Patterned stimulation intensity for neural stimulation

Abstract One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system (10) that can modulate the intensity of a neural stimulation signal over time. A pulse generator (12) can be configured to generate a stimulation signal for application to neural tissue of an individual and modulate a parameter related to intensity of a pattern of pulses of the stimulation signal over time. An electrode (14) can be coupled to the pulse generator (12) and configured to apply the stimulation signal to the neural tissue. A population of axons in the neural tissue can be recruited with each pulse of the stimulation signal. P236592D1_21160707_1 ...

Audiological transmission system

Hybrid implantable cochlear stimulator hearing aid system

AUDIOLOGICAL TRANSMISSION SYSTEM

The invention relates to an audiological transmission system (1) which is adapted to be worn on, in or behind the human ear and which comprises a hou sing (2), an electric amplifier (3), a loudspeaker (4) and an output channel (5) for outputting acoustic signals to the ear. The aim of the invention is to increase the functionality of such a transmission system. For this purpo se, the transmission system (1) comprises a device (6) for the transcutaneou s stimulation of a nerve of the human body, said device having at least one stimulation electrode (7) and at least one reference electrode (8) for trans cutaneous nerve stimulation.

DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF MEDICAL DISORDERS

The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and systems used for the treatment of medical disorders via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve. More specifically, cutaneous methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, infraorbital, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein.

VESTIBULAR STIMULATION DEVICE

A vestibular stimulation array is disclosed having one or more separate electrode arrays each operatively adapted for implantation in a semicircular canal of the vestibular system, wherein each separate electrode array is dimensioned and constructed so that so that residual vestibular function is preserved. In particular, the electrode arrays are dimensioned such that the membranous labyrinth is not substantially compressed. Furthermore, the electrode array has a stop portion to limit insertion of the electrode array into the semi-circular canal and is stiff enough to avoid damage to the anatomical structures.

METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND DEVICES FOR PAIRING VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION WITH MOTOR THERAPY IN STROKE PATIENTS

A method of treating motor deficits in a stroke patient, comprising assessing a patient's motor deficits, determining therapeutic goals for the patient, based on the patient's motor deficits, selecting therapeutic tasks based on the therapeutic goals, performing each of the selected therapeutic tasks repetitively, observing the performance of the therapeutic tasks, initiating the stimulation of the vagus nerve manually at approximately a predetermined moment during the performance of the therapeutic tasks, stimulating the vagus nerve of the patient during the performance of the selected therapeutic tasks, and improving the patient's motor deficits.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TREATMENT OF TINNITUS AND OTHER NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS BY BRAIN STIMULATION IN THE INFERIOR COLLICULI AND/OR IN ADJACENT AREAS

Electrical stimulation is applied to the inferior colliculus or colliculi (IC), in order to diminish tinnitus by revising auditory pathway neuronal activity. This intervention diminishes tinnitus and treats other neurological and otological disorders. The locations and methods of electrode placement and anchoring and the structure of the electrodes are an advance over prior treatments. Other treatment locations in the nearby region of the IC, including the superior colliculi (SC) and Peri-aqueductal gray (PAG), provide treatments for other disorders and symptoms such as partial hearing loss and pain. The IC is a unique choice for the treatment of tinnitus and other disorders because an electrode placed in that region enables minimal invasiveness. The anchoring location also uniquely minimizes invasiveness by providing the option of residing in the meninges instead of the brain tissue. The shape of the electrode and its anchoring process uniquely match the brain's anatomy in order to provide ...

Biological interface systems with controlled device selector and related methods

Various embodiments of a biological interface system and their related methods are disclosed. A biological interface system may include a sensor including a plurality of electrodes configured to detect multicellular signals emanating from one or more living cells of a patient and a processing unit configured to receive the multicellular signals from the sensor and to process the multicellular signals to produce processed signals. The system may also include a plurality of controlled devices each configured to receive the processed signals. The plurality of controlled devices include at least a first controlled device and a second controlled device. The system may include a selector module usable by an operator and being configured to select which of the first and second controlled devices is to be controlled by the processed signals.

Methods, systems, and devices for pairing vagus nerve stimulation with motor therapy in stroke patients

A method of treating motor deficits in a stroke patient, comprising assessing a patient's motor deficits, determining therapeutic goals for the patient, based on the patient's motor deficits, selecting therapeutic tasks based on the therapeutic goals, performing each of the selected therapeutic tasks repetitively, observing the performance of the therapeutic tasks, initiating the stimulation of the vagus nerve manually at approximately a predetermined moment during the performance of the therapeutic tasks, stimulating the vagus nerve of the patient during the performance of the selected therapeutic tasks, and improving the patient's motor deficits.

METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND DEVICES FOR TREATING TINNITUS WITH VNS PAIRING

A method of treating tinnitus comprising measuring a patient's hearing, determining the patient's hearing loss and the patient's tinnitus frequency using the measurements of the patient's hearing, programming a clinical controller with the measurements of the patient's hearing, selecting a plurality of therapeutic tones, where the therapeutic tones are selected to be at least a half-octave above or below of the patient's tinnitus frequency, setting an appropriate volume for each of the plurality of tones, repetitively playing each of the plurality of therapeutic tones, and pairing a vagus nerve stimulation pulse train with each playing of a therapeutic tone, thereby reducing the patient's perception of tinnitus.

STIMULATION OF THE AMYGDALOHIPPOCAMPAL COMPLEX TO TREAT NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS

A system and/or method treating for a neurological disorder by brain region stimulation. The system and/or method comprises a probe and a device to provide stimulation. The probe has a stimulation portion implanted in communication with a predetermined brain region site. The stimulation portion of the probe may be implanted in contact with a predetermined brain region.

Patterned stimulation intensity for neural stimulation

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system that can modulate the intensity of a neural stimulation signal over time. A pulse generator can be configured to generate a stimulation signal for application to neural tissue of an individual and modulate a parameter related to intensity of a pattern of pulses of the stimulation signal over time. An electrode can be coupled to the pulse generator and configured to apply the stimulation signal to the neural tissue. A population of axons in the neural tissue can be recruited with each pulse of the stimulation signal.

АУДИОЛОГИЧЕСКАЯ СИСТЕМА ПЕРЕДАЧИ

Изобретение относится к аудиологической системе (1) передачи, выполненной для ее ношения человеком около уха, в ухе или за ухом и содержащей корпус (2), электрический усилитель (3), динамик (4) и канал (5) вывода акустических сигналов для уха. Для успешного улучшения функционирования такой системы передачи изобретение предусматривает, чтобы система (1) передачи имела также устройство (6) чрескожной стимуляции нерва тела человека, содержащее, по меньшей мере, один стимулирующий электрод (7) и, по меньшей мере, один эталонный электрод (8) для чрескожной стимуляции нерва. Техническим результатом изобретения является улучшение терапевтического эффекта. 18 з.п. ф-лы, 3 ил.

TIMED DELAY FOR REDELIVERY OF TREATMENT THERAPY FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM

Measuring a neurological event using clustering

Device for the combined application of a transcutaneous electrical stimulus and emission of an acoustic signal

The invention relates to a device (1) for the combined application of a transcutaneous electrical stimulus to the surface of a portion of the human ear (2) and emission of an acoustic signal into the auditory canal (G) of the ear (2), wherein the device (1) has at least one electrode head (3) with at least one electrode (4, 5) for applying the electrical stimulus, wherein the device (1) has a loudspeaker (6) and an output channel (7) for acoustic signals into the auditory canal (D) and wherein the device (1) also comprises a control device (8), with which the application of the electrical stimulus and the emission of acoustic signals can be controlled. In order to achieve improved treatment of disorders using electrical stimulation, in particular tinnitus, the invention provides that the at least one electrode (4, 5) or the electrode head (3) carrying it is designed to allow it to be arranged in the cymba conchae (Cy) of the ear (2).

Methods of treating medical conditions by population based encoding of neural information

The present invention generally relates to patterned intensity modulation of neural tissue. Certain embodiments provide a method of treating medical conditions by providing an electrode and modulating stimulation parameters delivered by the electrode. The stimulation parameters that are modulated relate to stimulation intensity and are varied according to a stimulation input parameter or time. The stimulation input parameter can be a choice of an individual waveform (i.e. or psi), which may be varied for each pulse.

Vestibular stimulation electrode

A vestibular stimulation electrode lead is described for conducting electrical stimulation signals generated by an implanted vestibular stimulation module. An extra- vestibular lead branch carries the stimulation signals from the stimulation module to a vestibular entry location. A stopper collar is bent away at a first discrete angle from a distal end of the extra-vestibular lead branch to penetrate into a vestibular structure at the entry location. An intra-vestibular electrode array is bent away at a second discrete angle from the stopper collar and has an outer surface with one or more electrode contacts for delivering the stimulation signals to vestibular neural tissue at a target location within the vestibular structure. The first and second discrete angles form a geometry of the stopper collar and intra- vestibular electrode array that limits insertion of the intra-vestibular electrode array beyond the target location within the vestibular structure.

DEVICE FOR TREATING TINNITUS ALLOWING CONTINUOUS SUPPLY OF ELECTROSTIMULATION

PURPOSE: A device for treating tinnitus is provided to suppress the generation of tinnitus and to improve tinnitus treatment efficiency. CONSTITUTION: A device for treating tinnitus comprises a power receiving part(110) which is delivered with an electric signal through a non-contact method, is adhered to a round window membrane, and supplies a sensitive signal to cochlea, and a power transmission part(120) which delivers an electric signal to the power receiving part and allows frequency control of the electric signal according to the state of a patient. COPYRIGHT KIPO 2013 ...

METHODS OF TREATING MEDICAL CONDITIONS BY POPULATION BASED ENCODING OF NEURAL INFORMATION

The present invention generally relates to patterned intensity modulation of neural tissue. Certain embodiments provide a method of treating medical conditions by providing an electrode and modulating stimulation parameters delivered by the electrode. The stimulation parameters that are modulated relate to stimulation intensity and are varied according to a stimulation input parameter or time. The stimulation input parameter can be a choice of an individual waveform (i.e. Ψ or psi), which may be varied for each pulse.

Electrical stimulation system and method for treating tinnitus

According to one aspect, an electrical stimulation system for treating tinnitus is provided. The system includes an electrical stimulation lead adapted for implantation into the person's skull for electrical stimulation of target brain tissue located in the person's temporal lobe. The lead includes one or more electrodes adapted to be positioned near the target brain tissue and to deliver electrical stimulation energy to the target brain tissue. The system also includes a stimulation source operable to generate signals for transmission to the electrodes of the lead to cause the electrodes to deliver electrical stimulation energy to the target brain tissue located in the person's temporal lobe to reduce tinnitus effects.

Combination of tonic and burst stimulations to treat neurological disorders

The present application relates to a new stimulation design which can be utilized to treat neurological conditions. The stimulation system produces a combination of burst and tonic stimulation which alters the neuronal activity of the predetermined site, thereby treating the neurological condition or disorder.

АУДИОЛОГИЧЕСКАЯ СИСТЕМА ПЕРЕДАЧИ

... 1. Аудиологическая система (1) передачи, выполненная для ношения человеком около уха, в ухе или за ухом и содержащая корпус (2), электрический усилитель (3), динамик (4) и канал (5) вывода акустических сигналов для уха, отличающаяся тем, что система (1) передачи имеет также устройство (6) чрескожной стимуляции нерва тела человека, содержащее по меньшей мере один стимулирующий электрод (7) и по меньшей мере один эталонный электрод (8) для чрескожной стимуляции нерва. ! 2. Система передачи по п.1, отличающаяся тем, что устройство (6) чрескожной стимуляции нерва является неотъемлемой составной частью системы (1) передачи. ! 3. Система передачи по п.2, отличающаяся тем, что по меньшей мере один электронный элемент управления электрического усилителя (3) и по меньшей мере один электронный элемент управления устройства (6) чрескожной стимуляции нерва выполнены в виде общего электронного модуля. ! 4. Система передачи по п.3, отличающаяся тем, что общий электронный модуль содержит общий унифицированный ...

Partially implantable system for rehabilitating hearing trouble includes a cordless telemetry device to transfer data between an implantable part, an external unit and an energy supply.

Equipment (10,40,80,130,150) for processing and generating signals has an implantable processor (141) with a programmed controller and an implantable memory (S1,S1') for storing operating parameters. A cordless telemetry device (125) transfers data between the implantable part, an external unit (120) and an energy supply (60).

CLUSTERING OF RECORDED PATIENT NEUROLOGICAL ACTIVITY TO DETERMINE LENGTH OF A NEUROLOGICAL EVENT

Laser-based nerve stimulators for, e.g., hearing restoration in cochlear prostheses

Apparatus and method for optical- or optical-and-electrical stimulation of e.g., auditory nerve pathways, for example spiral ganglion in the cochlea or neurons in the cochlear nerve. Several configurations for guiding and directing the optical stimulation are disclosed. Several configurations for guiding and directing the electrical field (used in some embodiments, for sensitization) in and though the destination tissue to which the optical stimulation is directed. In some embodiments, and array of IR VCSELs emit stimulation light, in particular to tissue in the cochlea for restoring hearing. In some embodiments, an electrical signal is also applied in a manner that reduces the amount of light in a pulse that is otherwise needed to elicit a NAP. In some embodiments, a heat dissipater is used to spread the heat generated by operation of the lasers and their circuits, to avoid heat damage to the tissue.

Device for the combined application of a transcutaneous electrical stimulus and emission of an acoustic signal

The invention relates to a device (1) for the combined application of a transcutaneous electrical stimulus to the surface of a portion of the human ear (2) and emission of an acoustic signal into the auditory canal (G) of the ear (2), wherein the device (1) has at least one electrode head (3) with at least one electrode (4, 5) for applying the electrical stimulus, wherein the device (1) has a loudspeaker (6) and an output channel (7) for acoustic signals into the auditory canal (D) and wherein the device (1) also comprises a control device (8), with which the application of the electrical stimulus and the emission of acoustic signals can be controlled. In order to achieve improved treatment of disorders using electrical stimulation, in particular tinnitus, the invention provides that the at least one electrode (4, 5) or the electrode head (3) carrying it is designed to allow it to be arranged in the cymba conchae (Cy) of the ear (2).

Methods of treating medical conditions by population based encoding of neural information

The present invention generally relates to patterned intensity modulation of neural tissue. Certain embodiments provide a method of treating medical conditions by providing an electrode and modulating stimulation parameters delivered by the electrode. The stimulation parameters that are modulated relate to stimulation intensity and are varied according to a stimulation input parameter or time. The stimulation input parameter can be a choice of an individual waveform (i.e. or psi), which may be varied for each pulse.

APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR SETTING AN ELECTRICAL DOSE

Methods and apparatuses for setting a therapeutic dose of a neuromodulator implanted into a patient are described. The therapeutic dose typically includes a therapeutic dose duration including a ramp-up time to reach a peak modulation voltage and a sustained peak modulation time during which the voltage is sustained at the peak modulation voltage. The methods and apparatuses described herein may use a testing ramp to identify a peak modulation voltage that is patient- specific and provides a maximized therapeutic effect while remaining comfortably tolerable by the patient during the application of energy by the neuromodulator.

