Placed In Body Patents (Class 607/116)
  • Patent number: 9925368
    Abstract: Disclosed is a carbon material for a neurostimulation electrode. The carbon material is composed of a carbon fiber. The carbon fiber has a thickness of 1 to 1000 ?m, a linear density of 0.01 to 5.00 g/cm, and an aspect ratio of 100 to 1,000,000. Particularly, the carbon fiber material can be obtained by dry spinning carbon nanotubes, followed by liquid-based densification. The carbon material can be used in the fields of deep brain stimulation, spinal cord stimulation, etc. Also disclosed are an electrode assembly and a neurostimulation device, each including the carbon material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Assignee: INNOTHERAPY INC.
    Inventors: Seong Woo Ryu, Hae Shin Lee, Moon Sue Lee, Sun Ha Paek, Mi Young Koh
  • Patent number: 9918675
    Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring EMG signals of a patient's laryngeal muscles includes an endotracheal tube having an exterior surface. Conductive electrodes are formed on the endotracheal tube. The conductive electrodes are configured to receive the EMG signals from the laryngeal muscles when the endotracheal tube is placed in a trachea of the patient. At least wireless sensor is formed on the endotracheal tube, and is configured to wirelessly transmit information to a processing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic Xomed, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Hacker, Maria Charles Vijay Stanislaus, Wenjeng Li, Dwayne S. Yamasaki, William C. Brunnett, Kevin L. McFarlin, James Britton Hissong, Robert K. Vaccaro, John M. Murphy, Carla A. Pagotto, Tino Schuler
  • Patent number: 9889293
    Abstract: In various examples, an apparatus includes a stimulation lead including an elongate body including a distal end and a proximal end. At least one first electrode is disposed proximate the distal end of the elongate body and is configured to stimulate a first target nerve. At least one second electrode is disposed between the at least one first electrode and the proximal end of the elongate body and is configured to stimulate a second target nerve. At least one first fixation structure is disposed between the at least one second electrode and the proximal end of the elongate body. The at least one first fixation structure is configured to anchor the stimulation lead proximate the sacrum, wherein the at least one first fixation structure is located on the elongate body and spaced a first distance proximally along the elongate body from the at least one first electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: NUVECTRA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Steven Siegel, Michele Spinelli, Scott F. Drees, Giancarlo Barolat, John M. Swoyer
  • Patent number: 9892847
    Abstract: A power-supplying resonator of a power-supplying module and a power-receiving resonator of a power-receiving module are arranged to face each other. On inner circumferential surface sides of the power-supplying resonator and the coil of the power-receiving resonator, cylindrical magnetic members which cover the entire inner circumferential surface of the coils of the power-supplying resonator and the power-receiving resonator are arranged. By conducting power transmission between the power-supplying resonator and the power-receiving resonator while varying a magnetic field, the magnetic field occurring around the power-supplying resonator and the power-receiving resonator is shielded by the magnetic members, and there is formed, on the coil inner circumferential surface sides of the power-supplying resonator and the coil of the power-receiving resonator, a magnetic field space whose magnetic field strength is smaller than the magnetic field strength of areas other than the inner circumferential surface sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: NITTO DENKO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takezo Hatanaka, Hisashi Tsuda
  • Patent number: 9884182
    Abstract: A neuromodulation system includes a first therapy element adapted for positioning within a superior vena cava, and a second therapy element adapted for positioning within a pulmonary artery. The first therapy element is carried on a first elongate flexible shaft, and the second therapy element is carried on a second elongate flexible shaft. One of the first and second shafts is slidably received within a lumen of the other of the first and second shafts—so that the second therapy element may be advanced within the body relative to the first therapy element. A stimulator is configured to energize the first therapy element within the first blood vessel to deliver therapy to a first nerve fiber disposed external to the superior vena cava and to energize the second therapy element within the pulmonary artery to deliver sympathetic therapy to a second nerve fiber disposed external to the pulmonary artery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: INTERVENTIONAL AUTONOMICS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Terrance J Ransbury, Richard S Stack, William E Sanders, Stephen C Masson
  • Patent number: 9887470
