Abstract: A method of treating a waste evacuation dysfunction comprising administering transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TES) to at least one lower pelvic and/or sacral region for a specific treatment regimens. Also disclosed is a system for configuring a stimulation device to deliver transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TES) the system comprising: a computing device storing or having access to a plurality or TES settings and comprising a user interface to enable authorised selection of at least on of the TES settings for provision of TES by the stimulation device according to the at least one selected TES setting and the stimulation device communicatively coupled to the computing device to receive and store the selected at least one TES setting the stimulation device being of a size to be readily carried on a body and configured to selectively provide current to external electrode according to the one TES setting.

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.

Abstract: A medical device is configured to deliver a first stimulation therapy to a patient, and, upon detecting a trigger event, deliver a second stimulation therapy to the patient. In some examples, the first stimulation therapy includes bilateral stimulation in which stimulation is delivered at different times to two lateral sides of the patient and the second stimulation therapy includes substantially simultaneous bilateral stimulation therapy to two lateral sides of the patient. In some examples, the second stimulation therapy may elicit a stronger inhibitory physiological response related to incontinence (e.g., inhibition of bladder contractions) than the first stimulation therapy. The trigger event may include, for example, any one or more of detection of a physiological condition indicative of an increased possibility of an involuntary voiding event or an imminent involuntary voiding event, input from the patient, a predetermined time of day, or expiration of a timer.

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: In some examples, a medical device delivers a first electrical stimulation therapy to a patient, and, upon detecting a trigger event, delivers a second electrical stimulation therapy to the patient. In some examples, the first stimulation therapy includes unilateral stimulation or stimulation delivered to both lateral sides of the patient at different times at a stimulation intensity lower than, equal to, or greater than a threshold intensity level for the patient, or bilateral stimulation delivered substantially simultaneously to both lateral sides of the patient, where one lateral side of the patient receives stimulation at an intensity level that is lower than the threshold intensity level and the other lateral side receives stimulation at an intensity level that is greater than or equal to the threshold intensity level. The second stimulation therapy may include substantially simultaneous bilateral stimulation therapy at an intensity level that at or above the threshold intensity level.

Abstract: Techniques for remotely titrating a therapy delivered using an implantable medical device system are disclosed. An implantable medical device delivers therapy according to a first program. The system collects patient data relating to at least one of an efficacy of, or side effects resulting from, the delivered therapy, and transmits the patient data to a remote network device. A clinician may then analyze the patient data and determine if changes to the therapy are warranted. The clinician may then transmit a programming change, e.g., a modification to the first program or a new, second program, to the implantable medical device system, and the implantable medical device may deliver therapy according to the changed programming. The process of receiving patient data and modifying the therapy programming may be repeated multiple times until the therapy is adequately titrated, e.g., until the patient data indicates adequate efficacy and/or acceptable side effects.

Abstract: A device for stimulating nerves adjacent the vagina includes a nerve stimulating element coupled to a 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.

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.

Abstract: A tibial nerve stimulation device including a percutaneous electrode for inserting adjacent a stimulation site of a patient and a neurostimulator unit attachable to a transcutaneous electrode configured to be applied to skin adjacent the stimulation site. The neurostimulator unit includes a pulse generator electrically coupled to the percutaneous needle electrode and transcutaneous electrode and a microcontroller in communication with the pulse generator for monitoring a number of available treatment credits and activating the pulse generator, each available treatment credit corresponding to a treatment session and the pulse generator operable to be activated for performing the treatment session when the number of available treatment credits is at least one. A computer system is operable to communicate with the microcontroller of the neurostimulator unit for receiving a treatment credit request and transmitting the number of treatment credits purchased to the microcontroller of the neurostimulator unit.

Abstract: A stimulation electrode assembly comprises an elongated lead sized and configured to be implanted within an adipose tissue region. The lead includes an electrically conductive portion to apply electrical stimulation to nerve or muscle in the adipose tissue region and at least one expandable anchoring structure deployable from the lead to engage adipose tissue and resist dislodgment and/or migration of the electrically conductive portion within the adipose tissue region.

