disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead body near the distal end of the lead body. The electrodes include multiple groups of segmented electrodes with each group of segmented electrodes having multiple segmented electrodes disposed at a same longitudinal position along the lead. For at least one first group of segmented electrodes, a first pair of the segmented electrodes in the first group are disposed on opposite sides of the lead body and are electrically ganged together by a conductor therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Michael Adam Moffitt, Anne Margaret Pianca
  • Publication number: 20150039058
    Abstract: A method of treating autonomic imbalance in a patient includes energizing a first therapeutic element disposed to deliver therapy to a parasympathetic nerve fiber (e.g. vagus nerve), and energizing a second therapeutic element to deliver therapy to a sympathetic cardiac nerve fiber. At least one of the therapeutic elements is disposed in the vasculature superior to the heart. The therapy decreases the patient's heart rate and elevates or maintains the blood pressure of the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Stephen C. Masson, Terrance Ransbury, Richard S. Stack, William E. Sanders
  • Publication number: 20150039063
    Abstract: Various examples are provided for securing deep brain stimulation (DBS) leads. In one example, among others, a DBS cap for securing a DBS lead includes a base ring adapted to be mounted within a counterbore opening formed in the skull, a lead securing element that mounts to the base ring, and a top cover that mounts to the base ring. In another example, a method for securing a DBS lead includes forming a counterbore opening in the skull, securing a DBS cap within the counterbore opening, passing a DBS lead through the DBS cap and the counterbore opening and positioning a tip of the lead in brain tissue, and securing the DBS lead to the DBS cap using an adhesive. The skull opening includes a lower bore, a concentric upper bore, and a step positioned at the interface of the upper and lower bores.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Michael Scott Okun, Kelly D. Foote, Mark Roger Davidson
  • Publication number: 20150039064
    Abstract: A medical lead is configured to be implanted into a patient's body and comprises a lead body, and an electrode coupled to the lead body. The electrode comprises a first section configured to contact the patient's body, and a second section electrically coupled to the first section and configured to be capacitively coupled to the patient's body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Carl D. Wahlstrand, Thomas Barry Hoegh, James M. Olsen, Stephen L. Bolea, Gregory A. Hrdlicka
  • Publication number: 20150038820
    Abstract: A lead has an electrically controlled switch at a proximal end of a rotatable shaft. The electrically controlled switch has a first configuration to electrically connect a first electric conductor to a second electric conductor for electrically activating the pin and has a second configuration to electrically connect the first electric conductor to the rotatable shaft for electrically activating the helix. Proper fixation of the helix to an organ is determined by switching the electrically controlled switch to the first configuration to render the pin electrically active and to electrically deactivate the helix. Upon determination of proper fixation of the helix to the organ, the electrically controlled switch is switched to the second configuration to render the helix electrically active and to electrically deactivate the pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Sara Hallander, Marcus Helgesson
  • Publication number: 20150039065
    Abstract: An implantable medical lead includes a substrate extending from a distal end to a proximal end of the medical lead. The substrate includes at least one polymer material and particles dispersed throughout the polymer material. In one embodiment, the particles are of at least one of nanoclay material and nanodiamond material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Jan Weber, Mary M. Byron
  • Publication number: 20150038821
    Abstract: A lead comprises a mechanical switch at a proximal end of a rotatable shaft. The mechanical switch has a first position to electrically connect a first electric conductor to a second electric conductor for electrically activating a pin and has a second position to electrically connect the first electric conductor to the rotatable shaft for electrically activating a helix. Proper fixation of the helix to an organ is determined by inserting a stylet into the mechanical switch to render the pin electrically active and the helix electrically inactive. Upon determination of proper fixation of the helix to the organ, the stylet is removed from the mechanical switch to render the helix electrically active and the pin electrically inactive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Sara Hallander, Marcus Helgesson
  • Publication number: 20150038819
    Abstract: A lead has a helix at a distal end of a rotatable shaft. Prior to implantation of the lead, the helix has a first configuration comprising an electrically active surface coated with an electrically insulative layer of a biologically dissolvable material to render the helix electrically inactive. Upon fixation of the helix into an organ, the helix has the first configuration and a pin is in electrical contact with the organ to detect proper fixation of the helix into the organ. Subsequent to fixation of the helix into the organ, the helix has a second configuration comprising an electrically active surface exposed upon dissolving of the electrically insulative layer of the biologically dissolvable material to render the helix electrically active.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Sara Hallander, Marcus Helgesson
  • Patent number: 8948881
    Abstract: An implantable electrode comprising a substrate supporting microscopic surface structures such as columnar titanium nitride and further having nanoscopic surface structures on titanium nitride deposited on the exposed surface of the microscopic columnar structures is described. This is done through physical vapor deposition (PVD) and is based upon a relatively abrupt change in the surface mobility of the depositing material with a consequential variation in nucleation site density and surface mobility. At low mobility, there are increased nucleation sites and the condensation features are more numerous and finer. As mobility of the deposited species increases, the nucleation sites in the condensate film become fewer with coarser features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Greatbatch Ltd.