    Abstract: A lead anchor includes a body defining a lead lumen having a first opening and a second opening through which a lead can pass. The body further defines a transverse lumen that intersects the lead lumen. An exterior member is disposed around at least a portion of the body. The exterior member is formed of a biocompatible material. A fastener anchors the lead to the body through the transverse lumen by deforming a portion of the lead. The transverse lumen is configured and arranged to receive the fastener. At least one suture element is defined by the exterior member and is configured and arranged for receiving a suture to suture the lead anchor to patient tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scienific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Quynh Nguyen-Stella, Kenny Kinyen Chinn, John Michael Barker, Surekha B. Husmann, Roger Chen
  • Patent number: 9867661
    Abstract: A medical method is provided, including a medical device having a distal assembly including at least one electrode and at least one treatment element, the medical device generating information regarding at least one of a physiological measurement and an operational parameter of the medical device; a plurality of surface electrodes affixable to a skin of the patient, wherein the surface electrodes are in electrical communication with the distal assembly to obtain position information of the medical device; and a processor pairing the position information and the at least one of a physiological measurement and an operational parameter of the medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic Ablation Frontiers LLC
    Inventors: Randell L. Werneth, Marshall Sherman, Mark T. Stewart, J. Christopher Flaherty
  • Patent number: 9849295
    Abstract: The disclosure describes a method and system that allows a user to configure electrical stimulation therapy by defining a three-dimensional (3D) stimulation field. After a stimulation lead is implanted in a patient, a clinician manipulates the 3D stimulation field in a 3D environment to encompass desired anatomical regions of the patient. In this manner, the clinician determines which anatomical regions to stimulate, and the system generates the necessary stimulation parameters. In some cases, a lead icon representing the implanted lead is displayed to show the clinician where the lead is relative to the 3D anatomical regions of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard T. Stone, Warren W. Ball, Carl D. Wahlstrand, Steven M. Goetz, Lynn M. Otten
  • Patent number: 9839777
    Abstract: An implantable peripheral neurostimulation lead for head pain is adapted for implantation in the head for the therapeutic purpose of treating chronic head and/or face pain. The lead may include a lead body, a plurality of internal electrically conducting metal wires individually connecting to a proximal surface contact and a distal surface electrode; a distal extended metal surface electrode array; and a proximal in-line connector. The lead may be operable to provide medically acceptable therapeutic neurostimulation to multiple regions of the head, including the frontal, parietal, and occipital regions of the head simultaneously. The lead may include a supraorbital electrode array with electrodes of 3 to 5 mm in length spaced apart at 4 to 6 mm intervals. The lead may also include a temporal electrode array with electrodes of 4 to 6 mm in length spaced apart at 8 to 12 mm intervals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Assignee: Syntilla Medical LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth Lyle Reed, Robert Raymond Bulger, Michael Steven Colvin, Claire Denault
  • Patent number: 9839785
    Abstract: The present disclosure presents methods and apparatuses for mapping a target physiological region, for example, during baroreceptor stimulation therapy. In an aspect, such an example apparatus of the present disclosure may include a surgical instrument configured to be securely coupled to a patient and to allow access to a target physiological region. Furthermore, the example apparatus may include an attachment element coupled to the surgical instrument and configured to releasably engage a lead, stabilize the lead during mapping of the target physiological region, and allow the lead to be repositioned relative to the target physiological region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric A. Mokelke, Eric F Hammill, Brian Soltis
  • Patent number: 9833610
    Abstract: A lead assembly includes an implantable lead. Electrodes are disposed along a distal end of the lead in an electrode array. Terminals are disposed along a proximal end of the lead in a proximal-most terminal array and a medial terminal array. A terminal extension electrically couples to the medial terminal array. A port is defined in a connector at a first end of the terminal extension. The port has a first end and an opposing second end and forms a continuous passageway therebetween. The port receives the medial terminal array. A contact array includes connector contacts that are disposed within the port and that couple electrically with a terminal array disposed along a second end of the terminal extension. The contact array couples electrically with terminals of the medial terminal array of the lead when the medial terminal array is received by the port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew Lee McDonald, Jacob Matthew Muhleman, Rafael Carbunaru
  • Patent number: 9814881
