Electrical Treatment Of Pain Patents (Class 607/46)
  • Patent number: 9327126
    Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal cord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side effects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side effects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Nevro Corporation
    Inventors: Konstantinos Alataris, Andre B. Walker, Jon Parker, Yougandh Chitre, Sangsoo Wesley Park, James R. Thacker
  • Patent number: 9327110
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are provided for the targeted treatment of movement disorders. Typically, the systems and devices are used to stimulate one or more dorsal root ganglia while minimizing or excluding undesired stimulation of other tissues, such as surrounding or nearby tissues, ventral root and portions of the anatomy associated with body regions which are not targeted for treatment. The dorsal root ganglia are utilized in particular due to their specialized role in movement. It is in these areas that sensory fibers are isolated from motor fibers. Sensory fibers are involved in a variety of reflexes that are involved in movement control, and these reflexes can be utilized in the treatment of various movement disorders. Thus, by stimulating sensory fibers in these areas, fundamental reflexes can be affected to lessen the symptoms of movement disorders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings SMI S.A.R.L. (“SJM LUX SMI”)
    Inventors: Jeffery M. Kramer, Robert M. Levy
  • Patent number: 9327127
    Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal cord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side effects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side effects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Nevro Corporation
    Inventors: Konstantinos Alataris, Andre B. Walker, Jon Parker, Yougandh Chitre, Sangsoo Wesley Park, James R. Thacker
  • Patent number: 9302108
    Abstract: Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system having a recharging system with self alignment, a system for mapping current fields using a completely wireless system, multiple independent electrode stimulation outsource, and IPG control through software on Smartphone/mobile device and tablet hardware during trial and permanent implants. SCS system can include multiple electrodes, multiple, independently programmable, stimulation channels within an implantable pulse generator (IPG) providing concurrent, but unique stimulation fields. SCS system can include a replenishable power source, rechargeable using transcutaneous power transmissions between antenna coil pairs. An external charger unit, having its own rechargeable battery, can charge the IPG replenishable power source. A real-time clock can provide an auto-run schedule for daily stimulation. A bi-directional telemetry link informs the patient or clinician the status of the system, including the state of charge of the IPG battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: GLOBUS MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Saif Khalil, Raghavendra Angara, Miles Curtis, Christopher Biele, Daniel Fellmeth
  • Patent number: 9302117
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical neurological instrument which can be used to improve balance, comprising: (A) a control system for managing energy sources of different nature and (B) an emitter of said energy sources, wherein the emitter is configured to simultaneously apply the different types of energy to a patient by means of transducers, wherein the energies employed are: (i) light energy 18 with a wavelength of between 500 and 700 nm, (ii) light energy 19 with a wavelength of between 701 and 1050 nm, (iii) TENS Energy (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator) 20 with a maximum amplitude of 200 V.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Inventor: Armando De Vincentiis
  • Patent number: 9302113
    Abstract: A method of stimulating a portion of a spinal cord of a patient includes identifying an arrangement of electrodes including a relative placement of each electrode within the arrangement; identifying a vertebral level for implantation of the arrangement and a position of the arrangement with respect to the spinal cord; determining by calculation, for a selection of at least one cathode from the electrodes, at least two anode guard electrodes from the electrodes including in the calculation an estimated thickness of cerebrospinal fluid at the vertebral level; and stimulating the portion of the spinal cord of the patient at the vertebral level using the at least one cathode and the at least two anode guard electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Emarit A. S. Ranu, Dongchul Lee
  • Patent number: 9295839
    Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal cord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side effects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 100 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region to address headache pain without creating paresthesia in the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignee: Nevro Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Thacker, Konstantinos Alataris, Bradford Evan Gliner
  • Patent number: 9295838
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods for reducing the clinical presentations of a neurological movement disorder in a subject. Aspects of the methods include measuring cortical local field potentials (LFPs) from the subject's brain, calculating a modulation index related to brain synchronization from the LFPs, and administering deep brain stimulation to the subject if the calculated modulation index is outside of a threshold range. Also provided are devices, systems, and kits that may be used in practicing the subject methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Philip A. Starr, Coralie de Hemptinne, Jill Ostrem, Nicole Swann