AN APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TREATING A NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER OF THE AUDITORY SYSTEM

An apparatus for use in treating a neurological disorder of the auditory system, comprising a stimulus generation unit (101) and a somatosensory stimulation unit (102); the stimulus generation unit operable to analyse an audio signal, said audio signal comprising a first component comprising a broadband or white noise component and a second component comprising a plurality of complex tone bursts, and generate a plurality of actuation signals representative of at least one of the first or second component of said audio signal and further to spectrally modify said audio signal to generate a binaural modified audio signal for delivery to a subject; and wherein said somatosensory stimulation unit comprises: an array of stimulators each of which can be independently actuated to apply a somatosensory stimulation to the subject with the modified audio signal, and an input for receiving the plurality of actuation signals from said stimulus generation unit and directing individual actuation signals ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SUPPRESSING TINNITUS

Methods and devices for treating tinnitus in a human subject wherein the subject is caused to perceive a tinnitus suppressing sound which fully or partially suppresses the subject's tinnitus. The tinnitus suppressing sound can be set to a pitch offset from a matched pitch for the human subject. The offset can be one or more half octaves or octaves lower or higher than the matched pitch. The offset can also be set as a function of the human subject's hearing loss and as a function of limitations in the sound producing device so that the optimal sound for the human subject when wearing the sound producing device is the sound that is used in that situation. The produced sounds may also be modulated with a sinusoid for improved suppression. Other methods and devices are also disclosed.

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONDITIONED DESYNCHRONIZED STIMULATION

The invention describes a device (100) having a first stimulation unit (11) for generating electrical first stimuli (21) suppressing a pathological synchronous activity of neurons in the brain and/or spinal cord of a patient upon administering the same to the brain and/or spinal cord of the patient, a second stimulation unit (12) for generating optical and/or acoustic and/or tactile and/or vibratory second stimuli (22), and a controller (10) for controlling the first and the second stimulation units (11, 12), wherein the generation of the first and second stimuli (21, 22) optionally occurs in a first or in a second operating mode, and the controller (10) actuates the first and the second stimulation units (11, 12) such that in the first operating mode the generation of at least 60% of the second stimuli (22) is chronologically coupled to the generation of the first stimuli (21), and in the second operating mode the generation of at least 60% of the second stimuli (22) is carried out without ...

METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND DEVICES FOR TREATING TINNITUS WITH VNS PAIRING

A method of treating tinnitus comprising measuring a patient's hearing, determining the patient's hearing loss and the patient's tinnitus frequency using the measurements of the patient's hearing, programming a clinical controller with the measurements of the patient's hearing, selecting a plurality of therapeutic tones, where the therapeutic tones are selected to be at least a half-octave above or below of the patient's tinnitus frequency, setting an appropriate volume for each of the plurality of tones, repetitively playing each of the plurality of therapeutic tones, and pairing a vagus nerve stimulation pulse train with each playing of a therapeutic tone, thereby reducing the patient's perception of tinnitus.

TIMED DELAY FOR REDELIVERY OF TREATMENT THERAPY FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM

Apparatus and method support a repetitive administration of a therapeutic treatment through a delivery unit during a neurological event, such as a seizure, of a nervous system disorder. The medical device system monitors signal data from a sensor and through an amplifier. A neurological event is detected by a medical device system using a detection algorithm. Consequently, a electrical stimulation pulse is applied to an electrode. During the delivery of the electrical stimulation pulse, the medical device system blanks signal data that is associated with the electrode. Subsequently, additional blanking is providing during a time interval in which signal artifacts may occur and the amplifier is stabilizing. The medical device system then collects signal data for the detection algorithm to stabilize. Subsequently, the medical device system collects additional signal data in order to obtain statistically meaningful data. If the medical device system detects a continuation of the seizure, therapeutic ...

Method and apparatus for the treatment of tinnitus

An improved method and apparatus for electrically stimulating the brain to alleviate tinnitus. In one aspect of the invention the areas of the brain to which stimulation is applied would be determined by a procedure which first involves analysis of the patient to determine the nature of the sound perceived by the patient to produce tinnitus. Then these sound frequencies will be provided to the patient while imaging studies are made of the patient's brain. These studies may include magnetoencephalography (MEG) and/or functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). MEG is a non-evasive imaging technique that can be used to image the functional activity of the cortex, while fMRI is based on the increase in blood flow to the local vasculature that accompanies neural activity in the brain. These studies are then analyzed to determine the locus of the tinnitus, and one or more electrodes are placed at the indication region in the patient's brain and a stimulation device for outputting electrical ...

Patterned stimulation intensity for neural stimulation

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system that can modulate the intensity of a neural stimulation signal over time. A pulse generator can be configured to generate a stimulation signal for application to neural tissue of an individual and modulate a parameter related to intensity of a pattern of pulses of the stimulation signal over time. An electrode can be coupled to the pulse generator and configured to apply the stimulation signal to the neural tissue. A population of axons in the neural tissue can be recruited with each pulse of the stimulation signal.

Electrical Stimulation System and Method for Stimulating Tissue in the Brain to Treat a Neurological Condition

According to one aspect, a stimulation system is provided for electrically stimulating a predetermined site to treat a neurological condition. The system includes an electrical stimulation lead adapted for implantation in communication with a predetermined site, wherein the site is brain tissue site. The stimulation lead includes one or more stimulation electrodes adapted to be positioned in the predetermined site. The system also includes a stimulation source that generates the stimulation pulses for transmission to the one or more stimulation electrodes of the stimulation lead to deliver the stimulation pulses to the predetermined site to treat a neurological disorder or condition.

Soft, middle-ear electrode for suppressing tinnitis

A soft, ball-shaped middle-ear electrode is inserted and wedged into the natural cavity that exists in front of the round window. An electrical pulse generator connected to the soft, ball-shaped electrode provides electrical stimulation to the region surrounding the round window for the purpose of suppressing tinnitus or to improve hearing.

METHODS FOR TREATING TINNITUS WITH VNS

A method (of treating a patient who has tinnitus) includes: providing to the patient a series of tones including at least a single tone which is at least a half-octave outside a tinnitus frequency of the patient; and applying vagus nerve stimulation to the patient to induce a period of plasticity in a cortex of the patient that is transitory and that represents a transitory opportunity for learning to occur; and wherein the at least a single tone occurs during the transitory opportunity for learning.

Vorrichtung zur effektiven invasiven Zwei-Stufen-Neurostimulation

Vorrichtung (1; 2) zur Stimulation von Neuronen (31), um eine krankhaft synchrone und oszillatorische neuronale Aktivität zu unterdrücken, umfassend – eine in den Körper eines Patienten implantierbare Stimulationseinheit (11) mit einer Mehrzahl von Stimulationselementen (12–15) zur Stimulation von Neuronen (31) im Gehirn und/oder Rückenmark (30) des Patienten mit Reizen (22), und – eine Steuereinheit (10), welche die Stimulationseinheit (11) während eines ersten Zeitintervalls und eines dem ersten Zeitintervall nachfolgenden zweiten Zeitintervalls in unterschiedlichen Stimulationsmodi betreibt, wobei – die Steuereinheit (10) die Stimulationseinheit (11) während mindestens 75% der Dauer des ersten Zeitintervalls in einem ersten Stimulationsmodus derart ansteuert, dass die Stimulationselemente (12–15) Sequenzen von Reizen (22) repetitiv erzeugen und die Reihenfolge, in welcher die Stimulationselemente (12–15) innerhalb einer Sequenz die Reize (22) erzeugen, für höchstens 5 nacheinander generierte ...

System für die Paarplastizität

Stimulationspaarungssystem, das umfasst:einen Neurostimulator (108), der einem Vagusnerv (104) eine Stimulation mittels elektrischer Stimulation bereitstellt; undeine Zeitsteuerung (106, 136), die mit dem Neurostimulator (108) und einem Trainingssystem (110) kommunikationsfähig verbunden ist, wobei die Zeitsteuerung (106, 136) die Stimulation des Vagusnervs (104) einleitet, so dass die Stimulation gepaart mit einem Training eines Trainingsystems (110) erfolgt, so dass die Stimulation und das Training gleichzeitig auftreten, wobei es sich bei dem Training um ein sensorisches oder motorisches Training handelt.

System zur Anregung von Phantomempfindungen

Bei einem System (1) zur Anregung von Phantomempfindungen von amputierten Körpergliedern, z. B. ein Fuß oder eine Hand, eines Menschen umfassend eine Prothese (2) zur Befestigung an dem übrigen, nicht amputierten Körper des Menschen, wenigstens einen in die Prothese (2) eingebauten Sensor (19, 20) zur Erfassung eines Kontaktes zwischen der Prothese (2) und der Umgebung (41) während eines Kontaktzeitraumes, wenigstens eine Reizvorrichtung (22) zur Reizung der Hautoberfläche (11) an dem übrigen, nicht amputierten Körper (9) des Menschen, eine Steuer- und/oder Regeleinheit (13) zur Steuerung und/oder Regelung der Aktivität der wenigstens einen Reizvorrichtung (22) auf der Hautoberfläche, eine Energieversorgungseinheit (27) zur Versorgung der Steuer- und/oder Regeleinheit (13) und der wenigstens einen Reizvorrichtung (22) mit Betriebsenergie, ein Sensorverbindungsmittel (29) zur Übertragung von Sensorsignalen von dem wenigstens einen Sensor (19, 20) zu der Steuer- und/oder Regeleinheit (13) ...

IMPLANTIERBARES HEARING SYSTEM

Implantable system for rehabilitation of a hearing disorder

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 ...

Systems, devices and methods for the treatment of tinnitus

AN APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TREATING A NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER OF THE AUDITORY SYSTEM

An apparatus for use in treating a neurological disorder of the auditory system, comprises a sound processing unit, an audio stimulation unit and a somatosensory stimulation unit; wherein said sound processing unit comprises: a processor operable to analyse an audio signal and generate a modified audio signal and a plurality of actuation signals therefrom representative of said audio signal; and wherein said somatosensory stimulation unit comprises: an array of stimulators each of which can be independently actuated to apply a somatosensory stimulation to a subject, and an input for receiving the plurality of actuation signals from said sound processing unit and directing individual actuation signals in a predetermined pattern to individual stimulators in the array; and wherein said audio stimulation unit comprises an input for receiving said modified audio signal from the sound processing unit and an output for delivering an audio stimulation to the subject, the modified audio signal comprising ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PATIENT INTERACTIVE NEURAL STIMULATION AND/OR CHEMICAL SUBSTANCE DELIVERY

SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF TINNITUS

Provided herein are systems, devices and methods for stimulation of the cochlea that are sufficient to mimic or replace the spontaneous background neural activity of the cochlea thereby reducing or eliminating tinnitus.

IMPLANTABLE SYSTEM FOR REHABILITATION OF A HEARING DISORDER

An at least partially implantable system for rehabilitation of a hearing disorder with an arrangement for processing and/or generation of signals is provided includin g an implantable processor arrangement with control logic which operates according to an operating program and an implantable storage arrangement for storage of the operating program and of operating parameters. A wireless telemetry means is provided for data transmission between the implantable part of the system and an external unit. The system also include s a power supply arrangement which supplies individual components of the system with current and a rewritable implantable storage arrangement assigned to the processor arrangement for holding and reproducing the operating program and the operating parameters. At least a part of the operating program and/or of the operating parameters can be modified and/or replaced by data transmitted from the external unit via the telemetry means.

Tinnitus treatment system and method

전기자극법을 이용한 이명치료장치

... 본 발명은 전기자극법을 이용한 이명치료장치에 관한 것이다. 본 발명의 일 실시예에 따른 이명치료장치는 물리적으로 분리된 적어도 두개의 전극사이트를 포함하는 전기자극기를 이용하여 달팽이관의 정원창 또는 와우갑각에 서로 크기가 같거나 다른 전기자극을 인가하여 상기 전극사이트 사이의 임의의 위치에 최대 전기필드가 형성되게 한다. 이러한 방법으로 자극하고자 하는 위치를 세밀하게 조절하고, 자극되는 부위를 국소화 함으로써 이명환자의 청력손실 부위를 정확히 자극하여 이명증상을 제거 또는 완화할 수 있는 효과가 있다.

Stimulation of the amygdalohippocampal complex to treat neurological conditions

A system and/or method treating for a neurological disorder by brain region stimulation. The system and/or method comprises a probe and a device to provide stimulation. The probe has a stimulation portion implanted in communication with a predetermined brain region site. The stimulation portion of the probe may be implanted in contact with a predetermined brain region.

EXTRACRANIAL IMPLANTABLE DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF MEDICAL DISORDERS

The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and systems used for the treatment of medical disorders via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve. More specifically, minimally invasive systems, devices and methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein.

PATTERNED STIMULATION INTENSITY FOR NEURAL STIMULATION

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system that can modulate the intensity of a neural stimulation signal over time. A pulse generator can be configured to generate a stimulation signal for application to neural tissue of an individual and modulate a parameter related to intensity of a pattern of pulses of the stimulation signal over time. An electrode can be coupled to the pulse generator and configured to apply the stimulation signal to the neural tissue. A population of axons in the neural tissue can be recruited with each pulse of the stimulation signal.

Stimulation for treating ear pathologies

Devices, systems and methods for the treatment of medical disorders

The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and systems used for the treatment of medical disorders via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve. More specifically, cutaneous methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, infraorbital, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein.

EXTRACRANIAL IMPLANTABLE DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF MEDICAL DISORDERS

The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and systems used for the treatment of medical disorders via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve. More specifically, minimally invasive systems, devices and methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein.

TINNITUS TREATMENT SYSTEM USING KNIFE-BASED ACUPUNCTURE

The present invention relates to a tinnitus treatment system using knife-based acupuncture to: enable an operator to perform surgery while looking inside ears of a patient; and add heat and electrical stimulation only to periosteum. More specifically, the present invention: treats tinnitus by using knife-based acupuncture having a predetermined width installed in a tinnitus therapy device including a hand piece connected to a high frequency generator, an image processing device, and a controller controlling the same; inserts the knife-based acupuncture, coated with an insulation material, into the inside of an ear by coating a blade and a body of the knife-based acupuncture with the insulation material; minimizes pain of a patient by preventing electrical stimulation from being added to ear muscles by cutting fat inside the ear with the knife blade part and directly adding high frequency electrical stimulation to periosteum through muscle; and maximizes the effect of tinnitus treatment ...

PROBABILISTIC NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER TREATMENT

Disclosed are probabilistic approaches to patient evaluation, warning and treatment of a neurological disorder. Disclosed techniques estimate probability distribution functions or cumulative distribution functions, determined by relying on representative historical profiles, comprising information in short and/or long timescales obtained at times that may be intermittent or temporally discontinuous from each other or from other events of interest. The patient may thereby be treated based on the determined probability information.

CUFF APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL AND/OR ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION OF PERIPHERAL NERVES

Apparatus and method for making and using devices that generate optical signals, and optionally also electrical signals in combination with one or more such optical signals, to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a sensory-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to treat nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) or the central nervous system (CNS) and provide sensations to stimulate and/or simulate sensory signals in nerves and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human) to treat other sensory deficiencies (e.g., touch, feel, balance, visual, taste, or olfactory) and provide sensations related to those sensory deficiencies, and/or to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a motor-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to control a muscle or a robotic prosthesis.

Vestibular stimulation device

A vestibular stimulation array is disclosed having one or more separate electrode arrays each operatively adapted for implantation in a semicircular canal of the vestibular system, wherein each separate electrode array is dimensioned and constructed so that residual vestibular function is preserved. In particular, the electrode arrays are dimensioned such that the membranous labyrinth is not substantially compressed. Furthermore, the electrode array has a stop portion to limit insertion of the electrode array into the semi-circular canal and is still enough to avoid damage to the anatomical structures.

