Abstract: An apparatus and process for providing assisted control, direction, and other information to a living being through a stimulation-based interface.

Abstract: A method for the treatment of obesity or other disorders by electrical activation or inhibition of nerves is disclosed. This activation or inhibition can be accomplished by stimulating a nerve using an electrode. The method further comprises performing a surgical procedure and/or administering a weight loss drug.

Abstract: Systems and methods for introducing one or more stimulating drugs and/or applying electrical stimulation to the brain to at least treat or prevent diabetes uses at least one system control unit (SCU) producing electrical pulses delivered via electrodes implanted in the brain and/or producing drug infusion pulses, wherein the stimulating drug(s) are delivered to targeted areas in the brain.

Abstract: Nerves that carry taste sensations to the brain are stimulated in order to diminish (or, depending on the application, augment) the pleasure ordinarily associated with consumption behavior to be modified.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating obese or other patients with compulsive overeating disorder includes unilaterally or bilaterally stimulating one or both of the left and right branches of a patient's vagus nerve directly or indirectly with an electrical pulse signal generated by an implantable neurostimulator with at least one operatively coupled nerve electrode to apply the pulse signal to the selected nerve branch at a location below the patient's diaphragm. The implantable neurostimulator is programmable to enable physician programming of electrical and timing parameters of the pulse signal, to induce weight loss of the patient.

Abstract: Diet evaluation gastric apparatus (18) is provided, which detects when a patient (10) swallows, and detects the type and amount of matter ingested. The apparatus includes electrodes (74, 100) adapted to be coupled to the fundus and antrum of the patient and to measure electrical and mechanical activity therein, and a control unit (90) to analyze such electrical and mechanical activity and optionally apply electrical energy to modify the activity of tissue of the patient.

Abstract: A method for the treatment of eating and gastrointestinal disorders through transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation of the sympathetic celiac ganglia and nerve pathways innervating the stomach.

Abstract: Systems and methods for introducing one or more stimulating drugs and/or applying electrical stimulation to the brain to at least treat or prevent obesity and/or other eating disorders uses at least one system control unit (SCU) producing electrical pulses delivered via electrodes implanted in the brain and/or producing drug infusion pulses, wherein the stimulating drug(s) are delivered to targeted areas in the brain.

Abstract: Systems and methods for introducing one or more stimulating drugs and/or applying electrical stimulation to the brain to at least treat or prevent diabetes uses at least one system control unit (SCU) producing electrical pulses delivered via electrodes implanted in the brain and/or producing drug infusion pulses, wherein the stimulating drug(s) are delivered to targeted areas in the brain.

Abstract: An external pulse generator comprising a primary coil and adapted to inductively couple to an implanted receiving means, is designed to deliver neuromodulation therapy for disorders comprising obesity, eating disorders, anxiety and the like. The external pulse generator contains limited number of predetermined programs. These programs provide the patient or caretaker a means to adjust the therapy within confined limits, or turn the device off. The predetermined programs contain unique combination of pulse amplitude, pulse width, frequency of stimulation, and on-off time. In another mode of operation, the parameters can be individually adjusted and the stimulation therapy program can be “customized” for the patient, and stored in the memory. The programs are capable of being modified with a programming station connected to the pulse generator with a RS232-C serial connection.

Abstract: A method for treating a patient with an obsession, a compulsion, an anxiety or a depression disorder, comprising applying chronic electrical stimulation to at least a portion of the patient's anterior limb of the internal capsule under conditions effective to provide the patient with at least a partial relief from obsession and/or compulsion and/or anxiety and/or depression, by means of an electrical signal generator and at least an implantable electrode having a proximal end coupled to the said signal generator and a stimulation end capable of applying said chronic electrical stimulation, wherein the distance between the two outer contacts of the electrode corresponds to the depth of the internal capsule. A method is disclosed for treating a patient with an obsession, a compulsion, an anxiety or a depression disorder.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a procedure directed toward enhancing neural stimulation therapy efficacy comprises acquiring coherence and/or silent period measurements to facilitate and/or effectuate determination of neural stimulation parameters corresponding to a treatment program, and/or modification of neural stimulation parameters associated with a treatment program in view of short-term changes in a patient's symptomatic state and/or persistent or lasting changes in a patient's neurofunctional condition.

