Nerve activity monitoring

A nerve activity monitoring method comprises: receiving an input signal indicative of nerve activity of a subject, which may be via electrode 108; receiving physiological data indicative of physiological activity of said subject, which may be via sensor 111; establishing a relationship between the physiological data and the input signal; identifying a plurality of periodic portions in the input signal based on said relationship; and outputting the periodic portions. The electrode and sensor system 116 may be implantable. A further embodiment discloses a nerve activity monitoring method comprising: calculating a frequency spectrum of at least a portion of an input signal indicative of activity in a nerve of a subject; identifying a demodulation frequency within the frequency spectrum; demodulating at least two periodic portions of the input signal based on the demodulation frequency, to generate at least two demodulated signal portions; and averaging the at least two demodulated signal portions ...

Anaesthesia and Consciousness Depth Monitoring System

The present invention relates to the field of evoked electrophysiological potential signal monitoring and in particular can be applied as a means to determine the sentient state of an individual, and as a means to authenticate the physiological, electrical or electromagnetic source of a signal.

Depletion block to block nerve communication

An example of a system may include a depletion block neural stimulator and a depletion block controller. The depletion block neural stimulator may be configured to deliver a depletion block stimulation to a nerve. The depletion block stimulation may include a series of pulses at a pulse frequency within a range between about 100 Hz to about 1000 Hz. The depletion block controller may be configured to communicate with the depletion block neural stimulator and control the depletion block stimulation. The depletion block controller may be configured to receive a start depletion block signal and respond to the received start depletion block signal by initiating the delivery of the depletion block stimulation to the nerve, and the depletion block controller may be configured to receive a stop depletion block signal and respond to the received stop depletion block signal by terminating the delivery of the depletion block stimulation to the nerve.

Anaesthesia and Consciousness Depth Monitoring System

The present invention relates to the field of evoked electrophysiological potential signal monitoring and in particular can be applied as a means to determine the sentient state of an individual, and as a means to authenticate the physiological, electrical or electromagnetic source of a signal.

ORAL-ESOPHAGEAL-GASTRIC DEVICE WITH ESOPHAGEAL CUFF TO REDUCE GASTRIC REFLUX AND/OR EMESIS

A nasogastric/orogastric (Ng/Og) airway protection device includes an elongate device body having a distal end for insertion into the stomach through the esophagus and a proximal end. A main lumen extends the length of the device and is configured for at least one of gastric decompression, enteral feeding and enteral medication administration. A sump port is at the distal end. A sump lumen is formed the length of the device body and configured for venting gas and preventing adherence of the device against the gastric wall. An inflatable esophageal cuff is carried by the device body mid-esophagus and an inflation lumen is formed within the device body and connects the inflatable esophageal cuff through which the esophageal cuff is inflated and deflated. Upon inflation of the esophageal cuff, emesis and/or reflux is blocked from passing out of the stomach past the esophageal cuff positioned mid-esophagus to protect a patient's airway.

ORAL-ESOPHAGEAL-GASTRIC DEVICE TO DIAGNOSE REFLUX AND/OR EMESIS

A system and method diagnoses esophageal reflux in a patient. A catheter (1500) includes a first pressure sensor (1510) configured to measure intra-abdominal pressure when the catheter is inserted into the stomach of a patient. A second pressure sensor (1512) is located proximal to the distal tip and configured to measure intra-thoracic pressure. A pH indicator (1520) is carried by the catheter body and configured to indicate that reflux has occurred in response to an involuntary reflex cough test. A processing device is configured to receive data regarding the first and second pressure sensors and regarding the pH indicator and process that data and assess if reflux is present during the involuntary epoch.

A DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VIBRATION SENSITIVITY ASSESSMENT

A device, system and method for vibration sensitivity assessment are provided. the device has an attachment portion configured to detachably connect the device to a programmable vibration source and a probe configured to be applied to a test location on a test subject's skin and to convey vibrations generated by the programmable vibration source to the test location. The programmable vibration source may for example be a mobile telephone. A low-cost and widely usable device for vibration sensitivity assessment is thus provided.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ASSESSING HUMAN VISUAL PROCESSING

A system and method for assessing visual processing of a human subject is provided that allows measurement of vergence facility among other measurements. The system and method present a sequence of questions on a dichoptic display that request the identification of an item with stereo disparity. The questions alternate between the item having crossed stereo disparity and uncrossed stereo disparity in order to stress the vergence facility by forcing the eyes to diverge and converge to identify the item with stereo disparity. The time period for providing a response can be compared to a normative value that is equivalent to approximately 15 vergence cycles per minute to determine an abnormal or normal vergence facility.

HMGB1 AND ANTI-HMGB1 ANTIBODIES FOR THE PROGNOSTIC OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS

The invention relates to in vitro method for quantitating the antibodies specific for High mobility group box I (HMGB1 ) contained in a sample, in particular a serum sample or a cerebrospinal fluid sample obtained from a patient, and the use of this method in the prognostic and/or diagnosis of neurological disorders. These methods are in particular applicable to the monitoring of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection of a subject who is known to be infected with HIV and in the prognostic and/or diagnostic of the state of progression of Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or the state of progression toward AIDS, in particular the state of progression or the state of progression toward neurological disorders associated with AIDS. Finally, the invention is also about method to determine the immune deficiency or level of immune activation of a patient, in particular a HIV-infected patient.

BIOMECHATRONIC DATA COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

Method of mapping a nerve

A method of modeling a nerve disposed within an intracorporeal treatment area of a patient includes locating an electrode at a plurality of locations within a virtual workspace and providing an electrical stimulus from the electrode to the intracorporeal treatment area. The response of a muscle to the electrical stimulus is monitored and used to determine a distance to the nerve from each of the plurality of locations. A virtual model of the nerve is then constructed within the virtual workspace using the determined distance to the nerve from each of the different positions, and the plurality of locations within the virtual workspace.

MICRO-MOLDED ELECTRODES, ARRAYS, AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME

A method of manufacturing a micro-molded electrode (160) having multiple individually addressable sensors (140) along a shaft (180) can include forming a recess in a mold substrate, depositing a structural material therein, depositing a conductive material at specific locations, providing a coating (190), and removing the mold substrate. A micro-molded electrode (160) having a base (170) tapering to at least one shaft (180) can include an electrode substrate, multiple individually addressable sensors (140), and a coating (190).

Endotracheal tube with a selectively positional electrode

An endotracheal tube usable for intraopertive monitoring of the laryngeal nerve. The endotracheal tube includes at least one electrical contact that is movable along and about an exterior sidewall of the endotracheal tube and connected to the exterior sidewall by a connector when the electrode is placed in a position to optimize the conductivity between the nerve being monitored and the electrical contact. The electrical contact may be connected using a locking tube, tape, adhesive, etc.

Stimulation probe assemblies and methods of use

Aspects of the disclosure include a bio-electric stimulation probe assembly including a patch including a first aperture and also a guide socket including a grommet and a second aperture. The guide socket is positioned on the patch such that the first and second apertures are aligned. The assembly further includes a guide including a tip that is positioned within and rotatable within the grommet. A probe of the assembly having at least one electrode is interconnected with the guide and extends through the first and second apertures. The guide and guide socket are collectively arranged and configured so that the guide has three degrees of rotational freedom with respect to the grommet thus meaning the probe correspondingly has three degrees of rotational freedom with respect to the grommet. Methods of using stimulation probe assemblies are also disclosed.

Oral-esophageal-gastric device with esophageal cuff to reduce gastric reflux and/or emesis

A nasogastric/orogastric (Ng/Og) airway protection device includes an elongate device body having a distal end for insertion into the stomach through the esophagus and a proximal end. A main lumen extends the length of the device and is configured for at least one of gastric decompression, enteral feeding and enteral medication administration. A sump port is at the distal end. A sump lumen is formed the length of the device body and configured for venting gas and preventing adherence of the device against the gastric wall. An inflatable esophageal cuff is carried by the device body mid-esophagus and an inflation lumen is formed within the device body and connects the inflatable esophageal cuff through which the esophageal cuff is inflated and deflated. Upon inflation of the esophageal cuff, emesis and/or reflux is blocked from passing out of the stomach past the esophageal cuff positioned mid-esophagus to protect a patient's airway.

BIOMECHATRONIC DATA COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

With the present invention, there is provided a data transmission system for transmitting an electrical data to a target, and a data receiving system for receiving an electrical data from a target. Said data transmission system comprises at least two phototransistor crystals (T), each of which is stimulated by light (I), to form an electrical signal; an image source (4) which allows the light (I) to be sent to said phototransistor crystals (T) and allows controlling the amount of light (I) transmitted to each phototransistor crystal (T) independently of each other; and at least one control unit which is connected to said image source (4) and controls the amount of light (I) transmitted from the image source (4) to each of the phototransistor crystals (T). Said data receiving system comprises at least two light crystals (P), each of which is connected to a target and emits light (I) by means of an electric signal received from the corresponding target; an image sensor (14) for detecting ...

NERVE MONITORING AND/OR STIMULATION ELECTRODE ASSEMBLIES

Stimulation and recording electrode assemblies that are particularly useful for Automatic Period Stimulation (APS). Such embodiments are compatible with nerve monitoring systems to provide continuous stimulation of a nerve during surgery. Certain embodiments include an electrode assembly having cuff including a body and two ears extending from the body. Within the body, at least one electrode is supported and connected to a lead wire assembly. The ears can be brought together to enlarge a gap in the body so that the electrode assembly can be fixated around a nerve. Other embodiments include an electrode assembly including first and second needle electrodes that each have a tip. A body is provided to interconnect the needle electrodes and can be manipulated to move the tips either toward or away from one another. Disclosed embodiments provide nerve monitoring and stimulation in cases where the nerve is only partially dissected.

HMGB1 AND ANTI-HMGB1 ANTIBODIES FOR THE PROGNOSTIC OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS

The invention relates to in vitro method for quantitating the antibodies specific for High mobility group box I (HMGB1 ) contained in a sample, in particular a serum sample or a cerebrospinal fluid sample obtained from a patient, and the use of this method in the prognostic and/or diagnosis of neurological disorders. These methods are in particular applicable to the monitoring of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection of a subject who is known to be infected with HIV and in the prognostic and/or diagnostic of the state of progression of Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or the state of progression toward AIDS, in particular the state of progression or the state of progression toward neurological disorders associated with AIDS. Finally, the invention is also about method to determine the immune deficiency or level of immune activation of a patient, in particular a HIV-infected patient.

SURGICAL IMAGING SYSTEMS

Systems, methods and devices are provided for illuminating tissue with monochromatic or broadband light and imaging light that has been reflected back from the tissue. Imaging may be white-light imaging or hyperspectral imaging. The system can be a stand-alone hyperspectral imaging system, integrated as part of an external video scope, or as an auxiliary imaging module on an external videoscope. Various elements of a video scope that is particularly suited for minimally invasive surgery is first presented and then its configurations suitable for hyperspectral imaging are explained.

Method and Device for Quantification of Neuromuscular Stimulations due to RF-currents

A two-part NMS-test bench is provided with which instruments, generator voltages, and surgery modes can be evaluated with regard to neuromuscular stimulations. By separating the NMS-test bench in a first part for application of the instrument and in the second part for evaluation of the physiological effect on nerves, a measurement free of artifacts is possible. The spatial and timely separation of the RF-application from the recording of the compound action potentials makes RF-disturbances ineffective. The electrical signals gained in the instrument test chamber can be pre-processed. The recorded electrical signals emitted from the instrument can be evaluated at the nerve model an arbitrary number of times. The variance involved with the recording of compound action potentials during direct use of the instrument can thus be minimized. The separated test of the signals at the nerve model avoids thermal damage of a prepared nerve and falsification of measurement results.

System and method for non-invasively controlling autonomic nerve activity

System and methods for monitoring and/or controlling nerve activity in a subject are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes electrodes configured to be placed proximate to a subject's skin, and a signal detector configured to detect electrical signals using the electrodes. The system also includes a signal processor configured to receive the electrical signals from the signal detector, and apply a filter to the received electrical signals to generate filtered signals, the filter configured to attenuate at least signals having frequencies corresponding to heart muscle activity during a heartbeat. The signal processor is also configured to identify a skin nerve activity using the filtered signals, estimate a sympathetic nerve activity using the identified skin nerve activity, and further to generate a report indicative of the estimated sympathetic nerve activity. In some aspects, the system further includes a signal generator to deliver the electrical stimulation to the subject's ...

IMAGING-BASED REFLEX MEASUREMENTS FOR SEDATION DEPTH MONITORING

Methods and systems for intraoperatively confirming location of tissue structures

Systems, methods and devices are provided for intraoperatively confirming location of tissue structures during medical procedures. Preoperative image data of a patient's skeletal structure in a vicinity of an anatomical part undergoing a medical procedure is acquired. During the procedure, after exposing tissue intraoperative image data is acquired by scanning a selected region of tissue, in a vicinity of the skeletal structure using Polarization Sensitive-Optical Coherence Tomography (PS-OCT). Regions of tissue exhibiting structural organization in the vicinity of the skeletal structure are identified from the intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data. Geometrically correlating and registering the intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data with the preoperative image data of the skeletal structure in the vicinity of the anatomical part is then performed using a priori known anatomical information about the regions of tissue exhibiting structural information.

The present invention relates to neurostimulation, and in particular relates to methods and devices for optimising or revising neurostimulation paradigms in response to changes in medication dosages or changed medication responses.

Abstract A system for delivering electrical neurostimulation therapy concurrently with a medicament regime involving changing or titrating electrical neurostimulation in response to changed medication. The system comprising: a neuromodulation device to deliver the electrical neurostimulation therapy, measurement circuitry configured to capture recordings of neural responses evoked by the electrical neurostimulation therapy, a processor configured to process the recordings of the neural responses in order to obtain a plurality of measures of neural activation in response to a plurality of stimuli delivered over time, the processor further configured to revise the stimulus parameter in order to maintain neural activation within a target therapeutic window, the processor further configured to adjust bounds of the target therapeutic window in response to an indicia of a change in the medicament regime. Fig. 1 110 ELECTRODE SELECTION 126 POWER PULSE AMPLIFIER & I 150 SOURCE GENERATOR ADC 112 ...

Depletion block to block nerve communication

An example of a system may include a depletion block neural stimulator and a depletion block controller. The depletion block neural stimulator may be configured to deliver a depletion block stimulation to a nerve. The depletion block stimulation may include a series of pulses at a pulse frequency within a range between about 100 Hz to about 1000 Hz. The depletion block controller may be configured to communicate with the depletion block neural stimulator and control the depletion block stimulation. The depletion block controller may be configured to receive a start depletion block signal and respond to the received start depletion block signal by initiating the delivery of the depletion block stimulation to the nerve, and the depletion block controller may be configured to receive a stop depletion block signal and respond to the received stop depletion block signal by terminating the delivery of the depletion block stimulation to the nerve.

BIOMECHATRONIC DATA COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

With the present invention, there is provided a data transmission system for transmitting an electrical data to a target, and a data receiving system for receiving an electrical data from a target. Said data transmission system comprises at least two phototransistor crystals (T), each of which is stimulated by light (I), to form an electrical signal; an image source (4) which allows the light (I) to be sent to said phototransistor crystals (T) and allows controlling the amount of light (I) transmitted to each phototransistor crystal (T) independently of each other; and at least one control unit which is connected to said image source (4) and controls the amount of light (I) transmitted from the image source (4) to each of the phototransistor crystals (T). Said data receiving system comprises at least two light crystals (P), each of which is connected to a target and emits light (I) by means of an electric signal received from the corresponding target; an image sensor (14) for detecting ...

PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE

La présente invention concerne un dispositif électronique portatif (1) comprenant au moins un circuit électronique flexible (11) et une enveloppe souple (12) dans laquelle le circuit électronique flexible est logé, l'enveloppe souple étant destinée à être fixée au moins en partie autour d'une partie corporelle d'un utilisateur, le dispositif électronique portatif (1) étant caractérisé en ce que le circuit électronique flexible (11) supporte fonctionnellement en outre : - Au moins une pluralité de modules de stimulation (13) configurés pour générer une pluralité de stimulations. - Au moins une pluralité de modules de mesure (14) configurés pour mesurer des paramètres environnementaux et physique de l'utilisateur.

System and methods for performing neurophysiologic assessments with pressure monitoring

Systems and methods for performing neurophysiologic assessments of neural tissue including nerve pathology monitoring which may or may not be augmented by adding the ability to assess or monitor the pressure being exerted upon a nerve or nerve root before, during and/or after retraction.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NON-INVASIVE AUTONOMIC NERVE ACTIVITY MONITORING USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Neuropathy test device

DEVICES TO KANNULATION AND FOR NERVE MONITORING

AURICULAR STIMULATION DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USE

An auricular stimulation device having surface electrodes biased towards each other, and offset from one another, is provided. The stimulation device can be positioned about the ear of a patient with each of the electrodes overlaying auricular ear tissue containing innervation supplied by an auricular branch of the vagus nerve. The electrodes transcutaneously stimulate the auricular branch. Also provided is a method of treating a patient using the auricular stimulation device. The stimulation device can be used for treating patients with conditions such as high blood pressure, depression, high blood glucose level, and tinnitus. Also provided is a diagnostic and therapeutic system having the auricular stimulation device, a smart device and a monitoring device. The smart device controls the auricular stimulation device based on biomarker information received from the monitoring device; and on information related to the patient, such as age, musculoskeletal stability, etc.; and/or on user ...

