Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080200925 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR SECURING ELECTRODE LEADS - Methods and systems for securing electrode leads are disclosed. An electrode system in accordance with one embodiment includes an electrode contact, a connector attached to the electrode contact, and an electrical lead. The electrical lead can be received in an opening of the contact, with an inner surface of the opening applying a generally uniform radial pressure around a circumference of the electrical lead. For example, the contact can have a tubular shape, optionally with an elongated slit, and can be crimped around the lead to apply the generally uniform radial pressure. | 08-21-2008 |
20080221589 | Device and Method for Manipulating and Inserting Electrode Arrays into Neural Tissues - An insertion device for inserting a therapeutic device into organic tissue is disclosed and described. The device is particularly suited to insertion of such as nerve stimulating electrode arrays. The insertion device has at least one controllable positive pressure source (greater than atomospheric), two vacuum sources and a dual vacuum pressure control system. The positive pressure and the dual vacuum pressure control systems are manipulated to allow the manipulation and insertion or retrieval of a therapeutic device. The insertion device can be spatially manipulated by hand, without requiring other equipment for positioning the insertion device. | 09-11-2008 |
20080228194 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ENDOSCOPIC ACCESS TO THE VAGUS NERVE - An apparatus for performing a minimally-invasive surgical procedure in the vagus nerve region includes a cannula, an endoscopic dissection tool and a cradle assembly slideably disposed in a cannula lumen. The cradle assembly includes a C-ring, an electrode cuff disposed over an exterior surface of the C-ring, and a deployment device. The electrode cuff is adapted to wrap around the target nerve region or nerve branch to be stimulated when deployed from the C-ring using the deployment device. A method of performing a minimally invasive surgical procedure is also described. | 09-18-2008 |
20080255582 | Methods and Template Assembly for Implanting an Electrode Array in a Patient - Templates and their methods of use for creating a plurality of holes or openings at predetermined locations in the skull of a patient, wherein the plurality of holes or openings are configured to receive a plurality of electrodes that may monitor brain activity signals from the patient and/or deliver a neuromodulation therapy to the patient. | 10-16-2008 |
20080269776 | System and Method for Guidance and Implantation of Implantable Devices - Systems and methods are provided for fixation of a fractured bone with an intramedullary bone fixation device. During an implantation procedure, the fixation device may be guided by a removable guidewire which is not coupled to the fixation device. The guidewire and device may be inserted into an intramedullary canal along a pathway which is not parallel to the intramedullary canal. The fixation device may be composite, formed of a support structure and a matrix material. The matrix material may be thermo-chemically activated, transformable from a deformable first thermo-chemical state to a hardened second thermo-chemical state. The fixation device may be radially expandable to deform to the shape of the intramedullary canal, to provide support to the fractured bone. | 10-30-2008 |
20080275465 | Design of Handle Set for Ablation Catheter with Indicators of Catheter and Tissue Parameters - An electrode coupling output system provides indication to the physician, via electrode guidance instrumentation, concerning the electrical coupling of an electrode, such as an ablative or mapping electrode, with a patient. The output can be provided to the physician via an output device incorporated into the handle set of the electrode catheter. For example, a visual, audio or mechanical output can be provided via the handle set. Additionally or alternatively, the output can be provided to the physician via a navigation system. The indication may be provided by changing the color or other display characteristics of the electrode on the navigation system display or by way of providing a waveform indicating the electrode coupling. In this manner, electrode coupling information is provided to a physician in a manner that minimizes physician distraction. | 11-06-2008 |
20090076521 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INSERTING IMPLANTS INTO THE BODY - An apparatus includes a first tubular member and a second tubular member coupled to the first tubular member. The first tubular member defines a longitudinal axis and a lumen substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis. The lumen of the first tubular member is configured to receive at least a portion of an elongate implant. A distal end portion of the first tubular member is tapered along the longitudinal axis. The second tubular member defines a longitudinal axis and a lumen substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the second tubular member. The second tubular member is coupled to the first tubular member such that the longitudinal axis of the first tubular member is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second tubular member. A distal end portion of the second tubular member is tapered along the longitudinal axis of the second tubular member. | 03-19-2009 |
20090076522 | TOOLKIT FOR IMPLANTING AN INTRACORPOREAL LEAD SUCH AS FOR CARDIAC PACING OR SENSING - A toolkit for implanting an intracorporal lead, preferably a cardiac sensing/pacing lead. This toolkit includes a guide-catheter ( | 03-19-2009 |
20090105724 | MEDICAL APPARATUS FOR INSERTION INTO BODY CAVITY - A medical apparatus for insertion into a body cavity which comprises an elastic linear body and delivers the distal tip to the predesignated object portion in a living organ, wherein the elastic linear body comprises a plurality of curved portions between the proximal end and the distal end, and at least one pair of adjacent curved portions are present on different planes which intersect each other. The apparatus can spontaneously control the direction thereof, and the distal tip can be delivered to the predesignated object portion in a living organ accurately and easily by pushing the apparatus into a body cavity. | 04-23-2009 |
20090149866 | IMPLANTABLE ELECTRODES AND INSERTION METHODS AND TOOLS - An insertion kit for implanting an electrode in a patient can include a handle; an insertion member coupled to the handle at a proximal end of the insertion member and configured and arranged to be inserted into a patient; an alignment member coupled to the handle and disposed over the distal end of the insertion member; and an electrode configured and arranged to be inserted into the patient using the insertion member. In some instances, the insertion kit may also include one or more of a marker that cooperates with the alignment member to mark a position of the electrode on the skin of the patient; a pointer that cooperates with the alignment member to find the marked position on the skin of the patient; and a second electrode and a second insertion member configured and arranged for detachably coupling to the handle in place of the insertion member. | 06-11-2009 |
20090157090 | Cardiac Lead Placement Using Multiple Spatially Distributed Sensors - Systems and methods facilitate placement of a lead in or on a patient's heart. At least one reference sensor is positioned at a right heart location of a patient's heart and a cardiac lead apparatus comprising at least one lead apparatus sensor is advanced to a plurality of left heart locations. Using the reference sensor and the lead apparatus sensor, a distance parameter indicative of a distance between the reference and lead apparatus sensors is measured for each of the plurality of left heart locations. Strain or stress estimates are determined for the plurality of left heart locations derived from the distance parameter measurements. Using the strain or stress estimates, a physician perceivable output is produced indicating suitability of the left heart locations as pacing sites. | 06-18-2009 |
20090157091 | Apparatus for Implanting Neural Stimulation Leads - Minimally invasive surgical instruments and procedures introducing neural stimulation leads comprise an inner member and an outer member and provide for a convenient coupling of an external stimulator lead at the inner member handle for application of test stimuli to nerves and tissue proximate the distal end of the inner member. A conductive inner member shaft proximal end extends into or proximally through the non-conductive handle and is configured to provide an inner member connector within or extending proximally to the handle for connection with a test stimulator. The inner member shaft is electrically conductive to conduct such test stimuli to nerves and tissue proximate the exposed shaft distal end. The outer member is preferably non-conductive and may thereby electrically insulate the shaft body proximal to the exposed shaft distal end. Ergonomically shaped inner member handles, caps, and inner member-outer member interlocking mechanisms are disclosed. | 06-18-2009 |
20090177209 | VASCULAR FIXATION DEVICE - In one embodiment, the present invention provides a cardiac lead device including a fixation mechanism slidably attached to the lead such that when the fixation mechanism is expanded in to contact with a body lumen, the lead may be moved relative to the fixation mechanism if desired. Such lead movement may be limited by complimentary structure on the lead body and the fixation mechanism that prevents the lead from moving unless sufficient force is applied to the lead. | 07-09-2009 |
20090187196 | GUIDE TUBE FOR AN IMPLANTABLE DEVICE SYSTEM - The implantable device system of the preferred embodiments includes a guide tube, a first electrical subsystem, and a second electrical subsystem. The first electrical subsystem is connected to the second electrical subsystem. The guide tube functions to facilitate the insertion of at least one first electrical subsystem and is adapted to allow the first electrical subsystem(s) to move freely with the tissue, allowing the placement of the first electrical subsystem without disconnecting the second electrical subsystem. The implantable device system may be implanted into the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerve, muscle, or any other suitable anatomical location. The guide tube of the system, however, may be alternatively used in any suitable environment and for any suitable reason. | 07-23-2009 |
20090198251 | LEAD DELIVERY, FIXATION AND EXTRACTION DEVICES AND METHODS FOR USE WITH INTRAVASCULAR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A lead delivery and fixation device for use with an intravascular implantable device includes a sidecar having a selectively retractable fixation element. A lead is releasably coupled to the sidecar, with an electrode portion exposed for delivering a stimulation therapy. A manipulable catheter is coupled to the fixation element and configured to advance and withdraw a helix portion of the fixation element. The catheter and fixation element are offset from and generally parallel to the lead. The lead is separable from the sidecar in the event that extraction is required. | 08-06-2009 |
20090198252 | GUIDE CATHETERS FOR ACCESSING CARDIAC SITES - A method and apparatus for introducing a cardiac lead to an implantation site that includes a catheter body having an outer wall and a distal leader and having a proximal portion extending from the first proximal end to a second distal end. An inner member is positioned within an outer lumen of the catheter body and is spaced from the outer wall to form a first inner lumen for receiving a guide tool inserted therein and a second lumen for receiving the cardiac lead while the guide tool is positioned within the first inner lumen. A distal end of the inner member forms a first opening at a distal end of the first inner lumen and a second opening at a distal end of the second inner lumen, the first opening and the second opening positioned proximal the distal leader. | 08-06-2009 |
20090209975 | Catheter Shape Forming System - A catheter assembly ( | 08-20-2009 |
20090222021 | Apparatus and Associated Method for Facilitating Implantation of Leads of a Cardiac Pacemaker - An apparatus and method are provided for preparing a vein. A first tubular member end, defining a first lumen, is inserted into a cannulated vein, over a first guide wire. A second tubular member end, defining a second lumen, has a cutting member operably engaged therewith, and is inserted into the vein so as to intersect with and extend into the first tubular member, remotely to the first tubular member end, to establish communication between the first and second lumens, and such that a second guide wire received through the second lumen extends into the first lumen. Withdrawal of the first tubular member from the vein, over the first guide wire, causes the cutting member to longitudinally divide the first tubular member, from the intersection between the tubular members to the first tubular member end, to allow the second guide wire to pass through the division. | 09-03-2009 |
20090240258 | DETACHABLE HANDLE FOR IMPLANTABLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING - A detachable handle includes a handle body that is substantially tubular and defines a hollow center region extending at least a portion of a longitudinal length of the handle body. The handle body is configured and arranged to receive a portion of a stylet handle within the hollow center region and removably attach to the stylet handle. The handle body includes an external gripping surface extending at least a portion of an exterior surface of the handle body. | 09-24-2009 |
20090248035 | STEERABLE STYLET FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL LEAD, AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURE THEREOF - A steerable stylet for a medical implantable lead has an inner lumen, into which the steerable stylet is insertable for navigating a distal end of the medical implantable lead to the desired location for attachment to tissue. The steerable stylet comprises a wire, a tube and an actuator. By means of the steerable stylet, the distal portion of the lead may be bent in desirable degree and, when the medical implantable lead is bent, the distal portion of the medical implantable lead is pivotal by means of the actuator to which the proximal end of the wire is non-rotatably connected. The tube is connected to the actuator by means of a torque limitation device which, when exceeding a predetermined torque force, will disconnect the torque connection between the tube and the actuator. A method for manufacturing a steerable stylet for a medical implantable lead includes the step of connecting the stylet tube to the actuator by a torque limiting device as described above. | 10-01-2009 |
20090275956 | TECHNIQUES FOR PLACING MEDICAL LEADS FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF NERVE TISSUE - This disclosure is directed to extra, intra, and transvascular medical lead placement techniques for arranging medical leads and electrical stimulation and/or sensing electrodes proximate nerve tissue within a patient. | 11-05-2009 |
20090281553 | Devices and Methods for Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders - An implantation device for releasably holding implantable microstimulators can be used to guide one or more microstimulators to any site within the gastrointestinal tract for implantation. The device can further releasably hold one or more ligation clips for securing the one or more microstimulators in place within the implantation site(s) and/or for closing an incision in which a microstimulator is implanted. The device can be employed using open, laparoscopic, and endoscopic techniques. | 11-12-2009 |
20090299380 | IMPLANTATION OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - In general, the invention is directed to strategies pertaining to implantation of an implantable medical device between a scalp and a skull of the patient. The invention pertains to collection of data such as data pertaining to the skull of the patient, the scalp of the patient, the vascular structure or neurological structures in the head of the patient, and the like. The data may be in the form of images, such as images generated by X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging, CT-scan and fluoroscopy. A surgeon can use the collected data to determine, for example, whether the patient is a candidate for a cranial implantation, whether the patient's skull and scalp can support the implantation, what configuration of device should be implanted, where the device should be implanted, and how the surgical incisions should be made. | 12-03-2009 |
20090312769 | STYLET FOR STIMULATING MEDICAL IMPLANTS - An elongate stylet for removable insertion into a lumen of a stimulating medical implant, comprising a plurality of contiguous longitudinal regions, wherein a cross-sectional area of at least some of the regions are different. | 12-17-2009 |
20090312770 | PROBE INSERTION DEVICE FOR IMPLANTING A PROBE INTO TISSUE - A probe insertion device for implanting a probe into tissue includes a rigid base that selectively attaches to the probe due to a bond between the base and the probe, that provides a structural backbone to the probe, is longitudinally aligned with the probe, and can be adapted to receive a fluid between the base and the probe. The probe insertion device can include a surface covering at least a portion of the base that reduces the bond between the base and the probe in the presence of the fluid. | 12-17-2009 |
20090326550 | LEAD DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHOD - A medical apparatus includes a guidewire and a fixator catheter. The fixator catheter comprises a tubular body with a distal portion and a proximal portion, and further includes a distal opening, a fixator secured to the distal portion, and a body opening arranged between the fixator and the proximal portion. The guidewire passes through the body opening and the distal opening of the fixator catheter. The fixator is movable between a compact configuration and an expanded configuration and, in the expanded condition, is capable of anchoring the guidewire and fixator catheter in a lumen of a blood vessel. | 12-31-2009 |
20090326551 | LEAD DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHOD - A medical apparatus includes a guidewire and a fixator catheter. The fixator catheter comprises a tubular body with a distal portion and a proximal portion, and further includes a distal opening, a fixator secured to the distal portion, and a body opening arranged between the fixator and the proximal portion. The guidewire passes through the body opening and the distal opening of the fixator catheter. The fixator is movable between a compact configuration and an expanded configuration and, in the expanded condition, is capable of anchoring the guidewire and fixator catheter in a lumen of a blood vessel. | 12-31-2009 |
20100004661 | MEDICAL DEVICE FOR TISSUE ABLATION - A medical device for ablating tissues within a heart chamber comprising a guiding member intended to be introduced in the oesophagus of the patient and an ablating member comprising an ablation electrode mounted at the distal end or tip of catheter. Both the head of the guiding member and the tip of the ablating member are magnetised and can enter into magnetic coupling when their distal ends are brought in close contact. Once the magnetic coupling is achieved, the tip of the ablating member is guided by moving the guiding member. The guiding member can include sensors enabling to monitor physiological parameters during the intervention. | 01-07-2010 |
20100004662 | PREFORMED STYLET FOR GUIDING A LEAD TO CONTACT THE SEPTUM - Preformed guiding stylet for introducing a septal lead in contact with the septum or other intra-corporal device in contact with body tissue. This stylet include a flexible wire ( | 01-07-2010 |
20100010502 | ENDOVASCULAR CONDUIT DEVICE FOR INCREASING SAFETY OF CARDIAC LEAD EXTRACTION AND OTHER VASCULAR PROCEDURES - An endovascular conduit device and method for use during cardiac lead extraction and other vascular procedures is presented. The endovascular conduit device includes an outer-sheath, a conduit member, a lumen member, and an inflation member to control the flow of fluid within the conduit member. The endovascular conduit device may be positioned intravascularly as cardiac lead extraction or other procedures are performed. If necessary, as in the case of a vascular tear, the endovascular conduit device further includes expandable members that are activated to allow blood to be forced into the channel of the conduit member. Blood may then be contained and directed safely to bypass the area of vessel injury. In doing so, a catastrophic circulatory collapse or shock is prevented. | 01-14-2010 |
20100010503 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PLACING HEART LEADS - Devices, systems, and methods for the localization of body lumen junctions and other intraluminal structure are disclosed. Various embodiments permit clinicians to identify and locate lesions and/or anatomical structures within a lumen and accurately place leads and/or devices within a lumen, through determining the intralumen conductance and/or cross-sectional area at a plurality of locations within the body lumen. | 01-14-2010 |
20100016863 | LEAD DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHOD - A lead delivery apparatus and a method of delivering a medical lead to an anatomic target site. An elongated lead advancement member is coupled to a delivery shaft. The delivery shaft is inserted to the target site. The delivery shaft is temporarily attached to the target site using a fixator. A medical lead is inserted over the lead advancement member and pushed over the lead advancement member toward the target site. | 01-21-2010 |
20100016864 | LEAD DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHOD - A lead delivery apparatus and a method of delivering a medical lead to an anatomic target site. The method includes inserting a hydraulic plug into an internal delivery lumen of a delivery shaft, and coupling a medical lead to the hydraulic plug. Hydraulic pressure is applied to the hydraulic plug through the delivery lumen, thereby moving the hydraulic plug toward an anatomic target site, and advancing the medical lead toward the target site. | 01-21-2010 |
20100023020 | CAM LOCK BURR HOLE PLUG FOR SECURING RETAINER/PLUG BASE - A burr hole plug comprises a plug base configured for being mounted around a cranial burr hole. The plug base includes an aperture through which an elongated medical device exiting the burr hole may pass. The burr hole plug further comprises a retainer configured for being mounted within the aperture of the plug base. The retainer includes a retainer support, a slot formed in the retainer support for receiving the medical device, and a clamping mechanism having a movable clamping element and a cam configured for being rotated relative to the retainer support to linearly translate the movable clamping element into the slot, thereby securing the medical device. The retainer further comprises another clamping mechanism having another movable clamping element and another cam configured for being rotated relative to the retainer support to linearly translate the other movable clamping element, thereby laterally securing the retainer within the plug base. | 01-28-2010 |
20100030227 | MEDICAL LEAD IMPLANTATION - A medical lead introducer comprises a shank, a carrier structure on the shank configured to engage a mating carrier structure of a medical lead during a lead introduction procedure, and a blunt dissection element located on a distal end of the shank. The blunt dissection element is configured to shield at least a distal portion of the medical lead when the medical lead is engaged by the carrier structure during the lead introduction procedure. In some embodiments, the medical lead introducer may be part of a kit including the medical lead. | 02-04-2010 |
20100030228 | MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR GUIDING THE PLACEMENT OF A SUBCUTANEOUS DEVICE - An apparatus for guiding advancing of a subcutaneous medical device to a desired implant site that includes a strap extending along a length from a proximal end to a distal end, a handle orientation member positioned at the proximal end of the strap, and a handle capable of being selectively positioned at one of a plurality of orientations along the handle member. | 02-04-2010 |
20100030229 | MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR GUIDING THE PLACEMENT OF A SUBCUTANEOUS DEVICE - A medical device system for advancing a subcutaneous device to a desired implant site that includes a strap extending along a length from a proximal end to a distal end, a first flange and a second flange extending along a portion of the length of the strap, a base portion extending along a portion of the length of the strap between the first flange and the second flange, and an indentation extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the strap, the indentation formed by the first flange, the second flange, and the base portion, wherein the first flange and the second flange include curved bottom portions that make contact with and compress a tissue layer to position the tissue layer within the indentation during the placement of the subcutaneous device. | 02-04-2010 |
20100030230 | MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR GUIDING THE PLACEMENT OF A SUBCUTANEOUS DEVICE - A medical device system for guiding placement of a subcutaneous medical device that includes a strap extending along a length from a proximal end to a distal end, a first flange and a second flange extending along a portion of the length of the strap, a base portion extending along a portion of the length of the strap between the first flange and the second flange, an orientation member extending along the strap to limit a predetermined radius of curvature of the strap, and an indentation extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the strap, the indentation formed by the first flange, the second flange, and the base portion, wherein the first flange and the second flange include curved bottom portions that make contact with and compress a tissue layer to position the tissue layer within the indentation during the placement of the subcutaneous device. | 02-04-2010 |
20100036392 | MODULAR CATHETER ASSEMBLY - A modular catheter assembly ( | 02-11-2010 |
20100042108 | METHOD OF CARDIAC SURGERY, AND DEFIBRILLATION ELECTRODE, DEFIBRILLATOR, AND ENDOSCOPE APPARATUS FOR THE SAME - To provide a method of cardiac surgery which is capable of facilitating the manipulation of devices in a thoracic cavity so as to thereby simplify the surgery, as well as alleviating physical burdens on a patient, and a defibrillation electrode, a defibrillator, and an endoscope apparatus for the same. There is provided a method of cardiac surgery, comprising: using a device which comprises a treatment unit to be inserted into a thoracic cavity for performing treatment of a heart; inserting a distal end of this device between the heart and a pericardium; thereafter piercing through the pericardium with the distal end of the device; and performing treatment of the heart from the outside of the pericardium by using the treatment unit. | 02-18-2010 |
20100042109 | STYLET FOR GUIDING LEADS OF IMPLANTABLE ELECTRIC STIMULATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING - A lead assembly includes a lead and a stylet. The lead has a distal end, a proximal end, and an outer lead covering. The lead includes a plurality of electrodes disposed at the distal end, a plurality of terminals disposed at the proximal end, and at least one lumen defined in the lead that extends from the distal end to the proximal end. The lead also includes a plurality of conductive wires electrically coupling the plurality of electrodes to the plurality of terminals. The stylet is configured and arranged for inserting into one of the at least one lumens of the lead. The stylet includes an elongated body and a protective feature that is coupled to the elongated body. The protective feature is configured and arranged for absorbing or redirecting an amount of force applied to the stylet above a threshold amount of force. | 02-18-2010 |
20100042110 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PLACEMENT OF ELECTRICAL LEAD INSIDE HEART - A method of placing an electrical lead of an implantable cardiac device inside a heart of a patient. The method includes securing a tool to an atrial appendage of the heart to hold onto the atrial appendage, piercing the atrial appendage, and creating an aperture in the atrial appendage while holding the atrial appendage with the tool. The method also includes moving a distal end of the electrical lead into the heart through the aperture in the atrial appendage and into a ventricle of the heart. Furthermore, the method includes coupling the distal end of the electrical lead to cardiac tissue in the ventricle and delivering an electrical signal to the cardiac tissue in the ventricle of the heart to maintain a predetermined heartbeat of the heart. | 02-18-2010 |
20100094311 | Implant Electrode and Accessories for Use in Robotic Surgery - An implant electrode for a cochlear implant system includes a basal electrode lead passing from an implant housing to a mastoid cortex surface for carrying one or more electrical stimulation signals from the implant housing. An apical electrode array fits through a cochleostomy opening into a cochlea scala and has multiple electrode contacts for applying the electrical stimulation signals to target neural tissue. A middle electrode section passes through the mastoid cortex and the middle ear to the cochleostomy opening for connecting the electrode lead and the electrode array. | 04-15-2010 |
20100114114 | CORONARY VEIN NAVIGATOR - A system and method for navigating coronary vasculature involves use of a guide catheter system which includes a guide catheter, a navigator catheter longitudinally displaceable within the guide catheter, and a deflection arrangement provided at a distal end of the navigator catheter. The guide catheter is advanced to at least a patient's coronary sinus ostium, and the navigator catheter is extended from the guide catheter to a location proximate or within an angled vein distal to the coronary sinus ostium. Using the deflection arrangement, a guide wire passing through the navigation catheter is directed into the angled vein. A lead having an open lumen is advanced over the guide wire to direct the lead to an implant site within the angled vein. | 05-06-2010 |
20100121346 | Compliant Guiding Catheter Sheath System - A guiding catheter system employs a compliant shaft with an inflatable balloon affixed to a distal portion of the shaft. The inflatable balloon includes channels that allow some amount of blood to flow past the balloon when inflated in a blood vessel. One or more inflation lumens is in fluid contact with the balloon and allows inflating the balloon from a proximal end of the catheter. A series of perfusion orifices may be included on the shaft proximal to the balloon. | 05-13-2010 |
20100125281 | CARDIAC PACING LEAD AND DELIVERY SHEATH - The present invention provides compositions and methods related to epicardial pacing systems. In particular, the present invention provides a novel delivery sheath and cardiac pacing lead to be deployed in the pericardial space via a percutaneous approach. | 05-20-2010 |
20100137878 | IMPLANT TOOL FOR ACTIVE FIXATION LEAD - An implant tool for use with an endocardial or other implantable lead having an extendable/retractable active fixation tip includes a housing, a shaft rotatably supported by the housing, and a shaft rotation mechanism for rotating the shaft through a predetermined angular travel. The shaft includes a lead attachment portion for selectively coupling a lead to the shaft such that the lead is rotatable with the shaft. The implant tool may include a control tab slidably supported by the housing, wherein longitudinal movement of the control tab actuates the shaft rotation mechanism. The shaft rotation mechanism may include a gear train, an electric motor, a double acting spring mechanism, or a retractable tape wound around the shaft. The gear train includes an input member coupled to the control tab and an output gear coupled to the shaft. The input member meshes with an input gear supported by the housing. | 06-03-2010 |
20100137879 | Apparatus and Method for Subcutaneous Electrode Insertion - Devices and methods for electrode implantation. A first embodiment includes an electrode insertion tool adapted to tunnel through tissue and attach, at its distal end, to a lead, such that the lead may be pulled into the tunneled space as the electrode insertion tool is removed. Additional embodiments include methods for inserting electrode/lead assemblies, including a method wherein an insertion tool is first used to tunnel through tissue, then to pull an electrode/lead into the tunneled space. In a further embodiment the insertion tool is next used, with a splittable sheath disposed thereon, to create an additional path into tissue, after which the insertion tool is removed, leaving the sheath in place; a lead is inserted to the sheath, and, finally, the splittable sheath is removed over the lead. | 06-03-2010 |
20100145357 | BURR HOLE PLUG HAVING DUAL SLIDABLE CLAMPING MECHANISMS - A burr hole plug comprises a plug base configured for being mounted around a burr hole. The plug base includes an aperture through which an elongated medical device exiting the burr hole may pass. The burr hole plug further comprises a retainer configured for being mounted within the aperture of the plug base. The retainer further includes first and second slidable clamping mechanisms configured for securing the medical devices therebetween within the aperture of the plug base. A method comprises introducing the medical device through the burr hole, mounting a plug base around the burr hole, such that the medical device extends through the plug base aperture, mounting the retainer within the aperture of the plug base, and sliding the first and second clamping mechanisms secure the medical device therebetween. | 06-10-2010 |