  • Patent number: 9289610
    Abstract: A method for configuring stimulation pulses in an implantable stimulator device having a plurality of electrodes is disclosed, which method is particularly useful in adjusting the electrodes by current steering during initialization of the device. In one aspect, a set of ideal pulses for patient therapy is determined, in which at least two of the ideal pulses are of the same polarity and are intended to be simultaneous applied to corresponding electrodes on the implantable stimulator device during an initial duration. These pulses are reconstructed into fractionalized pulses, each comprised of pulse portions. The fractionalized pulses are applied to the corresponding electrodes on the device during a final duration, but the pulse portions of the fractionalized pulses are not simultaneously applied during the final duration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Jordi Parramon, Rafael Carbunaru, Matt I. Haller
  • Patent number: 9283387
    Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal cord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side effects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 100 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region to address upper extremity pain without creating paresthesia in the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignee: Nevro Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Thacker, Konstantinos Alataris, Bradford Evan Gliner
  • Patent number: 9283388
    Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 100 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region to address pelvic pain without creating paresthesia in the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignee: Nevro Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Thacker, Konstantinos Alataris, Bradford Evan Gliner
  • Patent number: 9278216
    Abstract: Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system having a recharging system with self alignment, a system for mapping current fields using a completely wireless system, multiple independent electrode stimulation outsource, and IPG control through software on Smartphone/mobile device and tablet hardware during trial and permanent implants. SCS system can include multiple electrodes, multiple, independently programmable, stimulation channels within an implantable pulse generator (IPG) providing concurrent, but unique stimulation fields. SCS system can include a replenishable power source, rechargeable using transcutaneous power transmissions between antenna coil pairs. An external charger unit, having its own rechargeable battery, can charge the IPG replenishable power source. A real-time clock can provide an auto-run schedule for daily stimulation. A bi-directional telemetry link informs the patient or clinician the status of the system, including the state of charge of the IPG battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: GLOBUS MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Saif Khalil, Raghavendra Angara, Miles Curtis, Christopher Biele, Daniel Fellmeth
  • Patent number: 9278222
    Abstract: A method, computer medium, and system for programming a controller is provided. The controller controls electrical stimulation energy output to electrodes, and stores a set of programmed stimulation parameters associated with the electrodes. The programmed stimulation parameter set is compared with sets of reference stimulation parameters, each of the reference sets of stimulation parameters being associated with the electrodes. If an identical match is determined between the programmed stimulation parameter set and any one of the reference stimulation parameter sets exists based on the comparison, the identically matched stimulation parameter set is selected as an initial stimulation parameter set. If an identical match does not exist, a best between the programmed stimulation parameter set and the reference stimulation parameter sets is determined and selected as the initial stimulation parameter set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Thacker, Michael Moffitt, Kerry Bradley, David K. L. Peterson
  • Patent number: 9278215
    Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal cord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 100 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region to address neck or brachial plexus pain without creating paresthesia in the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: Nevro Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Thacker, Konstantinos Alataris, Bradford Evan Gliner
  • Patent number: 9265942
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and associated methods to produce analgesia in a mammal by providing an electrical nerve stimulus utilizing a pulsed input of low level electrical current, wherein the level of current is measurable with the measurements utilized to at least adjust the strength of the current according to selected parameters. Additionally, the use of magnets to produce a magnetic field to further control chronic and acute pain. In exemplary implementations, the apparatus maintains continuous monitoring of the electrical characteristics of TENS at the site of input and output, and the electrical input can be modified during treatment to obtain desired electrical input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: Gradient Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: William Farone
