Stimulating Reproductive Organ Patents (Class 607/39)
  • Patent number: 12311167
    Abstract: Alternating electric fields (e.g., TTFields) can be delivered at a therapeutically effective strength to a target region of the spinal anatomy. In some embodiments, first and second sets of electrode elements are positioned with their centroids adjacent to upper and lower portions of the person's spine, respectively. In other embodiments, a first set of electrode elements is positioned with its centroid on an upper surface of the person's head, and a second set of electrode elements is positioned with its centroid adjacent to the person's spine (e.g., below the L3 vertebrae). Applying an AC voltage between the first and second sets of electrode elements generates a generally vertical field in the target region at levels that are not achievable using other layouts for positioning the electrode elements on the subject's body. These configurations are particularly useful for preventing and/or treating metastases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2025
    Assignee: Novocure GmbH
    Inventors: Zeev Bomzon, Ariel Naveh, Ofir Yesharim
  • Patent number: 11957894
    Abstract: A neuromodulation therapy is delivered via at least one electrode implanted subcutaneously and superficially to a fascia layer superficial to a nerve of a patient. In one example, an implantable medical device is deployed along a superficial surface of a deep fascia tissue layer superficial to a nerve of a patient. Electrical stimulation energy is delivered to the nerve through the deep fascia tissue layer via implantable medical device electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony M. Chasensky, Bernard Q. Li, Brad C. Tischendorf, Chris J. Paidosh, Christian S. Nielsen, Craig L. Schmidt, David A. Dinsmoor, Duane L. Bourget, Eric H. Bonde, Erik R. Scott, Forrest C M Pape, Gabriela C. Molnar, Gordon O. Munns, Joel A. Anderson, John E. Kast, Joseph J. Viavattine, Markus W. Reiterer, Michael J. Ebert, Phillip C. Falkner, Prabhakar A. Tamirisa, Randy S. Roles, Reginald D. Robinson, Richard T. Stone, Shawn C. Kelley, Stephen J. Roddy, Thomas P. Miltich, Timothy J. Denison, Todd V. Smith, Xuan K. Wei
  • Patent number: 11839198
    Abstract: A system and method of livestock management comprising a device disposed in a livestock animal. The device comprises a network interface, a housing defining a cavity, a weighted element, a power supply, a data processing unit, a temperature sensor and an accelerometer. The temperature sensor acquires temperature data of the livestock animal. The accelerometer acquires movement data of the livestock animal. The cavity includes a data processing system having at least one processor and memory. The data processing system is coupled with the power source and communicatively coupled with the temperature sensor and the accelerometer. The data processing system transmits, via the network interface, temperature data and movement data. The cavity includes an activation receiver to receive activation signal to activate the data processing system. A livestock management server receives and analyzes the data, along with any data from any additional data sources, and provides output to a user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Inventors: Denis Tokarev, Robert Kenneth Girard
  • Patent number: 11819684
    Abstract: In an aspect of the present disclosure, a system and method for controlling uterine contractions is disclosed including receiving data from at least one sensor by a wireless apparatus inserted into the patient's vagina adjacent the cervix. The data includes an indication that a contraction of the uterus is imminent. The method further includes in response to receiving the data, causing a generator circuit of the wireless apparatus to supply electrical energy to an energy applicator of the wireless apparatus that is configured to apply the supplied electrical energy to the uterus of the patient via the cervix of the patient to control contractions of the patient's uterus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: NEW YORK UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Jeffrey Karsdon, Frederick Naftolin, Vikram Kapila, Ashwin Raj Kumar
  • Patent number: 11793998
    Abstract: A neuromodulation therapy is delivered via at least one electrode implanted subcutaneously and superficially to a fascia layer superficial to a nerve of a patient. In one example, an implantable medical device is deployed along a superficial surface of a deep fascia tissue layer superficial to a nerve of a patient. Electrical stimulation energy is delivered to the nerve through the deep fascia tissue layer via implantable medical device electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony M. Chasensky, Bernard Q. Li, Brad C. Tischendorf, Chris J. Paidosh, Christian S. Nielsen, Craig L. Schmidt, Eric H. Bonde, Erik R. Scott, Gabriela C. Molnar, Gordon O. Munns, John E. Kast, Joseph J. Viavattine, Markus W. Reiterer, Michael J. Ebert, Phillip C. Falkner, Prabhakar A. Tamirisa, Randy S. Roles, Reginald D. Robinson, Richard T. Stone, Shawn C. Kelley, Thomas P. Miltich, Todd V. Smith, Xuan K. Wei
  • Patent number: 11759388
    Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus for treating a sexual dysfunctional female patient, comprising an implanted stimulation device adapted to stimulate at least a part of the sexually responsive tissue of the vulva or the wall of the vagina of the patient by movement of said stimulation device and contact between said stimulation device and the sexually responsive tissue or the wall of the vagina. A system and an operation method for the treatment of female sexual dysfunction are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Inventor: Peter Forsell
