Abstract: An iontophoretic delivery device (10) is provided. Device (10) has an electronic circuit (32) having electronic components such as batteries (30) mounted thereon. Device (10) also includes a pair of electrode assemblies (18, 19). The electronic circuit (32) is electrically connected to the electrode assemblies (18, 19) using an electrically conductive adhesive (34). The adhesive can also be used to electrically connect two or more electronic components within circuit (32) or to connect an electronic component to the electronic circuit (32). In one practice of the invention, the electrically conductive adhesive (44) functions as an electrode and electrically connects the circuit (32) to an agent-containing reservoir (24, 25). In a further practice of the invention, the electrically conductive adhesive (93) functions as an agent reservoir and contains the agent to be iontophoretically delivered.

Abstract: This invention defines a system for monitoring the brain activity of a human patient under anesthesia in order to determine the patient's level of consciousness. The system uses a plurality of receptors which are mounted in predetermined anatomical positions on the patient's head. The receptors are secured by adhesive foam patches. The appliance fits snugly to the head with the aid of self-adjusting strip that carry imbedded electrical circuitry for the receptors. Electrical connectivity in locations where scalp hair is most likely to be present is improved by the use of braille-tip electrodes fitted with large gel reservoirs.

Abstract: A miniature valve for filling the reservoir of an apparatus for the transdermal administration of a medicine including a) a substrate, b) a fuel charge arranged on the substrate opposite the passage to be opened through it, and c) an electric resistor placed in contact with the fuel charge so that the supply of this resistor with a predetermined electric energy ensures the combustion of the charge and the opening of the passage by local rupture of the substrate under the pressure of the fuel gases of the charge. The device is useful for filling a medicine reservoir for the transdermal administration medicine aided by inophoresis.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus permitting rapid and thorough hydration of an initially dry hydratable matrix element contained within an iontophoretic bioelectrode. The apparatus of the invention comprises a bioelectrode system for iontophoretic delivery of medicaments having at least one hydratable matrix element and associated removable hydration assembly. The preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises two hydratable matrix elements each having an associated removable hydration assembly and each being associated with an electrical current distribution element. The removable hydration assembly includes an initially sealed liquid-storage component which maintains the desired hydrating liquid in isolation from the hydratable matrix element until such time as hydration is desired.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for electrotherapy which is usable with a DC current generator which offers divided or biphase emission. The aforementioned assembly contains a conductive component (1) covered with a layer (3) of an adherent material of hydrogel, as well as an absorbent component for supplying water to the adherent material during use of the assembly. The absorbent component is filled with water and is situated between the conductive component (1) and the layer (3) of adherent material of hydrogel, so as to store and supply water to the adherent hydrogel layer.

Abstract: An apparatus for ablating body tissue, and particularly for creating linear lesions within a chamber of a patient's heart, includes an elongate member having an ablation section. The ablation section includes an infusion tube and a plurality of spaced electrodes. The infusion tube and electrodes are covered by a fluid permeable foam material, and the foam material is covered by a fluid impermeable covering having a plurality of holes formed in it. During use, the ablation section is positioned against tissue to be ablated. Radiofrequency energy is delivered to he electrodes while saline or other conductive fluid is delivered to the infusion tube. The fluid exits the infusion tube at the ablation section, contacts the electrodes, and carries RF energy from the electrodes through the foam, through the holes in the covering and into contact with the body tissue to form a burn in the body tissue.

Abstract: An exemplary system in accordance with the current invention includes (1) a handholdable or handheld electric skin treatment unit, (2) a recharger assembly including a low voltage power supply and a recharger mount for holding the unit, with an alphanumeric display on said unit being exposed, and mating contacts on said mount and said unit, and (3) a stand for mounting said unit in a convenient location when it is not in use.

Abstract: A catheter assembly comprising a elongated, flexible support structure having an axis. The assembly also includes an elongated porous electrode assembly carried by the support structure along the axis for contact with tissue. The elongated porous electrode assembly comprises a wall having an exterior peripherally surrounding an interior area, a lumen to convey a medium containing ions into the interior area, and an element coupling the medium within the interior area to a source of electrical energy. At least a portion of the wall comprising a porous material is sized to allow passage of ions contained in the medium to thereby enable ionic transport of electrical energy through the porous material to the exterior of the wall to form a continuous elongated lesion pattern in tissue contacted by the wall. The support structure can have a curvilinear geometry, e.g., a loop shape, and the elongated porous electrode assembly conforms to the curvilinear geometry.

