Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080200967 | Apparatus and Method For Electrostimulation /Sensing in Vivo - An apparatus and method for electrostimulation treatment of neurological diseases is disclosed herein. The apparatus and method include an array ( | 08-21-2008 |
20080208283 | Neural Interface System - The neural interface system of the preferred embodiments includes an electrode array having a plurality of electrode sites and a carrier that supports the electrode array. The electrode array is coupled to the carrier such that the electrode sites are arranged both circumferentially around the carrier and axially along the carrier. A group of the electrode sites may be simultaneously activated to create an activation pattern. The system of the preferred embodiment is preferably designed for deep brain stimulation, and, more specifically, for deep brain stimulation with fine electrode site positioning, selectivity, tunability, and precise activation patterning. The system of the preferred embodiments, however, may be alternatively used in any suitable environment (such as the spinal cord, peripheral nerve, muscle, or any other suitable anatomical location) and for any suitable reason. | 08-28-2008 |
20080208284 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NEUROMODULATION USING PRE-RECORDED WAVEFORMS - Methods for neuromodulation using waveform signals. In certain embodiments, an input waveform is obtained from a signal source site in a source subject and an output waveform is applied to a target site in a target subject. The source subject is a human or animal and the signal source site is in the nervous system, including the brain. The source subject and target subject are the same subjects or different subjects. The output waveform is identical to the input waveform or derived from the input waveform. In some embodiments, the output waveform is modified in response to physiologic feedback. Also provided are systems for neuromodulation using waveform signals. | 08-28-2008 |
20080208285 | Methods for Treating Neurological Disorders, Including Neuropsychiatric and Neuropsychological, Disorders, and Associated Systems - Methods for treating neurological disorders, including neuropsychiatric and neuropsychological disorders, and associated systems are disclosed. One such method includes identifying one or more neural populations, including a cortical target neural population, associated with a neurological condition. The method can further include comparing a patient-specific measure of a characteristic parameter for a selected one of the neural populations with a target measure for the same parameter. If the patient-specific measure differs from the target measure by at least a target amount, the method can include selecting an electrical signal polarity, frequency, or both polarity and frequency based at least in part on the difference between the patient-specific measure and the target measure. The method can further include applying electrical signals to the target neural population at the selected signal polarity, frequency, or both polarity and frequency to reduce the difference between the patient-specific measure and the target measure. | 08-28-2008 |
20080215112 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTUATING A LASTING CHANGE IN A NEURAL-FUNCTION OF A PATIENT - The following disclosure describes several methods and apparatus for intracranial electrical stimulation to treat or otherwise effectuate a change in neural-functions of a patient. Several embodiments of methods in accordance with the invention are directed toward enhancing or otherwise inducing a lasting change in neural activity to effectuate a particular neural-function. Such lasting change in neural activity is defined as “neuroplasticity.” The methods in accordance with the invention can be used to treat brain damage (e.g., stroke, trauma, etc.), brain disease (e.g., Alzheimer's, Pick's, Parkinson's, etc.), and/or brain disorders (e.g., epilepsy, depression, etc.). The methods in accordance with the invention can also be used to enhance neural-function of normal, healthy brains (e.g., learning, memory, etc.), or to control sensory functions (e.g., pain). Certain embodiments of methods in accordance with the invention electrically stimulate the brain at a stimulation site where neuroplasticity is occurring. The stimulation site may be different than the region in the brain where neural activity is typically present to perform the particular neural function according to the functional organization of the brain. In one embodiment in which neuroplasticity related to the neural-function occurs in the brain, the method can include identifying the location where such neuroplasticity is present. In an alternative embodiment in which neuroplasticity is not occurring in the brain, an alternative aspect is to induce neuroplasticity at a stimulation site where it is expected to occur. Several embodiments of these methods that are expected to produce a lasting effect on the intended neural activity at the stimulation site use electrical pulses that increase the resting membrane potential of neurons at the stimulation site to a subthreshold level. | 09-04-2008 |
20080228239 | Systems And Methods For Altering Vestibular Biology - The present invention relates to systems and methods for management of brain and body functions and sensory perception. For example, the present invention provides systems and methods of sensory substitution and sensory enhancement (augmentation) as well as motor control enhancement. The present invention also provides systems and methods of treating diseases and conditions, as well as providing enhanced physical and mental health and performance through sensory substitution, sensory enhancement, and related effects. In particular, the present invention provides systems and methods for altering vestibular biology to, among other things, treat diseases and conditions or enhance performance related to vestibular functions. | 09-18-2008 |
20080234780 | SELECTIVE NERVE STIMULATION WITH OPTIONALLY CLOSED-LOOP CAPABILITIES - Systems and methods for steering one or more stimulation fields to a selected nerve target, thereby optimizing one or a combination of low stimulation thresholds, desired therapy outcomes, or a minimization of adverse stimulation side-effects. An array of electrodes disposed, at least in part, on two or more neural stimulation leads are used for steering the stimulation fields to the selected nerve target and are positioned adjacent the selected target. The stimulation may be titrated based on, among other things, a detected physiologic response to the applied stimulation. | 09-25-2008 |
20080243204 | VARIATIONAL PARAMETER NEUROSTIMULATION PARADIGM FOR TREATMENT OF NEUROLOGIC DISEASE - The present invention concerns a neural stimulation device, and methods for its use, in which one or more stimulation parameters can be automatically and randomly adjusted such that any particular combination of stimulation parameters is not repeated for a given duration of time, thereby limiting habituation to the neural stimulus. | 10-02-2008 |
20080262565 | Integrated system and method for treating disease using cognitive-training and brain stimulation and computerized magnetic photo-electric stimulator (CMPES) - An integrated system and method for treatment of various diseases, including psychiatric, mental and brain disorders, which preferably combines personalized non-invasive neuronal brain stimulation together with appropriate personalized cognitive training, and which iteratively fine-tunes this treatment by monitoring specific cognitive and brain functions in response to the treatment. A novel brain stimulator device and method, Computerized Magnetic Photo-Electric Stimulator (CCMPES), is described, which integrates electromagnetic stimulation with laser stimulation to generate a magnetic photo-electric stimulation. | 10-23-2008 |
20080269835 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETECTION OF NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS - Systems and methods for detecting and/or treating nervous system disorders, such as seizures, are disclosed. Certain embodiments of the invention relate generally to implantable medical devices (IMDs) adapted to detect and treat nervous system disorders in patients with an IMD. Certain embodiments of the invention include detection of seizures based upon comparisons of long-term and short-term representations of physiological signals. Other embodiments include prediction of seizure activity based upon analysis of physiological signal levels. An embodiment of the invention monitors the quality of physiological signals, and may be able to compensate for signals of low signal quality. A further embodiment of the invention includes detection of seizure activity following the delivery of therapy. | 10-30-2008 |
20080269836 | Apparatus for Treating Neurological Disorders by Means of Chronic Adaptive Brain Stimulation as a Function of Local Biopotentials - An apparatus and a related method for the deep brain stimulation have been invented wherein the parameters of the stimulation supplied at the human nervous system level are adjusted and optimized continuously by the analysis of the bioelectric signals coming from the tissue adjacent the stimulation electrode itself, adapting the therapy continuously and in line to the patient's clinical state. The apparatus is constituted at least by an electro-catheter ( | 10-30-2008 |
20080275526 | Methods and Apparatus for Effectuating a Lasting Change in a Neural Function of a Patient, Including Via Mechanical Force on Neural Tissue - Methods and apparatus for effectuating a lasting change in a neural function of a patient, including via mechanical force on neural tissue, are disclosed. An apparatus in accordance with one embodiment includes an implantable force delivery device that is changeable between a first state in which the force delivery device applies a first mechanical force to neural tissue, and the second state in which the force delivery device applies no mechanical force or a second mechanical force less than the first mechanical force to the neural tissue, while the force delivery device is implanted. An actuator can be coupled to the force delivery device with a communication link to change the state of the force delivery device, and a controller can be operably coupled to the actuator to automatically direct the force delivery device to change repeatedly between the first and second states while the force delivery device is implanted. | 11-06-2008 |
20080288018 | METHODS OF IMPROVING NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH NEUROCOGNITIVE DISORDERS - The present invention provides methods of improving neuropsychological function in a patient having a neurocognitive disorder by chemical or electrically modulating a target site(s) in the ventral striatum/ventral capsule region. Methods also include modulating the treatment based on a closed-loop feedback system that measures bodily activities associated with the neuropsychological function (i.e. that help to determine whether a neuropsychological function is or can be improved. | 11-20-2008 |
20080312714 | HEPATIC ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - The present invention relates to a method of providing electrical stimulation to a liver of a subject which includes providing one or more stimulatory electrodes to the liver of the subject and providing electrical stimulation to the liver of the subject. The invention further relates to methods of reducing risk factors of metabolic syndrome, treating diabetes, treating a subject having eating disorders and reducing glucose levels of a subject using methods of the present invention. | 12-18-2008 |
20080312715 | Detecting and Treating Nervous System Disorders - Some embodiments of a mapping device may be capable of passing through cerebral veins and other cerebrovascular spaces to provide electrophysiological mapping of the brain. These embodiments of the device may also be capable of providing, simultaneously or separately, ablation energy or other treatments to targeted brain tissue. In such circumstances, a user may be enabled to analyze an electrophysiological map of a patient's brain and, at the same time or within a short time period before or after the mapping process, may be enabled to apply ablation energy for treatment of a central nervous system disorder. Such treatment may be accomplished without the use of invasive surgery in which the brain is accessed through an opening in the patient's cranium. | 12-18-2008 |
20080312716 | Methods and Systems for Using Intracranial Electrodes - The present invention relates to electrode assemblies, neurostimulation systems and methods for implanting and using same. In exemplary embodiments, the electrode includes a body having a conductive contact surface dimensioned and configured to contact a patient's skull; and an electrode head associated with the body. The electrode head is sized for subcutaneous positioning adjacent the subject's skull, and the electrode body is of a length and configured such that the electrode body extends at least partially through the patient's skull but does not contact the patient's dura mater. As these electrodes need not directly contact the brain nor penetrate the dura mater to be effective in neurostimulatory applications, they avoid many of the disadvantages, e.g. increased risk of infection and invasive implantation procedures, associated with conventional electrode design. | 12-18-2008 |
20080319505 | Integrated Transcranial Current Stimulation and Electroencephalography Device - In an integrated transcranial current stimulation and electroencephalography device, data obtained by EEG electrodes is received, amplified, converted, and then processed by a microcontroller that extracts frequency information from the sampled data and produces signals in response to the extracted EEG data. These signals are converted to create a software-definable alternating voltage used to control a current-source that connects to stimulation electrodes. The device may further download recorded EEG data from the microcontroller to a computer for further analysis. Using the device, EEG signals are detected, then received, processed, and analyzed by a microcontroller to identify the patient state. Based on the patient state and the desired protocol, a type and amount of current stimulation to apply to the patient is determined and a control signal is sent from the microcontroller to the current source in order to trigger the transcranial current stimulation of the patient. | 12-25-2008 |
20090005833 | METHOD FOR SELECTING ELECTRODES FOR DEEP BRAIN OR CORTICAL STIMULATION AND PULSE GENERATOR FOR DEEP BRAIN OR CORTICAL STIMULATION - In one embodiment, a system for electrically stimulating neural tissue of a patient and for determining neurotransmitter release in response to stimulation, the system comprises: pulse generating circuitry for generating electrical pulses; at least one electrical lead for conducting electrical pulses generated by the pulse generating circuitry to neural tissue, the at least one electrical lead comprising a plurality of electrodes; at least one electrochemical sensor for sensing an extracellular level of one or several neurotransmitters; circuitry for sampling a signal from the at least one electrochemical sensor; a controller for automatically applying stimulation to neural tissue using a plurality of electrode combinations, the controller generating data related to neurotransmitter release for each of the plurality of electrode combinations; and a display for displaying neurotransmitter release for electrode combinations to a clinician. | 01-01-2009 |
20090018609 | Closed-Loop Feedback-Driven Neuromodulation - A neurological control system for modulating activity of any component or structure comprising the entirety or portion of the nervous system, or any structure interfaced thereto, generally referred to herein as a “nervous system component.” The neurological control system generates neural modulation signals delivered to a nervous system component through one or more neuromodulators, comprising intracranial (IC) stimulating electrodes and other actuators, in accordance with treatment parameters. Such treatment parameters may be derived from a neural response to previously delivered neural modulation signals sensed by one or more sensors, each configured to sense a particular characteristic indicative of a neurological or psychiatric condition. | 01-15-2009 |
20090024181 | TREATMENT SIMULATOR FOR BRAIN DISEASES AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF - A treatment simulator for providing information on physiological states and effects of treatment of neurological disease, comprising a computer, and an application configured to operate with the computer. The application is capable of: obtaining radiological imaging from the brain; obtaining anatomical information from the radiological imaging within a region of interest within the brain; constructing a physiological states model which assesses physiological states of the region of interest; locating sources of interstitial flow of particulate matter and obtaining fluid conductivities of paths of the interstitial flow utilizing the anatomical information and the physiological states model; and creating a flow model of the particulate matter which assesses velocities of flow and interstitial pressure variations utilizing the sources of interstitial flow and the fluid conductivities. | 01-22-2009 |
20090030479 | Percutaneous Access for Neuromodulation Procedures - A neuromodulation system, comprises an implantable electrode which is implanted within a body adjacent to a target nerve structure to which electric energy is to be applied via the electrode and a connection port which is implanted in the body with a proximal surface thereof substantially flush with an outer surface of a skin of the body, the connection port including a device interface for electrically connecting to an external device which remains external to the body in combination with an electric line extending from the device interface to the electrode for carrying electric energy from the external device to the electrode and a cover selectively closing an opening of the external surface of the implanted connection port. | 01-29-2009 |
20090030480 | Controlling seizure activity with electrical stimulation - Apparatus and methods associated with controlling seizure activity with electrical stimulation that either suppress axonal conduction between brain structures and/or that generate a desired response in a targeted neuronal pool are described. One example apparatus includes an implantable stimulating electrode that provides an electrical stimulus to fiber tracts of the hippocampal commissure of the brain of a subject. The stimulus may be a high frequency structure that prevents communication of signals associated with an epileptic episode and/or prevents seizure activity in a target nucleus. The example apparatus may also include a detection logic that detects specific electrical activity in the central nervous system that identifies that an epileptic episode is imminent. The example apparatus includes a pacing system to selectively configure and apply the electrical stimulus to fiber tracts of the hippocampal commissure of the brain. | 01-29-2009 |
20090036949 | STIMULATION EXTENSION WITH INPUT CAPABILITIES - A stimulation extension useful in deep brain stimulation treatment includes a body portion having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end receives a stimulation signal from a generator. A lead interface is disposed at the distal end to send the stimulation signal to a brain stimulation lead. The stimulation extension also includes a sensor interface disposed at the distal end to receive an input signal from a sensor that is detached from the stimulation lead and send the input signal to the generator. | 02-05-2009 |
20090036950 | TRAINED AND ADAPTIVE RESPONSE IN A NEUROSTIMULATOR - A method sensing at least two physiological parameters and, for each of the at least two physiological parameters, generating a first series of signals representative of the physiological parameter sensed over a first time period, storing each of said first series of signals as a time sequence data stream, and determining when a physiological event has occurred in a patient. The method further comprises analyzing each of said time sequence data streams for a predetermined time interval preceding the occurrence of a physiological event to determine at least one marker as a predictor of the event, and again sensing the physiological parameters. Furthermore, the method comprises generating a second series of signals representative of the physiological parameter sensed, analyzing each of the second series of signals to determine whether the marker is present, and stimulating a cranial nerve when the marker is present in the second series of signals. | 02-05-2009 |
20090069863 | MODULATION AND ANALYSIS OF CEREBRAL PERFUSION IN EPILEPSY AND OTHER NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS - A system including an implantable neurostimulator device capable of modulating cerebral blood flow to treat epilepsy and other neurological disorders. In one embodiment, the system is capable of modulating cerebral blood flow (also referred to as cerebral perfusion) in response to measurements and other observed conditions. Perfusion may be increased or decreased by systems and methods according to the invention as clinically required. | 03-12-2009 |
20090076566 | Epidural Cortical Stimulation System Using Shape Memory Alloy - An epidural cortical stimulation system includes a stimulation body and a connecting lead. The stimulation body has a core formed of a shape-memory material, insulation provided around the core, defining an outer surface of the stimulation body, and at least one electrode arranged on the outer surface of the stimulation body, adapted and configured to contact the dura of a patient. The connecting lead extends from a proximal end of the body, and is adapted and configured for electrical communication with a control unit for providing power to the body electrical cortical stimulation. | 03-19-2009 |
20090076567 | Electrode Configurations for Reducing Invasiveness and/or Enhancing Neural Stimulation Efficacy, and Associated Methods - Electrode configurations for reducing invasiveness and/or enhancing neural stimulation efficacy, and associated methods, are disclosed. A method in accordance with one embodiment of the invention for treating a brain disorder includes identifying a target neural structure within a patient's skull and implanting an electrode device within the patient's skull so that an axis that is generally normal to the skull proximate to the electrode device and that passes through at least one electrical contact of the electrode device is offset from the target neural structure. The method further includes stimulating the target neural structure by applying an electrical signal to the at least one electrical contact. In particular embodiments, the electrode device can be positioned between, along, across, or adjacent to a fissure, recess, groove, and/or vascular structure of the patient's brain. | 03-19-2009 |
20090082829 | Patient directed therapy control - A patient controls the delivery of therapy through volitional inputs that are detected by a biosignal within the brain. The volitional patient input may be directed towards performing a specific physical or mental activity, such as moving a muscle or performing a mathematical calculation. In one embodiment, a biosignal detection module monitors an electroencephalogram (EEG) signal from within the brain of the patient and determines whether the EEG signal includes the biosignal. In one embodiment, the biosignal detection module analyzes one or more frequency components of the EEG signal. In this manner, the patient may adjust therapy delivery by providing a volitional input that is detected by brain signals, wherein the volitional input may not require the interaction with another device, thereby eliminating the need for an external programmer to adjust therapy delivery. Example therapies include electrical stimulation, drug delivery, and delivery of sensory cues. | 03-26-2009 |
20090093862 | Systems and Methods for Automatically Optimizing Stimulus Parameters and Electrode configurations for neuro-stimulators - Methods and devices for automatically optimizing the stimulus parameters and/or the configuration of electrodes to provide neural stimulation to a patient. In one embodiment, a system includes an electrode array having an implantable support member configured to be implanted into a patient and a plurality of therapy electrodes carried by the support member. The system can also have a pulse system operatively coupled to the therapy electrodes to deliver a stimulus to the therapy electrodes, and a sensing device configured to be attached to a sensing location of the patient. The sensing device generates response signals in response to the stimulus. The system can also include a controller operatively, coupled to the pulse system and to the sensing device. The controller includes a computer operable medium that generates command signals that define the stimulus delivered by the pulse system, evaluates the response signals from the sensing device, and determines a desired configuration for the therapy electrodes and/or a desired stimulus to be delivered to the therapy electrodes. | 04-09-2009 |
20090099622 | Methods and Systems for Establishing Neural Stimulation Parameters and Providing Neural Stimulation - Methods for providing electrical stimulation therapy to a cortex of a patient via a plurality of electrodes proximate to the cortex and a pulse generator implanted in the patient. One embodiment of a method in accordance with the invention comprises determining whether the current applied via the plurality of electrodes results in a sufficient current density in the cortex. The current density, for example, may need to be high enough to induce a response in the patient for determining the activation threshold of the specific stimulation site, or the current density may need to be high enough to perform a specific therapy. If the current density is not sufficient, the method continues by selecting a subset of the plurality of electrodes, and applying electrical current to the cortex via the subset of the electrodes. For example, if the current density is not sufficient when the current is applied to the full plurality of electrodes at approximately the maximum output of the pulse generator, then the current level from the pulse generator can be applied to only a subset of the electrodes to effectively increase the current density in the cortex at the active electrodes. | 04-16-2009 |
20090099623 | Systems and methods for treatment of medical conditions related to the central nervous system and for enhancing cognitive functions - Systems and methods for diagnosing and treating various brain-related conditions, and/or for modifying at least one of cognitive, behavioral, or affective functions or skills in individuals. The method of diagnosing and treating a brain-related condition includes the steps of: (i) identifying at least a brain region associated with the brain-related condition; (ii) stimulating the brain region by employing at least one electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, and photoelectric stimulus; (iii) optionally, stimulating at least one cognitive feature associated with the brain region; and (iv) optionally, subjecting the brain region to a treatment including at least one of cell replacement therapy, cell regenerative therapy and cell growth. | 04-16-2009 |
20090105782 | VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION APPARATUS, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - Methods and apparatus for providing vagus nerve stimulation for the treatment of diseases such as depression and epilepsy that do not require an onboard, implanted power supply. Power may be supplied from outside of the body by near-field inductive coupling with an external power supply provided in a support article (e.g., garment) worn by the patient. Power may also be supplied by providing an antenna for harvesting ambient RF energy and converting it into DC power. In addition, the methods and apparatus provide for remote, wireless programming of the parameters that specify the nature of current pulses provided to the vagus nerve by probes implanted in the body of the patient. The preferred stimulation profile is 1-2 milliamp pulses of 250 microseconds in duration at a frequency of 20 to 30 Hz, wherein the profile is repeatedly on for 30 seconds and off for 5 minutes. | 04-23-2009 |
20090105783 | LONG-TERM SPG STIMULATION THERAPY FOR PREVENTION OF VASCULAR DEMENTIA - A method is provided that includes identifying that a subject is at risk of suffering from vascular dementia (VaD). Responsively to the identifying, a risk of development of the VaD is reduced by applying electrical stimulation to a site of the subject selected from the group consisting of: a sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG), a greater palatine nerve, a lesser palatine nerve, a sphenopalatine nerve, a communicating branch between a maxillary nerve and an SPG, an otic ganglion, an afferent fiber going into the otic ganglion, an efferent fiber going out of the otic ganglion, an infraorbital nerve, a vidian nerve, a greater superficial petrosal nerve, and a lesser deep petrosal nerve; and configuring the stimulation to induce at least one neuroprotective occurrence selected from the group consisting of: an increase in cerebral blood flow of the subject, and a release of one or more neuroprotective substances. Other embodiments are also described. | 04-23-2009 |
20090105784 | MINIATURE WIRELESS SYSTEM FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION - An implantable system and method for deep brain stimulation (DBS) treatments. The implantable system is sufficiently small and self-contained to enable implantation of the entire system within the brain, or optionally within the brain and the surrounding tissue. The system comprises an implantable inductor on which a voltage is induced when subjected to an electromagnetic field, and an implantable device comprising a housing, stimulating elements at an exterior surface of the housing, and electronics within the housing and electrically connected to the implantable inductor. The electronics produces a brain-stimulating current from the voltage induced on the implantable inductor and then delivers the brain-stimulating current to the stimulating elements. Deep brain stimulation is performed by subjecting the inductor to an electromagnetic field to induce a voltage on the inductor that powers the electronics to produce and deliver the brain-stimulating current to the stimulating elements. | 04-23-2009 |
20090112277 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR A SKULL/BRAIN INTERFACE - A method is disclosed for conveying a form of neuromodulation (e.g., electrical, chemical, optical, or thermal) from an external neuromodulation source interiorly of the skull to modulate neural activity. The method involves forming one or more apertures through or partially through the skull to provide an interface for delivering the neuromodulation. A method is disclosed for sensing one or more parameters characteristic of one or more states of the brain through an interface formed with one or more apertures extending all the way or part of the way through the skull. A device is disclosed that is implantable in the skull of a human patient to provide an interface between the exterior of the skull and the brain that includes a channel of a length sufficient to traverse the entire thickness of the skull or at least a part of the thickness of the skull. The channels may be provided in a wide variety of shapes and sizes with or without inner lumens. The channels may be configured for ion conduction of electrical signals, enabling DC or near DC stimulation of target neurons. Methods and devices for transferring energy (e.g., thermal energy) generated inside the skull to the outside of the skull and vice versa are also disclosed. | 04-30-2009 |
20090112278 | Systems, Methods and Devices for a Skull/Brain Interface - Disclosed are methods, devices, and systems for inducing neuromodulation by focusing a source of stimulation through a skull/brain interface in the form of an aperture formed in the skull, a naturally occurring fenestration in the skull, or a transcranial channel. Further disclosed are methods, devices, and systems for identifying where to locate skull/brain interfaces, accessories that can be used with the interfaces, and features for controlling stimulation delivered through the interfaces. Multiple indications for the skull/brain interfaces are also disclosed, including diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders and conditions such as epilepsy, movement disorders, depression, Alzheimer's disease, autism, coma, and pain. | 04-30-2009 |
20090112279 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR A SKULL/BRAIN INTERFACE - Systems, methods and devices are disclosed for directing and focusing signals to the brain for neuromodulation and for directing and focusing signals or other energy from the brain for measurement, heat transfer and imaging. An aperture in the skull and/or a channel device implantable in the skull can be used to facilitate direction and focusing. Treatment and diagnosis of multiple neurological conditions may be facilitated with the disclosed systems, methods and devices. | 04-30-2009 |
20090112280 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR A SKULL/BRAIN INTERFACE - Systems, methods and devices are disclosed for directing and focusing signals to the brain for neuromodulation and for directing and focusing signals or other energy from the brain for measurement, heat transfer and imaging. An aperture in the skull and/or a channel device implantable in the skull can be used to facilitate direction and focusing. Treatment and diagnosis of multiple neurological conditions may be facilitated with the disclosed systems, methods and devices. | 04-30-2009 |
20090118786 | AUTOMATED FITTING SYSTEM FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION - Methods, systems, and external programmers provide therapy to a patient having a dysfunction. In one aspect, stimulation energy is conveyed from a neurostimulator to electrodes located within a tissue region of the patient, thereby changing the status of the dysfunction. A physiological end-function of the patient indicative of the changed status of the dysfunction is measured, and stimulation parameters are programmed into the neurostimulator based on the measured physiological end-function. In another aspect, electrodes are placed adjacent to a tissue region of the patient, and stimulation energy is conveyed from the electrodes to the tissue region in accordance with the stimulation parameters, thereby changing the status of the dysfunction. A physiological end-function of the patient indicative of the changed status of the dysfunction is measured, and the stimulation parameters are adjusted based on the measured physiological end-function. | 05-07-2009 |
20090118787 | Closed-loop feedback for steering stimulation energy within tissue - Methods, systems, and external programmers provide therapy to a patient having a dysfunction. In one aspect, electrical energy is conveyed between electrodes to create a stimulation region in tissue adjacent the electrodes. Physiological information from the patient is acquired and analyzed, and a locus of the stimulation region is electronically displaced relative to the tissue based on the analysis of the acquired physiological information. In another aspect, electrical energy is delivered to tissue of the patient in accordance with one or more stimulation parameters. A cognitive brain signals is sensed and analyzed, and the stimulation parameter(s) are modified based on the analysis of the cognitive brain signal. | 05-07-2009 |
20090118788 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTUATING A LASTING CHANGE IN A NEURAL-FUNCTION OF A PATIENT - The present disclosure suggests methods of selecting a stimulation site for stimulating a patient's brain or methods of effectuating a neural-function of a patient associated with an impaired body function. In one exemplary implementation, such a neural function may be effectuated by selecting a stimulation site, positioning at least a first electrode at the stimulation site, and applying an electrical potential to pass a current through the first electrode. If one aspect, this stimulation site may be selected by a) identifying a second body function that is a corollary to the impaired body function, and b) determining a corollary location of the patient's brain that is associated with the second body function and is ipsilateral to the impaired body function. | 05-07-2009 |
20090125079 | ALTERNATIVE OPERATION MODE FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE BASED UPON LEAD CONDITION - The present invention provides for a method, apparatus, and system for determining an adverse operational condition associated with a lead assembly in an implantable medical device used for providing a therapeutic electrical signal to a cranial nerve. A first impedance associated with the lead assembly configured to provide the therapeutic electrical signal to a cranial nerve is detected. A determination is made as to whether the first impedance is outside a first predetermined range of values. A second impedance is detected. The detection of the second impedance is performed within a predetermined period of time from the time of the detection of the first impedance. A determination is made as to whether the second impedance is outside a second predetermined range of values. A determination that a lead condition problem exists is made in response to a determination that the first is outside the first predetermined range of values and second impedance is outside the second predetermined range of values. The implantable medical device is prevented from providing the therapeutic electrical signal to the cranial nerve in response to determining that the lead condition problem exists. | 05-14-2009 |
20090125080 | INTRAVENTRICULAR ELECTRODES FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF THE BRAIN - An electrode—preferably an anode (current sink)—is implanted within a ventricle of the brain so that the cerebrospinal fluid therein, which is highly conductive, effectively makes the ventricle a conductive extension of the anode. An opposing electrode (i.e., a cathode) can then be situated within or outside the brain (e.g., extradurally) so that a portion of the brain to be electrically stimulated is situated between the electrodes. The electrodes can then be energized at appropriate frequencies and current/voltage levels to apply the desired stimulation, in a manner similar to preexisting Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), Extradural Motor Cortex Stimulation (EMCS), and other electrical brain stimulation procedures. | 05-14-2009 |
20090149911 | System for electrical modulation of neural conduction - Methods and related systems for modulating neural activity by repetitively blocking conduction in peripheral neural structures with electrical stimuli are disclosed. Methods and systems for reversing effects of blocking stimuli and/or for producing substantially permanent conduction block are also disclosed. | 06-11-2009 |
20090149912 | Method for electrical modulation of neural conduction - Methods and related systems for modulating neural activity by repetitively blocking conduction in peripheral neural structures with electrical stimuli are disclosed. Methods and systems for reversing effects of blocking stimuli and/or for producing substantially permanent conduction block are also disclosed. | 06-11-2009 |
20090149913 | Wireless System for Epilepsy Monitoring and Measurement - A wireless system for monitoring a patient's brain tissue including (1) a plurality of electrodes abutting brain tissue, (2) main circuitry outside the patient's body to transmit power at radio frequencies and send/receive data using infrared energy, and (3) subcutaneously-implanted remote circuitry connected to the electrodes and configured to (a) receive transmitted RF power, (b) capture and digitize EEG signals from the electrodes, and (c) send/receive data to/from the main circuitry using IR energy, including sending digitized EEG signals from each electrode to capture the full bandwidth of each EEG signal. The system preferably includes circuitry to measure the electrical impedance of each electrode for real-time monitoring of the condition of the electrode/tissue interfaces to enhance interpretation of captured EEG signals. | 06-11-2009 |
20090149914 | Method for reversible chemical modulation of neural activity - Methods and related systems for modulating neural activity by repetitively blocking conduction in peripheral neural structures with chemical blocking agents are disclosed. Methods and systems for reversing effects of chemical blocking agents and/or for producing substantially permanent conduction block are also disclosed. | 06-11-2009 |
20090171416 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTUATING A LASTING CHANGE IN A NEURAL-FUNCTION OF A PATIENT - Methods and apparatus for treating an impaired neural function in a brain of a patient. In one embodiment, a method for treating a neural function in a brain of a patient includes determining a therapy period during which a plurality of therapy sessions are to be performed to recover functional ability corresponding to the neural function. The method continues by identifying a stimulation site in or on the brain of the patient associated with the neural function, and positioning an electrode at least proximate to the identified stimulation site. The patient is then treated by providing electrical stimulation treatments to the stimulation site. The treatment can comprise delivering electrical stimulation signals to the electrode during the therapy sessions. After expiration of the therapy period, the method includes preventing electrical stimulation signals from being delivered to the stimulation site. | 07-02-2009 |
20090177243 | TRANSCRANIAL ELECTROSTIMULATION DEVICE - The device refers to physiotherapy and is intended to protective brain mechanisms stimulation during the treatment of different diseases. | 07-09-2009 |
20090192567 | Method, Apparatus and System for Bipolar Charge Utilization During Stimulation by an Implantable Medical Device - We disclose a method, apparatus, and system of treating a medical condition in a patient using an implantable medical device. A first electrode is coupled to a first portion of a cranial nerve of the patient. A second electrode is coupled to a second portion of the cranial nerve of the patient. A first electrical signal is provided to the first and second electrodes. The first electrical signal is provided in a first polarity configuration in which the first electrode functions as an anode and the second electrode functions as a cathode. Upon termination of the first electrical signal, the anode and cathode each comprise a first accumulated energy. A second electrical signal is provided to the first and second electrodes, in which the second electrical signal includes at least a portion of the first accumulated energy. | 07-30-2009 |
20090192568 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TREATING SEIZURES CAUSED BY BRAIN STIMULATION - Methods for treating seizures caused by brain stimulation include providing a stimulator, programming the stimulator with one or more stimulation parameters configured to treat a medical condition, applying at least one stimulus with the stimulator to a stimulation site within the brain of a patient in accordance with the one or more stimulation parameters, and monitoring the patient for a seizure caused by the at least one stimulus. | 07-30-2009 |
