Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080208273 | Pulse Detection Using Patient Physiological Signals - The presence of a cardiac pulse in a patient is determined by evaluating physiological signals in the patient. In one embodiment, a medical device evaluates optical characteristics of light transmitted into a patient to ascertain physiological signals, such as pulsatile changes in general blood volume proximate a light detector module. Using these features, the medical device determines whether a cardiac pulse is present in the patient. The medical device may also be configured to report whether the patient is in a VF, VT, asystole, or PEA condition, in addition to being in a pulseless condition, and prompt different therapies, such as chest compressions, rescue breathing, defibrillation, and PEA-specific electrotherapy, depending on the analysis of the physiological signals. Auto-capture of a cardiac pulse using pacing stimuli is further provided. | 08-28-2008 |
20080215102 | Method and system aiding decision making during CPR - An embodiment of the invention is a method for recommending actions to be taken during resuscitation of a patient. Input signals related to the resuscitation are received during the resuscitation. The input signals are processed to generate output signals based on the input signals and predetermined criteria. The output signals are representative of the actions to be taken and are provided for further action. | 09-04-2008 |
20080269814 | Implantable Bio-Electro-Physiologic Interface Matrix - An implantable device ( | 10-30-2008 |
20080300641 | CARDIAC INFORMATION AND ACTIVITY INFORMATION ASSOCIATION SYSTEMS, APPARATUS, AND METHODS - Embodiments include cardiac information and activity information association systems, apparatus, and methods. An apparatus embodiment includes a cardiac sensor adapted to generate cardiac information descriptive of cardiac functioning of a patient, an activity sensor adapted to generate activity information indicating physical activity of the patient, a processing element adapted to detect a cardiac anomaly based on the cardiac information, an information association element adapted to generate associated cardiac/activity information during the cardiac anomaly, and a data storage apparatus adapted to store the associated cardiac/activity information. A method embodiment includes generating cardiac information descriptive of cardiac functioning of a patient, detecting a cardiac anomaly based on the cardiac information, generating activity information descriptive of physical activity of the patient during the cardiac anomaly, associating the cardiac information and the activity information, during the cardiac anomaly, to generate associated cardiac/activity information, and storing the associated cardiac/activity information. | 12-04-2008 |
20080306562 | Medical device configured to test for user responsiveness - A medical device is disclosed that includes one or more treatment electrodes, one or more sensors, and one or more controllers connected to the one or more treatment electrodes and one or more sensors. The medical device also includes one or more response mechanisms connected to the one or more controllers. The one or more controllers are configured to receive input from the one or more response mechanism and are also configured to determine whether a patient wearing the medical device actuated the one or more response mechanisms based, at least in part, on the input received from the one or more response mechanisms. In some disclosed embodiments, the medical device is a wearable defibrillator. | 12-11-2008 |
20080312709 | Wearable medical treatment device with motion/position detection - A wearable defibrillator consists of a vest (or belt) which is worn by the patient. The device monitors the patient's ECG with sensing electrodes and can monitor other patient conditions and in appropriate cases can treat certain conditions. An accelerometer(s) in the wearable defibrillator can allow for the device to determine the position, movements, forces applied to the patient, and/or the device. The device can use a least one patient motion detector generating a signal indicative of patient activity. Analysis of the signal can be indicative of patient activity appropriate for treatment or indication of device condition. | 12-18-2008 |
20090005827 | Wearable defibrillator - There is provided a wearable defibrillator that includes a first sensor adapted to sense a cardiac related parameter, a second sensor adapted to sense breathing, a controller adapted to produce a signal upon determining a cardiac arrest and a defibrillating subunit adapted to provide a defibrillation energy upon receiving the signal from the controller. There is also provided a method of defibrillating that includes sensing a cardiac related parameter; sensing breathing; and triggering a defibrillation energy upon determining a cardiac arrest. There is further provided a wearable defibrillator that includes a first sensor adapted to sense a cardiac related parameter; a controller adapted to produce a signal upon determining a cardiac arrest; a transmitter adapted to send a signal indicative of a cardiac arrest to a remote location; and a defibrillation subunit adapted to trigger a defibrillation upon being activated from a remote location. In addition, there is provided a method of defibrillating that includes sensing a cardiac related condition; producing a signal upon determining a cardiac arrest; transmitting a signal indicative of a cardiac arrest to a remote location; and triggering a defibrillation upon being activated from the remote location. | 01-01-2009 |
20090012574 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE WITH TEMPERATURE MEASURING AND STORING CAPABILITY - An implantable medical device such as a cardiac pacemaker or implantable cardioverter/defibrillator with the capability of storing body temperature measurements taken periodically and/or when triggered by particular events. | 01-08-2009 |
20090024175 | CPR ASSISTANCE AND EFFECTIVENESS DISPLAY - An instrument is described for assisting a rescuer in the proper administration of CPR. A sensor detects movement of the chest caused by ventilation. The sensor signals are processed to produce a control signal representative of the effectiveness of the ventilation. A lung icon is displayed in the outline shape of human lungs and the outline is displayed filled to a level which indicates the effectiveness of the ventilation. | 01-22-2009 |
20090054940 | DEFIBRILLATOR WITH IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE DETECTION - In general, the invention is directed to techniques for using an external defibrillator to detect a presence of an implantable medical device (IMD) implanted within a patient, and providing therapy to the patient through communication between the external defibrillator and the IMD. An external defibrillator provides prompts to a user of the external defibrillator to determine the presence of an IMD implanted within the patient. For example, the external defibrillator may prompt the user to visually inspect the patient's chest for signs that an IMD was implanted, such as a scar or raised portion of skin near the patient's clavicles. As another example, the external defibrillator may prompt the user to place a detection device on the patient's chest. The detection device may be coupled to the external defibrillator, and may employ a magnet to initiate telemetry by the IMD to detect the presence of the IMD. | 02-26-2009 |
20090069857 | External Automatic Defibrillator - An external automatic defibrillator including an attachment device that can be externally attached and carried by a patient, an identification device for detecting an abnormal event in the cardiac activity, which can be treated by an electric shock, as well as a defibrillator allowing to exert a shock upon the patient after having detected the abnormal event. In order to ensure reliable functioning over a longer period of time, the identification device is configured so that the identification device can detect an abnormal event in an interval of not more than 90 seconds or one minute. | 03-12-2009 |
20090076559 | Adherent Device for Cardiac Rhythm Management - An adherent device to monitor and treat a patient comprises an adhesive patch to adhere to a skin of the patient. At least two electrodes are connected to the patch and capable of electrically coupling to the patient. Sensor circuitry is coupled to the at least two electrodes and configured to measure at least two of an electrocardiogram signal of the patient, a respiration signal of the patient or an activity signal of the patient. Therapy circuitry is coupled to the at least two electrodes and configured to deliver a high-energy shock therapy for cardioversion and/or defibrillation. A processor system comprising a tangible medium and coupled to the sensor circuitry and therapy circuitry, the processor is configured to generate a treatment signal to deliver the high-energy shock therapy in response to the at least two of the electrocardiogram signal, the respiration signal or the activity signal. | 03-19-2009 |
20090099614 | Method and Implantable Medical Device for Classifying Sensor Signals - In a method and an apparatus for creating hemodynamic sensor signal templates using an implantable medical device connectable to a patient heart activity of the patient is sensed in order to identify a paste or sensed sequence of events of a heart cycle. Hemodynamic sensor signals for consecutive heart cycles are sensed and the sensed hemodynamic sensor signals for consecutive heart cycles are stored. The sensed sensor signals are classified dependent on at least one predetermined heart event sequence condition. A template may be created using the classified sensor signals. | 04-16-2009 |
20090204162 | SIGNAL ANALYSIS - A method of analysis of medical signals is presented which provides useful clinical information concerning the state of the myocardium during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The analysis during CPR can be used to (i) identify the underlying rhythm, (ii) provide a measure of the efficacy of CPR, and (iii) to predict the outcome from a defibrillation shock. | 08-13-2009 |
