U.S. patent application number 12/147937 was filed with the patent office on 2009-12-31 for treatment of indications using electrical stimulation.
Invention is credited to Arkady Glukhovsky, Mark L. Lindon, Yitzhak Zilberman.
Application Number | 20090326602 12/147937 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41444914 |
Filed Date | 2009-12-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090326602 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Glukhovsky; Arkady ; et
al. |
December 31, 2009 |
TREATMENT OF INDICATIONS USING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION
Abstract
In one embodiment, a method includes implanting an implant
entirely under the subject's skin. The implant includes a passive
electrical conductor of sufficient length to extend from
subcutaneous tissue located below one of a surface cathodic
electrode and a surface anodic electrode to the tibial nerve. The
surface electrodes are positioned in spaced relationship on the
subject's skin, with one of the electrodes positioned over the
pick-up end of the electrical conductor such that the portion of
the current is transmitted through the conductor to the tibial
nerve, and such that the current flows through the tibial nerve and
returns to the other of the surface cathodic electrode and the
surface anodic electrode. An electrical current is applied between
the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode to
cause the portion of the electrical current to flow through the
implant to stimulate the tibial nerve.
Inventors: |
Glukhovsky; Arkady; (Santa
Clarita, CA) ; Lindon; Mark L.; (Woodland Hills,
CA) ; Zilberman; Yitzhak; (Santa Clarita,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
COOLEY GODWARD KRONISH LLP;ATTN: Patent Group
Suite 1100, 777 - 6th Street, NW
WASHINGTON
DC
20001
US
|
Family ID: |
41444914 |
Appl. No.: |
12/147937 |
Filed: |
June 27, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
607/41 ; 607/48;
607/50; 607/51 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61N 1/36007
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
607/41 ; 607/50;
607/48; 607/51 |
International
Class: |
A61N 1/36 20060101
A61N001/36 |
Claims
1. A method for electrically stimulating a tibial nerve to treat
incontinence in a subject, comprising: implanting an implant
entirely under the subject's skin, the implant being configured to
act as a conductive pathway for at least a portion of an electrical
current flowing between a surface cathodic electrode and a surface
anodic electrode to be positioned in spaced relationship on the
subject's skin and to transmit the portion of the electrical
current to the tibial nerve; the implant comprising a passive
electrical conductor of sufficient length to extend, once
implanted, from subcutaneous tissue located below one of the
surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode to the
tibial nerve, the electrical conductor having a pick-up end and a
stimulating end and being insulated between the pick-up end and the
stimulating end, the pick-up end being positioned in subcutaneous
tissue located below the one of the surface cathodic electrode and
the surface anodic electrode and forming an electrical termination
having a sufficient surface area to allow a portion of the
electrical current to flow through the conductor to the stimulating
end, the stimulating end being positioned proximate to the tibial
nerve and forming an electrical termination to deliver the portion
of electrical current to the tibial nerve to stimulate the tibial
nerve; positioning the surface cathodic electrode and the surface
anodic electrode in spaced relationship on the subject's skin, with
one of the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic
electrode positioned over the pick-up end of the electrical
conductor such that the portion of the current is transmitted
through the conductor to the tibial nerve, and such that the
current flows through the tibial nerve and returns to the other of
the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode;
and applying an electrical current between the surface cathodic
electrode and the surface anodic electrode to cause the portion of
the electrical current to flow through the implant to stimulate the
tibial nerve.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein during the applying, after the
electric current is transmitted to the tibial nerve, at least a
portion of the electric current is transmitted through body tissues
extending between the tibial nerve and subcutaneous tissue located
below the other of the surface cathodic electrode and the surface
anodic electrode.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein during the applying, after the
electric current is transmitted to the tibial nerve, at least a
portion of the electric current is transmitted through an implanted
electrical return conductor extending between the tibial nerve and
subcutaneous tissue located below the other of the surface cathodic
electrode and the surface anodic electrode.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the applying includes, applying
at least one of direct, pulsatile or alternating electrical current
between the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic
electrode.
