MEDTRONIC, INC. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160067490 | DUAL CHAMBER TIMING FOR LEADLESS PACEMAKERS USING INFREQUENT ATRIAL SIGNALS AND VENTRICULAR CONTRACTIONS - A method for adjusting a pacing rate in a dual-chamber, leadless pacemaker implanted in a heart may involve determining, with a leadless atrial pacemaker implanted in an atrium of the heart, that an intrinsic atrial contraction rate of the atrium is faster than a ventricular contraction rate, transmitting a first signal from the atrial pacemaker to a leadless ventricular pacemaker implanted in a ventricle of the heart to increase a ventricular pacing rate of the ventricular pacemaker, receiving the transmitted first signal with the ventricular pacemaker, and increasing the ventricular pacing rate, based on the received first signal. | 03-10-2016 |
20160067486 | FAR-FIELD R-WAVE DETECTION TO CONTROL ATRIAL PACE TIMING IN A DUAL-CHAMBER LEADLESS PACEMAKER - A method for sensing far-field R-waves in a leadless, intracardiac pacemaker implanted in an atrium of a patient's heart may involve sensing an electrical signal generated by the heart with two electrodes and a first sensing channel and/or a second sensing channel of the pacemaker, comparing a first timing marker from the first sensing channel with a second timing marker from the second sensing channel, and either determining that the sensed signal is a P-wave, if the first and second timing markers indicate that the sensed signal was sensed by the first and second sensing channels within a predetermined threshold of time from one another, or determining that the sensed signal is a far-field R-wave, if the sensed signal is sensed by the second sensing channel and not sensed by the first sensing channel. | 03-10-2016 |
20160038666 | HEMODIALYSIS SYSTEM HAVING A FLOW PATH WITH A CONTROLLED COMPLIANT VOLUME - Systems and methods for the performance of kidney replacement therapy having or using a dialyzer, control components, sorbent cartridge and fluid reservoirs configured to be of a weight and size suitable to be worn or carried by an individual requiring treatment are disclosed. The system for performing kidney replacement therapy has a controlled compliance dialysis circuit, where a control pump controls the bi-directional movement of fluid across a dialysis membrane. The dialysis circuit and an extracorporeal circuit for circulating blood are in fluid communication through the dialysis membrane. The flux of fluid moving between the extracorporeal circuit and the dialysis circuit is modified by the rate at which the control pump is operating such that a rate of ultrafiltration and convective clearance can be controlled. The system provides for the monitoring of an inlet and outlet conductivity of the sorbent cartridge to provide a facility to quantify or monitor the removal of urea by the sorbent cartridge. | 02-11-2016 |
20160032268 | UREASE PURIFICATION FROM JACK BEANS OR OTHER ORGANISMS - A method for the extraction and purification of urease from jack beans or other natural sources of urease. The method provides an efficient way to obtain purified urease from natural sources. The method can include defatting the natural sources of urease, extracting the urease from impurities, and further purification of the extracted urease. | 02-04-2016 |
20150367060 | REPLENISHING UREASE IN DIALYSIS SYSTEMS USING UREASE POUCHES - An apparatus and method for replenishing urease in a sorbent cartridge for use in sorbent dialysis using urease pouches. The sorbent cartridge is configured to allow insertion of a urease pouch or injection of a urease solution into the sorbent cartridge containing a urease pouch. The sorbent module can also comprise other, rechargeable, sorbent materials for removing toxins other than urea from spent dialysate. | 12-24-2015 |
20150367059 | UREASE INTRODUCTION SYSTEM FOR REPLENISHING UREASE IN A SORBENT CARTRIDGE - An apparatus and method for replenishing urease in a sorbent cartridge for use in sorbent dialysis. The system is configured to allow insertion of a urease pouch, injection of a urease solution, or addition of a urease cartridge, into a dialysis cabinet containing a dialysis flow loop. The urease can be dissolved and the resulting urease solution added to the sorbent cartridge in the flow loop to replenish the urease within the sorbent cartridge. The sorbent cartridge can also comprise other, rechargeable, sorbent materials for removing toxins other than urea from spent dialysate. | 12-24-2015 |
20150367058 | STACKED SORBENT ASSEMBLY - A stacked sorbent assembly for use in sorbent dialysis. The stacked sorbent assembly contains two or more interchangeable sorbent pouches that allow for fluid to freely pass into and through the sorbent materials, while keeping the sorbent materials inside the sorbent pouches. Any of the pouches in the sorbent cartridge can be reused and/or recharged. | 12-24-2015 |
20150367057 | RESERVE ZIRCONIUM PHOSPHATE MODULE FOR USE IN SORBENT DIALYSIS - A reserve zirconium phosphate module for continuing dialysis in the event the capacity of the original zirconium phosphate module is exceeded. The sorbent cartridge can have a sensor for detecting when the capacity of the zirconium phosphate material has been exceeded, and a valve assembly for diverting the flow of spent dialysate into the reserve module when needed. Any of the modules of the sorbent cartridge can be reusable and the sorbent materials therein recharged. | 12-24-2015 |
20150367056 | MODULAR DIALYSATE REGENERATION ASSEMBLY - A customizable modular dialysate regeneration assembly with connectable sorbent packaging systems. The dialysate regeneration assembly can be customized based on patient parameters or dialysis session parameters. A processor can be included that can determine the correct amount of each sorbent material necessary for a given patient and a given dialysis session. | 12-24-2015 |
20150367055 | METHOD OF ZIRCONIUM PHOSPHATE RECHARGING - Methods and related apparatuses for sorbent recharging are provided. The methods and related apparatuses for recharging can recharge a specific rechargeable layer of a sorbent material such as zirconium phosphate in a sorbent cartridge. The methods and apparatuses include passing solutions containing combinations of acids, bases and salts through a module containing a rechargeable sorbent material such as zirconium phosphate in order to replace ions bound to the zirconium phosphate with hydrogen and sodium ions. The method allows for a customizable zirconium phosphate, with control over the ratios of sodium to hydrogen on the recharged zirconium phosphate. | 12-24-2015 |
20150367054 | ELECTROLYTE AND pH MONITORING FOR FLUID REMOVAL PROCESSES - Methods include monitoring indicators of blood pH or blood electrolyte levels during a blood fluid removal session and adjusting concentrations of pH buffers or electrolytes in dialysate or replacement fluid used during the session based on the monitored indicators. Blood fluid removal systems may employ sensors that monitor blood pH or electrolyte levels to adjust the fluid parameters during a blood fluid removal session. | 12-24-2015 |
20150367052 | SORBENT POUCH - A sorbent pouch for use in sorbent dialysis. The sorbent pouch allows for fluid to freely pass into and through the sorbent materials, while keeping the sorbent materials inside the sorbent pouch. | 12-24-2015 |
20150367051 | REPLENISIHING UREASE IN DIALYSIS SYSTEMS USING A UREASE INTRODUCER - An apparatus and method for replenishing urease in a sorbent cartridge for use in sorbent dialysis. The sorbent cartridge is configured to allow an amount of urease to be added to the sorbent cartridge. A urease solution can be injected into the sorbent cartridge to replenish the urease containing module, or solid urease can be added to the sorbent cartridge. The sorbent module can also comprise other, rechargeable, sorbent materials for removing toxins other than urea from spent dialysate. | 12-24-2015 |
20150359954 | AUTHENTICATION SYSTEM UTILIZED IN A SORBENT-BASED DIALYSIS SYSTEM FOR THERAPY OPTIMIZATION - A dialysis authentication and management system comprising at least one dialysis component having at least one authentication component affixed thereon. The dialysis component can be any one of a dialyzer, sorbent cartridge, recharger or any other dialysis component. The authentication component can be selected from the group of a radio-frequency identification marker, a bar code, a one-wire security component, and a wireless authentication component. The authentication system can ensure that all components used are in proper usable condition and/or certified. The system can also manage the recharging of rechargeable components, and optionally manage dialysis therapy. | 12-17-2015 |
20150356274 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS TO CREATE AND APPLY MODELS THAT SCREEN PATIENTS FOR REFERRAL TO A SPECIALIST FOR A MEDICAL THERAPY - A screening tool for deciding whether to refer patients to a specialist who provides a particular medical therapy is created as a model that is trained, validated, and then applied to subject patients. The training of the model utilizes a training set of answers to the set of questions and a specialist conclusion about referral for the patients who provided the training set of answers in order to drive the model to an ideal sensitivity and an ideal specificity. The model is then validated using a validation set of answers and a specialist conclusion about referral for the patients who provided the validation set of answers to produce a resulting sensitivity and specificity. Once the resulting sensitivity and specificity achieve a target, the model is validated and is then used in practice for subject patients. | 12-10-2015 |
20150352270 | SORBENT CARTRIDGE CONFIGURATIONS FOR IMPROVED DIALYSATE REGENERATION - A regeneration system that has a first regeneration module containing a first chosen regenerative substance; a second regeneration module containing the first chosen regenerative substance; and a first mixing chamber. A first outlet stream of a fluid sequentially exits the first mixing chamber, flows through the first regeneration module in fluid communication with the first chosen regenerative substance and returns to the first mixing chamber, and a second outlet stream of the fluid sequentially exits the first mixing chamber and flows through the second regeneration module in fluid communication with the first chosen regenerative substance. | 12-10-2015 |
20150352269 | ELECTROLYTE AND pH MONITORING FOR FLUID REMOVAL PROCESSES - Methods include monitoring indicators of blood pH or blood electrolyte levels during a blood fluid removal session and adjusting concentrations of pH buffers or electrolytes in dialysate or replacement fluid used during the session based on the monitored indicators. Blood fluid removal systems may employ sensors that monitor blood pH or electrolyte levels to adjust the fluid parameters during a blood fluid removal session. | 12-10-2015 |
20150351824 | TEST FIXTURE FOR AN ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICE - The present disclosure provides a system including a test fixture for an electrosurgical device. Embodiments of the test fixture may include a tissue carriage for mounting or loading a tissue sample thereon, a device mount for mounting a test device, a linear actuator for regulating a tissue incision or therapy speed and a force transducer for measuring a tissue incision or therapy force. | 12-10-2015 |
20150343197 | TUNNELING TOOL - A method and device for implanting a medical lead. The device includes an elongate shaft defining a major longitudinal axis and including a proximal end and a distal end. A necked portion coupled to and extending from the distal end is included, the necked portion defines a first thickness and a substantially planar surface, the necked portion being at least resiliently movable in a direction normal to the major longitudinal axis. A tip disposed at the distal end of the necked portion is included, the tip defining a second thickness greater than the first thickness | 12-03-2015 |
20150343176 | IMPLANT TOOL FOR SUBSTERNAL OR PERICARDIAL ACCESS - A medical device and medical method. The medical device includes a flexible elongate body defining a proximal end and a distal end. The elongate body defines a first lumen spanning from the proximal end to a location proximal to the distal end. A shaping member insertable within the first lumen is included, the shaping member is configured to retain a manipulated shape when the flexible elongate body is manipulated from a first configuration to a second configuration. A tip is coupled to the distal end. | 12-03-2015 |
20150315644 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR SCD, CRT, CRT-D, OR SCA THERAPY IDENTIFICATION AND/OR SELECTION - Compositions, polynucleotides, probes, kits, methods, computer systems, treatment methods and genetic markers useful for assessing the risk of Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD), Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA), Ventricular Arrhythmia (VA), or Heart Failure (HF) are provided herein. The compositions, polynucleotides, probes, kits, methods, computer systems, treatment methods and genetic markers of the invention can provide patients selection for those that can be treated with an ICD or CRT-D based on assessing the presence of one or more Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with any one of Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD), Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA), Ventricular Arrhythmia (VA), or Heart Failure (HF), and can indicate treatment with certain drugs such as beta-blockers. | 11-05-2015 |
20150311532 | BATTERIES AND CATHODES CONTAINING CARBON NANOTUBES - Cathodes containing active materials and carbon nanotubes are described. The use of carbon nanotubes in cathode materials can provide a battery having increased longevity and volumetric capacity over batteries that contain a cathode that uses conventional conductive additives such as carbon black or graphite. | 10-29-2015 |
20150306407 | THERAPY DELIVERY METHODS AND CIRCUITS FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Techniques are disclosed for modulating the generation of charge current by operational circuitry included in an implantable medical device (IMD) for delivery of an induction stimulation pulse waveform by the IMD. The modulation may include modulating a charging circuit of the operational circuitry to facilitate the regulation of the induction stimulation pulse waveform. The techniques include monitoring an electrical parameter of a charging path during the delivery of the induction stimulation pulse and modulating the charging circuit based on the monitored electrical parameter. | 10-29-2015 |
20150306406 | THERAPY DELIVERY METHODS AND CIRCUITS FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Apparatus and methods for generating an induction waveform for performing threshold testing in an implantable medical device are disclosed. Such tests may be performed during the implant procedure, or during a device checkup procedure, or routinely during the lifetime of the device. The threshold test may include induction of an arrhythmia (such as ventricular fibrillation) followed by delivery of therapy at various progressively-increasing stimulation parameters to terminate the arrhythmia. As such, the capability to induce fibrillation within the device is desired. Induction of the arrhythmias may be accomplished via delivery of a relatively low energy shock or through delivery of an induction stimulation pulse to the cardiac tissue timed concurrently with the vulnerable period of the cardiac cycle. | 10-29-2015 |
20150306382 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL LEADS HAVING HIGH FREQUENCY SHUNTS THAT INCLUDE A CONDUCTIVE INTERCONNECT - Implantable medical leads include a conductive interconnect within a high frequency shunt that dissipates high frequency current. The conductive interconnect provides an elasticity that allows a drive shaft to rotate and translate during implantation of the lead while the conductive interconnect maintains physical contact with the drive shaft and with a shunt electrode before, during, and after the implantation. The conductive interconnect may provide a low friction that presents a smooth rotation and translation of the drive shaft to provide an acceptable tactile feedback during implantation. The conductive interconnect also provides a high electrical conductivity so that a substantial amount of high frequency current flows through the conductive interconnect to the shunt electrode. The conductive interconnect may include a polymer filler that partially penetrates into the interstitial spaces of the conductive interconnect to assist in maintaining the physical integrity of the conductive interconnect. | 10-29-2015 |
20150306380 | ACTIVE FIXATION MEDICAL ELECTRICAL LEAD - A medical electrical lead and a method of its use. The lead has an elongated lead body having an outer circumference and provided with an electrode. A push tube is mounted circumferentially around the lead body and the lead body is longitudinally movable with respect thereto. A fixation helix is mounted to the push tube, extending along a generally helical axis around the outer circumference of the lead body. The lead may be employed by advancing the lead to a desired location for the fixation helix and then rotating the push tube to secure the helix to tissue. The lead body may then be moved longitudinally with respect to the push tube to place the electrode in a desirable location. | 10-29-2015 |
20150306374 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND COMPONENTS THEREOF - An implantable medical therapy delivery device includes a non-conductive filament extending along a length of an outer surface of an insulative body of the device, wherein the filament includes a plurality of fixation projections and is secured to the outer surface of the insulative body such that the projections protrude outward from the outer surface and are spaced apart from one another along the length of the outer surface. The filament may be wound about the length with an open pitch. In some cases, the insulative body includes an open-work member forming at least a portion of the outer surface thereof, and the filament may be interlaced with the open-work member. In these cases, the filament may be bioabsorbable, for example, to provide only acute fixation via the projections thereof, while the open-work member provides a structure for tissue ingrowth and, thus, more permanent or chronic fixation. | 10-29-2015 |
20150306292 | Detachable Module for Recharging Sorbent Materials with Optional ByPass - A detachable module for optionally recharging sorbent materials, including zirconium phosphate, with an optional bypass and conduits for a sorbent cartridge. The sorbent cartridge can have one or more modules contained therein having connectors connecting each of the modules. One or more of the modules can be reusable and the sorbent materials therein recharged. | 10-29-2015 |