    Inventor: Andrew E. Fisk
  • Patent number: 8948880
    Abstract: A stimulation lead for connecting a pulse generator having a plurality of outputs to electrodes of an electrode array includes a flexible body and the electrode array. The electrode array is distal to the flexible body and the flexible body has a proximal portion and an interface portion. A selection circuit within the interface portion has a plurality of inputs, each input of the selection circuit connected to an output of the pulse generator and a plurality of outputs, each output of the selection circuit being coupled to a respective one of the electrodes of the electrode array. The plurality of outputs of the selection circuit are greater in number than the plurality of outputs of the pulse generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: AdvaStim, Inc.
    Inventor: Barry M. Yomtov
  • Patent number: 8944985
    Abstract: An implant for deep brain stimulation (DBS) has an array of electromagnetic microcoils dispersed over the length of the implant. The microcoils produce magnetic fields that are directed into, and induce current in, the adjacent brain tissue. The microcoils may be selectively operated to direct and focus electrical stimulation to targeted areas of the brain. The implant is useful in studying or treating neurophysiological conditions associated with the deep regions of the brain such as Parkinson's disease, drug addiction, and depression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: The General Hospital Corporation
    Inventors: Giorgio Bonmassar, Matti S. Hamalainen, Bruce Rosen
  • Publication number: 20150032193
    Abstract: A low-insertion force electrical connector for implantable medical devices includes a housing with a pair of opposing sidewalls each with center openings oriented generally concentrically around a center axis. An inner coil is located in a recess with a coil axis generally co-linear with the center axis of the center openings. The inner coil includes an outer diameter less than a recess diameter, and an inner diameter greater than a center opening diameter. An outer coil is threaded onto the inner coil. The outer coil has an outer diameter less than the recess diameter, and an inner diameter less than the center opening diameter. The outer coil is radially expanded within the recess in response to engagement with contact rings on the implantable medical device, such that the outer diameter of the outer coil is at least equal to the recess diameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: Shahn S. Sage
  • Patent number: 8942822
    Abstract: A visual apparatus includes at least one set of probes and a signal generation unit. The at least one set of probes includes a plurality of probes. The signal generation unit is configured to generate a stimulation pattern signal corresponding to information on color, and to input, to at least a part of an area ranging from a retina to a visual nerve, a plurality of pattern signals as the generated stimulation pattern signal via the plurality of probes in the at least one set of probes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Akira Arafune
  • Patent number: 8942821
    Abstract: An implantable electrode paddle for use in a neurostimulation system may include a dorsally-projecting lead that allows all of the edges of the electrode paddle to be situated near a vertebral body for stimulation of neural structures. Embodiments may include one or more flanges for cooperating with a vertebral body and thereby stabilizing the electrode paddle. Embodiments of the present invention may also include features to allow an electrode paddle to be divided during surgery. Embodiments of the present invention may also include an electrode paddle having a plurality of paddle sections, wherein at least one of the paddle sections comprises a plurality of asymmetrically configured contacts. Embodiments of the invention include a method of assembling a neurostimulation system and a method of implanting an implantable system in a body, wherein the implantable system includes an electrode paddle that may be divided into a plurality of paddle sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventor: Giancarlo Barolat
  • Patent number: 8942823
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a medical electrical lead including an insulative lead body formed, at least in part, from a polyisobutylene urethane, urea or urethane/urea copolymer. In some applications, the lead body can include at least one outer tubular insulator and/or an inner elongated member formed from a polyisobutylene urethane, urea or urethane/urea copolymer. Portions of the lead body formed form the polyisobutylene urethane, urea or urethane/urea copolymer can be either extruded or molded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Shrojalkumar Desai, G. Shantanu Reddy
  • Patent number: 8942820
    Abstract: An implantable electrode lead comprising an electric supply lead. The electric supply lead is designed to assume, after implantation of the electrode lead in a deformable supply lead section, a shape that is changed such that it induces higher inductance in the deformable supply lead section after deformation than before deformation, wherein the inductance is at least 0.1 ?H. The implantable electrode lead can also comprise an outer sleeve within which the supply lead is disposed. The electric supply lead is designed to assume, after implantation of the electrode lead in a deformable supply lead section, a shape that has changed compared to the original shape thereof. The supply lead is also designed and disposed inside the sleeve such that the supply lead, in the deformable supply lead section thereof, is deformable relative to the outer sleeve and inside the outer sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Biotronik SE & Co. KG
