БИОРАЗЛАГАЕМЫЕ БЕЗВКЛАДЫШНЫЕ ЛИПКИЕ ЛЕНТЫ ИЛИ ЭТИКЕТКИ

Изобретение относится к безвкладышной этикетке или ленте, которая содержит по существу биоразлагаемую тканую или нетканую, природную или синтетическую подложку, пропитанную составом, содержащим по меньшей мере 90 мас.% сложнополиэфирамидного сегментного блок-сополимера. Указанная этикетка или лента может быть удобно получена выше температуры плавления сополимера и является пригодной для нанесения печати. Она обладает тем преимуществом, что способна быть полученной так, что она является по существу не клейкой при комнатной температуре или температуре хранения и еще может легко скрепляться с подложкой при нагревании выше температуры плавления пропитывающего вещества предпочтительно в интервале от 60°C до 150°C. «Безвкладышная» определяется как не требующая отдельного выбрасываемого слоя и высвобождающего покрытия для облегчения наматывания в рулон и штабелирование также не требуется. 3 н. и 6 з.п. ф-лы, 2 табл.

Способ исследования батутного рефлекса

Изобретение относится к медицине. И может быть использовано в акушерстве и гинекологиии и функциональной диагностике. Методом электронейромиографии и с помощью программного обеспечения «Нейрон-Спектр» осуществляют регистрацию моторных ответов диафрагмы и мышц влагалища. Проводят стимуляцию диафрагмального нерва с анализом латентности и пороговых значений моторного ответа мышц влагалища и оценкой разницы латентностей моторных ответов диафрагмы и мышц влагалища. Способ обеспечивает повышение точности исследования заболеваний, сопровождающихся стрессовым недержанием мочи или пролапсом тазовых органов за счет объективизации всех звеньев батутного рефлекса; безопасность для пациента в связи с отсутствием инвазивных манипуляций. 8 ил., 4 пр.

PACEMAKER WITH PULSE WIDTH ADJUSTMENT CIRCUITRY

Implantierbare Herzeinrichtung mit Kontrolle des Mikroprozessors mittels zweier Taktfrequenzen

VORRICHTUNG ZUM ANALYSIEREN VON ELEKTROGRAMM-SIGNALEN

MEMS-SCHALTKREIS UND VERFAHREN FÜR EINE IMPLANTIERBARE MEDIZINISCHE VORRICHTUNG

Tragbares Patientenüberwachungsgerät mit Schnittstelle für Defibrillator/Herzschrittmacher und mit Leistungssteuerung der Batterie

EGM AUFZEICHNUNGSSYSTEM FÜR IMPLANTIERBARE MEDIZINISCHE VORRICHTUNG

CARDIAC STIMULATOR

... 1376047 Cardiac stimulators ASSOCIATION DE RECHERCHE & D'ENTRAIDE CARDIOLOGIQUES ET ANGEIOLOGIQUES 10 July 1972 [9 July 1971] 32251/72 Heading A5R A cardiac stimulator produces a first train of stimulating pulses having a pulse-repetition rate equal to one half the desired heart-beat rate and a second train of stimulating pulses having a repetition rate equal to the first train with its pulses occurring midway between those of the first train. One embodiment comprises a multivibrator 3 producing the first pulsetrain and being connected to a delay line 9 to trigger a multivibrator 4 to produce the second pulse train, both pulse-trains being applied to one electrode 2. In a modification, the first pulse train is applied to a first electrode and the second pulse train is applied to a second electrode, the delay line 9 being supplied from both power supplies 11, 12 via diodes. A further embodiment has a pulse generator giving pulses at a rate equal to the desired heart rate and coupled via ...

PROGRAMMABLE CONTROL MEANS

A system and method of detecting and diagnosing pacing system malfunctions

Atrial sensing and multiple site stimulation as intervention for atrial fibrillation.

A trial sensing and stimulation as intervention for a trial fibrillation. The present invetion relates to a method of a trial defibrillation. In a variety of protocols varying combinations of conventional and biphosic stimulation are applied at threshold and subthreshold levels, in a preferred embodiment, the implantable eletronic stimulation device of the present invention includes multiple eletrodes having stimulating and sensing capabilities. The small size of these electrodes allows for intravenous insertion into the patient, ...

ACTIVE MEDICAL IMPLANT FOR HEART STIMULATION, RESYNCHRONISATION, KARDIOVERSION AND/OR DEFIBRILLATION, THE MEANS FOR SEIZING VENTRICLE NOISE ARTIFACTS COVERS

DEVICE FOR THE REDUCTION OF BY X-RAY CAUSED SPURIOUS SIGNALS IN IMPLANTIERBAREN MEDICAL DEVICES

BATTERIESCHUTZUND ZERO-VOLT BATTERY LOAD SYSTEM FOR A IMPLANTIERBARE MEDICAL DEVICE

SYSTEM FOR MONITORING OR TREATMENT OF ILLNESSES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

IMPLANTIERBARES MEDICINE PRODUCT WITH SELF BOOTSTRAP THERAPY PULSABGABE SWITCHES

SYSTEM FOR MONITORING OR TREATMENT OF ILLNESSES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

SYSTEM TO THE PROTECTION OF CIRCUITS IN HIGH TEMPERATURE ENVIRONMENTS

COLLECTION OF FORECOURT SIGNALS AND STIMULATION OF SEVERAL CHARACTERS FOR THE TREATMENT OF A VORHOFSFIBRILLIERUNG

ANTITACHYKARDIALES STEP MAKING

Medical stimulator with multiple operational amplifier output stimulation circuits

SYNCHRONIZATION AND CALIBRATION OF CLOCKS FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE AND CALIBRATED CLOCK

Isolation of sensing circuit from pace generator

In a system for sensing electrical signals within a living body, and specifically for tracking location of an object in the body using impedance measurements, an 5 isolation circuit maintains isolation between the pacing and position sensing circuits, even while the heart is being paced. 15/04/15jm 18320 claims & abst.docx,13 V04 Lo Co C,4 N ce) C', co C14 L CIO Cf) cr) Cf) co CII) ...

A method to detect proper lead connection in an implantable stimulation system

Implantable device and programmer system which permits multiple programmers

PACEMAKER WITH PULSE WIDTH ADJUSTABLE CIRCUITRY

PACEMAKER WITH PULSE WIDTH ADJUSTMENT CIRCUITRY There is disclosed herein a cardiac pacemaker pulse generator utilizing digital circuitry for controlling the provision of cardiac stimulating pulses. The width of the pulses is increased as the battery voltage decreases to maintain the energy of the stimulation pulse. The pulse width of each pacemaker pulse is determined by comparing a reference signal to an incrementally increasing signal which is related to the battery voltage.

ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS FOR GENERATING CURRENT PULSES FOR CARDIAC AND RELATED APPLICATIONS

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR HARDWARE /FIRMWARE TRAP

A method and an apparatus for a hardware/firmware trap. At least one set of a firmware code is executed for operation of the device. Modification to the operation of the device is performed. The modification to the operation comprises: receiving a patch code; creating a firmware trap; generating an interrupt in response to the firmware trap; and executing the patch code in response to the interrupt.

BODY ORGAN STIMULATOR WITH INTERFERENCE REJECTOR

IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC DEFIBRILLATOR EMPLOYING BIPOLAR SENSING AND TELEMETRY MEANS

IMPLANTABLE ELECTRODE

According to the present invention, an implantable device comprising an electrode for carrying an electric signal to or from a biological cell or tissue provided. The electrode material is chosen to exhibit desirable properties in terms of electrical conductivity, biocompatibility and bio-fouling. The invention further provides implantable devices comprising such implantable electrodes.

IMPLANTABLE ELECTRODE

According to the present invention, an implantable device comprising an electrode for carrying an electric signal to or from a biological cell or tissue provided. The electrode material is chosen to exhibit desirable properties in terms of electrical conductivity, biocompatibility and bio-fouling. The invention further provides implantable devices comprising such implantable electrodes.

HEMICELLULASE ENRICHED COMPOSITIONS FOR ENHANCING HYDROLYSIS OF BIOMASS

Described are compositions and methods relating to cellulase/hemicellulase enzyme blends for improving the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulosic and hemicellulosic materials, as commonly found in biomass ...

METHODS AND DEVICES FOR ACCURATELY CLASSIFYING CARDIAC ACTIVITY

Methods, systems, and devices for signal analysis in an implanted cardiac monitoring and treatment device such as an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. In some examples, captured data including detected events is analyzed to identify likely overdetection of cardiac events. In some illustrative examples, when overdetection is identified, data may be modified to correct for overdetection, to reduce the impact of overdetection, or to ignore overdetected data. Several examples emphasize the use of morphology analysis using correlation to static templates and/or inter-event correlation analysis.

EXTRACORPOREAL UNIT FOR INSPECTING THE INSULATION OF AN ELECTRICAL WIRE OF AN IMPLANTED MEDICAL DEVICE

A system is provided for testing the electrical integrity of an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator lead. The system includes a container holding an electrically conductive solution, such as a saline solution. A voltage source and two electrodes are provided to pass an electrical current through the solution. To use the system, the proximal end of the electrical lead is disconnected from the implanted electronic device, passed through the saline solution and then electrically connected to a device/monitor. During testing, the device/monitor sends a test pulse through the lead and monitors electrical activity in the lead. To test sequential locations along the length of the proximal segment, the segment is drawn through the saline solution and between the electrodes while test pulses are sent and monitored. The monitor detects abnormal electrical activity in the lead indicative of a break in lead insulation.

