Treating Mental Or Emotional Disorder Patents (Class 607/45)
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Patent number: 9403011Abstract: The present disclosure describes a medical device to provide neurostimulation therapy to a patient's brain. The device can be surgically implanted and can remain in the patient until end of life. The present disclosure also describes accessories which guide the implantation of the device, and the components that form a leadless stimulator implantation kit.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2014Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: Aleva NeurotherapeuticsInventor: Andre Mercanzini
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Patent number: 9402550Abstract: A method may include sensing a time of beat sequence of a patient's heart and processing said time of beat sequence with a medical device to identify a change in heart rate of a patient from a first heart rate to a second heart rate. The method may continue by determining with the medical device at least one of a) a ratio of the second heart rate to the first heart rate and b) a difference between the second heart rate and the first heart rate. The method may include determining with the medical device at least one of a) a dynamic ratio threshold for the ratio and b) a dynamic difference threshold for the difference, wherein the at least one threshold is based upon the first heart rate. The ratio and/or the difference may be compared to the threshold(s) to detect a neurological event, for example, an epileptic seizure.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2011Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: CYBERTRONICS, INC.Inventor: John C Colborn
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Patent number: 9399142Abstract: The implantable medical device is for implantation into a patient's body and is wirelessly powered by an external control device. The implantable medical device is induced by an AC electromagnetic field of the external control device through an inductive coil. A rectifier converts the AC electromagnetic field into a DC current. A detector detects a voltage value of the DC current, and a processor produces a first piece of status information accordingly. A transceiver receives and relays the first piece of status information to the external control device so as to monitor the power consumption of the implantable medical device when it is wirelessly powered.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2014Date of Patent: July 26, 2016Assignee: Gimer Medical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jian-Hao Pan, Chii-Wann Lin, Chi-Heng Chang
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Patent number: 9393401Abstract: Neurostimulator apparatuses for applying transdermal electrical stimulation that may be comfortably and securely worn on a variety of head shapes and sizes. The apparatuses and methods of using them described herein may be lightweight and wearable and configured to be attached at one end of a patient-facing surface of the apparatus by a cantilevered attachment so that an opposite end of the surface is free to float relative to the user's head. The cantilevered attachment may include two or more connectors spaced apart along an edge region of the patient-facing surface in an optimal arrangement to secure the neurostimulator in place. The neurostimulator apparatuses described herein may be secured to a separate or integral electrode assembly that may adhesively secure to the subject's head. The patient-facing surface of the neurostimulator may also be curved and twisted specifically for use at the temple/forehead region of a diverse population of potential users.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2015Date of Patent: July 19, 2016Assignee: Thync Global, Inc.Inventors: Isy Goldwasser, Sumon K. Pal, Jonathan Charlesworth, Wing Law, Jay Frederick Hamlin, Daniel Z. Wetmore, William J. Tyler, Douglas Jeffery
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Patent number: 9393432Abstract: A modular implantable medical device (IMD) may include a non-hermetic interconnect. The non-hermetic interconnect may electrically couple a first module and a second module of the modular IMD. A conductor in the non-hermetic interconnect may conduct electrical energy from the first module to the second module under an applied direct current (DC) voltage.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2009Date of Patent: July 19, 2016Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Carl D. Wahlstrand, Robert M. Skime
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Patent number: 9387334Abstract: A system for an electrical neurostimulator coupled to a plurality of electrodes. The system comprises a user-controlled input device configured for generating directional control signals. The system further comprises control circuitry configured for sequentially defining a plurality of different ideal bipole/tripole configurations relative to the plurality of electrodes in response to the directional control signals, generating a plurality of stimulation parameter sets respectively corresponding to the plurality of ideal bipole/tripole configurations, each stimulation parameter set defining relative amplitude values for the plurality of electrodes that emulate the respective ideal bipole/tripole configuration, and instructing the electrical neurostimulator to convey electrical energy to the plurality of electrodes in accordance with the plurality of stimulation parameter sets.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2014Date of Patent: July 12, 2016Assignees: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: Dongchul Lee, Changfang Zhu
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Patent number: 9387328Abstract: A system for an neurostimulator coupled to electrodes. The system comprises a input device configured for generating directional control signals, and memory storing ideal multipole configurations.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2014Date of Patent: July 12, 2016Assignees: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventor: Dongchul Lee