  • Patent number: 9259569
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for treating pain or other conditions while minimizing possible complications and side effects. Treatment typically includes electrical stimulation and/or delivery of pharmacological or other agents with the use of a lead or catheter. The devices, systems and methods provide improved anchoring which reduces migration of the lead yet allows for easy repositioning or removal of the lead if desired. The devices, systems and methods also provide for simultaneous treatment of multiple targeted anatomies. This shortens procedure time and allows for less access points, such as needle sticks to the epidural space, which in turn reduces complications, such as cerebral spinal fluid leaks, patient soreness and recovery time. Other possible complications related to the placement of multiple devices are also reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Inventors: Daniel M. Brounstein, Albert G. Burdulis, Christopher D. Summa
  • Patent number: 9259576
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing functional electrical stimulation to an individual for altering a mood or emotional parameter associated with a mood or emotional state is provided. The method involves providing functional electrical stimulation to facial muscles of the individual so as to elicit a detectable contraction in said muscles associated with a facial expression associated with a desired mood or emotional parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: UNIVERSITY HEALTH NETWORK
    Inventors: Milos R. Popovic, Jose Zariffa, Sander L. Hitzig
  • Patent number: 9259568
    Abstract: Various system embodiments comprise a lead having a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end includes a plurality of electrodes. The lead is configured to be fed into a dorsal epidural space of a human to a desired region of a spinal column and to be fed laterally to at least partially encircle a spinal cord in the desired region to place at least one stimulation electrode in position to stimulate a dorsal nerve root and at least another stimulation electrode in position to stimulate a ventral nerve root. The desired region may include cervical vertebrae, thoracic vertebrae, or lumbar vertebrae. Some embodiments stimulate the spinal cord in the T1-T5 region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Weiying Zhao, Stephen Ruble, Allan C. Shuros, Jason J. Hamann
  • Patent number: 9259575
    Abstract: Various system embodiments comprise an implantable lead, an implantable housing, a neural stimulation circuit in the housing, and a controller in the housing and connected to the neural stimulation circuit. The lead has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is adapted to deliver neural stimulation pulses to the ventral nerve root and the dorsal nerve root. The proximal end of the lead is adapted to connect to the housing. The neural stimulation circuit is adapted to generate neural stimulation pulses to stimulate the ventral nerve root or the dorsal nerve root using the implantable lead. The controller is adapted to control the neural stimulation circuit to deliver a neural stimulation treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Weiying Zhao, Stephen Ruble, Allan C. Shuros, Jason J. Hamann
  • Patent number: 9254386
    Abstract: A method and neurostimulator for providing therapy to a patient is provided. In one technique, an electrical pulsed waveform is conveyed between a caudal electrode and spinal cord tissue, thereby evoking action potentials that are orthodromically propagated along dorsal column fibers and evoking action potentials that are antidromically propagated along the DC fibers. Electrical energy is conveyed between a rostral electrode and the spinal cord tissue, thereby modulating times that the action potentials orthodromically propagated along the DC fibers arrive at the brain. In another technique, an electrical pulsed waveform is conveyed through a first electrode, thereby evoking action potentials that are propagated along a neural axon, and electrical energy is conveyed through the second electrode. The electrical energy has a frequency that is greater than a pulse rate of the electrical pulsed waveform, such that the action potentials propagated along the neural axon are blocked by the electrical energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporatition
    Inventors: Dongchul Lee, Kerry Bradley
  • Patent number: 9248293
    Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal chord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side affects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications. In particular embodiments, aspects of the foregoing modulation therapies may be implemented by systems and devices that have simplified functionalities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: Nevro Corporation
    Inventors: Andre B. Walker, Jon Parker, Konstantinos Alataris, James R. Thacker
  • Patent number: 9248289