TINNITUS TREATMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD

A tinnitus masking system for use by a person having tinnitus The system comprises a sound delivery system having left and right ear-level audio delivery devices and is configured to deliver a masking sound to the person via the audio delivery devices such that the masking sound appears to originate from a virtual sound source location that substantially corresponds to the spatial location in 3D auditory space of the source of the tinnitus as perceived by the person. The masking sound being represented by left and right audio signals that are converted to audible sound by the respective audio delivery devices.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF PAIN FOLLOWING AMPUTATION AND SURGICAL TISSUE REMOVAL

Paind felt in a given region of the body can be treated by stimulating a peripheral nerve at a therapeutically effective distance from the region where pain is felt to generate a comfortable sensation (i.e., paresthesia) overlapping the regions of pain. Systems and methods to reduce pain in a painful region following surgical amputation of an extremity or limb may include stimulating a peripheral nerve innervating the painful region with an electrode inserted into tissue and spaced from the peripheral nerve. This method may be used to help alleviate postoperative pain in patients following amputation of an extremity or limb.

Methods and apparatus for effectuating a lasting change in a neural-function of a patient

The following disclosure is drawn to methods of electrically stimulating areas of the brain in which neuroplasticity are occurring. The stimulation site may be different than the region in the brain where neural activity is typically present to perform the particular neural function according to the functional organization of the brain. The disclosure provides methods of identify the location in which neuroplasticity is occurring, not occurring or expected to occur.

Stimulation of the amygdalohippocampal complex to treat neurological conditions

A system and/or method treating for a neurological disorder by brain region stimulation. The system and/or method comprises a probe and a device to provide stimulation. The probe has a stimulation portion implanted in communication with a predetermined brain region site. The stimulation portion of the probe may be implanted in contact with a predetermined brain region.

Vorrichtung zur effektiven nicht-invasiven Neurostimulation mittels variierender Reizsequenzen

Vorrichtung (1; 2) zur Stimulation von Neuronen (31), um eine krankhaft synchrone und oszillatorische neuronale Aktivität zu unterdrücken, umfassend – eine nicht-invasive Stimulationseinheit (11) zur Erzeugung von Reizen (22) in einer Mehrzahl von Stimulationskanälen (12–15), wobei die Stimulationseinheit (11) derart ausgelegt ist, dass die Reize (22) eine Neuronenpopulation (31) im Gehirn und/oder Rückenmark (30) eines Patienten über die Stimulationskanäle (12–15) an jeweils unterschiedlichen Stellen stimulieren, und – eine Steuereinheit (10), welche die Stimulationseinheit (11) derart ansteuert, dass die Stimulationseinheit (11) repetitiv Sequenzen von Reizen (22) erzeugt, wobei – die Reihenfolge der Stimulationskanäle (12–15), in denen die Reize (22) innerhalb einer Sequenz erzeugt werden, für mindestens 20 nacheinander generierte Sequenzen konstant ist und danach variiert wird.

Vorrichtung und Verfahren zur effektiven nicht-invasiven Zwei-Stufen-Neurostimulation

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zur Stimulation von Neuronen, umfassend – eine nicht-invasive Stimulationseinheit zur Erzeugung von Reizen in einer Mehrzahl von Stimulationskanälen, wobei die Stimulationseinheit derart ausgelegt ist, dass die Reize eine Neuronenpopulation im Gehirn und/oder Rückenmark eines Patienten über die Stimulationskanäle an jeweils unterschiedlichen Stellen stimulieren, und – eine Steuereinheit, welche die Stimulationseinheit während eines ersten Zeitintervalls und eines dem ersten Zeitintervall nachfolgenden zweiten Zeitintervalls in unterschiedlichen Stimulationsmodi betreibt, wobei – die Steuereinheit die Stimulationseinheit während mindestens 75% der Dauer des ersten Zeitintervalls in einem ersten Stimulationsmodus derart ansteuert, dass die Stimulationseinheit Sequenzen von Reizen repetitiv erzeugt und die Reihenfolge der Stimulationskanäle, in denen die Reize innerhalb einer Sequenz erzeugt werden, für höchstens 5 nacheinander generierte Sequenzen konstant ...

Audiologisches Übertragungssystem

Audiologisches Übertragungssystem (1), das zum Tragen am, im oder hinter dem menschlichen Ohr ausgebildet ist und das ein Gehäuse (2), einen elektrischen Verstärker (3), einen Lautsprecher (4) und einen Ausgabekanal (5) für akustische Signale an das Ohr aufweist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Übertragungssystem (1) weiterhin eine Einrichtung (6) zur transkutanen Stimulation eines Nervs des menschlichen Körpers aufweist, die mindestens eine Stimulationselektrode (7) und mindestens eine Referenzelektrode (8) zur transkutanen Nervenstimulation hat, wobei im Bereich des Ausgabekanals (5) für akustische Signale ein bügelförmiger Fortsatz (13) ankoppelbar oder angekoppelt ist, der zur Einführung in den Gehörgang ausgebildet ist, wobei der bügelförmige Fortsatz (13) der Form des Gehörgangeinganges bzw. des äußeren Gehörgangs nachgebildet ist und wobei am Ende des bügelförmigen Fortsatzes (13) ein Elektrodenkopf (14) angeordnet ist, der zwei Kontaktstellen (15, 16) für die beiden Elektroden ...

Screening techniques for management of a nervous system disorder

Systems, methods and devices for paired plasticity

Patterned stimulation intensity for neural stimulation

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system (10) that can modulate the intensity of a neural stimulation signal over time. A pulse generator (12) can be configured to generate a stimulation signal for application to neural tissue of an individual and modulate a parameter related to intensity of a pattern of pulses of the stimulation signal over time. An electrode (14) can be coupled to the pulse generator (12) and configured to apply the stimulation signal to the neural tissue. A population of axons in the neural tissue can be recruited with each pulse of the stimulation signal.

METHODS OF TREATING MEDICAL CONDITIONS BY POPULATION BASED ENCODING OF NEURAL INFORMATION

... ²²The present invention generally relates to patterned intensity modulation of ²neural tissue. Certain ²embodiments provide a method of treating medical conditions by providing an ²electrode and modulating ²stimulation parameters delivered by the electrode. The stimulation parameters ²that are modulated relate to ²stimulation intensity and are varied according to a stimulation input ²parameter or time. The stimulation input ²parameter can be a choice of an individual waveform (i.e. .PSI. or psi), which ²may be varied for each pulse.² ...

IMPLANTABLE SYSTEM FOR REHABILITATION OF A HEARING DISORDER

An at least partially implantable system for rehabilitation of a hearing disorder with an arrangement for processing and/or generation of signals is provided including an implantable processor arrangement with control logic which operates according to an operating program and an implantable storage arrangement for storage of the operating program and of operating parameters. A wireless telemetry means is provided for data transmission between the implantable part of the system and an external unit. The system also includes a power supply arrangement which supplies individual components of the system with current and a rewritable implantable storage arrangement assigned to the processor arrangement for holding and reproducing the operating program and the operating parameters. At least a part of the operating program and/or of the operating parameters can be modified and/or replaced by data transmitted from the external unit via the telemetry means.

DIRECTED INTRANASAL ADMINISTRATION OF PHARMACEUTICAL AGENTS

The invention includes methods, kits, compositions, and apparatus for intranasal administration of a compound such as a pharmaceutically active agent in a targeted manner. Such compounds can be delivered preferentially to a component of the central nervous system (CNS) such as the brain, the spinal cord, or cerebrospinal fluid. Such compounds can alternatively be administered preferentially to the systemic circulation of a human patient. The compound can be administered to either side of the blood-brain barrier by directing administration of the compound to portions of the nasal epithelium that overlie or are near an intranasal nerve structure, and intranasal blood vessel, or both.

Systems, Methods and Devices for Treating Tinnitus

Systems, methods and devices for paired training include timing controls so that training and neural stimulation can be provided simultaneously. Paired trainings may include therapies, rehabilitation and performance enhancement training. Stimulations of nerves such as the vagus nerve that affect subcortical regions such as the nucleus basalis, locus coeruleus or amygdala induce plasticity in the brain, enhancing the effects of a variety of therapies, such as those used to treat tinnitus, stroke, traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

STIMULATION DESIGN FOR NEUROMODULATION

The present application relates to a new stimulation design which can be utilized to treat neurological conditions. The stimulation system produces a burst mode stimulation which alters the neuronal activity of the predetermined site, thereby treating the neurological condition or disorder. The burst stimulus comprises a plurality of groups of spike pulses having a maximum inter-spike interval of 100 milliseconds. The burst stimulus is separated by a substantially quiescent period of time between the plurality of groups of spike pulses. This inter-group interval may comprise a minimum of 5 seconds.

Clustering of recorded patient neurological activity to determine length of a neurological event

Apparatus and method detect a detection cluster that is associated with a neurological event, such as a seizure, of a nervous system disorder and update therapy parameters that are associated with a treatment therapy. The occurrence of the detection cluster is detected when the maximal ratio exceeds an intensity threshold. If the maximal ratio drops below the intensity threshold for a time interval that is less than a time threshold and subsequently rises above the intensity threshold, the subsequent time duration is considered as being associated with the detection cluster rather than being associated with a different detection cluster. Consequently, treatment of the nervous system disorder during the corresponding time period is in accordance with one detection cluster. Treatment therapy may be provided by providing electrical stimulation, drug infusion or a combination. Therapy parameters may be updated for each mth successive group of applications of the treatment therapy or for each ...

METHODS FOR ENHANCING EXPOSURE THERAPY USING PAIRING WITH VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION

Disclosed is a method of enhancing exposure therapy including providing an exposure therapy to a patient and stimulating the patient's vagus nerve at the same time as the exposure therapy. Also disclosed is a post-traumatic stress disorder therapy method including providing an exposure event to a patient and stimulating the patient's vagus nerve during the exposure event. Also disclosed is a phobia disorder therapy method including providing an extinction event to a patient and stimulating the patient's vagus nerve during the exposure event. Also disclosed is an obsessive compulsive disorder therapy method including providing a therapy event to a patient and stimulating the patient's vagus nerve during the therapy event. Also disclosed is an addiction disorder therapy method including providing a therapy event to a patient and stimulating the patient's vagus nerve during the therapy event.

Methods, systems, and devices for pairing vagus nerve stimulation with motor therapy in stroke patients

A method of treating motor deficits in a stroke patient, comprising assessing a patient's motor deficits, determining therapeutic goals for the patient, based on the patient's motor deficits, selecting therapeutic tasks based on the therapeutic goals, performing each of the selected therapeutic tasks repetitively, observing the performance of the therapeutic tasks, initiating the stimulation of the vagus nerve manually at approximately a predetermined moment during the performance of the therapeutic tasks, stimulating the vagus nerve of the patient during the performance of the selected therapeutic tasks, and improving the patient's motor deficits.

Human cerebral cortex neural prosthetic

Timed delay for redelivery of treatment therapy for a medical device system

An apparatus and method for treating a neurological disorder of the auditory system

An apparatus for use in treating a neurological disorder of the auditory system, comprising a stimulus generation unit (101) and a somatosensory stimulation unit (102); the stimulus generation unit operable to analyse an audio signal, said audio signal comprising a first component comprising a broadband or white noise component and a second component comprising a plurality of complex tone bursts, and generate a plurality of actuation signals representative of at least one of the first or second component of said audio signal and further to spectrally modify said audio signal to generate a binaural modified audio signal for delivery to a subject; and wherein said somatosensory stimulation unit comprises: an array of stimulators each of which can be independently actuated to apply a somatosensory stimulation to the subject with the modified audio signal, and an input for receiving the plurality of actuation signals from said stimulus generation unit and directing individual actuation signals ...

Patterned stimulation intensity for neural stimulation

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system that can modulate the intensity of a neural stimulation signal over time. A pulse generator can be configured to generate a stimulation signal for application to neural tissue of an individual and modulate a parameter related to intensity of a pattern of pulses of the stimulation signal over time. An electrode can be coupled to the pulse generator and configured to apply the stimulation signal to the neural tissue. A population of axons in the neural tissue can be recruited with each pulse of the stimulation signal.

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 ...

HYBRID IMPLANTABLE COCHLEAR STIMULATOR HEARING AID SYSTEM

A hybrid cochlear implant hearing aid sytem (10) provides low frequency acoustic energy boost, if needed, and high frequency direct neural stimulation. Tinnitus suppression may also be provided. The neurons responsible for sensing high frequency sounds are located at the basal end of the cochlea. A short basal electrode (52) that extends into the cochlea only at the basal region allows direct stimulation of these neurons by an appropriately-controlled cochlear stimulator (50). The basal electrode array typically has from four to eight electrode contacts (54). The design of the electrode array allows the surgeon to place the array using minimally invasive surgical techniques and requires no cochleostomy. The electrode array is thin, and can typically be inserted directly through the round window membrane to make contact with, or to be positioned in close proximity to, the modiolus wall in the basal region of the cochlea. The hybrid implantable cochlear stimulator and hearing aid system relies ...

DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF MEDICAL DISORDERS

The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and systems used for the treatment of medical disorders via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve. More specifically, cutaneous methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, infraorbital, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein.

METHODS OF TREATING MEDICAL CONDITIONS BY POPULATION BASED ENCODING OF NEURAL INFORMATION

The present invention generally relates to patterned intensity modulation of neural tissue. Certain embodiments provide a method of treating medical conditions by providing an electrode and modulating stimulation parameters delivered by the electrode. The stimulation parameters that are modulated relate to stimulation intensity and are varied according to a stimulation input parameter or time. The stimulation input parameter can be a choice of an individual waveform (i.e. ? or psi), which may be varied for each pulse.

DIRECTED INTRANASAL ADMINISTRATION OF PHARMACEUTICAL AGENTS

The invention includes methods, kits, compositions, and apparatus for intranasal administration of a compound such as a pharmaceutically active agent in a targeted manner. Such compounds can be delivered preferentially to a component of the central nervous system (CNS) such as the brain, the spinal cord, or cerebrospinal fluid. Such compounds can alternatively be administered preferentially to the systemic circulation of a human patient. The compound can be administered to either side of the blood-brain barrier by directing administration of the compound to portions of the nasal epithelium that overlie or are near an intranasal nerve structure, and intranasal blood vessel, or both.

AUDIOLOGICAL TRANSMISSION SYSTEM

The invention relates to an audiological transmission system (1) which is adapted to be worn on, in or behind the human ear and which comprises a housing (2), an electric amplifier (3), a loudspeaker (4) and an output channel (5) for outputting acoustic signals to the ear. The aim of the invention is to increase the functionality of such a transmission system. For this purpose, the transmission system (1) comprises a device (6) for the transcutaneous stimulation of a nerve of the human body, said device having at least one stimulation electrode (7) and at least one reference electrode (8) for transcutaneous nerve stimulation.

MULTI-MODAL SYNCHRONIZATION THERAPY

The invention provides methods for treating a neurological disorder or deficit, such as tinnitus and phantom limb pain.

Methods, systems, and devices for treating tinnitus with VNS pairing

A method of treating tinnitus comprising measuring a patient's hearing, determining the patient's hearing loss and the patient's tinnitus frequency using the measurements of the patient's hearing, programming a clinical controller with the measurements of the patient's hearing, selecting a plurality of therapeutic tones, where the therapeutic tones are selected to be at least a half-octave above or below of the patient's tinnitus frequency, setting an appropriate volume for each of the plurality of tones, repetitively playing each of the plurality of therapeutic tones, and pairing a vagus nerve stimulation pulse train with each playing of a therapeutic tone, thereby reducing the patient's perception of tinnitus.

SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PAIRED PLASTICITY

Systems, methods and devices for paired training include timing controls so that training and neural stimulation can be provided simultaneously. Paired trainings may include therapies, rehabilitation and performance enhancement training. Stimulations of nerves such as the vagus nerve that affect subcortical regions such as the nucleus basalis, locus coeruleus or amygdala induce plasticity in the brain, enhancing the effects of a variety of therapies, such as those used to treat tinnitus, stroke, traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Methods for treating tinnitus by drug microinfusion from a neural prosthesis inserted in the brain

A method for implanting a neural prosthetic drug delivery apparatus into a target zone of a patient's brain for reducing or eliminating the effects of tinnitus. The apparatus includes a catheter which is inserted into the patient's auditory cortex or thalamus. The catheter microinfuses drugs which suppress or eliminate abnormal neural activity into geometrically separate locations of the patient's cortex or thalamus, thereby reducing or eliminating the effects of tinnitus.

