Hard Tissue (e.g., Bone) Patents (Class 607/51)
  • Patent number: 12017075
    Abstract: A system for stimulating a sympathetic chain includes an electrode assembly that is configured to attach to a bone in proximity to a targeted portion of the sympathetic chain. The electrode assembly includes a cathode and an anode. The system also includes a power supply connected to the electrode assembly and configured to deliver power to the electrode assembly. The electrode assembly generates an electrical field between the cathode and the anode when power is delivered to the electrode assembly. The electrical field reaches the targeted portion of the sympathetic chain to provide electrical stimulation to the targeted portion of the sympathetic chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2024
    Assignee: Washington University
    Inventors: Eric Leuthardt, Daniel Moran, Matthew MacEwan, Amy Moore, Paige Cloonan, Yidan Qin, Christopher Zhang, Ashwin Kamath, Wilson Ray
  • Patent number: 11980768
    Abstract: An example of subject may deliver a therapy by delivering energy to tissue. The system may comprise a magnetic field system and an electric field system. The magnetic field system may be configured to provide a magnetic field in a first direction to the tissue. The magnetic field system may include at least one magnetic field source to produce the magnetic field. The magnetic field produced by the at least one magnetic field source may include a magnetic field produced by at least one of a permanent magnet, a temporary magnet or electric current flow through a conductor. The electric field system may be configured to provide an electric field in a second direction to the tissue. The electric field system may include at least one electric field source to provide the electric field and the second direction is non-parallel to the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2024
    Assignee: University of Iowa Research Foundation
    Inventors: Calvin S. Carter, Sunny C. Huang, Michael J. Miller, Charles C. Searby, Val C. Sheffield
  • Patent number: 11883663
    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 from an epidural, cervical location to address at least one of high back pain, mid-back pain, low back pain, and leg pain without creating paresthesia in the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: Nevro Corp.
    Inventors: James R. Thacker, Konstantinos Alataris, Bradford Evan Gliner
  • Patent number: 11883052
    Abstract: Examples herein describes a powered surgical end-effector that may include a controllable jaw configured to operate on a tissue, an updatable memory having stored therein a default actuation algorithm, and and a processor. The processor may be configured to operate in a first mode at a first time, wherein in the first mode the processor may be configured to operate an aspect of the controllable jaw according to the default actuation algorithm. The processor may receive data at a second time, after the first time, that may cause the processor to operate in a second mode, wherein in the second mode the processor may be configured to operate an aspect of the controllable jaw according to an alternative actuation algorithm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris, Shane R. Adams, Kevin M. Fiebig, Michael J. Vendely
  • Patent number: 11519976
    Abstract: A magnetic field measuring device that measures a magnetic field distribution of a cyclotron, the magnetic field measuring device including a measurement unit that is disposed between a pair of magnetic poles of the cyclotron and measures the magnetic field distribution and a cable that is connected to the measurement unit, in which the cable reaches a side wall of the cyclotron from a center portion of the cyclotron by passing between the pair of magnetic poles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: SUMITOMO HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventor: Yuta Ebara
  • Patent number: 11426574
    Abstract: Systems, devices and methods are provided for transcutaneously delivering energy impulses to bodily tissues for therapeutic purposes, such as for enhancing the body's bone healing process in spinal fusion patients. A therapeutic stimulator system comprises a housing for an energy source and a signal generator. The system further includes one or more electrodes coupled to the signal generator. A processor is coupled to the housing and configured to determine usage levels of the signal generator and/or motion data of the housing. The system may include a mobile device that allows the patient to input user status data, such as pain levels, and compare the user status data with the usage levels and/or the motion data, thereby improving patient compliance with a prescribed therapy regimen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Assignee: THERAGEN, INC.