    Abstract: An electrical stimulation system includes an implantable control module having a processor. The control module provides electrical stimulation signals to one or more leads coupled to the control module for stimulation of patient tissue to treat pain. A first electrode is disposed on the one or more leads in the patient's spinal cord and communicates with the processor to generate a first effective electric field suitable for stimulating patient tissue using the electrical stimulation signals provided from the control module. A second electrode is disposed on the one or more leads and communicates with the processor to generate a second effective electric field suitable for stimulating patient tissue using the electrical stimulation signals provided from the control module. The second effective electric field is time-delayed from the first effective electric field such that the second effective electric field is out of phase with the first effective electric field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: Michael A. Moffitt
  • Patent number: 9808617
    Abstract: An active implantable medical device is disclosed herein having a radio-opaque marker. The radio-opaque marker can be formed within an exterior wall of the device or within recesses on the outside of the exterior wall. The implantable medical device can be a leadless pacemaker. The shape of the radio-opaque marker can be designed to facilitate visualization and identification of the location, orientation, and rotation of the implanted medical device by conventional fluoroscopy. Methods of use are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Pacesetter, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Ostroff, Paul Paspa, Peter M. Jacobson, Wade A. Keller, Christopher Alan Hubbard
  • Patent number: 9808344
    Abstract: A method of preparing a preformed bone shape for implantation provides irradiating at least a portion of a preformed bone shape by a Neutral Beam derived from a GCIB, and the preformed bone shape so irradiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventors: Joseph Khoury, Laurence B. Tarrant, Sean R. Kirkpatrick, Richard C. Svrluga, Stephen M. Blinn
  • Patent number: 9801559
    Abstract: In certain embodiments, a neural probe comprises a substrate comprising elongated shanks for penetrating neural tissue, each comprising a proximal end and a distal end; at least one optical source integral to the neural probe for illuminating the neural tissue; and microelectrodes located proximate the distal end of the elongated shanks for monitoring neuronal activity. In certain embodiments, a method of monitoring neuronal activity comprises implanting the neural probe into a test subject such that the elongated shanks protrude into neural tissue of the test subject; illuminating the neural tissue with the at least one optical source; and measuring neuronal activity in response to illuminating the neural tissue. In certain embodiments, a device comprises a semiconductor chip; at least one optical source integral to the semiconductor chip; and sensor elements integral to the semiconductor chip for collecting data responsive to light emitted from the at least one optical source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: DIAGNOSTIC BIOCHIPS, INC.
    Inventors: Brian Jamieson, Jennette Mateo
  • Patent number: 9789305
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for production of an electrode structure, including: producing a longitudinal body having a core and at least one layer made of an electrode material surrounding the core; removing a part of the layer made of electrode material while forming a plurality of electrodes that are arranged such as to be distributed in the longitudinal direction and which are separated from each other, and contact paths that extend in the longitudinal direction and adjoin the electrodes, each, as the same part; applying a layer made of a polymeric material while embedding, at least in part, the electrodes and/or contact paths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: Heraeus Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Matthias Frericks, Lydia Buckow
  • Patent number: 9782581
    Abstract: An electrical stimulation system includes an electrical stimulation lead with at least one lead body, electrodes disposed along the distal end portion of the lead body(ies), terminals disposed along the proximal end portion of the lead body(ies), and conductors electrically coupling the terminals to the electrodes. The electrical stimulation system also includes a lead extension coupleable to the electrical stimulation lead. The lead extension includes a connector for receiving the proximal end portion of the electrical stimulation lead. The electrical stimulation system further includes a sheath defining a sheath lumen to slidingly receive a portion of the electrical stimulation lead or a portion of the lead extension or a portion of both the electrical stimulation lead and the lead extension. The sheath includes a flexible sheath body and an elongate RF shield disposed within the sheath body and extending along the sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Joshua Dale Howard, G. Karl Steinke
  • Patent number: 9782579
    Abstract: Described is a medical device lead including a lead body having a conductor lumen including an inner surface. The lead also includes a conductor assembly extending through the conductor lumen; the conductor assembly comprising a conductor member and an outer insulative layer; and an electrode coupled to the conductor cable. The outer insulative layer includes a textured external surface that reduces the coefficient of friction between the outer insulative layer and the inner surface of the conductor lumen through which the conductor assembly extends. Methods of forming the conductor assembly are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: CARDIAC PACEMAKERS, INC.