20090254137 | Temperature Based Systems and Methods for Tachycardia Discrimination and Therapy - Embodiments of the invention are related to an implantable medical system, amongst other things. In an embodiment, the invention includes a processor, an electrical sensor, and a temperature sensor. The processor is configured to monitor myocardial electrical activity with input from the electrical sensor; identify myocardial electrical activity indicative of an arrhythmia, measure temperature of blood in the coronary venous system with input from the temperature sensor; determine if the arrhythmia is hemodynamically stable or hemodynamically unstable based on the temperature of blood in the coronary venous system, and initiate high-voltage shock therapy if the arrhythmia is hemodynamically unstable. Other embodiments are also included herein. | 10-08-2009 |
20090254138 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PULMONARY ARTERY PRESSURE SIGNAL ISOLATION - An implantable system senses a pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) signal using an implantable sensor placed in the pulmonary artery and isolates a plurality of signals from the PAP signal for diagnostic and/or therapeutic use. Each signal is extracted from the PAP signal using its known frequency characteristics and/or timing relationship with one or more detectable events. | 10-08-2009 |
20090270933 | Pressure and Impedance Based Discrimination of Hemodynamic Stability - An implantable cardioverter defibrillator evaluates the hemodynamic stability of an arrhythmia to determine whether or not to defibrillate. The device obtains cardiac pressure and cardiac impedance data and evaluates a phase relationship between these parameters. Hemodynamically stable rhythms will result in an out of phase relationship. | 10-29-2009 |
20090270934 | Pressure and Impedance Based Discrimination of Hemodynamic Stability - An implantable cardioverter defibrillator evaluates the hemodynamic stability of an arrhythmia to determine whether or not to defibrillate. The device obtains cardiac pressure and cardiac impedance data and evaluates a phase relationship between these parameters. Hemodynamically stable rhythms will result in an out of phase relationship. | 10-29-2009 |
20100010552 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TEMPERATURE ANALYSIS TO PROVIDE AN EARLY MARKER OF CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE PROGRESS THAT PRECEDES A PATIENT'S SYMPTOMS - The temperature of a patient is a significant predictor of death in heart failure patients. Temperature provides a window into the physiology of the patient's underlying condition and may be used as an early marker for CHF exacerbations. The patient's temperature is taken to form a time series of temperature values. In accordance with some embodiments, the time series of temperature values is converted to the frequency domain by, for example, a discrete Fourier Transform. The frequency domain representation then is analyzed for a marker indicative of the worsening condition of the patient. In accordance with other embodiments, the patient's time series of temperature values is analyzed for a marker using, for example, Cosinor analysis. In yet other embodiments, both the time and frequency domain temperature data is analyzed for markers of the patient's worsening medical condition. | 01-14-2010 |
20100023077 | DEFIBRILLATOR - A defibrillator for external application to a patient. The defibrillator includes a power storage unit for supplying a defibrillation shock. The power storage unit has a capacitor unit encompassing at least one capacitor. In order to adjust a defibrillation treatment to different patients, the defibrillator advantageously comprises several different capacitor units which have a capacity adapted to various patient impedances and are or can be coupled in a replaceable manner to the defibrillator. | 01-28-2010 |
20100030292 | DETECTING WORSENING HEART FAILURE BASED ON IMPEDANCE MEASUREMENTS - Techniques for processing impedance data to provide an early warning for heart failure decompensation are described. An example device may be configured to measure intrathoracic impedance values, and increment an index when a determined impedance is less than a reference impedance. The incrementing may be based on the difference between the reference impedances and the determined impedance. In some examples, the amount of incrementing is reduced based on a variability of the impedances, or increased over time so long as the index remains above a threshold, e.g., zero. In some examples, the manner is which the reference impedances are determined changes over time to, for example, address rapid changes in impedance after device or system implantation. In some examples, the index is compared to a threshold to determine whether to provide an alert. In some examples, two thresholds are used to provide hysteresis. | 02-04-2010 |
20100069981 | System and Method for Presenting Defibrillator Status Information While in Standby Mode - A video display coupled to an automatic external defibrillator (AED) and capable of full-motion video can support added functionality of the AED. One advantage of the video display is that it can be used to present standby status information of the AED quickly to an AED operator while the AED is in a low power standby mode or non-operative state. The video display may present status information in response to touching the display or activating a button while the AED is in a non-operative state. When the AED is in an operative state, such as during a rescue, the display may comprise a graphical user interface that may be navigated using touch-screen technology or buttons built into the AED. During a rescue, the video display may present live or stored electrocardiograms (ECGs) and instructions for operating the AED. | 03-18-2010 |
20100114220 | NON-INVASIVE DEVICE FOR SYNCHRONIZING CHEST COMPRESSION AND VENTILATION PARAMETERS TO RESIDUAL MYOCARDIAL ACTIVITY DURING CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION - A method for improving the cardiac output of a patient who is suffering from pulseless electrical activity or shock and yet still displays some myocardial wall motion including sensing myocardial activity to determine the presence of residual left ventricular pump function having a contraction or ejection phase and a filling or relaxation phase. In such cases, a compressive force is repeatedly applied to the chest based on the sensed myocardial activity such that the compressive force is applied during at least some of the ejection phases and is ceased during at least some of the relaxation phases to permit residual cardiac filling, thereby enhancing cardiac output and organ perfusion. Also incorporated may be a logic circuit capable of utilizing multiple sensing modalities and optimizing the synchronization pattern between multiple phasic therapeutic modalities and myocardial residual mechanical function. | 05-06-2010 |
20100222833 | USING IMPLANTED SENSORS FOR FEEDBACK CONTROL OF IMPLANTED MEDICAL DEVICES - A system and method for administering a therapeutic treatment to the heart includes a pressure sensor positioned in the pulmonary artery, an implantable medical device located remotely from the sensor, and communication means for communicating pressure data from the pressure sensor to the implantable medical device. The system includes a control module operatively coupled to the implantable medical device. The control module is adapted for comparing the pulmonary arterial pressure data to a pre-programmed value, adjusting an operating parameter of the implantable medical device based on the relationship of the pulmonary arterial pressure to the pre-programmed value, and repeating this process until the relationship between the pulmonary arterial pressure data and the pre-programmed value is such that no adjustment is necessary. | 09-02-2010 |
20100298899 | WEARABLE MEDICAL TREATMENT DEVICE - At least one aspect is directed to a wearable treatment device that includes a cardiac sensing electrode, a treatment electrode, a user interface, and a sensor. The cardiac sensing electrode detects cardiac information, and the treatment electrode applies treatment to the subject. The user interface receives quality of life information from the subject, and the sensor detects subject activity and wellness information. A controller coupled with the cardiac sensing electrode, the treatment electrode, the user interface, and the sensor receives the detected cardiac information, the quality of life information, and the detected subject activity and wellness information, and determines that treatment is to be applied to the body of the subject based upon the detected cardiac information. The controller can also adjust the treatment based on at least one of the detected subject activity and wellness information and the quality of life information, and an alarm module provides an alarm after the cardiac information is detected and before the treatment is applied to the body of the subject. | 11-25-2010 |
20100305635 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RHYTHM IDENTIFICATION AND THERAPY DISCRIMINATION USING HEMODYNAMIC STATUS INFORMATION - A system and method for controlling cardiac ventricular tachyarrhythmias by acquiring a pressure signal representative of coronary venous pressure (CVP) from a pressure sensor implanted within a coronary vein of the patient. A CVP index is derived based on the pressure signal. The onset of a ventricular tachyarrhythmia episode is detected based on a cardiac rates signal. The CVP index and the rate signal are monitored and, responsive to the rate signal indicating a sustained tachycardia episode during the episode monitoring period, anti-tachycardia therapy selectively withheld and the episode monitoring period is extended based on the CVP index. | 12-02-2010 |
20100312297 | WEARABLE MEDICAL TREATMENT DEVICE WITH MOTION/POSITION DETECTION - A wearable defibrillator consists of a vest (or belt) which is worn by the patient. The device monitors the patient's ECG with sensing electrodes and can monitor other patient conditions and in appropriate cases can treat certain conditions. An accelerometer(s) in the wearable defibrillator can allow for the device to determine the position, movements, forces applied to the patient, and/or the device. The device can use a least one patient motion detector generating a signal indicative of patient activity. Analysis of the signal can be indicative of patient activity appropriate for treatment or indication of device condition. | 12-09-2010 |
