Treating Mental Or Emotional Disorder Patents (Class 607/45)
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Patent number: 9014811Abstract: Methods of modifying a subject's cognitive state by applying transdermal electrical stimulation (TES). In particular, described herein are methods of applying TES using a pair of electrodes each positioned at a particular location on the skin of the subject's head, or the head and neck, to evoke a predetermined cognitive state using a TES applicator. In particular, described herein are methods of enhancing attention, alertness, or mental focus or of enhancing a calm or relaxed mental state by applying high-intensity TES across electrodes positioned on the subject's temple and either the mastoid region or on the subject's neck. The subject may control the application directly and TES may be applied by a portable, including wearable, TES applicator.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2014Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Assignee: 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: 9014810Abstract: The main object of the invention is an implantable device of the neural interface type for processing signals, including: a case intended to be held at least partially in a cavity formed on the cranium of a human or animal, an electronic circuit positioned in the case (B), and a system of electrodes coupled electrically to the electronic circuit, wherein the device includes a signal transmission sleeve, extending from the periphery of the case.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2013Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Assignee: Commissariat a l'energie atomique et aux energies alternativesInventors: Fabien Sauter-Starace, Guillaume Charvet, Alim-Louis Benabid
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Publication number: 20150105837Abstract: A brain therapy system and method using noninvasive brain stimulation, comprising: a stimuli generator unit for generating a stimuli presentation program; a sensor assembly comprising a plurality of active EEG electrodes for measuring the electrophysiological activity of a patient's brain subjected to said stimuli presentation program; a data acquisition unit in communication with the sensor assembly for retrieving patient EEG signals; a data processing unit in communication with the data acquisition unit for: analyzing the patient EEG signals to obtain patient EEG data, and comparing the patient EEG data against a normalized EEG pattern retrieved from a standardized database; selecting a stimulation protocol in dependence of said comparison; a brain stimulation unit for applying the selected stimulation protocol on the active EEG electrodes.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2013Publication date: April 16, 2015Applicant: NEUROMETRICS, S.L.Inventor: Moises AGUILAR DOMINGO
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Publication number: 20150105838Abstract: Disclosed are methods for regulating neurotrophin levels within a human body. The invention utilizes an implantable signal generator to deliver stimulation to neural tissue elements. Alternatively, an implantable pump may be utilized to delivery one or more drugs. The implanted device delivers treatment therapy to the neural tissue to thereby alter the level of neurotrophic factors such as BDNF expressed by the influenced neural tissue. A sensor may be used to detect various symptoms of a nervous system disorder. A microprocessor algorithm may then analyze the output from the sensor to regulate the treatment therapy delivered to the body. The invention describes a novel method to regulate the intrinsic levels of neurotrophins and may be used to treat patients with neurological and cognitive disorders.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2014Publication date: April 16, 2015Inventor: Andres M. Lozano
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Patent number: 9008781Abstract: 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 7, 2014Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: The Research Foundation of the City University of New YorkInventor: Zaghloul Ahmed
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Patent number: 9008780Abstract: Methods for bridging brain sites between which there is substantially no effective communication, and associated neural prosthetic devices, are provided. A neural spike in a first neural site in a subject is detected, and a stimulus to a second neural site in the subject is delivered within a defined period of time after the detection of the neural spike, wherein there is substantially no effective communication between the first and second neural sites. The method forms an artificial bridge between the two neural sites, and establishes lasting communication between the two sites. The present disclosure provides, among other things, a neural prosthetic device comprising an integrated circuit that comprises a recording front-end comprising a plurality of recording channels; a processor unit; and a stimulus delivering back-end comprising a plurality of stimulation channels.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2012Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignees: Case Western Reserve University, University of KansasInventors: Randolph J. Nudo, David Guggenmos, Pedram Mohseni, Meysam Azin
