Inner Ear (e.g., Cochlea) Patents (Class 607/137)
-
Publication number: 20120296405Abstract: A cochlear lead includes a plurality of electrode assemblies partially embedded in a flexible body configured to stimulate an auditory nerve from within a cochlea. Each of the electrode assemblies includes a flexible electrically conductive material forming a plurality of support structures and an electrode pad attached a support structure, the electrode pad having a surface that is configured to be exposed to cochlear tissue and fluids and has a charge transfer to the cochlear tissue and fluids that is higher than the flexible electrically conductive material.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2010Publication date: November 22, 2012Applicant: ADVANCED BIONICS LLCInventors: Chuladatta Thenuwara, Timothy Beerling
-
Patent number: 8311642Abstract: An adjustable implant electrode system comprises an adjustable implant electrode assembly and an adjustment device for adjusting the adjustable implant electrode assembly to a desired position. The adjustable implant electrode assembly comprises an implant, a plurality of electrodes, and a plurality of magnetic components. The electrodes are disposed in the implant for providing stimulating currents according to a control signal. The magnetic components are combined with the electrodes in one-to-one correspondence. The adjustment device comprises a control unit, an excitation unit, and one or more magnetic units. The control unit is used to select one or more magnetic components to be moved from the magnetic components, and the excitation unit is used to excite the selected one or more magnetic components for the same to generate a magnetic pole, and the magnetic unit is adapted to generate a magnetic field to drive the magnetic pole and accordingly move the implant.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2009Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: National Chiao Tung UniversityInventors: Charles Tak-Ming Choi, Chien-Hua Hsu
-
Patent number: 8311649Abstract: An electrode array design is provided which is intended for deep insertion into a human cochlea. The distal most portion of the lead can be very thin and flexible and have a wider arc than the remainder of the curved electrode array portion of the lead, which has a more aggressive arc. As a result, the distal most portion of the electrode array can be laterally positioned in a selected cochlear duct, whereas, concurrently, the remaining, more proximal part of the electrode array may be positioned medially (perimodiolar) within the cochlear duct.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2005Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: Advanced BionicsInventors: Johannes H. M. Frijns, Janusz A. Kuzma, Jeroen Johannes Briaire
-
Publication number: 20120277835Abstract: 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 erus reference electrode structured to be surgically implanted into a common eras of the vestibular labyrinth.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2011Publication date: November 1, 2012Applicant: THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITYInventors: Charles Coleman Della Santina, Gene Yevgeny Fridman, Bryce Chiang
-
Patent number: 8301269Abstract: A non-communicative lumen for electrode assemblies of medical implants, in particular prosthetic hearing implants, is provided by the present invention. The non-communicative lumen prevents the lumen within the cochlea from being able to transport fluids, cells, bacteria, tissue, etc., with the lumen outside the cochlea, and vis versa through the incision or cochleostomy. The lumen may have a cavity or slit that receives a stylet during insertion of the electrode assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2009Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: Cochlear LimitedInventors: Peter Gibson, Fysh Dadd, Claudiu Treaba
-
Patent number: 8285384Abstract: Devices with both electrical and mechanical signal transducers can be used for improving sound perception by individuals with severe to profound hearing loss or tinnitus.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2007Date of Patent: October 9, 2012Assignee: Med-El Elektromedizinische Geraete GmbHInventors: Geoffrey Ball, Marcus Schmidt
-
Patent number: 8280480Abstract: The invention relates to a stapedius muscle electrode array for detecting the action elements generated when a human stapedius muscle is contracted. Said array comprises an electrode (2, 2?, 2?) that is adapted for bipolar discharge and is to be attached to a human stapedius muscle. The electrode has two flexible, elastic, electrically conducting elongate elements (2a, 2b), each of which has a distal (4a, 4b) and a proximal end (17a, 17b) and is helically preshaped along at least some of the length thereof to the distal end (4a, 4b) thereof in such a way that the distal end (4a, 4b) and a section of the respective elongate element (2a, 2b) which adjoins the distal end (4a, 4b) can be placed at least in part around the tendon (7) extending between the stapedius muscle and the stapes while the helical part can be guided along the tendon (7), can be moved in the direction of the stapedius muscle, and can be at least partly twisted into and/or slid onto the region of the muscle belly (6) adjoining the tendon (7).Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2008Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Med-El Elektromedizinische Geraete GmbHInventors: Hans Wilhelm Pau, Detlef Behrend, Wolfram Schmidt, Klaus-Peter Schmitz