Abstract: A biomedical electrode for an electrocardiograph or similar device is provided. The biomedical electrode includes a disposable electrode having an electrically conductive gel layer and a smooth layer film. The disposable electrode interfaces with a reusable leadwire connector having the relatively expensive metallic conductive material. The reusable leadwire adapter includes a vinyl top layer which attaches to the smooth layer film of the disposable electrode through surface attraction. The reusable leadwire adapter may include a suction cup which attaches to the disposable electrode through a partial vacuum. The reusable leadwire also includes a stud member which snaps into a standard leadwire connector.

Abstract: An ablation catheter for ablating tissue, such as endocardial tissue. The ablation catheter includes a foam tip with an electrode embedded therein. Conductive fluid, such as saline solution, is pumped through the foam tip out to the tissue adjacent to the foam tip. The conductive fluid electrically couples the electrode embedded in the foam tip with the tissue to be ablated in order to effect ablation. The flow of the conductive fluid and the foam tip both help prevent any combustible products of the ablation from reaching the high current surfaces of the electrode itself.

Abstract: An array of electrodes is constructed to allow the user to easily adjust to the correct size of the patient's head. The array is self-adhesive, pre-gelled and disposable. The array fits easily over the temple and forehead areas where EEG signals can be acquired by specially designed monitors for purposes of monitoring a number of bodily phenomena, including but not limited to, depth of anesthesia, and/or ischemia, and burst suppression. The array is connected to the monitor via a tab connector that is integral to the disposable device. The tab connector is insertible into a reusable connector that is part of a monitoring system.

Abstract: A flexible cuff for wrapping around a part of a limb, that is comprised of multiple biosensing patch units of a required size and shape to fit the body contour for applying to an area of skin. The cuff has an array of flexible porous (polymer) electrodes held at constant potential with alternating polarities. A network of supply tubes connected to an external liquid reservoir provides a slow supply of medicated fluid to each electrode. A pump/titration regulator is in communication with the transdermal electrode to regulate permeant flow to the skin. An electric and an electromagnetic field applied through the cuff then causes the drug to be rapidly absorbed throughout the skin. The electrodes within the cuff, or the applicator pads which it is comprised of, can be additionally used for applying electromagnetic, Transcutaneous Nerve Stimulation, and for Electrical Muscle Stimulation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for localized electroporation of tissue. An apparatus includes a perforate electrically insulating layer, a first electrode at a first side of the perforate electrically insulating layer and a second electrode at a second side of the perforate electrically insulating layer. An electric field extending between the first and second electrodes will preferentially extend through perforations of the electrically insulating layer. The electric field thereby causes electroporation of tissue that is proximate to the first electrode and is partitioned from the electrically insulating layer and the second electrode by the first electrode. The apparatus controllably limits the depth of the electric field within a tissue, such as skin, thereby electroporating a surface layer, such as a stratum corneum layer of the skin, without stimulating submerged nerve endings within the skin.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus permitting at least one hydrating liquid to be maintained in isolation and, when desired, permitting thorough release of the hydrating liquid. In particular, the self-contained hydrating system comprises a releasable seal for isolating hydrating liquid which can be progressively unsealed to release the hydrating liquid. The unsealing process involves an "unpeeling" of the releasable seal and, thus, does not involve breaking or rupturing of the seal material. In this manner, the hydrating liquid is made accessible but is never exposed to broken or ruptured sealing material. The self-contained hydrating system can be manufactured using existing equipment and techniques and can subsequently be easily associated with a separate device requiring hydration when desired.

Abstract: A biomedical electrode for an electrocardiograph or similar device is provided. The biomedical electrode includes a disposable electrode having an electrically conductive gel layer and a smooth layer film. The disposable electrode interfaces with a reusable leadwire connector having the relatively expensive metallic conductive material. The reusable leadwire adapter includes a vinyl top layer which attaches to the smooth layer film of the disposable electrode through surface attraction. The reusable leadwire adapter may include a suction cup which attaches to the disposable electrode through a partial vacuum. The reusable leadwire also includes a stud member which snaps into a standard leadwire connector.