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Patent number: 9002458Abstract: 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: June 30, 2014Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignee: 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: 9002472Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, and software for operating such apparatuses, for neuromodulation in a live mammalian subject, such as a human patient, provide for applying electrical energy to a target site in the nervous system of the subject using a signal comprising a series of pulses, wherein the inter-pulse intervals are varied using the output of a deterministic, non-linear, dynamical system comprising one or more system control parameters. In certain embodiments, the target site may be a site in the brain involved in generalized CNS (central nervous system) arousal. The dynamical system may be capable of exhibiting chaotic behavior.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2010Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignees: Intelect Medical, Inc., The Rockefeller UniversityInventors: Scott Kokones, Bradford Curtis Fowler, Donald Pfaff, Amy Wells Quinkert
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Patent number: 9002457Abstract: An implantable medical device is powered by a battery to deliver one or more therapies including at least one non-life-sustaining therapy such as neural stimulation for enhancing quality of life of a patient. When the battery approaches its end of life, the implantable medical device reduces power consumption of the neural stimulation (e.g., intensity of the neural stimulation) for extending the remaining battery life while maintaining a certain amount of therapeutic benefits for the patient. In one embodiment, the intensity of the neural stimulation is reduced in a tiered manner. In one embodiment in which the implantable medical device also delivers at least one life-sustaining cardiac stimulation therapy, the neural stimulation is disabled or adjusted to reduce its power consumption (e.g., intensity) while the intensity of the cardiac stimulation therapy is maintained when the battery is near its end of life.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2013Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.Inventors: Jason J. Hamann, Scott Vanderlinde, David J. Ternes
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Patent number: 8996115Abstract: A method, device and/or system for generating arbitrary waveforms of a desired shape that can be used for generating a stimulation pulse for medical purposes such as for spinal cord stimulation therapy, where such arbitrary waveforms can also be used for charge balancing purposes.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Greatbatch, Ltd.Inventors: Stephen Trier, Jeffrey A. Weisgarber, Richard J. Polefko
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Publication number: 20150088224Abstract: Apparatuses (e.g., devices, systems), and methods for transdermal electrical stimulation (TES). Apparatuses described herein can be self-contained, lightweight, and wearable. The apparatus may include a primary unit (TES stimulator) and an electrode portion that includes a first transdermal electrode and a second transdermal electrode and mates with the TES stimulator. The first electrode and secondary electrode are placed at two locations on the skin of a user, for example on the head and/or neck of a user. Electrical stimulation driven between the two electrodes may induce a cognitive effect in a user of the device.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2014Publication date: March 26, 2015Inventors: Isy GOLDWASSER, William J. TYLER, Jonathan CHARLESWORTH, Sumon K. PAL, Daniel Z. WETMORE, Douglas JEFFERY, Wing LAW
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Publication number: 20150088223Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2014Publication date: March 26, 2015Inventors: David Arthur BLUM, Michael A. MOFFITT, Karl STEINKE
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Patent number: 8989863Abstract: A method, comprising detecting, in at least a first brain region of a patient, an electrical activity relating to an epileptic activity; determining a first regularity index of said electrical activity; and applying at least one first electrical stimulation to at least one neural target of said patient for treating said epileptic event, in response to said first regularity index being within a first range. A non-transitive, computer-readable storage device for storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, perform the method. A medical device system suitable for use in the method.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2011Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Flint Hills Scientific, LLCInventor: Ivan Osorio
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Patent number: 8989864Abstract: An electrical stimulation system provides stimulation therapy to a patient. The system includes a neurostimulation lead that contacts patient tissue and couples with an implantable stimulation device, such as an implantable pulse generator, that receives stimulation parameters for providing stimulation therapy to a patient. The implantable stimulation device includes a header with a plurality of connector assemblies that receive an end of the neurostimulation lead, and a case containing a charging coil and a telemetry coil coupled to programming circuitry on a printed circuit board, which is in turn coupled to the connector assemblies via a feedthrough assembly. The telemetry coil receives data from an external programmer and transmits the data to the programming circuitry, which in turn uses the data to communicate to the connector assemblies and the neurostimulation lead to provide stimulation therapy to a patient.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2014Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: Jeffery V. Funderburk, Randy L. Brase, Robert R. Tong, Md. Mizanur Rahman
