Abstract: A seed assembly for delivery to an interior of a heart includes an electrical stimulation circuit for delivering an electrical stimulus to cardiac tissue. A first electrode assembly is mechanically and electrically coupled to the seed assembly via a micro lead, the first electrode assembly configured to deliver the electrical stimulus generated by the electrical stimulation circuit to the cardiac tissue. The seed assembly and the first electrode assembly are sized and shaped to fit entirely within the heart.

Abstract: A device for treating obesity of a patient, the device comprising: at least one operable stretching device implantable in the patient and adapted to stretch a portion of the patient's stomach wall, and an implantable control unit for automatically controlling the operable stretching device, when the control unit and stretching device are implanted, to stretch the stomach wall portion in connection with the patient eating such that satiety is created.

Abstract: A system and method for treating anorectal dysfunction includes implanting, in a minimally invasive manner, an electro-medical device for stimulation of two or more separate and distinct anatomical or histological structures of the anorectal region. Electrodes operably connected to the device are positioned proximate the target anatomical or histological structures. The device provides either the same or different stimulation algorithms to each anatomical or histological structure. Smooth muscle, such as the internal anal sphincter, is provided with a continuous stimulation algorithm, while skeletal muscle, such as the external anal sphincter, is provided with an on demand stimulation algorithm. Varying stimulation algorithms applied to multiple structures results in improved anorectal function without developing muscle fatigue and tolerance.

Abstract: This invention provides a new technology for management of back pain by stimulating the spinal cord in a manner that renders it refractory to transmission of deleterious or undesirable sensory input. The electrical stimulus comprises high frequency pulses in a regular or complex pattern or that are stochastically produced under microprocessor control. The stimulus is applied directly to the surface of the spinal cord from within the spinal canal, which provides important benefits over previous technology. The stimulus alleviates symptoms and signs of back pain, while minimizing the risk of side effects such as paresthesia, and potentially minimizing the effects on motor neuron transmission and proprioception.

Abstract: A non-invasive device for facilitating therapy of patient suffering from the gastrointestinal system diseases or symptoms, and in particular suffering Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The device is positioned by the patient on the skin of the patient abdomen and electrically stimulates the abdomen muscles. This treating results in dynamic motions of the digestive system, which causes the treatment of various digestive symptoms or diseases.

Abstract: A pulse generator is programmed to generate electrical stimulation to target a sacral nerve or a pudendal nerve of the patient. The electrical stimulation being delivered at least in part via a lead. The electrical stimulation is applied by ramping up a stimulation parameter over time. A first, a second, and a third physiological response are detected from the patient as a result of the electrical stimulation. A first value, a second value, and a third value of the stimulation parameter associated with the first, second, and third physiological response are measured, respectively. A placement of the lead inside the patient is evaluated based on at least one of: a chronological sequence in which the first, second, and third physiological responses occurred, a comparison of the first value with a predetermined threshold, or respective deviations of the second value or the third value from the first value.

Abstract: An example method for causing a perturbation of blood glucose level in a subject is described herein. The method can include selectively inhibiting neural activity of at least one of a hepatic branch of the subject's vagus nerve or the subject's greater splanchnic nerve using electrical stimulation having a frequency greater than about 5 kHz. The selective inhibition of neural activity causes the subject's blood glucose level to increase or decrease as compared to a baseline level.

Abstract: The present specification discloses devices and methodologies for the treatment of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (tLESRs). Individuals with tLESRs may be treated by implanting a stimulation device within the patient's lower esophageal sphincter and applying electrical stimulation to the patient's lower esophageal sphincter, in accordance with certain predefined protocols. The presently disclosed devices have a simplified design because they do not require sensing systems capable of sensing when a person is engaged in a wet swallow and have improved energy storage requirements.

Abstract: A system and method for treating anorectal and/or genitourinary dysfunction includes implanting, in a minimally invasive manner, an electro-medical device for stimulation of two or more anatomical or histological structures of the anorectal region and/or genitourinary region. Electrodes operably connected to the device are positioned proximate the target anatomical or histological structures. The device provides either the same or different stimulation algorithms to each anatomical or histological structure, which may be the same or different. The varied stimulation parameters, such as pulse width, pulse amplitude, and pulse frequency, are defined such that after an application of the electrical pulses, an abdominal leak pressure, an abdominal leak volume, or a urine volume increases or a number of incontinent episodes or a mean incontinence volume per episode decreases relative to said parameters prior to the application of the electrical pulses.