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Patent number: 9381346Abstract: The present invention features a medical device and methods for the prevention and/or treatment of neurological disorders via electrical stimulation. These device are minimally or non-invasive and are capable of detection of a neurological disorder and its subsequent prevention or treatment. Specifically, seizure control is among the targeted therapeutic areas. Components of the device include control electronics and electrodes; the latter are targeting electrodes located entirely outside the skull and can be constructed from ring type structures or virtually connected disc type arrays. Other sub-systems included in the medical device are a control system, a battery unit, and wires connecting these and other sub-systems.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2009Date of Patent: July 5, 2016Assignee: Precisis US, Inc.Inventors: Harry Lee, Allan Foreman, Wolfgang Daum, Richard Cohen, Jean Gotman, Andrew James Cole
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Patent number: 9381350Abstract: Effective systems and methods for improving neural communication impairment of a vertebrate being and affecting motor activity of a peripheral body part including a first signal providing component configured to provide pulsed peripheral stimulation signals at the peripheral body part, a second signal providing component configured to provide a pulsed motor cortex stimulation signal to a motor cortex area, a substantially DC signal providing component configured to provide direct current spinal stimulation signal at a neural spinal junction and a controller component configured to control timing of the pulsed peripheral stimulation signals and the pulsed motor cortex stimulation signal.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2015Date of Patent: July 5, 2016Assignee: The Research Foundation of the City University of New YorkInventor: Zaghloul Ahmed
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Patent number: 9381352Abstract: An apparatus for more accurately stimulating a living body comprises: a stimulation unit configured to apply a bio-stimulation signal in vicinity to a living body, the bio-stimulation signal being composed of pieces of time-series data having a specific frequency; and a control unit configured to derive bio-stimulation information required to achieve targeted bio-information using time space data indicative of bio-responses interacting at a plurality of different positions in response to the bio-stimulation signal, and derive a relation between the bio-stimulation signal and the bio-responses, and control the stimulation unit to apply the bio-stimulation signal in response to the derived bio-stimulation information. The relation is configured to set the bio-stimulation information as variables in an X matrix (m, t), set the bio-response information as variables in a Y matrix (n, t), and derive an A matrix (n, m) satisfying Y=AX.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2016Date of Patent: July 5, 2016Assignee: YBRAIN INC.Inventors: Kyongsik Yun, Yongwook Chae, Kiwon Lee
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Patent number: 9358398Abstract: A method of treating a patient and an external programmer for use with a neurostimulator. Electrical stimulation energy is serially conveyed into tissue of the patient via different combinations of electrodes implanted within the patient, thereby creating one or more clinical effects for each of the different electrode combinations. An influence of each of the different electrode combinations on the clinical effect(s) is determined. A graphical indication of the one or more clinical effects is generated based on the determined electrode combination influences. A graphical representation of the electrodes is displayed. The graphical indication of the clinical effect(s) is displayed adjacent the graphical electrode representation, such that a user can view an extent to which each of the different electrode combinations influences the clinical effect(s).Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2012Date of Patent: June 7, 2016Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: Michael A. Moffitt, John J. Reinhold
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Patent number: 9358394Abstract: An electrical stimulation system for use with a plurality of electrodes implanted within a tissue region comprises a neurostimulator configured for delivering electrical stimulation energy to the plurality of electrodes in accordance with a set of stimulation parameters, thereby injecting a charge into the tissue region, a control device configured for receiving user input to modify the set of stimulation parameters, and controller/processor circuitry configured for, in response to the user input computing a charge injection metric value as a function of a physical electrode parameter and an electrical source parameter for a first set of the electrodes, wherein the electrode set comprises at least two electrodes, comparing the computed charge injection metric value to a safety threshold value, and performing a corrective action based on the comparison.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2014Date of Patent: June 7, 2016Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: Gustav Karl Steinke, Michael A. Moffitt