DISLODGEMENT DETECTION OF RIGHT ATRIAL ENDOCARDIAL LEAD BY SENSING EVENTS FROM ANOTHER LEAD

This invention is a system (30) for detecting dislodgement of a right atrial endocardial lead (35) with an electrode (37, 39) implanted in the right atri um features sensing atrial, ventricular activity of the heart with one other le ad (36), storing the activity data, a memory (90), analyzing the data sensed by lead (36) to define first windows, second windows based on the atrial, the ventricular activity respectively, and comparing the heart activity sensed b y lead (35) during the first window with the activity sensed by lead (35) duri ng the second window to determine whether or not the lead (35) is dislodged. ...

Détecteur de seuil pour un entraîneur électro-systolique

BRADY PAUSE DETECTION FOR IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC MONITORS

Method and apparatus to perform electrode combination selection

The present invention involves approaches for selecting one or more electrode combinations. Various method embodiments can include means for implanting a plurality of cardiac electrodes supported by one or more leads in a patient, attaching the one or more leads to a patient external analyzer circuit, means for delivering electrical stimulation to the patient's heart using the plurality of cardiac electrodes and the analyzer circuit, means for evaluating, for each electrode combination of a plurality of electrode combinations of the plurality of cardiac electrodes, one or more first parameters and one or more second parameters produced by the electrical stimulation delivered using the electrode combination, the first parameters supportive of cardiac function consistent with a prescribed therapy and the second parameters not supportive of cardiac function consistent with the prescribed therapy, means for selecting one or more electrode combinations of the plurality of cardiac electrodes ...

STIMULATIVE PROGRAMMABLE OF HUMAN TISSUES

STIMULATEUR CARDIAQUE IMPLANTABLE A FONCTIONS THERAPEUTIQUE ET DIAGNOSTIQUE

L'invention concerne un stimulateur cardiaque implantable, destiné à être associé à une sonde cardiaque. Il est caractérisé par le fait qu'il comporte, à l'intérieur de son boîtier, des moyens assurant une fonction de contrôle, a posteriori, de l'état et du degré de dépendance du patient par rapport au stimulateur cardiaque assurant sa fonction thérapeutique, et par le fait que ses moyens internes assurant une fonction de contrôle sont commandés par des moyens de commande externes amovibles. Application à la thérapeutique cardiaque.

CONVERSION EQUIPMENT OF ANALOGICAL SIGNALS INTO NUMERIC SIGNALS AND ITS APPLICATION HAS A CARDIAC PACEMAKER

CARDIAC STIMULATOR

ACTIVE PLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE OF CARDIAC STIMULATION, RESYNCHRONISATION, CARDIOVERSION AND/OR DEFIBRILLATION, COMPRISING MEANS OF DETECTIOND' ARTIFACTS OF VENTRICULAR NOISE

Ce dispositif comporte des moyens de détection du rythme par une électrode endocavitaire recueillant des potentiels de dépolarisation, et des moyens de détection des contractions du myocarde par un capteur d'accélération endocardiaque. Il comporte des moyens de recherche d'artefacts de bruit ventriculaire (X, Y) par corrélation des signaux représentatifs des dépolarisations ventriculaires et auriculaires (P, R) successives avec les signaux représentatifs des pics d'accélération (PEA I) successifs. En cas de défaut de corrélation, un signal de suspicion de bruit ventriculaire est délivré, qui modifie temporairement la sensibilité (S) du circuit de détection.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NAVIGATING AN ULTRASOUND CATHETER TO IMAGE A BEATING HEART

Catheter navigation is coupled with ultrasound imaging to yield a context map (6) showing the location on a heart (5) of the ultrasonically imaged frame (4).

BREACH DETECTION IN SOLID STRUCTURES

An implantable device includes at least one solid structure having an external surface and a volume beneath the surface. One or more of a first conductor or set of conductors is disposed externally and/or internally on or within the structure and an array of elongate electrically conductive elements are disposed radially outwardly within the volume. A breach is detected when a conductive fluid intrudes into the volume through the surface.

FILTER CIRCUIT WITH VARIABLE CAPACITANCE FOR USE WITH IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES

An implantable medical device (IMD) as described herein includes an input filter circuit having variable capacitor elements that can be electronically adjusted based upon current operating conditions (such as electromagnetic conditions, noise conditions, and/or environmental conditions). The variable capacitor elements can be adjusted to accommodate pre-designated operating modes of the IMD and/or dynamically in response to changing operating conditions. In one embodiment, the variable capacitor elements are realized using digitally programmable switched capacitor arrangements.

THERAPY DELIVERY SYSTEM

Various embodiments comprise a port to connect to a lead with an electrode, stimulator circuitry connected to the port and adapted to deliver electrical pulses to the electrode as part of a first electrical therapy type, and a controller connected to the stimulator circuitry. In operation, the controller controls delivery of the electrical pulses using a plurality of parameters for a programmed electrical therapy of the first electrical therapy type, determines when a therapy of a second electrical therapy type is applied, provides electrical therapy for the first electrical therapy type using a first set of parameters when the therapy of the second electrical therapy type is present to affect the at least one programmed electrical therapy for the first electrical therapy type, and provides electrical therapy using a second set of parameters when the therapy of the second electrical therapy type is not present.

SYNCHRONIZATION AND CALIBRATION OF CLOCKS FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE AND CALIBRATED CLOCK

Apparatus and method support the synchronization and calibration of a plurality of clocks in a medical device system that may provide treatment to a patient with a nervous system disorder. The plurality of clocks, which may be located at different components of the medical device system, comprises a first clock and a second clock. The second clock may be synchronized to a first clock by disabling a run mode operation and setting the second clock to a selected time. When a reference time of the first clock approximately equals the selected time, the second clock enables the run mode operation. Additionally, a drift time that is indicative of a time difference between the first clock and the second clock is determined. If the drift time is greater than a predetermined amount, an indication to resynchronize the first and second clocks is provided.

IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC STIMULATOR WITH SAFE NOISE MODE

An implantable medical device (100) for electrically stimulating the heart to beat generally includes a processor (170), a plurality of electrodes (101, 110, 120, 140, 150), a sense amplifier (162, 164), a pulse generator (168), and a heart status monitor. The processor can determine when the patient has entered an environment of high electromagnetic interference. When this occurs, the processor forces the implantable device into a safe noise mode. While in the same noise mode (which preferably continues while the patient is experiencing the electromagnetic interference), the implantable device paces the heart on demand and inhibits pacing during the vulnerable period. The processor determines when the vulnerable period is occurring and when the heart needs to be paced by monitoring a status signal from the heart status monitor. The heart status monitor preferably includes an impedance measurement circuit, but may include any type of cardiac sensor that can generate a status signal from ...

REFILLABLE MEDICATION INFUSION APPARATUS

Apparatus and method for filling, or refilling, the internal reservoir (26) of a medication infusion system (10), wherein filling or refilling is permitted only when a means for injecting medication (108) is properly positioned relative to the reservoir. Prior to filling or refilling, a pressure integrity check can be made to help assure that injected medication enters the reservoir (26) without leakage. Additionally, flushing of a portion or all of the medication reservoir (26) can be accomplished if desired. Medication is introduced to and is stored in the reservoir (26) at a pressure below ambient body pressure.

System and method for controlling an implantable medical device subject to magnetic field or radio frequency exposure

A system for controlling an implantable medical device (e.g., a drug delivery device) susceptible to malfunctioning during exposure to a magnetic field and/or Radio Frequency field (e.g., during a magnetic resonance imaging procedure) and a method for operating the same. Exposure of the implantable device to the magnetic field and/or the Radio Frequency field is detected using the sensing device. When the detected magnetic field and/or Radio Frequency field exceeds a corresponding predetermined threshold level, an input signal is generated at the microcontroller. In response to the generated input signal, the microcontroller automatically triggers (i) a safety mode enabling a predetermined safety mode operation that alters some operation, without ceasing all operation, of the implantable medical device and/or (ii) after expiration of a predetermined safety mode time interval when the at least one field being detected falls below its corresponding predetermined threshold level or a predetermined ...

Implantable pulse generator comprising MRI current limiting windings in header structure

In one embodiment, a pulse generator for generating electrical stimulation for delivery to a patient, comprises: a hermetically sealed housing containing pulse generating circuitry; a header coupled to the housing for receiving one or more stimulation leads, wherein feedthrough wires are provided to conduct electrical pulses from the pulse generating circuitry to the header; the header comprising a plurality of connectors for electrically connecting to each terminal of the one or more stimulation leads, wherein an inductive winding is disposed around or adjacent to each of the connector structures and is electrically connected between the respective connector structure and a corresponding feedthrough wire to limit MRI induced heating of a respective electrode of the one or more stimulation leads.

System and method for monitoring or treating nervous system disorders

A medical device system that includes a brain monitoring element, cardiac monitoring element and a processor. The processor is configured to receive a brain signal from the brain monitoring element and a cardiac signal from the cardiac monitoring element. The processor is further configured to compare the brain signal to the cardiac signal. A method of comparing a brain signal to a cardiac signal is also provided.

Pacemaker output switch protection

A protected output switch for an implantable medical device, such as a pacemaker, is disclosed. Through this output switch, a stimulation pulse is delivered from an internal storage element to an output terminal. The output switch includes a first N-channel MOSFET switch having its source terminal connected to the internal storage element and its drain terminal connected to the output terminal. The gate terminal of the N-channel MOSFET switches is connected to approriate logic switching signals. Included as part of the output switch is a second N-channel MOSFET switch having its source terminal connected to the P-well terminal of the first N-channel MOSFET switch, its drain terminal connected to the internal storage element, and its gate terminal connected to the output terminal. This second switch serves to block any potentials, whether internal or external, from being applied to the base of a parasitic NPN bipolar transistor that exists within the output switch. Should such NPN bipolar ...