20090192569 | CORTICAL ELECTRODE ARRAY AND METHOD FOR STIMULATING AND RECORDING BRAIN ACTIVITY - An electrode device and a method of installing the electrode device in the vicinity of the brain. The electrode device includes a plurality of electrode assemblies, each with at least one electrode lead, extending from a common base. The base is configured to be positioned on an outside of the patient's cranium with each electrode assembly projecting individually through a hole in the patient's cranium such that the electrode lead is in the vicinity of the brain. The method of installation includes carving a recess out of the patient's cranium and inserting the base therein. Each of the electrode assemblies are placed in their respective holes in order to stimulate, monitor or record neurological activity. The electrode device may be used over long periods of time for chronic treatment or recording. | 07-30-2009 |
20090198304 | DIVISION APPROXIMATION FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - Methods and devices for performing division approximation in implantable and wearable self-powered medical devices. The present invention provides rapid methods for performing an approximation of division on fixed point numbers, where the methods are easily implemented in small, low power consumption devices as may be found in implantable medical devices. One example of use is in rapidly determining the approximate ratio between foreground and background activity in seizure detection algorithms. Some methods approximate the ratio of Numerator (N) to Denominator (D) by raising 2 to the power of the difference in the number of zeros to the left of the Most Significant Set Bit (MSSB) of D vs. N. Some methods may also pad bits to the right of the approximate ratio MSSB using bits from the right of the N MSSB, and/or pre-process the smaller of D or N by rounding the value upward. Methods may be implemented in firmware and/or in discrete logic. | 08-06-2009 |
20090210026 | SPG STIMULATION FOR ENHANCING NEUROGENESIS AND BRAIN METABOLISM - A method is provided, including identifying an electrical stimulation protocol as being suitable for augmenting genesis of one or more cell populations in at least one brain region of the subject. The cell genesis is augmented by applying the identified stimulation protocol to an SPG, a greater palatine nerve, a branch of the greater palatine nerve, a lesser palatine nerve, a sphenopalatine nerve, a communicating branch between a maxillary nerve and an SPG, an otic ganglion, an afferent fiber going into the otic ganglion, an efferent fiber going out of the otic ganglion, an infraorbital nerve, a vidian nerve, a greater superficial petrosal nerve, a lesser deep petrosal nerve, a maxillary nerve, a branch of the maxillary nerve, a nasopalatine nerve, a peripheral site that provides direct or indirect afferent innervation to the SPG, or a peripheral site that is directly or indirectly efferently innervated by the SPG. | 08-20-2009 |
20090222059 | Shaped implantation device - A custom medical device for implanting an implantable device may be fabricated based on a patient image with a rapid prototyping machine. | 09-03-2009 |
20090248110 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - An apparatus and method for controlling an electrical stimulation system to increase the resolution of the stimulation region with multiple independent power source electrodes is proposed. In the apparatus, the electrode set contains at least three electrodes of which two adjacent electrodes are of the same power polarity to control the location of the composite stimulation signal and the others are of an inverse power polarity to balance the total power polarity and narrow the stimulation region. The method for the apparatus comprises steps of: receiving a target stimulation location and level, generating at least one parameter to adjust power settings of the electrodes, thereby obtaining a composite stimulation signal corresponding to a virtual channel of which a location and level match the target stimulation location and level. | 10-01-2009 |
20090254146 | DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION IMPLANT WITH MICROCOIL ARRAY - An implant for deep brain stimulation (DBS) has an array of electromagnetic microcoils dispersed over the length of the implant. The microcoils produce magnetic fields that are directed into, and induce current in, the adjacent brain tissue. The microcoils may be selectively operated to direct and focus electrical stimulation to targeted areas of the brain. The implant is useful in studying or treating neurophysiological conditions associated with the deep regions of the brain such as Parkinson's disease, drug addiction, and depression. | 10-08-2009 |
20090259275 | METHODS OF TREATING BRAIN DAMAGES - Provided herein are methods of repairing, treating, managing or preventing brain damages. In some embodiments, the methods comprise applying a direct current electric field to direct or modulate the migration of NSPCs towards the region of the brain damage. In certain embodiments, the methods comprise administering an electric field between a cerebral ventricle and the meninx, inclusive, of the brain where the brain damage occurs. In other embodiments, the methods comprise activating a membrane protein of NSPCs by a direct current electric field. In further embodiments, the methods comprise interactions of a membrane protein in NSPC with Rac1, Tiam1, Pak1, and actin cytoskeleton in a protein complex in the presence of an electric field. In still further embodiments, the methods comprise applying an electric field to promote neurogenesis in the subventricular zone or subgranular zone of the brain. | 10-15-2009 |
20090264952 | Pacemaker for treating physiological system dysfunction - Disclosed is a device and method for preventing seizures due to physiological system dysfunction. The method is based on a conjectural model of the brain wherein each brain site is modeled as a chaotic oscillator; a normal brain generates an internal feedback signal to prevent long-term entrainment among the oscillators; and a pathological brain fails to provide this feedback signal. The device of the present invention measures and characterizes the brain sites to determine if entrainment is occurring among the oscillators, derives an appropriate feedback signal to counteract the entrainment, and applies the feedback signal to the critical brain sites. The feedback signal generated by the device supplements or takes the place of the feedback signal that would otherwise be generated by the normal brain. | 10-22-2009 |
20090264953 | NEUROSTIMULATOR - Neurostimulator ( | 10-22-2009 |
20090264954 | THERAPY TARGET SELECTION FOR PSYCHIATRIC DISORDER THERAPY - Target tissue sites for therapy delivery to a patient may be selected based on the patient symptoms or a patient mood state. The therapy delivery may be used to manage a psychiatric disorder of the patient. Selected therapy sites may be weighted based on factors, such as the severity of the patient symptom or mood state or the type of patient symptom or mood state. In some cases, therapy delivery to the patient may be controlled based on the weighting factors. For example, the weighting factors may control the intensity of the therapy delivery or the frequency of the therapy delivery. In some examples, the weighting factors may dynamically change based on the patient's changing symptoms or mood disorders. | 10-22-2009 |
20090264955 | ANALYZING A STIMULATION PERIOD CHARACTERISTIC FOR PSYCHIATRIC DISORDER THERAPY DELIVERY - A characteristic of a stimulation period, which occurs during the delivery of stimulation therapy to a patient according to a therapy program, may be determined based on a physiological parameter of the patient. The stimulation period characteristic may include, for example, an amplitude or a trend in a physiological signal during the stimulation period or a power level or a ratio of power levels in frequency bands of the physiological signal. In some embodiments, stimulation period characteristics associated with a plurality of therapy programs may be used to compare the programs. In other embodiments, a stimulation period characteristic may be used to determine a mood state of the patient and, in some cases, modify a therapy program. | 10-22-2009 |
20090264956 | PSYCHIATRIC DISORDER THERAPY CONTROL - A therapy system for managing a psychiatric disorder of the patient may be controlled based on a patient mood state. Therapy may be delivered to a patient according to a therapy program, and a physiological parameter of the patient may be monitored during or after therapy delivery. The patient mood state may be determined based on the monitored physiological parameter, and the therapy delivery may be controlled based on the determined mood state. In some embodiments, the therapy delivery is stopped prior to determining the patient mood state and the therapy delivery is restarted upon detecting a negative mood state. In other embodiments, therapy delivery is delivered until a positive mood state is detected, at which point the therapy delivery may be stopped. | 10-22-2009 |
20090264957 | ANALYZING A WASHOUT PERIOD CHARACTERISTIC FOR PSYCHIATRIC DISORDER THERAPY DELIVERY - A characteristic of a washout period following the delivery of therapy to a patient according to a therapy program may be determined based on a physiological parameter of the patient. A washout period includes the period of time during which a carryover effect from the therapy dissipates. The washout period characteristic may include, for example, a duration of the washout period, an amplitude or a trend in a physiological signal during the washout period or a power level or a ratio of power levels in frequency bands of the physiological signal. In some embodiments, washout period characteristics associated with a plurality of therapy programs may be used to compare the programs. In other embodiments, a washout period characteristic may be used to determine a mood state of the patient and, in some cases, modify a therapy program. Monitoring a washout period may also be useful for timing therapy program trials. | 10-22-2009 |
20090264958 | Method For Suppressing And Reversing Epileptogenesis - A method for identifying, suppressing, and reversing epileptogenesis, which is considered to be a learned response due to brain plasticity. The method includes identifying three epileptogenic conditions, neuronal hyperexcitability, spatial overconnectivity, and temporal overconnectivity. A treatment that accounts for each of these conditions is then be administered to the subject to reverse, or “unlearn,” epilepsy. | 10-22-2009 |
20090270943 | Blocking Exogenous Action Potentials by an Implantable Medical Device - I disclose an implantable medical device (IMD) to treat a medical condition in a patient, comprising an electrical signal generator; a cathode and an anode operatively coupled to the electrical signal generator and a cranial nerve of the patient; and a third electrode operatively coupled to the electrical signal generator and implanted within the patient's body; wherein the electrical signal generator is capable of generating and delivering at least one electrical signal effective at the anode to block at least a sufficient portion of action potentials induced by the at least one electrical signal in the cranial nerve proximate the cathode to reduce a side effect of said induced action potentials. | 10-29-2009 |
20090270944 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TREATING A PSYCHOTIC DISORDER - Methods of treating a psychotic disorder include applying at least one stimulus to a stimulation site within a patient with an implanted stimulator in accordance with one or more stimulation parameters configured to treat the psychotic disorder. Systems for treating a psychotic disorder include a stimulator configured to apply at least one stimulus to a stimulation site within a patient in accordance with one or more stimulation parameters configured to treat the psychotic disorder. | 10-29-2009 |
20090287271 | Clinician programmer system and method for calculating volumes of activation - A system and method for providing a volume of activation (VOA) of a stimulation electrode leadwire may include a processor that calculates a VOA for each of a plurality of sets of parameter settings of the leadwire, stores in a database each of the calculated VOAs in association with the respective set of parameter settings for which it was calculated, obtains a set of parameter settings of the leadwire for a stimulation, and determines a VOA for the obtained set of parameter settings based on the stored VOAs. | 11-19-2009 |
20090287272 | Clinician programmer system and method for steering volumesof activation - A system and method for selection of stimulation parameters for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) may include a processor that displays in a display device and in relation to a displayed model of a leadwire including model electrodes, a current field corresponding to a first stimulation parameter set, provides a user interface for receipt of user input representing a shift of the current field, in response to the user input, moves, in the display device, the current field with respect to the displayed model, determines a second stimulation parameter set that results in the moved current field, and outputs the second stimulation parameter set and/or sets a stimulation device with the second stimulation parameter set, where the stimulation device is configured for performing a stimulation using the leadwire in accordance with the second stimulation parameter set. | 11-19-2009 |
20090287273 | Clinician programmer system interface for monitoring patient progress - A therapy tracking system and method may include a processor that obtains physiological information regarding a patient and a time period during which a deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy is conducted. The information may be organized into a plurality of sessions. The processor may arrange in a display device a separate representation of the information for each of at least a subset of the sessions, such that the sessions are presented in order of time. | 11-19-2009 |
20090292336 | NEURAL INTERFACE SYSTEMS AND METHODS - In one embodiment, a neural interface system includes an implantable neural probe having a flexible substrate, electrodes that extend from the substrate that are adapted to contact neural tissue of the brain, a signal processing circuit configured to process neural signals collected with the electrodes, and a wireless transmission circuit configured to wirelessly transmit the processed neural signals, and a backend computing device configured to wirelessly receive the processed neural signals, to process the received signals to reconstruct the collected neural signals, and to analyze the collected neural signals. | 11-26-2009 |
20090299435 | Systems and Methods for Enhancing or Affecting Neural Stimulation Efficiency and/or Efficacy - Systems and methods for enhancing or affecting neural stimulation efficiency and/or efficacy are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system and/or method may apply electromagnetic stimulation to a patient's nervous system over a first time domain according to a first set of stimulation parameters, and over a second time domain according to a second set of stimulation parameters. The first and second time domains may be sequential, simultaneous, or nested. Stimulation parameters may vary in accordance with one or more types of duty cycle, amplitude, pulse repetition frequency, pulse width, spatiotemporal, and/or polarity variations. Stimulation may be applied at subthreshold, threshold, and/or suprathreshold levels in one or more periodic, aperiodic (e.g., chaotic), and/or pseudo-random manners. In some embodiments stimulation may comprise a burst pattern having an interburst frequency corresponding to an intrinsic brainwave frequency, and regular and/or varying intraburst stimulation parameters. Stimulation signals providing reduced power consumption with at least adequate symptomatic relief may be applied prior to moderate or significant power source depletion. | 12-03-2009 |
20090319000 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTUATING A CHANGE IN A NEURAL-FUNCTION OF A PATIENT - The present disclosure is directed generally to methods and apparatus for effectuating a change in a neural function of a patient. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes implanting an electrode at a cortical stimulation site selected to promote recovery of the affected neural-function, with the cortical stimulation site being at least proximate to the cortex. The method can further include estimating a threshold for the specific patient at which an electrical signal delivered via the implanted electrode directly triggers a neural reaction associated with the stimulation site in response to the delivered electrical signal, and electrically stimulating the cortical stimulation site by Passing an electrical current through the electrode. | 12-24-2009 |
20090319001 | FEEDBACK METHOD FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION WITH DETECTION OF GENERALIZED EFFERENCE COPY SIGNALS - Disclosed is a method for improving cognitive function or for improving coordination of function across a patient's cortical regions. The method includes applying electrical stimulation to at least a portion of the patient's subcortical structures involved in the generation and control of generalized efference copy signals. Internally generated movement of the patient is then detected and, in response to such internally generated movement, application of electrical stimulation is controlled. The method of the present invention has a number of benefits, including increasing flexibility in identifying targets for stimulation, improving the probability of successfully treating brain injury, and permitting patient biofeedback and self-regulation. | 12-24-2009 |
20090319002 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSCRANIAL STIMULATION - The present invention provides systems, apparatus and methods for applying electric current to neurons in the brain to treat disorders and to improve motor and/or memory functions in a patient. In a method according to the invention, an electrode is positioned adjacent to and spaced from the skin surface of the patient's head and an electric current is applied through the electrode to a target region in the brain to modulate one or more neurons in the target region. The electrode is housed within an enclosure and spaced from the skin surface so that the electrode does not directly contact the patient's tissue, which reduces the potential for collateral tissue damage or necrosis and shields the electrode from the patient's tissue which substantially inhibits Faradic products (e.g., H | 12-24-2009 |
20090326604 | Systems and methods for altering vestibular biology - The present invention relates to systems and methods for management of brain and body functions and sensory perception. For example, the present invention provides systems and methods of sensory substitution and sensory enhancement (augmentation) as well as motor control enhancement. The present invention also provides systems and methods of treating diseases and conditions, as well as providing enhanced physical and mental health and performance through sensory substitution, sensory enhancement, and related effects. In particular, the present invention provides systems and methods for altering vestibular biology to, among other things, treat diseases and conditions or enhance performance related to vestibular functions. | 12-31-2009 |
20090326605 | Treatment of language, behavior and social disorders - Methods of treating language, behavioral and social disorders are described, including methods of treating language disorders associated with electrographic abnormalities in the primary or associative language cortex of persons with autism spectrum disorders, pervasive developmental delay or acquired epileptic aphasia. A language, behavioral and social disorder may be treated by detecting epileptiform activity or an electrographic seizure for a subject's brain and applying neurostimulation to a language cortical region of the subject's brain (e.g., a primary or associative language cortical region). Detection of epileptiform activity or an electrographic seizure and stimulation of language cortex may be performed by a sensing and/or stimulation electrode that is inserted into a subject's brain and connected to one or more neurostimulation devices for monitoring and/or stimulating the language cortex. | 12-31-2009 |
20100010564 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION - The present invention provides systems, apparatus and methods for treating nerve disorders in the brain. An electrode is introduced into a patient's sinus cavity and an electrical impulse is applied to the electrode to modulate one or more target nerves in the brain to treat the disorder. In preferred embodiments, the electrode is positioned within a sinus cavity adjacent to or near the frontal cortex of the brain and the electrical signal is sufficient to modulate, stimulate and/or inhibit nerves within the frontal cortex. The electrode may be movable between a collapsed or compact configuration for introduction into the sinus cavity and an expanded configuration for contacting tissue within the sinus cavity to deliver the electrical impulse through the tissue to the target nerves in the brain. | 01-14-2010 |
20100023089 | Controlling a Subject's Susceptibility to a Seizure - A neurological control system for modulating activity of any component or structure comprising the entirety or portion of the nervous system, or any structure interfaced thereto, generally referred to herein as a “nervous system component.” The neurological control system generates neural modulation signals delivered to a nervous system component through one or more neuromodulators to control neurological state and prevent neurological signs and symptoms. Such treatment parameters may be derived from a neural response to previously delivered neural modulation signals sensed by one or more sensors, each configured to sense a particular characteristic indicative of a neurological or psychiatric condition. | 01-28-2010 |
20100030298 | TISSUE STIMULATION METHOD AND APPARATUS - A stimulation apparatus includes a stimulation lead ( | 02-04-2010 |
20100036452 | Modulation of neural traveling waves - The present invention provides devices and methods for modulating the properties and propagation of traveling waves of electrical activity in neural systems. Such modulation is useful for a variety of purposes, including the control and containment of epileptic seizure activity, for treating mental disorders, movement disorders, sleep disorders, pain, and other disturbances and illnesses associated with neural systems. In addition, the devices can be used to modulate sensory and other stimuli experienced by a neural system, as well as any other normal neural activity. Neural prosthetic devices incorporating the methods of the present application have a wide range of applications and use in medicine, psychiatry, behavioral psychology, research, and other disciplines that address and treat disturbances in neural systems. | 02-11-2010 |
20100036453 | TECHNIQUES FOR SELECTING SIGNAL DELIVERY SITES AND OTHER PARAMETERS FOR TREATING DEPRESSION AND OTHER NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - The present disclosure is directed generally to techniques for selecting signal delivery sites and other signal delivery parameters for treating depression and other neurological disorders, and associated systems and methods. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes obtaining first imaging information corresponding to a first region of a patient's brain, the first imaging information being based at least in part on functional characteristics of the first region. The method further includes obtaining second imaging information corresponding to a second region of the patient's brain, the second region being a subset of the first region, the second imaging information being based at least in part on functional or structural characteristics of the second region. A target neural population is then selected based at least in part on the second imaging information. The method still further includes applying an electromagnetic signal to the target neural population to improve a patient function. | 02-11-2010 |
20100049276 | Clinician programmer system and method for calculating volumes of activation for monopolar and bipolar electrode configurations - A system and method for providing a volume of activation (VOA) of a stimulation electrode leadwire may include a processor that calculates a VOA for each of a plurality of sets of parameter settings of the leadwire, stores in a database each of the calculated VOAs in association with the respective set of parameter settings for which it was calculated, performs a curve fitting on threshold values determined for a plurality of waveforms to obtain an equation, obtains a set of parameter settings of the leadwire for a stimulation, and determines a VOA for the obtained set of parameter settings based on the stored VOAs, for example, using the equation. | 02-25-2010 |
20100057159 | METHODS FOR TARGETING DEEP BRAIN SITES TO TREAT MOOD AND/OR ANXIETY DISORDERS - The present invention relates to a method of identifying a target such as within the subgenual area by measuring neuronal activity in response to a stimulus. Once the target is identified, it can be stimulated to treat a neurological disorder, such as a mood disorder or an anxiety disorder. | 03-04-2010 |
20100057160 | Stimulation of the amygdalohippocampal complex to treat neurological conditions - A system and/or method treating for a neurological disorder by brain region stimulation. The system and/or method comprises a probe and a device to provide stimulation. The probe has a stimulation portion implanted in communication with a predetermined brain region site. The stimulation portion of the probe may be implanted in contact with a predetermined brain region. | 03-04-2010 |
20100057161 | Methods of Treating Medical Conditions by Neuromodulation of the Cerebellar Pathways - Methods of treating various medical conditions by neuromodulation of target sites of a cerebello-thalamo-cortical pathway and/or a cortical-ponto-cerebellar pathway. Such medical conditions include unilateral motor deficits, movement disorders, psychiatric disorders, epilepsy, speech or cognitive deficits associated with hemispheric lesions, visual deficits associated with hemispheric lesions, learning disorders associated with hemispheric lesions, vertigo and/or dizziness, gait disturbances, hereditary/genetic disorders, congenital malformations, infectious disease, degenerative disorders, autoimmune disorders, and metabolic disorders. A method of enhancing memory, learning and/or cognitive capacity in a normal individual by stimulating a target site of a cerebello-thalamo-cortical pathway and/or a cortical-ponto-cerebellar pathway is also provided. | 03-04-2010 |
20100063563 | MICROBURST ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF CRANIAL NERVES FOR THE TREATMENT OF MEDICAL CONDITIONS - Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and apparatus for treating a medical condition in a patient using an implantable medical device by applying an electrical signal characterized by having a number of pulses per microburst, an interpulse interval, a microburst duration, and an interburst period to a portion of a cranial nerve of said patient, wherein at least one of the number of pulses per microburst, the interpulse interval, the microburst duration, or the interburst period is selected to enhance cranial nerve evoked potentials. | 03-11-2010 |
20100094377 | Method and apparatus for closed-loop deep brain stimulation in treating neurological diseases - A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, implanted deep brain stimulation electrodes, a stimulation sequence pulse generator, one or more implanted sensors for collecting data associated with one or more electrical signal from the vicinity of the site where stimulation is applied by the stimulation electrodes, and one or more noninvasive surface EMG electrodes to be attached to the patient's skin, say, on certain limbs and which may incorporate a wireless transmitter microchip, and a controller. The controller may incorporate one or more wireless receiver microchips to receive inputs from the sensors. It may also have wire input, if placed under the skin of the skull, for inputs from the implanted sensors. It will incorporate a signal processor to process and coordinate the sensed data from the various sensors and to predict the timing for its output commands. The controller also incorporates a decision element to produce a control output to be sent by wire or wireless to the stimulation sequence generator and which may be an on-off command. The signal processor will also discriminate between tremors and intentional movements in the EMG signals utilizing the EMG spectrum. An electronic switch device may be incorporated to allow the implanted electrodes to switch between serving as stimulation electrodes and voltage sensors, thus eliminating the need to implant any separate sensing electrodes. Alternatively, only noninvasive EMG sensing may be employed for closed-loop control. | 04-15-2010 |
20100100151 | NEUROSTIMULATION WITH SIGNAL DURATION DETERMINED BY A CARDIAC CYCLE - We disclose a method of providing an electrical signal to a cranial nerve of a patient for treating a medical condition, comprising providing an electrical signal generator, coupling at least a first electrode to a cranial nerve of the patient and to the electrical signal generator, generating an electrical signal with the electrical signal generator, and applying the electrical signal to the cranial nerve, using the at least a first electrode, for a duration less than a cardiac period of the patient and during the cardiac period of the patient. We also disclose an implantable medical device capable of implementing the method. | 04-22-2010 |
20100100152 | ELECTRODE SYSTEM FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION - The invention relates to an electrode system ( | 04-22-2010 |
20100100153 | STIMULATION ELECTRODE SELECTION - Bioelectrical signals may be sensed within a brain of a patient with a plurality of sense electrode combinations. A stimulation electrode combination for delivering stimulation to the patient to manage a patient condition may be selected based on the frequency band characteristics of the sensed signals. In some examples, a stimulation electrode combination associated with the sense electrode combination that sensed a bioelectrical brain signal having a relatively highest relative beta band power level may be selected to deliver stimulation therapy to the patient. Other frequency bands characteristics may also be used to select the stimulation electrode combination. | 04-22-2010 |
20100106217 | DYNAMIC CRANIAL NERVE STIMULATION BASED ON BRAIN STATE DETERMINATION FROM CARDIAC DATA - A method of treating a medical condition in a patient using an implantable medical device, comprising providing an electrical signal generator; providing at least a first electrode operatively coupled to the electrical signal generator and to a vagus nerve of the patient; sensing cardiac data of the patient; determining at least a first cardiac parameter based upon said cardiac data; setting at least a first value; declaring an unstable brain state of a patient from said at least a first cardiac parameter and said at least a first value; and adjusting the at least a first value. Also, a computer readable program storage device encoded with instructions that, when executed by a computer, performs the method. In addition, the implantable medical device used in the method. | 04-29-2010 |
20100114237 | MOOD CIRCUIT MONITORING TO CONTROL THERAPY DELIVERY - Brain signals may be monitored at different locations of a mood circuit in order to determine a mood state of the patient. A relationship (e.g., a ratio) between frequency band characteristics of the monitored brain signals may be indicative of a particular mood state. In some examples, therapy parameter values that define the therapy delivered to the patient may be selected to maintain a target relationship (e.g., a target ratio) between the frequency band characteristics of the brain signals monitored within the mood circuit. In addition, in some examples, therapy delivery to the patient may be controlled based on the frequency band characteristics of brain signals sensed at different portions of the mood circuit. | 05-06-2010 |
20100121407 | NEUROMODULATION HAVING NON-LINEAR DYNAMICS - Methods of neuromodulation in a live mammalian subject, such as a human patient. The method comprises applying electromagnetic energy to a target site in the nervous system of the subject using a signal comprising a series of pulses, wherein the inter-pulse intervals are varied using the output of a deterministic, non-linear, dynamical system comprising one or more system control parameters. In certain embodiments, the target site may be a site in the brain involved in generalized CNS (central nervous system) arousal. The dynamical system may be capable of exhibiting chaotic behavior. Also provided are apparatuses for neuromodulation and software for operating such apparatuses. | 05-13-2010 |
20100125311 | Adjustable implant electrode system and implant electrode assembly thereof - An adjustable implant electrode system comprises an adjustable implant electrode assembly and an adjustment device for adjusting the adjustable implant electrode assembly to a desired position. The adjustable implant electrode assembly comprises an implant, a plurality of electrodes, and a plurality of magnetic components. The electrodes are disposed in the implant for providing stimulating currents according to a control signal. The magnetic components are combined with the electrodes in one-to-one correspondence. The adjustment device comprises a control unit, an excitation unit, and one or more magnetic units. The control unit is used to select one or more magnetic components to be moved from the magnetic components, and the excitation unit is used to excite the selected one or more magnetic components for the same to generate a magnetic pole, and the magnetic unit is adapted to generate a magnetic filed to drive the magnetic pole and accordingly move the implant. | 05-20-2010 |
20100125312 | SATELLITE THERAPY DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR BRAIN NEUROMODULATION - Deep brain electrodes are remotely sensed and activated by means of a remote active implantable medical device (AIMD). In a preferred form, a pulse generator is implanted in the pectoral region and includes a hermetic seal through which protrudes a conductive leadwire which provides an external antenna for transmission and reception of radio frequency (RF) pulses. One or more deep brain electrode modules are constructed and placed which can transmit and receive RF energy from the pulse generator. An RF telemetry link is established between the implanted pulse generator and the deep brain electrode assemblies. The satellite modules are configured for generating pacing pulses for a variety of disease conditions, including epileptic seizures, Turrets Syndrome, Parkinson's Tremor, and a variety of other neurological or brain disorders. | 05-20-2010 |
20100131030 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTUATING A CHANGE IN A NEURAL-FUNCTION OF A PATIENT - The present disclosure is directed generally to methods and apparatus for effectuating a change in a neural function of a patient. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes implanting an electrode at a cortical stimulation site selected to promote recovery of the affected neural-function, with the cortical stimulation site being at least proximate to the cortex. The method can further include estimating a threshold for the specific patient at which an electrical signal delivered via the implanted electrode directly triggers a neural reaction associated with the stimulation site in response to the delivered electrical signal, and electrically stimulating the cortical stimulation site by Passing an electrical current through the electrode. | 05-27-2010 |
20100137937 | Modulation and Analysis of Cerebral Perfusion In Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders - A system including an implantable neurostimulator device capable of modulating cerebral blood flow to treat epilepsy and other neurological disorders. In one embodiment, the system is capable of modulating cerebral blood flow (also referred to as cerebral perfusion) in response to measurements and other observed conditions. Perfusion may be increased or decreased by systems and methods according to the invention as clinically required. | 06-03-2010 |
20100145410 | Microcurrent and cranial electrotherapy stimulator for control of anxiety, insomnia, depression and pain - A device for controlling anxiety, insomnia, depression and pain utilizing a microcurrent and cranial electrotherapy stimulation. The device could also be utilized to treat other types of stress-related disorders. A relatively low level current having a particular frequency is produced by the device in two channels wherein the current for both of the channels can be different. Electrodes are placed at various points of the patient's body to relieve pain. When utilized to control anxiety, insomnia and depression, a single channel is produced which is applied to the patient's ear lobes by two ear clips. | 06-10-2010 |
20100152807 | Non-regular electrical stimulation patterns for treating neurological disorders - Systems and methods for stimulation of neurological tissue generate stimulation trains with temporal patterns of stimulation, in which the interval between electrical pulses (the inter-pulse intervals) changes or varies over time. Compared to conventional continuous, high rate pulse trains having regular (i.e., constant) inter-pulse intervals, the non-regular (i.e., not constant) pulse patterns or trains that embody features of the invention provide a lower average frequency. | 06-17-2010 |
20100160997 | TUNED ENERGY BALANCED SYSTEM FOR MINIMIZING HEATING AND/OR TO PROVIDE EMI PROTECTION OF IMPLANTED LEADS IN A HIGH POWER ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD ENVIRONMENT - An energy management system facilitates the transfer of high frequency energy coupled into an implanted lead at a selected RF frequency or frequency band, to an energy dissipating surface. This is accomplished by conductively coupling the implanted lead to the energy dissipating surface through an energy diversion circuit including one or more passive electronic network components whose impedance characteristics are at least partially tuned to the implanted lead's impedance characteristics. | 06-24-2010 |
20100168816 | METHOD FOR TREATING DEMENTIA - A description is given of a method to treat dementia, in particular Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body dementia and vascular dementia, by means of electrical brain stimulation. | 07-01-2010 |
20100185256 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ESTABLISHING, ADJUSTING, AND/OR MODULATING PARAMETERS FOR NEURAL STIMULATION BASED ON FUNCTIONAL AND/OR STRUCTURAL MEASUREMENTS - Methods and systems for establishing, adjusting, and/or modulating parameters for neural stimulation based, at least in part, on functional and/or structural measurements are disclosed. A method in accordance with one embodiment includes measuring a volume of functionally active neural tissue within a patient's central nervous system both before and after affecting a target neural population of the patient with electromagnetic stimulation. The method further includes controlling at least one signal delivery parameter with which the electromagnetic stimulation is applied to the patient based, at least in part, on the measured difference in the volume of functionally active neural tissue. | 07-22-2010 |
20100185257 | METHOD FOR FILTERING OUT ARTEFACTS OF DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION - The present invention relates to a method for filtering the signal of neuronal activity during a high frequency deep brain stimulation (DBS) to remove the stimulus artefact in the observed signal, comprising the step of approximating the observed signal trajectories in phase space the observed signal being considered as a sum of the stimulation artefacts induced by the signal of stimulation, wherein the signal of stimulation is assumed to be a solution of an ordinary differential equation including a self-oscillating system with stable limit cycle; slicing the observed signal and its derivative into segments, each segment corresponding to a period of stimulation; collecting N selected periods of stimulation to a training set; estimating the limit cycle of the self-oscillating system; synchronizing each artefact of the observed signal with the estimated limit cycle; subtracting the estimated limit cycle from each artefact in phase space according to the synchronization; collecting all segments in order to obtain whole filtered signal and finally presenting the results in time domain. | 07-22-2010 |
20100185258 | Surgical Guide and Method for Guiding a Therapy Delivery Device into the Pterygopalatine Fossa - A surgical guide to facilitate delivery of a therapy delivery device into the pterygopalatine fossa of a subject includes a curvilinear body having a distal end portion, a proximal end portion, and an intermediate portion extending between the distal and proximal end portions. The proximal end portion is defined by oppositely disposed first and second surfaces. The proximal end portion and the intermediate portion define a longitudinal plane that extends between the proximal and distal end portions. The distal end portion has an arcuate configuration relative to the longitudinal plane and is defined by oppositely disposed third and fourth surfaces. | 07-22-2010 |
20100191304 | Implantable Medical Device for Providing Chronic Condition Therapy and Acute Condition Therapy Using Vagus Nerve Stimulation - Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and apparatus for treating a medical condition in a patient using an implantable medical device (IMD). The IMD is capable of generating a first electrical signal for treating a medical condition, for example epilepsy. The first electrical signal relates to a long term therapy during a first time period in which there is no indication that the patient's brain is in an stable state, the first electrical signal being a microburst stimulation signal. The implantable device is also capable of generating a second electrical signal for treating the medical condition. The second electrical signal relates to a short term therapy during a second time period, in response to an indication that the patient's brain is in an unstable state. The second electrical signal in one example, may be a conventional stimulation signal. | 07-29-2010 |
20100191305 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE DETECTION OF ABERRANT NEURAL-ELECTRIC ACTIVITY - Embodiments provide an apparatus and method for detection of aberrant neural-electric activity (ANEA) in the brain causing an epileptic seizure or other neurologic condition. One embodiment provides an apparatus for detection of ANEA comprising an introducer having at least one lumen. The introducer is introduced into brain tissue through an opening in the skull. A reference electrode is positioned at an introducer distal portion. A plurality of electrode members are advanceable within the at least one lumen with each member having an insulated portion and an exposed distal portion. The members have a non-deployed state in the introducer and a deployed state when outwardly advanced out of the introducer. In the deployed state, the members are substantially orthogonal to each other with the exposed distal portions defining a detection volume capable of determining an electric field vector produced by the ANEA and the direction of a foci of the ANEA. | 07-29-2010 |
