Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080275515 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR STIMULATING TISSUE - Apparatus and methods for stimulating tissue employing local current imbalance to facilitate more effective stimulation regimens. | 11-06-2008 |
20090024189 | USE OF STIMULATION PULSE SHAPE TO CONTROL NEURAL RECRUITMENT ORDER AND CLINICAL EFFECT - A method, electrical tissue stimulation system, and programmer for providing therapy to a patient are provided. Electrodes are placed adjacent tissue (e.g., spinal cord tissue) of the patient, electrical stimulation energy is delivered from the electrodes to the tissue in accordance with a defined waveform, and a pulse shape of the defined waveform is modified, thereby changing the characteristics of the electrical stimulation energy delivered from the electrode(s) to the tissue. The pulse shape may be modified by selecting one of a plurality of different pulse shape types or by adjusting a time constant of the pulse shape. | 01-22-2009 |
20090157155 | GRAPHICAL DISPLAY OF ENVIRONMENTAL MEASUREMENTS FOR IMPLANTABLE THERAPIES - A method and system of providing therapy to a patient implanted with an array of electrodes is provided. The electrodes are configured for respectively providing electrical stimulation to tissue of the patient. The method comprises measuring physiological parameter information indicative of the coupling efficiencies between the respective electrodes of the array and the tissue, computing numerical values from the measured physiological parameter information, generating a chart representative of the computed numerical values, and displaying the chart to a user. | 06-18-2009 |
20090248118 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE RELATIVE POSITION AND ORIENTATION OF NEUROSTIMULATION LEADS - Interelectrode impedance or electric field potential measurements are used to determine the relative orientation of one lead to other leads in the spinal column or other body/tissue location. Interelectrode impedance is determined by measuring impedance vectors. The value of the impedance vector is due primarily to the electrode-electrolyte interface, and the bulk impedance between the electrodes. The bulk impedance between the electrodes is, in turn, made up of (1) the impedance of the tissue adjacent to the electrodes, and (2) the impedance of the tissue between the electrodes. In one embodiment, the present invention makes both monopolar and bipolar impedance measurements, and then corrects the bipolar impedance measurements using the monopolar measurements to eliminate the effect of the impedance of the tissue adjacent the electrodes. The orientation and position of the leads may be inferred from the relative minima of the corrected bipolar impedance values. These corrected impedance values may also be mapped and stored to facilitate a comparison with subsequent corrected impedance measurement values. Such comparison allows a determination to be made as to whether the lead position and/or orientation has changed appreciably over time. In another embodiment, one or more electrodes are stimulated and the resulting electric field potential on the non-stimulated electrodes is measured. Such field potential measurements provide an indication of the relative orientation of the electrodes. Once known, the relative orientation may be used to track lead migration, to setup stimulation configurations and parameters for nominal stimulation and/or navigation. Also, such measurements allow automatic adjustment of stimulation energy to a previously-defined optimal potential field in the case of lead migration or postural changes. | 10-01-2009 |
20090281599 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF RAPID, COMFORTABLE PARAMETER SWITCHING IN SPINAL CORD STIMULATION - A system and method for rapidly switching stimulation parameters of a Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) system increases the number of stimulation parameter sets that may be tested during a fitting procedure, or alternatively, reduces the time required for the fitting procedure. The switching method comprises selecting a new stimulation parameter set, and setting the initial stimulation levels to levels at or just below an estimated perception threshold of the patient. The estimated perception level is based on previous stimulation results. The stimulation level is then increased to determine a minimum stimulation level for effective stimulation, and/or an optimal stimulation level, and/or a maximum stimulation level, based on patient perception. | 11-12-2009 |
20100010566 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONVERTING TISSUE STIMULATION PROGRAMS IN A FORMAT USABLE BY AN ELECTRICAL CURRENT STEERING NAVIGATOR - A method, computer medium, and system for programming a controller is provided. The controller controls electrical stimulation energy output to electrodes, and stores a set of programmed stimulation parameters associated with the electrodes. The programmed stimulation parameter set is compared with sets of reference stimulation parameters, each of the reference sets of stimulation parameters being associated with the electrodes. If an identical match is determined between the programmed stimulation parameter set and any one of the reference stimulation parameter sets exists based on the comparison, the identically matched stimulation parameter set is selected as an initial stimulation parameter set. If an identical match does not exist, a best between the programmed stimulation parameter set and the reference stimulation parameter sets is determined and selected as the initial stimulation parameter set. The controller is then programmed with a new set of programmable stimulation parameters based on the initial stimulation parameter set. | 01-14-2010 |
20100023090 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AVOIDING, REVERSING, AND MANAGING NEUROLOGICAL ACCOMODATION TO ELETRICAL STIMULATION - A method and programmer for programming a neurostimulation device are provided. The method comprises varying a first stimulation parameter under user control, automatically varying a second stimulation parameter, generating a plurality of stimulation parameter sets from the varied first and second stimulation parameters, outputting a pulsed electrical waveform from the neurostimulation device between a plurality of electrodes in accordance with the stimulation parameter sets, such that neural tissue is stimulated without undergoing neurological accommodation that would otherwise occur if the second stimulation parameter were not varied, and programming the neurostimulation device with a new set of stimulation parameters based on a result of the neural tissue stimulation The programmer comprises a user interface capable of receiving an input from a user, a processor configured for performing the previous steps, and output circuitry configured for transmitting the stimulation parameter sets and the new stimulation parameter set to the neurostimulation device. | 01-28-2010 |
