Abstract: A portable multi-sensor device includes a substantially sheet-like and at least partially flexible unit support element, a garment to be worn by a user and to be removably associated with the support element, a plurality of sensors, adapted to detect biological and/or vital parameters on the body of a user and transduce them into electric signals, at least one of which is incorporated in the unit support element, a transceiver for remote transmission of the electric signals to a remote monitoring center, a processing and control unit for processing and controlling the electric signals, therapeutic treatment elements associated with the unit support element and designed to contact one part of the wearer's body. The therapeutic treatment elements are electrically connected to the processing and control unit to be controlled thereby and to provide therapeutic and/or thermal therapeutic treatment to an area of the body.

Abstract: An electrode structure for use with a monitoring system. A thin flexible body of an electrode material comprising conductive rubber is provided with projections extending externally to a working surface. According to this construction of the working surface of the electrode only the projections make a contact to the recipient's skin. When the projections are provided with a small cross-section, the constant electrode-skin contact is ensured due to the resiliency of the electrode material.

Abstract: A handheld treatment device is for applying electrical impulses to a living body through the surface of the body, for treating a variety of clinical conditions. The device comprises first and second electrodes for contact with the skin; a waveform generator for repeatedly generating an AC waveform for applying electrical impulses through the electrodes to the skin; a detector for detecting changes in the skin impedance and for generating output signals representing the skin impedance; means responsive to the output signals from the detector for monitoring the responsivity of the skin; and indicator means for generating a first indication when a predetermined level of responsivity is reached and a second indication when a pre-determined treatment has been administered.

Abstract: A medical electrode includes an electrode member having a top face and a bottom face, an electrical conductor having an unfanned, unsheathed end portion for conducting energy between the electrode member and a medical device, and a patient contacting layer secured to at least a portion of the bottom face of the electrode member. An energy blocking layer is disposed between the unfanned conductor end portion and the electrode member to prevent immediate transfer of energy to the electrode member. A current distributing structure is described to conduct and distribute energy to the electrode member.

Abstract: An external defibrillator can include a tray and a plurality of electrode pads located within the tray. At least one of the plurality of electrode pads can include an electrode contact structure that can be applied to a patient, a wire electrically coupling the electrode contact structure to the external defibrillator, and a release liner adhered to the electrode contact structure of the electrode pad. A portion of the release liner can be affixed to a portion of the tray such that, when an end of the electrode pad is pulled, the electrode pad is removed from the release liner, the electrode pad is removed from the tray, and the release liner remains affixed to the tray.

Abstract: A neurostimulation device is provided. The device has first and second physical electrode elements that cooperate to provide a plurality of virtual electrode pairs. The spacing between the physical elements, as well as the relative surface areas between the respective portions comprising the virtual pairs, is controlled to provide self-selecting and/or self-directing treatment capabilities.

Abstract: A therapeutic device for treating symptoms related to restless leg syndrome comprises a remote, a pair of pads, a plurality of electrodes, and a fastener assembly. The remote comprises a power source and an interface further comprising an ON/OFF switch and a method for providing variable power to the plurality of electrodes. Each pad comprises a brace-type fitting which fits around a user's afflicted area in a comfortable but secure manner. The plurality of electrodes comprises a number of electrodes affixed to the interior of each pad. A plurality of wires connects each electrode to the power source in the remote. The fastener assembly comprises a plurality of straps permanently attached to each pad, each disposed with fasteners to allow for the secure and comfortable affixation of the pads and electrodes to a user's desired area.

Abstract: Various aspects of this disclosure relate to a patch for treating a patient for chronic pain and for cosmetic treatment. As consistent with one or more embodiments, neurostimulation is carried out via stimulating electrodes and one or more reference electrodes applied externally to a region of pain (e.g., by applying current between 0.2 and 60 mA to skin). The area to be treated is located either by a stimulating device, or by using at least one of the stimulating electrodes on the device itself to locate the pain prior to treatment. The electrodes are applied to the patient's skin as located using firm pressure while a stimulating pulse is applied as treatment. This action produces a remarkable and unexpected level of pain relief over a wide area. Aspects of the disclosure extend to a method for the treatment of chronic pain using the above-mentioned parameters and procedures.

Abstract: Polymer materials are useful as electrode array bodies for neural stimulation. They are particularly useful for retinal stimulation to create artificial vision, cochlear stimulation to create artificial hearing, and cortical stimulation, and many related purposes. The pressure applied against the retina, or other neural tissue, by an electrode array is critical. Too little pressure causes increased electrical resistance, along with electric field dispersion. Too much pressure may block blood flow. Common flexible circuit fabrication techniques generally require that a flexible circuit electrode array be made flat. Since neural tissue is almost never flat, a flat array will necessarily apply uneven pressure. Further, the edges of a flexible circuit polymer array may be sharp and cut the delicate neural tissue. It is advantageous that the array edges not contact tissue.