Abstract: A system for transferring power to, and communicating with, at least one body-implantable active device includes an external power transfer system associated with an external device disposed outside of a body, operable to transfer power through a dermis layer to each body-implantable active device, and communicate data to and from each body-implantable active device, and also includes a power receiving system associated with each body-implantable active device, operable to receive power transferred from the external power transfer system, and communicate data to and from the external power transfer system. The body-implantable active device may include an implantable neurostimulation system.

Abstract: For measuring functionality of an orifice (16, 20) in the human pelvic region an elongated probe (4; 54) for insertion in the orifice (16, 20) is provided. The probe (4; 54) comprises one or more electrodes (5a-6a, 5b-6b, 6a-7a, 6b-7b; 55a-56a, 55b-56b, 56a-57a, 56b-57b, 57a-92a, 57b-92b) for stimulating receptors (23, 25) in tissue bounding the orifice (16, 20) and one or more muscle activity sensors (8a, 8b, 8c, 9a, 9b, 9c, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 11a, 11b, 11e, 12a, 12b, 12c; 58a, 58b, 58c, 59a, 59b, 59c, 60a, 60b, 60c, 60d, 61a, 61b, 61c, 62) for sensing muscle activity causing pressure to be exerted by tissue bounding the orifice (16, 20). A control system (I) connected to the probe (4; 54) is arranged for outputting a neurostimulation signal (35) to the electrode or electrodes and for registering a pressure signal or signals from the pressure sensor or sensors during a time interval directly subsequent to the outputting of the neurostimulation signal.

Abstract: Neural Gastric Electrical Stimulation (NGES) is a new method for invoking gastric contractions under microprocessor control. However, optimization of this technique using feedback mechanisms to minimize power consumption and maximize effectiveness has been lacking. An apparatus and method are provided for inducing controlled gastro paresis. The apparatus comprises a contraction sensor, a stomach contraction generator, and a controller. The contraction sensor is responsive to circumferential contractions of the stomach, and outputs a signal indicative of a circumferential contraction. The stomach contraction generator induces a circumferential contraction upon receipt of an electrical signal from the controller. The controller sends the electrical signal to the generator upon receipt of the output signal from the sensor.

Abstract: The invention relates to wireless biotelemetry of low level bioelectric and biosensor signals by directly modulating the backscatter of a resonant circuit. Low level electrical analog or digital signals are directly applied to a resonant circuit containing a voltage-variable capacitor such as a varactor diode, that proportionally shifts the resonant frequency and so amplitude of radiofrequency backscatter in a way that represents analog bioelectric or biosensor waveform data. By strongly driving the resonant circuit with a radiofrequency source, a voltage variable capacitance can be caused to amplify the bio-signal level by a parametric process and so provide sufficient sensitivity to telemeter for low millivolt and microvolt level signals without additional amplification. A feature of the device is its simplicity and that it accomplishes both modulation and preamplification of low level sensor signals by the same variable capacitance circuit which reduces the device size and power consumption.

Abstract: Methods for treatment of hyperhidrosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, cerebral ischemia and asthma and hypertension by nerve stimulation are disclosed. In particular, the invention relates to the improvement of these conditions by stimulating at least one ganglion selected from the group consisting of T-1 through T-4 ganglia, cervical ganglia, renal nerve or combinations thereof with an implantable, wireless, battery-less and lead-less stimulator. Stimulations of the ganglion may be carried out with pulsed radiofrequency, thermal energy or optical irradiation.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of treating a gastrointestinal condition. In some embodiments, the method generally includes administering a chemical or electrical stimulus to an artery of the gastrointestinal vasculature of the subject, a vein of the gastrointestinal vasculature of the subject, a nerve supplying an artery of the gastrointestinal vasculature of the subject, and/or a nerve supplying a vein of the gastrointestinal vasculature of the subject, wherein the chemical or electrical stimulus is effective for treating a gastrointestinal condition.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an electrical stimulation therapy method. The method includes applying a variable frequency stimulation pulse to target nerve tissue of the patient, wherein the variable frequency stimulation pulse comprises at least two kinds of electrical stimulation pulse trains at different frequencies; the at least two kinds of electrical stimulation pulse trains alternately stimulate target nerve tissue and form a plurality of pulse train periods; and each of the at least two kinds of alternate electrical stimulation pulse trains in each of the plurality of pulse train periods has a duration in a range from about 0.1 seconds to about 60 minutes. An implantable medical device for generating the variable frequency stimulation pulse is also related.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide apparatus and methods for stimulating L cells in the intestinal tract to produce incretins for the treatment of conditions including diabetes and obesity. Many embodiments provide a method and apparatus for the treatment of diabetes by electrically stimulating L-cells to secrete incretins to stimulate or otherwise modulate the production of insulin. Particular embodiments provide a swallowable capsule for stimulating L-cells in the intestinal tract as the capsule moves through the tract. The capsule can include two or more electrodes for providing electrical stimulation to L-cells, a power source for powering one or more components of the capsule, a sensor for sensing the location of the capsule in the intestinal tract; a controller and a waveform generator for generating the electrical signals emitted by the electrodes to stimulate the L-cells to secrete incretins such as GLP-1 to stimulate insulin production for glucose regulation of diabetic conditions.

