Abstract: A mechanical locating tool for self-locating the supraclavicular fossa region of the human body to activate the brown adipose tissue depot therein by referencing at least one of the clavicle, chin, neck and/or sternum. Also, a method for activation of brown adipose tissue depot in a human body by partially implanting a body piercing object proximate a target area of the human body in which the brown adipose tissue depot is located. An electrical stimulation signal is applied to the partially implanted body piercing object to generate an electric field to activate the brown adipose tissue depot The partially implanted body piercing object may also serve as a mechanical locating tool for positioning of a transdermal electrical stimulation patch and/or serve as a conduit for providing a secondary source of electrical stimulation to a target area.

Abstract: Devices and methods of treating a targeted body tissue by stimulating the body tissue with an electric current. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an electrode carrier configured to be removably coupled to an interior surface of an orthosis. The electrode carrier includes a recess configured to matingly receive a portion of an electrode. The electrode carrier is electrically coupled to the electrode when the portion of the electrode is disposed within the recess. A connection member is electrically coupled to the electrode carrier and is configured to be releasably coupled to a surface of the orthosis. The electrode carrier is electrically coupled to the orthosis when the connection member is coupled to the orthosis. In some embodiments, the electrode carrier is configured to be removably coupled to the interior surface of the orthosis. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the electrode is constructed of an absorptive material.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a wearable garment device for application of electrical current to a patient's tissue. The garment device includes a material having a aperture and a mesh material extending across the aperture. At least one electrode is attached onto one side of the mesh material. The surface of the mesh material attached to the at least one electrode is defined as the outer surface. The other surface of the mesh material is defined as the inner surface. The inner surface of the mesh material is placed against the patient's tissue to receive the electrical stimulation from the electrode.

Abstract: A functional electrical stimulation (FES) orthosis for FES to a limb segment, including: (a) a semi-rigid, self-retaining C-shaped frame, the frame configured to substantially envelop the limb segment, the frame including a first flexible and elongated circumferentially retaining element and at least a first and a second opposing flexible and elongated circumferentially retaining elements disposed on the circumferentially opposite side of the frame, the first retaining element and the first opposing retaining element forming a pair of opposing retaining elements, and (b) a surface electrical stimulation electrode for contacting at least one stimulation point on a surface of the limb segment, associated with, and supported by, the frame, the surface electrode for electrically associating, via the frame, with a neuroprosthetic stimulator unit, so as to provide FES, wherein the opposing retaining elements are configured to be radially spring-loaded towards a center of the frame, such that in donning the orthosis

Abstract: A method for treating incontinence includes positioning a transcutaneous electrode on skin of a patient adjacent a stimulation site; inserting a leading end of a percutaneous needle electrode through the skin adjacent the stimulation site, the percutaneous needle electrode including a lead wire disposed opposite the leading end; securing a neurostimulator unit to the transcutaneous electrode such that the neurostimulator unit is electrically coupled to the transcutaneous electrode with no lead wire disposed between the neurostimulator unit and the transcutaneous electrode, the neurostimulator unit including a pulse generator; connecting the lead wire of the percutaneous needle electrode to the neurostimulator unit for electrically coupling the needle electrode to the neurostimulator unit; and activating the pulse generator such that current pulses traverse the stimulation site by passing between the transcutaneous electrode pad and the percutaneous needle electrode.

Abstract: In various embodiments, the invention disclosed herein provides systems, devices and methods for providing electrical stimulation to a patient. An electrical mechanical interconnection is provided to facilitate user friendly systems and devices. Exemplary therapeutic electrical stimulation devices include a shoe connected mechanically and electrically to a conductor that provides signals for electrical stimulation.

Abstract: An electrode assembly includes a first surface to be placed adjacent a person's skin and a second surface including a plurality of reservoirs of conductive gel. The plurality of reservoirs of conductive gel are disposed on sections of the electrode assembly that are at least partially physically separated and may move at least partially independently of one another to conform to contours of a body of a patient. The electrode assembly is configured to dispense an amount of the electrically conductive gel onto the first surface in response to an activation signal and to provide for a defibrillating shock to be applied to the patient through the amount of the electrically conductive gel.