    Inventors: David R. Wulfman, Rahul K. Rajgarhia, David J. Smith, Tolga Tas, Daniel J. Cooke, Christopher R. Perrey
  • Patent number: 9770582
    Abstract: An implantable electrode array that includes a carrier on which multiple spaced apart electrodes are disposed. Embedded in the module are control modules. The control modules are contained in packages. Portions of the packages extend outwardly from the carrier so as to be disposed against adjacent surfaces of the carrier. The packages contain conductive tracts that provide conductive links from the conductors internal to the carrier to the packaged control modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: STRYKER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Robert Brindley, John Janik, Edward Chia-Ning Tang, James Bernard Dunlop, Joseph Leland Spangler
  • Patent number: 9757190
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a distal portion of a mapping and/or ablation device with fewer components and manufacturing steps than are required for presently known devices. The method generally includes aligning one or more electrodes and electrode wires within a housing mold, overmolding a biocompatible material over the one or more wires and a portion of each of the one or more electrodes, creating a housing component that integrates a dome component and an insulation component. Alternatively, the method generally includes aligning one or more wires within a housing mold so that at least a portion of each wire protrudes from the mold, overmolding a biocompatible material over the one or more wires, thus creating a housing component that integrates a dome component and insulation component. The protruding wire portions are cleaved off and at least a portion of the housing component is coated with a layer of conductive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic Ablation Frontiers LLC
    Inventors: Jon Virgil Evans, George Wedell Gullickson, Mark T. Stewart
  • Patent number: 9757556
    Abstract: An electrode for use with an implantable medical device includes a titanium surface, and a titanium nitride layer formed on at least a portion of the titanium surface. At least some titanium of the portion of the titanium surface is removed from the titanium surface prior to forming the titanium nitride layer. The textured titanium nitride layer is formed by reacting nitrogen proximate to the portion of the titanium surface with titanium at the portion of the titanium surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: CARDIAC PACEMAKERS, INC.
    Inventors: John O'Rourke, Eoin P. Enright, Eric M. Petersen, Matthew P. Jones
  • Patent number: 9744352
    Abstract: Various examples provide devices, systems, and techniques for dissipating electromagnetic interference (EMI) induced energy in a medical device. In one example, an implantable electronic device includes a housing, at least one connector coupled to the housing and configured to at least one of receive first electrical signals or transmit second electrical signals, and an integrated circuit disposed within the housing, wherein the integrated circuit comprises at least one clamp stage coupled to a supply line of the integrated circuit, and wherein the at least one clamp stage is configured to dissipate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) induced energy from the supply line in response to at least one of a voltage or a current on the supply line exceeding a respective predetermined voltage threshold value or a current threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic Bakken Research Center B.V.
    Inventors: Jeroen Jacob Arnold Tol, Egbertus Johannes Maria Bakker
  • Patent number: 9737905
    Abstract: An implantable or insertable medical device can include a silicone substrate and a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition coating on the silicone substrate. The coating may include a silicon-containing compound. A method of forming the coating is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Mary M. Byron, Diana K. Ma, James P. Rohl, Hood Chatham, Frank De Francesco
  • Patent number: 9737233
    Abstract: A system and method to detect fracture in a pedicle portion of a vertebra. The system includes a longitudinal member adapted for insertion into a pedicle and a sensor including first and second electrical contacts for connection to first and second portions of the longitudinal member. The longitudinal member includes a head portion having an opening extending axially within the longitudinal member. A conducting rod is positioned within the opening and is electrically coupled to the longitudinal member distal from the head portion. An insulating sleeve is interposed between the longitudinal member and the conducting rod, where the longitudinal member and the conducting rod form an electrically conductive path for connection to first and second contacts, respectively. The sensor is adapted to detect a breach in a pedicle based on a change in an electrical impulse signal between the first and second contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Ryan A. Londot
  • Patent number: 9731051
    Abstract: An implantable medical device for electrical stimulation or sensing includes a body supporting at least one flexible elongate conductor element. The body includes an insulating structure that protects the flexible conductor element(s). The insulating structure is realized from multiple polymer layers wherein at least one of the polymer layers is formed from a polymer blend of a thermoplastic polyurethane material and an isobutylene block copolymer. In one particular embodiment, the insulating structure of the body includes at least a first polymer layer, a second polymer layer and a third polymer layer, where the second polymer layer covers and interfaces to the first polymer layer, and the third polymer layer covers and interfaces to the second polymer layer. The first polymer layer is formed from a thermoplastic polyurethane material. The third polymer layer is formed from an isobutylene block copolymer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: Innovia LLC