20100152747 | INSERTION SYSTEM AND LEAD FOR TREATMENT OF A TARGET TISSUE REGION - The present disclosure provides for systems and methods enabling the insertion of leads (as used e.g., in a framework of the brain treatment therapies) through a target anatomy for conforming with a target tissue region. An exemplary lead includes at least a partially curved portion for conforming with a geometry defined by the target tissue region. In an exemplary embodiment, the system relates to stimulating targets in the brain for improved post-operative steering of an applied electric field. The leads can be either pre-curved or put under transversal mechanical strain during insertion such that a certain curved curvature of the insertion trajectory is achieved. The system includes at least a first insertion tool removably engaged with respect to the lead for guiding and providing mechanical support to the lead during insertion. | 06-17-2010 |
20100152748 | Devices, Systems, and Methods Providing Body Lumen Access - Devices and methods are provided which include access port devices for implantation through a tissue wall of a lumen of patient's body and for containing electrical leads therein. An implantable port device includes a body with a first end having a first opening and an opposed second end having a second opening, and a channel extending from between and operably connecting the first opening and the second opening; a first retaining member extending radially from the first end of the body; and a second retaining member spaced apart from the first retaining member, the second retaining member being closer than the first retaining member to the second end of the body, and extending radially from the second end of the body. The first retaining member and the second retaining member are configured to cooperatively engage opposing sides of the tissue wall about edges of an aperture through the tissue wall to secure the body within the aperture. | 06-17-2010 |
20100168759 | MICRO MANIPULATOR FOR ELECTRODE MOVEMENT IN NEURAL SIGNAL RECORDING - This disclosure relates to a micro manipulator having a simple structure and having high possibility of recording a biological signal of a neuron at a desired position by improving positioning resolution of an electrode disposed adjacent to a subject's brain neuron or an electrode holder attached with the electrode. The micro manipulator according to the disclosure includes: a motor which includes a shaft and a vibration portion; a mobile which is connected to the shaft so as to be movable along the shaft; and a frame which supports the motor, wherein an electrode is connected to the mobile in a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction of the shaft, and wherein when the mobile moves linearly in accordance with a vibration of the shaft due to the vibration portion, the electrode moves linearly. | 07-01-2010 |
20100168760 | MEDICAL ELECTRICAL LEAD IMPLANT TOOL - A medical electrical lead implant tool includes a gripping assembly, terminating a distal end of an elongate shaft, adapted to alternately grasp the lead and release the lead and to rotate the lead, and a user control terminating a proximal end of the shaft. An internal drive cable extends within the shaft coupling the gripping assembly to the user control. The user control facilitates single-handed manipulation of a slidable dial, which may be grasped by fingers of a hand for longitudinal and rotational manipulation when a stationary handle is held in a palm of the hand; the longitudinal manipulation causing the gripping assembly, via the drive cable, to alternately grasp the lead and release the lead and the rotational manipulation causing the gripping assembly, via the drive cable, to rotate the lead. | 07-01-2010 |
20100168761 | DEVICES FOR ACCESSING THE PERICARDIAL SPACE SURROUNDING THE HEART - Devices for accessing the pericardial space surrounding the heart. In at least one embodiment of a delivery catheter for use in accessing a pericardial space surrounding the external surface of a heart, the delivery catheter comprises comprising an elongated tube comprising a wall extending from a proximal end of the tube to a distal end of the tube, a first lumen, and a steering channel extending from a proximal end of the tube to a distal end of the tube, the steering channel forming an orifice at the distal end of the tube, and a steering wire system at least partially located in the steering channel, the steering wire system comprising at least two steering wires attached to the wall of the tube within the steering channel and a controller attached to a proximal end of each of the at least two steering wires, wherein the first lumen extends from approximately the proximal end of the tube to or near the distal end of the tube, the first lumen having a bend, relative to the tube, at or near the distal end of the tube and an outlet through the wall of the tube at or near the distal end of the tube. | 07-01-2010 |
20100179561 | TOOL FOR RETRACTING A TINE ELEMENT OF A MEDICAL LEAD - A tool for retracting a tine of a lead includes a body extending from a proximal end to a distal end. The body defines
| 07-15-2010 |
20100179562 | STIMULATION LEADS, DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USE - Devices, systems and methods are provided for accessing and treating anatomies associated with a variety of conditions while minimizing possible complications and side effects. This is achieved by directly neuromodulating a target anatomy associated with the condition while minimizing or excluding undesired neuromodulation of other anatomies. Typically, this involves stimulating portions of neural tissue of the central nervous system, wherein the central nervous system includes the spinal cord and the pairs of nerves along the spinal cord which are known as spinal nerves. In particular, some embodiments of the present invention are used to selectively stimulate portions of the spinal nerves, particularly one or more dorsal root ganglions (DRGs), to treat chronic pain while causing minimal deleterious side effects such as undesired motor responses. | 07-15-2010 |
20100179563 | Low Profile Instrument Immobilizer - This document discusses, among other things, examples of a low profile instrument immobilizer and means for positioning the same. In one example, the low profile instrument immobilizer grasps, secures, and immobilizes an electrode or other instrument that extends through a burr hole in a skull to a target location in a patient's brain. | 07-15-2010 |
20100198229 | LEAD EXTRACTION METHODS AND APPARATUS - According to one aspect, a device for assisting in removing an implanted lead is provided. The device comprises a body portion having a center adapted to accommodate the lead, a cutting component coupled to the body portion to assist in separating tissue from the lead, and at least one anchoring component disposed at least partially within the body portion, the at least one anchoring component capable of providing pressure on the lead that resists movement of at least part of the body portion along the lead at least in part by applying fluid pressure. | 08-05-2010 |
20100217277 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR THE IMPLANTATION OF ACTIVE FIXATION MEDICAL LEADS - A lead implantation tool is disclosed herein. The tool may be configured to operably couple to a lead connector end of an implantable cardiac electrotherapy lead including an active fixation helix tip and wherein the lead connector end includes a contact pin proximally extending from the lead connector end. The tool may include a feature configured to couple to the contact pin and a first mechanism configured to convert linear movement into rotational movement of the contact pin relative to the lead connector end. The tool may further include a second mechanism that causes a stylet extending through the tool and into the contact pin to at least one of distally and proximally displace within the contact pin. | 08-26-2010 |
20100222787 | TENSION CONTROL DEVICE - A device for controlling a tensional force on an implanted elongated structure during removal of the implanted elongated structure from a body vessel of a patient via a removal tool. The removal tool is of a type that includes a sheath member having a passageway extending therethrough for receiving the elongated structure. A shaft member structured for engagement with the removal tool has a locking member disposed thereon. The locking member is constructed and arranged for selectively locking a position of the elongated structure in a manner to maintain a tension on the elongated structure, and unlocking the elongated structure to permit an adjustment of the tension. | 09-02-2010 |
20100228262 | ATRAUMATIC LEAD REMOVAL SHEATH - The present invention is an implantable device for the atraumatic removal of chronically implanted medical devices. | 09-09-2010 |
20100228263 | LEAD ASSEMBLY AND METHODS INCLUDING A PUSH TUBE - A lead assembly includes an elongate body having a conductor electrically coupled with an electrode coupled to the elongate body. The lead assembly includes a push tube extending along at least a portion of the elongate body. A distal tip is coupled to the elongate body substantially adjacent to the distal end of the elongate body. The distal tip is sized and shaped to couple with a push tube distal end. In one option, the distal tip includes a seat to receive the push tube distal end. In another option, the seat is a side rail seat and a guide wire extends along the elongate body and is slidably coupled with the side rail seat. The lead assembly includes, optionally, an active fixation device slidably coupled with a portion of the elongate body, and the active fixation device is sized and shaped to couple with the push tube. | 09-09-2010 |
20100298841 | TRANS-SEPTAL PACING METHOD AND APPARATUS - A medical electrical trans-septal pacing lead includes a lead body, a tine-like structure terminating a distal end of the lead body and a distal electrode coupled to the lead body at a position proximal to and in close proximity to the structure. A method for delivering left ventricular pacing to a heart includes inserting the trans-septal pacing lead through an inter-ventricular septal wall of the heart, from a right ventricle to a left ventricle, and positioning the distal electrode in a left ventricular endocardial surface of the septal wall. | 11-25-2010 |
20100298842 | BURR HOLE CAP AND METHODS OF USE - In one embodiment, an apparatus comprises: a base structure adapted to be inserted within the burr hole; a lead securing member for securing the lead, the lead securing member comprising a first arm structure and a second arm structure, at least one spring loaded structure adapted to exert a force to bring the first arm structure and the second arm structure together; and a positioning tool having a distal end adapted to be inserted within the lead securing member. When the positioning tool is positioned within the lead securing member, the distal end holds the first and second arm structures a sufficient distance apart to receive a lead between the first and second arm structures; wherein the positioning tool comprises a control structure at a proximal end that, when engaged, causes the distal end of the positioning tool to be released from between the first and second arm structures. | 11-25-2010 |
20100305579 | DELIVERY CATHETER - A catheter used to deliver a medical electrical lead to a right atrium of a heart in close proximity to a His bundle. The catheter is adapted such that the distal tip confronts the His bundle generally perpendicularly. The catheter includes a proximal portion and a generally hook-shaped distal portion. The distal portion may include curves that direct the distal tip at an angle of over 180 degrees from the direction of the proximal portion. | 12-02-2010 |
20100318098 | Systems and Methods for Implanting Medical Devices - Methods and instruments forming a tissue pathway between the first and second skin incisions to draw a permanent or temporary elongated medical device or implant, e.g., a medical electrical lead, through the tissue pathway are disclosed. A tunneling instrument comprises an elongated sleeve and a needle that are mounted together to be used as the tunneling instrument to form the tissue pathway and separated so that the sleeve may be employed to engage the lead connector to pull the medical electrical lead through the tissue pathway. | 12-16-2010 |
20100324569 | SUTURE SLEEVE AND A METHOD FOR POSITIONING A SUTURE SLEEVE AND A LEAD IN RELATION TO EACH OTHER - A suture sleeve has a tubular body of an elastic material which is adapted to be positioned in a human or animal body and is provided with a through bore to allow introducing of a lead or other elongated and flexible body into the bore for implantation of the lead via the suture sleeve. At least a portion of the through bore is formed with a non-circular cross section. The invention also relates to a method for positioning of a suture sleeve and a lead in relation to each other. | 12-23-2010 |
20100324570 | INTRODUCER FOR THERAPY DELIVERY ELEMENTS - The disclosure describes an introducer for facilitating implantation of therapy elements into a patient. The introducer has an elongated body that defines a lumen for advancement of a therapy element to an implant site, and includes a curved portion medially located between substantially straight proximal and distal portions. As an example, the shape of the introducer may allow a clinician to more easily, and without substantially damaging surrounding tissue, find the correct tissue depth and follow that tissue depth to the implant site. For example, the introducer may facilitate implantation of a therapy element within or between desired layers of tissue of the patient. In some embodiments, fluid may be injected through the introducer to create a space within the tissue to implant the therapy element. Fluid may also be evacuated through the introducer prior to implantation. | 12-23-2010 |
20100331854 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING TREATMENT IN A PERICARDIAL SPACE - An apparatus, device and method are provided to enable performing a treatment in a minimally invasive fashion in a pericardial space. The device includes a needle having a sensing means to detect substantially different bodily tissues to enable a practitioner to determine when the distal end of the needle is in the pericardial space; an anchoring means to secure the distal end of the needle inside or in proximity to the pericardial space; and a delivery means for delivering a guidewire to the pericardial space to perform the treatment. | 12-30-2010 |
20110009877 | LEAD INSERTION TOOLS - An exemplary insertion tool configured to facilitate insertion of a lead into a bodily orifice includes a handle assembly configured to facilitate handling of the insertion tool, an insertion assembly coupled to the handle assembly and comprising a rigid holding tube configured to removably couple to a portion of the lead, and a release assembly disposed at least partially within the handle assembly and comprising a release button. The release assembly is configured to release the lead from the holding tube in response to user actuation of the release button. Corresponding insertion tools, systems, and methods are also described. | 01-13-2011 |
20110009878 | CARDIAC LEAD AND STYLET ASSEMBLY - A cardiac lead and stylet assembly for facilitating placement of cardiac leads for use in combination with cardiac rhythm management devices. The assembly includes a cardiac lead having a lumen therethrough and stylet having a core sized to extend through the lumen. The stylet includes a substantially helical coil sized and adapted to contact and threadingly engage an inner wall of the lead at a reduced diameter portion of the lumen. The stylet coil is also adapted to be threadingly disengaged from the lead to facilitate removal of the stylet without dislodging the lead from a desired implantation site in the patient. | 01-13-2011 |
20110015646 | SHAPED ELECTRODE AND DISSECTING TOOL - Disclosed is a shaped electrode and dissecting tool configured to aid in controlling the path of an electrode as it is moved into its intended position within the epidural space of a patient. The shaped electrode and dissecting tool is configured with a contoured leading edge having at least one concavity that aids in moving the electrode and dissecting tool through the intended tissues within the patient's body. A variety of concavity contours may be provided and used for particular surgical applications. | 01-20-2011 |
20110022057 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TRANSFERRING AN IMPLANTED ELONGATE BODY TO A REMOTE SITE - A transfer guidewire assembly configured to manipulate an implanted elongate body includes a flexible elongate portion, such as a guidewire, and coupler. The flexible elongate body has a proximal end and a distal end attached to the coupler. The coupler can include a catheter and/or a handle. The handle can include a screw. The coupler is configured to be removably attached to the end of an implanted elongate body, for example, by forming an interference fit with the outside diameter of the implanted body. A method for transferring an end of an implanted medical component from first site to a second site within a patient, such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, and/or sensor lead, etc., includes inserting a guidewire into the body at the first site and externalizing the guidewire at the second site. A proximal portion of the implanted component near the first site and is attached to the guidewire. The proximal portion of the implanted component is pulled through the patient's body and out the second site with the transfer guidewire assembly. | 01-27-2011 |
20110022058 | Device for Immobilizing a Primary Instrument and Method Therefor - Devices and methods provide accurate targeting, placement, and/or stabilization of an electrode or other instrument(s) into the brain or other body organ, such as to treat severe tremor or other neurological disorders. Targeting is performed using any form of image-guidance, including real-time MRI, CT, or frameless surgical navigation systems. | 01-27-2011 |
20110022059 | Device for Immobilizing a Primary Instrument and Method Therefor - Devices and methods provide accurate targeting, placement, and/or stabilization of an electrode or other instrument(s) into the brain or other body organ, such as to treat severe tremor or other neurological disorders. Targeting is performed using any form of image-guidance, including real-time MRI, CT, or frameless surgical navigation systems. | 01-27-2011 |
20110034938 | Method for Manufacturing a Device for Positioning and Fixing Electrodes on Body Organs, Device and Kit of Parts - The invention relates to a device for in vivo positioning and fixing of electrodes on body organs, and the manufacture thereof. The invention provides a device for in vivo position, repositioning and fixing of electrodes on body organs, in particular the human heart, comprising: at least one electrode adapted to exchange electrical signals with a body organ, communication means connected to the electrode for co-action with measuring and control means, and at least one resilient fixation element connected to the electrode, wherein the fixation element is expandable from a relatively compact form to a relatively voluminous form, and wherein the fixation element is adapted to press the electrode under bias against the body organ in the relatively voluminous form in co-action with surrounding body tissue in order to maintain the desired position. | 02-10-2011 |
20110034939 | DELIVERY OF CARDIAC STIMULATION DEVICES - Some embodiments of an electrical stimulation system employ wireless electrode assemblies to provide pacing therapy, defibrillation therapy, or other stimulation therapy. In certain embodiments, the wireless electrode assemblies may include a guide wire channel so that each electrode assembly can be advanced over a guide wire instrument through the endocardium. For example, a distal tip portion of a guide wire instrument can penetrate through the endocardium and into the myocardial wall of a heart chamber, and the electrode assembly may then be advanced over the guide wire and into the heart chamber wall. In such circumstances, the guide wire instrument (and other portions of the delivery system) can be retracted from the heart chamber wall, thereby leaving the electrode assembly embedded in the heart tissue. | 02-10-2011 |
20110066160 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INSERTING STEERABLE ARRAYS INTO ANATOMICAL STRUCTURES - Systems and Methods are provided for inserting a steerable array into an anatomical structure of the body. The system includes an insertion module for holding a proximal end of the steerable array and a force sensor configured to detect force on the steerable array and to produce force information. The system includes a position sensor configured to detect a position of the insertion module and to produce position information, the position information including a lateral position along an insertion axis and a first approach angle relative to a first reference axis. The system further includes a processor configured to receive the force information from the force sensor and the position information from the position sensor. The processor outputs performance information to a user. The performance information includes an indication of a first differential approach angle relative to an insertion path plan. | 03-17-2011 |
20110071540 | LEAD WITH DISTAL ENGAGEMENT FEATURE TO FACILITATE LEAD PLACEMENT - An implantable medical lead includes a proximal portion including a contact. The lead also includes a distal portion having a paddle-shaped portion, an electrode, and an engagement element configured to cooperate with a lead advancement tool to facilitate placement of the lead such that distal advancement of the tool relative to the lead pushes the lead distally. The electrode is electrically coupled to the contact, and the engagement element is distal to the electrode. The engagement element is integrally formed with the paddle-shaped portion. | 03-24-2011 |
20110077660 | FOLDABLE, IMPLANTABLE ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY AND TOOL FOR IMPLANTING SAME - An electrode array assembly with a frame that is foldable or bendable on which electrodes are disposed. The frame includes laterally spaced apart bridges. Tabs extend laterally outwardly from the bridges Electrodes are disposed on the tabs. Beams, also part of the frame, extend between the laterally adjacent bridges. The frame can be folded around the beams so as to cause the laterally spaced bridges to at least partially overlap. When the beams are so bent, the electrode carrying tabs extend beyond the bent beams. | 03-31-2011 |
20110077661 | MEANS TO SECURELY FIXATE PACING LEADS AND/OR SENSORS IN VESSELS - According to embodiments of the present invention, a cardiac lead system adapted for fixation to a vessel including an expandable fixation mechanism adapted to engage an inner surface of the vessel and a lead member comprising an anchor structure at distal end, the anchor structure configured to removably engage with fixation mechanism. Such anchor structure may be helical, and may removably engage fixation mechanism upon rotation or an application of torque, and may be extendable and/or retractable. Fixation mechanism may be polymer coated weave and/or mesh to trap anchor structure. Lead member and/or fixation mechanism may include electrodes and/or sensors, and lead member may include L-shape, S-shape, spiral, and/or sinusoidal shape for positioning of electrodes and/or sensors or for facilitated engagement of anchor structure. A guide wire attached to fixation mechanism during deployment may, prior to detachment, serve to guide lead member to a target site at fixation mechanism. | 03-31-2011 |
20110077662 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS - An implantation device for releasably holding implantable microstimulators can be used to guide one or more microstimulators to any site within the gastrointestinal tract for implantation. The device can further releasably hold one or more ligation clips for securing the one or more microstimulators in place within the implantation site(s) and/or for closing an incision in which a microstimulator is implanted. The device can be employed using open, laparoscopic, and endoscopic techniques. | 03-31-2011 |
20110082465 | ENDOVASCULAR CONDUIT DEVICE WITH LOW PROFILE OCCLUSION MEMBERS - An endovascular conduit device and method for use during cardiac lead extraction and other vascular procedures is presented. The endovascular conduit device includes an outer-sheath, a conduit member, a lumen member, and an inflation member to control the flow of fluid within the conduit member. The endovascular conduit device may be positioned intravascularly as cardiac lead extraction or other procedures are performed. If necessary, as in the case of a vascular tear, the endovascular conduit device further includes expandable members that are activated to allow blood to be forced into the channel of the conduit member. Blood may then be contained and directed safely to bypass the area of vessel injury. In doing so, a catastrophic circulatory collapse or shock is prevented. | 04-07-2011 |
20110082466 | EPICARDIAL SCREW LEAD FOR STIMULATION / DEFIBRILLATION IMPLANTABLE BY A GUIDE CATHETER INSERTED INTO A PERICARDIAL SPACE - An epicardial screw lead for stimulation/defibrillation implantable by a guide-catheter inserted into the pericardial space is described. The lead is a monodiameter lead with a helical anchoring screw extending axially of the lead body. The guide-catheter ( | 04-07-2011 |
20110098719 | COCHLEAR IMPLANT WITH IMPROVED ELECTRODE ARRAY AND CONTROLLER - A cochlear implant device includes a deformable and stretchable flexible strip composed of a biological compatible material and positioned about a longitudinal axis so as to form a spiral. The implant device has a plurality of conductive strips with electrode windows formed so as to expose a segment of each conductive strip. A density of the electrode windows is sufficient to monitor a distance of the flexible strip from a non-conductive tissue of a patient in a 360 degree field of view about the longitudinal axis. A method of inserting a cochlear implant includes providing a multi-joint robot comprised of a series of actuator units, guiding the multi-joint robot into an inner ear of a patient, monitoring the position of the multi-joint robot relative to a non-conductive portion of the patient; and applying current to the multi-joint robot so as to adjust the position of the actuator units. | 04-28-2011 |
20110098720 | SNARING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Snaring systems and methods involve engaging objects such as pacemaker pacing leads within a patient. Physicians can use snaring systems having loops, tags, and roller mechanisms to remove a pacing leads from a patient. For example, snaring systems can be inserted through a jugular access site, engaged with a pacemaker pacing lead, and withdrawn through the jugular access site so as to remove a portion of the pacing lead. Lead extraction techniques can be employed to further dislodge the pacing lead from the patient. | 04-28-2011 |
20110106099 | LEAD EXTRACTION DEVICE - The disclosure pertains to a lead extraction device which utilizes a chamfered coring tip to separate an implanted object, such as a pacemaker lead, from fibrous tissue and thereby permit the implanted object to be extracted from a body. The lead extraction device features an elongate body having a lead gripping mechanism. The gripping mechanism grips a lead to prevent kinking or simultaneous rotation of the lead with the lead extraction device that may cause tissue damage. The inner lumen of lead extraction device is preferably dimensioned so that a lead will fit within. The lead extraction device is thereby tracked over the lead. The chamfered coring tip on the distal end of the lead separates the lead from fibrous tissue. Through the disclosed lead extraction devices of the present disclosure, the lead may be separated along its length, as well as separated at its distal end from fibrous tissue, thereby permitting the lead to be readily extracted from the body. | 05-05-2011 |
20110106100 | STEERABLE PERCUTANEOUS PADDLE STIMULATION LEAD - The present disclosure relates to a percutaneous paddle stimulation lead that can be steered during implantation. The percutaneous paddle stimulation lead that can be steered in a thickness plane of percutaneous paddle stimulation lead during implantation. | 05-05-2011 |
20110106101 | Steerable Stylet - A stylet for inserting an electrode array into a cochlea includes a first sensor insertable within a lumen of the electrode array and sensitive to force applied by a lumen wall to the first sensor and a first actuator adapted to move the electrode array in response to the force sensed by the first sensor. | 05-05-2011 |
20110112548 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR REMOVAL OF IMPLANTABLE INTRAVASCULAR DEVICES - Improved methods, systems and apparatuses for extracting devices implanted within the vasculature of a patient are provided, including a method of extracting an intravascular device anchored in a vasculature of a patient, the device including a device body and a lead coupled to the device body, the lead having a distal end including an electrode, the distal end being fixed in a heart of the patient, the method comprising forming an incision in the vasculature, disconnecting the lead from the device body, removing the distal end of the lead from the heart, withdrawing the lead from the patient, disconnecting the device body from an anchor, and withdrawing the device body from the patient via the incision. | 05-12-2011 |
20110118747 | 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. | 05-19-2011 |
20110144655 | BURR HOLE CAPS AND METHODS OF USE - In one embodiment, an apparatus comprises: a base structure adapted to be inserted within the burr hole; a lead securing member for securing the lead, the lead securing member comprising a first arm structure and a second arm structure, at least one spring loaded structure adapted to exert a force to bring the first arm structure and the second arm structure together; and a positioning tool having a distal end adapted to be inserted within the lead securing member. When the positioning tool is positioned within the lead securing member, the distal end holds the first and second arm structures a sufficient distance apart to receive a lead between the first and second arm structures; wherein the positioning tool comprises a control structure at a proximal end that, when engaged, causes the distal end of the positioning tool to be released from between the first and second arm structures. | 06-16-2011 |
20110152877 | NEUROSTIMULATING LEAD HAVING A STENT-LIKE ANCHOR - A neurostimulating lead having a stent-like anchor is described. A distal portion of the lead is mounted to an exterior of an expandable, stent-like lead anchor. The stent-like lead anchor is formed from a superelastic material and is adapted to transition from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration upon deployment in a vessel. In the expanded configuration, the lead anchor presses the distal portion of the lead against at least one vessel wall of a vessel in which the lead is deployed securing and stabilizing the distal portion of the lead within the vessel. | 06-23-2011 |
20110160743 | APPARATUS FOR MANIPULATION OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - A surgical device for manipulation of an implantable medical device includes a surgical tool and a controller. The surgical tool may include a mechanical interface that enables a surgical instrument to hold and position the surgical tool, an electrical drive mechanism with a drive shaft, the electrical drive mechanism selectively controlling bidirectional rotation of the drive shaft, and a grasping mechanism operationally coupled to the drive shaft. The grasping mechanism for releasably grasping the implantable medical device. The controller includes a first control device. An implant activation of the first control device controls the electrical drive mechanism to rotate the grasping mechanism in a first direction. A removal activation of the first control device controls the electrical drive mechanism to rotate the grasping mechanism in an opposite direction. A method for manipulation of the implantable medical device is also provided. | 06-30-2011 |
20110166582 | Endoscopic Device Delivery System - A system and method are disclosed for an implantable gastric stimulation system within the stomach. The stimulation system includes an electronics anchor, electrode lead anchor, implantable pulse generator and external programmer. The electronics anchor is configured to attach to the stomach wall at a first location and the electrode lead anchor configured to attach to the stomach wall at a second location. The electrode lead anchor includes one or more electrodes configured to contact the stomach wall and a flexible lead portion coupled to the one or more electrodes at one end with an the electrical connector portion at the other end. The implantable pulse generator has electronic circuitry and is attached to the electronics anchor; the electronic circuitry is connected to the electrical connector of the electrode lead anchor and can communicate with the one or more electrodes. The external programmer is used to communicate with the electronic circuitry of the pulse generator via a telemetry device to provide stimulation instructions to the pulse generator. | 07-07-2011 |