5. An apparatus for electrically stimulating a tibial nerve to
treat incontinence in a subject, comprising: an implant configured
to be disposed entirely under the subject's skin, the implant
configured to act as a conductive pathway for at least a portion of
an electrical current flowing between a surface cathodic electrode
and a surface anodic electrode to be positioned in spaced
relationship on the subject's skin and to transmit the portion of
the electrical current to the tibial nerve, the implant including a
passive electrical conductor, a pick-up end and a stimulating end,
the passive electrical conductor being insulated between the
pick-up end and the stimulating end and having a sufficient length
to extend, once implanted, from subcutaneous tissue located below
one of the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic
electrode to the tibial nerve, the pick-up end configured to be
positioned in subcutaneous tissue located below the one of the
surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode and
forming an electrical termination having a sufficient surface area
to allow a portion of the electrical current to flow through the
conductor to the stimulating end, and the stimulating end being
positioned proximate to the tibial nerve and forming an electrical
termination to deliver the portion of electrical current to the
tibial nerve to stimulate the tibial nerve.
6. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein the pick-up end of the implant
is configured to be positioned in subcutaneous tissue below the
surface cathodic electrode.
7. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein the pick-up end of the implant
is configured to be positioned in subcutaneous tissue below the
surface anodic electrode.
8. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein the pick-up end includes an
electrode.
9. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein the stimulating end includes an
electrode.
10. A method for electrically stimulating a wound in a subject,
comprising: implanting an implant entirely under the subject's
skin, the implant being configured to act as a conductive pathway
for at least a portion of an electrical current flowing between a
surface cathodic electrode and a surface anodic electrode to be
positioned in spaced relationship on the subject's skin and to
transmit the portion of the electrical current to the wound; the
implant comprising a passive electrical conductor of sufficient
length to extend, once implanted, from subcutaneous tissue located
below one of the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic
electrode to a location proximate the wound, the electrical
conductor having a pick-up end and a stimulating end and being
insulated between the pick-up end and the stimulating end, the
pick-up end being positioned in subcutaneous tissue located below
the one of the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic
electrode and forming an electrical termination having a sufficient
surface area to allow a portion of the electrical current to flow
through the conductor to the stimulating end, the stimulating end
being positioned proximate to the wound and forming an electrical
termination to deliver the portion of electrical current to the
wound to stimulate wound healing; positioning the surface cathodic
electrode and the surface anodic electrode in spaced relationship
on the subject's skin, with one of the surface cathodic electrode
and the surface anodic electrode positioned over the pick-up end of
the electrical conductor such that the portion of the current is
transmitted through the conductor to the wound, and such that the
current flows through the wound and returns to the other of the
surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode; and
applying an electrical current between the surface cathodic
electrode and the surface anodic electrode to cause the portion of
the electrical current to flow through the implant to stimulate
wound healing.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein during the applying, after the
electric current is transmitted to the wound, at least a portion of
the electric current is transmitted through body tissues extending
between the wound and subcutaneous tissue located below the other
of the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic
electrode.
12. The method of claim 10, wherein during the applying, after the
electric current is transmitted to the wound, at least a portion of
the electric current is transmitted through an implanted electrical
return conductor extending between the wound and subcutaneous
tissue located below the other of the surface cathodic electrode
and the surface anodic electrode.
13. The method of claim 10, wherein the applying includes, applying
at least one of direct, pulsatile or alternating electrical current
between the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic
electrode.
14. The method of claim 10, wherein the wound is on a surface of
the patient's skin.
15. The method of claim 10, wherein the wound is disposed below the
subcutaneous tissue of the patient.