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for the treatment of pain through activation of select neural fibers. The neural fibers may comprise one or more afferent neural fibers and/or one or more efferent neural fibers. If afferent fibers are stimulated, alone or in combination with efferent fibers, a therapeutically effective amount of electrical stimulation is applied to activate afferent pathways in a manner approximating natural afferent activity. The afferent fibers may be associated with primary receptors of muscle spindles, golgi tendon organs, secondary receptors of muscle spindles, joint receptors, touch receptors, and other types of mechanoreceptors and/or proprioceptors. If efferent fibers are stimulated, alone or in combination with afferent fibers, a therapeutically effective amount of electrical stimulation is applied to activate intrafusal and/or extrafusal muscle fibers, which results in an indirect activation of afferent fibers associated therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: SPR Therapeutics, LLC
    Inventors: Maria E. Bennett, Joseph W. Boggs, II, Warren M. Grill, John Chae
  • Patent number: 9248280
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and external programmers provide therapy to a patient having a dysfunction. In one aspect, electrical energy is conveyed between electrodes to create a stimulation region in tissue adjacent the electrodes. Physiological information from the patient is acquired and analyzed, and a locus of the stimulation region is electronically displaced relative to the tissue based on the analysis of the acquired physiological information. In another aspect, electrical energy is delivered to tissue of the patient in accordance with one or more stimulation parameters. A cognitive brain signals is sensed and analyzed, and the stimulation parameter(s) are modified based on the analysis of the cognitive brain signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Adam Moffitt, David K. L. Peterson, Paul Milton Meadows
  • Patent number: 9242085
    Abstract: A method for treating a disorder of a patient. The method comprises transcutaneously delivering electrical energy to a targeted tissue site at a frequency of at least 50 KHz, thereby treating the disorder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Bradley L. Hershey, Tamara C. Baynham
  • Patent number: 9233246
    Abstract: Non-invasive electrical nerve stimulation devices and magnetic stimulation devices are disclosed, along with methods of treating medical disorders using energy that is delivered noninvasively by such devices. The disorders comprise migraine and other primary headaches such as cluster headaches, including sinus symptoms that resemble an immune-mediated response (“sinus” headaches), irrespective of whether those symptoms arise from an allergy that is co-morbid with the headache. The disclosed methods may also be used to treat other disorders that may be co-morbid with migraine headaches, such as anxiety disorders. In preferred embodiments of the disclosed methods, one or both of the patient's vagus nerves are stimulated non-invasively. In other embodiments, parts of the sympathetic nervous system and/or the adrenal glands are stimulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: Electrocore, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
  • Patent number: 9235685
    Abstract: 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, a target volume of activation (VOA) can be received, a test VOA can be simulated, and at least one of a target electrode location or parameter can be provide using a relationship between the target VOA and the test VOA.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
    Inventors: Cameron C. McIntyre, Christopher R. Butson, John D. Hall, Jaimie M. Henderson
  • Patent number: 9216290
    Abstract: A method of treating a patient with at least one substance addiction, which comprises directly stimulating a cranial nerve, such as the vagus nerve, of a patient with an electrical pulse signal defined by a plurality of parameters to provide a therapy regimen for alleviating a symptom associated with the substance addiction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Inventor: Jacob Zabara
  • Patent number: 9211411
    Abstract: Examples for delivering electrical stimulation to a patient via a medical device to manage or treat rapid eye movement behavior disorder (RBD) are described. In one example, a method comprises determining a patient is in a rapid eye movement (REM) sleep stage, and delivering electrical stimulation therapy to the patient based on the determination that the patient is in the REM sleep stage, where the electrical stimulation therapy is delivered to inhibit movement of the patient during the REM sleep stage. In some examples, the electrical stimulation therapy may be delivered to the brain of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Jianping Wu, Dwight E. Nelson
  • Patent number: 9205256
    Abstract: A method of reducing pain includes first identifying a muscle; then identify a related pair of Nocipoints on the identified muscle; and applying electrical stimulation to the pair If required, the method may further comprise identifying additional pairs of Nocipoints and applying electrical stimulation to them. The stimulation should be from about 1.5 to 3.5 minutes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Inventor: Charles C. Koo
  • Patent number: 9180298
    Abstract: Extended pain relief via high frequency spinal cord modulation, and associated systems and methods. A method for treating a patient in accordance with a particular embodiment includes selecting a neural modulation site to include at least one of a dorsal root entry zone and dorsal horn of the patient's spinal cord, and selecting parameters of a neural modulation signal to reduce patient pain for a period of time after ceasing delivery of the signals, the period of time being at least one tenth of one second.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Assignee: Nevro Corp.