20100191306 | TRANSIENT VOLTAGE SUPPRESSION CIRCUIT FOR AN IMPLANTED RFID CHIP - A transient voltage suppressing (TVS) circuit includes an implantable RFID chip, an antenna associated with the RFID chip, and a transient voltage suppressor electrically connected in parallel to both the RFID chip and the antenna. The transient voltage suppressor may be formed of an array of diodes, such as back-to-back diodes, at least one Zener diode, or back-to-back or series opposing Zener diodes. In preferred embodiments, the antenna is formed of a biocompatible material suitable for long-term exposure to body tissue and body fluids, and the RFID chip and the transient voltage suppressor are disposed within a hermetically sealed biocompatible container. | 07-29-2010 |
20100198297 | Wireless Recording and Stimulation of Brain Activity - Subdural arrays transmit electrocorticogram recordings wirelessly, across the patient's skull, allowing the craniotomy used for surgical placement of the arrays to be completely closed. In various embodiments, the arrays also respond to commands, applying signal patterns to the patient's brain for diagnostic and treatment purposes. | 08-05-2010 |
20100204748 | IDENTIFYING AREAS OF THE BRAIN BY EXAMINING THE NEURONAL SIGNALS - The present invention relates to a method of identifying a region of the brain by measuring neuronal firing and/or local field potentials by recording discharges from at least one implanted electrode and analyzing the recording of the discharges within the beta frequency band range to determine an area of beta oscillatory activity. Once the region of the brain is identified, this region may be stimulated to disrupt the beta oscillatory activity thereby treating a movement disorder. | 08-12-2010 |
20100204749 | STIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD TREATING A NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER - According to one aspect, a stimulation system is provided for electrically stimulating a predetermined site to treat a neurological condition. The system includes an electrical stimulation lead adapted for implantation into a subcutaneous area in communication with a predetermined site, wherein the site is neuronal tissue that is associated with C2/C3 dermatome area, or stimulating cervical nerve roots and/or stimulating cranial nerves and/or stimulating any area associated with the occipital area. The stimulation lead includes one or more stimulation electrodes adapted to be positioned in the predetermined site. The system also includes a stimulation source that generates the stimulation pulses for transmission to the one or more stimulation electrodes of the stimulation lead to deliver the stimulation pulses to the predetermined site to treat a neurological disorder or condition. | 08-12-2010 |
20100204750 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR UTILIZING AMPLITUDE-MODULATED PULSE-WIDTH MODULATION SIGNALS FOR NEUROSTIMULATION AND TREATMENT OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS USING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - A computing device-controlled system is described for the generation of amplitude-modulated pulse-width modulation (AMPWM) signals for use in treating neurological dysfunction via cranial neurostimulation, where the AMPWM signal is specifically designed to minimize the electrical impedance of the tissues of the head. A low-frequency carrier signal is determined for the AMPWM signal by measuring EEG activity at a reference site or sites, generally corresponding with the location of suspected brain dysfunction. Carrier signal frequency is variably related to critical frequency components of the EEG power spectral density, determined from statistical analysis of amplitudes and variability, and dynamically changed as a function of time to prevent entrainment. The AMPWM signal is presented to a subject via a plurality of neurostimulation delivery modes for therapeutic use. | 08-12-2010 |
20100217348 | Systems for Monitoring a Patient's Neurological Disease State - The present invention provides methods and systems for modulating a patient's neurological disease state. In one embodiment, the system comprises one or more sensors that sense at least one signal that comprise a characteristic that is indicative of a neurological disease state. A signal processing assembly is in communication with the one or more sensors and processes the at least one signal to estimate the neurological disease state and to generate a therapy to the patient that is based at least in part on the estimated neurological disease state. A treatment assembly is in communication with the signal processing assembly and delivers the therapy to a nervous system component of the patient. | 08-26-2010 |
20100228319 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD USING MULTI-GROUP ELECTRODE ARRAY - An electrical stimulation system and method using multi-group electrode array are disclosed. The electrical stimulation system comprises an implant body having an electrode carrying surface, an electrode array provided on the electrode carrying surface, and an electrode controller. The electrode array comprises a plurality of electrode groups, each of which includes a plurality of electrodes, and each of the electrodes has an independent power supply control. The electrode controller receives a control signal to drive a set of at least two corresponding electrodes, which is selected from the electrodes of the same electrode group and two adjacent electrode groups. Powers supplies to the set of corresponding electrodes may be regulated by the independent power supply controls thereof, so as to generate a virtual channel between the set of corresponding electrodes through interaction of powers supplied to the set of corresponding electrodes. | 09-09-2010 |
20100268298 | DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION CURRENT STEERING WITH SPLIT ELECTRODES - A device for brain stimulation includes a lead having a longitudinal surface, a proximal end, a distal end and a lead body. The device also includes a plurality of electrodes disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead near the distal end of the lead. The plurality of electrodes includes a first set of segmented electrodes comprising at least two segmented electrodes disposed around a circumference of the lead at a first longitudinal position along the lead; and a second set of segmented electrodes comprising at least two segmented electrodes disposed around a circumference of the lead at a second longitudinal position along the lead. The device further includes one or more conductors that electrically couple together all of the segmented electrodes of the first set of segmented electrodes. | 10-21-2010 |
20100274311 | Method And Apparatus For Detecting The Coronal Suture For Stereotactic Procedures - A method for identifying a coronal suture on a cranium can include acquiring image data of craniums for a plurality of patients. A database can be created that includes spatial relationships of various craniometric landmarks of the plurality of patients sorted by a desired population characteristic. A region of interest can be established that is based on a variance of locations of the craniometric landmarks between the plurality of patients for the desired characteristic. A criteria search can be performed of acquired image data from a specific patient that is limited to only the region of interest to identify a coronal suture for that specific patient. | 10-28-2010 |
20100280571 | NEURAL STIMULATION AND OPTICAL MONITORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Neural stimulation and optical monitoring systems and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus for treating a neural condition includes a signal delivery device configured to be implanted into a patient proximate to a skull of the patient and positioned to apply electromagnetic signals to one or more target sites within the patient. The apparatus also includes an implantable optical monitoring assembly configured to monitor optical properties at one or more optical monitoring sites within the patient. The apparatus further includes a controller configured to be implanted into the patient. The controller is operatively coupled to the signal delivery device and the optical monitoring assembly and programmed to control both the signal delivery device and the optical monitoring assembly. The controller also includes a power source to power both the signal delivery device and the optical monitoring assembly. | 11-04-2010 |
20100280572 | OPEN LOOP DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION SYSTEM FOR THE TREATMENT OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE OR OTHER DISORDERS - A deep brain stimulation (DBS) system ( | 11-04-2010 |
20100286747 | METHODS FOR APPLYING BRAIN SYNCHRONIZATION TO EPILEPSY AND OTHER DYNAMICAL DISORDERS - For analyzing a multi-component system, a method acquires a plurality of signals, each having a different spatial location of the multi-component system, and generates dynamic profiles for each of the plurality of signals. Each of the plurality of dynamic profiles reflects dynamic characteristics of the corresponding signal in accordance with each one of a plurality of dynamic measures. The method selects pairs of dynamic profiles from the acquired dynamic profiles based on a predetermined level of synchronization and generates a statistical measure for each of the selected plurality of pairs of dynamic profiles. The method characterizes state dynamics of the multi-component system as a function of at least one of the generated statistical measures, and generates a signal indicative of the characterized state dynamics of the multi-component system. The method enables seizure detection, seizure prediction, seizure focus localization, differential diagnosis of epilepsy and evaluation of seizure intervention strategies | 11-11-2010 |
20100292750 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR FOCAL ELECTRICALLY ADMINISTERED SEIZURE THERAPY USING TITRATION IN THE CURRENT DOMAIN - An ECT system capable of focusing the electrical signals on a specific portion of the patient's brain is provided. The ECT system includes a means of applying unidirectional electrical signals and asymmetric electrodes for focusing the signals on the patient. A method of titrating an electro-convulsive therapy (ECT) system and a method of operating an ECT system are also provided. The method includes setting an initial current value, administering an ECT signal to the patient, determining if the seizure threshold has been achieved, and repeating as necessary until the seizure threshold is achieved. | 11-18-2010 |
20100292751 | PARAMETER ADJUSTMENT DEVICE AND METHOD THEREOF - A parameter adjustment device and method thereof for a stimulator is disclosed. The parameter adjustment device comprises a generation unit, a user interface and a process unit. The generation unit generates a test MAP based on a current MAP. The user interface displays the current MAP and the test MAP for choosing one of them as the preferred MAP, and displays a major and a minor for choosing again, the major and the minor is defined as a significant difference and a little difference between the test MAP and the current MAP respectively. The process unit computes the acceptance probability of the preferred MAP based on a major or minor probability correspondence relationship and determines a next MAP by comparing the acceptance probability with the test probability. When one of the termination conditions is satisfied in an iterative operation, the next MAP is outputted as the best MAP. | 11-18-2010 |
20100292752 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COGNITIVE RHYTHM GENERATION - A method of modeling time-dependent electrical activity of a biological system, the method comprises transforming an input through at least one dynamic mode to yield at least one modal output; processing the at least one modal output to yield at least one amplitude variable and at least one phase variable; and mapping the at least one amplitude variable and the at least one phase variable to an observable output. | 11-18-2010 |
20100292753 | Method and Apparatus for Detection of Nervous System Disorders - Systems and methods for detecting and/or treating nervous system disorders, such as seizures. Certain embodiments of the invention relate generally to implantable medical devices (IMDs) adapted to detect and treat nervous system disorders in patients with an IMD. Certain embodiments of the invention include detection of seizures based upon comparisons of long-term and short-term representations of physiological signals. Other embodiments include prediction of seizure activity based upon analysis of physiological signal levels. An embodiment of the invention monitors the quality of physiological signals, and may be able to compensate for signals of low signal quality. A further embodiment of the invention includes detection of seizure activity following the delivery of therapy. | 11-18-2010 |
20100292754 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ENHANCING OR OPTIMIZING NEURAL STIMULATION THERAPY FOR TREATING SYMPTOMS OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE AND/OR OTHER MOVEMENT DISORDERS - Systems and methods for treating a neurological disorder comprising determining a first set of neural stimulation parameters capable of treating a first subset of symptoms, determining a second set of neural stimulation parameters capable of treating a second subset of symptoms, and applying a neural stimulation therapy based upon the first set of neural stimulation parameters and the second set of neural stimulation parameters to the patient. The first set of neural stimulation parameters can include electrical stimulation at a first frequency, and the second set of neural stimulation parameters can include electrical stimulation at a second frequency. In other embodiments, a treatment method comprises applying a first neural stimulation therapy to the patient in a continuous or generally continuous manner during a first time interval, and applying a second neural stimulation therapy to the patient in a noncontinuous or interrupted manner following the first time interval. | 11-18-2010 |
20100298907 | CORTICAL STIMULATOR METHOD AND APPARATUS - A cortical stimulator system is provided. The system may include; a stimulation device having a switch configured to selectively control various electrodes; and a user interface device operatively connected to the stimulation device for controlling the electronic switch and stimulation device, the cortical stimulator system configured to provide a report of provided stimulation. A method of operating a cortical stimulator may be provided. The method may include: connecting a set of probes to the cortical stimulator, selecting parameters regarding a signal to be sent to the set of probes, sending a signal to the set of probes; observing the response of a subject having the set of probes contacting the subjects brain when the signal is sent to the probes, entering the observed response into the cortical stimulator, associating the response to a specific set of probes, and generating a report describing the response and associated probes. | 11-25-2010 |
20100298908 | Various Apparatus and Methods for Deep Brain Stimulating Electrodes - A deploying deep brain stimulating probe with a shaft, at least one opening on said shaft, at least one extendable tendril, said tendril deploying from said shaft into surrounding tissue through said opening and an electrode disposed on said tendril. | 11-25-2010 |
20100305657 | NERVOUS DEVICE USING AT LEAST ONE NANO-WIRE - The present invention relates to a neural device comprising wires transmitting and receiving electric signals. More specifically, the present invention relates to a structure of the neural device comprising wires which effectively obtain electric signals developed in nerve fibers and transmit electric stimuli to the nerve fibers. The neural device according to the present invention is connected to a processing module processing electric signals detected from nerve fibers, and the neural device is inserted in nerve fibers via nanowires to obtain electric signals from the nerve fibers, or inserted in the nerve fibers to transmit electric stimuli. The neural device may further provide with at least one through-hole and support. The neural device according to the present invention has an advantage that may obtain electric signals without killing nerve fibers or provide them with electric stimuli. | 12-02-2010 |
20100305658 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MODULATING NEUROCHEMICAL LEVELS IN THE BRAIN - The present invention provides a method for modulating or regulating levels of a neurochemical in an individual using deep brain stimulation. More particularly, the invention relates to a method of treating neurological and psychiatric diseases by providing a feedback loop capable of maintaining central and/or peripheral nervous system neurochemical levels in an individual. | 12-02-2010 |
20100324623 | TRANSCRANIAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATION DEVICE - A transcranial electrical stimulation device | 12-23-2010 |
20110004267 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR BRAIN STIMULATION - A device for brain stimulation that includes a lead having a longitudinal surface; at least one stimulation electrode disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead; and at least one recording electrode, separate from the at least one stimulation electrode, disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead. | 01-06-2011 |
20110004268 | Responsive Electrical Stimulation for Movement Disorders - An implantable neurostimulator system for treating movement disorders includes a sensor, a detection subsystem capable of identifying episodes of a movement disorder by analyzing a signal received from the sensor, and a therapy subsystem capable of supplying therapeutic electrical stimulation to treat the movement disorder. The system treats movement disorders by detecting physiological conditions characteristic of an episode of symptoms of the movement disorder and selectively initiating therapy when such conditions are detected. | 01-06-2011 |
20110009919 | METHOD TO ENHANCE AFFERENT AND EFFERENT TRANSMISSION USING NOISE RESONANCE - Methods of providing therapy to a patient are provided. In one method, the patient has a neuron to which a sub-threshold biological electrical stimulus is applied. The method comprises applying electrical noise energy to the neuron, wherein resonance between the biological electrical stimulus and the electrical noise energy is created, such that an action potential is propagated along the axon of the neuron. In another method, the patient has a neuron to which a supra-threshold biological electrical stimulus is applied. This method comprises applying supra-threshold electrical noise energy to the neuron, thereby preventing an action potential from being propagated along the axon of the neuron. Still another method comprises applying an electrical stimulus to a neuron, and applying supra-threshold electrical noise energy to the neuron, thereby preventing or reversing any neurological accommodation of the neuron that may occur in response to the electrical stimulus. | 01-13-2011 |
20110009920 | SKULL-MOUNTED ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TREATING PATIENTS - A system and method for applying electrical stimulation or drug infusion to nervous tissue of a patient to treat epilepsy, movement disorders, and other indications uses at least one implantable system control unit (SCU) ( | 01-13-2011 |
20110009921 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR AUDITORY STIMULATION - A device and method for desynchronizing a patient's neuronal brain activity involving a neuron population firing in a pathologically synchronized manner. The device includes a stimulation unit configured to generate an acoustic stimulation signal to stimulate the neuron population when the acoustic stimulation signal is aurally received by the patient. Furthermore, the acoustic stimulation signal has a first frequency and a second frequency, with the first frequency provided to reset the phase of the neuronal brain activity in a first sub-population of the stimulated neuron population, and the second frequency provided to reset the phase of the neuronal brain activity in a second sub-population of the stimulated neuron population. | 01-13-2011 |
20110009922 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVING A COGNITIVE FUNCTION - In many aspects, the invention relates to systems and methods for providing cognitive therapy through stimulation of activating and inhibiting neurons in the brain, thereby modulating neural firing rhythms. The stimulation of neurons is controlled through a feedback process whereby neuron firing rhythms are altered based on naturally occurring electrical and chemical activity in the brain. Neurons in specific regions of the brain may be targeted in order to establish neural signaling pathways and establish communication between these regions. | 01-13-2011 |
20110029038 | Determining a neuromodulation treatment regimen in response to contactlessly acquired information - Described embodiments include a system, an apparatus, and a method. A described system includes a sensor device configured to sense a property of a mammal without physically contacting the mammal. The system also includes a signal generator configured to generate a signal indicative of the sensed property of the mammal. The system further includes a treatment decision device configured to determine in response to the signal indicative of the sensed property of the mammal a neuromodulation treatment regimen for administration to a nervous system component of the mammal. The system also includes a computer-readable medium configured to maintain and to provide access to information corresponding to the determined neuromodulation treatment regimen. | 02-03-2011 |
20110029039 | Intracranial Electrical Seizure Therapy (ICEST) - A method and system for administering intracranial electroconvulsive therapy are described. The method includes implanting an electrode at a target site in the brain, the electrode being connected to a controller; configuring the controller to deliver an electrical stimulus sufficient to induce a seizure that starts at the target site and spreads throughout a localized or generalized volume of the brain; and delivering the electrical stimulus through the electrode. | 02-03-2011 |
20110046693 | Deep Brain Stimulation Device Having Wireless Power Feeding By Magnetic Induction - Provided is a deep brain stimulation (DBS) device having power wirelessly fed by a magnetic induction to form a rotating magnetic field using a rotating magnetic field disk installed inside a hat put on a patient and generate induced power using an induction coil plate fixed underneath a scalp of the patient to be combined with the rotating magnetic field, to drive electrodes implanted into a brain of the patient so as to correct abnormal motor and sensory functions of the patient using power wirelessly fed from an outside into a body of the patient. The DBS device includes: a hat module which is installed inside a hat put on a head of the o patient to generate a rotating magnetic field; and an implantation module which is implanted through a skull under a scalp to contact a nervous system of the patient and combined with the rotating magnetic field of the hat module to stimulate the cerebral nerve using induced power generated by the magnetic induction. | 02-24-2011 |
20110046694 | BRAIN STIMULATION - A therapeutic brain stimulation system comprises at least two stimulation signal emitters generating stimulation signals from different positions towards a common target region in a patient's brain. While the signal intensity of each stimulation signal is much too low to cause stimulation, the accumulated stimulation signals cause a stimulation and, thus, a therapeutic effect in the neuronal brain cells of the target region. The stimulation signals accumulating in the target region are adjustable so as not to negatively affect the anatomic structure of neuronal brain cells in the target region. | 02-24-2011 |
20110054562 | Neural stimulation system and method responsive to collateral neural activity - A neural stimulation system responsive to collateral neural activity that may arise in association with a neural stimulation procedure includes a stimulation interface configured to deliver stimulation signals to a target neural population, a monitoring interface positioned to receive signals corresponding to a neural activity within the target neural population, a stimulus unit coupled to deliver stimulation singals to the stimulation interface, and a sensing unit coupled to the monitoring device and the stimulus unit. The neural stimulation procedure may be directed toward rehabilitating, restoring, and/or enhancing one or more neural functions by facilitating and/or effectuating a neuroplastic change or reorganization; and/or affecting a neurological condition that exists on a continuous or essentially continuous basis absent the stimulation procedure. The sensing unit determines whether evidence of an collateral neural activity exists, whereupon the stimulus unit attempts to abate the collateral neural activity. | 03-03-2011 |
20110054563 | COUPLING MODULE OF A MODULAR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - In an implantable medical device having individual modules, a coupling module couples the modules to one another. The coupling module supports electrical and/or mechanical coupling of the modules. The coupling module may assume a variety of shapes or configurations. The various embodiments of the coupling module may offer the modules varying degrees of freedom of movement relative to one another. | 03-03-2011 |
20110098777 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TREATMENT OF NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES INCLUDING DEPRESSION, MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT, AND DEMENTIA - A method and apparatus for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases including depression, mild cognitive impairment and dementia. An electrical signal comprising a stimulation frequency is generated and applied transcutaneously to a patient over at least one treatment cycle comprising a plurality of intervals, wherein each interval comprises increasing the stimulation frequency to a high frequency and decreasing the stimulation frequency to a low frequency. | 04-28-2011 |
20110098778 | STIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD TREATING A NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER - According to one aspect, a method of treating a patient by electrically stimulating a predetermined site to treat a neurological condition. The method includes implanting a lead into subcutaneous tissue of the C | 04-28-2011 |
20110098779 | SUB-MOTOR-THRESHOLD STIMULATION OF DEEP BRAIN TARGETS USING TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETIC STIMULATION - Systems and methods for modulating deep brain target regions using an array of TMS electromagnets, wherein each TMS electromagnet stimulates the target at a level that is below motor threshold (MT). Neurological disorders (or disorders having neurological effects) may be treated by sub-MT stimulation of deep-brain targets from an array of TMS electromagnets. | 04-28-2011 |
20110098780 | APPARATUS FOR MANAGING A NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER - A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a Neuro Sensing and Stimulation Device having a conductive lead for implanting in a brain of a living entity, a sensor coupled to the conductive lead for collecting data associated with one or more electrical signals detected in the conductive lead, a stimulator coupled to the conductive lead to apply one or more electrical signals thereto, and a controller. The controller can be operable to collect data associated with one or more electrical signals detected in the conductive lead, determine a stimulation sequence from the collected data, and direct the stimulator to apply on the conductive lead one or more electrical signals determined from the stimulation sequence. Additional embodiments are disclosed. | 04-28-2011 |
20110106206 | PATIENT CONTROLLED BRAIN REPAIR SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - A method of maintaining an information rate of a Brain-computer interface (BCI) system, implanted in a patient's brain, by regulating arousal level in the patient's brain is disclosed. The method includes selecting a patient with the implanted BCI device configured to receive neuronal activity from one or more electrodes connected to the patient's brain and to establish a communication channel between the patient and an external device controlled by the patient. Accordingly, a rate of information passage through the communication channel from the BCI device is measured, and a region of the patient's brain involved in arousal regulation, is stimulated in response to said measuring, under conditions effective to adjust the rate of information passing from the BCI device through the communication channel. A computer medium for carrying out this method and a BCI Arousal Regulation system are also disclosed. | 05-05-2011 |
20110112602 | Deep Brain Stimulation Device Having Wireless Power Transmission Mechanism - Provided is a deep brain stimulation (DBS) device using a wireless power transmission mechanism to wirelessly receive microwaves from a power transmission antenna installed at a hat put on a patient, transform the microwaves into power, and drive electrodes implanted into a brain of the patient using the power so as to correct abnormal motor and sensory functions of the patient using power which is wirelessly transmitted from an outside into a body of the patient. The DBS device includes: a hat module which is installed at a hat put on a head of the patient to transmit microwaves; and an implantation module which is implanted through a skull under a scalp to contact the cerebral nerve of the patient, receives the microwaves from the hat module, transforms the microwaves into direct current (DC) power, and stimulates the cerebral nerve using the DC power. | 05-12-2011 |
20110112603 | Extracranial implantable devices, systems and methods for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders - The present disclosure relates to methods, devices, and systems used for the treatment of mood, anxiety, cognitive, and behavioral disorders (collectively, neuropsychiatric disorders) via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve (“TNS”). More specifically, minimally invasive systems, devices and methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein. | 05-12-2011 |
20110125214 | MEDICAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATION WITH EXTERNAL SIMULATED CASE ELECTRODE - This disclosure describes delivery of omnipolar electrical stimulation with an external electrical stimulator. Omnipolar electrical stimulation may involve stimulation with an electrode carried on the housing of an implantable medical device (IMD) while substantially simultaneously delivering stimulation via one or more implanted electrodes having the same polarity as the electrode on the housing. An external medical device (EMD) may simulate the IMD housing electrode with an electrode separate from the electrodes carried on leads implanted near target tissue. This electrode may be an external electrode carried on the external housing of the EMD or an external patch electrode. Alternatively, the electrode may be an implantable electrode coupled to the EMD. The conductivity of the external or implantable electrode may also be optimized to approximate the conductivity of the IMD housing electrode. This electrode coupled to the EMD may be utilized during trial stimulation or chronic, external, stimulation. | 05-26-2011 |
20110125215 | MEDICAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATION WITH IMPLANTABLE SIMULATED CASE ELECTRODE - This disclosure describes delivery of omnipolar electrical stimulation with an external electrical stimulator. Omnipolar electrical stimulation may involve stimulation with an electrode carried on the housing of an implantable medical device (IMD) while substantially simultaneously delivering stimulation via one or more implanted electrodes having the same polarity as the electrode on the housing. An external medical device (EMD) may simulate the IMD housing electrode with an electrode separate from the electrodes carried on leads implanted near target tissue. This electrode may be an external electrode carried on the external housing of the EMD or an external patch electrode. Alternatively, the electrode may be an implantable electrode coupled to the EMD. The conductivity of the external or implantable electrode may also be optimized to approximate the conductivity of the IMD housing electrode. This electrode coupled to the EMD may be utilized during trial stimulation or chronic, external, stimulation. | 05-26-2011 |
20110130803 | ELECTRODE ARRAY HAVING CONCENTRIC WINDOWED CYLINDER ELECTRODES AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - A device for brain stimulation includes a lead body having a distal end section and at least one inner conductive cylinder with at least one inner window cut out from the inner cylinder. The inner cylinder is disposed at the distal end section of the lead body. The device also includes an outer conductive cylinder with at least one outer window cut out from the outer cylinder. The outer cylinder is secured to and disposed concentric to the inner cylinder with a portion of each of the at least one inner cylinder aligned with the at least one outer window of the outer cylinder. The device further includes an insulator configured and arranged to electrically insulate each of the at least one inner cylinder and the outer cylinder. | 06-02-2011 |
20110130804 | IMPLANTABLE PULSED-RADIOFREQUENCY MICRO-STIMULATION SYSTEM - The present invention relates to a method for treating a nervous symptom or condition in a subject with a pulsed-radiofrequency stimulation system with a low voltage to overcome the disadvantages of the known related stimulation systems. | 06-02-2011 |
20110137371 | SELECTING THERAPY CYCLE PARAMETERS BASED ON MONITORED BRAIN SIGNAL - Bioelectrical brain signals may be monitored at one more regions of the brain of a patient by a medical device. The monitored bioelectrical signals may be used to select one or more therapy cycle parameters, e.g., on cycle duration and/or off cycle duration, for therapy delivered to treat a patient disorder. In one example, the off cycle duration of a therapy may be selected based on the washout period determined from sensed brain signals of the patient following delivery of therapy during an on cycle. In another example, the on cycle duration and/or off cycle duration of a therapy may be selected to maintain the value of one or more characteristics of a brain signal (e.g., cortical activity) of patient within a threshold range of a target value defined for the characteristic that is associated with effective treatment of the patient disorder. | 06-09-2011 |
20110137372 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR USING SENSORS WITH A DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION SYSTEM - A system and method for applying stimulation to a target stimulation site within a patient, while avoiding undesirable eye movement side effects of the stimulation, are provided. The method includes determining whether eye movement, sensed by internal or external electrodes, is a side effect of a conveyed electrical stimulus. If the eye movement is a side effect, the electrical current distribution of the stimulus is modified in order to steer a locus of the electrical stimulus from one tissue region of the patient to another different tissue region of the patient, thereby mitigating the eye movement side effects. For example, the locus of the electrical stimulus may be steered away from the oculomotor nerve. Eye movement side effects of DBS treatment may include apraxia of lid opening, downward movement and adduction of only one eyeball, and/or continuous deviation of both eyeballs. | 06-09-2011 |
20110137373 | DEVICE FOR THE DESYNCHRONIZATION OF NEURONAL BRAIN ACTIVITY - A device for desynchronizing neuronal brain activity involving a neuron population firing in a synchronized manner at a pathological frequency. The device includes an electrode configured to generate stimuli that stimulate the neuron population; and a control unit configured to control the electrode to generate the stimuli in sequence, wherein the stimuli succeed each other with a predetermined frequency f. The predetermined frequency f is substantially equal to g×n/m, where g is the pathological frequency, and n and m are integers. | 06-09-2011 |
20110144715 | STIMULATION ELECTRODE SELECTION - Bioelectrical signals may be sensed within a brain of a patient with a plurality of sense electrode combinations. A stimulation electrode combination for delivering stimulation to the patient to manage a patient condition can be selected based on a frequency domain characteristic of the sensed bioelectrical signals. In some examples, a stimulation electrode combination is selected based on a determination of which of the sense electrodes are located closest to a target tissue site, as indicated by the one or more sense electrodes that sensed a bioelectrical brain signal with a relatively highest value of the frequency domain characteristic. In some examples, determining which of the sense electrodes are located closest to the target tissue site may include executing an algorithm using relative values of the frequency domain characteristic. | 06-16-2011 |
20110144716 | Apparatus and Method for Neurocranial Electrostimulation - There is provided method and apparatus for enhancing focality of neurocranial electrostimulation, including: providing a first plurality of electrodes having at least one electrode; providing a second plurality of electrodes having at least two electrodes; locating the first and the second plurality of electrodes on cranium of a subject and supplying electric current of opposite polarities to the first and the second plurality of electrodes. At least one electrode of the first plurality of electrodes is surrounded by at least two electrodes of the second plurality of electrodes. The enhanced focal stimulation may be used to treat ailments or augment cognitive performance. There are also provided methods for treating brain related ailments and performance augmentation. | 06-16-2011 |
20110152967 | NON-INVASIVE TREATMENT OF NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES - Methods and devices are disclosed for the non-invasive treatment of neurodegenerative diseases through delivery of energy to target nervous tissue, particularly the vagus nerve. The devices include a magnetic stimulator having coils with toroidal windings, which are in contact with an electrically conducting medium that is adapted to conform to the contour of a target body surface of a patient. The coils induce an electric current and/or an electric field within the patient, thereby stimulating nerve fibers within the patient. The stimulation brings about reduction of neuroinflammation in patients suffering from conditions comprising Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, postoperative cognitive dysfunction and postoperative delirium. Reduction in inflammation is effected by enhancing the anti-inflammatory competence of cytokines such as TGF-beta, wherein a retinoid or components of the retinoic acid signaling system provide an anti-inflammatory bias, by enhancing anti-inflammatory activity of a neurotrophic factor such as NGF, GDNF, BDNF, or MANF, and/or by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-alpha. | 06-23-2011 |
20110160795 | SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATED QUANTITATIVE ASSESSMENT, OPTIMIZATION AND LOGGING OF THE EFFECTS OF A THERAPY - A method for assessment, optimization and logging of the effects of a therapy for a medical condition, including (a) receiving into a signal processor input signals indicative of the subject's brain activity; (b) characterizing the spatio-temporal behavior of the brain activity using the signals; (c) delivering a therapy to a target tissue of the subject; (d) characterizing the spatio-temporal effect of the therapy on the brain activity; (e) in response to the characterizing, optimizing at least one parameter of the therapy if the brain activity has not been satisfactorily modified and/or has been adversely modified by the therapy; (f) characterizing the spatio-temporal effect of the at least one optimized parameter; and (g) logging to memory the at least one optimized parameter. A computer readable program storage unit encoded with instructions that, when executed by a computer, performs the method. | 06-30-2011 |
20110160796 | AUTOMATIC EVALUATION TECHNIQUE FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION PROGRAMMING - Neurostimulation systems and methods for providing therapy to a patient suffering from a symptom of a disease that latently responds to electrical stimulation therapy are provided. First electrical stimulation energy is conveyed to or from a tissue region of the patient in accordance with a first set of stimulation parameters, thereby affecting the symptom. A predetermined period of time estimated for the symptom to resolve in response to electrical stimulation therapy is allowed to elapse. Second electrical stimulation energy is conveyed to or from the tissue region in accordance with a second set of stimulation parameters different from the first set of stimulation parameters. | 06-30-2011 |
20110160797 | METHODS TO CONCURRENTLY STIMULATE DIFFERENT BRAIN TARGETS - A method for treating a patient having a dysfunction using a stimulation lead within the brain of a patient is provided. The stimulation lead carries a plurality of electrodes adjacent to a plurality of brain regions. Pulsed electrical waveforms having different sets of stimulation parameters are generated and then concurrently delivered to the plurality of electrodes, thereby concurrently stimulating the plurality of brain regions to treat the dysfunction. | 06-30-2011 |
20110166620 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTABLE LEADLESS BRAIN STIMULATION - Systems and methods are disclosed to stimulate brain tissue to treat medical conditions such as movement disorders, pain and epilepsy. The disclosed invention uses electrical stimulation of the brain tissue, where vibrational energy from a source is received by an implanted device and converted to electrical energy and the converted electrical energy is used by implanted electrodes to stimulate the pre-determined brain site. The vibrational energy is generated by a controller-transmitter, which could be either implanted or located externally. The vibrational energy is received by a receiver-stimulator, which could be located under the skull, within the brain, on the dura, or in the cranial space close to the brain. As a therapeutic treatment, the implantable receiver-stimulator stimulates the brain sites that are effective in altering brain activity. | 07-07-2011 |
20110184486 | COMBINATION OF TONIC AND BURST STIMULATIONS TO TREAT NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS - The present application relates to a new stimulation design which can be utilized to treat neurological conditions. The stimulation system produces a combination of burst and tonic stimulation which alters the neuronal activity of the predetermined site, thereby treating the neurological condition or disorder. | 07-28-2011 |
