Abstract: An electrode package for use with a defibrillator, the electrode package comprising an outer shell providing a vapor barrier between an interior space inside the outer shell and an exterior environment, a breakaway connection element positioned at the perimeter of the outer shell, one or more defibrillation electrodes positioned in the interior space inside the outer shell, a further electrical element positioned in the interior space inside the outer shell, electrical paths extending from the further electrical element through the breakaway element to the exterior environment, wherein the breakaway element and electrical paths are configured so that, when the outer shell is opened and the defibrillation electrodes are removed, the electrical paths are disconnected within the breakaway element.

Abstract: Electrode assemblies are provided, in which a pair of electrodes is joined by a central member. In some implementations, the electrode assemblies are foldable, and are configured to facilitate correct placement on a patient's chest. Some electrode assemblies include a separable electrode, allowing the electrode assembly to be fitted to patients having particularly large chests.

Abstract: An apparatus for assisting a rescuer in performing chest compressions during CPR on a victim, the apparatus comprising a pad or other structure configured to be applied to the chest near or at the location at which the rescuer applies force to produce the chest compressions, at least one sensor connected to the pad, the sensor being configured to sense movement of the chest or force applied to the chest, processing circuitry for processing the output of the sensor to determine whether the rescuer is substantially releasing the chest following chest compressions, and at least one prompting element connected to the processing circuitry for providing the rescuer with information as to whether the chest is being substantially released following chest compressions.

Abstract: A surface electrode for long-term electrical communication with a skin surface of a patient, the surface electrode including: (a) a highly-conductive foil, for operatively connecting to a power source, for communication of an electrical signal between the highly-conductive foil and the skin surface of the patient, and (b) a securing arrangement for securing the highly-conductive foil to the skin surface, wherein the foil has a plurality of macroscopic air-permeable regions for fluid communication of air with the skin surface, and wherein the plurality of macroscopic air-permeable regions has a first surface area, the foil has a second surface area, and a ratio of the first surface area to the second surface area is at least 0.1.

Abstract: A transcutaneous electrode is disclosed having a sheet electrode of an electrically-conductive material with an electrically conductive layer affixed to a major portion of the lower surface thereof. A pad of electrically-conductive gel is applied to the lower surface of the sheet electrode over the electrically-conductive layer. An electrical conductor having an unsheathed end portion is secured to the upper surface of the sheet electrode by an electrically-conductive adhesive. A high dielectric cover overlays the end out portion of the electrical conductor, and is secured to the sheet electrode by the conductive adhesive. A method for making the electrode is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of analysis of medical signals which uses wavelet transform analysis to decompose cardiac signals. Apparatus for carrying out the method, and cardiac apparatus adapted to employ the method are also described.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an electrode for establishing electrical contact with the skin. The electrode comprises an electrically conductive gel (12) covering a part of a first side of an electrically conductive layer (4) and an electrically conductive by-pass element (19). The by-pass element extends, on the second side of the electrically conductive layer, over the circumference of the gel on the first side and is in electrical contact with the second side of the electrically conductive layer at a point opposing an area covered with electrically conductive gel at the first side of the electrically conductive layer. The by-pass element ensures that the electrode continues to be operable even if exposed to chemical or mechanical stress.

Abstract: A single separable electrode that includes a plurality of separable electrically connected electrode sections.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, and method of delivering a defibrillation pulse to the heart of a patient generally includes positioning a pair of electrodes on the exterior surface of the patient's body such that at least one of the electrodes is placed on a limb, e.g., arm or leg, of the patient in a position proximate to the patient's torso. An electrical defibrillation pulse is then delivered through the electrodes, into the limb, enabling the electrical defibrillation pulse to travel from the limb to the heart of the patient.

Abstract: A defibrillation system for patients of all ages may include an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) coupled to a set of universal electrodes. Universal electrodes may be reduced-size versions of adult electrodes, and may include an opening to lower effective impedance. The AED may include an adult/pediatric mode control or switch. Based upon the setting of the adult/pediatric switch, the AED may perform an adult defibrillation sequence or a pediatric defibrillation sequence. An adult defibrillation sequence may comprise delivery of one or more waveforms or shocks characterized by energies appropriate for adults, for example, 150 Joule biphasic waveforms. A pediatric defibrillation sequence may comprise delivery of one or more waveforms characterized by energies appropriate for children, for example, 50 Joule biphasic waveforms.