    Inventors: Leonard Pinchuk, Yongmoon Kwon
  • Patent number: 9717902
    Abstract: A pacing lead for a left cavity of the heart, implanted in the coronary system. The lead includes a lead body with a hollow sheath of deformable material, having a central lumen open at both ends, and at least one telescopic microcable of conductive material. The microcable slides along the length of the lead body and extends beyond the distal end thereof. The part emerging beyond the distal end is an active free part comprising a plurality of distinct bare areas, intended to come into contact with the wall of a target vein of the coronary system, so as to form a network of stimulation electrodes electrically connected together in parallel. The microcable further comprises, proximally, a connector to a generator of active implantable medical device such as a pacemaker or a resynchronizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: SORIN CRM SAS
    Inventor: Jean-François Ollivier
  • Patent number: 9713709
    Abstract: A medical apparatus includes a guidewire and a fixator catheter. The fixator catheter comprises a tubular body with a distal portion and a proximal portion, and further includes a distal opening, a fixator secured to the distal portion, and a body opening arranged between the fixator and the proximal portion. The guidewire passes through the body opening and the distal opening of the fixator catheter. The fixator is movable between a compact configuration and an expanded configuration and, in the expanded condition, is capable of anchoring the guidewire and fixator catheter in a lumen of a blood vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Alan Drake, Lindsey Marie Tobin, Stanten C. Spear, Scott William Hayden, Andrea Jean Asleson, Steven Lawrence Waldhauser, Kendra Yasger
  • Patent number: 9707036
    Abstract: The disclosure pertains to an intravascular catheter for nerve modulation. The catheter includes an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end, and an inflatable balloon secured adjacent to the distal end of the elongate member. The balloon includes an exterior surface and an interior surface defining a lumen. The lumen includes a section that is permeable to radiofrequency (RF) radiation. The section extends from the interior surface of the balloon to the exterior surface of the balloon. A first electrode is disposed within the inflatable balloon and indifferent electrodes are disposed external to the inflatable balloon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Anderson, Derek C. Sutermeister, Huisun Wang
  • Patent number: 9682227
    Abstract: An implantable neurological stimulation lead assembly (10) having multiple elongated stimulation leads coupled together in parallel with a lead coupler (13) for delivering electrical impulses to subcutaneous tissue for treatment. The lead coupler (13) includes a set of interconnected expandable elastic collars (15), one collar for each lead (11,12), whereby the collars (15) respectively receive and retain the leads (11,12) with an elastic constraint in a predetermined side by side array. The set of interconnected lead coupler collars (15) are interconnected with a releasable connection (23) whereby the lead assembly (10) may be configured as a single or multiple lead assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2017
    Inventor: Anthony J. Colantonio
  • Patent number: 9675781
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a continuum manipulator that can be used, for example, as a steerable catheter tip. The manipulator of the embodiments comprises a plurality of segments arranged in a stack, which is then able to bend in a range of directions away from the long axis of the stack. In one embodiment the segments include a helical portion which winds in the direction of the long axis of the stack, and can thus bend away from the long axis in any direction. In some embodiments a carbon fiber rod is included as a backbone for the stack, to minimize hysteresis and improve repeatability of bending. In addition, in embodiments of the invention tendon control channels are provided formed within the segments, through which tendon control wires extend to apply compression and/or bending forces to the stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: KINGS COLLEGE LONDON
    Inventors: Asghar Ataollahi, Kaspar Althoefer, Tobias Richard Schaeffter, Kawaldeep Rhode
  • Patent number: 9668785
    Abstract: An interspinous process implant for insertion between adjacent spinous processes, the implant having a flexible body having i) an upper posterior portion having an upper surface adapted to bear upon an upper spinous process, ii) a lower posterior portion having a lower surface adapted to bear upon a lower spinous process, and iii) an arcuate, flexible anterior wall connecting the upper and lower portions, wherein the anterior wall has a narrowed portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Hassan Serhan, Alexander Michel DiNello, William Christianson
  • Patent number: 9656057
    Abstract: In some examples, the present disclosure relates to an implantable medical lead and medical device systems employing such leads for medical applications, such as, e.g., neural stimulation, deep brain stimulation, and/or sensing of bioelectrical signals. In one example, the lead includes a thin film configured to be secured to at least a portion of a carrier core, wherein the thin film has a distal end, a proximal end, and at least one electrode between the proximal end and the distal end; and at least one fixation element configured to secure the distal end of the thin film to the carrier core, wherein the fixation element comprises at least one of a distal extension portion of the thin film at least partially wrapped around the carrier core distal to the at least one electrode or a jacket tube located around the carrier core and the thin film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic Bakken Research Center B.V.
