Electrical Therapeutic Systems Patents (Class 607/2)
  • Patent number: 10118048
    Abstract: A defibrillator system optimizes the timing and manner of applying a defibrillator charge to a patient based upon data provided to the defibrillator from a utility module or one or more external devices. A parameter module on the utility module provides the defibrillator with patient parameter information. Devices external to the utility module may provide the utility module with coaching data that the utility module may pass through to the defibrillator as a proxy to the external devices. The utility module may also provide external devices with patient data that the utility module may pass through to the external devices as a proxy to the defibrillator on a scheduled or other basis. The utility module may additionally provide a reserve of power to enable defibrillators to be used where power is unavailable and to enable defibrillators to deliver multiple charges more readily anywhere, anytime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: PHYSIO-CONTROL, INC.
    Inventors: David Dean Aoyama, Ryan William Apperson, Matthew Lawrence Bielstein, Barry D. Curtin, John Daynes, Kevin C. Drew, Karen Kraft Langman, Mina Lim, Neil G. McIlvaine, E. Thomas McKay, Randy L. Merry, Ken Peterson
  • Patent number: 10118036
    Abstract: An example of a system may include an electrode arrangement and a neuromodulation device configured to use electrodes in the electrode arrangement to generate a neuromodulation field. The neuromodulation device may include a neuromodulation generator, a neuromodulation control circuit and a storage. The storage may include a stochastically-modulated neuromodulation parameter set and the stochastically-modulated neuromodulation parameter set may include at least one stochastically-modulated parameter. The controller may be configured to control the neuromodulation generator using the stochastically-modulation parameter set to generate the neuromodulation field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: Changfang Zhu
  • Patent number: 10118035
    Abstract: A wearable device for suppressing appetite or hunger in a patient includes a microprocessor, electrical stimulator and at least one electrode configured to deliver electrical stimulation to the epidermis, through a range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm or a range of 0.1 mm to 20 mm of the dermis, of a T2 frontal thoracic dermatome to a T12 frontal thoracic dermatome or meridian of the patient and/or front or back, C5-T1 dermatome across the hand and/or arm, and/or the upper chest regions. The device includes a pad, in which the electrode is disposed, for secure placement of the device on a skin surface of a patient. The device is adapted to provide electrical stimulation as per stimulation protocols and to communicate wirelessly with a companion control device configured to monitor and record appetite patterns of the patient. The control device is also configured to monitor, record, and modify stimulation parameters of the stimulation protocols.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: Elira, Inc.
    Inventors: Raul E. Perez, Paul V. Goode, Peter I. Hong, Steven Diianni, Luis Jose Malave, Brad Stengel, John L. Faul
  • Patent number: 10098551
    Abstract: Systems for monitoring left atrial pressure using implantable cardiac monitoring devices and, more specifically, to a left atrial pressure sensor implanted through a septal wall are presented herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: PACESETTER, INC.
    Inventors: Phong D. Doan, Apratim Dixit
  • Patent number: 10099055
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for delivering neurostimulation therapies to patients. A titration process is used to gradually increase the stimulation intensity to a desired therapeutic level until a target T-wave alternans change from a baseline T-wave alternans is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: Cyberonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Imad Libbus, Bruce H. KenKnight
  • Patent number: 10096385
    Abstract: Described is a system for controlling epidural spinal cord stimulation. Using an Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF), the system receives sensed physiological signals from a subject and, based on the sensed physiological signals, estimating an unobservable state of a target area on the subject. A central pattern generator is then used to generate a stimulation pattern based on the unobservable state. The stimulation pattern is applied to the target area (e.g., spinal cord) of the subject using an electrode array. Receiving feedback, the UKF continuously updates a model of the spinal cord, which results in adjustment of the stimulation pattern as necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: HRL Laboratories, LLC
    Inventors: Corey M. Thibeault, Narayan Srinivasa
  • Patent number: 10086196
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a frame, a sensor, and an electric stimulator. The frame is removably couplable to a portion of a limb. The sensor is configured to produce a first signal associated with a gait characteristic at a first time, and a second signal associated with the gait characteristic at a second time, after the first time. The electric stimulator is removably coupled to the frame and is in electrical communication with an electrode assembly and the sensor to receive the first signal substantially at the first time and the second signal substantially at the second time. Based in part on the gait characteristic at the first time, the electric stimulator sends a third signal to the electrode assembly to provide an electric stimulation to a portion of a neuromuscular system of the limb substantially during a time period defined between the first time and the second time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: Bioness Inc.