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Publication number: 20150073495Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2014Publication date: March 12, 2015Inventors: Warren M. Grill, JR., Alan D. Dorval, II
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Patent number: 8977362Abstract: A system including a processor configured to be coupled to an electrical lead that is configured to sense electrical activity in a patient, a memory coupled to the processor, the memory containing computer readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to detect a pain signature in the sensed electrical activity, determine a treatment protocol in response to the detected pain signature, and cause the treatment protocol to be delivered to the patient via the electrical lead.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2011Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: Rhode Island HospitalInventor: Carl Y. Saab
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Patent number: 8977361Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for the treatment of a brain affection, which comprises at least one implantable generator (4) made of non-ferromagnetic material comprising a casing (7), an ultrasound generating treating device (11) positioned into said casing to induce brain affection treatment by emission of ultrasound waves, and means for fastening the implantable casing into the skull. The apparatus further comprises a power controller (PwC) to supply electricity to the treating device of the implantable generator and to set and control its working parameters, and connecting means (6) to connect the power controller and the treating device of the implantable generator. A method for treating a brain affection with such an apparatus is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2011Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignees: Universite Pierre et Marie Curie (Paris 6), Assistance Publique—Hopitaux de Paris, CartheraInventors: Alexandre Carpentier, Cyril Lafon, Jean-Yves Chapelon, Michael Sean Canney, Kévin Beccaria
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Publication number: 20150065831Abstract: Disclosed herein is a wireless implantable communication system, method and sensing device, wherein an implantable data conversion module is adapted for operative coupling to a distinct or integrated implantable sensing device for the conversion of a characteristic signal for transmission thereof to an external receiver, e.g. by way of an inductive element. Upon positioning an external inductive element in the vicinity of the implanted device, a corresponding signal is induced within the external element allowing for reconstruction of the converted signal, and thereby allowing for recovery of the characteristic signal. Embodiments for the communication of data across a biological barrier, including communications from an external transmitter to an implanted receiver, an implanted transmitter to an external receiver, and an implanted transmitter/receiver pair are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventors: Milos R. Popovic, Massimo Tarulli, Aleksandar Prodic, Santa Concepcion Huerta Olivares
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Publication number: 20150066104Abstract: A method for providing electrical stimulation to a user as a user performs a set of tasks during a time window, the method comprising: providing an electrical stimulation treatment, characterized by a stimulation parameter and a set of portions, to a brain region of the user in association with the time window; for each task of the set of tasks: receiving a signal stream characterizing a neurological state of the user; from the signal stream, identifying a neurological signature characterizing the neurological state associated with the task; and modulating the electrical stimulation treatment provided to the brain region of the user based upon the neurological signature, wherein modulating comprises delivering a portion of the set of portions of the electrical stimulation treatment to the brain region of the user, while maintaining an aggregate amount of the stimulation parameter of the treatment provided during the time window below a maximum limit.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2014Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventors: Brett Wingeier, Daniel S. Chao, Lee Von Kraus, Amol Sarva, Sophia Sanchez
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Patent number: 8972016Abstract: A TENS apparatus includes a portable TENS device having a housing with a lower surface, a pair of integral electrodes that are incorporated in the lower surface of the housing, and a pulse driver that is located within the housing and adapted to generate a program of pulse waveforms, each of which is an asymmetrical biphasic square waveform.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2013Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Modular Therapeutx, LLCInventors: Charles M. Thomas, D. Keith Hagy, Donald Kay Riker, Nathan Anderson Pollock, Brad Peter Ryan, Lee Anthony Rodezno, Troy Christiaan Nyssen