20150305860 | Paravalvular Leak Resistant Prosthetic Heart Valve System - A paravalvular leak resistant prosthetic heart valve system including a stent frame, a valve structure and a sealing mechanism. The stent frame has a surface. The valve structure is associated with the stent frame. The sealing mechanism at least partially extends over the surface of the stent frame. The sealing mechanism includes at least one semi-permeable membrane and an osmotic gradient driving material. | 10-29-2015 |
20150305695 | Guidance System For Localization And Cannulation Of the Coronary Sinus - A high contrast instrument, such as a radiopaque portion, can be captured and/or viewed in an image that is acquired with an imaging system, such as with a fluoroscopic imaging system. A statistical model can be used to assist in identifying a possible or probable location of a target. A user may move the instrument coil to the statistically probable location of the target to, for example, perform a procedure or carry out a task. | 10-29-2015 |
20150305631 | Real-Time Relationship Between Geometries of an Instrument and a Structure - A system is disclosed for illustrating a geometry of a structure and a geometry of an instrument. The system can implement a set of instructions to assist in determining an appropriateness of positioning a selected instrument at a location. The system may display the geometry of the structure and/or the geometry of the instrument. | 10-29-2015 |
20150303712 | METHODS, IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES, AND SYSTEMS THAT ABORT A HIGH VOLTAGE CHARGE WHEN A TRANSFORMER IS IMPAIRED - High voltage charging is aborted when it is detected that a transformer providing the high voltage charge is impaired and is providing an impedance that is too low. In one instance, a voltage for a battery that provides power to the transformer is measured when the battery is substantially unloaded and a voltage is later measured when the battery is loaded during the high voltage charge. A dynamic threshold voltage is computed based on a chosen threshold impedance representing the impedance of the transformer and based the substantially unloaded voltage and on an internal resistance of the battery. When the loaded voltage is less than the threshold voltage, then the high voltage charging is aborted. | 10-22-2015 |
20150302178 | SYSTEM FOR USING PATIENT DATA COMBINED WITH DATABASE DATA TO PREDICT AND REPORT OUTCOMES - A system and associated method receives, by a database coupled to a communication network, patient medical data from multiple data sources including data retrieved from implantable medical devices implanted in patients. A processor accesses the database to generate a dataset from the medical data having at least one data characteristic matching a corresponding data characteristic of a patient group of at least one patient. At least one subset of the dataset is identified that had a therapy intervention subsequent to a time point that the subset had the matching data characteristic(s). An outcome of the subset is determined and a predictive outcome for the patient group is produced based on the outcome of at least one subset. | 10-22-2015 |
20150297907 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR VERIFYING DISCRIMINATING OF TACHYCARDIA EVENTS IN A MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING DUAL SENSING VECTORS - A method and medical device for detecting a cardiac event that includes sensing cardiac signals from a plurality of electrodes, the plurality of electrodes forming a first sensing vector sensing a first interval and a second sensing vector simultaneously sensing a second, determining, for each of the first interval and the second interval, whether each beat of the plurality of beats is one of a match beat and a non-match beat, determining whether each beat of the plurality of beats is one of a high confidence beat and a low confidence beat, determining, for each of the first interval and the second interval, the number of beats determined to be both a non-match beat and a high confidence beat is greater than a non-match threshold, and determining whether to deliver therapy for the cardiac event in response to identifying of each of the first interval and the second interval as being one of shockable and not shockable. | 10-22-2015 |
20150297897 | NOVEL SHIELD FORMING TO FACILITATE TIGHT RADIUS AT WELD SEAM USING PROGRESSIVE STAMPING - A method for manufacturing a medical device housing includes deforming an inner surface of a shield member to produce a seam area along the inner surface. The shield member has an inner surface and an outer surface spaced apart by a shield thickness. A seam seals the inner surface seam area of the shield member to a second shield member. The shield member inner surface has a bend extending to an interior edge of the seam. | 10-22-2015 |
20150283386 | DETERMINATION OF HEMODYNAMIC INTOLERANCE OF VENTRICULAR PACING - In some examples, this disclosure describes techniques for assessing hemodynamic intolerance of ventricular pacing. A method comprises sensing a parameter indicative of autonomic tone during a first period in which a medical device delivers ventricular pacing to a patient, sensing the parameter indicative of autonomic tone during a second period in which the medical device does not deliver ventricular pacing to the patient, and assessing a level of change in autonomic tone in the patient induced by ventricular pacing based on values of the sensed parameter during the first and second periods. | 10-08-2015 |
20150275384 | AUXILIARY ELECTRODE FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERY - An auxiliary electrode for a lithium-ion battery includes a lithium source material. The auxiliary electrode is configured to selectively couple to a negative electrode of a lithium-ion battery to provide lithium for formation of a solid-electrolyte-inter-phase layer on a negative electrode. | 10-01-2015 |
20150272731 | System and Method of Stepped Deployment of Prosthetic Heart Valve - A system for replacing a heart valve of a patient. The system includes a delivery device and a prosthetic heart valve. The system is configured to be transitionable between a loaded state, a partially deployed state and a deployed state. In the loaded state, the prosthetic heart valve engages a coupling structure and is compressively retained within a primary capsule, which constrains the prosthetic heart valve in a compressed arrangement. In the partially deployed state, the prosthetic heart valve engages the coupling structure and is compressively retained within a secondary capsule, which constrains the prosthetic heart valve to a partially deployed arrangement. The partially deployed arrangement is less compressed than the compressed arrangement and less expanded than a deployed arrangement. In the deployed state, the primary and secondary capsules are retracted from over the prosthetic heart valve, which expands to the deployed arrangement and is released from the coupling structure. | 10-01-2015 |
20150265840 | NON-INVASIVE DETECTION OF PHRENIC NERVE STIMULATION - Systems, methods, and graphical user interfaces are described herein for non-invasively detecting phrenic nerve stimulation during cardiac pacing therapy. Phrenic nerve stimulation information may be generated for one or more electrical pacing vectors at one or more power configurations. The phrenic nerve stimulation information may be displayed to a user for use in configuring and/or evaluating cardiac pacing therapy. | 09-24-2015 |
20150263392 | CHARGING PROCESS FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES - A method for producing a battery includes providing a battery having a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte that includes a solvent and a salt. The capacity of the negative electrode is less than that of the positive electrode and the negative electrode includes an active material having an average potential versus a lithium reference electrode of greater than approximately 0.2 volts. The method also includes applying an initial charge to the battery at a voltage that is greater than a fully charged voltage of the battery for a sufficient amount of time to cause at least a portion of the solvent to undergo a reduction reaction. The step of applying an initial charge to the battery acts to increase the irreversible capacity loss of the battery during the initial charge and provides the battery with enhanced tolerance to deep discharge conditions. | 09-17-2015 |
20150258268 | MULTI-STAGED FILTRATION SYSTEM FOR BLOOD FLUID REMOVAL - A device includes (i) a housing defining an interior, wherein the interior has a blood compartment, a plasma compartment, and a fluid compartment; (ii) a first filter disposed in the interior of the housing, and (iii) a second filter disposed in the interior of the housing. The first filter separates at least a portion of the blood compartment from at least a portion of the plasma compartment. The first filter is configured to allow plasma components, but not cell components, of blood to pass through the first filter from the blood compartment to the plasma compartment. The second filter separates at least a portion of the plasma compartment from at least a portion of the fluid compartment. The second filter is configured to allow fluid and small molecules, but not larger components, to pass through the second filter from the plasma compartment to the fluid compartment. The device may include a sorbent in the plasma compartment to remove or reduce the concentration of selected components of the plasma. In embodiments, a system including the device includes a sorbent with which the plasma may be contacted. | 09-17-2015 |
20150251162 | ZIRCONIUM PHOSPHATE RECHARGING METHOD AND APPARTUS - Methods and related apparatuses for sorbent recharging are provided. The methods and related apparatuses for recharging can recharge a specific rechargeable layer or module of a sorbent material such as zirconium phosphate in a sorbent cartridge. The methods and apparatuses include a fluid source containing at least one recharging fluid, wherein the fluid source is fluidly connectable to at least one rechargeable sorbent module for use in sorbent dialysis in a fluid flow path. The methods and apparatuses include passing a single solution through the zirconium phosphate for ion exchanges, resulting in zirconium phosphate to maintain a substantially consistent pH in a dialysate used during dialysis. | 09-10-2015 |
20150251161 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ZIRCONIUM OXIDE RECHARGING - Methods and related apparatuses for sorbent recharging are provided. The methods and related apparatuses for recharging can recharge a specific rechargeable layer of a sorbent material such as zirconium oxide and/or zirconium phosphate in a sorbent cartridge. The methods and apparatuses include passing solutions containing aqueous basic solutions through the zirconium oxide. The apparatus allows for recharging the zirconium oxide, and also for recharging zirconium phosphate, wherein the sorbent materials are contained in reusable sorbent modules. | 09-10-2015 |
20150250937 | MULTI-USE SORBENT CARTRIDGE - A sorbent cartridge comprising one or more detachable modules. The sorbent cartridge can have one or more modules contained therein having connectors connecting each of the modules. One or more of the modules can be reusable and the sorbent materials therein recharged. The sorbent cartridge can include a module containing an anion exchange resin, such as zirconium oxide, downstream of zirconium phosphate in the sorbent cartridge to recapture phosphate anions that leach out of the zirconium phosphate. | 09-10-2015 |
20150250427 | Method and Device to Manage Fluid Volumes in the Body - A system and method for determining the amount of fluid to be removed from a dialysis patient is disclosed. The system utilizes sensors and a computer. The computer obtains the input parameters from the sensors, along with information added directly by the user, and performs a forward algorithm to determine a recommended change in patient fluid level. As fluid is removed, the effect of the removal on the parameters is detected by the sensors and re-transmitted back to the computer. The computer then performs a backward algorithm to refine the variables used in the forward algorithm and obtain more accurate results. The system and method provide for changing the amount of fluid removed from the patient based on the results of the algorithm and the data received from the sensors. | 09-10-2015 |
20150246237 | EXTERNAL UNIT FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE COUPLED BY CORD - User interface for external power source, recharger, for an implantable medical device. At least some of patient controls and display icons of an energy transfer unit are common with at least some of the patient controls and the display icons of a patient control unit. An energy transfer unit is operable by the patient with less than three operative controls to control energy transfer from the external energy transfer unit to the implantable medical device. An external antenna having a primary coil can inductively transfer energy to a secondary coil of the implantable medical device when the external antenna is externally placed in proximity of the secondary coil. An energy transfer unit has an external telemetry coil allowing the energy transfer unit to communicate with the implantable medical device through the internal telemetry coil in order to at least partially control the therapeutic output of the implantable medical device. | 09-03-2015 |
20150246233 | THERAPEUTIC WINDOW DETERMINATION - A therapeutic window for at least one electrode of a medical system may be determined based on a volume of tissue expected to be activated (“VTA”) by electrical stimulation delivered by the at least one electrode. In some examples, a processor determines the therapeutic window for a particular electrode by at least determining an efficacy threshold based on the VTA expected to result from the delivery of electrical stimulation according to a set of electrical stimulation parameter values including the stimulation parameter at the efficacy threshold, and determining an adverse-effects threshold based on the VTA expected to result from the delivery of electrical stimulation according to a set of electrical stimulation parameter values including the stimulation parameter at the adverse-effects threshold. | 09-03-2015 |
20150238673 | Authentication and Tracking System - A dialysis authentication system comprising at least one dialysis component having at least one authentication component affixed thereon. The dialysis component can be any one of a dialyzer, sorbent cartridge, or recharger. The authentication component can be selected from the group comprising a radio-frequency identification marker, a bar code, a one-wire security component, and a wireless authentication component. | 08-27-2015 |
20150238658 | Phospholipid Reduction in Biological Tissue - A method of reducing phospholipid concentration in biological tissue. The biological tissue is immersed in an isopropyl alcohol solution for an effective period of time. After the effective period of time, the biological tissue has a phospholipid concentration that is at least 10 percent by weight less than an initial phospholipid concentration of the biological tissue. | 08-27-2015 |
20150231387 | SENSING AND STIMULATION SYSTEM - A sensing and stimulation system includes a central hub, and a plurality of flexible arms extending from the central hub. Each of the arms includes at least one electrode and at least one sensor. Each of the arms is configured to perform sensing and stimulation including electrically stimulating biological material, and sensing biological responses and changes. The system includes a port configured to be alternatively connected to a remote control module for wireless operation of the system and a leaded connector for wired operation of the system. | 08-20-2015 |
20150224299 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE WITH FLEXIBLE INTERCONNECT - An implantable medical device includes at least one receptacle configured for receiving at least one electrical lead, a printed wiring board including a processor, a flexible interconnect coupled between the at least one receptacle and the printed wiring board, and a housing forming a substantially sealed enclosure for the printed wiring board and the flexible interconnect. | 08-13-2015 |
20150223710 | Devices and Methods for Sensing Physiological Signals During Stimulation Therapy - Devices and methods provide for the sensing of physiological signals during stimulation therapy by preventing stimulation waveform artifacts from being passed through to the amplification of the sensed physiological signal. Thus, the sensing amplifier is not adversely affected by the stimulation waveform and can provide for successful sensing of physiological signals. A common mode voltage is applied to the stimulation electrodes while sensing during a recharge period where the common mode voltage approximates the stimulation pulse being received at the sensing electrodes. This common mode voltage is determined based on measuring a common mode signal for at least one of the inputs of the amplifier or by deriving the proper common mode from monitoring the output signal of the amplifier to observe the elimination of artifacts during stimulation. Blanking switches may be used to blank the sensing of the peak of the recharge period should that peak be relatively large. | 08-13-2015 |
20150217119 | SELECTION OF OPTIMAL ACCELEROMETER SENSING AXIS FOR RATE RESPONSE IN LEADLESS PACEMAKER - A medical device and associated method record signals from each real axis of a multi-axis sensor. An optimal axis for monitoring a physiological signal of the patient is identified from the real axes of the multi-axis sensor and multiple virtual axes. Coordinates defining the optimal axis are stored as respective weighting factors of the signals from each real axis of the multi-axis sensor. A metric of the physiological signal is determined using the multi-axis sensor signals and the weighting factors. | 08-06-2015 |
20150214604 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES HAVING COFIRE CERAMIC MODULES AND METHODS OF FABRICATING THE SAME - An implantable medical device (IMD) and methods of fabricating the same are provided. An IMD can include a housing and a cofire ceramic module (CCM) coupled to the housing. The CCM can include an antenna cofire-integrated in the CCM. The antenna can include a plate composed of conductive material, and conductive antenna elements that are annular substrates having perimeters substantially coextensive with the perimeter of the plate. The antenna can also include interconnections. A first set of interconnections can be coupled between the plate and one of the conductive antenna elements, and a second set of interconnections can be coupled between the conductive antenna elements. The antenna can also include a feed line conductively coupled to the plate. In some embodiments, the feed line can be substantially serpentine-shaped to adjust impedance in the CCM. | 07-30-2015 |