    Inventors: Arkady Glukhovsky, Keith McBride
  • Patent number: 10080884
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for activating brown adipose tissue (BAT) using electrical energy. In general, the methods and devices can facilitate activation of BAT to increase thermogenesis. The BAT can be activated by applying an electrical signal thereto that can be configured to target sympathetic nerves that can directly innervate the BAT. The electrical signal can be configured to target the sympathetic nerves using fiber diameter selectivity. In other words, the electrical signal can be configured to activate nerve fibers having a first diameter without activating nerve fibers having diameters different than the first diameter. Sympathetic nerves include postganglionic unmyelinated, small diameter fibers, while parasympathetic nerves that can directly innervate BAT include preganglionic myelinated, larger diameter fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Jason L. Harris, Tamara C. Baynham
  • Patent number: 10080897
    Abstract: A pulse generator is configured to generate electrical pulses of an electrical stimulation therapy. The pulse generator includes an N number of output channels and a microcontroller configured to generate instructions. The pulse generator is configured to generate different stimulation waveforms simultaneously for the output channels. The different waveforms have different waveform characteristics. A mesh electrode array includes an M number of electrodes. Each of the electrodes is configured to deliver the electrical pulses of the electrical stimulation therapy. M is at least several times greater than N. A solid state relay contains a plurality of controllable switches that is each configured to be turned on or off in response to the instructions received from the microcontroller, such that the solid state relay routes the output channels of the pulse generator to different subset of the electrodes of the mesh electrode array at different points in time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: NUVECTRA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Norbert Kaula, Yohannes Iyassu, Michael Labbe
  • Patent number: 10080899
    Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a closed-loop therapy system for treating autonomic instability or a medical condition associated therewith in a subject. The therapy delivery system can include a sensing component, a delivery component, and a controller. The sensing component can be configured to detect at least one physiological parameter associated with autonomic instability or a medical condition associated therewith. The delivery component can be configured for implantation on or about an autonomic nervous tissue target or a spinal nervous tissue target. The controller can be configured to automatically coordinate operation of the sensing and delivery components. The controller can also be configured to deliver an electrical signal to the delivery component to modulate activity at the autonomic nervous tissue target or a spinal nervous tissue target and effectively treat autonomic instability or a medical condition associated therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: Ohio State Innovation Foundation
    Inventors: Ali R. Rezai, Punit Agrawat
  • Patent number: 10076666
    Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a closed loop therapy system for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a subject. The therapy delivery system can include a sensing component, a delivery component, and a controller. The sensing can be configured to detect at least one physiological parameter associated with PTSD. The delivery component can be configured for implantation on or about a pre-determined spinal simulation site. The pre-determined spinal stimulation site can include a spinal cord segment, or spinal nervous tissue associated therewith, other than a C1-C3 spinal cord segment or spinal nervous tissue associated therewith. The controller can be configured to automatically coordinate operation of the sensing and delivery components. The controller can also be configured to deliver an electrical signal to the delivery component to modulate activity at the pre-determined spinal stimulation site to effectively treat PTSD in the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventors: Ali R. Rezai, Randy J. Nelson, Zachary M. Weil
  • Patent number: 10071237
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: DJO, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Jerome Bachinski, Richard Paul Shindley, Dennis Lutz
  • Patent number: 10065037
    Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a closed-loop therapy system for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a subject. The therapy delivery system can include a sensing component, a delivery component, and a controller. The sensing component can be configured to detect at least one physiological parameter associated with PTSD. The delivery component can be configured for implantation on or about a ganglion of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). The controller can be configured to automatically coordinate operation of the sensing and delivery components. The controller can also be configured to deliver an electrical signal to the delivery component so that activity of the ganglion of the SNS is substantially blocked without enhancing a symptom of PTSD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Inventors: Randy J. Nelson, Ali R. Rezai, Zachary M. Weil
  • Patent number: 10055550
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to techniques for remote management of information relating to therapy delivered to a patient by an implantable medical device (IMD). A remote monitoring system for therapy programming includes an IMD that delivers therapy, e.g., neurostimulation, drug therapy, or both, to a patient, an external programming device associated with the IMD, such as a patient programmer, and a remote networking device that receives usage information from the external programming device. The external programming device communicates with the IMD via local, wireless communication, and the remote networking device receives usage information from the external programming device via a network. The usage information includes information that relates to use of therapy by the patient, use of features of the external programming device and the IMD, or use of navigation patterns of a user interface of the external programming device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven M. Goetz
  • Patent number: 10046164
    Abstract: In some examples, a chronic implantable neurostimulator supports trial and chronic modes of operation. In addition, in some examples, the neurostimulator can alternatively include one or more sensors that may or may not function differently in trial and chronic modes. The device may be designed to be used as both a trial neurostimulator and a permanent, or chronic, neurostimulator. A trial neurostimulation period can be used to evaluate the efficacy of the therapy. A percutaneous or implantable trial neurostimulator is used for the trial neurostimulation period. In most cases, the trial period is successful, in which case the trial stimulator is explanted and replaced with a permanent, i.e., “chronic,” implantable stimulator. In accordance with the disclosure, an implantable neurostimulator supports both trial neurostimulation and chronic neurostimulation in the event trial stimulation is successful.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Martin T. Gerber
  • Patent number: 10039461
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are described for neuromonitoring. A minimum stimulus signal required to elicit a threshold neuromuscular response is determined by delivery of stimulus signals to tissue and detection of neuromuscular responses in muscle tissue. The strength of the delivered stimulus signals is varied, for example by adjusting the current amplitude or pulse width of the signals, and muscle responses are measure, for example by detecting EMG signals. The delivered stimuli and corresponding responses are then used to determine a stimulation threshold. The stimulation threshold may be used to indicate at least one of nerve proximity and pedicle integrity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: Cadwell Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: John Cadwell
  • Patent number: 10039918
    Abstract: An implantable lead includes a lead body having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The lead body includes an insulative member having a lumen extending longitudinally between the proximal end portion and the distal end portion. The lead body also includes a generally tubular helical liner disposed coaxially with the lumen within the insulative member. A pitch of the helical liner varies along the length of the lead. The implantable lead also includes an electrode disposed along the lead body in the distal end portion thereof, and a conductor disposed within the lumen and electrically coupled to the electrode. A terminal connector is coupled to the proximal end portion of the lead body and to the conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur J. Foster, Daniel J. Foster, Christopher R. Perrey, Andrew L. De Kock, Patrick Willoughby, Bryan A. Clark
  • Patent number: 10035019
    Abstract: A positionally sensitive spinal cord stimulation apparatus and method using near-infrared (NIR) reflectometry are provided for automatic adjustments of spinal cord stimulation. The system comprises an electrode assembly with an integrated optical fiber sensor for sensing spinal cord position. The integrated optical fiber sensor, comprising a pair of optical elements for emitting light from an IR emitter and for collecting reflected light into a photodetector, determines a set of measured photocurrents. As the spinal cord changes position, the angles of incidence for light from the IR emitter and the measured optical intensities change. Electrode pulse characteristics are adjusted in real time, based on the set of measured optical intensities, to minimize changes in stimulation perceived by the patient during motion. The system includes automatic calibration of the optical fiber sensor when the patient is at rest, and a patient orientation detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2018