-
Patent number: 8280528Abstract: A cochlear stimulation lead and method of making a curved electrode array are provided. In one embodiment of the lead, while the curved section of the lead is curled further beyond its originally molded curvature and held in this position, a filling channel is filled with a filling material that is hardened or cured in this held position. The resulting lead has a tip curvature that is more curved than the originally molded curvature.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2011Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Advanced Bionics, LLCInventors: Janusz A. Kuzma, Lani A. Smith, Chuladatta Thenawara
-
Publication number: 20120245666Abstract: An implantable electrode arrangement for an ear implant system is described. A proximal electrode lead has electrode wires for carrying one or more electrical stimulation signals. A distal electrode array has electrode contacts each forming a terminal end of an electrode wire for applying the electrical stimulation signals to target neural tissue, and one or more intra-operative sensors for generating insertion sensing signals during surgical insertion of the electrode array into the target tissue. An intra-operative electrode section has a sensor connector for providing a temporary connection of one or more external measurement arrangements to the one or more intra-operative sensors during the surgical insertion of the electrode array without being functional after the surgical insertion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2012Publication date: September 27, 2012Applicant: MED-EL ELEKTROMEDIZINISCHE GERAETE GMBHInventors: Claude Jolly, Thomas Lenarz
-
Publication number: 20120238799Abstract: A magnet arrangement is described for use in implantable devices. An implantable housing contains a portion of an implantable electronic system. An implant magnet arrangement within the housing has adjacent magnetic sections that lie substantially in a common plane and include an inner center disc having an inner magnetic orientation in an inner magnetic direction, and an outer radial ring having an outer magnetic orientation in an outer magnetic direction opposite to the inner magnetic direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2012Publication date: September 20, 2012Applicant: Vibrant Med-EI Hearing Technology GmbHInventors: Geoffrey R. BALL, Peter LAMPACHER, Bernhard JAMNIG, Martin ZIMMERLING, Gunther WEIDENHOLZER, Markus NAGL, Wolfgang AMRHEIN
-
Patent number: 8271101Abstract: A system for delivering therapeutic agents to biological tissue includes a surgically implantable lead configured to be inserted into the biological tissue, the surgically implantable lead including a preformed cavity; and a modular capsule containing a therapeutic agent which includes dexamethasone base; the modular capsule being secured within the preformed cavity; the modular capsule releasing the therapeutic agent into the biological tissue. A method of delivering therapeutic agents to biological tissue includes obtaining a surgically implantable lead with a preformed cavity; obtaining a modular capsule containing a therapeutic agent comprising dexamethasone base and securing it within the preformed cavity; and inserting the surgically implantable lead into the biological tissue.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2009Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: Advanced BionicsInventors: Edward H. Overstreet, Jian Xie, Michael S. Colvin, Michael A. Faltys
-
Patent number: 8265773Abstract: A cochlear implant electrode assembly device comprising an elongate electrode carrier member, a stiffening element, and a stiffening sheath that at least partially envelops the elongate member. The member is made of a resiliently flexible first material and has a plurality of electrodes mounted thereon. The member has a first configuration that allows it to be inserted into an implantee's cochlea. The member also has a second configuration wherein the member is curved to match an inside surface of the cochlea, and at least one intermediate configuration between the first and second configurations. Both the stiffening element and sheath are made of a material that is relatively stiffer than the member. The stiffening element and the stiffening sheath in combination bias the elongate member into the first configuration. If either the stiffening element or the stiffening sheath is removed or deactivated, the elongate member adopts an intermediate configuration.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2010Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: Cochlear LimitedInventors: Fysh Dadd, Derek Ian Darley, Peter Gibson, John Parker, Claudiu Treaba