    Inventors: Richard H. Pearce, Jon Christopher McAuliffe
  • Patent number: 11395744
    Abstract: A system and method for electrical stimulation in an orthopedic implant that includes at least one implantable component with an implant body, a plurality of electrodes, and implant circuitry is effective to convert an external wireless power transmission to an electrical current and effective to control the plurality of electrodes; and at least one non-implant with a power source, and transmitter circuitry to generate the electromagnetic field that couples with the implant circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2022
    Assignee: Intelligent Implants Limited
    Inventors: Erik Zellmer, Rory Murphy
  • Patent number: 11351381
    Abstract: A system for stimulating a sympathetic chain includes an electrode assembly that is configured to attach to a bone in proximity to a targeted portion of the sympathetic chain. The electrode assembly includes a cathode and an anode. The system also includes a power supply connected to the electrode assembly and configured to deliver power to the electrode assembly. The electrode assembly generates an electrical field between the cathode and the anode when power is delivered to the electrode assembly. The electrical field reaches the targeted portion of the sympathetic chain to provide electrical stimulation to the targeted portion of the sympathetic chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Eric Leuthardt, Daniel Moran, Matthew MacEwan, Amy Moore, Paige Cloonan, Yidan Qin, Christopher Zhang, Ashwin Kamath, Wilson Ray
  • Patent number: 11331504
    Abstract: An electrical stimulation anchor is configured to be electrically coupled to a power source, such as a transducer, that is external to the electrical stimulation anchor. The electrical stimulation anchor can include a bone anchor that is configured to be secured to a bone. The bone anchor can define a first electrode, a second electrode, and an isolating portion between the first electrode and the second electrode. The electrical stimulation anchor can further include a connection unit attached to the bone anchor. The connection unit can define a first contact member that electrically connects to the first electrode, and a second contact member electrically isolated from the first contact member. The second contact member can be electrically connected to the second electrode. The first and second contact members are configured to draw electrical current from the transducer so as to establish a voltage differential between the first and second electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: NEUE MAGNETODYN GMBH
    Inventors: Markus Rennich, Heribert Stephan
  • Patent number: 10596384
    Abstract: A method and system for bone regeneration is provided that includes an electrical stimulation system for the purpose of accelerating the process of bone healing. The electrical stimulation system includes a coil and a capacitor such that when the coil is powered a pulsed electromagnetic field is generated to accelerate healing. There are also implantable medical devices that include inserts such as an elbow insert. The elbow insert includes or is formed with a repeater coil and a device capacitor, such that when the coil is powered the device coil is powered and delivers a repeater pulsed electromagnetic filed to the surrounding bone. This inductive coupling provides for treatment by both the coil and the repeater coil to accelerate bone healing. The insert may be embodied so it can be used in connection with a plurality of different implantable medical devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: Garwood Medical Devices, LLC
    Inventors: Gregg Gellman, Brian Peterson, Merry Riehm-Constantino, John Fournier, Edward Furlani, Amy Hangen
  • Patent number: 10376700
    Abstract: A neurostimulation system provides for capture verification and stimulation intensity adjustment to ensure effectiveness of vagus nerve stimulation in modulating one or more target functions in a patient. In various embodiments, stimulation is applied to the vagus nerve, and evoked responses are detected to verify that the stimulation captures the vagus nerve and to adjust one or more stimulation parameters that control the stimulation intensity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Juan Gabriel Hincapie Ordonez, David J. Ternes, Jason J. Hamann, Stephen B. Ruble
  • Patent number: 10173048
    Abstract: Transcutaneous 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 nasal or paranasal sinus symptoms that resemble an immune-mediated response (“sinus” headaches). The devices and methods may also be used to treat rhinitis, sinusitis, or rhinosinusitis, irrespective of whether those disorders are co-morbid with a headache. They may also be used to treat other disorders that may be co-morbid with migraine or cluster 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 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: Electrocore, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
  • Patent number: 9993362