Abstract: A method for the treatment of obesity or other disorders by electrical activation or inhibition of the sympathetic nervous system is disclosed. This activation or inhibition can be accomplished by stimulating the greater splanchnic nerve or other portion of the sympathetic nervous system using an electrode. This nerve activation can result in reduced food intake and increased energy expenditure.

Abstract: An apparatus that aids in the loss of weight through the reduction of fatty body tissues. The apparatus is preferably in a garment configuration, provides electrically conducting portions and insulating portions configured in such a way that the potential of electrochemical signal messaging system in the patient's body is altered. The re-directed currents trigger a release of stored fatty tissues, and a reduction of weight. The electrically conductive portions are configured and provided in a manner that permits safe and effective use. The device may be sold and marketed as a weight reduction or muscle building apparatus.

Abstract: A biofeedback device for treatment of certain obsessive compulsive spectrum and habit disorders including trichotillomania (hair pulling), onychophagia (nail biting), thumb-sucking, skin-scratching (dermatillomania) and certain other self-inflicted harm, includes a sensing element and triggering device, both worn on various parts of the body, depending upon the particular characteristics of an individual's disorder. The biofeedback device is able to sense the movement of one body part relative to another and set off an alarm mechanism prior to contact, assisting the patient in avoiding the destructive behavior.

Abstract: A system is provided that includes a behavior detection unit for detecting behavior of the human, a reaction causing unit for causing a reaction in the human, and a control unit for controlling the reaction causing unit to cause the reaction in the human in accordance with detection of the behavior of the human by the behavior detection unit. The behavior involves intake of food into the body of the human, and the reaction causing unit uses electrical and chemical stimulation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating obese or other patients with compulsive overeating disorder includes unilaterally or bilaterally stimulating one or both of the left and right branches of a patient's vagus nerve directly or indirectly with an electrical pulse signal generated by an implantable neurostimulator with at least one operatively coupled nerve electrode to apply the pulse signal to the selected nerve branch at a location below the patient's diaphragm. The implantable neurostimulator is programmable to enable physician programming of electrical and timing parameters of the pulse signal, to induce weight loss of the patient.

Abstract: A method of treating patients for compulsive overeating includes stimulating left and right branches of the patient's vagus nerve simultaneously with electrical pulses in a predetermined sequence of a first period in which pulses are applied continuously, alternating with a second period in which no pulses are applied. The electrical pulses are preferably applied to the vagus nerve at a supradiaphragmatic location.

Abstract: A method for the treatment of obesity or other disorders, by electrical activation or inhibition of the sympathetic nervous system. This activation or inhibition can be accomplished by electrically stimulating the greater splanchnic nerve or other portion of the sympathetic nervous system using an implantable pulse generator. This nerve activation can result in reduced food intake and increased energy expenditure. Reduced food intake may occur through a variety of mechanisms that reduce appetite and cause satiety. Increased adrenal gland hormone levels will result in increased energy expenditure. Fat and carbohydrate metabolism, which are also increased by sympathetic nerve activation, will accompany the increased energy expenditure.

Abstract: A method for the treatment of obesity or other disorders, by wireless electrical activation or inhibition of the sympathetic nervous system. This activation or inhibition can be accomplished by wirelessly stimulating the greater splanchnic nerve or other portion of the sympathetic nervous system using a wireless electrode inductively coupled with a radiofrequency field. The source of radiofrequency energy may be internal or external to the patient. This nerve activation can result in reduced food intake and increased energy expenditure.

Abstract: A living body stimulating apparatus for obtaining extensive therapeutic effects as well as soft feel of stimulation. Rectangular wave pulses output at a preset recurring frequency are subjected to pulse width modulation. Thus, the recurrence of a rectangular wave pulse group (S) which includes a plurality of higher frequency signal components than the rectangular wave pulses is imparted to a human body through electrodes (24). As a human body has a capacitive property, the higher frequency the signal component has, the lower impedance it will result in. As a result, the waveform of the rectangular wave pulse group (S) is distorted as a whole, thus providing softer feel of stimulation as compared with rectangular wave pulses of the same current and frequency. In addition, due to the higher frequency signals components being included, more extensive therapeutic effects can be expected.