Abstract: A surface electrode for long-term delivery of an electrical signal to a skin surface of a patient, the surface electrode including: (a) a flexible, at least partially-conductive surface layer for physically contacting the skin surface, and for delivering thereto the electrical signal, and (b) an electrically conductive layer, operatively connected to the partially-conductive surface layer, for transferring the electrical signal thereto, wherein the at least partially-conductive surface layer has a thickness of less than 0.5 mm, and preferably contains a conductive gel or artificial skin.

Abstract: A defibrillator electrode pad assembly has an adhesive release sheet configured to be removed while the electrode pad is held in a desired position on the patient. The release sheet is folded in a substantially U-shaped configuration and includes a pull-tab to be grasped by the user. The electrode pad is applied to the patient by positioning the electrode pad on the patient's skin with the release sheet facing the skin and in contact with or closely adjacent to the skin, without lifting the electrode pad from the patient's skin, pulling on the pull-tab to remove the release sheet to expose the adhesive portion, and adhering the adhesive portion to the patient's skin.

Abstract: An automated or semi-automated defibrillator (AED) system includes an AED and a cartridge attachable to the AED. The cartridge includes electrode pads and a power source such as a battery or fuel cell, which may recharge a defibrillator battery, power defibrillator circuitry, or both. Because the cartridge includes both a power source and electrode pads, one can replace the power source and the pads at the same time by replacing a single cartridge. Furthermore, in defibrillator systems where the power source charges the defibrillator battery, the power source can be selected to have the same life as the pads, thus making it practical to replace the power source and pads at the same time. In addition, maintenance for such a charging defibrillator system typically costs less than for a non-charging system because it often costs less to replace the power source than to replace the defibrillator battery.

Abstract: A conductive layer is made of a carbon fiber. A conductive lead wire is connected to the conductive layer to lead an electric signal. A conductive gel layer is attached to a first face of the conductive layer and adapted to be adhered on a living body. The conductive gel layer is formed from at least water, polymeric monomer, aminoalcohol as a pH adjuster, and a cross-linking agent so as to have a pH in a range from 8 to 13.

Abstract: Electrodes are provided, for example including: (a) a first electrode component including a conductive skin-contacting element, and (b) a second electrode component including a thin electrical conductor. The first and second electrode components may be positioned during storage of the electrode so that the conductive skin-contacting element is not in contact with the thin electrical conductor, and configured so that they can be brought into contact prior to use of the electrode with a surface of the conductive skin-contacting element in contact with a surface of the thin electrical conductor.

Abstract: Medical electrode arrangements are provided for electrotherapy and monitoring applications. In one embodiment, each electrode arrangement includes a smaller electrode that is releasably attached to the back of a larger electrode. For adult applications, the larger electrode is applied to the patient. For pediatric applications, the larger electrode is preferably removed, and the smaller electrode is applied to the patient. Face-to-face and back-to-back electrode arrangement configurations are also provided. In a further embodiment, an electrode arrangement is comprised of first and second conductive regions of a common substrate that are separable by a division line in the substrate. For adult applications, stored energy is conducted through both conductive regions. For pediatric applications, the second region of the substrate is removed along the division line. A sensing mechanism is also provided to detect whether the electrode arrangement has been placed in an adult or pediatric configuration.

Abstract: A connector for connecting a wire to an electrode includes a rigid body which presses downwardly against the wire and presses it into contact with the laminated sheet member of the electrode. The body includes first and second pairs of spaced apart prongs and third and fourth prongs, all of which pierce the laminated sheet member and are bent upwardly into contact with the central portion of the connector.

Abstract: Medical electrode arrangements are provided for electrotherapy and monitoring applications. In one embodiment, each electrode arrangement includes a smaller electrode that is releasably attached to the back of a larger electrode. For adult applications, the larger electrode is applied to the patient. For pediatric applications, the larger electrode is preferably removed, and the smaller electrode is applied to the patient. Face-to-face and back-to-back electrode arrangement configurations are also provided. In another embodiment, an electrode arrangement is comprised of first and second conductive regions that are separable from each other. In yet further embodiments, an electrode arrangement is comprised of two or more electrodes that are not physically or electrically connected to each other. At least one electrode from each electrode arrangement is placed on the patient. A sensor is also provided to sense which electrodes in each electrode arrangement have been placed on the patient.