16. A method for electrically stimulating a tissue in proximity to
a joint in a subject, comprising: implanting an implant entirely
under the subject's skin, the implant being configured to act as a
conductive pathway for at least a portion of an electrical current
flowing between a surface cathodic electrode and a surface anodic
electrode to be positioned in spaced relationship on the subject's
skin and to transmit the portion of the electrical current to a
tissue in proximity to a joint; the implant comprising a passive
electrical conductor of sufficient length to extend, once
implanted, from subcutaneous tissue located below one of the
surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode to a
location proximate the joint, the electrical conductor having a
pick-up end and a stimulating end and being insulated between the
pick-up end and the stimulating end, the pick-up end being
positioned in subcutaneous tissue located below the one of the
surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode and
forming an electrical termination having a sufficient surface area
to allow a portion of the electrical current to flow through the
conductor to the stimulating end, the stimulating end being
positioned proximate to the joint and forming an electrical
termination to deliver the portion of electrical current to the
tissue in proximity to the joint to stimulate the joint;
positioning the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic
electrode in spaced relationship on the subject's skin, with one of
the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode
positioned over the pick-up end of the electrical conductor such
that the portion of the current is transmitted through the
conductor to the tissue in proximity to the joint, and such that
the current flows through the tissue and returns to the other of
the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode;
and applying an electrical current between the surface cathodic
electrode and the surface anodic electrode to cause the portion of
the electrical current to flow through the implant to stimulate the
joint.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein during the applying, after the
electric current is transmitted to the tissue in proximity to the
joint, at least a portion of the electric current is transmitted
through body tissues extending between the joint and subcutaneous
tissue located below the other of the surface cathodic electrode
and the surface anodic electrode.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein during the applying, after the
electric current is transmitted to the tissue in proximity to the
joint, at least a portion of the electric current is transmitted
through an implanted electrical return conductor extending between
the joint and subcutaneous tissue located below the other of the
surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode.
19. The method of claim 16, wherein the applying includes, applying
at least one of direct, pulsatile or alternating electrical current
between the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic
electrode.
20. The method of claim 16, wherein the joint is one of a knee
joint and a hip joint.
21. A method for electrically stimulating a common peroneal nerve
in a patient, comprising: disposing a first end of an implant under
a patient's skin at a first location in proximity to a common
peroneal nerve of the patient; disposing a second end of the
implant under the patient's skin at a second location at a non-zero
distance from the first end of the implant, the implant including a
passive electrical conductor extending under the patient's skin
between the first end and the second end; placing a cathodic
electrode on an exterior surface of the patient's skin at a first
location; placing an anodic electrode on an exterior surface of the
patient's skin in spaced relationship to the cathodic electrode;
and delivering an electrical current to one of the cathodic
electrode and the anodic electrode such that a portion of the
electric current is transmitted through the second end of the
implant, through the conductor to the first end of the implant and
into the common peroneal nerve to stimulate the common peroneal
nerve.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein during the applying, after the
electric current is transmitted to the common peroneal nerve, at
least a portion of the electric current is transmitted through body
tissues extending between the joint and subcutaneous tissue located
below the other of the surface cathodic electrode and the surface
anodic electrode.
23. The method of claim 21, wherein during the applying, after the
electric current is transmitted to the joint, at least a portion of
the electric current is transmitted through an implanted electrical
return conductor extending between the common peroneal nerve and
subcutaneous tissue located below the other of the surface cathodic
electrode and the surface anodic electrode.
24. The method of claim 21, wherein the applying includes, applying
at least one of direct, pulsatile or alternating electrical current
between the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic
electrode.
25. A method for electrically stimulating a muscle in a patient,
comprising: disposing a first end of an implant under a patient's
skin at a first location in proximity to at least one of a muscle
or a nerve innervating the muscle of the patient; disposing a
second end of the implant under the patient's skin at a second
location at a non-zero distance from the first end of the implant,
the implant including a passive electrical conductor extending
under the patient's skin between the first end and the second end;
placing a cathodic electrode on an exterior surface of the
patient's skin at a first location; placing an anodic electrode on
an exterior surface of the patient's skin in spaced relationship to
the cathodic electrode; and delivering an electrical current to one
of the cathodic electrode and the anodic electrode such that a
portion of the electric current is transmitted through the second
end of the implant, through the conductor to the first end of the
implant and into the one of the muscle or the nerve innervating the
muscle to stimulate rehabilitation of the muscle.