-
Patent number: 8260437Abstract: A cochlear implant device includes a deformable and stretchable flexible strip composed of a biological compatible material and positioned about a longitudinal axis so as to form a spiral. The implant device has a plurality of conductive strips with electrode windows formed so as to expose a segment of each conductive strip. A density of the electrode windows is sufficient to monitor a distance of the flexible strip from a non-conductive tissue of a patient in a 360 degree field of view about the longitudinal axis. A method of inserting a cochlear implant includes providing a multi-joint robot comprised of a series of actuator units, guiding the multi-joint robot into an inner ear of a patient, monitoring the position of the multi-joint robot relative to a non-conductive portion of the patient; and applying current to the multi-joint robot so as to adjust the position of the actuator units.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: New York UniversityInventors: Rodolfo R. Llinas, Hirobumi Watanabe, Mutsuyuki Sugimori, Masayuki Nakao
-
Publication number: 20120221088Abstract: A cochlear lead includes a plurality of electrodes configured to stimulate an auditory nerve from within a cochlea and a flexible body supporting the plurality of electrodes along a length of the flexible body. A stiffening element is slidably encapsulated within the flexible body, the stiffening element extending past a most distal electrode at the tip of the cochlear lead, wherein a distal portion of the stiffening element plastically deforms upon insertion into a curved portion of the cochlea.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2012Publication date: August 30, 2012Applicant: ADVANCED BIONICS LLC.Inventors: Chuladatta Thenuwara, Mark Downing
-
Patent number: 8249724Abstract: An apparatus including a flexible elongate carrier member configured to introduce a therapeutic element into the recipient and a stiffening member, permanently embedded in and longitudinally extending through at least a first region of said carrier member, configured to decrease said flexibility of said carrier member region so as to prevent deformation of said first region during implantation into the recipient.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2006Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Cochlear LimitedInventors: Frank Risi, Godofredo Timbol
-
Patent number: 8244366Abstract: There is provided a cochlear implant for improving the hearing ability of a patient suffered from hearing impairment comprising an internal receiving unit implanted into the body, which comprises a receiving part for receiving external signal, an active electrode and a reference electrode, characterized in that the active electrode is constructed with a single electrode wire having different thickness in at least two different regions. The active electrode of the internal receiving unit is inserted into a space formed at between the mastoid bone and the ear canal skin and end of the active electrode is inserted into the scala tympani of the cochlea and directly stimulates spiral ganglion. The cochlear implant provides easier implantation into the body and improved hearing ability at a lower cost.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2007Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Material Solutions Technology Co., Ltd.Inventors: Y. Jay Chang, Dong Hyuk Lee
-
Patent number: 8244365Abstract: A bimodal hearing prosthesis configured to deliver electrical and acoustic stimulation to a recipient such that a frequency range of a received sound that is represented by the electrical stimulation is perceived simultaneously with the frequency range of the received sound that is represented by the acoustic stimulation.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2006Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Cochlear LimitedInventors: Bastiaan van Dijk, Ibrahim Bouchataoui, Mark Majoral, Ernst von Wallenberg, Christopher J. James, Matthijs Killian
-
Publication number: 20120197374Abstract: An implantable stimulation device is described which includes an implantable stimulation source carrier for insertion into or adjacent to target tissue. The stimulation source carrier includes stimulation contacts for delivering neural stimulation signals to nearby target tissue. At least one of the stimulation contacts is an optical stimulation element having multiple individual optical stimulation sub-elements for delivering optical stimulation signals to the nearby target tissue with controlled shape and direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2012Publication date: August 2, 2012Applicant: MED-EL ELEKTROMEDIZINISCHE GERAETE GMBHInventors: Gerhard Vogt, Carolyn Garnham
-