Abstract: A TENS electrode formed by multiple layers, wherein a layer of self-adhesive conductive gel base onto which the conductive body is mounted. An isolating pad mounted on the conductive body, and a lead wire securely sandwiched in between the conductive body and the isolating tape. The conductive body is made of carbon fiber to provide the advantages of low impedance and superior softness. Further, since the conductive body is made of nonmetallic material, any electromagnetic interference is avoided.

Abstract: A pair of disposable medical electrodes for delivering high-energy defibrillation or pacing stimulation are provided and include a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The positive electrode and the negative electrode each include an electrode member with a top face and a bottom face, a electrically conductive coating of a metal and a metal chloride, the coating being disposed on the bottom face, and an electrically conductive gel pad disposed on the coating. The amount of metal chloride included in the coating on the negative electrode is greater than the amount of metal chloride included in the coating on the positive electrode.

Abstract: An electrode for establishing electrical contact with the skin is disclosed, said electrode having a low impedance and comprising an electrically conductive metallic layer (4) and an electrically conductive gel (12) attached to said metallic layer, wherein the pH of the electrically conductive gel (12) is chosen so as to provide a corrosion of the metallic layer (4).

Abstract: Electrodes are provided, for example including: (a) a first electrode component including a conductive skin-contacting element, and (b) a second electrode component including a thin electrical conductor. The first and second electrode components may be positioned during storage of the electrode so that the conductive skin-contacting element is not in contact with the thin electrical conductor, and configured so that they can be brought into contact prior to use of the electrode with a surface of the conductive skin-contacting element in contact with a surface of the thin electrical conductor.

Abstract: A conductive layer is made of a carbon fiber. A conductive lead wire is connected to the conductive layer to lead an electric signal. A conductive gel layer is attached to a first face of the conductive layer and adapted to be adhered on a living body. The conductive gel layer is formed from at least water, polymeric monomer, aminoalcohol as a pH adjuster, and a cross-linking agent so as to have a pH in a range from 8 to 13.

Abstract: Apparatuses and systems for applying electrical stimulation to a site on a patient. In one embodiment, an implantable electrode assembly includes an electrode array carried by a flexible support member. The electrode array can include a first plurality of electrodes spaced apart from a second plurality of electrodes. The first plurality of electrodes can be connected to a first lead line, and the second plurality of electrodes can be similarly connected to a second lead line. The first and second lead lines can be housed in a cable extending away from the support member. A distal end of the cable can include a connector for coupling the lead lines to an implantable pulse generator or other stimulus unit. In operation, the stimulus unit can bias the first plurality of electrodes at a first potential and the second plurality of electrodes at a second potential to generate an electric field proximate to a stimulation site.

Abstract: Electrode assemblies are provided, in which a pair of electrodes is joined by a central member. In some implementations, the electrode assemblies are foldable, and are configured to facilitate correct placement on a patient's chest. Some electrode assemblies include a separable electrode, allowing the electrode assembly to be fitted to patients having particularly large chests.

Abstract: A surface electrode for long-term delivery of an electrical signal to a skin surface of a patient, the surface electrode including: (a) a flexible, at least partially-conductive surface layer for physically contacting the skin surface, and for delivering thereto the electrical signal, and (b) an electrically conductive layer, operatively connected to the partially-conductive surface layer, for transferring the electrical signal thereto, wherein the at least partially-conductive surface layer has a thickness of less than 0.5 mm, and preferably contains a conductive gel or artificial skin.