Abstract: The present specification discloses devices and methodologies for the treatment of GERD. Individuals with GERD may be treated by implanting a stimulation device within the patient's lower esophageal sphincter and applying electrical stimulation to the patient's lower esophageal sphincter, in accordance with certain predefined protocols. The presently disclosed devices have a simplified design because they do not require sensing systems capable of sensing when a person is engaged in a wet swallow, have improved energy storage requirements, enable improved LES function while concurrently delivering additional health benefits, and enable improved LES function post stimulation termination.

Abstract: A signal may be emitted by an emitter or transducer. The signal may be sensed by a sensor, such as an accelerometer. Features of a body part or portion may be one of detected, extracted, or constructed from the sensed signal. It may be determined whether the body part or portion matches that of a user, such as an authorized user, based on the features.

Abstract: The present specification discloses devices and methodologies for the treatment of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (tLESRs). Individuals with tLESRs may be treated by implanting a stimulation device within the patient's lower esophageal sphincter and applying electrical stimulation to the patient's lower esophageal sphincter, in accordance with certain predefined protocols. The presently disclosed devices have a simplified design because they do not require sensing systems capable of sensing when a person is engaged in a wet swallow and have improved energy storage requirements.

Abstract: A responsive gastrointestinal stimulation device is provided where one or more sensors sense data corresponding to a subject or the gastrointestinal tract of a subject and responds to sensing the data by stimulating, adjusting stimulation, or stopping stimulation of the gastrointestinal tract. A stimulation device is also provided to stimulate the gastrointestinal tract to produce a sensation of satiety or to control hunger or food consumption.

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

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided, including a bladder stimulator that includes an elongate element adapted to pass through a urethra or adapted to pass through another opening in the bladder, an expandable body coupled to said elongate element, and an array of one or more stimulator contacts coupled to the expandable body, the array including at least one contact adapted to contact a portion of a bladder of a subject when the expandable body is inserted in the bladder and expanded. A controller stimulates the portion of the bladder by driving a pulse into the bladder via the contact, the pulse having a frequency of 5 Hz-1 kHz. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a condition in a patient such as BPH, irretractable infection, cyst, fibroid, or any mass such as prostate or breast cancer, skin cancer, melanoma, or any other soft tissue cancerous or benign mass, employs a unique, three-dimensional software-controlled electronic amplifier array using arbitrary waveforms that dynamically and proportionally steer electrical currents by using two or more current vector paths, sequentially or simultaneously, through a defined area containing electrically-conductive ionic solutions so as to obtain 100% thermal heating or hyperthermia through the defined area. The condition is treated or a mass is destroyed with a minimally-invasive treatment which requires no radiation or chemotherapy which could be harmful to the patient.

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.