20150213233 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVING PATIENT ACCESS TO MEDICAL THERAPIES - The system and method utilizes a computer system having processors that receive quantitative data from users and generate data to facilitate prioritization and reduction of barriers that prevent patients from receiving medical therapies from a particular healthcare provider in rank order. The processors provide an initial rank order of potential barriers based on calculated correlation coefficient, and determine a subsequent rank order of potential barriers based on the calculated correlation coefficient and other data indicative of the effect of each barrier on the patients. The system and method provides for a systematic, data-driven, and validated process to improve patient access to healthcare providers. | 07-30-2015 |
20150209589 | Methods, Implantable Medical Devices, and Systems to Continue Implementing a Special Mode of Operation After Experiencing a Device Reset - An implantable medical device implements a special mode of operation, such as a mode of electrical stimulation therapy, during conditions where there may be an increased likelihood that a device reset will occur. The implantable medical device recovers from the device reset by copying values that specify the special mode and that are stored in a non-volatile memory to an operating memory. The special mode is implemented after the device reset has occurred by using the values copied to the operating memory. One version of the special mode is an MRI mode that allows the implantable medical device to safely operate during an MRI scan. The fields of the MRI scan may trigger a device reset, but the MRI mode values are copied from the non-volatile memory to the operating memory, and the MRI mode is implemented after the reset by using the values copied to the operating memory. | 07-30-2015 |
20150209588 | PRE-IMPLANT DETECTION - A medical device system and associated method determine an implantable medical device state prior to implantation. An impedance monitoring module monitors for a change in impedance between a pair of electrodes coupled to the impedance monitoring circuit. The system includes an enclosure for carrying the implantable medical device. The enclosure has a surface having an electrical impedance. A control module is configured to detect one of a first pre-implant state and a second pre-implant state of the implantable medical device in response to the impedance monitoring module detecting a change in impedance between the electrodes and adjust operation of the implantable medical device in response to detecting the impedance change. | 07-30-2015 |
20150209077 | IMPLANT TOOLS FOR EXTRAVASCULAR IMPLANTATION OF MEDICAL LEADS - A method for creating a pathway for insertion of a medical lead, such as a defibrillation lead, the method includes creating an incision at a first location on the left side of the torso of the patient. A first medical device and a second medical device are advanced through the incision and through the subcutaneous tissue toward a second location proximate the center of the torso. The distal end of the first medical device is deflected at the second location toward a third location proximate the high sternal area. The second medical device is advanced out through the distal end of the first medical device toward the third location. A sheath is positioned within the torso, the sheath spanning the distance between the first location and the second location and the distance between the second location and the third location. | 07-30-2015 |
20150202706 | METHODS FOR SIMULTANEOUSLY BRAZING A FERRULE AND LEAD PINS - A lead pin fixture is used to align and hold lead pins in place for brazing lead pins to metal contact pads of a ceramic insulator and brazing a ferrule to the ceramic insulator in a single step. | 07-23-2015 |
20150196391 | Tray for Loading a Medical Device Including a Temperature Measuring and Indicating Device - A tray for loading a medical device on a catheter assembly includes a reservoir and a temperature sensing and indicating device disposed in the reservoir. The reservoir is defined by a bottom surface, a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, and a fourth wall, and includes an open top opposite the bottom surface. The reservoir configured to receive a liquid such that a medical device may be loaded onto a catheter assembly while submerged in the liquid. The temperature sensing and indicating device senses the temperature of the liquid in the reservoir and indicates to the user when the liquid is at a desired temperature for loading the medical device onto the catheter assembly. | 07-16-2015 |
20150190178 | SPINAL CORRECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A spinal construct comprises a longitudinal element including at least one part configured for connecting to tissue of a rib cage. A member is connected with the longitudinal element and configured for connection with a spinal implant fixed with vertebrae. Systems and methods are disclosed. | 07-09-2015 |
20150190174 | SPINAL CORRECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A spinal construct comprises at least one spinal implant connected with vertebrae and a member extending between a first end including, at least one part configured for connection to tissue of a rib cage and a second end configured for connection with the at least one spinal implant. Systems and methods are disclosed. | 07-09-2015 |
20150178644 | RISK MANAGEMENT APPROACH TO OVERSIGHT OF INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARDS - A computer system receives, before a start of a trial of a medical therapy, data that configure the computer system to detect alert conditions indicative of occurrences of failure modes identified as being potentially associated with an institutional ethics committee such as an Institutional Review Board (IRB) that reviews the trial. Respective mitigation procedures are defined for the failure modes before the start of the trial. The mitigation procedures indicate procedures to mitigate occurrences of the failure modes. Furthermore, the computer system receives IRB activity data indicative of activities performed by the IRB. The computer system detects, based on the IRB activity data that one of the alert conditions has occurred. The alert condition is indicative of an occurrence of a given one of the failure modes. In response to detecting that the alert condition has occurred, the computer system outputs an alert. | 06-25-2015 |
20150174311 | Partial Radial Heat Exchanger and Oxygenator - Methods of making a combination heat exchanger and oxygenator. A heat transfer tubing is wound about a core and a potting compound is applied to a portion of the wound tubing. The potting compound solidifies to form a potting structure defining an internal face substantially parallel with a longitudinal axis of the core. The assembly is cut along a line passing through the potting structure to define a core assembly having a cut face substantially parallel with the axis. The cut tubing forms a plurality of capillary tubes, each terminating at opposing, first and second ends, and each extending about the core along an arc angle of less than 360 degrees. An oxygenator bundle is formed as part of the core assembly and includes a plurality of gas exchange fibers. The core assembly is disposed within a housing having a blood inlet and a blood outlet. | 06-25-2015 |
20150157960 | MODULE FOR IN-LINE RECHARGING OF SORBENT MATERIALS WITH OPTIONAL BYPASS - This disclosure generally relates to at least one reusable module of a sorbent cartridge in a sorbent dialysis system and a method of using the same. One of the drawbacks of a conventional sorbent dialysis system is the high cost. In one aspect of the invention, the sorbent cartridge contains at least one module for optionally recharging sorbent materials in-line with an optional bypass and conduits for the sorbent cartridge. The sorbent cartridge can have two or more modules that are connected to one another through connectors. The modules can be reusable and the sorbent materials contained in the modules can be recharged. | 06-11-2015 |
20150157233 | IDENTIFICATION OF ABNORMAL CARDIAC SUBSTRATE DURING LEFT-VENTRICULAR PACING - Techniques for identifying abnormal cardiac substrate, e.g., scar substrate, may be implemented, as an example, during implantation of a left-ventricular (LV) lead, e.g., for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), which may enable placement of the LV lead to avoid the abnormal cardiac substrate. An example system for identifying abnormal cardiac substrate comprises at least one implantable LV lead comprising at least one bipolar electrode pair configured to sense a LV bipolar cardiac electrogram signal of LV tissue proximate the bipolar electrode pair. The system delivers cardiac pacing pulses to a left ventricle via at least one electrodes of the LV lead, which may be different then the electrodes of the bipolar pair, and which may be spaced at least a threshold distance from the bipolar pair of electrodes. The amplitude of paced depolarizations in the bipolar electrogram indicates whether tissue proximate the bipolar electrode pair comprises abnormal cardiac substrate. | 06-11-2015 |
20150151033 | Fluid Volume Monitoring for Patients with Renal Disease - A method includes initiating a blood fluid removal session of a patient; monitoring an indicator of tissue fluid volume of the patient, or a portion thereof, during the blood fluid removal session; monitoring an indicator of blood fluid volume of the patient during the blood fluid removal session; determining whether a ratio of the indicator of tissue fluid volume to indicator of blood fluid volume is outside of a predetermined range; and altering the rate of fluid removal during the blood fluid removal session if the ratio is determined to be outside of the predetermined range. A blood fluid removal system may be configured to carry out the method. | 06-04-2015 |
20150149096 | Precision dialysis monitoring and synchonization system - A device, system and related methods for monitoring a mammal with heart failure, kidney disease or both, to make predictions about the likelihood of a life threatening ventricular arrhythmia. The device, system and related methods can have one or more sensors in electronic communication with a processor, the sensors determining one or more physiological parameters of a patient, and communicating the physiological parameter to the processor, and the processors using an algorithm to determine the probability of a ventricular arrhythmia based on the physiological parameters. | 05-28-2015 |
20150148697 | PRECISION DIALYSIS MONITORING AND SYNCHONIZATION SYSTEM - A system and method for synchronizing patient medical parameters and dialysis parameters. The system and related method allow for the determination of the effect of dialysis on patient health. The invention also allows for the determination of whether observed patient health effects are due to specific dialysis parameters and for making necessary changes to the dialysis parameters in order to improve patient health. | 05-28-2015 |
20150144542 | Module for In-Line Recharging of Sorbent Materials with Optional Bypass - A module for optionally recharging sorbent materials in-line, including zirconium phosphate, with an optional bypass and conduits for a sorbent cartridge. The sorbent cartridge can have one or more modules contained therein having connectors connecting each of the modules. One or more of the modules can be reusable and the sorbent materials therein recharged. | 05-28-2015 |
20150144539 | Parallel Modules for In-Line Recharging of Sorbents Using Alternate Duty Cycles - Parallel modules for in-line recharging of sorbent materials using alternate duty cycles for a sorbent cartridge. The sorbent cartridge can have two or more modules contained therein having connectors connecting each of the modules. One or more of the modules can be reusable and the sorbent materials therein can be recharged. | 05-28-2015 |
20150136840 | METHOD OF JOINING STACKS OF THIN METAL FOIL LAYERS - Disclosed are methods of welding a stack of metal foil layers together using a penetration weld. The methods include stacking of the metal foil layers, pressing or compressing the metal foil layers between end plates and welding the end plates and compressed metal foil layer stack together. | 05-21-2015 |
20150133954 | IMPLANT TOOLS WITH ATTACHMENT FEATURE AND MULTI-POSITIONAL SHEATH AND IMPLANT TECHNIQUES UTILIZING SUCH TOOLS - Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other implantable component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in extravascular locations, including subcutaneous locations. An example implant tool for implanting a medical lead includes a rod and a sheath configured to be placed on the rod. The rod includes a handle, a shaft having a proximal end adjacent to the handle and a distal end, and an attachment feature toward the distal end of the shaft, the attachment feature configured to couple to the medical lead. The sheath is configured to be placed in multiple positions along the rod including a first position in which the sheath does not interact with the attachment feature and second position in which the sheath does interact with the attachment feature. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133953 | EXTRAVASCULAR IMPLANT TOOLS WITH OPEN SHEATH AND IMPLANT TECHNIQUES UTILIZING SUCH TOOLS - Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other implantable component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in extravascular locations, including subcutaneous locations. An example implant tool for implanting a medical lead includes a rod having a handle and a shaft, and a sheath configured to be placed on the shaft of the rod. The sheath includes a body having proximal end and a distal, a channel formed by the body, the channel extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the body, and an opening that extends along the body of the sheath from the proximal end to the distal end, wherein the channel is accessible via the opening. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133952 | OPEN CHANNEL IMPLANT TOOLS AND IMPLANT TECHNIQUES UTILIZING SUCH TOOLS - Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in extravascular locations, including subcutaneous locations. An implant tool for implanting a medical lead may include a handle and a shaft adjacent the handle. The shaft has a proximal end, a distal end, and an open channel that extends from near the proximal end to the distal end, the open channel having a width that is greater than or equal to an outer diameter of the implantable medical lead. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133951 | OPEN CHANNEL IMPLANT TOOLS HAVING AN ATTACHMENT FEATURE AND IMPLANT TECHNIQUES UTILIZING SUCH TOOLS - Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in extravascular locations, including subcutaneous locations. An implant tool for implanting a medical lead may include a shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, an open channel that extends from near the proximal end to the distal end, and an attachment feature configured to couple to the medical lead. Such an implant tool provides a user with the versatility to use the same implant tool to either pull the lead through a tunnel formed via the implant tool or push the lead through the tunnel via the open channel in the implant tool. | 05-14-2015 |
20150129750 | SYSTEM FOR CONTINUOUS LASER BEAM MONITORING AND ANALYSIS - A system for continuously monitoring a laser beam includes a photodiode sensor mounted adjacent to a laser beam optical path. A laser beam optical path analysis module connected to the photodiode sensor and adapted to receive, analyze and report the sensor output from the photodiode sensor. | 05-14-2015 |
20150119980 | Stented Prosthetic Heart Valve - A stented prosthetic heart valve including a stent assembly, a leaflet assembly, and mounting members. The stent assembly includes a stent post frame, a stent post frame covering, and a base frame. The stent post frame includes a continuous rail forming a closed-curved shape defining a longitudinal axis, and a plurality of circumferentially-spaced posts projecting from cusp segments in a direction of the longitudinal axis. The cloth covering encompasses the rail. The base frame supports the cusp segments. The valve leaflet assembly is attached to the stent assembly, and includes a leaflet clamped between one of the cusp segments and the base frame. The mounting members each directly pass through the stent post frame cloth covering, the first leaflet and the base frame. The rail can have a constant cross-sectional shape with a major axis dimension that is greater than a minor axis dimension. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119974 | MODULAR VALVE PROSTHESIS WITH ANCHOR STENT AND VALVE COMPONENT - A modular valve prosthesis includes an anchor stent and a valve component. The anchor stent includes a self-expanding tubular frame member configured to be deployed in the aorta and a proximal arm component extending from a proximal end of the tubular frame member and configured to be deployed in the sinuses of the aortic valve. The anchor stent further includes attachment members extending from an internal surface of the tubular frame member. The valve component includes a valve frame configured to be deployed within the tubular frame member of the anchor stent such that the valve frame engages with the attachment members of the tubular frame member and a prosthetic valve coupled to the valve frame. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119964 | MEDICAL LEAD FASTENER INCLUDING INTEGRATED CLAMP - This disclosure includes techniques for securing the proximal ends of a medical lead to the connector block of an IMD with a fastener device that incorporates a flexible clamp. A fastener device for a medical device comprising a flexible clamp forming a clamp aperture, wherein the flexible clamp includes a clamp protrusion configured to facilitate actuation of the flexible clamp, a rigid body, wherein the rigid body connects to and surrounds the flexible clamp, and an actuator configured to actuate on the clamp protrusion to change a perimeter of the clamp aperture, wherein the change of the perimeter of the clamp aperture by the actuator is configured to apply a compressive force about a perimeter of an electrical contact of a medical lead in the clamp aperture to electrically and mechanically connect the medical lead to the fastener device. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119846 | MEDICAL DEVICE COMMUNICATION WITH WIRELESS TELEMETRY HEAD - In some examples, a method including wirelessly communicating, using an external medical device, with an implantable medical device via a telemetry head device, wherein the telemetry head device includes a power source configured to supply operational power to the telemetry head device; determining a first power level of the power source while the external medical device wirelessly communicates with the implantable medical device via the telemetry head device; suspending wireless communication between the implantable medical device and the external medical device based on the determined first power level. The wireless communication may be resumed, e.g., at the point communication was suspended, upon determining that the power level of the power source has been increased after the communication was suspended. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119821 | PREFILLED RESERVOIR APPARATUS FOR AMBULATORY INFUSION DEVICE - Prefilled reservoir apparatuses for use in ambulatory infusion devices include a rigid top and a flexible bag that forms at least a portion of a reservoir containing a liquid medicament composition. The reservoir apparatuses include a septum assembly that includes a fluid flow path in communication with the reservoir and a self-sealing septum disposed in or over the fluid flow path. The septum is positioned and configured to be pierced by a cannula of a base of an infusion device when the reservoir apparatus is received by the base. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119804 | PERSONALIZED HOUSING FOR AMBULATORY INFUSION DEVICE - An ambulatory infusion device includes a common module having a pump mechanism and a fluid flow path in communication with the pump mechanism. The device also includes a custom module operably coupleable to the common module. The custom module includes a reservoir for housing a liquid composition comprising a medicament and control electronics. The reservoir is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid flow path, and the control electronics are configured to electrically couple to the pump mechanism when the common module and the custom module are operably coupled. When the common module and the custom module are operably coupled, the pump mechanism is configured to drive the liquid composition from the reservoir to a patient via the fluid flow path, and the control electronics are configured to control the rate at which the pump mechanism drives the liquid composition. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119751 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SENSING PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNALS DURING STIMULATION THERAPY - Devices and methods provide for the sensing of physiological signals during stimulation therapy by preventing stimulation waveform artifacts from being passed through to the amplification of the sensed physiological signal. Thus, the amplifiers are not adversely affected by the stimulation waveform and can provide for successful sensing of physiological signals between stimulation waveform pulses. A blanking switch may be used to blank the stimulation waveform artifacts where the blanking switch is operated in a manner synchronized with the stimulation waveform so that conduction in the sensing path is blocked during the stimulation pulse as well as during other troublesome artifacts such as a peak of a recharge pulse. A limiter may be used to limit the amplitude of the sensed signal, and hence the stimulation artifacts, that are passed to the amplifier without any synchronization of the limiter to the stimulation waveform. | 04-30-2015 |
20150117645 | MEDICAL DEVICE COMMUNICATION USING ENCRYPTION BASED ON CORRELATED MOTION - Devices, systems, and techniques for generating an encryption key using detected motion from a device. In one example, a method may include receiving movement information indicative of motion detected by a first device during a period of time in which the first device and a second device were bumped together, determining a set of values that represent at least one characteristic of the movement information, and generating, based on the set of values, an encryption key for at least one of encrypting and decrypting data communicated between the first device and the second device. In some examples, the first device may include a sensor configured to detect each time the first device is bumped with the second device during the period of time. The first and second devices may be an implantable medical device and a programmer for the implantable medical device. | 04-30-2015 |
20150114891 | FLUID CIRCUIT FOR DELIVERY OF RENAL REPLACEMENT THERAPIES - A portable dialysis cabinet for use in dialysis. The portable dialysis cabinet can have a size and weight that facilitates easy movement of the cabinet from one location to another with relative ease. The portable dialysis cabinet can have additional features necessary to facilitate portability, such as wheels and a handle. In general, the portable dialysis cabinet can contain all the necessary components for performing a dialysis session. | 04-30-2015 |
20150114092 | Filling Implantable Medical Devices for Leak Checking - A method for introducing an analyte gas into a cavity of an implantable medical device includes analyzing gas that exits the cavity through an outlet in communication with the cavity and introducing an analyte gas into the cavity via an inlet in communication with the cavity until the composition of the gas exiting the cavity comprises a predetermined percent or amount of the analyte gas. The inlet and outlet may be sealed, and the device may be leak tested. | 04-30-2015 |
20150107089 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A method of manufacturing an implantable medical device having reduced MRI image distortion, includes producing an implantable medical device. The implantable medical device has a configuration that comprises a housing and one or more internal components disposed within the housing. The configuration is based upon a design process that includes creating a first prototype, determining the aggregate relative magnetic permeability of the first prototype, and modifying the design of the first prototype by at least one of (a) selecting and adding a diamagnetic shimming material to the first prototype or (b) repositioning one or more internal components of the first prototype. Modifying the design results in a modified design that is the configuration for the implantable medical device. | 04-23-2015 |
20150106124 | DATE AND TIME ACCURACY TESTING PATIENT DATA TRANSFERRED FROM A REMOTE DEVICE - A system and method for ensuring the accuracy of health related information. This system is used for receiving, processing, analyzing, and verifying the accuracy of healthcare data prior to its transmission to a client. Embodiment described may enable patient data, collected from various patient input devices, to be automatically filtered or categorized into one of several categories. The categories are based on the potential accuracy of the data, which are determined by a set of pre-determined rules. Data that surpasses accuracy testing may then be transmitted to a client (hospitals, patient physicians, patient caregivers, patients, etc.) for review and/or incorporation into client records. Data that fails accuracy testing may be discarded. | 04-16-2015 |
20150105793 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR SUBCUTANEOUS LEAD IMPLANTATION - Devices and implantation methods utilizing subcutaneous placement into a patient are disclosed for the insertion, advancement and positioning of a subcutaneous implantable medical device (SIMD) such as a medical electrical lead. The SIMD is releasably-engaged with a device in accordance with embodiments of this disclosure, and advanced from an incision of the patient to an implant location. The implantation device may be disengaged from the SIMD without moving the SIMD from the implant location. | 04-16-2015 |
20150104085 | Method and System for Ranking Instruments - A system including or receiving information regarding the geometry of a patient can be used to identify possible or appropriate instruments for a patient. Instruments can include pacing and defibrillation leads. Information regarding the patient can include target location size, bifurcation angles, and tortuosity of a path. Information regarding the instrument can include diameter, shape, stiffness, and/or other handling characteristics. The information can be used to identify or rank instruments. | 04-16-2015 |
20150101841 | HERMETIC CONDUCTIVE FEEDTHROUGHS FOR A SEMICONDUCTOR WAFER - A glass wafer has an internal surface and an opposing external surface separated by a wafer thickness. A hermetic, electrically conductive feedthrough extends through the wafer from the internal surface to the opposing external surface. The feedthrough includes a feedthrough member having an inner face exposed along the internal surface for electrically coupling to an electrical circuit. The feedthrough member extends from the inner face partially through the wafer thickness to an exteriorly-facing outer face hermetically embedded within the wafer. | 04-16-2015 |
20150100009 | Surgical and Post Surgical Fluid Management - Methods, devices and systems provide information regarding fluid capacity of a patient before, during or after surgeries in which hemodilution may be a concern, such as CPB, rather than providing only information regarding hematocrit levels. The fluid capacity of the patient may be displayed to allow a health care provider to make decisions regarding effects of addition of fluid to the blood compartment of the patient. | 04-09-2015 |
20150097734 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES HAVING HOLLOW SLEEVE COFIRE CERAMIC STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF FABRICATING THE SAME - An implantable medical device (IMD) antenna and methods of fabricating the same are provided. An IMD can include a ceramic structure having at least one wall defining a hollow cavity. The ceramic structure can include a first end and a second end distal from the first end, the first and second ends being open to provide access to the hollow cavity. The IMD also includes an antenna cofire-integrated into the at least one wall of the ceramic structure and a housing adjoined to the ceramic structure. | 04-09-2015 |
20150096167 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES HAVING HOLLOW CAP COFIRE CERAMIC STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF FABRICATING THE SAME - An implantable medical device (IMD) antenna and methods of fabricating the same are provided. An IMD can include a ceramic structure having at least one wall defining a hollow cavity. The ceramic structure can include a first end and a second end distal from the first end, the first end being open to provide access to the hollow cavity and the second end being closed. The IMD also includes an antenna cofire-integrated into the at least one wall of the ceramic structure and a housing adjoined to the ceramic structure. | 04-09-2015 |
20150088047 | Monitoring Fluid Volume for Patients with Renal Disease - A method includes monitoring an indicator of fluid volume of a patient via a sensor device, and setting an initial fluid volume removal prescription for a blood fluid removal session based on the monitored indicator of fluid volume. The method may further include transmitting data regarding the indicator of fluid volume from the implantable sensor device to fluid removal device. The system includes a blood fluid removal device configured to set the initial fluid removal volume and rate prescription. In some embodiments, the fluid removal device sets or calculated the initial fluid volume removal prescription based on the data received from the implantable sensor. The indicator of fluid volume may be an indicator of tissue fluid volume or an indicator of blood fluid volume. | 03-26-2015 |
20150083647 | Portable Dialysis Cabinet - A portable dialysis cabinet for use in dialysis. The portable dialysis cabinet can have a size and weight that facilitates easy movement of the cabinet from one location to another with relative ease. The portable dialysis cabinet can have additional features necessary to facilitate portability, such as wheels and a handle. In general, the portable dialysis cabinet can contain all the necessary components for performing a dialysis session. | 03-26-2015 |
20150081011 | Systems and Methods for Loading a Valve Prosthesis onto a Catheter - A medical device loading system can comprise a first housing, a second housing, and a plate. The first housing comprises a first open end, a first tapered inner surface, and a second open end. The second housing comprises a third open end, a second tapered inner surface, and a fourth open end. The second housing can define a slot between the second tapered surface and the third open end. The plate can be configured to be slidably received within the slot. The loading system can further comprise a first elongated member and a second elongated member. | 03-19-2015 |
20150080995 | STRUCTURES AND TECHNIQUES FOR MEDICAL LEAD FABRICATION - A medical lead may be fabricated using an electrode fixture (( | 03-19-2015 |
20150080844 | THERAPY FOR KIDNEY DISEASE AND/OR HEART FAILURE BY INTRADERMAL INFUSION - Intradermal delivery devices, systems and methods thereof for the administration of a natriuretic or chimeric peptide are described. The described delivery devices, systems and methods provide for the treatment of pathological conditions such as kidney disease alone, heart failure alone, concomitant kidney disease and heart failure, or cardiorenal syndrome by delivery of a natriuretic or chimeric peptide through a microneedle array using a delivery pump. The described delivery devices, systems and methods can provide for greater availability of a natriuretic or chimeric peptide and improved pharmacokinetics. | 03-19-2015 |
20150080682 | Monitoring Fluid Volume for Patients with Renal Disease - A method includes monitoring an indicator of fluid volume of a patient via a sensor device, and setting an initial fluid volume removal prescription for a blood fluid removal session based on the monitored indicator of fluid volume. The method may further include transmitting data regarding the indicator of fluid volume from the implantable sensor device to fluid removal device. The system includes a blood fluid removal device and control electronics configured to set the initial fluid removal volume and rate prescription. In some embodiments, the fluid removal device sets or calculated the initial fluid volume removal prescription based on the data received from the implantable sensor. The indicator of fluid volume may be an indicator of tissue fluid volume or an indicator of blood fluid volume. | 03-19-2015 |
20150073831 | EVALUATING POPULATION INDICATED FOR MEDICAL THERAPIES - A method may include, receiving, by a computer system, indications of a plurality of attributes associated with applicable individuals, wherein each respective one of the applicable individuals is a member of a human population and is a potential user of a medical therapy. The method may further include, for each respective attribute of the plurality of attributes, receiving, by the computer system, a respective indication of a prevalence of the respective attribute, and estimating, by the computer system, based on the indications of the prevalence of the respective attributes, a number of applicable individuals. The method may also include outputting, by the computer system, the estimate of the number of the applicable individuals. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073509 | REMOVABLE HEAT MANAGEMENT FOR RECHARGE COILS - Devices, systems, and techniques for managing heat generated in coils for wireless energy transmission are disclosed. Inductive coupling between two coils (e.g., a primary coil and a secondary coil) may be used to recharge the power source of an implantable medical device. A phase change material may be thermally coupled to the primary coil to absorb heat generated during the inductive coupling and reduce temperature increases of the primary coil. In one example, the phase change material may be configured to absorb heat from an energy transfer coil. A housing may be configured to contain the phase change material and a coupling mechanism may be configured to removably attach the housing to the energy transfer coil. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073507 | SUPPLY NOISE REJECTION IN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - The present invention provides an implantable medical device having at least two electrodes coupled to the device housing. The electrodes may be configured for sensing physiological signals such as cardiac signals and alternatively for providing an electrical stimulation therapy such as a pacing or defibrillation therapy. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the device housing provides a hermetic enclosure that includes a first housing section that is hermetically coupled to a second housing section. At least one of the at least two electrodes is coupled to an exterior surface of the first housing section that encloses the battery components of the device. The first housing section is electrically insulated from the cathode and anode of the battery. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073497 | OPTIMIZED FLASH MEMORY DEVICE FOR MINIATURIZED DEVICES - An implantable medical device have an associated memory device is disclosed. The implantable medical device utilizes techniques for optimizing one or more embedded operations of the memory device, such operations including programming, reading or erasing data. The techniques for optimizing the embedded operations include controlling the operations as a function of an energy source of the implantable medical device. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073295 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SIMULTANEOUS CAPTURE OF BIOPOTENTIAL AND TISSUE IMPEDANCE SIGNALS - A medical device and associated method acquire a biopotential signal from a pair of electrodes at a first sampling rate and a bioimpedance signal from the pair of electrodes at a second sampling rate. An onset and/or offset of the drive signal delivered to the pair of electrodes for acquiring the bioimpedance signal is synchronized to the first sampling rate. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073247 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES WITH POWER SUPPLY NOISE ISOLATION - The present invention provides an implantable medical device having at least two electrodes coupled to the device housing. The electrodes may be configured for sensing physiological signals such as cardiac signals and alternatively for providing an electrical stimulation therapy such as a pacing or defibrillation therapy. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the device housing provides a hermetic enclosure that includes a battery case hermetically coupled to a circuit assembly case. At least one of the at least two electrodes is coupled to an exterior surface of the battery case. The battery case is electrically insulated from the cathode and anode of the battery. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073228 | ULTRA LOW POWER INTERFACE USING ADAPTIVE SUCCESSIVE APPROXIMATION REGISTER - A medical device and associated method convert an analog signal using an adaptable bit number. The medical device includes an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter for receiving an analog signal. The A/D converter has a full scale range and a total number of bits spanning the full scale range. The A/D converter converts the analog signal to a digital signal over conversion cycles using an adaptable bit number so that on at least a portion of the conversion cycles an adapted number of bits spanning a portion of the full scale range less than the total number of bits is used by the A/D converter to convert the analog signal. | 03-12-2015 |