Abstract: A wearable neuromodulation device (1), configured for insertion into a pelvic orifice of the human body for treating urinary incontinence, faecal incontinence, muscle wastage, spasm and/or spasticity by applying electrical stimulation signals to pudendal nerves through the wall of the rectum or vagina, comprises at least one sensor, such as an electromyographic (EMG) sensor (11) or pressure sensor (12, 13), configured to detect conditions that indicate a requirement for stimulation. The device (1) is autonomous but may be arranged to communicate with an external device (28) comprising an alarm (33), to alert a user to their condition, and/or means (34) for allowing the user to control the stimulation applied by the device. Alternatively, or additionally, the device (1) may communicate with a computer (37) to store patient data for review by a medical professional and/or permit updating of device software.

Abstract: A method for altering operation of a nerve related to a given body condition includes the steps of identifying at least one nerve root of a nerve related to the given body condition; laparoscopically implanting at least one electrode on the nerve root; and operating the electrode to electrostimulate the nerve root and alter operation of the nerve.

Abstract: An incontinence treatment device includes a band, magnets, and a power source. The band has a length extending between a first end and a second end. A first magnet is connected to a first end portion of the band and a second magnet is connected to a second end portion of the band. The band is implantable around a urethra and configured to constrict a lumen of the urethra when the first magnet is coupled to the second magnet. The power source is electrically coupled to the first and second magnets and configured to electromagnetically couple and decouple the first magnet relative to the second magnet.

Abstract: The invention provides a perineal rehabilitation device comprising an applicator that is either an endocavity applicator (100) or an annular applicator (100?), locally supporting a charging electrode (104, 105) and at least one stimulation electrode (101, 102) respectively on its periphery or on its inside face, and including at least one energy storage unit that is rechargeable via the charging applicator (104, 105), the applicator (100, 100?) including at least one microprocessor for executing an electrical stimulation program, the device being characterized in that the applicator (100, 100?) is controlled by a control module (200) in the form of a remote control connected to the applicator (100, 100?) by a wireless connection and including a user interface for enabling the user to input operating data for the applicator (100, 100?) and a control unit for controlling the applicator (100, 100?) by sending control signals thereto, the applicator (100, 100?) being suitable for receiving control signals for mod

Abstract: Methods and related systems for treating patients suffering from several disorders including bladder dysfunction, erectile dysfunction, and bowel elimination disorders are disclosed and described. The method can include identification of the disorder followed by the step of accessing a pudendal nerve of the patient. A microelectrode array having a plurality of electrodes thereon is inserted into the pudendal nerve of the patient. A controller is electronically associated with the microelectrode array which is programmed to provide selective activation and/or blocking of various muscles using the microelectrodes of the array. The selective stimulation can be tuned to selectively activate or block at least one muscle selected from the group consisting of the external urethral sphincter, the detrusor muscle, the anal sphincter, and the cavernous smooth musculature of the penis.

Abstract: Techniques for remotely titrating a therapy delivered using an implantable medical device system are disclosed. An implantable medical device delivers therapy according to a first program. The system collects patient data relating to at least one of an efficacy of, or side effects resulting from, the delivered therapy, and transmits the patient data to a remote network device. A clinician may then analyze the patient data and determine if changes to the therapy are warranted. The clinician may then transmit a programming change, e.g., a modification to the first program or a new, second program, to the implantable medical device system, and the implantable medical device may deliver therapy according to the changed programming. The process of receiving patient data and modifying the therapy programming may be repeated multiple times until the therapy is adequately titrated, e.g., until the patient data indicates adequate efficacy and/or acceptable side effects.

Abstract: Gastric apparatus is provided, including one or more sensors, adapted to generate respective sensor signals responsive to activity of a gastrointestinal tract of a subject. A control unit is configured with an eating detection threshold selected from the group consisting of: a predetermined threshold, and a threshold determined during a calibration procedure. The control unit is adapted to receive and analyze the sensor signals, and identify an aspect of at least one of the sensor signals indicative of periodic activity of the gastrointestinal tract. The control unit modifies the eating detection threshold responsive to identifying the aspect of the signals that is indicative of the periodic activity, and determines that an eating event has occurred responsive to the modified eating detection threshold and at least one of the analyzed sensor signals. Other embodiments are also described.

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 formices.

Abstract: An implantable stimulator(s), small enough to be located near or adjacent to an autonomic nerve(s) innervating urinary and/or gastrointestinal structures, uses a power source/storage device, such as a rechargeable battery. Periodic recharging of such a power source/storage device is accomplished, for example, by inductive coupling with an external appliance. The small stimulator provides a means of stimulating a nerve(s) or other tissue when desired, without the need for external appliances during the stimulation session. When necessary, external appliances are used for the transmission of data to and/or from the stimulator(s) and for the transmission of power, if necessary. In a preferred embodiment, the system is capable of open- and closed-loop operation. In closed-loop operation, at least one implant includes at least one sensor, and the sensed condition is used to adjust stimulation parameters.