Patterned stimulation intensity for neural stimulation

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system that can modulate the intensity of a neural stimulation signal over time. A pulse generator can be configured to generate a stimulation signal for application to neural tissue of an individual and modulate a parameter related to intensity of a pattern of pulses of the stimulation signal over time. An electrode can be coupled to the pulse generator and configured to apply the stimulation signal to the neural tissue. A population of axons in the neural tissue can be recruited with each pulse of the stimulation signal.

Use of a new stimulation design to treat neurological disorder

The method and system described herein relate to stimulating nerve tissue using a pulse generator, A stimulus is created that comprises a signal that is produced from a frequency spectrum having a power spectral density per unit of bandwidth proportional to 1/f ...

An apparatus and method for treating a neurological disorder of the auditory system

An apparatus for use in treating a neurological disorder of the auditory system, comprises a sound processing unit, an audio stimulation unit and a somatosensory stimulation unit; wherein said sound processing unit comprises: a processor operable to analyse an audio signal and generate a modified audio signal and a plurality of actuation signals therefrom representative of said audio signal; and wherein said somatosensory stimulation unit comprises: an array of stimulators each of which can be independently actuated to apply a somatosensory stimulation to a subject, and an input for receiving the plurality of actuation signals from said sound processing unit and directing individual actuation signals in a predetermined pattern to individual stimulators in the array; and wherein said audio stimulation unit comprises an input for receiving said modified audio signal from the sound processing unit and an output for delivering an audio stimulation to the subject, the modified audio signal comprising ...

Devices, systems and methods for the treatment of medical disorders

The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and systems used for the treatment of medical disorders via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve. More specifically, cutaneous methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, infraorbital, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein.

METHODS OF TREATING MEDICAL CONDITIONS BY POPULATION BASED ENCODING OF NEURAL INFORMATION

The present invention generally relates to patterned intensity modulation of neural tissue. Certain embodiments provide a method of treating medical conditions by providing an electrode and modulating stimulation parameters delivered by the electrode. The stimulation parameters that are modulated relate to stimulation intensity and are varied according to a stimulation input parameter or time. The stimulation input parameter can be a choice of an individual waveform (i.e. .PSI. or psi), which may be varied for each pulse.

Systems and methods for radial steering of electrode arrays

A device for brain stimulation includes a lead having a longitudinal surface, a proximal end and a distal end. A plurality of electrodes are disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead near the distal end of the lead. At least one marker is disposed on the longitudinal surface of the lead. The at least one marker is configured and arranged to identify a relative position of the plurality of electrodes.

Energy efficient high frequency nerve blocking technique

A neurostimulation system and method of blocking a neural axon. Time-varying electrical energy is conveyed to a blocking site on the neural axon for an initial phase. The conveyed electrical energy has an amplitude and frequency during the initial phase sufficient to block action potentials from propagating along the neural axon from a location proximal to the blocking site to a location distal to the blocking site. The time-varying electrical energy is conveyed to the blocking site on the neural axon for a subsequent phase contiguous with the initial phase. The conveyed electrical energy has a decreased amplitude and a frequency during the subsequent phase sufficient to maintain blocking of the action potentials along the neural axon from the location proximal to the blocking site to the location distal to the blocking site.

Apnea type determining apparatus and method

An apnea classification system provides for apnea monitoring and differentiation based on several sleep apnea related parameters for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Monitoring of such sleep apnea related parameters allows the apnea classification system to differentiate among the different types of apnea and hypopnea and to identify an occurrence of periodic respiration. This information may then be used to determine the best method of therapy, or adjust current therapy parameters to more effectively treat a subject.

Seizure detection using coordinate data

A seizure detection device includes a coordinate data interface configured to receive coordinate data for a human, a memory to store coordinate data for a defined location of the human, and a seizure detector configured to identify a seizure event responsive to the coordinate data.

Electrode devices with resistive elements

Apparatus is provided for applying current to a nerve. A cathode is adapted to be placed in a vicinity of a cathodic longitudinal site of the nerve and to apply a cathodic current to the nerve. A primary inhibiting anode is adapted to be placed in a vicinity of a primary anodal longitudinal site of the nerve and to apply a primary anodal current to the nerve. A secondary inhibiting anode is adapted to be placed in a vicinity of a secondary anodal longitudinal site of the nerve and to apply a secondary anodal current to the nerve, the secondary anodal longitudinal site being closer to the primary anodal longitudinal site than to the cathodic longitudinal site.

Apparatus, System and Method for Ultrasound Powered Neurotelemetry

The present embodiments provide an apparatus, system, and method for ultrasound powered neurotelemetry. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a piezoelectric element configured to receive an ultrasonic pulse and convert the electronic pulse into an electric potential. A diode may be coupled to the piezoelectric element, the diode configured to cause an electric current to flow in response to the electric potential. The apparatus may additionally include a reference electrode and a stimulating electrode coupled to the diode. The reference electrode may sense bioelectric activity in a region of body tissue located in proximity to the reference diode. The stimulating electrode may emit a carrier signal, wherein the carrier signal is modulated in response to the bioelectric activity sensed by the reference electrode.

Method and device for comprehensive anti-tachyarrhythmia therapy

A method and apparatus for delivering therapy to treat ventricular tachyarrhythmias is described. In one embodiment, neural stimulation, anti-tachycardia pacing, and shock therapy are employed in a progressive sequence upon detection of a ventricular tachycardia.

Implantable systems and methods for monitoring myocardial electrical stability by detecting pvc induced t-wave alternans reversals

Embodiments of the present invention relate to implantable systems, and methods for use therewith, for assessing a patients' myocardial electrical stability. Implanted electrodes are used to obtain an electrogram (EGM) signal, which is used to identify periods when the patient experiences T-wave alternans. Additionally, the EGM signal is used to determine whether premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) cause phase reversals of the T-wave alternans. The patient's myocardial electrical stability is assessed based on whether, and in a specific embodiment the extent to which, PVCs cause phase reversals of the T-wave alternans. This abstract is not intended to be a complete description of, or limit the scope of, the invention.

Device and method for biasing lung volume

A device and method is provided for biasing lung volume by electrically stimulating tissue associated with the diaphragm or phrenic nerve at a low level.

Method of diagnosing and treatment of hypertension

A method for the provision of electrical, electromagnetic or magnetic stimulation to the T8 and T9 vertebrae and related off-shoot vertebrae of the human spine, through the use of probes, related induction coils and electrodes, imparting one or more of low frequency, high frequency, AC or magnetic fields and pulses, and their combinations, through the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, to diagnose and treat hypertension activity of the cells in any one or combination of the vascular wall, kidney or adrenal glands, to innervate and affect such cells to approximate normal function, inclusive of sodium regulation and regulated release of hormones from such cells of the adrenal gland as well as regulation of vascular tone through improved function of various ion channels and improved sympathic nervous system function.

Devices and methods for tissue modulation and monitoring

A tissue stimulating device has an elongate member, a proximal annular stimulating region and a distal annular stimulating region. Each of the annular stimulating regions circumscribe the elongate member, and each has a plurality of independently energizable electrodes that deliver current into tissue. Adjacent electrodes in the annular stimulating regions are separated from one another by an insulating member. The annular stimulating regions are axially separated from one another by a gap. An internal electrical connector electrically couples a first electrode in the proximal annular stimulating region with a first electrode in the distal annular stimulating region. The first internal electrical connector is disposed within the elongate member, and extends across the gap between annular stimulating regions. A recording electrode is disposed in the gap and is adapted to record local tissue potentials from the tissue.

Identifying combinations of electrodes for neurostimulation therapy

A programmer allows a clinician to identify combinations of electrodes from within an electrode set implanted in a patient that enable delivery of desirable neurostimulation therapy by an implantable medical device. The programmer executes an electrode combination search algorithm to select combinations of electrodes to test in a non-random order. According to algorithms consistent with the invention, the programmer may first identify a position of a first cathode for subsequent combinations, and then select electrodes from the set to test with the first cathode as anodes or additional cathodes based on the proximity of the electrodes to the first cathode. The programmer may store information for each combination tested, and the information may facilitate the identification of desirable electrode combinations by the clinician. The clinician may create neurostimulation therapy programs that include identified desirable program combinations.

Systems and methods for positioning implanted devices in a patient

Systems and methods for positioning implanted devices in a patient are disclosed. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes, for each of a plurality of patients, receiving a target location from which to deliver a modulation signal to the patient's spinal cord. The method further includes implanting a signal delivery device within a vertebral foramen of each patient, and positioning an electrical contact carried by the signal delivery device to be within ±5 mm. of the target location, without the use of fluoroscopy. The method can still further include, for each of the plurality of patients, activating the electrical contact to modulate neural activity at the spinal cord. In further particular embodiments, RF signals, ultrasound, magnetic fields, and/or other techniques are used to locate the signal delivery device.

Sample and Hold Circuitry for Monitoring Voltages in an Implantable Neurostimulator

Sample and hold circuitry for monitoring electrodes and other voltages in an implantable neurostimulator is disclosed. The sample and hold circuitry in one embodiment contains multiplexers to selected appropriate voltages and to pass them to two storage capacitors during two different measurement phases. The capacitors are in a later stage serially connected to add the two voltages stored on the capacitors, and voltages present at the top and bottom of the serial connection are then input to a differential amplifier to compute their difference. The sample and hold circuitry is particularly useful in calculating the resistance between two electrodes, and is further particularly useful when resistance is measured using a biphasic pulse. The sample and hold circuitry is flexible, and can be used to measure other voltages of interest during biphasic or monophasic pulsing.

Method and apparatus for controlling neurostimulation according to physical state

A neurostimulation system senses a signal indicative of a patient's physical state such as posture and/or activity level. In various embodiments, a stored value for each of stimulation parameters controlling delivery of neurostimulation is selected according to the patient's physical state. In various embodiments, values of the stimulation parameters are approximately optimized for each of a number of different physical states, and are stored for later selection.

System and method for storing application specific and lead configuration information in neurostimulation device

External control devices, neurostimulation systems, and programming methods. A neurostimulator includes a feature having a numerical range. Information identifying a type of the neurostimulator is transmitted to an external control device. The external control device receives the information from the neurostimulator, identifies the type of the neurostimulator based on the received information, and programs the neurostimulator in accordance with the numerical range of the feature corresponding to the identified type of the neurostimulator.

System for abating neural stimulation side effects

Various system embodiments comprise a neural stimulation delivery system adapted to deliver a neural stimulation signal for use in delivering a neural stimulation therapy, a side effect detector, and a controller. The controller is adapted to control the neural stimulation delivery system, receive a signal indicative of detected side effect, determine whether the detected side enact is attributable to delivered neural stimulation therapy, and automatically titrate the neural stimulation therapy to abate the side effect. In various embodiments, the side effect detector includes a cough detector. In various embodiments, the controller is adapted to independently adjusting at least one stimulation parameter for at least one phase in the biphasic waveform as part of a process to titrate the neural stimulation therapy. Other aspects and embodiments are provided herein.

Systems and methods for treatment of dry eye

A stimulation system stimulates anatomical targets in a patient for treatment of dry eye. The system may include a controller and a microstimulator. The controller may be implemented externally to or internally within the microstimulator. The components of the controller and microstimulator may be implemented in a single unit or in separate devices. When implemented separately, the controller and microstimulator may communicate wirelessly or via a wired connection. The microstimulator may generate pulses from a controller signal and apply the signal via one or more electrodes to an anatomical target. The microstimulator may not have any intelligence or logic to shape or modify a signal. The microstimulator may be a passive device configured to generate a pulse based on a signal received from the controller. The microstimulator may shape or modify a signal. Waveforms having different frequency, amplitude and period characteristics may stimulate different anatomical targets in a patient.

Neural stimulation with avoidance of inappropriate stimulation

Various aspects of the present subject matter provide an implantable medical device. In various embodiments, the device comprises a pulse generator, a first monitor and a controller. The pulse generator is adapted to generate a neural stimulation signal for a neural stimulation therapy. The neural stimulation signal has at least one adjustable parameter. The first monitor is adapted to detect an undesired effect. In some embodiments, the undesired effect is myocardial infarction. The controller is adapted to respond to the first monitor and automatically adjust the at least one adjustable parameter of the neural stimulation signal to avoid the undesired effect of the neural stimulation therapy. Other aspects are provided herein.

Systems, devices, and methods for monitoring and analyzing research animal behavior before, during and after brain electrical stimulation

Described are systems, devices and methods for facilitating the delivery of stimulation to, and the monitoring and recording of physiological signals (e.g., electroencephalographic signals) from a research subject. Devices include a headmount that includes a cranial frame and a headstage, and a connection between the headmount and external equipment used for stimulation, monitoring, and/or recording that is robust physically and electrically to optimize stimulation, monitoring and recording even while the subject remains ambulatory. In some embodiments, a hinged headmount allows the configuration to be easily manipulated during attachment and any subsequent adjustment or reattachment procedures and permits easy access to any wires or other components implanted in the subject. In some embodiments, a flexible cable extends out from the headmount at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane of the headmount, to optimize strain relief as the subject moves about while attached to any stimulation, monitoring and/or recording equipment.

Seizure prediction and neurological disorder treatment

A prediction and stimulation system or method is provided for neurological disorders characterized by a local dysfunction in neuronal activity regulation. An array of electrodes detects neuronal electrical activity of selected brain region. A detection module detects in each electrode changes in electric field and neuronal activity. A prediction module predicts for each electrode abnormal regimes determined by neurological disorder. A neuromodulation module interfaced with the electrodes selects one or more electrodes in the array where a predefined threshold has been exceeded and stimulates the brain region through each of these selected electrodes using an intermittent therapeutic stimulation pattern with a frequency between 150 and 200 Hz. The provided therapy allows for seizure prediction and detection with high accuracy, potential low risk and increased battery life. The flexibility of the method and system allows it to be used in different neurological disorders by tuning the parameters using a calibration procedure.

Aortic pacing to control cardiac afterload

A chronically implanted medical device, connected to a medical electrical lead that includes a sensor, is used to detect cardiac afterload. Electrical stimulation is delivered proximate aortic arch tissue of a patient in order to reduce a patient's cardiac afterload. Electrical stimulation is terminated after a termination condition is met.

Direct memory access (dma) controlled stimulation

An implantable stimulation system (e.g., an implantable neurostimulation system (INS)) comprises memory including a first table and a second table. The first table stores blocks of stimulation event data corresponding to stimulation events that are to be performed during a period of time (e.g., a 0.5 sec. or 1 sec. period of time). The second table stores blocks of next stimulation event time data corresponding to the period of time. The implantable stimulation system also includes a direct memory access (DMA) controller including a first DMA channel and a second DMA channel. The first DMA channel selectively transfers one of the blocks stimulation event data from the first table to one or more registers that are used to control stimulation events. The second DMA channel selectively transfers one of the blocks of next stimulation event time data from the second table to a timer that is used to control timing associated with the stimulation events. In this manner, the DMA controller is able to control stimulation.