    Abstract: An adjustable knee brace for fitting a variety of leg sizes and adjustable to limit flexion or extension motion of a knee. The knee brace includes an adjustable length provided by a strut that telescopes within a receiver. A latch assembly mounted on the receiver selectively applies a frictional force to lock the strut member and the receiver against relative telescoping movement. An adjustable range of motion hinge is operatively associated with the telescoping strut. The hinge includes a hinge plate connected to the strut member and having a semi-circular peripheral edge defining a plurality of uniformly spaced apart keys. A range of motion stop is movably positionable relative to the semi-circular peripheral edge and includes a movable latch having teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: DeRoyal Global Healthcare Solutions Limited
    Inventors: Mark Costello, Charles J. French, III, Gregory S. Hodge, Brian Ledwith, Adrian McDermott, Kathleen L. Parker, Nephi Zufelt
  • Patent number: 9810749
    Abstract: A magnetic field measuring device with a holding body and a plurality of magnetoelectric cantilever sensors, each of which is designed to output one electrical voltage signal while it bends in the presence of a magnetic field, the cantilever sensors being non-positively connected or bonded to the holding body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Christian-Albrechts-Universitaet zu Kiel
    Inventors: Robert Jahns, Holger Runkowske, Reinhard Knoechel
  • Patent number: 9625922
    Abstract: A system and method for crowd-sourced environmental system control and building maintenance includes a server for providing selective access to building occupants and managers. Users are permitted to generate building reports in the form of (i) thermal reports using a thermal report module, and/or (ii) maintenance reports using a maintenance report module. The reports are each geo-located to locations within the building, and are then captured, stored, and aggregated at the server. The aggregated reports are sorted according to their geo-locations and comfort rules are used to (i) permit a manager at a client computer to access the server to respond, and/or (ii) automatically respond and assign a response status to particular reports. An inspection checklist interface is generated and populated to display a list of preventative maintenance tasks, each of the tasks being user-selectable to designate completion, with the updated status of the reports being stored at the server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: CROWDCOMFORT, INC.
    Inventors: B. Eric Graham, Galen C. Nelson, Chris Fuentes, Kevin Loos, Abdullah Daoud, Jeff McAulay
  • Patent number: 9585722
    Abstract: A system for targeting landmarks on devices such as surgical implants is disclosed. The system can include a field generator for generating one or more magnetic fields, an orthopedic implant located within the magnetic fields, the implant having at least one landmark, a removable probe with a first magnetic sensor, a landmark identifier and a processor. The landmark identifier can contain a second sensor, or, alternatively, the field generator. The processor can utilize sensor data and, if desirable, field generator and other information, to generate and display the position and orientation of the sensor(s) in preferably six degrees of freedom, and thereby, to generate and display the position and orientation of the landmark(s). The system allows for blind targeting of one or more landmarks. The landmark identifier, field generator and/or drill motor may be disposed in an autoclavable housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas S. Ritchey, Sied W. Janna, Hoa La Wilhelm, Charles C. Heotis
  • Patent number: 9537484
    Abstract: A semiconductor device comprises a plurality of circuit blocks, each of which performs an assigned operation, and performs a reset operation when recovering from a shutdown state of power supply, and a power control unit configured to control power supply to a power domain comprising at least one circuit block. The reset operation parameters of the plurality of circuit blocks as reset operation targets, for which power supply is resumed by the power control unit, are controlled so as to meet a power condition that makes the power dissipation of the semiconductor device by the reset operation not more than a predetermined power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Kazuya Kayama
  • Patent number: 9468758
    Abstract: A device for diagnosing a wound in a patient, the device comprising: at least two electrodes configured to be placed on the skin of the patient, wherein the at least two electrodes are placed in the vicinity of the wound; and at least one signal processor operatively coupled with the at least two electrodes, wherein the at least one signal processor is configured to: i) detect and record an endogenous alternating electrical signal in an area of the wound, ii) transform said endogenous alternating electrical signal into a voltage versus frequency spectrum using a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) algorithm, and iii) diagnose the wound as a chronic wound if the voltage for a frequency between 65-200 Hz of the frequency spectrum is below 10?7.3±10% volts and as an acute wound if the voltage for a frequency between 65-200 Hz of the frequency spectrum is above 10?7.3±10% volts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignee: E-QURE CORP.