20100023097 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCREASING RELATIVE INTENSITY BETWEEN CATHODES AND ANODES OF NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - A method and neurostimulation system for providing therapy to a patient is provided. A plurality of electrodes is placed adjacent to tissue of the patient. The electrodes include first and second electrodes, with the first electrode having a first tissue contacting surface area and the second electrode having a second tissue contact surface area greater than the first tissue contacting surface area. Anodic electrical current is simultaneously sourced from one of the first and second electrodes to the tissue and while cathodic electrical current is sunk from the tissue to another of the first and second electrodes to provide the therapy to the patient. | 01-28-2010 |
20100057162 | MULTIPLE TUNABLE CENTRAL CATHODES ON A PADDLE FOR INCREASED MEDIAL-LATERAL AND ROSTRAL-CAUDAL FLEXIBILITY VIA CURRENT STEERING - A neurostimulation paddle lead, method of neurostimulation, and neurostimulation system are provided. The neurostimulation paddle lead carries a plurality of electrodes comprising at least four columns of electrodes having a spacing between two inner electrode columns less than a spacing between the inner electrode columns and adjacent outer electrode columns. The inner electrode columns may also be longitudinally offset from the outer electrode columns. The methods and neurostimulation systems steer current between the electrodes to modify a medial-lateral electrical field created adjacent spinal cord tissue. | 03-04-2010 |
20100057163 | MULTIPLE TUNABLE CENTRAL CATHODES ON A PADDLE FOR INCREASED MEDIAL-LATERAL AND ROSTRAL-CAUDAL FLEXIBILITY VIA CURRENT STEERING - A neurostimulation paddle lead, method of neurostimulation, and neurostimulation system are provided. The neurostimulation paddle lead carries a plurality of electrodes comprising at least four columns of electrodes having a spacing between two inner electrode columns less than a spacing between the inner electrode columns and adjacent outer electrode columns. The inner electrode columns may also be longitudinally offset from the outer electrode columns. The methods and neurostimulation systems steer current between the electrodes to modify a medial-lateral electrical field created adjacent spinal cord tissue. | 03-04-2010 |
20100057164 | MULTIPLE TUNABLE CENTRAL CATHODES ON A PADDLE FOR INCREASED MEDIAL-LATERAL AND ROSTRAL-CAUDAL FLEXIBILITY VIA CURRENT STEERING - A neurostimulation paddle lead, method of neurostimulation, and neurostimulation system are provided. The neurostimulation paddle lead carries a plurality of electrodes comprising at least four columns of electrodes having a spacing between two inner electrode columns less than a spacing between the inner electrode columns and adjacent outer electrode columns. The inner electrode columns may also be longitudinally offset from the outer electrode columns. The methods and neurostimulation systems steer current between the electrodes to modify a medial-lateral electrical field created adjacent spinal cord tissue. | 03-04-2010 |
20100057165 | MULTIPLE TUNABLE CENTRAL CATHODES ON A PADDLE FOR INCREASED MEDIAL-LATERAL AND ROSTRAL-CAUDAL FLEXIBILITY VIA CURRENT STEERING - A neurostimulation paddle lead, method of neurostimulation, and neurostimulation system are provided. The neurostimulation paddle lead carries a plurality of electrodes comprising at least four columns of electrodes having a spacing between two inner electrode columns less than a spacing between the inner electrode columns and adjacent outer electrode columns. The inner electrode columns may also be longitudinally offset from the outer electrode columns. The methods and neurostimulation systems steer current between the electrodes to modify a medial-lateral electrical field created adjacent spinal cord tissue. | 03-04-2010 |
20100057177 | MULTIPLE TUNABLE CENTRAL CATHODES ON A PADDLE FOR INCREASED MEDIAL-LATERAL AND ROSTRAL-CAUDAL FLEXIBILITY VIA CURRENT STEERING - A neurostimulation paddle lead, method of neurostimulation, and neurostimulation system are provided. The neurostimulation paddle lead carries a plurality of electrodes comprising at least four columns of electrodes having a spacing between two inner electrode columns less than a spacing between the inner electrode columns and adjacent outer electrode columns. The inner electrode columns may also be longitudinally offset from the outer electrode columns. The methods and neurostimulation systems steer current between the electrodes to modify a medial-lateral electrical field created adjacent spinal cord tissue. | 03-04-2010 |
20100121409 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING APPROPRIATE STEERING TABLES FOR DISTRIBUTING STIMULATION ENERGY AMONG MULTIPLE NEUROSTIMULATION ELECTRODES - A method, computer medium, and system for programming a control device are provided. The control device is configured for controlling electrical stimulation energy provided to a plurality of electrode leads that are physically implanted within a patient in a side-by-side lead configuration. Electrical energy is conveying from the electrode leads to create a stimulation region within the patient. The stimulation region is automatically shifted along the electrode leads (e.g., by selecting and using at least one navigation table) in accordance with an electrical current shifting pattern that is based on a stagger of the side-by-side lead configuration. At least one stimulation parameter set is selected based on the effectiveness of the shifted stimulation region, and the control device is programmed with the selected stimulation parameter set(s). | 05-13-2010 |
20100125313 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MODULATING ACTION POTENTIAL PROPAGATION DURING SPINAL CORD STIMULATION - A method and neurostimulator for providing therapy to a patient is provided. In one technique, an electrical pulsed waveform is conveyed between a caudal electrode and spinal cord tissue, thereby evoking action potentials that are orthodromically propagated along dorsal column fibers and evoking action potentials that are antidromically propagated along the DC fibers. Electrical energy is conveyed between a rostral electrode and the spinal cord tissue, thereby modulating times that the action potentials orthodromically propagated along the DC fibers arrive at the brain. In another technique, an electrical pulsed waveform is conveyed through a first electrode, thereby evoking action potentials that are propagated along a neural axon, and electrical energy is conveyed through the second electrode. The electrical energy has a frequency that is greater than a pulse rate of the electrical pulsed waveform, such that the action potentials propagated along the neural axon are blocked by the electrical energy. | 05-20-2010 |