Electrical stimulation device for treating cardiovascular disease and method for treating cardiovascular disease

The object of the invention is to provide a new treatment method and treatment device that together with being able to improve a drop in cardiac contractility when treating cardiovascular disease such as acute myocardial infarction and suppress the occurrence of arrhythmia, is able to reduce the infarct size. Provided is an electrical stimulation device for treating cardiovascular disease having at least one electrode that is placed on a nerve site in the body of an animal, and an electrical stimulation application unit that applies electrical stimulation by the electrode to the vagus nerve in the neck region of the animal; and a method for treating cardiovascular disease in an animal having a step of placing an electrode in contact with the vagus nerve in the neck region of an animal, and a step of applying electrical stimulation to the animal.

Baroreflex stimulation synchronized to circadian rhythm

An embodiment of a baroreflex stimulator comprises a pulse generator to provide a baroreflex stimulation signal through an electrode, and a modulator to modulate the baroreflex stimulation signal based on a circadian rhythm template. According to an embodiment of a method for operating an implantable medical device, comprising a baroreflex stimulation therapy is applied at a stimulation intensity using a baroreflex stimulator in the implantable medical device, and the baroreflex stimulation therapy is modulated based on a circadian rhythm template stored within the implantable medical device. Modulating the baroreflex stimulation therapy includes using the circadian rhythm template to change the stimulation intensity to mimic natural blood pressure fluctuations during the day.

Neurostimulation system for selectively estimating volume of activation and providing therapy

An external control device, neurostimulation system, and method of programming a neurostimulator. A volume of tissue activation for each of a first one or more candidate stimulation parameter sets is simulated without conveying electrical stimulation energy into the tissue. One of the first candidate stimulation parameter set(s) is selected based on each simulated volume of tissue activation. Electrical stimulation energy is conveyed into the tissue in accordance with a second one or more candidate stimulation parameter sets, wherein the initial one of the second candidate stimulation parameter set(s) is the selected one of the first candidate stimulation parameter set(s). One of the second candidate stimulation parameter set(s) is selected based on a therapeutic efficacy of the electrical stimulation energy conveyed into the tissue. The neurostimulator is programmed with the selected one of the second candidate stimulation parameter set(s).

Neurostimulation system for estimating desired stimulation amplitude for electrode configuration

A neurostimulation system comprises a user input device configured for receiving input from a user, and processing circuitry configured for (a) selecting a first electrode configuration in response to receiving the user input, (b) predicting a neural response induced by electrical energy theoretically conveyed by the first electrode configuration at a specified amplitude, (c) deriving a metric value from the predicted neural response, (d) comparing the metric value to a reference threshold value, (e) adjusting the specified amplitude of the electrical energy if the metric value is not in a specified range relative to the reference threshold value, (f) repeating steps (b)-(e) using the adjusted amplitude as the specified amplitude until the metric value is in the specific range relative to the reference threshold value, and (g) instructing a neurostimulation device to deliver the electrical energy at the adjusted amplitude via the first electrode configuration to stimulate the patient.

Magnetic Attachment System for Implantable Device

A magnet arrangement is described for use with hearing implant systems. An external device for use with an implant system has an external device housing that contains external elements of a hearing implant system. A cylindrical external magnet arrangement within the housing has multiple magnetic sections lying in a common plane, including an inner center disc having an inner magnetic orientation in an inner magnetic direction, and an outer radial ring having an outer magnetic orientation in an outer magnetic direction opposite to the inner magnetic direction.

Extended pain relief via high frequency spinal cord modulation, and associated systems and methods

Extended pain relief via high frequency spinal cord modulation, and associated systems and methods. A method for treating a patient in accordance with a particular embodiment includes selecting a neural modulation site to include at least one of a dorsal root entry zone and dorsal horn of the patient's spinal cord, and selecting parameters of a neural modulation signal to reduce patient pain for a period of time after ceasing delivery of the signals, the period of time being at least one tenth of one second.

Stimulating cranial nerve to treat pulmonary disorder

A method for stimulating a portion of a vagus nerve of a patient to treat a pulmonary disorder is provided. At least one electrode is coupled to at least one portion of a left vagus nerve and/or a right vagus nerve of the patient. An electrical signal is applied to the portion of the vagus nerve using the electrode to treat the pulmonary disorder. The electrical signal may perform a blocking of an intrinsic neural activity on said at least one portion of the left vagus nerve and said right vagus nerve.

Automatic baroreflex modulation responsive to adverse event

A system for providing baroreflex stimulation comprises a sensor to detect a parameter and provide a signal indicative of the parameter and a baroreflex stimulator. The baroreflex stimulator includes a driver to provide a control signal adapted to deliver a baroreflex therapy and a controller to receive the signal indicative of the parameter and modulate the control signal based on the signal indicative of the parameter to change the baroreflex therapy from a first baroreflex therapy to a second baroreflex therapy.

System and method for delivering myocardial and autonomic neural stimulation

Various aspects of the present subject matter provide an implantable medical device. In various embodiments, the device comprises a pulse generator, a lead, a sensor, and a controller. The pulse generator generates a baroreflex stimulation signal as part of a baroreflex therapy. The lead is adapted to be electrically connected to the pulse generator and to be intravascularly fed into a heart. The lead includes an electrode to be positioned in or proximate to the heart to deliver the baroreflex signal to a baroreceptor region in or proximate to the heart. The sensor senses a physiological parameter regarding an efficacy of the baroreflex therapy and provides a signal indicative of the efficacy. The controller is connected to the pulse generator to control the baroreflex stimulation signal and to the sensor to receive the signal indicative of the efficacy of the baroreflex therapy. Other aspects are provided herein.

Controlled titration of neurostimulation therapy

Described herein are methods and devices that utilize electrical neural stimulation to treat heart failure by modulating a patient's autonomic balance in a manner that inhibits sympathetic activity and/or augments parasympathetic activity. Because other therapies for treating heart failure may also affect a patient's autonomic balance, a device for delivering neural stimulation is configured to appropriately titrate such therapy in either an open-loop or closed-loop fashion.

Charge balancing for arbitrary waveform generator & neural stimulation application

A method, device and/or system for generating arbitrary waveforms of a desired shape that can be used for generating a stimulation pulse for medical purposes such as for spinal cord stimulation therapy, where such arbitrary waveforms can also be used for charge balancing purposes.

Annular electrode array

A three-dimensional annular electrode array (AEA) device is disclosed for use as a cybernetic neural interface for the neural control and sensory feedback of a bionic prosthetic device. The AEA, designed for implantation into a nerve, is comprised of a body ( 6 ) that can be coupled to a sleeve(s) ( 9, 10 ) or a sleeve(s) with a compartmentalized inner core ( 12 ) for connection to the proximal and distal ends of a transected nerve, respectively. Regenerating nerve axons capture and sequester laterally projecting electrode terminals ( 4 ) arranged in radiating clusters ( 5 ) of a plurality of electrode sub-array nodes ( 2 ) that make up the array; connected by a primary electrode lead ( 7 ) to a connector contact array ( 3 ) in a plurality of connectors ( 1 ) for connection to wired or wireless electromechanical systems.

Electrical Stimulation Treatment of Hypotension

The present invention includes methods and devices for treating hypotension, such as in cases of shock, including septic shock, anaphylactic shock and hypovolemia. The method includes the step of applying at least one electrical impulse to at least one selected region of a parasympathetic nervous system of the patient. The electrical impulse is sufficient to modulate one or more nerves of the parasympathetic nervous system to increase the ratio of blood pressure to heart rate and relieve the condition and/or extend the patient's life.

Electrical brain therapy parameter determination based on a bioelectrical resonance response

Various methods and apparatuses are disclosed that concern delivering electrical stimulation to a brain at a plurality of different stimulation frequencies, sensing one or more bioelectrical signals, and identifying a bioelectrical resonance response of the brain to the electrical stimulation. The bioelectrical resonance response may be identified based on a parameter of oscillation of the one or more bioelectrical signals and indicative of resonance of an area of the brain to one stimulation frequency of the plurality of stimulation frequencies. A stimulation frequency parameter for a therapy may be set based on the identified bioelectrical resonance response, wherein the stimulation frequency parameter is set at or near the one stimulation frequency.

Pacing and Stimulation Apparatus and Methods

System, device and method of variable pacing and stimulation are provided. In one example device, one or more lead integrated circuits may programmably control one or more variability parameters. One or more electrodes may provide electrical stimulation. Each electrode may be individually addressable by at least one of the lead integrated circuits and controlled by at least one variability parameter. Electrodes may be intentionally shorted together during time intervals that fall between times of stimulus, so as to dissipate potentials that might otherwise persist and cause electrode degradation.

Entrainment of bioelectrical brain signals

The disclosure relates to the delivery of electrical stimulation therapy to the brain of a patient, e.g., to treat or otherwise manage a patient disorder. In one example, the disclosure relates to a method comprising generating electrical stimulation via a medical device; delivering the electrical stimulation at a first frequency to a brain of a patient when the bioelectrical brain signals of the patient oscillate at a second frequency, where the second frequency corresponds to pathological brain signals of the patient, where the electrical stimulation is selected to entrain the bioeiectrical brain signals of the patient; and adjusting the delivered electrical stimulation from the first frequency to a third frequency, where adjusting the delivered electrical stimulation changes the bioelectrical brain signal oscillations to a fourth frequency different from the second frequency. The fourth frequency may correspond to an oscillation frequency of non-pathological brain signals of the patient.

Dual prophylactic and abortive electrical stimulation

Prophylactic stimulation and abortive electrical stimulation are delivered to a cranial nerve, including, e.g. an occipital or trigeminal nerve to treat symptoms of various conditions, including, e.g. occipital neuralgia or migraines.

Electrode Stimulator with Energy Recycling and Current Regulation

A system and method for stimulating an electrode is provided. The stimulator includes a sensor circuit configured to couple to the at least one electrode of a medical device to measure a power characteristic of the at least one electrode. The stimulator includes a control circuit configured to compare the measured power characteristic of the at least one electrode to a desired power characteristic, and, based upon a comparison of the measured power characteristic of the at least one electrode and the desired power characteristic, select between a first operational mode and a second operational mode of the electrode stimulator. The first operational mode includes delivering energy to the at least one electrode to stimulate the tissue and the second operational mode includes recovering energy from the at least one electrode.

Selective stimulation to modulate the sympathetic nervous system

Systems, methods and devices are provided for the targeted treatment of a variety of medical conditions by directly neuromodulating a target anatomy associated with the condition while minimizing or excluding undesired neuromodulation of other anatomies. Typically, the target anatomy includes one or more dorsal root ganglia, dorsal roots, dorsal root entry zones, or portions thereof. Such target stimulation areas are utilized due in part to their effect on the sympathetic nervous system.

Spinal cord stimulation to treat pain

A system and method for treating pain without paresthesia by spinal cord stimulation.

Renal nerve stimulation lead, delivery system, and method

A lead for nerve modulation comprises an elongated body which includes a proximal end, a distal portion having a distal end, and an intermediate portion disposed between the proximal end and the distal portion. The distal portion includes a distal portion anchoring mechanism to anchor the distal portion to a first biological cavity of a patient. The intermediate portion includes an intermediate portion anchoring mechanism to anchor the intermediate portion to a second biological cavity of the patient. The intermediate portion anchoring mechanism is larger in lateral dimension than and is spaced from the distal portion anchoring mechanism. The distal portion and/or the intermediate portion includes a plurality of modulation electrodes. The distal portion anchoring mechanism and/or the intermediate portion anchoring mechanism is configured to position the modulation electrodes to contact tissue of the patient at multiple locations.

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.

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.

Display of region of activation in neurostimulation programming screen

A system for use with a neurostimulator coupled to one or more electrodes implanted adjacent neural tissue of a patient. The system comprises a user input device configured for allowing a user to select different nerve fiber diameters and to select a set of stimulation parameters. The system further comprises processing circuitry configured estimating regions of activation within the neural tissue of the patient based on the selected nerve fiber diameters and the selected stimulation parameter set. The system further comprises a display device configured for displaying the estimated regions of tissue activation. The user input device may further be configured for allowing the user to select different tissue regions of therapy, in which case, the display device may display the different tissue region on a human body map, and different indicia associating the displayed tissue regions for therapy to displayed estimated regions of tissue activation.

Secure and efficacious therapy delivery for a pacing engine

The above-described methods and apparatus are believed to be of particular benefit for patients suffering heart failure including cardiac dysfunction, chronic HF, and the like and all variants as described herein and including those known to those of skill in the art to which the invention is directed. It will understood that the present invention offers the possibility of monitoring and therapy of a wide variety of acute and chronic cardiac dysfunctions. The current invention provides systems and methods for delivering therapy for cardiac hemodynamic dysfunction via the innervated myocardial substrate receives one or more discrete pulses of electrical stimulation during the refractory period of said innervated myocardial substrate.

System and method for spinal cord stimulation to treat motor disorders

A method for using spinal cord stimulation to treat symptoms of motor disorders includes implanting a stimulation lead within a ventral portion of the epidural space. The lead is implanted with at least a portion of the electrodes facing the spinal cord. In a method for providing therapy to a patient suffering from a motor disorder, electrical stimulation energy is applied to at least one ventral column nerve fiber through the implanted stimulation lead. A peripheral region of the patient's body exhibits the symptoms of the motor disorder, and the ventral column nerve fiber to which the stimulation is applied innervates that peripheral region.

Method of neurostimulation of distinct neural structures using single paddle lead to treat multiple pain locations and multi-column, multi-row paddle lead for such neurostimulation

In some embodiments, a paddle lead is implanted within a patient such that the electrodes are positioned within the cervical or thoracic spinal levels. An electrode combination on a first row of electrodes can be determined that is effective for a first pain location with minimal effects on other regions of the body. The first pain location can be addressed by stimulating a first dorsal column fiber due to the relatively fine electrical field resolution achievable by the multiple columns. Then, another electrode combination on a second row of electrodes can be determined for a second pain location with minimal effects on other regions. The second pain location could be addressed by stimulating a second dorsal column fiber. After the determination of the appropriate electrodes for stimulation, the patient's IPG can be programmed to deliver pulses using the first and second rows according to the determined electrode combinations.

Nerve stimulation apparatus, nerve stimulation system, and control method for nerve stimulation apparatus

A sufficient therapeutic effect is achieved for each of a plurality of pathologies constituting a cardiac failure. Provided is a nerve stimulation apparatus including: a heartbeat detection unit that detects a heartbeat; a nerve electrode that is connected to a nerve controlling a heart; a nerve stimulation unit that outputs an electrical pulse to the nerve electrode; a functional-status detection unit that detects in-vivo information that indicates a functional status of the heart; and a stimulation-timing controller that controls the nerve stimulation unit so as to switch between a synchronous mode in which the electrical pulse is output in synchronization with the heartbeat detected by the heartbeat detection unit and an asynchronous mode in which the electrical pulses are output at constant time intervals, on the basis of the in-vivo information that indicates the functional status of the heart detected by the functional-status detection unit.

Devices and methods for treatment of heart failure and associated conditions

Devices and methods of use for identification, treatment, and/or management of heart failure and/or associated conditions. Methods may include providing a baroreflex therapy system including a blood pressure sensor and a heart rate sensor, providing an implantable measurement device proximate a blood vessel of a patient, the implantable measurement device including an electrode, providing a control system coupled to the baroreflex therapy system and the implantable measurement device, the control system programmed to automatically determine an impedance of the blood vessel with the implantable measurement device over a time period of at least one cardiac cycle, determine arterial stiffness of the blood vessel based on the impedance, determine blood pressure and heart rate, and activate, deactivate or otherwise modulate the baroreflex therapy system to deliver a baroreflex therapy based on the blood pressure, heart rate and arterial stiffness.

Selection of spinal cord stimulation electrodes for use in cardiac therapy

Methods, systems, and/or devices for selecting spinal cord stimulation (SCS) electrode array configurations to provide effective cardiac therapy. Physiological parameters related to the heart may be monitored and analyzed during the delivery of SCS using various SCS electrode array configurations to determine an effect SCS electrode array configuration.