26. The method of claim 25, further comprising: attaching a
vibration sensor capable of detecting mechanical vibrations to
patient; and detecting with the sensor, mechanical vibrations
elicited by sudden contact of the patient's upper teeth and lower
teeth, the delivering being actuated based on the detecting.
27. A method for electrically stimulating a fracture or break in a
bone of a patient to promote bone growth, comprising: disposing a
first end of an implant under a patient's skin at a first location
in proximity to a targeted bone defect of the patient; disposing a
second end of the implant under the patient's skin at a second
location at a non-zero distance from the first end of the implant,
the implant including a passive electrical conductor extending
under the patient's skin between the first end and the second end;
placing a cathodic electrode on an exterior surface of the
patient's skin at a first location; placing an anodic electrode on
an exterior surface of the patient's skin in spaced relationship to
the cathodic electrode; and delivering an electrical current to one
of the cathodic electrode and the anodic electrode such that a
portion of the electric current is transmitted through the second
end of the implant, through the conductor to the first end of the
implant and into the targeted bone defect to promote bone
growth.
28. The method of claim 27, further comprising: positioning an
orthosis on an exterior portion of the patient and adjacent the
second end of the implant, wherein the delivering includes
delivering electrical current from the orthosis to the cathodic
electrode.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] The invention relates generally to medical devices and more
particularly to devices and methods for use in electrical
stimulation treatment.
[0002] Nerve cells consist of an axon for transmitting action
potentials or neural impulses, and dendrites for receiving such
impulses. Normally, nerves transmit action potentials from the
impulse-sending axon of one nerve cell to the impulse-receiving
dendrites of an adjacent nerve cell. At synapses, the axon secretes
neurotransmitters to trigger the receptors on the next nerve cell's
dendrites to initiate a new electrical current.
[0003] In some pathological states, transmission of action
potentials is impaired, thus, activation of neural impulses is
required to restore normal functioning. Electrically-excitable
bodily tissues, such as nerves and muscles, may be activated by an
electrical field applied between electrodes applied externally to
the skin. Electric current flows through the skin between a
cathodic electrode and an anodic electrode, eliciting action
potentials in the nerves and muscles underlying the electrodes.
This method is known for use in different types of stimulators,
including transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulators (TENS), which
relieve pain, therapeutic electrical stimulators, which activate
muscles for exercise purposes, functional electrical stimulators
which activate muscles for tasks of daily life, and stimulators
that promote regeneration of damaged bones.
[0004] In other pathological states, action potentials are
transmitted which do not serve a useful purpose; hence, blocking of
unnecessary neural impulses is required to restore normal
functioning. It has been reported that high-frequency stimulation
can produce temporary reversible blocks of nerve axons. Generally,
the frequency range is between 500 and 30,000 Hz.
[0005] Stimulation of nerves to either activate or block neural
impulses is typically achieved with the use of an implanted
stimulator (also known as a neural prosthesis or neuroprosthesis).
Neural prostheses have been developed to restore hearing, to
restore movement in paralyzed muscles, to modulate activity in
nerves controlling urinary tract function and to suppress pain and
tremor. In some cases, neural prostheses are designed to inhibit or
suppress unwanted neural activity, for example to block pain
sensation or tremors. However, all neural prostheses intended for
long-term use require the implantation of a stimulator that
contains electronic components and often a battery. In the case of
pain and tremor suppression, the activated nerves reflexly inhibit
the activity of neural circuits within the central nervous system.
This indirect mode of reducing unwanted neural activity is
sometimes called neuromodulation.
[0006] Surface electrical stimulators are used reflexly, for
example, to reduce spastic hypertonus. A disadvantage of
stimulation through electrodes attached to the body surface is that
many non-targeted tissues may be co-activated along with the
targeted tissues. This lack of selectivity often causes unwanted
sensations and/or unwanted movements. Furthermore, tissues that lie
deep within the body can be difficult or impossible to stimulate
adequately, because most of the electrical current flowing between
the electrodes flows through tissues closer to the electrodes than
the targeted tissues. Selectivity may be improved by implanting
insulated wires within the body that route electrical current from
an implanted stimulator to the vicinity of the targeted tissues.