Anaesthesia and consciousness depth monitoring system

The present invention consists of a method and system incorporating non-linear dynamic (NLD) analysis such as entropy or other complexity analysis monitoring continuous or evoked signals from a biological subject, where such a system comprises of processing steps including: a) the combination of a biological signal evoked as a result of patient stimulation presented to a biological subject and a non-linear analysis method capable of capturing temporal changes in signal order or regularity; b) any combination (of processed evoked or continuous central nervous or peripheral physiological mechanisms b) a means to generate a measure ( indicative of a patient's level of anaesthesia and consciousness depth (A&CD), sedation or sleep/wake state. Additionally, the present invention consists of a method and system incorporating a NLD analysis means to improve the discrimination between different signals origins including any combination of: a) central nervous system (CNS), b) peripheral control or ...

Devices and methods for nerve mapping

One embodiment includes a method for monitoring nerve tissue which includes inserting a dilator into muscle, the dilator including first and second electrodes at the distal tip. While the dilator is in muscle, a system may communicate (a) a first series of unequal current amplitude applications (e.g., a series including 0.5, 7, 3, 5 mA applications) to the first electrode to produce at least a first evoked potential (e.g., a MAP or NAP), and (b) a second series of unequal current amplitude applications to the second electrode to produce at least a second evoked potential. The method further includes sensing the first and second evoked potentials and determining a relative location of a nerve based on the sensing of at least one of the first and second evoked potentials.

System and method for stimulating medical electrode with a measurement capability

A peripheral nerve conduction diagnosis system that utilizes an electrostimulation device having dry elastomer electrodes and a distance measuring device that allow a user to move the electrostimulation device along the skin of a patient while in constant contact with the skin and measure the distance moved.

NEURAL MONITORING SENSOR

Anaesthesia and consciousness depth monitoring system

The present invention consists of a method and system incorporating non-linear dynamic (NLD) analysis such as entropy or other complexity analysis monitoring continuous or evoked signals from a biological subject, where such a system comprises of processing steps including: a) the combination of a biological signal evoked as a result of patient stimulation presented to a biological subject and a non-linear analysis method capable of capturing temporal changes in signal order or regularity; b) any combination (of processed evoked or continuous central nervous or peripheral physiological mechanisms b) a means to generate a measure ( indicative of a patient's level of anaesthesia and consciousness depth (A&CD), sedation or sleep/wake state. Additionally, the present invention consists of a method and system incorporating a NLD analysis means to improve the discrimination between different signals origins including any combination of: a) central nervous system (CNS), b) peripheral control or ...

Percutaneous devices and methods to visualize, target and ablate nerves

Apparatuses for identifying nerve tissue and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example apparatus may include an elongate shaft (124) having a distal region (120) configured to be percutaneously deployed within a patient. An active imaging structure (112, 114) may be disposed on the distal region. The active imaging structure may be configured to remotely image nerve tissue by exciting a signal in nerve tissue from a percutaneous location and receiving the signal from a percutaneous location. The active imaging structure may include one or more probes (102).

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR NON-INVASIVELY MONITORING AUTONOMIC NERVE ACTIVITY

System and methods for monitoring and/or controlling nerve activity in a subject are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes electrodes configured to be placed proximate to a subject's skin, and a signal detector configured to detect electrical signals using the electrodes. The system also includes a signal processor configured to receive the electrical signals from the signal detector, and apply a filter to the received electrical signals to generate filtered signals, the filter configured to attenuate at least signals having frequencies corresponding to heart muscle activity during a heartbeat. The signal processor is also configured to identify a skin nerve activity using the filtered signals, estimate a sympathetic nerve activity using the identified skin nerve activity, and further to generate a report indicative of the estimated sympathetic nerve activity. In some aspects, the system further includes a signal generator to deliver the electrical stimulation to the subject's ...

SURGICAL IMAGING SYSTEMS

Systems, methods and devices are provided for illuminating tissue with monochromatic or broadband light and imaging light that has been reflected back from the tissue. Imaging may be white-light imaging or hyperspectral imaging. The system can be a stand-alone hyperspectral imaging system, integrated as part of an external video scope, or as an auxiliary imaging module on an external videoscope. Various elements of a video scope that is particularly suited for minimally invasive surgery is first presented and then its configurations suitable for hyperspectral imaging are explained.

COMPLEX STIMULATION WEARABLE DEVICE ENABLING TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION OF DIZZINESS

The present invention relates to a complex stimulation wearable device enabling treatment and rehabilitation of dizziness. The complex stimulation wearable device of the present invention, as a wearable device which is formed in such a form that is worn on the head of a user, comprises: a hearing stimulation unit which provides hearing stimulation in a state that the hearing stimulation unit is brought into contact with the head of the user; a vibration stimulus unit which provides vibration stimulus from the wearable device; a galvanic electric stimulus unit which provides a galvanic electric stimulus from the wearable device; an augmented reality unit which is provided to obtain immersion and effective treatment when the user is provided with stimuli for diagnosing and treating dizziness; and a control unit which controls the hearing stimulation unit, the vibration stimulus unit, the galvanic electric stimulus unit, and the augmented reality unit by comparing a dizziness level of the ...

Force sensing device and force sensing system

NEURAL MONITORING SYSTEM

A system for detecting the presence of a nerve within a subject includes a stimulator configured to provide a stimulus to a portion of the subject, a sensing device configured to be placed in communication with a muscle of the subject and to generate an output signal corresponding to a monitored parameter of the muscle, the sensing device including a mechanical sensor configured to monitor a mechanical parameter of the muscle, and a receiver configured to receive the output signal from the sensing device and to determine if the output signal corresponds to the stimulus provided by the stimulator.

Method and apparatus for phrenic stimulation detection

Approaches for characterizing a phrenic stimulation threshold, a cardiac capture threshold, a maximum device parameter, and a minimum device parameter are described. A plurality of cardiac pacing pulses can be delivered by using a cardiac pacing device, a pacing parameter of the plurality of cardiac pacing pulses being changed between delivery of at least some of the pulses. One or more sensor signals can be evaluated to detect stimulation of the phrenic nerve by one or more of the plurality of cardiac pacing pluses. The evaluation of the one or more sensor signals and the pacing parameter can be compared to determine if a phrenic stimulation threshold is at least one of higher than a maximum device parameter and lower than a minimum device parameter.

METHOD OF MAPPING A NERVE

A method of modeling a nerve disposed within an intracorporeal treatment area of a patient includes locating an electrode at a plurality of locations within a virtual workspace and providing an electrical stimulus from the electrode to the intracorporeal treatment area. The response of a muscle to the electrical stimulus is monitored and used to determine a distance to the nerve from each of the plurality of locations. A virtual model of the nerve is then constructed within the virtual workspace using the determined distance to the nerve from each of the different positions, and the plurality of locations within the virtual workspace.

УСТРОЙСТВО И СПОСОБ ДЛЯ ОЦЕНКИ ДИАБЕТИЧЕСКОЙ ПЕРИФЕРИЧЕСКОЙ НЕЙРОПАТИИ

FIELD: medical equipment. SUBSTANCE: group of inventions refers to medical equipment, namely to device and method for measuring high reproducibility of threshold time simple application to bottom of foot of movable stimulus and evaluating peripheral neuropathy resulted from diabetes. There are support for foot, probe, designed to apply to bottom of foot of movable stimulus, probe drive arranged on basis of intended for movement of probe at bottom of the foot separately in directions crossed at right angle. Besides, there are input switch used subject, hardware moving stimulus, drive controller intended to control drive mode of the drive spindle, and the main controller intended for evaluation of measured threshold sensation. EFFECT: drive controller controls the drive spindle drive mode, using reference data and correction coefficients at age for applying a mode of the primary stimulus, then for measuring sensitivity threshold are mode applying secondary stimulus and mode of applying tertiary stimulus. 9 cl, 8 dwg РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) RU (11) (51) МПК A61B 10/00 (13) 2 589 543 C1 (2006.01) ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ (12) ОПИСАНИЕ (21)(22) Заявка: ИЗОБРЕТЕНИЯ К ПАТЕНТУ 2015100003/14, 18.09.2012 (24) Дата начала отсчета срока действия патента: 18.09.2012 (45) Опубликовано: 10.07.2016 Бюл. № 19 (85) Дата начала рассмотрения заявки PCT на национальной фазе: 12.01.2015 (86) Заявка PCT: JP 2012/073835 (18.09.2012) (87) Публикация заявки PCT: 2 5 8 9 5 4 3 (56) Список документов, цитированных в отчете о поиске: WO2012017614A1, 09.02.2012. JP201022585A, 04.02.2010. JP2010-11984A, 21.01.2010. RU2116046C1, 27.07.1998. (73) Патентообладатель(и): НЭШНЛ ИНСТИТЬЮТ ОФ ЭДВАНСТ ИНДАСТРИАЛ САЙЕНС ЭНД ТЕКНОЛОДЖИ (JP), СЁВА ЮНИВЕРСИТИ (JP), ТАКАХАСИ Нориё (JP), АСУКА ЭЛЕКТРИК КО. ЛТД. (JP) R U Приоритет(ы): (22) Дата подачи заявки: 18.09.2012 (72) Автор(ы): ТАКАХАСИ Нориё (JP), ИНО Сюити (JP), САТО Мицуру (JP), ЁСИМУРА Синити (JP) 2 5 8 9 5 4 3 R U Адрес ...

A device, system and method for vibration sensitivity assessment

Detecting activity in peripheral nerves

Method of routing electrical current to bodily tissues via implanted passive conductors

NON-INVASIVE FUNCTIONAL IMAGING OF PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM ACTIVATION IN HUMANS AND ANIMALS

Surgical imaging systems

Systems, methods and devices are provided for illuminating tissue with monochromatic or broadband light and imaging light that has been reflected back from the tissue. Imaging may be white-light imaging or hyperspectral imaging. The system can be a stand-alone hyperspectral imaging system, integrated as part of an external video scope, or as an auxiliary imaging module on an external videoscope. Various elements of a video scope that is particularly suited for minimally invasive surgery is first presented and then its configurations suitable for hyperspectral imaging are explained.

Oral-esophageal-gastric device with esophageal cuff to reduce gastric reflux and/or emesis

A nasogastric/orogastric (Ng/Og) airway protection device includes an elongate device body having a distal end for insertion into the stomach through the esophagus and a proximal end. A main lumen extends the length of the device and is configured for at least one of gastric decompression, enteral feeding and enteral medication administration. A sump port is at the distal end. A sump lumen is formed the length of the device body and configured for venting gas and preventing adherence of the device against the gastric wall. An inflatable esophageal cuff is carried by the device body mid-esophagus and an inflation lumen is formed within the device body and connects the inflatable esophageal cuff through which the esophageal cuff is inflated and deflated. Upon inflation of the esophageal cuff, emesis and/or reflux is blocked from passing out of the stomach past the esophageal cuff positioned mid-esophagus to protect a patient's airway.

Oral-esophageal-gastric device to diagnose reflux and/or emesis

A system and method diagnoses esophageal reflux in a patient. A catheter (1500) includes a first pressure sensor (1510) configured to measure intra-abdominal pressure when the catheter is inserted into the stomach of a patient. A second pressure sensor (1512) is located proximal to the distal tip and configured to measure intra-thoracic pressure. A pH indicator (1520) is carried by the catheter body and configured to indicate that reflux has occurred in response to an involuntary reflex cough test. A processing device is configured to receive data regarding the first and second pressure sensors and regarding the pH indicator and process that data and assess if reflux is present during the involuntary epoch.

System and methods for non-invasively monitoring autonomic nerve activity using skin

System and methods for monitoring and/or controlling nerve activity in a subject are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes electrodes configured to be placed proximate to a subject's skin, and a signal detector configured to detect electrical signals using the electrodes. The system also includes a signal processor configured to receive the electrical signals from the signal detector, and apply a filter to the received electrical signals to generate filtered signals, the filter configured to attenuate at least signals having frequencies corresponding to heart muscle activity during a heartbeat. The signal processor is also configured to identify a skin nerve activity using the filtered signals, estimate a sympathetic nerve activity using the identified skin nerve activity, and further to generate a report indicative of the estimated sympathetic nerve activity. In some aspects, the system further includes a signal generator to deliver the electrical stimulation to the subject's ...

Nerve monitoring and/or stimulation electrode assemblies

Stimulation and recording electrode assemblies that are particularly useful for Automatic Period Stimulation (APS). Such embodiments are compatible with nerve monitoring systems to provide continuous stimulation of a nerve during surgery. Certain embodiments include an electrode assembly having cuff including a body and two ears extending from the body. Within the body, at least one electrode is supported and connected to a lead wire assembly. The ears can be brought together to enlarge a gap in the body so that the electrode assembly can be fixated around a nerve. Other embodiments include an electrode assembly including first and second needle electrodes that each have a tip. A body is provided to interconnect the needle electrodes and can be manipulated to move the tips either toward or away from one another. Disclosed embodiments provide nerve monitoring and stimulation in cases where the nerve is only partially dissected.

COMMUNICATION DEVICES, METHODS, AND SYSTEMS

Numerous aspects of communication devices, methods, and systems are described in this application. One aspect is a communication device comprising: a body comprising a distal surface compatible with skin; a tissue interface on the distal surface, the tissue interface comprising a plurality of energy generators, each energy generator being operable to output a plurality of energies in a signal direction toward the skin; and a processing unit configured to communicate with nerves associated with the skin by receiving input data, and causing the plurality of energy generators to output an energy signal in the signal direction with one or more energies of the plurality of energies.

HMGB1 AND ANTI-HMGB1 ANTIBODIES FOR THE PROGNOSTIC OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS

The invention relates to in vitro method for quantitating the antibodies specific for High mobility group box I (HMGB1) contained in a sample, in particular a serum sample or a cerebrospinal fluid sample obtained from a patient, and the use of this method in the prognostic and/or diagnosis of neurological disorders. These methods are in particular applicable to the monitoring of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection of a subject who is known to be infected with HIV and in the prognostic and/or diagnostic of the state of progression of Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or the state of progression toward AIDS, in particular the state of progression or the state of progression toward neurological disorders associated with AIDS. Finally, the invention is also about method to determine the immune deficiency or level of immune activation of a patient, in particular a HIV-infected patient.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TARGETING HEART RHYTHM DISORDERS USING SHAPED ABLATION

Provided is a system and method to target a biological rhythm disorder, such as a heart rhythm disorder. The system and method include processing cardiac signals via a computing device to determine a shape in a region of tissue defined by a source associated with the biological rhythm disorder that migrates spatially on or within the shape, and identifying at least one portion of the tissue proximate to the shape to enable selective modification of the at least one portion of tissue in order to terminate or alter the heart rhythm disorder.

Biomechatronic data communication systems

NERVE STIMULATION BIOPSY DEVICE

A nerve stimulation biopsy device configured to deliver a precise and adjustable stimulus signal into a biopsy site. The stimulus signal is used to distinguish between functioning nerve fibers and target tissue. Also disclosed is a method for safely performing a biopsy procedure on a biopsy site of a patient, which utilizes introducing a stimulus signal to the biopsy site.

Measuring somatic response to stimulus utilizing a mobile computing device

A mobile computing device for measuring somatic response of a user to stimulus includes motion sensors, a volatile memory, and a processor for: executing a baseline calibration process including receiving first and second supervised data from the user, and first and second sensor data from the motion sensors, while the user performs a triple whip gesture, calculating signal strength of the first and second sensor data using a k-means clustering algorithm, and executing a classification process including reading third unsupervised data from the user and third sensor data from the motion sensors while the user performs the triple whip gesture.

Method of routing electrical current to bodily tissues via implanted passive conductors

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.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NEURO-EEG SYNCHRONIZATION THERAPY

Described are methods, devices, and systems for a novel, inexpensive, easy to use therapy for a number of disorders. Described are methods and devices to treat disorders that involves no medication. Methods and devices described herein use alternating magnetic fields to gently tune the brain and affect mood, focus, and cognition of subjects.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE-BASED ROBOTIC SYSTEM FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY

A robotic system includes retrieval of a priori stimulus based on an input that indicates a current health state and a target health state of a user. A set of test stimuli specific for the user is determined and a stimulus device is controlled to provide the set of test stimuli to the user. A first set of responses within the body of the user and a second set of responses discernible on the body of the user are determined, and a set of stimulus parameters for the stimulus device is calibrated based on the combination of the first set of responses, the second set of responses, the current health state, the target health state, and a trained AI-based system. A new stimulus is applied to a portion of the body of the user that shifts a condition of the user from the current health state towards the target health state.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING FOR NERVE DAMAGE

A device, system and method for vibration sensitivity assessment

A device 10 for testing a subjects sensitivity to vibration has an attachment portion configured to detachably connect the device to a programmable vibration source 20 and a probe 34 configured to be applied to a test location on a test subjects skin and to convey vibrations generated by the programmable vibration source to the test location. The programmable vibration source may be a mobile telephone, or tablet computer, and the vibration source may be a notification mechanism for the user of the telephone. The attachment portion may be a resilient clip which contacts the rim of the mobile phone. The probe may have non-uniform density, and may have a helical portion (60, Figure 2C), and a point or spherical portion at a distal end. The programmable vibration source may control the intensity, frequency and amplitude of the vibrations. A method of testing the subjects sensitivity to vibrations involves generating vibrations with the vibration source, applying the vibrations to the subject ...

Nerve surveillance cannulae systems

STIMULATION PROBE ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS OF USE

Aspects of the disclosure include a bio-electric stimulation probe assembly including a patch including a first aperture and also a guide socket including a grommet and a second aperture. The guide socket is positioned on the patch such that the first and second apertures are aligned. The assembly further includes a guide including a tip that is positioned within and rotatable within the grommet. A probe of the assembly having at least one electrode is interconnected with the guide and extends through the first and second apertures. The guide and guide socket are collectively arranged and configured so that the guide has three degrees of rotational freedom with respect to the grommet thus meaning the probe correspondingly has three degrees of rotational freedom with respect to the grommet. Methods of using stimulation probe assemblies are also disclosed.