Abstract: A system and method for stimulating a nerve, wherein the system includes a first waveform generator adapted to generate a first waveform having a frequency capable of stimulating a predetermined nerve of the mammal, a second waveform generator adapted to generate a carrier waveform having a frequency capable of passing through tissue of the mammal, a modulation device electrically coupled to the first and second waveform generators and adapted to modulate the first and carrier waveforms to create a modulated waveform, and an electrode electrically coupled to the modulation device and positioned substantially adjacent to skin of the mammal, and adapted to apply the modulated waveform thereto.

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: Systems and methods are disclosed to stimulate tissue to treat medical conditions involving tissues such as the bone, spine, stomach, nerves, brain and the cochlea. The disclosed invention uses electrical stimulation of the tissue, where vibrational (or acoustic) energy from a source is received by an implanted device and converted to electrical energy and the converted electrical energy is used by implanted electrodes to stimulate the pre-determined tissue sites. The vibrational energy is generated by a controller-transmitter, which could be either implanted or located externally. The vibrational energy is received by a receiver-stimulator, which could be located at or close to the stimulation site.

Abstract: A vaginal rehabilitative device comprising: a vaginal electrical stimulation applicator; and a control module connectable by a wire to said applicator and comprising a user interface for controlling electrical stimuli by said applicator and a display module configured to display data received from said applicator.

Abstract: A system for recording electroneurographic activity comprising at least three neurosense electrodes capable of sensing a nerve signal from a peripheral nerve and means for receiving and processing the sensed nerve signal to identify a signal indicative of a specific action being a movement of a body part performed by the patient and for producing a control signal in response thereto featuring means for rejection of signals originating from biological interference sources without affecting the electroneurographic activity measured.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention describe a system and method of stimulating nerves during a medical procedure including positioning one or more electrodes in electrical contact with one or more nerves of a patient and electrically stimulating the one or more nerves during a lower urinary, rectal or medical procedure affecting the bowel sufficient to affect one or more of bladder activity, prostate function, incontinence, or pain.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for monitoring and regulating physiological states and functions are disclosed. Several embodiments include application of one or more microelectrode arrays to a dorsal root ganglion for measurement of sensory neuron activity, or stimulation of sensory reflex circuits. The methods and apparatuses can be used, for example, for monitoring or controlling bladder function in a patient.

Abstract: Where an implanted reservoir (140) for intestinal contents is formed from surgically modified intestine (70) that has been cut along a mutual contact line of laterally adjacent sections of a bent portion of intestine and connected so that the resulting upper and lower halves of the intestine form an intestinal wall of the reservoir, the system for emptying such intestinal reservoir comprises an artificial flow body and adapted to control flow of the intestinal reservoir comprises an artificial flow control device (160) implantable in the patient's body and adapted to control flow of the intestinal contents from said reservoir, the flow control device comprising at least one pump adapted to act on said intestinal wall so as to reduce the reservoir's volume, thereby emptying the reservoir. The system may further comprise an entry valve upstream of the reservoir and an exit valve downstream from the reservoir.

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. In some examples, objective incontinence information is generated based upon the trigger events. The system and/or user may then use this objective incontinence information to adjust therapy or select new therapy programs for improved efficacy.

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: An electro-stimulation device for the treatment of anterior and posterior pelvic floor muscle dysfunction is reversibly compressible and is fully self-contained. The device requires no external power sources or control and may be inserted into the vagina or anus through the use of an applicator. In the compressed state the device may be of tampon proportions and after use may easily be removed. The device utilizes a compressible electrode component.

Abstract: A system treats at least one of the urethral and anal sphincters. A muscle contraction device is located on at least one of the urethral and anal sphincters. A controller is connected to the muscle contraction device and operative to transmit control signals to the muscle contraction device located on at least one of the urethral and anal sphincters to contract the muscle during an inspiratory phase of respiration.

Abstract: Neurostimulators and methods of using neurostimulators are provided. The neurostimulator is implanted within a tissue pocket of a patient, and electrical energy is conveyed from the neurostimulator to stimulate a target tissue site remote from the tissue pocket. The neurostimulator has a case with which one or more electrodes are associated. The electrical energy is returned to the electrode(s) in a manner that prevents, or at least reduces, pocket stimulation that may otherwise occur due to the return of electrical energy to the case of the neurostimulator.