20110184487 | REVERSING COGNITIVE-MOTOR IMPAIRMENTS IN PATIENTS HAVING A NEURO-DEGENERATIVE DISEASE USING A COMPUTATIONAL MODELING APPROACH TO DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION PROGRAMMING - A system and method may provide for conducting a stimulation of anatomic regions to treat a neuromotor, neurocognitive or neuromotor and neurocognitive disorder, according to which stimulation, motor regions are stimulated, while creep of current to non-motor regions is minimized. Stimulation parameters may be selected based on tests of motor function, tests of cognitive function, and tests of a combination of motor and cognitive functions. | 07-28-2011 |
20110190846 | MULTI-SITE CRANIAL STIMULATION METHOD AND SYSTEM - The method includes applying individual stimuli to different regions of a brain the application of specific stimulus signals to corresponding stimulation elements arranged adjacent to the regions of the brain. The method includes constructing one or more simplified models of the brain, or of one or more sectors of the brain, considering the brain or the sector thereof, as appropriate, as a non-linear coupled oscillating system, and includes determining the stimulus signals so that the latter are suitable for exciting one or more natural vibration modes of the non-linear coupled oscillating system. The system includes stimulation elements (E | 08-04-2011 |
20110196446 | ELECTRICAL BRAIN STIMULATION IN GAMMA BAND - This disclosure describes techniques for delivering electrical stimulation to the brain of a patient at a frequency greater than a selected frequency. The techniques may reestablish gamma frequency band activity within the brain of a patient, and thus improve the patient's movements and cognitive states. In one example, the disclosure is directed to a method that includes selecting a frequency within a gamma frequency band and delivering electrical stimulation at a frequency greater than the selected frequency. | 08-11-2011 |
20110208263 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TREATING PARKINSON'S DISEASE AND OTHER MOVEMENT DISORDERS - Systems and methods for treating movement disorders using cortical stimulation. In one embodiment, a method for treating movement disorders comprises determining a site at the cortex of the brain of a patient related to a movement disorder of an afflicted body part. The site can be determined by obtaining a representation of neural activity occurring in the cortex of the patient and correlating an area of neural activity with the afflicted body part. The method can also include applying neural stimulation, such as electrical or magnetic waveforms, directly to the site. | 08-25-2011 |
20110208264 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATICALLY OPTIMIZING STIMULUS PARAMETERS AND ELECTRODE CONFIGURATIONS FOR NEURO-STIMULATORS - Methods and devices for automatically optimizing the stimulus parameters and/or the configuration of electrodes to provide neural stimulation to a patient. In one embodiment, a system includes an electrode array having an implantable support member configured to be implanted into the patient and a plurality of therapy electrodes carried by the support member. The system can also have a pulse system operatively coupled to the therapy electrodes to deliver a stimulus to the therapy electrodes, and a sensing device configured to be attached to a sensing location of the patient. The sensing device generates response signals in response to the stimulus. The system can also include a controller operatively coupled to the pulse system and to the sensing device. The controller includes a computer operable medium that generates command signals that define the stimulus delivered by the pulse system, evaluates the response signals from the sensing device, and determines a desired configuration for the therapy electrodes and/or a desired stimulus to be delivered to the therapy electrodes. | 08-25-2011 |
20110213439 | Neuromodulation Having Non-Linear Dynamics - Methods of neuromodulation in a live mammalian subject, such as a human patient. The method comprises applying electromagnetic energy to a target site in the nervous system of the subject using a signal comprising a series of pulses, wherein the inter-pulse intervals are varied using the output of a deterministic, non-linear, dynamical system comprising one or more system control parameters. In certain embodiments, the target site may be a site in the brain involved in generalized CNS (central nervous system) arousal. The dynamical system may be capable of exhibiting chaotic behavior. Also provided are apparatuses for neuromodulation and software for operating such apparatuses. | 09-01-2011 |
20110213440 | ELECTROMAGNETIC SIGNAL DELIVERY FOR TISSUE AFFECTED BY NEURONAL DYSFUNCTION, DEGRADATION, DAMAGE, AND/OR NECROSIS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Electromagnetic signal delivery for tissue affected by neuronal dysfunction, degradation, damage, and/or necrosis, and associated systems and methods are disclosed. A method in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes identifying an affected region, with the affected region including neuronal tissue that, at least during a pre-dysfunctional period, was in neural communication with neuronal tissue in a dysfunctional region. The affected tissue can be functionally adversely affected by neuronal dysfunction in the dysfunctional region. The method can further include applying electromagnetic signals to the neuronal tissue in the affected region. For example, the electromagnetic signals can be applied to a hypo-active neural region that is not physically damaged, and has been identified as likely to recover at least in part as a result of electromagnetic signals. Signals can be applied at sub-threshold levels to cortical and/or subcortical regions. | 09-01-2011 |
20110213441 | NEUROSTIMULATOR INVOLVING STIMULATION STRATEGIES AND PROCESS FOR USING IT - This is a neurostimulator that is configured to treat epilepsy and other neurological disorders using certain stimulation strategies, particularly changing various pulse parameters, during the imposition of a burst of those pulses. The invention includes the processes embodying those stimulation strategies. | 09-01-2011 |
20110213442 | NEUROSTIMULATOR INVOLVING STIMULATION STRATEGIES AND PROCESS FOR USING IT - This is a neurostimulator that is configured to treat epilepsy and other neurological disorders using certain stimulation strategies, particularly changing various pulse parameters, during the imposition of a burst of those pulses. The invention includes the processes embodying those stimulation strategies. | 09-01-2011 |
20110218588 | IMPLANTABLE CORTICAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATION APPRATUS HAVING WIRELESS POWER SUPPLY CONTROL FUNCTION - An implantable cortical electrical stimulation device having wireless power control function comprises: an electrical stimulation device ( | 09-08-2011 |
20110218589 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS AND CONDITIONS - The present disclosure relates to methods, devices, and systems used for the treatment of and/or promoting recovery from various neurological disorders and conditions, including epilepsy and other seizure disorders and movement and other related disorders; for promoting recovery from acute or chronic brain injury (e.g. stroke, hypoxia/ischemia, head trauma, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and other forms of brain injury, for awakening and/or promoting the recovery of patients in various levels of coma, altered mental status or vegetative state); or for promoting recovery from chronic daily headache and migraine and related disorders via external (cutaneous) stimulation of the sensory branches of the trigeminal nerve in the face and forehead. More specifically, devices and electrode assemblies configured for stimulation of the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, nasal and infratrochlear nerves are disclosed. | 09-08-2011 |
20110218590 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF NEUROPSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS - The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and systems used for the treatment of mood, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and cognitive and behavioral disorders (collectively, neuropsychiatric disorders) via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve (“TNS”). More specifically, cutaneous methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, infraorbital, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein. | 09-08-2011 |
20110218591 | Differential Neurostimulation Therapy Driven By Physiological Therapy - An implantable neurostimulator system adapted to provide therapy for various neurological disorders is capable of varying therapy delivery strategies based on the context, physiological or otherwise, into which the therapy is to be delivered. Responsive and scheduled therapies can be varied depending on various sensor measurements, calculations, inferences, and device states (including elapsed times and times of day) to deliver an appropriate course of therapy under the circumstances. | 09-08-2011 |
20110224752 | MICROELECTRODE STIMULATION FOR TREATMENT OF EPILEPSY OR OTHER NEUROLOGIC DISORDER - Methods for treating a neurologic disorder by neurostimulation. The stimulation may be applied using electromagnetic energy. In certain embodiments, distributed electrical stimulation is applied to a target site of the brain in an ongoing fashion. A microelectrode array may be used to provide the distributed electrical stimulation. The method may also comprise the detection of electrophysiologic signals from the brain. These detected signals may be analyzed and used for closed-loop feedback of the neurostimulation. Also provided are systems for neurostimulation and software for operating such systems. | 09-15-2011 |
20110224753 | Electrical Stimulation Device and Method for the Treatment of Neurological Disorders - An electrical stimulation system and method for the treatment of neurological disorders is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the electrical stimulation system includes channels of electrodes positioned in electrical contact with tissue of a neuromuscular target body region of a patient to provide pattered neuromuscular stimulation to the patient's musculature. In addition, at least one electrode from a channel is positioned in electrical contact with a tissue of the motor control region of the brain. A series of patterned electrical pulses are then applied to the patient through the channels to provide peripheral neuromuscular stimulation, and a direct current is applied transcranially to the brain. Various exemplary embodiments of the invention are disclosed. | 09-15-2011 |
20110238129 | HELICAL RADIAL SPACING OF CONTACTS ON A CYLINDRICAL LEAD - A device for brain stimulation includes a lead having a longitudinal surface, a proximal end and a distal end; and a plurality of electrodes disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead near the distal end of the lead. The plurality of electrodes includes at least four segmented electrodes having exposed surfaces where each exposed surface has a center point. The center points of the at least four segmented electrodes are disposed on a substantially helical path about the longitudinal surface of the lead. | 09-29-2011 |
20110264165 | STIMULATION ELECTRODE SELECTION - One or more stimulation electrodes may be selected based on a bioelectrical signal sensed in a brain of a patient with a sense electrode combination that comprises at least one electrode and a physiological model that indicates one or more anatomical structures of the brain of the patient that are proximate the implanted at least one electrode. In some examples, the bioelectrical brain signal indicates which electrodes are located closest to a target tissue site. The physiological model can be generated based on a location of implanted at least one electrode within a patient and patient anatomy data, which can, for example, indicate one or more characteristics of patient tissue proximate to the implanted at least one electrode. In some example, the physiological model includes a therapy field model that represents a region of the tissue of the patient to which therapy is delivered via a selected set of electrodes. | 10-27-2011 |
20110264166 | MULTIPLE ELECTRODE LEAD AND A SYSTEM FOR DEEP ELECTRICAL NEUROSTIMULATION INCLUDING SUCH A LEAD - A lead for deep electrical neurostimulation, the lead comprising:
| 10-27-2011 |
20110270345 | FOCAL NONINVASIVE STIMULATION OF THE SENSORY CORTEX OF A SUBJECT WITH CEREBRAL PALSY - Disclosed are methods and related devices for use with subjects with cerebral palsy or periventricular leukomalacia. In preferred embodiments, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is used to identify neural areas and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is used to stimulate neural pathways. | 11-03-2011 |
20110270346 | METHOD, APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR VALIDATING AND QUANTIFYING CARDIAC BEAT DATA QUALITY - Methods, systems, and apparatus for quantifying the quality of a fiducial time marker for a candidate heart beat, quantifying the quality of a candidate heart beat, or determining a time of beat sequence of the patient's heart. A fiducial time marker is obtained for a candidate heart beat. A quality index of said candidate heart beat is set to a first value. The candidate heart beat is tested with at least one beat validity test. At least a second value is added to said quality index of said candidate heart beat if said candidate heart beat passes said at least one beat validity test. The candidate heart beat is tested with at least a second heart beat validity test. At least a third value is added to said quality index of said candidate heart beat if said candidate heart beat passes said at least second heart beat validity test. In one class of beat validity test, a constraint defining a pass is modified at one or more times after the most recent prior valid heart beat that is greater than a constraint modification time threshold | 11-03-2011 |
20110270347 | VALIDITY TEST ADAPTIVE CONSTRAINT MODIFICATION FOR CARDIAC DATA USED FOR DETECTION OF STATE CHANGES - Methods, systems, and apparatus for quantifying the quality of a fiducial time marker for a candidate heart beat, quantifying the quality of a candidate heart beat, or determining a time of beat sequence of the patient's heart. A fiducial time marker is obtained for a candidate heart beat. A quality index of said candidate heart beat is set to a first value. The candidate heart beat is tested with at least one beat validity test. At least a second value is added to said quality index of said candidate heart beat if said candidate heart beat passes said at least one beat validity test. The candidate heart beat is tested with at least a second heart beat validity test. At least a third value is added to said quality index of said candidate heart beat if said candidate heart beat passes said at least second heart beat validity test. In one class of beat validity test, a constraint defining a pass is modified at one or more times after the most recent prior valid heart beat that is greater than a constraint modification time threshold | 11-03-2011 |
20110270348 | BRAIN STIMULATION PROGRAMMING - A programming system allows a user to program therapy parameter values for therapy delivered by a medical device by specifying a desired therapeutic outcome. In an example, the programming system presents a model of a brain network associated with a patient condition to the user. The model may be a graphical representation of a network of anatomical structures of the brain associated with the patient condition and may indicate the functional relationship between the anatomical structures. Using the model, the user may define a desired therapeutic outcome associated with the condition, and adjust excitatory and/or inhibitory effects of the stimulation on the anatomical structures. The system may determine therapy parameter values for therapy delivered to the patient based on the user input. | 11-03-2011 |
20110270349 | RECHARGING AND COMMUNICATION LEAD FOR AN IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A lead for an implantable device includes a flexible, implantable tether, electrically connectable to an implantable device, and a plurality of control elements, disposed along the tether. The control elements are electrically interconnectable to the implantable device and configured to transmit one of power and communication signals thereto | 11-03-2011 |
20110288610 | MOBILE DEVICE FOR TRANSCRANIAL AUTO-STIMULATION AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AND REGULATING THE DEVICE - Mobile device for transcranial auto-stimulation and method for controlling and regulating the device. The invention relates to a mobile device for transcranial auto-stimulation, controlled according to need, of circumscribed brain structures and brain systems, and to a method for controlling and regulating the device The device relates in particular to a device for transcranial electric current stimulation, comprising the following components:—electrodes with fastening means for exactly positioning on the skin of the head and electrical connecting lines and—a transportable, miniaturized stimulation generator comprising a current generator, a controller, a user interface, an electrical energy storage device and a monitoring and safety module with a separate electrical energy storage device. | 11-24-2011 |
20110301665 | MICROFABRICATED NEUROSTIMULATION DEVICE - Described herein are microelectrode array devices, and methods of fabrication and use of the same, to provide highly localized and efficient electrical stimulation of a neurological target. The device includes multiple microelectrode elements arranged along an elongated probe shaft. The microelectrode elements are dimensioned and shaped so as to target individual neurons, groups of neurons, and neural tissue as may be located in an animal nervous system, such as deep within a human brain. Beneficially, the neurological probe can be used to facilitate location of the neurological target and remain implanted for long-term monitoring and/or stimulation. | 12-08-2011 |
20110307029 | Brain stimulation methods for treating central sensitivity - Methods are disclosed for stimulating targeted regions of a brain to alleviate symptoms, treat conditions and/or modify brain activities associated with central sensitivity in a subject. The methods may include selecting a subject suffering from central sensitivity, identifying regions of the brain involved in central sensitivity, and stimulating one or more of these regions of the brain. | 12-15-2011 |
20110307030 | Methods for Evaluating and Selecting Electrode Sites of a Brain Network to Treat Brain Disorders - The present invention involves methods and systems for treatment of brain disorders using neuromodulation of brain networks. Implantation occurs by selecting sites which modulate the network in selected manners, or are modulated by a stimulus in a particular manner that is relevant to treatment of the network. The candidate locations within a brain region are evaluated in relation to how these are indirectly modulated by stimulation at a different brain region. Treatment of one or more brain networks associated with a brain disorder is realized with a consideration of network dynamics and coupling effects such as indirect stimulation of non-target regions. A brain modulation system (BMS) increases, decreases, or otherwise modulates network regional activity in a differential manner. Therapy and electrode locations are adjusted using sensed data and target implantation criteria related to the brain network model. Linking rules be derived during the implantation procedure and used in the subsequent adjusting of the therapy of regions of a brain network. | 12-15-2011 |
20110307031 | LEAD EXTENSION WITH INPUT CAPABILITIES - A lead extension useful in deep brain stimulation treatment includes a body portion having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end receives a stimulation signal from a generator. A lead interface is disposed at the distal end to send the stimulation signal to a brain stimulation lead. The lead extension also includes a sensor interface disposed at the distal end to receive an input signal from a sensor that is detached from the stimulation lead and send the input signal to the generator. | 12-15-2011 |
20110313485 | GUIDED PROGRAMMING WITH FEEDBACK - Techniques that involve generating test stimulation programs based upon specific patient feedback to guide the programming process for stimulation therapy are described. The patient describes positive effects and adverse effects of the test stimulation by listing and/or rating specific types of effects, both positive and adverse, and the location of each effect. In this manner, a programming device, i.e. a programmer, uses the feedback to generate subsequent test stimulation programs. Initially, programs with unipolar electrode configurations are tested, but the programmer may generate bipolar electrode configurations to test if the patient rates the unipolar electrode combinations poorly. After the stimulation programs are tested and rated, the programmer sorts the tested programs based upon the feedback and presents the tested programs to the user. The user selects the best tested program to use for chronic stimulation therapy. Additionally, the patient may utilize the guided programming technique for continued therapy optimization. | 12-22-2011 |
20110319961 | PERSONALIZED PATIENT CONTROLLED NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - A method for personalized patient controlled neurostimulation is disclosed. The method generally includes steps (A) to (D). Step (A) may obtain (i) physical data of an individual and (ii) one or more manual inputs from the individual. Step (B) may generate compare data in a processor circuit by comparing the physical data with profile data of the individual. Step (C) may generate customized data by processing the one or more manual inputs and the compared data using a set of rules. The rules are generally (i) reprogrammable and (ii) govern generation of a nerve stimulation signal having predetermined control characteristics applicable to the individual. Step (D) may control the neurostimulation of the individual with the nerve stimulation signal based on the customized data. | 12-29-2011 |
20110319962 | MEDICAL METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MONITORING A NEURAL BRAIN NETWORK - Bioelectrical signals may be sensed within the brain by two or more electrodes to determine characteristics of a function of the brain. The signals obtained by the electrodes may be plotted over time to determine whether the brain function exhibits a normal or an abnormal pattern. If the brain function exhibits an abnormal pattern, an implantable medical device may dynamically determine based on the abnormal pattern and a previously-obtained plot associated with normal brain function, an appropriate electrical stimulation therapy. Application of the appropriate electrical stimulation therapy causes the brain function to shift from the abnormal pattern to the normal pattern. | 12-29-2011 |
20120004702 | ELECTRONIC PACEMAKER AND PACEMAKER LEAD - A pacemaker lead includes a body and an insulation layer. The body includes at least one carbon nanotube yarn. The at least one carbon nanotube yarn includes a plurality of carbon nanotubes. The carbon nanotubes are interconnected along an axis of the body by van der Waals force. The insulation layer covers an outer surface of the body. | 01-05-2012 |
20120016434 | POST-ACUTE ELECTRICAL STIMULATION TREATMENT OF ADVERSE CEREBROVASCULAR EVENTS - A method for treatment is provided, including identifying that a subject has suffered from an adverse cerebrovascular event, excluding Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Responsively to the identifying, beginning at least nine hours after the event, electrical stimulation is applied to a site of the subject selected from the group consisting of: a sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG), a greater palatine nerve, a lesser palatine nerve, a sphenopalatine nerve, a communicating branch between a maxillary nerve and an SPG, an otic ganglion, an afferent fiber going into the otic ganglion, an efferent fiber going out of the otic ganglion, an infraorbital nerve, a vidian nerve, a greater superficial petrosal nerve, and a lesser deep petrosal nerve. The stimulation is configured to excite nervous tissue of the site at a strength sufficient to induce at least one neuroprotective occurrence selected from the group consisting of: an increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF) of the subject, and a release of one or more neuroprotective substances. | 01-19-2012 |
20120016435 | OPTIMAL DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION THERAPY WITH Q LEARNING - A closed loop Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) system constituted of: a physiological sensor; a multi-electrode DBS lead; an adaptive control system in communication with the physiological sensor; and an implantable pulse generator (IPG) responsive to the adaptive control system, the adaptive control system comprising a learning module operable to learn to find the optimal stimulation parameters, classify and associate patient conditions responsive to the physiological sensor with optimal stimulation parameters in a plurality of patient conditions. The adaptive DBS device control system learns to deliver the optimal stimulation parameters based on Watkins and Dayan Q learning recursive formula, the closed loop adaptive DBS control system thus finds the optimal stimulation parameters online. | 01-19-2012 |
20120022610 | Devices for Delivering Neuro Electro Adaptive Therapy NEAT - A new class of therapeutic neuro-electro-adaptive devices for delivering cranial electrotherapy (NEAT) to patients for the treatment of various diseases and disorders, including those involving Reward Deficiency Syndrome (RDS), are described, as are various methods for using such devices, for example, to treat RDS behaviors. | 01-26-2012 |
20120022611 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTUATING A LASTING CHANGE IN A NEURAL-FUNCTION OF A PATIENT - The following disclosure describes several methods and apparatus for intracranial electrical stimulation to treat or otherwise effectuate a change in neural-functions of a patient. The methods in accordance with the invention can be used to treat brain damage (e.g., stroke, trauma, etc.), brain disease (e.g., Alzheimer's, Pick's, Parkinson's, etc.), and/or brain disorders (e.g., epilepsy, depression, etc.). The methods in accordance with the invention can also be used to enhance neural-function of normal, healthy brains (e.g., learning, memory, etc.), or to control sensory functions (e.g., pain). | 01-26-2012 |
20120046710 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND DEVICES FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION USING HELICAL MOVEMENT OF THE CENTROID OF STIMULATION - A method of treating a target region in the brain includes a) contacting tissue to be stimulated with a lead of a stimulation device, the stimulation device comprising a pulse generator coupled to the lead, the lead having a plurality of segmented electrodes disposed at a distal end of the lead, the stimulation device being configured and arranged to stimulate a target region using a positionable centroid of stimulation; b) providing stimulation current to at least one of the segmented electrodes of the lead to generate a centroid of stimulation at a location and stimulate tissue around the location of the centroid of stimulation; c) repositioning the centroid of stimulation to a next location along a helical path by altering the provision of stimulation current to the plurality of electrodes and stimulating tissue around the location of the repositioned centroid of stimulation; and d) repeating c) for each location along the helical path. The method may optionally include collecting data associated with each of the locations of the centroid of stimulation; and displaying at least a portion of the collected data. | 02-23-2012 |
20120046711 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATED TERMINATION OF A THERAPY FOR AN EPILEPTIC EVENT UPON A DETERMINATION OF EFFECTS OF A THERAPY - A method comprising detecting an epileptic event in a patient; applying an electrical therapy to a first target area in at least one of a brain region or a cranial nerve of said patient in response to said detecting; receiving a body signal responsive to the electrical therapy, wherein said body signal is selected from an autonomic signal, a neurologic signal, a metabolic signal, an endocrine signal, or a tissue stress marker signal; determining whether said body signal indicates that said electrical therapy has an efficacious effect; and terminating the application of said electrical therapy if the response indicates that the electrical therapy has an efficacious effect. An apparatus capable of performing the method. A non-transitive, computer-readable storage device for storing data that when executed by a processor, perform the method. | 02-23-2012 |
20120065699 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TISSUE MODULATION AND MONITORING - A tissue stimulating device has an elongate member, a proximal annular stimulating region and a distal annular stimulating region. Each of the annular stimulating regions circumscribe the elongate member, and each has a plurality of independently energizable electrodes that deliver current into tissue. Adjacent electrodes in the annular stimulating regions are separated from one another by an insulating member. The annular stimulating regions are axially separated from one another by a gap. An internal electrical connector electrically couples a first electrode in the proximal annular stimulating region with a first electrode in the distal annular stimulating region. The first internal electrical connector is disposed within the elongate member, and extends across the gap between annular stimulating regions. A recording electrode is disposed in the gap and is adapted to record local tissue potentials from the tissue. | 03-15-2012 |
20120065700 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ENHANCING OR OPTIMIZING NEURAL STIMULATION THERAPY FOR TREATING SYMPTOMS OF PARKINSONS DISEASE AND OR OTHER MOVEMENT DISORDERS - Systems and methods for treating a neurological disorder comprising determining a first set of neural stimulation parameters capable of treating a first subset of symptoms, determining a second set of neural stimulation parameters capable of treating a second subset of symptoms, and applying a neural stimulation therapy based upon the first set of neural stimulation parameters and the second set of neural stimulation parameters to the patient. The first set of neural stimulation parameters can include electrical stimulation at a first frequency, and the second set of neural stimulation parameters can include electrical stimulation at a second frequency. In other embodiments, a treatment method comprises applying a first neural stimulation therapy to the patient in a continuous or generally continuous manner during a first time interval, and applying a second neural stimulation therapy to the patient in a noncontinuous or interrupted manner following the first time interval. | 03-15-2012 |
20120071947 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EVENT-TRIGGERED REINFORCEMENT OF A FAVORABLE BRAIN STATE - Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for potentiating a favorable brain state that is associated with relief in symptoms of a brain condition. Techniques include monitoring one or more brain signals and detecting an episode of a favorable brain state based on the one or more brain signals, the favorable brain state associated with a decrease in one or more symptoms of a brain condition of the patient. Then, in response to the detection of the favorable brain state episode, electrical stimulation that potentiates the favorable brain state is delivered to the brain of the patient, the electrical stimulation delivered within a window of time opened for detection of each favorable brain state episode. | 03-22-2012 |
20120078323 | SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR INCREASING REGULARITY AND/OR PHASE-LOCKING OF NEURONAL ACTIVITY RELATING TO AN EPILEPTIC EVENT - A method, comprising detecting, in at least a first brain region of a patient, an electrical activity relating to an epileptic activity; determining a first regularity index of said electrical activity; and applying at least one first electrical stimulation to at least one neural target of said patient for treating said epileptic event, in response to said first regularity index being within a first range. A non-transitive, computer-readable storage device for storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, perform the method. A medical device system suitable for use in the method. | 03-29-2012 |
20120095524 | METHOD OF COUNTERACTING SEIZURES - The present invention provides a method for counteracting seizure events in a mammalian brain, the method comprising applying an electrical stimulus to the brain, the electrical stimulus being pulsatile and comprising pulses forming a pulse train. In order to effectively “desynchronize” the neural activity patterns in the brain, the pulse train can be at a frequency greater than substantially 300 Hz and at a duty cycle greater than substantially 20%, the pulse train can have an inconstant inter pulse interval such that the pulse rate is not constant throughout the pulse train, and the pulses can have a pulse width greater than substantially 300 μsec. Apparatus for carrying out the method is also described. | 04-19-2012 |
20120101547 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION BASED ON PHASE RESPONSE MAPPING - This disclosure describes techniques for delivering electrical stimulation at one or more phases relative to an ongoing oscillating signal in a patient, and then mapping the response to the oscillating signal. The techniques may reduce or eliminate the oscillating signal. In one example, the disclosure is directed to a method that includes delivering a set of first electrical stimulation at a plurality of phases relative to an oscillating signal, measuring a response in the oscillating signal to the set of first electrical stimulation after delivering electrical stimulation at each respective phase of the plurality of phases, determining a phase at which to deliver second electrical stimulation based on the measured responses, and delivering the second electrical stimulation to the patient at the determined phase to produce a therapeutic effect. | 04-26-2012 |
20120109251 | TRANSCRANIAL ELECTROSTIMULATION DEVICE - The invention relates to a transcranial electrostimulation device for treating different illnesses. In an exemplary embodiment, the transcranial electrostimulation device includes a bipolar pulse source for generating an electrical current and a patient physiological status processor that provides a biofeedback mechanism for adjusting the applied electrical stimulation. The device further includes electrodes positioned on a patient's skin at a retro-mastoidal location for delivering bipolar electrical pulses to induce transcranial electrostimulation. | 05-03-2012 |
20120109252 | Method and Apparatus For Electrical Cortex Stimulation - A method for cortex stimulation is disclosed which may include the steps of collecting electric signals by a control system from the cortex through an electrode array; determining signals by a virtual neural field having a virtual array corresponding the electrode array, the virtual array receiving the collected signals as an input and the virtual neural field being adapted to control the frequency spectrum of neural activity in the cortical target, each stimulation signal being determined by a value of the virtual potential at each point of the virtual array; and emitting the stimulation signals in the cortex through the electrode array. | 05-03-2012 |
20120109253 | Refillable Reservoir Lead Systems - Medical electrical lead systems and related methods are described. The medical electrical lead systems may be configured to be at least partially implanted in a body of a subject. Some variations of the medical electrical lead systems may comprise a lead body comprising a proximal end and a distal end and a lumen extending at least partially therebetween, at least one electrode in the proximity of the distal end of the lead body, and a reservoir in fluid communication with the lumen, where the reservoir is located at a position removed from the distal end of the lead body. Certain variations of the medical electrical lead systems may comprise a lead body comprising a proximal end and a distal end and first and second lumens extending at least partially therebetween, and at least one electrode in the proximity of the distal end of the lead body. | 05-03-2012 |
20120116475 | AROUSAL STATE MODULATION WITH ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - In some examples, an arousal network of a brain of a patient can be activated to modify the arousal state of the patient, which may be useful in treating a cognitive disorder of the patient. In some examples, a bioelectrical brain signal indicative of electrical activity in a first portion of the brain is monitored to determine whether the patient is in a first arousal state, and, in response to determining the patient is in the first arousal state, electrical stimulation is delivered to a second portion of the brain to activate an arousal neural network in the first portion of the brain to induce a second arousal state to treat the cognitive disorder, where the second arousal state is different than the first arousal state. | 05-10-2012 |
20120116476 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STORING APPLICATION SPECIFIC AND LEAD CONFIGURATION INFORMATION IN NEUROSTIMULATION DEVICE - External control devices, neurostimulation systems, and programming methods. A neurostimulator includes a feature having a numerical range. Information identifying a type of the neurostimulator is transmitted to an external control device. The external control device receives the information from the neurostimulator, identifies the type of the neurostimulator based on the received information, and programs the neurostimulator in accordance with the numerical range of the feature corresponding to the identified type of the neurostimulator. | 05-10-2012 |
20120123499 | Therapy Control Using Relative Motion Between Sensors - The invention is directed to controlling therapy delivery based on a relative motion between a first and second activity sensor. The relative motion between the activity sensors is representative of the relative motion between the locations of the body of the patient at which the respective activity sensors are located. The use of relative motion, however, may substantially remove motion experienced by both the activity sensors, e.g., motion caused by the environment in which patient is located, thus providing a new reference frame from which to analyze the motion measurements. The relative motion may be used to detect a condition of a movement disorder and/or control delivery of the therapy delivered to patient to treat or reduce the condition. | 05-17-2012 |
20120123500 | IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR COMPRISING MRI CURRENT LIMITING WINDINGS IN HEADER STRUCTURE - In one embodiment, a pulse generator for generating electrical stimulation for delivery to a patient, comprises: a hermetically sealed housing containing pulse generating circuitry; a header coupled to the housing for receiving one or more stimulation leads, wherein feedthrough wires are provided to conduct electrical pulses from the pulse generating circuitry to the header; the header comprising a plurality of connectors for electrically connecting to each terminal of the one or more stimulation leads, wherein an inductive winding is disposed around or adjacent to each of the connector structures and is electrically connected between the respective connector structure and a corresponding feedthrough wire to limit MRI induced heating of a respective electrode of the one or more stimulation leads. | 05-17-2012 |
20120136408 | WAVEFORM SHAPES FOR TREATING NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS OPTIMIZED FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY - Systems and methods for stimulation of neurological tissue apply a stimulation waveform that is derived by a developed genetic algorithm (GA), which may be coupled to a computational model of extracellular stimulation of a mammalian myelinated axon. The waveform is optimized for energy efficiency. | 05-31-2012 |
20120136409 | RULE-BASED STIMULATION PROGRAM SEARCH - Techniques that involve application of one or more rules to a “parent” program to generate a plurality of different “child” programs are described. Each of the rules may define a respective electrode configuration modification, and each child program may be a variation of the parent based on a modification of the electrode configuration of the parent according to one of the rules. The systems or devices may generate further generations of child programs from a previous generation child program using the same one or more rules. The child programs may be provided to a user, so that the user may test the efficacy of the new programs, assisting the user in identifying desirable programs. The child programs may be relatively minor variations of the parent program, and the user may “fine tune” a generally desirable parent program by testing the child programs. | 05-31-2012 |
20120136410 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NEUROMODULATION USING PRE-RECORDED WAVEFORMS - A method is provided for neuromodulation to treat stroke. One step of the method includes recording an input waveform from a first site in the nervous system in a source subject. The first site is healthy or at least partially functioning. Next, an output waveform is applied to a second site in the nervous system of a target subject suffering from the stoke. The second site is diseased due to the stroke. | 05-31-2012 |
20120136411 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DETECTING MIGRATION OF NEUROSTIMULATION LEADS - Apparatus and methods for detecting lead migration through the use of measured artifactual data about the tissue in the vicinity of the lead. | 05-31-2012 |
20120143279 | METHODS AND KITS FOR TREATING APPETITE SUPPRESSING DISORDERS AND DISORDERS WITH AN INCREASED METABOLIC RATE - Disclosed herein are kits and methods for treating appetite suppressing disorders and disorders with an increased metabolic rate by neuromodulation. A method of treating an appetite suppressing disorder or a disorder with an increased metabolic rate in a patient may include identifying the brain structure that is subject to modulation in the patient; and modulating the activity of one or more brain structures by applying electrical stimulation to one or more brain structures of a patient. A kit may include: a neuromodulation device; and instructions for using the neuromodulation device to modulate activity of a brain structure by applying electrical stimulation to one or more brain structures of a patient for treatment of an appetite suppressing disorder or a disorder with an increased metabolic rate. | 06-07-2012 |
20120143280 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS FOR MONITORING AND ANALYZING RESEARCH ANIMAL BEHAVIOR BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER BRAIN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - Described are systems, devices and methods for facilitating the delivery of stimulation to, and the monitoring and recording of physiological signals (e.g., electroencephalographic signals) from a research subject. Devices include a headmount that includes a cranial frame and a headstage, and a connection between the headmount and external equipment used for stimulation, monitoring, and/or recording that is robust physically and electrically to optimize stimulation, monitoring and recording even while the subject remains ambulatory. In some embodiments, a hinged headmount allows the configuration to be easily manipulated during attachment and any subsequent adjustment or reattachment procedures and permits easy access to any wires or other components implanted in the subject. In some embodiments, a flexible cable extends out from the headmount at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane of the headmount, to optimize strain relief as the subject moves about while attached to any stimulation, monitoring and/or recording equipment. | 06-07-2012 |