Abstract: A medical electrode includes a moderately conductive flexible member having a top side and a bottom side with a connector and contact with a flexible member top side for establishing electrical contact with an external apparatus. A non-conductive flexible sheet covers the conductive flexible member top and the connector and a highly conductive ink pattern is disposed on a conductive flexible member bottom side. A moderately high conductive hydrogel adhesive disposed on the conductive flexible member bottom side and cover the conductive ink pattern is provided for adhering electrode to a patients' skin.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for electrically coupling to percutaneous probes wherein entry angles of the percutaneous probes are controllable. An apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes a percutaneous electrode having a first segment with a first sharp end and a second segment with a second end, at least part of the first segment being aligned along an axis and at least part of the second segment being offset from the axis. The apparatus can further include a coupling member having an aperture with a wall portion, at least a portion of which is electrically conductive. The apparatuses include shaped support surfaces, and associated methods wherein a non-planar support surface can more easily match a recipient's skin surface contour for improved comfort and security upon attachment.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for deploying percutaneous probes. An apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes a housing and a percutaneous probe having a sharp end and positioned within the housing. The percutaneous probe is movable relative to the housing between a stowed position and at least one of a first deployed position and a second deployed position. The percutaneous probe can project from the housing by a first distance when in the first deployed position and a second distance greater than the first distance when in the second deployed position. A depth control device can operatively couple to the percutaneous probe and can have a first configuration to allow the percutaneous probe to be moved to the first deployed position and a second configuration to allow the percutaneous probe to be moved to the second deployed position.

Abstract: A medical electrode includes a conductive flexible member having a top side and a bottom side with a non-conductive flexible sheet covering the conductive flexible member top side. A connector in contact with the conductive flexible member bottom side is provided for establishing electrical contact with an external electrical apparatus. A conductive adhesive adhered to the conductive flexible member bottom side provides electrical conduction to a patient's skin.

Abstract: A medical cuirass or breastplate for use in CPR is made of a light weight rigid material in a shape to approximate a patient's chest area. The cuirass has defibrillator pads on the interior surface adapted to contact the chest. The defibrillator pads are in electrical contact with electrical connectors on the exterior surface. The electrical connectors are adapted to be connected to a defibrillator machine for electrical stimulation of the heart.

Abstract: A connector for connecting a wire to an electrode includes a rigid body which presses downwardly against the wire and presses it into contact with the laminated sheet member of the electrode. The body includes first and second pairs of spaced apart prongs and third and fourth prongs, all of which pierce the laminated sheet member and are bent upwardly into contact with the central portion of the connector.

Abstract: An electrotherapy delivery device includes an upper member having a handle portion and a pediatric electrode mounted to the bottom surface of the upper member. A base member having an adult electrode is selectively attached to the upper member with a coupling mechanism to conceal the pediatric electrode. The upper member attaches to the base member across diametrically opposed corners of the base member to provide the user with a more ergonomic hand position when accessing the paddles from the defibrillator. The device further include a plurality of switches operable to deliver a charge and to select the level of charge to be delivered to the patient. The paddle is provided with a processing circuit that receives an output from separate energy level increase and decrease switches, processes the output from the switches, and outputs a signal to the defibrillator corresponding to the level of energy selected by the switches.

Abstract: Electrodes are capable of delivering synchronized cardioversion and pacing energy pulses as well as defibrillation energy pulses to a patient. The electrodes are also appropriate for use with an automatic or semi-automatic external defibrillator (AED) as well as defibrillators capable of cardioversion and manual defibrillators. The electrodes have a plurality of conductors sized for delivering electrotherapy to patients of different sizes. Preferably, conductors can be used singly or in combination for therapy. The electrodes may also be separated to form electrodes of smaller dimension for application to a smaller patient.

Abstract: Medical electrodes are provided for use in applications that require long shelf life and/or shelf life at high temperatures. Some electrodes include high temperature adhesives and/or foams and an encapsulated electrolyte.

Abstract: An electrode system (1) for an electric punctual stimulation therapy, which system comprises at least one stimulation electrode (4) with a disk-like base (5) and has an annular platelet (9) to be arranged on the skin surface (2) before the latter is pierced by the electric needle (7), which annular disk (9) is glued to the skin surface (2) and is connected to the base (5) via an adhesive connection, and a handling tool (21) for applying such an electrode system. The handling tool (21) comprises an electrically conductive, axially displaceable pin (25) which is connected to a resistance measurement device (40) and which is also designed to put the annular platelet (9) thereon and apply it. Preferably, the electrode can also be fitted to the tool (21).