Method and System for Determining Settings for Deep Brain Stimulation

A method and a control system ( 20 ) are provided for determining a relation between stimulation settings for a brain stimulation probe ( 10 ) and a corresponding V-field. The brain stimulation probe ( 10 ) comprises multiple stimulation electrodes ( 11 ). The V-field is an electrical field in brain tissue surrounding the stimulation electrodes ( 11 ). The method comprises sequentially applying a test current to n stimulation electrodes ( 11 ), n being a number between 2 and the number of stimulation electrodes ( 11 ) of the brain stimulation probe ( 10 ), for each test current at one of the n stimulation electrodes ( 11 ), measuring a resulting excitation voltage at m stimulation electrodes, m being a number between 2 and the number of stimulation electrodes ( 11 ) of the brain stimulation probe ( 10 ), from the stimulation settings and the measured excitation voltages, deriving an (m*{acute over (η)}) coupling matrix, an element (q, p) in the coupling matrix reflecting an amount of electrical impedance between two of the stimulation electrodes ( 11 ), and using the coupling matrix for determining the relation between the stimulation settings and the corresponding V-field.

Method of neurostimulation of distinct neural structures using single paddle lead to treat multiple pain locations and multi-column, multi-row paddle lead for such neurostimulation

In some embodiments, a paddle lead is implanted within a patient such that the electrodes are positioned within the cervical or thoracic spinal levels. An electrode combination on a first row of electrodes can be determined that is effective for a first pain location with minimal effects on other regions of the body. The first pain location can be addressed by stimulating a first dorsal column fiber due to the relatively fine electrical field resolution achievable by the multiple columns. Then, another electrode combination on a second row of electrodes can be determined for a second pain location with minimal effects on other regions. The second pain location could be addressed by stimulating a second dorsal column fiber. After the determination of the appropriate electrodes for stimulation, the patient's IPG can be programmed to deliver pulses using the first and second rows according to the determined electrode combinations.

Systems and methods for assessing heart failure and controlling cardiac resynchronization therapy using hybrid impedance measurement configurations

Techniques are provided for use with an implantable medical device for detecting and assessing heart failure and for controlling cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) based on impedance signals obtained using hybrid impedance configurations. The hybrid configurations exploit right atrial (RA)-based impedance measurement vectors and/or left ventricular (LV)-based impedance measurement vectors. In one example, current is injected between the device case and a ring electrode in the right ventricle (RV) or RA. RA-based impedance values are measured along vectors between the device case and an RA electrode. LV-based impedance values are measured along vectors between the device case and one or more electrodes of the LV. Heart failure and other cardiac conditions are detected and tracked using the measured impedance values. CRT delay parameters are also optimized based impedance. In this manner, multiple hybrid impedance measurement configurations are exploited whereby different vectors are used to inject current and measure impedance.

Dipole electrical stimulation employing direct current for recovery from spinal cord injury

A system and method to treat neuromuscular conditions, including spinal cord injury, by what is characterized as dipole (two point) cortico-muscular stimulation. Two-point stimulation, with oppositely charged electrodes, allows pulsed, direct current to pass through the cortico-muscular pathway. The electrodes are placed on nerves, muscles, or a combination of both, that are on opposite sides of the spinal column, forming a current that passes across the spinal column. Further, an active electrode can be placed on the spinal column and a reference electrode can be placed outside the central nervous system. These methods improve functional recovery of the motor pathway.

Systems to detect vagus capture

Some embodiments provide a system for delivering neurostimulation. Some system embodiments comprise a lead configured to be implanted in the body, a stimulation output circuit configured to deliver neurostimulation pulses to the vagus nerve through the lead, an EMG sensing circuit configured to use the lead to sense EMG signals from laryngeal muscle activity, and an evoked muscular response detection circuit configured to use the EMG signals sensed by the EMG sensing circuit to detect evoked laryngeal muscle activity evoked by the neurostimulation pulse.

Neural prosthesis and method for producing a neural prosthesis

The invention relates to a neural prosthesis, a neural prosthesis for use in the treatment of severed nerves and to a method for producing a neural prosthesis. Said neural prosthesis comprises a coupling element receptacle and at least one coupling element having a first and a second coupling section, wherein the coupling element is fixed by the coupling element receptacle, and wherein the first coupling section can be arranged on a first nerve region and the second coupling section on a second nerve region so that both nerve regions can be coupled by means of the neural prosthesis.

Detection of extracardiac stimulation by a cardiac rhythm management device

A medical device system and associated method for controlling a cardiac rhythm management therapy detect extracardiac stimulation. Cardiac pacing pulses are delivered, and a cardiac electrical signal comprising myocardial depolarization and repolarization signals is acquired. A processor is configured to, responsive to the cardiac electrical signal, detect extracardiac capture due to the cardiac pacing pulse.

Tibial nerve stimulation

A method is provided, including identifying a subject as suffering from pain in a first limb of the subject. In response to the identifying, treatment of the pain in the first limb is facilitated by implanting electrodes in a limb of the subject that is contralateral to the first limb. Other embodiments are also described.

Pain Management

A system including a processor configured to be coupled to an electrical lead that is configured to sense electrical activity in a patient, a memory coupled to the processor, the memory containing computer readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to detect a pain signature in the sensed electrical activity, determine a treatment protocol in response to the detected pain signature, and cause the treatment protocol to be delivered to the patient via the electrical lead.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NEUROMODULATION

A method of treating autonomic imbalance in a patient includes energizing a first therapeutic element disposed in a superior vena cava of the patient to deliver therapy to a parasympathetic nerve fiber (e.g. vagus nerve), and energizing a second therapeutic element disposed within the superior vena cava to deliver therapy to a sympathetic cardiac nerve fiber. A neuromodulation system includes a parasympathetic therapy element adapted for positioning within a blood vessel, a sympathetic therapy element adapted for positioning within the blood vessel; and a stimulator to energize the parasympathetic therapy element to deliver parasympathetic therapy to a parasympathetic nerve fiber disposed external to the blood vessel and energize the sympathetic therapy element within the blood vessel to deliver sympathetic therapy to a sympathetic nerve fiber disposed external to the blood vessel. The therapy decreases the patient's heart rate and elevates or maintains the blood pressure of the patient. 1. A method of treating autonomic imbalance in a patient , comprising:(a) stimulating at least one parasympathetic nerve fiber using a first therapeutic element disposed in a superior vena cava of the patient; and(b) stimulating at least one sympathetic nerve fiber using a second therapeutic element disposed in the superior vena cava.2. The method of claim 1 , further including introducing a therapy device into the vasculature claim 1 , the therapy device having the first and second therapeutic elements thereon claim 1 , and advancing the therapy device within the vasculature to position the first and second therapeutic elements within the superior vena cava.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein steps (a) and (b) are performed simultaneously.4. The method of wherein steps (a) and (b) are performed at separate times.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first and second therapeutic element comprise electrodes claim 1 , and wherein step (a) includes energizing at least one first ...

Systems and Methods for Determining a Sleep Disorder Based on Positioning of the Tongue

Devices and methods are disclosed that include an external unit comprising at least one processor. The processor may be configured to receive a signal indicative of tongue movement in a subject from an implant unit implanted in the subject, determine whether the tongue movement is representative of sleep disordered breathing, generate a modulation control signal to correct the sleep disordered breathing when the at least one processor determines an occurrence of sleep disordered breathing.

IMPLANTABLE AND RECHARGEABLE NEURAL STIMULATOR

One aspect of the present subject matter relates to an implantable medical device. An embodiment of the device comprises a rechargeable power supply adapted to be recharged through an ultrasound signal, a neural stimulator connected to the rechargeable power supply, and a controller connected to the rechargeable power supply. The neural stimulator is adapted to generate a neural stimulation signal for delivery to a neural stimulation target through an electrode. The controller is further connected to the neural stimulator to control the neural stimulator according to a neural stimulation protocol. Other aspects are provided herein. 1. A system for therapeutically stimulating a neural stimulation target of a human , comprising:an implantable medical device, wherein the implantable medical device includes a neural stimulator configured to deliver neural stimulation for use in stimulating the neural stimulation target, the implantable device including an ultrasound transducer configured to convert an ultrasound energy into an electrical energy,wherein the implantable medical device is configured to power the neural stimulator using the electrical energy converted from the ultrasound energy.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the implantable medical device is remotely powered through the ultrasound energy.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasound power signal includes data encoded within the ultrasound power signal claim 1 , wherein the implantable device is further configured to receive and process the data encoded in the ultrasound power signal.4. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an external device configured to send the ultrasound energy.5. The system of claim 1 , further comprising another implantable device configured to send the ultrasound energy.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the implantable medical device further comprises:a blood pressure sensor configured to sense blood pressure; anda controller configured to control the neural stimulator ...

Systems and methods for adjusting electrical therapy based on impedance changes

System and methods for adjusting electrical therapy based on impedance changes are disclosed herein. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes applying a therapeutic electrical signal to a patient via an implanted portion of a patient stimulation system that includes a signal delivery device in electrical communication with a target neural population of the patient. The electrical signal is delivered in accordance with a signal delivery parameter having a first value. Using the implanted portion of the patient stimulation system, a change in an impedance of an electrical circuit that includes the signal delivery device is detected. Based at least in part on the detected impedance change, the method can further include automatically adjusting the value of the signal delivery parameter from the first value to a second value different from the first, without human intervention.

POWER SUPPLY MANAGEMENT FOR IMPLANTABLE NEUROSTIMULATION DEVICES

An apparatus comprises a therapy circuit that provides a neural stimulation current, an impedance measurement circuit that measures a value of impedance at the output of the therapy circuit, a supply voltage generating circuit that provides an adjustable supply voltage value to the therapy circuit including a first supply voltage value when in a first mode, and a control circuit communicatively coupled to the therapy circuit, the impedance measuring circuit, and the supply voltage generating circuit. The control circuit, upon receiving an indication to exit the first mode, initiates an impedance measurement by the impedance measurement circuit, determines the second supply voltage value using the impedance measurement, and initiates a change from the first supply voltage value to the second supply voltage value. The second supply voltage value is sufficient to operate the therapy circuit and to provide a specified load current value to the measured impedance. 1. An ambulatory medical device comprising:a therapy circuit configured to provide a neural stimulation current at an output of the therapy circuit;an impedance measurement circuit configured to measure a value of impedance at the output of the therapy circuit;a supply voltage generating circuit configured to provide an adjustable supply voltage value to the therapy circuit including a first supply voltage value when in a first mode; initiate an impedance measurement by the impedance measurement circuit;', 'determine a second supply voltage value using the impedance measurement, wherein the second supply voltage value is sufficient to operate the therapy circuit and to provide a specified load current value to the measured impedance; and', 'initiate a change from the first supply voltage value to the second supply voltage value., 'a control circuit communicatively coupled to the therapy circuit, the impedance measuring circuit, and the supply voltage generating circuit, wherein the control circuit, upon ...

Baroreflex modulation to gradually change a physiological parameter

An aspect of the present subject matter relates to a baroreflex stimulator. An embodiment of the stimulator includes a pulse generator to provide a baroreflex stimulation signal through an electrode, and a modulator. The modulator modulates the baroreflex stimulation signal to increase the baroreflex stimulation therapy by a predetermined rate of change to lower systemic blood pressure to a target pressure. Other aspects are provided herein.

Neural control of central sleep apnea

An apparatus comprises a physiologic sensing circuit and a control circuit. The physiologic sensing circuit is configured to sense an electrical respiration signal representative of respiration of a subject. The control circuit includes a respiration monitor circuit and a therapy circuit. The respiration monitor circuit is configured to extract a respiration parameter from the respiration signal and detect that a value of the respiration parameter is outside of a target value range for the respiration parameter. The therapy circuit is configured to deliver neural stimulation to the carotid sinus of the subject to stimulate respiration and to adjust respiration to maintain the value of the respiration parameter within the target value range.

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR FEEDBACK-BASED NERVE MODULATION

A device according to some embodiments may include a housing configured for location external to a body of a subject. The device may also include at least one processor associated with the housing and configured to communicate with a circuit implanted in the subject within proximity to a tongue of the subject, wherein the circuit is in electrical communication with at least one electrode, receive a physiological signal from the subject via the circuit, and send a control signal to the implanted circuit in response to the physiological signal, wherein the control signal is predetermined to activate neuromuscular tissue within the tongue. 1. A sleep apnea treatment device , comprising:a housing configured for location external to a body of a subject; and communicate with a circuit implanted in the subject within proximity to a tongue of the subject, wherein the circuit is in electrical communication with at least one electrode;', 'receive a physiological signal from the subject via the circuit and', 'send a control signal to the implanted circuit in response to the physiological signal, wherein the control signal is predetermined to activate neuromuscular tissue within the tongue., 'at least one processor associated with the housing and further configured to2. The sleep apnea treatment device of claim 1 , wherein the control signal is sent within a response time chosen from among the group comprising 1 second claim 1 , 500 milliseconds claim 1 , 200 milliseconds claim 1 , 100 milliseconds claim 1 , 50 milliseconds claim 1 , 20 milliseconds claim 1 , 5 milliseconds claim 1 , and 1 millisecond.3. The sleep apnea treatment device of claim 1 , further comprising an antenna configured to transmit the control signal from the location outside of the subject's body to an antenna associated with the implanted circuit.4. The sleep apnea treatment device of claim 1 , wherein the physiological signal includes at least one aspect indicative of a movement of the tongue.5. The sleep ...

Implantable Neurostimulation Electrode Interface

An implantable neurostimulation electrode interface and related system arrangements and methods are provided. The implantable interface may include at least a first stimulation signal channel for receiving a first electrode stimulation signal and a plurality of electrode signal channels electrically interconnected or interconnectable to a plurality of electrodes for neurostimulation. The interface may further include a router electrically interconnected to the first stimulation signal channel and to the plurality of electrode signal channels. The router is controllable to directly route the first electrode stimulation signal to different first successive sets of one or more of the plurality of electrode signal channels. The router may be adapted for routing the first electrode stimulation signal as an electrical current signal, without modification of the signal. Stimulation signal generation componentry and power source componentry may be located remotely from the implantable interface. Such componentry may be selectively interconnectable to and disconnectable from the implantable interface. 1. An implantable electrode interface comprising:a first stimulation signal channel for receiving a first electrode stimulation signal;a plurality of electrode signal channels electrically interconnected or interconnectable to a plurality of electrodes for neurostimulation; and,a router electrically interconnected to said first stimulation signal channel and to said plurality of electrode signal channels, wherein said router is controllable to directly route said first electrode stimulation signal to different first successive sets of one or more of said plurality of electrode signal channels.2. An implantable electrode interface as recited in claim 1 , further comprising:a biocompatible housing, wherein said router is sealably disposed within said housing.3. An implantable electrode interface as recited in claim 2 , further comprising:a first stimulation signal connector ...

Devices and Methods for Delivering Energy as a Function of Condition Severity

A device for regulating energy delivery to an implanted circuit is disclosed. The device may include at least one implantable circuit and at least one pair of implantable electrodes in electrical communication with the circuit. The at least one pair of implantable electrodes may be configured to modulate at least one nerve. The at least one implantable circuit may be configured deliver a signal to the at least one pair of implantable electrodes. The signal may have at least one of a power level or a duration determined based on a severity of a detected physiologic condition.