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: Single-use electrical leads for a nerve stimulator are disclosed. The leads include a status flag element such as a fuse, which is deliberately blown after use of the leads has begun to indicate that the leads are not to be reused. The nerve stimulator has a “test mode” that determines a current value for treatment, and a “therapy mode” that administers treatment with the chosen current value. If the fuse in the electrical leads is blown (not conducting), then the stimulator assumes that the leads have already been used and does not enter therapy mode, and optionally may not enter test mode. If the fuse in the electrical leads is intact (conducting), or not blown, then the stimulator assumes that the leads are as yet unused, and allows the user to enter either test mode or therapy mode. The fuse is deliberately blown after a particular amount of time spent in therapy mode.

Abstract: A biopotential electrode for transferring electrical signals with a subject that includes an electrical conductor, a membrane selectively permeable to ionic conduction for presenting a dry surface to the subject, and a conductive medium positioned in communication with a portion of the electrical conductor and a portion of the membrane. The electrical potentials are coupled from the subject across the membrane into the conductive medium and then transferred from the subject to the electrical conductor. In other embodiments, the electrical potentials may be transferred from the external conductor to the subject through the conductive medium across the membrane into the subject. Other embodiments include systems and methods for using the biopotential electrodes.

Abstract: A garment is used to facilitate the placement of biomedical sensors or other electrodes on the body. The garment is comfortable and allows freedom of movement much like typical clothing. Textile based electrical components are included in the garment which are capable of transmitting an electrical signal to and from various external electrodes placed on the body. A textile based EMI shield protects the signals from electromagnetic interference. The garment may take any form such as a vest, sports bra, long sleeve shirt, bonnet, or other form and may provide access to an electrode placement site without requiring removal of the garment.

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: Methods and apparatus are provided, for selective destruction or temporary disruption of nerves and/or conduction pathways in a mammalian body for the treatment of pain and other disorders. Apparatus comprises catheters having electrodes for targeting and affecting nerve tissue at a cellular level to reversible and irreversible nerve portion and incapacitation.

Abstract: The article is a support to which an electrode pair, a positive and corresponding negative electrode, is attached. Leads are electrically attached to each of the positive and negative electrodes, wherein each lead has an insulated coating. A controller is electrically attached to the leads for delivering monophasic or biphasic electrical stimulation at a single frequency. A power supply is electrically connected to the controller, and may be attached to the support. The article may be a sock, a glove, a harness or an insole.

Abstract: An apparatus for stimulating auricular points on the human ear is provided using low voltage pulses that are generated and delivered by portions of the apparatus that may be readily removed from the neck and ear, and then easily replaced by the patient to continue therapy.

Abstract: The present invention provides a medical device having a covering material and an electrical stimulator. The electrical stimulator includes a main body which generates electrical stimulation and a pad which is detachably arranged at a damaged part of a living body and transfers the electrical stimulation generated by the main body to the damaged part. The covering material is disposed on a lower surface of the pad and comes into contact with the damaged part, protecting and treating the damaged part.

Abstract: Systems and methods provide baroreflex activation to treat or reduce pain and/or to cause or enhance sedation or sleep. Methods involve activating the baroreflex system to provide pain reduction, sedation, improved sleep or some combination thereof. Systems include at least one baroreflex activation device, at least one sensor for sensing physiological activity of the patient, and a processor coupled with the baroreflex activation device(s) and the sensor(s) for processing sensed data received from the sensor and for activating the baroreflex activation device. In some embodiments, the system is fully implantable within a patient, such as in an intravascular, extravascular or intramural location.

