Abstract: A medical device includes a body and at least one electrode disposed thereon. The electrode includes a metallic substrate, such as a platinum group metal, an alloy of platinum group metals, or gold. The surface of the substrate is modified in a manner that increases its effective surface area without inducing bulk heating. For example, the surface of the substrate can be laser textured and/or coated, such as with titanium nitride or iridium oxide.

Abstract: The present technology is generally directed to medical implants, such as stimulation assemblies for stimulating heart tissue. In some embodiments, a stimulation assembly includes a body, circuitry positioned at least partially within the body, an electrode coupled to the body, and a hook mechanism coupled to the body. The stimulation assembly can be implanted at cardiac tissue of a patient such that the electrode electrically contacts the tissue. The circuitry can be configured to receive acoustic energy and convert the acoustic energy to electrical energy, and the electrode can deliver the electrical energy to the tissue to stimulate the tissue. The hook mechanism can be configured to engage the tissue to pull the tissue and the electrode toward and into engagement with one another.

Abstract: An ostomy system includes an ostomy appliance, a monitor device, and a docking station for docking the monitor device to the docking station.

Abstract: A method of detecting ostomy effluent leakage in an ostomy appliance is provided. The method includes the steps of providing a plurality of sensors; measuring resistance of the ostomy appliance using each of the plurality of sensors; entering resistance measurements in a ring buffer configured to hold resistance measurements; calculating a median resistance value of each of the plurality of sensors using the resistance measurements; comparing the median resistance value against a predetermined range of acceptable resistance values; increasing a leak count for a corresponding sensor when the median resistance value of the sensor is outside the predetermined range of acceptable resistance values; determining a leak state when the leak count increases beyond a predetermined acceptable leak count; and sending an alert upon a determination of a leak state.

Abstract: A monitor device for an ostomy system is disclosed. The monitor device comprises a first interface comprising a primary terminal and a secondary terminal. The primary terminal is configured to form electrical connection with a primary electrode of the base plate when the monitor device is coupled to the base plate, and the primary terminal being configured to form electrical connection with a primary charge terminal of the accessory device when the monitor device is coupled to the accessory device. The secondary terminal is configured to form electrical connection with a secondary electrode of the base plate when the monitor device is coupled to the base plate, and the secondary terminal being configured to form electrical connection with a secondary charge terminal of the accessory device when the monitor device is coupled to the accessory device.

Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for delivering stimulating energy with a lead are disclosed. One method includes inserting a lead for cardiac therapy into an intercostal space of a patient and proximate to a lateral margin of the patient's sternum (the lead having a distal end configured to transmit therapeutic electrical pulses from a pulse generator to the heart), advancing the distal end of the lead through the intercostal space, and coupling a proximal end of the lead to the pulse generator for delivery of therapeutic electrical pulses for pacing or defibrillation of the heart.

Abstract: Embodiments herein relate to medical devices and methods for using the same to treat cancerous tumors within a bodily tissue. A medical device system is included having an electric field generating circuit and control circuitry configured to control delivery of the one or more electric fields from the electric field generating circuit to the site of the cancerous tissue. An implantable lead is included having a lead body including a first electrical conductor disposed within the lead body, and a first electrode coupled to the lead body, the first electrode in electrical communication with the first electrical conductor, wherein the first electrical conductor forms part of an electrical circuit by which the electric fields from the electric field generating circuit are delivered to the site of the cancerous tissue, and the first electrode can include a conductive coil filar disposed around the lead body. Other embodiments are also included herein.

Abstract: In various examples, a component for a medical device is described. The component includes a conductor wire including a connection portion. An electrode is formed from a conductive tube. The conductive tube is compressed at least partially around the connection portion of the conductor wire to at least partially surround and couple to the connection portion.

Abstract: Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include an implantable medical device. The implantable medical device may include an implantable pacing member having a housing and a lead input. A lead may be coupled to the lead input. The lead may be designed to extend along a pericardial space, epicardium, or both and engage a heart chamber. A passageway may be defined along a portion of the length of the lead.

Abstract: Controllers and methods for heart treatments are disclosed herein. The controller can include a communication module that can send and receive data from heart therapy devices. The controller can include memory including stored instruction. The controller can include a processor. The processor can receive a signal of an impending electrical treatment at a processor. The processor can determine a current operating parameter of a blood pump communicatingly coupled with the processor. The processor can determine an adjustment to the operating parameter of the blood pump to affect an impedance of heart tissue to be affected by the impending electrical treatment. The processor can control the blood pump according to the adjustment to the operating parameter of the blood pump.