Abstract: A device for conveying power from a location external to a subject to a location within the subject may include a flexible carrier and an adhesive on a first side of the carrier. A coil of electrically conductive material may be associated with the flexible carrier. A mechanical connector may be associated with the carrier opposite the adhesive, wherein the mechanical connector is configured to retain a housing and permit the housing to rotate relative to the flexible carrier. At least one electrical portion may be associated with the carrier in a manner permitting electrical connection to be maintained between the flexible carrier and the housing as the housing is rotated.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide apparatus and methods for stimulating L cells in the intestinal tract to produce incretins for the treatment of conditions including diabetes and obesity. Many embodiments provide a method and apparatus for the treatment of diabetes by electrically stimulating L-cells to secrete incretins to stimulate or otherwise modulate the production of insulin. Particular embodiments provide a swallowable capsule for stimulating L-cells in the intestinal tract as the capsule moves through the tract. The capsule can include two or more electrodes for providing electrical stimulation to L-cells, a power source for powering one or more components of the capsule, a sensor for sensing the location of the capsule in the intestinal tract; a controller and a waveform generator for generating the electrical signals emitted by the electrodes to stimulate the L-cells to secrete incretins such as GLP-1 to stimulate insulin production for glucose regulation of diabetic conditions.

Abstract: A method and system for bladder control are disclosed. In embodiments, a method for bladder control is provided that comprises coupling an electrode to an afferent nerve that is related to the bladder. Applying a plurality of pulse burst stimulations via the electrode causes voiding of urine from the bladder. In embodiments, the plurality of pulse burst stimulations to the afferent nerve reduces external urethral sphincter (EUS) contractions and evokes bladder contractions to expel urine from the subject. In embodiments, the plurality of pulse burst stimulations to the afferent nerve evokes bladder contractions alone to expel urine from the subject. In embodiments, a system for bladder control is provided that comprises an electrode for applying a pulse burst stimulus to an afferent nerve or dermatome to reduce reflex contractions and a signal generator for generating the pulse burst stimulus.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for controlling stimulation of nervous tissue of a patient. The method comprises delivering a stimulation waveform to at least one electrode located proximate to nervous tissue of interest, the stimulation waveform including a series of pulses configured to excite at least one of A-beta (A?) fibers, A-delta (A?) fibers or C-fibers of the nervous tissue of interest, the stimulation waveform defined by therapy parameters. The method also provides sensing an evoked compound action potential (ECAP) signal from the nervous tissue of interest. The method also analyzes a frequency content of the ECAP signal to obtain ECAP frequency data indicative of activity by at least one type of nerve fibers from a group comprising A?, A? and C fibers. The method also determines the type of nerve fibers that were activated by the stimulation waveform based on the ECAP frequency data.

Abstract: An implantable medical device and associated method deliver a therapy to an autonomic nerve. The therapy delivery includes delivering therapeutic low frequency (LF) electrical stimulation pulses to the autonomic nerve and delivering a high frequency electrical signal to the autonomic nerve during the LF frequency stimulation pulse delivery. The high frequency stimulation signal blocks activation of autonomic nerve fibers innervating a non-targeted tissue during the therapeutic LF stimulation pulse delivery.

Abstract: Methods of using a stimulator device in the treatment of: gastrointestinal disorders such as dysphagia, gastroesophageal reflux diseases, functional dyspepsia, gastroparesis, postoperative ileus, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhea, fecal incontinence, nausea and vomiting; gastrointestinal obstruction or pseudo-obstruction; pain and/or discomfort related to visceral organs; eating disorders, such as obesity, binge eating, bulimia, anorexia, and chemotherapy-induced emesis or emesis of other origin. The stimulator device generally includes a housing, at least two electrodes, and a pulse generator. The housing has an exterior surface and an interior surface defining a sealed interior space. The housing is constructed of bio-compatible materials and sized and shaped for transport through the gastrointestinal tract.

Abstract: The present specification discloses devices and methodologies for the treatment of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (tLESRs). Individuals with tLESRs may be treated by implanting a stimulation device within the patient's lower esophageal sphincter and applying electrical stimulation to the patient's lower esophageal sphincter, in accordance with certain predefined protocols. The presently disclosed devices have a simplified design because they do not require sensing systems capable of sensing when a person is engaged in a wet swallow and have improved energy storage requirements.

Abstract: Various methods and apparatus for treating a condition associated with impaired glucose regulation in a subject comprising in one embodiment, applying a neural conduction block to a target nerve at a blocking site with the neural conduction block selected to at least partially block nerve pulses. In another embodiment, combinations of down-regulating and or up-regulating with or without pharmaceutical agents are used to treat impaired glucose regulation. In other embodiments, up-regulation or down-regulation of various nerves, such as the vagus and its branches, and the splanchnic is used to modify the production of GLP-1 and GIP, thereby controlling glucose levels. In yet further embodiments, combinations of down-regulating and or up-regulating with or without pharmaceutical agents are used to modify the production of GLP-1 and GIP, to treat impaired glucose regulation.