20100318145 | DEFIBRILLATORS CUSTOMIZED FOR ANTICIPATED PATIENTS - An external defibrillator is customized for at least one person, i.e., an anticipated patient, through creation of a profile for the anticipated patient that allows the defibrillator and users of the defibrillator to provide customized treatment to the patient. The profile may include treatment parameters for the anticipated patient, such as defibrillation therapy parameters selected for the patient. The profile may also include a baseline recording of a physiological parameter of the patient, and medical history and personal information regarding the patient. In some embodiments, the external defibrillator stores a profile for each of one or more anticipated patients within a memory. In other embodiments, a profile for an anticipated patient is stored within a medium associated with that anticipated patient. The medium may, for example, be a removable medium for external defibrillators. | 12-16-2010 |
20100324614 | MEDICAL DEVICE ENCAPSULATED WITHIN BONDED DIES - An implantable medical system includes a first die substrate with a first outer surface. The system also includes a second die substrate with a second outer surface. Furthermore, the system includes a medical device with a first portion that is mounted to the first die substrate and a second portion that is mounted to the second die substrate. The first and second die substrates are fixed to each other and substantially hermetically sealed to each other. Also, the medical device is substantially encapsulated between the first and second die substrates. The first portion is electrically connected to the second portion. Moreover, the first and second outer surfaces of the first and second die substrates are directly exposed to a biological material. | 12-23-2010 |
20100324615 | AURAL HEART MONITORING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A heart monitor is disclosed including an electroacoustic transducer such as an earphone coupled to a controller. The transducer is positioned in a person's ear in acoustic communication with the tympanum. Signals from the transducer are processed to determine the presence of pulsatile blood flow. The heart monitor may be incorporated into a defibrillator to sense the presence of blood flow for use in a shock delivery decision. | 12-23-2010 |
20100324616 | ATRIAL DEFIBRILLATION USING AN IMPLANTABLE DEFIBRILLATION SYSTEM - An implantable heart defibrillator for use with an electrode lead system is provided. The implantable heart defibrillator includes an electrode lead connector that is connectable to the electrode lead system. A sensor is operable to sense a condition of a heart and emit a condition signal that identifies the condition. A control unit is operable to identify whether a state of fibrillation exists from the condition signal and emit a command signal if the state of fibrillation exists. A shock pulse generator is operable to emit at least one defibrillation shock to the electrode lead connector upon receipt of the command signal. The at least one defibrillation shock comprises at least one pulse having a voltage of more than 600 volts and a time duration of 30 to 100 microseconds. | 12-23-2010 |
20110112593 | Integrated Resuscitation - A resuscitation system for use by a rescuer for resuscitating a patient, comprising at least two high-voltage defibrillation electrodes, a first electrical unit comprising circuitry for providing resuscitation prompts to the rescuer, a second electrical unit separate from the first unit and comprising circuitry for providing defibrillation pulses to the electrodes, and circuitry for providing at least one electrical connection between the first and second units. In another aspect, at least two electrical therapy electrodes adapted to be worn by the patient for extended periods of time, circuitry for monitoring the ECG of the patient, an activity sensor adapted to be worn by the patient and capable of providing an output from which the patient's current activity can be estimated, and at least one processor configured for estimating the patient's current activity by analyzing the output of the activity sensor, analyzing the ECG of the patient, and determining whether electrical therapy should be delivered to the electrodes. | 05-12-2011 |
20110125207 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS THAT USE IMPLANTED POSTURE SENSOR TO MONITOR LEFT ATRIAL PRESSURE AND/OR INTER-THORACIC FLUID VOLUME - In specific embodiments, a method to monitor left atrial pressure and/or intra-thoracic fluid volume of a patient, comprises (a) monitoring posture of the patient using a posture sensor implanted within the patient, and (b) using portions of an impedance signal, obtained using implanted electrodes, to monitor the left atrial pressure and/or intra-thoracic fluid volume of the patient. Each portion of the impedance signal used to monitor the left atrial pressure and/or intra-thoracic fluid volume of the patient corresponds to a period after which the patient has maintained a predetermined posture for at least a predetermined period of time, and during which the patient has remained in the predetermined posture. | 05-26-2011 |
20110144708 | PULSE DETECTION APPARATUS, SOFTWARE, AND METHODS USING PATIENT PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNALS - The presence of a cardiac pulse in a patient is determined by evaluating physiological signals in the patient. In one embodiment, a medical device evaluates two or more different physiological signals, such as phonocardiogram (PCG) signals, electrocardiogram (ECG) signals, patient impedance signals, piezoelectric signals, and accelerometer signals for features indicative of the presence of a cardiac pulse. Using these features, the medical device determines whether a cardiac pulse is present in the patient. The medical device may also be configured to report whether the patient is in a VF, VT, asystole, or PEA condition, in addition to being in a pulseless condition, and prompt different therapies, such as chest compressions, rescue breathing, defibrillation, and PEA-specific electrotherapy, depending on the analysis of the physiological signals. Auto-capture of a cardiac pulse using pacing stimuli is further provided. | 06-16-2011 |
20110178562 | System and Method For Protecting Against Magnetic Fields Produced By MRI - An implantable cardiac device that detects and protects against strong magnetic fields produced by MRI equipment is disclosed. The device has a magnetic field sensor for detecting the presence of a relatively weak static magnetic field ( | 07-21-2011 |
20110184483 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES WITH LOW VOLUME BATTERIES, AND SYSTEMS - Implantable medical devices, implantable medical device systems that include such implantable medical devices, and implantable medical device batteries, as well as methods of making. Such devices can include a battery of relatively small volume but of relatively high power (reported as therapeutic power) and relatively high capacity (reported as capacity density). | 07-28-2011 |
20110190835 | CARDIAC RHYTHM MANAGEMENT DEVICE - A medical device is disclosed for implantation on an epicardial surface of the heart. The device has a transmural member providing optimal electrode locations for various therapies. The hemodynamically optimal therapy is guided by sensed left ventricular pressure and electrical activity. The device may be used alone or with a companion implanted cardiac rhythm management device. | 08-04-2011 |
20110202100 | Defibrillator Display - Systems and methods related to the field of cardiac resuscitation, and in particular to devices for assisting rescuers in performing cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) are described herein. | 08-18-2011 |
20110245888 | MEDICAL DEVICE WITH CHARGE LEAKAGE DETECTION - A medical device (implantable or external) is provided that comprises a power source, a charge storage member, a terminal connector, a switch network, a controller and a leak detection module. The charge storage member is configured to receive and store energy from the power source. The terminal connector is configured to be coupled to a lead to be implanted in a patient proximate to tissue of interest. The switch network is electrically disposed between the charge storage member and the terminal connector. The switch network changes between open and closed states to disconnect and connect the charge storage member and the terminal connector. The controller controls storage of energy in the charge storage member and delivery of stimulating pulses from the charge storage member to the lead coupled to the terminal connector. The leak detection module obtains a leakage measurement by sensing at least one of i) a voltage potential of the charge storage member and ii) current flow from the charge storage member. The leak detection module compares the leakage measurement to a leakage threshold to determine when the leakage measurement satisfies the leakage threshold. | 10-06-2011 |
20110264157 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GRAPHICALLY CONFIGURING LEADS - Systems and methods are provided for graphically configuring leads for a medical device. According to one aspect, the system generally comprises a medical device and a processing device, such as a programmer or computer, adapted to be in communication with the medical device. The medical device has at least one lead with at least one electrode in a configuration that can be changed using the processing device. The processing device provides a graphical display of the configuration, including a representative image of a proposed electrical signal to be applied by the medical device between the at least one electrode of the medical device and at least one other electrode before the medical device applies the electrical signal between the at least one electrode and the at least one other electrode. In one embodiment, the graphical display graphically represents the lead(s), the electrode(s), a pulse polarity, and a vector. | 10-27-2011 |
20110270337 | MAINTENANCE SYSTEM FOR MAINTAINING AN ENERGY ACCUMULATOR ARRANGEMENT - An energy accumulator arrangement for an electromedical implant includes a battery, a capacitor, and a charging device which is designed to supply an electric charge from the battery to the capacitor according to a charging program. A maintenance system for maintaining the energy accumulator arrangement includes a monitoring device contained in the implant which captures a physical parameter value of the energy accumulator arrangement; an evaluation unit for evaluating the captured physical parameter value and generating a resulting evaluation result signal; a transceiver contained in the implant which sends the captured physical parameter value to the evaluation unit, and receive the evaluation result signal generated by the evaluation unit; and additionally a control unit contained in the implant which controls the charging device and the monitoring device, and adapts the charging program as a function of the evaluation result signal. | 11-03-2011 |