20150070022 | BATTERY RECOMMENDED REPLACEMENT TIME INDICATOR SYSTEM - A method of generating at least one recommended replacement time signal for a battery is provided. The method includes measuring a plurality of associated unloaded and loaded battery voltages. A delta voltage for each associated unloaded and loaded battery voltage is then determined. A select number of delta voltages are averaged. A minimum delta voltage is determined from a plurality of the averaged delta voltages. At least one recommended replacement time signal for the battery is generated with the use of the minimum delta voltage when at least one averaged delta voltage is detected that has at least reached a replacement threshold. | 03-12-2015 |
20150065872 | DELIVERY CATHETER APPARATUS AND METHODS - A catheter has a shaft that defines a delivery lumen, for example, to deliver an elongate medical device therethrough; a proximal section of the catheter includes a seal zone portion, a handle portion and a proximal port portion. A relatively thin wall section of the proximal port portion extends between the seal zone portion and a proximal edge that defines part of a perimeter of a proximal opening of the delivery lumen. The handle portion projects laterally from the seal zone portion, generally opposite the relatively thin wall section. An inflation subassembly of the catheter includes a compliant sleeve member and an inflation lumen extending from the sleeve member, proximally along the shaft, and into a connector port formed in the handle portion. The inflation lumen may be formed by fusing a section of a tube to the shaft and molding the handle portion around another section of the tube. | 03-05-2015 |
20150051670 | Devices and Methods to Provide Stimulation Therapy in the Presence of External Conditions that Induce Undesirable Perturbations - Devices and methods compensate for perturbations in a stimulation signal caused by external conditions such as a magnetic field of an MRI machine so that stimulation therapy may continue in the presence of the external condition. Compensation for the perturbations during a stimulation pulse of a stimulation phase may be provided by using feedback within a stimulation current source. Perturbations during a recharge phase may be addressed by utilizing an active recharge at least when the external condition is present. Furthermore, compensation for perturbations during a recharge pulse of the active recharge phase may be provided by using feedback within a recharge current source. Passive recharge may be used instead of active recharge when the external condition is not present to preserve battery life of the stimulation device. The stimulation device may include a sensor to detect the external condition so that an appropriate mode of recharge may be chosen. | 02-19-2015 |
20150045862 | FEEDTHROUGH ASSEMBLY FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Processes for manufacture and assembly of implantable medical devices are described. In particular, techniques are provided for nondestructive electrical isolation assessment of feedthrough assemblies of the implantable medical devices. The feedthrough assemblies may include an insulating structure, a plurality of terminal pins extending through the insulator and a ferrule having an inner lumen into which the insulating structure is disposed. One or more insulating seals may be disposed at the interface of the ferrule-to-insulating structure and/or the terminal pin-to-insulating structure. The electrical isolation assessments may be based on the dielectric properties of the components of the feedthrough assemblies, such as the insulating structure. | 02-12-2015 |
20150045861 | FEEDTHROUGH ASSEMBLY FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Processes for manufacture and assembly of implantable medical devices are described. In particular, techniques are provided for nondestructive electrical isolation assessment of feedthrough assemblies of the implantable medical devices. The feedthrough assemblies may include an insulating structure, a plurality of terminal pins extending through the insulator and a ferrule having an inner lumen into which the insulating structure is disposed. One or more insulating seals may be disposed at the interface of the ferrule-to-insulating structure and/or the terminal pin-to-insulating structure. The electrical isolation assessments may be based on the dielectric properties of the components of the feedthrough assemblies, such as the insulating structure. | 02-12-2015 |
20150045848 | MEDICAL DEVICE TO PROVIDE BREATHING THERAPY - Medical devices and methods for providing breathing therapy (e.g., for treating heart failure, hypertension, etc.) may determine at least the inspiration phase of one or more breathing cycles based on the monitored physiological parameters and control delivery of a plurality of breathing therapy sessions (e.g., each of the breathing therapy sessions may be provided during a defined time period). Further, each of the plurality of breathing therapy sessions may include delivering stimulation after the start of the inspiration phase of each of a plurality of breathing cycles to prolong diaphragm contraction during the breathing cycle. | 02-12-2015 |
20150039071 | FIXATION FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A tine portion of an implantable medical device includes a hook segment and a distal segment extending therefrom, wherein the hook segment is pre-set to extend along a curvature and is elastically deformable therefrom to an open position. The distal segment includes a tooth and an end that surrounds the tooth, wherein the end includes a pair of legs and a distal arch. The legs extend along a length of, and on opposing sides of the tooth, and the distal arch extends between the legs, distal to a tissue-piercing tip of the tooth. When the hook segment is in the open position, and a force is applied along a longitudinal axis of the device, to push the distal arch of the distal segment against tissue, for initial tissue penetration, the legs of the end of the distal segment bend in elastic deformation to expose the tissue-piercing tip to the tissue. | 02-05-2015 |
20150039070 | FIXATION FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A tine portion of an implantable medical device includes a hook segment and a distal segment terminated by a tissue-piercing tip, wherein the distal segment extends from a distal end of the hook segment to the tip. The hook segment, which is elastically deformable from a pre-set curvature, for example, defined by a single radius, preferably tapers from a first width thereof, in proximity to a proximal end thereof, to a smaller, second width thereof, in proximity to the distal end thereof, wherein the tip has a width that is greater than the second width of the hook segment. Alternately, the tine portion may include a hook segment that is defined by two radii and a straight section extending therebetween. | 02-05-2015 |
20150039069 | FIXATION FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A tine portion for an implantable medical device includes a hook segment and a distal segment terminated by a tissue-piercing tip, wherein the distal segment extends from the hook segment to the tip. The hook segment, which is elastically deformable from a pre-set curvature, has one of: a round cross-section and an elliptical cross-section, while the distal segment has a flattened, or approximately rectangular cross-section. One or a pair of the tine portions may be integrally formed, with a base portion, from a superelastic wire, wherein the base portion is configured to fixedly attach to the device, for example, being captured between insulative members of a fixation subassembly. | 02-05-2015 |
20150038418 | NATRIURETIC PEPTIDE COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF PREPARATION - Therapeutic compositions containing natriuretic peptides for treating chronic kidney disease alone, heart failure alone, or chronic kidney disease with concomitant heart failure are described. The therapeutic compositions have enhanced stability characteristics to facilitate storage and delivery by provisioning apparatuses under conditions of elevated temperature and mechanical stress. Methods for increasing the stability of therapeutic compositions containing natriuretic peptides are further described. | 02-05-2015 |
20150032174 | COMBINATION OF FEEDBACK ON MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL RESYNCHRONIZATION TO SELECT THERAPY PARAMETERS - A system and method select a pacing site for a cardiac pacing therapy. A change from a baseline mechanical activity is extracted from a signal of mechanical heart activity during pacing at each one of multiple pacing sites along a heart chamber. A change from a baseline electrical activity is extracted from a signal of electrical heart activity during pacing at each of the of pacing sites. The pacing sites are sorted in a first order based upon the changes in mechanical heart activity and in a second order based upon the changes in electrical heart activity. A pacing site is selected from the multiple pacing sites as a common pacing site between the first order and the second order. | 01-29-2015 |
20150032173 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR IMPROVED ESTIMATION OF TIME OF LEFT VENTRICULAR PACING WITH RESPECT TO INTRINSIC RIGHT VENTRICULAR ACTIVATION IN CARDIAC RESYNCHRONIZATION THERAPY - A method and system of cardiac pacing is disclosed. A baseline rhythm is determined. The baseline rhythm includes a baseline atrial event and a baseline right ventricular RV event from an implanted cardiac lead or a leadless device, a pre-excitation interval determined from the baseline atrial event and the baseline RV event, and a plurality of activation times determined from a plurality of body-surface electrodes. A determination is made as to whether a time interval measured from an atrial event to a RV event is disparate from another time interval measured from the atrial event to an earliest RV activation time of the plurality of activation times. A correction factor is applied to the pre-excitation interval to obtain a corrected pre-excitation interval in response to determining the RV event is disparate from the earliest RV activation time. The processor is configured to signal the pulse generator to deliver electrical stimuli to a left ventricle (LV) using the corrected pre-excitation interval before RV sensing time. | 01-29-2015 |
20150032172 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR IMPROVED ESTIMATION OF TIME OF LEFT VENTRICULAR PACING WITH RESPECT TO INTRINSIC RIGHT VENTRICULAR ACTIVATION IN CARDIAC RESYNCHRONIZATION THERAPY - A method and system of cardiac pacing is disclosed. A baseline rhythm is determined. The baseline rhythm includes a baseline atrial event and a baseline right ventricular RV event from an implanted cardiac lead or a leadless device, a pre-excitation interval determined from the baseline atrial event and the baseline RV event, and a plurality of activation times determined from a plurality of body-surface electrodes. A determination is made as to whether a time interval measured from an atrial event to a RV event is disparate from another time interval measured from the atrial event to an earliest RV activation time of the plurality of activation times. A correction factor is applied to the pre-excitation interval to obtain a corrected pre-excitation interval in response to determining the RV event is disparate from the earliest RV activation time. The processor is configured to signal the pulse generator to deliver electrical stimuli to a left ventricle (LV) using the corrected pre-excitation interval before RV sensing time. | 01-29-2015 |
20150032171 | IDENTIFICATION OF HEALTHY VERSUS UNHEALTHY SUBSTRATE FOR PACING FROM A MULTIPOLAR LEAD - A medical device system performs a method for determining presence of scar tissue through an implanted lead having an electrode for cardiac pacing and sensing. A sensing module senses heart activity with the electrode to produce a unipolar electrogram (EGM) waveform. A processor receives the unipolar EGM waveform and extracts two or more features representative of heart activity at the electrode. Scar tissue is identified at the site of the first electrode based upon at least two of the extracted features indicating scar tissue. | 01-29-2015 |
20150032053 | TITRATION FOR MEDICAL INFUSION DEVICES AND SYSTEMS - Titration schemes are carried out by medical infusion devices, such as ambulatory or implantable infusion devices. The titration schemes carried out by infusion systems and devices may take into account patient side effects in controlling the rate at which a medicament is delivered from the devices of systems. | 01-29-2015 |
20150032023 | ION IMBALANCE DETECTOR - In general, the invention is directed to methods and devices for determining an ion concentration in the extracellular fluid of a patient. As examples, the ion may be one or more of potassium, sodium, chloride, or calcium. A system includes an electrode deployed in or near a tissue, such as a skeletal muscle, of the patient. A pulse generator supplies one or more stimulations to the tissue, and a sensor, such as an accelerometer, detects the response of the tissue to the stimulations. A processor determines a concentration of ions in the extracellular fluid as a function of the response. The system may detect an ion imbalance based upon the determined concentration of ions. | 01-29-2015 |
20150032016 | IDENTIFICATION OF HEALTHY VERSUS UNHEALTHY SUBSTRATE FOR PACING FROM A MULTIPOLAR LEAD - A medical device system performs a method determining presence of scar tissue. Torso-surface potential signals are received by a processor from multiple electrodes distributed on a torso of a patient. The processor extracts features of the potential signal from each electrode and stores values of the features in a non-transitory storage medium. The processor determines a scar indicator index for each of the electrodes from the stored features and identifies which ones of the electrodes have an affirmative scar indicator index. An overall scar burden index is determined as a proportion of the electrodes with an affirmative scar indicator index. | 01-29-2015 |
20140379039 | EVENT TRIGGERED PROGNOSTICS - The present disclosure describes an implantable medical device utilizing an event-triggered prognostic indicator. The disclosure describes techniques for prognostics and management of implantable medical systems to facilitate continuity of performance of sensing and therapy delivery functions by providing adequate response time to handle emerging issues prior to adverse clinical impacts. In accordance with the present disclosure, event-triggered prognostic indicators facilitate the identification of potential device conditions. | 12-25-2014 |
20140378941 | CORTICAL POTENTIAL MONITORING - Techniques, devices, and systems may include screening effective therapies using cortical evoked potentials. In one example, a system may be configured to receive a first sensed cortical evoked potential of a patient that occurred in response to an induced sensation at an anatomical region different from a brain region of the patient and receive a second sensed cortical evoked potential that occurred in response to electrical stimulation delivered to one or more nerves associated with the anatomical region. The electrical stimulation may be at least partially defined by a set of therapy parameter values. The system may also compare a first value of a characteristic of the first sensed cortical evoked potential to a second value of the characteristic of the second sensed cortical evoked potential and determine, based on the comparison, efficacy of a therapy configured to treat a condition associated with the anatomical region. | 12-25-2014 |
20140371599 | MOTION ANALYSIS FOR BEHAVIOR IDENTIFICATION - Devices, systems, and techniques for analyzing video information to objectively identify patient behavior are disclosed. A system may analyze obtained video information of patient motion during a period of time to track one or more anatomical regions through a plurality of frames of the video information and calculate one or more movement parameters of the one or more anatomical regions. The system may also compare the one or more movement parameters to respective criteria for each of a plurality of predetermined patient behaviors and identify the patient behaviors that occurred during the period of time. In some examples, a device may control therapy delivery according to the identified patient behaviors and/or sensed parameters previously calibrated based on the identified patient behaviors. | 12-18-2014 |
20140371544 | MOTION-BASED BEHAVIOR IDENTIFICATION FOR CONTROLLING THERAPY - Devices, systems, and techniques for analyzing video information to objectively identify patient behavior are disclosed. A system may analyze obtained video information of patient motion during a period of time to track one or more anatomical regions through a plurality of frames of the video information and calculate one or more movement parameters of the one or more anatomical regions. The system may also compare the one or more movement parameters to respective criteria for each of a plurality of predetermined patient behaviors and identify the patient behaviors that occurred during the period of time. In some examples, a device may control therapy delivery according to the identified patient behaviors and/or sensed parameters previously calibrated based on the identified patient behaviors. | 12-18-2014 |
20140358024 | PATIENT STATE DETERMINATION BASED ON ONE OR MORE SPECTRAL CHARACTERISTICS OF A BIOELECTRICAL BRAIN SIGNAL - In some examples, a processor determines a patient state based on activity of a bioelectrical brain signal of a patient in one or more frequency sub-bands of a frequency band of interest. For example, a processor may determine a patient state based on the power level of a bioelectrical brain signal of the patient in one or more frequency sub-bands of a frequency band, or based on a spectral pattern of a bioelectrical brain signal in a frequency band, such as a shift in a power distribution between sub-bands, a change in the peak frequency within one or more sub-bands, a pattern of the power distribution over one or more frequency sub-bands, or a width or a variability of one or more sub-bands exhibiting a relatively high or low level of activity | 12-04-2014 |