    Inventors: Thomas Doerr, Ingo Weiss
  • Patent number: 8942828
    Abstract: A family of minimally-invasive surgical (MIS) cardiac interventional tools with tactile feedback based upon cardiac mechanical data and physiologic parameters derived from sensors positioned upon the tools are configurable for optimal placement of an end-effector to provide acute cardiac resuscitation and/or remote cardiovascular intervention for a subject. A haptic interface (e.g., a haptic handle, haptic glove or a simulated haptic heart) provides a clinician with real, not virtual, interaction with the cardiovascular anatomy (including intrathoracic organs) of the subject to optimize end-effector placement. The MIS tools optionally include webbed blade portions for exploration of extracardiac or intrathoracic spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Stuart Schecter, LLC
    Inventor: Stuart O. Schecter
  • Publication number: 20150025610
    Abstract: Systems, methods and devices are disclosed for directing and focusing signals to the brain for neuromodulation and for directing and focusing signals or other energy from the brain for measurement, heat transfer and imaging. An aperture in the skull and/or a channel device implantable in the skull can be used to facilitate direction and focusing. Treatment and diagnosis of multiple neurological conditions may be facilitated with the disclosed systems, methods and devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Brett WINGEIER, Benjamin PLESS
  • Publication number: 20150025350
    Abstract: An electrode for conducting electrical signals from or to an organ, and also to a kit for examining or treating an organ, said kit including an electrode that can be anchored to the organ. In order to reduce the risk of inflammation of the organ caused by the treatment or examination thereof, the electrode is formed in accordance with the present disclosure with a guide tunnel for a cannula for the administration of an active ingredient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventor: Christian Schnittker
  • Publication number: 20150025591
    Abstract: An electrical stimulation device and method are provided for treating cardiovascular disease in a human or an animal, the device including at least one electrode configured for placement on a nerve site inside the human or the animal, the at least one electrode having a spherical shape, and an electrical stimulation application unit coupled to the at least one electrode and configured to apply electrical stimulation to a vagus nerve in a neck region of the human or the animal by the at least one electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: KYUSHU UNIVERSITY, NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kenji Sunagawa, Tomomi Ide
  • Publication number: 20150025609
    Abstract: An operating-room-cable assembly includes a lead connector with a lead-connector housing for receiving a lead. The lead-connector housing includes a first housing element and a second housing element that slide relative to one another to transition the lead-connector housing between an open position and a closed position. A connector port is defined in the lead-connector housing and includes a first surface formed by the first housing element and a second surface formed by the second housing element. A lead retainer is disposed along the second surface and receives the lead when the lead-connector housing is in the open position. Connector contacts are disposed along the first surface. The connector contacts couple to terminals disposed along the lead when the lead is received by the lead retainer and the lead-connector housing is in the closed position. Operating-room-cable conductors are coupled to the connector contacts and extend along the elongated body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventor: Michael X. Govea
  • Publication number: 20150025611
    Abstract: An electrical implantable lead includes an elongated lead body having a plurality of lumens therein, including at least one linear lumen and at least one planar, non-linear lumen and a plurality of conductor cables disposed within the plurality of lumens. The electrical implantable lead further includes a terminal connector coupled to a proximal end of the lead body, the terminal connector being in electrical communication with at least one of the plurality of conductor cables. Further, the electrical implantable lead includes at least one electrode coupled to the lead body, the at least one electrode in electrical communication with at least one of the plurality of conductor cables. In accordance with various embodiments, the at least one non-linear lumen extends longitudinally along a portion of the lead body and includes a plurality or crests and a plurality of troughs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Lily Lim, Devon N. Arnholt, Joel T. Eggert, Andrew L. De Kock, Paul E. Zarembo, Christopher A. Hartemink
  • Publication number: 20150025608