20100125314 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING AUTOMATIC PULSE PARAMETERS TO SELECTIVELY ACTIVATE NERVE FIBERS - A method of stimulating nerve tissue, a tissue stimulation system, and an external control device are provided. The method, system, and control device causes an electrical stimulus to be applied to at least one electrode adjacent the nerve tissue of a patient. The applied electrical stimulus comprises a plurality of pulses defined by a pulse width value and an amplitude value. The pulse amplitude value is increased (e.g., manually), and the pulse width value is automatically decreased in response to increasing the pulse amplitude value in a manner that increases the intensity of the applied electrical stimulus. Alternatively, the pulse width value may be decreased (e.g., manually), and the pulse amplitude value automatically increased in response to decreasing the pulse width value in a manner that increases the intensity of the applied electrical stimulus. | 05-20-2010 |
20100125315 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE THAT USES ELECTRICAL CURRENT STEERING BY MEANS OF OUTPUT IMPEDANCE MODULATION - A method and system of providing therapy to a patient implanted with an array of electrodes is provided. Electrical stimulation current is conveyed from at least two of the electrodes to at least one of the electrodes along at least two electrical paths through tissue of the patient, and the electrical stimulation current is shifted between the electrical paths by actively adjusting one or more finite resistances respectively associated with one or more of the electrical paths. | 05-20-2010 |
20100137960 | IMPLANTABLE NEUROSTIMULATORS HAVING REDUCED POCKET STIMULATION - Neurostimulators and methods of using neurostimulators are provided. The neurostimulator is implanted within a tissue pocket of a patient, and electrical energy is conveyed from the neurostimulator to stimulate a target tissue site remote from the tissue pocket. The neurostimulator has a case with which one or more electrodes are associated. The electrical energy is returned to the electrode(s) in a manner that prevents, or at least reduces, pocket stimulation that may otherwise occur due to the return of electrical energy to the case of the neurostimulator. | 06-03-2010 |
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 |
20100305631 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE RELATIVE POSITION AND ORIENTATION OF NEUROSTIMULATION LEADS - A method for determining whether the relative position of electrodes used by a neurostimulation system has changed within a patient comprises determining the amplitude of a field potential at each of at least one of the electrodes, determining if a change in each of the determined electric field amplitudes has occurred, and analyzing the change in each of the determined electric field amplitudes to determine whether a change in the relative position of the electrodes has occurred. Another method comprises measuring a first monopolar impedance between a first electrode and a reference electrode, measuring a second monopolar impedance between second electrode and the reference electrode, measuring a bipolar impedance between the first and second electrodes, and estimating an amplitude of a field potential at the second electrode based on the first and second monopolar impedances and the bipolar impedance. | 12-02-2010 |
20100324630 | SPATIALLY SELECTIVE NERVE STIMULATION IN HIGH-FREQUENCY NERVE CONDUCTION BLOCK AND RECRUITMENT - A method of providing therapy to a patient using at least one electrode is provided. The patient has a neural tissue region that is relatively close to the at least one electrode, and a neural tissue region that is relatively far from the at least one electrode. The method comprises conveying time-varying electrical energy from the electrode(s) into the relatively close and far neural tissue regions, wherein the electrical energy has a frequency and amplitude that blocks stimulation of the relatively close neural tissue region, while stimulating the relatively far neural tissue region. | 12-23-2010 |
20100331926 | REVERSING RECRUITMENT ORDER BY ANODE INTENSIFICATION - A method of providing therapy to a patient using a plurality of electrodes is provided. The electrodes are located adjacent a target neural tissue region having a first nerve fiber of a relatively small diameter and a second nerve fiber of a relatively large diameter. The method comprises sourcing electrical current from a local anode into the target neural tissue region. The method further comprises therapeutically sinking a first portion of the electrical current from the target neural tissue region into a local cathode. The method further comprises sinking a second portion of the electrical current into a cathode remote from the target neural tissue region. The ratio of the sourced electrical current over the first sunk electrical current portion has a value that allows the first nerve fiber to be recruited by the electrical current while preventing the second nerve fiber from being recruited by the electrical current. | 12-30-2010 |
20110054567 | METHODS TO AVOID FREQUENCY LOCKING IN A MULTI-CHANNEL NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM USING PULSE SHIFTING - A method and neurostimulation system for treating a patient are provided. A plurality of pulsed electrical waveforms are respectively delivered within a plurality of timing channels of the neurostimulation system, thereby treating the patient. Sets of stimulation pulses within the pulsed electrical waveforms that will potentially overlap temporally are predicted. Stimulation pulses in the respective pulsed electrical waveforms are temporally shifted in a manner that prevents overlap of the potentially overlapping pulse sets while preventing frequency locking between the timing channels. | 03-03-2011 |