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Patent number: 9345886Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for paired training include timing controls so that training and neural stimulation can be provided simultaneously. Paired trainings may include therapies, rehabilitation and performance enhancement training. Stimulations of nerves such as the vagus nerve that affect subcortical regions such as the nucleus basalis, locus coeruleus or amygdala induce plasticity in the brain, enhancing the effects of a variety of therapies, such as those used to treat tinnitus, stroke, traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2014Date of Patent: May 24, 2016Assignees: MICROTRANSPONDER, INC., THE BOARD OF REGENTS, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEMInventors: Michael P. Kilgard, Larry Cauller, Navzer Engineer, Christa McIntyre Rodriguez, Will Rosellini
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Patent number: 9339273Abstract: The invention relates to improving a surgical system for bonding bodily tissue, comprising a surgical instrument having a bonding device for bonding bodily tissue, said bonding device comprising two tool elements displaceable relative to each other, wherein the instrument comprises a cutting device having a cutting element for cutting through tissue, and the cutting element is displaceably disposed relative to at least one of the tool elements, such that the cutting device is implemented in the form of an HF cutting device, wherein the cutting element comprises a cutting edge defining a cutting plane at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis defined by the instrument in the region of the bonding device.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2010Date of Patent: May 17, 2016Assignee: Aesculap AGInventors: Dieter Weisshaupt, Anton Keller, Christoph Rothweiler
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Patent number: 9339650Abstract: A method is provided for neuromodulation to treat stroke. One step of the method includes recording an input waveform from a first site in the nervous system in a source subject. The first site is healthy or at least partially functioning. Next, an output waveform is applied to a second site in the nervous system of a target subject suffering from the stoke. The second site is diseased due to the stroke.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2012Date of Patent: May 17, 2016Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic FoundationInventors: Ali Rezai, Andre Machado, Keith Carlton
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Patent number: 9339654Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for paired training include timing controls so that training and neural stimulation can be provided simultaneously. Paired trainings may include therapies, rehabilitation and performance enhancement training. Stimulations of nerves such as the vagus nerve that affect subcortical regions such as the nucleus basalis, locus coeruleus or amygdala induce plasticity in the brain, enhancing the effects of a variety of therapies, such as those used to treat tinnitus, stroke, traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2014Date of Patent: May 17, 2016Assignees: MICROTRANSPONDER, INC., THE BOARD OF REGENTS, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEMInventors: Michael P. Kilgard, Larry Cauller, Navzer Engineer, Christa McIntyre Rodriguez, Will Rosellini
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Patent number: 9339642Abstract: In some embodiments of the present disclosure, systems and methods for effecting a physiological effect are provided. In some embodiments, a system is provided which comprises a plurality of current sources, where each current source having a positive output and a negative output and each being configured to provide a first current. The system may also include a plurality of stimulating electrodes electrically connected with the plurality of current sources such that at least a pair of the stimulating electrodes share at least one output of at least one of the plurality of current sources. The stimulating electrodes may be configured to provide electrical energy to tissue of a patient at the first current. The system may further include at least one sentinel electrode, and a first voltage monitor configured to monitor a first voltage across the at least one sentinel electrode and at least one of the plurality of stimulating electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2014Date of Patent: May 17, 2016Assignee: Soterix Medical, Inc.Inventors: Marom Bikson, Lucas Cristobal Parra, Abhishek Datta, Niranjan Khadka, Shiraz Azar Macuff
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Patent number: 9339195Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for detecting seizure symptoms in an individual 102. A sensor module 202 receives physiological data for an individual 102 from one or more sensors 110, 112, such as a heart activity sensor. A feature detection module 204 detects a predefined feature 500, 520, 530, 540 in the physiological data. The predefined feature 500, 520, 530, 540 is associated with a seizure or another medical condition. An alert module 206 broadcasts an alert in response to the feature detection module 204 detecting the predefined feature 500, 520, 530, 540.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2011Date of Patent: May 17, 2016Assignee: RESEARCH TRIANGLE INSTITUTEInventors: Ann Pitruzzello, Barbara Kroner, Jamie Shorey, David C Strube
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Patent number: 9333353Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a deep brain stimulation (DBS) lead having a distal end for providing therapeutic electrical stimulation to tissue in a stimulation target area of a patient's brain, comprising an array of one or more stimulation elements and sensing elements located at the distal end of the lead. After the first implantation of the lead into the brain along a trajectory that is pre-determined by non-surgical procedures, the array of stimulation and sensing elements is capable of facilitating the location of the target area and the determination for each of the stimulation elements of the required stimulation parameters needed to provide the therapeutic stimulation to the brain tissue in the stimulation target area, without requiring any additional implantations of the lead after the first implantation.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2014Date of Patent: May 10, 2016Assignee: Medtronic Bakken Research Center B.V.Inventors: Michel Marcel Jose Decre, Hubert Cecile Francois Martens