  • Patent number: 11633179
    Abstract: The invention relates to an abdominal retractor system using human body parts as support points by means of extension levers, and maintains approach to the surgical region by pressing abdominal wall downwards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Inventor: Orhan Seyfi Aksakal
  • Patent number: 11497916
    Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods for positioning of an implantable lead in a patient with an integrated EMG and stimulation clinician programmer. The integrated clinician programmer is coupled to the implantable lead, wherein the implantable lead comprises at least four electrodes, and to at least one EMG sensing electrode minimally invasively positioned on a skin surface or within the patient. The method comprises delivering a test stimulation at a stimulation amplitude level from the integrated clinician programmer to a nerve tissue of the patient with a principal electrode of the implantable lead. Test stimulations are delivered at a same stimulation amplitude level for a same period of time sequentially to each of the four electrodes of the implantable lead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: AXONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Guangqiang Jiang, John Woock, Dennis Schroeder, Eric Schmid
  • Patent number: 11439809
    Abstract: Methods for effectuating ovarian denervation include advancing a disruptor intravaginally to access an ovarian nerve and applying the disruptor to the ovarian nerve to denervate the ovarian nerve to limit ovarian sympathetic neural activity and control hormonal secretion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Dale E. Whipple, Mireille K. Akilian, Nikolai D. Begg, Chad A. Pickering
  • Patent number: 11369790
    Abstract: This application discloses an improved approach for delivering alternating electric fields (e.g., TTFields) at a therapeutically effective strength to a target region of the spinal anatomy. In some embodiments, first and second sets of electrode elements are positioned with their centroids adjacent to upper and lower portions of the person's spine, respectively. In other embodiments, a first set of electrode elements is positioned with its centroid on an upper surface of the person's head, and a second set of electrode elements is positioned with its centroid adjacent to the person's spine (e.g., below the L3 vertebrae). Applying an AC voltage between the first and second sets of electrode elements generates a generally vertical field in the target region at levels that are not achievable using other layouts for positioning the electrode elements on the subject's body. These configurations are particularly useful for preventing and/or treating metastases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: Novocure GmbH
    Inventors: Zeev Bomzon, Ariel Naveh, Ofir Yesharim
  • Patent number: 11291831
    Abstract: In an aspect of the present disclosure, a system and method for controlling uterine contractions is disclosed including receiving data from at least one sensor by a wireless apparatus inserted into the patient's vagina adjacent the cervix. The data includes an indication that a contraction of the uterus is imminent. The method further includes in response to receiving the data, causing a generator circuit of the wireless apparatus to supply electrical energy to an energy applicator of the wireless apparatus that is configured to apply the supplied electrical energy to the uterus of the patient via the cervix of the patient to control contractions of the patient's uterus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Assignee: NEW YORK UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Jeffrey Karsdon, Frederick Naftolin, Vikram Kapila, Ashwin Raj Kumar
  • Patent number: 11285318
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods for treating underactive bladder, urinary retention, detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia after spinal cord injury, constipation, and/or infrequent bowel movements including the step of applying electrical stimulation to one or more peripheral nerves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh—Of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventor: Changfeng Tai
  • Patent number: 11224749
    Abstract: An implantable assembly is described for acquisition of neuronal electrical signals at a selected location which propagate along at least one nerve fiber contained in a nerve fiber bundle, as well as for selective electrical stimulation of the at least one nerve fiber, having: an implantable electrode assembly (E) which is disposed on a biocompatible support substrate which can be positioned around the nerve fiber bundle in a cuff.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2022
    Assignee: NEUROLOOP GMBH
    Inventors: Dennis Plachta, Mortimer Giehrtmuehlen, Thomas Stieglitz, Josef Zentner
  • Patent number: 11154709
    Abstract: Delivery of peripheral nerve field stimulation (PNFS) in combination with one or more other therapies is described. The other therapy delivered in combination with PNFS may be, for example, a different type of neurostimulation, such as spinal cord stimulation (SCS), or a drug. PNFS and the other therapy may be delivered simultaneously, in an alternating fashion, according to a schedule, and/or selectively, e.g., in response to a request received from a patient or clinician. A combination therapy that includes PNFS may be able to more completely address complex or multifocal pain than would be possible through delivery of either PNFS or other therapies alone. Further, the combination of PNFS with one or more other therapies may reduce the likelihood that neural accommodation will impair the perceived effectiveness PNFS or the other therapies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Ethan A. Rooney, Carl D. Wahlstrand, Gary W. King, Thomas E. Cross, Jr., Kenneth T. Heruth, Paul W. Wacnik, Jeffrey S. Evanson