    Inventor: Erich W. Wolf, II
  • Patent number: 10035018
    Abstract: A method of treating a movement disorder using deep brain stimulation, the method comprising the step of inserting a lead having at least one electrode into the brain of a subject, the lead being inserted along a trajectory from the occipito-temporal or occipito-parietal regions, passing laterally to the posterior horn of the lateral ventricle to contact the subthalamic nucleus, the zona incerta or the globus pallidus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2018
    Assignee: RENISHAW PLC
    Inventor: Steven Gill
  • Patent number: 10029102
    Abstract: A neuromodulation system and method of providing therapy to a patient. Electrical energy is delivered to the patient in accordance with a modulation parameter, thereby providing therapy to the patient, and the modulation parameter of the delivered electrical energy is varied over a period of time, such that the delivered electrical energy is continually maintained at a sub-threshold level throughout the period of time. The sub-threshold level may be referred to as a patient-perception threshold, which may be referred to as a boundary below which a patient does not sense delivery of the electrical energy. For example, in a spinal cord modulation system, the patient-perception threshold may be a boundary below which a patient does not experience paresthesia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Que T. Doan, Jordi Parramon, Sridhar Kothandaraman, Christopher Ewan Gillespie, Sarvani Grandhe
  • Patent number: 10028730
    Abstract: A biopsy device includes a probe, a holster, and a tissue sample holder for collecting tissue samples. The probe includes a needle and a hollow cutter. The tissue sample holder includes a housing having one or more chambers that are configured to receive a removable tray including one or more prongs and a bulk chamber of a different volume than the one or more chambers. The housing is releasably engageable with the probe. Each tray prong is configured to receive a tissue sample communicated through the cutter lumen. The tray is removable from the housing, such as along an axial direction. The tissue sample holder is rotatable to successively index each chamber to the cutter lumen. The trays may be flexible, resilient, or rigid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: Devicor Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin M. Fiebig, Jessica P. Leimbach, Kyle P. Moore, Andrew P. Nock
  • Patent number: 10016608
    Abstract: A system and method for locating an implantable tissue stimulation lead within a patient. A measurement indicative of a coupling efficiency between the tissue stimulation lead and tissue at a location is taken. The location of the tissue stimulation lead relative to the tissue is tracked. Coupling efficiency information based on the measurement from the monitoring device is generated, tracking information based on the tissue stimulation lead location is generated, and the coupling efficiency information and tracking information is concurrently conveyed to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: David K. L. Peterson, Kerry Bradley
  • Patent number: 10004634
    Abstract: A device for inducing production of tears may include a body extending from a proximal end to a distal end. The body may be configured for insertion through a puncta of a subject. The device also may include a stimulus delivery mechanism positioned between the proximal end and the distal end and an induction coil operably coupled to the stimulus delivery mechanism. Further, the device may include an external controller wirelessly coupled to the induction coil for inductively transferring energy to the induction coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO
    Inventor: Malik Y. Kahook
  • Patent number: 9993290
    Abstract: A method and system of providing therapy to a patient's uterus is provided, which can include any number of features. The method can include the steps of inserting a uterine device into the uterus and performing a uterine integrity test to determine that the uterus is intact and not perforated. If it is determined that the uterus is not perforated, a patency test can be performed to determine that the uterine device is not clogged or embedded in tissue. If the uterus is intact and the device is not clogged or embedded in tissue, the uterus can be treated with the uterine device, e.g., uterine ablation. Systems for performing these methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: AEGEA MEDICAL INC.