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Patent number: 9332939Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for detecting an epileptic event, for example, a seizure in a patient using a medical device. The determination is performed by providing an autonomic signal indicative of the patient's autonomic activity; providing a neurologic signal indicative of the patient's neurological activity; and detecting an epileptic event based upon the autonomic signal and the neurologic signal.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2014Date of Patent: May 10, 2016Inventor: Ivan Osorio
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Patent number: 9327124Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for stimulating neurons having a pathological synchronous and oscillatory neural activity, the apparatus including a stimulation unit having a plurality of stimulation contacts to stimulate neurons in a patients brain and/or spinal cord with electric stimuli, a measurement unit for recording test signals that represent a neural activity of the stimulated neurons, and a control and analysis unit. Furthermore, the stimulation contacts of the stimulation unit apply stimuli, and the control and analysis unit selects the stimulation contacts, the stimuli of which cause the phase of the pathological synchronous and oscillatory neural activity of the stimulated neurons to be reset. The selected stimulation contacts then apply phase-resetting stimuli with a time delay, and the control and analysis unit verifies whether the pathological synchronous and oscillatory neural activity of the stimulated neurons is suppressed by said time-delayed stimuli.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2013Date of Patent: May 3, 2016Assignee: Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbHInventor: Peter Alexander Tass
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Patent number: 9320909Abstract: An accessory (11) for use with an implanted medical device (100, 102) in a mammal body is intended for use externally to said mammal body and is arranged to wirelessly transmit signals to said implanted medical device (100,102). Said signals are sent in order to initiate a backup function or a backup system in said implanted medical device. The signals can be sent to initiate said backup function or backup system to override a built in control and/or powering system of the implanted device (100, 102). Also, the accessory can send said signals as wireless power signals to a receiver (102) for wirelessly receiving power in said implanted medical device, the signal information regarding the backup function being coded into said power signals.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2009Date of Patent: April 26, 2016Inventor: Peter Forsell
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Patent number: 9320908Abstract: Methods and apparatus for delivering therapy from an implanted neurostimulator to a patient are provided. One feature is an external controller that acts as a gateway for therapy. The external controller can be a handheld controller that communicates wirelessly with the implanted neurostimulator. In some embodiments, the controller communicates with a database to determine a therapy approval status of the neurostimulator. Therapy can be approved by a physician prescription, or by prepayment, for example. In some embodiments, the neurostimulator is deactivated when no approved therapies remain.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2010Date of Patent: April 26, 2016Assignee: Autonomic Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Kellie S. Fletcher, Benjamin David Pless, Anthony Caparso, Kenneth N. Horne
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Patent number: 9320900Abstract: A neurological control system for modulating activity of any component or structure comprising the entirety or portion of the nervous system, or any structure interfaced thereto, generally referred to herein as a “nervous system component.” The neurological control system generates neural modulation signals delivered to a nervous system component through one or more neuromodulators to control neurological state and prevent neurological signs and symptoms. Such treatment parameters may be derived from a neural response to previously delivered neural modulation signals sensed by one or more sensors, each configured to sense a particular characteristic indicative of a neurological or psychiatric condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2006Date of Patent: April 26, 2016Assignee: CYBERONICS, INC.Inventor: Daniel John DiLorenzo
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Patent number: 9314182Abstract: A system and method for detecting and predicting neurological events with an implantable device uses a relatively low-power central processing unit in connection with signal processing circuitry to identify features (including half waves) and calculate window-based characteristics (including line lengths and areas under the curve of the waveform) in one or more electrographic signals received from a patient's brain. The features and window-based characteristics are employed within the framework of a programmable finite state machine to identify patterns and sequences in and across the electrographic signals, facilitating early and reliable detection and prediction of complex spatiotemporal neurological events in real time, and enabling responsive action by the implantable device.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2012Date of Patent: April 19, 2016Assignee: NeuroPace, Inc.Inventors: Brett M. Wingeier, Thomas K. Tcheng