AURICULAR STIMULATION DEVICE

An auricular stimulation device having surface electrodes biased towards each other, and offset from one another, is provided. The stimulation device can be positioned about the ear of a patient with each of the electrodes overlaying auricular ear tissue containing innervation supplied by an auricular branch of the vagus nerve. The electrodes transcutaneously stimulate the auricular branch. Also provided is a method of treating a patient using the auricular stimulation device. The stimulation device can be used for treating patients with conditions such as high blood pressure, depression, high blood glucose level, and tinnitus. Also provided is a diagnostic and therapeutic system having the auricular stimulation device, a smart device and a monitoring device. The smart device controls the auricular stimulation device based on biomarker information received from the monitoring device; and on information related to the patient, such as age, musculoskeletal stability, etc.; and/or on user input.

SURGICAL IMAGING SYSTEMS

... ² Systems, methods and devices are provided for illuminating tissue with ²monochromatic or broadband light and imaging light that has been reflected ²back from the tissue. Imaging may be white-light imaging or hyperspectral ²imaging. The system can be a stand-alone hyperspectral imaging system, ²integrated as part of an external video scope, or as an auxiliary imaging ²module on an external videoscope. Various elements of a video scope that is ²particularly suited for minimally invasive surgery is first presented and then ²its ²configurations suitable for hyperspectral imaging are explained.² ...

PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE

La présente invention concerne un dispositif électronique portatif (1) comprenant au moins un circuit électronique flexible (11) et une enveloppe souple (12) dans laquelle le circuit électronique flexible est logé, l'enveloppe souple étant destinée à être fixée au moins en partie autour d'une partie corporelle d'un utilisateur, le dispositif électronique portatif (1) étant caractérisé en ce que le circuit électronique flexible (11) supporte fonctionnellement en outre : - Au moins une pluralité de modules de stimulation (13) configurés pour générer une pluralité de stimulations. - Au moins une pluralité de modules de mesure (14) configurés pour mesurer des paramètres environnementaux et physique de l'utilisateur.

NEUROPATHY TEST DEVICE

A neuropathy test device includes a probe (70) having a front end (71) and a rear end (73). The probe includes a first region of ferromagnetic material (76) embedded therein toward the rear end (73) and a second region of ferromagnetic material (82) toward the front end thereof. A third magnetic region (84) is located between the first and second magnetic regions, being closer to the second magnetic region. The probe (70) is mounted for sliding in the interior space defined by an annular magnet (80). The annular magnet is held in a housing (86). The probe is initially held in a first stable position by interaction of the magnet (80) with the first magnetic region (76). When the front end (71) is pressed against the skin, and the housing (86) urged toward the skin, the resulting reaction force on the front end (71) of the probe causes the probe to retract into the housing (86) against the restoring force exerted by magnet (80) on the first magnetic region (76). As the probe retracts further ...

NERVE MONITORING AND/OR STIMULATION ELECTRODE ASSEMBLIES

Stimulation and recording electrode assemblies that are particularly useful for Automatic Period Stimulation (APS). Such embodiments are compatible with nerve monitoring systems to provide continuous stimulation of a nerve during surgery. Certain embodiments include an electrode assembly having cuff including a body and two ears extending from the body. Within the body, at least one electrode is supported and connected to a lead wire assembly. The ears can be brought together to enlarge a gap in the body so that the electrode assembly can be fixated around a nerve. Other embodiments include an electrode assembly including first and second needle electrodes that each have a tip. A body is provided to interconnect the needle electrodes and can be manipulated to move the tips either toward or away from one another. Disclosed embodiments provide nerve monitoring and stimulation in cases where the nerve is only partially dissected. 1. An electrode assembly comprising:first and second needle electrodes; wherein the first needle electrode includes a first tip and the second needle electrode includes a second tip;a body having a first end, a second end, a first side portion and a second side portion; wherein the body interconnects the first and second needle electrodes; further wherein the body includes a hinge segment interconnecting the first and second side portions;wherein the body has a natural arrangement and the body also has an expanded arrangement in which the first and second side portions are drawn together at the second end such that the first and second tips are positioned further away from each other as compared to the natural arrangement; anda lead wire assembly interconnected to the first electrode and a second lead wire assembly interconnected to the second electrode.2. The electrode assembly of claim 1 , wherein each the first portion includes a first support block and the second portion includes a second support block and further wherein claim 1 , in the ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR NEUROHYDRODISSECTION

A method of neurohydrodissection for reducing a perception of pain in a patient is disclosed. The method comprises the step of physically inspecting a patient and locating a first compression site of a nerve of the patient where the nerve passes through a tissue and is inflamed. The method comprises the step of imaging the patient at the first compression site. The method comprises the step of inserting a syringe at the first compression site, wherein while the first compression site is being imaged, guiding the syringe to an intersection between the nerve and the tissue, injecting a solution with the syringe at the intersection and dissecting the nerve from the tissue.

Parasympathetic stimulation for treating atrial arrhythmia and heart failure

Apparatus is provided that includes an electrode device, adapted to be coupled to a vagus nerve of a subject, and a control unit, adapted to drive the electrode device to apply to the vagus nerve a current that reduces heart rate variability of the subject. Also provided is a method comprising applying to a vagus nerve of a subject a current that reduces heart rate variability of the subject.

PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR MEASURING ELECTRICAL PARAMETERS OF NERVE AND MUSCLE TISSUE

HMGB1 AND ANTI-HMGB1 ANTIBODIES FOR THE PROGNOSTIC OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS

The invention relates to in vitro method for quantitating the antibodies specific for High mobility group box I (HMGB1) contained in a sample, in particular a serum sample or a cerebrospinal fluid sample obtained from a patient, and the use of this method in the prognostic and/or diagnosis of neurological disorders. These methods are in particular applicable to the monitoring of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection of a subject who is known to be infected with HIV and in the prognostic and/or diagnostic of the state of progression of Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or the state of progression toward AIDS, in particular the state of progression or the state of progression toward neurological disorders associated with AIDS. Finally, the invention is also about method to determine the immune deficiency or level of immune activation of a patient, in particular a HIV-infected patient.

Chronic Implantable Neural Probe Array For Neural Signal Acquisition and Stimulation

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MEASUREMENT OF NEURAL RESPONSE

A method for determining a desired location at which to apply a neural therapy. An array of electrodes is positioned proximal to neural tissue. A stimulus is applied from the array which evokes a neural compound action potential response in the neural tissue proximal to the array. A plurality of electrodes of the array simultaneously obtain respective measurements of the neural compound action potential response. From the measurements of the neural compound action potential response a desired location for a neural therapy is determined.

PHRENIC NERVE STIMULATION DETECTION USING HEART SOUNDS

A method and system of detecting phrenic nerve stimulation in a patient that includes detecting an activation event, obtaining a heart sound signal of a patient from an implanted heart sound sensor, determining that an electrical stimulation has been applied to the patient, in response to detecting the activation event, monitoring a portion of the heart sound signal, the portion defined by a predetermined window after the application of the electrical stimulation, and determining whether phrenic nerve stimulation occurred based on the portion of the heart sound signal.

Phrenic nerve stimulation detection using heart sounds

A method and system of detecting phrenic nerve stimulation in a patient that includes detecting an activation event, obtaining a heart sound signal of a patient from an implanted heart sound sensor, determining that an electrical stimulation has been applied to the patient, in response to detecting the activation event, monitoring a portion of the heart sound signal, the portion defined by a predetermined window after the application of the electrical stimulation, and determining whether phrenic nerve stimulation occurred based on the portion of the heart sound signal.

Techniques for applying, calibrating, and controlling nerve fiber stimulation

Apparatus is provided including an electrode device, adapted to be coupled to a site of a subject; and a control unit, adapted to drive the electrode device to apply a current to the site intermittently during alternating "on" and "off"periods, each of the "on" periods having an "on" duration equal to between 1 and 10 seconds, and each of the "off" periods having an "off"duration equal to at least 50% of the "on" duration. Other embodiments are also described.

Neuropathy test device

Percutaneous devices and methods to visualize, target and ablate nerves

Apparatuses for identifying nerve tissue and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example apparatus may include an elongate shaft (124) having a distal region (120) configured to be percutaneously deployed within a patient. An active imaging structure (112, 114) may be disposed on the distal region. The active imaging structure may be configured to remotely image nerve tissue by exciting a signal in nerve tissue from a percutaneous location and receiving the signal from a percutaneous location. The active imaging structure may include one or more probes (102).

System for controlling target of neurostimulation using temporal parameters

One or more temporal stimulation parameters of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) are selected to substantially modulate one or more target physiological functions without substantially modulating one or more non-target physiological functions. In one embodiment, a stimulation duty cycle is selected such that VNS is delivered to the cervical vagus nerve trunk to modulate a cardiovascular function without causing laryngeal muscle contractions.

SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR NON-INVASIVELY MONITORING AUTONOMIC NERVE ACTIVITY USING SKIN

System and methods for monitoring and/or controlling nerve activity in a subject are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes electrodes configured to be placed proximate to a subject's skin, and a signal detector configured to detect electrical signals using the electrodes. The system also includes a signal processor configured to receive the electrical signals from the signal detector, and apply a filter to the received electrical signals to generate filtered signals, the filter configured to attenuate at least signals having frequencies corresponding to heart muscle activity during a heartbeat. The signal processor is also configured to identify a skin nerve activity using the filtered signals, estimate a sympathetic nerve activity using the identified skin nerve activity, and further to generate a report indicative of the estimated sympathetic nerve activity. In some aspects, the system further includes a signal generator to deliver the electrical stimulation to the subject's ...

Using the shaping ablation jit targeting heart rhythm disorder of a system and method

OFFSET ILLUMINATION OF A SCENE USING MULTIPLE EMITTERS IN A HYPERSPECTRAL, FLUORESCENCE, AND LASER MAPPING IMAGING SYSTEM

Offset illumination using multiple emitters in a fluorescence imaging system is described. A system includes an emitter for emitting pulses of electromagnetic radiation and an image sensor comprising a pixel array for sensing reflected electromagnetic radiation. The emitter comprises a first emitter and a second emitter for emitting different wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation. The system is such that at least a portion of the pulses of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the emitter comprises one or more of a hyperspectral emission, a fluorescence emission, and/or a laser mapping pattern.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NERVE MAPPING AND MONITORING

Embodiments can include a nerve mapping and monitoring system that can include a multi-polar stimulation unit, an electrical connector, an instrument having a grid array, where the grid array can comprise a plurality of electrodes, where each of the plurality of electrodes can be configured to be stimulated by the multi-polar stimulation unit, a recording element, where the recording element can be configured to detect a muscle response elicited by the grid array, and a computer, where the computer can be configured to monitor the muscle response elicited by the grid array such that neural structures can be identified and avoided.

HMGB1 and anti-HMGB1 antibodies for the prognostic of neurological disorders

The invention relates to in vitro method for quantitating the antibodies specific for High mobility group box I (HMGB1) contained in a sample, in particular a serum sample or a cerebrospinal fluid sample obtained from a patient, and the use of this method in the prognostic and/or diagnosis of neurological disorders. These methods are in particular applicable to the monitoring of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection of a subject who is known to be infected with HIV and in the prognostic and/or diagnostic of the state of progression of Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or the state of progression toward AIDS, in particular the state of progression or the state of progression toward neurological disorders associated with AIDS. Finally, the invention is also about method to determine the immune deficiency or level of immune activation of a patient, in particular a HIV-infected patient.

COMMUNICATION DEVICES, METHODS, AND SYSTEMS

Exemplary aspects of an energy transceiver system are described, such as a wearable body and an energy generator comprising a plurality of generator elements operable to output a plurality of different energy types in a signal direction toward a user when the wearable body is worn. Each generator element of the plurality of generator elements may be independently operable to output one energy type of the plurality of different energy types in the signal direction. A biocompatible adhesive may attach the wearable body to the skin. A controller may cause the plurality of energy generator elements to output an energy signal in the signal direction with one or more energy types of the different energy types. The adhesive may maintain a position of the wearable body relative to the user and an orientation of the signal direction relative to the living tissues(s). Related apparatus, methods, and systems are described.

A device, system and method for vibration sensitivity assessment

System for controlling target of neurostimulation using temporal parameters

One or more temporal stimulation parameters of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) are selected to substantially modulate one or more target physiological functions without substantially modulating one or more non-target physiological functions. In one embodiment, a stimulation duty cycle is selected such that VNS is delivered to the cervical vagus nerve trunk to modulate a cardiovascular function without causing laryngeal muscle contractions.

Oral-esophageal-gastric device to diagnose reflux and/or emesis

A system and method diagnoses esophageal reflux in a patient. A catheter (1500) includes a first pressure sensor (1510) configured to measure intra-abdominal pressure when the catheter is inserted into the stomach of a patient. A second pressure sensor (1512) is located proximal to the distal tip and configured to measure intra-thoracic pressure. A pH indicator (1520) is carried by the catheter body and configured to indicate that reflux has occurred in response to an involuntary reflex cough test. A processing device is configured to receive data regarding the first and second pressure sensors and regarding the pH indicator and process that data and assess if reflux is present during the involuntary epoch.

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR INTRAOPERATIVELY CONFIRMING LOCATION OF TISSUE STRUCTURES

Systems, methods and devices are provided for intraoperatively confirming location of tissue structures during medical procedures. Preoperative image data of a patient's skeletal structure in a vicinity of an anatomical part undergoing a medical procedure is acquired. During the procedure, after exposing tissue intraoperative image data is acquired by scanning a selected region of tissue, in a vicinity of the skeletal structure using Polarization Sensitive-Optical Coherence Tomography (PS-OCT). Regions of tissue exhibiting structural organization in the vicinity of the skeletal structure are identified from the intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data. Geometrically correlating and registering the intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data with the preoperative image data of the skeletal structure in the vicinity of the anatomical part is then performed using a priori known anatomical information about the regions of tissue exhibiting structural information.

HMGB1 AND ANTI-HMGB1 ANTIBODIES FOR THE PROGNOSTIC OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING APPARATUS AND IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS

A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to an embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to specify a search start position of a matrix representing inter-regional connectivity between a plurality of regions in a brain based on a result of an analysis on an image of a subject and an attention degree set to each of the regions. The processing circuitry is configured to search the matrix using the search start position.

Peripheral neural interface via nerve regeneration to distal tissues

At least partial function of a human limb is restored by surgically removing at least a portion of an injured or diseased human limb from a surgical site of an individual and transplanting a selected muscle into the remaining biological body of the individual, followed by contacting the transplanted selected muscle, or an associated nerve, with an electrode, to thereby control a device, such as a prosthetic limb, linked to the electrode. Simulating proprioceptive sensory feedback from a device includes mechanically linking at least one pair of agonist and antagonist muscles, wherein a nerve innervates each muscle, and supporting each pair with a support, whereby contraction of the agonist muscle of each pair will cause extension of the paired antagonist muscle. An electrode is implanted in a muscle of each pair and electrically connected to a motor controller of the device, thereby simulating proprioceptive sensory feedback from the device.

Magnetic resonance imaging apparatus and image processing apparatus

A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to an embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to specify a search start position of a matrix representing inter-regional connectivity between a plurality of regions in a brain based on a result of an analysis on an image of a subject and an attention degree set to each of the regions. The processing circuitry is configured to search the matrix using the search start position.

Techniques for applying, configuring, and coordinating nerve fiber stimulation

Apparatus is provided including an implantable sensor, adapted to sense an electrical parameter of a heart of a subject, and a first control unit, adapted to apply pulses to the heart responsively to the sensed parameter, the pulses selected from the list consisting of: pacing pulses and anti-arrhythmic energy. The apparatus further includes an electrode device, adapted to be coupled to a site of the subject selected from the list consisting of: a vagus nerve of the subject, an epicardial fat pad of the subject, a pulmonary vein of the subject, a carotid artery of the subject, a carotid sinus of the subject, a coronary sinus of the subject, a vena cava vein of the subject, a right ventricle of the subject, and a jugular vein of the subject; and a second control unit, adapted to drive the electrode device to apply to the site a current that increases parasympathetic tone of the subject and affects a heart rate of the subject. The first and second control units are not under common control. At least one of the control units is adapted to coordinate an aspect of its operation with an aspect of operation of the other control unit. Other embodiments are also described.

Apparatus and Methods for Determining a Subject's Response to Catheter-Based Ablation Therapy Based on Spectral Mapping During Sinus Rhythm

Apparatus for curative ablation are provided to achieve the inactivation or destruction of fibrillar myocardium of the so-called AF nests. In addition, fibrillar myocardium may be identified and mapped by spectral analysis and phase study of the tissue during sinus rhythm. The procedure may be performed by transseptal puncture using only one catheter for ablation and mapping. The methods may be used to localize the application targets even during an arrhythmia.

Inductively rechargeable implantable device with reduced eddy currents

A case for an implantable medical device includes a metal case portion, having an inside and an outside, configured to attach to at least one other case portion to define a biocompatible case for the implantable medical device. The metal case portion has a plurality of grooves disposed on at least one of the inside and the outside, the grooves being oriented substantially perpendicular to an expected direction of eddy currents produced by an inductive recharging coil in proximity thereto.

Phrenic nerve stimulation detection using heart sounds

A method of delivering phrenic nerve stimulation in a medical device system that includes detecting an activation event, delivering phrenic nerve stimulation therapy in response to the detected activation event, sensing a heart sound signal, in response to the delivered phrenic nerve stimulation therapy, monitoring a portion of the sensed heart sound signal, the portion defined by a predetermined window ocurring after the delivered phrenic nerve stimulation therapy, and determining whether the delivered phrenic nerve stimulation therapy was successful in response to the monitoring.