Abstract: A system is provided that includes a behavior detection unit for detecting behavior of the human, a reaction causing unit for causing a reaction in the human, and a control unit for controlling the reaction causing unit to cause the reaction in the human in accordance with detection of the behavior of the human by the behavior detection unit. The behavior involves intake of food into the body of the human, and the reaction causing unit uses electrical and chemical stimulation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a highly efficient method and apparatus for treating substance addiction and for changing addiction-related behavior of users suffering from substance addiction. Specifically, an apparatus is disclosed which senses the presence of a substance and transmits information regarding its presence to a processor and optionally a care giver. The user may also be given electrical stimulus through the apparatus. The electrical stimulus may be increased according to the amount of a substance present.

Abstract: An open-loop internal monitoring system includes a plurality of internal radio transmitters, a plurality of external radio receivers, and a central processor for alerting a system monitor if a subject is outside a predetermined unauthorized location, the central processor being connected to the external radio receivers by relays. The open-loop system may alternatively include a substance monitoring unit. A closed-loop internal monitoring system for controlling one or more transmission parameters of the internal radio is also provided, the closed-loop system further including an external radio transmitter for transmitting a command relayed from the central processor and internal radio receivers for receiving the command. A closed-loop internal monitoring and behavior control system uses a behavior control unit having a stimulating electrode or chemical micropump for producing an adverse reaction within the subject upon receipt of a command from the central processor.

Abstract: A new method for suppressing chemical substance craving comprises an electrical stimulation of the spinal cord using one or more implantable leads containing at least two conducting electrodes. The method may be used to suppress craving for alcohol, narcotics, cocaine, and amphetamines. The method is particularly suited to the suppression of nicotine craving.

Abstract: An open-loop internal monitoring system includes a plurality of internal radio transmitters, a plurality of external radio receivers, and a central processor for alerting a system monitor if a subject is outside a predetermined unauthorized location, the central processor being connected to the external radio receivers by relays. The open-loop system may alternatively include a substance monitoring unit. A closed-loop internal monitoring system for controlling one or more transmission parameters of the internal radio is also provided, the closed-loop system further including an external radio transmitter for transmitting a command relayed from the central processor and internal radio receivers for receiving the command. A closed-loop internal monitoring and behavior control system uses a behavior control unit having a stimulating electrode or chemical micropump for producing an adverse reaction within the subject upon receipt of a command from the central processor.

Abstract: A lighter for tobacco products suppresses the urge to smoke by operant conditioning. It delivers a shock to the user's hand when the lighter is extinguished. This generally happens when the first puffs of smoke are being inhaled. Inhalation of the smoke gives a positive reinforcement of the habit because of the pharmacologic effects of the smoke. The shock provides a negative or suppressive action at the same time. The anticipation of the shock will negate the anticipation of the relief the drugs in the smoke provide. In an alternative embodiment, the shock is applied at; the time of activation of the lighter. In yet another embodiment of the invention a negative stimulus is provided by a pin that pricks the user at the time of activation of the lighter.

Abstract: A method and therapeutic apparatus for treating addictions and maladies, such as cocaine addiction and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus has a housing with a pair of exposed electrodes in communication with a current source that preferably is a battery. To provide suggestive reinforcement, the apparatus can have an indicia representative of the type of addiction or malady being treated. To further provide suggestive reinforcement, the housing of the apparatus can be constructed to visually appear suggestive of the addictive substance. During use, the apparatus is grasped by a user and brought toward the mouth until the electrodes engage a portion of the mouth that preferably is the tip of the tongue. In operation, electrical current flows through the tongue between electrodes and stimulates a nerve, that preferably is a hypoglossal nerve, in communication with the brain.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for alleviating pain and the symptoms of withdrawal of a patient during detoxification. The apparatus generates and applies to the patient's mastoid processes a multiplicity of current controlled electrical pulses comprised of generally square waves having a pulse width of about 200 microseconds. The pulse repetition rate varies between about 10 and 2000 Hertz and programmed treatment spans periods of up to ten days.

Abstract: An apparatus for discouraging habitual finger sucking by delivering a small current to an individual's tongue. An electrical current is delivered by two electrodes mounted within an adhesive band which is wrapped around the individual's finger and the adhesive band having contact points where the electrodes are exposed to the individual's tongue. The current may be produced by the band itself by constructing the band in layers including a layer supplying an electrolyte and a layer supplying two dis-similar metals, thus producing a current that can be delivered directly to the individual's tongue.