20110054568 | METHODS TO AVOID FREQUENCY LOCKING IN A MULTI-CHANNEL NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM USING PULSE PLACEMENT - A method and neurostimulation system for treating a patient are provided. A plurality of pulsed electrical waveforms are respectively delivered within a plurality of timing channels of the neurostimulation system, thereby treating the patient. Sets of stimulation pulses within the electrical waveforms that will potentially overlap temporally are predicted. Each of the potentially overlapping pulse sets is substituted with a replacement stimulation pulse, such that each replacement stimulation pulse is delivered within at least one of the respective timing channels, thereby preventing temporal overlap between the stimulation pulses of the respective electrical waveforms while preventing frequency locking between the timing channels. | 03-03-2011 |
20110077721 | IMPLANTABLE MICROSTIMULATORS AND METHODS FOR UNIDIRECTIONAL PROPAGATION OF ACTION POTENTIALS - Miniature implantable stimulators (i.e., microstimulators) are capable of producing unidirectionally propagating action potentials (UPAPs). The methods and configurations described may, for instance, arrest action potentials traveling in one direction, arrest action potentials of small diameters nerve fibers, arrest action potentials of large diameter nerve fibers. These methods and systems may limit side effects of bidirectional and/or less targeted stimulation. | 03-31-2011 |
20110106214 | CHARGE RECOVERY BI-PHASIC CONTROL FOR TISSUE STIMULATION - A method and external control device for providing therapy to a patient using first and second electrodes implanted within the patient is provided. A train of electrical multi-phasic pulses is generated. A first electrical current is sourced from the second electrode and at least a portion of the first electrical current is sunk to the first electrode during a stimulation phase of each multi-phasic pulse, thereby therapeutically stimulating a first tissue region adjacent the first electrode. A second electrical current is sourced from the first electrode and at least a portion of the second electrical current is sunk to the second electrode during a charge recovery phase of each multi-phasic pulse, thereby recovering at least a portion of the charge that had been injected into the patient during the stimulation phase of each multi-phasic pulse, and therapeutically stimulating a second tissue region adjacent the second electrode. | 05-05-2011 |
20110152988 | CAVERNOUS NERVE STIMULATION VIA UNIDIRECTIONAL PROPAGATION OF ACTION POTENTIALS - Methods of using unidirectionally propagating action potentials (UPAPs) for cavernous nerve stimulation and for certain disorders are provided. Stimulators capable of creating such UPAPs include, but are not limited to, miniature implantable stimulators (i.e., microstimulators), possibly with programmably configurable electrodes. | 06-23-2011 |
20120004707 | USE OF STIMULATION PULSE SHAPE TO CONTROL NEURAL RECRUITMENT ORDER AND CLINICAL EFFECT - A method, electrical tissue stimulation system, and programmer for providing therapy to a patient are provided. Electrodes are placed adjacent tissue (e.g., spinal cord tissue) of the patient, electrical stimulation energy is delivered from the electrodes to the tissue in accordance with a defined waveform, and a pulse shape of the defined waveform is modified, thereby changing the characteristics of the electrical stimulation energy delivered from the electrode(s) to the tissue. The pulse shape may be modified by selecting one of a plurality of different pulse shape types or by adjusting a time constant of the pulse shape. | 01-05-2012 |
20120083857 | TISSUE STIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD WITH ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY DRIVEN PROGRAMMING - An external control device for use with a tissue stimulation device and at least one tissue stimulation lead having a plurality of electrodes implanted within a patient comprises a user interface configured for allowing a user to enter first information defining a therapeutic indication and second information defining the location of the at least one tissue stimulation lead relative to an anatomical reference, at least one processor configured for analyzing the first and second information and generating a set of stimulation parameters based on the analysis, and output circuitry configured for transmitting the at least one stimulation parameter set to the tissue stimulation device. | 04-05-2012 |
20120089200 | NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING THERAPY TO PATIENT WITH MINIMAL SIDE EFFECTS - A method comprises conveying a pulsed waveform between an electrode and a stimulation site of a spinal cord, thereby evoking the antidromic propagation of action potentials along a first sensory neural fiber creating a therapeutic effect in the tissue region, evoking the orthodromic propagation of action potentials along the first sensory neural fiber potentially creating paresthesia corresponding to the tissue region, and evoking the antidromic propagation of action potentials along a second sensory neural fiber potentially creating a side-effect in another tissue region. The method further comprises conveying electrical energy between an electrode and a blocking site rostral to the stimulation site, thereby blocking the action potentials propagated along the first sensory neural fiber and reducing the paresthesia, and conveying electrical energy between an electrode and a blocking site caudal to the stimulation site, thereby blocking the action potentials propagated along the second sensory neural fiber and reducing the side-effect. | 04-12-2012 |
20120101537 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INTRODUCING TISSUE STIMULATION LEAD INTO PATIENT USING REAL-TIME COUPLING EFFICIENCY MEASUREMENTS - A system and method for locating an implantable tissue stimulation lead within a patient. A measurement indicative of a coupling efficiency between the tissue stimulation lead and tissue at a location is taken. The location of the tissue stimulation lead relative to the tissue is tracked. Coupling efficiency information based on the measurement from the monitoring device is generated, tracking information based on the tissue stimulation lead location is generated, and the coupling efficiency information and tracking information is concurrently conveyed to the user. | 04-26-2012 |
20120109257 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING FLUID REAL-TIME VISUALIZATION OF REGION OF TISSUE ACTIVATION - A system for a tissue stimulator coupled to an array of electrodes. The system comprises a user-controlled input device configured for generating control signals, and at least one processor configured for generating a plurality of stimulation parameter sets in response to the control signals that, when applied to the electrodes, will shift electrical current between electrodes to modify a region of tissue activation. The processor(s) is further configured for computing an estimate of the region of tissue activation, and for generating display signals capable of prompting a monitor to display an animated graphical representation of the computed estimate of the region of tissue activation. | 05-03-2012 |