This method is used, for example, in cardiac pacemakers, dorsal
column stimulators, deep brain stimulators and sacral root
stimulators. Cuffs containing the uninsulated ends of the wires may
be placed around peripheral nerves to restrict most of the current
to the vicinity of the nerve and limiting the spread of current to
surrounding tissues, thereby improving selectivity. Implanted
stimulators are expensive and often require a controller and/or
power source external to the body. Batteries within the implanted
stimulators need periodic replacement, entailing surgery.
[0007] In a minority of cases, stimulating wires are implanted in
bodily tissues and led through the skin (percutaneously) to a
connector located outside the body, to which an external stimulator
is attached. External stimulators are typically less expensive than
implanted stimulators, but the percutaneous wires provide a conduit
for infection and therefore require daily cleaning and maintenance.
This has generally limited the use of percutaneous electrodes to
short-term applications. There is a need for a system which
overcomes such problems and has the capability of activating or
blocking nerve impulses depending upon the disorder to be treated.
For example, a system and method is needed that can treat various
indications such as; urinary incontinence through stimulation of
the tibial nerve and/or the common peroneal nerve; in conjunction
with a joint replacement procedure or prior to such a procedure; to
promote wound healing; to treat a bone defect, such as, a fracture
or a break; and/or to reduce or prevent muscle atrophy.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Systems and methods of treating a targeted body tissue
(e.g., bone, soft tissue, muscle, ligaments, etc.) by stimulating
the body tissue with an electric current are described herein. In
one embodiment, a method includes implanting an implant entirely
under the subject's skin. The implant includes a passive electrical
conductor of sufficient length to extend from subcutaneous tissue
located below either a surface cathodic electrode(s) or a surface
anodic electrode(s) to the tibial nerve. The surface electrodes are
positioned in spaced relationship on the subject's skin, with one
of the electrodes positioned over the pick-up end of the electrical
conductor such that the portion of the current is transmitted
through the conductor to the tibial nerve, and such that the
current flows through the tibial nerve and returns to the other of
the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode. An
electrical current is applied between the surface cathodic
electrode and the surface anodic electrode to cause the portion of
the electrical current to flow through the implant to stimulate the
tibial nerve. In some embodiments, a method includes electrical
stimulation of a common peroneal nerve; stimulation applied in
conjunction with a joint replacement procedure or prior to such a
procedure, stimulation to promote wound healing, stimulation to
treat a bone defect, such as, a fracture or a break and/or
stimulation to reduce or prevent muscle atrophy.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a three-dimensional
view of an embodiment of the invention having an implanted
electrical conductor, surface cathodic and anodic electrodes, and
an implanted electrical return conductor.
[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates the musculature and nervous system of a
knee in extension.
[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates the musculature and nervous system of a
knee in flexion.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a top view of a schematic illustration of an
implant according to an embodiment disposed within a schematic
illustration of a feline.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a top view of a schematic illustration of a
portion of a system according to an embodiment disposed within the
schematic illustration of a feline of FIG. 4 illustrating a first
configuration.
[0014] FIG. 6 is a top view of a schematic illustration of a
portion of a system according to an embodiment disposed within the
schematic illustration of a feline of FIG. 4 illustrating a second
configuration.
[0015] FIG. 7 is a top view of a schematic illustration of a
portion of a system according to an embodiment disposed within the
schematic illustration of a feline of FIG. 4 illustrating a third
configuration.
[0016] FIG. 8 is a top view of a schematic illustration of a
portion of a system according to an embodiment disposed within the
schematic illustration of a feline of FIG. 4 illustrating a fourth
configuration.
[0017] FIG. 9 is a graph illustrating the surface threshold
currents associated with each of the configurations of the system
of FIGS. 5-8.
[0018] FIG. 10 is a side view of a schematic illustration of a
system illustrating an application to treat a wound.