Abstract: An apparatus is described for the programmable iontophoretic or iontophoretic-ultrasonic (ionosonic) transdermal delivery of medication across the skin or other biological membrane. In one embodiment, the programmable apparatus controls the depth of penetration of a medicament into the skin. In another embodiment the programmed delivery of medicament is accompanied by an electrical stimulus for treating substance abuse. The apparatus can be adapted for large dermal area application or for a smaller area of application, depending on the choice of specific electrode employed. In a preferred embodiment the apparatus comprises a multichannel iontophoretic applicator electrode. Multiple piezoelectric elements are mounted on the iontophoretic electrode. The combination of ultrasonic vibration and iontophoresis improves the penetration of medicament in contact with the skin or mucous membrane underlying the electrode which can be programmably controlled by a CPU through the use of a EPROM.

Abstract: Described is a low voltage, multipoint auricular stimulator which is lightweight, portable and unobtrusive for use by a patient to reduce or eliminate sensations of pain and anxiety and for correcting other neural dysfunctions, and a treatment method incorporating the pain reducing and neural dysfunction correcting apparatus.

Abstract: A device for use in providing transcutaneous nerve stimulation and a related method of use are disclosed which may be utilized to stimulate superficial sprigs of the Vagal nerve located in the auricle of the ear for the alleviation of substance withdrawal symptoms or the provision of pain relief, stress relief, and/or general muscle relaxation. The device uses two pairs of transcutaneous pad electrodes, with one pair of the transcutaneous pad electrodes being located on each of the two clips which are applied to the lobes of each ear, with the device then supplying an adjustable amplitude, adjustable repetition rate bipolar pulse train for a predetermined length of time to the transcutaneous pad electrodes on the clips.

Abstract: Neurological stimulation alleviates chronic pain and other functional neurologic disorders by delivering electrical impulses to the nervous system of a patient. Within this setting, a computer interface optimizes stimulation with commercially available neurostimulators. The computer and interface, in cooperation with a unique graphics input device, deliver arbitrary and unique paradigms of stimulation. The computer interface provides for efficient patient interaction, optimizes stimulation automatically, and reduces the demands imposed on the time of health care professionals.

Abstract: A cranial electrotherapy stimulation ("CES") device which generates periodic electrical signals is connected between the forehead and wrist area of a human being in order to affect electrical activity in the brain and thereby decrease the individual's craving for controlled substances such as alcohol and drugs and reduce anxiety, insomnia and depression. A portable, cranial electrical stimulator is preferably mounted adjacent the arm area or worn about the waist of a patient. A first electrode is attached to the forehead of the patient, preferably above the bridge of the nose between the eyes, and a second electrode is attached to the wrist area of one am, preferably at the radial artery. Periodic electrical pulses having a waveform with a current amplitude in the range of 0.1 to 60 mA, a voltage of approximately 40-60 volts, a frequency of approximately 0.1 to 400 Hz, and a pulse width approximately 0.

Abstract: An electrode for providing TCET, especially via the earlobes of the patient, comprises an electrical conductor for application to the skin, connected to a lead for supplying the TCET signal from a signal generating device, characterized in that the conductor comprises a generally conical needle point capable of penetrating the epidermis so as to provide good electrical contact over a very small area. The electrode can be used in the impedance of less than 100 k.OMEGA.; and with apparatus for generating an electrical signal for use in TCET, adapted to provide a signal at a current of less than 200 .mu.A (0.2 mA), especially when adapted to provide an AC signal in which each positive pulse is relatively short and high without being spiked and the following negative pulse is relatively wide and low, the total amount of positive and negative charge being balanced. Methods of providing TCET treatment to patients using the electrode and apparatus are also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus for administering electrical aversive stimulus is provided. The apparatus includes a remote transmitter, a receiver/stimulator, and an electrode. The receiver/stimulator is activated by an electromagnetic signal generated by the transmitter. In response, the receiver/stimulator generates an electrical stimulus pulse which is administered to the individual through the electrode. The receiver/stimulator and electrode are worn by the individual. Stimulation indicator means on the receiver/stimulator provides a positive indication that the stimulation has been administered to the individual. Various characteristics of the electrical stimulus pulse may be adjusted to vary the individual's perceived averseness of the stimulus. A method of treatment utilizing the apparatus of this invention is also provided.