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 |
20120290041 | NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM WITH ON-EFFECTOR PROGRAMMER CONTROL - An external control device for use with a programmable implantable medical device coupled to an operative element. The external control device comprises a user interface comprising a control element and a display screen configured for displaying a graphical representation of the operative element. The external control device further comprises control circuitry configured for prompting the display screen to superimpose a graphical programmer control over the graphical representation of the operative element when the control element is actuated, and modifying an operational parameter for the operative element in response to actuation of the graphical programmer control. The external control device further comprises output circuitry configured for transmitting the modified operational parameter to the programmable implantable medical device. | 11-15-2012 |
20120290059 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ELECTRICAL MODULATION OF THE POSTERIOR LONGITUDINAL LIGAMENT - A method for treating a patient having discogenic pain includes implanting a neurostimulation lead within an anterior portion of the epidural space adjacent to the posterior longitudinal ligament. A plurality of electrodes is attached to the lead and the lead is implanted with at least a portion of the electrodes facing the posterior longitudinal ligament. The lead may be implanted in the lumbar region of the patient's spine, posterior and parallel to the posterior longitudinal ligament. Electrical stimulation energy applied to the patient through the electrode lead implanted in this manner inhibits the pain signals traveling within the posterior longitudinal ligament. Thus, the applied electrical stimulation energy has an anesthetic effect on the pain fibers adjacent to the posterior longitudinal ligament. | 11-15-2012 |
20120316622 | IMPLANTABLE MICROSTIMULATORS WITH PROGRAMMABLE MULTIELECTRODE CONFIGURATION AND USES THEREOF - Miniature implantable stimulators (i.e., microstimulators) with programmably configurable electrodes allow, among other things, steering of the electric fields created. In addition, the microstimulators are capable of producing unidirectionally propagating action potentials (UPAPs). | 12-13-2012 |
20120330218 | METHOD FOR IMPROVING FAR-FIELD ACTIVATION IN PERIPHERAL FIELD NERVE STIMULATION - A method of providing therapy to a patient having a disorder using an electrode located adjacent a peripheral target neural region. The method comprises conveying electrical stimulation energy from the electrode that stimulates a first set of nerve endings in the peripheral target neural region. The method further comprises increasing an activation threshold of a second set of nerve endings in the peripheral target neural region, thereby rendering the second set of nerve endings less excitable to the electrical stimulation energy. The first set of nerve endings are relatively far from the electrode and the second set of nerve endings are relatively near the electrode. | 12-27-2012 |
20120330391 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SPINAL CORD STIMULATION TO TREAT MOTOR DISORDERS - A method for using spinal cord stimulation to treat symptoms of motor disorders includes implanting a stimulation lead within a ventral portion of the epidural space. The lead is implanted with at least a portion of the electrodes facing the spinal cord. In a method for providing therapy to a patient suffering from a motor disorder, electrical stimulation energy is applied to at least one ventral column nerve fiber through the implanted stimulation lead. A peripheral region of the patient's body exhibits the symptoms of the motor disorder, and the ventral column nerve fiber to which the stimulation is applied innervates that peripheral region. | 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 |
20130006325 | METHOD FOR PROGRAMMING IMPLANTABALE DEVICE - A programming system for selecting an electrode configuration for use in a medical electrical stimulator coupled to an electrode array. A programmer is configured for providing a set of electrode configurations for the electrode array, automatically testing a first portion of the set of electrode configurations in a first order, allowing the selection of one or more of the tested electrode configurations, determining whether a suitable number of electrode configurations from among the first portion have been selected within a predefined interval, and automatically testing a second portion of the set of electrode configurations in a second order if the suitable number of electrode configurations from among the first portion are not selected within the predefined interval. The programmer may further allow the selection of the tested electrode configurations, and adjusting parameters during the testing, wherein the adjusting is controllably shared in parallel between a clinician and a patient. | 01-03-2013 |
20130053923 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AVOIDING, REVERSING, AND MANAGING NEUROLOGICAL ACCOMMODATION TO ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - A method of operating a neurostimulation device comprises outputting a pulsed electrical waveform from the neurostimulation device between a plurality of electrodes while at least one of the electrodes has a first polarity, thereby stimulating neural tissue adjacent the electrode(s), allowing the neural tissue to undergo neurological accommodation in response to the electrical energy output between the electrodes, switching the electrode(s) from the first polarity to a second polarity, outputting the pulsed electrical waveform from the neurostimulation device between the electrodes while the electrode(s) has the second polarity, thereby hyperpolarizing the neural tissue to reverse the neurological accommodation, switching the electrode(s) from the second polarity to the first polarity, and outputting the pulsed electrical waveform from the neurostimulation device between the electrodes while the electrode(s) has the first polarity, thereby stimulating the previously hyperpolarized neural tissue. | 02-28-2013 |