Abstract: An implant unit according to some embodiments may include a flexible carrier, at least one pair of modulation electrodes on the flexible carrier, and at least one implantable circuit in electrical communication with the at least one pair of modulation electrodes. The at least one pair of modulation electrodes and the at least one circuit may be configured for implantation through derma on an underside of a subject's chin and for location proximate to terminal fibers of the medial branch of the subject's hypoglossal nerve, such that an electric field extending from the at least one pair of modulation electrodes can modulate one or more of the terminal fibers of the medial branch of the hypoglossal nerve.

Abstract: A medical electrode demonstrates a superior adhesiveness to a patient's skin during medical data acquisition or treatment procedure yet attaining painless electrode removal from the skin when needed. The subject medical electrode is designed with adhesive neutralizer (or remover) solvent fully enveloped in one or several compartments embedded in an adhesive layer of the medical electrode unit. The compartments have a contact with the patient's skin when the electrode is attached thereto. When compressed by a medical personnel, the compartment releases the adhesive remover solvent directly to the skin-adhesive interface, thereby neutralizing (or removing) the adhesive material, thereby easing the electrode removal. The adhesive layer is made from PEO, sodium chloride, and water. The adhesive remover solvent contains isopropyl alcohol. A method of manufacturing the medical electrode is presented.

Abstract: The present invention is a flexible circuit electrode array for improved layer adhesions where the metal conductors overlap the polymer insulator. The steps to build the flexible circuit are as follows. Deposit a base polymer layer. Deposit a conductive trace over the base polymer layer. Deposit a top polymer layer over the trace and prepare a void in the top polymer layer smaller than the surface of the trace. Deposit an electrode on the trace through the void with a periphery larger than, and overlapping the void.

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: An electrode member for a body is provided. The electrode member includes a first sheet member having at least one hole formed therein, at least one second sheet member respectively disposed in the at least one hole, at least one metal contact point disposed on the first sheet member, and at least one electrode respectively disposed on the at least one second sheet member.

Abstract: An apparatus for the prevention of decubitus ulcers includes an overlay and a plurality of stimulation segments disposed throughout the overlay, wherein the stimulation segments provide stimulation. At least one sensor is disposed within at least one of the plurality of stimulation segments. A controller is electrically connected to the at least one sensor, wherein the controller gathers data from the sensor, processes the data, and transmits instructions to the stimulation segments.

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: A release liner for electrode pads is described which enables the pads to be used with defibrillators requiring the electrodes to be electrically interconnected for self-test prior to use, and with defibrillators which do not require the electrodes to be electrically interconnected. In one example this variation is afforded by folding the release liner one way to electrically connect conductive layers underlying two attached electrodes. In another example this variation is afforded by leaving the conductive layers electrically connected or breaking the connection.

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: 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: An electrode for applying electric fields to a patient includes a plurality of ceramic elements (e.g., ceramic discs) that are designed to be positioned against the patient's skin. Electrical connections are made to the ceramic elements (e.g., using a flex circuit). Temperature sensors (e.g., thermistors) are preferably provided at at least some of the ceramic elements to sense the temperature at the skin beneath the ceramic elements, so that appropriate action can be taken if an overtemperature condition is detected.

Abstract: The present invention is a flexible circuit electrode array for stimulating neurons where the electrode are less than 20 ?m in size and less than 60 ?m apart. The array is preferably arranged in a hexagonal pattern to maximize electrode density, and longer in the horizontal direction to correspond to a normal visual scene. The array includes a polymer base layer, metal traces deposited on the polymer base layer, including electrodes suitable to stimulate neural tissue, and a polymer top layer deposited on the polymer base layer and the metal traces defining openings for the electrodes smaller than the electrodes to overlap the electrodes.

Abstract: An electrosurgical return electrode is disclosed. The return electrode includes a first and second flexible conductive material layers and a material layer disposed between the first and second conductive material layers. The material layer is transitionable between a solid state and a non-solid state, the material layer is also configured to melt upon an increase in temperature beyond a predetermined threshold, thereby increasing conductivity between the first and second conductive material layer.

Abstract: A release liner for electrode pads is described which enables the pads to be used with defibrillators requiring the electrodes to be electrically interconnected for self-test prior to use, and with defibrillators which do not require the electrodes to be electrically interconnected. In one example this variation is afforded by folding the release liner one way to electrically connect conductive layers underlying two attached electrodes. In another example this variation is afforded by leaving the conductive layers electrically connected or breaking the connection.