20110172679 | METHOD OF IMPLANTING MICRODEVICE WITH EXTENDED LEAD AND REMOTE ELECTRODE - An implantable microdevice includes at least one electrode detachably connected to electronic circuitry housed in an hermetically-sealed micro housing. The micro housing has a length no more than about 10 mm. In one embodiment, the electrode is located at a distal end of an electrode lead, and a proximal end of the electrode lead is removably inserted into a connector that forms part of the micro housing. | 07-14-2011 |
20110178529 | System, Apparatus, and Method for Facilitating Interface with Laryngeal Structures - A minimally invasive method of introducing an interface element to interface with laryngeal structures of a subject includes forming a subperichondral tunnel on an outside of a cricoid cartilage arch and through the cricoid cartilage arch towards a cricothyroid joint to form an insertion route. The method also includes inserting a hollow needle into the insertion route to a posterior space of a cricoid cartilage plate of the subject, positioning at least one interface element along the insertion route for interfacing with the laryngeal structures of the subject, and retracting the hollow needle back along the insertion route. | 07-21-2011 |
20110178530 | DIRECT DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR TRANSVASCULAR LEAD - A lead delivery system for delivering a neurostimulation lead to a patient's internal jugular vein using a percutaneous stick. The system comprises a neurostimulation lead adapted to stimulate a vagus nerve from the internal jugular vein. The lead includes a proximal end, a distal end, a generally spiral shaped retaining structure interposed between the proximal and distal ends and configured to retain the lead in the internal jugular vein, an electrode coupled to the retaining structure, and a side port interposed between the retaining structure and the proximal end. The side port provides access to a lumen extending from the distal end to the side port. A guidewire is sized to fit within the side port and lumen and reduce a force exerted by the retaining structure against the internal jugular vein, thereby allowing rotation of the lead and orientation of the electrode by applying a torque to the lead. A catheter has a lumen sized to slideably receive the medical electrical lead and configured to provide access to the internal jugular vein from the percutaneous stick site. A method of delivering a medical electrical lead to a patient's internal jugular vein. | 07-21-2011 |
20110184437 | ELECTRODE UNIT, ELECTRODE SYSTEM, ELECTRODE IMPLANTING APPARATUS, AND ELECTRODE IMPLANTING SYSTEM - An electrode system which includes: an electrode unit capable of switching at least a part of its shape between a curved shape and a stretched shape, wherein in the curved shape the electrode unit is wound around a predetermined linear tissue, and wherein in the stretched shape the electrode unit is flat; and a treatment tool that switches the shape of the at least a part of the electrode unit between the curved shape and the stretched shape, wherein the electrode unit includes: an insulating member formed in a sheet shape out of an elastic material; and an electrode that is disposed on a first surface which is an inside surface of a curvature when the insulating member has a curved shape and which applies a predetermined voltage. | 07-28-2011 |
20110190784 | CATHETER WITH REMOVABLE SHAPING SKELETON AND METHODS OF USING AND MAKING SAME - A delivery tool for the delivery of an implantable medical lead includes a longitudinally extending tubular body and a longitudinally extending skeleton. The longitudinally extending tubular body includes a distal end, a proximal end, a tubular body segment proximal the distal end, a first lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends, and a second lumen. The first lumen is configured to receive therein the implantable medical lead. The longitudinally extending skeleton is received in the second lumen and includes a distal end, a proximal end, and a portion near the distal end that biases into a non-linear shape. The portion of the skeleton causes the tubular body segment to generally assume the non-linear shape. The skeleton is withdrawable from the second lumen. The proximal ends of the skeleton and the tubular body may have a mechanical engagement arrangement that mechanically engages the proximal ends together in a manner that may be released to allow the proximal ends to be separated from each other. Upon withdrawal of the skeleton from the second lumen, the tubular body segment is free to assume a shape different from the non-linear shape. | 08-04-2011 |
20110190785 | INTRODUCTION OF MEDICAL LEAD INTO PATIENT - Leads having distal electrodes may be used in application of test stimulation for purposes of implanting a lead having a fixation element distal to an electrode array. The fixation element is proximal the distal electrode. Accordingly, the distal electrode may be advanced beyond a distal end of an introducer while the fixation element may be retained in a retracted configuration by the introducer. If the test signals applied by the distal electrode indicate that the distal electrode is in the desired location of the patient, a series of markings on the lead may be used to facilitate placement of the electrode array at the location previously occupied by the distal electrode; i.e. the desired location of the patient. The electrodes of the electrode array may then be used to provide therapy to the patient. | 08-04-2011 |
20110190786 | INTRODUCTION OF MEDICAL LEAD INTO PATIENT - Introducers for implanting a lead having a fixation element distal to an electrode include a window, electrode, or conductive member alignable with the electrode of the lead white maintaining the fixation element in a retracted configuration. The window, electrode or conductive member of the introducer provide a mechanism for applying test stimulation signals to determine whether the lead is properly positioned in a patient without deploying the fixation element. | 08-04-2011 |
20110202067 | INTRODUCER FOR LEAD DELIVERY - Devices and methods for implanting leads along a spinal cord include an introducer having a main body defining a lumen and one or more collapsible and expandable side sheaths attached to the main body. The side sheaths may be collapsed as the introducer is positioned in a desired location of a patient to maintain a low profile. Once the introducer is placed, the side sheaths may be expanded to receive a lead. A lead may also be inserted through a lumen of the main body. Once the leads are inserted, the introducer may be withdrawn over the leads, leaving the leads implanted in the desired region in a desired orientation. | 08-18-2011 |
20110208207 | Endocardial lead removing apparatus - The invention provides an apparatus having a tubular member for receiving an endocardial lead implanted within a patient's body. Disposed generally at a distal end of the tubular member is at least one blade or cutting surface. An adjustment mechanism moves the blade between retracted and extended positions to engage the cutting surface with the endocardial lead to cut the lead. Once severed, the cut portion of the lead remains within an inner channel of the tubular member and the apparatus and cut portion of the lead are removed from within the patient. Various embodiments include the blade pivotally connected to the distal end of the tubular member and activated by a wire adjustment mechanism. Others include a metallic wire for slicing through the lead. Still others include a pneumatically actuated adjustment mechanism that inflates to move the blade and engage the cutting surface with the lead. | 08-25-2011 |
20110213382 | DEVICE FOR CRANIAL IMPLANTATION, AND SYSTEM AND USE THEREOF - A device for cranial implantation, comprising a ferrule and a plate for placement in the ferrule is provided. Furthermore, a neurological implant system comprising a probe and a device for cranial implantation is provided. | 09-01-2011 |
20110218548 | CARTRIDGE FOR AN ELECTRODE ARRAY INSERTION DEVICE - A device, system and method for inserting a pre-curved electrode array ( | 09-08-2011 |
20110218549 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING A TRIAL STIMULATION SYSTEM HAVING AN ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR DISPOSED ON A TRIAL STIMULATION LEAD - A trial stimulation lead assembly for providing electrical stimulation of patient tissue during a trial stimulation includes a trial stimulation lead for insertion into a patient. The trial stimulation lead includes an elongated lead body having a length and a longitudinal axis. A plurality of electrodes are disposed at a distal end of the lead body. An electrical connector is disposed at a proximal end of the lead body. The electrical connector includes an outer case and a contact array disposed along the outer case. The contact array extends transversely to the longitudinal axis of the lead body. A plurality of electrical conductors extend along the length of the lead body and couple each of the plurality of electrodes to at least one of the plurality of contacts. A lumen extends along at least a portion of the length of the lead body. | 09-08-2011 |
20110224680 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAKING AND USING A LEAD INTRODUCER FOR AN IMPLANTABLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM - A lead introducer includes a multi-piece insertion needle insertable into a splitable member. The multi-piece insertion needle includes an outer insertion needle that defines an open channel that extends along substantially entirely a length of the outer insertion needle and an inner insertion needle configured and arranged for insertion into the open channel of the outer insertion needle. The splitable member includes at least two pull-apart tabs and at least one weakened region extending along at least a portion of a length of the splitable member from between the at least two pull-apart tabs. The at least one weakened region is configured and arranged for separating when the at least two pull-apart tabs are pulled apart. | 09-15-2011 |
20110224681 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAKING AND USING A SPLITABLE LEAD INTRODUCER FOR AN IMPLANTABLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM - A lead introducer includes a split-release insertion needle configured and arranged for insertion into an epidural space of a patient. The split-release insertion needle has a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis. The split-release insertion needle includes a plurality of body elements that laterally mate along the longitudinal axis of the split-release insertion needle. When the plurality of body elements are mated, the plurality of body elements define a lumen along the longitudinal axis of the split-release insertion needle. The lumen is configured and arranged to receive a distal end of a neurostimulation lead. A removable retaining member is disposed over at least a portion of each of the plurality of body elements. The plurality of body elements are configured and arranged to at least partially separate from one another when the retaining member is removed from the plurality of body elements. | 09-15-2011 |
20110224682 | METHODS OF IMPLANTING ELECTRODE LEADS FOR USE WITH IMPLANTABLE NEUROMUSCULAR ELECTRICAL STIMULATOR - Electrode leads for providing neuromuscular stimulation of the spinal muscles, and methods of implantation of electrode leads, are provided that reduce injury to target muscles, and avoid extended recuperation period, by enabling a clinician to visualize and confirm the implantation site of the electrode leads during an implantation procedure | 09-15-2011 |
20110230893 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS HAVING MULTI-LEAD-ELEMENT LEAD BODIES - A lead for providing electrical stimulation of patient tissue includes a distal lead element and three proximal lead elements. The distal lead element includes at least twenty electrodes and defines a stylet lumen and a plurality of conductive wire lumens having triangular transverse cross-sectional shapes. Each of the three proximal lead elements includes a plurality of terminals and defines a plurality of conductive wire lumens. Each of the conductive wire lumens has a round transverse cross-sectional shape. A junction couples the distal lead element to the proximal lead elements. Conductive wires couple each of the electrodes of the distal lead element to at least one of the terminals of at least one of the proximal lead elements. The conductive wire lumens disposed on the distal lead element are configured and arranged to receive a plurality of the conductive wires. | 09-22-2011 |
20110238077 | INTRAVASCULAR MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable medical device system, including an implantable medical device and an associated implant tool. The device has a hermetic housing containing a power source and electronic circuitry. One or more tines are mounted to the housing movable from a first position extending away from the housing to a second position adjacent the housing. The device is provided with a rotational fixation mechanism. The Implant tool includes an elongated sheath sized to receive the device and provided with internal grooves sized to engage with the tines when the tines are located in their second position. The implant tool may further include a push tool located with the sheath and movable within the sheath to advance the device distally out of the sheath. The sheath may be provided with a closed distal end openable by passage of the device therethrough. | 09-29-2011 |
20110238078 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR POSITIONING AN IMPLANTED STRUCTURE TO FACILITATE REMOVAL - A device for adjusting a position of an elongated structure implanted in biological tissue to facilitate removal. An inner sleeve is received in an outer sleeve, and movable relative thereto. A manipulator mechanism is engaged with the inner sleeve distal end, and extends in a distal direction. The manipulator mechanism is arranged to capture the elongated structure, and to lock the elongated structure to the device upon relative movement of the sleeves. A handle is engaged with the inner sleeve, and a plunger is engaged with the outer sleeve. The plunger is engaged with the handle and movable relative thereto, wherein the outer sleeve advances distally relative to the inner sleeve to maneuver the manipulator mechanism to capture the implanted elongated structure. The position of the elongated structure may be controllably adjusted to facilitate removal thereof from the biological tissue. | 09-29-2011 |
20110245842 | LEFT CHAMBER PRESSURE SENSOR LEAD DELIVERY SYSTEM - An apparatus for and method of measuring pressure through a septum in a patient's heart. A lead inserted into the right side of a heart is routed through the septum to gain access to the left side of the heart. The lead includes a mounting mechanism that secures the lead to one or both sides of the septal walls. The lead also includes one or more sensors for measuring cardiac pressure on the left side of the heart and, as necessary, the right side of the heart. | 10-06-2011 |
20110245843 | Nerve Surveillance Cannulae Systems - An expandable tip cannula system, comprising: a hollow cannula shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; and an expandable tip mounted at the distal end of the hollow cannula shaft, the expandable tip comprising a plurality of generally-triangular shaped petals held together in a radially-inwardly tapered arrangement between adjacent petals, each petal comprising a nerve sensing electrode disposed therein. | 10-06-2011 |
20110257659 | STRAIN RELIEF APPARATUS FOR USE WITH IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL LEAD - An extensible implantable medical device includes a body defining a lumen extending through the body. The lumen is configured to receive at least a portion of an implantable medical lead. The body includes a non-rectilinearly shaped portion. The non-rectilinearly shaped portion has a first shape spanning a first distance in a relaxed state. The non-rectilinearly shaped portion has a second, more rectilinear, shape spanning a second distance when subjected to a stretching force. The second distance is greater than the first distance. The non-rectilinearly shaped portion returns to the relaxed first shape upon release of the stretching force and is configured to assume the first shape when the lead is inserted into the lumen and no load is placed on the lead or the shaped body portion. | 10-20-2011 |
20110257660 | APPARATUS FOR IMPLANTING AN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION LEAD - In one embodiment, an introducer is provided for implanting an electrical stimulation lead to enable electrical stimulation of nerve tissue. The introducer includes an outer sheath and an inner penetrator. The outer sheath may accommodate insertion of the electrical stimulation lead and may be inserted into a human body near the nerve tissue. The inner penetrator is removably housed within the outer sheath and includes an inner channel configured to accommodate a guide wire, a tip end having a shape and size substantially conforming to that of the guide wire, a body region having a shape and size substantially conforming to that of the outer sheath, and one or more transition regions substantially connecting the tip end with the body region. At least a portion of the transition regions of the inner penetrator may flex to substantially follow flexures in the guide wire during advancement of the inner penetrator. | 10-20-2011 |
20110270268 | Coupling for a Medical Delivery Device - The present disclosure relates to a coupling, in particular a hub ( | 11-03-2011 |
20110270269 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL LEAD INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF TINE ELEMENTS - An implantable medical electrical lead comprises a lead body extending between a distal end and a proximal end, and the distal end having at least one electrode of an electrode array extending longitudinally from the distal end toward the proximal end. The lead body at its proximal end may be coupled to a pulse generator, additional intermediate wiring, or other stimulation device. A fixation mechanism is formed on or integrally with the lead body proximal to the electrode array that is adapted to be implanted in and engage subcutaneous tissue, particularly muscle tissue, to inhibit axial movement of the lead body and dislodgement of the stimulation electrodes. The fixation mechanism comprises a plurality of tine elements arrayed in a tine element array along a segment of the lead. | 11-03-2011 |
20110276055 | LAPAROSCOPIC TRANSPELVEO-ABDOMINAL IMPLANTATION OF MULTIPLE CHANNEL ELECTRODES TO THE ENDOPELVIC PORTIONS OF THE PUDENDUS AND SCIATIC NERVES - A method for altering operation of a nerve related to a given body condition includes the steps of: laparascopically gaining access to the endopelvic area of the abdomen through the abdominal wall; implanting a multiple channel electrode through the access on endopelvic portions of at least one nerve of the sciatic nerve, the pudendus nerve, or both; and operating the electrode to electrostimulate the at least one nerve. | 11-10-2011 |
20110276056 | METHODS, SYSTEMS AND DEVICES FOR REDUCING MIGRATION - Devices, systems and methods for reducing migration of leads, catheters and similar devices are provided. In particular, devices, systems and methods are provided for creating a slack anchor which assists in maintaining the lead or catheter in a desired position. In some embodiments, the slack anchor is created within the epidural space. When targeting nerve anatomy within the spinal column or in the vicinity of the epidural space, anchoring within the epidural space allows the associated lead or catheter to be anchored as close to the target therapy site as desired or possible. By anchoring close to the target therapy site, the risk of movement or migration is significantly reduced or eliminated. | 11-10-2011 |
20110313427 | DEPLOYABLE ELECTRODE LEAD ANCHOR - One embodiment of an electrode lead comprises a lead body, at least one electrode at a distal end of the lead body, an actuatable member and at least one anchor wire. The actuatable member is positioned within a lumen of the lead body. The at least one anchor wire has a proximal end that is attached to the actuatable member. Movement of the actuatable member relative to the lead body moves the at least one anchor wire through at least one opening in the lead body. | 12-22-2011 |
20110319907 | Cochlear Implant System with Removable Stylet - A cochlear implant system includes a cochlear electrode array which has a flexible body with a distal end, a plurality of electrodes supported along a length of the flexible body, and a lumen formed in the flexible body. The cochlear implant system also includes a stiffening stylet which is fully inserted into the lumen prior to insertion of the electrode array into the cochlea. The stiffening stylet is configured such the stylet does not extend to the distal end of the flexible body and remains stationary within the lumen to prevent buckling of the electrode array during insertion of the electrode array through a cochleostomy and into the cochlea. The stiffening stylet is configured to be withdrawn from the lumen after the electrode array is positioned within the cochlea. A method for implanting an electrode array into a cochlea is also provided. | 12-29-2011 |
20110319908 | TOOLS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR INSERTING A PRE-CURVED ELECTRODE ARRAY PORTION OF A LEAD INTO A BODILY ORIFICE - Exemplary insertion tools, systems, and methods for inserting a pre-curved electrode array portion of a lead into a bodily orifice are described herein. An exemplary insertion tool includes a handle assembly, a slider assembly, an insertion assembly coupled to the handle assembly, and a retractor assembly disposed at least partially within the handle assembly and configured to selectively couple to a straightening member inserted into the pre-curved electrode array portion and at least partially retract the straightening member from the pre-curved electrode array portion in response to actuation by a user of the slider assembly. The retractor assembly may comprise a spring-loaded retractor member configured to move from a distal position to a proximal position in response to actuation by the user of the slider assembly to at least partially retract the straightening member from the pre-curved electrode array portion. Corresponding insertion tools, systems, and methods are also described. | 12-29-2011 |
20110319909 | TOOLS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR INSERTING AN ELECTRODE ARRAY PORTION OF A LEAD INTO A BODILY ORIFICE - Exemplary insertion tools, systems, and methods for inserting an electrode array portion of a lead into a bodily orifice are described herein. An exemplary insertion tool includes a handle assembly, a slider assembly, a retractor assembly disposed at least partially within the handle assembly, and a rocker lever. The retractor assembly may include a stiffening member configured to be inserted into the electrode array portion and a spring-loaded retractor member coupled at a proximal end of the stiffening member. The spring-loaded retractor member may be configured to move from a distal position to a proximal position to at least partially retract the stiffening member from the electrode array portion. The rocker lever may be configured to selectively retain the spring-loaded retractor member in the distal position. Corresponding tools, systems, and methods are also described. | 12-29-2011 |
20120004667 | HELIX RETRACTION ASSIST MECHANISM - An active fixation implantable medical lead may include an electrode base that is configured to accommodate an extraction stylet that may be used if the fixation helix is not otherwise easily retracted. An extraction tool may be used in combination with the extraction stylet in extraction techniques designed for retraction of a fixation helix. | 01-05-2012 |
20120010626 | BURR HOLE CAPS AND METHODS OF USE - In one embodiment, a kit, for securing a lead or cannula within a burr hole, comprises: a base structure to be positioned immediately adjacent to or partially within the burr hole; a lead securing member for securing the lead within the burr hole, the lead securing member comprising a first arm structure and a second arm structure, at least one spring loaded structure adapted to exert a force to bring the first arm structure and the second arm structure together; and a positioning tool having a distal end adapted to be inserted within the lead securing member; wherein when the distal end of the positioning tool is positioned within the lead securing member, the distal end holds the first and second arm structures a sufficient distance apart to receive a lead or a cannula between the first and second arm structures. | 01-12-2012 |
20120010627 | ELECTRODE IMPLANTATION TOOL - Embodiments of the invention are directed to an electrode implantation tool that is designed to assist in the accurate implantation of one or more electrodes in tissue of a patient. One embodiment of the electrode implantation tool comprises a catheter guide and introducer support, and catheter guide and an introducer. The catheter guide and introducer support comprises a first alignment member, a second alignment member, and a body member that is attached to the first and second alignment members. The body member fixes the relative orientations of the first and second alignment members. The catheter guide is supported by the first alignment member and comprises an elongate body having a distal end and a channel that is aligned with a longitudinal axis. The introducer comprises a sheath (166) that is supported by the second alignment member. The sheath defines a longitudinal axis. The first and second alignment members orient the longitudinal axis of the sheath at a predetermined angle to the longitudinal axis of the catheter guide. | 01-12-2012 |
20120016377 | TUNNELING TOOL FOR IMPLANTABLE LEADS - A tunneling tool for creating a pathway for implanting a therapy delivery element in a living body. The tunneling tool includes a malleable elongated shaft having a distal end. A sheath having a lumen is slidably positioned over a portion of the shaft. A primary handle secured to proximal end of the shaft permits a user to advance and manipulate the shaft and the sheath in the living body. A secondary handle with an opening is slidably positioned on the shaft between the primary handle and the sheath. The opening has a diameter less than an outside diameter of a proximal end of the sheath. A locking mechanism releasably engages the secondary handle to the primary handle. The sheath is retained in a desired location within the living body by securing the secondary handle relative to the living body as the primary handle is used to remove the shaft from the sheath. | 01-19-2012 |
20120016378 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR RADIAL STEERING OF ELECTRODE ARRAYS - A device for brain stimulation includes a lead having a longitudinal surface, a proximal end and a distal end. A plurality of electrodes are disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead near the distal end of the lead. At least one marker is disposed on the longitudinal surface of the lead. The at least one marker is configured and arranged to identify a relative position of the plurality of electrodes. | 01-19-2012 |
20120022551 | DELIVERY ASSEMBLY FOR PERCUTANEOUSLY DELIVERING AND DEPLOYING AN ELECTRODE ARRAY AT A TARGET LOCATION, THE ASSEMBLY CAPABLE OF STEERING THE ELECTRODE ARRAY TO THE TARGET LOCATION - An electrode array and a delivery assembly. The array is wrapped around a flexible core part of the delivery assembly. A sheath, also part of the delivery assembly, is disposed over the array and core. Steering cables extend through the core or sheath. Once the delivery assembly-encased array is inserted in the body, the combination is advanced to the tissue over which the array is to be deployed. By pulling on the steering cables the array and assembly are steered into position. Once the array is in position, the sheath is retracted, the array deploys over the target tissue. | 01-26-2012 |
20120029528 | SPINAL CORD STIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USING SAME - A method for optimizing the stimulation of the dorsal column of the spinal cord is disclosed. The method includes providing a stimulating electrode array and a frame element. The frame element is configured to couple to the stimulating electrode array and guide the stimulating electrode array to a desired position proximate the dorsal column of the spinal cord of a subject. | 02-02-2012 |
20120035615 | Composite Stylet - A composite stylet for facilitating insertion of an implantable electrode array into either a left or right cochlea comprises a composite having a glass transition temperature between room temperature and body temperature. While relatively stiff and straight at room temperature, the composite stylet is slidably inserted into a longitudinal lumen of the electrode array. The electrode array is then inserted into the cochlea. As the composite stylet within the electrode array warms to body temperature, it becomes compliant, allowing the electrode array to assume a spiral shape. The proximal end of the composite stylet, which is not inserted into the body, retains its stiffness to aid the implanter in inserting the electrode array. | 02-09-2012 |
20120035616 | STEERING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL LEAD VIA A ROTATIONAL COUPLING TO A STYLET - An implantable medical lead has a torsional stiffness and is rotationally coupled to a stylet. Applying rotation directly to the lead in turn causes rotation of the stylet. Where the stylet has a bent tip for purposes of steering the lead, the rotation applied to the lead rotates the bent tip so that the lead can be steered by rotating the lead rather than rotating a hub of the stylet. The rotational coupling may be achieved through one or more features provided for the lead and/or the stylet, such as a feature within a lumen of the lead that mates to a feature along the stylet or a feature of the stylet hub that engages the proximal end of the lead. The torsional stiffness of the lead may be provided by adding a feature within the lead body, such as a braided metal wire or an overlapping foil. | 02-09-2012 |
20120059389 | Implantable Micro-Generator Devices with Optimized Configuration, Methods of Use, Systems and Kits Therefor - Disclosed are various implantable medical devices adapted and configured to operation with a micro-generator comprising: an elongated housing; one or more longitudinally slidable elongated magnets; one or more coils positioned exteriorly, interiorly or integrally along at least a portion of the housing; a power wire in electrical communication with the one or more coils and with an implantable medical device; wherein the implantable micro-generator is adapted and configured to generate energy and communicate the generated energy to the implantable medical device. Additionally, methods of deploying and using the medical devices are contemplated, as well as systems, kits, and communication networks. | 03-08-2012 |
20120071890 | METHOD AND APPARTUS FOR COCHLEAR IMPLANT SURGERY - A system for cochlear implant surgery includes a reference device having at least a portion adapted to be arranged at a fixed position relative to a cochlea of a patient to provide a reference position, an image acquisition and processing system adapted to acquire an image of at least a portion of the cochlea relative to the reference position and to provide an implant plan based at least partially on the acquired image, and an implant system adapted for implanting a cochlear lead array using the reference position and the implant plan. | 03-22-2012 |
20120078266 | TRANSVENOUS ACTIVE FIXATION LEAD SYSTEM - A medical electrical lead system that includes a catheter extending from a proximal catheter end to a distal catheter end; a lead, insertable within the catheter, including a lead body extending from a proximal lead end to a distal lead end and an active fixation member positioned at the distal lead end; and an advancement tool for advancing the distal lead end outward from the distal catheter end. The advancement tool is adapted to be positioned around the lead body and further adapted to be removably fixedly engaged with the proximal catheter end. | 03-29-2012 |
20120078267 | INTRATHORACIC PACEMAKER - The present invention provides a fully intrathoracic artificial pacemaker. The pacemaker is of sufficiently compact size to allow for implantation of both the electrode and the power source within the chest cavity. In exemplary embodiments, a screw-type electrode is used for connection to heart tissue, and a relatively short lead is used to connect the electrode to a battery unit, which can comprise electronics for control of the pacemaker. An assembly for implanting the pacemaker, as well as methods of implanting the pacemaker, are disclosed. In embodiments, the device is designed as a fetal pacemaker. | 03-29-2012 |
20120078268 | ARCUATE INTRODUCER - An introducer for a medical lead, the introducer having an arcuate component for creating an arcuate path in a patient. When used to percutaneously implant a medical device such as a medical lead with electrodes, the implanted lead has an arcuate configuration. The implanted lead can be used to at least partially encircle or bracket a region of chronic pain and provide therapeutic electrical signals to the region. | 03-29-2012 |
20120089153 | PERCUTANEOUS ACCESS FOR SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF TREATING SLEEP APNEA - Systems and methods are described and illustrated for percutaneously implanting a stimulation lead for treating sleep-related disordered breathing. | 04-12-2012 |
20120095478 | IMPLANTABLE DEVICE AND TISSUE ANCHOR - Embodiments of the invention are directed to an implantable device that includes a tissue anchor for securing a portion of the device to tissue of the patient. Embodiments of the implantable device include an electrode lead and a pelvic treatment apparatus. | 04-19-2012 |