Abstract: There is provided disposable, liquid-impregnable adhesive cloth pad for an electrode/skin interface, having a cloth pad impregnable with, and substantially retaining, an electrically conductive liquid and adapted to be mounted on selected locations on the skin of a patient, an electrically conductive electrode connectable to a stimulator for supplying stimulating impulses to the electrode, and a layer of an adhesive applied at least to a portion of the cloth pad, the layer serving to removably attach the pad to the electrode. There is also provided an electrode system, having a conductive member electrically connectable to a stimulator, an electrode in spaced-apart relationship with the conductive member, and a spring element providing an elastic, resilience-generated force ensuring an electrical contact between the conductive member and the electrode.

Abstract: A flexible cuff for wrapping around a part of a limb, that is comprised of multiple patch units of a required size and shape to fit the body contour for applying to an area of skin. The cuff has an array of flexible (polymer) electrodes held at constant potential with alternating polarities. A network of supply tubes connected to an external liquid reservoir, provides a slow supply of a medicated fluid to each electrode.An electric field applied through the cuff then causes the drug to be rapidly absorbed throughout the skin. The electrodes within the cuff, or applicator pads which it is comprised of, can be additionally be used for applying Transcutaneous Nerve Stimulation, and for Electrical Muscle Stimulation. Alternately, the cuff can be used to assist rehabilitation exercise therapy conditioning in combination with Electrical Muscle Stimulation.

Abstract: A user activated iontophoretic device of the present invention includes an electrode assembly, an electrode reservoir and at least one drug reservoir. The device is divided or otherwise separated into at least two portions, with one portion containing the electrode reservoir and the other containing the drug reservoir, which may include a medication in a dry form. In one embodiment, the two portions are each contained in separate compartments of a pouch. In another embodiment, the portions are contained in a single compartment and divided by a barrier. A method of activating the device includes causing the two portions to come into electrical conducting contact with one another to at least partially hydrate one of the reservoirs. This can be accomplished, for example, by either folding the device to bring the two portions into contact with one another or simply by removing the barrier dividing the two portions.

Abstract: An apparatus for ablating body tissue, and particularly for creating linear lesions within a chamber of a patient's heart, includes an elongate member having an ablation section. The ablation section includes an infusion tube and a plurality of spaced electrodes. The infusion tube and electrodes are covered by a fluid permeable foam material, and the foam material is covered by a fluid impermeable covering having a plurality of holes formed in it. During use, the ablation section is positioned against tissue to be ablated. Radiofrequency energy is delivered to the electrodes while saline or other conductive fluid is delivered to the infusion tube. The fluid exits the infusion tube at the ablation section, contacts the electrodes, and carries RF energy from the electrodes through the foam, through the holes in the covering and into contact with the body tissue to form a burn in the body tissue.

Abstract: The user activated iontophoretic device of the present invention includes a disposable patch and a reusable controller. The patch contains an electrode assembly, an electrode reservoir and at least one drug reservoir. The patch is divided or otherwise separated into at least two portions, with one portion containing the electrode reservoir and the other containing the drug reservoir, which may include a medication in a dry form. The electrode reservoir and the drug reservoir are sealingly separated by a barrier, which can be manipulated to bring the reservoirs into fluid conducting contact with one another. A method of activating the device includes causing the two portions to rotate about a central axis relative to one another to manipulate the barrier and bring the reservoirs into fluid conducting contact with one another to at least partially hydrate one of the reservoirs. In this way, the device is suitable for use to deliver a drug which has limited stability in an aqueous solution.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improving the utilization of the active mass of printed ink electrodes by adding a surface active agent to at least one of the following the printed ink formulation, the gel formulation, the electrolyte reservoir or the medicament formulation.

Abstract: A medical electrode system includes an electrically non-conductive backing material and a flexible, electrically conductive patch disposed on the backing material. An electrically non-conductive facing material is disposed over the patch which includes an aperture therein for exposing a portion of the patch, said aperture having a maximum dimension smaller than a minimum dimension of the patch. A lead wire electrically connected to the patch, and a separate electrically conductive gel pad is provided for releasably coupling the patch to a body part, the gel pad having a minimum dimension larger than the aperture's maximum dimension and formed from a material enabling the gel means to be removed, intact, from said body part and patch. The gel pad may further include a drug suitable for iontophoretic delivery. A strap system enables the patches and backing material to be applied in a compressing manner on a body part and in one embodiment, the entire system is both stretchable and flexible.