    Abstract: A medical electrical lead includes an insulative lead body extending from a distal region to a proximal region and a conductor disposed within the insulative lead body and extending from the proximal region to the distal region. An electrode is disposed on the insulative lead body and is in electrical contact with the conductor. The medical electrical lead also includes a cross-linked hydrophilic polymer coating disposed over at least a portion of the electrode. The cross-linked hydrophilic polymer coating includes a fibrous matrix comprising a plurality of discrete fibers and pores formed between at least a portion of the fibers and a hydrophilic polyethylene glycol-containing hydrogel network disposed within the pores of the fibrous matrix.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Joseph T. Delaney, JR., Jeannette C. Polkinghorne, Adegbola O. Adenusi, David R. Wulfman, Kasyap Seethamraju
  • Patent number: 8938309
    Abstract: An elevated feedthrough is attachable to a top or a side of an active implantable medical device. The feedthrough includes a conductive ferrule and a dielectric substrate. The dielectric substrate is defined as comprising a body fluid side and a device side disposed within the conductive ferrule. The dielectric substrate includes a body fluid side elevated portion generally raised above the conductive ferrule. At least one via hole is disposed through the dielectric substrate from the body fluid side to the device side. A conductive fill is disposed within the at least one via hole forming a hermetic seal and electrically conductive between the body fluid side and the device side. A leadwire connection feature is on the body fluid side electrically coupled to the conductive fill and disposed adjacent to the elevated portion of the dielectric substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Greatbatch Ltd.
    Inventors: Thomas Marzano, Keith W. Seitz, Robert A. Stevenson, Xiaohong Tang, William C. Thiebolt, Christine A. Frysz, Richard L. Brendel, Jason Woods, Steven W. Winn, Dominick J. Frustaci, Buehl E. Truex, Donald Hickel, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20150018907
    Abstract: Patient tissues are imaged using, e.g., a real-time fluoroscopic imaging system, along with a lead system being implanted. Parameters representative of lead placement efficacy—such as capture thresholds, phrenic nerve stimulation thresholds, impedance values or screw-in tip mechanical resistance values—are measured at candidate implant locations. Localization parameters identifying the candidate implant locations are also measured. In one example, a display is generated substantially in real-time showing: images of the tissues of the patient and the lead system being implanted: candidate locations of the electrodes; and parameters representative of lead placement efficacy at the candidate locations. In this manner, the implanting clinician can readily view capture thresholds and other helpful parameters at various candidate locations along with actual real-time images of the tissues of the patient and the lead system being implanted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Hedi Razavi, Edith Arnold, Fujian Qu, Yelena Nabutovsky
  • Publication number: 20150018909
    Abstract: A spring contact component for a plug socket of an electromedical implant, with a coil surrounding the outer periphery of a plug opening. A simpler, more cost effective and automatable design of a plug socket module can be achieved in that at least one end of the coil is electrically and mechanically connected directly to a connector pin via a wire-shaped and/or strip-shaped element. The invention also relates to a corresponding plug socket module, a modular header, and a method for producing a spring contact component of this type.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Ronald Rebentisch, Stefan Lehmann
  • Publication number: 20150018908
    Abstract: The present application describes a retention device for anchoring a medical device within the vasculature. The device may include expandable member coupled to an intravascular medical device and proportioned for receipt within a vessel. At least a portion of the expandable member is expandable to radially engage a vessel wall and to thereby retain the medical device within the vessel. The system is suitable for a variety of intravascular devices, including but not limited to ICD's, pacemakers, and intravascular drug delivery systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: Interventional Autonomics Corporation
    Inventors: Michael S. Williams, Terrance Ransbury, Richard A. Glenn, Kevin Holbrook
  • Publication number: 20150018839
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to extra, intra, and transvascular medical lead placement techniques for arranging medical leads and electrical stimulation and/or sensing electrodes proximate nerve tissue within a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Mary M. Morris, Avram Scheiner, Ruth N. Klepfer, John E. Burnes
  • Publication number: 20150018910
    Abstract: In various examples, an apparatus includes a neurostimulation interconnection apparatus including an elongate lead body including a lead proximal end and a lead distal end. The lead proximal end includes a first connector portion. A stimulation device includes a header. The header includes a second connector portion including a shape complementary to a shape of the first connector portion. The first connector portion is mateably engageable with the second connector portion, wherein one of the first connector portion and the second connector portion includes a plurality of pins and the other of the first connector portion and the second connector portion includes a plurality of sockets. There are an equal number of sockets and pins, wherein, with the first connector portion mateably engaged with the second connector portion, the pins align and electrically couple with the sockets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Joey Chen