    Inventors: Konstantinos Alataris, Andre B. Walker
  • Patent number: 9180297
    Abstract: A method for of performing a medical procedure on a patient suffering from a movement disorder. The method comprises delivering electrical current having a defined pulse rate equal to or greater than 1500 Hz and/or a defined pulse duration equal to or less than 200 ?s to spinal cord tissue of the patient in a manner that modulates neuronal traffic in at least one dorsal column (DC) nerve fiber of the patient, thereby treating symptoms of the movement disorder without causing the patient to perceive paresthesia from the delivered electrical current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Prakash Rao, Anita Yip
  • Patent number: 9168378
    Abstract: A method of treating a non-neuropathic condition includes implanting an electrical stimulation lead near a dorsolateral funiculus of a patient, the electrical stimulation lead including a plurality of stimulation electrodes; and applying electrical stimulation energy through one or more of the electrodes of the electrical stimulation lead to the dorsolateral funiculus to treat the non-neuropathic condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: Bradley Lawrence Hershey
  • Patent number: 9155895
    Abstract: In some examples, the disclosure relates to system, devices, and techniques for delivering dorsal column stimulation. One or more locations for dorsal column stimulation may be identified based on sensed signals evoked by delivery of stimulation to a dorsal root and/or peripheral nerve of a patient. In some examples, an IMD may deliver dorsal column stimulation in combination with dorsal root stimulation to a patient to treat a patient condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul W. Wacnik, Lisa M. Johanek
  • Patent number: 9144680
    Abstract: A stimulation system, such as a spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system, having a programmer and a patient feedback device for establishing a protocol to treat a patient. The programmer uses a computer assisted stimulation programming procedure for establishing the protocol. Also described are methods of treating a patient with a spinal cord stimulation system including the programmer and the patient feedback device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: Greatbatch Ltd.
    Inventors: Norbert Kaula, Yohannes Iyassu
  • Patent number: 9108055
    Abstract: A wand for transmitting an electrical pulse train to a patient in an aqueous medium is provided. The wand has transmitting electrodes positioned adjacent the skin of a patient directly over the treated muscle or over the nerve pathway leading to the muscle. An inert protective grid is placed over each electrode to insure separation between the electrode and patient. The wand is self-contained and sealed blocking all fluids from its interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Inventors: Vincent Tellenbach, Steeve Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 9101771
    Abstract: A system and method for automatically adjusting the value of a parameter defined to manage and control the resources recruited by an implantable medical device to supply power or the device to deliver an instance of an electrical stimulation therapy to a patient. In embodiments, the parameter corresponds to a number of capacitors the discharge of which supplies the power to deliver a stimulation therapy at a programmed amplitude. Whenever the circumstances prevent the programmed amplitude from being delivered, the system and method automatically adjust the resource-controlling parameter to use the minimum power to achieve the desired (programmed) amplitude or as close as possible to that programmed amplitude. Some embodiments additionally include using another parameter (a equivalent amplitude parameter) to balance the charge delivered through multiple pathways in parallel sourced from a single reservoir of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: NeuroPace, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett D Wingeier, Suresh Gurunathan, Craig Baysinger
  • Patent number: 9101759
    Abstract: A variety of methods, devices, systems and arrangements are implemented for stimulation of the peripheral nervous system. Consistent with one embodiment of the present invention, method is implemented in which light-responsive channels or pumps are engineered in a set of motor units that includes motor units of differing physical volumes. Optical stimuli are also provided to the light-responsive channels or pumps at an optical intensity that is a function of the size of motor units to be recruited. In certain implementations, the intensity of the optical stimuli is increased so as to recruit increasingly larger motor units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE LELAND STANFORD JUNIOR UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Scott L. Delp, Michael E. Llewellyn, Karl Deisseroth, Christine A. McLeavey Payne
  • Patent number: 9095698
    Abstract: System for providing a stimulus comprising a probe with multiple electrodes each capable of providing a particular current to surrounding tissue a generator for providing to each of the electrodes the particular current a controller for controlling the generator to provide current to the electrodes to achieve a desired electrical field around the probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: Medtronic Bakken Research Center B.V.