20130138167 | AUTONOMIC MODULATION USING PERIPHERAL NERVE FIELD STIMULATION - Some embodiments provide a system, comprising a peripheral nerve field modulation (PNFM) therapy delivery system, PNFM electrodes configured to be implanted subcutaneously, and a controller. The PNFM electrodes are electrically connected to the PNFM therapy system. The PNFM therapy delivery system and the PNFM electrodes are configured to deliver current and/or control the field potentials at one or more peripheral nerve fields. The controller is configured to control the PNFM therapy delivery system to deliver a PNFM therapy to the one or more peripheral nerve fields. The controller includes a scheduler configured to control timing of the PNFM therapy. | 05-30-2013 |
20130150918 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY TRAINING A NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - Neurostimulators, neurostimulation systems, and methods for providing therapy to a patient. A neurostimulation system stores reference measurements and reference stimulation parameter sets respectively associated with the reference measurements. A new measurement of least one environmental parameter indicative of a change in a therapeutic environment is taken. Whether the new measurement matches one of the stored reference measurements is determined. If a match is determined, stimulation energy is conveyed from the neurostimulation system to the patient in accordance with the stimulation parameter set corresponding to the matching reference measurement. If a match is not determined, stimulation energy is conveyed from the neurostimulation system to the patient in accordance with a user-defined stimulation parameter set, another reference stimulation parameter set is defined based on the user-defined stimulation parameter set, and the new measurement is stored as an additional reference measurement in association with the additional reference stimulation parameter set. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150919 | METHOD FOR DIRECT MODULATION OF THE SPINOTHALAMIC TRACT - A method for treating a patient suffering from chronic neuropathic pain, comprises epidurally applying electrical stimulation energy to a spinothalamic tract of the patient, thereby treating the chronic neuropathic pain. The method may further comprise increasing the activation threshold of a side-effect exhibiting neural structure relative to the activation threshold of the spinothalamic tract of the patient, wherein the electrical stimulation energy is applied to the spinothalamic tract of the patient while the activation threshold of the neural structure relative to the spinothalamic tract is increased, thereby treating the chronic neuropathic pain without stimulating the neural structure. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150920 | METHOD FOR DIRECT MODULATION OF THE DORSOLATERAL FUNICULUS - A method for treating a patient suffering from chronic neuropathic pain, comprises epidurally applying electrical stimulation energy to a dorsolateral funiculus of the patient, thereby treating the chronic neuropathic pain. The method may further comprise increasing the activation threshold of a side-effect exhibiting neural structure relative to the activation threshold of the dorsolateral funiculus of the patient, wherein the electrical stimulation energy is applied to the dorsolateral funiculus of the patient while the activation threshold of the neural structure relative to the dorsolateral funiculus is increased, thereby treating the chronic neuropathic pain without stimulating the neural structure. | 06-13-2013 |
20130184798 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DETECTING POSITION AND 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. | 07-18-2013 |
20130218248 | MULTIPLE TUNABLE CENTRAL CATHODES ON A PADDLE FOR INCREASED MEDIAL-LATERAL AND ROSTRAL-CAUDAL FLEXIBILITY VIA CURRENT STEERING - A neurostimulation paddle lead, method of neurostimulation, and neurostimulation system are provided. The neurostimulation paddle lead carries a plurality of electrodes comprising at least four columns of electrodes having a spacing between two inner electrode columns less than a spacing between the inner electrode columns and adjacent outer electrode columns. The inner electrode columns may also be longitudinally offset from the outer electrode columns. The methods and neurostimulation systems steer current between the electrodes to modify a medial-lateral electrical field created adjacent spinal cord tissue. | 08-22-2013 |
20130245719 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ESTIMATING LOCATION AND DEPTH OF STIMULATION LEADS - A method and external control device for performing a medical procedure on a patient in which at least one stimulation lead is implanted. An electrical signal is conveyed from the stimulation lead into tissue of the patient. An electrical parameter indicative of tissue impedance is measured in response to the conveyance of the electrical signal. One of a plurality of different anatomical regions in which the stimulation lead is implanted is selected and/or a depth in which the stimulation is implanted is determined based on the measured electrical parameter. A stimulation parameter is defined based on the selected one anatomical region and/or implantation depth. Electrical stimulation energy from the stimulation lead is conveyed into the one determined anatomical region in accordance with the defined stimulation parameter. | 09-19-2013 |
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 |
20130296975 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MODULATING ACTION POTENTIAL PROPAGATION DURING SPINAL CORD STIMULATION - A method and neurostimulator for providing therapy to a patient is provided. In one technique, an electrical pulsed waveform is conveyed between a caudal electrode and spinal cord tissue, thereby evoking action potentials that are orthodromically propagated along dorsal column fibers and evoking action potentials that are antidromically propagated along the DC fibers. Electrical energy is conveyed between a rostral electrode and the spinal cord tissue, thereby modulating times that the action potentials orthodromically propagated along the DC fibers arrive at the brain. In another technique, an electrical pulsed waveform is conveyed through a first electrode, thereby evoking action potentials that are propagated along a neural axon, and electrical energy is conveyed through the second electrode. The electrical energy has a frequency that is greater than a pulse rate of the electrical pulsed waveform, such that the action potentials propagated along the neural axon are blocked by the electrical energy. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296992 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCREASING RELATIVE INTENSITY BETWEEN CATHODES AND ANODES OF NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - A method and neurostimulation system for providing therapy to a patient is provided. A plurality of electrodes is placed adjacent to tissue of the patient. The electrodes include first and second electrodes, with the first electrode having a first tissue contacting surface area and the second electrode having a second tissue contact surface area greater than the first tissue contacting surface area. Anodic electrical current is simultaneously sourced from one of the first and second electrodes to the tissue and while cathodic electrical current is sunk from the tissue to another of the first and second electrodes to provide the therapy to the patient. | 11-07-2013 |