[0019] FIG. 11 is a top view of a schematic illustration of a
system illustrating another application to treat a wound.
[0020] FIG. 12 is a top view of a schematic illustration of a
system illustrating another application to treat a wound.
[0021] FIG. 13 is a side view of a schematic illustration of a
system according to an embodiment illustrating an application to
treat a wound.
[0022] FIG. 14 is a side view of a schematic illustration of a
system according to an embodiment illustrating an application to
treat a deep wound.
[0023] FIG. 15 is a side view of a schematic illustration of a
system according to an embodiment illustrating an application to
treat a bone fracture.
[0024] FIG. 16 is a side view of a schematic illustration of a
system according to an embodiment illustrating an application to
treat a bone defect and/or muscle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] Systems and methods are described herein that include the
use of passive electrical conductors that can route electrical
current to electrically stimulate a target body tissue. Such
devices and methods can be used to either activate or block neural
impulses, depending upon the frequency and the disorder to be
treated.
[0026] A system as described herein can include, for example, an
implant, a stimulator, such as an electric pulse generator,
external electrodes, and a power source. An implant is provided for
electrically stimulating a target body tissue in a subject to
either activate or block neural impulses. Once implanted, the
implant can provide a conductive pathway for at least a portion of
the electrical current flowing between surface cathodic and anodic
electrodes positioned in spaced relationship on a subject's skin,
and transmits that portion of electrical current to the target body
tissue to either activate or block neural impulses. Systems and
methods incorporating such an implant are described herein.
[0027] As described herein, a "subject" can be, for example, an
animal including a human. A body tissue can be, for example, a
neural tissue (in the peripheral or central nervous system), a
nerve, a muscle (skeletal, respiratory, or cardiac muscle) or an
organ, for example, the brain, cochlea, optic nerve, heart,
bladder, urethra, kidneys and bones.
[0028] The systems, methods and devices described herein can be
used to treat various conditions in which stimulation to either
activate or block neural impulses may be desired. Such conditions
can include, for example, movement disorders (e.g., spasticity,
hypertonus, rigidity, tremor and/or muscle weakness, Parkinson's
disease, dystonia, cerebral palsy), muscular disorders (e.g.,
muscular dystrophy), incontinence (e.g., urinary bladder
disorders), urinary retention, pain (e.g., migraine headaches, neck
and back pain, pain resulting from other medical conditions),
epilepsy (e.g., generalized and partial seizure disorder),
cerebrovascular disorders (e.g., strokes, aneurysms), sleep
disorders (e.g., sleep apnea), autonomic disorders (e.g.,
gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular disorders), disorders of
vision, hearing and balance, and neuropsychiatric disorders (e.g.,
depression). The systems, methods and devices can also be used for
promoting bone growth (as required, for example, in the healing of
a fracture), wound healing or tissue regeneration.
[0029] The systems, methods and devices described herein can also
be used, for example, in the prevention of muscle atrophy, venous
thrombosis and joint stiffness due to long-term disability
resulting from spinal cord injury, stroke, brain injury or neural
disorder. The systems, methods and devices described herein can
also be used in cases of acute or short term disabilities,
resulting in immobilization, such as joint replacement or other
surgeries, fractured bones, or a variety of other reasons. Some
examples of such uses are described below.
[0030] Other treatment procedures and methods described herein
include systems and methods for use in tibial nerve and/or common
peroneal nerve stimulation in the treatment of urinary
incontinence; for use in conjunction with joint replacement
procedures; and for use in applications to rehabilitate muscle
attached to bone, such as in podiatry applications. In some
embodiments, the systems and methods described herein are used to
provide for movement of an immobile limb or body part. In some
embodiments, systems and methods described herein can be used to
increase blood flow through, for example, a limb, to reduce or
eliminate muscle atrophy, and/or to improve muscle development. In
some embodiments, an orthosis, such as a cast applied to a broken
limb, can have a pulse generator (described in more detail below)
embedded therein that can be used to apply an electrical current to
an implant within the patient's body.