Abstract: An ostomy appliance includes a first adhesive having a first surface and a second surface opposing the first surface. The first surface is provided to contact a partly electrically conductive object. The appliance also includes a first layer situated on the second surface of the first adhesive, and a first electrode situated on the first layer and electrically isolated from the first adhesive.

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

Abstract: Devices and methods can be used for artificial cardiac pacing and/or resynchronization. For example, this document provides improved electrodes for stimulating and sensing electrical activity of the heart, and provides pacing and resynchronization systems incorporating such electrodes. While the devices and methods provided herein are described primarily in the context of pacing, it should be understood that resynchronization can additionally or alternatively be performed in an analogous manner, and that the scope of this disclosure includes such subject matter.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method of fabricating an implantable micro-component electrode. The method includes disposing an electrically non-conductive material directly onto a surface of an electrically conductive carbon fiber core to generate an electrically non-conductive coating on the electrically conductive carbon fiber core, and removing a portion of the electrically non-conductive coating to expose a region of the electrically conductive carbon fiber core. The micro-component electrode has at least one dimension of less than or equal to about 10 ?m.

Abstract: In some examples, the disclosure relates to a medical device comprising a lead including an electrically conductive lead wire; and an electrode electrically coupled to the lead wire, the electrode including a substrate and a coating on an outer surface of the substrate, wherein the lead wire is formed of a composition comprising titanium or titanium alloys, wherein the substrate is formed of a composition comprising one or more of titanium, tantalum, niobium, and alloys thereof, wherein the coating comprises at least one of Pt, TiN, IrOx, and poly(dioctyl-bithiophene) (PDOT). In some examples, the lead wire may be coupled to the lead wire via a weld, such as, e.g., a laser weld.

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

Abstract: A wire shaped carbon fiber electrode is disclosed. The carbon fiber electrode includes braided strings of carbon fiber. The carbon fiber electrode is fabricated in a simple process, facilitating its practical application to clothes. In addition, the carbon fiber electrode possesses high capacitance and structural stability and is easily applicable to various wearable devices. Also disclosed are a wire-type supercapacitor including the carbon fiber electrode, a NO2 sensor including the supercapacitor, and a UV sensor including the supercapacitor.

Abstract: An implantable stimulation system includes a pulse generator having at least one implantable lead (200) with a proximal end (301) electrically connected to the pulse generator, and a distal end bearing at least one stimulation electrode (201.1, 201.2) electrically connected to the proximal end (301), and thus to the pulse generator. The distal end of the lead (200) includes at least one expandable member (202) configured to laterally extend from the lead (200) in its expanded state, and that carries the stimulation electrode(s) (201.1, 201.2).

Abstract: A refractory period for a pacemaker sensing channel refers to a period of time during which the sensing channel is either blind to incoming electrical signals, termed a blanking interval, and/or during which the device is configured to ignore such signals for purposes of sense event detection. Methods and devices for implementing refractory periods in the context of multi-site left ventricular pacing are described.

Abstract: Provided are methods for preparing gelled, solubilized extracellular matrix (ECM) compositions useful as cell growth scaffolds. Also provided are compositions prepared according to the methods as well as uses for the compositions. In one embodiment a device, such as a prosthesis, is provided which comprises an inorganic matrix into which the gelled, solubilized ECM is dispersed to facilitate in-growth of cells into the ECM and thus adaptation and/or attachment of the device to a patient.

Abstract: An implantable medical therapy delivery device includes a non-conductive filament extending along a length of an outer surface of an insulative body of the device, wherein the filament includes a plurality of fixation projections and is secured to the outer surface of the insulative body such that the projections protrude outward from the outer surface and are spaced apart from one another along the length of the outer surface. The filament may be wound about the length with an open pitch. In some cases, the insulative body includes an open-work member forming at least a portion of the outer surface thereof, and the filament may be interlaced with the open-work member. In these cases, the filament may be bioabsorbable, for example, to provide only acute fixation via the projections thereof, while the open-work member provides a structure for tissue ingrowth and, thus, more permanent or chronic fixation.

Abstract: The disclosure is directed to securing electrodes of a medical lead adjacent to a target tissue site. The medical lead may include at least one adhesive element disposed along a longitudinal outer surface of the lead body to adhere the adjacent tissue to the lead. Adhesive elements may be disposed proximal to, distal to, or in-between the electrodes of the lead. Each adhesive element may be inactive during lead implantation and activated by removing a covering sheath to expose the adhesive elements to moisture in the tissue or presenting an energy, e.g. ultraviolet light, to the adhesive elements. Once active, the adhesive elements secure the lead to surrounding tissue to prevent migration of the electrodes from the target tissue.