Abstract: A user activated iontophoretic device of the present invention includes an electrode assembly, an electrode reservoir and at least one drug reservoir. The device is divided or otherwise separated into at least two portions, with one portion containing the electrode reservoir and the other containing the drug reservoir, which may include a medication in a dry form. The electrode reservoir and the drug reservoir are sealingly separated by a barrier, which can be removed to bring the reservoirs into fluid conducting contact with one another. A method of activating the device includes causing the two portions to come into fluid conducting contact with one another to at least partially hydrate one of the reservoirs. This can be accomplished by removing the barrier dividing the two portions. In this way, the device is suitable for use to deliver a drug which has limited stability in an aqueous solution.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus permitting rapid and thorough hydration of an initially dry hydratable matrix element contained within an iontophoretic bioelectrode. The apparatus of the invention comprises a bioelectrode system for iontophoretic delivery of medicaments having at least one hydratable matrix element and associated removable hydration assembly. The preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises two hydratable matrix elements each having an associated removable hydration assembly and each being associated with an electrical current distribution element. The removable hydration assembly includes an initially sealed liquid-storage component which maintains the desired hydrating liquid in isolation from the hydratable matrix element until such time as hydration is desired.

Abstract: An iontophoretic drug delivery system including a patch and a controller. The controller and patch include electronics which ensure proper hydration of the patch. If the controller determines that the patch is sufficiently hydrated, the controller applies current to the patch for delivery of the drug through the skin of the patient.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus permitting rapid and thorough hydration of an initially dry hydratable matrix element contained within a bioelectrode element for use in an iontophoretic delivery device. The apparatus of the invention comprises a bioelectrode element for iontophoretic delivery of medicaments having at least one hydratable matrix element and associated removable hydration assembly. The removable hydration assembly includes an initially sealed liquid-storage component which maintains the desired hydrating liquid in isolation from the hydratable matrix element until such time as hydration is desired. At that time, the removable hydration assembly can be activated by the user through application of force to a pocket in a side of the sealed liquid-storage component to cause the pocket to become inverted and substantially aligned within an opposing pocket in the other side such that the sealed liquid-storage component unseals at a predetermined release location.

Abstract: An interface composed of an aqueous solution supply portion capable of providing a fine hole for supplying an aqueous solution, a water-permeable electrode, and a water-absorbable or water-permeable film-like membrane, laminated integrally, wherein the fine hole for supplying the solution is made in the aqueous solution supply portion at the time of use, the aqueous solution is supplied through the water-permeable electrode and water-absorbable or water-permeable film-like membrane, and, when the aqueous solution reaches them, the drug or the drug-containing water-soluble layer dissolve and a locally high concentration solution of the drug is formed.

Abstract: A dry-state iontophoretic drug delivery device (10, 30) is provided. The device has drug and electrolyte reservoirs (15, 16) which are initially in a non-hydrated condition. In one embodiment of the invention, a sealed liquid-containing pouch (21, 22) is provided in each electrode assembly (8, 9). Water or other liquid (20) is released from the pouch (21, 22) by pulling a tab (27, 28) attached to a portion (25, 26) of the pouch (21, 22) which is capable of being torn or ripped in order to hydrate the drug and electrolyte reservoirs (15, 16) and activate the device (10, 30). In another embodiment, the device (30) is held in a package (32). The device (30) has pouches (21, 22) which release their liquid contents automatically upon removal of the device (30) from the package (32). In yet another embodiment, the device (40) is held in a package (42) having a compression zone (46). The pouches (21, 22) must be moved through the compression zone (46) when removing the device (40) from the package (42).

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for control contraction of tissue that includes collagen fibers. The apparatus includes a handpiece, and an electrode with an electrode proximal end associated with the handpiece. A distal end of the electrode has a geometry that delivers a controlled amount of energy to the tissue for a desired contraction of the collagen fibers. This is achieved while dissociation and breakdown of the collagen fibers is minimized. The handpiece, with electrode, is adapted to be introduced through an operating cannula in percutaneous applications. Additionally, an operating cannula may be included in the apparatus and be attached to the handpiece. The apparatus and method provides for a desired level of contraction of collagen soft tissue without dissociation or breakdown of collagen fibers.