    Inventors: Uriel Hiram Chee, Robert Bilgor Peliks, Hugh Edward Magen, Donnell William Gurskis, Steven Robert Bacich
  • Patent number: 9987493
    Abstract: A medical electrical stimulator provides selective control of stimulation via a combination of two or more electrodes coupled to respective regulated current paths and one or more electrodes coupled to unregulated current paths. Constant current sources may control the current that is sourced or sunk via respective regulated current paths. An unregulated current path may sink or source current to and from an unregulated voltage source that serves as a reference voltage. Unregulated electrodes may function as unregulated anodes to source current from a reference voltage or unregulated cathodes to sink current to a reference voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Nathan A. Torgerson, Matthew J. Michaels
  • Patent number: 9987481
    Abstract: An electrode assembly that includes an electrically conductive layer, a first impedance reduction system, and a second impedance reduction system. The electrically conductive layer forms an electrode portion of the electrode assembly and a first surface to be placed adjacent a person's skin. The first impedance reduction system is configured to dispense a first amount of an electrically conductive gel onto the first surface of the electrically conductive layer in response to a first activation signal. The second impedance reduction system is configured to dispense a second amount of the electrically conductive gel onto the first surface of the electrically conductive layer in response to a second activation signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: ZOLL MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Thomas E. Kaib, Shane S. Volpe, Emil Oskin
  • Patent number: 9974344
    Abstract: A wearable safety device assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes at least one sensor configured to obtain one or more signals from a user. One of the at least one sensors comprises a vestibular (and startling/surprise related) motion sensor specially configured to obtain vestibular (and startling/surprise related) signals. Vestibular (and startling/surprise related) data indicative of a user's vestibular (and startling/surprise related) state is extracted from the one or more signals and used to determine whether a user is undergoing an event such as a fall or a startling movement. When it is determined that a user is undergoing an event, the processor of the wearable safety device transmits an activation signal to the safety device. Optionally, the processor may transmit data and information related to the vestibular (and startling/surprise related) system and recorded signals to a data repository.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: GraceFall, Inc.
    Inventors: Allon Guez, Helen Guez
  • Patent number: 9974947
    Abstract: Methods of treating pain are disclosed, wherein a non-pulsed, low-frequency electrical current is applied to the nerve carrying the pain signals in order to suppress transmission of those signals. In desired embodiments, the current is applied in a direction transverse to the nerve axis. Such currents have been found not to induce motor-neuron recruitment, meaning these methods can treat pain without causing muscle spasm or other muscular responses. A cuff for applying such a current transverse to the nerve axis is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: Case Western Reserve University
    Inventors: Dominique M. Durand, Brian Wodlinger
  • Patent number: 9974452
    Abstract: Embodiments herein describe a user device that includes a dual purpose coil (or inductor) used when performing inductive sensing and when transferring electrical power to the user device. When performing inductive sensing, the user device couples the coil to a sensing circuit which measures a resistivity of a lossy material inductively coupled to the coil. In one embodiment, the user device may be worn on the wrist of the user so that the sensing circuit measures the resistivity corresponding to the flow of blood in an artery or vein. By monitoring changes in the resistivity of the blood or artery, the user device can identify the heartbeat of the user. When transferring electrical power, the user device couples the coil to a charging circuit which receives the power provided by an external charging device that is inductively coupled to the coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: SYNAPTICS INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Marshall J. Bell, Jr., Jeffrey S. Lillie
  • Patent number: 9968775
    Abstract: Tether apparatus may be used to replace an implanted lead extension with a replacement lead extension without tunneling or the use of tunneling tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC, INC.
    Inventors: Peter Appenrodt, Daniel Schmitz, Paul van Venrooij
  • Patent number: 9968329
    Abstract: A processing device detects a medical device and sends an audio wake-up signal to the medical device, wherein the audio wake-up signal causes the medical device to transition from a low power state to a higher power state. The processing device receives a diagnostic audio signal from the medical device after sending the audio wake-up signal. The processing device processes the diagnostic audio signal to determine medical information of a patient, the medical information comprising at least one of heart beat information or breathing information of the patient. The processing device performs at least one of storing the medical information or transmitting the medical information to a remote computing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: CliniCloud Inc.