[0031] For stimulation of a target body tissue, particular
frequencies to be applied depend upon many factors; for example,
the type of nerve to be stimulated or blocked, the tissue which the
nerve innervates, the size of the nerve, the subject to be treated,
the type of condition, the severity of the condition, and the
receptiveness of the subject to the treatment. In general, for
blocking, high frequencies are useful, for example, the cyclical
waveform can be applied at a frequency in the range of between 100
and 30,000 Hz, or alternatively in the range of between 100 and
20,000 Hz. Alternatively, the cyclical waveform can be applied at a
frequency in the range of between 100 and 10,000 Hz, or in the
range between 200 and 5,000 Hz. For stimulation or activation, low
frequencies are generally used, for example, a frequency in the
range of between 1 and 100 Hz, or alternatively, in the range of
between 1 and 50 Hz. Alternatively, the frequency can be in the
range of between 1 and 20 Hz. A.
[0032] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of portions of a
subject's body tissues, including skin 10, a nerve 12 with an
overlying nerve sheath 14, and a muscle 16. FIG. 1 also illustrates
an implant 18, a surface cathodic electrode 20 and a surface anodic
electrode 22. The implant 18 is provided for electrically
stimulating a target body tissue, such as a nerve 12, in a subject
to either activate or block neural impulses. Once implanted, the
implant 18 provides a conductive pathway for at least a portion of
the electrical current flowing between the surface cathodic and
anodic electrodes 20, 22.
[0033] When positioned in spaced relationship on the subject's skin
10, the surface cathodic and anodic electrodes 20, 22 make
electrical contact with the skin 10 and transmit electrical current
to the target body tissue. Surface cathodic and anodic electrodes
20, 22 can be selected from a conductive plate or sheet, a
conductive gel electrode, a conductive rubber or polymer electrode
that may be partially coated with an electrode paste or gel, or a
moistened absorbent pad electrode. For example, self-adhesive
hydrogel electrodes of the type used to stimulate muscles, with
surface areas, for example, of 5 square centimeter, can be used. In
some embodiments, electrodes having larger or smaller surface areas
can alternatively be used. Platinum iridium electrodes, which are
composed typically of 80% or more platinum and 20% or less iridium,
can also be used (for example, 85% platinum-15% iridium alloy; 90%
platinum-10% iridium alloy). The positions of the surface cathodic
and anodic electrodes 20, 22 on the skin 10 may vary, depending
upon the location and nature of the target body tissue.
[0034] The implant 18 includes a passive electrical conductor 24 of
sufficient length to extend, once implanted, from subcutaneous
tissue located below the surface cathodic electrode 20 to the
target body tissue, for example nerve 12. The electrical conductor
24 can be formed from a metal wire, carbon fibers, a conductive
rubber or other conductive polymer, or a conductive salt solution
in rubber. Multistranded, TEFLON-insulated, stainless-steel wire
conductors of the type used in cardiac pacemaker leads can also be
used. MP35N alloy (a nonmagnetic, nickel-cobalt-chromium-molybdenum
alloy) which is commonly used in parts for medical applications is
also suitable. The electrical conductor 24 has a pick-up end 26 and
a stimulating end 28, and is insulated between the pick-up end 26
and the stimulating end 28.
[0035] The electrical impedance of the interface between the pick
up end 26 and the stimulating end 28 of the conductor 24 (when
implanted) and the surrounding body tissue may be reduced by
enlarging the surface area of the ends 26, 28. For that purpose,
one or both of the pick-up end 26 and the stimulating end 28 form
electrical terminations 30 having sufficient surface area for
reducing the electrical impedance of the interface between the
pick-up end 26 and the stimulating end 28 of the electrical
conductor 24 and the surrounding body tissues. The pick-up end 26
forms an electrical termination 30 which has a sufficient surface
area to allow a sufficient portion of the electrical current to
flow through the electrical conductor 24, rather than flowing
through body tissue between the surface cathodic electrode 20 and
the surface anodic electrode 22, such that the target body tissue
is stimulated to either activate or block neural impulses. The
stimulating end 28 also forms an electrical termination 30 for
delivering the portion of electrical current to the target body
tissue (i.e., nerve 12).