20130304152 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SHAPED PHASED CURRENT DELIVERY - A method of treating an ailment suffered by a patient using one or more electrodes adjacent spinal column tissue of the patient, comprises delivering electrical modulation energy from the one or more electrodes to the spinal column tissue in accordance with a continuous bi-phasic waveform having a positive phase and a negative phase, thereby modulating the spinal column tissue to treat the ailment. An implantable electrical modulation system, comprises one or more electrical terminals configured for being coupled to one or more modulation leads, output modulation circuitry capable of outputting electrical modulation energy to the electrical terminal(s) in accordance with a continuous bi-phasic waveform, and control circuitry configured for modifying a shape of the continuous bi-phasic waveform, thereby changing the characteristics of the electrical modulation energy outputted to the electrode(s). | 11-14-2013 |
20130317572 | LOW-LEVEL LASER THERAPY - A method of treating a patient with an ailment using an optical element implanted within the patient, comprising conveying low-level laser energy having a wavelength in the range of 600 nm-2500 nm from the optical element to a neuronal element of the patient, thereby modulating the neuronal element to treat the ailment. | 11-28-2013 |
20130317573 | COMBINATION ELECTRICAL STIMULATION AND LOW-LEVEL LASER THERAPY - A neuromodulation lead, comprising an elongated body, at least one electrode carried by the distal end of the elongated body, and at least one optical element carried by the distal end of the elongated body. The electrode(s) is configured for conveying electrical energy capable of modulating a neuronal element, and the optical element(s) is configured for conveying low-level laser energy capable of modulating a neuronal element. A method of treating a patient with an ailment comprises conveying electrical energy to a first neuronal element, thereby modulating the first neuronal element, and conveying low-level laser energy having a wavelength in the range of 600 nm-2500 nm to the first neuronal element, thereby modulating the first neuronal element. At least one of the conveyance of the electrical energy and the conveyance of the low-level laser energy treats the ailment. | 11-28-2013 |
20130324892 | ULTRASONIC MEANS AND METHODS FOR DORSAL ROOT GANGLION NEUROMODULATION - A method of treating a patient with an ailment, comprises delivering ultrasound energy to a dorsal root ganglia (DRG), thereby modulating the DRG to treat the ailment. | 12-05-2013 |
20140005744 | NEUROMODULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REDUCING ENERGY REQUIREMENTS USING FEEDBACK | 01-02-2014 |
20140031901 | TECHNIQUES FOR ELECTRONICALLY ASSESSING ELECTRODE CONDITION AND PERI-ELECTRODE TISSUE CONDUCTIVITY CHANGE PRE- AND POST-MRI - A neurostimulation system and method of operating an implantable neurostimulation device configured for outputting electrical stimulation energy to at least one electrode in accordance with a set of stimulation parameters. The implantable neurostimulation device may be switched from a normal operating mode to a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) operating mode. Electrical parameter measurements may be repeatedly acquired at each of the electrode(s) in response to the placement of the implantable stimulation system in the MRI mode. A corrective action may be performed based on at least one of the repeatedly acquired electrical parameter measurements. | 01-30-2014 |
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 |
20140039574 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MUSCLE RECONDITIONING AND NEURAL REHABILITATION - A method for treating a patient requiring conditioning of one or more muscle groups comprises applying electrical stimulation to a ventral epidural space of the patient, thereby activating the muscles. The method includes conveying the stimulation energy to one or more motor efferents associated with the muscles through respective one or more electrodes implanted within the ventral epidural space, and thus activating the muscles. | 02-06-2014 |
20140039575 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POST-STROKE NEURAL REHABILITATION - A method for treating a patient suffering from loss of muscle control and/or function in a body region after a stroke includes epidurally applying electrical stimulation to a spinocerebellar tract of the patient (e.g., at or above the vertebral level of the spinal cord where the sensory and motor mapping for the body region are located), thereby increasing cortical excitability and facilitating the patient regaining muscle control and/or function in the body region. The method may include using cortical mapping to determine a cortical region having a residual motor response in or near the body region, implanting an electrode in a lateral epidural space, and applying the electrical stimulation in a manner that causes excitability in the cortical region having the residual motor response, wherein the stimulation is applied by the implanted electrode. The method may include exercising the body region while simultaneously applying the electrical stimulation. | 02-06-2014 |
20140039578 | IMPLANTABLE MICROSTIMULATORS AND METHODS FOR UNIDIRECTIONAL PROPAGATION OF ACTION POTENTIALS - Miniature implantable stimulators (i.e., microstimulators) are capable of producing unidirectionally propagating action potentials (UPAPs). The methods and configurations described may, for instance, arrest action potentials traveling in one direction, arrest action potentials of small diameters nerve fibers, arrest action potentials of large diameter nerve fibers. These methods and systems may limit side effects of bidirectional and/or less targeted stimulation. | 02-06-2014 |