  • Patent number: 11141587
    Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for treating a medical condition by applying transcutaneous electrical stimulation to a target peripheral nerve of a subject. Electrical stimulation is applied to the peripheral nerve via a stimulation electrode pattern under closed-loop control in which EMG responses are monitored and used to adjust stimulation parameters. In response to detecting an unacceptable recording, electrical stimulation is applied to the peripheral nerve under open-loop control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: AVATION MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Alexandru Campean, Jeff A. Weisgarber, Mingming Zhang
  • Patent number: 11103697
    Abstract: An introducing device for locating a tissue region and deploying an electrode is shown and described. The introducing device may include an outer sheath. An inner sheath may be disposed within the outer sheath. The inner sheath may be configured to engage an implantable electrode. In an example, the inner sheath may comprise a stimulation probe having an uninsulated portion at or near a distal end of the delivery sheath. The outer sheath may be coupled to a power source or stimulation signal generating circuitry at a proximal end. A clinician may control application of the stimulation signal to a tissue region via the outer sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: SPR Therapeutics, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph W. Boggs, Amorn Wongsarnpigoon, Matthew G. deBock, Meredith J. McGee, Devin Sell, Robert B. Strother
  • Patent number: 11077301
    Abstract: What is provided is a method and apparatus for modifying bladder function comprising: applying a dermal patch having an integral electrode in proximity to a sacral or pudendal nerve; selecting the sacral or pudendal nerve by a sensor integral on the dermal patch; determining a stimulation corresponding to the sacral or pudendal nerve, by logic of the dermal patch; applying the stimulation by the electrodes and a stimulator integral to the dermal patch to produce an electric field; and selectively activating the sacral or pudendal nerve by the electric field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: NeurostimOAB, Inc.
    Inventors: Graham Creasey, Hoo-Min D Toong
  • Patent number: 10722708
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a neuromodulation apparatus and methods of using the neuromodulation apparatus for treating bladder dysfunction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: Duke University
    Inventors: Warren M. Grill, James A. Hokanson, Christopher L. Langdale
  • Patent number: 10674924
    Abstract: Systems and methods for mapping a cavernous nerve near an organ. The system includes: one or more processors; and a memory that is communicatively coupled to the one or more processors and stores one or more sequences of instructions, which when executed by one or more processors causes steps to be performed comprising: applying an excitation signal to an electrode at a tip of an laparoscope, the tip being configured to contact a point on a tissue near an organ; responsive to the excitation signal, measuring a change in a signal from a pair of electrodes configured to be installed on the penis, the change in the signal being associated with an erectile function of the penis; and based on the change in the signal from the pair of electrodes, determining a distance between the point on the tissue and a cavernous nerve near the organ.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: SEOUL NATIONAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL
    Inventors: Chang Wook Jeong, Keewon Kim
  • Patent number: 10583298
    Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to methods, devices and systems for neurological regulation. The methods, devices and systems described herein are useful, for example, in the treatment of conditions of the bladder such as overactive bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Wang, John Edward Sherry
  • Patent number: 10376704
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing a trial neurostimulation to a patient for assesssing suitability of a permanently implanted neurostimulation are provided herein. In one aspect, a trial neurostimulation system includes an EPG affixation device that secures the EPG to the patient when connected to a lead extending through a percutaneous incission to a target tissue location, while allowing for ready removal of the EPG for charging or bathing. In another aspect, the system includes an EPG provided with a multi-purpose connector rectacle through which the EPG can deliver neurostimulation therapy to an implanted lead or the EPG can be charged. In yet another aspect, the EPG can include a multi-purpose connector receptacle that is alternatingly connectable with a plurality of differing connector to faciltiate differing types of therapies with one or more neurostimulation devices, ground patches or various other devices, such as charging or testing devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: AXONICS MODULATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Prabodh Mathur, Dennis Schroeder, John Woock
  • Patent number: 10300279