Patent number: 8229574Abstract: A telescoping electrode assembly and method of implantation of a telescoping electrode assembly are provided herein. The electrode assembly may comprise a plurality of telescoping sections that may, for example, be in a retracted configuration during insertion into the patient and then after insertion expanded to their final expanded configuration. These sections may have electrodes disposed therein for use in applying electrical stimulation to the patient in which the electrode is implanted.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2009Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Cochlear LimitedInventors: John L. Parker, Dusan Milojevic
-
Publication number: 20120185028Abstract: An electrode array which is able to be inserted to a desired depth within the cochlea to provide useful percepts for the recipient which will also preferably not cause damage to the sensitive structures of the cochlea. The electrode array is insertable through an opening in the cochlea and into at least the basal region of the cochlea and comprises an elongate carrier having a proximal end, a distal end, and a plurality of electrodes supported by the carrier at respective spaced locations thereon in a region between the proximal end and the distal end. A stabilising collar extends outwardly from the elongate carrier at or adjacent a proximal end thereof and has an abutment surface adapted to abut a portion of the cochlea surface around the cochleostomy and at least substantially prevent movement of the carrier following completion of insertion of the array into the cochlea.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2012Publication date: July 19, 2012Inventor: Bruce J. Gantz
-
Patent number: 8219203Abstract: A programmable cochlear implant system utilizes multiple-resolution current sources and flexible data-encoding scheme for transcutaneous transmission. In certain embodiments, the number of current sources may be equal to or greater than 2, but equal or less than N?1, where N is the number of electrodes. The multi-resolution current source may introduce offset currents to achieve perceptually-based multiple resolutions with high resolution at low amplitudes and low resolution at high amplitudes. The flexible data-encoding scheme may allow arbitrary waveforms in terms of phase polarity, phase duration, pseudo-analog-waveform, while producing high-rate and high-temporal-precision stimulation. In one embodiment, a 2-current-source system may support simultaneous and non-simultaneous stimulation as well as monopolar, bipolar, pseudo-tripolar, and tripolar electrode configurations.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2011Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Nurotron Biotechnology, Inc.Inventors: Xiaoan Sun, Hongbin Chen
-
Publication number: 20120172893Abstract: A sensing system for implant surgery includes an insertion device for moving an implant into a narrow cavity in a patient's body. A sensor measures the distance from an end of the insertion device to anatomic surfaces at a distance from the end of the insertion device. An optical coherence tomography (OCT) system integrates the sensor and produces OCT images, which can be quantified to distance measurements. The system is particularly useful for cochlear implant surgery.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2011Publication date: July 5, 2012Applicant: THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITYInventors: Russell H. Taylor, Jin U. Kang, John Niparko
-
Publication number: 20120158113Abstract: A cochlear implant electrode is described. An elongate flexible electrode array has a linear central axis and an outer surface with electrode contacts for electrical stimulation of nearby neural tissue. At least one of the electrode contacts is a linear electrode contact forming an elongated rectilinear surface along a line parallel to the linear central axis of the electrode array.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: MED-EL ELEKTROMEDIZINISCHE GERAETE GMBHInventors: Claude Jolly, Anandhan Dhanasingh
-
Publication number: 20120158112Abstract: An implantable multi-channel electrode is described. An ear implant electrode with a cylinder shaped electrode body has opposing top and bottom end surfaces. Electrode contacts are dispersed across the bottom end surface to provide electrical interaction with nearby auditory nerve tissue.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: MED-EL ELEKTROMEDIZINISCHE GERAETE GMBHInventors: Claude Jolly, Anandhan Dhanasingh
-
Publication number: 20120158114Abstract: Devices for the delivery of a bioactive substance to a cochlea and methods of delivery thereof. The devices include means to allow the release of the bioactive substance within a cochlea.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2012Publication date: June 21, 2012Inventors: Kristine Debruyne, Dirk Fiedler, Thomas Kaiser, Ben Kloeck, Dusan Milojevic, John Parker
-