Fibrillation induction method and system for implantable devices

A method and apparatus for generating a multiphasic defibrillation/cardioversion waveform as well as a multiphasic fibrillation inducing pulse train. The multiphasic fibrillation inducing waveform being applied to the same electrodes as the defibrillation/cardioversion waveform.

Techniques for sensing and adjusting a compliance voltage in an implantable stimulator device

Disclosed herein are methods and circuitry for monitoring and adjusting a compliance voltage in an implantable stimulator devices to an optimal value that is sufficiently high to allow for proper circuit performance (i.e., sufficient current output), but low enough that power is not needlessly wasted via excessive voltage drops across the current output circuitry. The algorithm measures output voltages across the current source and sink circuitry during at least periods of actual stimulation when both the current sources and sinks are operable, and adjusts the compliance voltage so as to reduce these output voltages to within guard band values preferably indicative for operation in transistor saturation. The output voltages can additionally be monitored during periods between stimulation pulses to improve the accuracy of the measurement, and is further beneficial in that such additional measurements are not perceptible to the patient.

SUBCUTANEOUS DEVICE

A subcutaneously implantable device includes a housing, a clip attached to a top side of the housing, and an electrode. The clip is configured to anchor the device to a muscle, a bone, and/or a first tissue. The electrode is configured to contact an organ, a nerve, the first tissue, and/or a second tissue. Circuitry in the housing is in electrical communication with the electrode and is configured to sense an electrical signal from the organ, the nerve, the first tissue, and/or the second tissue through the electrode; deliver electrical stimulation to the organ, the nerve, the first tissue, and/or the second tissue through the electrode; and/or deliver a signal to a drug pump to provide a targeted or systemic therapeutic drug to the organ, the nerve, the first tissue, and/or the second tissue.

Implantable medical device crosstalk evaluation and mitigation

Electrical crosstalk between two implantable medical devices or two different therapy modules of a common implantable medical device may be evaluated, and, in some examples, mitigated. In some examples, one of the implantable medical devices or therapy modules delivers electrical stimulation to a nonmyocardial tissue site or a nonvascular cardiac tissue site, and the other implantable medical device or therapy module delivers cardiac rhythm management therapy to a heart of the patient.

IMPLANTED CARDIAC DEVICE FOR DEFIBRILLATION

An implantable medical device for delivering electrical cardiac therapy includes a first implantable housing containing a battery. There is also a second implantable housing separate from the first implantable housing and containing at least one of: electronic circuitry adapted to evaluate and initiate electrical cardiac therapy, a storage capacitor and an electrode structure comprising a sensing electrode, a pacing electrode and a therapy electrode. The electronic circuit, the storage capacitor or the electrode structure are electrically connected to the battery. Alternatively, there is an implantable medical device for delivering electrical cardiac therapy having an implantable structure containing the following electrically connected components: a battery, electronic circuitry adapted to evaluate and initiate electrical cardiac therapy, a storage capacitor and an electrode structure comprising a sensing electrode, a pacing electrode and a therapy electrode. A method of providing electrical ...

PREVENTION OF FALSE ASYSTOLE OR BRADYCARDIA DETECTION

In general, this disclosure is directed to signal processing based methods to reject undersensing in a signal indicative of cardiac activity, e.g., ECG. The undersensing may be due to very small signal amplitudes or due to a sudden increase in single peak amplitude resulting in an increased sensing threshold. The undersensing may result in falsely detecting a cardiac event, e.g., asystole or bradycardia. The techniques of this disclosure monitor the behavior of the signal to determine when a detected asystole is false.

Self Limited Rate Response

Rate responsive pacing is limited in an atrial based pacing mode by the AV interval in order to avoid or minimize ventricular encroachment of atrial pacing. The AV or VA interval is used to permit rate responsiveness; modulate rate responsiveness or to determine a dynamic upper sensor rate.

IMPLANTABLE MYOCARDIAL ISCHEMIA DETECTION, INDICATION AND ACTION TECHNOLOGY

One embodiment enables detection of MI/I and emerging infarction in an implantable system. A plurality of devices may be used to gather and interpret data from within the heart, from the heart surface, and/or from the thoracic cavity. The apparatus may further alert the patient and/or communicate the condition to an external device or medical caregiver. Additionally, the implanted apparatus may initiate therapy of MI/I and emerging infarction.

Self limited rate response

Rate responsive pacing is limited in an atrial based pacing mode by the AV interval in order to avoid or minimize ventricular encroachment of atrial pacing. The AV or VA interval is used to permit rate responsiveness; modulate rate responsiveness or to determine a dynamic upper sensor rate.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ANALYZING ELECTROCARDIOGRAM SIGNALS

METHOD, SYSTEM AND DEVICE FOR ACOUSTIC AND PHOTONIC TOMOGRAPHY

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPLANTATION OF A PACING ELECTRODE

Gerät zur Plazierung von temporären und permanenten Schrittmachersonden im Herzen

HERZSCHRITTMACHER

Magnetfelddetektoreinheit

System zur automatischen Kompensation der Vorhofsleitungszeit in einem programmierbaren Herzschrittmacher

Securing a sensor at the heart

An apparatus for securing a sensor 18 at the heart 26 is formed based on a modified, branched, pacemaker lead to provide a heart anchor lead where two anchors are coupled to a single main lead 12 rather than there being just a single anchor 14. The proposed heart anchor lead comprises a single main lead 12. A first anchor 14 coupled to the main lead 12 and extending from a branch point 18 and a second anchor 14 coupled to the main lead 12 and extending from the branch point 18. A sensor fixed to the apparatus at a point between the main lead 12 and one or both of the anchors 14. The heart anchor lead can optionally also have a pacemaking function. The sensor may be an accelerometer or a motion sensor. Each anchor may be coupled to the branch point by an electrode.

COMBINED DEFIBRILLATOR-PACER SYSTEM UTILISING PACER TIP LEAD SWITCH

A switch for placement in the lead line connecting a pacing pulse generator to an implanted pacing tip electrode in a combined implantable pacing-defibrillation system. The switch is triggered by switch control circuitry to open during defibrillation and to close during pacing. When the switch is open, the implantable unit is electrically isolated from the high voltage defibrillation pulse delivered 10 the heart. When the switch is closed, a low resistance conduction path is provided in the pacing lead to the pacing tip electrode. ...

FLUID HANDLING SYSTEM

IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC DEFIBRILLATOR EMPLOYING BIPOLAR SENSING AND TELEMENTRY MEANS

HEART STIMULATORS

... 1356190 Heart stimulator AMERICAN OPTICAL CORP 14 Sept 1971 [14 Sept 1970] 42852/71 Heading A5R A heart stimulator for treating "paroxysmol supraventricular tachycardia", a sudden attack of rapid heart action, comprises a pulse generator for supplying a burst of electrical stimuli at a continually changing rate above 160 pulses per minute. The stimulator comprises a reed switch 32, with a reed 31 movable by a manually manipulable magnet from a "normal" position as shown in Fig. 2, to an operational position in which it contacts the terminal 29. In the "normal" position a capacitor 28 is charged by batteries 3 to 7, via a resistor 23, whilst a further capacitor 65 is charged by the batteries via resistor 24, electrodes E1 and E2, the heart 14 and the return path to the battery 3. When the reed 31 engages the terminal 29 the capacitor 28 discharges through diodes 27 and 28, and a resistance 25, and also through resistors 35 and 37, capacitor 57, and resistors 61 and 63, whereby the capacitor ...

Method and apparatus for detection of interference in impedance based measurements

IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC DEFIBRILLATOR EMPLOYING BIPOLAR SENSING

PATIENT MONITOR

CLOCK ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS FOR A IMPLANTIERBARE MEDICAL DEVICE

SYSTEM AND PROCEDURE FOR THE NOISE MEASURING IMPLANTIERBAREN KARDIALEN OF A DEVICE

SYSTEM FOR THE STEERING OF AN ULTRASONIC CATHETER TO THE ILLUSTRATION OF A STRIKING HEART

PROCEDURE AND DEVICE FOR THE DISTINCTION BETWEEN ELECTROMAGNETIC SPURIOUS SIGNALS AND ELECTRICALMEDICAL SCANNING SIGNALS IN PARTICULAR OF KARDIOLOGI IMPLANTS

DEVICE FOR THE PROCESSING OF PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNALS

System for protecting circuitry in high-temperature environments

Fibrillation induction method for implantable devices

TRANSMITTER

HEART PACEMAKER

Egm recording system for implantable medical device

PULSE GENERATOR PULSE GENERATOR

Low energy pacing pulse waveform for implantable pacemaker

Systems and methods for detecting a loss of electrical connectivity between components of implantable medical lead systems

A connection monitoring system for an implantable medical lead system includes an implantable lead, a first trial system cable, an external trial system, and a sensor. The lead has a distal end and at least one proximal end. The lead includes a plurality of terminals disposed at each proximal end. The first trial system cable has a distal end and at least one proximal end. The distal end of the first trial system cable is configured and arranged to electrically couple with the lead. The external trial system is configured and arranged to electrically couple with the first trial system cable. The sensor is electrically coupled to the external trial system. The sensor is configured and arranged for detecting a loss of electrical connectivity between the external trial system and the lead when the lead becomes electrically decoupled from the external trial system.

Reducing effect of magnetic and electromagnetic fields on an implants magnet and/or electronic

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING A PACING SYSTEM IN THE PRESENCE OF EMI

Published without an Abstract ...

IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC STIMULATOR WITH SAFE NOISE MODE

An implantable medical device (100) for electrically stimulating the heart to beat generally includes a processor (170), a plurality of electrodes (101, 110, 120, 140, 150), a sense amplifier (162, 164), a pulse generator (168), and a heart status monitor. The processor can determine when the patient has entered an environment of high electromagnetic interference. When this occurs, the processor forces the implantable device into a safe noise mode. While in the same noise mode (which preferably continues while the patient is experiencing the electromagnetic interference), the implantable device paces the heart on demand and inhibits pacing during the vulnerable period. The processor determines when the vulnerable period is occurring and when the heart needs to be paced by monitoring a status signal from the heart status monitor. The heart status monitor preferably includes an impedance measurement circuit, but may include any type of cardiac sensor that can generate a status signal from ...

Battery longevity estimator that accounts for episodes of high current drain

System and method for estimating a remaining capacity of a battery of an implantable medical device. The implantable medical device has a battery producing a current and having a remaining battery capacity, the implantable medical device being configured to utilize a relatively low amount of the current and, in specific instances, a relatively large pulse of the current. The processor is coupled to the battery and configured to calculate an estimate of the remaining battery capacity based, at least in part, on a measured battery parameter and occurrences of the specific instances of delivery of the relatively large pulse of the current.

Antenna For An Implantable Medical Device

This disclosure describes antenna structures for use in an implantable medical device. The antenna structure may include an inner portion that is magnetically coupled to an outer portion. In one example, the inner and outer portions comprise conductive loops. In accordance with the techniques of this disclosure, a capacitive sensor is electrically coupled to one of the conductive loops of the antenna of the implantable medical device. As the capacitance of the capacitive sensor changes as a function of the sensed parameter, an impedance of the antenna varies with the output of the capacitive sensor. This variation in impedance of the antenna modulates a carrier signal with the measured parameter. In other words, the measured parameter is modulated onto the carrier signal as a change in amplitude caused by variation in impedance of antenna during radiation/transmission.

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.

Antenna For An Implantable Medical Device

This disclosure describes antenna structures for use in an implantable medical device. The implantable medical device may include a housing that hermetically encloses electronic components of the implantable medical device and a fixation mechanism that affixes the implantable medical device to a target location, such as a wall of a vessel. The fixation mechanism functions as a radiating element of an antenna of the implantable medical device. The housing of the implantable medical device may include a conductive loop that electrically couples to a telemetry module and magnetically couples to the fixation mechanism. The telemetry module may provide signals to be transmitted to the inner loop and those signals are magnetically coupled between the inner loop and the fixation mechanism, which radiates the signals.

Neurostimulation programmers with improved rf antenna radiation patterns

To provide for an improvement in the communication between an external handheld programmer and an implantable pulse generator (IPG) implanted within a patient or an external pulse generator attached to the patient, an antenna of the programmer is positioned relative to the ground plane of the programmer such that when a person handholds the programmer in its predetermined intended orientation a radiation pattern produced by the antenna has substantially maximum RF radiation generally directed toward the patient, regardless whether the person that handholds the programmer is the patient or another person located near the patient.

Implant and system for predicting decompensation

An implant predicts decompensation of a patient's heart based on an acoustic pressure measurement. The implant includes first and second acoustic transducers, which are matched to each other and which rest in/on the patient's thorax. The first acoustic transducer emits an acoustic signal which has at least one first signal portion having a first frequency. The second acoustic transducer is designed to receive and re-emit the emitted acoustic signal, or to reflect it, such that the first acoustic transducer receives the emitted acoustic signal. A signal processing unit communicates with at least one of the two acoustic transducers and determines an attenuation value as a function of the attenuation of the received acoustic signal versus the originally emitted acoustic signal, and provides a prediction signal as a function of a comparison of the attenuation value to a threshold value, wherein the prediction signal indicates the development of decompensation.

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.

Implantable medical device with adaptive operation

An implantable medical device operates with an algorithm that promotes intrinsic conduction and reduces ventricular pacing. The IMD monitors the occurrence of necessary ventricular pacing and takes certain actions based upon whether this occurrence has been relatively high or relatively low. When noise is detected, asynchronous pacing is provided when the occurrence is relatively high and is not provided when relatively low. When atrial threshold testing is performed, the incidence will determine which methodology is utilized.

Establishing continuity between a shield within an implantable medical lead and a shield within an implantable lead extension

Implantable medical leads and implantable lead extensions include a shield. The implantable medical lead is coupled to the implantable lead extension. Stimulation electrodes of the implantable medical lead contact stimulation connectors within a housing of the implantable extension to establish a conductive pathway for stimulation signals from filars of the implantable extension to filars of the implantable medical lead. Continuity is established between the shield of the implantable medical lead and the implantable extension by providing a radio frequency conductive pathway within the housing. The radio frequency conductive pathway extends from a shield of the implantable extension to a shield connector that contacts a shield electrode of the implantable medical lead. The radio frequency conductive pathway may have various forms such as a jumper wire or an extension of the shield within the implantable extension.

Implantable pulse generator with a stacked battery and capacitor

One example includes a configurable power source system for an implantable device having a predetermined power requirement, the system comprising a housing for a battery and a capacitor, the housing including a distance D between a first internal face and a second internal face, the housing adapted to fit within dimensions of the implantable device, a plurality of batteries of different thicknesses, each battery adapted to fit within a perimeter of the housing, a plurality of capacitors of different thicknesses, each capacitor adapted to fit within the housing and adjacent the battery and a pick and place system adapted to assemble a selected battery from the plurality of batteries and a selected capacitor from the plurality of capacitors with the housing to form a configurable power source at least meeting the predetermined power requirement for the implantable device.

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.

System and method for the visualization and optimization of cardiac resynchronization therapy

A system and method for optimizing cardiac resynchronization therapy and visualizing cardiac pacing intervals. The system comprises at least one hemodynamic sensor; at least one electrode; a learning module; a micro controller; and at least one graphical interface for showing at least one of a PRV vs. PLV diagram and a responder curve.

Method of bonding titanium to stainless steel

A method of bonding a stainless steel part to a titanium part by heating a component assembly comprised of the titanium part, the stainless steel part, and a laminated titanium-nickel filler material placed between the two parts and heated at a temperature that is less than the melting point of either the stainless steel part or the titanium part. The component assembly is held in intimate contact at temperature in a non-reactive atmosphere for a sufficient time to develop a hermetic and strong bond between the stainless steel part and the titanium part. The bonded component assembly is optionally treated with acid to remove any residual free nickel and nickel salts, to assure a biocompatible component assembly, if implanted in living tissue.

Apparatus And Methods For Wireless Communication Via Electrical Pulses Conducted By The Interstitial Tissues Of The Body For An Active Implantable Medical Device

An active implantable medical device having wireless communication of data via electrical pulses conducted by the interstitial tissues of the body. This device ( 12, 14 ) includes a pair of electrodes ( 22, 24 ) and generates pulse trains consisting of a series of electrical pulses applied to the electrodes. The pulse train is modulated by digital information (data) that is produced by the device. A regulated current or voltage source ( 42 ) is used to generate ( 44, 48 ) current or voltage pulses to form the pulse train. Each current or voltage pulse is a biphasic pulse comprising a positive and negative alternation. The biphasic current or voltage modulated by the digital information, is injected between the electrodes ( 22, 24 ) and wirelessly communicated.

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.

Biological signal display apparatus

A biological signal display apparatus includes: a stimulation unit which performs stimulation on a living body; a measurement unit which measures an evoked response evoked by the stimulation; a calculator which calculates a feature amount of the evoked response; a display unit; and a display controller which, based on the feature amount calculated by the calculator, displays a bar-shaped image on the display unit, each time when the stimulation is performed, the bar-shaped image corresponding with the evoked response on the display unit.

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.

Delivery Catheter Systems and Methods

A leadless cardiac pacemaker comprises a housing, a plurality of electrodes coupled to an outer surface of the housing, and a pulse delivery system hermetically contained within the housing and electrically coupled to the electrode plurality, the pulse delivery system configured for sourcing energy internal to the housing, generating and delivering electrical pulses to the electrode plurality. Systems and methods for delivering the leadless cardiac pacemaker with delivery catheters are also provided. In some embodiments, the delivery catheters include first and second coaxial shafts configured to apply rotational torque to the pacemaker. In other embodiments, the pacemaker is held in place on the catheter with a tether.

Enhanced sensing by an implantable medical device in the presence of an interfering signal from an external source

An implantable medical device (IMD) adjusts a sensing configuration of a sensing module prior to or immediately subsequent to entering an environment having an external source that generates the interfering signal. The IMD may, for example, adjust a sampling frequency, resolution, input range, gain, bandwidth, filtering parameters, or a combination of these or other sensing parameters of the sensing module. These adjustments enable the sensing module to obtain a more detailed representation of the sensed signals, including the noise components of the sensed signals caused by the interfering signal. Without having an adequate representation of the noise components of the sensed signal, it is difficult to separate the noise components of the sensed signal from the cardiac electrical signal.

Medical device fixation attachment mechanism

A fixation member configured to anchor an implantable medical device within a patient is attached to an implantable medical device by introducing at least a portion of the fixation member in a tube mechanically connected to the medical device, and plastically deforming the tube in order to pinch the fixation member within a hollow space of the tube.

System and method for retrieval of an implantable medical device

System and method for extracting an implantable medical device. An implantable medical device has a fixation member operatively coupled to the housing having an engaged state configured to engage tissue of a patient, the medical device being magnetically attractable. A catheter has a lumen and a distal portion configured for insertion in proximity of the implantable medical device. A magnetic element is configured to pass through the lumen of the catheter and to magnetically engage the implantable medical device when inserted toward the distal portion of the catheter.