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Patent number: 8972013Abstract: An implantable medical system includes an implantable medical device (IMD) and an electrode coupleable to the IMD. The electrode is operative to deliver a first electrical signal from the IMD to a neural structure. The system includes a sensor coupleable to the IMD. The sensor is operative to sense a physiological parameter. The physiological parameter may include at least one of a neurotransmitter parameter, a neurotransmitter breakdown product parameter, a neuropeptide parameter, a norepinephrine parameter, a glucocorticoid (GC) parameter, a neuromodulator parameter, a neuromodulator breakdown product parameter, an amino acid parameter, and a hormone parameter. The IMD includes a controller operative to change a parameter of the first electrical signal based upon at least one sensed physiological parameter to generate a second electrical signal and to apply the second electrical signal to the neural structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2011Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Cyberonics, Inc.Inventor: Steven E. Maschino
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Patent number: 8965521Abstract: Various implantable device embodiments may comprise a neural stimulator configured to deliver a neurostimulation therapy with stimulation ON times and stimulation OFF times where a dose of the neurostimulation therapy is provided by a number of neurostimulation pulses over a period of time. The neural stimulator may be configured to monitor the dose of the delivered neurostimulation therapy against dosing parameters. The neural stimulator may be configured to declare a fault if the monitored dose does not favorably compare to a desired dose for the neurostimulation therapy, or may be configured to record data for the monitored dose of the delivered neurostimulation therapy, or may be configured to both record data for the monitored dose of the delivered neurostimulation therapy and declare a fault if the monitored dose does not favorably compare to a desired dose for the neurostimulation therapy.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2013Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.Inventors: Doug M. Birkholz, Douglas J. Brandner, Douglas J. Gifford, David J. Ternes, William J. Linder
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Patent number: 8965515Abstract: A lead extension for an electrical stimulation system includes a connector disposed on a first end of a body. The connector includes a housing defining at least one port. Each of the at least one ports is configured to receive a proximal end of a lead. A plurality of connector contacts are disposed in each of the at least one ports. The connector contacts are configured to electrically couple to terminals of a lead when the lead is received by the housing. A first connector flange extends outwardly from a first side of the housing. A plurality of conductors extend along a length of the lead extension and electrically couple at least one of the connector contacts to at least one terminal disposed on a second end of the body.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2012Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: Michael Adam Moffitt, Courtney Lane, John Michael Barker
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Patent number: 8965514Abstract: A method includes coupling electrodes to a patient's head and identifying whether any of the electrodes form a functional set, such that a desired therapeutic effect is achieved when the two or more electrodes deliver a total amount of current to the patient regardless of what portion of the total amount of current each respective electrode carries. One or more constant current sources are provided, each having a supply and return terminal, which supply and return equal amounts of current at any given time. The constant current source(s) are coupled to the electrodes in such a manner that each supply terminal and each return terminal is coupled to no more than the electrodes of a single one of the functional sets, if any, or to a single one of the electrodes not included in one of the functional sets.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2010Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Research Foundation of the City University of New YorkInventors: Marom Bikson, Abhishek Datta, Varun Bansal, Lucas C. Parra, Xiang Zhou
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Patent number: 8965513Abstract: Systems, methods and devices are disclosed for directing and focusing signals to the brain for neuromodulation and for directing and focusing signals or other energy from the brain for measurement, heat transfer and imaging. An aperture in the skull and/or a channel device implantable in the skull can be used to facilitate direction and focusing. Treatment and diagnosis of multiple neurological conditions may be facilitated with the disclosed systems, methods and devices.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2008Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: NeuroPace, Inc.Inventors: Brett Wingeier, Benjamin Pless
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Publication number: 20150051637Abstract: We disclose methods and medical device systems for selectively recruiting a nerve fiber type within a cranial nerve, a peripheral nerve or a spinal root. Such a method may comprise applying a first pressure, a heating, and/or a cooling to a second location of the nerve, the pressure, heating, or cooling sufficient to substantially block at least one of activation or conduction in at least one fiber population through the second location of the nerve for a blocking time period; and applying an electrical signal to a first location during the blocking time period.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2014Publication date: February 19, 2015Inventor: Ivan Osorio