Publication number: 20120158095Abstract: A cochlear implant electrode arrangement is described. An electrode lead is connected to an implantable stimulator and contains electrode wires for carrying stimulation signals from the implantable stimulator. An electrode array penetrates through a cochleostomy opening into a patient cochlea for immersion in cochlear fluid within the cochlea. The electrode array has electrode contacts for delivering the stimulation signals to adjacent neural tissue. A cochleostomy ground contact at the cochleostomy opening separates the electrode lead and the electrode array and provides a return current path for the stimulation signals. There may also be a stimulator ground contact on an outer surface of the implantable stimulator that provides a second return current path for the stimulation signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: MED-EL ELEKTROMEDIZINISCHE GERAETE GMBHInventor: Claude Jolly
-
Publication number: 20120141572Abstract: An implantable device is described based on an implant having a textured outer surface of polymer material with limited transparency. A smooth outer polymer coating covers and cross-links with the textured outer surface to form a coated implant of greater transparency than the polymer material of the implant.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2011Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: MED-EL ELEKTROMEDIZINISCHE GERAETE GMBHInventors: Roland Hessler, Claude Jolly, Soeren Schilp, Volker Faust, Wolfgang Fischler
-
Patent number: 8195266Abstract: Microelectrode assemblies and related methods are disclosed for bio-stimulating and/or bio-sensing a target tissue. The assemblies can include a two-side substrate, an array of microelectrodes, each of the microelectrodes including a nano-wire embedded within the substrate and extending from a proximal end to a distal end and through the substrate, each nano-wire having a diameter preferably less than 1 ?m. The substrate can include portions made of nano-porous material(s) through which the microelectrodes pass. The substrate with the embedded nano-wires can effectively be fluid impermeable. The proximal ends of the nano-wires can be adapted to be connected to an electronic device and the distal ends are adapted to be disposed in a biological environment for bio-stimulating a target tissue and/or bio-sensing activities of the target tissue. Suitable alloys such as platinum, platinum-iridium, and/or other noble-metal-alloyed compositions can be used for the nano-wires.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Doheny Eye InstituteInventors: John J. Whalen, III, James D. Weiland, Mark S. Humayun
-
Patent number: 8190271Abstract: A method for delivering dexamethasone base (DXMb) via an implantable electrode includes coupling DXMb to the implantable electrode and inserting the implantable electrode into animal tissue, the DXMb eluting into the animal tissue. An implantable nerve stimulating device includes an elongated member having a distal end bearing at least one electrode; and DXMb coupled to the elongated member, the DXMb being eluted into tissue surrounding the elongated member.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2008Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Advanced Bionics, LLCInventors: Edward H. Overstreet, Michael A. Faltys, Jian Xie, Michael S. Colvin
-
Publication number: 20120130465Abstract: A vestibular stimulation array is disclosed having one or more separate electrode arrays each operatively adapted for implantation in a semicircular canal of the vestibular system, wherein each separate electrode array is dimensioned and constructed so that so that residual vestibular function is preserved. In particular, the electrode arrays are dimensioned such that the membranous labyrinth is not substantially compressed. Furthermore, the electrode array has a stop portion to limit insertion of the electrode array into the semi-circular canal and is stiff enough to avoid damage to the anatomical structures.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Inventors: Frank Risi, Colin Irwin, Jay T. Rubinstein, Felipe Santos, James O. Phillips
-
Publication number: 20120109274Abstract: Electrode arrays and systems for inserting same are disclosed. In some embodiments, electrode arrays are provided, the electrode arrays comprising: a passive-bending portion; an active-bending portion coupled to the passive bending portion; a plurality of electrodes located in at least one of the passive-bending portion and the active bending portion; and an actuator that causes the active-bending portion to deflect from the passive-bending portion. In some embodiments, systems for inserting an electrode array in the body are provided, the systems comprising: an insertion module for controllably inserting the electrode array in the body and sensing forces applied to the electrode array; a monitor for providing information to a user; and a controller coupled to the insertion module and the monitor, wherein the controller causes the insertion module to control an amount of force that is applied to the electrode array.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2012Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: THE TRUSTEES OF COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORKInventors: Nabil Simaan, Spiros Manolidis
-