    Inventors: Michel Afargan, Elia Bernardino Ricci, Itshak Y. Ben-Yesha
  • Patent number: 9318400
    Abstract: A medical device includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a control module, and an energy storage device. The first substrate includes at least one of a first semiconductor material and a first insulating material. The second substrate includes at least one of a second semiconductor material and a second insulating material. The second substrate is bonded to the first substrate such that the first and second substrates define an enclosed cavity between the first and second substrates. The control module is disposed within the enclosed cavity. The control module is configured to at least one of determine a physiological parameter of a patient and deliver electrical stimulation to the patient. The energy storage device is disposed within the cavity and is configured to supply power to the control module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. O'Brien, John K. Day, Paul F. Gerrish, Michael F. Mattes, David A. Ruben, Malcolm K. Grief
  • Patent number: 9265436
    Abstract: A leadless intra-cardiac medical device is configured to be implanted entirely within a heart of a patient. The device includes an intra-cardiac extension and a housing. The intra-cardiac extension includes a loop body having at least one loop segment retaining at least one coil group that is configured to one or both of receive and transmit radio frequency (RF) energy, wherein the loop body is configured to extend into a first chamber of the heart. The housing is in electrical communication within the loop body, and includes a transceiver, control logic and an energy source. The housing is configured to be securely attached to an interior wall portion of a second chamber of the heart, wherein the transceiver is configured to communicate with an external device through the RF energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: Pacesetter, Inc.
    Inventors: Xiaoyi Min, John W. Poore, Gene A. Bornzin
  • Patent number: 9119590
    Abstract: A technique for measuring thoracic vertebral bone density (BMD) and coronary calcium score (CCS). Representatively, BMD was measured and averaged at three consecutive thoracic spines (3T) starting from the left main coronary artery caudally and averaging the results of the measurements at the first, second and third spine regions to obtain a thoracic trabecular bone mineral density measurement. The “reference”, as the 3T BMD value of 30 year old and the piBMD (predicted individual BMD (piBMD) were developed. Based on the “reference”, and piBMD, T and Z score of 3T formula were derived in both genders. The new calibration phantom of TQCT and LQCT was designed. The ratios of CTHU/mg/cc were obtained with varying scanners, which were used to translate the CTHU to density units (mg/cc) in BMD and CCS mass measurement. A processor capable of quantitating both BMD and CCS burden was designed. In image without a calibration phantom, formulas were created to quantitate BMD with a high precision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: LOS ANGELES BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE AT HARBOR-UCLA MEDICAL CENTER
    Inventors: Matthew J. Budoff, Song Shou Mao, Christopher A. Dailing
  • Patent number: 9108056
    Abstract: A video processing unit configured to convert a video image to stimulation patterns for stimulating neural tissue in a subject's eye and comprising a power button, wherein the video processing unit is configured to be powered on after a first time interval upon activation of a power button, wherein the video processing unit is configured to be powered off after a second time interval upon activation of a power button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kelly H McClure, Richard A Castro, Arup Roy, Scott Loftin, Rongqing Dai, Robert J Greenberg, Sumit Yadav
  • Patent number: 9008784
    Abstract: Devices and methods for preventing knee sprain injuries. To protect the knee joint from knee sprain injuries, the device comprises a sensing part configured to sense data associated with knee motion; an analyzing part configured to analyze the knee motion data to determine a knee articulation; and a stimulating part configured to stimulate one or more lower limb muscles to initiate an earlier muscle reaction than would naturally occur in response to the determined knee joint articulation. The determined knee joint articulation may include knee joint articulation or a particular type of articulation such as a knee sprain movement associated with knee sprain. The methods involve sensing data associated with knee joint motion, analyzing the data to determine a knee joint articulation; and stimulating one or more lower limb muscles to initiate an early muscle reaction within the determined knee joint articulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: The Chinese University of Hong Kong
    Inventors: Kai-Ming Chan, Tik-Pui Daniel Fong, Shu-Hang Patrick Yung
  • Patent number: 8972019
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for OA treatment of an affected area or joint. In one embodiment, the method may involve identifying a treatment site of the joint, and providing at least one transducer module at the treatment site. The at least one transducer module may be in operative communication with a signal generator module, and may include transducer(s) for delivering stimulative signals (e.g., electromagnetic signals and/or ultrasound signals). The method may also involve stimulating (a) bone remodeling, (b) bone cells and associated precursors, and/or (c) pericytes with the stimulative signals delivered to the treatment site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Willeford