20140350636 | PERIPHERAL NERVE FIELD STIMULATION CONTROL - Peripheral nerve field stimulation (PNFS) may be controlled based on detected physiological effects of the PNFS, which may be an efferent response to the PNFS. In some examples, a closed-loop therapy system may include a sensing module that senses a physiological parameter of the patient, which may be indicative of the patient's response to the PNFS. Based on a signal generated by the sensing module, the PNFS may be activated, deactivated or modified. Example physiological parameters of the patient include heart rate, respiratory rate, electrodermal activity, muscle activity, blood flow rate, sweat gland activity, pilomotor reflex, or thermal activity of the patient's body. In some examples, a patient pain state may be detected based on a signal generated by the sensing module, and therapy may be controlled based on the detection of the pain state. | 11-27-2014 |
20140343644 | MEDICAL LEADS AND TECHNIQUES FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - In some examples, the disclosure relates to a medical device comprising a lead including an electrically conductive lead wire; and an electrode electrically coupled to the lead wire, the electrode including a substrate and a coating on an outer surface of the substrate, wherein the lead wire is formed of a composition comprising titanium or titanium alloys, wherein the substrate is formed of a composition comprising one or more of titanium, tantalum, niobium, and alloys thereof, wherein the coating comprises at least one of Pt, TiN, IrOx, and poly(dioctyl-bithiophene) (PDOT). In some examples, the lead wire may be coupled to the lead wire via a weld, such as, e.g., a laser weld. | 11-20-2014 |
20140343618 | SAMPLING INTRINSIC AV CONDUCTION TIME - Methods and/or devices for sampling a patient's intrinsic AV conduction time during cardiac therapy that may, e.g., change the AV delays to values based on the AV delays themselves, previously-sampled intrinsic AV conduction times, and/or one or more other parameters directly related to AV delays to provide a time period during which to measure the patient's intrinsic AV conduction time. | 11-20-2014 |
20140343549 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POSITIONING IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES WITHIN CORONARY VEINS - An improved system and method for placing implantable medical devices (IMDs) such as leads within the coronary sinus and branch veins is disclosed. In one embodiment, a slittable delivery sheath and a method of using the sheath are provided. The sheath includes a slittable hub, and a substantially straight body defining an inner lumen. The body comprises a shaft section and a distal section that is distal to, and softer than, the shaft section. A slittable braid extends adjacent to at least a portion of one of the shaft section and the distal section. In one embodiment of the invention, the sheath further includes a transition section that is distal to the shaft section, and proximal to the distal section. The transition section is softer than the shaft section, but stiffer than the distal section. | 11-20-2014 |
20140340272 | TELEMETRY EXTENSION CABLE - The invention of the disclosure is an extension cable to connect via telemetry, an external medical device in a non-sterile zone with a medical device that is within a sterile zone. The telemetry extension cable includes a cable having a length and comprising a conductor, a first RF antenna attached at one end of the cable and a second RF antenna attached at a second end of the cable, at least one of the first or second antennas configured to transmit and receive RF signals to and from an implantable medical device. | 11-20-2014 |
20140330372 | Medical Devices for Implanting in a Valve and Associated Methods - A device, such as a prosthetic heart valve, for implantation in a patient's valve, having one or more visible markings configured to be aligned with one or more anatomical structures of the patient's valve, such as an annulus or a commissure. The markings facilitating accurate implantation of the device at a proper depth or in a proper orientation. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330371 | PROSTHETIC VALVES AND ASSOCIATED APPARTUSES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A valve prosthesis includes an expandable frame comprising an outflow portion and an inflow portion connected to the outflow portion. The frame defines a central lumen extending between the outflow portion and the inflow portion. The frame is generally cylindrical in a fully expanded configuration. When the frame is in the fully expanded configuration, an outer surface of the inflow portion is concave. The inflow portion has an upper inflow portion and a lower inflow portion. When the frame is in the fully expanded configuration, the upper inflow portion flares outwardly from the central lumen of the frame to greater extent than the lower inflow portion. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330368 | Valve Delivery Tool - A system includes a medical device for implanting in a valve of a subject, the implantable medical device having a self-expanding frame; and a holder configured to retain the frame of the implantable medical device in a constricted configuration and to control expansion of the frame. The holder has a controllably constrictable and expandable loop, wherein the loop is disposed about at least a portion of the self-expanding frame such that constriction or expansion of the first loop controls constriction or expansion of the frame. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330331 | SUBSTERNAL LEADLESS ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM - Implantable leadless cardiac pacing systems and methods for providing substernal pacing using the leadless cardiac pacing systems are described. In one embodiment, an implantable leadless cardiac pacing system includes a housing, a first electrode on the housing, a second electrode on the housing, and a pulse generator within the housing and electrically coupled to the first electrode and the second electrode. The housing is implanted substantially within an anterior mediastinum of a patient and the pulse generator is configured to deliver pacing pulses to a heart of the patient via a therapy vector formed between the first and second electrodes. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330329 | SUBSTERNAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM - Implantable cardiac pacing systems and methods for providing substernal pacing are described. In one example, a cardiac pacing system includes a pacemaker implanted in a patient and an implantable medical electrical lead. The implantable medical electrical lead includes an elongated lead body having a proximal end and a distal portion, a connector configured to couple to the pacemaker at the proximal end of the elongated lead body, and one or more electrodes along the distal portion of the elongated lead body, wherein the distal portion of the elongated lead body of the lead is implanted substantially within an anterior mediastinum of the patient and the pacemaker is configured to deliver pacing pulses to a heart of the patient. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330328 | MULTI-MODE IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Techniques and methods for determining the number and type of leads that are connected to an implantable medical device (IMD) system are disclosed. The IMD system is configured having at least two modes of operation, the modes of operation corresponding to the number and type of leads that are coupled to the IMD system. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, one of the at least two modes may be selected based on the determination of the number and type of leads that are connected to the IMD system. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330327 | IMPLANTABLE CARDIOVERTER-DEFIBRILLATOR (ICD) SYSTEM INCLUDING SUBSTERNAL LEAD - Substernal implantable cardioveter-defibrillator (ICD) systems and methods for providing substernal electrical stimulation therapy to treat malignant tachyarrhythmia, e.g., ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF) are described. In one example, an implantable cardioveter-defibrillator (ICD) system includes an ICD implanted in a patient and an implantable medical electrical lead. The lead includes an elongated lead body having a proximal end and a distal portion, a connector at the proximal end of the lead body configured to couple to the ICD, and one or more electrodes along the distal portion of the elongated lead body. The distal portion of the elongated lead body of the lead is implanted substantially within an anterior mediastinum of the patient and the ICD is configured to deliver electrical stimulation to a heart of the patient using the one or more electrodes. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330326 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM HAVING IMPLANTABLE CARDIOVERTER-DEFIBRILLATOR (ICD) SYSTEM AND SUBSTERNAL LEADLESS PACING DEVICE - Implantable cardiac systems and methods for providing substernal pacing in an ICD system are described. In one example, an implantable cardiac system comprises an ICD system and an implantable leadless pacing device (LPD) communicatively coupled to the ICD system. The ICD system includes an ICD and an implantable defibrillation lead having a proximal portion coupled to the ICD and a distal portion having a defibrillation electrode configured to deliver a defibrillation shock to a heart of the patient. The LPD includes a housing, a first electrode on the housing, a second electrode on the housing, and a pulse generator within the housing and electrically coupled to the first electrode and the second electrode. The housing of the LPD is implanted substantially within an anterior mediastinum of the patient and the pulse generator is configured to deliver pacing pulses to a heart via the first and second electrodes. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330325 | IMPLANTABLE CARDIOVERTER-DEFIBRILLATOR (ICD) SYSTEM INCLUDING SUBSTERNAL PACING LEAD - An implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) system includes an ICD implanted subcutaneously in a patient, a defibrillation lead having a proximal portion coupled to the ICD and a distal portion having a defibrillation electrode configured to deliver a defibrillation or cardioversion shock to a heart of the patient, and a pacing lead that includes a distal portion having one or more electrodes and a proximal portion coupled to the ICD. The distal portion of the pacing lead is implanted at least partially along a posterior side of a sternum of the patient within the anterior mediastinum. The ICD is configured to provide pacing pulses to the heart of the patient via the pacing lead and provide defibrillation shocks to the patient via the defibrillation lead. As such, the implantable cardiac system provides pacing from the substernal space for an extravascular ICD system. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330287 | DEVICES AND TECHNIQUES FOR ANCHORING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Anchoring mechanisms for an implantable electrical medical lead that is positioned within a substernal space are disclosed. The anchoring mechanisms fixedly-position a distal portion of the lead, that is implanted in the substernal space. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330248 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING A MEDICAL ELECTRICAL LEAD - Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other implantable component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in implant locations such as substernal spaces or subcutaneous locations. The implant tools include a sheath coupled to a sealing device. The sheath includes a continuous lumen that is in fluid communication with a passage of the sealing device. The lead is advanced through the passage and the lumen for placement of the distal end of the lead at the implant location. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330208 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING A MEDICAL ELECTRICAL LEAD - Devices and implantation methods utilizing subcutaneous placement into a patient are disclosed for the insertion, advancement and positioning of a subcutaneous implantable medical device (SIMD) such as a medical electrical lead. The device for implanting the SIMD is configured having a pre-biased distal curve for creating a pathway to an implant location within a substernal space. | 11-06-2014 |
20140326671 | DUAL FLOW SORBENT CARTRIDGE - Disclosed are systems and methods for the performance of kidney replacement therapy having or using a dialyzer, control components, a sorbent cartridge with at least two separate flow paths, and fluid reservoirs configured to be of a weight and size suitable to be worn or carried by an individual requiring treatment. The system for performing kidney replacement therapy has a controlled compliance dialysis circuit, where a control pump controls the bi-directional movement of fluid across a dialysis membrane. The dialysis circuit and an extracorporeal circuit for circulating blood are in fluid communication through the dialysis membrane. The flux of fluid moving between the extracorporeal circuit and the dialysis circuit is modified by the rate at which the control pump is operating such that a rate of ultrafiltration and convective clearance can be controlled. The system provides for the monitoring of an inlet and outlet conductivity of the sorbent cartridge to provide a facility to quantify or monitor the removal of urea by the sorbent cartridge. | 11-06-2014 |
20140324145 | ELECTRODE ASSEMBLIES AND ASSOCIATED FIXATION MEMBERS FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A fixation member of an electrode assembly for an implantable medical device includes a tissue engaging portion extending along a circular path, between a piercing distal tip thereof and a fixed end of the member. The circular path extends around a longitudinal axis of the assembly. A helical structure of the assembly, which includes an electrode surface formed thereon and a piercing distal tip, also extends around the longitudinal axis and is located within a perimeter of the circular path. The tissue engaging portion of the fixation member extends from the distal tip thereof in a direction along the circular path that is the same as that in which the helical structure extends from the distal tip thereof. The electrode assembly may include a pair of the fixation members, wherein each tissue engaging portion may extend approximately one half turn along the circular path. | 10-30-2014 |
20140323882 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND INTERFACES FOR IDENTIFYING OPTIMAL ELECTRICAL VECTORS - Systems, methods, and graphical user interfaces are described herein for identification of optimal electrical vectors for use in assisting a user in implantation of implantable electrodes to be used in cardiac therapy. Cardiac improvement information may be generated for each pacing configuration, and one or more pacing configuration may be selected based on the cardiac improvement information. Optimal electrical vectors using the selected pacing configurations may be identified using longevity information generated for each electrical vector. Electrodes may then be implanted for use in cardiac therapy to form the optimal electrical vector. | 10-30-2014 |
20140316486 | VAGAL STIMULATION - The disclosure herein relates generally to methods for treating heart conditions using vagal stimulation, and further to systems and devices for performing such treatment. Such methods may include monitoring physiological parameters of a patient, detecting cardiac conditions, and delivering vagal stimulation (e.g., electrical stimulation to the vagus nerve or neurons having parasympathetic function) to the patient to treat the detected cardiac conditions. | 10-23-2014 |
20140315228 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ANALYZING BLOOD CLOTTING - Systems, apparatuses and methods include evaluation the clotting time or strength of clotting in the presence of various clot-affecting reagents to obtain a profile of clot analysis for determination of bleeding complications. The various reagents may be included in a single cartridge for use in a blood clotting analysis device. | 10-23-2014 |
20140309614 | Clustering of Recorded Patient Neurological Activity to Determine Length of a Neurological Event - Apparatus and method detect a detection cluster that is associated with a neurological event, such as a seizure, of a nervous system disorder and update therapy parameters that are associated with a treatment therapy. The occurrence of the detection cluster is detected when the maximal ratio exceeds an intensity threshold. If the maximal ratio drops below the intensity threshold for a time interval that is less than a time threshold and subsequently rises above the intensity threshold, the subsequent time duration is considered as being associated with the detection cluster rather than being associated with a different detection cluster. Consequently, treatment of the nervous system disorder during the corresponding time period is in accordance with one detection cluster. Treatment therapy may be provided by providing electrical stimulation, drug infusion or a combination. Therapy parameters may be updated for each m | 10-16-2014 |
20140305694 | INSULATOR FOR A FEEDTHROUGH - A hermetic feedthrough for an implantable medical device includes an insulator, a conduit configured to conduct electricity through the insulator, and a ferrule coupled to the insulator. The insulator is formed from a ceramic material and the conduit and insulator have a co-fired bond therebetween, which hermetically seals the conduit with the insulator. The insulator is elongate and has opposing ends that include flat surfaces and the ferrule includes a frame for receiving the insulator. | 10-16-2014 |
20140295688 | Medical Devices Including Metallic Connector Enclosures - Medical devices provide metallic connector enclosures. The metallic connector enclosures may be constructed with relatively thin wails in comparison to polymer connector enclosures to aid in miniaturizing the medical device. The metallic connector enclosures may be constructed with interior surfaces that deviate less from an ideal inner surface shape in comparison to polymer connector enclosures to allow for better concentricity of electrical connectors. The metallic connector enclosures may include a panel that allows access to the cavity of the connector enclosure where set screw blocks, lead connectors, spacers, seals, and the like may be located. Furthermore, the lead connectors within the metallic connector enclosures may be separated from the metallic connector enclosure by being positioned within non-conductive seals that reside within features included in cavity walls of the connector enclosure. Similarly, set screw blocks may be separated from the metallic connector enclosure by non-conductive spacers present within the cavity. | 10-02-2014 |