Abstract: An epicardial stimulation lead includes a lead body having a connector at a proximal end for coupling the lead to a generator of an active implantable medical device. The lead also includes a distributor housing at a distal end of the lead body and means for anchoring the distal end of the lead body to the epicardium. The lead also includes an active part having a plurality of microcable conductors, the proximal ends being coupled to the distributor housing, the distal ends being free. Each microcable has a diameter of at most equal to 2 French. Each microcable includes at least one denuded area in the insulating coating forming a stimulation electrode adapted to contact or penetrate an epicardium wall. Each microcable also includes a transverse elongated member extending at an angle relative to the main direction of the microcable for penetrating into the epicardial wall.

Abstract: An electrode array and a delivery assembly. The array is wrapped around a flexible core part of the delivery assembly. A sheath, also part of the delivery assembly, is disposed over the array and core. Steering cables extend through the core or sheath. Once the delivery assembly-encased array is inserted in the body, the combination is advanced to the tissue over which the array is to be deployed. By pulling on the steering cables the array and assembly are steered into position. Once the array is in position, the sheath is retracted, the array deploys over the target tissue.

Abstract: Electrode systems have been developed for use in perfusion systems to measure the electrical activity of an explanted heart and to provide defibrillation energy as necessary. The perfusion systems maintain the heart in a beating state at, or near, normal physiological conditions; circulating oxygenated, nutrient enriched perfusion fluid to the heart at or near physiological temperature, pressure and flow rate. These systems include a pair of electrodes that are placed epicardially on the right atrium and left ventricle of the explanted heart, as well as an electrode placed in the aortic blood path.

Abstract: This implant (1) is formed by a helically wound wire (2). According to the invention, it has dimensions such that it is able to be screwed into the wall of the annulus (103) and/or into the cardiac wall (101) adjoining this annulus (103) such that a portion of said annulus (103) and/or of said wall (101) is located in the perimeter of the implant (1); and it comprises at least one first coil able, during said screwing of the implant (1), to insert itself into said wall while having a first dimension and at least one second coil having a second dimension, or adopting this second dimension after implantation, said second dimension being smaller than the first dimension such that the implant (1), once inserted, enables contraction of said wall portion located in the perimeter of this implant (1).

Abstract: A device comprising: a lead extending between a proximal end and a distal end, the lead comprising, at its distal end portion, an electrode element configured for fixing in a first body tissue, the lead further comprising: an anchoring element disposed between the proximal and the distal end for anchoring the device to a second tissue; and an elastic element disposed between the anchoring element and the distal end and configured so as to permit the pulling of the distal end away from the anchoring element against the biasing force of the elastic element.

Abstract: An epicardial stimulation lead includes a lead body having a connector at a proximal end for coupling the lead to a generator of an active implantable medical device. The lead also includes a distributor housing at a distal end of the lead body and means for anchoring the distal end of the lead body to the epicardium. The lead also includes an active part having a plurality of microcable conductors, the proximal ends being coupled to the distributor housing, the distal ends being free. Each microcable has a diameter of at most equal to 2 French. Each microcable includes at least one denuded area in the insulating coating forming a stimulation electrode adapted to contact or penetrate an epicardium wall. Each microcable also includes a transverse elongated member extending at an angle relative to the main direction of the microcable for penetrating into the epicardial wall.

Abstract: The methods and apparatus for lead placement on a surface of the heart are employed using an elongated body having proximal and distal end portions. The body defines a lead receiving passageway extending between a proximal inlet and a distal outlet for receiving a lead therethrough for contact with the heart surface. The elongated body is adapted for insertion between a pericardium and an epicardial surface. At least a portion of the body may have a non-circular cross-sectional shape adapted to retain the body orientation between the pericardium and the epicardial surface.