    Inventors: Edward Willem Albert Young, SĂ«bastien Jody Ouchouche, Sjaak Deckers
  • Patent number: 9656084
    Abstract: A neurostimulation device and system are provided. At least one neurostimulation lead having a plurality of electrodes is configured for being implanted within tissue of a patient. A shunt capacitance is coupled to one of the electrodes. Time-varying electrical current is delivered to at least one of the electrodes, wherein the shunt capacitance would, without compensation, absorb charge from or inject charge into the tissue in response to time-varying changes in the delivered electrical current, thereby causing an uncompensated electrical waveform to be delivered to the tissue adjacent the one electrode, The absorbed or injected charge is at least partially compensated for, thereby causing a compensated electrical waveform to be delivered to the tissue adjacent the one electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew Lee McDonald, Joseph M. Bocek, Thomas W. Stouffer, Robert Graham Lamont
  • Patent number: 9649489
    Abstract: An anchoring unit is disposed on a lead body of an electrical stimulation lead. The anchoring unit has a first end and a second end and includes a first attachment ring disposed at the first end, a second attachment ring disposed at the second end, and longitudinal struts extending linearly between, and coupled to, the first and second attachment rings. At least a portion of each longitudinal strut rests against the lead body in a retracted position, and each anchoring unit has a deployed position in which the first and second attachment rings are positioned closer together with the longitudinal struts extending away from the lead body to contact patient tissue and anchor the lead within the patient tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: David Ernest Wechter, John M. Barker, Jacob B. Leven, Ryan Michael Baca
  • Patent number: 9653893
    Abstract: One aspect is an implantable medical device with a feedthrough assembly having an insulator and a plurality of conducting elements extending therethrough. The feedthrough assembly is placed in a case with an opening defining a narrow space therebetween. A braze material fills the narrow space, thereby hermetically sealing the feedthrough assembly to the case. One of the feedthrough assembly and the case include a feature configured to securely hold the braze and in that the implantable medical device does not include a ferrule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Heraeus Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jacob Markham, Ulrich Hausch, Goran Pavlovic
  • Patent number: 9643002
    Abstract: The present invention provides a flexible circuit electrode array adapted for neural stimulation, comprising: a polymer base layer; metal traces deposited on the polymer base layer, including electrodes suitable to stimulate neural tissue; a polymer top layer deposited on the polymer base layer and the metal traces at least one tack opening. The present invention provides further a method of making a flexible circuit electrode array comprising depositing a polymer base layer; depositing metal on the polymer base layer; patterning the metal to form metal traces; depositing a polymer top layer on the polymer base layer and the metal traces; and preparing at least one tack opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Greenberg, Neil Hamilton Talbot, Jordan Matthew Neysmith, James Singleton Little, Brian V. Mech
  • Patent number: 9623221
    Abstract: An implantable electrode array assembly configured to stimulate tissue of a recipient, including an elongate member configured to be inserted into a recipient, wherein at least a portion of the elongate member includes a bio-active substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Cochlear Limited
    Inventor: Peter Gibson
  • Patent number: 9616219
    Abstract: Various embodiments concern an implantable lead. The lead can comprise a lead body. At least two conductors can extend within the lead body, such as in respective lumens of the lead body. The lead can comprise at least two electrodes. Each electrode can be connected to a respective one of the at least two conductors. A paddle body can be connected to the lead body. The paddle body can comprise a longitudinal axis that divides the paddle body into left and right sides. The at least two electrodes can be partially embedded within the paddle body. The at least two electrodes can be arrayed along the longitudinal axis. Each electrode can be asymmetric about the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew L. De Kock, Jack Gordon, Eric A. Mokelke, Brian Soltis