Abstract: An iontophoretic device having a two-layer active electrode element is disclosed. The active element is composed of overlapping skin contact hydrogel and carrier layers. The carrier layer contains dispersed or dissolved active agent. The active electrode element maintains the active agent in stable form and permits efficient transport of the active agent to the host. Also disclosed is an iontophoretic device having a single layer active electrode element. The single layer is a hydrogel as manufactured or substantially dry and capable of being hydrated before use. The skin contact hydrogel of the two-layer active electrode element preferably.

Abstract: An improved electrode is disclosed for use in administering drug by means of iontophoresis, comprising a conductive element for receiving an electric current from a current source; a reticulated element having a plurality of reticulum for receiving an ionic drug solution for iontophoretic delivery, the reticulum being loaded or having applied thereto a hydrophilic polymer which is viscous when hydrated; and means for securing the reticulated element to the conductive element so that electric current will be distributed substantially uniformly through the reticulated element when hydrated and when current is delivered to the conductive element. The presently preferred embodiment utilizes open cell polyurethane foam as the reticulated element and high molecular weight polyethylene oxide as the hydrophilic polymer. The reticulum is further loaded with Tween 20, a surfactant, which serves to improve the rate of hydration.

Abstract: A dry-state iontophoretic drug delivery device (10, 30) is provided. The device has drug and electrolyte reservoirs (15, 16) which are initially in a non-hydrated condition. In one embodiment of the invention, a sealed liquid-containing pouch (21, 22) is provided in each electrode assembly (8, 9). Water or other liquid (20) is released from the pouch (21, 22) by pulling a tab (27, 28) attached to a portion (25, 26) of the pouch (21, 22) which is capable of being torn or ripped in order to hydrate the drug and electrolyte reservoirs (15, 16) and activate the device (10, 30). In another embodiment, the device (30) is held in a package (32). The device (30) has pouches (21, 22) which release their liquid contents automatically upon removal of the device (30) from the package (32). In yet another embodiment, the device (40) is held in a package (42) having a compression zone (46). The pouches (21, 22) must be moved through the compression zone (46) when removing the device (40) from the package (42).

Abstract: A disposable biomedical electrode having a one-piece terminal secured therein without washers, retaining rings or other securement means is provided. The electrode also includes an electrolytic gel which exhibits greater patient comfort without any decrease in electrical performance. The gel layer is preferably a hydrogel material formed from an aqueous mixture of polyhydric alcohol, aliphatic diisocyanate terminated prepolymer, polyethylene oxide based polyamine, and sodium chloride.

Abstract: A medical electrode having a resilient terminal press fit onto an eyelet. The eyelet is plastic and has a conductive coating thereon. The terminal is made of a resilient nonmetallic composition, such as a polypropylene blend loaded with carbon fiber. An electrolyte composition is spread upon the bottom of the eyelet for making electrical contact with the skin of a patient. The eyelet, the terminal and the electrolyte composition are preferably all at least translucent to x-rays.

Abstract: Disclosed is an electrode (10, 60) for placement upon the skin of a patient (12) to deliver electrical pulses from medical electronic equipment (16) to the patient. The electrode includes (10, 60) an electrically conductive layer (24, 74) having a skin-facing side and an upper side. An impedance-decreasing layer (32, 82) is adjacent a substantial portion of the skin-facing side of the conductive layer (24, 74). A substantially electrically nonconductive backing layer (18, 68) is adjacent the upper surface of the conductive layer (24, 74), the backing layer (18, 68) being substantially impermeable to the impedance-decreasing layer (32, 82). A gas-permeable layer (20, 70) is between the backing layer (18, 68) and the conductive layer (24, 74). Finally, a vent (22, 72) is provided for venting gas formed between the impedance-decreasing layer (32, 82) and the conductive layer (24, 74) to the environment.

Abstract: A medical electrode system includes an electrically non-conductive backing material and a flexible, electrically conductive patch disposed on the backing material. An electrically non-conductive facing material is disposed over the patch which includes an aperture therein for exposing a portion of the patch, said aperture having a maximum dimension smaller than a minimum dimension of the patch. A lead wire electrically connected to the patch, and a separate electrically conductive gel pad is provided for releasably coupling the patch to a body part, the gel pad having a minimum dimension larger than the aperture's maximum dimension and formed from a material enabling the gel means to be removed, intact, from said body part and patch. The gel pad may further include a drug suitable for iontophoretic delivery. A strap system enables the patches and backing material to be applied in a compressing manner on a body part and in one embodiment, the entire system is both stretchable and flexible.