Abstract: Disclosed herein, among other things, is a method for stimulating neural targets in the vicinity of a human ear. According to an embodiment, a device is clipped on a patient ear lobe, the device including a neural stimulation electrode. A neural stimulation signal is applied to the electrode to transcutaneously stimulate neural targets in the vicinity of the ear lobe, according to an embodiment. A physiological parameter is sensed using a sensor connected to the device. According to an embodiment, the neural stimulation signal is adjusted in response to the sensed parameter. The method is used is a variety of treatment regimens, including anti-hypertensive and cardiac improvement therapy.

Abstract: A cuff assembly includes a frame assembly configured to be positioned about a limb of a user and support a functional electrical stimulation system, and an over center closure mechanism coupled to the frame assembly and configured to secure the frame assembly relative to the limb, the over center closure mechanism being located on a medial side of the limb when the frame assembly is positioned about the limb.

Abstract: An electrode apparatus may be configured Electrode to provide electro-stimulation. The apparatus may include assembly a current spreader and a spongeless volume disposed adjacent to the current spreader. The current spreader may be configured to spatially distribute electrical current across a stimulation area of a subject's skin. The spongeless volume may be configured to carry liquid gel or other fluent conductive substance that is configured to conduct electrical current between the current spreader and the stimulation area of the subject's skin to provide electro-stimulation.

Abstract: A method of treating a waste evacuation dysfunction comprising administering transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TES) to at least one lower pelvic and/or sacral region for a specific treatment regimens. Also disclosed is a system for configuring a stimulation device to deliver transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TES) the system comprising: a computing device storing or having access to a plurality or TES settings and comprising a user interface to enable authorised selection of at least on of the TES settings for provision of TES by the stimulation device according to the at least one selected TES setting and the stimulation device communicatively coupled to the computing device to receive and store the selected at least one TES setting the stimulation device being of a size to be readily carried on a body and configured to selectively provide current to external electrode according to the one TES setting.

Abstract: Bioelectric implants are provided in three distinct embodiments, namely a bone/tissue anchor, a suture construction, and a plate. The bioelectric implants function in dual capacities as both fixation devices, and as galvanic cells for the production of electrical energy used for therapeutic purposes in tissue regeneration and healing. The bioelectric anchor may take the general form of a screw or pin having a hollow interior or cavity that extends through the body of the anchor. A coating can be applied to the cavity to form the anode portion of the galvanic cell. The outer surface of the anchor serves as a cathode. Bodily fluids and tissue act as an electrolyte to facilitate the chemical reactions necessary for the galvanic cell. For the suture construction, one or more strands of material are the cathode, and one or more strands of peripheral surrounding material act as the anode. Bodily fluids/tissue in contact with the suture act as an electrolyte.

Abstract: A neurostimulation device includes an external neurostimulator worn by a patient using a bracing element that braces a portion of the patient's body. The external neurostimulator delivers neurostimulation to modulate a cardiovascular function of the patient. In one embodiment, the external stimulator delivers neurostimulation percutaneously to a stimulation target in the patient's body using at least one percutaneous stimulation electrode having a distal end lodged on or near the stimulation target.

Abstract: An apparatus for electrical stimulation therapy comprising a garment and a plurality of electrode pads associated with the garment, wherein the electrode pads are positionable at selectable locations relative to the garment, such that to correspond to a person's body shape and areas that need electrical stimulation therapy, and wherein contact between the plurality of electrode pads and the person's body is achieved by the person resting on top of the plurality of electrode pads and garment, such that the person's weight assists in creating the contact between the plurality of electrode pads and the person's body.