20120095479 | Endocardial Lead Removing Apparatus - The invention provides an apparatus having a tubular member for receiving an endocardial lead implanted within a patient's body. Disposed generally at a distal end of the tubular member is at least one blade or cutting surface. An adjustment mechanism moves the blade between retracted and extended positions to engage the cutting surface with the endocardial lead to cut the lead. Once severed, the cut portion of the lead remains within an inner channel of the tubular member and the apparatus and cut portion of the lead are removed from within the patient. Various embodiments include the blade pivotally connected to the distal end of the tubular member and activated by a wire adjustment mechanism. Others include a metallic wire for slicing through the lead. Still others include a pneumatically actuated adjustment mechanism that inflates to move the blade and engage the cutting surface with the lead. | 04-19-2012 |
20120109148 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RETRIEVAL OF AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - System and method for extracting an implantable medical device. An implantable medical device has a fixation member operatively coupled to the housing having an engaged state configured to engage tissue of a patient, the medical device being magnetically attractable. A catheter has a lumen and a distal portion configured for insertion in proximity of the implantable medical device. A magnetic element is configured to pass through the lumen of the catheter and to magnetically engage the implantable medical device when inserted toward the distal portion of the catheter. | 05-03-2012 |
20120109149 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPLANTATION OF AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - System and method for implanting an implantable medical device. A catheter has a lumen and a distal portion configured for insertion in proximity of tissue of a patient. An implantable medical device has a fixation member operatively coupled to the housing having an unengaged state when in the lumen of the catheter and an engaged state configured to engage tissue of a patient when outside of the lumen of the catheter, the medical device being magnetically attractable. A magnetic element is configured to magnetically engage the implantable medical device and to pass through the lumen of the catheter. | 05-03-2012 |
20120130396 | PEEL-AWAY IS-4/DF-4 LEAD IMPLANT TOOL WITH ELECTRICAL CONTACTS - A peel-away lead implant tool is described. The peel away lead implant tool is adapted to be disposed over the terminal connector of a lead during an implantation procedure to protect the terminal connector. The peel-away lead implant tool includes a flexible polymer sheath including electrical contacts formed in a contact region of the sheath. The electrical contacts can be either metal foil contacts or conductive polymer contacts and extend from an outer surface to an inner surface of the sheath such that when the testing apparatus is coupled to the lead implant tool, the electrical contacts are pressed into electrical contact with the ring electrodes located on the terminal connector. The lead implant tool also includes various removal means facilitating the easy removal of the implant tool from the terminal connector when the implantation procedure is complete. | 05-24-2012 |
20120130397 | MULTI-FUNCTION LEAD IMPLANT TOOL - Devices, systems, and methods for implanting and testing multi-conductor electrical leads are disclosed. An illustrative implant tool for use with an implantable lead includes a main body, a plurality of spring contact members, and a knob mechanism. The main body of the implant tool includes a distal clamping mechanism with an opening adapted to frictionally receive a terminal boot of the implantable lead. The spring contact members are configured to provide an interface for connecting electrical connectors from a Pacing System Analyzer (PSA) or other testing device to the terminal contacts on the implantable lead. A knob mechanism coupled to the main body can be actuated to engage a terminal pin of the implantable lead, allowing an implanting physician to engage a fixation helix into body tissue by rotating the mechanism. | 05-24-2012 |
20120130398 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF DRY EYE - A stimulation system stimulates anatomical targets in a patient for treatment of dry eye. The system may include a controller and a microstimulator. The controller may be implemented externally to or internally within the microstimulator. The components of the controller and microstimulator may be implemented in a single unit or in separate devices. When implemented separately, the controller and microstimulator may communicate wirelessly or via a wired connection. The microstimulator may generate pulses from a controller signal and apply the signal via one or more electrodes to an anatomical target. The microstimulator may not have any intelligence or logic to shape or modify a signal. The microstimulator may be a passive device configured to generate a pulse based on a signal received from the controller. The microstimulator may shape or modify a signal. Waveforms having different frequency, amplitude and period characteristics may stimulate different anatomical targets in a patient. | 05-24-2012 |
20120165827 | Pacemaker Retrieval Systems and Methods - A catheter system for retrieving a leadless cardiac pacemaker from a patient is provided. The cardiac pacemaker can include a docking or retrieval feature configured to be grasped by the catheter system. In some embodiments, the retrieval catheter can include a snare configured to engage the retrieval feature of the pacemaker. The retrieval catheter can include a torque shaft selectively connectable to a docking cap and be configured to apply rotational torque to a pacemaker to be retrieved. Methods of delivering the leadless cardiac pacemaker with the delivery system are also provided. | 06-28-2012 |
20120172891 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE FIXATION TESTING - In one example, this disclosure includes a kit for implanting an implantable medical device within a patient. The kit comprises a delivery catheter including an inner member and an outer member. The kit further comprises the implantable medical device. The implantable medical device is adjacent the inner member and constrained by the outer member. The kit further comprises a force sensor in mechanical communication with the implantable medical device via the inner member. The force sensor collects force feedback data representing force applied by the inner member on the implantable medical device. The kit further comprises a user communication module configured to deliver force feedback information corresponding to the force feedback data collected by the force sensor to a user. | 07-05-2012 |
20120172892 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE FIXATION - Various fixation techniques for implantable medical device (IMDs) are described. In one example, an assembly comprises an IMD; and a set of active fixation tines attached to the IMD. The active fixation tines in the set are deployable from a spring-loaded position in which distal ends of the active fixation tines point away from the IMD to a hooked position in which the active fixation tines bend back towards the IMD. The active fixation tines are configured to secure the IMD to a patient tissue when deployed while the distal ends of the active fixation tines are positioned adjacent to the patient tissue. | 07-05-2012 |
20120191106 | Apparatus and Method for Subcutaneous Electrode Insertion - Devices and methods for electrode implantation. A first embodiment includes an electrode insertion tool adapted to tunnel through tissue and attach, at its distal end, to a lead, such that the lead may be pulled into the tunneled space as the electrode insertion tool is removed. Additional embodiments include methods for inserting electrode/lead assemblies, including a method wherein an insertion tool is first used to tunnel through tissue, then to pull an electrode/lead into the tunneled space. In a further embodiment the insertion tool is next used, with a splittable sheath disposed thereon, to create an additional path into tissue, after which the insertion tool is removed, leaving the sheath in place; a lead is inserted to the sheath, and, finally, the splittable sheath is removed over the lead. | 07-26-2012 |
20120197264 | TOOLS AND METHODS FOR REMOVING ANCHORS FROM MEDICAL LEADS - Tools and methods for removing anchors from medical leads involve a guide portion and a blade. The lead is inserted within a lead passageway of the guide portion of the tool and the tool is moved along so that the blade contacts the anchor and cuts a slit in the anchor as the tool. Once the blade has cut the slit through the entire anchor, the anchor comes free of the lead and the tool can be removed. The tool may include a manner of opening and closing the guide portion so as to provide access to the lead when open and to contain the lead when closed. Opening the guide portion allows the lead to be inserted or removed by laterally moving the lead into or out of the lead passageway such that the tool may be installed or removed at any available point along the lead. | 08-02-2012 |
20120197265 | Instrument for Inserting Implantable Electrode Carrier - A surgical instrument for inserting an implantable electrode carrier includes a housing having a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is configured to hold the implantable electrode carrier. The instrument also includes a vibration generator positioned within the housing. The vibration generator is configured to generate vibrations in at least a portion of the electrode carrier. | 08-02-2012 |
20120203245 | NERVE STIMULATOR - A nerve stimulation electrode implantation system includes: an introduction portion that has a cylindrical main body which has an internal cavity, and an incision component which has a blunt dissection portion that bluntly dissects biological tissue, and which is formed so as to be transparent, and which is attached to a distal end portion of the main body; an observation portion that is inserted into the introduction portion such that it is able to observe the periphery of the incision component through the incision component; and a peeling portion that is positioned such that it is able to rotate around its own axis and is able to move relatively in this axial direction relative to the introduction portion, and that removes peripheral tissue from the periphery of the nerve tissue. | 08-09-2012 |
20120203246 | IMPLANTABLE ELECTRODE ARRAY ASSEMBLY WITH EXTRACTION SLEEVE/TETHER - An implantable electrode array including a carrier on which plural electrodes are disposed. Also disposed on the carrier is an array antenna over which signals are wirelessly received. A tether is connected to the carrier. A tether antenna is attached to the tether. After the electrode array is implanted, during a trial period instructions and power are transmitted to the array antenna over the tether antenna. If the trial is successful, the tether is disconnected from the electrode array. If the trial is not successful and extraction of the array is necessary, extraction is accomplished by pulling on the tether. Electrode array removal may be facilitated by the pulling of the array into an extraction tube disposed over the tether. | 08-09-2012 |
20120209283 | Needle and lead and methods of use - Example embodiments provide a medical lead adapted for to be steerable during insertion into an animal body. The lead comprises a structure comprised of a tip portion and a body. The tip portion is on a distal end of the structure. The tip portion is flexible in a direction that is substantially parallel to a principle plane. The lead provides structures to change the shape of the tip portion during insertion of the lead into an animal whereby the lead can move in a desired direction. Other example embodiments provide a needle for medical use comprised of: a needle having a shaft and a tip section; an opening in the shaft; a lumen communicating with the opening and a plurality of holes in the tip section. Aspects of the needle have symmetric and asymmetric tip sections and an overlying sheath. Example methods embodiments are provided that use the leads, needles and needle assemblies. | 08-16-2012 |
20120209284 | Medical Lead and Implantation - A lead for navigating small vessels and a catheter system for implantation of leads into small vessels. Veins that return blood to the heart against the force of gravity often have valves in them to prevent backflow of deoxygenated blood. Leads and catheter systems in accordance with embodiments of the invention allow cannulation and lead implantation in small, tortuous, obstructed, and difficult to access veins enabling a range of stimulation and sensing applications. | 08-16-2012 |
20120209285 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING PADDLE LEAD ASSEMBLIES OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS - An insertion kit for percutaneously implanting an electrical stimulating paddle lead into a patient includes a paddle lead introducer. The paddle lead introducer facilitates percutaneous implantation of a paddle lead into the patient. The paddle lead introducer includes a sheath and a dilator. The sheath is insertable into the patient. The sheath is configured and arranged to receive a paddle lead during implantation of the paddle lead into the patient. The sheath can divide into at least two parts for removal of the sheath from the paddle lead upon implantation of the paddle lead. The dilator is insertable into the sheath. A first end of the dilator defines an aperture at a tip of the first end. The first end of the dilator has a transverse circumference that increases from the tip towards a second end. | 08-16-2012 |
20120209286 | 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. | 08-16-2012 |
20120221014 | TRANSVASCULAR ELECTRODE SYSTEM AND METHOD - A transvascular electrode system includes an expandable electrode-carrying anchor. The anchor is intravascularly advanced in a compressed position to a first site in a blood vessel. A first portion of the anchor expands to position an electrode against the vessel wall, while a second portion remains is compressed. Mapping is performed by delivering stimulation energy from the electrode and measuring the response (e.g. blood pressure, heart rate, and/or related parameters). The first portion is at least partially collapsed and the electrode system is moved to a second site. The first portion is expanded to position the electrode into against the vessel wall, while the second portion remains compressed. Additional mapping is performed. The process is repeated until the anchor electrode position is optimized, at which point the second portion of the anchor is expanded to chronically retain the electrode in the vessel. | 08-30-2012 |
20120221015 | SACRAL NEUROMODULATOR - The invention relates to a stimulation electrode for a stimulation device for stimulating organs in the case of spinal paraplegia, more particularly in the case of detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, including an electrode shaft, at one end of which an electrode tip is arranged for emitting a stimulation signal and at the other end of which a connection region is provided for a signal line, and also at least one fixing mechanism for fixing the position of the electrode shaft in the surrounding tissue along the longitudinal axis of said electrode shaft, fixing mechanism having at least one holding member preventing a withdrawal and at least one holding member preventing an advance. | 08-30-2012 |
20120232563 | IMPLANT CATHETERS FOR PHYSIOLOGICAL PACING - A catheter for implanting a cardiac pacing electrode within a right atrial septum, to stimulate the His bundle, includes a deflectable shaft having a wall that includes an adjustable segment, a pre-formed segment and a substantially straight distal segment. The pre-formed segment extends distally from a pull wire anchoring member of the adjustable segment and out of a single plane in which the adjustable segment is deflectable; and the substantially straight distal segment extends distally, directly from the pre-formed segment, along a plane oriented at an angle with respect to that in which the adjustable segment is deflectable, and over a length between approximately seven and nine millimeters. An arc through which the pre-formed segment extends is preferably greater than approximately 80 degrees and less than approximately 130 degrees, and the angle of the plane of the distal segment is preferably between approximately 40 and 60 degrees. | 09-13-2012 |
20120232564 | EPIDURAL NEEDLE FOR SPINAL CORD STIMULATION - An epidural needle for implanting therapy delivery elements in an epidural space. The epidural needle includes at least an outer cannula containing an inner cannula, and a stylet located within the lumen of the inner cannula. The inner cannula substantially extends across the elongated opening at the distal end of the outer cannula to form a seal with the ligament during “loss of resistance” testing. Loss of resistance testing is performed by removing the stylet from the inner cannula. Once the epidural needle is positioned in the epidural space, the inner cannula is removed to facilitate implantation of a therapy delivery element in the epidural space. | 09-13-2012 |
20120232565 | DELIVERY OF CARDIAC STIMULATION DEVICES - Some embodiments of an electrical stimulation system employ wireless electrode assemblies to provide pacing therapy, defibrillation therapy, or other stimulation therapy. In certain embodiments, the wireless electrode assemblies may include a guide wire channel so that each electrode assembly can be advanced over a guide wire instrument through the endocardium. For example, a distal tip portion of a guide wire instrument can penetrate through the endocardium and into the myocardial wall of a heart chamber, and the electrode assembly may then be advanced over the guide wire and into the heart chamber wall. In such circumstances, the guide wire instrument (and other portions of the delivery system) can be retracted from the heart chamber wall, thereby leaving the electrode assembly embedded in the heart tissue. | 09-13-2012 |
20120239057 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANIPULATING AND INSERTING ELECTRODE ARRAYS INTO NEURAL TISSUES - An insertion device for inserting a therapeutic device into organic tissue is disclosed and described. The device is particularly suited to insertion of such as nerve stimulating electrode arrays. The insertion device has at least one controllable positive pressure source (greater than atomospheric), two vacuum sources and a dual vacuum pressure control system. The positive pressure and the dual vacuum pressure control systems are manipulated to allow the manipulation and insertion or retrieval of a therapeutic device. The insertion device can be spatially manipulated by hand, without requiring other equipment for positioning the insertion device. | 09-20-2012 |
20120245594 | APPARATUS FOR IMPLANTING AN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION LEAD - In one embodiment, an introducer is provided for implanting an electrical stimulation lead to enable electrical stimulation of nerve tissue. The introducer includes an outer sheath and an inner penetrator. The outer sheath may accommodate insertion of the electrical stimulation lead and may be inserted into a human body near the nerve tissue. The inner penetrator is removably housed within the outer sheath and includes an inner channel configured to accommodate a guide wire, a tip end having a shape and size substantially conforming to that of the guide wire, a body region having a shape and size substantially conforming to that of the outer sheath, and one or more transition regions substantially connecting the tip end with the body region. At least a portion of the transition regions of the inner penetrator may flex to substantially follow flexures in the guide wire during advancement of the inner penetrator. | 09-27-2012 |
20120253359 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR LEAD PLACEMENT OPTIMIZATION DURING LEAD IMPLANTATION - Disclosed herein is a method of optimizing the implantation of an implantable medical lead into a patient to optimize electrotherapy administered via the lead. The method includes: inserting the lead into the patient, the lead including a first electrode; providing a second electrode in the patient, wherein the second electrode is not part of the lead; generating an electrical vector between the first electrode and second electrode, the electrical vector being generated as the lead is being implanted; analyzing the electrical vector as the lead is being implanted; and optimizing the implantation of the lead based off of the analysis of the electrical vector to optimize electrotherapy administered via the lead. | 10-04-2012 |
20120271315 | INSERTION TOOL FOR PADDLE-STYLE ELECTRODE - A system for lead implantation includes a lead having a paddle-style electrode extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the paddle-style electrode, having a back surface; an active surface; a plurality of electrode contacts disposed on the active surface; and a longitudinal lumen extending into the paddle-style electrode and defining an opening at the proximal end of the paddle-style electrode. The lead also has at least one lead body extending from the paddle-style electrode. The at least one lead body includes conductors that are electrically coupled to the electrode contracts. The system also includes an insertion tool having a distal portion for insertion into the longitudinal lumen of the paddle-style electrode. At least the distal portion of the insertion tool or the longitudinal lumen (or both) includes a low friction material forming a surface with a coefficient of friction of 0.1 or less. | 10-25-2012 |
20120271316 | INSERTION TOOL FOR PADDLE-STYLE ELECTRODE - The present disclosure describes various embodiments of an insertion tool that affords steerability of the paddle-style electrode during implantation without causing damage to the insulation and/or the contacts of the paddle-style electrode. One embodiment is described as having a “pin fork” configuration; another a “shovel” configuration; and yet another has tabs or a lumen on the paddle-style electrode for facilitating the insertion of a stylet. The various embodiments for the insertion tool allow for adjustments of the paddle-style electrode in both the medial/lateral and inferior/superior directions allowing the surgeon to steer the paddle-style electrode to the desired stimulation site within the epidural space of the spinal column. | 10-25-2012 |
20120271317 | Surgical Tool for Electrode Implantation - The present invention is a surgical tool for implanting an electrode array and its connected cable within an orbital socket. The insertion tool is used to aid the surgeon in pulling the electrode wire and array through the scull, four-rectus muscles of the eye, and the sclera. The insertion tool consists of a medical grade ABS material that is commonly used in various medical products. | 10-25-2012 |
20120277760 | MEDICAL TUNNELING DEVICE AND METHOD - A medical device assembly includes a tunneler having a proximal end and a distal end and a carrier element fixed to the distal end of the tunneler. In various embodiments the carrier element is configured to be slidably disposed within a lead connection lumen. In various embodiments the carrier element includes a plurality of recesses configured to engage a lead extension set screw. In various embodiments the carrier element can freely rotate relative to the rest of the tunneler. | 11-01-2012 |
20120277761 | SURGICAL TOOLS TO FACILITATE DELIVERY OF A NEUROSTIMULATOR INTO THE PTERYGOPALATINE FOSSA - A surgical tool configured to facilitate delivery of a neurostimulator to a craniofacial region of a subject includes a handle portion, an elongate shaft having a contoured distal portion, and an insertion groove on the elongate shaft. The elongate shaft is configured to be advanced under a zygomatic bone along a maxillary tuberosity towards a pterygopalatine fossa. The distal portion includes a distal dissecting tip. The insertion groove is configured to receive, support, and guide a medical device or instrument. | 11-01-2012 |
20120283744 | INSERTION TOOL FOR A SPINAL CORD STIMULATION ELECTRODE - The present invention is directed to an insertion tool for a spinal cord stimulation electrode. The insertion tool comprises a first leg and a second leg coupled to the first leg. The first and second legs are separable for placement around the electrode and resiliently return to a clamped position. Each of the first and second legs generally defines a respective longitudinal axis. Each of the first and second legs defines a blade portion offset from the respective longitudinal axis for clamping the electrode. | 11-08-2012 |
20120303043 | Medical Device Inserters and Processes of Inserting and Using Medical Devices - An apparatus for insertion of a medical device in the skin of a subject is provided, as well as methods of inserting medical devices. | 11-29-2012 |
20120323252 | TIP FOR LEAD EXTRACTION DEVICE - A tip engageable with an elongated sheath member for extracting a cardiac lead from an obstruction in a body vessel of a patient. The tip includes a tip body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a passageway extending therethrough. The tip body proximal end is engageable with the distal end of the sheath member distal end. The passageway of the tip is aligned with the passageway of the sheath such that the cardiac lead is receivable therein. The tip body distal portion has a plurality of sides extending circumferentially therearound, wherein the sides have respective ends and an inwardly directed radiused portion between the ends. | 12-20-2012 |
20120323253 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR POSITIONING AN ELECTRODE IN TISSUE - A device for positioning an electrode in tissue includes: a lead body having a distal portion; an electrode array coupled to the lead distal portion; an anchoring element having an anchor tip and being operable in a first configuration in which the anchor tip is retracted within the lead and in a second configuration in which the anchor tip is extended outside the lead and configured to fixate within the tissue; and a displacement mechanism that is actuated to bias the electrode array or the anchoring element toward the tissue. A method for positioning an electrode in tissue includes: navigating, to the tissue, a lead with an electrode array, an anchoring element with a distal anchor tip, and a displacement mechanism; biasing the electrode array and anchoring element towards the tissue with the displacement mechanism; and deploying the anchoring element, and verifying fixation of the anchor tip within the tissue. | 12-20-2012 |
20120323254 | MEDICAL ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF MULTIPLE MEDICAL LEADS THROUGH A SINGLE ENTRY - Assemblies and methods provide for implantation of multiple medical leads to a defined space within the body, such as the epidural space, through a single entry. A catheter having multiple lumens or alternatively a single oblong lumen may be used. A distal end of the catheter enters the defined space through the single entry such that the distal ends of the multiple lumens or the oblong lumen are present in the defined space. Medical leads are introduced through the multiple lumens or the oblong lumen into the defined space. In some cases, the distal end of the catheter may be deflectable to direct the medical leads within the defined space. In other cases, sheaths may be present within each lumen of the catheter where the sheaths may be extended into the defined space and deflect to direct the medical leads that are being passed through a lumen of the sheaths. | 12-20-2012 |
20130053864 | LEAD BODY WITH INNER AND OUTER CO-AXIAL COILS - A biomedical conductor assembly adapted for at least partial insertion in a living body. The conductor assembly includes a plurality of the first electrical conductors each covered with an insulator and helically wound in a first direction to form an inner coil with a lumen. A plurality of second electrical conductors each including a plurality of un-insulated wires twisted in a ropelike configuration around a central axis to form a plurality of cables. Each cable is covered with an insulator and helically wound in a second opposite direction forming an outer coil in direct physical contact with the inner coil. The inner and outer coils are covered by an insulator. A method of making the conductor assembly and implanting a neurostimulation system is also disclosed. | 02-28-2013 |
20130053865 | ADJUSTABLE WIRE LENGTH STYLET HANDLE - A stylet-lead assembly including a therapy delivery element and a stylet. The therapy delivery element includes a proximal end with a plurality of electrical contacts adapted to electrically couple with an implantable pulse generator, a distal end with a plurality of electrodes electrically coupled to the electrical contacts, and a lumen having a lumen length extending from the proximal end to almost the distal end. The stylet handle includes a locking insert has a first channel adapted to receive the proximal end of the stylet wire. The portion of the stylet wire extending beyond a proximal end of the locking insert includes at least one bend. A stylet handle has an opening at a distal end adapted to compressively engage the proximal end of the stylet wire to the locking insert, such that an exposed portion of the stylet wire measured from the distal end of the stylet wire to a distal end of the locking insert generally comprises the lumen length. | 02-28-2013 |
20130066331 | TAPERED, CURVED STYLETS FOR INSERTING SPINAL CORD MODULATION LEADS AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - The present technology is directed generally to tapered, curved stylets for inserting spinal cord modulation leads, and associated systems and methods. In some embodiments, the stylet includes a handle and a shaft the shaft having a proximal portion adjacent to the handle, a distal portion adjacent to the proximal portion, and a rounded tip. The proximal portion can be elongated along a longitudinal axis and can have a generally constant diameter. The distal portion can have a tapered section with a diameter that decreases in a distal direction, and a pre-set curve with respect to the longitudinal axis. The rounded tip can have a diameter greater than or equal to the smallest diameter of the distal portion. | 03-14-2013 |
20130079798 | DELIVERY SYSTEM ASSEMBLIES FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A delivery system assembly includes an elongate inner member that extends distally through a lumen of an elongate outer tube of the assembly; the outer tube is moveable relative to the inner member between first and second positions to deploy an implantable medical device that is held within the outer tube lumen. The inner member may include a flared distal end that abuts, and preferably conforms to, the proximal end of the device, when the device is held within the outer tube lumen. The assembly further includes a stability sheath that surrounds a limited length of the outer tube, in proximity to the handle, to provide an interface for both an operator, who handles the assembly, and for an introducer sheath that provides passage for the assembly into the venous system, so that movement of the outer tube is not hindered by either during device deployment. | 03-28-2013 |
20130103047 | DELIVERY SYSTEM ASSEMBLIES AND ASSOCIATED METHODS FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A delivery system assembly includes an outer tube, an inner member, extending within a lumen of the outer tube, and a deflectable shaft, extending within the outer tube lumen and around the inner member; the tube and inner member are longitudinally moveable with respect to the shaft, and a distal end of the inner member is located distal to the shaft within the tube lumen. A medical device can be loaded into the tube lumen, along a distal-most portion of the tube, and contained between the inner member and a distal opening of the tube lumen. Deflecting the shaft orients the distal-most portion for navigation of the assembly, and, when the distal end of the inner member is engaged within the tube lumen, distal movement of the tube, with respect to the shaft, causes similar distal movement of the inner member and the loaded medical device toward an implant site. | 04-25-2013 |
20130103048 | Method and Apparatus for Securing a Guide Tube - A guide tube is used for guiding an instrument through a hole within tissue of a patient. The guide tube includes a cannula member defining a passage extending therethrough along an axis. The passage is operable to receive the instrument and guide the instrument through the hole within the tissue of the patient. The guide tube also includes an expansion member that is moveably coupled to the cannula member to selectively move radially between a retracted position and an expanded position relative to the axis of the cannula member. The expansion member is at least partially insertable into the hole when the expansion member is in the retracted position. The expansion member is operable to engage with a surface of the hole when the expansion member is in the expanded position. | 04-25-2013 |
20130103049 | Methods, Tools, and Assemblies for Implantation of Medical Leads Having Distal Tip Anchors - Medical leads include distal tip anchors that are retained by fixation mechanisms of implantation tools. The fixation mechanism may include a fixed body that has features retaining the distal tip anchor. The fixation mechanism may include a movable body that can apply tension to the distal tip anchor to force the distal tip anchor to be released from the features of the fixed body. The movable body may include an axial portion that is received by an axial hole of the fixed body to allow for axial movement of the movable body to release the distal tip anchor. The fixation mechanism may instead include an elongated flexible body that passes through the distal tip anchor and is attached to the fixed body. Tension applied to the elongated body creates a releasing motion of the distal tip anchor to free the distal tip anchor from the features of the fixed body. | 04-25-2013 |