Protecting an implantable medical device from effects caused by an interfering radiation field

Techniques are described for protecting an implantable medical device (IMD) from effects caused by interfering radiated fields. An IMD incorporating these techniques may include a telemetry conduction path that includes a first end electrically coupled to a telemetry antenna and a second end electrically coupled to a telemetry circuit disposed within a housing of the IMD. The IMD may further include a stub filter electrically coupled to the telemetry conduction path and configured to attenuate an interfering signal induced in the telemetry conduction path. The stub filter may include a dielectric and a conductor disposed within the dielectric. The conductor may include a first end electrically coupled to the telemetry conduction path and a second end configured in an open circuit configuration. The conductor may have an electrical length approximately equal to one-quarter wavelength of the interfering signal when propagating through the stub filter.

Planning System for Neurostimulation Therapy

A system for planning implantation of a neurostimulation probe is provided. The system comprises an input for receiving anatomical data comprising information regarding a position and an orientation of at least one fiber bundle in a target region, an input for receiving therapeutic information comprising information regarding a stimulation preferability of the at least one fiber bundle, an optimization module for based on the position, the orientation and the stimulation preferability of the at least one fiber bundle calculating at least one optimal position and at least one optimal orientation for implantation of the neurostimulation probe at which optimal position and orientation the probe is capable of generating an electric field gradient substantially parallel to at least one fiber bundle with a high stimulation preferability and/or substantially perpendicular to at least one fiber bundle with a low stimulation preferability and an output for providing the optimal position and orientation.

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 voice control of a medical implant

An implantable system ( 11 ) for control of and communication with an implant ( 17 ) in a body, comprising a command input device ( 12 ) and a processing device ( 13 ) coupled thereto, the processing device ( 13 ) being adapted to generate input to a command generator ( 16 ) which is comprised in the system ( 11 ) coupled to the processing device ( 13 ) and which is adapted to generate and communicate commands to the medical implant ( 17 ) in response to input received from the processing device ( 13 ), the system ( 11 ) further comprising a memory unit ( 15 ) connected to at least one of said devices in the system ( 11 ) for storing a memory bank of commands. The command input device ( 12 ) is adapted to receive commands from a user as voice commands, and the processing device ( 13 ) comprises a filter adapted to filter voice commands against high frequency losses and frequency distortion caused by the mammal body ( 10 ).

Peel-away is-4/df-4 lead implant tool with electrical contacts

A peel-away lead implant tool is described. The peel away lead implant tool is adapted to be disposed over the terminal connector of a lead during an implantation procedure to protect the terminal connector. The peel-away lead implant tool includes a flexible polymer sheath including electrical contacts formed in a contact region of the sheath. The electrical contacts can be either metal foil contacts or conductive polymer contacts and extend from an outer surface to an inner surface of the sheath such that when the testing apparatus is coupled to the lead implant tool, the electrical contacts are pressed into electrical contact with the ring electrodes located on the terminal connector. The lead implant tool also includes various removal means facilitating the easy removal of the implant tool from the terminal connector when the implantation procedure is complete.

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.

Implantable medical device with swappable headers

An implantable electrical medical device system includes a device body portion having a plurality of contacts operably coupled to discrete channels of electronics. One or more swappable headers may be attached to the device body portion by an end user, such as an implanting physician, to operably couple internal lead receptacle contacts in the header to the contacts of the device body portion. The swappable headers may have lead receptacles configured to receive differing types or combinations of leads, allowing an end user to select one or more appropriate headers as desired.

Folded antennas for implantable medical devices

Subject matter such as a method or apparatus can include an implantable medical device comprising a housing, an implantable telemetry circuit carried within the housing, and a dielectric compartment, mechanically coupled to the housing an implantable telemetry antenna, such as located at least partially within the dielectric compartment. The implantable telemetry circuit can be electrically coupled to the implantable telemetry antenna and configured to wirelessly transfer information electromagnetically using the implantable telemetry antenna. The implantable telemetry antenna can include a spiral conductor portion extending along a face portion of the dielectric compartment, and a loading portion configured to adjust an input impedance of the implantable telemetry antenna, to provide a specified input impedance range within a specified range of operating frequencies to be used for wireless information transfer.

Methods to regulate polarization and enhance function of excitable cells

Minimally invasive delivery with intercellular and/or intracellular localization of nano- and micro-particle solar cells within and among excitable biological cells to controllably regulate membrane polarization and enhance function of such cells. The cells include retinal and other excitable cells.

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.

Connector assemblies and contacts for implantable medical electrical systems

A connector assembly of a medical electrical device includes a plurality of electrical contacts and an insulative base that supports the plurality of electrical contacts and extends between the plurality of electrical contacts and a housing of the device, and, wherein at least one contact of the plurality includes an elongate electrical coupling receptacle in which a first part of a feedthrough member extends, being fixedly coupled thereto. The feedthrough member further includes a second part and a bend, which is located between the first and second parts. The second part of the feedthrough member extends away from the contact and through a port formed in the insulative base adjacent to the contact.

Transcutaneous energy transfer system with vibration inducing warning circuitry

An improved alarm device for use in a transcutaneous energy transfer (TET) system is provided. The device includes a processor configured to monitor at least one function of an implanted cardiac assist device and to generate an internal vibratory alarm.

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.

Implanted device data to guide ablation therapy

A medical device system and associated method for guiding ablation therapy sense cardiac signals using implantable electrodes and detect spontaneous cardiac events from the sensed cardiac signals. Pacing pulses are delivered and a return cycle length is measured in response to the plurality of pacing pulses. The spontaneous cardiac event is clustered with a previously detected cardiac event in response to the measured return cycle length, and a targeted ablation site is estimated in response to the measured return cycle length. A transit time interval, corresponding to a distance traversed by a depolarization associated with a last one of the plurality of pacing pulses when a reset condition occurs, is computed using the return cycle length, and the ablation site is estimated in response to the computed transit time interval.

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.

Implantable pulse generator feedthrus and methods of manufacture

Disclosed herein is an implantable pulse generator feedthru configured to make generally planar electrical contact with an electrical component housed within a can of an implantable pulse generator. The feedthru may include a feedthru housing including a header side and a can side, a core within the feedthru housing, a generally planar electrically conductive interface adjacent the can side, and a feedthru wire extending through the core. The feedthru wire may include an interface end and a header end, wherein the header end extends from the header side and the interface end is at least one of generally flush with the generally planar interface and generally recessed relative to the generally planar interface.

Fuel cell, battery and electrode for fuel cell

Provided is a fuel cell for being implanted which enables a long time operation while reducing its size so as to be implanted in a living body. The fuel cell to be adopted includes: a container which contains a fuel such as glucose and an electrolyte solution therein; a pair of electrodes which are arranged in the container and have a noble metal catalyst fixed thereon; an aeration portion which is formed on at least one part of the outer surface of the container and has air permeability and waterproofness; and septa and for injecting the fuel from the outside into the container or discharging it from the container.

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.

Implantable medical device fixation testing

In one example, this disclosure includes a kit for implanting an implantable medical device within a patient. The kit comprises a delivery catheter including an inner member and an outer member. The kit further comprises the implantable medical device. The implantable medical device is adjacent the inner member and constrained by the outer member. The kit further comprises a force sensor in mechanical communication with the implantable medical device via the inner member. The force sensor collects force feedback data representing force applied by the inner member on the implantable medical device. The kit further comprises a user communication module configured to deliver force feedback information corresponding to the force feedback data collected by the force sensor to a user.

Synchronization of electrical stimulation therapy to treat cardiac arrhythmias

Systems and methods are described for analyzing a plurality of beats after detection of a suspected cardiac arrhythmia to determine a beat discriminator, identify a beat subsequent to completion of charging of an implantable medical device by applying the beat discriminator, and synchronize delivery of a shock from the medical device to the identified beat. In some examples, identifying the beat using the beat discriminator may help to accurately synchronize the shock with a beat representative of physiological cardiac events instead of an oversensed beat, e.g., noise sensed signal that is misclassified as a cardiac beat.

Retrograde Atrial Sensing for Identifying Sub-Threshold Atrial Pacing

Atrial capture threshold testing is performed in accordance with an atrial capture threshold testing schedule. Monitoring for retrograde P-waves occurs at least during times other than times during which scheduled atrial capture threshold testing is performed. In response to detecting a retrograde P-wave indicative of sub-threshold atrial pacing during monitoring, an unscheduled atrial capture threshold test is performed and pacing of the atrium is adjusted based on the unscheduled atrial capture threshold test.

Implantable medical device and method for multisite measurement of intracardiac impedance

The present invention generally relates to an implantable medical device and method for detecting and monitoring cardiac status of a patient using simultaneous multisite measurements of the intracardiac impedance and in particular to ischemia detection using the simultaneous multisite measurements. The device comprises an impedance measuring unit being connectable to a plurality of electrode configurations including a current generating device adapted to generate a current and apply the current between two electrodes of a current injecting electrode configuration of the electrode configurations and a voltage sensing device including a plurality of voltage sensing circuits arranged in parallel. Each voltage sensing circuit being connectable to a specific voltage sensing electrode configuration of the electrode configurations and being arranged to sense a voltage over the voltage sensing electrode configuration resulting from the applied current, wherein the voltage sensing circuits are capable of sensing the resulting voltages simultaneously. The device further comprises an impedance calculating module adapted to calculate a plurality of impedance values, each impedance value being based on the applied current and a resulting voltage.