Abstract: A lead connection system includes a connector housing. A plurality of lead retainers disposed in the connector housing are configured and arranged to removably attach to a proximal end of one of a received plurality of leads. The plurality of lead retainers include at least one of a slidable drawer and at least one pivotable hinged panel. A plurality of connector contacts are configured and arranged for making electrical contact with one or more of the terminals of one or more of the plurality of received leads. A single connector cable has a distal end that is electrically coupled to the plurality of connector contacts and a proximal end that is configured and arranged for insertion into a trial stimulator. A cable connector is electrically coupled, via the connector contacts, to at least one terminal of each of the received plurality of leads.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for stimulating living body including a light source unit which irradiates an optical signal for generating an electrical signal; a photovoltaic cell unit which generates an electrical signal using a received optical signal; and an electrode unit which stimulates living body using the electrical signal, wherein the photovoltaic cell unit and the electrode unit are implanted in the living body. The apparatus for stimulating living body may be manufactured in a flexible form, so that it may extend the range of choice for site to be implanted for the apparatus. Further, the adoption of the photovoltaic cell unit avoids the need of surgical operation for the change of battery.

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: A flexible biomedical surface electrode comprises an insulating substrate (10), a conductive electrode layer (12) screen-printed on the substrate, and an insulating masking layer (14) on the electrode layer. The masking layer is configured to expose selected regions (16) of the electrode layer. An electrically conductive adhesive gel layer (18) on the masking layer makes electrical contact with the exposed regions of the electrode layer.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a method and a device for increasing blood flow and controlling the temperature of a mammal by applying a desired pressure to extremities of a mammal. The device generally includes one or more collapsible and pliant body elements, capable of expanding from a first volume into an expanded second volume so the device can receive a portion of an extremity of the mammal therein and then be reduced from the expanded second volume into a pressurized third volume to conformably enclose the portion of the extremity. One or more thermal exchange units can be positioned in the one or more collapsible and pliant body elements. Accordingly, the temperature of the extremity of a mammal can be regulated by providing a heated or cooled fluid medium or electric thermal energy to the one or more thermal exchange units.

Abstract: An electrode pad packaging system including an electrode pouch, an electrode pad (e.g., a defibrillation electrode pad), a wire and a shell is disclosed. The electrode pad is disposed at least partially within the electrode pouch. The wire extends from the electrode pad and, in a disclosed embodiment, at least a portion of the wire is attached to the shell. The shell is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the electrode pouch (e.g., the shell is secured to a portion of the electrode pouch). The shell includes a valve thereon that is configured to allow air to exit the electrode pouch. The valve may be configured to prevent air from entering the electrode pouch. A method of packaging an electrode pad is also disclosed. The method includes providing an electrode pouch, an electrode pad, a wire and a shell. A valve on the shell allows air to exit the electrode pouch.

Abstract: A device may include at least one pair of modulation electrodes configured for implantation in the vicinity of a nerve to be modulated such that the electrodes are spaced apart from one another along a longitudinal direction of the nerve to be modulated. The electrodes may be further configured to facilitate an electric field in response to an applied electric signal, the electric field including field lines extending in the longitudinal direction of the nerve to be modulated. The device may further include at least one circuit in electrical communication with the at least one pair of modulation electrodes and being configured to cause application of the electric signal applied at the at least one pair of modulation electrodes.

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 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: Polymer materials are useful as electrode array bodies for neural stimulation. They are particularly useful for retinal stimulation to create artificial vision, cochlear stimulation to create artificial hearing, and cortical stimulation, and many related purposes. The pressure applied against the retina, or other neural tissue, by an electrode array is critical. Too little pressure causes increased electrical resistance, along with electric field dispersion. Too much pressure may block blood flow. Common flexible circuit fabrication techniques generally require that a flexible circuit electrode array be made flat. Since neural tissue is almost never flat, a flat array will necessarily apply uneven pressure. Further, the edges of a flexible circuit polymer array may be sharp and cut the delicate neural tissue. It is advantageous that the array edges not contact tissue.

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: An electrode for selective attachment to at least one of a garment and a subject, is provided and includes a conductive member defining a first side and a second side; a conductive composition disposed on the first side of the conductive member, wherein the conductive composition has a first adhesive strength; a contact layer disposed on the second side of the conductive member, wherein the contact layer includes a pressure sensitive adhesive portion and a conductive hydrogel portion, wherein the pressure sensitive adhesive portion has a second adhesive strength that is greater than the adhesive strength of the conductive composition; whereby the electrode is adherable to the garment and to the subject such that the conductive composition is adhered to the subject and the pressure sensitive adhesive portion is adhered to the garment, wherein removal of the garment from the subject results in removal of the electrode from the subject.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides electrodes that possess hydrogels for contacting skin. In embodiments, an electrode of the present disclosure may include a substrate and a conductive composition on at least a portion of a surface of the substrate, the conductive composition including at least one hydrogel and at least one component capable of providing either a cooling or warming sensation upon contact with tissue of a patient. Methods for forming these hydrogels and electrodes are also provided.