20120150256 | System and Method for Deep Brain Stimulation | 06-14-2012 |
20120150257 | Seizure prediction and neurological disorder treatment - A prediction and stimulation system or method is provided for neurological disorders characterized by a local dysfunction in neuronal activity regulation. An array of electrodes detects neuronal electrical activity of selected brain region. A detection module detects in each electrode changes in electric field and neuronal activity. A prediction module predicts for each electrode abnormal regimes determined by neurological disorder. A neuromodulation module interfaced with the electrodes selects one or more electrodes in the array where a predefined threshold has been exceeded and stimulates the brain region through each of these selected electrodes using an intermittent therapeutic stimulation pattern with a frequency between 150 and 200 Hz. The provided therapy allows for seizure prediction and detection with high accuracy, potential low risk and increased battery life. The flexibility of the method and system allows it to be used in different neurological disorders by tuning the parameters using a calibration procedure. | 06-14-2012 |
20120150258 | COLLECTING POSTURE AND ACTIVITY INFORMATION TO EVALUATE THERAPY - A medical device, programmer, or other computing device may determine values of one or more activity and, in some embodiments, posture metrics for each therapy parameter set used by the medical device to deliver therapy. The metric values for a parameter set are determined based on signals generated by the sensors when that therapy parameter set was in use. Activity metric values may be associated with a postural category in addition to a therapy parameter set, and may indicate the duration and intensity of activity within one or more postural categories resulting from delivery of therapy according to a therapy parameter set. A posture metric for a therapy parameter set may indicate the fraction of time spent by the patient in various postures when the medical device used a therapy parameter set. The metric values may be used to evaluate the efficacy of the therapy parameter sets. | 06-14-2012 |
20120158092 | STIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD TREATING A NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER - According to one aspect, a stimulation system is provided for electrically stimulating a predetermined site to treat a neurological condition. The system includes an electrical stimulation lead adapted for implantation into a subcutaneous area in communication with a predetermined site, wherein the site is neuronal tissue that is associated with C2/C3 dermatome area, or stimulating cervical nerve roots and/or stimulating cranial nerves and/or stimulating any area associated with the occipital area. The stimulation lead includes one or more stimulation electrodes adapted to be positioned in the predetermined site. The system also includes a stimulation source that generates the stimulation pulses for transmission to the one or more stimulation electrodes of the stimulation lead to deliver the stimulation pulses to the predetermined site to treat a neurological disorder or condition. | 06-21-2012 |
20120165898 | NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM FOR SELECTIVELY ESTIMATING VOLUME OF ACTIVATION AND PROVIDING THERAPY - An external control device, neurostimulation system, and method of programming a neurostimulator. A volume of tissue activation for each of a first one or more candidate stimulation parameter sets is simulated without conveying electrical stimulation energy into the tissue. One of the first candidate stimulation parameter set(s) is selected based on each simulated volume of tissue activation. Electrical stimulation energy is conveyed into the tissue in accordance with a second one or more candidate stimulation parameter sets, wherein the initial one of the second candidate stimulation parameter set(s) is the selected one of the first candidate stimulation parameter set(s). One of the second candidate stimulation parameter set(s) is selected based on a therapeutic efficacy of the electrical stimulation energy conveyed into the tissue. The neurostimulator is programmed with the selected one of the second candidate stimulation parameter set(s). | 06-28-2012 |
20120165899 | NEURAL STIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD RESPONSIVE TO COLLATERAL NEURAL ACTIVITY - A neural stimulation system responsive to collateral neural activity that may arise in association with a neural stimulation procedure includes a stimulation interface configured to deliver stimulation signals to a target neural population, a monitoring interface positioned to receive signals corresponding to a neural activity within the target neural population, a stimulus unit coupled to deliver stimulation singals to the stimulation interface, and a sensing unit coupled to the monitoring device and the stimulus unit. The neural stimulation procedure may be directed toward rehabilitating, restoring, and/or enhancing one or more neural functions by facilitating and/or effectuating a neuroplastic change or reorganization; and/or affecting a neurological condition that exists on a continuous or essentially continuous basis absent the stimulation procedure. The sensing unit determines whether evidence of an collateral neural activity exists, whereupon the stimulus unit attempts to abate the collateral neural activity. | 06-28-2012 |
20120191157 | TARGET THERAPY DELIVERY SITE SELECTION - In some examples of selecting a target therapy delivery site for treating a patient condition, a relatively high frequency electrical stimulation signal is delivered to at least two areas within a first region (e.g., an anterior nucleus of the thalamus) of a brain of a patient, and changes in brain activity (e.g., as indicated by bioelectrical brain signals) within a second region (e.g., a hippocampus) of the brain of the patient in response to the delivered stimulation are determined. The target therapy delivery site, an electrode combination, or both, may be selected based on the changes in brain activity. | 07-26-2012 |
20120191158 | VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION METHOD - An implanted electrical signal generator delivers a novel exogenous electrical signal to a vagus nerve of a patient. The vagus nerve conducts action potentials originating in the heart and lungs to various structures of the brain, thereby eliciting a vagal evoked potential in those structures. The exogenous electrical signal simulates and/or augments the endogenous afferent activity originating from the heart and/or lungs of the patient, thereby enhancing the vagal evoked potential in the various structures of the brain. The exogenous electrical signal includes a series of electrical pulses organized or patterned into a series of microbursts including 2 to 20 pulses each. No pulses are sent between the microbursts. Each of the microbursts may be synchronized with the QRS wave portion of an ECG. The enhanced vagal evoked potential in the various structures of the brain may be used to treat various medical conditions including epilepsy and depression. | 07-26-2012 |
20120197341 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ESTIMATING BATTERY CAPACITY - A method for estimating capacity of a battery in an implantable medical device includes obtaining a characteristic curve of voltage versus resistance for the battery, periodically determining voltage and resistance of the battery, and comparing the resistance with a third derivative function of the characteristic curve, the third derivative function having roots representing near depletion of the battery and end of service of the battery, respectively. Remaining time of service of the battery can also be determined by comparing the resistance value with a curve of battery capacity versus resistance for the battery. | 08-02-2012 |
20120197342 | SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR NEUROSTIMULATION AND NEUROTELEMETRY USING SEMICONDUCTOR DIODE SYSTEMS - Methods and systems for neurostimulation and/or neurotelemetry of electrically-excitable biological tissue. Embodiments include implanting single or multiple semiconductor diodes and applying a high frequency electrical volume current. Neurostimulation embodiments include local rectification of the volume current by the diode, which can provide a pulsating electrical waveform capable of locally stimulating neural tissue, hi neurotelemetry embodiments, semiconductor diodes can be placed in contact with excitable tissue and a low level electrical carrier wave can be passed through the tissue and implanted diode whereby low level tissue bioelectric events intermodulate with the carrier wave and encode bioelectrical effects. Remote detection and amplitude demodulation of the volume-conducted carrier wave can allow recovery of the bioelectrical waveform and provide a neurotelemetry function, hi other embodiments, implanted diodes are placed in series with a pressure switch or piezoelectric material which enables their function only with the focal application of an acoustic pressure wave. This enables a selectivity amongst multiple diode channels by acoustic wave focusing or alternately by a process of range-gating of a surface applied electrical current to the arrival time of an acoustic wave at a particular device. | 08-02-2012 |
20120203301 | METHODS USING TRIGEMINAL NERVE STIMULATION TO TREAT NEUROLOGICAL DISEASES - The present description relates to cranial nerve stimulation to treat a neurological disorder. More particularly, and not by way of limitation, the present invention is directed to a system and method for stimulating a cranial nerve to treat a neurological disorder, such as tinnitus or an anxiety disorder. | 08-09-2012 |
20120203302 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING IMPROVED LEAD EXTENSION CONNECTORS FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS - A lead extension for an electrical stimulation system includes a connector disposed on a first end of a body. The connector includes a housing defining at least one port. Each of the at least one ports is configured to receive a proximal end of a lead. A plurality of connector contacts are disposed in each of the at least one ports. The connector contacts are configured to electrically couple to terminals of a lead when the lead is received by the housing. A first connector flange extends outwardly from a first side of the housing. A plurality of conductors extend along a length of the lead extension and electrically couple at least one of the connector contacts to at least one terminal disposed on a second end of the body. | 08-09-2012 |
20120209346 | TRANSCRANIAL STIMULATION - A method includes coupling electrodes to a patient's head and identifying whether any of the electrodes form a functional set, such that a desired therapeutic effect is achieved when the two or more electrodes deliver a total amount of current to the patient regardless of what portion of the total amount of current each respective electrode carries. One or more constant current sources are provided, each having a supply and return terminal, which supply and return equal amounts of current at any given time. The constant current source(s) are coupled to the electrodes in such a manner that each supply terminal and each return terminal is coupled to no more than the electrodes of a single one of the functional sets, if any, or to a single one of the electrodes not included in one of the functional sets. | 08-16-2012 |
20120209347 | Apparatus And Method For Modulating Neurochemical Levels In the Brain - A treatment for Parkinson's Disease uses a stimulus electrode implanted in a subthalamic nucleus with a chemosensor implanted in a globus pallidus pars interna (GPi) of the subject. A level of a neurochemical is sensed with the chemosensor, and compared to a desired level. When the level of the neurochemical is less than desired, an electrical stimulation is provided to the stimulus electrode. In alternative embodiments, the neurochemical sensed is glutamate or dopamine. An alternative system uses a chemosensor implanted in the striatum instead of the GPi. An alternative system for treating benign essential tremor uses a stimulus electrode implanted in the thalamus with feedback taken from a chemosensor in the striatum. | 08-16-2012 |
20120221074 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE FOR PROVIDING STIMULATION THERAPY - An electrical stimulation system provides stimulation therapy to a patient. The system includes a neurostimulation lead that contacts patient tissue and couples with an implantable stimulation device, such as an implantable pulse generator, that receives stimulation parameters for providing stimulation therapy to a patient. The implantable stimulation device includes a header with a plurality of connector assemblies that receive an end of the neurostimulation lead, and a case containing a charging coil and a telemetry coil coupled to programming circuitry on a printed circuit board, which is in turn coupled to the connector assemblies via a feedthrough assembly. The telemetry coil receives data from an external programmer and transmits the data to the programming circuitry, which in turn uses the data to communicate to the connector assemblies and the neurostimulation lead to provide stimulation therapy to a patient. | 08-30-2012 |
20120221075 | COMPUTERIZED SYSTEM OR DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF HUMAN, PHYSICAL AND PLANETARY CONDITIONS - The invention outlines a system, method or device capable of modulating the planetary, physical, and brain related aspects of human existence through the combination of diagnostic and corrective or therapeutic or stimulation modalities that are capable of identifying and evaluating any imbalances or pathological conditions or abnormal conditions pertaining to the environment, brain condition, or physical conditions of human beings and applying corrective or stimulation modalities or influences that are capable of improving or optimizing or healing or otherwise balancing these planetary, physical, human, brain related or bodily aspects or measures or conditions. | 08-30-2012 |
20120239108 | APPARATUS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENT STIMULATION - An apparatus is disclosed for providing efficient stimulation. As an example, a variable compliance regulator can be connected to supply a compliance voltage to a power supply rail, which compliance voltage can vary dynamically based on a stimulus waveform. A pulse generator can be configured to provide an output waveform to one or more output based on the stimulus waveform for delivery of electrical therapy. | 09-20-2012 |
20120239109 | NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM FOR DEFINING A GENERALIZED IDEAL MULTIPOLE CONFIGURATION - A system for a neurostimulator coupled to electrodes. The system comprises an input device configured for generating control signals. The system further comprising memory storing a first set of variable values defining a first spatial relationship between a central ideal pole of a first polarity and the plurality of electrodes, a second set of variable values defining a second spatial relationship respectively between four ideal poles of a second polarity and the first ideal pole, and a third set of variable values defining relative intensities between the four ideal poles. The system further comprises control circuitry configured for modifying the first variable values, the second variable values, and/or the third variable values, and generating stimulation parameter values defining relative amplitude values for the electrodes that emulate the ideal poles, and instructing the neurostimulator to convey electrical energy to the electrodes in accordance with the stimulation parameter values. | 09-20-2012 |
20120239110 | NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ROSTRO-CAUDALLY STEERING CURRENT USING LONGITUDINAL IDEAL MULTIPOLE CONFIGURATIONS - A system for an electrical neurostimulator coupled to a plurality of electrodes. The system comprises a user-controlled input device configured for generating directional control signals. The system further comprises control circuitry configured for sequentially defining a plurality of different ideal bipole/tripole configurations relative to the plurality of electrodes in response to the directional control signals, generating a plurality of stimulation parameter sets respectively corresponding to the plurality of ideal bipole/tripole configurations, each stimulation parameter set defining relative amplitude values for the plurality of electrodes that emulate the respective ideal bipole/tripole configuration, and instructing the electrical neurostimulator to convey electrical energy to the plurality of electrodes in accordance with the plurality of stimulation parameter sets. | 09-20-2012 |
20120245653 | NEUROCRANIAL ELECTROSTIMULATION MODELS, SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS - Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for developing transcranial electrical stimulation protocols are disclosed. In one aspect, a method includes the actions of accepting an image model of target tissue, obtaining a forward model having a first electrode configuration and first electrical stimulation parameters based on electrical stimulation of the target tissue, accepting electrode configuration changes or electrical stimulation parameter changes resulting in a second electrode configuration or second electrical stimulation parameters, determining an optimized tissue model using a least square methodology and based on the second electrode configuration or second electrical stimulation parameter changes, comparing the optimized tissue model with a desired outcome, and providing a confirmation of the optimized model with the desired outcome. | 09-27-2012 |
20120253421 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATICALLY OPTIMIZING STIMULUS PARAMETERS AND ELECTRODE CONFIGURATIONS FOR NEURO-STIMULATORS - System and method for automatically optimizing the stimulus parameters and/or the configuration of electrodes to provide neural stimulation to a patient, the system includes an electrode array having a support member configured to be implanted into the patient and a plurality of therapy electrodes carried by the support member. The system can also have a pulse system operatively coupled to the therapy electrodes to deliver a stimulus to the therapy electrodes, and a sensing device configured to be attached to a sensing location of the patient. The sensing device generates response signals in response to the stimulus. The system can also include a controller that generates command signals that define the stimulus delivered by the pulse system, evaluates the response signals from the sensing device, and determines a desired configuration for the therapy electrodes and/or a desired stimulus to be delivered to the therapy electrodes. | 10-04-2012 |
20120265266 | DEVICE LONGEVITY PREDICTION FOR A DEVICE HAVING VARIABLE ENERGY CONSUMPTION - A system and method for estimating the longevity of an implantable medical device (IMD). In one embodiment of a method for estimating a life of a power source of an implantable medical device, a first life estimate of the power source is determined based on a first open-loop value corresponding to an open-loop parameter for open-loop therapy delivery, a first closed loop value corresponding to a closed-loop parameter for closed-loop therapy delivery, and prior usage data corresponding to prior therapy delivery. The first life estimate of the power source is displayed. The first life estimate displayed includes a first open-loop portion associated with open-loop therapy delivery and a first closed-loop portion associated with closed-loop therapy delivery. | 10-18-2012 |
20120265267 | CLINICIAN PROGRAMMER SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CALCULATING VOLUMES OF ACTIVATION - A system and method for providing a volume of activation (VOA) of a stimulation electrode leadwire may include a processor that calculates a VOA for each of a plurality of sets of parameter settings of the leadwire, stores in a database each of the calculated VOAs in association with the respective set of parameter settings for which it was calculated, obtains a set of parameter settings of the leadwire for a stimulation, and determines a VOA for the obtained set of parameter settings based on the stored VOAs. | 10-18-2012 |
20120271374 | ELECTRICAL THERAPY FOR FACILITATING INTER-AREA BRAIN SYNCHRONIZATION - Methods and apparatuses are described for monitoring synchronization of two or more brain areas and delivering an electrical therapy to the brain to facilitate synchronization of the two or more brain areas. The electrical therapy can be titrated to improve synchronization between the two or more areas of the brain based on the one or more signals, the synchronization between the two or more areas of the brain occurring in response to the patient being exposed to external sensory stimulus, wherein the electrical therapy does not independently cause activation of either of the two or more areas of the brain. | 10-25-2012 |
20120271375 | ELECTRICAL BRAIN THERAPY PARAMETER DETERMINATION BASED ON A BIOELECTRICAL RESONANCE RESPONSE - Various methods and apparatuses are disclosed that concern delivering electrical stimulation to a brain at a plurality of different stimulation frequencies, sensing one or more bioelectrical signals, and identifying a bioelectrical resonance response of the brain to the electrical stimulation. The bioelectrical resonance response may be identified based on a parameter of oscillation of the one or more bioelectrical signals and indicative of resonance of an area of the brain to one stimulation frequency of the plurality of stimulation frequencies. A stimulation frequency parameter for a therapy may be set based on the identified bioelectrical resonance response, wherein the stimulation frequency parameter is set at or near the one stimulation frequency. | 10-25-2012 |
20120271376 | CLINICIAN PROGRAMMER SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STEERING VOLUMES OF ACTIVATION - A system and method for selection of stimulation parameters for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) may include a processor that displays in a display device and in relation to a displayed model of a leadwire including model electrodes, a current field corresponding to a first stimulation parameter set, provides a user interface for receipt of user input representing a shift of the current field, in response to the user input, moves, in the display device, the current field with respect to the displayed model, determines a second stimulation parameter set that results in the moved current field, and outputs the second stimulation parameter set and/or sets a stimulation device with the second stimulation parameter set, where the stimulation device is configured for performing a stimulation using the leadwire in accordance with the second stimulation parameter set. | 10-25-2012 |
20120271377 | TRANSCRANIAL STIMULATION DEVICE AND METHOD BASED ON ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL TESTING - Embodiments of the disclosed technology provide a combination electroencephalography and non-invasive stimulation devices. Upon measuring an electrical anomaly in a region of a brain, various tDCS or other electrical stimulations are utilized to correct neural activity. Devices of the disclosed technology may utilize visual, balance, auditory, and other stimuli to test the subject, analyze necessary brain stimulations, and administer stimulation to the brain. | 10-25-2012 |
20120277819 | OVERWRAP FOR NERVE STIMULATION SYSTEM - A nerve overwrap for an implantable nerve stimulation system includes a flexible sheet of electrically insulative material, having an electrical resistivity of from about 10 | 11-01-2012 |
20120277820 | ENTRAINMENT OF BIOELECTRICAL BRAIN SIGNALS - The disclosure relates to the delivery of electrical stimulation therapy to the brain of a patient, e.g., to treat or otherwise manage a patient disorder. In one example, the disclosure relates to a method comprising generating electrical stimulation via a medical device; delivering the electrical stimulation at a first frequency to a brain of a patient when the bioelectrical brain signals of the patient oscillate at a second frequency, where the second frequency corresponds to pathological brain signals of the patient, where the electrical stimulation is selected to entrain the bioeiectrical brain signals of the patient; and adjusting the delivered electrical stimulation from the first frequency to a third frequency, where adjusting the delivered electrical stimulation changes the bioelectrical brain signal oscillations to a fourth frequency different from the second frequency. The fourth frequency may correspond to an oscillation frequency of non-pathological brain signals of the patient. | 11-01-2012 |
20120277821 | High Resolution Electrical Stimulation Leads - System for providing a stimulus comprising a probe with multiple electrodes each capable of providing a particular current to surrounding tissue a generator for providing to each of the electrodes the particular current a controller for controlling the generator to provide current to the electrodes to achieve a desired electrical field around the probe. | 11-01-2012 |
20120290038 | MANAGEMENT OF STIMULATION SAFETY LIMITS IN A NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - A neurostimulation system for management of stimulation safety limits. The system determines a tissue charge injection metric at each electrode, compares the metric to the hard stop charge limit, and prevents the neurostimulator from delivering stimulation energy to the tissue region in accordance based on the comparison. The hard stop limit may be user-programmable or may be automatically modified in response to detection of electrode characteristics. The system may quantitatively notify a user of a value of the injected charge injected into the tissue. The electrodes may be organized into different sets, in which case, the system may directly control tissue charge independently at each of the electrode sets. If current steering is provided, the system may displace the electrical stimulation energy along the tissue region in one direction, while preventing the charge injection value at each of the electrodes from meeting or exceeding the hard stop charge limit. | 11-15-2012 |
20120290039 | MANAGEMENT OF STIMULATION SAFETY LIMITS IN A NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - A neurostimulation system for management of stimulation safety limits. The system determines a tissue charge injection metric at each electrode, compares the metric to the hard stop charge limit, and prevents the neurostimulator from delivering stimulation energy to the tissue region in accordance based on the comparison. The hard stop limit may be user-programmable or may be automatically modified in response to detection of electrode characteristics. The system may quantitatively notify a user of a value of the injected charge injected into the tissue. The electrodes may be organized into different sets, in which case, the system may directly control tissue charge independently at each of the electrode sets. If current steering is provided, the system may displace the electrical stimulation energy along the tissue region in one direction, while preventing the charge injection value at each of the electrodes from meeting or exceeding the hard stop charge limit. | 11-15-2012 |
20120290040 | MANAGEMENT OF STIMULATION SAFETY LIMITS IN A NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - A neurostimulation system for management of stimulation safety limits. The system determines a tissue charge injection metric at each electrode, compares the metric to the hard stop charge limit, and prevents the neurostimulator from delivering stimulation energy to the tissue region in accordance based on the comparison. The hard stop limit may be user-programmable or may be automatically modified in response to detection of electrode characteristics. The system may quantitatively notify a user of a value of the injected charge injected into the tissue. The electrodes may be organized into different sets, in which case, the system may directly control tissue charge independently at each of the electrode sets. If current steering is provided, the system may displace the electrical stimulation energy along the tissue region in one direction, while preventing the charge injection value at each of the electrodes from meeting or exceeding the hard stop charge limit. | 11-15-2012 |
20120296390 | ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAM ACTIVATION APPARATUS - Provided is an electroencephalogram activation apparatus, including: an electroencephalogram acquisition unit configured to acquire brain waves of a user; an electrical stimulation unit configured to apply transcranial electrical stimulation to the scalp of the user; and a control unit configured to control the electrical stimulation unit based on the brain waves acquired by the electroencephalogram acquisition unit. | 11-22-2012 |
20120303087 | COLLECTION OF CLINICAL DATA FOR GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS - A method of treating a patient and an external programmer for use with a neurostimulator. Electrical stimulation energy is conveyed into tissue of the patient via a specified combination of a plurality of electrodes, thereby creating one or more clinical effects. An influence of the specified electrode combination on the clinical effect(s) is determined. An anatomical region of interest is displayed in registration with a graphical representation of the plurality of electrodes. The displayed anatomical region of interest is modified based on the determined influence of the specified electrode combination on the clinical effect(s). | 11-29-2012 |
20120303088 | System and A Method for Determination of an Orientation of a Biomedical Stimulation Device - The application relates to a system ( | 11-29-2012 |
20120303089 | Method and System for Determining Settings for Deep Brain Stimulation - A method and control system for determining and applying stimulation settings for a brain stimulation probe ( | 11-29-2012 |
20120310298 | MEDICAL DEVICES FOR THE DETECTION, PREVENTION AND/OR TREATMENT OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS, AND METHODS RELATED THERETO - Disclosed are devices and methods for detecting, preventing, and/or treating neurological disorders. These devices and methods utilize electrical stimulation, and comprise a unique concentric ring electrode component. The disclosed methods involve the positioning of multiple electrodes on the scalp of a mammal; monitoring the mammal's brain electrical patterns to identify the onset of a neurological event; identifying the location of the brain electrical patterns indicative of neurological event; and applying transcutaneous or transcranial electrical stimulation to the location of the neurological event to beneficially modify brain electrical patterns. The disclosed methods may be useful in the detection, prevention, and/or treatment of a variety of indications, such as epilepsy, Parkinson's Disease, Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's disease, depression, bipolar disorder, phobia, schizophrenia, multiple personality disorder, migraine or headache, concussion, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, eating disorder, substance abuse, and anxiety. The disclosed methods may also be used in combination with other peripheral stimulation techniques. | 12-06-2012 |
20120316615 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING IMPROVED LEADS FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS - A method for manufacturing a lead includes forming an elongated multi-lumen conductor guide defining a central stylet lumen and a plurality of conductor lumens arranged around the stylet lumen. The multi-lumen conductor guide is twisted to form at least one helical section where the plurality of conductor lumens each forms a helical pathway around the stylet lumen. Each of the helical pathways of the at least one helical section has a pitch that is no less than 0.04 turns per centimeter. | 12-13-2012 |
20120316616 | IMPLANTABLE SYSTEM WITH INPUTS - A stimulation system can have a first sensor to generate a first reading and a second sensor to generate a second reading. An analysis module of a programmer such as a patient programmer, which programs a stimulation signal to be delivered to a patient, conducts an evaluation of the patient based on the first and second readings. Evaluations may include determinations such as range of motion determinations, posture determinations, physical task-specific brain activity determinations, cognitive task-specific brain activity determinations, and brain activity-specific movement determinations. | 12-13-2012 |
20120330374 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING TARGET STIMULATION VOLUMES - A system and method may include determining a target stimulation volume based on modifying a patient population image for which an efficacious volume had been determined. A system and method for suggesting stimulation devices may include determining which stimulation device is capable of producing an output volume of activation that most closely matches the target volume. A system and method for facilitating selection of stimulation parameters may include graphically identifying a maximum volume in which tissue is stimulatable by an implanted stimulation device. A system and method may pre-compute volumes of activation that result from a predetermined modification of programming settings. A system and method may transmit stimulation programming settings from a stimulation programming module to a stimulation generating device. | 12-27-2012 |
20130006324 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING IMPEDANCE TO DETERMINE PROXIMITY AND ORIENTATION OF SEGMENTED ELECTRODES - A method for implanting a neurostimulation lead within a patient includes measuring impedances of electrodes on the lead in order to correctly position the lead relative to a target tissue region. The electrodes are circumferentially segmented electrodes that are spaced from each other about the longitudinal axis of the lead. When the difference between the impedances of the electrodes exceeds a threshold value, the lead is in the correct position. In accordance with another embodiment, impedance measurements are used to select which one of the electrodes is closest to the target tissue region. By determining which electrode has the highest impedance and which electrode has the lowest impedance, the type of tissue adjacent to each electrode can be determined based on the conductivity properties of the tissue. The target tissue region may be a spinal cord, a posterior longitudinal ligament, white matter, or gray matter. | 01-03-2013 |
20130018435 | STIMULATION OF THE AMYGDALOHIPPOCAMPAL COMPLEX TO TREAT NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS - A system and/or method treating for a neurological disorder by brain region stimulation. The system and/or method comprises a probe and a device to provide stimulation. The probe has a stimulation portion implanted in communication with a predetermined brain region site. The stimulation portion of the probe may be implanted in contact with a predetermined brain region. | 01-17-2013 |
20130030499 | METHOD FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION TARGETING BASED ON BRAIN CONNECTIVITY - Due to the lack of internal anatomic detail with traditional magnetic resonance imaging, preoperative stereotactic planning for the treatment of tremor usually relies on indirect targeting based on atlas-derived coordinates. To overcome such disadvantages, a method is provided that allows for deep brain stimulation targeting based on brain connectivity. For example, probabilistic tractography-based thalamic segmentation for deep brain stimulator (DBS) targeting is suitable for the treatment of tremor. | 01-31-2013 |
20130030500 | Method and System for Determining Settings for Deep Brain Stimulation - A method and a control system ( | 01-31-2013 |
20130046357 | TISSUE OR NERVE TREATMENT DEVICE AND METHOD - A device and a method for the treatment, modification, imaging, and guiding targeted brain tissue and brain activity are described herein. | 02-21-2013 |
20130046358 | Systems and Methods of Reducing Artifact in Neurological Stimulation Systems - Systems and methods for neuromonitoring a subject are described. The system may include a stimulation assembly including a pulse generator that generates one or more stimulus waveforms; an electrode array coupled to the stimulation assembly and configured to deliver a stimulation signal to nervous system of the subject; a sensing assembly adapted to acquire a signal from a subject indicative of the subject's brain activity; a power supply configured to supply power to the stimulation assembly and the sensing assembly; and a timing controller programmed to control the use of the power supply by the stimulation assembly and the sensing assembly, said timing controller being programmed to control the time the sensing assembly is powered to acquire the signal to be substantially different than the time the stimulation assembly is powered to stimulate the subject. | 02-21-2013 |
20130053922 | DIPOLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATION EMPLOYING DIRECT CURRENT FOR RECOVERY FROM SPINAL CORD INJURY - A system and method to treat neuromuscular conditions, including spinal cord injury, by what is characterized as dipole (two point) cortico-muscular stimulation. Two-point stimulation, with oppositely charged electrodes, allows pulsed, direct current to pass through the cortico-muscular pathway. The electrodes are placed on nerves, muscles, or a combination of both, that are on opposite sides of the spinal column, forming a current that passes across the spinal column. Further, an active electrode can be placed on the spinal column and a reference electrode can be placed outside the central nervous system. These methods improve functional recovery of the motor pathway. | 02-28-2013 |
20130066391 | TECHNIQUES FOR SELECTING SIGNAL DELIVERY SITES AND OTHER PARAMETERS FOR TREATING DEPRESSION AND OTHER NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - The present disclosure is directed generally to techniques for selecting signal delivery sites and other signal delivery parameters for treating depression and other neurological disorders. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes obtaining first imaging information corresponding to a first region of a patient's brain, the first imaging information being based at least in part on functional characteristics of the first region. The method includes obtaining second imaging information corresponding to a second region of the patient's brain, the second region being a subset of the first region, the second imaging information being based at least in part on functional or structural characteristics of the second region. A target neural population is selected based in part on the second imaging information. The method still further includes applying an electromagnetic signal to the target neural population to improve a patient function. | 03-14-2013 |
20130066392 | NON-INVASIVE MAGNETIC OR ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION TO TREAT OR PREVENT DEMENTIA - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for treating or preventing dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease. The methods comprise transmitting impulses of energy non-invasively to selected nerve fibers, particularly those in a vagus nerve, that modulate the activity of a patient's locus ceruleus. The transmitted energy impulses, comprising magnetic and/or electrical energy, stimulate the selected nerve fibers to cause the locus ceruleus to release norepinephrine into regions of the brain that contain beta-amyloids. The norepinephrine counteracts neuroinflammation that would damage neurons in those regions and the locus ceruleus, thereby arresting or slowing the progression of the disease in the patient. | 03-14-2013 |
20130090704 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF DELIVERING VESTIBULAR STIMULATION CUSTOMIZABLE TO INDIVIDUAL SUBJECTS - The vestibular system of a subject is stimulated in accordance with a therapy regime that dictates one or more parameters of the stimulation. The system is configured such that at a single site, one or more parameters of the stimulation varies for different locations at the site. This may enhance the customizability and/or effectiveness of the stimulation. | 04-11-2013 |
20130110193 | Method For Implanting An Electrode That Unfurls In Response To A Predetermined Stimulus | 05-02-2013 |
20130116744 | VOA generation system and method using a fiber specific analysis - A system and method for generating an estimated volume of activation (VOA) corresponding to settings applied to a stimulation leadwire includes a processor performing the following: determining, for each of a plurality of neural elements, one or more respective parameters characterizing an electrical distribution along the neural element, looking up the one or more parameters for each of the neural elements in a look-up table (LUT), obtaining threshold values for each of the neural elements recorded in the LUT in association with the looked-up parameters, comparing, for each of the neural elements, a value of the leadwire settings to each of the respective threshold value, estimating based on the comparisons which of the neural elements would be activated by the settings, and generating a structure corresponding to a region including the neural elements estimated to be activated. | 05-09-2013 |
20130131754 | LEADLESS SYSTEM FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION USING TIME REVERSAL ACOUSTICS - A leadless Deep Brain Stimulation system includes an implantable stimulator configured to convert incoming acoustic energy into an electric stimulation signal. The acoustic energy is provided by one or more external transmitters acoustically coupled to a head of the subject. To focus ultrasound energy onto the location of the stimulator, a wireless beacon (including a piezoelectric receiving transducer and an RF emitting antenna) is incorporated with the stimulator for providing an electromagnetic feedback signal to the external controller. The external controller is configured to send an initial unfocused acoustic signal towards the stimulator and receive the electromagnetic radiofrequency feedback signal generated by the receiving piezotransducer when affected by the acoustic signal after reverberation in the skull. This signal is then time-reversed and used to send a second signal towards the stimulator. This signal is inherently focused on the site of the stimulator and is configured to carry sufficient energy to operate the stimulator for DBS purposes. | 05-23-2013 |
20130131755 | PATIENT DIRECTED THERAPY CONTROL - A patient controls the delivery of therapy through volitional inputs that are detected by a biosignal within the brain. The volitional patient input may be directed towards performing a specific physical or mental activity, such as moving a muscle or performing a mathematical calculation. In one embodiment, a biosignal detection module monitors an electroencephalogram (EEG) signal from within the brain of the patient and determines whether the EEG signal includes the biosignal. In one embodiment, the biosignal detection module analyzes one or more frequency components of the EEG signal. In this manner, the patient may adjust therapy delivery by providing a volitional input that is detected by brain signals, wherein the volitional input may not require the interaction with another device, thereby eliminating the need for an external programmer to adjust therapy delivery. Example therapies include electrical stimulation, drug delivery, and delivery of sensory cues. | 05-23-2013 |