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for treating a sexual disorder such as erectile dysfunction (ED) or female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD). An electrical stimulation system may include an implantable stimulation unit, an external patient controller, and an external physician controller. The implantable stimulation unit has an array of electrodes disposed on one or more flexible substrates configured to conform to a patient's anatomy at the pelvic plexus. Post-implantation, the physician controller may direct the stimulation unit to stimulate with select electrode(s) of the array to determine which electrode configuration provides optimal sexual arousal. The patient controller may be used to cause the stimulation unit to stimulate using the optimal electrode configuration at desired times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Ecole Polytechnique Federale De Lausanne (EPFL)
    Inventors: Rodrigo Araujo Fraga {grave over (d)}a Silva, Nikolaos Stergiopulos
  • Patent number: 10238877
    Abstract: An anal electrode device is configured to measure a response of a patient to a stimulation pulse. The anal electrode device includes an elongated shaft that is configured to be at least partially inserted into an anal canal of the patient. A first sensory electrode is disposed on a first region of the shaft. The first sensory electrode is configured to measure a compound motor action potential (CMAP) from an internal sphincter of the patient while the shaft is partially inserted into the anal canal of the patient. A second sensory electrode is disposed on a second region of the shaft. The second sensory electrode is configured to measure the CMAP from an external sphincter of the patient while the shaft is partially inserted into the anal canal of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: NUVECTRA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Norbert Kaula, Yohannes Iyassu, Steven Siegel, Michele Spinelli
  • Patent number: 10232175
    Abstract: A method for implanting a stimulator for genital nerves stimulation, including approaching the genital nerves of a patient, defined as the dorsal nerve of the penis/clitoris (DNP), the cavernous nerve (CN) or both the DNP and CN, ventrally by way of the retropubic space to implant a stimulator to contact the genital nerves in this location; and controlling the stimulator to influence at least one of the genital nerves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Inventor: Marc Possover
  • Patent number: 10201702
    Abstract: Electrical stimulation is delivered to a patient based on input from a patient indicative of an intent of the patient to contract a pelvic floor muscle or an attempt by the patient to contract the pelvic floor muscle. The electrical stimulation is configured to induce a contraction of the pelvic floor muscle of the patient to strengthen the pelvic floor muscle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC, INC.
    Inventors: Eric H. Bonde, Xuan K. Wei
  • Patent number: 10173056
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for improving male fertility inter alia by increasing sperm count in a male subject. The methods of the invention comprise applying a positive electrical current below sensation level to at least one site of a scrotum of a subject in need thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: Tel Hashomer Medical Research Infrastructure and Service Ltd.
    Inventors: Gil Raviv, David Shashar, Yoram Shadmi, Itzchak Shvitlowsky, David Castel
  • Patent number: 10098779
    Abstract: The invention contemplates use of remote ischemic conditioning in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: The Hospital for Sick Children
    Inventor: Christopher Caldarone
  • Patent number: 10086200
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a neural prosthesis. In its most general form, the neural prosthesis comprises an electrode array including a stimulating electrode (801) and a bipolar return electrode (802). The neural prosthesis also comprises a monopolar return electrode (806), a first electrical return path (812) associated with the bipolar return electrode (802) and a second electrical return path (814) associated with the monopolar return electrode (806) wherein, in use, the stimulating electrode (801) provides a stimulating current to the tissue of a recipient and a total return current is divided between a first current in the first electrical return path (812) and a second current in the second electrical return path (814).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: NewSouth Innovations Pty Limited
    Inventor: Gregg Jorgen Suaning
  • Patent number: 10035020
    Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to methods, devices and systems for neurological regulation. The methods, devices and systems described herein are useful, for example, in the treatment of conditions of the bladder such as overactive bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Wang, John Edward Sherry
  • Patent number: 9956404
    Abstract: In one example, a method including generating electrical stimulation therapy with a frequency of approximately 500 hertz or greater, and controlling delivery of the electrical stimulation therapy to a patient via a medical device between at least one of contractions of a bladder or contractions of a bowel of a patient, wherein the electrical stimulation therapy comprises electrical stimulation therapy configured to inhibit contraction of the bladder when the electrical stimulation is delivered between the contractions of the bladder, wherein the electrical stimulation therapy comprises electrical stimulation therapy configured to inhibit contraction of the bowel when the electrical stimulation is delivered between the contractions of the bowel, and wherein at least one of the generating and controlling is performed via one or more processors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Thaddeus S. Brink, Xin Su, Dwight E. Nelson