20130110127 | MULTI-PIECE DUAL-CHAMBER LEADLESS INTRA-CARDIAC MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHOD OF IMPLANTING SAME | 05-02-2013 |
20130116704 | Device for Explanting Electrode Leads - An explantation device for explanting implanted leads, having a distal end pointing in the direction of the explantation site and a proximal end pointing in the direction of the surgeon. The explantation tool comprising a locking sheath comprising a hose-like or tubular body having a lumen along a longitudinal axis and at least one clamping device at or in the vicinity of the distal end; and a cutting sheath for removing adhering tissue, having a proximal and a distal end and comprising a hose-like or tubular body having a lumen along a longitudinal axis and a detaching unit at or in the vicinity of the distal end; wherein the cutting sheath comprises at least one receptacle for the clamping device of the locking sheath. | 05-09-2013 |
20130131693 | DELIVERY SYSTEM ASSEMBLIES FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - An inner subassembly of a delivery system assembly extends within a lumen of an elongate outer tube of the assembly, and includes a flared distal end, which is preferably configured to conform to a proximal end of an implantable medical device; a distal-most portion of the outer tube is sized to contain both the flared distal end and an entirety of the medical device. The inner subassembly includes a core, an elongate pull-wire, extending along the core, and a sheath surrounding the pull-wire and the core; the sheath includes a slot opening that allows the pull-wire to pass laterally therethrough. The assembly preferably has a pre-formed curvature along a length of the sheath, and the slot opening extends along the pre-formed curvature. The outer tube is longitudinally moveable relative to the inner subassembly, for example, to deploy the medical device. | 05-23-2013 |
20130138117 | COCHLEAR IMPLANT INSERTION METHOD AND SYSTEM - Techniques for insertion of a cochlear implant include using a rotatable manipulator magnet to steer the tip of the cochlear implant. Steering can use magnetic torque and/or force between the manipulator magnet and a magnetic element coupled to the tip of the cochlear implant to control bending of the cochlear implant. | 05-30-2013 |
20130144305 | TREATMENT DEVICES WITH DELIVER-ACTIVATED INFLATABLE MEMBERS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING THE SPINAL CORD AND OTHER TISSUES - The present application includes treatment systems having delivery-activated inflatable members, and associated systems and methods for treating the spinal cord and other tissues. A treatment system in accordance with one embodiment includes a lead body having an opening, an inner surface position around the opening, and an inflatable member carried by the lead body, with at least one of the inflatable member and the lead body including a frangible portion accessible from the opening. The inflatable member can have an expandable interior volume bounded at least in part by the frangible portion. The system can further include a delivery device received in the opening of the lead body and positioned to open a passage through the frangible portions between the interior volume of the inflatable member and the opening of the lead body when the delivery device is removed from the opening of the lead body. | 06-06-2013 |
20130158564 | PERCUTANEOUS FLAT LEAD INTRODUCER - In general, the invention is directed to a technique for percutaneously introducing a stimulation lead into a target stimulation site via the epidural region proximate the spine of a patient. The process of introducing the stimulation lead may include the use of a hollow stimulation lead introducer, which comprises an elongated sheath and an elongated dilator. The dilator fits within the sheath and serves to widen a path through the epidural region for the introduction of a stimulation lead. At least a portion of the stimulation lead introducer has an oblong cross-section, allowing passage of stimulation leads such as paddle leads. The stimulation lead introducer may enter the epidural region proximate a spine of a patient via a guidewire. The stimulation lead introducer provides a path through the epidural region of a patient to a target stimulation site. A stimulation lead may travel through the path to reach the target stimulation site where it may provide therapy to the patient. | 06-20-2013 |
20130204270 | INSERTION ASSEMBLY FOR AN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS OF USE - An insertion assembly for assisting implantation of at least one lead into a patient includes an insertion needle and a sheath. The sheath removably couples with the insertion needle while the insertion needle is being advanced into the patient. When the sheath is coupled to the insertion needle, the sheath is disposed over at least a portion of an outer surface of the insertion needle. The sheath is radially expandable from a non-expanded state to an expanded state that is rigid enough to retract surrounding patient tissue when inserted into the patient. When the sheath is in an expanded state, first and second diameters of the sheath at opposing ends of the sheath are each large enough to concurrently receive at least one of a paddle lead or at least two percutaneous leads. | 08-08-2013 |
20130237994 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE METHODS FOR LOCATING AN OPTIMAL LOCATION FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION - Methods of locating an optimal site within a brain of a patient for deep brain stimulation include positioning a guiding cannula in a lumen of a main cannula, passing a microelectrode through a lumen of the guiding cannula into the brain, adjusting an insertion depth and a longitudinal angle of the guiding cannula such that the microelectrode locates the optimal site for the deep brain stimulation, and passing a distal end of a macroelectrode or a deep brain stimulation lead through the lumen of the main cannula and into the brain at the optimal site. | 09-12-2013 |
20130245639 | Method for Facilitating Interface with Laryngeal Structures - A minimally invasive method of introducing an electrode to electrically stimulate one or both vocal cords of a subject includes inserting a hollow needle from outside of the subject's body into a postcricoidal region lateral to a posterior cricoarytenoid muscle and forming an insertion path downwardly towards a cricothyroid joint of the subject. The method also includes introducing the electrode via the hollow needle and positioning the electrode relative to at least one vocal cord muscle of the subject based on the insertion path. | 09-19-2013 |
20130253532 | HELICAL INSERTER - A method and apparatus for inserting inserts helically into soft tissue is provided. The inserter is made up of a housing assembly, a hollow helical needle; and a matched first and second hypoid gear. In its basic form, the apparatus includes a housing assembly, sembly, a hollow helical insert guide, a helical insert drive and a guide removal device. The hollow helical insert guide is held in functional relationship by the housing assembly and is adapted to be loaded with the insert for helical transport therewith into the soft tissue. The helical insert drive drives the helical insert guide in rotation and translation into the soft tissue. When an insert is present within the insert guide, the guide removal device removes the insert guide while leaving the insert in its intended implant location in the soft tissue. The method and apparatus insert an implantable member helically into soft tissue, thereby better fixing the implantable member in the soft tissue when such tissue is deformed. | 09-26-2013 |
20130296879 | Method and System for Lead Delivery - A system and method enables delivery of an implantable medical lead to an implant location. A delivery tool of the system defines the delivery angle of the lead at the implant location. The delivery tool includes an elongate body having at least one lumen extending from a distal portion to a proximal portion. A suction cup is coupled to the distal portion of the elongate body. The suction cup may be configured to be collapsible in a first configuration, prior to deployment, and expandable in a second configuration. The system may include a suction source for drawing tissue at the implant location into the suction cup of the delivery tool that is disposed at the distal portion. The delivery angle of the lead tip is based on the interior cavity of the suction cup rather than the angle of insertion with the suctioned tissue. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296880 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PLACEMENT OF ELECTRICAL LEAD INSIDE HEART - A method of placing an electrical lead of an implantable cardiac device inside a heart of a patient. The method includes securing a tool to an atrial appendage of the heart to hold onto the atrial appendage, piercing the atrial appendage, and creating an aperture in the atrial appendage while holding the atrial appendage with the tool. The method also includes moving a distal end of the electrical lead into the heart through the aperture in the atrial appendage and into a ventricle of the heart. Furthermore, the method includes coupling the distal end of the electrical lead to cardiac tissue in the ventricle and delivering an electrical signal to the cardiac tissue in the ventricle of the heart to maintain a predetermined heartbeat of the heart. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296881 | CORONARY SINUS LEAD DELIVERY CATHETER - A guide catheter assembly includes an outer guide catheter and an inner catheter slidably and rotatably disposed in the outer guide catheter. The outer guide catheter has a proximal portion and a distal portion formed into a preformed shape including a curved segment. The preformed shape includes a first arc, a second arc, a third arc, a fourth arc, and a generally straight terminal portion. The preformed shape is generally a J-shape defining, a generally open arc. | 11-07-2013 |
20130310846 | INSERTION TOOLS AND METHODS FOR AN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION IMPLANT - In some embodiments, a method includes inserting at least a distal end portion of an insertion tool within a body. The distal end portion of the insertion tool is coupled to an electronic implant having a stimulation portion, a terminal portion and a substantially flexible conductor disposed between the stimulation portion and the terminal portion. The distal end portion of the insertion tool is moved within the body such that the stimulation portion of the electronic implant is disposed adjacent a target location and the terminal portion of the electronic implant is disposed beneath a skin of the body. | 11-21-2013 |
20130317517 | DISPOSITIF D ASSISTANCE A LA CHIRURGIE OTOLOGIQUE D UN PATIENT A IMPLANTER AVEC UN IMPLANT COCHLEAIRE - The invention relates to a device for providing assistance in otologic surgery of a patient who is to be implanted with a cochlea implant, the device comprising:
| 11-28-2013 |
20130317518 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING AN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION LEAD USING A SHEATH - A method for implanting an electrical stimulation lead into a patient includes inserting an elongated sheath into a patient. The sheath includes a sheath body with a proximal end and a distal tip. The sheath defines a lumen extending from the proximal end of the sheath to the distal tip. The distal tip of the sheath is advanced to the patient's epidural space. The distal tip of the sheath is positioned at a target implantation location. A lead is advanced along the lumen of the sheath from the proximal end of the sheath body to the distal tip. The lead includes a lead body and a plurality of electrodes disposed along a distal end of the lead body. The sheath is removed from the patient while leaving the distal end of the lead at the target implantation location. | 11-28-2013 |
20130331856 | LEAD SPACER TOOL - A combined dissection tool and blank for implanting a paddle lead having an electrode portion and a lead body. The combined dissection tool and blank includes a blank with a maximum cross-sectional area substantially equal to a maximum cross sectional area of the electrode portion of the paddle lead. An elongated body portion is attached to the blank. A guide wire extends through the body portion substantially to a distal end of the blank. The guide wire provides sufficient column strength to separate fatty tissue to create a space for receiving the paddle lead. | 12-12-2013 |
20130345716 | SURGICAL GUIDANCE TOOL TO FACILITATE DELIVERY OF A NEUROSTIMULATOR INTO A PTERYGOPALATINE FOSSA - One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a surgical guidance tool configured to facilitate delivery of a neurostimulator to a target craniofacial region of a subject. The surgical guidance tool can include a main body, a securing mechanism, and an adjustable guide mechanism. The main body can have a distal end, a proximal end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the distal and proximal ends. The securing mechanism can be disposed at the distal end and configured to secure a neurostimulator delivery tool to the main body. The guide mechanism can be configured to temporarily mate with a bodily target location of the subject and facilitate positioning of the neurostimulator delivery tool about the target craniofacial region. The guide member can be slidably attached to the distal end and selectively translatable along the longitudinal axis of the main body. | 12-26-2013 |
20140005675 | LEAD POSITIONING AND FINNED FIXATION SYSTEM | 01-02-2014 |
20140012284 | VACUUM-ACTUATED PERCUTANEOUS INSERTION/IMPLANTATION TOOL FOR FLEXIBLE NEURAL PROBES AND INTERFACES - A flexible device insertion tool including an elongated stiffener with one or more suction ports, and a vacuum connector for interfacing the stiffener to a vacuum source, for attaching the flexible device such as a flexible neural probe to the stiffener during insertion by a suction force exerted through the suction ports to, and to release the flexible device by removing the suction force. | 01-09-2014 |
20140012285 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REPLACING LEAD EXTENSION WITHOUT TUNNELING - Tether apparatus may be used to replace an implanted lead extension with a replacement lead extension without tunneling or the use of tunneling tools. | 01-09-2014 |
20140018818 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF IMPLANTING A MEDICAL DEVICE - A system for implanting an implantable medical device (IMD) within a patient may include a main handle assembly having proximal and distal ends, a device-connection control handle connected to the proximal end of the main handle assembly, an introducer connected to the distal end of the main handle assembly, and a connection tool extending from the introducer. The connection tool may include a device-engaging member configured to change at least one of shape or orientation to selectively connect to and disconnect from the IMD. The device-connection control handle may be operatively connected to the device-engaging member and the device-connection control handle may be configured to manipulate the device-engaging member between connected and disconnected states by changing the at least one of the shape or orientation. | 01-16-2014 |
20140031836 | APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR IMPLANTING AN AUTONOMOUS INTRACARDIAC CAPSULE - A system and method for implantation of an autonomous intracardiac capsule. The autonomous capsule includes a cylindrical body with an anchoring screw for penetrating a tissue wall, and at least one coupling finger radially projecting outwards. An implantation accessory includes a lead body and a helical guide, for guiding and driving by rotation the capsule. This helical guide is integral with the lead body, and its inner diameter is sufficient to contain that cylindrical body of the capsule therein. The helix direction of the helical guide is opposite to that of the anchoring screw such that continued rotational motion imparted on the lead body drives the anchoring screw into the target tissue and then emerges the capsule from the helical guide. The helical guide is resiliently compressible in axial direction, and its helix pitch is increased in the free distal end portion. | 01-30-2014 |
20140031837 | Implantable Lead - An implantable wireless lead includes an enclosure, the enclosure housing: one or more electrodes configured to apply one or more electrical pulses to a neural tissue; a first antenna configured to: receive, from a second antenna and through electrical radiative coupling, an input signal containing electrical energy, the second antenna being physically separate from the implantable neural stimulator lead; one or more circuits electrically connected to the first antenna, the circuits configured to: create the one or more electrical pulses suitable for stimulation of the neural tissue using the electrical energy contained in the input signal; and supply the one or more electrical pulses to the one or more electrodes, wherein the enclosure is shaped and arranged for delivery into a subject's body through an introducer or a needle. | 01-30-2014 |
20140052148 | COCHLEAR IMPLANT ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY INSERTION TOOL - An insertion tool having an insertion guide tube that maintains a perimodiolar or other pre-curved electrode assembly in a substantially straight configuration while preventing the electrode assembly from twisting in response to stresses induced by the bias force which urges the assembly to return to its pre-curved configuration. This generally ensures that when the electrode assembly is deployed from the distal end of the insertion guide tube, the electrode assembly and insertion guide tube have a known relative orientation. | 02-20-2014 |
20140058405 | COMPOUND-SHAPED STYLET FOR TORQUE TRANSMISSION - A medical stylet for guiding a lead includes a first elongate member for attachment of the lead to the target tissue, a second elongate member to reshape the lead. The first elongate member of the medical stylet includes a proximal end portion, and a distal end portion wherein the distal end portion of the first elongate member includes a tip feature configured to engage the lead on application of torque externally. The second elongate member defines a lumen along its length. The lumen of the second elongate member can be configured to enclose at least a portion of the first elongate member. The second elongate member can have a pre defined shape. The pre defined shape of the second elongate member allows the lead to be reshaped when inserted into the lead, this reshaped lead now can be guided to an anatomical pass way. | 02-27-2014 |
20140066950 | SPINAL CORD STIMULATION SYSTEM - A method for optimizing the stimulation of the dorsal column of the spinal cord is disclosed. The method includes providing a stimulating electrode array and a frame element. The frame element is configured to couple to the stimulating electrode array and guide the stimulating electrode array to a desired position proximate the dorsal column of the spinal cord of a subject. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066951 | COCHLEAR IMPLANT WITH IMPROVED ELECTRODE ARRAY AND CONTROLLER - A cochlear implant device includes a deformable and stretchable flexible strip composed of a biological compatible material and positioned about a longitudinal axis so as to form a spiral. The implant device has a plurality of conductive strips with electrode windows formed so as to expose a segment of each conductive strip. A density of the electrode windows is sufficient to monitor a distance of the flexible strip from a non-conductive tissue of a patient in a 360 degree field of view about the longitudinal axis. A method of inserting a cochlear implant includes providing a multi-joint robot comprised of a series of actuator units, guiding the multi-joint robot into an inner ear of a patient, monitoring the position of the multi-joint robot relative to a non-conductive portion of the patient; and applying current to the multi joint robot so as to adjust the position of the actuator units. | 03-06-2014 |
20140074114 | DELIVERY CATHETER SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A delivery system for implanting a leadless cardiac pacemaker into a patient is provided. The cardiac pacemaker can include a docking or delivery feature having a through-hole disposed on or near a proximal end of the pacemaker for attachment to the delivery system. In some embodiments, the delivery catheter can include first and second tethers configured to engage the delivery feature of the pacemaker. The tethers, when partially aligned, can have a cross-sectional diameter larger than the through-hole of the delivery feature, and when un-aligned, can have a cross-sectional diameter smaller than the through-hole of the delivery feature. Methods of delivering the leadless cardiac pacemaker with the delivery system are also provided. | 03-13-2014 |
20140081289 | LEAD REMOVAL SLEEVE - Methods and systems for removing an object, such as a lead, from formed tissue are provided. Specifically, a lead removal sleeve is configured to engage patient formed tissue at a dilation engagement point. The lead removal sleeve is configured to dilate the formed tissue around a lead, while providing an inner lumen with clearance for the lead to move within the sleeve. It is an object of the lead removal sleeve to support the formed tissue, and even forces of the formed tissue, with a structure of the sleeve as the lead is removed from a patient. The methods and systems are well suited for use in cardiac pacing or defibrillator lead explant procedures. | 03-20-2014 |
20140088611 | PACEMAKER - A method for pacing a chamber of a patient's heart includes providing a pulse generator including at least one lead configured to deliver electrical impulses to at least one activation site located in the myocardium of the heart. The pulse generator is implanted in the patient through a sub-xiphoid approach or a mini-thoracotomy using a robotic mechanism. The at least one lead is connected to the activation sites using the robotic mechanism. | 03-27-2014 |
20140094823 | MICRO-ELECTRODE RECORDING-GUIDED IMPLANTATION OF DIRECTIONAL LEADS - A method for implanting a lead within brain tissue of a patient, wherein the lead comprises a set of radially segmented electrodes on a distal end of the lead is provided. The method includes performing a plurality of microelectrode recordings through a respective plurality of recording tracts in the brain tissue; based on the microelectrode recordings, creating a three-dimensional map of a brain structure; positioning a graphical representation of the radially segmented electrodes over the map of the brain structure to create a graphical depiction of a desired depth and a desired radial orientation of the lead within the brain tissue; and implanting the lead in the brain tissue in accordance with the desired depth and desired radial orientation. A device for determining a radial orientation of the lead includes a radially directional ruler and an indicator for indicating which electrode is in contact with the ruler. | 04-03-2014 |
20140100586 | INSERTION TOOL FOR PADDLE-STYLE ELECTRODE - The present disclosure describes various embodiments of an insertion tool that affords steerability of the paddle-style electrode during implantation without causing damage to the insulation and/or the contacts of the paddle-style electrode. One embodiment is described as having a “pin fork” configuration; another a “shovel” configuration; and yet another has tabs or a lumen on the paddle-style electrode for facilitating the insertion of a stylet. The various embodiments for the insertion tool allow for adjustments of the paddle-style electrode in both the medial/lateral and inferior/superior directions allowing the surgeon to steer the paddle-style electrode to the desired stimulation site within the epidural space of the spinal column. | 04-10-2014 |
20140107664 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOVAL OF INTRAVASCULAR LEADS - Systems and methods for extraction of implanted articles are disclosed. According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a system for extraction of an implanted article that includes an elongated member, guide member disposed at a distal section of the elongated member and having a pathway in substantially parallel relationship to the elongated member, through which pathway an implanted article can be accommodated, and a cutting mechanism, situated between the distal section of the elongated member and the guide member, for severing a fibrous adhesion about the implanted article to allow the implanted article to be extracted. | 04-17-2014 |
20140121674 | ASSEMBLY FOR PERCUTANEOUSLY INSERTING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE, STEERING THE DEVICE TO A TARGET LOCATION AND DEPLOYING THE DEVICE - An assembly for implanting a medical device such as an electrode array. The assembly includes a sheath that is disposed over the medical device and a core that supports the device. The sheath and core are connected to, respectively, first and second slides in a handpiece. An single actuator first moves one slide, typically the slide to which the sheath is attached. Once the first slide at least partially displaced both slides are moved to simultaneously retract the sheath and core away from the implantable medical device. The assembly includes a steering assembly for steering the sheath and implantable medical device. Some of the components forming the steering assembly are disposed on at least one of the slides. Tensioners prevent the steering cables of the steering assembly from being exposed to excessive force. | 05-01-2014 |
20140135789 | GUIDE CATHETER OCCLUSION BALLOON WITH ACTIVE INFLATION - Various embodiments concern a guide catheter for delivery of an implantable lead within the coronary vein. Such a guide catheter can comprise a tubular body having a main lumen and at least one preformed bend. The tubular body can comprise a liner defining an inner surface, braiding circumferentially surrounding the liner, a jacket covering the braiding and defining an exterior surface of the tubular body, and a plurality of inflation tubes embedded within the jacket. The guide catheter can include a balloon mounted on the tubular body, each of the plurality of inflation tubes in communication with the balloon. The guide catheter can further include a hub providing access to the main lumen, the hub comprising a first port for introduction of contrast media into the main lumen and a second port in communication with the plurality of inflation tubes. | 05-15-2014 |
20140142590 | Positioning Methods for Intravascular Electrode Arrays for Neuromodulation - A method for positioning an electrode array of a neuromodulation catheter at a target circumferential position along a posterior wall of a superior vena cava includes advancing the catheter to a target longitudinal position within the superior vena cava, and orienting a marker on the extracorporeal portion of the catheter in a circumferential orientation known to position the array at the target circumferential position along the posterior wall. A method of positioning the array at a target longitudinal position includes advancing the catheter into the superior vena cava and using features of the catheter to detect the location of right atrial tissue, such as by sensing for a P-wave using an electrogram captured using an electrode carried at a distal end of the catheter, or by using such electrodes to capture the atrium using atrial pacing pulses. Once the location of the right atria is determined, the electrode array may be deployed in a position known to be proximal to the atrium. | 05-22-2014 |
20140148815 | LEADLESS IMPLANTABLE DEVICE DELIVERY APPARATUS - A leadless implantable device delivery apparatus that enables testing of an implantation site before permanent implantation and enables secure attachment at the site while minimizing effects of the implantation procedure. Embodiments include a delivery sheath configured to accommodate a leadless implantable device, the leadless implantable device having an anchor that includes at least one projection configured to physically attach the anchor to tissue, such as heart tissue. In addition, embodiments include an adapter that resides within the delivery sheath and is configured to impart rotational force at the distal end of the adapter that is applied to the proximal end of the adapter to rotate the anchor associated with the implantable device. | 05-29-2014 |
20140163579 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE IMPLANTABLE NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - A medical device system for delivering a neuromodulation therapy includes a delivery tool for deploying an implantable medical device at a neuromodulation therapy site. The implantable medical device includes a housing, an electronic circuit within the housing, and an electrical lead comprising a lead body extending between a proximal end coupled to the housing and a distal end extending away from the housing and at least one electrode carried by the lead body. The delivery tool includes a first cavity for receiving the housing and a second cavity for receiving the lead. The first cavity and the second cavity are in direct communication for receiving and deploying the housing and the lead coupled to the housing concomitantly as a single unit. | 06-12-2014 |
20140163580 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE IMPLANTABLE NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM - A neuromodulation therapy is delivered via at least one electrode implanted subcutaneously and superficially to a fascia layer superficial to a nerve of a patient. In one example, an implantable medical device is deployed along a superficial surface of a deep fascia tissue layer superficial to a nerve of a patient. Electrical stimulation energy is delivered to the nerve through the deep fascia tissue layer via implantable medical device electrodes. | 06-12-2014 |
20140171960 | DEVICE FOR PREPARING AN IMPLANTED MEDICAL APPARATUS FOR EXTRACTION - A device for preparing an elongated implanted medical apparatus, such as a cardiac lead, for extraction from the body of a patient. The device includes a first handle and a second handle. At least the first handle has a surface for receiving the implanted apparatus therealong. A wire member having a first end and a second end is positioned to span a distance between the surface of the first handle, and the second handle. The wire member first end is removably engaged with the first handle, and the wire member second end is removably engaged with the second handle. The wire member is sized and arranged to enable the wire member to be wound around a length of the implanted apparatus to facilitate extraction of the apparatus with a lead extraction device. | 06-19-2014 |
20140171961 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING A TOOL FOR STEERING A PADDLE LEAD OF AN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM - A paddle lead insertion kit includes a paddle lead and an insertion kit. The paddle lead includes a stylet lumen defined in a paddle body. The insertion tool includes a stylet channel defined along the insertion tool. A stylet is disposed in the stylet channel and transitions between a refracted position and an extended position. When the stylet is in the retracted position, the stylet is disposed completely within the stylet channel. When the stylet is in the extended position, the stylet extends outwardly from the stylet channel and is insertable into the stylet lumen of the paddle lead. A slide assembly is coupled to the stylet and controls transitioning of the stylet between the retracted position and the extended position. | 06-19-2014 |
20140180305 | INSERTION TOOL FOR PADDLE-STYLE ELECTRODE - A system for lead implantation includes a lead having a paddle-style electrode extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the paddle-style electrode, having a back surface; an active surface; a plurality of electrode contacts disposed on the active surface; and a longitudinal lumen extending into the paddle-style electrode and defining an opening at the proximal end of the paddle-style electrode. The lead also has at least one lead body extending from the paddle-style electrode. The at least one lead body includes conductors that are electrically coupled to the electrode contracts. The system also includes an insertion tool having a distal portion for insertion into the longitudinal lumen of the paddle-style electrode. At least the distal portion of the insertion tool or the longitudinal lumen (or both) includes a low friction material forming a surface with a coefficient of friction of 0.1 or less. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180306 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE FIXATION - Various fixation techniques for implantable medical device (IMDs) are described. In one example, an assembly comprises an IMD; and a set of active fixation tines attached to the IMD. The active fixation tines in the set are deployable from a spring-loaded position in which distal ends of the active fixation tines point away from the IMD to a hooked position in which the active fixation tines bend back towards the IMD. The active fixation tines are configured to secure the IMD to a patient tissue when deployed while the distal ends of the active fixation tines are positioned adjacent to the patient tissue. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180307 | ELECTROSTIMULATION IN TREATING CEREBROVASCULAR CONDITIONS - A system for treating a medical condition in a living body, comprising two subsystems, an implant subsystem and an electrical stimulation unit subsystem. The implant subsystem comprises at least one electrostimulation module, contains at least one electrically conductive electrode and, preferably, an anchoring member. The electrical stimulation unit, adapted for producing and controlling electrical waveforms, is connected to the electrodes. The implant subsystem is implanted adjacent to at least one of the following structures: the carotid sinus nerve, aortic nerve, common carotid artery, external carotid artery, internal carotid artery, carotid artery bifurcation, carotid body, aortic body or aortic arch receptors. The electrical stimulation unit is maintained outside the patient's body and is adapted to program, generate, control and deliver the electrical waveform via a wired or a wireless connection to the implant subsystem, thereby stimulating the structure it is adjacent to and treating the medical condition. | 06-26-2014 |