  • Publication number: 20150018916
    Abstract: An implantable lead anchor includes a first anchor shell having a first hinge element and a second anchor shell, disposed opposite the first anchor shell, having a second hinge element. The first and second anchor shells define a lead channel and the first and second hinge elements form a hinge. The lead anchor includes at least one tensioning element that is configured and arranged to increase in tension upon elongation. The first and second anchor shells, and the tensioning element provide an open position and a closed position. In the open position, a lead can be side loaded side loaded into the lead channel. In the closed position, the first and second anchor shells grip a portion of the lead disposed in the lead channel and, in combination with the at least one tensioning element, resist disengagement of the lead from the lead anchor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Jacob B. Leven
  • Publication number: 20150018838
    Abstract: A fully implantable trial neurostimulation system for implant within a patient is provided that includes one or more leads equipped to deliver neurostimulation to patient tissues under the control of a trial neurostimulation control device designed as a capsule for removable implant within the patient. The control capsule is provided with minimal components to power and control the delivery of neurostimulation during a trial evaluation period and is shaped and configured to facilitate removal from the patient following completion of the trial period. In some examples, both the lead and the trial control capsule are removed from the patient following the trial period for replacement with a chronic or long-term neurostimulation system (assuming further neurostimulation is warranted.) In other examples, the lead remains within the patient and the trial control capsule is replaced with a long-term neurostimulation controller device. Various minimally-intrusive implantation procedures are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Yelena Nabutovsky, Melanie Goodman Kaiser, Gene A. Bornzin
  • Publication number: 20150018920
    Abstract: Strain relief loops are forced by being formed into medical leads such that a body of the lead imposes a force to regain the loop if the loop has been disturbed. Because the strain relief loop is forced, the surgeon implanting the medical lead is not required to create the strain relief loop as a step in the implantation procedure. Forcing the strain relief loop ensures that the strain relief is achieved. The forced strain relief loop also ensures that the loop is present to reduce heating at the electrodes of the medical caused by exposure to excessive radiofrequency energy. The forced strain relief loop may be created by heating the lead body while held in the loop configuration by a mold to cause the loop configuration to persist once the medical lead is removed from the mold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Spencer M. Bondhus, Bryan D. Stem
  • Publication number: 20150018917
    Abstract: An electrical stimulation lead includes at least one lead body; electrodes disposed along the distal end portion of the at least one lead body; terminals disposed along the proximal end portion of the at least one lead body; and conductors electrically coupling the terminals to the electrodes. Each of the conductors forms at least one current suppression unit. Each current suppression unit includes a first conductor segment wound in a coil extending in a forward direction followed by a second conductor segment wound in a coil extending in a reverse direction followed by a third conductor segment wound in a coil extending in the forward direction. The first and third conductor segments are wound with a first coil diameter and the second conductor segment is also wound with the first coil diameter except at positions where the second conductor segment overlaps either the first or third conductor segments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: David Ernest Wechter, Joshua Dale Howard, Michael X. Govea, Anne Margaret Pianca
  • Publication number: 20150018913
    Abstract: An electrical stimulation lead includes at least one lead body having a distal end portion, a proximal end portion, and a longitudinal length; multiple electrodes disposed along the distal end portion of the at least one lead body; and at least one terminal disposed along the proximal end portion of the at least one lead body. The lead has more electrodes than terminals. The lead also includes a signal separator disposed along the lead between the electrodes and the at least one terminal; at least one terminal conductor electrically coupling the at least one terminal to the signal separator; and multiple electrode conductors. Each electrode conductor electrically couples the signal separator to a different one of the electrodes. The lead has more electrode conductors than terminal conductors. The signal separator receives signals from the at least one terminal conductor and separates the signals by frequency into electrode signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Jacob B. Leven