20140056965 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TREATING DEPRESSION OR EPILEPSY - A removable patch configured to be applied over a skin surface, comprises an adhesive layer disposed on the removable patch, and a delivery layer disposed on the removable patch. The delivery layer carries an activating chemical neuromodulator adapted to be transcutaneously applied to afferent A fibers disposed under the skin surface. The delivery layer further carries an inhibiting chemical neuromodulator adapted to be transcutaneously applied to C fibers disposed under the skin surface. A method for treating a patient suffering from a neurological disorder comprises transcutaneously applying an activating chemical neuromodulator over a skin surface adjacent to a trigeminal nerve tissue of the patient, and activating afferent A fibers in the trigeminal nerve, the activation being carried out by the chemical neuromodulator. | 02-27-2014 |
20140058475 | METHOD FOR PROGRAMMING IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A programming system for selecting an electrode configuration for use in a medical electrical stimulator coupled to an electrode array. A programmer is configured for providing a set of electrode configurations for the electrode array, automatically testing a first portion of the set of electrode configurations in a first order, allowing the selection of one or more of the tested electrode configurations, determining whether a suitable number of electrode configurations from among the first portion have been selected within a predefined interval, and automatically testing a second portion of the set of electrode configurations in a second order if the suitable number of electrode configurations from among the first portion are not selected within the predefined interval. The programmer may further allow the selection of the tested electrode configurations, and adjusting parameters during the testing, wherein the adjusting is controllably shared in parallel between a clinician and a patient. | 02-27-2014 |
20140088674 | METHOD FOR EPIDURAL STIMULATION OF NEURAL STRUCTURES - A method for treating a patient having nociceptive pain in a body region using at least one electrode implanted within a spinal column of the patient. The method comprises conveying electrical stimulation energy from the at least one implanted electrode to an efferent motor neural structure innervating the body region, thereby inducing an endogenous chemical response within a spinal cord of the patient that treats the nociceptive pain. Another method for treating a patient suffering from a medical ailment. The other method comprises applying electrical stimulation energy to an efferent neural structure, thereby increasing the activation threshold of the efferent neural structure relative an afferent neural structure, and applying electrical stimulation energy to the afferent neural structure while the activation threshold of the efferent neural structure is increased, thereby modulating activity of the afferent neural structure to treat the medical ailment while minimizing stimulation of the efferent neural structure. | 03-27-2014 |
20140128956 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCREASING RELATIVE INTENSITY BETWEEN CATHODES AND ANODES OF NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - A method and neurostimulation system for providing therapy to a patient is provided. A plurality of electrodes is placed adjacent to tissue of the patient. The electrodes include first and second electrodes, with the first electrode having a first tissue contacting surface area and the second electrode having a second tissue contact surface area greater than the first tissue contacting surface area. Anodic electrical current is simultaneously sourced from one of the first and second electrodes to the tissue and while cathodic electrical current is sunk from the tissue to another of the first and second electrodes to provide the therapy to the patient. | 05-08-2014 |
20140142671 | 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. | 05-22-2014 |
20140180350 | METHOD FOR IMPROVING FAR-FIELD ACTIVATION IN PERIPHERAL FIELD NERVE STIMULATION - A method of providing therapy to a patient having a disorder using an electrode located adjacent a peripheral target neural region. The method comprises conveying electrical stimulation energy from the electrode that stimulates a first set of nerve endings in the peripheral target neural region. The method further comprises increasing an activation threshold of a second set of nerve endings in the peripheral target neural region, thereby rendering the second set of nerve endings less excitable to the electrical stimulation energy. The first set of nerve endings are relatively far from the electrode and the second set of nerve endings are relatively near the electrode. | 06-26-2014 |
20140214131 | 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. | 07-31-2014 |
20140243943 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STIMULATING INTRAOSSEOUS NERVE FIBERS - A method for treating a patient having pain comprises applying electrical modulation energy to a target site adjacent an intraosseous nerve fiber of the patient to modulate pain traffic within the intraosseous nerve fiber, thereby treating the pain. | 08-28-2014 |
20150018911 | APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR MINIMIZED ENERGY IN PERIPHERAL FIELD STIMULATION - In various examples, an apparatus is configured for at least partial insertion in a living body. The apparatus includes an elongate lead body including a proximal lead end and a distal lead end. At least one connector is disposed proximate the proximal lead end. At least one flexible conductive surface is disposed at least partially around the lead body proximate the distal lead end. At least one conductor extends within the lead body from the at least one connector to the at least one flexible conductive surface. | 01-15-2015 |
20150051665 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR TREATMENT OF NON-NEUROPATHIC CONDITIONS USING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - A method of treating a non-neuropathic condition includes implanting an electrical stimulation lead near a dorsolateral funiculus of a patient, the electrical stimulation lead including a plurality of stimulation electrodes; and applying electrical stimulation energy through one or more of the electrodes of the electrical stimulation lead to the dorsolateral funiculus to treat the non-neuropathic condition. | 02-19-2015 |
20150073501 | 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. | 03-12-2015 |