  • Patent number: 8838249
    Abstract: An implantable tissue growth stimulator is disclosed. The implantable tissue growth stimulator includes electronic circuitry to alter the voltage output by the stimulator. The implantable tissue growth stimulator may he controlled from an external device via wireless communication. The implantable tissue growth stimulator may be configured for use with an implants in particular, the implantable tissue growth stimulator may be incorporated into an orthopedic device such as a hip prosthesis. The implantable tissue growth stimulator may be used to stimulate bone growth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey H. Nycz
  • Patent number: 8828941
    Abstract: The present invention provides compositions of matter suitable for the prevention of and/or treatment of a spinal disorder and/or spinal pain, e.g., caused by and/or associated with intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, and methods of treatment of a spinal disorder and/or spinal pain. For example, the compositions of the present invention comprise a modulator of growth differentiation factor (GDF)-6 signaling sufficient to reduce or prevent or delay IVD degeneration and/or to enhance or induce IVD regeneration. The present invention also provides medical devices comprising such compositions, and methods of treatment making use of such compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventors: Ashish Diwan, Divya Diwan
  • Patent number: 8795327
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a surgical instrument is provided that may comprise an end effector for performing a surgical procedure on tissue, for example. The end effector may comprise a pair of jaws, a closure beam, and a cutting member. The closure beam and the cutting member may be releasably coupled together by an interlocking member such that movement of the cutting member may cause the closure beam to also move relative to the jaws and cause the jaws to close and grip tissue, for example. The interlocking member may then unlock, allowing the cutting member to move through the gripped tissue and relative to the closure beam. Additionally, the cutting member and closure beam may be operated by a single trigger, which may be configured to provide haptic feedback to a user at various stages. Further, the jaws may be electrically energized to deliver energy and/or seal the gripped tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy G. Dietz, Mary E. Mootoo, David A. Witt, Zhifan F. Huang
  • Patent number: 8738144
    Abstract: Bioelectric implants are provided in three distinct embodiments, namely a bone/tissue anchor, a suture construction, and a plate. The bioelectric implants function in dual capacities as both fixation devices, and as galvanic cells for the production of electrical energy used for therapeutic purposes in tissue regeneration and healing. The bioelectric anchor may take the general form of a screw or pin having a hollow interior or cavity that extends through the body of the anchor. A coating can be applied to the cavity to form the anode portion of the galvanic cell. The outer surface of the anchor serves as a cathode. Bodily fluids and tissue act as an electrolyte to facilitate the chemical reactions necessary for the galvanic cell. For the suture construction, one or more strands of material are the cathode, and one or more strands of peripheral surrounding material act as the anode. Bodily fluids/tissue in contact with the suture act as an electrolyte.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Ingenium, LLC
    Inventor: David J. Schneider
  • Publication number: 20140073836
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method of applying a therapeutic electrical field to a bone region of a human being in order to promote healing and growth that that bone region. The present invention also provides a system that produces a combined magnetic field (CMF) that is precisely located and controlled across the entire treatment area requiring bone growth stimulation by utilizing bone dimensional input parameters to automatically calculate and drive the appropriate output therapy single through a single coil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: Zavation, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey Johnson, John Lawrence Walker, Joel Frank McCown
  • Patent number: 8649541
    Abstract: A hearing aid includes a magnetostrictive electroactive (ME) sensor that generates an electrical signal in response to a magnetic field or a mechanical pressure. In various embodiments, the ME sensor is used for cordless charging of a rechargeable battery in the hearing aid by generating an electrical signal in response to a magnetic field generated for power transfer, magnetic sound signal reception, and/or detection of user commands by sensing a magnetic field or a pressure applied to the hearing aid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Starkey Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Newton, Michael Karl Sacha, Wei Li Lin
  • Patent number: 8644942
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating tissue of a patient with an implantable material comprising a plurality of electrodes for providing controlled microcurrent stimulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Arrowhead Center, Inc.