NEURAL MONITORING SYSTEM

A neural monitoring system for detecting an induced response of a muscle to a stimulus provided within an intracorporeal treatment area of a human subject includes a mechanical sensor configured to be placed in mechanical communication with the muscle and to generate a mechanomyography output signal corresponding to a sensed mechanical movement of the muscle, and a receiver in communication with the mechanical sensor. The receiver is configured to: receive the mechanomyography output signal from the mechanical sensor; compute a time derivative of an acceleration of the muscle from the mechanomyography output signal; compare the computed time derivative of acceleration to a jerk threshold; and indicate that the sensed mechanical movement of the muscle was induced by the provided intracorporeal stimulus if the computed time derivative of acceleration exceeds the jerk threshold. 1. A neural monitoring system for detecting an induced response of a muscle to a stimulus provided within an intracorporeal treatment area of a human subject , the intracorporeal treatment area including a nerve that innervates the muscle , the neural monitoring system comprising:a mechanical sensor configured to be placed in mechanical communication with the muscle and to generate a mechanomyography output signal corresponding to a sensed mechanical movement of the muscle; and receive the mechanomyography output signal from the mechanical sensor;', 'compute a time derivative of an acceleration of the muscle from the mechanomyography output signal;', 'compare the computed time derivative of acceleration to a jerk threshold; and', 'indicate that the sensed mechanical movement of the muscle was induced by the provided intracorporeal stimulus if the computed time derivative of acceleration exceeds the jerk threshold., 'a receiver in communication with the mechanical sensor and configured to2. The neural monitoring system of claim 1 , further comprising a stimulator configured to extend within the ...

Systems and methods for monitoring for nerve damage

Various device embodiments may comprise an implantable medical device for implantation in a body and for applying neural stimulation to a neural target in the body. The device may comprise a neural stimulation electrode configured for use in stimulating the neural target, a neural stimulator configured to deliver neural stimulation through the electrode to the neural target, a sensor configured to sense a physiological response to stimulation of motor fibers at the neural target, and a controller operatively connected to the neural stimulator to control the neural stimulation and operatively connected to the sensor to receive a signal indicative of the physiological response. The controller may be configured to detect a potential neural injury and perform an action in response to the detected potential neural injury.

Palpatory Diagnostic System and Method

A generally cylindrical housing has proximal and distal ends and is formed with a length and a diameter. A cylindrical recess is formed in the proximal end. The cylindrical recess has an interior shoulder. A cone is formed at the distal end. An axial passageway extends though the cone. A hollow interior is in the housing forming a chamber in communication with the axial passageway. A cylindrical identifying component is positioned within the recess in contact with the shoulder. A marking component is positioned within the axial passageway and has an extent projecting distally of the distal end. A marking fluid is located within the chamber.

SENSOR-BASED PHRENIC NERVE STIMULATION DETECTION

A method and device for detecting phrenic nerve stimulation (PNS) in, or using, a cardiac medical device. A test signal sensitive to contraction of a diaphragm of a patient may be sensed and signal artifacts of the test signal within each of a first window of the test signal prior to a predetermined cardiac signal and a second window of the test signal subsequent to the predetermined cardiac signal may be determined. The PNS beat criteria may be evaluated, for example, using the test signal, which may be a heart sounds signal. 1sensing a test signal, the test signal being sensitive to contraction of a diaphragm of a patient;determining signal artifacts of the test signal within each of a first window of the test signal prior to a predetermined cardiac signal and a second window of the test signal subsequent to the predetermined cardiac signal;determining, in response to signal artifacts of the test signal within the first window and the second window, whether PNS beat criteria have been satisfied;determining, in response to the PNS beat criteria being satisfied, whether PNS episode criteria have been satisfied; anddetecting a PNS episode in response to the PNS episode criteria being satisfied.. A method of detecting phrenic nerve stimulation (PNS) in a cardiac medical device, comprising: This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/595,854 filed on Dec. 7, 2017, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.A wide variety of implantable medical devices for delivering a therapy or monitoring a physiologic condition have been clinically implanted or proposed for clinical implantation in patients. In some cases, implantable medical devices (IMD) deliver electrical stimulation therapy and/or monitor physiological signals via one or more electrodes or sensor elements, which may be included as part of one or more elongated implantable medical leads. The implantable medical leads may be configured to allow one or more ...

HMGB1 AND ANTI-HMGB1 ANTIBODIES FOR THE PROGNOSTIC OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS

The invention relates to in vitro method for quantitating the antibodies specific for High mobility group box I (HMGB1) contained in a sample, in particular a serum sample or a cerebrospinal fluid sample obtained from a patient, and the use of this method in the prognostic and/or diagnosis of neurological disorders. These methods are in particular applicable to the monitoring of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection of a subject who is known to be infected with HIV and in the prognostic and/or diagnostic of the state of progression of Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or the state of progression toward AIDS, in particular the state of progression or the state of progression toward neurological disorders associated with AIDS. Finally, the invention is also about method to determine the immune deficiency or level of immune activation of a patient, in particular a HIV-infected patient.

Systems and methods for nerve mapping and monitoring

Embodiments can include a nerve mapping and monitoring system that can include a multi-polar stimulation unit, an electrical connector, an instrument having a grid array, where the grid array can comprise a plurality of electrodes, where each of the plurality of electrodes can be configured to be stimulated by the multi-polar stimulation unit, a recording element, where the recording element can be configured to detect a muscle response elicited by the grid array, and a computer, where the computer can be configured to monitor the muscle response elicited by the grid array such that neural structures can be identified and avoided.

SYSTEM FOR SENSING PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS

The present invention provides a system for sensing physiological characteristics. The system includes a stimulating light emitting unit, a potential measuring unit, an analog-to-digital converting unit, a characteristic parameter group filtering unit, a characteristic parameter group storing unit, a comparing and calculating unit, an analysis unit, a display unit and a power supply unit. The present invention utilizes external signal light beams to stimulate the skin to fetch data of potential changes, and further observes the status of various organs or systems in the living creature by numerical means. The characteristic parameter group storing unit with the analysis unit and the display unit can remove the error probability caused by man-made operation in the prior arts, suitable for scientific research applications. 1. A system for sensing physiological characteristics , comprising:a stimulating light emitting unit, for continuously emitting signal light beams with specific wavelengths to a first region of skin of a living creature;a potential measuring unit, capable of being attached to a second region of the skin of the living creature, for measuring the electric potential of the second region;an analog-to-digital converting unit, electrically connected to the potential measuring unit, for converting the measured value of electric potential to a corresponding binary value at a sampling frequency within a measuring time;a characteristic parameter group filtering unit, connected to the analog-to-digital converting unit, for converting the binary value from the analog-to-digital converting unit into a plurality of characteristic parameter groups, wherein the plurality of characteristic parameter groups are obtained by fast Fourier transform operation and each characteristic parameter group comprises a plurality of numbers;a characteristic parameter group storing unit, for storing characteristic parameter groups and standard values for each characteristic ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR NEUROHYDRODISSECTION

A method of neurohydrodissection for treating a headache in a patient is disclosed. The method comprises the step of physically inspecting a patient and locating a first compression site of a nerve of the patient where the nerve passes through a tissue and is inflamed. The method comprises the step of ultrasound imaging the patient at the first compression site. The method comprises the step of inserting a syringe at the first compression site, wherein while the first compression site is being imaged, guiding the syringe to an intersection between the nerve and the tissue, injecting a solution with the syringe at the intersection and dissecting the nerve from the tissue. The method comprises the step of confirming with the patient whether a headache symptom has changed. 1. A method of neurohydrodissection for treating a headache in a patient , comprising:(a) physically inspecting a patient and locating a first compression site of a nerve of the patient where the nerve passes through tissue and is inflamed;(b) ultrasound imaging the patient at the first compression site;(c) inserting a syringe at the first compression site, wherein while the first compression site is being imaged, guiding the syringe to an intersection between the nerve and the tissue, injecting a solution with the syringe at the intersection and dissecting the nerve from the tissue; and(d) confirming with the patient whether a headache symptom has changed.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:(e) repeating steps (a)-(d) for a second compression site of the nerve.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the first compression site is located at a distance of about 1 cm to about 5 cm away from the second compression site.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the first and second compression sites are located in an appendage of the patient.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein a progression of the method starts at the appendage of the patient and sequentially progresses from a distal to proximal direction ...

Filament Device and Corresponding Manufacturing Methods

A device () is manufactured from a sheet layer () defining a plurality of panels (). Each panel is connected to at least one other panel along a common edge (). A perforation () extends along the common edge and defines a separation location allowing the each panel to be separated from adjoining panels when an applied force pulls each panel away from the adjoining panels. A score line () bisects each panel and is oriented orthogonally with the perforation. The score line allows a first portion () of each panel to fold about the score line to abut a second portion () of each panel. An adhesive (), disposed along the first portion, retains the first portion to the second portion, as well as retains the filament between the first portion and the second portion. 1. A device , comprising:a sheet layer defining a plurality of panels, each panel connected to at least one other panel along a common edge;a perforation extending along the common edge, the perforation defining a separation location between the each panel and the at least one other panel allowing the each panel to be separated from the at least one other panel when an applied force pulls the each panel away from the at least one other panel;a score line defining a partial incision in the sheet layer, the score line passing across the each panel and oriented orthogonally with the perforation, the score line allowing a first portion of the each panel to fold about the score line to abut a second portion of the each panel;a medial perforation oriented parallel with the score line; andan adhesive, disposed along the first portion, the adhesive retaining the first portion of the each panel to the second portion of the each panel when the first portion and the second portion abut.2. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a filament disposed between the first portion and the second portion.3. The device of claim 2 , the filament shorter than the second portion.4. The device of claim 3 , the filament extending ...

MICRO-MOLDED ELECTRODES, ARRAYS, AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME

A method of manufacturing a micro-molded electrode having multiple individually addressable sensors along a shaft can include forming a recess in a mold substrate, depositing a structural material therein, depositing a conductive material at specific locations, providing a coating, and removing the mold substrate. A micro-molded electrode having a base tapering to at least one shaft can include an electrode substrate, multiple individually addressable sensors, and a coating. 1. A method of manufacturing a micro-molded electrode having multiple individually addressable sensors along a shaft of the micro-molded electrode , comprising:modifying a mold substrate to form a recess therein on a first surface of the mold substrate, the recess defining the perimeter of the micro-molded electrode;depositing a structural material within the recess to form the micro-molded electrode;depositing a conductive material at specific locations on the micro-molded electrode such that the conductive material forms the multiple individually addressable sensors along the shaft of each micro-molded electrode, each sensor comprising a bonding pad at a base of the micro-molded electrode electrically connected to an active site on the shaft of the micro-molded electrode via an electrically conductive trace, the micro-molded electrode having an active site on at least two sides of the micro-molded electrode;coating a top side of the micro-molded electrode and at least one trace with a coating material; andremoving the mold substrate outside the perimeter.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising depositing a structural material within the recess after the deposition of the conductive material.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising depositing a structural material within the recess before the deposition of the conductive material.4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising polishing the first surface of the mold substrate after deposition of the structural material.5. The method of ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ASSESSMENT OF HAPTIC PERCEPTION IMPAIRMENTS AND MOTOR CONTROL ABNORMALITIES

Materials, systems, and assemblies for assessment of haptic perception impairments and motor control abnormalities. 1. An apparatus for measuring peripheral nerve impairment , the apparatus comprising:a housing that includes a mechanically compliant surface;an actuator accessible from an outer surface of the housing and in contact with the mechanically compliant surface of the housing, the actuator being configured to transfer, via the mechanically compliant surface, a stimulation signal to a skin surface that is in contact with the housing; and{'claim-text': ['control the actuator to generate the stimulation signal; receive, from a subject, a response to the stimulation signal; and', 'based on the received response, form a diagnosis with respect to a neurological disability.'], '#text': 'processing circuitry configured to:'}2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising an accelerometer claim 1 , wherein to receive the response to the stimulation signal claim 1 , the processing circuitry is configured to receive a vibration measurement from the accelerometer.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , further comprising a memory claim 2 , wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to record claim 2 , in the memory claim 2 , the vibration measurement received from the accelerometer claim 2 , and one or more of date information claim 2 , time information claim 2 , stimulation information claim 2 , protocol information claim 2 , or subject identification information claim 2 , or subject response information associated with the received response.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the stimulation signal is a vibrotactile signal claim 1 , and wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to receive stimulation information that is based on at least one of an amplitude or a phase of the vibrotactile signal.5. A system comprising:a housing that includes a mechanically compliant surface;{'claim-text': 'an actuator configured to transfer, via the mechanically ...

Methods of treating medical conditions by transvascular neuromodulation of the autonomic nervous system

The present invention is directed to a method of treating a respiratory or pulmonary condition in a patient by transvascular neuromodulation of an adrenal gland or neural structures that innervate the adrenal gland or components thereof. Methods also include implanting a controller in the patient to control delivery of a therapy signal to the patient's adrenal gland. The therapy signal can be an electrical and/or chemical signal.

DIGITAL TUNING FORK FOR SENSATION TESTING DEVICE

A digital tuning fork device for administering a vibratory sensation test to a human subject comprising an integrated vibratory mechanism and timer, with the vibratory mechanism generating vibrations having a known frequency and amplitude, with the amplitude of the vibrations degrading over time to replicate in a controlled manner the natural degradation of vibrations generated by a mechanical tuning fork, and a method of use thereof. Alternatively, the amplitude of the vibrations may be initially very small and then increase over time in a controlled manner to test first perception of feeling. 1. A digital tuning fork , device for administering a vibratory sensation test to a human subject , comprising:a housing, said housing being substantially hollow, having an interior and an exterior, constructed of a substantially rigid, durable material, and having a shape suitable for being grasped by a human hand;a vibratory mechanism, said vibratory mechanism being contained within the interior of the housing, said vibratory mechanism being electronically powered and suitably adapted to create variable amplitude vibrations at a constant frequency, and further suitably adapted to provide vibrations with amplitudes which change in a defined manner over a period of time;a contact member, said contact member being substantially elongate and rigid and having an internal end located within the interior of the housing and an external end located exterior of the housing, said internal end suitably adapted to receive vibrations created by the vibratory mechanism and said external end suitably adapted to transmit vibrations to the human subject;a timer, said timer being contained within the interior of the housing, said timer being suitably adapted to record the relative passage of time in known units beginning when activated and terminating when deactivated, said timer having a display means for displaying the units of time during activation and the final unit achieved upon ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NEURO-EGG SYNCHRONIZATION THERAPY

Described are methods, devices, and systems for a novel, inexpensive, easy to use therapy for a number of disorders. Described are methods and devices to treat disorders that involves no medication. Methods and devices described herein use alternating magnetic fields to gently “tune” the brain and affect mood, focus, and cognition of subjects. 129.-. (canceled)30. A device for applying a varying magnetic field to a head of a human subject , the device being configured to receive at least a portion of the head of the human subject , and comprising:a) a first permanent magnet; andb) a controller operable to control rotation of the permanent magnet, the rotation being relative about an axis parallel to at least a portion of the head and being at a harmonic frequency of a frequency within a specific EEG band, thereby generating a varying magnetic field.31. The device of claim 30 , wherein the specified EEG band is an Alpha band claim 30 , a Beta band claim 30 , or a Theta band.32. The device of further comprising:a) a helmet with the first permanent magnet therein, that receives the portion of the head of the human subject; andb) a second permanent magnet.33. The device of claim 32 , wherein the controller subunit is coupled to the second permanent magnet and operable to rotate the second permanent magnet about a second axis that is parallel to the axis claim 32 , and wherein the varying magnetic field treats drug addiction or substance abuse.34. The device of claim 33 , wherein the controller subunit is operable to control rotation of the second permanent magnet to be at the frequency within the specific EEG band.35. The device of claim 34 , wherein the specified EEG band is an Alpha band claim 34 , a Beta band claim 34 , or a Theta band.36. The device of further comprising a subunit configured to determine an intrinsic frequency of the subject within the specified EEG band or receive the intrinsic frequency of the subject within the specified EEG band.37. The device ...

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING APPARATUS AND IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS

A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to an embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to specify a search start position of a matrix representing inter-regional connectivity between a plurality of regions in a brain based on a result of an analysis on an image of a subject and an attention degree set to each of the regions. The processing circuitry is configured to search the matrix using the search start position. 1specify a search start position of a matrix representing inter-regional connectivity between a plurality of regions in a brain based on a result of an analysis on an image of a subject and an attention degree set to each of the regions; andsearch the matrix using the search start position.. A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus comprising processing circuitry configured to: This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/238,298, filed Jan. 2, 2019, which is a divisional Application of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/250,049, filed Aug. 29, 2016, which is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-178614, filed on Sep. 10, 2015, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-131705, filed on Jul. 1, 2016, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.Embodiments described herein relate generally to a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus and an image processing apparatus.Recent ongoing researches in the field of neuroscience relate to brain functional localized regions and their inter-regional connectivity therebetween based on images acquired by a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus. For example, a disclosed method determines any disease by analyzing a difference in a predetermined parameter such as an intensity value of an image from the normal brain for each brain functional localized region.A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus according to an embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry specifies ...