20130138176 | BRAIN STIMULATION PROGRAMMING - A programming system allows a user to program therapy parameter values for therapy delivered by a medical device by specifying a desired therapeutic outcome. In an example, the programming system presents a model of a brain network associated with a patient condition to the user. The model may be a graphical representation of a network of anatomical structures of the brain associated with the patient condition and may indicate the functional relationship between the anatomical structures. Using the model, the user may define a desired therapeutic outcome associated with the condition, and adjust excitatory and/or inhibitory effects of the stimulation on the anatomical structures. The system may determine therapy parameter values for therapy delivered to the patient based on the user input. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138177 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STIMULATING TISSUE IN THE BRAIN TO TREAT A NEUROLOGICAL CONDITION - According to one aspect, a stimulation system is provided for electrically stimulating a predetermined site to treat a neurological condition. The system includes an electrical stimulation lead adapted for implantation in communication with a predetermined site, wherein the site is brain tissue site. The stimulation lead includes one or more stimulation electrodes adapted to be positioned in the predetermined site. The system also includes a stimulation source that generates the stimulation pulses for transmission to the one or more stimulation electrodes of the stimulation lead to deliver the stimulation pulses to the predetermined site to treat a neurological disorder or condition. | 05-30-2013 |
20130144358 | Dopamine Stimulation Device - A set of eyeglasses that has a first electrical contact on the frame of the eyeglasses, and a second electrical contact on an arm of the eyeglasses. The contacts touch the skin of the wearer near the frontal cortex and behind the frontal lobe. An integral solar cell provides a small voltage output, typically 1.5 volts or less, to the contacts and stimulates the production of dopamine with a small electrical charge. Optionally, either internal or external batteries can be used to supply power in place of the solar cell. | 06-06-2013 |
20130158626 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF NEUROPSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS - The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and systems used for the treatment of mood, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and cognitive and behavioral disorders (collectively, neuropsychiatric disorders) via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve (“TNS”). More specifically, cutaneous methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, infraorbital, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein. | 06-20-2013 |
20130178913 | METHODS FOR TARGETING DEEP BRAIN SITES TO TREAT MOOD AND/OR ANXIETY DISORDERS - The present invention relates to a method of identifying a target such as within the subgenual area by measuring neuronal activity in response to a stimulus. Once the target is identified, it can be stimulated to treat a neurological disorder, such as a mood disorder or an anxiety disorder. | 07-11-2013 |
20130178914 | NEUROSTIMULATOR INVOLVING STIMULATION STRATEGIES AND PROCESS FOR USING IT - This is a neurostimulator that is configured to treat epilepsy and other neurological disorders using certain stimulation strategies, particularly changing various pulse parameters, during the imposition of a burst of those pulses. The invention includes the processes embodying those stimulation strategies. | 07-11-2013 |
20130184779 | VOLTAGE LIMITED NEUROSTIMULATION - Methods and systems for delivering voltage limited neurostimulation to a patient. In one aspect, a method includes initiating a flow of electrical current through a first electrode and a second electrode coupled to the patient and increasing the flow of electrical current toward a target value by increasing a voltage across the first electrode and second electrode. Prior to reaching the target value of electrical current, the method includes preventing the voltage across the first electrode and second electrode from increasing beyond a first predetermined limit; and subsequently, maintaining the voltage across the first electrode and second electrode at or within a predetermined range that does not exceed the first predetermined limit. The amplitude of the electrical current continues to increase toward the target value during at least part of a time when the voltage across the first electrode and the second electrode is maintained within the predetermined range. | 07-18-2013 |
20130184780 | DIFFERENTIAL NEUROSTIMULATION THERAPY DRIVEN BY PHYSIOLOGICAL THERAPY - An implantable neurostimulator system adapted to provide therapy for various neurological disorders is capable of varying therapy delivery strategies based on the context, physiological or otherwise, into which the therapy is to be delivered. Responsive and scheduled therapies can be varied depending on various sensor measurements, calculations, inferences, and device states (including elapsed times and times of day) to deliver an appropriate course of therapy under the circumstances. | 07-18-2013 |
20130184781 | Brain Stimulation for Enhancement of Learning, Motivation, and Memory - A system and method for stimulating a brain structure of a patient for treating a condition. A stimulating electrode is inserted into a brain structure of the patient. After inserting the stimulating electrode into a brain structure of the patient, the patient is prompted with a task. When the task is completed by the patient, the stimulating electrode is used to transmit a stimulating signal into the brain structure of the patient. In an alternative implementation, the patient's brain is monitored for the existence of a particular condition. When the condition is detected, the stimulating electrode is used to transmit a stimulating signal into the brain structure of the patient. | 07-18-2013 |
20130197602 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING THE CIRCUMFERENTIAL POSITIONING OF ELECTRODES OF LEADS FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS - A lead assembly for an electrical stimulation system includes terminals disposed along a proximal end of a lead body and electrodes disposed along a distal end of the lead body. The electrodes include segmented electrodes. At least one distal marker is disposed along the distal end of the lead body. The distal marker identifies the circumferential position of at least one of the segmented electrodes along the lead body. The distal marker is aligned with at least one of the segmented electrodes along the longitudinal length of the lead body. At least one proximal marker is disposed along the proximal end of the lead body. The proximal marker is aligned with the distal marker along the longitudinal length of the lead body. The distal marker and the proximal marker are discontinuous with one another along the lead body. | 08-01-2013 |
20130204315 | SYSTEMS FOR AND METHODS OF TRANSCRANIAL DIRECT CURRENT ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - A system according to the present invention provides a portable, non-invasive device adapted to deliver electrical stimulation to a brain, such as to treat tinnitus. Such system is preferably a head-worn system configured to provide transcranial direct current electrical stimulation (tDCS) to a patient, where a therapy based at least partially thereon may be self-administered by the patient. tDCS is a non-invasive method of brain stimulation to treat tinnitus, or other neurological indications, that may provide significant relief. Methods according to the present invention include preferably brief sessions of anodal tDCS to assist in determining adequate electrode location and stimulus intensity by producing transient decreases in tinnitus intensity. Methods may also or alternatively include a number of sessions of cathodal tDCS at a confirmed electrode location and stimulus intensity to provide sustained tinnitus relief. Methods may also or alternatively include a number of maintenance sessions to prolong the sustained relief. | 08-08-2013 |
20130204316 | APPARATUS FOR THE TREATMENT OF BRAIN AFFECTIONS AND METHOD IMPLEMENTING THEREOF - The present invention relates to an apparatus for the treatment of a brain affection, which comprises at least one implantable generator ( | 08-08-2013 |
20130204317 | IMPLANTABLE DEVICE OF THE NEURAL INTERFACE TYPE AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - The main object of the invention is an implantable device of the neural interface type for processing signals, including:
| 08-08-2013 |
20130204318 | Thin Film for a Lead for Brain Applications - A thin film for a lead for brain applications includes at least one section comprising a high conductive metal and a low conductive metal, whereby the low conductive metal is a biocompatible metal and has a lower electrical conductivity than the high conductive metal and whereby the high conductive metal is at least partially encapsulated by the low conductive metal. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a thin film for a lead for brain applications and a deep brain stimulation system. | 08-08-2013 |
20130218232 | BRAIN STIMULATION RESPONSE PROFILING - Various embodiments concern delivering electrical stimulation to the brain at a plurality of different levels of a stimulation parameter and sensing a bioelectrical response of the brain to delivery of the electrical stimulation for each of the plurality of different levels of the stimulation parameter. A suppression window of the stimulation parameter can be identified as having a suppression threshold as a lower boundary and an after-discharge threshold as an upper boundary based on the sensed bioelectrical responses. A therapy level of the stimulation parameter can be set for therapy delivery based on the suppression window. The therapy level of the stimulation parameter may be set closer to the suppression threshold than the after-discharge threshold within the suppression window. Data for hippocampal stimulation demonstrating a suppression window is presented. | 08-22-2013 |
20130218233 | APPARATUS AND A METHOD FOR PERFORMING A SAFE STIMULATION OF A PERSON - The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for stimulating a person, wherein said apparatus comprises: at least one stimulation signal generator which generates a stimulation signal which is applied to said person; at least one detector for detecting a physiological signal derived from said person in response to said stimulation signal; and a monitoring unit which controls a safety switch to terminate automatically the application of said stimulation signal to said person, if a critical state of said person is recognized in response to the detected physiological signal. | 08-22-2013 |
20130226261 | CLINICIAN PROGRAMMER SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GENERATING INTERFACE MODELS AND DISPLAYS OF VOLUMES OF ACTIVATION - A system and method for displaying a volume of activation (VOA) may include a processor that displays via a display device a model of a portion of a patient anatomy that includes anatomical structures, displays via the display device and overlying the display of the model a VOA associated by the processor with a set of anatomical stimulation parameter settings, the display of the VOA, and graphically identifies interactions between the displayed VOA and a first subset of the anatomical structures associated with one or more stimulation benefits and a second subset of the anatomical structures associated with one or more stimulation side effects, where the graphical identifications differ depending on whether the interaction is with the first subset or the second subset. | 08-29-2013 |
20130226262 | SATELLITE THERAPY DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR BRAIN NEUROMODULATION - Deep brain electrodes are remotely sensed and activated by means of a remote active implantable medical device (AIMD). In a preferred form, a pulse generator is implanted in the pectoral region and includes a hermetic seal through which protrudes a conductive leadwire which provides an external antenna for transmission and reception of radio frequency (RF) pulses. One or more deep brain electrode modules are constructed and placed which can transmit and receive RF energy from the pulse generator. An RF telemetry link is established between the implanted pulse generator and the deep brain electrode assemblies. The satellite modules are configured for generating pacing pulses for a variety of disease conditions, including epileptic seizures, Turrets Syndrome, Parkinson's Tremor, and a variety of other neurological or brain disorders. | 08-29-2013 |
20130245713 | DEVICE FOR THE DESYNCHRONIZATION OF NEURONAL BRAIN ACTIVITY - A device for desynchronizing neuronal brain activity involving a neuron population firing in a synchronized manner at a pathological frequency. The device includes an electrode configured to generate stimuli that stimulate the neuron population; and a control unit configured to control the electrode to generate the stimuli in sequence, wherein the stimuli succeed each other with a predetermined frequency f. The predetermined frequency f is substantially equal to g×n/m, where g is the pathological frequency, and n and m are integers. | 09-19-2013 |
20130245714 | Method and Apparatus for Event-Triggered Reinforcement of a Favorable Brain State - Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for potentiating a favorable brain state that is associated with relief in symptoms of a brain condition. Techniques include monitoring one or more brain signals and detecting an episode of a favorable brain state based on the one or more brain signals, the favorable brain state associated with a decrease in one or more symptoms of a brain condition of the patient. Then, in response to the detection of the favorable brain state episode, electrical stimulation that potentiates the favorable brain state is delivered to the brain of the patient, the electrical stimulation delivered within a window of time opened for detection of each favorable brain state episode. | 09-19-2013 |
20130253604 | CRANIAL NERVE STIMULATION FOR TREATMENT OF SUBSTANCE ADDICTION - A method of treating a patient with at least one substance addiction, which comprises directly stimulating a cranial nerve, such as the vagus nerve, of a patient with an electrical pulse signal defined by a plurality of parameters to provide a therapy regimen for alleviating a symptom associated with the substance addiction. | 09-26-2013 |
20130268019 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION PROGRAMMING - In one example, the disclosure relates to a method comprising receiving at least one electrical stimulation parameter value defining electrical stimulation for delivery via one or more electrodes to a tissue site, and determining, via one or more processors, a volume of sub-activation threshold impact for tissue from the delivery of the electrical stimulation to the tissue site. | 10-10-2013 |
20130274824 | NEUROMODULATORY METHOD FOR TREATING CHRONIC RHINOSINUSITIS - One aspect of the present invention includes a method for treating chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in a subject. One step of the method includes implanting a therapy delivery system in the subject so that at least one therapy delivery component of the system is positioned substantially adjacent a target location where modulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is effective to treat CRS. The therapy delivery component includes at least one electrode configured to deliver electric current to the target location. Next, electric current is delivered to the at least one electrode to effect a change in the ANS. | 10-17-2013 |
20130289651 | DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION CURRENT STEERING WITH SPLIT ELECTRODES - A device for brain stimulation includes a lead having a longitudinal surface, a proximal end, a distal end and a lead body. The device also includes a plurality of electrodes disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead near the distal end of the lead. The plurality of electrodes includes a first set of segmented electrodes comprising at least two segmented electrodes disposed around a circumference of the lead at a first longitudinal position along the lead; and a second set of segmented electrodes comprising at least two segmented electrodes disposed around a circumference of the lead at a second longitudinal position along the lead. The device further includes one or more conductors that electrically couple together all of the segmented electrodes of the first set of segmented electrodes. | 10-31-2013 |
20130317563 | DEVICES FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF A BIOLOGICAL TISSUE AND METHOD FOR CALIBRATING SAME - An electrical stimulation system including: a mechanism generating at least one electrical signal to be applied to a biological tissue that is to stimulated and measuring a response of the biological tissue to each electrical signal; a calculation mechanism estimating, based on each electrical signal and on a corresponding response of the biological tissue, at least one parameter of an electrical model of the biological tissue and its interface with the electrical stimulation system and determining, using the model, at least one parameter of a stimulation pulse to be applied to the biological tissue by the electrical stimulation system; and a mechanism generating a stimulation pulse to be applied to the biological tissue. | 11-28-2013 |
20130317564 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TREATING A NERVE SYMPTOM - An implantable electrical stimulation system for treating a nerve symptom, the system comprising an implantable device. The implantable devices includes a wave generator that is operable to generate a signal wave and a white noise, mix the signal wave and the white noise, and produce an electrical stimulating signal. The system further comprises an electrode unit located in close proximity to a target nerve and is operable to provide the electrical stimulating signal to the nerve. The system further comprises an external controlling device. | 11-28-2013 |
20130331906 | Method of Treating Movement Disorders of a Living Being - The present invention relates to a method of treating movement disorders of a living being, a method of treating refractory gait disturbances of a human Parkinson's disease patient being affected by gait disturbances, and an apparatus for deep brain stimulation (DBS) of a living being affected by movement disorders. | 12-12-2013 |
20130338726 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NEUROMODULATION USING COMPOSITE PATTERNS OF STIMULATION OR WAVEFORMS - A neurostimulation system can include a memory, a playback system, a stimulation electrode, and a controller. The memory can store data for first and second input waveforms. The playback system can provides first and second output waveforms, based on the first and second input waveforms in the memory, respectively, to form composite patterns of stimulation or waveforms. The first output waveform can be different than the second output waveform. The second output waveform can be periodically superimposed on the first output waveform. The controller can be in communication with the stimulation electrode. The controller can be configured to control application of the composite pattern of stimulation or waveform to a target site in a body of a subject suffering from a medical condition. | 12-19-2013 |
20130338727 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO REDUCE SYNCOPE RISK DURING NEURAL STIMULATION THERAPY - Some embodiments, by way of example, provide a system, comprising a posture change detector configured to detect a posture transition indicative of an increased risk of syncope, and a neural stimulator configured to deliver a neural stimulation therapy. The neural stimulator may include a syncope avoidance module configured to respond to a detected posture transition by temporarily overriding the neural stimulation therapy to ameliorate the risk of increased syncope. | 12-19-2013 |
20130338728 | CLOSED-LOOP NEURAL STIMULATION - A system and method for conducting closed loop deep brain stimulation on an individual, and more specifically, for receiving local field potential neural signals, encoding and filtering the signals into the logarithmic domain, processing the signals, and determining optimal stimulation parameters for deep brain stimulation based on the processed neural signals. The system and method may also include an RF-DC converter such that the system may be powered in whole or in part based on radio frequency signals. The system and method may also include an RF transceiver such that the system may transmit data wirelessly to an external receiver, or may receive stimulation parameters wirelessly from an external transceiver. | 12-19-2013 |
20130345773 | NON-REGULAR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION PATTERNS FOR IMPROVED EFFICIENCY IN TREATING PARKINSON'S DISEASE - Systems and methods for stimulation of neurological tissue generate stimulation trains with temporal patterns of stimulation, in which the interval between electrical pulses (the inter-pulse intervals) changes or varies over time. Compared to conventional continuous, high rate pulse trains having regular (i.e., constant) inter-pulse intervals, the non-regular (i.e., not constant) pulse patterns or trains that embody features of the invention provide a lower average frequency. The systems and methods for stimulation of neurological tissue may be used to increase the efficacy of treatment in patients with Parkinson's Disease. | 12-26-2013 |
20130345774 | DEVICE FOR NON-INVASIVE, ELECTRICAL DEEP-BRAIN STIMULATION - The invention relates to a device and a method for transcranial, non-invasive, electrical deep-brain stimulation, of the kind used in particular in the treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders and of disturbances of the motor/cognitive functions in the human brain, wherein the device has at least one signal generator for generating an electrical alternating-current signal, an electrode arrangement, which can be placed on the head of a person to be treated and can be connected electrically to the signal generator so as to apply an alternating-current signal, wherein the electrode arrangement can be used to apply at least two alternating-current signals, of which the trajectories cross the region of the brain to be treated, such that their alternating currents are superposed, as a result of which the region of the brain to be treated is stimulated by electrical alternating currents in a targeted manner, whereas adjacent regions of the brain are stimulated only slightly or not at all. | 12-26-2013 |
20140005743 | Movement disorder therapy system, devices and methods of tuning | 01-02-2014 |
20140018881 | TRANSCRANIAL CURRENT STIMULATION DEVICE AND METHOD - A device for transcranial stimulation. The device for transcranial stimulation comprises an adjustable current source for providing a stimulation current; a first electrode connected to the current source for electrical connection to a patient; a second electrode connected to the current source for electrical connection to the patient; a first current interruptor for interrupting current flow between the current source and the electrode, the first current interruptor connected between the adjustable current source and the first electrode; and an output monitor connected between the current source and the first electrode for monitoring current to the patient. The output monitor detects an abnormal current it signals the first interruptor, which interrupts the current to the patient. A method of operating a device for transcranial stimulation is also provided. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018882 | BRAIN REPAIR USING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF HEALTHY NODES - A method and system of compensating for a damaged brain node is disclosed. The damaged node is determined by techniques such as fMRI or neural recording. A healthy node that can compensate for the function of the damaged node is determined. A stimulating electrode is placed on at least one functioning node to bypass the activity from the damaged node to compensate for a missing node. The functioning node is then stimulated to compensate for the damaged node. | 01-16-2014 |
20140025133 | COGNITIVE FUNCTION WITHIN A HUMAN BRAIN - Methods and apparatus for improving cognitive function within a human. The invention utilizes an implanted device, such as an implantable signal generator or an implantable pump, to affect tissue elements within a Papez circuit of the human brain as well as tissue upstream or downstream from the Papez circuit. The implanted device delivers treatment therapy to thereby improve cognitive function by the human. A sensor may be used to detect various symptoms of the cognitive disorder. A microprocessor algorithm may then analyze the output from the sensor to regulate delivery of the stimulation and/or drug therapy. | 01-23-2014 |
20140039571 | METHOD AND DEVICE TO RESTORE AND/OR IMPROVE NERVOUS SYSTEM FUNCTIONS BY MODIFYING SPECIFIC NERVOUS SYSTEM PATHWAYS - The present invention provides methods, devices, and systems for restoring or improving nervous system function of a subject. Provided is a method involving: (i) providing an operant conditioning protocol effective to produce targeted neural plasticity (TNP) in a primary targeted central nervous system (CNS) pathway of a subject; and (ii) administering the operant conditioning protocol to the subject to elicit TNP in the primary targeted CNS pathway and to elicit generalized neural plasticity (GNP) in one or more other CNS pathway. The elicitation of the GNP in the one or more other CNS pathway serves to restore or improve a nervous system function of the subject. Provided is a device comprising a nerve stimulation-electromyographic recording component and a controller for operating the nerve stimulation-electromyographic recording component in accordance with an operant conditioning protocol. | 02-06-2014 |
20140039572 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TREATING DEPRESSION AND EPILEPSY - A method for treating a patient suffering from epilepsy and/or depression includes applying electrical stimulation energy to a first cervical segment and/or a second cervical segment of a spinal cord of the patient, thereby treating the epilepsy and/or depression. The electrical stimulation energy may be epidurally applied to the first cervical segment and/or the second cervical segment of the spinal cord of the patient by an electrode implanted within an epidural space of the patient adjacent to the first or second cervical segment of the spinal cord. The electrode may be implanted adjacent to the first cervical vertebra and/or the second cervical vertebra of the patient. Applying the electrical stimulation energy may include applying electrical activation energy to activate afferent pathways that feed collateral nerve fibers into a trigeminocervical complex of the patient. The applied electrical stimulation energy may have a frequency in the range of 40-50 Hz. | 02-06-2014 |
20140052213 | System and Apparatus for Automated Quantitative Assessment, Optimization and Logging of the Effects of a Therapy - A method for assessment, optimization and logging of the effects of a therapy for a medical condition, including (a) receiving into a signal processor input signals indicative of the subject's brain activity; (b) characterizing the spatio-temporal behavior of the brain activity using the signals; (c) delivering a therapy to a target tissue of the subject; (d) characterizing the spatio-temporal effect of the therapy on the brain activity; (e) in response to the characterizing, optimizing at least one parameter of the therapy if the brain activity has not been satisfactorily modified and/or has been adversely modified by the therapy; (f) characterizing the spatio-temporal effect of the at least one optimized parameter; and (g) logging to memory the at least one optimized parameter. A computer readable program storage unit encoded with instructions that, when executed by a computer, performs the method. | 02-20-2014 |
20140052214 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF THE SYMPATHETIC NERVE CHAIN - The present invention provides a method of effecting physiological disorders by stimulating a specific location along the sympathetic nerve chain. Preferably, the present invention provides a method of effecting a variety of physiological disorders or pathological conditions by placing an electrode adjacent to or in communication with at least one ganglion along the sympathetic nerve chain and stimulating the at least one ganglion until the physiological disorder or pathological condition has been effected. | 02-20-2014 |
20140067004 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TREATING SEIZURES CAUSED BY BRAIN STIMULATION - Methods for treating seizures caused by brain stimulation include providing a stimulator, programming the stimulator with one or more stimulation parameters configured to treat a medical condition, applying at least one stimulus with the stimulator to a stimulation site within the brain of a patient in accordance with the one or more stimulation parameters, and monitoring the patient for a seizure caused by the at least one stimulus. | 03-06-2014 |
20140074179 | Movement disorder therapy system, devices and methods, and intelligent methods of tuning - The present invention relates to methods for tuning treatment parameters in movement disorder therapy systems. The present invention further relates to a system for screening patients to determine viability as candidates for certain therapy modalities, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS). The present invention still further provides methods of quantifying movement disorders for the treatment of patients who exhibit symptoms of such movement disorders including, but not limited to, Parkinson's disease and Parkinsonism, Dystonia, Chorea, and Huntington's disease, Ataxia, Tremor and Essential Tremor, Tourette syndrome, stroke, and the like. The present invention yet further relates to methods of tuning a therapy device using objective quantified movement disorder symptom data acquired by a movement disorder diagnostic device to determine the therapy setting or parameters to be provided to the subject via his or her therapy device. The present invention also provides treatment and tuning remotely, allowing for home monitoring of subjects. | 03-13-2014 |
20140074180 | Movement disorder therapy system and methods of tuning remotely, intelligently and/or automatically - The present invention relates to methods for remotely and intelligently tuning movement disorder of therapy systems. The present invention still further provides methods of quantifying movement disorders for the treatment of patients who exhibit symptoms of such movement disorders including, but not limited to, Parkinson's disease and Parkinsonism, Dystonia, Chorea, and Huntington's disease, Ataxia, Tremor and Essential Tremor, Tourette syndrome, stroke, and the like. The present invention yet further relates to methods of remotely and intelligently or automatically tuning a therapy device using objective quantified movement disorder symptom data to determine the therapy setting or parameters to be transmitted and provided to the subject via his or her therapy device. The present invention also provides treatment and tuning intelligently, automatically and remotely, allowing for home monitoring of subjects. | 03-13-2014 |
20140074181 | REGULATION OF AMYLOID BETA MOLECULAR COMPOSITION FOR THE TREATMENT OF ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE - A method of treating Alzheimer's disease (AD) is disclosed. The method comprises electrically stimulating a nerve pathway in a brain region of a subject with at least two high frequency spike bursts of electrical currents, the bursts comprising between 2-20 spikes, wherein a frequency of the spikes in the bursts is between 5-200 msec. | 03-13-2014 |
20140081346 | VESTIBULAR PROSTHESIS - A vestibular prosthesis includes micro-electric-mechanical (MEMS) sensors, gyroscopes in each sensitivity axis (X, Y, Z), accelerometers in each sensitivity axis (X, Y, Z) to detect an angular and linear movement providing displacement measurements, gyroscopes in each one of the spatial axes (X, Y, Z), a microprocessor connected to the MEMS sensors and producing an electric pulse pattern or a continuous galvanic current pattern, a conditioning unit that amplifies and conditions the microprocessor output to apply current to the stimulation electrodes, the microcontroller being configured to determine the displacement of the cupula and the otolithic mass, determine a membrane potential as a result of a displacement detected by the MEMS sensors by means of determining a transduction current, and determine an action potential discharge pattern for the primary afferent neuron, which synapses with the hair cell by means of a mathematical model of the informative process of the vestibular mechanoreceptor. | 03-20-2014 |
20140081347 | ASSESSING COGNITIVE DISORDERS BASED ON NON-MOTOR EPILEPTIFORM BIOELECTRICAL BRAIN ACTIVITY - Various embodiments concern assessing a degenerative cognitive disorder of a patient based on a plurality of episodes of non-motor epileptiform bioelectrical activity. The non-motor epileptiform bioelectrical activity can be detected from one or more bioelectrical brain signals. A worsening cognitive disorder may be indicated by an increase in one or more of intensity, duration, and frequency of occurrence of the episodes of non-motor epileptiform bioelectrical activity. A therapy can be delivered to reduce one or more of intensity, duration, and frequency of occurrence of the episodes of non-motor epileptiform bioelectrical activity. The delivery of the therapy can be controlled based on the plurality of episodes of non-motor epileptiform bioelectrical activity. | 03-20-2014 |
20140081348 | LOW-FREQUENCY STIMULATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Described here are devices and methods for delivering a low-frequency stimulation signal to tissue. In some variations, the low-frequency stimulation signal is delivered using one or more stimulation sequences, in which the low-frequency stimulation is sequentially delivered to a plurality of stimulation pathways. The stimulation pathways may comprise one or more monopolar stimulation pathways and/or one or more bipolar stimulation pathways. | 03-20-2014 |
20140107728 | SPECIFIC DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION FOR ENHANCEMENT OF MEMORY - A site-specific deep brain stimulation for enhancement of memory is described. A method of the site-specific deep brain stimulation for enhancement of memory may include implanting intracranial depth electrodes in a patient, wherein the electrodes are placed in right and/or left entorhinal regions, and stimulating the electrodes with current set below an after-discharge threshold. The method may include stimulation at a specific brain site in the medial temporal lobe, stimulation (ODTS) at specific stages of information processing. A system for site specific deep brain stimulation of entorhinal regions during specific stages of information processing is also described. | 04-17-2014 |
20140114373 | Intermediate Coupler to Facilitate Charging in an Implantable Medical Device System - An intermediate coupler is used to improve inductive coupling between an external charger and an implantable medical device having a battery requiring charging. The intermediate coupler comprises a coil (inductor) coupled to a capacitor, whose values are chosen to resonate at the frequency of the magnetic field emitted by the external charger. The intermediate coupler preferably contains no power source such as a battery, and can operate passively. When the intermediate coupler receives the magnetic field from the external charger, a current is induced in its coil, and the intermediate coupler generates its own magnetic field which is captured by the implantable medical device and used to charge its battery. | 04-24-2014 |
20140121723 | SEIZURE DETECTION USING COORDINATE DATA - A seizure detection device includes a coordinate data interface configured to receive coordinate data for a human, a memory to store coordinate data for a defined location of the human, and a seizure detector configured to identify a seizure event responsive to the coordinate data. | 05-01-2014 |
20140128937 | Active Electronics Module For A System For Brain Applications - An active electronics module for a system for brain applications comprises a lead having a plurality of electrodes at its distal end, at least one main module, and an active electronics module configured such that the active electronics module is connectable or connected to the least one main module on one side and the lead on the other side. The active electronics module includes at least one switch configured such that at least one of the electrodes of the lead can be connected with one or more inputs and/or outputs of the main module. | 05-08-2014 |
20140128938 | Microburst Electrical Stimulation Of Cranial Nerves For The Treatment Of Medical Conditions - Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and apparatus for treating a medical condition in a patient using an implantable medical device by applying an electrical signal characterized by having a number of pulses per microburst, an interpulse interval, a microburst duration, and an interburst period to a portion of a cranial nerve of said patient, wherein at least one of the number of pulses per microburst, the interpulse interval, the microburst duration, or the interburst period is selected to enhance cranial nerve evoked potentials. | 05-08-2014 |
20140135869 | STIMULATION ELECTRODE SELECTION - Bioelectrical signals may be sensed within a brain of a patient with a plurality of sense electrode combinations. A stimulation electrode combination for delivering stimulation to the patient to manage a patient condition may be selected based on the frequency band characteristics of the sensed signals. In some examples, a stimulation electrode combination associated with the sense electrode combination that sensed a bioelectrical brain signal having a relatively highest relative beta band power level may be selected to deliver stimulation therapy to the patient. Other frequency bands characteristics may also be used to select the stimulation electrode combination. | 05-15-2014 |
20140135870 | STIMULATION ELECTRODE SELECTION - Bioelectrical signals may be sensed within a brain of a patient with a plurality of sense electrode combinations. A stimulation electrode combination for delivering stimulation to the patient to manage a patient condition may be selected based on the frequency band characteristics of the sensed signals. In some examples, a stimulation electrode combination associated with the sense electrode combination that sensed a bioelectrical brain signal having a relatively highest relative beta band power level may be selected to deliver stimulation therapy to the patient. Other frequency bands characteristics may also be used to select the stimulation electrode combination. | 05-15-2014 |
20140142653 | CONTINGENT CARDIO-PROTECTION FOR EPILEPSY PATIENTS - Disclosed are methods and systems for treating epilepsy by stimulating a main trunk of a vagus nerve, or a left vagus nerve, when the patient has had no seizure or a seizure that is not characterized by cardiac changes such as an increase in heart rate, and stimulating a cardiac branch of a vagus nerve, or a right vagus nerve, when the patient has had a seizure characterized by cardiac changes such as a heart rate increase. | 05-22-2014 |
20140148872 | WEARABLE TRANSDERMAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATION DEVICES AND METHODS OF USING THEM - Described herein are devices, systems, and methods for transdermal electrical stimulation. Devices described herein can include self-contained, lightweight, and wearable components. The devices include a primary unit including a first transdermal electrode and a secondary unit including a second transdermal electrode. The device can be capable of wireless communication. The primary unit and secondary unit are placed at two locations on the skin of a user, for example on the head or neck of a user. The first and second transdermal electrodes are electrically connected. Electrical stimulation is driven between the two electrodes. The electrical stimulation induces a cognitive effect in a user of the device. | 05-29-2014 |
20140155952 | METHOD OF TREATING DEPRESSION, MOOD DISORDERS AND ANXIETY DISORDERS USING NEUROMODULATION - The present application involves a method and a system for using electrical stimulation and/or chemical stimulation to treat depression. More particularly, the method comprises surgically implanting an electrical stimulation lead and/or catheter that is in communication with a predetermined site which is coupled to a signal generator and/or infusion pump that release either an electrical signal and/or a pharmaceutical resulting in stimulation of the predetermined site thereby treating the mood and/or anxiety. | 06-05-2014 |
20140172041 | NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM, DEVICE, AND METHOD - A device for cranial nerve stimulation of an individual is disclosed, having a signal driver unit for producing a current; an intraoral stimulation board having at least one primary electrode, and at least one secondary electrode positioned on the individual for communicating a current through the individual, wherein current can flow between the intraoral stimulation board and the secondary electrode. The device may be used to treat a number of ailments. In one embodiment, the device provides input representing two planes of movement, or is used as a gaming controller. A method of using an electrical stimulation system is also disclosed, comprising the steps of: a) positioning the intraoral stimulation board within the individual's mouth; b) connecting the secondary electrode to the individual; c) operating the signal driver unit for a predetermined time to provide a current flow between the intraoral stimulation board and the secondary electrode. | 06-19-2014 |
20140180358 | BRAIN STIMULATION RESPONSE PROFILING - Various embodiments concern delivering electrical stimulation to the brain at a plurality of different levels of a stimulation parameter and sensing a bioelectrical response of the brain to delivery of the electrical stimulation for each of the plurality of different levels of the stimulation parameter. A suppression window of the stimulation parameter can be identified as having a suppression threshold as a lower boundary and an after-discharge threshold as an upper boundary based on the sensed bioelectrical responses. A therapy level of the stimulation parameter can be set for therapy delivery based on the suppression window. The therapy level of the stimulation parameter may be set closer to the suppression threshold than the after-discharge threshold within the suppression window. Data for hippocampal stimulation demonstrating a suppression window is presented. | 06-26-2014 |