Publication number: 20120101559Abstract: A cochlear implant electrode is described. A basal electrode lead carries electrical stimulation signals from an implant housing to a cochleostomy opening, and a portion of the electrode lead has a periodically recurring lead shape. An apical electrode array at the cochleostomy end of the electrode lead passes into a cochlea scala and includes electrode contacts for applying the electrical stimulation signals to target neural tissue. A portion of the electrode array has a periodically recurring array shape different from the lead shape.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 3, 2012Publication date: April 26, 2012Applicant: MED-EL ELEKTROMEDIZINISCHE GERAETE GMBHInventors: Claude Jolly, Stefan Nielsen, Fabrice Béal
-
Patent number: 8165697Abstract: The invention relates to an electrode-bearing guide, a cochlear implant comprising said guide and the production method thereof. According to the invention, the long and essentially flat guide comprises a plurality of electrodes (2) which are connected to corresponding contacts (3) by means of tracks (4). The inventive guide also comprises at least two stacked basic cells (CB1, CB2, . . . CB11), each of said cells comprising an insulating base layer (11). Moreover, a conductive layer (12) is disposed on top of the aforementioned insulating layer and forms the electrodes (2), the tracks (4) and the contacts (3). The production method consists in successively stacking insulating and conductive layers and defining suitable shapes by means of photolithography in order to form electrodes, contacts, tracks and windows for accessing the electrodes and contacts.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2003Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Instituto Cientifico y Tecnologico de Navarra, S.A.Inventors: Manuel Manrique Rodriguez, Francisco Javier Gracia Gaudo
-
Publication number: 20120095527Abstract: The invention provides an electrode, and a minimally-invasive auditory implant system employing the electrode, for treating hearing disorders by electrically stimulating tissues in the middle ear. The electrode employs a structure which switches between narrow and spread shapes, facilitating the electrode insertion into the site, securing the electrode against vibration or permanent movement, and optimizing the current density.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2010Publication date: April 19, 2012Applicant: ESTIMME LTD.Inventors: Michael Ariel Vardi, Alon Shalev
-
Patent number: 8155748Abstract: Apparatus and methods for converting one type of speech processor unit into another type of speech processor unit.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2009Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Advanced Bionics, LLCInventors: Thomas Patrick Walsh, Carla Mann Woods, Richard C. Ross, Rankiri Tissa Karunasiri, Anthony K. Arnold
-
Patent number: 8155747Abstract: Methods and systems for modifying the parameters of at least one hearing device for a patient with residual hearing provide needed orchestration of acoustic and electric stimulation of patients wearing such devices.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2009Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Advanced Bionics, LLCInventors: Michael A. Faltys, Philip A. Segel, Edward H. Overstreet, William Vanbrooks Harrison
-
Patent number: 8155746Abstract: A cochlear implant sound processor is powered by a rechargeable battery that is permanently integrated into the sound processor. The sound processor contains an inductive coil that may be tuned to an external charging coil for battery recharging. The electronic circuits and coil of the sound processor are housed in a material transparent to RF signals. The sound processor may be placed in a recharging base station in which the sound processor is positioned in a space surrounded by the inductive charging coil embedded in a material transparent to RF signals. The inductive charging coil sends power to the coil inside the processor and thereby recharges the battery. An alternative embodiment utilizes contacts in the sound processor case and aligned terminals in the recharging base station that allow direct charging of the battery.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Advanced Bionics, LLCInventors: Albert A. Maltan, David Miller, W. Vanbrooks Harrison
-
Patent number: 8150527Abstract: Methods and systems for modifying the parameters of at least one hearing device for a patient with residual hearing provide needed orchestration of acoustic and electric stimulation of patients wearing such devices.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2009Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Advanced Bionics, LLCInventors: Michael A. Faltys, Philip A. Segel, Edward H. Overstreet, William Vanbrooks Harrison
-