Neural locating method

A method of locating a nerve within an intracorporeal treatment area of a subject includes providing a first electrical stimulus at a first location within the intracorporeal treatment area, providing a second electrical stimulus at a second location within the intracorporeal treatment area, and providing one or more additional electrical stimuli at the second location. The first electrical stimulus does not induce a threshold response of a muscle innervated by the nerve, whereas the second electrical stimulus does induce a response of the muscle. The one or more additional stimuli each have a current magnitude less than the first stimulus and are used to determine a minimum current magnitude that is required to induce the threshold response of the muscle at the second location. This minimum current magnitude is then used to determine a distance from the second location to the nerve.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE DIFFUSION TENSOR IMAGING METHOD AND DEVICE, AND FIBER TRACKING METHOD AND DEVICE

A magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging method and corresponding device. The method includes acquiring omnidirectionally sampled diffusion weighted images of a plurality of training samples; performing diffusion tensor model fitting and undersampling for the omnidirectionally sampled diffusion weighted images of each training sample to obtain an omnidirectionally sampled diffusion tensor image and an undersampled diffusion weighted image; training a deep learning network, with the omnidirectionally sampled diffusion tensor images of the plurality of training samples as training targets and the undersampled diffusion weighted images as training data; acquiring undersampled diffusion weighted images of a target object; and inputting the undersampled diffusion weighted images of target objects into the trained deep learning network to obtain the predicted omnidirectionally sampled diffusion tensor images of the target objects. Also, a fiber tracking method and corresponding device. 1. A magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging method , comprising:acquiring omnidirectionally sampled diffusion weighted images of a plurality of training samples;performing diffusion tensor model fitting for the omnidirectionally sampled diffusion weighted images of each training sample to obtain an omnidirectionally sampled diffusion tensor image of the training sample, and performing undersampling for the omnidirectionally sampled diffusion weighted images of the training sample in the diffusion weighted direction dimension to obtain the undersampled diffusion weighted image of the training sample;training a deep learning network, with the omnidirectionally sampled diffusion tensor images of the plurality of training samples as training targets and the undersampled diffusion weighted images of the plurality of training samples as training data;acquiring undersampled diffusion weighted images of a target object; andinputting the undersampled diffusion weighted images of the target ...

Surgical imaging systems

Systems, methods and devices are provided for illuminating tissue with monochromatic or broadband light and imaging light that has been reflected back from the tissue. Imaging may be white-light imaging or hyperspectral imaging. The system can be a stand-alone hyperspectral imaging system, integrated as part of an external video scope, or as an auxiliary imaging module on an external videoscope. Various elements of a video scope that is particularly suited for minimally invasive surgery is first presented and then its configurations suitable for hyperspectral imaging are explained.

NERVE ACTIVITY MONITORING

There is provided a nerve activity monitoring method that includes receiving an input signal indicative of activity in a nerve of a subject; receiving physiological data indicative of physiological activity in the subject; establishing a relationship between the physiological data and the input signal; identifying a plurality of periodic portions in the input signal based on the relationship between the physiological data and the input signal; and outputting the periodic portions identified. 1. A nerve activity monitoring method comprising:receiving an input signal indicative of activity in a nerve of a subject;receiving physiological data indicative of physiological activity in the subject;establishing a relationship between the physiological data and the input signal;identifying a plurality of periodic portions in the input signal based on the relationship between the physiological data and the input signal; andoutputting the periodic portions identified.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein:the physiological data is a physiological signal;establishing a relationship between the physiological data and the input signal comprises determining a period of periodic portions in the physiological signal, to determine a physiological signal period; andthe plurality of periodic portions in the input signal are identified based on the physiological signal period.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein outputting the periodic portions identified comprises averaging the plurality of periodic portions of the input signal together claim 1 , to generate an averaged output signal.4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein averaging the plurality of periodic portions of the input signal comprises:calculating a frequency spectrum of at least a portion of the input signal;identifying a demodulation frequency within the frequency spectrum;demodulating at least two periodic portions of the input signal based on the demodulation frequency, to generate at least two ...

DETECTION OF REVERSIBLE NERVE INJURY

A system for monitoring relative nerve health and the presence of neuropraxia is described. The system utilizes the integration of a waveform function of an elicited or monitored nerve response to provide an indication of the strength of a detected signal from a nerve and thus the relative health and integrity of the nerve. In some embodiments motor nerve stimulation innervates muscle and an EMG waveform is obtained in response thereto. The integration under the waveform is expressed and an indexed value indicating a percentage of a certain threshold value. Methods set forth provide a more reliable status of a nerve in real-time and allow action to be taken to reduce neuropraxia or prevent permanent nerve damage. 1. A monitoring device for detecting neuropraxia in a continuously or intermittently stimulated target nerve , said device configured to monitor an electrical response of the stimulated nerve and determine an integration value representing an integration of the area under a wave form function generated by said stimulation , whereina. threshold value representative of nerve responses at or above which nerve function is fully recoverable is stored in said monitoring device,b. said monitoring device configured for comparison of said integration value to said threshold value.2. The device of in which the wave form is obtained from a stimulated nerve response or an evoked nerve response.3. The device of claim 1 , providing an integration of a free-run EMG or random event wave form nerve response.4. The device of claim 1 , in which the integration value is compared to the predetermined threshold value and provides a visual or audible signal increasing in intensity as said integration value approaches said threshold value.5. The device of claim 1 , in which the threshold value of the integrated response is representative of a degree of neuropraxia of the nerve.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the threshold value represents a measure of a likelihood of permanent ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NEURO-EEG SYNCHRONIZATION THERAPY

Described are methods, devices, and systems for a novel, inexpensive, easy to use therapy for a number of disorders. Described are methods and devices to treat disorders that involves no medication. Methods and devices described herein use alternating magnetic fields to gently “tune” the brain and affect mood, focus, and cognition of subjects. 2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the controller subunit comprises:a) a motor;b) a power source configurable to power the motor; andc) a rotating element coupled to the motor and the permanent magnets.3. The device of further comprising logic that controls a frequency of rotation of the permanent magnets to be any frequency between about 2 Hz to about 100 Hz claim 1 , in increments of about 0.1 Hz.4. The device of further comprising a third permanent magnet coupled to the controller subunit which is operable to rotate the third permanent magnet about a third axis that is substantially parallel to at least a portion of the concave surface and the third axis different from the axes of the other permanent magnets.5. The device of claim 4 , wherein the controller subunit is operable to rotate the third permanent magnet synchronously with the other permanent magnets.6. The device of claim 4 , wherein the controller subunit is operable to rotate the third permanent magnet out-of-phase with the other permanent magnets.7. The device of claim 3 , where the logic calculates or uploads information of the human subject claim 3 , wherein said information comprises at least one of: (a) an intrinsic frequency within a specified EEG band; and (b) a Q-factor of the intrinsic frequency within the specified EEG band.8. The device of claim 3 , wherein the logic controls the frequency of rotation of the permanent magnets to be:1) lower than the intrinsic frequency of the human subject within a specified EEG band if the intrinsic frequency within the specified EEG band is higher than a target frequency, or2) higher than the intrinsic frequency of ...

System and method for non-invasively monitoring autonomic nerve activity

System and methods for monitoring and/or controlling nerve activity in a subject are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes electrodes configured to be placed proximate to a subject's skin, and a signal detector configured to detect electrical signals using the electrodes. The system also includes a signal processor configured to receive the electrical signals to generate filtered signals, the filter configured to attenuate at least signals having frequencies corresponding to heart muscle activity during a heartbeat. The signal processor is also configured to identify a skin nerve activity using the filtered signals, estimate a sympathetic nerve activity using the identified skin nerve activity, and further to generate a report indicative of the estimated sympathetic nerve activity. In some aspects, the system further includes a signal generator to deliver the electrical stimulation to the subject's skin.

Stimulation probe assemblies and methods of use

Aspects of the disclosure include a bio-electric stimulation probe assembly including a patch including a first aperture and also a guide socket including a grommet and a second aperture. The guide socket is positioned on the patch such that the first and second apertures are aligned. The assembly further includes a guide including a tip that is positioned within and rotatable within the grommet. A probe of the assembly having at least one electrode is interconnected with the guide and extends through the first and second apertures. The guide and guide socket are collectively arranged and configured so that the guide has three degrees of rotational freedom with respect to the grommet thus meaning the probe correspondingly has three degrees of rotational freedom with respect to the grommet. Methods of using stimulation probe assemblies are also disclosed.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING APPARATUS AND IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS

A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to an embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to specify a search start position of a matrix representing inter-regional connectivity between a plurality of regions in a brain based on a result of an analysis on an image of a subject and an attention degree set to each of the regions. The processing circuitry is configured to search the matrix using the search start position. 1specify a search start position of a matrix representing inter-regional connectivity between a plurality of regions in a brain based on a result of an analysis on an image of a subject and an attention degree set to each of the regions; andsearch the matrix using the search start position.. A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus comprising processing circuitry configured to: This application is a divisional Application of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/250,049, filed Aug. 29, 2016, which is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-178614, filed on Sep. 10, 2015, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-131705, filed on Jul. 1, 2016, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.Embodiments described herein relate generally to a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus and an image processing apparatus.Recent ongoing researches in the field of neuroscience relate to brain functional localized regions and their inter-regional connectivity therebetween based on images acquired by a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus. For example, a disclosed method determines any disease by analyzing a difference in a predetermined parameter such as an intensity value of an image from the normal brain for each brain functional localized region.A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus according to an embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry specifies a start position of a search of a matrix representing inter-regional connectivity ...

Method and Apparatus for Measurement of Neural Response

A method for determining a desired location at which to apply a neural therapy. An array of electrodes is positioned proximal to neural tissue. A stimulus is applied from the array which evokes a neural compound action potential response in the neural tissue proximal to the array. A plurality of electrodes of the array simultaneously obtain respective measurements of the neural compound action potential response. From the measurements of the neural compound action potential response a desired location for a neural therapy is determined. 1. A method for determining a desired location at which to apply a neural therapy , the method comprising:positioning an array of electrodes proximal to neural tissue;applying a stimulus from the array which evokes a neural compound action potential response in the neural tissue proximal to the array;using a plurality of electrodes of the array to simultaneously obtain respective measurements of the neural compound action potential response; anddetermining from the measurements of the neural compound action potential response a desired location for a neural therapy.2. The method of wherein the array comprises a large number of electrodes configured to obtain simultaneous measurements of a neural response claim 1 , in order to yield fine spatial resolution of the neural sensitivity map of the area alongside the array.3. The method of wherein the array comprises 24 electrodes arranged in 3 columns and 8 rows.4. The method of when applied intra-operatively in order to provide intra-operative information regarding the neural response.5. The method of claim 4 , when used for intra-operative DREZ localization claim 4 , by generating a neural sensitivity map around the DREZ in order to guide DREZ lesioning.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein DREZ lesioning is performed in progressive increments claim 5 , iteratively with neural sensitivity mapping claim 5 , whereby the ongoing neural sensitivity mapping provides a progressive intra-operative ...

One-photon integrated neurophotonic systems

An apparatus and method for detecting functional cellular activity within a volume of a tissue. The method includes inserting a three-dimensional array of optical emitters and optical detectors into a volume of a tissue, where the tissue volume includes one or more cells labeled with an optical reporter of cellular activity; illuminating the one or more cells with photons from the optical emitters of the three-dimensional array to generate optical signals from the optical reporter that labels the one or more cells; and detecting the optical signals using the optical detectors of the three-dimensional array, where the illumination includes one-photon excitation of the optical reporter.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TARGETING HEART RHYTHM DISORDERS USING SHAPED ABLATION

A system and method to target a biological rhythm disorder, such as a heart rhythm disorder include processing cardiac signals via a computing device to determine a shape in a region of tissue defined by a source associated with the biological rhythm disorder that migrates spatially on or within the shape, and identifying at least one portion of the tissue proximate to the shape to enable selective modification of the at least one portion of tissue in order to terminate or alter the heart rhythm disorder. 1. A method of targeting a cardiac rhythm disorder , the method comprising:processing cardiac signals via a computing device to determine a shape in a region of tissue defined by migration of a source associated with the cardiac rhythm disorder;identifying at least one portion of the tissue proximate to the shape; andselectively modifying the at least one portion in order to terminate or alter the cardiac rhythm disorder.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the source causes the cardiac rhythm disorder.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein a portion of the tissue identified is at least one of within the shape and on the shape.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein a portion of the tissue identified is outside the shape.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein a first portion of the tissue identified is at least one of within the shape and on the shape claim 1 , and a second portion of the tissue identified is outside the shape.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the migration of the source includes one of:an impulse generator that migrates within or the shape;a fixed impulse generator that generates multiple excitation waves within or on the shape; andat least one reentrant impulse generator that generates multiple excitation waves within or on shape.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein shape is determined by:identifying at least one spatial point in the region of tissue at a point in time, the at least one spatial point associated with the source;tracking migration of the at least ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NERVE MAPPING AND MONITORING

Embodiments can include a nerve mapping and monitoring system that can include a multi-polar stimulation unit, an electrical connector, an instrument having a grid array, where the grid array can comprise a plurality of electrodes, where each of the plurality of electrodes can be configured to be stimulated by the multi-polar stimulation unit, a recording element, where the recording element can be configured to detect a muscle response elicited by the grid array, and a computer, where the computer can be configured to monitor the muscle response elicited by the grid array such that neural structures can be identified and avoided. 1. (canceled)2. A nerve mapping and monitoring system comprising: each of the plurality of electrodes is configured to be stimulated individually and independently, and', 'every one of the plurality of electrodes is configured to be stimulated as part of at least mono-polar, bi-polar, and tri-polar stimulation configurations; and, 'a grid array of a plurality of electrodes positioned on a surface of a surgical instrument configured to be inserted into a tissue site of a patient to map locations and proximities of neural structures in the tissue site, whereina computer system configured to cause delivery of sequential variable multi-polar stimulation to electrodes of the grid array of electrodes according to a plurality of stimulation configurations to scan the grid array and elicit evoked potential responses, wherein the plurality of stimulation configurations include at least mono-polar, bi-polar, and tri-polar stimulation configurations of different electrodes of the grid array of electrodes.3. The nerve mapping and monitoring system of claim 2 , wherein the computer system is further configured to monitor the evoked potential responses and combine information gathered based on the evoked potential responses to generate a virtual map of locations and proximities of neural structures in the tissue site so as to enable nerve mapping and ...

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR GENERATING SENSORY STIMULI FOR THE EVALUATION OF NEUROPATHY

Peripheral sensory neuropathy can be detected and quantified more accurately and objectively using a device for generating sensory stimuli in the form of vibration, comprising a vibration generator, at least one contacting element for contacting skin or tissue of a patient to transfer sensory stimuli from said vibration generator, and at least one regulating unit for regulating a parameter of said vibration, wherein the device comprises a sound generator, generating a sound which masks, attenuates or actively cancels the sound of the vibration generator. The device may further comprise a tissue support element to spatially isolate a point of contact between the tissue of the patient and the contacting element of the device, and optionally an element for controlling the pressure by which a contacting element is applied to skin or tissue of a patient. The device may also comprise at least two temperature surfaces for contacting skin or tissue of a patient and a regulating unit whereby the temperature difference between said at least two temperature surfaces can be regulated. 1. A device for generating sensory stimuli in the form of vibration , comprising a vibration generator , at least one contacting element for contacting skin or tissue of a patient to transfer sensory stimuli from said vibration generator , and at least one regulating unit for regulating a parameter of said vibration , wherein the device comprises a tissue support element , adapted to spatially isolate a point of contact between the tissue of the patient and the contacting element of the device , and adapted to minimize the spreading of vibration in the tissue of the patient beyond said point of contact , wherein the tissue support element comprises a pressure sensor , adapted to indicate when the pressure is within a predetermined pressure interval , and capable of giving a signal when the pressure is outside said interval.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein said tissue support element is ...

NEURAL ELECTRODES AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING SAME

One aspect of the present disclosure can include a method for implanting a neural electrode in a fascicle including a target nerve. One step of the method can include inserting a microwire assembly into the fascicle. The microwire assembly can comprise a microwire body that is coiled around a needle introducer. Next, a portion of the microwire body can be uncoiled from around the needle introducer so that a distal end of the microwire body retains a spiral-shaped configuration. The needle introducer can then be withdrawn so that the spiral-shaped distal end of the microwire body remains implanted in the fascicle. 1. An intrafascicular neural electrode comprising:a microwire body having a proximal end, a distal anchoring end, and a middle portion extending between the proximal end and the distal anchoring end;wherein the distal anchoring end substantially matches the mechanical and biological properties of the target nerve.2. The intrafascicular neural electrode of claim 1 , wherein the distal anchoring end is configured for implantation within a fascicle comprising a target nerve and has a spiral shape to prevent pullout of the intrafascicular neural electrode from the fascicle.3. The intrafascicular neural electrode of claim 1 , wherein the microwire body has a diameter that is about equal to the diameter of an axon comprising the fascicle.4. The intrafascicular neural electrode of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the microwire body is coated with an insulation material.5. The intrafascicular neural electrode of claim 4 , wherein the insulation material is one of parylene claim 4 , silicone or plasma-deposited amorphous carbon.6. The intrafascicular neural electrode of claim 4 , wherein at least one biocompatible agent is adsorbed to an outer surface of the insulation material.7. The intrafascicular neural electrode of claim 6 , wherein the at least one biocompatible agent is collagen.8. The intrafascicular neural electrode of claim 1 , having a flexural ...

Method and apparatus for phrenic stimulation detection

Approaches for characterizing a phrenic stimulation threshold, a cardiac capture threshold, a maximum device parameter, and a minimum device parameter are described. A plurality of cardiac pacing pulses can be delivered by using a cardiac pacing device, a pacing parameter of the plurality of cardiac pacing pulses being changed between delivery of at least some of the pulses. One or more sensor signals can be evaluated to detect stimulation of the phrenic nerve by one or more of the plurality of cardiac pacing pluses. The evaluation of the one or more sensor signals and the pacing parameter can be compared to determine if a phrenic stimulation threshold is at least one of higher than a maximum device parameter and lower than a minimum device parameter.