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Publication number: 20150051663Abstract: The present method and system provides for the clinical application of neurostimulation and/or neuromodulation to a patient. The method and system includes receipt and acquisition of patient data, processing of that data relative to one or more known data sets, and determination of a good-fit trigger specific treatment protocol. The method and system provides for application of the protocol to the patient, including delivery of neuromodulation and biofeedback. Based thereon, the method and system re-iterates the goodness of fit determination for further treatment to the patient.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2014Publication date: February 19, 2015Inventor: David W. Hagedorn
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Patent number: 8958880Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods, devices, and systems used for the treatment of mood, anxiety, cognitive, and behavioral disorders (collectively, neuropsychiatric disorders) via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve (“TNS”). More specifically, minimally invasive systems, devices and methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2010Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignees: The Regents of the University of California, Neurosigma, Inc.Inventors: Christopher DeGiorgio, Ian A. Cook, Leon Ekchian
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Patent number: 8958881Abstract: Apparatus is provided that includes one or more electrodes, configured to be applied to a sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG), a greater palatine nerve, a lesser palatine nerve, a sphenopalatine nerve, a communicating branch between a maxillary nerve and an SPG, an otic ganglion, an afferent fiber going into the otic ganglion, an efferent fiber going out of the otic ganglion, an infraorbital nerve, a vidian nerve, a greater superficial petrosal nerve, or a lesser deep petrosal nerve; and a control unit, configured to drive the electrodes to apply electrical stimulation to the site, and configure the stimulation to excite nervous tissue of the site at a strength sufficient to induce at least one neuroprotective occurrence selected from the group consisting of: an increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF), and a release of one or more neuroprotective substances, and insufficient to induce a significant increase in permeability of a blood-brain barrier (BBB).Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2013Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Brainsgate Ltd.Inventors: Itschak Lamensdorf, Avinoam Dayan, Hernan Altman
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Patent number: 8958882Abstract: The present method and system provides for the clinical application of neurostimulation and/or neuromodulation to a patient. The method and system includes receipt and acquisition of patient data, processing of that data relative to one or more known data sets, and determination of a good-fit trigger specific treatment protocol. The method and system provides for application of the protocol to the patient, including delivery of neuromodulation and biofeedback. Based thereon, the method and system re-iterates the goodness of fit determination for further treatment to the patient.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2014Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Evoke Neuroscience, Inc.Inventor: David W Hagedorn
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Publication number: 20150045852Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, brain stimulation models, systems, devices, and methods, such as for deep brain stimulation (DBS) or other electrical stimulation. In an example, volumetric imaging data representing an anatomical volume of a brain of a patient can be obtained and transformed to brain atlas data. A patient-specific brain atlas can be created using the inverse of the transformation to map the brain atlas data onto the volumetric imaging data and a volume of influence can be calculated using the patient-specific brain atlas. In certain examples, the volume of influence can include a predicted volume of tissue affected by an electrical stimulation delivered by an electrode at a corresponding at least one candidate electrode target location.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 2, 2014Publication date: February 12, 2015Inventors: Cameron C. MCINTYRE, Christopher R. BUTSON, John D. HALL, Jaimie M. HENDERSON
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Publication number: 20150045851Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for planning a neuromodulation therapy, whereby the device comprises receiving means to receive brain default mode network data of a patient, template means comprising a template brain default mode network data, normalizing means being configured such that normalized patient brain default mode network data can be prepared on the basis on the received brain default mode network data and the template brain default mode network data, storage means comprising a brain default mode network data base and comparison means configured such that the normalized patient brain default mode network data and the data contained in the brain default mode network data base can be comparedType: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2013Publication date: February 12, 2015Inventors: Hubert Cécile Francois Martens, Michel Marcel José Decré