20140200592 | ELECTRODE INSERTION TOOLS, LEAD ASSEMBLIES, KITS AND METHODS FOR PLACEMENT OF CARDIAC DEVICE ELECTRODES - Insertion tools, lead assemblies, kits, and methods for placement of cardiac device electrodes. In some embodiments, an insertion tool having a proximal end and a distal, dissecting end includes a structure configured to receive or engage a structure on a lead assembly. Some embodiments include a lead assembly having an end including a structure configured for engaging the distal end of an associated insertion tool. Some embodiments include kits or systems including both an insertion tool and a lead assembly, each having a structure for engaging the other. In these embodiments, the engaging structures may take several forms including threads, small posts, circular or semi-circular receiving members, and/or a slot. Some embodiments also include methods for placement of cardiac device electrodes with the assistance of an associated insertion tool, wherein the cardiac device electrodes are associated with a lead assembly having an end configured to engage a distal, dissecting portion of an associated insertion tool. | 07-17-2014 |
20140200593 | ADJUSTABLE WIRE LENGTH STYLET HANDLE - A stylet-lead assembly includes a therapy delivery element and a stylet. The therapy delivery element includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen having a lumen length extending from the proximal end to almost the distal end. The stylet includes a stylet handle including a locking insert having a first channel adapted to receive a proximal end of a stylet wire. A portion of the stylet wire extending beyond a proximal end of the locking insert includes at least one bend. The stylet handle has an opening at a distal end adapted to compressively engage the proximal end of the stylet wire to the locking insert, such that an exposed portion of the stylet wire measured from a distal end of the stylet wire to a distal end of the locking insert generally comprises the lumen length. | 07-17-2014 |
20140207148 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF MULTIPLE DORSAL ROOT GANGLIA WITH A SINGLE LEAD - A method for implanting an electrical stimulation lead into a patient includes advancing a distal end of a multi-armed lead into an epidural space of the patient. The multi-armed lead includes first and second stimulation arms extending from a main body portion. The first stimulation arm is guided into and through a first intervertebral foramen. The first stimulation arm is positioned in proximity to a first dorsal root ganglion. The first stimulation aim is positioned with electrodes disposed along the first stimulation arm in operational proximity to the first dorsal root ganglion. The second stimulation arm is guided into and through a second intervertebral foramen. The second stimulation arm is positioned in proximity to a second dorsal root ganglion. The second stimulation arm is positioned with electrodes disposed along the second stimulation arm in operational proximity to the second dorsal root ganglion. | 07-24-2014 |
20140207149 | LEADLESS CARDIAC STIMULATION SYSTEMS - Various configurations of systems that employ leadless electrodes to provide pacing therapy are provided. In one example, a system that provides multiple sites for pacing of myocardium of a heart includes wireless pacing electrode assemblies that are implantable at sites proximate the myocardium using a percutaneous, transluminal, catheter delivery system. Also disclosed are various configurations of such systems, wireless electrode assemblies, and delivery catheters for delivering and implanting the electrode assemblies. | 07-24-2014 |
20140222018 | Device and means for adjusting the position of DBS brain and other neural and muscular implants - A device, method and means to adjust the position of a picafina Deep Brain Stimulator (DBS). It is notoriously difficult to find the correct positioning of the picafina for best stimulating results, because it is not possible for the neurosurgeon to visually observe its position. We disclose a device, method and means to adjust the position of the picafina after it is inserted in the brain, for the best stimulating effect. | 08-07-2014 |
20140236171 | METHODFOR THE IMPLANTATION OF ACTIVE FIXATION MEDICAL LEADS - A lead implantation tool is used for the implantation of active fixation medical leads. The tool may be configured to operably couple to a lead connector end of an implantable cardiac electrotherapy lead including an active fixation helix tip and wherein the lead connector end includes a contact pin proximally extending from the lead connector end. The tool may include a feature configured to couple to the contact pin and a first mechanism configured to convert linear movement into rotational movement of the contact pin relative to the lead connector end. The tool may further include a second mechanism that causes a stylet extending through the tool and into the contact pin to at least one of distally and proximally displace within the contact pin. | 08-21-2014 |
20140236172 | WIRELESS TISSUE ELECTROSTIMULATION - A wireless electrostimulation system can comprise a wireless energy transmission source, and an implantable cardiovascular wireless electrostimulation node. A receiver circuit comprising an inductive antenna can be configured to capture magnetic energy to generate a tissue electrostimulation. A tissue electrostimulation circuit, coupled to the receiver circuit, can be configured to deliver energy captured by the receiver circuit as a tissue electrostimulation waveform. Delivery of tissue electrostimulation can be initiated by a therapy control unit. | 08-21-2014 |
20140243848 | SYSTEM FOR LEADLESS PACING OF THE HEART - Devices for use in providing stimulation to cardiac tissue are provided. One device is configured for implantation in or near the heart and includes a flexible, elongate body. The body is configured to be positioned across two different sections of the vasculature such that (a) the first end can be positioned in a first section of the vasculature through which the device can stimulate a first chamber of the heart and (b) the second end can be positioned in a second section of the vasculature through which the device can stimulate a second chamber of the heart. The device further includes a receiver circuit configured to receive signals wirelessly from a transmitter device and to convert the signals into electrical power. The device also includes at least a first set of one or more electrodes configured to stimulate the heart using the electrical power. | 08-28-2014 |
20140249542 | DEVICES WITH CANNULA AND ELECTRODE LEAD FOR BRAIN STIMULATION AND METHODS OF USE AND MANUFACTURE - A device for brain stimulation includes a cannula configured and arranged for insertion into a brain of a patient; at least one cannula electrode disposed on the cannula; and an electrode lead for insertion into the cannula, the electrode lead comprising at least one stimulating electrode. | 09-04-2014 |
20140249543 | DELIVERY SYSTEM ASSEMBLIES AND ASSOCIATED METHODS FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A delivery system assembly includes an elongate outer tube, an elongate inner member extending within a lumen of the outer tube, and an articulation sheath surrounding the outer tube between a handle of the assembly and a distal-most portion of the outer tube. The outer tube is longitudinally moveable within the sheath; and an inner diameter of the sheath is preferably smaller than that of the handle and the distal-most portion of the outer tube. Navigation of the assembly through a venous system, for deployment of an implantable medical device, is facilitated by deflection of the sheath, to orient a distal-most portion of the outer tube, within which an entirety of the medical device is contained/loaded, and by subsequent advancement of the distal-most portion, with respect to the sheath, to move the distal end of the inner member, along with the contained/loaded device into proximity with a target implant site. | 09-04-2014 |
20140257324 | TEMPORARY LEADLESS IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE WITH INDWELLING RETRIEVAL MECHANISM - A method and system are provided for removing, from an implant chamber of a heart, a leadless implantable medical device (LIMD) having a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end is configured to be actively secured to tissue in the implant chamber of the heart. The proximal end is configured to be coupled to a distal end of an indwelling retrieval mechanism (IRM). The IRM extends from the heart along a vessel, the IRM having a proximal end configured to be anchored at a temporary anchor site. The method comprises detaching the IRM from the anchor site, loading a retrieval tool over the proximal end of the IRM and along the body of the IRM. The retrieval tool has a lumen therein that receives the IRM as the retrieval tool re-enters the vessel, thereby allowing the retrieval tool to engage the LIMD. | 09-11-2014 |
20140257325 | Recessed Burr Hole Covers and Methods for Using the Same - A burr hole cover is configured to be recessed in a burr hole formed in a patient and includes a base and a cap provided with complementary features to allow a portion of a medical device, such as a brain lead, to be situated in the burr hole cover and then secured by rotation of the cap relative to the base. The features include channels on the base and matching cut-outs on the cap, and slots and locking pockets on the base that are configured to be aligned with locking tabs and locking protrusions on the cap. Because the burr hole cover is recessed in the burr hole, the medical device can extend proximally of the burr hole at the level of the cranium. A bottom surface of the cap may be provided with guides for the lead extending distally in towards the brain. | 09-11-2014 |
20140276925 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR USE IN GUIDING IMPLANTATION OF A NEUROMODULATION LEAD - Methods and systems for use in guiding implantation of a neuromodulation lead during an implant procedure are disclosed herein. Certain methods and system are for use in guiding implantation of a lead toward an implant position where at least one electrode of the lead is located near a target dorsal root ganglion (DRG). Such methods can involve inserting a distal end of the lead into an epidural space of a spinal column within which is located the target DRG, and using one or more electrodes of the lead to obtain a sensed signal indicative of proximity of at least one electrode of the lead relative to the target DRG. Additionally, the sensed signal is used to guide placement of at least one electrode of the lead toward the implant position near the target DRG. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276926 | STABILIZATION DEVICE ASSISTED LEAD TIP REMOVAL - Lead tip removal is accomplished by first stabilizing an area around the lead tip attachment site in the heart wall. A balloon located at the tip of the lead when inflated expands substantially perpendicular to the lead, stabilizing the area around the lead tip. Upon further inflation, the balloon expands substantially parallel with the lead, causing the lead tip to pull away from the heart wall. In another embodiment, a sheath is inserted over the lead and advanced to the heart wall. A passive or active stabilization device is attached to the sheath tip to stabilize the area around the lead tip. In another embodiment, a balloon is located at the tip of the sheath that, when inflated, expands substantially perpendicular to the lead, stabilizing the area around the lead tip. The lead tip is removed with less force due to the stabilization provided to the lead tip area. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276927 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAKING AND USING A LEAD INTRODUCER FOR AN IMPLANTABLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM - A lead introducer includes an insertion-needle assembly configured for receiving an electrical stimulation lead, and a splitable member that defines a lumen configured for receiving a portion of the insertion-needle assembly. The splitable member includes at least two pull-apart tabs disposed on a proximal hub of the splitable member and at least one splitable region extending along at least a portion of a longitudinal length of the splitable member from between the pull-apart tabs. The at least one splitable region is configured for separating when the pull-apart tabs are pulled apart from one another in directions approximately orthogonal to the splitable member. A lead-stabilization feature is configured for receiving, and temporarily retaining, a portion of an electrical stimulation lead extending outward from the splitable member such that the electrical stimulation lead does not move relative to the splitable member when the electrical stimulation lead is received by the lead-stabilization feature. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276928 | SUBCUTANEOUS DELIVERY TOOL - Subcutaneous implantation tools and methods of implanting a subcutaneous device using the same. The tool may include a tool body having a longitudinally extending recess having a distal opening and having a tunneler at a distal end of the tool body extending from the distal opening of the recess. The tool may include a plunger slidably fitting within at least a portion of the tool body recess. The recess may be configured to receive an implantable device and the tunneler preferably extends distally from the recess at a position laterally displaced from the device when the device is so located in the recess. Movement of the plunger distally within the recess advances the device distally out of the recess and alongside of and exterior to the tunneler. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276929 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES WITH SEPARATE FIXATION MECHANISM - Devices or methods such as for stimulating excitable tissue or sensing physiologic response or other signals that can use separate fixation mechanism is described. An implantable apparatus can include a modular electrostimulation electrode assembly that can include a first module and a second module that can be end user-attachable to each other and end user-detached from each other. The first module can include an electrostimulation electrode fixation support member that can be laid flat against or otherwise conform to a surface of a heart, and can define a centrally located open portal such as for permitting electrode access to the surface of the heart. The second module can include an electrostimulation electrode that can be inserted through the portal of the fixation support member such as to contact the surface of the heart such as to deliver chronic electrostimulation to the heart. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276930 | Tunneling Tool and Method for an Implantable Medical Lead Extension - A tunneling tool is used to create a subcutaneous tunnel for passage of a lead extension. The lead extension is transported from a proximal incision site to a distal incision site and as a result the proximal connector of the lead extension does not pass through the subcutaneous tunnel. The tunneling tool may carry the lead extension during the tunneling procedure. The tunneling tool may include a tool body that contains the lead extension as the lead extension is being carried to the distal incision site. The tunneling tool may further include a tracker tube that is present within the tool body, and the lead extension is contained in and carried by the tracker tube. | 09-18-2014 |
20140288572 | LEAD EXTRACTION METHODS AND APPARATUS - An apparatus configured to control a lead extraction tool for assisting in removal of an implanted lead. The apparatus comprises at least one valve configured to control fluid flow to the lead extraction tool. When the at least one valve is open, the at least one valve is configured to allow fluid stored in the apparatus to flow thereby applying, when the apparatus is fluidly coupled to the lead extraction tool, fluid pressure to at least one component of the lead extraction tool. The apparatus further comprises at least one controller configured to control opening and/or closing of the at least one valve. | 09-25-2014 |
20140288573 | BATTLEFIELD DEFIBRILLATION SYSTEM - Several embodiments of a battlefield defibrillation system ( | 09-25-2014 |
20140288574 | PIEZO-ELECTRIC DEFIBRILLATION SYSTEM - Disclosed are several embodiments of a battery-less piezo-electric defibrillation system ( | 09-25-2014 |
20140288575 | METHOD OF IMPLANTING A SPINAL CORD STIMULATOR LEAD HAVING MULTIPLE OBSTRUCTION-CLEARING FEATURES - A method of implanting a spinal cord stimulator lead in the epidural space of a human or animal subject. The method includes discharging a first pressurized fluid through a first lumen in the stimulator lead directly onto a tissue obstruction to form a partial/pilot or full/final opening in the tissue obstruction. If a full opening was not formed sufficient for passage of the stimulator lead, the method further includes inserting a distal-end portion of the stimulator lead into the partial opening and then delivering a second pressurized fluid through a second lumen in the spinal cord stimulator lead and into a balloon for expanding a distensible balloon to clear the tissue obstruction sufficient for passage of the stimulator lead. The method further comprising advancing the stimulator lead past the cleared tissue obstruction and into place for use to deliver therapeutic energy to spinal tissue adjacent the contacts. | 09-25-2014 |
20140288576 | METHOD OF IMPLANTING A UNITARY DUAL-CHAMBER LEADLESS INTRA-CARDIAC MEDICAL DEVICE - A method of implanting a leadless intra-cardiac medical device. An introducer assembly is introduced into one of an inferior vena cava or a superior vena cava of a heart and maneuvered into a first chamber of the heart. A housing is pushed out of a sheath of the introducer toward a first implant location within the first chamber, and the housing is anchored to the first implant location. The sheath is moved away from the anchored housing, and an electrode is urged to a distal end of the sheath due to the pushing, anchoring, and moving. The sheath is maneuvered to a second chamber of the heart, and the electrode is forced into a second implant location with the second chamber. The electrode is anchored to the second implant location. The sheath is moved away from the electrode after the anchoring, and the sheath is removed from the heart. | 09-25-2014 |
20140288577 | Electrode Assembly for an Active Implantable Medical Device - An electrode assembly for an active implantable medical device can be delivered by catheter but expands to become a paddle electrode once implanted. The electrode assembly comprises a support member carrying wires for electrically connecting a control unit to electrodes of the electrode assembly. At least one, and usually two resilient deformable paddle wings are mounted to the support member. The paddle wings can be furled close to the support member under a deformation force to permit implantation via an introducer. The paddle wings resiliently unfurl away from the support member upon release of the deformation force. The paddle wings bear rows and columns of electrodes, and the electrode assembly as a whole has sufficient longitudinal rigidity for implantation via an introducer. | 09-25-2014 |
20140316429 | IMPEDANCE GUIDED TUNNELING TOOL - A system includes a first electrode at a tip of a tunneling tool and a second electrode. The system includes a circuit configured to determine whether the tip of the tunneling tool is within subcutaneous fat tissue or muscle tissue of a patient based on a measurement of an impedance between the first electrode and the second electrode. | 10-23-2014 |
20140324067 | SUBCUTANEOUS TUNNELING AND IMPLANTATION TOOLS FOR A DISK-SHAPED SENSOR - Tunneling and implantation tools that may be used to implant a sensor within a living animal. For example, the sensor may be implanted in subcutaneous tissue below the skin. The sensor may be disk-shaped and may be capable of being compressed (e.g., wrapped) in a more cylindrical shape. The sensor may or may not be able expand on its own (i.e., to force tissue apart to accommodate the sensor in its full disk-shape) after insertion into the living animal. The tunneling tool may have a flat and wide tip, a vibration device, arms attached to a rod at its tip, a spring in a hollow tube at the end of a rod, and/or oscillating teeth. The implantation tool may have jaws that clamp and then release the sensor and/or rods that insert into channels of the sensor and spread apart to assist in opening up a compressed sensor. | 10-30-2014 |
20140324068 | APPARATUS FOR SUBCUTANEOUS ELECTRODE INSERTION - Devices and methods for electrode implantation. A first embodiment includes an electrode insertion tool adapted to tunnel through tissue and attach, at its distal end, to a lead, such that the lead may be pulled into the tunneled space as the electrode insertion tool is removed. Additional embodiments include methods for inserting electrode/lead assemblies, including a method wherein an insertion tool is first used to tunnel through tissue, then to pull an electrode/lead into the tunneled space. In a further embodiment the insertion tool is next used, with a splittable sheath disposed thereon, to create an additional path into tissue, after which the insertion tool is removed, leaving the sheath in place; a lead is inserted to the sheath, and, finally, the splittable sheath is removed over the lead. | 10-30-2014 |
20140324069 | INTRODUCTION OF MEDICAL LEAD INTO PATIENT - Leads having distal electrodes may be used in application of test stimulation for purposes of implanting a lead having a fixation element distal to an electrode array. The fixation element is proximal the distal electrode. Accordingly, the distal electrode may be advanced beyond a distal end of an introducer while the fixation element may be retained in a retracted configuration by the introducer. If the test signals applied by the distal electrode indicate that the distal electrode is in the desired location of the patient, a series of markings on the lead may be used to facilitate placement of the electrode array at the location previously occupied by the distal electrode; i.e. the desired location of the patient. The electrodes of the electrode array may then be used to provide therapy to the patient. | 10-30-2014 |
20140330287 | DEVICES AND TECHNIQUES FOR ANCHORING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Anchoring mechanisms for an implantable electrical medical lead that is positioned within a substernal space are disclosed. The anchoring mechanisms fixedly-position a distal portion of the lead, that is implanted in the substernal space. | 11-06-2014 |
20140336667 | NERVE MODULATION METHODS - System and methods for channeling a path into bone include a trocar having a proximal end, distal end and a central channel disposed along a central axis of the trocar. The trocar includes a distal opening at the distal end of the trocar. The system includes a curved cannula sized to be received in the central channel, the curved cannula comprising a curved distal end configured to be extended outward from the distal opening to generate a curved path extending away from the trocar. The curved cannula has a central passageway having a diameter configured to allow a treatment device to be delivered through the central passageway to a location beyond the curved path. | 11-13-2014 |
20140336668 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FIXATING TRANSVENOUSLY IMPLANTED MEDICAL DEVICES - A transvenously implantable medical device (TIMD) includes an electrical lead and a control module. The electrical lead includes one or more electrodes and is adapted for transvenous implantation. The electrical lead is also pre-biased to expand from a collapsed state to an expanded state to mechanically engage an internal wall of a blood vessel. The control module is secured to and in electrical communication with the electrical lead. The control module includes a signal management component and a power component disposed in a housing adapted for implantation into the blood vessel. The control module is adapted for at least one of stimulating and sensing a physiologic response using the one or more electrodes of the electrical lead. | 11-13-2014 |
20140343564 | PADDLE LEADS FOR NEUROSTIMULATION AND METHOD OF DELIVERING THE SAME - Paddle lead including a lead body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a central axis extending therebetween. The lead body includes opposite first and second sides that extend between the distal and proximal ends. The paddle lead also includes electrodes disposed along the first side of the lead body that are configured to apply neurostimulation therapy within an epidural space of a patient. The electrodes are electrically coupled to conductive pathways that extend through the proximal end of the lead body. The lead body includes a flexible material a flexible material that is configured to flex when a fluid pressure is imposed on the lead body in the epidural space. The lead body is configured to have a non-planar contour that folds or curves about the central axis when experiencing the fluid pressure. | 11-20-2014 |
20140343565 | ELECTRICAL TREATMENT OF BRONCHIAL CONSTRICTION - Devices, systems and methods for treating bronchial constriction related to asthma, anaphylaxis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease wherein the treatment includes stimulating selected nerve fibers responsible for smooth muscle dilation at a selected region within a patient's neck, thereby reducing the magnitude of constriction of bronchial smooth muscle. | 11-20-2014 |
20140358160 | SYSTEM IMPLANTABLE INTO THE CORONARY VENOUS NETWORK FOR THE STIMULATION OF A CARDIAC LEFT CAVITY - This system includes a conductor microcable and an insulating microcatheter, including a hollow tube housing the microcable with the possibility of relative axial translation therebetween. The microcatheter is suitable for permanent implantation. The microcatheter, in its distal portion, includes at least one lateral window formed by a through orifice formed on the wall of the hollow tube. The window forms a stimulation site defined on the wall of the target vein facing the window of the microcatheter, and provides for a region of the microcable surface located at the window to form a stimulation electrode. In its distal portion, the microcable is not isolated at least in the region of the window of the microcatheter. The microcatheter is telescopically moveable on the microcable, so as to modify the position of the stimulation site of the target vein. | 12-04-2014 |
20140364869 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR STEERING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION LEADS WHILE COUPLED TO A PULSE GENERATOR - A control module for an electrical stimulation system includes a connector assembly coupled to a sealed housing. A lead-assembly port is defined along a first end of the connector assembly and extends into the connector assembly. The lead-assembly port is configured for receiving a lead assembly. Connector contacts are disposed in the lead-assembly port and are electrically-coupled to an electronic subassembly disposed in the sealed housing. The connector contacts are configured to electrically-couple to terminals of the lead assembly when the lead assembly is received by the lead-assembly port. A stylet port is defined along a second end of the connector assembly and extends into the interior of the connector assembly. The stylet port opens to the lead-assembly port within the interior of the connector assembly to form a continuous passageway with the lead-assembly port. | 12-11-2014 |
20140378991 | INTRACARDIAC CAPSULE AND AN IMPLANTATION ACCESSORY FOR USE WITH THE FEMORAL ARTERY - An assembly including an autonomous capsule having an anchoring member adapted to penetrate tissue of the heart and an accessory for implantation of the capsule. The accessory includes a steerable catheter with an inner lumen, having at its distal end a tubular protection tip defining a volume for housing the capsule. The accessory also includes a disconnectable attachment mechanism for supporting and guiding the capsule to an implantation site and a sub-catheter housed within the lumen of the steerable catheter, moveable in translation and in rotation relative to the steerable catheter. The sub-catheter and the capsule are movable between a refracted position and a position wherein the capsule is deployed out of the protection tip. The sub-catheter and the capsule are provided with a first fastening mechanism for fastening the two in translation and in mutual rotation, which is disconnectable under a rotation applied to the sub-catheter. | 12-25-2014 |
20140378992 | COUPLING SYSTEM BETWEEN A MEDICAL DEVICE AND ITS IMPLANTATION ACCESSORY - An assembly includes a medical device provided with an anchoring member adapted to penetrate tissue of a cavity of the heart. The assembly further includes an implantation accessory including an elongated tubular element provided with a fastening mechanism for handling and guiding the medical device to an implantation site. The fastening mechanism includes an elastic deformable component cooperating with a rigid component, that is able to disconnect the medical device from the tubular element under the effect of a rotation exerted to the tubular element. The elastic deformable component cooperates with the rigid component such that the elastic deformable component exerts on the latter a radial constriction effect, and the elastic component and the rigid component being disconnected under the combined effect of a torsion torque and a traction exerted to the elastic deformable component, to thereby reduce the radial constriction until release of the rigid component. | 12-25-2014 |
20140378993 | RIGID STIFFENER-REINFORCED FLEXIBLE NEURAL PROBES, AND METHODS OF FABRICATION USING WICKING CHANNEL-DISTRIBUTED ADHESIVES AND TISSUE INSERTION AND EXTRACTION - A stiffener-reinforced microelectrode array probe and fabrication method using wicking channel-distributed adhesives which temporarily adheres a flexible device onto a rigid stiffener for insertion and extraction. Assembly is by dispensing a liquid adhesive into a narrow open groove wicking channel formed on the stiffener so that the adhesive is wicked along and tills the channel by capillary action, and adhering the adhesive-filled bonding side of the elongated section of the rigid substrate to a flexible device. | 12-25-2014 |
20150018838 | FULLY IMPLANTABLE TRIAL NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM CONFIGURED FOR MINIMALLY-INTRUSIVE IMPLANT/EXPLANT - A fully implantable trial neurostimulation system for implant within a patient is provided that includes one or more leads equipped to deliver neurostimulation to patient tissues under the control of a trial neurostimulation control device designed as a capsule for removable implant within the patient. The control capsule is provided with minimal components to power and control the delivery of neurostimulation during a trial evaluation period and is shaped and configured to facilitate removal from the patient following completion of the trial period. In some examples, both the lead and the trial control capsule are removed from the patient following the trial period for replacement with a chronic or long-term neurostimulation system (assuming further neurostimulation is warranted.) In other examples, the lead remains within the patient and the trial control capsule is replaced with a long-term neurostimulation controller device. Various minimally-intrusive implantation procedures are also described. | 01-15-2015 |
20150018839 | TECHNIQUES FOR PLACING MEDICAL LEADS FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF NERVE TISSUE - This disclosure is directed to extra, intra, and transvascular medical lead placement techniques for arranging medical leads and electrical stimulation and/or sensing electrodes proximate nerve tissue within a patient. | 01-15-2015 |
20150025546 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COCHLEAR IMPLANT SURGERY - A system for cochlear implant surgery includes a reference device having at least a portion adapted to be arranged at a fixed position relative to a cochlea of a patient to provide a reference position, an image acquisition and processing system adapted to acquire an image of at least a portion of the cochlea relative to the reference position and to provide an implant plan based at least partially on the acquired image, and an implant system adapted for implanting a cochlear lead array using the reference position and the implant plan. | 01-22-2015 |
20150032123 | Cochlear Implant Electrode Insertion Bridge - An electrode guide bridge is used for inserting a cochlear implant electrode into a cochlea scala of a patient cochlea. An electrode holder encloses at least a portion of a cochlear implant electrode while allowing the electrode to slide freely without friction. A pointed distal tip of the electrode holder is sized to fit within a posterior tympanotomy during electrode insertion surgery and into an electrode opening in an outer surface of the patient cochlea without entering the cochlea scala to prevent an apical tip of the enclosed electrode from contacting tissues around the electrode opening during the insertion surgery. | 01-29-2015 |