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Patent number: 9314190Abstract: Most particularly, the present invention relates to a customized and adaptive movement recovery system and a method of improving the functional motor recovery of a subject with a movement disorder. The present invention provides for a system and method, which in some embodiments can accurately quantify treatment device parameters and protocols including electrical stimulation amplitude (volts/amps), frequency (Hz), and pulse width (microseconds), and medication titrations, doses, and times by utilizing accelerometric, gyroscopic or other movement related information, such as electromyography (EMG) data, or the like, and a central database, or system of databases, of patient and treatment histories. In other embodiments, the system and method provide for an adaptive central database system and automated control of movement disorder treatment devices.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2014Date of Patent: April 19, 2016Assignee: Great Lakes NeuroTechnologies Inc.Inventors: Joseph P Giuffrida, Dustin A Heldman, Thomas O Mera
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Patent number: 9314614Abstract: An apparatus, a system and methods for modulating and monitoring tissue have an elongate member with proximal and distal ends and a plurality of annular stimulating electrodes axially arranged along the elongate member. The stimulating electrodes are disposed near the distal end and are adapted to pass current into tissue. At least one of the annular stimulating electrodes has at least three independent stimulation points on the electrode. The apparatus also includes a plurality of recording electrodes that are adapted to measure local tissue potentials and a plurality of conductors are coupled with the recording and stimulating electrodes. An optional multiple contact connecting terminal may be coupled with the conductors and is disposed near the proximal end of the elongate member.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2012Date of Patent: April 19, 2016Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventor: Purvis Bedenbaugh
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Patent number: 9302111Abstract: A system includes an implantable neurostimulator device capable of modulating cerebral blood flow to treat epilepsy and other neurological disorders. In one embodiment, the system is capable of modulating cerebral blood flow (also referred to as cerebral perfusion) in response to measurements and other observed conditions. Perfusion may be increased or decreased by systems and methods according to the invention as clinically required.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2014Date of Patent: April 5, 2016Assignee: NeuroPace, Inc.Inventors: Michael Sasha John, Benjamin D. Pless, Brett Wingeier
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Patent number: 9302110Abstract: A system and method for selection of stimulation parameters for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) may include a processor that displays in a display device and in relation to a displayed model of a leadwire including model electrodes, a current field corresponding to a first stimulation parameter set, provides a user interface for receipt of user input representing a shift of the current field, in response to the user input, moves, in the display device, the current field with respect to the displayed model, determines a second stimulation parameter set that results in the moved current field, and outputs the second stimulation parameter set and/or sets a stimulation device with the second stimulation parameter set, where the stimulation device is configured for performing a stimulation using the leadwire in accordance with the second stimulation parameter set.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2015Date of Patent: April 5, 2016Assignee: Intelect Medical, Inc.Inventors: Scott Kokones, David Arthur Blum, Keith R. Carlton, Troy Sparks
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Patent number: 9302109Abstract: A method includes determining sleep cycle information related to a sleep cycle of a patient based on body parameter data. The method also includes adjusting a cranial nerve stimulation parameter based on the sleep cycle information. The method further includes applying a cranial nerve stimulation therapy to treat depression based on the adjusted cranial nerve stimulation parameter.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2014Date of Patent: April 5, 2016Assignee: CYBERONICS, INC.Inventor: Shivkumar Sabesan
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Patent number: 9295843Abstract: A system or apparatus can provide electrostimulations via an electrode configuration that can be selected from multiple electrode configurations, the electrostimulations of the type for inducing a desired heart contraction, or a neurostimulation response. The system or apparatus can allow communicating with an external device to receive an input indicating a degree of patient discomfort with an electrostimulation delivered using a first electrode configuration, and can associate information about the degree of discomfort with information about the corresponding first electrode configuration for use by a controller circuit in determining a second electrode configuration for delivering a subsequent electrostimulation.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2013Date of Patent: March 29, 2016Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.Inventors: Eric K. Enrooth, Sunipa Saha, Krzysztof Z. Siejko, Kenneth N. Hayes, Aaron R. McCabe
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Patent number: 9283389Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of treating movement disorders of a living being, a method of treating refractory gait disturbances of a human Parkinson's disease patient being affected by gait disturbances, and an apparatus for deep brain stimulation (DBS) of a living being affected by movement disorders.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen UniversitätsklinikumInventors: Rejko Krueger, Daniel Weiss