    Inventor: Joel A. Diemer
  • Publication number: 20140018637
    Abstract: A system includes a communications device integrally incorporated into a remotely deployed medical device to monitor the operative status and use of the device. A home-based medical device will communicate directly through an integrated communications device to provide informational data to a Cloud server or professional caregiver without requiring input or activity by the patient. A remotely deployed medical device, such as a defibrillator, will provide periodic reports regarding the operational status, including remaining battery life, of the deployed device, thus allowing a service technician to provide maintenance service only when service is needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventors: John A. Bennett, Ian Geiser, John-Yuhan Bai
  • Patent number: 8630714
    Abstract: A non-invasive bone growth stimulation system and method of use are disclosed. The non-invasive bone growth stimulation system generates a substantially constant AC current signal that is delivered to a body to treat bone fractures. The substantially constant AC current is derived from a square wave that is converted to a sinusoidal signal with at least one low pass filter to effectively produce the constant AC current at the fundamental frequency of the square wave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Electrostim Medical Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas E. Webb
  • Patent number: 8620440
    Abstract: According to one aspect, a stimulation system is provided for electrically stimulating a predetermined site to treat a fragile bone disorder or condition. The system includes an electrical stimulation lead adapted for implantation into a subcutaneous area in communication with a predetermined site, wherein the site is neuronal tissue that is associated with C2/C3 dermatome area. The stimulation lead includes one or more stimulation electrodes adapted to be positioned in the predetermined site. The system also includes a stimulation source that generates the stimulation pulses for transmission to the one or more stimulation electrodes of the stimulation lead to deliver the stimulation pulses to the predetermined site to treat a fragile bone disorder or condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Dirk De Ridder
  • Publication number: 20130282070
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to stimulate tissue to treat medical conditions involving tissues such as the bone, spine, stomach, nerves, brain and the cochlea. The disclosed invention uses electrical stimulation of the tissue, where vibrational (or acoustic) energy from a source is received by an implanted device and converted to electrical energy and the converted electrical energy is used by implanted electrodes to stimulate the pre-determined tissue sites. The vibrational energy is generated by a controller-transmitter, which could be either implanted or located externally. The vibrational energy is received by a receiver-stimulator, which could be located at or close to the stimulation site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: EBR Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark W. Cowan, Richard E. Riley, Axel F. Brisken, Debra S. Echt
  • Publication number: 20130253413
    Abstract: Devices and methods for stimulation of the vagus nerve to modulate (e.g., reduce, suppress, etc.) bone erosion. Methods and apparatus for modulating bone erosion may modulate levels of Receptor Activator for Nuclear Factor ?B Ligand (RANKL), and/or to modulate (increase, enhance, etc.) osteoprotegerin (OPG) and/or OPG/RANKL ratio. Devices may include electrical stimulation devices that may be implanted, and may be activated to apply current for a proscribed duration, followed by a period without stimulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventors: Jacob A. LEVINE, Michael A. FALTYS, Ralph J. ZITNIK
  • Patent number: 8494658
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for stimulating pelvic floor muscles in a patient comprises applying at least one electrode externally to each side of the patient's body in the region of the pelvis, and energising the electrodes to apply a muscular stimulation current which flows laterally across the patient through the patient's pelvic floor. Preferably a plurality of electrodes are applied symmetrically on each side of the body. The electrodes may be incorporated in a garment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignees: University College Dublin, National University of Ireland, Dublin, Bio-Medical Research Limited
    Inventors: Louis Crowe, Brian Caulfield, Ruth Maher, Conor Minogue
  • Patent number: 8494644