Abstract: A universally functional biomedical electrode is disclosed, where the electrode has a resistive element that reduces edge effect by a redistribution of current within the electrode and in mammalian tissue contacting the electrode. In one embodiment, the electrode has at its perimeter in one layer the resistive element that provides a cross-sectional area to reduce edge effect regardless of the type of biomedical instrumentation connected thereto. With the construction of other layers suitable for multifunctional electrode usage, this electrode can serve as a single item in inventory at health facilities.

Abstract: An electrode includes a conductive adhesive layer and a conductive foil layer having a void therein. One such electrode may be mounted in conjunction with another electrode upon a release liner having one or more openings therein to facilitate electrical signal exchange between electrodes. A release liner may include a moisture permeable and/or moisture absorbent membrane. A release liner may alternatively include a conductive backing layer. A release liner may also include an insulating swatch covering an opening. A release liner may be implemented as a foldable sheet, such that multiple electrodes may be mounted upon the same side of the foldable sheet. A medical device to which the mounted electrodes are coupled may characterize the electrical path between the electrodes. The medical device may perform a variety of electrical measurements, including real and/or complex impedance measurements.

Abstract: An electrode system is provided that generates a current flow that envelops and permeates an entire wound site. The electrode system includes two electrodes that are shaped and oriented to cause the current to flow from one electrode through the wound to the other electrode. A first electrode is applied to the wound site and the second electrode encircles the first electrode and is applied to the skin surrounding the wound cite. The two electrodes may be mounted to an oxygen-permeable layer that provides support for the electrodes and allows the wound site to breathe. An electrically insulative element may be disposed between the two electrodes. A power supply, which may be local to or remote from the electrode system, is provided for applying a voltage potential across the electrodes. In another suitable embodiment, the two electrodes are comprised of oppositely charged polymers.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an electrode for establishing electrical contact with the skin. The electrode comprises an electrically conductive gel (12) covering a part of a first side of an electrically conductive layer (4) and an electrically conductive by-pass element (19). The by-pass element extends, on the second side of the electrically conductive layer, over the circumference of the gel on the first side and is in electrical contact with the second side of the electrically conductive layer at a point opposing an area covered with electrically conductive gel at the first side of the electrically conductive layer. The by-pass element ensures that the electrode continues to be operable even if exposed to chemical or mechanical stress.

Abstract: An electrode-pad storage package includes an interior for storing one or more electrode pads and a window that provides a view into the interior. Because it has a window, the package often reduces the time it takes for an operator to attach the electrode pad or pads to a patient. For example, such a see-through package often saves precious seconds by allowing the operator to view the instructions on a defibrillator electrode pad or pads, and thus determine which electrode pad goes where, before opening the package. Such a package may also save time by allowing the operator to determine the pad type, and thus determine whether the electrode pad or pads are appropriate for the patient, before opening the package. In this latter case, the package may also prevent the operator from unnecessarily opening, and thus wasting, a package containing an inappropriate electrode pad or pads.

Abstract: A cartridge is provided for storing one or more electrode pads such as a defibrillator electrode pad. The cartridge includes a housing having a rigid portion, a storage space disposed within the housing, and a storage-space opening that allows one to remove/insert the electrode pad or pads from/into the storage space. Because it has a housing with a rigid portion, such a cartridge can better protect one or more electrode pads from handling damage. Furthermore, one can construct the cartridge such that it is attachable to a medical device such as an AED. This allows an operator to carry or store the medical device, cartridge, and one or more electrode pads as a single unit. In addition, one can construct the cartridge such that the one or more electrode pads can be pre-connected to the medical device. This can eliminate connecting the one or more electrode pads to the medical device during an emergency.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to medical electrode systems. In particular, the electrodes of this invention are capable of delivering synchronized cardioversion energy pulses as well as defibrillation energy pulses to a patient. The electrodes of this invention are appropriate for use with an automatic or semi-automatic external defibrillator (“AED”) as well as defibrillators capable of cardioversion. At least one electrode in an electrode set has a substrate with an adhesive surface, and conductors in communication with the substrate. The electrode further has a plurality of conductive elements electrode elements disposed on a substrate wherein each electrode element is in a spatial relationship to each other and electrically connected to the conductors, further the spatial relationship of the conductors facilitates the determination of an overall electrode pad attachment quality. A method of using the electrodes of this invention is also described.