Abstract: An iontophoretic device having a two-layer active electrode element is disclosed. The active element is composed of overlapping skin contact hydrogel and carrier layers. The carrier layer contains dispersed or dissolved active agent. The active electrode element maintains the active agent in stable form and permits efficient transport of the active agent to the host. Also disclosed is an iontophoretic device having a single layer active electrode element. The single layer is a hydrogel as manufactured or substantially dry and capable of being hydrated before use. The skin contact hydrogel of the two-layer active electrode element preferably.

Abstract: A disposable biomedical electrode having a one-piece terminal secured therein without washers, retaining rings or other securement means is provided. The electrode also includes an electrolytic gel which exhibits greater patient comfort without any decrease in electrical performance. The gel layer is preferably a hydrogel material formed from an aqueous mixture of polyhydric alcohol, aliphatic diisocyanate terminated prepolymer, polyethylene oxide based polyamine, and sodium chloride.

Abstract: This invention relates to a non-stringy adhesive hydrophilic gel comprising an aqueous mixture of a radiation crosslinkable water-soluble polymer, at least one humectant effective to extend the moisture retaining characteristics of the gel and which inhibits the ability of radiant energy to crosslink the water-soluble polymer, a pharmacologically active agent, and a crosslinking promoter effective to counteract the crosslinking inhibitory effect of humectant. The aqueous mixture is exposed to radiant energy effective to provide a non-stringy adhesive cohesive homogeneous hydrophilic gel that has an extended in-use lifetime. The gels can be formed into PATCHES for long term application of the pharmacologically active agent to a patient.

Abstract: A small, handheld, microelectric, direct current generator with a low frequency modality is applied directly to a wound site through a composite wound covering or dressing. An electric potential difference is established between an anode and cathode of the composite wound dressing. Wound healing is facilitated by the biostimulatory effect of the applied microelectric current on adenosine triphosphate production (ATP), cell membrane transport of amino acids and protein synthesis. The microelectric currents applied through the composite wound dressing, promulgate antisepsis, interfere with the neurological transmission of pain signals and concomitantly stimulate the release of endorphins which helps to relieve the pain associated with wounds, ulcers and other tissue injuries.

Abstract: An improved electrode is disclosed for use in administering drug by means of iontophoresis, comprising a conductive element for receiving an electric current from a current source; a reticulated element having a plurality of reticulum for receiving an ionic drug solution for iontophoretic delivery, the reticulum being loaded or having applied thereto a hydrophilic polymer which is viscous when hydrated; and means for securing the reticulated element to the conductive element so that electric current will be distributed substantially uniformly through the reticulated element when hydrated and when current is delivered to the conductive element. The presently preferred embodiment utilizes open cell polyurethane foam as the reticulated element and high molecular weight polyethylene oxide as the hydrophilic polymer. The reticulum is further loaded with Tween 20, a surfactant, which serves to improve the rate of hydration.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for an EEG headset has a cylinder and piston, at least one disk-shaped mounting element with an inner portion for mounting the cylinder therethrough and an outer portion overlapping onto the liner of the headset, an electrode body made of insulative material mounted to the piston and holding an electrode tip, and an electrode tip made of conductive material with a wire lead for transmitting electrical signals from the tip to an external signal processing unit separately from the rest of the electrode assembly. Preferably, the mounting element is a pair of rubber washers supporting the cylinder from each side of the liner. The electrode body has a threaded end for threading in the piston, and a central passage for supplying electrolyte gel to the electrode tip. The electrode tip has a disk shape with a relatively large surface area for maintaining good contact with the subject's scalp.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for stimulating the growth and healing of living, especially human, tissues, promoting the healing of wounds and skeletal fractures. An electrical apparatus consists of a baseplate, made of lightweight nonconductive material, for encompassing all or a portion of a body member. A multiplicity of generally evenly spaced holes are provided in the baseplate and a probe adapter including a moveable electrically conductive probe is situated within the holes, as desired. An electric contact connects the interior of each adapter and the probe situated therein to a terminal on the baseplate. Each probe is individually adjustable to contact the wearer's body part within the base member regardless configuration of the body part, thus allowing treatment of all or a selected portion of the body part.