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Patent number: 9283391Abstract: Improved neuromodulation control of neurological abnormalities associated with effector organs in vertebrate beings using direct current stimulation for modulating spinal cord excitability, having a peripheral-current supplying component for providing direct current peripheral nerve stimulation and a spinal-current supplying component providing direct current for spinal stimulation, and a controller managing such functions.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: The Research Foundation of the City University of New YorkInventor: Zaghloul Ahmed
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Patent number: 9272145Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for paired training include timing controls so that training and neural stimulation can be provided simultaneously. Paired trainings may include therapies, rehabilitation and performance enhancement training. Stimulations of nerves such as the vagus nerve that affect subcortical regions such as the nucleus basalis, locus coeruleus or amygdala induce plasticity in the brain, enhancing the effects of a variety of therapies, such as those used to treat tinnitus, stroke, traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2013Date of Patent: March 1, 2016Assignees: MICROTRANSPONDER, INC., THE BOARD OF REGENTS, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEMInventors: Michael P. Kilgard, Larry Cauller, Nazer Engineer, Christa McIntyre, Will Rossellini
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Patent number: 9265932Abstract: A method and control system for determining and applying stimulation settings for a brain stimulation probe (10, 12) is provided. The brain stimulation probe (10, 12) comprises a plurality of stimulation electrodes (11). The method comprises for multiple stimulation electrodes (11) of the plurality of stimulation electrodes (11): applying a test current and determining a corresponding patient response, determining a volume of influence based (32, 52, 71, 91) on the test current and a position of the stimulation electrode (11), combining the volume of influence (32, 52, 71, 91) and the corresponding patient response with generalized anatomic knowledge of stimulation induced behavior for associating the volume of influence (32, 52, 71, 91) to an anatomic structure (33, 43, 53), and determining an intersection (41, 51) of the volume of influence (32, 52, 71, 91) and the associated anatomic structure (33, 43, 53).Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2011Date of Patent: February 23, 2016Assignee: MEDTRONIC BAKKEN RESEARCH CENTER B.V.Inventors: Hubert Cécile François Martens, Michel Marcel Jose Decré, Kevin Thomas Dolan
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Patent number: 9259154Abstract: Apparatus for monitoring an ECG signal comprises a first body wearable part 1 for receiving a physiological signal and comprising processing means, a memory, and a wireless transceiver, the memory storing a plurality of signal segment templates. The processing means is arranged to compare and match segments of the physiological signal to the stored template. The apparatus further comprises a second part 4 comprising a wireless transceiver and processing means, the processing means being arranged to generate and/or modify signal segment templates, and to cause said transceiver of the second part to transmit generated or modified templates to the first part.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2006Date of Patent: February 16, 2016Assignee: Toumaz Technology LimitedInventors: Robin Miller, Alison Burdett
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Patent number: 9259579Abstract: Systems and methods for stimulation of neurological tissue generate stimulation trains with temporal patterns of stimulation, in which the interval between electrical pulses (the inter-pulse intervals) changes or varies over time. Compared to conventional continuous, high rate pulse trains having regular (i.e., constant) inter-pulse intervals, the non-regular (i.e., not constant) pulse patterns or trains that embody features of the invention provide a lower average frequency.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2013Date of Patent: February 16, 2016Assignee: Duke UniversityInventors: Warren M. Grill, Alan D. Dorval, II
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Patent number: 9254387Abstract: A system and method for generating an estimated volume of activation (VOA) corresponding to settings applied to a stimulation leadwire includes a processor performing the following: determining, for each of a plurality of neural elements, one or more respective parameters characterizing an electrical distribution along the neural element, looking up the one or more parameters for each of the neural elements in a look-up table (LUT), obtaining threshold values for each of the neural elements recorded in the LUT in association with the looked-up parameters, comparing, for each of the neural elements, a value of the leadwire settings to each of the respective threshold value, estimating based on the comparisons which of the neural elements would be activated by the settings, and generating a structure corresponding to a region including the neural elements estimated to be activated.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2012Date of Patent: February 9, 2016Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: David Arthur Blum, Michael A. Moffitt, Karl Steinke