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to enhance bone growth by stimulating bone sites for bone regrowth, fusion, or grafts. The invention uses electrical stimulation of the bone site, where vibrational energy from a source is received by an implanted device and converted to electrical energy and the converted electrical energy is used by implanted electrodes to stimulate the bone site. The vibrational energy is generated by a controller-transmitter, which could be located either externally or implanted. The vibrational energy is received by a receiver-transmitter, which could be incorporated into an orthopedic device, such as pin, cage, plate or prosthetic joint used for bone healing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: EBR Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark W. Cowan, Richard E. Riley, Axel F. Brisken, Debra S. Echt
  • Patent number: 8447409
    Abstract: Embodiments are generally directed to improving the interface between one or more electrode contacts of a medical implant and the neurons of a recipient of the medical implant. In an embodiment, a growth factor is applied to stimulate the growth of peripheral processes (also referred to as dendrites). Then an electric field is applied to direct the growth of the peripheral processes towards the electrode contact. Growing peripheral processes towards the electrode contacts may reduce the charge required to stimulate the peripheral processes and improve operation of the medical implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Cochlear Limited
    Inventors: Fysh Dadd, Jim Patrick
  • Patent number: 8440787
    Abstract: The present invention provides hydmoxyapatite-targeting, multiarm polymer reagents suitable for reaction with biologically active agents to form conjugates, the polymeric reagents comprising one or more polymer chains and a plurality of hydroxyapatile-targeting moieties located at the terminus of one or more of the polymer chains. The multiarm polymers are optionally divided or separated by one or more degradable linkages into polymer segments having a molecular weight suitable for renal clearance. The polymeric reagents of the invention can have a substantially linear structure, although branched or multiarm structures are contemplated as well. The invention is suited for applications in which use of a high molecular weight polymer is desired, such as a total polymer number average molecular weight of at least about 30,000 Da for linear polymers and 20,000 Da for multiarm polymers. Each structure includes one or more linkages capable of degradation in vivo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Nektar Therapeutics
    Inventors: Samuel P. McManus, Antoni Kozlowski
  • Patent number: 8423148
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for treating at least one of the following: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, cartilage injury, and a cartilage defect containing the following steps. First, a defective cartilage tissue is provided. Second, a solution containing ions for treating defective cartilage tissue is provided. Third, the solution containing ions is introduced about the defective cartilage tissue. Fourth, an electrical source generates electricity. Fifth, the solution containing ions and an area about the defective cartilage tissue is contacted with the electricity from the electrical source. Sixth, the electrical source is powered on to provide electricity, whereby the ions move from the solution and into the defective cartilage tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Lytinas
  • Patent number: 8380319
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the electrical stimulation of bone growth utilizing implantable bone fixation devices and implants to which are attached a screw of nonconductive material powered by a battery for the purpose of creating an electrical-magnetic field to promote bone healing and bone formation. The electric magnetic field is directed to the bone around the device through a battery of a rechargeable type and can include a radio frequency identification device. A constant current is generated in a range of 5-20 micro amperes to stimulate bone healing and bone formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: J. Lee Berger
  • Patent number: 8374697
    Abstract: Stimulation of bone growth to facilitate healing of a dental implant utilizing a interiorly threaded dental screw of nonconductive material in conjunction with a healing cap abutment whereby electrical stimulation facilitates healing of the surgical site. The device is powered by a battery for the purpose of creating an electrical-magnetic field to promote bone healing and bone formation. The electric magnetic field is directed to the bone around the device through a battery of a rechargeable type. A constant current is generated in a preferred range of about 5 ?A to about 20 ?A to stimulate bone healing and bone formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventor: J. Lee Berger
  • Publication number: 20130018437