20140194944 | Implantable Device for Acquisition and Monitoring of Brain Bioelectric Signals and for Intracranial Stimulation - An implantable device for the acquisition and monitoring of brain bioelectric signals is described. The implantable device has a plurality of active electrodes configured to detect brain bioelectric signals, the active electrodes being arranged on a grid connected to an electronic module of the implantable device according to a predefined pattern. The active electrodes are connected to a microprocessor of the electronic module through respective paths formed on the grid and connected to at least one analog input unit arranged in the electronic module, the at least one analog input unit being in turn connected to at least one passive electrode and to the microprocessor through a data bus. The at least one analog input unit has an analog-to-digital converter for each active electrode connected thereto. A data acquisition and processing system, which includes the implantable device is also described. | 07-10-2014 |
20140194945 | TARGET THERAPY DELIVERY SITE SELECTION - In some examples of selecting a target therapy delivery site for treating a patient condition, a relatively high frequency electrical stimulation signal is delivered to at least two areas within a first region (e.g., an anterior nucleus of the thalamus) of a brain of a patient, and changes in brain activity (e.g., as indicated by bioelectrical brain signals) within a second region (e.g., a hippocampus) of the brain of the patient in response to the delivered stimulation are determined. The target therapy delivery site, an electrode combination, or both, may be selected based on the changes in brain activity. | 07-10-2014 |
20140200624 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF TREATING INTRACTABLE EPILEPSY BY STIMULATION - System and method for treating intractable epilepsy are provided. The method includes implanting electrodes in pedunculopontine nucleus and delivering electrical pulses to the pedunculopontine nucleus, thereby inducing the stimulation of cholinergic neurons leading to the release of acetylcholine, thereby enhancing the genesis of rapid eye movement sleep, which reduces the occurrence of epileptic attacks and also chronically suppresses the epileptogenic process. | 07-17-2014 |
20140200625 | NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - Some embodiments of the present invention provide neurostimulation systems and components for selective stimulation and/or neuromodulation of one or more dorsal root ganglia through implantation of an electrode on, in or around a dorsal root ganglia. Some other embodiments of the present invention provide neurostimulation systems adapted for selective neurostimulation of one or more nerve root ganglia as well as techniques for applying neurostimulation to the spinal cord. Still other embodiments of the present invention provide stimulation systems and components for selective stimulation and/or neuromodulation of one or more dorsal root ganglia through implantation of an electrode on, in or around a dorsal root ganglia in combination with a pharmacological agent. | 07-17-2014 |
20140214117 | Implantable Electroacupuncture Device and Method for Treating Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Anxiety - An implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) treats depression, bipolar disorder or Anxiety through application of stimulation pulses applied at acupoints GV20 and/or EXHN3. The IEAD comprises an implantable, coin-sized, self-contained, leadless electroacupuncture device having at least two electrodes attached to an outside surface of its housing. The device generates stimulation pulses in accordance with a specified stimulation regimen. Power management circuitry within the device allows a primary battery, having a high internal impedance, to be used to power the device. The stimulation regimen generates stimulation pulses during a stimulation session of duration T3 minutes applied every T4 minutes. The duty cycle, or ratio T3/T4, is very low, no greater than 0.05. The low duty cycle and careful power management allow the IEAD to perform its intended function for several years. | 07-31-2014 |
20140214118 | Implantable Electroacupuncture System and Method for Treating Depression and Similar Mental Conditions - An implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) treats mental illness through application of stimulation pulses applied at a specified tissue location, including at least one of acupoints GV20 and EXHN3, or their underlying nerves. In one embodiment, the IEAD comprises an implantable, coin-sized, self-contained, leadless electroacupuncture device having at least two electrodes attached to an outside surface of its housing. The device generates stimulation pulses in accordance with a specified stimulation regimen. Power management circuitry within the device allows a primary battery, having a high internal impedance, to be used to power the device. The stimulation regimen generates stimulation pulses during a stimulation session of duration T3 minutes applied every T4 minutes. The duty cycle, or ratio T3/T4 is very low, no greater than 0.05. The low duty cycle and careful power management allow the IEAD to perform its intended function for several years. | 07-31-2014 |
20140214119 | Implantable Electroacupuncture System and Method for Treating Parkinson's Disease and Essential Tremor - An implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) treats Parkinson's disease or Essential Tremor through application of stimulation pulses applied at at least one of acupoints GB34 and GV20. The IEAD includes an hermetically-sealed implantable electroacupuncture (EA) device having at least two electrodes located outside of its housing. The housing contains a primary power source, pulse generation circuitry, and a sensor that wirelessly senses externally-generated operating commands. The pulse generation circuitry generates stimulation pulses as controlled, at least in part, by the operating commands sensed through the sensor. The stimulation pulses are applied to the specified acupoint or nerve through the electrodes in accordance with a specified stimulation regimen. Such stimulation regimen requires that the stimulation session be applied at a very low duty cycle not greater than 0.05. | 07-31-2014 |
20140222101 | DETERMINATION OF SLEEP QUALITY FOR NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS - A device determines values for one or more metrics that indicate the quality of a patient's sleep based on sensed physiological parameter values. Sleep efficiency, sleep latency, and time spent in deeper sleep states are example sleep quality metrics for which values may be determined. The sleep quality metric values may be used, for example, to evaluate the effectiveness of a therapy delivered to the patient by a medical device. In some embodiments, determined sleep quality metric values are automatically associated with the therapy parameter sets according to which the medical device delivered the therapy when the physiological parameter values were sensed, and used to evaluate the effectiveness of the various therapy parameter sets. The medical device may deliver the therapy to treat a non-respiratory neurological disorder, such as epilepsy, a movement disorder, or a psychological disorder. The therapy may be, for example, deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy. | 08-07-2014 |
20140249598 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR BRAIN STIMULATION - A device for brain stimulation that includes n lead having a longitudinal surface; at least one stimulation electrode disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead; and at least one recording electrode, separate from the at least one stimulation electrode, disposed along she longitudinal surface of the lead. | 09-04-2014 |
20140257427 | System for Deep Brain Stimulation Employing a Sensor for Monitoring Patient Movement and Providing Closed Loop Control - A closed loop system is disclosed for monitoring patient movements, such as tremors, and for automatically controlling an implantable stimulator device on the basis of the detected movements. The system includes a motion sensor such as a wearable item that contains an accelerometer to monitor a patient's movements, such as a ring locatable proximate to a patient's hand tremor. The motion sensor periodically transmits a feedback signal to the implantable stimulator device instructing it to change the stimulation parameters, such as current amplitude, in an attempt to reduce the tremor. The motion sensor can additionally communicate with other system components such as an external controller. In a preferred embodiment, the motion sensor and the implantable stimulator device communicate using short range electromagnetic radio waves. | 09-11-2014 |
20140277255 | OPTIMIZATION OF CRANIAL NERVE STIMULATION TO TREAT SEIZURE DISORDERS DURING SLEEP - A method includes determining sleep cycle information related to a sleep cycle of a patient based on body parameter data. The method also includes adjusting a cranial nerve stimulation parameter based on the sleep cycle information. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277256 | PROGRAMMABLE AUTOTITRATING OF ELECTRICAL PARAMETERS OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - We report a method of automatically titrating an electrical therapy administered to a patient by an implanted medical device to a target dosage, comprising programming the medical device with a programmed electrical therapy comprising a first target value for a first therapy parameter; programming at least one titration parameter for automatically adjusting the first therapy parameter from a first value to the first target value over a titration time period initiating the electrical therapy, wherein the first therapy parameter comprises said first value; and automatically titrating the electrical therapy by making a plurality of adjustments to the value of the first therapy parameter, whereby the first electrical therapy parameter is changed from the first value to the first target value according to a titration function. We also report a medical device system configured to implement the method. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277257 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR REMOTE NEURAL MODULATION BRAIN STIMULATION AND FEEDBACK CONTROL - A method, system and apparatus is presented for a wireless neural modulation feedback control system as it relates to an implantable medical device comprised of a radio frequency (RF) receiver circuit, one or more dipole or patch antenna(s), one or more electrode leads connected to at least one dipole or patch antenna(s), and at least one microelectronic neural modulation circuit, and an external or internally implanted RF device to neurally modulate brain tissue in order to treat medical conditions that can be mediated by neuronal activation or inhibition, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, other motor or mood based disorders, and/or pain. The implantable receiver captures energy radiated by the RF transmitter unit and converts this energy to an electrical waveform by the implanted neural modulation circuit to deliver energy that can be utilized by the attached electrode pads in order to activate targeted neurons in the brain. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277258 | MICROFABRICATED SURFACE NEUROSTIMULATION DEVICE AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME - Described herein are microelectrode array devices, and methods of fabrication and use of the same, to provide highly localized and efficient electrical stimulation of a neurological target. The device includes multiple microelectrode elements arranged along an supportive backing layer. The microelectrode elements are dimensioned and shaped so as to target individual neurons, groups of neurons, and neural tissue as may be located in an animal nervous system, such as along a region of a cortex of a human brain. Beneficially, the neurological probe can be used to facilitate location of the neurological target and remain implanted for long-term monitoring and/or stimulation. | 09-18-2014 |
20140288614 | ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY MEASUREMENT AND TRAINING AND REMOTE DATABASED AND DATA ANALYSIS MEASUREMENT METHOD AND SYTEM - A method and system provides for electrophysiological data analysis in a networked processing environment. The method and system includes receiving, via a networked connection, electrophysiological data of a patient and electronically performing, via at least one network processing device, a data analysis on the electrophysiological data. The method and system includes generating at least one report based on the data analysis, wherein the at least one report includes determination of one or more intervention options for the patient and therein transmitting the report to a recipient device across the network connection for utilization with the patient. The results of the report direct the user to apply from within the same system non-invasive brain stimulation, neurofeedback, and biofeedback modalities. Re-assessment can occur from within the same system following the training or modulation of electrophysiology and thereby generate a comparison report showing functional changes from the provided intervention or combined interventions. | 09-25-2014 |
20140288615 | FIRST TIME RIGHT PLACEMENT OF A DBS LEAD - The disclosure is directed to a deep brain stimulation (DBS) lead having a distal end for providing therapeutic electrical stimulation to tissue in a stimulation target area of a patient's brain, comprising an array of one or more stimulation elements and sensing elements located at the distal end of the lead; each of the one or more stimulation elements is capable of providing electrical stimulation to the brain tissue in the target area; and each of the one or more sensing elements is capable of detecting electrical signals produced by nerve cells within the brain; wherein after the first implantation of the lead into the brain along a trajectory that is pre-determined by non-surgical procedures, the array of stimulation and sensing elements is capable of facilitating the location of the target area and the determination for each of the stimulation elements of the required stimulation parameters needed to provide the therapeutic stimulation to the brain tissue in the stimulation target area, without requiring any additional implantations of the lead after the first implantation. A stimulation system including the DBS lead and a pulse generator is disclosed. Also disclosed is a method of providing therapeutic DBS to brain tissue using the lead. | 09-25-2014 |
20140303683 | METHOD FOR THE TREATMENT OF AUTISM - The present invention provides a method for treating autism. The method comprises following steps: step 1, applying a first electrical current stimulation of 30 minutes in the vicinity of the Hegu acupuncture point and the Nei guan acupuncture point at one side of the patient, wherein the first electrical current stimulation has a first slow-quick waveform, and the maximum current of the first electrical current stimulation is 3-10 mA; and step 2, applying a second electrical current stimulation of 30 minutes in the vicinity of the Zusanli acupuncture point, and the Sanyinjiao acupuncture point at opposite side of the patient, wherein the second electrical current stimulation has a second slow-quick waveform, and the maximum current of the second electrical current stimulation is 4-15 mA. The above-mentioned method may actually aim at the etiology in the biological and medical aspects, and results in actual therapeutic significance. In the course of treatment, the above-mentioned method is not found to have any side effects, so it can be used for a long time. The present method of the present application is non-invasive and painless, and it is acceptable for children, and suitable for family use. The method can obviously improve the symptoms of autism. The clinical manifestations is an increase of passive and active language, an improvement of social interaction-ability, emotion becoming stable, a better sleep (sleep quickly, a long time). In addition, the method is simple and do not need an acupuncturist. | 10-09-2014 |
20140324117 | LEAD AND METHODS FOR BRAIN MONITORING AND MODULATION - An apparatus, a system and methods for modulating and monitoring tissue have an elongate member with proximal and distal ends and a plurality of annular stimulating electrodes axially arranged along the elongate member. The stimulating electrodes are disposed near the distal end and are adapted to pass current into tissue. At least one of the annular stimulating electrodes has at least three independent stimulation points on the electrode. The apparatus also includes a plurality of recording electrodes that are adapted to measure local tissue potentials and a plurality of conductors are coupled with the recording and stimulating electrodes. An optional multiple contact connecting terminal may be coupled with the conductors and is disposed near the proximal end of the elongate member. | 10-30-2014 |
20140330334 | MOBILE PHONE FOR TREATING A PATIENT WITH SEIZURES - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed that allow a patient to self-treat epileptic seizures by electrical noninvasive stimulation of a vagus nerve. The system comprises a handheld stimulator that is applied to the surface of the patient's neck, wherein the stimulator comprises or is joined to a smartphone. A camera of the smartphone may be used to position and reposition the stimulator to a particular location on the patient's neck. The system may also comprise a base station that is used to meter the charging of a rechargeable battery within the stimulator. The base station and stimulator transmit data to one another regarding the status of a stimulation session. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330335 | MOBILE PHONE FOR TREATING A PATIENT WITH DEMENTIA - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed that allow a patient to self-treat neurodegenerative diseases, such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, ischemic stroke, post-concussion syndrome, chronic traumatic encephalopathy and the like by electrical noninvasive stimulation of a vagus nerve. The system comprises a handheld stimulator that is applied to the surface of the patient's neck, wherein the stimulator comprises or is joined to a smartphone. A camera of the smartphone may be used to position and reposition the stimulator to a particular location on the patient's neck. The system may also comprise a base station that is used to meter the charging of a rechargeable battery within the stimulator. The base station and stimulator transmit data to one another regarding the status of a stimulation session. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330336 | MOBILE PHONE FOR STIMULATING THE TRIGEMINAL NERVE TO TREAT DISORDERS - Devices and methods are disclosed that allow a patient to self-treat a medical condition, such as migraine headache and trigeminal neuralgia and the like, by noninvasive electrical stimulation of nerves of the head, particularly supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, and mental nerves in the vicinity of their foramen or notch. The system comprises a handheld mobile device, such as a smartphone, that is applied to the surface of the patient's head. One or more electrodes on the mobile device apply electrical impulses transcutaneously through the patient's skin to the targeted nerve to treat the medical condition. The system is designed to address problems that arise particularly during self-treatment, when a medical professional is not present. | 11-06-2014 |
20140330337 | NANOWIRE-BASED DEVICES FOR LIGHT-INDUCED AND ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF BIOLOGICAL CELLS - A device including at least one photovoltaic cell and at least one nanowire configured to electrically stimulate a biological material in response to radiation. | 11-06-2014 |
20140336722 | METHOD AND NEUROPROSTHETIC DEVICE FOR MONITORING AND SUPPRESSION OF PATHOLOGICAL TREMORS THROUGH NEUROSTIMULATION OF THE AFFERENT PATHWAYS - Method and neuroprosthetic device for monitoring and suppression of pathological tremors in a user through the neurostimulation of the afferent pathways to the brain, which comprises wearable elements placed over the parts of the body affected by tremor, wherein said wearable elements ( | 11-13-2014 |
20140336723 | ACTIVE GLASSES FOR OPTIC NERVE STIMULATION - Active glasses for stimulating optic nerves of a user. | 11-13-2014 |
20140343621 | PROBE SYSTEM FOR BRAIN APPLICATIONS - The present invention relates to a probe system for brain applications, especially for neurostimulation and/or neurorecording, comprising at least one lead for brain applications with a first number of stimulation and/or recording electrodes, the lead being connectable to a low-count connector element or having a low-count connector element, whereby the low-count connector element has a second number of connector contacts, whereby the second number of connector contacts is lower than the first number of the electrodes, whereby the low-count connector element is configured such that the low-count connector element can be directly and/or indirectly connected to at least one pulse generator, whereby the probe system further comprises a power-management unit, a controller unit, a communication unit, and a switching unit. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a deep brain stimulation system, a low-count connector element, and to a method of manufacturing a probe system for a deep brain stimulation system. | 11-20-2014 |
20140350634 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION PARAMETERS - Devices, systems and methods for increasing the efficacy and/or efficiency of deep brain stimulation (DBS) using parameters of stimulation that are custom tailored to a unique set of one or more symptoms and/or to a specific patient is shown and described herein. Also disclosed are devices, systems and methods for recording pertinent neural activity during non-regular patterns of stimulation and processing techniques for these recorded signals and stimulation parameter optimization based on these neural recordings may be used to tune computational models of the stimulation patterns to reproduce the observed neural activity. | 11-27-2014 |
20140350635 | DEEP BRAIN STIMULATOR AND METHOD OF USE - A neurostimulation system is shown and described. The neurostimulation system may include a stimulation device implantable into a patient, a lead operatively coupled with the stimulation device, a first power cell providing power to the stimulation device where the first power cell is charged by an externally applied AC (High HF) magnetic field. | 11-27-2014 |
20150012057 | STATE MACHINE FRAMEWORK FOR PROGRAMMING CLOSED-LOOP ALGORITHMS THAT CONTROL THE DELIVERY OF THERAPY TO A PATIENT BY AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - This disclosure describes a state machine framework for programming closed-loop algorithms that control the delivery of therapy to a patient by an implantable medical device (IMD). The state machine framework may use one or more programmable state parameters to define at least part of a structure of a state machine that generates one or more therapy decisions based on one or more sensed states of the patient. The state machine framework may include a state machine runtime environment that executes on an IMD and that is configurable to implement a variety of different state machines depending on programmable state parameters that are received from an external device. The techniques of this disclosure may, in some cases, allow IMD developers and/or users to program, change, and/or download new closed-loop control policy algorithms during the lifespan of the IMD without requiring new firmware code to be downloaded onto the IMD. | 01-08-2015 |
20150045851 | DEVICE FOR PLANNING A NEUROMODULATION THERAPY - The present invention relates to a device for planning a neuromodulation therapy, whereby the device comprises receiving means to receive brain default mode network data of a patient, template means comprising a template brain default mode network data, normalizing means being configured such that normalized patient brain default mode network data can be prepared on the basis on the received brain default mode network data and the template brain default mode network data, storage means comprising a brain default mode network data base and comparison means configured such that the normalized patient brain default mode network data and the data contained in the brain default mode network data base can be compared | 02-12-2015 |
20150045852 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DISPLAYING PREDICTED VOLUME OF INFLUENCE - This document discusses, among other things, brain stimulation models, systems, devices, and methods, such as for deep brain stimulation (DBS) or other electrical stimulation. In an example, volumetric imaging data representing an anatomical volume of a brain of a patient can be obtained and transformed to brain atlas data. A patient-specific brain atlas can be created using the inverse of the transformation to map the brain atlas data onto the volumetric imaging data and a volume of influence can be calculated using the patient-specific brain atlas. In certain examples, the volume of influence can include a predicted volume of tissue affected by an electrical stimulation delivered by an electrode at a corresponding at least one candidate electrode target location. | 02-12-2015 |
20150051663 | TRANSCRANIAL STIMULATION DEVICE AND METHOD BASED ON ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL TESTING - The present method and system provides for the clinical application of neurostimulation and/or neuromodulation to a patient. The method and system includes receipt and acquisition of patient data, processing of that data relative to one or more known data sets, and determination of a good-fit trigger specific treatment protocol. The method and system provides for application of the protocol to the patient, including delivery of neuromodulation and biofeedback. Based thereon, the method and system re-iterates the goodness of fit determination for further treatment to the patient. | 02-19-2015 |
20150066104 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION TO A USER - A method for providing electrical stimulation to a user as a user performs a set of tasks during a time window, the method comprising: providing an electrical stimulation treatment, characterized by a stimulation parameter and a set of portions, to a brain region of the user in association with the time window; for each task of the set of tasks: receiving a signal stream characterizing a neurological state of the user; from the signal stream, identifying a neurological signature characterizing the neurological state associated with the task; and modulating the electrical stimulation treatment provided to the brain region of the user based upon the neurological signature, wherein modulating comprises delivering a portion of the set of portions of the electrical stimulation treatment to the brain region of the user, while maintaining an aggregate amount of the stimulation parameter of the treatment provided during the time window below a maximum limit. | 03-05-2015 |
20150073495 | NON-REGULAR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION PATTERNS FOR TREATING NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS - Systems and methods for stimulation of neurological tissue generate stimulation trains with temporal patterns of stimulation, in which the interval between electrical pulses (the inter-pulse intervals) changes or varies over time. Compared to conventional continuous, high rate pulse trains having regular (i.e., constant) inter-pulse intervals, the non-regular (i.e., not constant) pulse patterns or trains that embody features of the invention provide a lower average frequency. | 03-12-2015 |
20150088223 | VOA GENERATION SYSTEM AND METHOD USING A FIBER SPECIFIC ANALYSIS - A system and method for generating an estimated volume of activation (VOA) corresponding to settings applied to a stimulation leadwire includes a processor performing the following: determining, for each of a plurality of neural elements, one or more respective parameters characterizing an electrical distribution along the neural element, looking up the one or more parameters for each of the neural elements in a look-up table (LUT), obtaining threshold values for each of the neural elements recorded in the LUT in association with the looked-up parameters, comparing, for each of the neural elements, a value of the leadwire settings to each of the respective threshold value, estimating based on the comparisons which of the neural elements would be activated by the settings, and generating a structure corresponding to a region including the neural elements estimated to be activated. | 03-26-2015 |
20150088224 | WEARABLE TRANSDERMAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATION DEVICES AND METHODS OF USING THEM - Apparatuses (e.g., devices, systems), and methods for transdermal electrical stimulation (TES). Apparatuses described herein can be self-contained, lightweight, and wearable. The apparatus may include a primary unit (TES stimulator) and an electrode portion that includes a first transdermal electrode and a second transdermal electrode and mates with the TES stimulator. The first electrode and secondary electrode are placed at two locations on the skin of a user, for example on the head and/or neck of a user. Electrical stimulation driven between the two electrodes may induce a cognitive effect in a user of the device. | 03-26-2015 |
20150105837 | BRAIN THERAPY SYSTEM AND METHOD USING NONINVASIVE BRAIN STIMULATION - A brain therapy system and method using noninvasive brain stimulation, comprising:
| 04-16-2015 |
20150105838 | REGULATION OF NEUROTROPHINS - Disclosed are methods for regulating neurotrophin levels within a human body. The invention utilizes an implantable signal generator to deliver stimulation to neural tissue elements. Alternatively, an implantable pump may be utilized to delivery one or more drugs. The implanted device delivers treatment therapy to the neural tissue to thereby alter the level of neurotrophic factors such as BDNF expressed by the influenced neural tissue. A sensor may be used to detect various symptoms of a nervous system disorder. A microprocessor algorithm may then analyze the output from the sensor to regulate the treatment therapy delivered to the body. The invention describes a novel method to regulate the intrinsic levels of neurotrophins and may be used to treat patients with neurological and cognitive disorders. | 04-16-2015 |
20150112403 | METHOD AND A SYSTEM FOR OPTIMIZING THE CONFIGURATION OF MULTISITE TRANSCRANIAL CURRENT STIMULATION AND A COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM - A system and a method for optimizing the configuration of multisite transcranial current stimulation, including providing an electric field characteristic target map on the brain's cortex, the target map including multiple cortical targets, the multiple cortical targets are localized and/or continuously varying and spatially extended, providing a weight map on the cortical surface prioritizing the important of areas in the target map for the purposes of optimization; and calculating, based on the target and weight maps, optimal currents and optimal locations for a plurality of electrodes intended for providing transcranial current stimulation to globally stimulate at once the multiple cortical targets with excitatory, inhibitory or neutral stimulation. | 04-23-2015 |
20150148863 | BRAIN STIMULATING SYSTEM - A brain stimulating system is provided. In some embodiments, the system includes a first electrode configured to supply a minute electric current to stimulate a brain, and a second electrode configured to detect at least one brain signal received from a brain, wherein the second electrode includes a blocking filter configured to block the minute electric current. | 05-28-2015 |
20150148864 | Implantable Electroacupuncture System and Method for Treating Parkinson's Disease and Essential Tremor Through Application of Stimului At or Near An Acupoint on the Chorea Line - An implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) treats Parkinson's disease or Essential Tremor through application of stimulation pulses applied to at least one of the acupoints on the chorea line. The IEAD includes an hermetically-sealed implantable electroacupuncture (EA) device and a conduit extending therefrom. At least one electrode is located on the outside of the housing. At least one electrode is located at an opening formed through the conduit. The housing contains a primary power source and pulse generation circuitry. A sensor wirelessly senses externally-generated operating commands, such as ON, OFF and AMPLITUDE. The pulse generation circuitry generates stimulation pulses. The stimulation pulses are applied to the specified acupoint or nerve through the electrodes in accordance with a specified stimulation regimen. | 05-28-2015 |
20150290460 | Methods for Treating Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease - In certain embodiments, a method of treating mild cognitive disorder, early-stage dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or other neurological disorder, comprises: identifying the neurological disorder in a patient; operating an implantable pulse generator to generate electrical pulses; and providing the electrical pulses from the implantable pulse generator to tissue of a target site of the patient's brain, using one or more electrodes of an implantable stimulation lead, to treat the neurological disorder in the patient, wherein the target site is selected from the sites consisting of posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), inferior pariertal area, parahippocampus, precuneus, sub and pregenual anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), and pariertal area sites. | 10-15-2015 |
20150297893 | CLINICIAN PROGRAMMER SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STEERING VOLUMES OF ACTIVATION - A system and method for selection of stimulation parameters for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) may include a processor that displays in a display device and in relation to a displayed model of a leadwire including model electrodes, a current field corresponding to a first stimulation parameter set, provides a user interface for receipt of user input representing a shift of the current field, in response to the user input, moves, in the display device, the current field with respect to the displayed model, determines a second stimulation parameter set that results in the moved current field, and outputs the second stimulation parameter set and/or sets a stimulation device with the second stimulation parameter set, where the stimulation device is configured for performing a stimulation using the leadwire in accordance with the second stimulation parameter set. | 10-22-2015 |
20150306390 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SUPPRESSING SEIZURE-LIKE EVENTS - An apparatus for synthesizing a multi-band rhythmic signal comprises a therapeutic network having an input to receive an input signal representative of a seizure-like event, said therapeutic network being responsive to said input signal and configured to generate an output stimulation signal of a form to suppress said input signal. | 10-29-2015 |
20150306391 | DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION FOR SLEEP DISORDERS - In some examples, a medical device delivers electrical stimulation to the external portion of the globus pallidus of a brain of a patient in order to treat a sleep impairment of the patient. In some examples, the electrical stimulation may be delivered via one or more electrodes implanted in the GPe of the brain. In some examples, an electrical stimulation device is configured to deliver electrical stimulation therapy to the GPe based on detection of a sleep state of a patient. The sleep state may include, for example, a state in which the patient is awake and intending on sleeping, is awake and attempting to sleep or has initiated sleep. In addition, in some examples, an electrical stimulation device is configured to deliver electrical stimulation therapy to the GPe based on detection of an awake state of a patient. | 10-29-2015 |
20150306392 | CRANIAL NERVE STIMULATION TO TREAT DEPRESSION DURING SLEEP - A method includes determining sleep cycle information related to a sleep cycle of a patient based on body parameter data. The method also includes adjusting a cranial nerve stimulation parameter based on the sleep cycle information. The method further includes applying a cranial nerve stimulation therapy to treat depression based on the adjusted cranial nerve stimulation parameter. | 10-29-2015 |
20150321010 | System for Deep Brain Stimulation Employing a Sensor for Monitoring Patient Movement and Providing Closed Loop Control - A closed loop system is disclosed for monitoring patient movements, such as tremors, and for automatically controlling an implantable stimulator device on the basis of the detected movements. The system includes a motion sensor such as a wearable item that contains an accelerometer to monitor a patient's movements, such as a ring locatable proximate to a patient's hand tremor. The motion sensor periodically transmits a feedback signal to the implantable stimulator device instructing it to change the stimulation parameters, such as current amplitude, in an attempt to reduce the tremor. The motion sensor can additionally communicate with other system components such as an external controller. In a preferred embodiment, the motion sensor and the implantable stimulator device communicate using short range electromagnetic radio waves. | 11-12-2015 |
20150328461 | METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR AMPLITUDE-MODULATED ENSEMBLE WAVEFORMS FOR NEUROSTIMULATION - Methods and apparatuses for amplitude modulation of all or a portion of an ensemble waveform to modify a user's cognitive state by transdermal electrical stimulation (TES). An ensemble current waveform may include a sequence of component biphasic current waveforms in which one or more parameters (such as frequency, current amplitude, percent duty cycle, and percent charge imbalance) vary between sequential component waveforms. These ensemble waveforms may be specifically configured to evoke a particular cognitive state when applied by TES. In particular, described herein are methods for applying amplitude modulation to all or a sub-set of the component waveforms in the ensemble waveform which may dramatically enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the TES. Also described herein are methods and apparatuses for applying amplitude modulation to all or a portion of an ensemble waveform without truncating pulses of the component waveforms forming the ensemble waveform. | 11-19-2015 |
20150328467 | METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR CONTROL OF A WEARABLE TRANSDERMAL NEUROSTIMULATOR TO APPLY ENSEMBLE WAVEFORMS - Methods and apparatuses for controlling a wearable neurostimulator from a control apparatus. Described herein are methods and apparatuses for controlling the application of ensemble waveforms using a transdermal electrical stimulation by a neurostimulator having a processor. The controller may provide specifically configured commands to efficiently and accurately control the delivery of an ensemble waveform by the neurostimulator, wherein the ensemble waveform includes a sequence of component biphasic current waveforms in which one or more parameters (such as frequency, current amplitude, percent duty cycle, and percent charge imbalance) vary between sequential component waveforms particularly effective at evoking a desired cognitive state by TES. | 11-19-2015 |
20150335875 | WEARABLE TRANSDERMAL NEUROSTIMULATOR HAVING CANTILEVERED ATTACHMENT - Neurostimulator apparatuses for applying transdermal electrical stimulation that may be comfortably and securely worn on a variety of head shapes and sizes. The apparatuses and methods of using them described herein may be lightweight and wearable and configured to be attached at one end of a patient-facing surface of the apparatus by a cantilevered attachment so that an opposite end of the surface is free to float relative to the user's head. The cantilevered attachment may include two or more connectors spaced apart along an edge region of the patient-facing surface in an optimal arrangement to secure the neurostimulator in place. The neurostimulator apparatuses described herein may be secured to a separate or integral electrode assembly that may adhesively secure to the subject's head. The patient-facing surface of the neurostimulator may also be curved and twisted specifically for use at the temple/forehead region of a diverse population of potential users. | 11-26-2015 |
20150335888 | TRANSDERMAL NEUROSTIMULATOR ADAPTED TO REDUCE CAPACITIVE BUILD-UP - Neurostimulators for application of transdermal electrical stimulation (TES) and methods of using them for comfortably inducing a cognitive effect. The apparatuses described herein may include hardware, software and/or firmware components that are configured to safely and effectively apply high current intensity (e.g., using a high voltage source). These apparatuses may also include circuitry configured to deliver complex (e.g., ensemble) TES current waveforms that incorporate capacitive discharge current at selected portions of the delivered waveform to enhance user comfort. Methods of operating these devices to reduce capacitance buildup on the user's skin by delivering integrated capacitive discharging currents are also included. | 11-26-2015 |
20150335896 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTIMIZED STIMULATION OF A NEUROLOGICAL TARGET - A preferred frequency is identified, being usable to stimulate a neurological target within a mammalian body using at least one microelectrode positioned at or near the target. To establish efficient and effective stimulation, an impedance analyzer is provided for measuring electrical impedance values indicative of a microelectrode-tissue interface across a range of different frequencies. A preferred one of the measured electrical impedance values is identified as being closest to a pure resistance. The neurological target can then be stimulated at or near the frequency associated with the preferred impedance value (peak resistance frequency), thereby promoting desirable traits, such as optimum charge transfer, minimum signal distortion, increased stimulation efficiency, and prevention of microelectrode corrosion. The peak resistance frequency can be used to determine an preferred pulse shape. A target can be identified by microelectrode measurements of neuronal activity and/or impedance magnitude at peak resistance frequency. | 11-26-2015 |
20150335899 | DEVICE LONGEVITY PREDICTION FOR A DEVICE HAVING VARIABLE ENERGY CONSUMPTION - A system and method for estimating the longevity of an implantable medical device (IMD). In one embodiment of a method for estimating a life of a power source of an implantable medical device, a first life estimate of the power source is determined based on a first open-loop value corresponding to an open-loop parameter for open-loop therapy delivery, a first closed loop value corresponding to a closed-loop parameter for closed-loop therapy delivery, and prior usage data corresponding to prior therapy delivery. The first life estimate of the power source is displayed. The first life estimate displayed includes a first open-loop portion associated with open-loop therapy delivery and a first closed-loop portion associated with closed-loop therapy delivery. | 11-26-2015 |