Power Management Techniques for Implanted Stimulators

Power management methods, systems and circuitry are provided for efficiently energizing implanted stimulators. Efficiency is achieved by automatically adjusting the power-supply voltage of the stimulator channel so that the magnitude of the voltage of the current-sink or current-source providing the stimulation current is regulated within a narrow band just above the minimum acceptable level. Adjustment is done once in every cycle of the external high-frequency power source in order to achieve regulation with a very fine time resolution throughout each stimulation period. The power supply voltage is generated and adjusted by rectifying the high-frequency voltage of the secondary coil of a transcutaneous magnetic link by closing and opening a solid-state switch at appropriate times during positive half cycles for a current-sink, and during negative half-cycles for a current-source. The timing of switch closure and opening is dictated by a logic controller on the basis of two binary signals generated by two separate comparators, one of which comparing the voltage of the secondary coil with the generated power-supply voltage, and the other comparing the current-sink or current-source voltage with a reference voltage.

Telemetry control for implantable medical devices

An implantable medical device (IMD) and method are provided in which a telemetry module in the IMD includes a configurable polling interval at which the telemetry module is powered up from a low power inactive state to perform sniff operations for detecting whether communication signals are being received from an external device. The IMD includes at least one sensor for sensing at least one parameter, a controller receiving data from the sensor, and the telemetry module coupled to the controller for facilitating communication between the IMD and an external device. The polling interval of the telemetry module is configured based upon the parameter(s) sensed by the sensor, such that the polling interval is configured to conserve power consumption of the IMD. The polling interval is either decreased or increased to respectively increase or decrease the frequency of the sniff operations based on the parameters sensed at the IMD.

Pain tracking and management device

A system, method and apparatus for real time measurement and monitoring of various personal health parameters including controlled delivery of drugs/medications by intelligent pump appliances, intelligent inhalation appliances and intelligent skin patch appliances used in a standalone manner or in a wired or wireless networked configuration, in conjunction with various peripheral devices, other intelligent appliances, servers, RF ID Tags and stationary/mobile devices. The intelligent appliances relate to the measurement, monitoring and delivery of insulin/other drugs for the treatment of diabetes and other diseases. The method also additionally includes the application of intelligent appliances for pain management including visualization of organs and body locations exhibiting pain.

Directly applicable electrical bushing

One aspect relates to an electrical bushing for use in a housing of an active implantable medical device, whereby the electrical bushing includes at least one electrically insulating base body and at least one electrical conducting element, whereby the conducting element establishes, through the base body, at least one electrically conductive connection between an internal space of the housing and an external space, whereby the conducting element is hermetically sealed with respect to the base body, and whereby the at least one conducting element includes at least one cermet. One aspect provides the base body to include a contact region, whereby the base body can be connected to the housing in a firmly bonded manner by means of the contact region.

Methods and Devices for Accurately Classifying Cardiac Activity

Methods, systems, and devices for signal analysis in an implanted cardiac monitoring and treatment device such as an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. In illustrative examples, captured data including detected events is analyzed to identify likely overdetection of cardiac events. In some illustrative examples, when overdetection is identified, data may be modified to correct for overdetection, to reduce the impact of overdetection, or to ignore overdetected data. New methods for organizing the use of morphology and rate analysis in an overall architecture for rhythm classification and cardiac signal analysis are also discussed.

Disabling an implanted medical device with another medical device

Various techniques for disabling a first implantable medical device (IMD) by modulation of therapeutic electrical stimulation delivered by a second medical device are described. One example method includes delivering therapeutic electrical stimulation from a more recently implanted second IMD at a higher average rate than the previously implanted first IMD so that only the more recently implanted IMD will administer therapy, and modulating stimulation by the more recently implanted IMD in order to send a disable command to the previously implanted IMD.

Optimizing Pitch Allocation in a Cochlear Implant

Errors in pitch allocation within a cochlear implant are corrected in order to provide a significant and profound improvement in the quality of sound perceived by the cochlear implant user. The disclosure provides a tool for determining the implant fitting curve for cochlear implant system to correct pitch warping. The method presents familiar musical tunes to determine the implant fitting slope (relative alignment). In addition, in one embodiment, speech sounds may be used to determine the offset of the fitting line (absolute alignment). The use of music and speech to determine the implant fitting curve (line) and the slope is facilitated by using techniques to implement virtual electrodes to more precisely direct stimuli to the location or “place” on the cochlea.

Charging and Communication System for a Battery-Powered Microstimulator

A system and method are provided for both recharging and communicating with a stimulator having a rechargeable battery, which stimulator is implanted deeply in the body, in particular where the stimulator is a microstimulator, the system includes a base station and an external device, for instance a chair pad. The chair pad may contain an antenna/charging coil and a booster coil. The antenna/charging coil can be used for charging the rechargeable battery and also for communicating with the stimulator using frequency shift keying and on-off keying. The booster coil can be used to recharge a battery depleted to zero volts. The base station connected to the chair pad may be used to power the antenna/charging coil and the booster coil.

Implantable electrode array assembly with extraction sleeve/tether

An implantable electrode array including a carrier on which plural electrodes are disposed. Also disposed on the carrier is an array antenna over which signals are wirelessly received. A tether is connected to the carrier. A tether antenna is attached to the tether. After the electrode array is implanted, during a trial period instructions and power are transmitted to the array antenna over the tether antenna. If the trial is successful, the tether is disconnected from the electrode array. If the trial is not successful and extraction of the array is necessary, extraction is accomplished by pulling on the tether. Electrode array removal may be facilitated by the pulling of the array into an extraction tube disposed over the tether.

Connector enclosure assemblies of medical devices including an angled lead passageway

Connector enclosure assemblies for medical devices provide an angled lead passageway. The lead passageway which is defined by electrical connectors and intervening seals within the connector enclosure assembly establishes the angle relative to a base plane of the connector enclosure assembly. Various other aspects may be included in conjunction with the angled lead passageway, including an angled housing of the connector enclosure assembly, feedthrough pins that extend to the electrical connectors where the feedthrough pins may include angled sections, and a set screw passageway set at an angle relative to the lead passageway to provide fixation of a lead within the lead passageway.

Systems for remote generation of electrical signal in tissue based on time-reversal acoustics

A time-reversal acoustics system includes a transmitter configured to send a high intensity acoustic waveform signal focused on an implantable receiver. The receiver includes a piezoelectric transducer configured to convert received acoustic energy to an electrical signal used to energize an internal electrical circuit. Such circuit may be used to operate at least one tissue stimulating electrode, at least one sensor such as an ECG sensor, charge an internal battery or perform another useful function. The system of the invention may be used as a wireless cardiac pacemaker or a neurostimulator.

Connector enclosure assemblies of medical devices including an angled lead passageway

Connector enclosure assemblies for medical devices provide an angled lead passageway. The lead passageway which is defined by electrical connectors and intervening seals within the connector enclosure assembly establishes the angle relative to a base plane of the connector enclosure assembly. Various other aspects may be included in conjunction with the angled lead passageway, including an angled housing of the connector enclosure assembly, feedthrough pins that extend to the electrical connectors where the feedthrough pins may include angled sections, and a set screw passageway set at an angle relative to the lead passageway to provide fixation of a lead within the lead passageway.

Electrode Cable Wrap

An implantable device for the reversible accommodation of an electrode lead portion of at least one electrode lead, including a first outer surface and a second outer surface which extends parallel to the first outer surface at a distance therefrom, the first outer surface having at least one guide which can be used to guide and accommodate the portion of the electrode lead. According to a second aspect, the electromedical implant includes the above-described device and an electronic circuit with a power supply, a multipiece housing which hermetically seals the circuit and the power supply, and a connector housing which is fastened to the multipiece, hermetically sealed housing and has connectors for at least one electrode lead, the connectors being electrically connected to the electronic circuit. The electromedical implant is characterized in that the second outer surface of the device is integrated into and forms a part of the housing.

Method and apparatus of acoustic communication for implantable medical device

An implantable medical device includes an acoustic transducer for intra-body communication with another medical device via an acoustic couple. The acoustic transducer includes one or more piezoelectric transducers. In one embodiment, an implantable medical device housing contains a cardiac rhythm management (CRM) device and an acoustic communication circuit. The acoustic transducer is electrically connected to the acoustic communication circuit to function as an acoustic coupler and physically fastened to a wall of the implantable housing, directly or via a supporting structure.

Feedback Systems and Methods for Communicating Diagnostic and/or Treatment Signals to Enhance Obesity Treatments

Feedback systems and methods communicate implanted sensor-based feedback signals to promote behavior modifications that ameliorate obesity and other eating disorders. The system and methods described may also be applicable to any treatment in which presenting feedback regarding patients' eating and exercise habits is desired. The present invention provides a method and system for treating a patient by collecting ingestion and exercise information about the patient from an implanted sensor and communicating the collected information to the patient, his or her physician and/or other health care providers. In some embodiments, stimulation of the patient's stomach is also provided to reduce caloric intake. In some embodiments, the collected data is transmitted to a central server. Further embodiments may provide access to additional information in conjunction with the collected patient information, such as a calorie database, an exercise planner, and so forth, with the data optionally being used within a social networking system.

Rf trapezoidal capacitor based emi feedthru filter assembly

A multi-layer capacitor includes a first capacitor layer and a second capacitor layer adjacent and substantially parallel to the first capacitor layer. The second capacitor layer has a surface area that is less than the surface area of the first capacitor layer.