    Inventors: Hon Weng Chong, Lain Cai Cai, An Lin, Robert James Skillington
  • Patent number: 9962542
    Abstract: Systems and methods for deep brain electrode placement and deep brain stimulation (DBS) for treatment of conditions such as obesity are disclosed. In one example approach, during placement of a deep brain stimulating electrode in a target region of the brain of a patient, a temperature of brown adipose tissue (BAT) may be monitored, e.g., via a supraclavicular temperature sensor implanted in the patient, and used to identify an optimal location of electrode stimulation which causes an increase in BAT temperature. Additionally, BAT temperature measurements may be used to provide regulated closed-loop control to increase efficiency of DBS while reducing energy consumption of the pulse generator. Further, core temperature measurements may be obtained from the electrode in the brain and used to adjust DBS.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Oregon Health & Science University
    Inventors: Kim Burchiel, Christopher J. Madden, Shaun F. Morrison
  • Patent number: 9962544
    Abstract: An electrode connector assembly for use in transcutaneous electrical stimulation includes a flexible web extending in a plane and first, second, third and fourth electrode connectors carried by the web and spaced from each other about the web in the plane. The electrode connector assembly further includes an electrical connector and first, second, third and fourth conductors electrically coupling the respective first, second, third and fourth electrode connectors to the electrical connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: GI Therapies Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Bridget Rae Southwell, David Fisher, Rod Wiebenga, Lisa Tjernberg
  • Patent number: 9962475
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are heart pumps that can include a catheter body and an impeller coupled with a distal end of the catheter body. The impeller can include a tip that is resealable or that includes a resealable member. The heart pump can also include a diffuser disposed between the distal end of the catheter body and the impeller, wherein the diffuser includes a flow directing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignees: TC1 LLC, THE PENN STATE RESEARCH FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Robert L. Campbell, Jeremy J. Koncoski, Thomas M. Mallison, Mark W. McBride, Daniel Metrey, Eric C. Myer, Kevin J. Powell, Adam Roslund, Daniel A. Walters, William James Repka, Phyllis Yuen
  • Patent number: 9962546
    Abstract: A CFS system includes self-adhesive, disposable pads. Each pad is combined with a sealed, cleanable battery/controller pod and then placed on the body where needed. The battery/controller pod preferably has wireless capability, such as Bluetooth® capability. The patient can download an application to a smartphone or similar mobile device to control the pods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Meagan Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Carroll, Mark Edward Schoening, Patrick Allen Scranton, William Richard Huseby
  • Patent number: 9962543
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a paddle lead is implanted within a patient such that the electrodes are positioned within the cervical or thoracic spinal levels. An electrode combination on a first row of electrodes can be determined that is effective for a first pain location with minimal effects on other regions of the body. The first pain location can be addressed by stimulating a first dorsal column fiber due to the relatively fine electrical field resolution achievable by the multiple columns. Then, another electrode combination on a second row of electrodes can be determined for a second pain location with minimal effects on other regions. The second pain location could be addressed by stimulating a second dorsal column fiber. After the determination of the appropriate electrodes for stimulation, the patient's IPG can be programmed to deliver pulses using the first and second rows according to the determined electrode combinations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Claudio A. Feler, John H. Erickson
  • Patent number: 9956421
    Abstract: Designs and methods of construction for an implantable medical device employ an internal support structure. The single-piece support structure holds various electronic components such as a communication coil and a circuit board, and further is affixed to a battery, thus providing a subassembly that is mechanically robust. The support structure further provides electrical isolation between these and other components. A method of construction allows for the subassembly to be adhered to a case of the implantable medical device at the support structure, and possibly also at the battery, without electrically shorting the battery to the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Navin N. Bunyan, Robert R. Tong, Jeffery Van Funderburk
  • Patent number: 9959471
    Abstract: A system for monitoring a patient in a patient area having one or more detection zones, the system comprising one or more cameras, a user interface, and a computing system configured to receive a chronological series of frames from the one or more cameras, identify liquid candidates by comparing a current frame with a plurality of previous frames of the chronological series, determine locations of the liquid candidates, identify thermal signatures of the liquid candidates, determine types of liquids of the liquid candidates based on the locations and thermal signatures of the liquid candidates, and generate an alert with the user interface corresponding to the determined types of liquids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: CareView Communications, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Gail Johnson, Derek del Carpio, Kenneth W. Chapman