20150343196 | Dual-Purpose Sleep-Wearable Headgear for Monitoring and Stimulating the Brain of a Sleeping Person - A dual purpose sleep wearable headgear for both monitoring and stimulating the brain of a sleeping person is disclosed that provides a simple to use and safe platform for wearing consumer-type dual use brain stimulation and monitoring devices during sleep. The headgear enables a user to sleep comfortably while wearing the electronics and related electrodes needed for both EEG monitoring and transcranial electrical stimulation. The headgear can accept and support a miniaturized dual use monitoring/stimulation device on the forehead or the top of the head, where the bulk of the monitoring/stimulation device will not interfere with the user's sleeping position. The headgear disclosed takes the guesswork out of electrode placement, because the electrodes are prepositioned or are easily adjustable according to a predetermined pattern of electrode placement, and are appropriately sized so as to allow comfortable transcranial stimulation without producing skin irritation, and without awakening the user. | 12-03-2015 |
20150343215 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF TREATING A NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER IN A PATIENT - In embodiments of the present disclosure, methods of treating a neurological disorder comprise providing reconditioning electrical stimulation. The methods may comprise applying electrical stimulation that provides positive reinforcement by activation within the reward network of the brain of the patient when an appropriate external stimulus is provided to the patient. The external stimulus is selected in accordance with the specific neurological disorder being treated in the patient. The methods may comprise applying electrical stimulation that provides negative reinforcement by stimulation of aversion-related locations of the brain of the patient when a different external stimulus is provided to the patient. | 12-03-2015 |
20150352362 | MICROBURST ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF CRANIAL NERVES FOR THE TREATMENT OF MEDICAL CONDITIONS - Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and apparatus for treating a medical condition in a patient using an implantable medical device by applying an electrical signal characterized by having a number of pulses per microburst, an interpulse interval, a microburst duration, and an interburst period to a portion of a cranial nerve of said patient, wherein at least one of the number of pulses per microburst, the interpulse interval, the microburst duration, or the interburst period is selected to enhance cranial nerve evoked potentials. | 12-10-2015 |
20150352363 | Clinical Decision Support System - Example apparatus and methods concern a next generation clinical decision support system (ngCDSS) for the management of neurological conditions (e.g., advanced Parkinson's disease (PD)). Conventional coupled adjustment of pharmacologic therapy and stimulation parameter settings is a time-consuming process that sometimes yields sub-optimal outcomes. Example ngCDSS use a machine learning trained function that relates deep brain stimulation (DBS) parameters, medication dosages, and patient-specific pre and post operative clinical data with actual treatment outcomes for a population of previously treated patients. Example ngCDSS incorporate image-based patient-specific computer models of the estimated stimulation volume of tissue stimulated by DBS in a multi-linear regression analysis to produce a predictor function that is highly correlated with actual outcomes. Example ngCDSS facilitate predicting the outcomes of a combined pharmacologic-DBS therapy, which in turn facilitate optimizing patient-specific treatment for improved benefits with minimal adverse effects. | 12-10-2015 |
20150360033 | STIMULATION OF THE FORNO-DORSO-COMMISSURE (FDC) FOR SEIZURE SUPPRESSION AND MEMORY IMPROVEMENT - Example apparatus and methods cause activation of target neural tissue through electrical stimulation of a connected white matter tract to reduce the hyper-excitability of the target neural tissue and thus reduce seizures while preserving memory in humans. Example apparatus and methods apply low frequency (e.g., <10 HZ) electrical stimulation to the forno-dorso-commissure (FDC), detect an electrical signal generated in an area connected to, innervated by, or that can be activated by the FDC in response to the stimulation, and reconfigure the stimulation based on the detected signal and a desired therapeutic effect. The stimulation may be reconfigured to produce an electrical stimulation waveform that will produce the desired therapeutic effect. The desired therapeutic effect may be, for example, reducing hyper-excitability of neural tissue in a target area, reducing hippocampal spikes, reducing seizure odds, or improving recall. | 12-17-2015 |
20150360038 | Heads-Up Display and Control of an Implantable Medical Device - A clinician programmer (CP) system for programming a patient's Implantable Medical Device (IMD) is disclosed having an optical head-mounted display (OHMD) that a clinician can use to adjust the therapy provided by the IMD, such as the stimulation parameters provided by an Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG). The OHMD is preferably enabled by improved CP software operable in a CP system computer to render an OHMD Graphical User Interface (GUI) in the OHMD, which may be limited to critical CP functionality; non-critical functionality can be rendered by the CP software on the CP computer. The OHMD GUI is preferably rendered in a simple format within the clinician's field of view. The clinician can access the OHMD GUI, by touch or voice for example, to change therapy parameters and to send such changes to the patient's IMD while continuing to observe the patient. | 12-17-2015 |
20150367129 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM - The present disclosure relates to an accounting method for electrical stimulation apparatus, comprising, in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, receiving an information on authority for use of an electrical simulation apparatus from a second apparatus if a signal for payment request for the authority for use of the electrical simulation apparatus received from a first apparatus is processed and the information on the authority for use of the electrical stimulation apparatus is transmitted to a second apparatus; operating the electrical stimulation apparatus on the basis of the received information on the authority for use; collecting details of usage of the electrical stimulation apparatus; analyzing the collected details of usage; and renewing the received information on the authority for use on the basis of the analyzed details of usage. | 12-24-2015 |
20150367133 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR MULTI-SITE ACTIVATION OF THE THALAMUS - The present invention relates to a method to control a thalamic projecting fiber in a subject. This method involves providing a subject having a first stimulator and a second stimulator implanted in the subject's central thalamus. A stimulus signal generator is provided which is coupled to the first and second stimulators. Separate stimulus signals are provided from the stimulus signal generator to the first and second stimulators under conditions effective to control the thalamic projecting fiber in the subject. Also disclosed is an apparatus for deep brain stimulation. | 12-24-2015 |
20150367137 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOTELY CONTROLLING AN IMPLANTABLE NEUROSTIMULATOR - The present invention relates a system for remote monitoring and programming of an implantable neurostimulator for deep brain stimulation, comprising: an implantable neurostimulator configured to stimulate at least one target site of brain; an external wireless device in communication with the implantable neurostimulator; and a remote mobile device configured to communicate and exchange data with the implantable neurostimulator through the external wireless device over a communication network. | 12-24-2015 |
20150374993 | TREATMENT OF LANGUAGE, BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL DISORDERS - Methods of treating language, behavioral and social disorders are described, including methods of treating language disorders associated with electrographic abnormalities in the primary or associative language cortex of persons with autism spectrum disorders, pervasive developmental delay or acquired epileptic aphasia. A language, behavioral and social disorder may be treated by detecting epileptiform activity or an electrographic seizure for a subject's brain and applying neurostimulation to a language cortical region of the subject's brain (e.g., a primary or associative language cortical region). Detection of epileptiform activity or an electrographic seizure and stimulation of language cortex may be performed by a sensing and/or stimulation electrode that is inserted into a subject's brain and connected to one or more neurostimulation devices for monitoring and/or stimulating the language cortex. | 12-31-2015 |
20150375000 | CURRENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR A STIMULATION OUTPUT STAGE OF AN IMPLANTABLE NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - A current management system for use in the stimulation output stage of a neurostimulation system can be programmed to steer different amounts of current through different stimulation electrodes to vary how strongly the tissue adjacent each electrode is stimulated during a particular programmed stimulation episode. An stimulation electrode drive circuit associated with each electrode that is available for stimulation allows independent control of the flow of current through that electrode. A reference electrode is provided in the circuit to source or sink current as necessary to balance the currents going into and out of the patient, so that no stimulation electrode is required to serve that purpose. More specifically, by configuring the circuit to maintain a constant potential at the reference electrode (e.g., a potential that is approximately half way between a top and bottom voltage rail), the reference electrode will source or sink currents as necessary to cause the net current flow into the patient to be equal to the net current flowing out of the patient, thus satisfying Kirchhoff's current law. | 12-31-2015 |
20160001074 | Magnetic Field Treatment Techniques - The invention involves enhancing brain function by stimulating the brain using magnetic fields. Applications of the new methods include improving the condition of individuals with cognitive disorders, such as depression, and studying the effects of neural stimulation using induced electric fields. These techniques can avoid deleterious effects of psychotropic pharmaceutical treatments, and provide a relatively safe, comfortable, inexpensive means of direct cranial stimulation. | 01-07-2016 |
20160001080 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING TARGET STIMULATION VOLUMES - A system and method may include determining a target stimulation volume based on modifying a patient population image for which an efficacious volume had been determined. A system and method for suggesting stimulation devices may include determining which stimulation device is capable of producing an output volume of activation that most closely matches the target volume. A system and method for facilitating selection of stimulation parameters may include graphically identifying a maximum volume in which tissue is stimulatable by an implanted stimulation device. A system and method may pre-compute volumes of activation that result from a predetermined modification of programming settings. A system and method may transmit stimulation programming settings from a stimulation programming module to a stimulation generating device. | 01-07-2016 |
20160030749 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR STIMULATION-RELATED PATIENT POPULATION VOLUME ANALYSIS AND USE - A computer implemented system and method facilitates a cycle of generation, sharing, and refinement of volumes related to stimulation of anatomical tissue, such as brain or spinal cord stimulation. Such volumes can include target stimulation volumes, side effect volumes, and volumes of estimated activation. A computer system and method also facilitates analysis of groups of volumes, including analysis of differences and/or commonalities between different groups of volumes. | 02-04-2016 |
20160030750 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR STIMULATION-RELATED VOLUME ANALYSIS, CREATION, AND SHARING WITH INTEGRATED SURGICAL PLANNING AND STIMULATION PROGRAMMING - A computer implemented system and method facilitates a cycle of generation, sharing, and refinement of volumes related to stimulation of anatomical tissue, such as brain or spinal cord stimulation. Such volumes can include target stimulation volumes, side effect volumes, and volumes of estimated activation. A computer system and method also facilitates analysis of groups of volumes, including analysis of differences and/or commonalities between different groups of volumes. | 02-04-2016 |
20160038739 | CIRCUIT ARCHITECTURE FOR HIGH CHANNEL COUNT HIGH-VOLTAGE NEURAL STIMULATOR - A high channel count high-voltage neural stimulator provides an external circuit which communicates power and data to a neural stimulator implant circuit. Data from the external device, such as image data from a camera in an epiretinal application, are communicated to the implant. Multiple pixels circuits, within each implant demultiplex the digital signals, then output separate nerve stimulator outputs from multiple outputs, each configured for connection to a nerve, by sharing a single level conversion driver circuit. In at least one example, the implant circuits can be clustered in a master-slave configuration to increase the number of available neural stimulation outputs. | 02-11-2016 |
20160045723 | IMPLANTABLE NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS THEREOF - The present disclosure provides neurostimulation methods and system for deep brain stimulation. A neurostimulation apparatus includes a plug configured to be mounted to a burr hole formed in a skull of a subject, a plurality of cable conductors configured to be coupled to the plug, and a lead configured to be coupled to the plurality of cable conductors, the lead comprising at least one electrode configured to apply stimulation to the subject, wherein the plug is configured to generate and supply electrical stimulation pulses to the lead through the plurality of cable conductors. | 02-18-2016 |
20160045739 | SYSTEMS FOR TREATING ANXIETY AND ANXIETY-ASSOCIATED DISORDERS - One aspect of the present disclosure related to a closed-loop therapy system for treating an anxiety or anxiety-associated disorder in a subject. The therapy delivery system can include a sensing component, a delivery component, and a controller. The sensing component can be configured to detect at least one physiological parameter associated with the anxiety or anxiety-associated disorder. The delivery component can be configured for implantation on or about an autonomic nervous tissure target or a spinal nervous tissue target. The controller can be configured to automatically coordinate operation of the sensing and delivery components. The controller can also be configured to deliver an electrical signal to the delivery component to modulate activity at the autonomic nervous tissue target or a spinal nervous tissue target and effectively treat the anxiety or anxiety- associated disorder. | 02-18-2016 |
20160045740 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER - One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a closed loop therapy system for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a subject. The therapy delivery system can include a sensing component, a delivery component, and a controller. The sensing can be configured to detect at least one physiological parameter associated with PTSD. The delivery component can be configured for implantation on or about a pre-determined spinal simulation site. The pre-determined spinal stimulation site can include a spinal cord segment, or spinal nervous tissue associated therewith, other than a C1-C3 spinal cord segment or spinal nervous tissue associated therewith. The controller can be configured to automatically coordinate operation of the sensing and delivery components. The controller can also be configured to deliver an electrical signal to the delivery component to modulate activity at the pre-determined spinal stimulation site to effectively treat PTSD in the subject. | 02-18-2016 |
20160045748 | SYSTEM FOR PLANNING AND/OR PROVIDING A THERAPY FOR NEURAL APPLICATIONS - The present invention relates to a system ( | 02-18-2016 |
20160051442 | Implantable Electroacupuncture System and Method for Treating Depression and Similar Mental Conditions - A method of treating a mental disorder of a patient includes 1) generating, by an electroacupuncture device implanted beneath a skin surface of the patient at or near an acupoint corresponding to at least one of a trigeminal nerve and an occipital nerve of the patient, stimulation sessions at a duty cycle that is less than 0.05, and 2) applying, by the electroacupuncture device, the stimulation sessions to at least one of the trigeminal nerve and the occipital nerve by way a central electrode and an annular electrode located on the electroacupuncture device in accordance with the duty cycle. | 02-25-2016 |
20160067492 | SYSTEM AND RELATED METHOD TO RESTORE AND/OR IMPROVE NERVOUS SYSTEM FUNCTIONS BY MODIFYING SPECIFIC NERVOUS SYSTEM PATHWAYS - The present invention provides methods, devices, and systems for restoring or improving nervous system function of a subject. Provided is a method involving: (i) providing an operant conditioning protocol effective to produce targeted neural plasticity (TNP) in a primary targeted central nervous system (CNS) pathway of a subject; and (ii) administering the operant conditioning protocol to the subject to elicit TNP in the primary targeted CNS pathway and to elicit generalized neural plasticity (GNP) in one or more other CNS pathway. The elicitation of the GNP in the one or more other CNS pathway serves to restore or improve a nervous system function of the subject. Provided is a device comprising a nerve stimulation-electromyographic recording component and a controller for operating the nerve stimulation-electromyographic recording component in accordance with an operant conditioning protocol. | 03-10-2016 |
20160067493 | ELECTRIC STIMULATOR - An electric stimulator that effectively improves the brain function of patients suffering from brain disorders by applying electric stimulation to the brain of the patient effectively. The electric stimulator can include main electrodes H to be stuck to particular sites of the patient's body extending from the neck part to the head tip part. The particular site may be the temple part, the forehead part above the eyes, the cheek part and the rear neck part. The electric signal to be applied to the main electrodes H is set so as for weak electric current of 100 μA or less to flow through the patient's body and stimulate the brain. In addition to the application of electric stimulation by the main electrodes H, auxiliary electrodes S may be stuck to the back of the patient. | 03-10-2016 |
20160074651 | DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION CURRENT STEERING WITH SPLIT ELECTRODES - A device for brain stimulation includes a lead having a longitudinal surface, a proximal end, a distal end and a lead body. The device also includes a plurality of electrodes disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead near the distal end of the lead. The plurality of electrodes includes a first set of segmented electrodes comprising at least two segmented electrodes disposed around a circumference of the lend at a first longitudinal position along the lead; and a second set of segmented electrodes comprising at least two segmented electrodes disposed around a circumference of the lead at a second longitudinal position along the lead. The device further includes one or more conductors that electrically couple together all of the segmented electrodes of the first set of segmented electrodes. | 03-17-2016 |
20160074657 | Head-wearing wireless control transcranial electrical stimulation device - A head-wearing wireless control transcranial electrical stimulation device includes a head-wearing part and a remote control part. An integrated circuit board is arranged within a cavity of a first end of the head-wearing part. The integrated circuit board controls a microcontroller. The microcontroller is connected with and controls a plurality of electrodes for contacting a human body through circuit modules. The microcontroller receives a control instruction from the remote control part through a Bluetooth communication terminal, and then controls the plurality of the electrodes to exert an alternating current or a direct current having preset density and frequency to a cerebral cortex. The microcontroller receives an electrode feedback signal, and sends the electrode feedback signal after being pre-processed to a display module of the remote control part to be displayed through the Bluetooth communication terminal. | 03-17-2016 |
20160074660 | CONTINGENT CARDIO-PROTECTION FOR EPILEPSY PATIENTS - Disclosed are methods and systems for treating epilepsy by stimulating a main trunk of a vagus nerve, or a left vagus nerve, when the patient has had no seizure or a seizure that is not characterized by cardiac changes such as an increase in heart rate, and stimulating a cardiac branch of a vagus nerve, or a right vagus nerve, when the patient has had a seizure characterized by cardiac changes such as a heart rate increase. | 03-17-2016 |
20160082263 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING OPTIMAL DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION PARAMETERS FOR TREATING INTRACTABLE EPILEPSY - System and method for determining optimal deep brain stimulation parameters for treating intractable epilepsy. The system is adapted to impart deep brain stimulation to a patient's brain, record electroencephalographic responses to the stimulation, enable adjustment of one or more stimulation parameters to achieve an optimum electroencephalogram desynchronization (EEG desynchronization) state and thereafter select stimulation parameters that resulted in the optimum EEG desynchronization. | 03-24-2016 |
20160089541 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TREATING A MOVEMENT DISORDER IN A PATIENT - In one embodiment, a neurostimulation system for stimulating neuronal tissue of a brain of a patient, comprises: an implantable pulse generator comprising pulse generating circuitry and a controller; one or more stimulation leads comprising multiple electrodes, the implantable pulse generator adapted to connect to the one or more stimulation leads for delivery of generated electrical pulses to neuronal tissue of the patient; wherein the controller is adapted to control the implantable pulse generator to (i) generate a plurality of bursts of multiple pulses at a frequency of at least 100 Hz and (ii) to deliver each respective bursts on a randomly or pseudo-randomly selected electrode from multiple electrodes of the one or more stimulation leads, wherein a beginning of each burst in the plurality of bursts is separated from a beginning of its respective successive bursts by at least 50 milliseconds. | 03-31-2016 |
20160117452 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PRESCRIPTIONS FOR NONINVASIVE ELECTRICAL BRAIN STIMULATION - A computer-implemented method for managing a noninvasive electrical brain stimulation “NIEBS” prescription is provided, the method comprising: receiving data for a prescription for a patient associated with a patient ID at a computer system, wherein said prescription is created by a healthcare professional after examining said patient; validating said healthcare professional and said data for said prescription at said computer system; maintaining a database or library of NIEBS data programs for NIEBS treatments at said computer system; and authorizing a specific NIEBS data program for said patient at said computer system based on said prescription. | 04-28-2016 |
20160121109 | TRANSCUTANEOUS NEUROMODULATION SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USING SAME - Neuromodulation systems are described comprising a signal generator and at least one electrode. The at least one electrode can be configured to deliver a stimulation to a mammal, wherein the stimulation includes a biphasic signal and an overlapping high frequency pulse thereby inducing voluntary movement in the individual. Methods of administering the stimulation are also described. | 05-05-2016 |
20160121110 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CORRELATING MEASUREMENTS IN NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEMS - The present disclosure provides systems and methods for correlating measurement in neurostimulation systems. A neurostimulation system includes a first sensor configured to acquire movement measurements for a subject, a second sensor configured to acquire neural measurements for the subject, and a computing device communicatively coupled to the first and second sensors. The computing device is configured to receive a movement signal from the first sensor, and receive a neural signal from the second sensor, wherein one of the movement signal and the neural signal is a trigger signal and the other of the movement signal and the neural signal is a signal of interest. The computing device is further configured to detect at least one trigger event in the trigger signal, and use the signal of interest based on the at least one trigger event. | 05-05-2016 |
20160129251 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THE EXCHANGE OF DATA RELATED TO NONINVASIVE ELECTRICAL BRAIN STIMULATION - A computer-implemented method for sharing information related to a noninvasive electrical brain stimulation “NIEBS” treatment, comprising: providing a NIEBS treatment to a user via a NIEBS generator, said NIEBS treatment having variables; receiving adjustments to the variables of said NIEBS treatment via user input; and creating a NIEBS Control Profile based on said received adjustments. | 05-12-2016 |
20160129252 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NONINVASIVE ELECTRICAL BRAIN STIMULATION WITH POWER TUNES - A method for providing noninvasive electrical brain stimulation “NIEBS” is provided, the method comprising: receiving a signal at a power converter wherein the signal is an audio signal; converting power from said audio signal to a form suitable for NIEBS; generating a NIEBS signal using said power converted from said audio signal; and applying NIEBS based on said able NIEBS signal to a user via electrodes. | 05-12-2016 |
20160129253 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CONVERTING AN AUDIO SIGNAL INTO POWER AND FOR GENERATING A BRAIN STIMULATION SIGNAL BASED ON AN AUDIO SIGNAL - A computer-implemented method is proposed for providing noninvasive electrical stimulation to stimulate the brain, the method comprising receiving a two channel audio output at a splitter, splitting each of the two signals into a first portion and a second portion, passing said first portion to at least two speakers for playing audio, converting said second portion at a power converter ( | 05-12-2016 |
20160129254 | Devices, Systems and Methods for Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Disorders - The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and systems used for the treatment of mood, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and cognitive and behavioral disorders (collectively, neuropsychiatric disorders) via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve (“TNS”). More specifically, cutaneous methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, infraorbital, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein. | 05-12-2016 |
20160129258 | WAVEFORM SHAPES FOR TREATING NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS OPTIMIZED FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY - Systems and methods for stimulation of neurological tissue apply a stimulation waveform that is derived by a developed genetic algorithm (GA), which may be coupled to a computational model of extracellular stimulation of a mammalian myelinated axon. The waveform is optimized for energy efficiency. | 05-12-2016 |
20160136424 | TRANSCRANIAL PULSED CURRENT STIMULATION - A computer-implemented method of providing a cranial electrotherapy stimulation program for use in a stimulation system is provided, the method comprising: generating a chaotic cranial electrotherapy stimulation program. | 05-19-2016 |
20160136427 | METHOD OF TREATING A NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER USING NETWORK STIMULATION - Methods are provided to treat a neurological disorder in a patient by adjusting connectivity between network nodes in a brain of patient using electrical stimulation. Connectivity between network nodes may be increased by synchronous stimulation at multiple network nodes depending upon the neurological disorder. Also, connectivity may be decreased by asynchronous or randomized stimulation at multiple network nodes depending upon the neurological disorder. | 05-19-2016 |
20160136430 | CLOSED-LOOP FEEDBACK FOR STEERING STIMULATION ENERGY WITHIN TISSUE - Methods, systems, and external programmers provide therapy to a patient having a dysfunction. In one aspect, electrical energy is conveyed between electrodes to create a stimulation region in tissue adjacent the electrodes. Physiological information from the patient is acquired and analyzed, and a locus of the stimulation region is electronically displaced relative to the tissue based on the analysis of the acquired physiological information. In another aspect, electrical energy is delivered to tissue of the patient in accordance with one or more stimulation parameters. A cognitive brain signals is sensed and analyzed, and the stimulation parameter(s) are modified based on the analysis of the cognitive brain signal. | 05-19-2016 |
20160136431 | Non-Regular Electrical Stimulation Patterns Designed with a Cost Function for Treating Neurological Disorders - Systems and methods for stimulation of neurological tissue generate stimulation trains with temporal patterns of stimulation, in which the interval between electrical pulses (the inter-pulse intervals) changes or varies over time. Compared to conventional continuous, high rate pulse trains having regular (i.e., constant) inter-pulse intervals, the non-regular (i.e., not constant) pulse patterns or trains that embody features of the invention provide a lower average frequency. | 05-19-2016 |
20160136441 | VOA GENERATION SYSTEM AND METHOD USING A FIBER SPECIFIC ANALYSIS - A system and method for generating an estimated volume of activation (VOA) corresponding to settings applied to a stimulation leadwire includes a processor performing the following: determining, for each of a plurality of neural elements, one or more respective parameters characterizing an electrical distribution along the neural element, looking up the one or more parameters for each of the neural elements in a look-up table (LUT), obtaining threshold values for each of the neural elements recorded in the LUT in association with the looked-up parameters, comparing, for each of the neural elements, a value of the leadwire settings to each of the respective threshold value, estimating based on the comparisons which of the neural elements would be activated by the settings, and generating a structure corresponding to a region including the neural elements estimated to be activated. | 05-19-2016 |
20160136448 | METHOD FOR INCREASING BIO-DERIVED LOW MOLECULAR WEIGHT COMPOUND - The present invention is aimed to scientifically examine a change of a living body by exposing the living body in an electric field generated by a high voltage (such an action will be hereinafter also referred to “electric field exposure”), elucidate a detailed mechanism of action of a therapeutic effect by a potential therapeutic device, and find out its new use applications. The present invention is to provide a method for increasing a bio-derived low molecular weight compound including exposing a living body in an electric field generated by impressing a high voltage between electrodes or between an electrode and a ground; and a method for treating/improving a disease or a symptom thereof, the method including exposing a patient of a disease selected from bulimia, metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, hyperlipemia, arteriosclerosis, headache, lumbago, stomachache, neuralgia, dementia, and sarcopenia in an electric field generated by impressing a high voltage of 9,000 to 18,000 V between electrodes or between an electrode and a ground. | 05-19-2016 |
20160144164 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL LEAD WITH PROTECTIVE TUBING ELEMENT - A protective tubing element for a medical lead includes an outer flexible tube, and a structurally flexible reinforcement at least partially covered by the at least one outer flexible tube, the outer flexible tube and the structurally flexible reinforcement are arranged such that the structurally flexible reinforcement and the outer flexible tube allow movements relative to each other. | 05-26-2016 |
20160144168 | ELECTRONIC MODULE WITH ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE PROTECTION - Various examples provide devices, systems, and techniques for dissipating electromagnetic interference (EMI) induced energy in a medical device. In one example, an implantable electronic device includes a housing, at least one connector coupled to the housing and configured to at least one of receive first electrical signals or transmit second electrical signals, and an integrated circuit disposed within the housing, wherein the integrated circuit comprises at least one clamp stage coupled to a supply line of the integrated circuit, and wherein the at least one clamp stage is configured to dissipate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) induced energy from the supply line in response to at least one of a voltage or a current on the supply line exceeding a respective predetermined voltage threshold value or a current threshold value. | 05-26-2016 |
20160144186 | ELECTRODE SELECTION FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION THERAPY - In one example, a method includes selecting, by one or more processors and based on a representation of sensed electrical signals for a particular patient and a plurality of representations of sensed electrical signals for a plurality of other patients, a combination of electrodes of a plurality of combinations of one or more implantable electrodes for delivery of electrical stimulation to the particular patient. | 05-26-2016 |
20160144194 | DETERMINING EFFECTIVE ELECTRODES FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - In one example, a computing device includes a memory to store data representative of an implant location of a lead in a patient, wherein the lead comprises a plurality of electrodes, and one or more processors configured to determine, based on the implant location, probabilities of effectiveness of electrical stimulation delivered via each of the electrodes, and present a visual representation of the determined probabilities. For instance, the representation of the determined probabilities may be displayed in conjunction with visual representations of the lead and the electrodes. The electrodes may comprise sectors of rings along the lead. In this manner, a clinician or other user of the programmer device may quickly determine electrodes that will most probabilistically deliver effective therapy via electrical stimulation. | 05-26-2016 |
20160151634 | POINT-AND-CLICK PROGRAMMING FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION USING REAL-TIME MONOPOLAR REVIEW TRENDLINES | 06-02-2016 |
20160158538 | Systems and Methods for Providing Non-Invasive Neurorehabilitation of a Patient - A system for providing non-invasive neuromodulation to a patient includes a mouthpiece and a controller. The mouthpiece includes an elongated housing, a printed circuit board, control circuitry mounted within the elongated housing, and a cable for connecting to a controller. The controller includes an elongated u-shaped element, an electronic receptacle, and a microcontroller. A method for providing non-invasive neurorehabilitation of a patient including connecting a mouthpiece to a controller, transmitting a numeric sequence to the mouthpiece, generating a first hash code, transmitting the first hash code to the controller, generating a second hash code, comparing the second hash code with the first hash code, enabling electrical communication between the mouthpiece and the controller only if the first hash code matches the second hash code, contacting the mouthpiece with the patient's intraoral cavity, and delivering neurostimulation to the patient's intraoral cavity. | 06-09-2016 |
20160158553 | PATIENT DIRECTED THERAPY CONTROL - A patient controls the delivery of therapy through volitional inputs that are detected by a biosignal within the brain. The volitional patient input may be directed towards performing a specific physical or mental activity, such as moving a muscle or performing a mathematical calculation. In one embodiment, a biosignal detection module monitors an electroencephalogram (EEG) signal from within the brain of the patient and determines whether the EEG signal includes the biosignal. In one embodiment, the biosignal detection module analyzes one or more frequency components of the EEG signal. In this manner, the patient may adjust therapy delivery by providing a volitional input that is detected by brain signals, wherein the volitional input may not require the interaction with another device, thereby eliminating the need for an external programmer to adjust therapy delivery. Example therapies include electrical stimulation, drug delivery, and delivery of sensory cues. | 06-09-2016 |
20160158555 | NON-REGULAR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION PATTERNS FOR TREATING NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS - Systems and methods for stimulation of neurological tissue generate stimulation trains with temporal patterns of stimulation, in which the interval between electrical pulses (the inter-pulse intervals) changes or varies over time. Compared to conventional continuous, high rate pulse trains having regular (i.e., constant) inter-pulse intervals, the non-regular (i.e., not constant) pulse patterns or trains that embody features of the invention provide a lower average frequency. | 06-09-2016 |
20160175588 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING NEURAL ACTIVITY IN THE BRAIN | 06-23-2016 |
20160175589 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION TO A USER | 06-23-2016 |
20160184585 | Modulation of Autonomic Nervous System Activity and Integrated Electrode Assemblies for Trigeminal Neurostimulation - Cutaneous and subcutaneous TNS embodiments are disclosed for addressing autonomic nervous system imbalances. A cutaneous electrode assembly is applied to a patient's forehead, and a current is pulsed through the electrode assembly to stimulate the supraorbital and supratrochlear nerves on the patient to increase activity for the patient's parasympathetic nervous system. Pulsing the current increases the power spectral density for the patient's heart rate variability in a 0.1 to 0.15 Hz frequency band. | 06-30-2016 |
20160184589 | VARIABLE FREQUENCY STIMULATION THERAPY METHOD AND IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - The disclosure relates to an electrical stimulation therapy method. The method includes applying a variable frequency stimulation pulse to target nerve tissue of the patient, wherein the variable frequency stimulation pulse comprises at least two kinds of electrical stimulation pulse trains at different frequencies; the at least two kinds of electrical stimulation pulse trains alternately stimulate target nerve tissue and form a plurality of pulse train periods; and each of the at least two kinds of alternate electrical stimulation pulse trains in each of the plurality of pulse train periods has a duration in a range from about 0.1 seconds to about 60 minutes. An implantable medical device for generating the variable frequency stimulation pulse is also related. | 06-30-2016 |
20160184591 | Architectures for an Implantable Stimulator Device Having a Plurality of Electrode Driver Integrated Circuits with Shorted Electrode Outputs - Disclosed is a new architecture for an IPG having a master and slave electrode driver integrated circuits. The electrode outputs on the integrated circuits are wired together. Each integrated circuit can be programmed to provide pulses with different frequencies. Active timing channels in each of the master and slave integrated circuits are programmed to provide the desired pulses, while shadow timing channels in the master and slave are programmed with the timing data from the active timing channels in the other integrated circuit so that each chip knows when the other is providing a pulse, so that each chip can disable its recovery circuitry so as not to defeat those pulses. In the event of pulse overlap at a given electrode, the currents provided by each chip will add at the affected electrode. Compliance voltage generation is dictated by an algorithm to find an optimal compliance voltage even during periods when pulses are overlapping. | 06-30-2016 |
20160184596 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE IMPLANTABLE BRAIN STIMULATION DEVICES AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING SAME - A brain stimulation device includes: a threaded head portion; a needle portion connected to the threaded head portion; at least one wireless power source arranged in proximity to the threaded head portion, the at least one wireless power source being configured to generate electrical energy for the brain stimulation device responsive to a wireless power signal being received by the brain stimulation device; and at least one electrode arranged at least partially on an outside surface of the needle portion in electrical communication with the at least one wireless power source, wherein the at least one electrode is configured to transmit an electrical signal responsive to receiving the electrical energy from the at least one wireless power source. A method of using the brain stimulation device is also described. | 06-30-2016 |
20160199656 | System and Method for Transcranial Current Loop Brain Stimulation | 07-14-2016 |
20160250473 | REVERSING COGNITIVE-MOTOR IMPAIRMENTS IN PATIENTS HAVING A NEURO-DEGENERATIVE DISEASE USING A COMPUTATIONAL MODELING APPROACH TO DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION PROGRAMMING | 09-01-2016 |
20160250476 | THERAPY PROGRAM SELECTION FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION THERAPY BASED ON A VOLUME OF TISSUE ACTIVATION | 09-01-2016 |
20160375257 | UNWRAPPED 2D VIEW OF A STIMULATION LEADWITH COMPLEX ELECTRODE ARRAY GEOMETRY - The disclosure is directed to programming implantable stimulators to deliver stimulation energy via one or more implantable leads having complex electrode array geometries. The disclosure also contemplates guided programming to select electrode combinations and parameter values to support efficacy. The techniques may be applied to a programming interface associated with a clinician programmer, a patient programmer, or both. A user interface permits a user to view electrodes from different perspectives relative to the lead. For example, the user interface provides a side view of a lead and a cross-sectional view of the lead. The user interface may include an axial control medium to select and/or view electrodes at different axial positions along the length of a lead, and a rotational control medium to select and/or view electrodes at different angular positions around a circumference of the lead. | 12-29-2016 |
20180021579 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVING COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE | 01-25-2018 |
20190143120 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING NEURAL ACTIVITY | 05-16-2019 |