20110270338 | MRI OPERATION MODES FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - One embodiment of the present invention relates to an implantable medical device (“IMD”) that can be programmed from one operational mode to another operational mode when in the presence of electro-magnetic interference (“EMI”). In accordance with this particular embodiment, the IMD includes a communication interface for receiving communication signals from an external device, such as a command to switch the IMD from a first operation mode to a second operation mode. The IMD further includes a processor in electrical communication with the communication interface, which is operable to switch or reprogram the IMD from the first operation mode to the second operation mode upon receiving a command to do so. In addition, the IMD includes a timer operable to measure a time period from when the processor switches the IMD to the second operation mode. In accordance with this aspect of the invention, the processor is in electrical communication with the timer, and is further operable to switch the IMD from the second operation mode back to the first operation mode when the measured time period reaches a predetermined time period. | 11-03-2011 |
20110282408 | Resuscitation Device with Expert System - A resuscitation device for automatic compression of victim's chest using a compression belt which exerts force evenly over the entire thoracic cavity. The belt is constricted and relaxed through a motorized spool assembly which repeatedly tightens the belt and relaxes the belt to provide repeated and rapid chest compression. An assembly includes various resuscitation devices including chest compression devices, defibrillation devices, and airway management devices, along with communications devices and senses with initiate communications with emergency medical personnel automatically upon use of the device. | 11-17-2011 |
20110288606 | External Defibrillator - An external defibrillator having a battery; a capacitor electrically communicable with the battery; at least two electrodes electrically communicable with the capacitor and with the skin of a patient; a controller configured to charge the capacitor from the battery and to discharge the capacitor through the electrodes; and a support supporting the battery, capacitor, electrodes and controller in a deployment configuration, the defibrillator having a maximum weight per unit area in the deployment configuration of 0.1 lb/in | 11-24-2011 |
20110295333 | IMPLANTABLE SYSTEMS AND DEVICES FOR PROVIDING CARDIAC DEFIBRILLATION AND APNEA THERAPY - An aspect relates to a system for providing baroreflex stimulation. An embodiment of the system comprises a cardiac activity monitor to sense cardiac activity and provide a signal indicative of the cardiac activity, and a baroreflex stimulator. The stimulator includes a pulse generator and a modulator. The pulse generator provides a baroreflex stimulation signal adapted to provide a baroreflex therapy. The modulator receives the signal indicative of the cardiac activity and modulates the baroreflex stimulation signal based on the signal indicative of the cardiac activity to change the baroreflex therapy from a first baroreflex therapy to a second baroreflex therapy. | 12-01-2011 |
20120035676 | PULSE DETECTION USING PATIENT PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNALS - The presence of a cardiac pulse in a patient is determined by evaluating physiological signals in the patient. In one embodiment, a medical device evaluates optical characteristics of light transmitted into a patient to ascertain physiological signals, such as pulsatile changes in general blood volume proximate a light detector module. Using these features, the medical device determines whether a cardiac pulse is present in the patient. The medical device may also be configured to report whether the patient is in a VF, VT, asystole, or PEA condition, in addition to being in a pulseless condition, and prompt different therapies, such as chest compressions, rescue breathing, defibrillation, and PEA-specific electrotherapy, depending on the analysis of the physiological signals. Auto-capture of a cardiac pulse using pacing stimuli is further provided. | 02-09-2012 |
20120046707 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SENSING EXTERNAL MAGNETIC FIELDS IN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - Systems and methods for sensing external magnetic fields in implantable medical devices are provided. One aspect of this disclosure relates to an apparatus for sensing magnetic fields. An apparatus embodiment includes a sensing circuit with at least one inductor having a magnetic core that saturates in the presence of a magnetic field having a prescribed flux density. The apparatus embodiment also includes an impedance measuring circuit connected to the sensing circuit. The impedance measuring circuit is adapted to measure impedance of the sensing circuit and to provide a signal when the impedance changes by a prescribed amount. According to an embodiment, the sensing circuit includes a resistor-inductor-capacitor (RLC) circuit. The impedance measuring circuit includes a transthoracic impedance measurement module (TIMM), according to an embodiment. Other aspects and embodiments are provided herein. | 02-23-2012 |
20120046708 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE WITH TEMPERATURE MEASURING AND STORING CAPABILITY - An implantable medical device such as a cardiac pacemaker or implantable cardioverter/defibrillator with the capability of storing body temperature measurements taken periodically and/or when triggered by particular events. | 02-23-2012 |
20120078318 | DETERMINING PHASE-SPECIFIC PARAMETERS OF A PHYSIOLOGICAL VARIABLE - The invention relates to methods and systems for determining phase-specific parameters of a physiological variable, and a related computer program and a related machine-readable storage medium, which are usable in particular to determine parameters of physiological variables that are subject to circadian variation. To this end, phase-specific parameters of a physiological variable X(t) are determined by calculating, at least for a portion of values x lying in a specifiable time period, a mean g(x|τ) in each case of values X(t+τ) for which X(t)=x applies for their predecessors, τ describing a time interval, and determining the phase-specific parameters by evaluating the mean g(x|τ). | 03-29-2012 |
20120136404 | MEDICAL DEVICE INCLUDING SETUP OPTION REPORTING - A medical device for use with a patient is described. The medical device includes a component for administering a treatment to the patient or receiving data of the patient. The component is configured to operate according to an internal setting. The medical device also includes a user interface through which a user can modify the internal setting, as well as a settings signature generator for generating a settings signature that represents a present state of the internal setting. A gateway is also provided for communicating a version of the settings signature out of the medical device. | 05-31-2012 |
20120172944 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR OPTIMIZING CARDIAC OUTPUT, PREVENTING BACKWARD HEART FAILURE, AND MINIMIZING DIASTOLIC MYOCARDIAL WALL STRESS BY CONTROLLING LEFT VENTRICULAR FILLING - Apparatus for diastole trimming including a controller for producing a diastole ending signal, and one or more leads connected to the controller, for carrying the signal to lead connections to a heart, characterized by the controller detecting when a left ventricle (LV) of the heart is mostly full, and producing the diastole ending signal such that the diastole duration is trimmed. Apparatus for diastole trimming including a controller for producing a diastole ending signal, and a connection to a pacemaker, characterized by the controller having decision rules for indicating to the pacemaker when to fire and end the diastole. A method of programming a pacemaker characterized by increasing cardiac output by trimming duration of diastole. A method for increasing cardiac output including producing a signal to trim diastole duration, thereby increasing heart rate (HR) and increasing a product of stroke volume (SV) times HR. Related apparatus and methods are also described. | 07-05-2012 |
20120191151 | IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC DEVICES AND METHODS WITH BODY ORIENTATION UNIT - Embodiments relate to an implantable cardiac system, including a housing, electronic circuitry for controlling one or more of power management, processing unit, information memory and management circuit, sensing and simulation output. The system also includes diagnosis and treatment software for diagnosing health issues, diagnosing mechanical issues, determining therapy output and manage patient health indicators over time, a power supply system including at least one rechargeable battery, a recharging system, an alarm (or alert) system to inform patient of energy level and integrity of system, communication circuitry, one or more electrodes for delivering therapeutic signal to a heart and one or more electrodes for from delivering electrocardiogram signal from the heart to the electronic circuitry. The present embodiments further include a body orientation unit to determine body position and use same to control therapy. | 07-26-2012 |
20120197329 | Cardioverter-Defibrillator Having a Focused Shocking Area and Orientation Thereof - One embodiment of the present invention provides an implantable cardioverter defibrillator for subcutaneous positioning between the third rib and the twelfth rib within a patient, the implantable cardioverter-defibrillator including a housing; an electrical circuit located within the housing; a first electrode coupled to the electrical circuit and located on the housing; and a second electrode coupled to the electrical circuit. Some embodiments also include a physiologic sensor. Other embodiments comprise methods of implanting and subcutaneously positioning an implantable defibrillator. | 08-02-2012 |