  • Patent number: 9956409
    Abstract: Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system having a recharging system with self alignment, a system for mapping current fields using a completely wireless system, multiple independent electrode stimulation outsource, and control through software on Smartphone/mobile device and tablet hardware during trial and permanent implants. SCS system can include multiple electrodes, multiple, independently programmable, stimulation channels within an implantable pulse generator (IPG) providing concurrent, but unique stimulation fields. SCS system can include a replenishable power source, rechargeable using transcutaneous power transmissions between antenna coil pairs. An external charger unit, having its own rechargeable battery, can charge the IPG replenishable power source. A real-time clock can provide an auto-run schedule for daily stimulation. A bi-directional telemetry link informs the patient or clinician the status of the system, including the state of charge of the IPG battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Saif Khalil, Raghavendra Angara, Miles Curtis, Christopher Biele, Daniel Fellmeth
  • Patent number: 9956393
    Abstract: The disclosed wearable device modulates a patient's gastric emptying time and/or gastric retention time. The wearable device includes a microprocessor, electrical stimulator and at least one electrode configured to deliver electrical stimulation to the epidermis, through a range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm or a range of 0.1 mm to 20 mm of the dermis, of a T2 dermatome to a T12 dermatome or meridian of the patient, a C5 to a T1 dermatome across the hand and/or arm, and/or the upper chest regions. The device is adapted to provide electrical stimulation as per stimulation protocols and to communicate wirelessly with a companion control device configured to monitor and record appetite patterns of the patient. The control device is also configured to monitor, record, and modify stimulation parameters of the stimulation protocols.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Elira, Inc.
    Inventors: Raul E. Perez, Peter I. Hong, Steven Diianni, Luis Jose Malave, Brad Stengel
  • Patent number: 9943683
    Abstract: A patch for a therapeutic electrical stimulation device includes a shoe connected to the first side of the patch, the shoe including a body extending in a longitudinal direction from a first end to a second end, and having first and second surfaces, the first end of the shoe defining at least two ports, and the first surface of the shoe defining a connection member. The patch also includes at least one conductor positioned in the ports of the first end of the shoe. The shoe is configured for sliding insertion into a receptacle defined by a controller so that the conductor is connected to the controller to deliver electrical current from the controller, through the conductor, and to the electrodes, and the connection member is at least partially captured by a detent defined by the controller in the receptacle to retain the shoe within the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: DJO, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Jerome Bachinski, Richard Paul Shindley, Dennis Lutz
  • Patent number: 9925379
    Abstract: A computer implemented method and system is provided for managing neural stimulation therapy. The method comprises under control of one or more processors configured with program instructions. The method delivers a series of candidate stimulation waveforms having varied stimulation intensities to at least one electrode located proximate to nervous tissue of interest. A parameter defines the candidate stimulation waveforms is changed to vary the stimulation intensity. The method identifies a first candidate stimulation waveform that induces a paresthesia-abatement effect, while continuing to induce a select analgesic effect. The method further identifies a second candidate stimulation waveform that does not induce the select analgesic effect. The method sets a stimulation therapy based on the first and second candidate stimulation waveforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Assignee: Pacesetter, Inc.
    Inventors: Xiaoyi Min, Alexander Kent, Richard Williamson
  • Patent number: 9913979
    Abstract: Multiple designs, systems, methods and processes for control using electrical signals recorded from clinically paralyzed muscles and nerves are presented. The discomplete neural prosthesis system and method for clinically paralyzed humans utilizes a controller. The controller is adapted to receive a volitional electrical signal generated by the human that is manifest below the lesion that causes the clinical paralysis. The controller uses at least the volitional electrical signal to generate a control signal that is output back to a plant to change the state of the plant, which in one aspect is one or more of the user's paralyzed muscles to achieve a functional result or to devices in the environment around the user that are adapted to receive commands from the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Case Western Reserve University
    Inventors: Christa Wheeler Moss, Paul Hunter Peckham
  • Patent number: 9907954
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for accessing the internal and external tissues of the heart are disclosed. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein provide access to the external surface of the heart through the pericardial space for localized delivery of substances to the heart tissue. In addition, various disclosed embodiments provide access to the internal surface of the heart for aspiration and delivery of substances to a targeted region without disturbing or interfering with nearby structures or surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: CVDevices, LLC
    Inventors: Ghassan S. Kassab, Jose A. Navia, Sr.