Systems and methods for remote monitoring of signals sensed by an implantable medical device during an mri

Systems and methods are provided for allowing an implantable medical device, such as pacemaker, to properly sense electrophysiological signals and hemodynamic signals within a patient during a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedure. Systems and methods are also provided for allowing the implantable medical device to transmit the sensed data to an external monitoring system during the MRI procedure so that attending medical personnel can closely monitor the health of the patient and the operation of the implantable device during the MRI. These improvements provide the attending personnel with information needed to determine whether the MRI should be suspended in response to induced tachyarrhythmias or other adverse conditions within the patient.

Programmable cardiopulmonary resuscitation (cpr) detection device

Time after time studies find that often, even when administered by trained professionals, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) compression rates and depth are inadequate. Too week, shallow or too forceful compressions may contribute to suboptimal patient outcome. Several parameters are crucial for optimal and properly-administered CPR. Crucial parameters include proper hand positioning on the patient's chest, depth of compression of 4-5 cm, and compression rate of 100 compressions per minute. The crucial parameters are often affected by patient parameters, and relative to the patient, rescuer parameters, such as patient thoracic volume; weight; age; gender; and rescuer's, relative to the patient's, parameters, such as weight, height; physical form, etc. Proposed is an automated CPR feedback device with user programmable settings for assisting with real-time feedback and subsequently correcting rescuers patient customized CPR technique.

Methods for low power communication in an implantable medical device

The present invention is directed to an implantable medical device and a method for power management for power efficient use of RF telemetry during, for example, conditions where long periods of continuous monitoring of the device and the patient is desired such as during MRI procedures. A protocol module adapted to, at receipt of a low power protocol indication, activate and use a low power protocol for communication between the device and external units. The protocol module is capable of switching between different communication protocols including a low power communication protocol and a default RF communication protocol depending on, for example, whether continuous long-term monitoring of the patient is performed. During the low power communication protocol, the protocol module is adapted to select parts of stored electrophysical and/or hemodynamical signal waveforms for telemetric transmission and to create communication packages having a predetermined length using the selected parts of the electrophysiological and/or hemodynamical signal waveform. Further, a transmitter is instructed to transmit the communication packages at predetermined transmission intervals and the telemetry module is instructed to power down the transmitter or set the transmitter in a lowest possible activation state during intermediate periods between the transmission intervals.

Signal Analysis System for Heart Condition Determination

A system for heart performance characterization and abnormality detection includes an interface for receiving sampled data representing an electrical signal indicating electrical activity of a patient heart over multiple heart beat cycles. A signal processor automatically, decomposes the received sampled data to multiple different subcomponent signals in the time domain. The signal processor associates individual decomposed subcomponents with corresponding different cardiac rotors and determined characteristics of the subcomponents indicating relative significance of the rotors in a cardiac atrial condition. A reproduction device provides data indicating the subcomponent characteristics indicating relative significance of the rotors in a cardiac atrial condition.

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.

Magnetic resonance-compatible electrical device with radio frequency shielding or an enclosure

An apparatus comprises an electrical device or component ( 40 ) and a radio frequency shield arranged to shield the electrical device or component. The apparatus is disposed in a radio frequency (Bi) field generated by a magnetic resonance scanner and in time varying magnetic field gradients generated by the magnetic resonance scanner ( 10 ). The radio frequency shield includes an electrically conductive sheet or layer having openings suppressing time varying magnetic field gradient induced vibration of the radio frequency shield.

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.

Thin profile stacked layer contact

A connector is described herein that includes a plurality of layers patterned in two dimensions and joined in a stack with a bore there through. At least a subset of the plurality of layers are contact layers that include deflectable members (e.g., springs) that deflect in plane or out of plane upon insertion of a lead into the bore through the connector. The deflectable members form redundant electrical connections with the lead when the lead is inserted into the bore. For example, the connector can be incorporated into an implantable medical device (e.g., IPG). Moreover, methods of manufacturing a connector are set forth herein.

Feed-through connector assembly for implantable pulse generator and method of use

A connector assembly, and its method of assembly, for use in a medical device for connecting an IPG to a connector assembly for connecting the IPG to a relatively large plurality of electrodes that can support 24 or more stimulation channels for stimulating one or more stimulation regions of a patient. Also the IPG and the stimulation system and the stimulation therapy utilizing the connector assembly.

Cardiac rhythm management system and method

A system and method for cardiac rhythm management, which includes an electrode system having at least one electrode and control circuitry coupled to the electrode system from which a first cardiac signal is sensed. The control circuitry includes a pulse circuit to produce electrical pulses at a first value to be delivered to the electrode system in a first cardiac region. At least one cardiac signal is sensed from a second cardiac region, where the cardiac signal includes indications of cardiac depolarizations from the second cardiac region which occurs in direct reaction to the electrical pulses delivered to the first cardiac region. The first value of the electrical pulses are then modified by a pulse adjustment circuit when a cardiac depolarization which occurs in direct reaction to the electrical pulse delivered to the first cardiac region is detected from the second cardiac region.

Device and method for ensuring the proper insertion of a lead into the header of an implantable medical device

An implantable medical device that includes a header a cavity or connector bore that extends from an opening at a first end of the header towards a second end of the header. The cavity is configured to receive a first end of a stimulation lead. The header includes a lead insertion indicator positioned at the second end of the cavity for engaging with the stimulation upon complete insertion into the header. The lead insertion indicator is operable between a first operating state and a second operating state, such that when the stimulation lead is not engaged with the lead insertion indicator, the lead insertion indicator operates in the first operating state, and when the stimulation lead properly engages the lead insertion indicator, the lead insertion indicator operates in the second operating state. The lead insertion indicator generates a signal that indicates the corresponding operating state.

Capture verification and pacing adjustments for use with multisite left ventricular pacing

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to, or are for use with, an implantable system including a lead having multiple electrodes implantable in a patient's left ventricular (LV) chamber. In accordance with an embodiment, the patients LV chamber is paced at first and second sites within the LV chamber using a programmed LV1-LV2 delay, wherein the LV1-LV2 delay is a programmed delay between when first and second pacing pulses are to be delivered respectively at the first and second sites within the LV chamber. Evoked responses to the first and second pacing pulses are monitored for, and one or more LV pacing parameter is/are adjusted and/or one or more backup pulse is/are delivered based on results of the monitoring.

Method and apparatus for providing complex tissue stimulation patterns

The invention relates to a stimulation device for creating complex or multi-purpose tissue stimulation. Many typical stimulation devices suffer from deficiencies in providing complex stimulation patterns. Using a circuitry operable or programmable to repeat and skip stimulation settings, a complex stimulation set may be created. The repeating and skipping functionality may be implemented in hardware or software. In this manner, complex stimulations may be derived from simple circuitries. Furthermore, these stimulations may be used to treat pain, stimulate bone growth, and control motor disorders, among others.

Cantilevered spring contact for an implantable medical device

Some examples of an electrical contact spring for an implantable medical device includes a housing, rigid and tubular in shape, defining a housing passage extending along a longitudinal axis, from a proximal portion including a proximal lip that defines a proximal opening, to a distal portion including a distal lip that defines a distal opening and a spring disposed in the housing, the spring tubular in shape and defining a spring passage concentric to the housing passage, the spring including: a distal ring portion disposed adjacent the distal portion of the housing and physically coupled to the housing, a plurality of spring elements coupled to and extending from the distal ring portion toward the proximal portion of the housing and a proximal ring portion disposed adjacent the proximal portion of the housing, cantilevered and suspended inside of and spaced apart from the housing by the plurality of spring elements.

Electric stimulation device

An electric stimulation device includes a main body portion having a stimulation electrode stimulating nerves or muscles inside the living body, a stimulation circuit portion with a stimulation circuit electrically connected to the stimulation electrode and applying a stimulation signal to the stimulation electrode, and a support body connected to the stimulation circuit portion and holding the implant position of the stimulation electrode inside the living body. The electric stimulation device also includes a fixing body connectable to the base end portion of the main body portion. The fixing body includes a fixing body side coil portion that receives an electromagnetic wave transmitted from an external device. When the fixing body is connected to the main body portion, the fixing body side coil portion is electrically connected to the stimulation circuit to enable power feeding and/or communication with respect to the stimulation circuit in response to the electromagnetic wave.

Implantable medical device antenna

An implantable medical device includes a case having a conductive housing defining an opening. A dielectric material is coupled to the conductive housing to hermetically seal the opening. An antenna is within the case under the dielectric material. A header block is coupled to the case over the dielectric material.

Implantable medical device with automatic sensing threshold adjustment in noisy environment

An implantable medical system includes an implantable medical lead including at least one electrode and an implantable medical device (IMD) coupled to the implantable medical lead. The IMD includes a sensing module that obtains electrical signals on the implantable medical lead. The electrical signals on the implantable medical lead include cardiac signals as well as noise-induced signals. The IMD also includes a noise detection module that obtains noise signals independently of the electrical signals on the implantable medical lead. A control module of the IMD adjusts a sensing threshold of the sensing module in response to detecting the noise signals via the noise detection module. In instances in which the amplitude of the noise-induced signal on the lead is too large, the IMD may transition to a noise operating mode specifically designed to accommodate noisy environments.

Pacing in the presence of electromagentic interference

This disclosure provides a pacing technique that reduces the effect of oversensing caused by noise on pacing therapy. The IMD delivers a pacing pulse subsequent to sensing an electrical signal on the lead when the sensed electrical signal coincides with an independently detected noise signal and the sensed electrical signal occurs during a period of time of an expected intrinsic cardiac signal. The IMD may, in some instances, trigger delivery of the pacing pulse during the escape interval instead of waiting for the escape interval to expire. Pacing in accordance with the techniques of this disclosure may allow for improved therapy during an MRI procedure by decreasing the risk associated with inappropriate pacing inhibition as well as decreasing the risk associated with pacing during the vulnerable period of the cardiac cycle.