20150032124 | Cochlear Implant Electrode Insertion Support Device - An electrode insertion support device is used for inserting a cochlear implant electrode into a cochlea scala of a patient cochlea. A stiff electrode holder encloses at least a portion of a cochlear implant electrode while allowing the electrode within to slide freely. A pointed distal tip of the electrode holder is adapted to pierce an electrode opening through an outer surface of the patient cochlea into the cochlea scala. The insertion support device prevents an apical tip of the enclosed electrode from contacting tissues around the electrode opening during the insertion surgery. | 01-29-2015 |
20150038978 | ADAPTER FOR CONNECTION TO PULSE GENERATOR - Embodiments of the present invention generally pertain to devices and methods for use in conjunction with implanting a baroreflex therapy system which includes an implantable pulse generator and associated circuitry contained within a hermetically sealed housing, an elongate flexible electrical lead connectable to the housing, and a monopolar electrode structure coupled with the electrical lead. More specifically, the devices and methods of the present invention allow for a mapping procedure to be conducted as part of the implant procedure prior to fully implanting the baroreflex therapy system. | 02-05-2015 |
20150038979 | LEADS WITH SEGMENTED ELECTRODES FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF PLANAR REGIONS AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING - One embodiment is a stimulation lead that includes a lead body having a longitudinal surface, a distal end, and a proximal end; and multiple electrodes disposed along the longitudinal surface of the lead body near the distal end of the lead body. The electrodes include multiple groups of segmented electrodes with each group of segmented electrodes having multiple segmented electrodes disposed at a same longitudinal position along the lead. For at least one first group of segmented electrodes, a first pair of the segmented electrodes in the first group are disposed on opposite sides of the lead body and are electrically ganged together by a conductor therebetween. | 02-05-2015 |
20150045810 | TRANSVASCULAR NERVE STIMULATION APPARATUS AND METHODS - The invention, in one aspect, relates to an intravascular electrode system. The system comprises one or more electrodes supported on an elongated resiliently flexible support member, and the support member may be used to introduce the electrodes into a blood vessel. As the support member is introduced into the blood vessel the support member bends to follow the path of the blood vessel. | 02-12-2015 |
20150045811 | DELIVERY CATHETER INCLUDING SIDE PORT AND ELECTRODES - A delivery catheter, including a catheter body, a side port, a first electrode, and a second electrode, is described. The catheter body may comprise a proximal end, a distal end, and a perimeter surface. The catheter body defines a delivery lumen extending longitudinally within the catheter body. The side port is defined in the perimeter surface of the catheter body proximate the distal end and in communication with the delivery lumen. The electrodes may be adjacent to and spaced from the side port. Techniques for using the delivery catheter to identify a desired lead implantation location, e.g., via the electrodes, and implant a medical lead or other implantable element at the desired location through the delivery lumen and side port are also described. | 02-12-2015 |
20150051609 | LEADLESS CARDIAC PACEMAKER AND RETRIEVAL DEVICE - A retrieval device and an associated implantable cardiac pacing device. The retrieval device includes a retrieval catheter and a snare advanceable from the distal end of the retrieval catheter. The snare has a loop configured to be coupled to the docking member to draw the implantable cardiac pacing device into the lumen of the retrieval catheter. The retrieval catheter includes a retention feature in the lumen configured to engage the head portion of the docking member to facilitate retention of the implantable cardiac pacing device in the lumen after drawing the implantable cardiac pacing device into the lumen of the retrieval catheter with the snare. | 02-19-2015 |
20150051610 | LEADLESS CARDIAC PACEMAKER AND RETRIEVAL DEVICE - A retrieval device and an associated implantable cardiac pacing device. The retrieval device includes a grasping mechanism configured to capture a docking member of the implantable cardiac pacing device to draw the implantable cardiac pacing device into the lumen of a retrieval catheter. The grasping mechanism is expandable from a first position to a second position and is biased toward the first position in an equilibrium condition. The grasping mechanism is configured to surround and pass over a head portion of the docking member in the second position, and be contracted toward the first position to capture the docking member with the grasping mechanism. | 02-19-2015 |
20150051611 | LEADLESS CARDIAC PACEMAKER WITH DELIVERY AND/OR RETRIEVAL FEATURES - An implantable leadless cardiac pacing device and associated delivery and retrieval devices. The implantable device includes a docking member extending from the proximal end of the housing of the implantable device configured to engage with the delivery and/or retrieval device to facilitate delivery and/or retrieval of the implantable leadless cardiac pacing device. | 02-19-2015 |
20150051612 | LEADLESS CARDIAC PACING DEVICES - Implantable leadless pacing devices and medical device systems including an implantable leadless pacing device are disclosed. An example implantable leadless pacing device may include a pacing capsule. The pacing capsule may include a housing. The housing may have a proximal region and a distal region. A first electrode may be disposed along the distal region. An anchoring member may be coupled to the distal region. One or more anti-rotation members may be fixedly attached to the distal region. | 02-19-2015 |
20150051613 | DELIVERY DEVICES AND METHODS FOR LEADLESS CARDIAC DEVICES - Delivery devices, systems, and methods for delivering an implantable leadless pacing device having an outer peripheral surface are disclosed. An example delivery device may include a proximal section including a distal end, and a distal holding section extending distally of a distal end of the proximal section. The distal holding section defines a cavity therein for receiving the implantable leadless pacing device, and may be configured to apply a holding force to the implantable leadless pacing device. In some cases, the distal holding section may be configured to apply a compressive force to the outer peripheral surface of the leadless pacing device when the leadless pacing device is disposed in the cavity. | 02-19-2015 |
20150051614 | LEADLESS CARDIAC PACING DEVICES - Implantable leadless pacing devices and medical device systems including an implantable leadless pacing device are disclosed. An example implantable leadless pacing device may include a pacing capsule. The pacing capsule may include a housing. The housing may have a proximal region and a distal region. A first electrode may be disposed along the distal region. An anchoring member may be coupled to the distal region. One or more anti-rotation members may be fixedly attached to the distal region. | 02-19-2015 |
20150051615 | DELIVERY DEVICES AND METHODS FOR LEADLESS CARDIAC DEVICES - Delivery devices, systems, and methods for delivering implantable leadless pacing devices are disclosed. An example delivery device may include a proximal section including a deflection mechanism for deflecting the proximal section, and a distal holding section extending distally of a distal end of the proximal section and defining a cavity therein for receiving an implantable leadless pacing device. The delivery device may include more than one deflection mechanism for deflecting the proximal section at multiple deflection regions. The delivery device may include more than one tubular member that are translatable relative to one another, and the one or more tubular members may include fixed curve portions. The delivery device may include an atraumatic or bumper tip at the distal end of the holding section. | 02-19-2015 |
20150051616 | LEADLESS CARDIAC PACING DEVICES - Implantable leadless pacing devices and medical device systems including an implantable leadless pacing device are disclosed. An example implantable leadless pacing device may include a pacing capsule. The pacing capsule may include a housing. The housing may have a proximal region and a distal region. A first electrode may be disposed along the distal region. One or more anchoring members may be coupled to the distal region. The anchoring members may each include a region with a compound curve. | 02-19-2015 |
20150057671 | ENHANCED OUTER SHEATH FOR EXTRACTION DEVICE - A device for extracting an elongated implanted structure from an obstruction within a vessel of a patient includes an inner sheath assembly and an outer sheath assembly. The inner sheath assembly includes an inner sheath and a tip, each having a passageway therethrough for receiving the implanted structure. The tip is configured for cutting and/or disrupting the implanted structure from the obstruction. The outer sheath assembly includes an outer sheath and a tip, each having a passageway therethrough for receiving the inner sheath assembly. The outer surface of this tip includes a plurality of raised elements circumferentially disposed therealong. The raised elements are configured for stabilizing the tissue of the vessel as the device is advanced through the vessel. | 02-26-2015 |
20150057672 | EXTRACTOR FOR REMOVING A LEAD FROM A PATIENT - An extractor for removing an implanted lead from a patient, the extractor comprising a proximal portion, a distal portion, a lumen dimensioned to receive the lead therein, a cutter at the distal portion for cutting tissue adjacent the implanted lead, and a first clamping member movable between a clamping position to clamp the lead and an unclamping position to unclamp the lead. The extractor and lead are relatively movable to remove the lead. | 02-26-2015 |
20150057673 | PROBE INSERTION DEVICE FOR IMPLANTING A PROBE INTO TISSUE - A probe insertion device for implanting a probe into tissue includes a rigid base that selectively attaches to the probe due to a bond between the base and the probe, that provides a structural backbone to the probe, is longitudinally aligned with the probe, and can be adapted to receive a fluid between the base and the probe. The probe insertion device can include a surface covering at least a portion of the base that reduces the bond between the base and the probe in the presence of the fluid. | 02-26-2015 |
20150057674 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF MULTIPLE DORSAL ROOT GANGLIA WITH A SINGLE LEAD - A method for implanting an electrical stimulation lead into a patient includes advancing a distal end of a multi-armed lead into an epidural space of the patient. The multi-armed lead includes first and second stimulation arms extending from a main body portion. The first stimulation arm is guided into and through a first intervertebral foramen. The first stimulation arm is positioned in proximity to a first dorsal root ganglion. The first stimulation arm is positioned with electrodes disposed along the first stimulation arm in operational proximity to the first dorsal root ganglion. The second stimulation arm is guided into and through a second intervertebral foramen. The second stimulation arm is positioned in proximity to a second dorsal root ganglion. The second stimulation arm is positioned with electrodes disposed along the second stimulation arm in operational proximity to the second dorsal root ganglion. | 02-26-2015 |
20150073431 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING A LEAD INTRODUCER FOR AN IMPLANTABLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM - A lead introducer includes an outer needle with a sharpened distal tip and an open channel extending along an entire length of the outer needle. An inner needle slides along the open channel of the outer needle. The inner needle includes a blunt distal tip. A biasing element is coupled to the inner needle and facilitates transition of the inner-needle distal tip between a distally-biased position, where the inner-needle distal tip obstructs the sharpened outer-needle distal tip, and a retracted position, where the inner-needle distal tip exposes the sharpened outer-needle distal tip. A splittable member is disposable over the outer needle when the inner needle is disposed in the open channel of the outer needle. The splittable member is separatable from the inner and outer needles along at least one perforated region. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073432 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING A LEAD INTRODUCER FOR AN IMPLANTABLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM - A lead introducer includes an outer needle with an outer-needle body. The outer-needle body includes a bend of at least 5° permanently formed along a distal end portion of the outer-needle body. The bend facilitates insertion of the lead introducer into an epidural space of a patient. The outer-needle body defines an open channel extending, along an entire length of the outer-needle body. An inner needle is slidable along the open channel of the outer needle. The inner needle includes an inner-needle body that defines a lumen extending along an entire length of the inner-needle body. A splittable member is disposable over the outer needle when the inner needle is disposed in the open channel of the outer needle. The splittable member is separatable from the inner and outer needles along at least one perforated region. | 03-12-2015 |
20150080906 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable medical device intended for stimulation of excitable tissue where the electrode is adapted for achieving a better anchoring in human or animal tissue. The effect is achieved by applying micropatterns with a certain structure to specific parts of the implantable device. These microstructures facilitate a fast ingrowth of the device into adipose tissue. | 03-19-2015 |
20150088155 | MECHANICAL CONFIGURATIONS FOR A MULTI-SITE LEADLESS PACEMAKER - Devices or methods such as for stimulating excitable tissue or sensing physiologic response or other signals are described. An implantable apparatus can comprise an electrostimulation electrode assembly that can include an electrostimulation unit, at least first and second electrodes, and a fixation guide. The electrostimulation unit can generate electrostimulation for stimulating excitable tissue to achieve desired diagnostic or therapeutic effects. The first and second electrodes, coupled to the electrostimulation unit, can deliver the electrostimulation to two or more stimulation sites such as inside two or more heart chambers or on the surface of the heart. The fixation guide can engage and retain a maneuvering device used for steerably positioning and securing the first and second electrostimulation electrodes at respective stimulation site. | 03-26-2015 |
20150088156 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF DRY EYE - A stimulation system stimulates anatomical targets in a patient for treatment of dry eye. The system may include a controller and a microstimulator. The controller may be implemented externally to or internally within the microstimulator. The components of the controller and microstimulator may be implemented in a single unit or in separate devices. When implemented separately, the controller and microstimulator may communicate wirelessly or via a wired connection. The microstimulator may generate pulses from a controller signal and apply the signal via one or more electrodes to an anatomical target. The microstimulator may not have any intelligence or logic to shape or modify a signal. The microstimulator may be a passive device configured to generate a pulse based on a signal received from the controller. The microstimulator may shape or modify a signal. Waveforms having different frequency, amplitude and period characteristics may stimulate different anatomical targets in a patient. | 03-26-2015 |
20150088157 | PERCUTANEOUS FLAT LEAD INTRODUCER - In general, the invention is directed to a technique for percutaneously introducing a stimulation lead into a target stimulation site via the epidural region proximate the spine of a patient. The process of introducing the stimulation lead may include the use of a hollow stimulation lead introducer, which comprises an elongated sheath and an elongated dilator. The dilator fits within the sheath and serves to widen a path through the epidural region for the introduction of a stimulation lead. At least a portion of the stimulation lead introducer has an oblong cross-section, allowing passage of stimulation leads such as paddle leads. The stimulation lead introducer may enter the epidural region proximate a spine of a patient via a guidewire. The stimulation lead introducer provides a path through the epidural region of a patient to a target stimulation site. A stimulation lead may travel through the path to reach the target stimulation site where it may provide therapy to the patient. | 03-26-2015 |
20150094734 | ELECTRODE ARRAY AND DEPLOYMENT ASSEMBLY INCLUDING AN ELECTRODE ARRAY THAT IS FOLDED INTO A CANNULA THAT IS NARROWER IN WIDTH THAN THE ARRAY - An electrode array assembly with a frame that is foldable or bendable on which electrodes are disposed. The frame includes laterally spaced apart bridges. Tabs extend laterally outwardly from the bridges Electrodes are disposed on the tabs. Beams, also part of the frame, extend between the laterally adjacent bridges. The frame can be folded around the beams so as to cause the laterally spaced bridges to at least partially overlap. When the beams are so bent, the electrode array can be disposed in an access cannula that has a diameter less than the width of the unfolded array. | 04-02-2015 |
20150094735 | TOOLS AND ASSEMBLIES THEREOF FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A tool has an outer assembly, which includes a deployment tube, extending around, and moveable with respect to an inner assembly of the tool; the inner assembly includes a single pull wire and a distal member configured to engage an end of an implantable medical device. The deployment tube includes an articulating segment located just proximal to an enlarged distal-most portion, which contains the device and the distal member. Relatively soft and stiff sections of a composite sidewall define the articulating segment and extend alongside one another, such that, when the pull wire is actuated, the composite sidewall causes bending of the segment in two directions. A handle assembly of the tool includes a control member for the pull wire, and may further include a flushing subassembly that has a connector port located at an end of the handle assembly that is opposite a proximal port of the handle. | 04-02-2015 |
20150100064 | Device For Immobilizing A Primary Instrument And Method Therefor - Devices and methods provide accurate targeting, placement, and/or stabilization of an electrode or other instrument(s) into the brain or other body organ, such as to treat severe tremor or other neurological disorders. Targeting is performed using any form of image-guidance, including real-time MRI, CT, or frameless surgical navigation systems. | 04-09-2015 |
20150105793 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR SUBCUTANEOUS LEAD IMPLANTATION - Devices and implantation methods utilizing subcutaneous placement into a patient are disclosed for the insertion, advancement and positioning of a subcutaneous implantable medical device (SIMD) such as a medical electrical lead. The SIMD is releasably-engaged with a device in accordance with embodiments of this disclosure, and advanced from an incision of the patient to an implant location. The implantation device may be disengaged from the SIMD without moving the SIMD from the implant location. | 04-16-2015 |
20150105794 | Electrode for Common Cavity Cochlear Malformation - A method is described to implant a cochlear implant electrode into a cochlea having a single internal cavity defined by an outer cavity wall. An implantable electrode array is made of a resilient electrode carrier material and has an outer surface with one or more stimulation contacts for delivering the electrical stimulation signals to adjacent neural tissue. A distal end of the electrode array is attached to an insertion line made of a line material different from the electrode carrier material. The distal end of the electrode array is inserted through a single cochleostomy opening into the cochlea while an extra-cochlear end of the insertion line is held outside the cochleostomy opening. The remainder of the electrode array is inserted through the cochleostomy opening into the cochlea while continuing to hold the extra-cochlear end outside the cochlea to maneuver all of the stimulation contacts against the outer cavity wall. | 04-16-2015 |
20150105795 | Deployable and Multi-Sectional Hearing Implant Electrode - An implantable electrode is described for a cochlear implant patient with a malformed common cavity cochlea having a single internal cavity defined by an outer cavity wall or patients having an incomplete partition or conventional spiral-shaped cochlea. An intra-cochlear electrode array is configured to be inserted into the cochlea through a single cochleostomy opening. Outer array branches are closable about a center axis and the electrode array is configured to be closed into a single tube including the array branches for insertion through the single cochleostomy opening into the internal chamber of the cochlea. The electrode array opens within the internal cavity after insertion into the cochlea so that the array branches move away from the center axis to lie with their outer surfaces against the outer cavity wall to deliver the electrical stimulation signals through the stimulation contacts to adjacent neural tissue for auditory perception by the patient. | 04-16-2015 |
20150105796 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT INCLUDING AN INWARDLY DEFLECTING CUTTING TIP FOR REMOVING AN IMPLANTED OBJECT - A device for removing an implanted object from a body vessel includes an actuator having an elongated sheath extending therefrom, the elongated sheath including a proximal portion and a distal portion. A tubular outer member has a proximal end attached to the distal portion of the elongated sheath, with a ramped surface at a distal end of the tubular outer member which constricts a diameter of a bore formed in the tubular outer member. A tubular inner member is located within the tubular outer member, the tubular inner member including a proximal end operably connected to the actuator and a distal end opposite the proximal end, the distal end of the tubular inner member including a plurality of resiliently flexible blades positioned to interact with the ramped surface of the tubular outer member such that the ramped surface is operable to deflect the resiliently flexible blades radially inwardly as the tubular inner member is advanced distally within the tubular outer member. | 04-16-2015 |
20150112359 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF THE CAROTID ARTERY - In order to treat hypertension, an implantable receiving device is connected to implantable leads which are adapted to deliver electrical energy to the carotid body or bodies of the patient. The receiving device is arranged to receive electoral energy from an external generator. The device thus enables the delivery of electrical currents which modify the function of neural tissue, particularly where repeated treatments are needed or where positioning of a percutaneous needle is difficult. | 04-23-2015 |
20150112360 | OMNIDIRECTIONAL DEPLOYABLE MULTICHANNEL NEURAL ELECTRODE SYSTEM - A neural probe system having a single guide tube that is inserted into neural tissue and from which a number of neural probes can be deployed is described. Each probe is deployable into tissue along a desired trajectory. This is done by supporting the electrode array on a spring tape-type carrier that maintains axial stiffness once the neural probe has deployed out a channel in the guide tube. That way, a target neural tissue is bounded by an increased number of neural probes while minimizing trauma to surrounding body tissue. | 04-23-2015 |
20150112361 | DELIVERY CATHETER SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A delivery system for implanting a leadless cardiac pacemaker into a patient is provided. The cardiac pacemaker can include a docking or delivery feature having a through-hole disposed on or near a proximal end of the pacemaker for attachment to the delivery system. In some embodiments, the delivery catheter can include first and second tethers configured to engage the delivery feature of the pacemaker. The tethers, when partially aligned, can have a cross-sectional diameter larger than the through-hole of the delivery feature, and when un-aligned, can have a cross-sectional diameter smaller than the through-hole of the delivery feature. Methods of delivering the leadless cardiac pacemaker with the delivery system are also provided. | 04-23-2015 |
20150119897 | VIBRATING INSERTION TOOL - Systems and methods are disclosed for insertion of implantable medical devices, and more particularly to insertion of implantable devices with a vibrating insertion tool. More specifically, a vibrating insertion tool is described, the insertion tool comprising an insertion tool controllable by a user to support and guide movement of an object, the insertion tool comprising an elongate arm having a proximal end region and a distal end region, the distal end region having a receiving region, a user-controllable vibration source for generating vibrations in accordance with a selected vibration profile, and an elongate rigid spine, connected to the vibration source and the receiving region, configured to deliver the vibrations to the receiving region. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119898 | SUBCUTANEOUS ELECTRODES FOR CRANIAL NERVE STIMULATION - An implantable subcutaneous electrode system is disclosed. A minimally invasive delivery device and methods for delivery of an implantable electrode system is also provided. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119899 | RETRACTABLE SEPARATING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A method for detaching an object from a patient includes providing a tool having a sheath, and a separating assembly operably coupled to a distal end of the sheath. The separating assembly includes a separator moveably coupled to a tip via a threadable connection. The separating assembly is placed near patient tissue that is attached to the object, the sheath is rotated to move the separator distal to the tip, and the separator is applied to the patient tissue that is attached to the object, so as to separate the tissue. A separating system includes a sheath, and a separator threadably coupled with a distal end of the sheath. The separator is adapted to switch between a first configuration where a separating means is deployed, and a second configuration where the separating means is undeployed. | 04-30-2015 |
20150133951 | OPEN CHANNEL IMPLANT TOOLS HAVING AN ATTACHMENT FEATURE AND IMPLANT TECHNIQUES UTILIZING SUCH TOOLS - Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in extravascular locations, including subcutaneous locations. An implant tool for implanting a medical lead may include a shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, an open channel that extends from near the proximal end to the distal end, and an attachment feature configured to couple to the medical lead. Such an implant tool provides a user with the versatility to use the same implant tool to either pull the lead through a tunnel formed via the implant tool or push the lead through the tunnel via the open channel in the implant tool. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133952 | OPEN CHANNEL IMPLANT TOOLS AND IMPLANT TECHNIQUES UTILIZING SUCH TOOLS - Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in extravascular locations, including subcutaneous locations. An implant tool for implanting a medical lead may include a handle and a shaft adjacent the handle. The shaft has a proximal end, a distal end, and an open channel that extends from near the proximal end to the distal end, the open channel having a width that is greater than or equal to an outer diameter of the implantable medical lead. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133953 | EXTRAVASCULAR IMPLANT TOOLS WITH OPEN SHEATH AND IMPLANT TECHNIQUES UTILIZING SUCH TOOLS - Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other implantable component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in extravascular locations, including subcutaneous locations. An example implant tool for implanting a medical lead includes a rod having a handle and a shaft, and a sheath configured to be placed on the shaft of the rod. The sheath includes a body having proximal end and a distal, a channel formed by the body, the channel extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the body, and an opening that extends along the body of the sheath from the proximal end to the distal end, wherein the channel is accessible via the opening. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133954 | IMPLANT TOOLS WITH ATTACHMENT FEATURE AND MULTI-POSITIONAL SHEATH AND IMPLANT TECHNIQUES UTILIZING SUCH TOOLS - Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other implantable component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in extravascular locations, including subcutaneous locations. An example implant tool for implanting a medical lead includes a rod and a sheath configured to be placed on the rod. The rod includes a handle, a shaft having a proximal end adjacent to the handle and a distal end, and an attachment feature toward the distal end of the shaft, the attachment feature configured to couple to the medical lead. The sheath is configured to be placed in multiple positions along the rod including a first position in which the sheath does not interact with the attachment feature and second position in which the sheath does interact with the attachment feature. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133955 | MEDICAL LEADS HAVING A DISTAL BODY AND AN OPENLY COILED FILAR - Medical leads have one or more openly coiled filars and a distal body coupled to the openly coiled filars. The openly coiled filars provide a lead with compliance and elasticity while the distal body provides the firmness needed for placement and support of the electrodes. The openly coiled filars may transition to a linear distal portion that extends to the distal body, and the distal body may have proximal tines that fold proximally to become adjacent to the linear distal portion of the filars. The openly coiled filars may instead extend to the distal body and the proximal tines may be laterally arced to then fold against the lateral surface of the coiled filars. The tines may fold distally during explantation to allow the distal body to release and exit the body. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133956 | IMPLANT AND DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR NEURAL STIMULATOR - Apparatus is described, the apparatus including an oral surgical guide. The oral surgical guide includes an arch portion configured to be placed on a dental arch of a subject; and an extension portion extending from the arch portion, and shaped to define a guide hole. Other applications are also described. | 05-14-2015 |
20150142010 | NEUROSTIMULATION LEADS HAVING TWO-DIMENSIONAL ARRAYS - A neurostimulation lead including an elongated lead body having a distal end and a proximal base. The lead body may have an elastic property such that the lead body is capable of flexing between different geometries. The lead may also include electrodes positioned along the lead body. The lead body may be configured to be straightened into a substantially linear geometry for delivering the lead body into an epidural space and may be biased such that the lead body is configured to have a wave-like geometry when disposed within the epidural space. The lead body may form first and second lateral segments that are joined by a corresponding linking portion when in the wave-like geometry. | 05-21-2015 |
20150142011 | IMPLANT TOOL AND IMPROVED ELECTRODE DESIGN FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE PROCEDURE - Devices and methods of use for introduction and implantation of an electrode as part of a minimally invasive technique. An implantable baroreflex activation system includes a control system having an implantable housing, an electrical lead, attachable to the control system, and an electrode structure. The electrode structure is near one end of the electrical lead, and includes a monopolar electrode, a backing material having an effective surface area larger than the electrode, and a releasable pivotable interface to mate with an implant tool. The electrode is configured for implantation on an outer surface of a blood vessel and the control system is programmed to deliver a baroreflex therapy via the monopolar electrode to a baroreceptor within a wall of the blood vessel. | 05-21-2015 |
20150148815 | DELIVERY SYSTEM ASSEMBLIES AND ASSOCIATED METHODS FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A delivery system assembly includes an outer tube, an inner member, extending within a lumen of the outer tube, and a deflectable shaft, extending within the outer tube lumen and around the inner member; the tube and inner member are longitudinally moveable with respect to the shaft, and a distal end of the inner member is located distal to the shaft within the tube lumen. A medical device can be loaded into the tube lumen, along a distal-most portion of the tube, and contained between the inner member and a distal opening of the tube lumen. Deflecting the shaft orients the distal-most portion for navigation of the assembly, and, when the distal end of the inner member is engaged within the tube lumen, distal movement of the tube, with respect to the shaft, causes similar distal movement of the inner member and the loaded medical device toward an implant site. | 05-28-2015 |