    Abstract: According to one aspect, a stimulation system is provided for electrically stimulating a predetermined site to treat a fragile bone disorder or condition. The system includes an electrical stimulation lead adapted for implantation into a subcutaneous area in communication with a predetermined site, wherein the site is neuronal tissue that is associated with C2/C3 dermatome area. The stimulation lead includes one or more stimulation electrodes adapted to be positioned in the predetermined site. The system also includes a stimulation source that generates the stimulation pulses for transmission to the one or more stimulation electrodes of the stimulation lead to deliver the stimulation pulses to the predetermined site to treat a fragile bone disorder or condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: Dirk De Ridder
  • Publication number: 20120316482
    Abstract: The invention relates to an orthotic bone stimulator and the methods of use pertaining thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Aftab Karim
  • Patent number: 8313471
    Abstract: A therapeutic glove of elastic synthetic fabric to which gold-coated self-expanding ring devices are affixed at selective locations adjacent the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints of the fingers of the hand without restricting movement of those joints. The affixing of rings on the interior of the glove along the MCP joints induces optimal gold abrasion therapy of joints that are afflicted by rheumatoid arthritis. The high purity gold-coating on the rings, combined with the snugness of the glove, increases the natural abrasion and absorption of the gold into the joint, which has the therapeutic effect of delaying joint erosion with daily wear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Hendricks
  • Publication number: 20120283798
    Abstract: Provided is an alveolar bone regenerative unit and an alveolar bone regenerative apparatus capable of regeneration treatment for an alveolar bone by sterilizing a periodontium and activating an osteoblast. The alveolar bone regenerative unit includes an active needle electrode of a metal electrode generating heat by power supply and a handle attached to a base of the active needle electrode. The active needle electrode is 25.0 to 41.0 mm long and 0.08 to 0.47 mm in diameter, on which a strippable coat is formed with silicon resin. Supplying power to the active needle electrode causes heat generation at a high temperature because of the thin diameter. The high temperature and electric energy can kill bacteria around a root, thereby being able to activate an osteoblast and regenerate an alveolar bone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Toshihiko Tominaga
  • Patent number: 8301258
    Abstract: Devices and methods for preventing ankle sprain injuries. To protect the ankle joint from acute ankle supination or inversion sprain injuries, the device comprises a sensing part configured to sense data of an ankle motion; an analyzing part configured to analyze the data to judge whether the motion is a sprain motion; and a stimulating part configured to stimulate one or more lower limb muscles against the motion in light of a result of the analyzing. The method also involves sensing data of an ankle motion; analyzing the data to judge whether the motion is a sprain motion; and stimulating one or more lower limb muscles against the motion if the motion is a sprain motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: The Chinese University of Hong Kong
    Inventors: Kai-Ming Chan, Tik Pui Daniel Fong, Shu Hang Patrick Yung
  • Patent number: 8292834
    Abstract: Ultrasound stimulation devices and related techniques are disclosed. An ultrasound transducer for generating ultrasound energy is carried by a transducer housing that seals the transducer and may also include a positioning element for positioning the transducer proximate an application area to which generated ultrasound energy is to be applied. The transducer housing may also carry such components as a battery, a wireless receiver, and a controller. The same housing or a separate sensor housing may include an ultrasound sensor that provides feedback to the ultrasound transducer or its controller, illustratively through a wireless transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: The Governors of the University of Alberta
    Inventors: Tarek Hessin Ahmed El-Bialy, Jie Chen, Ying Yin Tsui
  • Publication number: 20120215281
    Abstract: An implant device for stimulating osteogenesis and osseointegration comprises a hollow annular housing member, a pulsed current modulator, and a coil connected to the current modulator. The current modulator and at least a portion of the coil are mounted within the housing member. A frequency of the pulsed current is selected to generate an electromagnetic field of a predetermined flux density that penetrates, and propagates radially outwardly from, the housing member for a sufficiently large propagation distance to stimulate osteogenesis and osseointegration, by means of the generated electromagnetic field, of a bone region in which the implant device is implanted and which is disposed radially outwardly from the housing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: Magdent Ltd.
    Inventor: Moshe Neuman