Abstract: A TENS electrode formed by multiple layers, wherein a layer of self-adhesive conductive gel base onto which the conductive body is mounted. An isolating pad mounted on the conductive body, and a lead wire securely sandwiched in between the conductive body and the isolating tape. The conductive body is made of carbon fiber to provide the advantages of low impedance and superior softness. Further, since the conductive body is made of nonmetallic material, any electromagnetic interference is avoided.

Abstract: An apparatus for piercing a skin surface, and methods for operating and manufacturing such an apparatus. In one embodiment, the apparatus can include a support housing having an engaging surface to engage the skin surface. A releasable attachment member can releasably secure the housing to the skin surface, for example, with an adhesive bond. A stop member can operatively engage a percutaneous probe of the apparatus to at least restrict the ability of the probe to be re-used.

Abstract: A water-impregnable electrode includes: a contacting layer made of water-penetrable electrically conductive materials to be contacted with a user's (or patient's) skin, a water-impregnated intermediate layer made of water-absorbable materials contiguous to the contacting layer for soaking up water or moisture into the intermediate layer, a backing layer made of electrically insulative materials contiguous to the intermediate layer for covering the intermediate layer as sandwiched in between the contacting layer and the backing layer, and an electrical conducting device leading through the layers as combined together for electrically connecting the contacting layer to an electrical stimulator for directing the electrical pulses from the stimulator into the user's body (skin) for stimulating the user's nerve or muscle for medical, health, exercise or toning purposes.

Abstract: Medical electrode arrangements are provided for electrotherapy and monitoring applications. In one embodiment, each electrode arrangement includes a smaller electrode that is releasably attached to the back of a larger electrode. For adult applications, the larger electrode is applied to the patient. For pediatric applications, the larger electrode is preferably removed, and the smaller electrode is applied to the patient. Face-to-face and back-to-back electrode arrangement configurations are also provided. In another embodiment, an electrode arrangement is comprised of first and second conductive regions that are separable from each other. In yet further embodiments, an electrode arrangement is comprised of two or more electrodes that are not physically or electrically connected to each other. At least one electrode from each electrode arrangement is placed on the patient. A sensor is also provided to sense which electrodes in each electrode arrangement have been placed on the patient.

Abstract: Medical electrode arrangements are provided for electrotherapy and monitoring applications. In one embodiment, each electrode arrangement includes a smaller electrode that is releasably attached to the back of a larger electrode. For adult applications, the larger electrode is applied to the patient. For pediatric applications, the larger electrode is preferably removed, and the smaller electrode is applied to the patient. Face-to-face and back-to-back electrode arrangement configurations are also provided. In a further embodiment, an electrode arrangement is comprised of first and second conductive regions of a common substrate that are separable by a division line in the substrate. For adult applications, stored energy is conducted through both conductive regions. For pediatric applications, the second region of the substrate is removed along the division line. A sensing mechanism is also provided to detect whether the electrode arrangement has been placed in an adult or pediatric configuration.

Abstract: A dual function medical pad is disclosed for both controlling patient temperature and providing a patient-to-electrode interface. The pad includes a fluid containing layer for containing a thermal exchange fluid circulated therethrough, wherein the medical pad is operable for thermal exchange with a patient through a first side of the fluid containing layer. One or more electrodes are interconnected to the fluid containing layer on the first side (e.g. electrosurgical return electrode(s), EKG electrode(s), pacing/defribullation electrode(s)). Preferably, an electrical connector is electrically connected to the electrode and extends through the fluid containing layer to a second side thereof. Such electrical connector is interconnected or selectively interconnectable to a signal cable. The pad may further include an adhesive surface which extends over at least a portion of the first side of the fluid containing layer. Preferably, the adhesive surface substantially covers the electrode(s).

Abstract: Medical electrodes are provided for use in applications that require long shelf life and/or shelf life at high temperatures. Some electrodes include high temperature adhesives and/or foams and an encapsulated electrolyte.