  • Patent number: 9610122
    Abstract: Microwave ablation applicators and methods for manufacturing the microwave ablation applicators are disclosed. A microwave ablation applicator includes a feed-line segment, a step-down segment, and a radiator base segment. The feed-line segment includes a first inner conductor, a first dielectric disposed on the first inner conductor, and a first outer conductor disposed on the first dielectric. The step-down segment includes a second inner conductor, a second dielectric disposed on the second inner conductor, and a second outer conductor disposed on the second dielectric. The radiator base segment includes a third inner conductor disposed on the third inner conductor, a third outer conductor disposed on the proximal end of the third dielectric so as to form a feed gap at a distal end of the radiator base segment, a balun dielectric disposed on the third outer conductor, and a balun outer conductor disposed on the balun dielectric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventor: Joseph D. Brannan
  • Patent number: 9604052
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for anchoring an elongate medical device within a body portal, for example, a stimulation lead in a cranial burr hole, employ opposing engagement surfaces, spring biased toward one another. A retaining member may be inserted between the opposing surfaces, to hold the surfaces apart for initial positioning of the device therebetween. For example, a delivery catheter in which the device is moved through the body portal can serve as the retaining member. In one type of apparatus, the engagement surfaces are formed within an anchoring aperture of one plate member of a pair of plate members. In another type of apparatus, the engagement surfaces are formed by sides of a slot that extend through a ring member and into a plug member, wherein a portion of the plug member is preferably formed by an elastomer material, and, in some cases, an entirety of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce A. Behymer, Eric H. Bonde
  • Patent number: 9604066
    Abstract: An implantable lead assembly for an electrical stimulation system includes a first lead configured for insertion into a patient. A current-limiting arrangement is coupleable with the first lead. The current-limiting arrangement is configured for limiting the amount of RF-induced current propagating along a body of the first lead during an MRI procedure. The current-liming arrangement includes a safety device configured to couple to the lead body when the lead body is implanted in the patient. The safety device defines a first port extending along a length of the safety device. The first port is configured for receiving a proximal end portion of the lead body and covering each of multiple terminals disposed along the lead body to prevent the terminals from contacting patient tissue. The safety device provides an impedance of at least 50 ohms at one or more MRI RF frequencies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Rafael Carbunaru, Matthew Lee McDonald
  • Patent number: 9604051
    Abstract: The neural interface system of the preferred embodiments includes an electrode array having a plurality of electrode sites and a carrier that supports the electrode array. The electrode array is coupled to the carrier such that the electrode sites are arranged both circumferentially around the carrier and axially along the carrier. A group of the electrode sites may be simultaneously activated to create an activation pattern. The system of the preferred embodiment is preferably designed for deep brain stimulation, and, more specifically, for deep brain stimulation with fine electrode site positioning, selectivity, tunability, and precise activation patterning. The system of the preferred embodiments, however, may be alternatively used in any suitable environment (such as the spinal cord, peripheral nerve, muscle, or any other suitable anatomical location) and for any suitable reason.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic Bakken Research Center B.V.