Abstract: An electrical stimulation heat/cool pack includes a nonconductive pouch and straps for positioning and holding the nonconductive pouch against a body part. Flexible conductive fabric patches may be removeably attached, or permanently fixed, to the nonconductive pouch along with lead wires for electrically connecting the fabric patches to a remote pulse generator. An electrically conductive adhesive gel pad is provided for releasably coupling the flexible conductive fabric patch to the body part.

Abstract: A dry-state iontophoretic drug delivery device (10, 30) is provided. The device has drug and electrolyte reservoirs (15, 16) which are initially in a non-hydrated condition. In one embodiment of the invention, a sealed liquid-containing pouch (21, 22) is provided in each electrode assembly (8, 9). Water or other liquid (20) is released from the pouch (21, 22) by pulling a tab (27, 28) attached to a portion (25, 26) of the pouch (21, 22) which is capable of being torn or ripped in order to hydrate the drug and electrolyte reservoirs (15, 16) and activate the device (10, 30). In another embodiment, the device (30) is held in a package (32). The device (30) has pouches (21, 22) which release their liquid contents automatically upon removal of the device (30) from the package (32). In yet another embodiment, the device (40) is held in a package (42) having a compression zone (46). The pouches (21, 22) must be moved through the compression zone (46) when removing the device (40) from the package (42).

Abstract: Electrode adapted to be placed in contact with the skin of a patient for reducing the surface resistivity of the skin of the patient and comprising a member formed of a dry-conductive material and having an outer surface adapted to be placed in contact with the skin of the patient. A composition is disposed on at least a portion of the surface of the member. The composition as is the surface of a plurality of water-containing vesicles.

Abstract: A dry-state iontophoretic drug delivery device (10, 70, 80) is provided. The device has drug and electrolyte reservoirs (15, 16) which are initially in a non-hydrated condition. A liquid-containing pouch (21, 22) is provided. In certain embodiments the liquid is contained in breakable capsules within the pouch. Water or other liquid can be released from the capsules in the pouch by squeezing or flexing the pouches (21,22). Alternatively, the liquid can be released from the pouches (21,22) using pouch piercing pins (36,37). The liquid released from the pouches (21,22) hydrates the drug and electrolyte reservoirs (15, 16) and activates the device. In another embodiment, the device (20, 20a) has liquid-containing gel layers (31,32) which are initially separated from their respective electrode assemblies (8, 9). Liquid-wicking pathways (27,28) are provided to carry the liquid from the gel layers (31,32) to the drug and electrolyte layers (15, 16).

Abstract: One aspect of the invention is a cooling pillow comprising a flexible pouch and thermal transfer fluid composition hermetically filled in the pouch. A second aspect of the invention is a cooling device which comprises a pad having a flexible pouch and a thermal transfer fluid composition hermetically filled in the pouch, and means for holding the pad therewith to bring the pad in contact with the human body. The fluid composition comprises a mixture of fine particles of hard or graphitic carbon having good thermal conductivity and water. Sodium chloride, surface active agents, bactericides and preservatives may be further added to the composition. Since the carbon particles have good thermal conductivity, the fluid readily reaches a temperature close to ambient temperatures and can gently cool the human body. Long use allows the body to be continuously cooled down to a temperature close to the ambient temperature.

Abstract: Provided are reservoir electrodes for iontotherapeutic devices which have two chambers; the first chamber is electrically connected to the iontotherapeutic device and is designed to contain electrolytic solution and the second chamber has ionized pharmaceutical dissolved in electrolytic solution. The two chambers are separated by a permselective membrane. The first chamber has means to inhibit increase in ionic content caused by the operation of the iontotherapeutic device. Also provided are unit dose forms adapted for insertion into the reservoir electrodes. The dose unit forms are made of crosslinked polymer and contain ionizable pharmaceutical which is released for absorption during operation of the iontotherapeutic process. Also provided are novel iontotherapeutic devices and processes.

Abstract: Improved apparatus for the iontophoretic transdermal delivery of medication across the membrane formed by the body's skin is provided so the medication can be absorbed by the adjacent tissues and blood vessels. The improved apparatus is not reuseable and can be adapted for large dermal area application or for smaller sized area application, based on the specific electrode employed.