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Publication number: 20150045642Abstract: Subdural arrays transmit electrocorticogram recordings wirelessly, across the patient's skull, allowing the craniotomy used for surgical placement of the arrays to be completely closed. In various embodiments, the arrays also respond to commands, applying signal patterns to the patient's brain for diagnostic and treatment purposes.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2014Publication date: February 12, 2015Inventors: Stuart F. Cogan, Philip R Troyk, John S. Ebersole, Vernon L. Towle
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Patent number: 8954152Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for potentiating a favorable brain state that is associated with relief in symptoms of a brain condition. Techniques include monitoring one or more brain signals and detecting an episode of a favorable brain state based on the one or more brain signals, the favorable brain state associated with a decrease in one or more symptoms of a brain condition of the patient. Then, in response to the detection of the favorable brain state episode, electrical stimulation that potentiates the favorable brain state is delivered to the brain of the patient, the electrical stimulation delivered within a window of time opened for detection of each favorable brain state episode.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2013Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Rahul Gupta, Gabriela C. Molnar, Dwight E. Nelson
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Patent number: 8948875Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for transcranial, non-invasive, electrical deep-brain stimulation, of the kind used in particular in the treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders and of disturbances of the motor/cognitive functions in the human brain, wherein the device has at least one signal generator for generating an electrical alternating-current signal, an electrode arrangement, which can be placed on the head of a person to be treated and can be connected electrically to the signal generator so as to apply an alternating-current signal, wherein the electrode arrangement can be used to apply at least two alternating-current signals, of which the trajectories cross the region of the brain to be treated, such that their alternating currents are superposed, as a result of which the region of the brain to be treated is stimulated by electrical alternating currents in a targeted manner, whereas adjacent regions of the brain are stimulated only slightly or not at all.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2011Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: EBS Technologies GmbHInventors: Walter Paulus, Udo Warschewske
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Publication number: 20150032178Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for treating a variety of diseases and disorders that are primarily or at least partially driven by an imbalance in neurotransmitters in the brain, such as asthma, COPD, depression, anxiety, epilepsy, fibromyalgia, and the like. The technology involves the use of an energy source comprising magnetic and/or electrical energy that is transmitted non-invasively to, or in close proximity to, a selected nerve to temporarily stimulate, block and/or modulate the signals in the selected nerve such that neural pathways are activated to release inhibitory neurotransmitters in the patient's brain.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2014Publication date: January 29, 2015Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
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Patent number: 8942813Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosed technology provide a combination electroencephalography and non-invasive stimulation devices. Upon measuring an electrical anomaly in a region of a brain, various non-invasive stimulation techniques are utilized to correct neural activity. Stimulation techniques include transcranial direct current stimulation, transcranial alternating current stimulation and transcranial random noise stimulation, low threshold transcranial magnetic stimulation and repetitive transcranial magnet stimulation. Devices of the disclosed technology may utilize visual, balance, auditory, and other stimuli to test the subject, analyze necessary brain stimulations, and administer stimulation to the brain.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2014Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Evoke Neuroscience, Inc.Inventors: David W Hagedorn, James W. G. Thompson
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Patent number: 8942810Abstract: A method for manufacturing a lead includes forming an elongated multi-lumen conductor guide defining a central stylet lumen and a plurality of conductor lumens arranged around the stylet lumen. The multi-lumen conductor guide is twisted to form at least one helical section where the plurality of conductor lumens each forms a helical pathway around the stylet lumen. Each of the helical pathways of the at least one helical section has a pitch that is no less than 0.04 turns per centimeter.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2012Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: Andrew DiGiore, Thomas Lopez
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Patent number: 8942814Abstract: Disclosed is a device for the punctual stimulation of the nerve endings located in the region of the ears The device has a battery-powered therapeutic current generator (3) arranged in a housing (4) which is to be worn in the region of the ear. The generator supplies a low frequency therapeutic current and has a plurality of output channels (9a, 9b, 9c). Each output channel is associated with its own stimulation electrode (6a, 6b, 6c), and contains an amplifier (15a, 15b, 15c), controlled by a digital-analog converter (12) and designed for bipolar output signals. A control signal may be fed to the amplifiers causing current strength and stimulation voltage behavior in the output circuit of the respective amplifier. The behavior adapts to the resistance value in said circuit and corresponds to I=k?R U=k?R2, in which k is a selectable constant.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2010Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Inventor: Josef Constantin Szeles