Abstract: A fully implantable cardiac pacemaker system is provided. The pacemaker system includes a pacemaker having an electrode sub-assembly containing an electrode and a base into which the electrode is embedded. It also includes an implantable package that has electronic components for providing electrical pulses to a patient's heart. The pacemaker also has a power supply and a flexible electrically conductive lead that connects the electronic components to the electrode. In addition to the pacemaker, the pacemaker system includes a removable insertion casing that is physically attached to the base portion of the electrode sub-assembly. Upon insertion of the pacemaker into a patient's heart, the pacemaker is detached from the removable insertion casing and deployed fully in the patient's chest. The pacemaker system has particular use in fetal applications.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electrode assembly for temporary cardioversion/defibrillation and/or for temporary stimulation of the heart after open heart surgery consisting of two defibrillation electrodes with at least one indifferent pole each and an elastic section, where each defibrillation electrode in the operating position is positioned on the right and left atrium, which means the defibrillation electrodes together include the right and left atrium. The defibrillation electrodes each distally comprise a fixation member and each proximally end into a protective tube to protect the epicardium. The fixation members are elastic and enable reversible fastening of the defibrillation electrodes in the pericardium on the right and left side. The protective tubes are preferably fed together into a guide tube, where the guide tube is slidable along the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: An apparatus including a pledget; and an anchor disposed through the pledget in a manner to form a loop over a surface of the pledget, wherein the anchor comprises electrically conductive material. A kit including a pledget; an anchor of an electrically conductive material including at least one end having a structure capable of puncturing myocardial tissue; and a heart wire. A method including placing an electrically conductive portion of a heart wire between a pledget and an anchor coupling the pledget to a heart of a patient; and establishing conductive contact between the anchor and the heart wire. An advantage of the apparatus and method is that an anchor may be placed in healthy myocardial tissue and a heart wire electrically connected to the anchor may be removed with minimal risk of bleeding.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and interfaces are described herein for assisting in noninvasive location selection for an implantable electrode for use in cardiac therapy. Mechanical motion information and surrogate electrical activation times may be used to identify one or more candidate site regions.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and interfaces are described herein for assisting in noninvasive location selection for an implantable electrode for use in cardiac therapy. Mechanical motion information and surrogate electrical activation times may be used to identify one or more candidate site regions.

Abstract: A subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator is disclosed which has an electrically active canister which houses a source of electrical energy, a capacitor, and operational circuitry that senses the presence of potentially fatal heart rhythms. At least one subcutaneous electrode that serves as the opposite electrode from the canister is attached to the canister via a lead system. Cardioversion-defibrillation energy is delivered when the operational circuitry senses a potentially fatal heart rhythm. There are no transvenous, intracardiac, or epicardial electrodes. A method of subcutaneously implanting the cardioverter-defibrillator is also disclosed as well as a kit for conducting the method.

Abstract: An internal paddle electrode includes: an electrode which is to be in contact with a living body to apply a voltage; a cable which includes a voltage supply path that extends between a voltage supply source and the electrode; a handle which includes: a first portion that supports the electrode and is hermetically sealed with the electrode; and a second portion that is connected to the cable and is hermetically sealed with the cable; and a gas passage through which a gas in the handle communicates with external air that is outside the handle.

Abstract: A leadless intra-cardiac medical device (LIMD) includes a housing configured to be implanted entirely within a single local chamber of the heart.

Abstract: An implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) treats cardiovascular disease through application of stimulation pulses applied at at least one of acupoints EX-HN1, BL14, HT7, HT5, PC6, ST36, LI11, LU7 and LU2. The IEAD comprises an implantable, coin-sized, self-contained, leadless electroacupuncture device having at least two electrodes attached to an outside surface of its housing. The device generates stimulation pulses in accordance with a specified stimulation regimen. Power management circuitry within the device allows a primary battery, having a high internal impedance, to be used to power the device. The stimulation regimen generates stimulation pulses during a stimulation session of duration T3 minutes applied every T4 minutes. The duty cycle, or ratio T3/T4 is very low, no greater than 0.05. The low duty cycle and careful power management allow the IEAD to perform its intended function for several years.

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

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods and devices for optimization of biventricular pacing in subjects suffering from heart failure. The invention provides for a method for selection of optimal parameters for permanent pacing, the method comprising: positioning one or more arrays of lead wires in the posterior pericardium of a subject, wherein the arrays are connected to a multiplexing switch, wherein the switch is connected to a computer processor and a biventricular pacemaker; from the computer processor, generating a randomized sequence of: (i) pacing sites (VPS), (ii) right ventricular-left ventricular delays (RLDs), (iii) heart rates (HR); (iv) atrioventricular delays (AVDs), (v) or any combination or permutation thereof; and determining cardiac output in real time, using aortic flow velocity, thereby allowing selection of optimal parameters for permanent pacing.