Abstract: Disclosed is an implantable, coin-sized, self-contained, leadless electroacupuncture (EA) device having at least two electrode contacts attached to the surface of its housing. The electrodes include a central cathode electrode on a bottom side of the housing, and a circumferential anode electrode that surrounds the cathode electrode. In one embodiment, the anode annular electrode is a ring electrode placed around the perimeter edge of the coin-shaped housing. The EA device is adapted to be implanted through a very small incision, e.g., less than about 2-3 cm in length, directly adjacent to a selected acupuncture site known to moderate or affect a hypertension condition of a patient. Appropriate power management circuitry within the device allows a primary battery having a relatively high internal impedance to be used without causing unacceptable dips in battery voltage when the instantaneous battery current surges.

Abstract: Medical devices and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example medical device may include a control unit for determining an electrical leakage between a first electrode pad and a second electrode pad of an in vivo medical device. The first electrode pad may be spaced from the second electrode pad. The first electrode pad may have an active electrode and a spaced ground electrode. The second electrode pad may have an active electrode and a ground electrode. The ground electrode of the first electrode pad may be electrically connected to the ground electrode of the second electrode pad.

Abstract: Described are implantable devices and methods for treating various disorders of the pelvic floor by means of electrical stimulation of tissue volumes at two or more locations adjacent sacral nerves or portions thereof, and/or pudendal nerves or portions thereof. Two or more electrical stimulation regimes are applied on a continuous, alternating, intermittent or other basis to the respective tissue volumes in an amount and manner effective to treat a number of disorders, including, but not limited to, urinary and/or fecal voiding dysfunctions such as constipation, incontinence disorders such as urge frequency and urinary retention disorders, sexual dysfunctions such as orgasmic and erectile dysfunction, pelvic pain, prostatitis, prostatalgia and prostatodynia.

Abstract: A device for treating obesity of a patient, the device comprising: at least one operable stretching device implantable in the patient and adapted to stretch a portion of the patient's stomach wall, and an implantable control unit for automatically controlling the operable stretching device, when the control unit and stretching device are implanted, to stretch the stomach wall portion in connection with the patient eating such that satiety is created.

Abstract: Feedback systems and methods enhance obstructive and other obesity treatments by presenting feedback regarding patients' actual eating. An ingestion restricting implant body can be deployed along the gastrointestinal tract. In some embodiments, ingestion alters the implant body, which, in turn, generates signals. The generated signals can be used to inhibit unhealthy ingestion by the patient. In other embodiments, the implant body can be altered by signals so as to selectable change the restriction imposed on the gastrointestinal tract, optionally in response to ingestion events, an eating schedule, or the like. The implant body may comprise a gastric band. Sensor signals may be processed to identify ingestion and/or characterize ingestion material, and the results may be displayed on a screen for a patient or coach to view.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for endocrine and exocrine gland control, Neuro-electrical coded signals can be selected from a storage area that is representative of body organ function. The selected neuro-electrical coded signals are then transmitted to a treatment member, which is in direct contact with the body, and which then broadcasts the neuro-electrical coded signals to a specific endocrine and exocrine gland nerve or gland to modulate the gland functioning. A control module is provided for transmission to the treatment member. The control module contains the neuro-electrical coded signals which are selected and transmitted to the treatment member, and computer storage can be provided for greater storage capacity and manipulation of the neuro-electrical coded signals.

Abstract: A method and system for designing a therapy or for treating a condition associated with excess weight in a subject comprising applying a neural conduction block to the vagus nerve at a blocking site with the neural conduction block selected to at least partially block nerve impulses on the vagus nerve at the blocking site and administering a composition comprising an effective amount of an agent that alters the energy balance of the subject.

Abstract: An exemplary method for treating obesity includes an pulse generator configured to deliver electrical energy to a vagal nerve, one or more sensors configured to detect pre-prandial activity and, in response to the detection of pre-prandial activity, a pulse generator configured to deliver electrical energy to the stomach to induce satiety. Various other technologies are also disclosed.