  • Publication number: 20150018914
    Abstract: A lead anchor includes an anchor body defining an open lead channel; and a rotatable locking element shaped as a portion of a ring and defining a central cavity, an entrance slit, and a protruding nodule extending into the central cavity. The anchor body further defines a locking element channel arranged perpendicular to the lead channel to receive the rotatable locking element. In an open position, the entrance slit of the locking element is aligned with the lead channel of the anchor body so that a lead can be loaded into the lead channel and, in a closed position, the entrance slit is not aligned with the lead channel to prevent a lead disposed in the lead channel from disengaging from the lead anchor. In the closed position, the nodule on the locking element engages the lead and resists rotation of the locking element to the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Jacob B. Leven
  • Publication number: 20150018915
    Abstract: A method of making a stimulation lead includes disposing a pre-electrode along a distal end portion of a lead body. The pre-electrode includes a body having a central hub and stimulation members individually coupled to the central hub and extending radially-outward therefrom such that each of the stimulation members is electrically-coupled to each of the remaining stimulation members solely via the central hub. Conductors extending from terminals disposed along a proximal end portion of the lead body are electrically-coupled to each of the stimulation members. Electrically-nonconductive material is disposed around longitudinal surfaces of the central hub with the electrically-nonconductive material abutting inner surfaces of the stimulation members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Jacob B. Leven
  • Publication number: 20150018728
    Abstract: Apparatus for applying a treatment (216) to at least one tissue of a subject is described, the apparatus comprising a transmitting unit (210) configured to transmit a wireless power signal (214), a first implant (202a), and a second implant (202b), each of the implants being configured to receive the power signal and to apply the treatment asynchronously to each other, in response to the power signal. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Yossi Gross, Dany Neeman, Gur Oron, Shlomo Ronen, Ali Stern-Cohen
  • Publication number: 20150018912
    Abstract: In various examples, a neurostimulation interconnection apparatus apparatus includes a substrate disposed within a header of a neurostimulation device. A spring contact is mounted to the substrate. The spring contact is oriented to accept and apply a clamping force to a proximal contact of a lead body to electrically couple the proximal contact of the lead body with the spring contact with insertion of the proximal contact within the spring contact. A trace is disposed on the substrate from the spring contact to a pin of a feedthrough of the neurostimulation device. The trace electrically couples the spring contact with the pin of the feedthrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Ronald H. Robnett
  • Publication number: 20150018598
    Abstract: A neurostimulation patch is affixed to a patient's skin (e.g., via a medical skin adhesive) and provides stimulation energy for an implanted lead. The patch may be used for SCS trials or other applications where is it desirable to avoid implanting a stimulation device within a patient. Circuitry in the patch generates stimulation signals and couples these signals to the implanted lead. The signals may be coupled to the lead via a direct physical connection or via a wireless connection. In some embodiments, the neurostimulation patch is configured in a manner that enables the patch to be placed immediately above the puncture site where an associated percutaneous lead passes through a patient's skin, thereby protecting the puncture site and facilitating secure routing of the lead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Yelena Nabutovsky, Melanie Goodman Keiser, Gene A. Bornzin
  • Publication number: 20150018918
    Abstract: An electrode structure for an implantable stimulation lead for use in stimulating a target nerve structure within a patient includes a flexible backing defined by a major dimension extending in a direction of a first axis, and a minor dimension extending generally orthogonal to the first axis. The electrode structure also includes a plurality of electrodes coupled to the backing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Eric A. Mokelke, Shantha Arcot-Krishnamurthy, Brian Soltis
  • Publication number: 20150018921
    Abstract: A method of making a stimulation lead includes attaching multiple segmented electrodes to a carrier. Each of the segmented electrodes has a curved form extending over an arc in the range of 10 to 345 degrees. The method further includes attaching conductors to the segmented electrodes; forming the carrier into a cylinder with segmented electrodes disposed within the cylinder; molding a lead body around the segmented electrodes disposed on the carrier; and removing at least a portion of the carrier to separate the segmented electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Anne Margaret Pianca, William George Orinski