Abstract: A method and devices for stimulating visceral pelvic or somatic nerves or their pathways of a female person suffering from a pelvic condition of nerve dysfunction in which non-electrical, external physical stimulation is applied to the clitoral region of the person.

Abstract: A method for altering operation of a nerve related to a given body condition includes the steps of identifying at least one nerve root of a nerve related to the given body condition; laparoscopically implanting at least one electrode on the nerve root; and operating the electrode to electrostimulate the nerve root and alter operation of the nerve.

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: The disclosure describes a therapeutic sphincter control system with a fluid tube pressure sensor. The system senses sphincter pressure and sends the information to a stimulator that is capable of stimulation therapy to control sphincter contractility, thus reducing unwanted urinary incontinence. Measuring sphincter pressure is accomplished through the use of a fluid-filled tube placed through the sphincter and attached to a module implanted within the bladder. Pressure within the tube is transduced to generate an electrical signal that is sent wirelessly to an implanted stimulator connected to a lead positioned near pelvic floor nerves. An external device may be used to wirelessly send information to the implanted stimulator and inhibit stimulation in order for the patient to empty the bladder. Pressure information and stimulation information may be recorded and reviewed for continued patient monitoring. In addition, the system may only include the pressure sensor to monitor patient pressure information.

Abstract: The present invention describes the use of transcutaneous electrical stimulation of a nerve emanating from the sacral plexus for the treatment or alleviation of incontinence. In preferred embodiments, the lateral popliteal nerve is stimulated in the region of the popliteal fossa. The stimulation is noninvasive.

Abstract: Systems and methods treat urologic dysfunctions by implanting a lead and electrode in a tissue region affecting urologic function, and implanting a pulse generator in an anterior pelvic region remote from the electrode. Bilateral stimulation of the left and/or right branches of the dorsal genital nerves using a single lead implanted in adipose or other tissue in the region at or near the pubic symphysis is able to treat urinary incontinence.

Abstract: In some examples, electrical stimulation is delivered to a patient such that selective termination of the stimulation causes a therapeutic effect in the patient after termination of the electrical stimulation to the patient. The electrical stimulation may be insufficient to produce a desired therapeutic effect in the patient during stimulation, but sufficient to induce a post-stimulation desired therapeutic effect following termination of the stimulation. In some examples, the electrical stimulation may be sub-threshold electrical stimulation. In some examples, the desired therapeutic effect may alleviate bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction, or other disorders. The stimulation may be selectively terminated in response to one or more therapy trigger events to induce the post-stimulation therapeutic effect.

Abstract: In one example, a system includes a therapy module and a processor. The processor detects a voiding event of a patient and controls the therapy module to deliver electrical stimulation to the patient at a first intensity level for a period of time in response to the detection of the voiding event. Immediately following the period of time, the processor controls the therapy module to increase intensity of the electrical stimulation from the first intensity level to a second intensity level before a subsequent voiding event of the patient by at least controlling the therapy module to deliver stimulation to the patient at a plurality of intermediate intensity levels between the first and second intensity levels prior to delivering stimulation to the patient at the second intensity level following the detection of the voiding event.

Abstract: A medical system may include a control module and a therapy delivery module configured to generate and deliver electrical stimulation therapy to a patient. The control module may be configured to control the therapy delivery module to deliver electrical stimulation at a first stimulation intensity for a first time period, to deliver electrical stimulation at a second stimulation intensity for a second time period immediately following the first time period, and to deliver electrical stimulation at the first stimulation intensity for a third time period immediately following the second time period. The second stimulation intensity may be less than the first stimulation intensity. The electrical stimulation may elicit a first inhibitory physiological response during the first time period and a second inhibitory physiological response during the second time period. The second inhibitory physiological response may be greater than the first inhibitory physiological response.

Abstract: Apparatus to control physiological functions, including urinary track physiological functions are described. The apparatus includes an electrode(s) configured to be placed on or in a targeted component of a pudendal nerve and to stimulate the targeted pudendal nerve pudendal. The targeted component of the pudendal nerve includes a pudendal nerve urethral afferent, and afferent nerve fibers in the deep perineal nerve. The apparatus includes a controller coupled to the electrode to apply an electrical signal having an amplitude and a selected frequency chosen to stimulate the targeted component. The controller operates in a first mode to apply a first frequency without substantially changing the amplitude for achieving a first physiologic response and the controller operates in a second mode to apply a second frequency, different than the first frequency, for achieving a second physiologic response different than the first physiologic response.