MEASURING SOMATIC RESPONSE TO STIMULUS UTILIZING A MOBILE COMPUTING DEVICE

A mobile computing device for measuring somatic response of a user to stimulus includes motion sensors, a volatile memory, and a processor for: executing a baseline calibration process including receiving first and second supervised data from the user, and first and second sensor data from the motion sensors, while the user performs a triple whip gesture, calculating signal strength of the first and second sensor data using a k-means clustering algorithm, and executing a classification process including reading third unsupervised data from the user and third sensor data from the motion sensors while the user performs the triple whip gesture. 1. A mobile computing device for measuring somatic response of a user to stimulus , the mobile computing device comprising:a) a plurality of motion sensors configured for capturing motion sensor data;b) a volatile memory; and 1) executing a baseline calibration process comprising: i) receiving a first supervised data comprising a negative type and a first sensor data from the plurality of motion sensors while the user performs a triple whip gesture comprising a wrist movement executed three times while holding the mobile computing device; ii) classifying the first sensor data according to a predefined criteria and associating class data with the first sensor data; iii) receiving a second supervised data comprising a positive type and a second sensor data from the plurality of motion sensors while the user performs the triple whip gesture; iv) classifying the second sensor data according to the predefined criteria and associating class data with the second sensor data;', '2) calculating signal strength of the first and second sensor data using a k-means clustering algorithm, wherein the first and second sensor data are clustered based on one or more features of the triple whip gesture embodied in the first and second sensor data, and wherein signal strength comprises a confidence level that unsupervised data may be classified ...

Systems and Methods for Performing Neurophysiologic Assessments with Pressure Monitoring

Systems and methods for performing neurophysiologic assessments of neural tissue including nerve pathology monitoring which may be augmented by adding the ability to assess or monitor the pressure being exerted upon a nerve or nerve root before, during and/or after retraction. 1. A method for assessing the pathology of a nerve , comprising the steps of:retracting a nerve within a patient using a nerve retractor having a plurality of pressure sensors and at least one stimulation electrode situated on a nerve contacting head of the retractor, wherein said at least one stimulation electrode is configured to deliver an electrical stimulation signal to a nerve within a patient;delivering an electrical stimulation signal to said nerve with said stimulation electrode;detecting an neuromuscular response evoked by said stimulation signal using at least one electrical sensor in electrical communication with said at least one stimulation electrode to detect neuromuscular responses evoked by said stimulation signal;using a control unit communicatively linked to said stimulation electrode and said electrical sensor to identify a relationship between said stimulation signal and said neuromuscular response;calculating the pressure exerted on at least two locations along said nerve by said nerve retractor using a processing unit communicatively linked to said pressure sensors; anddisplaying pressure mapping data on a display linked to said processing unit in at least two dimensions based on said calculated pressure exerted on said at least two locations along said nerve.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said display further provides at least one of additional alpha-numeric and graphic indicia relating to said calculated pressure.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein said alpha-numeric and graphic indicia includes at least one of a maximum pressure value claim 2 , time value claim 2 , color claim 2 , chart claim 2 , and a graph.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein said control unit ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING WETNESS PERCEPTION

Processes, scales, and devices to measure and quantify wetness perception in humans. Exemplary devices and scales utilize sensor fusion of temperature and pressure modalities, for which humans have dedicated receptors in the skin, to understand how the perception of wetness comes about. Processes test the utility of wetness perception as a biomarker for assaying peripheral neuropathy. Wetness perception devices include a Peltier module. The temperature of the Peltier module can be varied precisely using a computer-aided feedback system, mounted on a load scale to enable concomitant pressure measurements. Devices may include an insulation chamber with desiccators in place to lower internal humidity and prevent condensation. Wetness perception can be used as a non-invasive biomarker for disease-related peripheral neuropathy in which sensory mechanisms are disrupted. 1. A method for detecting wetness perception in a human subject , the method comprising:determining a perception of wetness by a human subject, according to a temperature and a pressure applied to the human subject.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the determining further comprises varying the temperature applied to the subject while measuring the pressure applied to the subject.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the determining further comprises determining a perception of dampness by the human subject claim 1 , according to the temperature and the pressure applied to the human subject.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the determining further comprises applying the temperature using one or more Peltier devices.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the determining further comprises using a thermally sealed enclosure sized to accept a portion of the human subject.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the determining further comprises determining the perception of wetness while the temperature and the pressure are applied to the human subject.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the determining further comprises ...

DIGITAL BIOMARKERS FOR COGNITION AND MOVEMENT DISEASES OR DISORDERS

A method for assessing a cognition and movement disease or disorder in a subject suspected to suffer therefrom. A cognition and/or fine motoric activity parameter is determined from a dataset of activity measurements obtained from the subject using a mobile device. The determined activity parameter is compared to a reference, and the cognition and movement disease or disorder is assessed. Also disclosed is a method for identifying whether a subject will benefit from a therapy for a cognition and movement disease or disorder. The steps just described are performed along with the step of identifying the subject as one who benefits from the therapy if the cognition and movement disease or disorder is assessed. Also disclosed is a mobile device comprising a processor, at least one sensor, a database and software which is tangibly embedded in said device and, when running on said device, carries out the disclosed methods. 1. A method for assessing a cognition and movement disease or disorder in a subject suspected to suffer therefrom , the method comprising:a) determining at least one cognition or fine motoric activity parameter from a dataset of fine motoric activity measurements obtained from said subject using a mobile device;b) comparing the determined at least one cognition or fine motoric activity parameter to a reference; andc) assessing the cognition and movement disease or disorder based on the comparison.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said cognition and movement disease or disorder is a disease or disorder of the central or peripheral nervous system affecting the pyramidal claim 1 , extrapyramidal claim 1 , sensory or cerebellar system claim 1 , or a neuromuscular disease or is a muscular disease or disorder.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said cognition and movement disease or disorder is selected from the group consisting of: multiple sclerosis (MS) claim 1 , neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and NMO spectrum disorders claim 1 , stroke claim 1 , a cerebellar ...

Biomechatronic data communication systems

A data transmission system for transmitting an electrical data to a nerve cell. A data receiving system for receiving an electrical data from a nerve cell has at least two phototransistor crystals that is stimulated by light to form an electrical signal; an image source that allows the light to be sent to the phototransistor crystals and allows controlling the amount of light transmitted to each phototransistor crystal independently of each other, and at least one control unit that is connected to the image source that controls the amount of light transmitted from the image source to each of the phototransistor crystals.

DETERMINING A STATE OF A SOLID TUMOR BASED ON NEURAL ACTIVITY WITHIN THE SOLID TUMOR

One aspect of the present disclosure relates a method of diagnosis and/or treatment of a solid tumor. The method includes directly measuring neural activity within a solid tumor for a time and determining a state of the solid tumor based on the neural activity. The diagnosis and/or treatment can be determined based on the state of the solid tumor. In some instances, the neural activity can be used in a closed loop to detect the neural activity, determine the state, determine the risk, apply treatment, check again for neural activity, and cease treatment when the neural activity is gone. 1. A method comprising:directly measuring neural activity within a solid tumor, by a recording device, for a time; anddetermining, by a system comprising a processor, a state of the solid tumor based on the neural activity.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the state is benign claim 1 , malignant claim 1 , and/or requires further testing.3. The method of claim 2 , when the state is malignant claim 2 , further comprising comparing a property of a signal associated with the neural activity to a neural signal metric to predict a risk of growth and/or a risk of metastasis.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the neural signal metric is based on a shape of the neural signal claim 3 , a number and/or amplitude of spike events in the neural activity for the time claim 3 , power claim 3 , entropy claim 3 , complexity claim 3 , and/or mean number of crossings of the neural activity within the solid tumor for the time claim 3 , and/or one or more frequency characteristics of the neural activity within the solid tumor for the time.5. The method of claim 3 , further comprising delivering a treatment to the solid tumor based on the risk of growth and/or a risk of metastasis.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the treatment comprises delivering a pharmaceutical to the solid tumor claim 5 , delivering a therapeutic agent to the solid tumor; delivering an immunotherapy to the solid tumor claim 5 , ...

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR INTRAOPERATIVELY CONFIRMING LOCATION OF TISSUE STRUCTURES

Systems, methods and devices are provided for intraoperatively confirming location of tissue structures during medical procedures. Preoperative image data of a patient's skeletal structure in a vicinity of an anatomical part undergoing a medical procedure is acquired. During the procedure, after exposing tissue intraoperative image data is acquired by scanning a selected region of tissue, in a vicinity of the skeletal structure using Polarization Sensitive-Optical Coherence Tomography (PS-OCT). Regions of tissue exhibiting structural organization in the vicinity of the skeletal structure are identified from the intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data. Geometrically correlating and registering the intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data with the preoperative image data of the skeletal structure in the vicinity of the anatomical part is then performed using a priori known anatomical information about the regions of tissue exhibiting structural information. 1. A computer implemented method of intraoperatively confirming location of organized tissue structures in relation to a patient's skeletal structure , comprising:acquiring preoperative image data of a patient's skeletal structure in a vicinity of an anatomical part;after exposing tissue during a medical procedure in the anatomical part, acquiring intraoperative image data by scanning a selected region of tissue, in a vicinity of the skeletal structure in the anatomical part undergoing the medical procedure using Polarization Sensitive-Optical Coherence Tomography (PS-OCT);identifying, from the intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data, regions of tissue exhibiting structural organization in the vicinity of the skeletal structure; andusing a priori known anatomical information about the regions of tissue exhibiting structural information for geometrically correlating and registering the intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data with the preoperative image data of the skeletal structure in the vicinity of the anatomical part.2. The method ...

VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION SCREENING TEST

A diagnostic screening test can be used to identify candidates for implantable vagus nerve stimulation devices. An analyte, such as a cytokine or inflammatory molecule, can be measured both before and after vagus nerve stimulation in order to determine the responsiveness of the patient. VNS can be delivered noninvasively or minimally invasively using short term electrical or mechanical stimulation. 1. A method for screening a patient for responsiveness to vagus nerve stimulation , the method comprising:measuring a baseline level of an analyte;stimulating the vagus nerve after the step of measuring the baseline level of the analyte;measuring a post stimulation level of the analyte;comparing the post stimulation level of the analyte to the baseline level of the analyte; anddetermining whether the patient is a suitable candidate for an implantable vagus nerve stimulation device based on the step of comparing the post stimulation level of the analyte to the baseline level of the analyte.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of stimulating the vagus nerve is done noninvasively.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the step of stimulating the vagus nerve is done with transcutaneous electrical stimulation.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the step of stimulating the vagus nerve is done with mechanical stimulation.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of stimulating the vagus nerve comprises stimulating the auricular branch of the vagus nerve.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of stimulating the vagus nerve comprises stimulating a cervical portion of the vagus nerve.7. The method of claim 6 , further comprising:introducing an electrode intravascularly via percutaneous puncture; andpositioning the electrode at a cervically located blood vessel proximate the vagus nerve.8. The method of claim 6 , further comprising:introducing an electrode into the carotid sheath; andpositioning the electrode within the carotid sheath such that the electrode is proximate ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TARGETING HEART RHYTHM DISORDERS USING SHAPED ABLATION

A system and method to target a biological rhythm disorder include processing cardiac signals via a computing device to determine a shape in a region of tissue defined by a source associated with the biological rhythm disorder that migrates spatially on or within the shape, and identifying at least one portion of the tissue proximate to the shape to enable selective modification of the at least one portion of tissue in order to terminate or alter the biological rhythm disorder. 1. A method of targeting a biological rhythm disorder , the method comprising:processing biological signals via a computing device to determine a shape in a region of tissue defined by migration of a source associated with the biological rhythm disorder; andidentifying via the computing device at least one portion of the tissue proximate to the shape, the at least one portion being associated with terminating or altering the biological rhythm disorder.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the source causes the biological rhythm disorder.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein a portion identified is at least one of within the shape and on the shape.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein a portion identified is outside the shape.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein a first portion of the tissue identified is at least one of within the shape and on the shape claim 1 , and a second portion of the tissue identified is outside the shape.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein migration of the source includes one of:an impulse generator that migrates within or on the shape;a fixed impulse generator that generates multiple excitation waves within or on the shape; andat least one reentrant impulse generator that generates multiple excitation waves within or on the shape.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein determination of the shape includes:identifying at least one spatial point in relation to the region at a point in time, the at least one spatial point associated with the source;tracking migration of the at least one ...

PROBE STIMULATOR

A muscle stimulator that may be used during ARM surgeries is disclosed that may be constructed from (1) a widely available low cost (e.g., $200 per unit) peripheral nerve stimulators or similar stimulator and (2) a relatively simple, handheld surgical probe to provide a low cost muscle stimulator that is adequate for ARM surgeries. These two components could provide a low cost solution to allow doctors in developing countries feasibly perform ARM surgeries with relatively minimal manufacturing and inexpensive maintenance. 1. A probe for electrical stimulation of a localized area of a patient's body , the device comprising:an insulating casing;a pair of electrically conductive leads wherein at least a portion of the leads are contained within a channel in the center of the casing; anda spacer at least partially contained within the channel and positioned between the pair of leads to prevent the pair of leads from contacting each other.2. The probe of claim 1 , wherein a pair of heat resistant wires are connected to the pair of leads.3. The probe of claim 2 , wherein a stimulator is connected to the pair of wires.4. The probe of claim 3 , wherein the stimulator is a peripheral nerve stimulator.5. The probe of claim 1 , where the spacer is comprised of PTFE.6. The probe of claim 1 , where the casing is comprised of PTFE.7. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the leads are brass rods.8. A method of stimulating a patient's skin or soft tissue to identify muscular regions claim 1 , the method comprising:providing a probe comprising a pair of leads at least partially enclosed by a casing;providing a peripheral nerve stimulator;electrically connecting the probe and stimulator;touching the stimulator to a patient's skin or soft tissue; andenergizing the stimulator.9. The method of claim 8 , where the spacer is comprised of PTFE.10. The method of claim 8 , where the casing is comprised of PTFE.11. The method of claim 8 , wherein the leads are brass rods.12. The method of claim 8 , ...

Nerve monitoring and/or stimulation electrode assemblies

Stimulation and recording electrode assemblies that are particularly useful for Automatic Period Stimulation (APS). Such embodiments are compatible with nerve monitoring systems to provide continuous stimulation of a nerve during surgery. Certain embodiments include an electrode assembly having cuff including a body and two ears extending from the body. Within the body, at least one electrode is supported and connected to a lead wire assembly. The ears can be brought together to enlarge a gap in the body so that the electrode assembly can be fixated around a nerve. Other embodiments include an electrode assembly including first and second needle electrodes that each have a tip. A body is provided to interconnect the needle electrodes and can be manipulated to move the tips either toward or away from one another. Disclosed embodiments provide nerve monitoring and stimulation in cases where the nerve is only partially dissected.

Devices and Methods for Nerve Mapping

One embodiment includes a method for monitoring nerve tissue which includes inserting a dilator into muscle, the dilator including first and second electrodes at the distal tip. While the dilator is in muscle, a system may communicate (a) a first series of unequal current amplitude applications (e.g., a series including 0.5, 7, 3, 5 mA applications) to the first electrode to produce at least a first evoked potential (e.g., a MAP or NAP), and (b) a second series of unequal current amplitude applications to the second electrode to produce at least a second evoked potential. The method further includes sensing the first and second evoked potentials and determining a relative location of a nerve based on the sensing of at least one of the first and second evoked potentials. 1. A system to monitor nerve tissue comprising:a surgical instrument including a distal end portion coupled to first, second, third, and fourth electrodes;a memory;a processor, coupled to the memory, configured to cause a current source unit to:(a) simultaneously communicate a first current application to the first electrode, a second current application to the second electrode, a third current application to the third electrode, and a fourth current application to the fourth electrode;(b) sense a first evoked response to any of the first, second, third, and fourth current applications when the first evoked response occurs;(c) when no evoked response to the first, second, third, and fourth current applications is sensed, determine a first nerve proximity state is present;(d) when the first evoked response is sensed, non-simultaneously titrate additional first current to the first electrode and additional second current to the second electrode and sense additional evoked responses, when they are produced, until an evoked response is sensed for only one of the first and second electrodes in response to equal amplitudes of current application;(e) after step (d), simultaneously communicate a supplemental ...

Neural locating system

A nerve mapping system includes an elongate medical device, a non-invasive mechanical sensor, and a processor. The elongate medical device includes a distal end portion configured to explore an intracorporeal treatment area of a subject, and the distal end portion includes an electrode. The non-invasive mechanical sensor is configured to provide a mechanomyography output signal corresponding to a monitored mechanical response of a muscle innervated by the nerve. The processor is in communication with the electrode and the sensor, and is configured to provide a plurality of electrical stimuli to the electrode. Each of the plurality of stimuli is provided when the electrode is located at a different position within the intracorporeal treatment area. The processor determines the likelihood of a nerve existing at a particular point using the magnitudes of each of the stimuli and the detected response of the muscle.