Abstract: At least one of a plurality of gastrointestinal disorders is treated by stimulating an enteric nervous system of a patient to enhance a functional tone of the enteric nervous system. A treatment includes electrically stimulating a vagus nerve of the patient at a stimulation site proximal to at least one site of vagal innervation of a gastrointestinal organ. The electrical stimulation includes applying a stimulation signal at the stimulation site. An optional proximal electrical blocking signal is applied to the vagus nerve at a proximal blocking site proximal to the stimulation site. The proximal blocking signal is selected to at least partially block nerve impulses at the proximal blocking site.

Abstract: In general, the disclosure is directed to devices, systems, and techniques for delivering electrical stimulation to a patient with varying pulse frequencies within each burst of pulses. The pulse frequency variation within each burst of pulses may be between approximately 20 Hz and 40 Hz. In some examples, the pulse frequency may be increased, decreased, or polynomially varied within each burst. In other examples, the frequency of intrinsic nerve impulses may be detected and used to deliver pulses with the detected frequency or an inverse of the detected frequency. Electrical stimulation therapy with intra-burst pulse frequency variation may alleviate bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction, pain or other disorders.

Abstract: A flexible catheter includes two electrical contacts in a distal region of the catheter and a distal aperture of a hose line. The electrical contacts are connected to a high frequency pulse generator for applying pulsed radio frequency energy for nerve stimulation. A temperature sensor is located in the distal region of the catheter. The flexible catheter is inserted into a region in the spinal canal and the pulsed radio frequency generator is operated, thereby applying pulsed radio frequency energy to a localized region to be treated. The temperature at the distal region of the catheter can also be monitored, and the pulsed radio frequency energy is applied in dependence on the monitored temperature. With the catheter, pain and other medical conditions being related to and influenced by a nervous system are treated.

Abstract: A method for treating erectile dysfunction in a subject includes providing an expandable support member for engaging a wall of a blood vessel. The expandable support member includes at least one electrode connected with the expandable support member and arranged to selectively deliver electric current to modulate the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The expandable support member includes and an insulative material attached to at least a portion of the expandable support member for isolating blood flowing through the vessel from the electric current delivered by the at least one electrode. The expandable support member is implanted intravascularly so that at least a portion of the expandable support member is positioned substantially adjacent a desired location where modulation of the ANS is effective to improve erectile function. After implanting the expandable support member, electric current is delivered to the at least one electrode to effect a change in the ANS.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide a method comprising delivering neural stimulation for a neural stimulation therapy according to a programmed schedule, detecting a swallow event, and responding to the detected swallow event by overriding the programmed schedule.

Abstract: Systems for stimulating one or more esophageal muscle contractions are provided. The systems, which are designed to evoke esophageal motion to promote the downward movement of material, include an elongated member for placement in a patient's esophagus and at least one mechanical or electrical stimulator coupled to the elongated member. Methods for stimulating and contracting an esophageal muscle using electrodes and a generated signal sequence are also provided.

Abstract: The present specification discloses devices and methodologies for the treatment of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (tLESRs). Individuals with tLESRs may be treated by implanting a stimulation device within the patient's lower esophageal sphincter and applying electrical stimulation to the patient's lower esophageal sphincter, in accordance with certain predefined protocols. The presently disclosed devices have a simplified design because they do not require sensing systems capable of sensing when a person is engaged in a wet swallow and have improved energy storage requirements.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided, including a bladder stimulator that includes an elongate element adapted to pass through a urethra or adapted to pass through another opening in the bladder, an expandable body coupled to said elongate element, and an array of one or more stimulator contacts coupled to the expandable body, the array including at least one contact adapted to contact a portion of a bladder of a subject when the expandable body is inserted in the bladder and expanded. A controller stimulates the portion of the bladder by driving a pulse into the bladder via the contact, the pulse having a frequency of 5 Hz-1 kHz. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: A method of implanting electrically conductive leads in the gastrointestinal musculature for stimulation of target tissues involves an endoscopic approach through the esophagus. An endoscope is inserted into the esophagus of a patient. The mucosal surface of the anterior esophagus is punctured in the region encompassing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). A tunnel is created through the submucosa and exits at the muscularis propria, adventitia, or serosal side of the stomach. The lead is navigated further to the anterior abdominal wall. A first end of the lead remains within the gastrointestinal musculature while a second end of the lead is positioned just outside the anterior abdominal wall. The first end of the lead comprises at least one electrode. An implantable pulse generator (IPG) is implanted and operably connected to the second end of the lead to provide electrical stimulation to target tissues.