  • Patent number: 9821163
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for treating a sexual disorder such as erectile dysfunction (ED) or female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD). An electrical stimulation system may include an implantable stimulation unit, an external patient controller, and an external physician controller. The implantable stimulation unit has an array of electrodes disposed on one or more flexible substrates configured to conform to a patient's anatomy at the pelvic plexus. Post-implantation, the physician controller may direct the stimulation unit to stimulate with select electrode(s) of the array to determine which electrode configuration provides optimal sexual arousal. The patient controller may be used to cause the stimulation unit to stimulate using the optimal electrode configuration at desired times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: Ecole Polytechnique Federal De Lausanne (EPFL)
    Inventors: Rodrigo Araujo Fraga Da Silva, Nikolaos Stergiopulos
  • Patent number: 9776004
    Abstract: Methods of treating premature ejaculation include arranging one or more electrodes to face dorsal penile nerves (DPNs) of a patient with premature ejaculation, and applying an electro stimulation having a frequency and a current by which seminal fluid expulsion is not induced in the patient by the one or more electrodes during a time period from before the start of sexual intercourse to ejaculation. The electro stimulation reversibly extends an intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) of the patient. Methods of controlling a premature ejaculation treatment device are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: ASTELLAS PHARMA INC.
    Inventor: Yasuharu Kimura
  • Patent number: 9737707
    Abstract: A device for stimulating nerves adjacent the vagina includes a nerve stimulating element coupled to a main body. The nerve stimulating element is positioned and designed to stimulate the vesical, Frankenhauser's and/or inferior hypogastric plexuses. The device may reside in the vaginal fornices. An implant is also provided which has a nerve stimulating element in contact with a uterosacral ligament. The device positioned in the vagina may be used to charge a power source for an implant which may be a capacitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: FemPulse, LLC
    Inventors: Alexandra Haessler, Bruno Strul
  • Patent number: 9538960
    Abstract: An injectable device for use in a subcutaneous physiological monitoring of a patient includes a body, a plurality of sensors, and a monitoring unit. The plurality of sensors provide an indication of at least one physiological event of a patient, wherein the plurality of sensors includes two or more electrodes in contact with tissue of the patient. The monitoring unit is located within the body and is coupled to the plurality of sensors and configured to monitor a physiologic signal of the patient using the electrodes, wherein the physiologic signal includes an impedance signal related to hydration of tissue of the patient and wherein the monitoring unit is further configured to, based at least in part on the impedance signal measured from the patient, detect an impending cardiac decompensation of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic Monitoring, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott T. Mazar, Mark J. Bly
  • Patent number: 9504830
    Abstract: The present disclosure involves a method of measuring a physiological feedback from a patient in response to electrical stimulation. A stimulation parameter of a sacral nerve stimulation therapy is ramped up. The sacral nerve stimulation therapy includes electrical pulses generated by a pulse generator based on programming instructions received from an electronic programmer. The electrical pulses are delivered to a patient via a stimulation lead that is implanted in the patient. Via an anal electrode device that is at least partially inserted inside an anal canal of the patient, a compound motor action potential (CMAP) is measured from an anal sphincter of the patient while the stimulation parameter of the sacral nerve stimulation therapy is being ramped up. A stimulation threshold is determined based on the measured CMAP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignee: Nuvectra Corporation
    Inventors: Norbert Kaula, Yohannes Iyassu, Steven Siegel, Michele Spinelli
  • Patent number: 9289607
    Abstract: Systems (10), devices (16), and methods may be used for treating bladder dysfunction, such as urgency and pelvic pain. In one example, a method includes administering a pharmacological agent to a patient (14) in a dosage sufficient to desensitize a C-afferent nerve fiber of the patient. Additionally, the method includes delivering stimulation to activate a nerve fiber proximate to the C-afferent nerve fiber via an electrode (19A, 19B, 21A, 21B, 29A-29D) electrically coupled to an implantable medical device (16). In some examples, the nerve fiber may be different than the C-afferent nerve fiber, the stimulation of the nerve fiber may elicit an inhibitory physiological response related to voiding in the patient, and/or the stimulation substantially may not activate the C-afferent nerve fiber after desensitization of the nerve fiber via the administration of the pharmacological agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC, INC.