    Inventors: Rio J. Vetter, Daryl R. Kipke, David Pellinen, David J. Anderson, Jamille Farraye Hetke
  • Patent number: 9604050
    Abstract: A multi-needle paddle lead introducer includes a needle assembly, a hub assembly, and a sheath. The needle assembly includes at least one primary needle and at least one secondary needle. The secondary needle is coupled to the primary needle along a portion of the longitudinal length of the needle assembly such that the primary needle and the secondary needle are arranged in a side-by-side configuration. The secondary needle is configured and arranged to move relative to the primary needle along the longitudinal length of the needle assembly. The hub assembly includes a primary needle hub coupled to a proximal end portion of the primary needle and a secondary needle hub coupled to a proximal end portion of the primary needle. The sheath is configured and arranged for disposing over a portion of an outer surface of the needle assembly and for sliding along the longitudinal length of the needle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: John Michael Barker
  • Patent number: 9604049
    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: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Lily Lim, Devon N. Arnholt, Joel T. Eggert, Andrew De Kock, Paul E. Zarembo, Christopher A. Hartemink
  • Patent number: 9607831
    Abstract: A method for depositing an aluminium nitride layer on a substrate is provided that comprises: providing a silicon substrate; placing the substrate in a vacuum chamber; conditioning a surface of the substrate by etching and providing a conditioned surface; depositing an aluminum film onto the conditioned surface of the substrate by a sputtering method under an atmosphere of Argon and depositing an epitaxial aluminium nitride layer on the aluminum film by a sputtering method under an atmosphere of Nitrogen and Argon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: EVATEC AG
    Inventors: Lorenzo Castaldi, Martin Kratzer, Heinz Felzer, Robert Mamazza, Jr., Bernd Heinz
  • Patent number: 9597018
    Abstract: Methods for treating a patient using therapeutic renal neuromodulation and associated devices, systems, and methods are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present technology is directed to biomarker sampling in the context of neuromodulation devices, systems, and methods. Some embodiments, for example, are directed to catheters, catheter systems, and methods for sampling biomarkers that change in response to neuromodulation. A system can include, for example, an elongated shaft and a neuromodulation and sampling assembly having a neuromodulation and a sampling element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic Ardian Luxembourg S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Rudy Beasley, Ayala Hezi-Yamit, Michele Lee Silver, Christopher W. Storment
  • Patent number: 9592379
    Abstract: A medical device delivers a therapy to a patient. The medical device or another device may periodically determine an activity level or gait parameter of the patient, and associate each determined level or parameter with a current therapy parameter set. A value of at least one activity metric is determined for each of a plurality of therapy parameter sets based on the activity levels or parameters associated with that therapy parameter set. Whether the patient is currently experiencing or anticipated to experience gait freeze caused by their neurological disorder, such as Parkinson's disease, may also be determined. Gait freeze events may be associated with current therapy parameters and used to determine activity metric values. In some examples, the activity metric associated with certain therapy parameters may be presented to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth T. Heruth, Keith A. Miesel, Gregory F. Molnar
  • Patent number: 9586042
    Abstract: A cap for an implantable medical device electrical connector lead assembly and methods of use. A cap for protecting an electrical connector lead assembly of an implantable medical device is disclosed. The cap includes a body defined by a mating surface and a non-mating surface. The mating surface is adapted for electrically insulating engagement with an electrical connector lead assembly of an implantable medical device. The cap includes a body having a mating surface and an electrical network disposed therein. The electrical network includes first and second contacts exposed at the mating surface, a first circuit element, and two conductive pathways connecting the contacts to the circuit element. The body is configured to mate with the electrical connector lead assembly such that each contact conductively engages a corresponding contact of the electrical connector lead assembly when the cap and electrical connector lead assembly are mated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Cochlear Limited
    Inventors: Grahame Walling, Anthony Paul Burch, Adrian Cryer, Zoran Milijasevic
  • Patent number: 9579501
    Abstract: Various embodiments concern implanting a lead to directly stimulate the bundle of His. Various embodiments can include introducing a curve of an outer guide catheter into the right ventricle, extending a curve of an inner guide catheter from a lumen of the outer guide catheter, extending a fixation element on a distal tip of an anchor wire from a lumen the inner guide catheter, and anchoring the anchor wire to target tissue within the right ventricle, the target tissue along the septal wall and proximate the tricuspid valve and the bundle of His. A distal tip of an implantable lead with a lumen can then be advanced over the anchor wire to the target tissue as the anchor wire guides the distal tip of the lead to the target tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Allan C. Shuros, Bruce A. Tockman, G. Shantanu Reddy
  • Patent number: RE46494
    Abstract: A load-carrying body for reducing torsional and tensile loading on electrical components in an implantable medical electrical lead includes an electronic component disposed in-line with the implantable medical electrical lead, and a casing for the electronic component. The electronic component has a proximal end conductively coupled to a lead conductor and a distal end conductively coupled to a lead electrode. The casing is mechanically coupled to the lead so as to isolate the electrical component from torque or tensile loads applied to the lead, the lead electrode, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: Greatbatch Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryan T. Bauer, Warren S. Dabney, Robert A. Stevenson