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Patent number: 9254383Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed that treat a medical condition, such as migraine headache, by electrically stimulating a nerve noninvasively, which may be a vagus nerve situated within a patient's neck. Preferred embodiments allow a patient to self-treat his or her condition. Disclosed methods assure that the device is being positioned correctly on the neck and that the amplitude and other parameters of the stimulation actually stimulate the vagus nerve with a therapeutic waveform. Those methods comprise measuring properties of the patient's larynx, pupil diameters, blood flow within an eye, electrodermal activity and/or heart rate variability.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2013Date of Patent: February 9, 2016Assignee: Electrocore, LLCInventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico
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Patent number: 9242095Abstract: Systems and methods for stimulation of neurological tissue generate stimulation trains with temporal patterns of stimulation, in which the interval between electrical pulses (the inter-pulse intervals) changes or varies over time. Compared to conventional continuous, high rate pulse trains having regular (i.e., constant) inter-pulse intervals, the non-regular (i.e., not constant) pulse patterns or trains that embody features of the invention provide a lower average frequency.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2014Date of Patent: January 26, 2016Assignee: Duke UniversityInventors: Warren M. Grill, Jr., David T. Brocker
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Patent number: 9238142Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for remotely and intelligently tuning movement disorder of therapy systems. The present invention still further provides methods of quantifying movement disorders for the treatment of patients who exhibit symptoms of such movement disorders including, but not limited to, Parkinson's disease and Parkinsonism, Dystonia, Chorea, and Huntington's disease, Ataxia, Tremor and Essential Tremor, Tourette syndrome, stroke, and the like. The present invention yet further relates to methods of remotely and intelligently or automatically tuning a therapy device using objective quantified movement disorder symptom data to determine the therapy setting or parameters to be transmitted and provided to the subject via his or her therapy device. The present invention also provides treatment and tuning intelligently, automatically and remotely, allowing for home monitoring of subjects.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2013Date of Patent: January 19, 2016Assignee: Great Lakes NeuroTechnologies Inc.Inventors: Dustin A Heldman, Christopher L Pulliam, Joseph P Giuffrida, Thomas O Mera
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Patent number: 9233244Abstract: Portable transdermal electrical stimulation (TES) applicators for modifying a subject's cognitive state. In general, the portable applicators described are specifically configured and adapted to be lightweight and may be wearable, and to deliver a high-intensity TES able to evoke or enhance a predetermined cognitive effect. These TES applicators may include a pair of electrodes and a TES control module comprising a processor, a timer and a waveform generator. TES control module is adapted to deliver a biphasic electrical stimulation signal of 10 seconds or longer between the first and second electrodes having a frequency of 400 Hz or greater, a duty cycle of greater than 10 percent, an intensity of 3 mA or greater, with a DC offset.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2015Date of Patent: January 12, 2016Assignee: thync, inc.Inventors: Sumon K. Pal, Jonathan Charlesworth, Remi Demers, Daniel Z. Wetmore, Isy Goldwasser, William J. Tyler, Raymond L. Gradwohl, Philip Lamb, Christopher Voss
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Patent number: 9227056Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and methods for noninvasively providing therapy for movement disorder symptoms. The present invention provides such a therapy system which provides trans-cranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in order to treat those symptoms and the disorders. The present invention further provides such tDCS therapy while the subject sleeps in order to minimize the time required and impact of the therapy on the subject's waking life. The system, methods, and devices of the present invention are intended to provide a low-dose electrical current, trans-cranially, to a specific area of the subject's brain while he or she sleeps in order to decrease the occurrence, severity, and duration of the symptoms of movement disorders. The present invention aims to reduce the amount of medication necessary, counteract the effects of medication wearing off during sleep, and to overall improve the quality of life of subjects suffering from movement disorders.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2014Date of Patent: January 5, 2016Assignee: Great Lakes NeuroTechnologies, Inc.Inventors: Dustin A Heldman, Joseph P Giuffrida
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Patent number: 9220900Abstract: An embodiment relates to a method for delivering a vagal stimulation therapy to a vagus nerve, including delivering a neural stimulation signal to non-selectively stimulate both afferent axons and efferent axons in the vagus nerve according to a predetermined schedule for the vagal stimulation therapy, and selecting a value for at least one parameter for the predetermined schedule for the vagal stimulation therapy to control the neural stimulation therapy to avoid physiological habituation to the vagal stimulation therapy. The parameter(s) include at least one parameter selected from the group of parameters consisting of a predetermined therapy duration parameter for a predetermined therapy period, and a predetermined intermittent neural stimulation parameter associated with on/off timing for the intermittent neural stimulation parameter.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2014Date of Patent: December 29, 2015Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.Inventors: Imad Libbus, Andrew P. Kramer