    Inventors: Xin Su, Gregory F. Molnar, Dwight E. Nelson
  • Patent number: 9192763
    Abstract: In general, the disclosure is directed to an implantable neurostimulator and system capable of providing adaptive neurostimulation therapy to alleviate incontinence. The neurostimulator operates according to a set of stimulation parameters stored in memory. During operation, information is obtained from the patient, the implanted neurostimulator, one or more implanted sensors, or some combination thereof. A processor analyzes the information to automatically generate proposed adjustments to the stimulation parameters applied by the neurostimulator. The adjustments provide an adaptive neurostimulation therapy that supports or enhances therapeutic efficacy based on the information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC, INC.
    Inventors: Martin T. Gerber, John C. Rondoni
  • Patent number: 9180284
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for measuring the strength of the ischiocavernous muscles of a patient, the method being performed during an erection of the penis and providing a measuring and/or rehabilitation device configured to determine the strength of the ischiocavernous muscles and comprising at least one sensor, placing the sensor around the penis of the patient, measuring the variation of the intracavernous pressure, contracting the ischiocavernous muscles, and checking that the contraction causes elevation in intracarvernous pressure so as to ensure that the accurate muscles are contracted, where if the intracavernous pressure is elevated, ischiocavernous muscles are contracted during the contraction. The invention relates also to a method for treating and rehabilitating the ischiocavernous muscles comprising a step of implementing the method for measuring the strength of the ischiocavernous muscles and a step of voluntarily contracting the ischiocavernous muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Inventor: Pierre Lavoisier
  • Patent number: 9155885
    Abstract: Techniques for managing urinary or fecal incontinence include delivering a first type of therapy to generate a first physiological response and, upon detecting a trigger event, delivering a second type of therapy to generate a second physiological response. The first type of therapy can be delivered on a substantially regular basis, while the second type of therapy is delivered as needed to provide an additional boost of therapy. The trigger event for activating the delivery of the second type of therapy may include input from a sensor that indicates a bladder condition, patient activity level or patient posture, or patient input. In some examples, the therapy is stimulation therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Xuan K. Wei, Eric H. Bonde, Keith A. Miesel, Mark S. Lent, Gregory F. Molnar
  • Patent number: 9114246
    Abstract: A device circles the spinal segmental nerves like a ring and causes stimulation of the nerves. The present invention offers magnetic as well as electric stimulation properties in order to balance the two modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: University of Rochester
    Inventors: Jason Huang, Samantha Dayawansa
  • Patent number: 9072897
    Abstract: A system for restoring muscle function to the lumbar spine to treat low back pain is provided. The system may include electrodes coupled to an implantable pulse generator (IPG), a handheld activator configured to transfer a stimulation command to the IPG, and an external programmer configured to transfer programming data to the IPG. The stimulation command directs the programmable controller to stimulate the tissue in accordance with the programming data. The system may include a software-based programming system run on a computer such that the treating physician may program and adjust stimulation parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: Mainstay Medical Limited
    Inventors: Dan Sachs, Prashant Brijmohansingh Rawat, Jason Alan Shiroff, Peter Andrew Crosby
  • Publication number: 20150119951
    Abstract: Electrical stimulation therapy may be delivered to a patient to selectively and independently address different conditions of a pelvic floor disorder of the patient. The conditions of a pelvic floor disorder may include, for example, a lower urinary tract dysfunction (e.g., urinary or fecal incontinence) and sexual dysfunction (e.g., an impaired sexual reflex response to a sexual stimulus). In some examples, a system is configured to selectively deliver a first electrical stimulation therapy that is configured to elicit an inhibitory physiological response from the patient related to voiding, a second electrical stimulation therapy that is configured to improve a sexual reflex response of the patient to a sexual stimulus, and a third electrical stimulation therapy that is configured to both elicit the inhibitory physiological response from the patient related to voiding and increase a sexual response of the patient to a sexual stimulus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventors: Dwight E. Nelson, Xin Su, Thaddeus S. Brink, Blake A. Hedstrom
  • Patent number: 8992409
    Abstract: There is provided a method for controlling a flow of fluid and/or other bodily matter in a lumen formed by a tissue wall of a patient's organ. The method comprises gently constricting (i.e., without substantially hampering the blood circulation in the tissue wall) at least one portion of the tissue wall to influence the flow in the lumen, and stimulating the constricted wall portion to cause contraction of the wall portion to further influence the flow in the lumen. The method can be used for restricting or stopping the flow in the lumen, or for actively moving the fluid in the lumen, with a low risk of injuring the organ. Such an organ may be the esophagus, stomach, intestines, urine bladder, urethra, ureter, renal pelvis, aorta, corpus cavernosum, exit veins of erectile tissue, uterine tube, vas deferens or bile duct, or a blood vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Peter Forsell