20120215271 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DISCONNECTING ELECTRODES OF LEADS OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES DURING AN MRI TO REDUCE LEAD HEATING - Systems and methods are provided for reducing heating within pacing/sensing leads of a pacemaker or implantable, cardioverter-defibrillator that occurs due to induced loop currents during a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedure, or in the presence of other sources of strong radio frequency (RF) fields. For example, bipolar coaxial leads are described herein wherein the ring conductor of the lead is disconnected from the ring electrode in response to detection of MRI fields so as to convert the ring conductor into an RF shield for shielding the inner tip conductor of the lead so as to reduce the strength of loop currents induced therein and hence reduce tip heating. | 08-23-2012 |
20120259377 | COORDINATED RESUSCITATION PERFUSION SUPPORT - This document relates to systems and techniques for the treatment of a cardiac arrest victim via electromagnetic stimulation of physiologic tissue. | 10-11-2012 |
20120259378 | EMERGENCY RESPONSE BACKBOARD WITH INTEGRATED SCALE - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for weighing an individual on a backboard. The backboard is configured to support a supine individual during transportation. An upper surface of the backboard is configured to receive the supine individual. A scale is embedded within the backboard beneath the upper surface. The embedded scale is configured to determine a weight of the supine individual in response to the upper surface receiving the supine individual. | 10-11-2012 |
20120265264 | System and Method for Conditioning a Lithium Battery in an Automatic External Defibrillator - An inventive system and method de-passivates a direct current (DC) power source of an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED), such as an AED lithium battery. The system includes a main processor and standby processor. The standby processor monitors the age and usage of the battery. Based on the status of the monitored parameters, the system executes a conditioning discharge to remove a layer of salt crystals on the DC power source. | 10-18-2012 |
20120290028 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE WITH ELECTRODE FAULT DETECTION - An exemplary implantable medical device includes an electrode lead connector having at least one electrical contact for connection of an electrode lead, and an analyzing unit which is connected to the electrode lead connector and is designed to detect and evaluate a response signal present at the at least one electrical connector in response to known electromagnetic irradiation. The analyzing unit may compare a signal modulation resulting from an electromagnetic irradiation of the electrode lead with a reference signal modulation. The electrode lead may be classified as defective if the deviation exceeds a threshold deviation. If a second antenna is available, the analyzing unit may compare response signals resulting from electromagnetic irradiation of the electrode lead and the second antenna. If the ratio of response signals exceeds a threshold, the electrode lead may be classified as defective. | 11-15-2012 |
20130046354 | IMPLANTABLE CARDIOVERTER DEFIBRILLATOR DESIGNED FOR USE IN A MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING ENVIRONMENT - An implantable cardioverter defibrillator includes a communication interface operable to receive a communication signal from an external programmer. The communication signal includes a command to switch the ICD from a first mode to a second mode. A processor is in electrical communication with the communication interface and configured to switch the ICD between the first and second modes. A battery is configured to supply low DC voltage. A converter is configured to convert the low DC voltage to a high DC voltage. An energy storage capacitor is electrically coupled to the converter and configured to store a therapeutic energy or high DC voltage including at least 15 joules. The second mode includes activating the converter to convert the low DC voltage to the high DC voltage and storing the therapeutic energy or at least 15 joules within the energy storage capacitor during a period of time of the second mode. | 02-21-2013 |
20130053910 | FAULT-TOLERANT HIGH VOLTAGE DELIVERY IN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A medical device includes an energy storage device, a plurality of electrodes, a memory, a switching circuit, and a processing module. The energy storage device stores electrical energy for delivery of defibrillation therapy to a heart. The memory stores N therapy configurations, each of the N therapy configurations defining which of the plurality of electrodes are used to deliver defibrillation therapy and further defining a waveform to be applied during delivery of defibrillation therapy. The switching circuit is configured to connect the plurality of electrodes to the energy storage device. The processing module is configured to control the switching circuit to deliver defibrillation therapy according to a first therapy configuration, detect a fault during delivery of the defibrillation therapy according to the first therapy configuration, and select a second therapy configuration based on when the fault was detected during delivery of the defibrillation therapy according to the first therapy configuration. | 02-28-2013 |
20130053911 | SHORT CIRCUIT FAULT-TOLERANCE IN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A device includes an energy storage device, a plurality of electrodes, a memory, a switching circuit, and a processing module. The energy storage device stores electrical energy for delivery of defibrillation therapy to a heart. The memory stores N therapy configurations that define which of the plurality of electrodes are used to deliver defibrillation therapy and a waveform to be applied during delivery of defibrillation therapy. The switching circuit connects the plurality of electrodes to the energy storage device. The processing module controls the switching circuit to deliver defibrillation therapy according to a first therapy configuration of the N therapy configurations, detects a short circuit fault during delivery of the defibrillation therapy according to the first therapy configuration, and selects a second therapy configuration of the N therapy configurations based on when the short circuit fault was detected during delivery of the defibrillation therapy according to the first therapy configuration. | 02-28-2013 |
20130060296 | ACQUIRING NERVE ACTIVITY FROM CAROTID BODY AND/OR SINUS - An exemplary includes acquiring an electroneurogram of the right carotid sinus nerve or the left carotid sinus nerve, analyzing the electroneurogram for at least one of chemosensory information and barosensory information and calling for one or more therapeutic actions based at least in part on the analyzing. Therapeutic actions may aim to treat conditions such as sleep apnea, an increase in metabolic demand, hypoglycemia, hypertension, renal failure, and congestive heart failure. Other exemplary methods, devices, systems, etc., are also disclosed. | 03-07-2013 |
20130085538 | WEARABLE MONITORING AND TREATMENT DEVICE - A wearable therapeutic device to facilitate care of a subject is provided. The wearable therapeutic device can include a garment having a sensing electrode. The garment includes at least one of an inductive element and a capacitive element, and a controller identifies an inductance of the inductive element or a capacitance of the capacitive element, and determines a confidence level of information received from the sensing electrode based on the inductance or the capacitance. The wearable therapeutic device also includes an alarm module coupled with the controller and configured to provide a notification to a subject based on the confidence level. | 04-04-2013 |
20130138168 | Determination for Effective Defibrillation - A method for managing care of a person receiving emergency cardiac is disclosed and involves monitoring, with an external defibrillator, multiple parameters of the person receiving emergency cardiac assistance; determining from at least one of the parameters, an indication of trans-thoracic impedance of the person receiving emergency cardiac care; determining, from at least one of the parameters corresponding to an electrocardiogram of the person receiving emergency cardiac assistance, an initial indication of likely shock effectiveness; determining, as a function of at least the indication of trans-thoracic impedance and the initial indication of likely shock effectiveness, an indication of whether a shock provided to the person receiving emergency medical assistance will be effective; and affecting control of the defibrillator by a caregiver as a result of determining the indication of whether a shock will be effective. | 05-30-2013 |
20130158614 | Pulse Parameters And Electrode Configurations For Reducing Patient Discomfort From Defibrillation - Devices, systems and methods relating to defibrillation and, more specifically, pulse parameters and electrode configurations for reducing patient discomfort are disclosed. Embodiments provide for an implantable defibrillator having an electrode lead system, at least one sensor for sensing a heart condition and emitting a condition signal, a controller in communication with the at least one sensor and configured to determine from the condition signal whether the heart is fibrillating and emitting a command signal if fibrillation is detected and a voltage generator communicating with the controller and the electrode system to communicate at least one defibrillation pulse to the electrode system, wherein the at least one defibrillation pulse includes at least one pulse having a voltage greater than 80 volts and a time duration up to 1000 microseconds. | 06-20-2013 |
20130197596 | CHARGE CONTROL FOR HIGH VOLTAGE THERAPY ENERGY STORAGE COMPONENT - Techniques for controlling charging of a high voltage therapy energy storage component are provided to reduce any undesirable impact from charging during unusual operating conditions. Unusual operating conditions may be caused by any of a number of external factors, including saturation of charging transformer core, circuit failures, capacitor mismatches, or the like, which may result in an unexpected power supply voltage drop or abnormally high currents through device components. An implantable medical device may comprise a power source, a therapy module that includes at least one energy storage component, and a charging module coupled between the power source and the therapy module. The charging module is configured to obtain a measurement representative of an average power drawn from the power source and to terminate charging of the at least one energy storage component based at least on the measurement representative of an average power drawn from the power source. | 08-01-2013 |