  • Patent number: 9901710
    Abstract: Steering engagement catheter devices, systems, and methods of using the same for accessing a tissue, including internal and external tissues of a heart, are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, a steering engagement catheter is provided, comprising an elongated tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and a first wall positioned circumferentially along a length of the elongated tube, the elongated tube configured such that a delivery catheter is capable of at least partial insertion into the elongated tube, at least one steering wire having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the at least one steering wire coupled to the first wall of the elongated tube at or near the distal end of the elongated tube, and a controller operably coupled to the at least one steering wire at or near the proximal end of the at least one steering wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: CVDevices, LLC
    Inventors: Ghassan S. Kassab, Jose A. Navia, Sr.
  • Patent number: 9895539
    Abstract: Systems for disease treatment using electrical stimulation are disclosed. A representative method for treating a patient includes changing an activity, expression, or both activity and expression of a fast sodium channel, a glial cell, or both a fast sodium channel and a glial cell of the patient by applying to a target neural population of the patient an electrical therapy signal having a frequency in a frequency range of 1.5 kHz to 100 kHz.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: Nevro Corp.
    Inventors: Gary Heit, Bradford Evan Gliner
  • Patent number: 9895541
    Abstract: A method for controlling a position of a patient's tongue includes attaching at least one electrode to the patient's Hypoglossal nerve and applying an electric signal through the electrode to at least one targeted motor efferent located within the Hypoglossal nerve to stimulate at least one muscle of the tongue. Methods may also include the use of more than one contact to target more than one motor efferent and stimulating more than one muscle. The stimulation load to maintain the position of the tongue may be shared by each muscle. The position of the patient's tongue may be controlled in order to prevent obstructive sleep apnea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: IMTHERA MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Paul M. Meadows, Marcelo G. Lima, Faisal N. Zaidi
  • Patent number: 9872999
    Abstract: A cardiac pacing system comprising one or more leadless cardiac pacemakers configured for implantation in electrical contact with a cardiac chamber and configured to perform cardiac pacing functions in combination with a co-implanted implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). The leadless cardiac pacemaker comprises at least two leadless electrodes configured for delivering cardiac pacing pulses, sensing evoked and/or natural cardiac electrical signals, and bidirectionally communicating with the co-implanted ICD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: Pacesetter, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter M. Jacobson
  • Patent number: 9875340
    Abstract: Systems and methods disclosed herein provide efficacious pain management therapies based on delivery of physical medicine(s) via computer-implemented systems. Patient information comprising patient pain symptoms, patient physiological measurements, patient demographics, and other information is received at a pain therapy device. The patient information is compared with pain analytics data compiled on a plurality of individuals to determine a personalized pain management therapy. The personalized pain management therapy is applied via a combination of thermoceuticals, electroceuticals, ultrasound, and several other forms of physical medicine. Sensors coupled to the pain therapy device measure changes in physiological data resulting from the pain management therapy. The personalized pain management therapy can be adjusted based on the changes in the physiological data and/or patient feedback.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: ITRACE BIOMEDICAL INC.
    Inventor: Krishnamohan Sharma
  • Patent number: 9861810
    Abstract: Thermal drawing processes can be used to make multifunctional, high-resolution neural probes for neural recording and stimulation. An exemplary neural probe may include one or more conductive fibers or microelectrodes coated with two or more layers of insulating material, at least one of which is partially etched to expose a tip at the neural probe's distal end. The conductive fibers conduct electrical signals (e.g., neural spikes or electrical stimulation) between the tip and the neural probe's proximal end. Optional optical and fluidic waveguides may guide light and fluid, respectively, between the tip and the proximal end. A neural probe may be flexible enough for long-term (chronic) implantation in neural tissue (e.g., the brain) without excessive tissue damage, even during movement of the brain in the skull. The probe may be made from biocompatible materials, such as insulating and conductive polymers, that have negligible (insignificant) interaction with the surrounding tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Polina Olegovna Anikeeva, Xiaoting Jia, Chi Lu, Andres Canales, Ulrich Paul Froriep, Christina Myra Tringides, Yoel Fink