Anaesthesia and Consciousness Depth Monitoring System

Methods and systems incorporating non-linear dynamic (NLD) analysis such as entropy or other complexity analysis monitoring continuous or evoked signals from a biological subject are presented, where such a system comprises of processing steps including: a) the combination of a biological signal evoked as a result of patient stimulation presented to a biological subject and a non-linear analysis method capable of capturing temporal changes in signal order or regularity; b) any combination of processed evoked or continuous central nervous or peripheral physiological mechanisms b) a means to generate a measure indicative of a patient's level of anaesthesia and consciousness depth (A&CD), sedation or sleep/wake state. Methods and systems incorporating a NLD analysis means to improve the discrimination between different signals origins including any combination of: a) central nervous system (CNS), b) peripheral control or nervous system (PNS), c) autonomic control or nervous system (ANS), d) arousals, and e) artifacts. 1. A biological signal monitoring apparatus , comprising:one or more sensors configured to detect an input signal channel and a biological input signal; and determine that the input signal channel contains a noise signal;', 'in response to a determination that the noise signal has a noise characteristic, extract the noise signal from the input signal channel;', 'adjust the noise signal based on the noise characteristic to generate an adjusted noise signal;', 'combine the adjusted noise signal with the biological input signal to generate a combined signal; and', 'adjust the combined signal based on the noise characteristic to generate an adjusted combined signal., 'a processor executing a computer program including instructions, which when executed by the processor, cause the processor to2. The biological signal monitoring apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the extracting the noise signal from the input signal channel includes removing noise from the input ...

AUTOMATED METHODS TO COUNT CORNEAL SUBBASAL NERVES

The present invention is directed to a software algorithm that measures the number of corneal nerve fibers in images captured by microscopy including images from patients obtained by in vivo corneal confocal microscopy, a noninvasive technique. The present invention solves a complicated segmentation problem, by exploiting the piece wise linear nature of the nerve fibers—i.e., the nerves are made up of a lot of straight line segments. The image is split into sub-regions, where each sub-region contains nerves mostly running in the same, straight direction. Having the nerves all in straight-lines within a single 2d image region dramatically simplifies the segmentation problem. The image intensities are summed in the direction of the nerves to reduce the 2d representation to a 1d signal having pronounced peaks where the nerves are located. 1. A non-transitory computer readable medium programmed with steps comprising:receiving image data related to a region of interest of the subject;dividing the image data into sub-regions, wherein each sub-region is defined by having nerve fibers running in approximately a same direction;summing image intensities in the same direction of the nerve fibers for the sub-region;reducing a two-dimensional representation to a one-dimensional signal having peaks where the nerve fibers are located; anddetermining a nerve fiber count based on the peaks of the one-dimensional signal.2. The non-transitory computer readable medium of further comprising receiving image data related to a cornea of the subject.3. The non-transitory computer readable medium of further comprising receiving image data from in vivo corneal confocal microscopy.4. The non-transitory computer readable medium of further comprising receiving image data from a whole mount specimen.5. The non-transitory computer readable medium of further comprising the whole mount specimen being stained with βIII tubulin.6. The non-transitory computer readable medium of further comprising ...

A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NEUROPATHY DIAGNOSIS WITH WIRELESS FEEDBACK MECHANISM

The various embodiments herein disclose a method and a system with a portable handheld diagnostic device for detecting and/or monitoring the prognosis of nerve impairment or diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The system provides a multi-parameter diabetic neuropathy-screening device to perform a combination of tactile threshold test, vibration threshold test, thermal threshold test and contactless skin-temperature measurement. The present invention provides a smartphone application that helps a user to operate/control the device, store and share the results. The smartphone application interacts with the hardware modules in the device and guides the user to perform the various tests. Further, the neuropathy diagnostic system provides a wireless feedback button that enables the subject to respond to various sensations during the course of the test. 1. A portable and integrated system for testing tactile threshold , vibration perception , thermal perception and measuring temperature of a skin of a limb , the system comprising:a tactile threshold testing module, wherein the tactile threshold testing module is configured to induce a set of touch sensation at predetermined locations on a limb of a person and record feedback;a vibration perception testing module, wherein the vibration perception testing module is configured to induce a set of vibrations at the predetermined locations on the limb of the person and record feedback;a thermal perception testing module, wherein the thermal perception testing module is configured to induce set of a temperatures at the predetermined locations on the limb of the person and record feedback;a skin-temperature measurement module, wherein the skin-temperature measurement module is configured to measure a temperature of a skin of the person through non-contact method;a power control module;a computing module; and,a feedback module.2. The system according to claim I , wherein the tactile threshold testing module comprises a load cell to ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR NERVE MAPPING

One embodiment includes a method for monitoring nerve tissue which includes inserting a dilator into muscle, the dilator including first and second electrodes at the distal tip. While the dilator is in muscle, a system may communicate (a) a first series of unequal current amplitude applications (e.g., a series including 0.5, 7, 3, 5 mA applications) to the first electrode to produce at least a first evoked potential (e.g., a MAP or NAP), and (b) a second series of unequal current amplitude applications to the second electrode to produce at least a second evoked potential. The method further includes sensing the first and second evoked potentials and determining a relative location of a nerve based on the sensing of at least one of the first and second evoked potentials. 1. A system to monitor nerve tissue comprising:a surgical instrument including a distal end portion coupled to first, second, third, and fourth electrodes;a memory; (a) simultaneously communicate a first current application to the first electrode, a second current application to the second electrode, a third current application to the third electrode, and a fourth current application to the fourth electrode;', '(b) sense a first evoked response to any of the first, second, third, and fourth current applications if the first evoked response occurs;', '(c) when no evoked response to the first, second, third, and fourth current applications is sensed, determine a first nerve proximity state is present;', '(d) when the first evoked response is sensed, non-simultaneously titrate additional first current to the first electrode and additional second current to the second electrode and sense additional evoked responses, if they are produced, until an evoked response is sensed for only one of first and second electrodes in response to equal amplitudes of current application;', '(e) after step (d), simultaneously communicate a supplemental first current application to the first electrode, a supplemental second ...

NERVE MONITORING AND/OR STIMULATION ELECTRODE ASSEMBLIES

Stimulation and recording electrode assemblies that are particularly useful for Automatic Period Stimulation (APS). Such embodiments are compatible with nerve monitoring systems to provide continuous stimulation of a nerve during surgery. Certain embodiments include an electrode assembly having cuff including a body and two ears extending from the body. Within the body, at least one electrode is supported and connected to a lead wire assembly. The ears can be brought together to enlarge a gap in the body so that the electrode assembly can be fixated around a nerve. Other embodiments include an electrode assembly including first and second needle electrodes that each have a tip. A body is provided to interconnect the needle electrodes and can be manipulated to move the tips either toward or away from one another. Disclosed embodiments provide nerve monitoring and stimulation in cases where the nerve is only partially dissected. 1. An electrode assembly for receiving a nerve; the electrode assembly comprising:a cuff including a body having a first end, a second end, and defining a first channel configured to receive the nerve, the cuff further including first and second ears extending radially outwardly from the body; wherein a second channel is formed in the first ear; wherein the body further defines a nonlinear gap and a width of the gap is variable and configured to support a degree fixation of less than 360 degrees of a circumference of the nerve;an electrode supported by and positioned within the second channel; anda lead wire assembly interconnected to the electrode and extending within the second channel.2. The electrode assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a second electrode positioned within the cuff.3. The electrode assembly of claim 1 , wherein the second channel includes a conical lead-in feature.4. The electrode assembly of claim 1 , wherein the ears are interconnected by a hinge segment such that a distance between the first and second ears is ...

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR INTRAOPERATIVELY CONFIRMING LOCATION OF TISSUE STRUCTURES

Systems, methods, and devices for intraoperatively confirming location of tissue structures during medical procedures. Preoperative image data of a patient's skeletal structure in a vicinity of an anatomical part undergoing a medical procedure is acquired. During the procedure, after exposing tissue intraoperative image data is acquired by scanning a selected region of tissue, in a vicinity of the skeletal structure using Polarization Sensitive-Optical Coherence Tomography (PS-OCT). Regions of tissue exhibiting structural organization in the vicinity of the skeletal structure are identified from the intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data. Geometrically correlating and registering the intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data with the preoperative image data of the skeletal structure in the vicinity of the anatomical part is then performed using a priori known anatomical information about the regions of tissue exhibiting structural information. 1. A computer-implemented method of intraoperatively confirming a location of organized tissue structures in relation to a patient's skeletal structure , comprising:acquiring global preoperative image data of a patient's skeletal structure in an anatomical part;after exposing tissue, during a medical procedure, in the anatomical part, acquiring local intraoperative image data by scanning a selected local region of tissue in the anatomical part undergoing the medical procedure using Polarization Sensitive-Optical Coherence Tomography (PS-OCT), the image data usable to locate organized tissue structures relative to the patient's skeletal structure;identifying, from the local intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data, regions of tissue, exhibiting structural organization immediately proximal in relation to the skeletal structure;identifying, from the local intraoperative (PS-OCT) image data, attachment points of tissue, exhibiting structural organization immediately proximal in relation to the skeletal structure, relative to landmark positions on ...

Method of routing electrical current to bodily tissues via implanted passive conductors

The invention provides an implant for electrically stimulating a target body tissue in a subject. The implant provides a conductive pathway for a portion of electrical current flowing between surface electrodes positioned on the subject's skin and transmits that current to the target body tissue. The implant has an electrical conductor of sufficient length to extend from subcutaneous tissue located below a surface cathodic electrode to the target body 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 body tissue is stimulated. The conductor also has a stimulating end which forms an electrical termination for delivering the current to the target body tissue. A system and method incorporating the implant are also provided.

Intraoperative Ultrasound Probe System and Related Methods

An intraoperative ultrasound imaging system and method capable of using ultrasound imaging to safely place a surgical access instrument (e.g. guide wire, dilator, cannula, etc.) through a tissue (e.g., muscle, fat, brain, liver, lung, etc.) without damaging nearby neurovascular structure is described herein. The intraoperative ultrasound system includes an ultrasound probe assembly configured for emitting and receiving ultrasound waves and a computer system including a processor and a display unit. Once the probe is in position, ultrasound imaging is performed wherein the computer receives RF data from the probe and causes a B-mode image of the visible anatomical structures (e.g. muscle, bone, etc.) to be displayed on the display unit.

Method and apparatus for coordinated display of anatomical and neuromonitoring information

The invention relates to an integrated surgical navigational and neuromonitoring system. The integrated system provides real-time visualization of an instrument relative to a visualization of patient anatomy. The integrated system also acquires and incorporates neuromonitoring information into the visualization of the patient anatomy. The integrated system is further capable of integrating neurodiagnostic information, such as nerve conduction information, with anatomical and instrument position information to evaluate changes in neural integrity and develop treatment strategies.

Anaesthesia and consciousness depth monotoring system

본 발명은 엔트로피 또는 생물체 피검자로부터의 연속 또는 유발 신호들을 모니터링하는 다른 복잡도 분석 등의 비선형 동적(NLD) 분석을 포함하는 방법 및 시스템으로 이루어지며, 여기서 이러한 시스템은 a) 생물체 피검자에 주어진 환자 자극의 결과로서 생물체의 신호 유발과, 신호 순서 또는 규칙성에서의 일시적 변화들을 잡아낼 수 있는 비선형 분석 방법의 결합; b) 유발 또는 연속 중추 신경 또는 말초 생리적 메커니즘들의 임의의 결합; c) 마취 및 의식 심도(A&CD), 진정 또는 수면/각성 상태의 환자의 레벨을 나타내는 측정치를 발생시키는 수단을 포함하는 처리 단계들로 이루어진다. 또한, 본 발명은 a) 중추 신경계(CNS), b) 말초 조절 또는 신경계(PNS), c) 자율 조절 또는 신경계(ANS), d) 각성들, 및 e) 인공물들의 임의의 결합을 포함하는 여러 가지 신호 기원들 사이에 구별을 향상시키기 위한 NLC 분석 수단을 포함하는 방법 및 시스템으로 이루어진다. The present invention consists of a method and system comprising non-linear dynamic (NLD) analysis, such as entropy or other complexity analysis to monitor continuous or induced signals from an organism subject, wherein the system comprises: a) A combination of signaling of the organism as a result and nonlinear analytical methods capable of capturing transient changes in signal sequence or regularity; b) any combination of induced or continuous central nervous or peripheral physiological mechanisms; c) anesthesia and consciousness depth (A & CD), means for generating a measure indicative of the level of the patient in a sedative or sleep / arousal state. The present invention also provides a method of treating a disorder or condition selected from the group consisting of a) central nervous system (CNS), b) peripheral or nervous system (PNS), c) autonomic regulation or nervous system (ANS) And methods of NLC analysis to improve discrimination between the different signal sources.

用以阻滞神经通信的耗尽阻滞

系统的一个实例可以包括耗尽阻滞神经刺激器和耗尽阻滞控制器。耗尽阻滞神经刺激器可以被配置为递送耗尽阻滞刺激到神经。耗尽阻滞刺激可以包括在约100Hz至约1000Hz之间的范围内的脉冲频率处的一连串脉冲。所述耗尽阻滞控制器可以被配置为与耗尽阻滞神经刺激器进行通信和控制耗尽阻滞刺激。耗尽阻滞控制器可被配置为接收开始耗尽阻滞信号并通过启动对神经递送耗尽阻滞刺激来响应于所接收到的开始耗尽阻滞信号，而且耗尽阻滞控制器可被配置成接收停止耗尽阻滞信号并通过终止对神经递送耗尽阻滞刺激来响应于所接收到的停止耗尽阻滞信号。

Biological signal monitoring apparatus

본 발명은 생물학적 대상자의 통증, 진정, 마취, 의식, 주의, 인지 기능, 인지 인식 또는 인지 기억 유지의 수준을 결정하기 위해, 상기 생물학적 대상자의 생리적 데이터를 획득하기 위한 장치에 관한 것이다. 상기 장치는: 상기 생물학적 대상자의 적어도 하나의 반응 신호를 유발하기 위한 자극을 생성하기 위한 수단; 및 상기 자극을 생성하기 위한 수단으로부터 얻어진 유발 반응 신호로부터 적어도 2개의 파라미터들을 도출하기 위한 수단을 포함한다. 여기서, 상기 유발 반응 신호로부터의 상기 파라미터들은 상기 생물학적 대상자의 생리적 또는 심리적 메커니즘들 중 적어도 하나를 나타낸다.

Method and apparatus for coodinated display of anatomical and neuromonitoring information

本发明涉及集成的手术导航和神经监视系统。该集成系统提供装置相对于患者解剖结构显象的实时显象。该集成系统也获得神经监视信息，并将其并入患者解剖结构的显象。集成系统还能够将神经诊断信息如神经传导信息，与解剖学信息和装置位置信息集成，来估计神经完整性的变化并发展治疗策略。

Percutaneous devices and methods to visualize, target and ablate nerves

Apparatuses for identifying nerve tissue and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example apparatus may include an elongate shaft having a distal region configured to be percutaneously deployed within a patient. An active imaging structure may be disposed on the distal region. The active imaging structure may be configured to remotely image nerve tissue by exciting a signal in nerve tissue from a percutaneous location and receiving the signal from a percutaneous location. The active imaging structure may include one or more probes.

Biological signal monitoring apparatus

피험자의 정신적 건강 상태들 및 생리적 건강 상태들을 동시에 판정하는 방법으로서: 적어도 하나의 생체 신호들을 모니터링하는 단계 - 여기서, 상기 생체 신호들은, 의식 상태를 나타내는, 지속적인 EEG 생체 신호들 또는 청각 자극들에 의해 생성되는 유발 EEG 생체 신호들; 상기 의식 상태를 나타내는, 산소 포화도(SA02) 및 반사형 혈량 측정 파형 신호들, 호흡 전파 시간 및 맥박 전파 시간, ECG, 혈류 변화들 및 혈압 변화들, 맥파 동맥 파형 변화들 또는 맥파 동맥 긴장 변화들, 심박수 및 심박수 변동성 중 적어도 하나를 포함하는 또다른 생체 신호들; 근전도(EMG) 생체 신호들; 및 심전도(ECG) 생체 신호들을 포함함 -; 상기 피험자의 활력 징후들을 측정하는 단계; 상기 측정된 생체 신호들의 특성에 근거하여, 수면 상태, 정신 상태, 또는 지각 상태 중에서 상기 피험자의 상기 의식 상태를 판정하는 단계; 상기 판정된 의식 상태 그리고 상기 측정된 활력 징후들과 상기 활력징후들의 알려진 정상 범위와의 비교 결과에 근거하여, 상기 피험자의 상기 정신적 건강 상태들 또는 생리적 건강 상태들을 판정하는 단계; 및 상기 피험자의 상기 정신적 건강 상태들 또는 생리적 건강 상태들 그리고 상기 측정된 활력 징후들에 근거하여, 상기 피험자의 생리적 또는 정신적 건강 위험 예측을 판정하는 단계를 포함한다.

Self-fixable cuff electrode device and manufacturing method thereof

본 발명은 자가 고정이 가능한 커프 전극 장치 및 이의 제조방법에 관한 것으로, 보다 상세하게는 말초신경의 두께에 대응하여 적절한 압력으로 고정될 수 있으며, 고정 후에도 고정 압력의 조절이 용이한 자가 고정이 가능한 커프 전극 장치 및 이의 제조방법에 관한 것이다. 본 발명의 구성은 말초신경을 감쌀 수 있도록 마련된 기판유닛; 상기 기판유닛의 내부에 마련되며, 상기 기판유닛의 길이 방향으로 연장 형성된 유로유닛; 상기 유로유닛의 길이방향을 따라 복수로 마련되며, 상호 기설정된 간격만큼 이격되어 마련되는 풍선유닛; 및 각각의 상기 풍선유닛 상에 마련되는 전극유닛을 포함하며, 상기 기판유닛은, 상기 풍선유닛의 팽창도에 대응하여 곡률이 변화하도록 마련된 것을 특징으로 하는 자가 고정이 가능한 커프 전극 장치를 제공한다. The present invention relates to a self-fixable cuff electrode device and a method for manufacturing the same, and more particularly, can be fixed at an appropriate pressure corresponding to the thickness of the peripheral nerve, the self-fixation is easy to adjust the fixed pressure even after fixing Cuff electrode device and a method of manufacturing the same. The configuration of the present invention comprises a substrate unit provided to surround the peripheral nerve; A flow path unit provided in the substrate unit and extending in a length direction of the substrate unit; Balloon units are provided in plurality along the longitudinal direction of the flow path unit, spaced apart by a predetermined interval from each other; And an electrode unit provided on each of the balloon units, wherein the substrate unit provides a self-fixing cuff electrode device, the curvature of which is changed to correspond to the degree of expansion of the balloon unit.