20130218218 | VARIABLE FREQUENCY IMPEDANCE MEASUREMENT - When a defibrillator selects a dosage of energy or current to be delivered to a patient, the defibrillator selects an excitation current frequency and applies the excitation current at the selected frequency to the patient. The frequency of the excitation current is selected as a function of the dosage to be delivered. The patient's response to the excitation current at the selected frequency will accurately reflect the impedance that the defibrillator will “see” when delivering the selected dosage of energy or current. | 08-22-2013 |
20130218219 | Pulse Parameters And Electrode Conffigurations For Reducing Patient Discomfort From Defibrillation - Devices, systems and methods for reducing patent discomfort during defibrillation by synchronizing defibrillation pulse delivery with a patient breathing cycle are described. Embodiments provide for a defibrillator having at least one electrode lead with one or more electrodes, a controller for determining whether fibrillation exists, a voltage generator for producing and discharging one or more electrical pulses to the electrode lead system and at least one breathing sensor for collecting and transmitting information relating to the breathing cycle of the patient to the controller. The controller may process the information from the breathing sensor, determine when one or more phases or instants of the breathing cycle are occurring and emit a command signal to the voltage generator to discharge defibrillation pulses to the electrode lead system in synchronization with the one or more phases or instants of the breathing cycle. | 08-22-2013 |
20130218220 | DEFIBRILLATORS DETECTING ORIENTATION OF ELECTRODE CONNECTION TO ADJUST ENERGY DOSAGE - Embodiments of the present concept are directed to external defibrillators that include an electrode connection port having multiple connection options, and include a detection device to determine an electrode connection configuration so as to provide an appropriate electrical shock to a patient. The detection device detects the electrode connection configuration of a plug connector for connected electrodes to determine if the plug connector is in an adult orientation or a pediatric orientation. The external defibrillator is configured to a deliver an electrical shock with less energy when the pediatric orientation is detected rather than the adult orientation. | 08-22-2013 |
20130289638 | MAGNETIC FIELD DETECTOR FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - An implantable medical device (IMD) is described that automatically detects the presence of an external magnetic field, such as that generated by an MRI device. The IMD includes a torque sensor configured to generate an output signal that varies as a function of a torque imposed on the torque sensor by an external magnetic field and a control module configured to control operation of the implantable medical device based on the signal output of the torque sensor. | 10-31-2013 |
20130289639 | Synchronization of Defibrillation and Chest Compressions - A resuscitation system for use by a rescuer for resuscitating a patient having a ventricular arrhythmia, comprising circuitry and processing configured for detection of chest compression/phase timing information indicative of the start of the decompression phase, circuitry and processing configured for delivery of electromagnetic therapy for the termination of ventricular arrhythmias, wherein the circuitry and processing for the delivery of electromagnetic therapy utilizes the chest compression phase timing information to initiate delivery of the electromagnetic therapy within 300 milliseconds of the start of the decompression phase. | 10-31-2013 |
20130304145 | UTILITY MODULE SYSTEM - A defibrillator system optimizes the timing and manner of applying a defibrillator charge to a patient based upon data provided to the defibrillator from a utility module or one or more external devices. A parameter module on the utility module provides the defibrillator with patient parameter information. Devices external to the utility module may provide the utility module with coaching data that the utility module may pass through to the defibrillator as a proxy to the external devices. The utility module may also provide external devices with patient data that the utility module may pass through to the external devices as a proxy to the defibrillator on a scheduled or other basis. The utility module may additionally provide a reserve of power to enable defibrillators to be used where power is unavailable and to enable defibrillators to deliver multiple charges more readily anywhere, anytime. | 11-14-2013 |
20130304146 | UTILITY MODULE INTERFACE - A defibrillator system optimizes the timing and manner of applying a defibrillator charge to a patient based upon data provided to the defibrillator from a utility module or one or more external devices. A parameter module on the utility module provides the defibrillator with patient parameter information. Devices external to the utility module may provide the utility module with coaching data that the utility module may pass through to the defibrillator as a proxy to the external devices. The utility module may also provide external devices with patient data that the utility module may pass through to the external devices as a proxy to the defibrillator on a scheduled or other basis. The utility module may additionally provide a reserve of power to enable defibrillators to be used where power is unavailable and to enable defibrillators to deliver multiple charges more readily anywhere, anytime. | 11-14-2013 |
20130304147 | DEFIBRILLATOR NETWORK SYSTEM - A defibrillator system optimizes the timing and manner of applying a defibrillator charge to a patient based upon data provided to the defibrillator from a utility module or one or more external devices. A parameter module on the utility module provides the defibrillator with patient parameter information. Devices external to the utility module may provide the utility module with coaching data that the utility module may pass through to the defibrillator as a proxy to the external devices. The utility module may also provide external devices with patient data that the utility module may pass through to the external devices as a proxy to the defibrillator on a scheduled or other basis. The utility module may additionally provide a reserve of power to enable defibrillators to be used where power is unavailable and to enable defibrillators to deliver multiple charges more readily anywhere, anytime. | 11-14-2013 |
20130317560 | MEDICAL DEVICE WITH LACK-OF-READINESS ALARM - A medical device for caring for a patient includes a patient utility for measuring a patient parameter or administering a therapy to the patient and an alarm system that has a receiver to accept status information about the medical device. A use detector of the alarm system is structured to determine when the medical device is being prepared for use and a status detector of the alarm system is adapted to determine from the status information that the medical device is in a ready state. The alarm system further includes an alarm that is activated when the medical device is both being prepared for use and not in the ready state. This description also includes methods of generating an alarm when the medical device is both being prepared for use and not in the ready state. | 11-28-2013 |
20130325080 | METHOD FOR DETECTING AND TREATING INSULATION LEAD-TO-HOUSING FAILURES - Disclosed is a method for the diagnosis of conductor anomalies, such as an insulation failure resulting in a short circuit, in an implantable medical device, such as an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Upon determining if a specific defibrillation pathway is shorted, the method excludes the one electrode from the defibrillation circuit, delivering defibrillation current only between functioning defibrillation electrodes. Protection can be provided against a short in the right-ventricular coil-CAN defibrillation pathway of a pectoral, transvenous ICD with a dual-coil defibrillation lead. If a short caused by an in-pocket abrasion is present, the CAN is excluded from the defibrillation circuit, delivering defibrillation current only between the right-ventricular and superior vena cava defibrillation coils. Determination that the defibrillation pathway is shorted may be made by conventional low current measurements or delivery of high current extremely short test pulses. | 12-05-2013 |
20130331899 | DEFIBRILLATOR/MONITOR SYSTEM HAVING A POD WITH LEADS CAPABLE OF WIRELESSLY COMMUNICATING - A modular external defibrillator system in embodiments of the teachings may include one or more of the following features: a base containing a defibrillator to deliver a defibrillation shock to a patient, (b) one or more pods each connectable to a patient via patient lead cables to collect at least one patient vital sign, the pods operable at a distance from the base, (c) a wireless communications link between the base and a selected one of the two or more pods to carry the at least one vital sign from the selected pod to the base, the selection being based on which pod is associated with the base. | 12-12-2013 |
20140005735 | DEFIBRILLATOR WITH IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE DETECTION | 01-02-2014 |
20140039568 | DETECTION OF STRONG STATIC MAGNETIC FIELDS AND MRI EXAMINATION SAFEKEEPING FOR AN IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC PROSTHESIS - An implantable medical device detects a strong static magnetic field associated with an MRI imaging instrument and operates in a safekeeping operating mode. The device includes an electronic circuit for the detection/stimulation of a cardiac activity, a weak field sensor detecting the presence of a first magnetic field of a permanent magnet being located in proximity to the device, a strong field sensor detecting the presence of a second magnetic field of an MRI imaging instrument during the course of an MRI examination. | 02-06-2014 |
20140046392 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE RESPONSIVE TO MRI INDUCED CAPTURE THRESHOLD CHANGES - Energy delivered from an implantable medical device to stimulate tissue within a patient's body is controlled. An electrical signal used to stimulate the tissue is changed from a first energy state to a second energy state during a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. The energy delivered is maintained at the second energy state after the MRI scan. A capture threshold of the tissue is then measured, and the energy delivered to the tissue is adjusted based on the measured capture threshold of the tissue. | 02-13-2014 |