Abstract: A lead connection system includes a connector housing. A plurality of lead retainers disposed in the connector housing are configured and arranged to removably attach to a proximal end of one of a received plurality of leads. The plurality of lead retainers include at least one of a slidable drawer and at least one pivotable hinged panel. A plurality of connector contacts are configured and arranged for making electrical contact with one or more of the terminals of one or more of the plurality of received leads. A single connector cable has a distal end that is electrically coupled to the plurality of connector contacts and a proximal end that is configured and arranged for insertion into a trial stimulator. A cable connector is electrically coupled, via the connector contacts, to at least one terminal of each of the received plurality of leads.

Abstract: An electro-stimulation system is provided with a compact power and control assembly and a plurality of shaped gel electrode patches with instructions to facilitate user administration of therapy.

Abstract: A field controlling electrode for providing transcutaneous nerve and/or muscle stimulation to a user's body includes a conductive flexible member having a top side and a bottom side. An electrically driven master electrode, in combination with the conductive flexible member, is provided for generating a current distribution in the conductive flexible member; and an electrically undriven slave electrode disposed in a spaced apart relationship with the master electrode is provided, for focusing or controlling the generated current distribution over an area of a user's body.

Abstract: A disposable electrode paddle assembly is provided and includes a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; a handle assembly supported at the proximal end of the shaft; a spoon supported at the distal end of the shaft; an electrical conductor extending from the handle assembly and establishing an electrical connection at the spoon; and an electrode assembly selectively, electrically connectable to the electrical connection provided at the spoon; wherein the electrode assembly includes a layer of silver/silver-chloride (Ag/AgCl) having one of an increasing and decreasing density extending in a radially outward direction.

Abstract: The present invention is a visor for retinal stimulation of visually impaired subjects. The visor comprises a frame, an external coil, a camera and a mounting system. A connector allows the external coil to be positioned along a first direction. A sliding device allows the external coil to be positioned along a second direction. Positioning of the visor on a subject's nose allows the external coil to be positioned along a third direction. Positioning of the external coil along the first, second or third direction is useful to maximize coupling RF coupling between the external coil and an internal coil implanted on a subject wearing the visor.

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: An applicator supplying RF power for therapeutic diathermic treatment of a patient includes a radiation shielding device for shielding the applicator against misapplication of radiation to objects in the surroundings and unintended areas of the patient's body, and a coupling device for electrically coupling the radiation shielding device to at least one point of the body of a patient in a low impedance manner that reduces the potential drop from the grounded radiation shield to the body tissue.

Abstract: A method of affecting metabolic function is presented which utilizes a conductive coating, film, or covering on a body tissue to distribute electrical charge, either passively or in conjunction with applied electrical energy.

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: An electrode pad set comprises a left electrode pad, a right electrode pad, a first indication figure on the left electrode pad, a second indication figure on the right electrode pad. The left electrode pad and the right electrode pad respectively have a first warning sign with a first shape and a second warning sign with a second shape corresponding to the first shape. The perimeter of the first warning sign has a first coating with a first color. The perimeter of the second warning sign has a second coating with a second color. A left electrode pad symbol of the first indication figure has a color identical to the first color. A right electrode pad symbol of the second indication figure has a color identical to the second color. The present invention uses colors, shapes and indication figures to promote the success rate of attaching the electrode pads.

Abstract: In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a substantially rigid base and a flexible substrate. The substantially rigid base has a first protrusion and a second protrusion, and is configured to be coupled to an electronic device. The flexible substrate has a first surface and a second surface, and includes an electrical circuit configured to electronically couple the electronic device to at least one of an electrode a battery, or an antenna. The flexible substrate is coupled to the base such that a first portion of the second surface is in contact with the first protrusion. A second portion of the second surface is non-parallel to the first portion.

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: Embodiments of the invention provide electrode assemblies and associated methods for the iontophoretic transdermal delivery of therapeutic agents. Many embodiments provide a corrosion resistant electrode for the iontophoretic transdermal delivery of various therapeutic agents. Such embodiments allow for the iontophoretic transdermal delivery of therapeutic agents such as iron compounds for prolonged periods without any substantial corrosion of the electrode, impedance increases or discoloration or irritation of the skin. Embodiments of the invention are particularly useful for the long term treatment of various chronic medical conditions such as iron deficient anemia.