Publication number: 20120078333Abstract: Medical lead systems utilizing electromagnetic bandstop filters are provide which can be utilized in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) environment for patients who have implanted medical devices. The medical lead system includes an implanted lead having at least one bandstop filter associated therewith, for attenuating current flow through the lead over a range of frequencies. The bandstop filter has an overall circuit Q wherein the resultant 3 dB bandwidth is at least 10 kHz. The values of capacitance and inductance of the bandstop filter are selected such that the bandstop filter is resonant at a selected center frequency. Preferably, the bandstop filter has an overall circuit Q wherein the resultant 10 dB bandwidth is at least 10 kHz. Such bandstop filters are backwards compatible with known implantable deployment systems and extraction systems.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2011Publication date: March 29, 2012Applicant: GREATBATCH LTD.Inventors: Randy Westlund, Robert A. Stevenson, Christine A. Frysz, Warren S. Dabney, Henry R. Halperin
-
Publication number: 20120078337Abstract: A reference electrode for an inner ear stimulation device is disclosed. The reference electrode is to be implanted and includes a protruding conductor portion and an insulated conducting portion connected to a lead for connection to the device. The protruding conductor portion is shaped so as to present a generally smooth surface without any substantial projections to impede removal in the event that the electrode is withdrawn in the direction of the lead. The smooth profile and lack of an undercut assist in preventing biofilm accumulation and growth. This reduces the risk of post-surgical complications such as infection.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2010Publication date: March 29, 2012Inventors: Derek I. Darley, Alf Dal'Castel
-
Patent number: 8145326Abstract: A perimodiolar electrode for cochlear implantation includes an electrode carrier having a front end and a back end. The electrode carrier includes one or more contacts and a hydrophilic segment that swells after insertion in a cochlea and detaches at least in part from the carrier. In accordance with related embodiments, the hydrophilic segment may detach from the electrode carrier between the front end and the back end. The detached hydrophilic segment may surround the modiolus of a scala tympani of the cochlea or the inner wall of a scala tympani of the cochlea.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2007Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: MED-EL Elektromedizinische Geraete GmbHInventors: Farhang Abbasi, Claude Jolly, Mohammad Farhadi, Erwin S. Hochmair, Hamid Mirzadeh
-
Publication number: 20120071957Abstract: An electrically nonconductive occludent constructed and arranged to forcefully infill a tissue opening so as to effectively prevent transport of electrical current, fluid and bacteria through the tissue opening. A cochlear implant comprising: an elongate electrode carrier member having at least one electrode disposed thereon, wherein the carrier member is configured to traverse a cochleostomy to position the electrodes in the cochlea; and an electrically nonconductive occludent constructed and arranged to circumferentially surround a portion of the carrier member traversing the cochleostomy, and to forcefully infill cochleostomy thereby segregating perilymphatic canals of the cochlea from extracochlear regions.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2011Publication date: March 22, 2012Inventor: Paul M. Carter
-
Publication number: 20120071956Abstract: A medical lead system includes at least one bandstop filter for attenuating current flow through the lead across a range of frequencies. The bandstop filter has an overall circuit Q wherein the resultant 3 dB bandwidth is at least 10 kHz. The values of capacitance and inductance of the bandstop filter are selected such that the bandstop filter is resonant at a selected center frequency or range of frequencies. Preferably, the bandstop filter has an overall circuit Q wherein the resultant 10 dB bandwidth is at least 10 kHz. Such bandstop filters are backwards compatible with known implantable deployment systems and extraction systems.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2011Publication date: March 22, 2012Applicant: GREATBATCH LTD.Inventors: Robert A. Stevenson, Henry R. Halperin, Albert C. Lardo, Warren S. Dabney, Kishore Kumar Kondabatni, Christine A. Frysz, Robert Shawn Johnson, Holly Noelle Moschiano
-
Publication number: 20120065717Abstract: An implantable electrode assembly for a cochlear implant comprising: an elongate carrier member having an intra-cochlear region, an extra-cochlear region, and an additional region immediately adjacent the extra-cochlear region and extending to a stimulator unit; one or more electrodes disposed on the intra-cochlear region of the elongate carrier member; and one or more signal pathways extending from the additional region through at least a portion of the intra-cochlear region, wherein a cross-sectional profile of each of the one or more signal pathways is smaller in the intra-cochlear region than in the additional region.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2011Publication date: March 15, 2012Inventors: Fysh Dadd, Dusan Milojevic
-