20140058469 | PULSE DETECTION USING PATIENT PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNALS - The presence of a cardiac pulse in a patient is determined by evaluating physiological signals in the patient. In one embodiment, a medical device evaluates optical characteristics of light transmitted into a patient to ascertain physiological signals, such as pulsatile changes in general blood volume proximate a light detector module. Using these features, the medical device determines whether a cardiac pulse is present in the patient. The medical device may also be configured to report whether the patient is in a VF, VT, asystole, or PEA condition, in addition to being in a pulseless condition, and prompt different therapies, such as chest compressions, rescue breathing, defibrillation, and PEA-specific electrotherapy, depending on the analysis of the physiological signals. Auto-capture of a cardiac pulse using pacing stimuli is further provided. | 02-27-2014 |
20140094866 | INTELLIGENT SYNC MODE FOR DEFIBRILLATION - The defibrillator may include a heart rhythm detector to detect the heart rhythm of a patient, a manual mode controller structured to set the defibrillator in a synchronous shock operating mode or an asynchronous shock operating mode depending on an input from a human operator, a shock module to cause the defibrillator to deliver a shock to the patient according to the operating mode, and an automatic mode controller structured to, after the shock module has delivered the shock to the patient, set the external defibrillator to the synchronous shock operating mode or the asynchronous shock operating mode depending on the detected heart rhythm of the patient and without input from the human operator. | 04-03-2014 |
20140142646 | CARDIAC THERAPY BASED UPON IMPEDANCE SIGNALS - Methods and/or devices are disclosed herein for monitoring cardiac impedance signal and delivering therapy to a patient's heart based upon the monitored cardiac impedance. | 05-22-2014 |
20140155948 | OPTICAL FIBER-FINE WIRE LEAD FOR ELECTROSTIMULATION AND SENSING - Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward an implantable electrostimulation device, a plurality of sensing and pacing elements, and a fine wire lead extending in a sealed relationship from the electrostimulation device and to the plurality of sensing and pacing elements. The fine wire lead includes multiple discrete conductors and a drawn silica or glass fiber core, a polymer cladding on the drawn silica or glass fiber core, and a conductive metal cladding over the polymer cladding. Additionally, the fine wire lead simultaneously delivers different electrical signals or optical signals between the sensing and pacing elements and the electrostimulation device. | 06-05-2014 |
20140172031 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR DETECTION OF CONTEXT WHEN ADDRESSING A MEDICAL CONDITION OF A PATIENT - Methods and devices detect context related to a patient when monitoring a physiological condition of the patient and/or when applying one or more modes of therapy. The context may be a patient context such as posture or an environmental context such as ambient conditions. The context may be used in various ways in relation to the physiological measurement, such as to control when the physiological measurements are made, to appropriately flag physiological measurements, to be recorded in association with the physiological measurements, and/or to correct the physiological measurements based on a reference context. A device such as a beacon transmitter issued in detecting the context and a measurement device such as an implantable cardiovascular device is used to capture the physiological measurements. | 06-19-2014 |
20140236248 | COORDINATED MEDIUM VOLTAGE THERAPY FOR IMPROVING EFFECTIVENESS OF DEFIBRILLATION THERAPY - Automated treatment of arrhythmia utilizing an electrotherapy device. Time-coordinated applications of medium-voltage therapy (MVT) followed by high-voltage therapy (HVT) include a first MVT waveform to a first target region and a second MVT waveform to a second target region, such that the HVT is synchronized relative to a first compression cycle corresponding to activation of the first target region, and to a second compression cycle corresponding to activation of the second target region resulting from the administration of the MVT. | 08-21-2014 |
20140236249 | Electronic Skin Patch for Real Time Monitoring of Cardiac Activity and Personal Health Management - A novel wearable electronic skin patch sensor device configured for the real time acquisition, processing and communicating of cardiac activity and other types of biological information within a wired or wireless network is disclosed. A system level scheme for networking the sensor device with client devices that include intelligent personal health management appliances, cellular telephones, PDAs, portable computers, personal computers, RFID Tags and servers is disclosed. The sensor device and the system enable distributed processing, archival and correlation of the biological information with biometrics, gastronomic information, user profiles and health factors that include height, weight, blood pressure and physical activity facilitating real time personal health management at any time and any place. | 08-21-2014 |
20140243918 | Wearable Defibrillator With A Multivector Shock Waveform - A transthoracic defibrillator for external defibrillation comprises at least three electrodes configured to be attached to the thorax of a patient to establish at least two electrical paths across the thoracic cavity and through the heart of the patient. In addition, a defibrillator circuit contained in a defibrillator housing has the capability to deliver a different defibrillation waveform across each of the at least two electrical paths. | 08-28-2014 |
20140277224 | SHOCK DETERMINATION BASED ON PRIOR SHOCKS - A system for managing care of a person receiving emergency cardiac assistance is disclosed that includes one or more capacitors for delivering a defibrillating shock to a patient; one or more electronic ports for receiving signals from sensors for obtaining indications of an electrocardiogram (ECG) for the patient; a patient treatment module executable on one or more computer processors to provide a determination of a likelihood of success from delivering a future defibrillating shock to the person with the one or more capacitors, using (a) information about a prior defibrillating shock, and (b) a value that is a function of current ECG signals from the patient. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277225 | WINDOWING FOR IDENTIFYING SHOCK OUTCOME - A system for managing care of a person receiving emergency cardiac assistance is disclosed that includes one or more capacitors for delivering a defibrillating shock to a patient; one or more electronic ports for receiving signals from sensors for obtaining indications of an electrocardiogram (ECG) for the patient; and a patient treatment module executable on one or more computer processors using code stored in non-transitory media and to provide a determination of a likelihood of success from delivering a future defibrillating shock to the person with the one or more capacitors, using (a) a mathematical transform from a time domain to a frequency domain applied to the indication of the ECG, and (b) a tapered window for identifying the portion of the indications of the ECG on which the transform is performed. | 09-18-2014 |
20140288609 | Coordinated Resuscitation Perfusion Support - This document relates to systems and techniques for the treatment of a cardiac arrest victim via electromagnetic stimulation of physiologic tissue. | 09-25-2014 |
20140288610 | COORDINATED RESUSCITATION PERFUSION SUPPORT - This document relates to systems and techniques for the treatment of a cardiac arrest victim via electromagnetic stimulation of physiologic tissue. | 09-25-2014 |
20140350617 | DEFIBRILLATOR WITH PROTOCOL FOR SELECTIVELY INTERRUPTING CPR - An automated external defibrillator (AED) ( | 11-27-2014 |
20140364918 | DEFIBRILLATION SYSTEM - A method of treating a patient for ventricular tachycardia using a wearable defibrillator includes monitoring the patient for a predetermined condition via one or more electrodes on the defibrillator, sending a message to the patient in response to the predetermined condition, activating the defibrillator so that the defibrillator delivers defibrillation energy to the patient, and storing at least one of the results of the monitoring, sending and activating steps in a memory on the defibrillator. The method also includes downloading information stored in the memory of the defibrillator to a base station having an external interface, and transmitting the information downloaded from the memory of the base station to an external location via the external interface of the base station. | 12-11-2014 |
20150039041 | MODULAR ANTITACHYARRHYTHMIA THERAPY SYSTEM - This document discusses, among other things, a modular antitachyarrhythmia therapy system. In an example, a modular antitachyarrhythmia system includes at least two separate modules that coordinate delivery an antitachyarrhythmia therapy, such as defibrillation therapy. In another example, a modular antitachyarrhythmia therapy system includes a sensing module, an analysis module, and a therapy module. | 02-05-2015 |
20150094783 | METHOD FOR DETECTING AND TREATING VENTRICULAR ARRHYTHMIA - A system and method for long-term monitoring of cardiac conditions such as arrhythmias is disclosed. The invention includes a pulse generator including means for sensing an arrhythmia. The pulse generator is coupled to at least one subcutaneous electrode or electrode array for providing electrical stimulation such as cardioversion/defibrillation shocks and/or pacing pulses. The electrical stimulation may be provided between multiple subcutaneous electrodes, or between one or more such electrodes and the housing of the pulse generator. In one embodiment, the pulse generator includes one or more electrodes that are isolated from the can. These electrodes may be used to sense cardiac signals. | 04-02-2015 |