    Inventors: Hubert Cécile François Martens, Michel Marcel Jose Decré, Emil-Codrut Toader
  • Patent number: 9089719
    Abstract: A novel non-invasive magnetic stimulator is used to modulate electrical activity of a patient's vagus nerve. Parameters of the stimulation are selected in such a way as to induce a state of euphoria in the patient. The methods and devices may be used for anesthesia, or to treat insomnia, depression, or premenstrual syndromes. They may be used as substitution withdrawal tools for individuals who otherwise would depend on substances and behaviors to achieve a euphoric state of mind, particularly individuals who abusively consume drugs, alcohol or food, or who exhibit behavioral disorders such as compulsive gambling. The devices and methods may also be used to prevent, manage, or relieve stress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: Electrocore, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
  • Patent number: 9084897
    Abstract: A tibial nerve stimulation therapy device configured to provide an electrical stimulation therapy to branches of the tibial nerve includes a plurality of stimulation electrodes, a stimulation circuit configured to generate electrical stimulation pulses, a sensing circuit configured to generate an output signal indicative of an electromyogram (EMG) signal generated by the patient, and a controller. The controller is configured to execute a plurality of unique stimulation therapies in accordance with unique stimulation therapy settings, analyze the output signals generated by the sensing circuit after each of the stimulation therapies, and designate final stimulation therapy settings based on the analyzed output signals. The stimulation therapy settings include an identification of a pair of the electrodes through which the electrical stimulation pulses are delivered during a stimulation therapy, and/or at least one parameter defining the electrical stimulation pulses generated by the stimulation circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: AMS Research Corporation
    Inventor: David J. Yonce
  • Patent number: 9084900
    Abstract: An electrical neuromodulation system and method of meeting a therapeutic goal for a patient using a neuromodulation device. A modulation parameter value is varied by a step size. The neurostimulation device instructs the neuromodulation device to deliver electrical energy to at least one electrode in accordance with the varied modulation parameter value. A therapeutic feedback indicator is compared to a threshold in response to the delivery of the electrical energy. Whether the therapeutic goal has been met is determined based on the comparison, and the previous steps are repeated to determine the modulation parameter value at the resolution of the step size that minimizes energy consumption of the neuromodulation device required to meet the therapeutic goal when delivering the electrical energy to the electrode(s) in accordance with the varied modulation parameter value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Bradley L. Hershey, Kerry Bradley
  • Patent number: 9072896
    Abstract: In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a substantially rigid base and a flexible substrate. The substantially rigid base has a first protrusion and a second protrusion, and is configured to be coupled to an electronic device. The flexible substrate has a first surface and a second surface, and includes an electrical circuit configured to electronically couple the electronic device to at least one of an electrode a battery, or an antenna. The flexible substrate is coupled to the base such that a first portion of the second surface is in contact with the first protrusion. A second portion of the second surface is non-parallel to the first portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: Bioness Inc.
    Inventors: Amit Dar, Shai Feldman, Arkady Glukhovsky, Shmuel Springer, Einan Regev
  • Patent number: 9072886
    Abstract: The invention provides an implant, system and method for electrically stimulating a target tissue to either activate or block neural impulses. The implant provides a conductive pathway for a portion of electrical current flowing between surface electrodes positioned on the skin and transmits that current to the target tissue. The implant has a passive electrical conductor of sufficient length to extend from subcutaneous tissue located below a surface cathodic electrode to the target tissue. The conductor has a pick-up end which forms an electrical termination having a sufficient surface area to allow a sufficient portion of the electrical current to flow through the conductor, in preference to flowing through body tissue between the surface electrodes, such that the target tissue is stimulated to either activate or block neural impulses. The conductor also has a stimulating end which forms an electrical termination for delivering the current to the target body tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: Rehabtronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Andrew Gaunt, Arthur Prochazka
  • Patent number: 9061160
    Abstract: The disclosure describes a method and system that allows a user to configure electrical stimulation therapy by defining a three-dimensional (3D) stimulation field. After a stimulation lead is implanted in a patient, a clinician manipulates the 3D stimulation field in a 3D environment to encompass desired anatomical regions of the patient. In this manner, the clinician determines which anatomical regions to stimulate, and the system generates the necessary stimulation parameters. In some cases, a lead icon representing the implanted lead is displayed to show the clinician where the lead is relative to the 3D anatomical regions of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard T. Stone, Warren W. Ball, Carl D. Wahlstrand, Steven M. Goetz, Lynn M. Otten