Abstract: A neural stimulation system senses autonomic activities and applies neural stimulation to sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves to control autonomic balance. The neural stimulation system is capable of delivering neural stimulation pulses for sympathetic excitation, sympathetic inhibition, parasympathetic excitation, and parasympathetic inhibition.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for recharging an Implantable Medical Device (IMD). In one embodiment, a first external coil is positioned on one side of a patient's body, such as on a front side of the torso in proximity to the IMD. A second external coil is positioned on an opposite side of the patient's body, such as on the back of the torso. A recharging device generates a current in each of the coils, inductively coupling the first and the second coils to the secondary recharge coil of the IMD. According to another aspect, each of the two external coils may wrap around a portion of the patient's body, such as the torso or head, and are positioned such that the IMD lies between the coils. According to this aspect, current generated in the coils inductively couples to a second recharge coil that is angled within the patient's body.

Abstract: Non-invasive electrical nerve stimulation devices and magnetic stimulation devices are disclosed, along with methods of treating medical disorders using energy that is delivered noninvasively by such devices. The disorders comprise migraine and other primary headaches such as cluster headaches, including sinus symptoms that resemble an immune-mediated response (“sinus” headaches), irrespective of whether those symptoms arise from an allergy that is co-morbid with the headache. The disclosed methods may also be used to treat other disorders that may be co-morbid with migraine headaches, such as anxiety disorders. In preferred embodiments of the disclosed methods, one or both of the patient's vagus nerves are stimulated non-invasively. In other embodiments, parts of the sympathetic nervous system and/or the adrenal glands are stimulated.

Abstract: A treatment apparatus configured to provide electrical stimulation to a leg of a user is provided. The treatment apparatus includes an inner layer configured to contact the leg of the user and configured to couple to an electrical stimulus, a retainer fixedly connected to the inner layer, and a fabric layer coupled to the inner layer, the fabric layer configured to releasably couple to the retainer to secure the electrical stimulus against the leg of the user.

Abstract: Neurostimulation assemblies, systems, and methods make possible the providing of short-term therapy or diagnostic testing by providing electrical connections between muscles and/or nerves inside the body and stimulus generators and/or recording instruments mounted on the surface of the skin or carried outside the body. Neurostimulation assemblies, systems, and methods may include a carrier and an electronics pod, the electronics pod including stimulation generation circuitry and user interface components. A power source and/or flash memory may be incorporated in neurostimulation assembly and/or the return electrode. The assemblies, systems, and methods are adapted to provide coordinated neurostimulation to multiple regions of the body.

Abstract: A suture sleeve for securing a medical implantable lead in position in relation to a human or animal body, has a tubular body of a resilient material defining a through bore in the longitudinal direction of the suture sleeve and being formed with one or more longitudinal spaced, circumferential suture grooves on the outside and two or more grip enhancing projections around the inner circumference of the through bore in at least an area radially inward of a suture groove. The suture sleeve is formed with two or more stiffening protuberances in the bottom along the circumference of the suture groove such that the bottom of the suture groove deviates from circular as seen in cross section. The, stiffening protuberances are positioned radially outside of the respective grip enhancing projections on the inside. A method for manufacturing such a suture sleeve is also described.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bandage (1) having at least one support element (2) and at least two electrodes (6) that are spaced apart from one another, characterized in that at least two pads (8) that are fillable with a fluid are arranged on the at least one support element (2), and at least one electrode (6) is fastened to each pad (8), wherein the at least two pads (8) are connected to each other via at least one fluid connection in such a manner that an internal pressure compensation can take place between at least two of the pads (8).

Abstract: A flexible dry electrode and the manufacturing method thereof are provided. The electrode has an electroplated uneven surface and at least one hole and is made of porous material.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a chest band adapted to encircle the torso of a patient after having implant surgery. The chest band couples to an arm cuff by means of an adjustable strap. The arm cuff fits loosely over the patient's arm above the elbow and is adjustable, comprising a single strap material with mating hook and loop fastener devices to allow adjustability for different sized arms. The chest band had a tapered end that over folds a second end and the tapered end includes a hook and loop faster that releasably couples directly to the fabric of the chest band. An adjustable wrist cuff includes a direct means for fastening the cuff to the chest band, or optionally, a second adjustable strap to enable selective coupling of the wrist cuff to the chest band.