Apparatus and method for monitoring or analyzing consciousness state of subject

본 발명은 생물학적 대상자의 통증, 진정, 마취, 의식, 주의, 인지 기능, 인지 인식 또는 인지 기억 유지의 수준을 결정하기 위해, 상기 생물학적 대상자의 생리적 데이터를 획득하기 위한 장치에 관한 것이다. 상기 장치는: 상기 생물학적 대상자의 적어도 하나의 반응 신호를 유발하기 위한 자극을 생성하기 위한 수단; 및 상기 자극을 생성하기 위한 수단으로부터 얻어진 유발 반응 신호로부터 적어도 2개의 파라미터들을 도출하기 위한 수단을 포함한다. 여기서, 상기 유발 반응 신호로부터의 상기 파라미터들은 상기 생물학적 대상자의 생리적 또는 심리적 메커니즘들 중 적어도 하나를 나타낸다. The present invention relates to a device for acquiring physiological data of a biological subject for determining the level of pain, sedation, anesthesia, consciousness, attention, cognitive function, cognitive cognition or cognitive memory maintenance of said biological subject. The apparatus comprises: means for generating a stimulus to elicit at least one response signal in the biological subject; and means for deriving at least two parameters from a evoked response signal obtained from the means for generating the stimulus. Here, the parameters from the evoked response signal represent at least one of physiological or psychological mechanisms of the biological subject.

Method and apparatus for measurement of neural response

A method for determining a desired location at which to apply a neural therapy. An array of electrodes is positioned proximal to neural tissue. A stimulus is applied from the array which evokes a neural compound action potential response in the neural tissue proximal to the array. A plurality of electrodes of the array simultaneously obtain respective measurements of the neural compound action potential response. From the measurements of the neural compound action potential response a desired location for a neural therapy is determined.

Implantable electrode positioning

A method of surgically positioning an electrode array at a desired implantation location relative to a nerve. A temporary probe electrode is temporarily positioned adjacent to the nerve and at a location which is caudorostrally separate to the desired implantation location of the electrode array. The implanted position of the probe electrode is temporarily fixed relative to the nerve. During implantation of the electrode array, electrical stimuli are applied from one of the temporarily fixed probe electrode and the electrode array, to evoke compound action potentials on the nerve. Compound action potentials evoked by the stimuli are sensed from at least one electrode of the other of the temporarily fixed probe electrode and the electrode array. From the sensed compound action potentials a position of the electrode array relative to the nerve is determined.

Monitoring device for physiological signals of subjects

一种受试者的生理信号的监测装置，所述监测装置包括：用于应用到所述受试者的皮肤的基体、用于监测所述受试者的生理信号的一个或多个传感器、以及邻近所述传感器的发光二极管LED或其他指示器，所述LED或其他指示器相对于所述传感器定位，所述LED或指示器结合用于通过电极相关单元的激活而再胶凝和/或再磨损所述受试者的皮肤的垫，以确保所述传感器与所述受试者的皮肤的最佳连接。

Vagus nerve stimulation to treat neurodegenerative disorders

Systems for using vagus nerve stimulation to treat demyelination disorders and/or disorders of the blood brain barrier are described. The vagus nerve stimulation system described herein is configured to reduce or prevent demyelination and/or promote remyelination to treat various disorders related to demyelination, such as multiple sclerosis. A low duty cycle stimulation protocol with a relatively short on-time and a relatively long off-time can be used.

Reduction of heart rate variability by parasympathetic stimulation

Apparatus is provided that includes an electrode device, adapted to be coupled to a vagus nerve of a subject, and a control unit, adapted to drive the electrode device to apply to the vagus nerve a current that reduces heart rate variability of the subject. Also provided is a method comprising applying to a vagus nerve of a subject a current that reduces heart rate variability of the subject.

A kind of novel diabetes peripheral neuropathy diagnosis and treatment viewer

本发明公开了一种新型糖尿病周围神经病变诊疗观察器，包括手柄，所述手柄顶部末端垂直设置有诊疗器头，所述诊疗器头侧面上设置有若干向外发散的端帽，所有的所述端帽所形成的平面垂直于所述手柄，所有的所述端帽末端设置于弧形槽槽体中，所述端帽于所述弧形槽槽体中转动，所述弧形槽上设置有缺口，所述端帽中依次分别设置有诊疗针、压力诊疗单丝和温度觉诊疗单丝，所述诊疗针、所述压力诊疗单丝和所述温度觉诊疗单丝分别连接于所述诊疗器头。本发明提供的诊疗观察器可以根据需要选择合适的诊疗器对周围神经病变进行诊疗观察，且结构简单灵活，使用方便。

Method and apparatus for phrenic stimulation detection

Approaches for characterizing a phrenic stimulation threshold, a cardiac capture threshold, a maximum device parameter, and a minimum device parameter are described. A plurality of cardiac pacing pulses can be delivered by using a cardiac pacing device, a pacing parameter of the plurality of cardiac pacing pulses being changed between delivery of at least some of the pulses. One or more sensor signals can be evaluated to detect stimulation of the phrenic nerve by one or more of the plurality of cardiac pacing pluses. The evaluation of the one or more sensor signals and the pacing parameter can be compared to determine if a phrenic stimulation threshold is at least one of higher than a maximum device parameter and lower than a minimum device parameter.

System and method for targeting heart rhythm disorders using shaped ablation

提供一种靶向生物节律紊乱，例如心律紊乱的系统和方法。该系统和方法包括：经一个计算设备处理心脏信号以确定由与该生物节律紊乱相关的一个源头界定的一个组织区域的形状，该源头在空间上在该形状上或该形状内迁移；并且鉴定与该形状邻近的该组织的至少一个部分以使得能够对组织的该至少一个部分进行选择性修饰，从而终止或改变心律紊乱。

Anaesthesia and consciousness depth monotoring system

본 발명은 엔트로피 또는 생물체 피검자로부터의 연속 또는 유발 신호들을 모니터링하는 다른 복잡도 분석 등의 비선형 동적(NLD) 분석을 포함하는 방법 및 시스템으로 이루어지며, 여기서 이러한 시스템은 a) 생물체 피검자에 주어진 환자 자극의 결과로서 생물체의 신호 유발과, 신호 순서 또는 규칙성에서의 일시적 변화들을 잡아낼 수 있는 비선형 분석 방법의 결합; b) 유발 또는 연속 중추 신경 또는 말초 생리적 메커니즘들의 임의의 결합; c) 마취 및 의식 심도(A&CD), 진정 또는 수면/각성 상태의 환자의 레벨을 나타내는 측정치를 발생시키는 수단을 포함하는 처리 단계들로 이루어진다. 또한, 본 발명은 a) 중추 신경계(CNS), b) 말초 조절 또는 신경계(PNS), c) 자율 조절 또는 신경계(ANS), d) 각성들, 및 e) 인공물들의 임의의 결합을 포함하는 여러 가지 신호 기원들 사이에 구별을 향상시키기 위한 NLC 분석 수단을 포함하는 방법 및 시스템으로 이루어진다. The present invention consists of a method and system comprising non-linear dynamic (NLD) analysis, such as entropy or other complexity analysis to monitor continuous or induced signals from an organism subject, wherein the system comprises: a) A combination of signaling of the organism as a result and nonlinear analytical methods capable of capturing transient changes in signal sequence or regularity; b) any combination of induced or continuous central nervous or peripheral physiological mechanisms; c) anesthesia and consciousness depth (A & CD), means for generating a measure indicative of the level of the patient in a sedative or sleep / arousal state. The present invention also provides a method of treating a disorder or condition selected from the group consisting of a) central nervous system (CNS), b) peripheral or nervous system (PNS), c) autonomic regulation or nervous system (ANS) And methods of NLC analysis to improve discrimination between the different signal sources.

Selective nerve fiber stimulation for treating heart conditions

Apparatus is provided that includes an electrode device, adapted to be coupled to a vagus nerve of a subject, and a control unit, adapted to drive the electrode device to apply to the vagus nerve a current that reduces heart rate variability of the subject. Also provided is a method comprising applying to a vagus nerve of a subject a current that reduces heart rate variability of the subject.

Anaesthesia and consciousness depth monitoring system

Examiner prepared Abstract A biological monitoring or imaging apparatus incorporating means for minimizing environmental or external system noise within a biological signal or image of interest, the apparatus comprising: an input sensing and/or input monitoring or imaging means for cancelling of the noise signal within the biological signal; means for adjusting the noise characteristics of one or more channels of sensed, monitored or imaged noise for producing an optimal noise cancellation signal; and means for combining the noise cancellation signal with one or more biological signal(s) of interest so that the resulting signal outcome comprises of the biological signal or image of interest with the noise signal diminished or eliminated.

Personalized heart rhythm therapy

Disclosed includes a body surface device for diagnosing locations associated with electrical rhythm disorders to guide therapy. The device can sense electrical signals and determine multiple sites that may be operative in that patient. The patch may encompass the heart regions from where the heart rhythm disorder originates. The patch comprises an array of electrodes configured to detect electrical signals generated by a heart. A controller may determine the locations of interest based on detected electrical signals. The controller is configured to locate these regions relative to the surface patch. The system may be coupled to a sensor or therapy device inside the heart, to guide this device to a region of interest. The controller is further configured to instruct the operator to use the trigger or source information to treat the heart rhythm disorder in an individual using additional clinical data and methods for personalization such as machine learning.

Label-free Imaging System for Specific Detection of Peripheral Nerve

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to detect strong reflections emitted from peripheral nerves at a specific excitation wavelength, based on the thin film interference phenomenon emerging from the unique layered structure of the nerve fiber aqueducts, A system and method for selectively imaging peripheral nerves relative to other tissues, such as, e.

System and method for targeting heart rhythm disorders using shaped ablation

System for spatially selective vagus nerve stimulation

By targeting on selected branches or fascicles of a vagus nerve using electrode placement and/or selection, one or more target branches of the vagus nerve are substantially activated by electrical stimulation pulses delivered to a branch without substantially activating one or more non-target branches. In one embodiment, vagus nerve stimulation is delivered through an electrode placed on a thoracic vagus nerve that is separated from a recurrent laryngeal nerve, such that the vagus nerve is stimulated without causing laryngeal muscle contractions. In another embodiment, vagus nerve stimulation is delivered through a multi-contact electrode with one or more contacts selected for delivering the electrical stimulation pulses to stimulate the vagus nerve without causing laryngeal muscle contractions.

Method and apparatus for detection of phrenic stimulation

Surgical imaging systems

Systems, methods and devices are provided for illuminating tissue with monochromatic or broadband light and imaging light that has been reflected back from the tissue. Imaging may be white-light imaging or hyperspectral imaging. The system can be a stand-alone hyperspectral imaging system, integrated as part of an external video scope, or as an auxiliary imaging module on an external videoscope. Various elements of a video scope that is particularly suited for minimally invasive surgery is first presented and then its configurations suitable for hyperspectral imaging are explained.

Noise detection and modulation of closed-loop therapy action

A medical device with closed-loop responsive stimulation may include techniques to mitigate the impact on the therapy output of noise coupled into the medical device. A medical device according to this disclosure may determine the presence of noise and alter the closed loop policy to provide the necessary therapy to the patient and avoid prolonged under stimulation caused by the noise. The medical device may continue therapy while testing for noise. When the device determines the noise level no longer affects the output therapy, the device may return the closed loop policy to a no-noise mode of operation. The medical device may also include techniques to mitigate the impact of manual adjustment while the medical device is subject to noise or is responding to changes in the patient's physiological signals.

Apparatus and method for evaluating diabetic peripheral neuropathy

足載台２と、足裏に移動刺激を与えるプローブ４と、基台１に設けられて、プローブ４を足裏に沿って直交方向へ個別に移動操作するプローブ駆動構造３を備えている。さらに、移動刺激を認識した被験者によって操作される入力スイッチ５と、プローブ駆動構造３の駆動状態を制御する駆動制御部５１と、測定された感覚閾値を評価する主制御部Ｂとを備えている。主制御部Ｂには、患者群の足裏に移動刺激を与えたときの既知の感覚閾値の基準データと、患者の年代の違いに基づく感覚閾値の標準値から算出された年齢補正係数とが予め記憶させてある。駆動制御部５１は、前記基準データと年齢補正係数とを用いてプローブ駆動構造３の駆動状態を制御して１次刺激付与状態を実行する。さらに２次刺激付与状態と、３次刺激付与状態とを順次行って感覚閾値を測定する。 A footrest 2, a probe 4 that gives a movement stimulus to the sole, and a probe drive structure 3 that is provided on the base 1 and individually moves the probe 4 along the sole in the orthogonal direction. Furthermore, the input switch 5 operated by the subject who has recognized the movement stimulus, the drive control unit 51 that controls the drive state of the probe drive structure 3, and the main control unit B that evaluates the measured sensory threshold are provided. . The main control unit B includes reference data of a known sensory threshold when a movement stimulus is applied to the soles of the patient group, and an age correction coefficient calculated from a standard value of the sensory threshold based on a difference in the age of the patient. Pre-stored. The drive control unit 51 controls the drive state of the probe drive structure 3 using the reference data and the age correction coefficient, and executes the primary stimulus application state. Further, the sensory threshold value is measured by sequentially performing the secondary stimulus application state and the tertiary stimulus application state.

HMGB1 and anti-HMGB1 antibodies in HIV infected patients especially with neurological disorders

Monitoring a quality of neural recordings

Automated assessment of neural response recordings involves storing a set of basis functions comprising at least one compound action potential basis function and at least one artefact basis function. Neural recordings of electrical activity in neural tissue are obtained by application of stimuli, using a single configuration of stimulation and recording. Each neural recording is decomposed by determining at least one parameter which estimates at least one of a compound action potential and an artefact. The at least one parameter is/are determined for each respective one of the plurality of neural recordings, to yield a plurality of values. A spread of the plurality of values is determined. An indication that the neural response recordings are of higher quality is output if the spread is small. An indication that the neural response recordings are of lower quality is output if the spread is large.

Communication devices, methods, and systems

Numerous aspects of communication devices, methods, and systems are described in this application. One aspect is an apparatus comprising an energy generator comprising a plurality of generator elements operable to output a plurality of different energy types in a signal direction toward the skin. Each generator element of the plurality of generator elements may be independently operable, when the energy generator is positioned relative to skin, to communicate with different nerves associated with the skin by outputting a different portion of an energy signal in the signal direction toward the skin with one energy type of the plurality of different energy types.

Methods for fabrication of an electrode delivery system

A method for fabricating electrodes sized and dimensioned to record, measure, and/or stimulate very fine nerve structures (e.g., microscale or less) is described herein. The method can include securing a tip of an electrode, comprising a conductor substantially encased by an insulator, to a proximal portion of an inserter. The electrode can be wound around a proximal portion of the inserter and a portion of the electrode can be secured to a distal portion of the inserter. A tension in the electrode can be maintained during the winding to keep the electrode in place during the winding.

Peripheral neural interface via nerve regeneration to distal tissues

At least partial function of a human limb is restored by surgically removing at least a portion of an injured or diseased human limb from a surgical site of an individual and transplanting a selected muscle into the remaining biological body of the individual, followed by contacting the transplanted selected muscle, or an associated nerve, with an electrode, to thereby control a device, such as a prosthetic limb, linked to the electrode. Simulating proprioceptive sensory feedback from a device includes mechanically linking at least one pair of agonist and antagonist muscles, wherein a nerve innervates each muscle, and supporting each pair with a support, whereby contraction of the agonist muscle of each pair will cause extension of the paired antagonist muscle. An electrode is implanted in a muscle of each pair and electrically connected to a motor controller of the device, thereby simulating proprioceptive sensory feedback from the device.

Tactile sensory testing instrument

A hand held instrument for use by a health care examiner in test evaluation of the threshold of cutaneous sensory perception of a body surface area of a human patient, particularly the hands and fingers and the feet and toes of the patient. The instrument includes a handle of approximate pencil length and configuration with a pivotal forward head portion. A monofilament element of selected bending force rating is affixed to and projects from the forward head portion of the instrument for application to a body surface area for evaluating the patient's sensory perception thereof. The pivotal forward head portion of the instrument is positionable between two points of filament orientation. The first position of the head portion of the instrument results in projection of the monofilament element in a test evaluation position whereat the filament element extends downwardly from the handle at an angle of about 90 degrees. The second position of the head portion of the instrument results in projection of the monofilament element in a non-test position with the filament element extending in a protected position along the length of the handle.

Intelligent seat integrating tumble risk prediction and tumble resistance training

本发明涉及一种跌倒风险预测及抗跌倒训练一体化的智能座椅，包括底板以及控制电脑，底板后端左右两侧分别固定有左端垂直杆以及右端垂直杆。左端垂直杆以及右端垂直杆之间设有座板，左端垂直杆以及右端垂直杆上各设有一个扶手杆。本发明在进行FTSST测试时，可自动计时，并计算有效的次数。在进行TUGT测试时，只有老年人踩到脚踏片的触碰开关时才有效，同时老年人每次坐在座板上的重心位置是否发生偏移也可以直观的通过控制电脑显示，更好的判定跌倒风险值。同时还可以锻炼手臂以及腿部肌肉，帮助老年人进行康复训练。