  • Patent number: 8983627
    Abstract: A probe system for electro-stimulation and bio-feedback training of muscles in the pelvic floor region, in particular for pelvic floor physiotherapy and diagnosis, includes a probe having a probe body which is insertable into a vagina or a rectum, and a plurality of electrodes which are positioned at several locations along the length and around the circumference on the outer surface of the probe, the probe system further includes a control unit, operationally coupled to the probe, adapted for receiving EMG signals from each of the electrodes and for processing each of the signals for mapping the response of the muscles in the pelvic floor region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Publiekrechtelijke Rechtspersoon Academisch Ziekenhuis Leiden H.O.D.N. Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum
    Inventors: Robertus Coenraad Maria Pelger, Theodorus Johannes Ouwerkerk, Pieternella Johanna Voorham-van der Zalm
  • Patent number: 8923988
    Abstract: A method for treating a patient having nociceptive pain in a body region using at least one electrode implanted within a spinal column of the patient. The method comprises conveying electrical stimulation energy from the at least one implanted electrode to an efferent motor neural structure innervating the body region, thereby inducing an endogenous chemical response within a spinal cord of the patient that treats the nociceptive pain. Another method for treating a patient suffering from a medical ailment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: Kerry Bradley
  • Patent number: 8914111
    Abstract: A device for stimulating nerves adjacent the vagina includes a nerve stimulating element coupled to a body. The nerve stimulating element is positioned to stimulate the vesical, Frankenhauser's and/or inferior hypogastric plexuses. The device may reside in the vaginal fornices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: FemPulse, LLC
    Inventor: Alexandra Haessler
  • Patent number: 8897877
    Abstract: Described herein is a device and method for stimulating testosterone production in a subject. The device includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a power source. The first electrode is configured to contact the skin in the pubic region of the subject and is electrically coupled to the power source. The second electrode is configured to contact the skin on the scrotum of the subject and is also electrically coupled to the power source. The power source is configured to deliver about 6 volts or less to the first or second electrodes. The device may further include a snug fitting undergarment for maintaining contact between the first and second electrodes and the subject's skin. The method is directed to the application of a low voltage to the testicles of a subject to stimulate the production of testosterone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Robert D. Forward
  • Patent number: 8880173
    Abstract: A device for providing transdermal electrical stimulation at an adjustable position on a head. The device including a supporting member economically shaped and configured to be fixedly supported about an anatomical body part; the supporting member being adjustably positionable in only two directions substantially perpendicular to one another. No electrical stimulation is provided by the supporting member. Alternatively, the device includes at least one pair of electrodes for producing the transdermal electrical stimulation to the head. The electrodes are mounted to a securing member shaped and configured to be releasably securable only about a plurality of strands of hair at a predetermined fixed orientation without being secured about any anatomical body part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony R. DiUbaldi, Jeyakumar Subbaroyan, Tamara C. Baynham
  • Patent number: 8874215
    Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus for treating a sexual dysfunctional female patient, comprising a stimulation device adapted to stimulate an erectile blood flow passageway to increase the amount of blood in the female erectile tissue and thereby obtaining engorgement with blood of the female erectile tissue by affecting said erectile blood flow passageway. Moreover there is disclosed a system and an operation method for treating a sexual dysfunctional female patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Peter Forsell
  • Publication number: 20140316483
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a non-invasive stimulatory adjustment of the body's own self-repair-system using a plurality of electrons. In particular, embodiments of the present invention relate to a plurality of electrons for use in the restoration of a patient's health, preferably a human patient's health in a number of medical conditions. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention relate to a method of treatment using a plurality of electrons for use in the restoration of a patient's health, preferably a human patient's health. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention relate to a method of stimulatory adjustment of the body's own self-repair system using a plurality of electrons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: Fenzian Ltd.
    Inventor: James COLTHURST