Patent number: 8126564Abstract: An electrode array which is able to be inserted to a desired depth within the cochlea to provide useful percepts for the recipient which will also preferably not cause damage to the sensitive structures of the cochlea. The electrode array is insertable through an opening in the cochlea and into at least the basal region of the cochlea and comprises an elongate carrier having a proximal end, a distal end, and a plurality of electrodes supported by the carrier at respective spaced locations thereon in a region between the proximal end and the distal end. A stabilising collar extends outwardly from the elongate carrier at or adjacent a proximal end thereof and has an abutment surface adapted to abut a portion of the cochlea surface around the cochleostomy and at least substantially prevent movement of the carrier following completion of insertion of the array into the cochlea.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: The University of IowaInventor: Bruce J. Gantz
-
Patent number: 8126572Abstract: An electrode for use with a cochlear implant capable of being implanted in a subject is provided. The electrode includes a main electrode branch which provides functions to an inner ear of the subject and an adjustable subdivision connected to the main electrode for providing functions to a middle ear of the subject.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2005Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: MED-EL Elektromedizinische Geraete GmbHInventors: Claude Jolly, S. Bryde Nielsen
-
Patent number: 8121698Abstract: Contrast between various frequency components of sound is enhanced through a lateral suppression strategy to provide increased speech perception in the electrically stimulated cochlea. A received audio signal is divided into a plurality of input signals, wherein each input signal is associated with a frequency band. A plurality of envelope signals are generated by determining the envelope of each of a plurality of the input signals. At least one of the envelope signals is scaled in accordance with a scaling factor to generate at least one scaled envelope signal. An output signal is generated by combining at least one envelope signal with at least one scaled envelope signal, and the cochlea is stimulated based on the generated output signal. The lateral suppression strategy can be applied to one or more frequency bands using scaled amplitude signals associated with one or more neighboring frequency bands.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2010Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: Advanced Bionics, LLCInventors: Gene Y. Fridman, Leonid M. Litvak
-
Publication number: 20120041531Abstract: Disclosed is an electrode lead for a medical implant, and in one example, a cochlear implant. The electrode lead includes a lumen for receiving a stylet for assisting in implanting the device. The lumen of the electrode lead is removable from the electrode lead upon or after implantation.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2008Publication date: February 16, 2012Applicant: COCHLEAR LIMITEDInventors: Fysh Dadd, Edmond D. Capcelea, Claudiu Treaba
-
Patent number: 8116886Abstract: Electrode arrays and systems for inserting same are disclosed. In some embodiments, electrode arrays are provided, the electrode arrays comprising: a passive-bending portion; an active-bending portion coupled to the passive bending portion; a plurality of electrodes located in at least one of the passive-bending portion and the active bending portion; and an actuator that causes the active-bending portion to deflect from the passive-bending portion. In some embodiments, systems for inserting an electrode array in the body are provided, the systems comprising: an insertion module for controllably inserting the electrode array in the body and sensing forces applied to the electrode array; a monitor for providing information to a user; and a controller coupled to the insertion module and the monitor, wherein the controller causes the insertion module to control an amount of force that is applied to the electrode array.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2006Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: The Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New YorkInventors: Nabil Simaan, Spiros Manolidis
-
Publication number: 20120035615Abstract: A composite stylet for facilitating insertion of an implantable electrode array into either a left or right cochlea comprises a composite having a glass transition temperature between room temperature and body temperature. While relatively stiff and straight at room temperature, the composite stylet is slidably inserted into a longitudinal lumen of the electrode array. The electrode array is then inserted into the cochlea. As the composite stylet within the electrode array warms to body temperature, it becomes compliant, allowing the electrode array to assume a spiral shape. The proximal end of the composite stylet, which is not inserted into the body, retains its stiffness to aid the implanter in inserting the electrode array.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2009Publication date: February 9, 2012Applicant: ADVANCED BIONICS, LLCInventors: Kurt J. Koester, Chuladatta Thenuwara, Timothy Beerling