Implantable medical device charging

A particular method of providing power to an implantable medical device includes providing a first signal to a primary coil that is inductively coupled to a secondary coil of an implantable medical device. The method also include determining a first alignment difference between a voltage corresponding to the first signal and at least one of a current corresponding to the first signal and a component voltage at a component of a primary coil circuit. The method further includes determining a frequency sweep range based on the first alignment difference. The method also includes performing a frequency sweep over the frequency sweep range.

Predictive background data transfer for implantable medical devices

Data is transferred from an implantable medical device (IMD) to one or more external devices passively in the background of an active communications session based on a prediction of data that will be requested by a user.

Spinal cord stimulation to treat pain

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

Implantable medical device without antenna feedthrough

An implantable medical device includes a case having a conductive housing defining an opening. A dielectric material is coupled to the conductive housing to hermetically seal the opening. A header block is coupled to the case over the dielectric material. An antenna is within the case under the dielectric material and there is no antenna feedthrough extending through the case into the header block.

Implantable Medical Device Having an MRI Safe Rechargeable Battery

Disclosed are improved rechargeable battery designs for an implantable medical device. The improved rechargeable battery is designed to reduce eddy currents in the conductive anode and/or cathode plates within the battery housing, thereby reducing excessive heat and vibrations caused when the battery is placed in a high magnetic field, such as within a MRI machine. Discontinuities may be cut in the anode and/or cathode plates to increase their resistance to eddy currents, while not significantly affecting the internal resistance between these plates.

Implanted energy source

Apparatus and methods are described for use with (a) a muscle of a body of a subject and (b) an implanted functional device. An electrode is electrically coupled to the muscle. A compressible housing is compressed due to the movement of the muscle. An energy assembly includes a flywheel and an energy converter. The energy assembly (a) stores energy extracted from the movement of the muscle, by rotating the flywheel, (b) causes the muscle to undergo movement by driving a current into the muscle, via the electrode, using the stored energy, and (c) powers the implanted functional device using the stored energy. A chamber, in fluid communication with the housing, receives, from the compressible housing, fluid that is expelled from the compressible housing due to the compression of the compressible housing. Other applications are also described.

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.

System and method for programming neurostimulation devices using cached plug-in software drivers

A system for programming a plurality of different models, or generations, of neurostimulation devices includes a plurality of plug in software drivers stored on a hard drive of the system, wherein the plurality of plug-in software drivers are respectively configured for facilitating communication between the plurality of different models of neurostimulation devices and the system processor via a transceiver. In a method of programming a plurality of different models of neurostimulation devices, the system processor dynamically identifies the model of an interrogated neurostimulator and determines which plug-in software driver to use for programming the interrogated neurostimulator. The plug-in software drivers are cached into memory upon start-up of the system.

Array of Joined Microtransponders for Implantation

A wireless microtransponder array constructed as a single structure of joined microtransponders. The microtransponders can be configured as a linear array strip with connective material in between. The microtransponders can also be entirely embedded within a strip of material, or joined by a single, common substrate structure.

Capacitor including registration feature for aligning an insulator layer

In one example, a capacitor structure may include a capacitor comprising a surface that defines at least one feedthrough aperture and a ceramic insulator layer attached to the surface. The surface of the capacitor may include a capacitor registration feature, and the ceramic insulator layer may include a ceramic insulator layer registration feature. The capacitor registration feature and the ceramic insulator layer registration feature may cooperate to substantially align the ceramic insulator layer to the capacitor, e.g., prior to the ceramic layer being attached to surface of the capacitor.

Ventricular assist device cannula and ventricular assist device including the same

Provided is a ventricular assist device cannula, and more particularly, a ventricular assist device cannula with electrodes. An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a ventricular assist device cannula with electrodes, including: a connecting tube connecting an incision of a body tissue and a ventricular assist device so that blood can flow; and electrodes connected with the connecting tube and contacting the incision of the body tissue to transfer an electric signal to the body tissue.

Electrode impedance spectroscopy

Aspects of the present invention are generally directed to impedance spectroscopy in an active implantable medical device (AIMD) comprising a component with one or more electrodes. In an embodiment, the AIMD applies a signal at a plurality of frequencies using one or more of the electrodes. Measurements are then obtained for the applied signal to determine impedance(s) at the applied frequencies of the tissue in which the electrodes are located.

Method and Apparatus to Manage Lead-Related Conditions for Fault Tolerance Enhancements

The disclosure describes methods and devices for providing early indicators of a lead-related condition in a medical electrical lead. Among other things, the methods and devices will detect, obtain, or provide indicators of static or intermittent disruptions in a conductive pathway of the lead based on changes in conductive continuity properties of a medical electrical lead. The conductive behaviors and properties will be managed to facilitate signal stability and fidelity. In some embodiments, the methods and devices may include functions to enable one or more of monitoring a lead's conductive pathway, detecting static and transient behaviors of the conductive pathway, stabilizing the monitored pathway, reconfiguring the pathway, and providing lead-related condition data to an associated implantable medical device. The early indicators may be generated in a real-time, continuous manner to provide early detection and notification of lead degradation.

Method and apparatus for establishing context among events and optimizing implanted medical device performance

An apparatus and method for adjusting the performance of an implanted device based on data including contextual information. Contextual information, including operational and performance data concerning the implanted device as well as the patient with the implanted device, is stored by a portable electronic device. In one embodiment, the portable electronic device is adapted for battery operation and includes a personal digital assistant (PDA). The portable electronic device is adapted for use as an interface to conduct wireless communications with the implanted device. In one embodiment, the portable electronic device interfaces with a clinical programmer for use by a physician.

Method and Apparatus to Perform Electrode Combination Selection

Approaches for selecting an electrode combination of multi-electrode pacing devices are described. Electrode combination parameters that support cardiac function consistent with a prescribed therapy are evaluated for each of a plurality of electrode combinations. Electrode combination parameters that do not support cardiac function are evaluated for each of the plurality of electrode combinations. An order is determined for the electrode combinations based on the parameter evaluations. An electrode combination is selected based on the order, and therapy is delivered using the selected electrode combination.

Modular Speech Processor Headpiece

A cochlear implant system includes: an electrode array implanted within a cochlea; an internal processor in communication with the electrode array; an implanted antenna which is electrically coupled to the internal processor; and a modular external headpiece which is removably positioned over the implanted antenna, the modular external headpiece including a core containing a sound processor for processing sound and providing a corresponding signal to the implanted antenna; and a modular component configured to releasably engage the core and supply electrical power to the core. A modular speech processor headpiece includes a core comprising a microphone and sound processor for producing a signal representing ambient sound to be transmitted to a cochlear implant, the core further comprising a number of electrical contacts; and a modular component containing a number of electrical contacts corresponding to the electrical contacts of the core; wherein the core is configured to engage with the modular component such that electrical communication is made between the core and the modular component.

Lead for implantable cardiac prosthesis with integrated protection against the effects of mri fields

A lead for an implantable cardiac prosthesis, having an integrated protection against the effects of magnetic resonance imaging (“MRI”) fields. A protection circuit ( 26 ), placed at the distal end of the lead comprises a resistive component ( 28 ) interposed between the electrode (E 1, E 2 ) and the distal end of the conductor ( 22, 24 ) associated with this electrode. A normally-open controlled active switch ( 34, 36 ), allows in its closed state to short-circuit the resistive component. A control stage. ( 32 ) is coupled to the conductors and detects the voltage of a stimulation pulse applied on the conductor(s), and selectively controls by this voltage the closing of the active switch for a duration at least equal to the duration of detected stimulation pulse.

Wireless communication with a medical implant

An apparatus for providing transdermal wireless communication includes medical implant circuitry; a transceiver coupled to the medical implant circuitry; a first metal surface having an end portion and a base portion; a second metal surface parallel to the first metal surface and connected to the first metal surface by a conductor, the second metal surface being separated from the first metal surface by a dielectric layer; a first radiating element tuned to a first frequency and disposed within the dielectric layer between the first metal surface and second metal surface; and a feed structure in electrical communication with the transceiver and the first radiating strip. The first radiating element has a first reactive portion at a first end thereof, a second reactive portion at a second end thereof, and a first radiating strip extending between the first reactive portion and the second reactive portion.

Thermal nitriding process for components of implantable medical devices

A component of an implantable medical device comprises a body comprising at least one external surface, the body comprising at least one of titanium, titanium-based alloys, and composites thereof, and a corrosion-resistant surface region at the at least one external surface, the corrosion-resistant surface region comprising at least one of titanium nitride, dititanium nitride, and a solid solution of nitrogen dissolved in the body, wherein the corrosion-resistant surface region is formed by thermal nitridation of the body.

Method and apparatus for treatment of cardiac tachyarrhythmias

Method and apparatus for preventing heart rhythm disturbances by recording cardiac electrical activity, measuring beat-to-beat variability in the morphology of electrocardiographic waveforms, and using the measured beat-to-beat variability to control the delivery of electrical impulses to the heart during the absolute refractory period.

Methods and Systems for Managing Fusion and Noise in Cardiac Pacing Response Classification

Methods and systems for detecting noise in cardiac pacing response classification processes involve determining that a cardiac response classification is possibly erroneous if unexpected signal content is detected. The unexpected signal content may comprise signal peaks that have polarity opposite to the polarity of peaks used to determine the cardiac response to pacing. Fusion/noise management processes include pacing at a relatively high energy level until capture is detected after a fusion, indeterminate, or possibly erroneous pacing response classification is made. The relatively high energy pacing pulses may be delivered until capture is detected or until a predetermined number of paces are delivered.