Abstract: A method for treating urinary incontinence is provided. The method includes providing a device having an expandable portion having an outer surface, a first electrode, and a second electrode, the first and second electrodes coupled to the outer surface of the expandable portion and configured to cause a contraction of a muscle in communication with the electrodes. The method further includes causing the expandable portion to inflate such that the first and second electrodes contact vaginal walls and causing a contraction of a muscle in communication with the electrode.

Abstract: An enuresis electroconditioner pertains to the field of medical appliances and includes a humidity sensor (2) connected to an electric circuit which is activated in the presence of a liquid. When the liquid is detected, an electric current with a frequency of 50 Hz is generated. A qualified person must calibrate the amperage of the apparatus (1), adapting it to the sensibility of each person who, when receiving the electric impulse, contracts the perineal muscles, occluding the urethra and by a reflexive action inhibiting the contraction of the bladder and preventing urine loss.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods and devices useful for inhibiting or treating urological conditions, such as overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms including bladder overactivity, urinary frequency, urinary urgency, urinary incontinence, interstitial cystitis (IC), urinary retention, and pelvic pain; gastrointestinal conditions, such as fecal incontinence, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and constipation; and sexual conditions, such as premature ejaculation, erectile disorder, and female sexual arousal disorder by non-invasive transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the foot.

Abstract: A method and apparatus that resulted in blocking an action potential in a nerve.

Abstract: The disclosure is directed to techniques for providing a patient-individualized efficacy rating. Different stimulation parameters impact efficacy. For example, efficacy may be a function of parameters such as electrode combination, stimulation amplitude, pulse width, and pulse rate. Efficacy may vary from patient-to-patient. For example, efficacy may vary according to age, gender, physiology, disease state, activity level, or activity profile. Comparable stimulation programs may provide different efficacy levels for different patients, according to patient characteristics or desires. Patients may rank efficacy parameters differently. The efficacy parameters may include desirable therapeutic effects and undesirable side effects. For one patient, optimization of a particular efficacy parameter may be the paramount concern. Other patients may be willing to compromise the outcome of the same parameter in favor of better outcomes with other efficacy parameters.

Abstract: An implantable medical lead includes at least one stimulation electrode and at least one sensor configured to generate an electrical signal that varies as a function of a parameter associated with a voiding event of a patient. In some embodiments, the sensor may be at least one of a microphone that captures sounds associated with voiding events, a pressure sensor, a flow sensor, a strain gauge, a physiological parameter sensing electrode or a temperature sensor. The electrical signal generated by the sensor may used to detect an occurrence of a voiding event. Thus, the lead may be coupled wirelessly or via a wired connection to a device that processes the electrical signal from the sensor, generates voiding information based on the electrical signal, and in some cases, records the voiding information for later retrieval and analysis.

Abstract: An implantable stimulator(s), small enough to be located near or adjacent to an autonomic nerve(s) innervating urinary and/or gastrointestinal structures, uses a power source/storage device, such as a rechargeable battery. Periodic recharging of such a power source/storage device is accomplished, for example, by inductive coupling with an external appliance. The small stimulator provides a means of stimulating a nerve(s) or other tissue when desired, without the need for external appliances during the stimulation session. When necessary, external appliances are used for the transmission of data to and/or from the stimulator(s) and for the transmission of power, if necessary. In a preferred embodiment, the system is capable of open- and closed-loop operation. In closed-loop operation, at least one implant includes at least one sensor, and the sensed condition is used to adjust stimulation parameters.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for recharging an Implantable Medical Device (IMD). In one embodiment, a first external coil is positioned on one side of a patient's body, such as on a front side of the torso in proximity to the IMD. A second external coil is positioned on an opposite side of the patient's body, such as on the back of the torso. A recharging device generates a current in each of the coils, inductively coupling the first and the second coils to the secondary recharge coil of the IMD. According to another aspect, each of the two external coils may wrap around a portion of the patient's body, such as the torso or head, and are positioned such that the IMD lies between the coils. According to this aspect, current generated in the coils inductively couples to a second recharge coil that is angled within the patient's body.