Abstract: A resuscitation system for use by a rescuer for resuscitating a patient having a ventricular arrhythmia, comprising circuitry and processing configured for detection of chest compression/phase timing information indicative of the start of the decompression phase, circuitry and processing configured for delivery of electromagnetic therapy for the termination of ventricular arrhythmias, wherein the circuitry and processing for the delivery of electromagnetic therapy utilizes the chest compression phase timing information to initiate delivery of the electromagnetic therapy within 300 milliseconds of the start of the decompression phase.

Abstract: Various aspects relate to a device which, in various embodiments, comprises a header, a neural stimulator, a detector and a controller. The header includes at least one port to connect to at least one lead, and includes first and second channels for use to provide neural stimulation to first and second neural stimulation sites for a heart. The controller is connected to the detector and the neural stimulator to selectively deliver a therapy based on the feedback signal. A first therapy signal is delivered to the first neural stimulation site to selectively control contractility and a second therapy signal is delivered to the second neural stimulation site to selectively control one of a sinus rate and an AV conduction. Other aspects and embodiments are provided herein.

Abstract: Lead electrode assemblies for use with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator subcutaneously implanted outside the ribcage between the third and twelfth ribs comprising the electrode. Example assemblies include appendages of various types for use during implantation including fins, pinholes, loops, tubes, openings and other means for attachment to an implant tool. Several embodiments include first and second faces on the electrodes such that a first face is configured to be implanted facing the ribcage of the patient and the second face has the appendage.

Abstract: A refractory period for a pacemaker sensing channel refers to a period of time during which the sensing channel is either blind to incoming electrical signals, termed a blanking interval, and/or during which the device is configured to ignore such signals for purposes of sense event detection. Methods and devices for implementing refractory periods in the context of multi-site left ventricular pacing are described.

Abstract: A multizone epicardial pacing lead (10) having a lead body (12) with a proximal connector (14) for coupling to a generator of an active implantable medical device and, distally, an anchor to an epicardium wall and an active part comprising a plurality of stimulation electrodes, coming into contact with, or penetrating, the epicardium wall. This active part comprises a distributor housing (16) and a network of flexible microcables (18) radiating from the housing. Each microcable is formed of an electrically insulated conductor comprising at least one denuded area (20), each of these areas forming a stimulation electrode.

Abstract: A system for pacing a heart includes an implantable pulse generator configured to generate electrical impulses for stimulating contraction of cardiac tissue; first, second, third, and fourth leads configured to deliver the electrical impulses to activation sites within the cardiac tissue and to detect electrical activity of the activation sites; and a controller configured to control the delivery of the electrical impulses from each of the first, second, third, and fourth leads.

Abstract: An external heart wall stress reduction apparatus is provided to create a heart wall shape change. The device is generally disposed to the exterior of a heart chamber to reshape the chamber into a lower stress configuration.

Abstract: Electrically conductive nanowires incorporated within scaffolds enhance tissue growth, bridge the electrically resistant pore walls and markedly improve electrical communication between adjacent cardiac cell bundles. Integration of conducting nanowires within 3D scaffolds should improve the therapeutic value of cardiac patches. Examples demonstrate efficacy of gold nanowires in alginate matrices seeded with cardiomyocytes.

Abstract: An implantable battery powered leadless pacemaker or biostimulator is provided that may include any of a number of features. One feature of the biostimulator is that it safely operates under a wide range of MRI conditions. One feature of the biostimulator is that it has a total volume small enough to avoid excessive image artifacts during a MRI procedure. Another feature of the biostimulator is that it has reduced path lengths between electrodes to minimize tissue heating at the site of the biostimulator. Yet another feature of the biostimulator is that a current loop area within the biostimulator is small enough to reduce an induced current and voltage in the biostimulator during MRI procedures. Methods associated with use of the biostimulator are also covered.

Abstract: An implantable lead having at least one electrode contact at or near its distal end prevents undesirable movement of the electrode contact from its initial implant location. One embodiment relates to a spinal cord stimulation (SCS) lead. A first injectable material is injected into the dura space to mechanically position the electrode array with respect to the spinal cord. Conjunctively for use with adhesives, or alternatively for use instead of the adhesives, a balloon may be positioned on the electrode lead array. The balloon is filled with air, liquid or a compliant material. When inflated, the balloon stabilizes the lead with respect to the spinal cord and holds the lead in place. An elastic aspect of the balloon serves as an internal contained relief valve to limit the pressure the balloon may place on the surrounding tissues when the epidural space is constrained.