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Patent number: 8942798Abstract: A method, apparatus, and system for determining an adverse operational condition associated with a lead assembly in an implantable medical device used for providing a therapeutic electrical signal to a cranial nerve. A first impedance associated with the lead assembly configured to provide the therapeutic electrical signal to a cranial nerve is detected. A determination is made as to whether the first impedance is outside a first predetermined range. A second impedance is detected. The detection of the second impedance is performed within a predetermined period of time from the time of the detection of the first impedance. A determination is made as to whether the second impedance is outside a second predetermined range. If the first impedance is outside the first range and the second impedance is outside the second range, the implantable medical device is prevented from providing the therapeutic electrical signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2007Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Cyberonics, Inc.Inventors: Randolph K. Armstrong, Albert A. Rodriguez, Steven E. Maschino
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Patent number: 8942812Abstract: Neuromodulation assemblies with lead bodies having curvatures that mimic the curvatures of the splenium, trunk, genu, or rostrum of the corpus callosum. Methods of stimulating the corpus callosum and methods of securing an electrical lead in the brain are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2013Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic FoundationInventors: Andre Machado, Ali R. Rezai
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Patent number: 8942809Abstract: In many aspects, the invention relates to systems and methods for providing cognitive therapy through stimulation of activating and inhibiting neurons in the brain, thereby modulating neural firing rhythms. The stimulation of neurons is controlled through a feedback process whereby neuron firing rhythms are altered based on naturally occurring electrical and chemical activity in the brain. Neurons in specific regions of the brain may be targeted in order to establish neural signaling pathways and establish communication between these regions.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2010Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Inventors: Souhile Assaf, Jessie Y. Shen, Mandar Jog
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Patent number: 8942811Abstract: A device for transcranial stimulation. The device for transcranial stimulation comprises an adjustable current source for providing a stimulation current; a first electrode connected to the current source for electrical connection to a patient; a second electrode connected to the current source for electrical connection to the patient; a first current interruptor for interrupting current flow between the current source and the electrode, the first current interruptor connected between the adjustable current source and the first electrode; and an output monitor connected between the current source and the first electrode for monitoring current to the patient. The output monitor detects an abnormal current it signals the first interruptor, which interrupts the current to the patient. A method of operating a device for transcranial stimulation is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2012Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Nuraleve Inc.Inventors: Paul Gardin, Mathieu Lemay, Daniel Shapiro, Ian Chapman, Shazib Shaukat, Stanley Shapiro, Brian Dressler
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Publication number: 20150025421Abstract: The invention generally relates to methods for guiding physical therapy to a subject. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention involve providing stimulation to a subject's central nervous system to modulate one or more signals sent to or from a plurality of target regions of the subject. Methods of the invention further involve assessing the response of the plurality of target regions to the stimulation to determine if there is a differential response among the target regions to the stimulation, and providing focused physical therapy to at least one of the target regions based on the assessment of the response of the plurality of peripheral target regions to the stimulation.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2014Publication date: January 22, 2015Inventors: Timothy Andrew Wagner, Laura Dipietro, Uri Tzvi Eden