Abstract: The invention relates to a wound dressing (10) for electrical stimulation, with a planar energy-transmitting element (12, 12?), a protecting and supporting layer (14), which is connected to the energy-transmitting element (12, 12?) and which covers the energy-transmitting element (12, 12?) on the outside and, at least in some regions, protrudes beyond an edge (16, 16?) of the energy-transmitting element (12, 12?), and a planar wound cover (26) which is applied internally to a side of the energy-transmitting element (12, 12?) facing away from the protecting and supporting layer (14), wherein the energy-transmitting element (12, 12?) and the protecting and supporting layer (14) have a separating line (18, 18?), which extends from the edge into the interior of the wound dressing (10) and which separates a contact band (20, 20?) of the energy-transmitting element (12, 12?); from a wound covering and delimiting area (22, 24) of the energy-transmitting element (12, 12?).

Abstract: Electrodes, multi-electrode patches, and electrodes for biomedical systems are provided. The electrode includes an adhesive film layer having a top surface and a bottom surface. A conductive element is substantially surrounded by the adhesive film layer. A conductive gel layer covers at least portion of a surface of the conductive element. The conducting gel comprises a material that does not result in significant skin irritation on a human subject after a period of at least about one week.

Abstract: In certain variations, methods, systems and/or devices for enhancing conductivity of an electrical signal through a subject's skin using one or more microneedle electrodes are provided. A microneedle electrode may be applied to the subject's skin by placing the microneedle electrode in direct contact with the subject's skin. The microneedles of the microneedle electrode may be inserted into the skin such that the microneedles pierce stratum corneum of the skin up to or through dermis of the skin. An electrical signal passes or is conducted through or across the microneedle electrode and the subject's skin, where impedance of the microneedle electrode is minimal and greatly reduced compared to existing technologies.

Abstract: The present utility model relates to the assembly arrangement for a bandage holding a portable small-scale transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator device.

Abstract: Self-positioning of at least a portion of a transdermal electrical stimulation patch within a target area (e.g., supraclavicular fossa region) of a human body to activate a depot of brown adipose tissue therein. An electric field is generated using the electrical stimulation patch to activate the brown adipose tissue within the supraclavicular fossa region of the body. The patch is self-positioned using one or more anatomical points (e.g., anatomical landmarks and/or anatomical features) or markings on the body. Brown adipose tissue may also be activated by applying an electrical signal to a body piercing partially implanted proximate a target area in which the tissue is disposed.

Abstract: A bandage with an integrated, wireless, transcutaneous electrical neuron-stimulation (TENS) device, and method of using the same. The integrated bandage and TENS device provides electric stimulation to an anatomical site that is covered by the bandage. The bandage includes controls that enable the user to control the intensity levels of the electric stimulation, which is provided through at least one electrode. The electrical circuit in the TENS device provides biphasic or monophasic sequence of pulses to the electrodes, and the sequence of pulses form a plurality of waveforms available for specific clinical needs.

Abstract: A medical patch having a multi-piece bottom liner including a central liner sequentially removable independently of two outer perimeter liners. The multi-piece liner covering two adhesives of different peel force. Removal of the central liner exposes a first temporary/repositionable adhesive. Once properly positioned, the outer perimeter liners are removed to expose a second stronger adhesive. A foam cushioning layer is disposed beneath and extends beyond a footprint of every printed circuit board to prevent skin irritation. The medical patch may be designed specifically for stimulation of the sacral (S3 foramen) spinal nerve without the use of a separate mechanical placement tool or assistance by another.

Abstract: A device for altering cardiac performance includes an energy absorbing element which absorbs cardiac pumping energy from at least a portion of the heart. The energy may be delivered to another part of the body, such as another portion of the heart, to perform useful work such as providing blood pumping assistance.