Apparatus and Method for Controlling Energy Delivery as a Function of Degree of Coupling

A device for delivering energy as a function of degree coupling may include an external unit configured for location external to a body of a subject and at least one processor associated with the implant unit and configured for electrical communication with a power source. The device may further include a primary antenna associated with the at least one processor. The processor may be configured to determine a degree of coupling between the primary antenna and a secondary antenna associated with the implant unit, and regulate delivery of power to the implant unit based on the degree of coupling between the primary antenna and the secondary antenna. 1. A sleep disordered breathing therapy device , comprising:a skin patch configured for temporary affixation on at least one of a neck and a head of a subject;a primary antenna associated with the skin patch;at least one processor associated with the skin patch and configured for electrical communication with a power sourcethe at least one processor further configured to communicate with an implant unit via the primary antenna when the implant unit is implanted in at least one of the neck and the head of the subject of the subject in a location proximate a hypoglossal nerve, and to determine a degree of coupling between the primary antenna and a secondary antenna associated with the implant unit, and to regulate delivery of power from the power source to the implant unit based on the degree of coupling between the primary antenna and the secondary antenna.2. The sleep disordered breathing therapy device of claim 1 , wherein the primary antenna includes a coil antenna.3. The sleep disordered breathing therapy device of claim 1 , wherein the skin patch includes a flexible substrate.4. The sleep disordered breathing therapy device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one processor is further configured to receive physiological data via the implant unit and regulate delivery of power from the power source to the implant unit ...

Apparatus and Method for Extending Implant Life Using a Dual Power Scheme

A device according to some embodiments may include a housing configured for location external to a body of a subject. The device may also include at least one processor associated with the housing and configured for electrical communication with a power source, and an antenna associated with the at least one processor. The at least one processor may be configured to communicate with an implant circuit located within the body of the subject, cause the implant circuit to receive power in a first power mode and in a second power mode, wherein a first level of power delivered in the first power mode is less than a second level of power delivered in the second power mode, and wherein during a therapy period, power delivery in the first mode occurs over a total time that is greater than about 50% of the therapy period. 1. A device for the treatment of sleep disordered breathing , the device comprising:a housing configured for temporary affixation on at least one of a neck and a head of a subject; andat least one processor associated with the housing and configured for electrical communication with a power source; andan antenna associated with the at least one processor; communicate with an implant circuit in at least one of the neck and the head of the subject of the subject in a location proximate a hypoglossal nerve,', 'cause the implant circuit to receive power in a first power mode and in a second power mode, wherein a first level of power delivered in the first power mode is less than a second level of power delivered in the second power mode, and wherein during a therapy period, power delivery in the first mode occurs over a total time that is greater than about 50% of the therapy period., 'the at least one processor being configured to2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the implant circuit is associated with electrodes claim 1 , and wherein during the first power mode claim 1 , the at least one processor causes a first alternating current signal to supply power to ...

Apparatus and Method to Control an Implant

A device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure includes a housing configured to retain a battery, a primary antenna associated with the housing, and at least one processor in electrical communication with the battery and the primary antenna. In some embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to cause transmission of a primary signal from the primary antenna to an implantable device during a treatment session of at least three hours in duration, wherein the primary signal is generated using power supplied by the battery and includes a pulse train, the pulse train including a plurality of modulation pulses.

Electrode Configuration for Implantable Modulator

A device according to some embodiments may include an implantable flexible carrier and a pair of electrodes located on the carrier. The electrodes may be spaced from each other by a distance greater than 3 mm, and may be configured to cause, when supplied with an electrical signal, a unidirectional electric field sufficient to modulate at least one nerve. 1. A sleep disordered breathing therapy device , comprising:an implantable flexible carrier configured for implantation proximal to a genioglossus muscle of a subject; anda pair of electrodes located on the carrier, wherein the electrodes are spaced from each other by a distance greater than 3 mm, and are configured to facilitate, when supplied with an electrical signal, a substantially unidirectional electric field sufficient to modulate a hypoglossal nerve.2. The sleep disordered breathing therapy device of claim 1 , wherein the modulation of the hypoglossal nerve includes a stimulation signal sufficient to cause a contraction of the genioglossus muscle.3. The sleep disordered breathing therapy device of claim 1 , wherein the pair of electrodes are further configured to modulate the hypoglossal nerve when tissue of the genioglossus muscle is interposed between the electrodes and the hypoglossal nerve.4. The sleep disordered breathing therapy device of claim 3 , wherein the genioglossus muscle tissue interposed between the electrodes and the hypoglossal nerve is greater than 5 mm in thickness.5. The sleep disordered breathing therapy device of claim 3 , wherein the electrodes and the hypoglossal nerve are spaced apart by a distance greater than 5 mm.6. The sleep disordered breathing therapy device of claim 1 , wherein the flexible carrier comprises attachment points configured for securing the flexible carrier to a surface of the genioglossus muscle tissue.7. The sleep disordered breathing therapy device of claim 1 ,wherein the flexible carrier comprises an insulative material, andwherein the pair of electrodes ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT

Devices and methods for improving the coupling between the soft palate and the genioglossus. This may be accomplished, for example, but shortening or stiffening the palatoglossal arch. Improved coupling between the soft palate and the genioglossus may be beneficial to a patient suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) as a stand-alone procedure, or in combination procedures and devices that cause anterior displacement of the tongue such as hypoglossal nerve stimulation, genioglossus advancement surgery, mandibular advancement surgery, mandibular advancement (oral) appliances, etc. 1. A method of treating a patient with OSA or snoring , comprising:delivering a therapy to the patient that causes advancement of the patient's genioglossus while the patient is asleep; andselectively fixing the patient's upper airway tissue to improve efficacy of the therapy.2. A method as in claim 1 , wherein selectively fixing the patient's upper airway tissue includes tightening the patient's pharyngeal tissue.3. A method as in claim 2 , wherein tightening the patient's pharyngeal tissue includes shortening the patient's palatoglossus.4. A method as in claim 2 , wherein tightening the patient's pharyngeal tissue includes shortening the patient's palatopharyngeus.5. A method as in claim 2 , wherein tightening the patient's pharyngeal tissue includes shortening the patient's pharyngoepiglottic fold.6. A method as in claim 1 , wherein the therapy that causes advancement of the patient's genioglossus causes genioglossus contraction.7. A method as in claim 1 , wherein the therapy includes delivering an electrical stimulation to the patient.8. A method as in claim 7 , wherein the electrical stimulation is delivered to a nerve innervating an upper airway muscle.9. A method as in claim 8 , wherein the nerve includes a hypoglossal nerve.10. A method of treating an upper airway of a patient claim 8 , comprising:causing the patient's tongue to move anteriorly;modifying a length of the patient ...

Apparatus and Methods for Modulating Nerves Using Parallel Electric Fields

A device may include at least one pair of modulation electrodes configured for implantation in the vicinity of a nerve to be modulated such that the electrodes are spaced apart from one another along a longitudinal direction of the nerve to be modulated. The electrodes may be further configured to facilitate an electric field in response to an applied electric signal, the electric field including field lines extending in the longitudinal direction of the nerve to be modulated. The device may further include at least one circuit in electrical communication with the at least one pair of modulation electrodes and being configured to cause application of the electric signal applied at the at least one pair of modulation electrodes. 1. A device , comprising:at least one pair of modulation electrodes configured for implantation in the vicinity of a nerve to be modulated such that the electrodes are spaced apart from one another along a longitudinal direction of the nerve to be modulated, the electrodes being further configured to facilitate an electric field in response to an applied electric signal, the electric field including field lines extending in the longitudinal direction of the nerve to be modulated; andat least one circuit in electrical communication with the at least one pair of modulation electrodes and being configured to cause application of the electric signal applied at the at least one pair of modulation electrodes.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the electric field includes field lines extending in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of at least a portion of the nerve to be modulated.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one pair of modulation electrodes is supported by a flexible carrier.4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the flexible carrier includes a biocompatible polymer including at least one of silicone claim 3 , phenyltrimethoxysilane (PTMS) claim 3 , polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) claim 3 , parylene C claim ...

Device and Method for Modulating Nerves Using Parallel Electric Fields

A device may include at least one pair of modulation electrodes configured for implantation in the vicinity of a nerve to be modulated such that the electrodes are spaced apart from one another along a longitudinal direction of the nerve to be modulated. The electrodes may be further configured to facilitate an electric field in response to an applied electric signal, the electric field including field lines extending in the longitudinal direction of the nerve to be modulated. The device may further include at least one circuit in electrical communication with the at least one pair of modulation electrodes and being configured to cause application of the electric signal applied at the at least one pair of modulation electrodes.

System and Method for Nerve Modulation Using Noncontacting Electrodes

An implant unit configured for implantation into a body of a subject may include an antenna configured to receive a signal. The implant unit may also include at least one pair of modulation electrodes configured to be implanted into the body of the subject in the vicinity of at least one nerve to be modulated, the at least one pair of modulation electrodes being configured to receive an applied electric signal in response to the signal received by the antenna and generate an electrical field to modulate the at least one nerve from a position where the at least one pair of modulation electrodes does not contact the at least one nerve.

ELECTRODE STRUCTURES AND METHODS FOR THEIR USE IN CARDIOVASCULAR REFLEX CONTROL

Devices, systems and methods are described by which the blood pressure, nervous system activity, and neurohormonal activity may be selectively and controllably reduced by activating baroreceptors. A baroreceptor activation device is positioned near a baroreceptor, preferably a baroreceptor located in the carotid sinus. A control system may be used to modulate the baroreceptor activation device. The control system may utilize an algorithm defining a stimulus regimen which promotes long term efficacy and reduces power requirements/consumption. The baroreceptor activation device may utilize electrodes to activate the baroreceptors. The electrodes may be adapted for connection to the carotid arteries at or near the carotid sinus, and may be designed to minimize extraneous tissue stimulation. 1. A baroreflex modification system comprising:a baroreceptor activation device arranged to be coupled to a vascular wall, the vascular wall containing at least one baroreceptor; anda control system comprising a driver coupled to the baroreceptor activation device, the driver being configured to drive mechanical motion of at least a portion of the activation device, wherein the mechanical motion causes indirect activation of the baroreceptor by stretching or deforming the vascular wall surrounding the baroreceptor.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the control system includes a processor and a programmable memory claim 1 , the control system programmed to generate a control signal and deliver the control signal to the driver.3. The system of claim 2 , comprising a user interface coupled to the control system claim 2 , the user interface being arranged to receive a value or a command in relation to the generated control signal claim 2 , wherein the memory is configured to store data related to the generated control signal and/or the value or command received by the user interface.4. The system of claim 2 , wherein the memory stores a stimulus regimen claim 2 , wherein the control ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF HEART FAILURE AND ASSOCIATED CONDITIONS

Devices and methods for use of identification, treatment and/or management of heart failure and/or associated conditions. Methods may include providing a baroreflex therapy system, providing an implantable measurement device proximate a blood vessel of a patient, the implantable measurement device including a plurality of electrodes, determining an impedance of the blood vessel with the implantable measurement device over a time period of at least one cardiac cycle, generating at least one signal representative of a pressure waveform based on the impedance, activating, deactivating or otherwise modulating the baroreflex therapy system to deliver a therapy to treat heart failure based at least in part on the at least one signal representative of the pressure waveform. 1. A system , comprising:a means for measuring blood pressure of a patient;a means for measuring heart rate of the patient;an implantable baroreflex activation device including an electrode, the device configured to be implanted such that the electrode is in contact with a blood vessel of the patient; and determine an impedance of the blood vessel with the electrode;', 'determine one or more vessel properties based on impedance of the blood vessel;', 'determine a blood pressure based on the means for measuring blood pressure;', 'determine a heart rate based on the means for measuring heart rate; and', 'activate, deactivate or otherwise modulate the baroreflex activation device to deliver a first baroreflex therapy in response to each of blood pressure, heart rate and vessel properties being within their respective predetermined ranges, and deliver a second baroreflex therapy in response to one or more of blood pressure, heart rate and vessel properties being outside their respective predetermined ranges., 'a control system coupled to the means for measuring blood pressure, the means for measuring heart rate, and the baroreflex activation device, the control system including predetermined ranges for each ...

Modeling positions of implanted devices in a patient

Technology is disclosed for modeling positions of implanted devices in a patient. In various embodiments, the technology can construct a forward model that predicts an electrical impedance between electrical contacts; detects an actual electrical impedance between electrical contacts; computes a fitness value based on a comparison between the detected electrical impedance and the predicted electrical impedance; varies at least one parameter of the forward model until the computed fitness value is a maximum fitness value; and displays at a display device a estimated position of the first lead and/or second leads.

Multi-frequency neural treatments and associated systems and methods

Multi-frequency neural treatments and associated systems and methods are disclosed. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes at least reducing patient pain by applying a first electrical signal to a first target location of the patient's spinal cord region at a frequency in a first frequency range of up to about 1,500 Hz, and applying a second electrical signal to a second target location of the patient's spinal cord region at a frequency in a second frequency range of from about 2,500 Hz to about 100,000 Hz.

EXTERNAL CHARGING DEVICE FOR CHARGING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHODS OF REGULATING DUTY CYCLE OF AN EXTERNAL CHARGING DEVICE

In one embodiment, an external charging device for recharging an implanted medical device, comprises: a battery for powering the external charging device; a coil for radiating RF power; drive circuitry for driving the coil according to a duty cycle; circuitry for generating a signal that is indicative of an amount of current flowing through the coil; and control circuitry for controlling the drive circuitry, wherein the control circuitry is operable to process the signal from the circuitry for generating to detect when a coil of the implantable medical device temporarily ceases absorbing RF power, the control circuitry modifying the duty cycle in response to detection of the coil of the implantable medical device temporarily ceasing absorbing RF power. 1. A stimulation system , comprising: a first rechargeable battery for powering the IPG;', 'pulse generating circuitry;', 'a first coil for receiving RF power;', 'a rectifier coupled to the first coil; and', 'first control circuitry for controlling RF power conversion, wherein the first control circuitry clamps a first circuit node and a second circuit node, each connected to the first coil, to ground to limit further conversion of RF power by the rectifier when a power conversion voltage exceeds a predefined level;, '(i) an implantable pulse generator (IPG) that comprisesand a second rechargeable battery for powering the external charging device;', 'a second coil for radiating RF power;', 'drive circuitry for driving the second coil according to a duty cycle;', 'circuitry for generating a signal that is indicative of an amount of current flowing through the second coil; and', 'second control circuitry for controlling the drive circuitry, wherein the external charging device is operable to process the signal from the circuitry for generating to detect clamping of the first and second circuit nodes connected to the first coil to ground, the external charging device modifying the duty cycle in response to detection of ...

Vestibular Implant System with Low Battery Alert

A vestibular implant system is described which includes an implantable vestibular stimulator providing a vestibular stimulation signal to electrically stimulate target neural tissue for vestibular sensation by a patient. A patient warning alarm process alters the stimulation signal when a given alarm condition occurs to change the vestibular sensation of the patient thereby warning the patient of the alarm condition. 1. A vestibular implant system comprising:an implantable vestibular stimulator for providing a vestibular stimulation signal to electrically stimulate target neural tissue for vestibular sensation by a patient; anda patient warning alarm process for altering the stimulation signal when a given alarm condition occurs to change the vestibular sensation of the patient thereby warning the patient of the alarm condition.2. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the alarm condition presages a change in operating functionality of the system whereby the altered stimulation signal warns the patient of the change.3. A system according to claim 2 , wherein the change in operating functionality includes a reduction in operating functionality of the system.4. A system according to claim 2 , wherein the change in operating functionality includes a termination of operating functionality of the system.5. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the alarm condition includes a low battery condition.6. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the alarm condition includes a reduced connection with an external portion of the system.7. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the alarm condition includes loss of connection with an external portion of the system.8. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the given alarm condition includes a plurality of different alarm conditions claim 1 , and wherein the alarm process alters the stimulation signal in a different distinctive way for each alarm condition.9. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the alarm process alters the ...