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Patent number: 8938300Abstract: A leadless intravascular sensor (100, 200) uses the body tissue as a communication medium. The implantable intravascular device has a tubular stent-like structure (102) for intravascular fixation with embedded microcircuits to allow bipolar and unipolar sensing of cardiac and neurologic electrical activity, sensing of other physiologic signals, local electrical stimulation (cardiac pacing and defibrillation; neurologic stimulation and seizure therapy) as well as the ability to communicate with other implanted and non implanted devices via radio frequency and/or optical communication and/or analog signal communication using body tissue as the conducting medium. The device can also be used in the extravascular or perivascular space. In this form, it has an open/flexible ring that can be adjusted, or self-adjusts to provide no pressure or required contact around the vessel or target region.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2005Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Assignee: University of RochesterInventor: Spencer Rosero
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Patent number: 8938301Abstract: A method and system provides for headgear usable for electrophysiological data collection and analysis and neurostimulation/neuromodulation or brain computer interface for clinical, peak performance, or neurogaming and neuromodulation applications. The headgear utilizes dry sensor technology as well as connection points for adjustable placement of the bi-directional sensors for the recoding of electrophysiology from the user and delivery of current to the sensors intended to improve or alter electrophysiology parameters. The headgear allows for recording electrophysiological data and biofeedback directly to the patient via the sensors, as well as provide low intensity current or electromagnetic field to the user. The headgear can further include auditory, visual components for immersive neurogaming. The headgear may further communication with local or network processing devices based on neurofeedback and biofeedback and immersive environment experience with balance and movement sensor data input.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2014Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Assignee: Evoke Neuroscience, Inc.Inventor: David W Hagedorn
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Publication number: 20150018699Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to systems and methods for a closed-loop cochlear implant. The closed-loop cochlear implant can use at least one extra-cochlear electrode for monitoring auditory evoked potentials from the peripheral and central auditory pathway and stimulating to optimize speech processing. The closed-loop cochlear implant can further use at least one intra-cochlear electrode to stimulate the auditory nerve. Additionally, in some embodiments, the closed-loop cochlear implant can be used to monitor biosignals, such as EMG and ECG.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2014Publication date: January 15, 2015Inventors: Fan-Gang Zeng, Myles Mclaughlin, Thomas Lu
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Publication number: 20150018667Abstract: Disclosed herein are representative embodiments of methods, systems, and apparatus for enhancing or diminishing synaptic strength. Embodiments of the disclosed methods, systems, and apparatus can be used, for example, to complement the change in synaptic strength from transcranial direct current stimulation (“tDCS”) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (“TMS”) systems. One exemplary embodiment disclosed herein is a flexible housing having a top surface and a bottom surface. The flexible housing of this embodiment comprises a recessed cavity on the bottom surface that is configured to at least partially enclose an electrode of a transcranial direct current stimulator system. The flexible housing of this embodiment further comprises one or more apertures configured to provide access to the recessed cavity when the electrode is positioned within the recessed cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2013Publication date: January 15, 2015Inventors: Thomas C. Radman, Mark Hallett
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Patent number: 8934979Abstract: An external control device, neurostimulation system, and method of programming a neurostimulator. A volume of tissue activation for each of a first one or more candidate stimulation parameter sets is simulated without conveying electrical stimulation energy into the tissue. One of the first candidate stimulation parameter set(s) is selected based on each simulated volume of tissue activation. Electrical stimulation energy is conveyed into the tissue in accordance with a second one or more candidate stimulation parameter sets, wherein the initial one of the second candidate stimulation parameter set(s) is the selected one of the first candidate stimulation parameter set(s). One of the second candidate stimulation parameter set(s) is selected based on a therapeutic efficacy of the electrical stimulation energy conveyed into the tissue. The neurostimulator is programmed with the selected one of the second candidate stimulation parameter set(s).Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2011Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventor: Michael A. Moffitt
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Patent number: 8934980Abstract: An implantable neurostimulator system adapted to provide therapy for various neurological disorders is capable of varying therapy delivery strategies based on the context, physiological or otherwise, into which the therapy is to be delivered. Responsive and scheduled therapies can be varied depending on various sensor measurements, calculations, inferences, and device states (including elapsed times and times of day) to deliver an appropriate course of therapy under the circumstances.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2013Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: NeuroPace, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin D. Pless, Thomas K. Tcheng