20150297885 | Implantable Electrical Stimulation Leads - Implantable electrical stimulation leads for the treatment of biological conditions include a lead body with an electrical connector at one end and multiple in-line electrodes at the other end. The lead body has a length ranging from 350 mm to 630 mm to allow for implantation from an incision site further removed from the final positioning site of the electrodes. One lead has a suture loop extending from the most distal electrode for pulling the lead through the working channel of an endoscope. Another lead has a length of suture with a free end attached to the most distal electrode. Yet another lead has a length of suture attached to the most distal electrode at one end and a needle at the other end. The needle has a curve designed to facilitate maneuvering in confined anatomy. The lead having the needle is designed to be implanted laparoscopically. | 10-22-2015 |
20150328453 | INTRATHORACIC PACEMAKER - The present invention provides a fully intrathoracic artificial pacemaker. The pacemaker is of sufficiently compact size to allow for implantation of both the electrode and the power source within the chest cavity. In exemplary embodiments, a screw-type electrode is used for connection to heart tissue, and a relatively short lead is used to connect the electrode to a battery unit, which can comprise electronics for control of the pacemaker. An assembly for implanting the pacemaker, as well as methods of implanting the pacemaker, are disclosed. In embodiments, the device is designed as a fetal pacemaker. | 11-19-2015 |
20150335878 | ALIGNMENT WRAP - Embodiments relate to an alignment device and method. The alignment device includes a wrap and an injection device for proper alignment and insertion of a metal device. | 11-26-2015 |
20150335882 | DELIVERY OF IMPLANTABLE NEUROSTIMULATORS - Apparatus is provided, comprising an implant-storage member ( | 11-26-2015 |
20150335884 | PACEMAKER RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A catheter system for retrieving a leadless cardiac pacemaker from a patient is provided. The cardiac pacemaker can include a docking or retrieval feature configured to be grasped by the catheter system. In some embodiments, the retrieval catheter can include a snare configured to engage the retrieval feature of the pacemaker. The retrieval catheter can include a torque shaft selectively connectable to a docking cap and be configured to apply rotational torque to a pacemaker to be retrieved. Methods of delivering the leadless cardiac pacemaker with the delivery system are also provided. | 11-26-2015 |
20150342627 | OVER-THE-WIRE DELIVERY OF A SUBSTERNAL LEAD - A method for implanting a medical lead. The method includes advancing a tunneling tool posteriorly proximate the caudal end of the sternum toward a first location. The tunneling tool is advanced superiorly underneath the sternum through the anterior mediastinum from the first location to a second location cranial to the first location. A guidewire is advanced from the first location to the second location. A medical lead is slid along at least a portion of the guidewire, the medical lead at least substantially spanning the distance between the first location and the second location. | 12-03-2015 |
20150343176 | IMPLANT TOOL FOR SUBSTERNAL OR PERICARDIAL ACCESS - A medical device and medical method. The medical device includes a flexible elongate body defining a proximal end and a distal end. The elongate body defines a first lumen spanning from the proximal end to a location proximal to the distal end. A shaping member insertable within the first lumen is included, the shaping member is configured to retain a manipulated shape when the flexible elongate body is manipulated from a first configuration to a second configuration. A tip is coupled to the distal end. | 12-03-2015 |
20150343197 | TUNNELING TOOL - A method and device for implanting a medical lead. The device includes an elongate shaft defining a major longitudinal axis and including a proximal end and a distal end. A necked portion coupled to and extending from the distal end is included, the necked portion defines a first thickness and a substantially planar surface, the necked portion being at least resiliently movable in a direction normal to the major longitudinal axis. A tip disposed at the distal end of the necked portion is included, the tip defining a second thickness greater than the first thickness | 12-03-2015 |
20150343201 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR POSITIONING AN ELECTRODE IN TISSUE - A device for positioning an electrode in tissue includes: a lead body having a distal portion; an electrode array coupled to the lead distal portion; an anchoring element having an anchor tip and being operable in a first configuration in which the anchor tip is retracted within the lead and in a second configuration in which the anchor tip is extended outside the lead and configured to fixate within the tissue; and a displacement mechanism that is actuated to bias the electrode array or the anchoring element toward the tissue. A method for positioning an electrode in tissue includes: navigating, to the tissue, a lead with an electrode array, an anchoring element with a distal anchor tip, and a displacement mechanism; biasing the electrode array and anchoring element towards the tissue with the displacement mechanism; and deploying the anchoring element, and verifying fixation of the anchor tip within the tissue. | 12-03-2015 |
20150343228 | INJECTABLE SUBCUTANEOUS STRING HEART DEVICE - Injectable subcutaneous heart device (ISHD) for regulating arrhythmias in a heart of a patient, including a plurality of linked structures, each one of the linked structures being hollow, an interconnecting bus, a biocompatible coating, at least two electrodes and a plurality of sensors, the interconnecting bus for electrically coupling the linked structures and the biocompatible coating for hermetically sealing and electrically insulating the linked structures, one of the linked structures encapsulating a power source, another one of the linked structures encapsulating at least one capacitor and a third one of the linked structures encapsulating electronics, the electrodes and the sensors being respectively placed on an outer surface of the linked structures located at opposite ends of the ISH D, for detecting arrhythmias and providing electrical shocks to the heart, the electrodes and the sensors being electrically coupled with the interconnecting bus and the ISHD being positioned subcutaneously around the heart. | 12-03-2015 |
20150352351 | Delivery System for an Implantable Medical Device - A delivery tool for an implantable medical device to be introduced into a human or animal body, in particular, an implantable leadless pacemaker, the delivery tool having an outer sheath and an inner sheath, wherein the inner sheath is configured to be retractable into a lumen of the outer sheath, wherein a distal side of the inner sheath is configured to provide regions which are reversibly collapsible and non-collapsible in diameter, wherein a non-collapsible region is arranged at the distal end of the inner sheath. A system including a delivery tool and an implantable medical device is also provided. | 12-10-2015 |
20150367123 | EXTRACTOR FOR REMOVING A LEAD FROM A PATIENT - An extractor for removing an implanted lead from a patient. The extractor includes a lumen dimensioned to receive the lead therein, a cutter at the distal portion for cutting tissue adjacent the lead, a distal clamping structure and a proximal clamping structure The proximal clamping structure and lead are relatively movable to extract the lead. | 12-24-2015 |
20160001063 | DELIVERY CATHETER APPARATUS AND METHODS - A catheter has a shaft that defines a delivery lumen, for example, to deliver an elongate medical device therethrough; a proximal section of the catheter includes a seal zone portion, a handle portion and a proximal port portion. A relatively thin wall section of the proximal port portion extends between the seal zone portion and a proximal edge that defines part of a perimeter of a proximal opening of the delivery lumen. The handle portion projects laterally from the seal zone portion, generally opposite the relatively thin wall section. An inflation subassembly of the catheter includes a compliant sleeve member and an inflation lumen extending from the sleeve member, proximally along the shaft, and into a connector port formed in the handle portion. The inflation lumen may be formed by fusing a section of a tube to the shaft and molding the handle portion around another section of the tube. | 01-07-2016 |
20160008593 | PERIPHERAL NERVE FIELD STIMULATOR CURVED SUBCUTANEOUS INTRODUCER NEEDLE WITH WING ATTACHMENT SPECIFICATION | 01-14-2016 |
20160015963 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT FOR REMOVING AN IMPLANTED OBJECT - Methods and devices for separating an implanted object, such as a pacemaker lead, from tissue surrounding such object in a patient's vasculature system. Specifically, the tissue separating device includes a handle, an elongate sheath and a circular cutting blade that may extend from the distal end of the sheath upon actuating the handle. The elongate sheath, particularly its distal end, includes a non-uniform wall thickness having one or more thicker portions in the outer sheath, particularly the outer cam member, and/or one or more thicker portions in an inner member disposed radially inward of the blade. | 01-21-2016 |
20160015968 | INTERVENTIONAL MEDICAL SYSTEMS, TOOLS, AND METHODS OF USE - Delivery tools of interventional medical systems facilitate deployment of relatively compact implantable medical devices that include extensions, for example, cardiac pacing devices that include an extension for atrial sensing, wherein an entirety of the device is contained within the delivery tool while a distal-most portion of the tool is navigated to a target implant site. Once at the implant site, a device fixation member may be exposed out from a distal opening of the tool, for initial deployment, while the extension remains contained within the delivery tool. The tool includes a grasping mechanism, operable, within and without a lumen of the tool, to alternately grip and release the device extension, for example, to position a distal end of the extension after the tool has been withdrawn from over an entirety of the initially deployed device. | 01-21-2016 |
20160015983 | INTERVENTIONAL MEDICAL SYSTEMS, TOOLS, AND METHODS OF USE - Delivery tools of interventional medical systems facilitate deployment of relatively compact implantable medical devices that include sensing extensions, for example, right ventricular cardiac pacing devices that include a sensing extension for atrial sensing. An entirety of such a device is contained within a delivery tool while a distal-most portion of the tool is navigated to a target implant site; the tool is configured to expose, out from a distal opening thereof, a distal portion of the device for initial deployment, after which sensing, via a sense electrode of the aforementioned sensing extension of the device, can be evaluated without withdrawing the tool from over the remainder of the device that includes the sensing extension. | 01-21-2016 |
20160015988 | TREATING INFLAMMATION, CHRONIC PAIN AND OTHER DISORDERS WITH NEUROMODULATION - Some implementations provide a method of treating chronic pain or inflammation with neural modulation, the method including: placing a surgical instrument to reach into a torso section of a patient's body, the patient suffering from chronic pain or inflammation in a primary area in the torso section; placing a wireless device into an opening on the surgical instrument, the wireless device suitable to fit into the opening and configured to receive electromagnetic energy non-inductively from a source located outside the patient's body; through the opening on the surgical instrument, positioning the wireless electrode lead adjacent to or near excitable tissue in the primary area in the torso section of the patient; and causing electrical pulses to be delivered to one or more electrodes on the wireless device such that neural modulation is applied to the excitable tissue in the primary area in the torso section. | 01-21-2016 |
20160022302 | LEAD EXTRACTION METHODS AND APPARATUS - According to one aspect, a device for assisting in removing an implanted lead is provided. The device comprises a body portion having a center adapted to accommodate the lead, a cutting component coupled to the body portion to assist in separating tissue from the lead, and at least one anchoring component disposed at least partially within the body portion, the at least one anchoring component capable of providing pressure on the lead that resists movement of at least part of the body portion along the lead at least in part by applying fluid pressure. | 01-28-2016 |
20160022303 | LEAD REMOVAL SLEEVE - Methods and systems for removing an object, such as a lead, from formed tissue are provided. Specifically, a lead removal sleeve is configured to engage patient formed tissue at a dilation engagement point. The lead removal sleeve is configured to dilate the formed tissue around a lead, while providing an inner lumen with clearance for the lead to move within the sleeve. It is an object of the lead removal sleeve to support the formed tissue, and even forces of the formed tissue, with a structure of the sleeve as the lead is removed from a patient. The methods and systems are well suited for use in cardiac pacing or defibrillator lead explant procedures. | 01-28-2016 |
20160051810 | IMPLANT WITH FIXING DEVICE AND INSERTION APPARATUS FOR IMPLANT - Embodiments include a medical implant including a fixing device with at least one fixing element to fix the implant at a site of implantation ( | 02-25-2016 |
20160059002 | INTERVENTIONAL MEDICAL SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND COMPONENTS THEREOF - A fixation member component, for example, employed by a relatively compact implantable medical device, includes a plurality of fingers; each finger includes a first segment extending from a fixed end of the corresponding finger, and a second segment extending from the corresponding first segment to a free end of the corresponding finger. Each first segment is elastically deformable from a relaxed to an extended condition, and from the relaxed to a compressed condition, and includes a peripheral portion and a central cut-out portion, framed by the peripheral portion. In the compressed condition, a free tip of the cut-out portion of some or all of the fingers may lodge against opposing tissue surfaces, via a spring force of the compressed fingers. Each second segment and cut-out portion is preferably configured to prevent penetration thereof within tissue at the implant site. | 03-03-2016 |
20160059003 | INTERVENTIONAL MEDICAL SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS OF USE - A relatively compact implantable medical device includes a fixation member formed by a plurality of fingers mounted around a perimeter of a distal end of a housing of the device; each finger is elastically deformable from a relaxed condition to an extended condition, to accommodate delivery of the device to a target implant site, and from the relaxed condition to a compressed condition, to accommodate wedging of the fingers between opposing tissue surfaces at the target implant site, wherein the compressed fingers hold a cardiac pacing electrode of the device in intimate tissue contact for the delivery of pacing stimulation to the site. Each fixation finger is preferably configured to prevent penetration thereof within the tissue when the fingers are compressed and wedged between the opposing tissue surfaces. The pacing electrode may be mounted on a pacing extension, which extends distally from the distal end of the device housing. | 03-03-2016 |
20160067446 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING A MEDICAL DEVICE - In at least one embodiment, a system and method for implanting an implantable medical device (IMD) within a patient may include an IMD including a housing and an attachment member, and a delivery catheter including a tethering snare that is configured to be selectively extended out of the delivery catheter and retracted into the delivery catheter. In at least one embodiment, a system and method for implanting an implantable medical device (IMD) within a patient may include an IMD including a housing and an attachment member, wherein the attachment member includes a central passage connected to a connection chamber, and a delivery catheter including first and second tethers that may be moved outwardly from and retracted into the delivery catheter. | 03-10-2016 |
20160067447 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING RESTRAINED TETHER DEVICE - A system for implanting an implantable medical device (IMD) within a patient may include an IMD including an attachment member, and a delivery catheter including at least one tethering device having at least a portion positioned within a restrainer. The tethering device(s) is configured to removably tether to the attachment member of the IMD. The restrainer is configured to maintain the tethering device(s) in alignment along a delivery path of the delivery catheter. | 03-10-2016 |
20160067476 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING ELECTRODE LEADS FOR USE WITH IMPLANTABLE NEUROMUSCULAR ELECTRICAL STIMULATOR - A system of implanting electrode leads for restoring muscle function to the lumbar spine to treat low back pain is provided. The system provides efficient implantation of the leads, including the ability to verify deployment of anchoring mechanisms on the lead using an impedance assessment, such that the implanted lead may be secured within the patient and used to restore muscle function of local segmental muscles associated with the lumbar spine stabilization system. | 03-10-2016 |
20160067479 | CARDIAC PACING LEAD DELIVERY SYSTEM - A lead delivery system having a base for securing a lead delivery device to one or more anatomical structures of a patient and a lead advancer configured to incrementally advance a lead into a patient by a predefined amount. | 03-10-2016 |
20160067480 | DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR CARDIAC PACING - A delivery device for installing a medical device in a patient comprising a body portion having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end having a chisel shaped tip, a receptacle disposed in the distal end of the body portion for receiving a medical device for implanting in the patient, a handle disposed at the proximal end of the body portion for facilitating advancement of the proximal end of the body portion into the patient. | 03-10-2016 |
20160067503 | DELIVERY SYSTEM ASSEMBLIES FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - An inner subassembly of a delivery system assembly extends within a lumen of an elongate outer tube of the assembly, and includes a flared distal end, which is preferably configured to conform to a proximal end of an implantable medical device; a distal-most portion of the outer tube is sized to contain both the flared distal end and an entirety of the medical device. The inner subassembly includes a core, an elongate pull-wire, extending along the core, and a sheath surrounding the pull-wire and the core; the sheath includes a slot opening that allows the pull-wire to pass laterally therethrough. The assembly preferably has a pre-formed curvature along a length of the sheath, and the slot opening extends along the pre-formed curvature. The outer tube is longitudinally moveable relative to the inner subassembly, for example, to deploy the medical device. | 03-10-2016 |
20160074652 | DRILL ASSEMBLY FOR ACCESSING BONE - A system and method for implanting and stabilizing spinal cord stimulators in an epidural space of the spinal column of a patient to prevent or limit axial movement of the stimulators once implanted in the epidural space. The system includes a drill assembly, a guide wire assembly, and a guide wire receiver. The drill assembly includes a cannula, a drill for creating access points in the patient's spinal column for implanting the stimulators, and an incremental drill adjuster for drilling into the patient's lamina a pre-set, discrete distance. The guide wire assembly includes a hollowed guide wire sleeve, a guide wire housed within the sleeve, and a magnet disposed on a proximal end of the guide wire assembly. The guide wire receiver includes a scoop for receiving and catching the magnet to assist in feeding the stimulators through the epidural space. | 03-17-2016 |
20160081716 | SURGICAL TOOLS TO FACILITATE DELIVERY OF A NEUROSTIMULATOR INTO THE PTERYGOPALATINE FOSSA - A surgical tool configured to facilitate delivery of a neurostimulator to a craniofacial region of a subject includes a handle portion, an elongate shaft having a contoured distal portion, and an insertion groove on the elongate shaft. The elongate shaft is configured to be advanced under a zygomatic bone along a maxillary tuberosity towards a pterygopalatine fossa. The distal portion includes a distal dissecting tip. The insertion groove is configured to receive, support, and guide a medical device or instrument. | 03-24-2016 |
20160096001 | DELIVERY CATHETER SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Disclosed herein is a delivery catheter for implanting a leadless biostimulator. The delivery catheter includes a shaft and a tubular body having a lumen and an atraumatic end. The atraumatic end includes at least one of a braided, woven or mesh construction configured to facilitate the atraumatic end changing diameter. When a distal portion of the shaft is coupled to a proximal region of the leadless biostimulator, at least one of distally displacing the tubular body relative to the shaft or proximally displacing the shaft relative to the tubular body causes the leadless biostimulator to be received in the volume of the atraumatic end and the atraumatic end to encompass the leadless biostimulator. Conversely, at least one of proximally displacing the tubular body relative to the shaft or distally displacing the shaft relative to the tubular body causes the leadless biostimulator to exit the volume of the atraumatic end. | 04-07-2016 |
20160096013 | Steerable Stylet - A stylet for inserting an electrode array into a cochlea includes a first sensor insertable within a lumen of the electrode array and sensitive to force applied by a lumen wall to the first sensor and a first actuator adapted to move the electrode array in response to the force sensed by the first sensor. | 04-07-2016 |
20160106974 | 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. | 04-21-2016 |
20160113678 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONTROLLED DELIVERY OF MEDICAL DEVICES - A device that uses an anatomic landmark or fiduciary point to establish a point of origin for device orientation in space is provided. The device controls the direction and depth of delivery of a needle, wire, trocar or cannula utilized for diagnostic or therapeutic intervention. The device guides the percutaneous delivery of a needle, wire, trocar or cannula to a target spatial location on or within tissue. | 04-28-2016 |
20160114151 | MEDICAL ELECTRICAL LEAD - The present disclosure may comprise an improvement to the prior art leads as disclosed above. One embodiment is directed to an intravenous medical electrical lead that includes an elongated lead body. The elongated lead body comprises a length between proximal and distal ends with a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The distal end of the lead body includes a plurality of electrodes forming first and second pairs of electrodes. The first pair of electrodes comprises one electrode electrically connected to another electrode circumferentially and diagonally spaced apart along the longitudinal axis. The second pair of electrodes comprising one electrode electrically connected to another electrode circumferentially and diagonally spaced apart along the longitudinal axis. | 04-28-2016 |
20160114152 | MEDICAL ELECTRICAL LEAD - The present disclosure may comprise an improvement to the prior art leads as disclosed above. One embodiment is directed to an intravenous medical electrical lead that includes an elongated lead body. The elongated lead body comprises a length between proximal and distal ends with a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The distal end of the lead body includes a plurality of electrodes forming first and second pairs of electrodes. The first pair of electrodes comprises one electrode electrically connected to another electrode circumferentially and diagonally spaced apart along the longitudinal axis. The second pair of electrodes comprising one electrode electrically connected to another electrode circumferentially and diagonally spaced apart along the longitudinal axis. | 04-28-2016 |
20160114156 | DELIVERY DEVICES AND METHODS FOR LEADLESS CARDIAC DEVICES - Delivery devices, systems, and methods for delivering implantable leadless pacing devices are disclosed. An example delivery device may include a proximal section including a deflection mechanism for deflecting the proximal section, and a distal holding section extending distally of a distal end of the proximal section and defining a cavity therein for receiving an implantable leadless pacing device. The distal holding section may be structured to have portions that flex and bend while allowing the implantable device to be recaptured within the distal holding section. | 04-28-2016 |
20160120531 | Surgical Device for Providing Access to a Surgical Site - A surgical device ( | 05-05-2016 |
20160120562 | RETRACTABLE SEPARATING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A method for detaching an object from a patient includes providing a tool having a sheath, and a separating assembly operably coupled to a distal end of the sheath. The separating assembly includes a separator moveably coupled to a tip via a threadable connection. The separating assembly is placed near patient tissue that is attached to the object, the sheath is rotated to move the separator distal to the tip, and the separator is applied to the patient tissue that is attached to the object, so as to separate the tissue. A separating system includes a sheath, and a separator threadably coupled with a distal end of the sheath. The separator is adapted to switch between a first configuration where a separating mechanism is deployed, and a second configuration where the separating mechanism is undeployed. | 05-05-2016 |
20160129239 | LEADLESS PACING DEVICE IMPLANTATION - In some examples, a system includes an implantable medical device configured for implantation in a chamber of the heart, an extension attached to the implantable medical device, the extension comprising a housing comprising at least one electrode, the housing defining a hole, and a tether comprising a first tether portion and a second tether portion and configured to be threaded through the hole. When the tether is threaded through the hole, the first tether portion and the second tether portion are on opposite sides of the hole. The tether may be used to implant the extension in a different chamber of the heart of the patient than the implantable medical device. | 05-12-2016 |
20160143661 | DELIVERY SYSTEM ASSEMBLIES FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - An inner member of an improved assembly for a delivery system includes a first segment formed by a multi-lumen tubing surrounded by a braided tubing, and a second segment formed by a single-lumen tubing that extends within a distal portion of the braided tubing. The single-lumen tubing accommodates an antenna of a medical device, is in fluid communication with three lumens of the multi-lumen tubing, and opens into a flared distal end of the inner member. A distal-most portion of an outer tube of the system contains the flared distal end and an enclosure of the medical device abutting the distal end. A pull wire of the assembly extends within another lumen of the multi-lumen tubing and between the single-lumen tubing and the distal extent of the braided tubing, and is coupled to a pull band mounted in a cone member that forms the flared distal end. | 05-26-2016 |
20160158529 | OVER THE NEEDLE IMPLANT TOOLS AND IMPLANT TECHNIQUES UTILIZING SUCH TOOLS - Implant tools and techniques for implanting implantable medical leads or other implantable components in extracardiovascular locations, such as substernal locations, are described. In one example, the present application provides an implant tool for implanting a medical lead comprises a handle and a shaft. The shaft includes a proximal segment that is permanently coupled to the handle and a distal segment that is detachably coupled to the proximal segment. The distal segment includes a proximal end configured to couple to the proximal segment, a distal end, and a lumen extending an entire length of the distal segment from the proximal end to the distal end. In some instances, the implant tool may be part of a delivery system that includes a puncturing tool having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end is sharp, such as a syringe coupled to a needle. | 06-09-2016 |
20160158530 | EXTRAVASCULAR IMPLANT TOOLS AND IMPLANT TECHNIQUES UTILIZING SUCH TOOLS - This disclosure provides various embodiments of implant tools and implant techniques utilizing those tools to implant components within extravascular locations. In one example, an implant tool for implanting a component within an extravascular location of a patient comprise a handle and a shaft adjacent the handle. The shaft has a proximal end, a distal end, and a body formed to define an open channel that extends from near the proximal end to the distal end. The open channel has a first width. The body has at least one flexible portion that defines an opening via which the open channel is accessed. The opening has a second width that is less than the first width. In another example, a sheath with an opening having the second width may be placed on the shaft of the implant tool instead of the implant tool having the at least one flexible portion. | 06-09-2016 |
20160175008 | OPEN CHANNEL IMPLANT TOOL WITH ADDITIONAL LUMEN AND IMPLANT TECHNIQUES UTILIZING SUCH TOOLS | 06-23-2016 |
20160175584 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DEPLOYING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL ELECTRICAL LEAD | 06-23-2016 |
20160183954 | SNARING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Snaring systems and methods involve engaging objects such as pacemaker pacing leads within a patient. Physicians can use snaring systems having loops, tags, and roller mechanisms to remove a pacing leads from a patient. For example, snaring systems can be inserted through a jugular access site, engaged with a pacemaker pacing lead, and withdrawn through the jugular access site so as to remove a portion of the pacing lead. Lead extraction techniques can be employed to further dislodge the pacing lead from the patient. | 06-30-2016 |
20160199096 | INSERTION TOOL FOR IMPLANTING A PADDLE LEAD AND METHODS AND SYSTEMS UTILIZING THE TOOL | 07-14-2016 |
20160374721 | LEAD EXTRACTION METHODS AND APPARATUS - According to one aspect, a device for assisting in removing an implanted lead is provided. The device comprises a body portion having a center adapted to accommodate the lead, a cutting component coupled to the body portion to assist in separating tissue from the lead, and at least one anchoring component disposed at least partially within the body portion, the at least one anchoring component capable of providing pressure on the lead that resists movement of at least part of the body portion along the lead at least in part by applying fluid pressure. | 12-29-2016 |
20160375255 | MEDICAL LEAD FASTENER INCLUDING INTEGRATED CLAMP - This disclosure includes techniques for securing the proximal ends of a medical lead to the connector block of an IMD with a fastener device that incorporates a flexible clamp. A fastener device for a medical device comprising a flexible clamp forming a clamp aperture, wherein the flexible clamp includes a clamp protrusion configured to facilitate actuation of the flexible clamp, a rigid body, wherein the rigid body connects to and surrounds the flexible clamp, and an actuator configured to actuate on the clamp protrusion to change a perimeter of the clamp aperture, wherein the change of the perimeter of the clamp aperture by the actuator is configured to apply a compressive force about a perimeter of an electrical contact of a medical lead in the clamp aperture to electrically and mechanically connect the medical lead to the fastener device. | 12-29-2016 |
20160375256 | Set Comprising A Totally Implantable Device For Electroneuromodulation And An Implantation Tool Of Said Device - The set comprises a totally implantable device ( | 12-29-2016 |
20180021571 | INTERVENTIONAL MEDICAL SYSTEMS AND ASSOCIATED ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS | 01-25-2018 |
20190143099 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING A LEAD INTRODUCER WITH A SEAL FOR AN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM | 05-16-2019 |
20220134092 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL SYSTEM - A medical system including a device head configured to be positioned in an atrium of a heart, an implantable medical device configured to be positioned within a vena cava of the heart, and a lead extending from the device head to the implantable medical device. A fixation element coupled to the device head is configured to engage tissues within the atrium. The device head includes an electrode configured to deliver therapy and/or sensing signals to tissues within the atrium using stimulation signals received from processing circuitry within the implantable medical device. The medical system may include a delivery catheter configured to allow delivery of the device head to the atrium. | 05-05-2022 |