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Patent number: 9211401Abstract: An implantable neuronal prosthetic and method of manufacture thereof includes at least one elongated electrode shank adapted for arrangement in the brain having at least one electrode contact disposed on its surface and arranged to electrically couple with said brain. The at least one elongated electrode shank is formed form a single crystal cubic silicon carbide. An insulation layer of amorphous, polycrystalline, or single crystal silicon carbide is disposed over the elongated electrode shank; the insulation layer of amorphous, polycrystalline, or single crystal silicon carbide is removed from the at least one electrode contact. Signal control electronics are attached to the at least one elongated electrode shank and are in electrical communication with the at least one electrode contact. In an embodiment, a plurality of the at least one elongated electrode shanks are arranged into a matrix.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2012Date of Patent: December 15, 2015Assignee: University of South FloridaInventors: Christopher Leroy Frewin, Stephen E. Saddow, Edwin Weeber
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Patent number: 9211133Abstract: A surgical guide to facilitate delivery of a therapy delivery device into the pterygopalatine fossa of a subject includes a curvilinear body having a distal end portion, a proximal end portion, and an intermediate portion extending between the distal and proximal end portions. The proximal end portion is defined by oppositely disposed first and second surfaces. The proximal end portion and the intermediate portion define a longitudinal plane that extends between the proximal and distal end portions. The distal end portion has an arcuate configuration relative to the longitudinal plane and is defined by oppositely disposed third and fourth surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2010Date of Patent: December 15, 2015Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic FoundationInventor: Francis A. Papay
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Patent number: 9211417Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for tuning treatment parameters in movement disorder therapy systems. The present invention further relates to a system for screening patients to determine viability as candidates for certain therapy modalities, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS). The present invention still further provides methods of quantifying movement disorders for the treatment of patients who exhibit symptoms of such movement disorders including, but not limited to, Parkinson's disease and Parkinsonism, Dystonia, Chorea, and Huntington's disease, Ataxia, Tremor and Essential Tremor, Tourette syndrome, stroke, and the like. The present invention yet further relates to methods of tuning a therapy device using objective quantified movement disorder symptom data acquired by a movement disorder diagnostic device to determine the therapy setting or parameters to be provided to the subject via his or her therapy device.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2013Date of Patent: December 15, 2015Assignee: Great Lakes NeuroTechnologies IncInventors: Dustin A Heldman, Christopher L Pulliam, Joseph P Giuffrida, Thomas O Mera
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Patent number: 9211078Abstract: A brain computer interface as an alternative communication channel to be used in various applications, such as robotics. In one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a process for the analysis and conversion of EEG signals obtained from the brain into movement commands through electric and/or mechanical devices. The process of the present invention provides substantial advantages over the similar systems/techniques known in the art, such as a 91% average hit rate, obtained in attempts to control a mobile robot. In other embodiment of the invention, there is provided an apparatus comprising: means for obtaining brain signals; an electroencephalograph (EEG); and means for transducing said signals into functional commands useful in several applications. Said means for transducing mental signals is the core of the invention and provides a number of technical advantages over the similar systems/techniques known in the art of identifying mental activities.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2010Date of Patent: December 15, 2015Assignee: Faculdades Católicas, a nonprofit association, maintainer of the Pontificia Universidade Católica of Rio de JaneiroInventors: Marco Antonio Meggiolaro, Alexandre Ormiga Galvao Barbosa
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Patent number: 9192704Abstract: A TET system is operable to vary an amount of power transmitted from an external power supply to an implantable power unit in accordance with a monitored condition of the implantable power unit. The amount of power supplied to the implantable power unit for operating a pump, for example, can be varied in accordance with a cardiac cycle, so as to maintain the monitored condition in the power circuit within a desired range throughout the cardiac cycle.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2013Date of Patent: November 24, 2015Assignee: HeartWare, Inc.Inventors: Barry Yomtov, John Robert Batty
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Patent number: 9192670Abstract: A method of treating Alzheimer's disease (AD) is disclosed. The method comprises electrically stimulating a nerve pathway in a brain region of a subject with at least two high frequency spike bursts of electrical currents, the bursts comprising between 2-20 spikes, wherein a frequency of the spikes in the bursts is between 5-200 msec.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2012Date of Patent: November 24, 2015Assignee: Ramot at Tel-Aviv University Ltd.Inventors: Inna Slutsky, Iftach Dolev