  • Patent number: 9061151
    Abstract: A device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure includes a housing configured to retain a battery, a primary antenna associated with the housing, and at least one processor in electrical communication with the battery and the primary antenna. In some embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to cause transmission of a primary signal from the primary antenna to an implantable device during a treatment session of at least three hours in duration, wherein the primary signal is generated using power supplied by the battery and includes a pulse train, the pulse train including a plurality of modulation pulses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Inventors: Adi Mashiach, Carsten Mueller
  • Patent number: 9050455
    Abstract: An implantable neurostimulation lead kit adapted for tripolar electric simulation and/or field steering using percutaneously implantable electric stimulation leads. The kit includes three electric stimulation leads that are adapted to provide an electrode array defining, for example, a plurality of electrode sets that may be used to provide tripolar stimulation and/or electric field steering. A method of electrically stimulating the spinal cord is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Olsen, Gary W. King
  • Publication number: 20150148865
    Abstract: Apparatus for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in humans, the apparatus comprising: a housing; stimulation means mounted within the housing for electrically stimulating nerves; an electrode array releasably mounted to the housing and connectable to the stimulation means, the electrode array comprising a plurality of electrodes for electrical stimulation of nerves; control means mounted to the housing and electrically connected to the stimulation means for controlling at least one characteristic of the stimulation means; monitoring means mounted to the housing and electrically connected to the stimulation means for monitoring at least one characteristic of the stimulation means; user interface means mounted to the housing and electrically connected to the control means for controlling the stimulation means; display means mounted to the housing and electrically connected to the control means and the monitoring means for displaying the status of the stimulations means; and a strap attached to the h
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2015
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventors: Shai N. Gozani, Xuan Kong, Andres Aguirre, Glenn Herb, Marc Cryan, Michael Williams
  • Patent number: 9042991
    Abstract: An implantable head-mounted unibody peripheral neurostimulation system is provided for implantation in the head for the purpose of treating chronic head pain, including migraine. The system may include an implantable pulse generator (IPG) from which multiple stimulating leads may extend sufficient to allow for adequate stimulation over multiple regions of the head, preferably including the frontal, parietal and occipital regions. A lead may include an extended body, along which may be disposed a plurality of surface metal electrodes, which may be sub-divided into a plurality of electrode arrays. A plurality of internal metal wires may run a portion of its length and connect the IPG's internal circuit to the surface metal electrodes. The IPG may include a rechargeable battery, an antenna, and an application specific integrated circuit. The IPG may be capable of functional connection with an external radiofrequency unit for purposes that may include recharging, diagnostic evaluation, and programming.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Syntilla Medical LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth Lyle Reed, Robert Raymond Bulger
  • Patent number: 9043001
    Abstract: Non-invasive electrical nerve stimulation devices and magnetic stimulation devices are disclosed, along with methods of treating medical disorders using energy that is delivered noninvasively by such devices. The disorders comprise migraine and other primary headaches such as cluster headaches, including sinus symptoms that resemble an immune-mediated response (“sinus” headaches), irrespective of whether those symptoms arise from an allergy that is co-morbid with the headache. The disclosed methods may also be used to treat other disorders that may be co-morbid with migraine headaches, such as anxiety disorders. In preferred embodiments of the disclosed methods, one or both of the patient's vagus nerves are stimulated non-invasively. In other embodiments, parts of the sympathetic nervous system and/or the adrenal glands are stimulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Electrocore, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
  • Publication number: 20150141529
    Abstract: A method for alleviating centralized pain in human subjects includes assessing the brain of a subject suffering from pain, diagnosing abnormal brain function associated with centralized pain, locating at least one area of abnormal brain function associated with the centralized pain, and alleviating the abnormal brain function by applying a cortical stimulation signal to tissues corresponding to the at least one area of abnormal brain function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Jeffrey B. Hargrove