20140290029 | Medical Device Anchor and Method of Manufacture Thereof - A medical device anchor for use with electrical stimulation leads or catheters, and method of manufacture thereof. The anchor may include a gripping structure and a body portion molded on the gripping structure. The gripping structure forms a serpentine arrangement of a continuous nature with axial segments alternately interconnected between shoulder segments and bridging segments. The shoulder segments extend radially outward relative to the through hole further than the axial segments. The body portion may be formed by molding to securely capture the shoulder in the body portion, with the body portion being molded of material that is softer and more compliant than the gripping structure. | 10-02-2014 |
20140288626 | LEAD OR LEAD EXTENSION HAVING A CONDUCTIVE BODY AND CONDUCTIVE BODY CONTACT - An implantable medical device that includes a body that includes a proximal end portion configured to be at least partially received by an apparatus, and a distal end portion; a stimulating electrical element at the distal end portion of the body; a stimulating contact at the proximal end portion of the body, wherein the stimulating contact is positioned such that, when received by the apparatus, at least a portion of the apparatus is capable of electrically coupling to the stimulating contact; a stimulating conductor that electrically couples the stimulating electrical element to the stimulating contact; a conductive body, wherein the conductive body is not utilized for application of stimulation; a conductive body contact, wherein the conductive body is electrically connected to the conductive body contact. Systems that include devices are also disclosed. | 09-25-2014 |
20140288455 | MULTI-FREQUENCY IMPEDANCE MONITORING SYSTEM - A system and method is provided to measure intrathoracic complex impedance and to identify and indicate disease conditions based on the impedance measurements. Multiple impedance vectors may be taken into account, and an optimal vector may be selected to provide the most useful impedance measurement for the identification and indication of disease conditions. | 09-25-2014 |
20140282336 | TOOL FOR EVALUATING CLOCK TREE TIMING AND CLOCKED COMPONENT SELECTION - Techniques for generating timing constraints for an integrated circuit including a clock tree network are described. The techniques may be associated with a clock tree synthesis tool that receives a design of the integrated circuit and generates a clock tree network including a plurality of clocked components of the integrated circuit. The constraints may be generated as a function of the duration of propagation of a data signal from a transmitting clocked component coupled to a receiving clocked component. | 09-18-2014 |
20140278168 | ELECTIVE REPLACEMENT INDICATION GENERATION - This disclosure describes techniques for generating an elective replacement indication (ERI) for an implantable medical device having a non-rechargeable power source. A signal may be sampled that is indicative of a characteristic of the power source. Measurement logic may be configured to obtain samples of a signal indicative of a characteristic of the power source. A control circuit may be configured to determine when a first sample of the signal having a first predetermined relationship to a first threshold is received, and to initiate issuance of an elective replacement indication if a predetermined period of time elapses between receipt of the first sample and receipt of a second sample of the signal having a second predetermined relationship to a second threshold. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277419 | Anti-Paravalvular Leakage Component for a Transcatheter Valve Prosthesis - A transcatheter valve prosthesis includes an expandable tubular stent, a prosthetic valve within the stent, and an anti-paravalvular leakage component coupled to and encircling the stent which includes a plurality of self-expanding struts and an annular sealing membrane. Each strut has a first end coupled to a distal end of the stent and a second end not coupled to the stent. Each anti-paravalvular leakage component is moveable between a compressed configuration and a deployed configuration. In the compressed configuration, each strut extends distally away from the distal end of the stent. In the deployed configuration, each strut extends proximally away from the distal end of the stent. In an embodiment hereof, the deployed strut has a C-shape and is twisted such that the C-shape lies in a plane substantially along or tangential with the outer surface of the stent. In another embodiment hereof, the deployed strut is rolled-up and extends radially away from the outer surface of the stent. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277316 | MEDICAL LEADS AND TECHNIQUES FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - In some examples, the disclosure relates to a medical device comprising a lead including an electrically conductive lead wire; and an electrode electrically coupled to the lead wire, the electrode including a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion defines an exposed outer surface of the electrode and is electrically coupled to the second portion along a first interface, wherein the second portion is electrically coupled to the lead wire along a second interface different from the first interface via welding to couple the lead wire to the electrode, wherein an electrical signal may be transferred between the lead wire and exposed outer surface of the first portion via the second portion, and wherein the first portion is formed from a first material having a first composition, and the second portion is formed from a second material having a second composition different from the first composition. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277315 | Kits and Methods for Implanting an Implantable Lead Extension - Kits provide management of implantable lead extensions being implanted by providing a kit body with features that retain the extension in a configuration, with amounts being removed as needed during the implantation procedure. The kit can be present within a sterile field, and the kit body features may be arranged so that a length of a path that the extension forms is approximately equal to a length of the extension needed for the tunnel. The kit body may include features that allow the connectors of the extension as well as implantation tools to be retained within the kit body while being easily accessed when needed during the procedure. The kit may be coupled to the patient during the trial period, as the extension may have an implanted distal connector while having a proximal connector coupled to an external stimulator and while being retained on the kit body. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277286 | SYSTEMS, APPARATUS AND METHODS FACILITATING LONGEVITY EXTENSION FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - Systems, apparatus and methods for extension of longevity of implantable medical devices (IMDs) are provided. An apparatus includes a battery, a first communication component configured to provide a first communication type and to be powered by the battery, a second communication component configured to provide a second communication type, and a processor configured to switch on the first communication component or the second communication component to perform communication based, at least, on a defined condition being satisfied. In one embodiment, the first component is a radio frequency (RF) component and the second component is a component that requires less battery power than the RF component. The second component can include a component configured to perform communication based on inductive coupling or based on tissue conductance communication. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277285 | SUBTHRESHOLD LEAD IMPEDANCE MEASUREMENT FOR SUBCUTANEOUS DEVICE - A subthreshold lead impedance technique is described for an implantable medical device. The lead impedance technique may be applicable to a subcutaneous implantable cardioversion defibrillator device and utilizes an output circuit of the device coupled between a first diode and a second diode to define a current path through two electrodes coupled to the output circuit. The second diode is further coupled to a switch to provide a current pathway from the first diode to circuit ground. A control circuit is coupled to the output circuit, the first diode, the second diode, and the switch to bias a leg of the output circuit in a conducting state while biasing the other legs of the output circuit in a non-conducting state. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277283 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING POWER SUPPLY FOR GENERATING A REGULATED POWER SUPPLY - Techniques are disclosed for generating a plurality of output voltages from a single input power source. The techniques include implementing a switched capacitor voltage converter to provide at least two output voltages having different supply ratios. The supply ratio is defined as a function of the input voltage provided to the switched capacitor voltage converter by the power source. The switched capacitor voltage converter includes a plurality of capacitors selectively coupled to a plurality of switches to define at least a first and a second mode with each of the modes having a plurality of configurations. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the techniques include coupling the plurality of capacitors to define the first or second mode based on predetermined criteria. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277277 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FACILITATING POWER REGULATION FOR AN IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - Apparatus and methods configured to perform power regulation for an implantable device are presented. In an aspect, an implantable device can include a substrate that forms at least part of a body of the implantable device and a circuit disposed on or within the substrate. The circuit can include a high load power regulator configured to provide a first current level to components of the implantable device and a low load power regulator configured to provide a second current level to components of the implantable device, wherein the second current level is lower that the first current level. The circuit can also include a regulator switch configured to enable or disable current draw from the high load power regulator and the low load power regulator as a function of power state and associated power requirement of the components of the implantable device. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277251 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE PROVIDING ADAPTIVE NEUROSTIMULATION THERAPY - In general, the disclosure is directed to an implantable neurostimulator and system capable of providing adaptive neurostimulation therapy to alleviate incontinence. The neurostimulator operates according to a set of stimulation parameters stored in memory. During operation, information is obtained from the patient, the implanted neurostimulator, one or more implanted sensors, or some combination thereof. A processor analyzes the information to automatically generate proposed adjustments to the stimulation parameters applied by the neurostimulator. The adjustments provide an adaptive neurostimulation therapy that supports or enhances therapeutic efficacy based on the information. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277250 | Low Frequency Electrical Stimulation Therapy for Pelvic Floor Disorders - In some examples, relatively low frequency (e.g., less than about 50 Hertz) electrical stimulation therapy is delivered to a target tissue site proximate to one or more of the T9, T10, T11, T12, L1, L2, or L3 (“T9-L3”) spinal nerves of a patient to manage a pelvic floor disorder, such as urinary retention, fecal retention, or both. The relatively low frequency electrical stimulation therapy is configured to excite the one or more of the T9-L3 spinal nerves, which may generate an activating response from the patient related to voiding and help promote voiding by the patient. For example, the low frequency electrical stimulation may be configured to help improve the patient's pelvic sensations, which may help the patient better control urination. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277248 | GRAPHICAL DISPLAY OF REMAINING LONGEVITY OF ENERGY SOURCE OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHOD - Displaying remaining longevity of energy source of implantable medical device having a longevity characterized by a depth of discharge representative of a first stage of discharge, e.g., beginning of service, a second stage of discharge, e.g., recommended replacement time, and a third stage of discharge, e.g., end of service. A display is configured to display in graphical form using a scale length representative of a time between the first stage of discharge and the third stage of discharge. A first portion of the display between the second stage of discharge and the third stage of discharge is indicated in a first color, e.g., red. A second portion of the display between the remaining longevity and the second stage of discharge is indicated in a second color, e.g., green. A third portion of the display between the first stage of discharge and the remaining longevity is indicated in a third color, e.g., white. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277246 | MODULATE PACING RATE TO INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF EFFECTIVE VENTRICULAR CAPTURE DURING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION - The present disclosure pertains to cardiac pacing methods and systems, and, more particularly, to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In particular, the present disclosure pertains to determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF). If the patient is experiencing AF, the efficacy of CRT is determined. A signal is sensed in response to a ventricular pacing stimulus. Through signal processing, a number of features are parsed from the signal and a determination is made as to whether the ventricular pacing stimulus evoked a response from the ventricle. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277245 | MODULATE PACING RATE TO INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF EFFECTIVE VENTRICULAR CAPTURE DURING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION - The present disclosure pertains to cardiac pacing methods and systems, and, more particularly, to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In particular, the present disclosure pertains to determining whether a patient is experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF). If the patient is experiencing AF, the efficacy of CRT is determined. A signal is sensed in response to a ventricular pacing stimulus. Through signal processing, a number of features are parsed from the signal and a determination is made as to whether the ventricular pacing stimulus evoked a response from the ventricle. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277242 | MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM WITH ENERGY CONSUMPTION CALCULATION AND METHOD - Implantable medical device and method provides pacing to a patient having a heart using a plurality of electrodes. Electrical circuitry is operatively coupled to each of the plurality of electrodes on each of the plurality of leads and is configured to provide a plurality of stimulation vectors with the plurality of electrodes to the heart of the patient. The electrical circuitry is configured to calculate an energy consumption for each of the plurality of stimulation vectors. The electrical circuitry is configured to take an action based, at least in part, on the energy consumption calculated for each of the plurality of stimulation vectors | 09-18-2014 |
20140277233 | CLOSED LOOP OPTIMIZATION OF CONTROL PARAMETERS DURING CARDIAC PACING - A system and method control a pacing parameter in a closed-loop manner by determining a value of an EGM-based index corresponding an optimal electrical activation condition of a patient's heart and adjusting a pacing therapy to maintain the EGM-based index value. The closed loop control method performed by the system may establish a relationship between an EGM-based index and multiple settings of a pacing control parameter. Values of the EGM-based index are stored with corresponding setting shifts relative to a previously established optimal setting. A processor of an implantable medical device monitors the EGM-based index during cardiac pacing. Responsive to detecting an EGM-based index value corresponding to a non-optimal setting of the control parameter, the processor determines an adjustment of the control parameter from the stored index values and corresponding setting shifts. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277229 | IDENTIFICATION OF INSULATION BREACH USING ELECTROGRAMS - An implantable medical device capable of sensing cardiac signals and delivering cardiac electrical stimulation therapies is enabled to detect a short circuit condition. In one embodiment, a cardiac signal is sensed by a sensing module coupled to electrodes. A controller identifies signal events in response to the cardiac signal and detects a short circuit condition in response to at least one of the signal events having an amplitude crossing a short circuit detection threshold and a maximum of two signal events crossing the short circuit detection threshold occurring between two adjacent events having amplitudes not crossing the short circuit detection threshold. In one embodiment, the signal events are identified from a differential signal determined from the sensed cardiac signal. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277223 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE INCLUDING A MOLDED PLANAR TRANSFORMER - The present disclosure provides methods and techniques associated with a planar transformer for an apparatus. The planar transformers include a substrate carrying electronic components, an upper core bonded on a first exterior surface of the substrate, and a lower core bonded on a second exterior surface opposed to the first side of the substrate. The electronic components include primary windings and secondary windings associated with the transformer. In some embodiments, the transformer includes encapsulant material that is dispensed over and between the components of the transformer to seal air gaps. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277222 | UTILIZATION OF MORPHOLOGY DISCRIMINATION AFTER UNDERSENSING DETERMINATION FOR UNDERLYING RHYTHMS IN THE THERAPY ZONE - A medical device and method for detecting and classifying cardiac rhythm episodes that includes a sensing module to sense cardiac events, a therapy delivery module, and a detection module configured to determine intervals between the sensed cardiac events, determine a predetermined cardiac episode is occurring in response to the determined intervals, determine whether a ventricular rate is greater than an atrial rate in response to the determined intervals, determine whether undersensing is occurring in response to the ventricular rate being greater than the atrial rate, perform a supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) discrimination analysis in response to undersensing occurring, and control the therapy delivery module to deliver therapy in response to the SVT discrimination analysis. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277221 | UTILIZATION OF MORPHOLOGY DISCRIMINATION AFTER T-WAVE OVERSENSING DETERMINATION FOR UNDERLYING RHYTHMS IN THE THERAPY ZONE - A medical device and method for detecting and classifying cardiac rhythm episodes that includes a sensing module to sense cardiac events; a therapy delivery module, and a detection module configured to determine intervals between the sensed cardiac events, determine a predetermined cardiac episode is occurring in response to the determined intervals, determine whether a ventricular rate is greater than an atrial rate in response to the determined intervals, determine whether oversensing is occurring in response to the ventricular rate being greater than the atrial rate, adjust the determined intervals in response to oversensing occurring to generate an adjusted ventricular rate, determine whether the cardiac episode is occurring in response to the adjusted ventricular rate, perform a supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) discrimination analysis in response to the cardiac episode occurring in response to the adjusted ventricular rate, and control the therapy delivery module to deliver therapy in response to the SVT discrimination analysis. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277218 | IMPLANTABLE DEVICE WITH SHIELD INTEGRATED LEAD CONNECTOR - An implantable active medical device includes a hermetic housing defining an exterior surface and a hermetic cavity of an implantable active medical device. The hermetic housing has a first major surface, an opposing second major surface and a side surface extending between them. An elongate lead connector is recessed into the first major surface. The elongate lead connector has a top surface and a bottom surface and a side surface extending between them. The top surface forms only a portion of the first major surface. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277217 | IMPLANTABLE DEVICE WITH INTERNAL LEAD CONNECTOR - An implantable active medical device includes a hermetic housing defining an exterior surface and a hermetic cavity of an implantable active medical device. An elongate lead connector extends into the hermetic cavity. The elongate lead connector includes a closed end, an open end extending through and hermetically joined to the hermetic housing, an outer surface at least partially defining the hermetic cavity, and an inner surface defining a lead aperture. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277216 | IMPLANTABLE DEVICE WITH OPPOSING LEAD CONNECTORS - An implantable active medical device includes a chassis plate and a first and second elongate lead connector fixed to and extending orthogonally away from the chassis plate in opposing directions. The first and second elongate lead connectors are disposed within hermetic housings. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277215 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING POWER SUPPLY FOR GENERATING A REGULATED POWER SUPPLY - A device for generating a plurality of output voltages from a single input energy supply source is described. The device includes a switched capacitor voltage converter that provides each of the output voltages having different supply ratios. The supply ratio is defined as a function of the input voltage provided to the switched capacitor voltage converter by the energy supply source. The switched capacitor voltage converter includes a plurality of capacitors selectively coupled to a plurality of switches that dynamically configure the capacitors into a plurality of stacked configurations. Switching between the plurality of stacked configurations may be controlled based on predetermined criteria. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276930 | Tunneling Tool and Method for an Implantable Medical Lead Extension - A tunneling tool is used to create a subcutaneous tunnel for passage of a lead extension. The lead extension is transported from a proximal incision site to a distal incision site and as a result the proximal connector of the lead extension does not pass through the subcutaneous tunnel. The tunneling tool may carry the lead extension during the tunneling procedure. The tunneling tool may include a tool body that contains the lead extension as the lead extension is being carried to the distal incision site. The tunneling tool may further include a tracker tube that is present within the tool body, and the lead extension is contained in and carried by the tracker tube. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276928 | SUBCUTANEOUS DELIVERY TOOL - Subcutaneous implantation tools and methods of implanting a subcutaneous device using the same. The tool may include a tool body having a longitudinally extending recess having a distal opening and having a tunneler at a distal end of the tool body extending from the distal opening of the recess. The tool may include a plunger slidably fitting within at least a portion of the tool body recess. The recess may be configured to receive an implantable device and the tunneler preferably extends distally from the recess at a position laterally displaced from the device when the device is so located in the recess. Movement of the plunger distally within the recess advances the device distally out of the recess and alongside of and exterior to the tunneler. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276904 | Tools and Methods for Implantation of Implantable Medical Lead Extensions or Catheters - Tips for use on a tunneling tool provide the ability to pull an implantable medical lead extension or catheter body through a subcutaneous tunnel. The tips may include a pin with a barb, where the barb is inserted within a compliant portion of a connector body of the lead extension or a catheter body to create an interference fit that allows the connector body or catheter body to be pulled through the tunnel. The tips may include a carrier that has a cavity for the connector body, where the tunneling is performed with the carrier present on the tunneling tool. A body is positioned within the cavity of the carrier to prevent tissue from snagging on and collecting within the carrier. The body may include a tip portion that performs the tunneling function. The carrier may also provide tunneling and/or may be attached to the tunneling tool during tunneling. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276664 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING CLOCK TREE NETWORK WITH REDUCED POWER CONSUMPTION - An integrated circuit includes a clock tree network that distributes a clock signal to a plurality of clocked components of the integrated circuit. The clock tree network includes clock lines, each of which includes a clock tree delay element that provides a modified clock signal that is provided to an individual one the clocked components. Among the plurality of clocked components, one or more of the clocked components provides a data signal to another one or more of the clocked components. The one or more clocked components are configured having a transmission duration for the data signal that is longer relative to a transmission duration of the modified clock signal of the receiving clocked component. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276418 | Socketed Portal Anchors and Methods of Using Same - Anchors for securing a medical device relative to a body portal, wherein the anchors may accommodate most any implantation trajectory through the portal. Such anchors may further secure the device along any such trajectory without imparting undesirable biasing forces that may shift the device from its intended implanted location. In some embodiments, the anchor is configured as a burr hole anchor including a spherical member contained in a socket of the anchor wherein the socket may be collapsed to lock the spherical member along a particular trajectory. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276417 | STEPPED CATHETERS WITH FLOW RESTRICTORS AND INFUSION SYSTEMS USING THE SAME - A stepped catheter comprising a distal portion of smaller diameter than a proximal portion, wherein the distal portion defines a flow aperture configured to deliver fluid passing through the catheter from the proximal portion to the flow aperture. The catheter may include a flow restrictor located within a lumen of the catheter at or near the flow aperture. A filter element may also be included and located within the lumen of the catheter at a location upstream of the flow restrictor. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276416 | Socketed Portal Anchors and Methods of Using Same - Anchors for securing a medical device relative to a body portal, wherein the anchors may accommodate most any implantation trajectory through the portal. Such anchors may further secure the device along any such trajectory without imparting undesirable biasing forces that may shift the device from its intended implanted location. In some embodiments, the anchor is configured as a burr hole anchor including a spherical member contained in a socket of the anchor such that orientation of the spherical member is permitted about three mutually perpendicular axes. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276186 | CONTROL OF SPECTRAL AGRESSORS IN A PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNAL MONTORING DEVICE - This disclosure describes techniques for controlling spectral aggressors in a sensing device that uses a chopper amplifier to amplify an input signal prior to sampling the signal. In some examples, the techniques for controlling spectral aggressors may include generating a chopper-stabilized amplified version of an input signal based on a chopper frequency, sampling the chopper-stabilized amplified version of the input signal at a sampling rate to generate a sampled signal, and analyzing a target frequency band of the sampled signal. The chopper frequency and the sampling rate may cause spectral interference that is generated due to the chopper frequency to occur in the sampled signal at one or more frequencies that are outside of the target frequency band of the sampled signal. The techniques for controlling spectral aggressors may reduce the noise caused by the chopper frequency in the resulting sampled signal, thereby improving the quality of the signal. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276160 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AVOIDING UNDERSENSING OF VENTRICULAR FIBRILLATION - A medical device and associated method for detecting and treating tachyarrhythmias acquires a cardiac signal using electrodes coupled to a sensing module. Cardiac events are sensed from the cardiac signal and a processing module computes a first morphology metric for each sensed cardiac event occurring during a time segment of the cardiac signal. The first morphology metrics corresponding to an event originating in a ventricular chamber are counted. The first processing module computes a second morphology metric for the time segment of the cardiac signal in response to the count of the first morphology metrics meeting a threshold number of events. The time segment is classified as a shockable segment in response to the second morphology metric meeting a detection criterion. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276159 | BEAT-MORPHOLOGY MATCHING SCHEME FOR CARDIAC SENSING AND EVENT DETECTION - A medical device and associated method for classifying an unknown cardiac signal sensing a cardiac signal over a plurality of cardiac cycles using a plurality of electrodes coupled to a sensing module, determining a template of a known cardiac signal in response to the cardiac signal sensed over the plurality of cardiac cycles, sensing an unknown cardiac signal over an unknown cardiac cycle, determining a fourth order difference signal corresponding to the template and a fourth order difference signal of the unknown cardiac signal, determining a first morphology match metric between the template fourth order difference signal and the fourth order difference signal of the unknown cardiac signal, and classifying the unknown cardiac signal in responsed to the determined first morphology match score. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276158 | BEAT-MORPHOLOGY MATCHING SCHEME FOR CARDIAC SENSING AND EVENT DETECTION - A medical device and associated method for classifying an unknown cardiac signal operate to sense a cardiac signal over known cardiac cycles and generate a template of the known cardiac cycles. An unknown cardiac signal is sensed over an unknown cardiac cycle. A template alignment point and an unknown cardiac signal alignment point are identified by using a fourth order difference signal. The template and the unknown cardiac signal are aligned across an alignment window by aligning the template alignment point and the unknown cardiac signal alignment point. A morphology match metric measuring a similarity between the aligned template and the unknown cardiac signal is computed. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276155 | BEAT-MORPHOLOGY MATCHING SCHEME FOR CARDIAC SENSING AND EVENT DETECTION - A medical device and associated method for classifying an unknown cardiac signal that includes sensing a cardiac signal over a plurality of cardiac cycles, determining a template of a known cardiac signal in response to the cardiac signal sensed over the plurality of cardiac cycles, sensing an unknown cardiac signal over an unknown cardiac cycle, determining a fourth order difference signal, determining a template alignment point and an unknown cardiac signal alignment point in response to the fourth order difference signal;
| 09-18-2014 |
20140275915 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE INCLUDING A MOLDED PLANAR TRANSFORMER - The present disclosure provides methods and techniques associated with a planar transformer for an apparatus. The planar transformers include a substrate carrying electronic components and a continuous core that is formed by distributing the encapsulant material uniformly around the substrate unit to define a consistent cross-sectional area for the magnetic path. The electronic components include primary windings and secondary windings associated with the transformer. In some embodiments, the encapsulant material is molded to seals air gaps to the substrate unit. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275202 | INJECTABLE ROPINIROLE COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING SAME - Compositions and methods are provided that utilize an injectable ropinirole having a therapeutically effective amount of ropinirole in an aqueous solvent, the composition having a pH of from about 3.0 to about 6.5. The compositions and methods provided contain less than 3% by weight of impurities and are suitable for administration by infusion pumps. In some embodiments, the compositions are made in an oxygen free environment and/or are made with an antioxidant to reduce impurities and improve stability. In some embodiments, the compositions provided are utilized to treat Parkinson's disease. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273824 | SYSTEMS, APPARATUS AND METHODS FACILITATING SECURE PAIRING OF AN IMPLANTABLE DEVICE WITH A REMOTE DEVICE USING NEAR FIELD COMMUNICATION - Systems, apparatus and methods configured to facilitate pairing an implantable device with a remote device using a near field communication (NFC) device attached to the implantable device are presented. In an aspect, an implantable device assembly includes an implantable device and an NFC component externally attached to the implantable device. The NFC component is configured to transmit identification information associated with the implantable device to a reader device using NFC protocol. Transmission is in response to a received request signal. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273623 | Distal Connector Assemblies for Medical Lead Extensions - Distal connector assemblies that are on the distal end of medical lead extensions provide increased rigidity by including a rigid holder that contains the electrical connectors. The electrical connectors are separated within the rigid holder by insulative spacers that may be individual items or may be formed from a compliant carrier that the electrical connectors may reside within where the carrier is positioned within the rigid holder. The rigid holder may also contain a set screw block defining set screw bore or the rigid holder may include an integral portion that defines a set screw bore. The integral portion may include a slot to allow a molding pin loaded with the electrical connectors and other components to be dropped into a cavity of the rigid holder. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273602 | Connector Assemblies for Receiving Implantable Medical Leads - Connector assemblies that are separate from medical lead extensions provide features such as bores for receiving both a medical lead and a medical lead extension and provide electrical connections between connectors of the leads and connectors of the lead extensions. Connector assemblies may include additional features such as contours and wings that reduce subcutaneous erosion. Connector assemblies may also include retention structures such as movable clips that are moved into engagement with leads and lead extensions to retain them within the connector assembly. Integrated lead extension connectors may also include contours and wings as well as retention structures including movable clips. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273249 | High Range Activated Clotting Time Assay Formulation - High range activated clotting time (HR-ACT) tests detect blood clotting time in blood samples which have high levels of heparin. Reagents such as calcium chloride and kaolin within the test apparatus trigger clotting. The cartridge is treated with a strong surface treatment process, such as an atmospheric plasma treatment, to increase the hydrophilic property of the test chamber, there may be a significant reduction in the kaolin concentration required to activate the blood sample and initiate the coagulation process. The kaolin concentration may be further reduced if the buffer component used in the buffer saline contains phosphate. The reduction of the kaolin concentration allows more calcium to be released from the kaolin to participate in the clotting process. The combined effect of adding a surface treatment to the cartridge to increase the hydrophilic property of reaction chamber and adding phosphate into buffered saline allows for clot detection of blood samples containing 5˜6 U/mL heparin. | 09-18-2014 |