SHORT DURATION PRE-PULSING TO REDUCE STIMULATION-EVOKED SIDE-EFFECTS

A method and neurostimulation system of providing therapy to a patient is provided. At least one electrode is place in contact with tissue of a patient. A sub-threshold, hyperpolarizing, conditioning pre-pulse (e.g., an anodic pulse) is conveyed from the electrode(s) to render a first region of the tissue (e.g., dorsal root fibers) less excitable to stimulation, and a depolarizing stimulation pulse (e.g., a cathodic pulse) is conveyed from the electrode(s) to stimulate a second different region of the tissue (e.g., dorsal column fibers). The conditioning pre-pulse has a relatively short duration (e.g., less than 200 μs). 128-. (canceled)29. A neurostimulation system , comprising:a plurality of electrical contacts;analog output circuitry capable of outputting electrical pulses to the plurality of electrical contacts in accordance with a pulse pattern; andcontrol circuitry capable of defining the pulse pattern, such that the electrical pulses comprise a sub-threshold, conditioning, pre-pulse outputted to a first one of the electrical contacts, a stimulation pulse outputted to a second different one of the electrical contacts, and a sub-threshold, conditioning, post-pulse outputted to the first one of the electrical contacts, wherein a duration between the conditioning pre-pulse and the stimulation pulse is such that a region of tissue can be rendered less excitable to the stimulation pulse, and the duration between the conditioning post-pulse and the stimulation pulse is such that the region of tissue can be further rendered less excitable to the stimulation pulse.30. The neurostimulation system of claim 29 , wherein the conditioning pre-pulse and the conditioning post-pulse are both anodic claim 29 , and the stimulation pulse is cathodic.31. The neurostimulation system of claim 29 , wherein the conditioning pre-pulse has a duration equal to or less than 150 μs.32. The neurostimulation system of claim 29 , wherein the conditioning pre-pulse has a duration equal to or ...

NEUROSTIMULATOR

Methods and devices for stimulating nerves are disclosed. In one embodiment adapted for stimulating excitable tissue, the invention includes drive circuitry, an acoustic transducer and a pair of electrodes. 1. An implantable neurostimulator comprising:a first electrode electrically coupled to a first piezoelectric material;a second electrode electrically coupled to the first piezoelectric material;a third electrode electrically coupled to a second piezoelectric material;a fourth electrode electrically coupled to the second piezoelectric material;a biocompatible coating surrounding first and second piezoelectric materials;where the first piezoelectric material is configured to provide an electrical potential to biological tissue through the first and second electrodes in response to an ultrasound signal;where the second piezoelectric material is configured to provide an electrical potential to biological tissue through the third and fourth electrodes in response to an ultrasound signal; andwhere the first and second piezoelectric materials have different resonant frequencies.2. The implantable neurostimulator of claim 1 , where the biocompatible coating is configured to reduce an immunological response to the implantable neurostimulator when the neurostimulator is implanted in biological tissue.3. The implantable neurostimulator of claim 1 , where the first and second electrodes protrude through the biocompatible coating.4. The implantable neurostimulator of claim 1 , where the biocompatible coating is configured to protect the implantable neurostimulator from exposure to biological tissue.5. The implantable neurostimulator of claim 1 , where the biocompatible coating is configured to protect biological tissue from the implantable neurostimulator.6. The implantable neurostimulator of claim 1 , where the biocompatible coating is configured to enable efficient acoustic power transfer from biological tissue to the first piezoelectric material.7. The implantable ...

Selective high frequency spinal cord stimulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side effects, and associated systems and methods

Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal chord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side affects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications.

Method and apparatus for therapies of the cardiovascular and cardiorenal system

A system and method for controlling respiration depth or respiration rate is provided. A bipolar pair of a plurality of electrodes is selected in a location for stimulating a phrenic nerve. Electrical stimulation is delivered through a medical electrical lead electrode proximate phrenic nerve tissue. Modulating respiration is elicited in response to electrical stimulation of the phrenic nerve.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAPPING ARBITRARY ELECTRIC FIELDS TO PRE-EXISTING LEAD ELECTRODES

A system for a neurostimulator coupled to electrodes, and a method of providing therapy to a patient using the electrodes implanted within the patient. A target multipole relative to the electrodes is defined. The target multipole is emulated by defining an initial electrical current distribution for the electrodes, such that a first set of active electrodes respectively has electrical current values of a first polarity. Each of the electrical current values of the first polarity is compared to a first threshold value, and at least one of the electrodes in the first active electrode set is zeroed-out based on the comparison. The electrical current value of each of the zeroed-out electrode(s) is redistributed to remaining ones of the electrodes to define a new electrical current distribution for the electrodes. Electrical current is conveyed to the electrodes in accordance with the new electrical current distribution, thereby providing the therapy. 1. A system for an electrical neurostimulator coupled to a plurality of electrodes , comprising:a processor configured for defining a target current source multipole relative to the plurality of electrodes, emulating the target multipole by defining an initial electrical current distribution for the electrodes, such that a first set of active electrodes respectively has electrical current values of a first polarity, and a second set of active electrodes respectively has electrical current values of a second polarity, comparing each of the electrical current values of the first polarity to a first threshold value, zeroing-out at least one of the electrodes in the first active electrode set based on the comparison, and redistributing the electrical current value of each of the at least one zeroed-out electrode in the first active electrode set to remaining ones of the electrodes in the first active electrode set to define a new electrical current distribution for the electrodes; anda controller configured for instructing the ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTING FAULTS AND/OR ADJUSTING ELECTRICAL THERAPY BASED ON IMPEDANCE CHANGES

System and methods for detecting impedance changes and for adjusting electrical therapy based on impedance changes are disclosed herein. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes applying a therapeutic, paresthesialess electrical signal to a patient via a patient modulation system that includes a signal delivery device in electrical communication with a target neural population of the patient. The method can include monitoring on a periodic basis an impedance of an electrical circuit that includes the signal delivery device. The method can further include detecting a change in the impedance that indicates a fault and providing an indication that the fault exists. 1. A method for controlling a patient therapy device , comprising:applying a therapeutic, paresthesia-less electrical signal to a patient via a patient modulation system that includes a signal delivery device in electrical communication with a target neural population of the patient;automatically monitoring, on a pre-set periodic basis, the impedance of an electrical circuit that includes the signal delivery device; anddetecting a change in impedance in the electrical circuit that indicates a fault.2. The method of wherein detecting the detecting change in impedance includes detecting the change in impedance before the patient senses a change in therapy resulting from the fault.3. The method of wherein the fault includes an open circuit.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising providing a notification of the fault.5. The method of providing the notification of the fault includes providing the notification of the fault before the patient senses a change in therapy resulting from the fault.6. The method of wherein the notification includes a vibratory signal.7. The method of claim 4 , further comprising directing the notification to a location external to the patient.8. The method of claim 1 , further comprising checking to determine if the fault has been corrected.9. The method of ...

Universal closed-loop electrical stimulation system

A universal closed-loop functional electrical stimulation system comprising at least one electrode assembly adapted to deliver an electrical stimulation signal to the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, or muscles of a user, a sensor system adapted to detect a mechanical response to a muscle stimulation signal of at least one muscle associated with a muscle group stimulated through the nervous system or proximate to the electrode assembly. An electrical stimulation device operably coupled to at least one electrode assembly and the sensor system, the electrical stimulation device including a control system to automatically receive feedback from at least one characteristic of the muscle from the detected muscle response and adjust at least one parameter of the muscle stimulation signal in real-time and in response thereto and a programmed microprocessor for controlling said electrical stimulation and receiving input from said sensor system.

Multimodal Brain Sensing Lead

A medical lead with at least a distal portion thereof implantable in the brain of a patient is described, together with methods and systems for using the lead. The lead is provided with at least two sensing modalities (e.g., two or more sensing modalities for measurements of field potential measurements, neuronal single unit activity, neuronal multi unit activity, optical blood volume, optical blood oxygenation, voltammetry and rheoencephalography). Acquisition of measurements and the lead components and other components for accomplishing a measurement in each modality are also described as are various applications for the multimodal brain sensing lead. 1. An implantable medical lead with multimodal sensing capability , comprising: ["the proximal portion is configured to be connected to a power source, a ground and other electronics for acquiring measurements from a patient's body, the distal portion having a plurality of components configurable with the power source, the ground and the other electronics to acquire a first sensor measurement corresponding to a first sensing modality and a second sensor measurement corresponding to a second sensing modality, the first and second sensing modalities being different from each other; and", 'a plurality of conductors extending through at least one lumen and, at the proximal portion, in operable communication with the power source, the ground and the other electronics and, at the distal portion, in operable and selectable communication with the plurality of components, a number of conductors of the plurality of conductors sufficient to enable acquisition of the first and second sensor measurements., 'a lead body having a proximal portion and a distal portion, the lead body further characterized by at least one lumen extending substantially between the proximal portion and the distal portion, wherein'}2. The implantable medical lead of wherein the first sensing modality and the second sensing modality are selected from the ...

Device, method, and system for neural modulation as vaccine adjuvant in a vertebrate subject

A method for enhancing an immune response in a vertebrate subject is described. The method includes providing at least one energy stimulus configured to modulate one or more nervous system components of the vertebrate subject, and administering one or more immunogen to the vertebrate subject, wherein the at least one energy stimulus and the one or more immunogen are provided in a combination and in a temporal sequence sufficient to enhance an immune response in the vertebrate subject.

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 by transvascular neuromodulation of a target site adjacent to an adrenal gland. A method for treating a respiratory or pulmonary condition via transvascular neuromodulation incorporating a closed-loop feedback system is also provided. 1. A method of treating a patient suffering from a pulmonary or respiratory condition comprising:inserting a therapy delivery device into a vessel of the patient's body;advancing the therapy delivery device in the vessel to a position adjacent to a target site, the target site adjacent to an adrenal gland; andactivating the therapy delivery device to deliver a therapy signal to the target site to electrically or chemically modulate the adrenal gland to treat the patient's pulmonary or respiratory condition.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the therapy delivery device is an electrode and the therapy delivery device electrically modulates the adrenal gland.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the therapy delivery device is a drug port and the therapy delivery device chemically modulates the adrenal gland.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the vessel is a vein.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the vessel is a renal vein or a tributary thereof.6. The method of claim 4 , wherein the vein is an inferior vena cava or a tributary thereof.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pulmonary or respiratory condition is asthma.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pulmonary or respiratory condition is chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pulmonary or respiratory condition requires ventilatory assistance.10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the target site is in communication with the sympathetic nerve chain.11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the target site innervates the adrenal gland.12. The method of claim 1 , wherein the target site comprises a celiac plexus claim 1 , a celiac ganglion claim 1 , a splanchnic ...

Multi-Electrode Implantable Stimulator Device with a Single Current Path Decoupling Capacitor

Disclosed herein are circuits and methods for a multi-electrode implantable stimulator device incorporating one decoupling capacitor in the current path established via at least one cathode electrode and at least one anode electrode. In one embodiment, the decoupling capacitor may be hard-wired to a dedicated anode on the device. The cathodes are selectively activatable via stimulation switches. In another embodiment, any of the electrodes on the devices can be selectively activatable as an anode or cathode. In this embodiment, the decoupling capacitor is placed into the current path via selectable anode and cathode stimulation switches. Regardless of the implementation, the techniques allow for the benefits of capacitive decoupling without the need to associate decoupling capacitors with every electrode on the multi-electrode device, which saves space in the body of the device. Although of particular benefit when applied to microstimulators, the disclosed technique can be used with space-saving benefits in any stimulator device. 1. A stimulator device , comprising:a body for the device; an anode, and', 'a plurality of selectable cathodes;, 'a plurality of electrodes coupled to the body, wherein the electrodes are configured to contact a tissue of a patient, comprisingselection circuitry configured to choose an active cathode from the selectable cathodes; anda single decoupling capacitor within the body and within a current path formed by the anode and the active cathode.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of electrodes are carried on the body.3. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a lead coupled to the body claim 1 , wherein the plurality of electrodes are carried on the lead.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the single decoupling capacitor is coupled to the anode.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the body is configured to be implantable in the patient.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the anode is dedicated and not selectable.7. The device ...

Endovascular Nerve Monitoring Devices and Associated Systems and Methods

Endovascular nerve monitoring devices and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. A nerve monitoring system configured in accordance with a particular embodiment of the present technology can include a shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion and a nerve monitoring assembly at the distal portion. The shaft is configured to locate the distal portion intravascularly at a treatment site. The nerve monitoring assembly can include a bipolar stimulation electrode array and a bipolar recording electrode array disposed distal to the bipolar stimulation electrode assembly. 1. A neuromodulation system , comprising:a shaft including a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the shaft is configured to intravascularly locate the distal portion at a treatment site within a blood vessel of a human patient;a neuromodulation assembly at the distal portion of the shaft; anda nerve monitoring assembly at the distal portion of the shaft and transformable between a delivery state and a deployed state, wherein the nerve monitoring assembly comprises a stimulation electrode array and a recording electrode array, and wherein, in the deployed state, the stimulation electrode array and the recording electrode array are spaced laterally apart from one another and at least a portion of the neuromodulation assembly is between the stimulation and recording electrode arrays.2. The neuromodulation system of wherein:the stimulation electrode array comprises a first anode loop and a first cathode loop, the first cathode loop being between the first anode loop and the neuromodulation assembly; andthe recording electrode array comprises a second anode loop and a second cathode loop.3. The neuromodulation system of wherein the first and second anode and cathode loops comprise a nitinol wire coated with at least one of gold claim 2 , platinum claim 2 , aluminum claim 2 , stainless steel claim 2 , and platinum iridium.4. The neuromodulation system of wherein at least one ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROGRAMMING AN IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR

In one embodiment, a method of programming an IPG comprises providing one or several GUI screens on the programmer device, the GUI screens comprising a master amplitude GUI control for controlling amplitudes for stimsets of a stimulation program and one or several balancing GUI controls for controlling amplitudes of each stimset of the stimulation program; communicating one or several commands from the programmer device to the IPG to change the amplitude of all stimsets of the stimulation program in response to manipulation of the master amplitude GUI control, wherein the amplitude of each stimulation set is automatically calculated by a level selected through the master amplitude GUI control and one or several calibration parameters for the respective stimulation set; and automatically recalculating the one or several calibration parameters for a respective stimulation set in response to manipulation of one of the balancing GUI controls and storing the recalculated calibration parameters. 1. A method of programming an implantable pulse generator (IPG) , comprising:providing one or several graphical user interface (GUI) screens on the programmer device, the one or several GUI screens comprising (i) a master amplitude GUI control for controlling amplitudes for multiple stimsets of a stimulation program and (ii) one or several balancing GUI controls for controlling amplitudes of each individual stimset of the stimulation program;communicating one or several commands from the programmer device to the IPG to change the amplitude of all stimsets of the stimulation program in response to manipulation of the master amplitude GUI control by a user of the programmer device, wherein the amplitude of each stimulation set is automatically calculated by a level selected through the master amplitude GUI control and one or several calibration parameters for the respective stimulation set; andautomatically recalculating the one or several calibration parameters for a respective ...

Current recycling in multiple linear regulators

Described herein is an apparatus ( 30 ) for regulating voltages across a plurality of loads ( 21, 23 ). The apparatus comprises a first linear regulator ( 35 ) for regulating a first voltage across a first load ( 23 ) and a second linear regulator ( 37 ) for regulating a second voltage across a second load ( 21 ). The apparatus also has a current recycling node ( 33 ) provided between an output of the second linear regulator ( 37 ) and an input of the first linear regulator ( 35 ) such that, in use, a total current drawn by the apparatus is less than a sum of a current flowing in the first load and a current flowing in the second load.