Abstract: Electrode structures for transvascular nerve stimulation combine electrodes with an electrically-insulating backing layer. The backing layer increases the electrical impedance of electrical paths through blood in a lumen of a blood vessel and consequently increases the flow of electrical current through surrounding tissues. The electrode structures may be applied to stimulate nerves such as the phrenic, vagus, trigeminal, obturator or other nerves.

Abstract: A neurostimulation device includes an external neurostimulator worn by a patient using a bracing element that braces a portion of the patient's body. The external neurostimulator delivers neurostimulation to modulate a cardiovascular function of the patient. In one embodiment, the external stimulator delivers the neurostimulation transcutaneously to a stimulation target in the patient's body using surface stimulation electrodes placed on the body approximately over the stimulation target.

Abstract: A system for administering pain-free injections includes an electric current source having at least two electrodes attached adjacent an injection site, the electric current source producing a variable numbness pattern and providing a frame of reference for identifying a plurality of sub-areas of the injection site; and a probe applied to the plurality of sub-areas of the injection site for pain-response testing, wherein one or more areas of numbness in the variable numbness pattern are identifiable according to the plurality of sub-areas of the injection site. A fence may be removably applied to the injection site and provide a frame of reference for identifying a plurality of sub-areas of the injection site, and may aid in identifying one or more areas of numbness in the variable numbness pattern. The fence may be removably applied to the injection site via a belt or manual pressure.

Abstract: An electrode configured to provide electrical contact with a subject's skin and includes a conductive layer and a gel layer. The conductive layer spreads current and transmits electrical signals to and/or receives electrical signals from the subject's skin and has a first conductive surface through which electrical signals are transmitted to and/or received from the subject's skin. The first conductive surface is on a side of the conductive layer that faces toward the subject's skin if the electrode is installed on the subject. The gel layer is formed on the same side of the conductive layer as the first conductive surface. The gel layer has a first interface surface that directly contacts the subject's skin if the electrode is installed on the subject, and to conduct electrical signals between the subject's skin and the first conductive surface. The first interface surface has a surface area larger than that of the first conductive surface.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for stimulating pelvic floor muscles in a patient comprises applying at least one electrode externally to each side of the patient's body in the region of the pelvis, and energising the electrodes to apply a muscular stimulation current which flows laterally across the patient through the patient's pelvic floor. Preferably a plurality of electrodes are applied symmetrically on each side of the body. The electrodes may be incorporated in a garment.

Abstract: A medical device having a unit in communication with ancillary components wherein the unit and the ancillary components each have a sensory output through which communication with a user of the medical device may be accomplished and to which the user's attention directed. In one aspect, the medical device is an AED unit with associated pads, which are an ancillary component electrically connected to the AED unit. In this illustrative example, the unit has a unit sensory output (e.g., a speaker or a display), and the pads, and/or their associated packaging, have an ancillary sensory output (e.g. a speaker or display). Programming in the AED unit controls output to the sensory outputs such that the user's attention is directed between the unit and the ancillary components.

Abstract: There is disclosed various embodiments of an implantable anchor for anchoring a medical lead within a patient. The implantable anchor includes a body having a cavity for receiving a medical lead, and a separate, removable key for insertion into the cavity. The key, upon insertion into the cavity, engages and locks the medical lead into place and prevents the movement of the medical lead with respect to the anchor.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a percutaneous connection port configured to convey an electrical signal between an electrical device disposed outside of a body and an electrical member disposed within the body. The percutaneous connection port has a distal portion and a proximal portion. The proximal portion includes a surface configured to be accessible from a region of the body. The distal portion includes an anchor configured to be disposed within the body. The anchor has a curved shape about an axis substantially parallel to a skin of the body.

Abstract: A percutaneous gateway is provided for permanently transmission between inside of a body and outside of the body, comprising an implant (10) adapted to be at least partly anchored in a bone (1). The implant (10) has a transmission means (30) that allows a long-term stable communication through a transmitting device (20) adapted to extend from an implantable component (90) through the bone (80) to a device (91) at the outer end (3) of the percutaneous gateway.