20150134020 | System and Method for Distinguishing Manual from Automated CPR - A system and method for use during the administration of CPR chest compressions and defibrillating shock on a cardiac arrest victim. The system analyzes compression waveforms from a compression depth monitor to determine the source of chest compressions, and enables the delivery of defibrillating shock during a compression cycle if the compression waveforms are characteristic of an automated CPR chest compression device. | 05-14-2015 |
20150148856 | RESCUER PROTECTION FROM ELECTRICAL SHOCK DURING DEFIBRILLATION - This document relates to cardiac resuscitation, and in particular to systems and techniques for protecting rescuers from electrical shock during defibrillation of a patient. | 05-28-2015 |
20150297904 | WEARABLE CARDIAC DEFIBRILLATOR SYSTEM LONG-TERM MONITORING ALTERNATING PATIENT PARAMETERS OTHER THAN ECG - A Wearable Cardiac Defibrillator system includes a support structure with one or more electrodes in an unbiased state. Different sensor modules may monitor, for the long-term, different patient parameters such as the patient's motion, a physiological parameter, etc., other than the patient's ECG. The sensor modules can be worn by the patient concurrently, or only one at a time as convenient, and may provide respective sensor signals. The system may determine from one or more of the available received signals whether a certain threshold has been reached, such as when the patient is having an actionable episode. If so, at least one electrode may become mechanically biased against the patient's body, for making good electrical contact. Then, an ECG reading may be taken and/or electrical therapy may be administered. Since good electrical contact with the skin is not required, the patient's discomfort may be reduced and compliance may be increased. | 10-22-2015 |
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 |
20150343229 | EMERGENCY MONITOR-DEFIBRILLATOR WITH TELEMEDICINE CAPABILITY - In embodiments, an emergency external defibrillator system is configured for use by a local rescuer in cooperation with a remote rescuer to assist a patient. The external defibrillator system includes a sensor to generate a patient value that represents a physiological parameter of the patient. The system also includes a communication module to transmit the patient value to another device of a remote rescuer, and to receive in response an incoming message that contains an encoded sound. For the local rescuer, the system also includes a screen to display the patient value, and a speaker to play the sound concurrently with the screen displaying the patient value. An advantage is that the local rescuer can receive guidance from the remote rescuer. | 12-03-2015 |
20150360040 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING ATRIAL ARRHYTHMIA BY FAR-FIELD SENSING - In a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter/defibrillator, cardiac arrhythmias are detected to determine necessary therapeutic action. Cardiac signal information is sensed from far field electrodes implanted in a patient. The sensed cardiac signal information is then amplified and filtered. Parameters such as rate, QRS pulse width, cardiac QRS slew rate, amplitude and stability measures of these parameters from the filtered cardiac signal information are measured, processed and integrated to determine if the cardioverter/defibrillator needs to initiate therapeutic action. | 12-17-2015 |
20150360043 | WEARABLE CARDIAC DEFIBRILLATOR RECEIVING INPUTS BY BEING DELIBERATELY TAPPED & METHODS - A wearable defibrillation system includes an output device and a motion sensor. The output device emits a sound or a vibration for the patient, who responds by deliberately tapping the system. The motion sensor registers the tapping, and interprets it as a reply from the patient. The reply can be that the patient is conscious, or convey data that the patient enters by tapping the right number of times, or that the patient wants attention, and so on. Since the patient does not need direct access to the wearable defibrillation system for tapping it, he or she can wear it under their other garments, which helps preserve their dignity and privacy. | 12-17-2015 |
20150375004 | ADAPTIVE CONFIRMATION OF TREATABLE ARRHYTHMIA IN IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC STIMULUS DEVICES - Methods and devices for adjusting therapy delivery decisions in an implantable cardiac stimulus device by observing cardiac activity following an initial identification of a treatable condition. In some examples, cardiac activity that appears benign is quantified and a therapy confirmation threshold is adjusted according to how much apparently benign cardiac activity is seen after an initial identification of a treatable condition. In other examples, a new threshold is applied following the initial identification of treatable condition, removing historical data preceding the initial identification from subsequent therapy delivery decisions. | 12-31-2015 |
20160023010 | Determination for Effective Defibrillation - A method for managing care of a person receiving emergency cardiac is disclosed and involves monitoring, with an external defibrillator, multiple parameters of the person receiving emergency cardiac assistance; determining from at least one of the parameters, an indication of trans-thoracic impedance of the person receiving emergency cardiac care; determining, from at least one of the parameters corresponding to an electrocardiogram of the person receiving emergency cardiac assistance, an initial indication of likely shock effectiveness; determining, as a function of at least the indication of trans-thoracic impedance and the initial indication of likely shock effectiveness, an indication of whether a shock provided to the person receiving emergency medical assistance will be effective; and affecting control of the defibrillator by a caregiver as a result of determining the indication of whether a shock will be effective. | 01-28-2016 |
20160023014 | MEDICAL DEVICE CONFIGURED TO TEST FOR USER RESPONSIVENESS - A medical device is disclosed that includes one or more treatment electrodes, one or more sensors, and one or more controllers connected to the one or more treatment electrodes and one or more sensors. The medical device also includes one or more response mechanisms connected to the one or more controllers. The one or more controllers are configured to receive input from the one or more response mechanism and are also configured to determine whether a patient wearing the medical device actuated the one or more response mechanisms based, at least in part, on the input received from the one or more response mechanisms. In some disclosed embodiments, the medical device is a wearable defibrillator. | 01-28-2016 |
20160059026 | DEFIBRILLATOR WITH PROTOCOL FOR SELECTIVELY INTERRUPTING CPR - A method for delivering electrotherapy from a defibrillator includes the steps of providing a source of patient ECG signals received during a CPR period, estimating from the patient ECG signals the likelihood of a shockable rhythm existent during the CPR period, and determining whether CPR should be interrupted prior to the end of the CPR period to deliver electrotherapy based on the estimating step. Based on the determining step, the defibrillator may then provide an output instruction to stop CPR. The AED ( | 03-03-2016 |
20160067506 | MULTI-PRIMARY TRANSFORMER CHARGING CIRCUITS FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - An implantable medical device includes a low-power circuit and a multi-cell power source. The cells of the power source are coupled to a transformer in a parallel configuration. The transformer includes multiple secondary windings and each of the windings is coupled to a capacitor that stores energy for delivery of a therapy to a patient. In accordance with embodiments of this disclosure, the low power circuit is configured to control simultaneous delivery of energy from each of the cells to a plurality of capacitors through the transformer. | 03-10-2016 |
20160067508 | MULTIPLE TRANSFORMER CHARGING CIRCUITS FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - An implantable medical device includes a low-power circuit, a high-power circuit, and a dual-cell power source. The power source is coupled to a dual-transformer such that each cell is connected to only one of the transformers. Each transformer includes multiple windings and each of the windings is coupled to a capacitor, and the capacitors are all connected in a series configuration. The low power circuit is coupled to the power source and issues a control signal to control the delivery of charge from the power source to the plurality of capacitors through the first and second transformers. | 03-10-2016 |
20160067514 | WEARABLE CARDIOVERTER DEFIBRILLATOR (WCD) SYSTEM MAKING SHOCK/NO SHOCK DETERMINATIONS FROM MULTIPLE PATIENT PARAMETERS - In embodiments, a WCD system includes one or more transducers that may sense patient parameters from different parts of the patient's body, and thus render physiological inputs from those parameters. Individual analysis scores may be determined from the physiological inputs, and an aggregate analysis score may be determined from the individual analysis scores. A shock/no shock determination may be made depending on whether or not the aggregate analysis score meets an aggregate shock criterion. Accordingly, multiple inputs are considered in making the shock/no shock determination. | 03-10-2016 |
20160074667 | WEARABLE CARDIAC DEFIBRILLATOR SYSTEM DIAGNOSING DIFFERENTLY DEPENDING ON MOTION - Embodiments of a WCD system include a measurement circuit that can render a physiological input from the patient. Such WCD systems may also receive a motion detection input that reveals whether a motion event has been detected by a motion detector. In some embodiments, a value becomes assigned to a motion level parameter in response to any motion event detected or not, and the rhythm analysis can be based on the physiological input and on the assigned value. In some embodiments, a rhythm analysis of the physiological input may be performed in different manners, depending on whether or not a motion event has been detected. In some embodiments, a different shock/no shock criterion may be applied to the rhythm analysis, depending on whether or not a motion event has been detected. The patient may receive an electrical shock according to a shock/no shock determination. | 03-17-2016 |
20160082276 | Rescuer Protection from Electrical Shock During Defibrillation - This document relates to cardiac resuscitation, and in particular to systems and techniques for protecting rescuers from electrical shock during defibrillation of a patient. | 03-24-2016 |
20160250491 | DEFIBRILLATOR NETWORK SYSTEM | 09-01-2016 |