[0036] Terminations 30 have sufficient surface area for providing
high conductivity contact with body tissues, and lowering the
electrical impedance between the body tissue and the conductor 24.
If the surface area is minimal, the amount of current flowing
through a conductor to the termination is reduced to an ineffective
amount. The surface area required can be determined by a knowledge
of the electrical impedance of the interface between the tissue and
the terminations 30 at the receiving or pick-up end 26 and the
stimulating end 28. Beneficial results have been obtained by making
the surface area of metal terminations 30 at the ends 26, 28, for
example, about 0.5 cm.sup.2. The terminations 30 at the ends 26, 28
can alternatively have a larger or smaller surface area. The
electrical impedance of each interface between tissue and
terminations 30 at ends 26, 28 can be about 5 times the electrical
impedance of all the subcutaneous tissue between surface electrodes
20, 22. For example, a typical value of tissue impedance is 200
ohms. The impedance of the conductor 24 can be chosen to be very
small, for example, 5 ohms. In such a case, the sum of the two
interface impedances of the terminations 30 plus the conductor
impedance can be about 2000 ohms, or ten times the tissue
impedance. Thus, about 10% of the current applied between surface
electrodes 20, 22 flows through conductor 24 to the target tissue.
In the case of the target tissue being a nerve 12 supplying a
muscle 16, the amount of current between surface electrodes 20, 22
required to produce a useful muscle contraction of the target
muscle 16 remains below the threshold level of activation of nerve
endings in the subcutaneous tissue immediately between surface
electrodes 20, 22. This is a beneficial relationship, because it
means that target muscles 16 can be activated with little or no
local sensation or local muscle contractions under the surface
electrodes 20, 22.
[0037] Terminations 30 of various shapes, materials and spatial
arrangements can be used; for example, terminations 30 can provide
an enlarged surface in the form of a coil, spiral, cuff, rod, or a
plate or sheet in the form of an oval or polygon. As an example,
FIG. 1 illustrates a termination 30 as a plate or sheet in the form
of an oval at the pick-up end 26 of the electrical conductor 24,
and in the form of a cuff at the stimulating end 28. The cuff or a
portion thereof can encircle or partially encircle the entirety or
part of the nerve sheath 14 of the nerve 12. The cuff or a portion
thereof can be positioned proximate to the nerve sheath 14, or the
inner surface of the cuff or a portion thereof can directly contact
the nerve sheath 14.
[0038] Beneficial results can be obtained with stainless-steel
plates or sheets in the form of an oval that is about 0.5 cm.sup.2
in surface area and 1 mm thick, or made, for example, of metal foil
and stainless-steel mesh and being about 0.5 cm.sup.2 in surface
area and 0.3 mm thick. For terminations 30 of conductors in the
form of a nerve cuff, nerve cuffs made, for example, of metal foil
or stainless-steel mesh and being 0.5 to 1 cm.sup.2 in surface area
and 0.3 mm thick can be used. Further, silastic elastomer cuffs,
for example, ranging from 5 mm to 15 mm in length, having a 4 mm to
6 mm inside diameter, and that are 1 mm thick are also
suitable.
[0039] In some embodiments, terminations 30 can be formed from
uninsulated ends 26, 28 of the electrical conductor 24, or from
other conductive or capacitive materials. In some embodiments, the
terminations 30 can include an electrode. Terminations 30 can be
formed by coiling, spiraling or weaving long, uninsulated lengths
of the pick-up or stimulating ends 26, 28 to provide a sufficient
surface. The surface area of the termination is thus "enlarged"
relative to the surface area of a shorter length of the electrical
conductor 24. This raises the effective surface area of the
terminations 30 within a small space to provide higher conductivity
contact with body tissues, and to lower the electrical impedance
between the body tissue and the conductor 24 to allow current flow
in the conductor 24 in preference to in the body tissue. Sufficient
current flow is thereby provided in the conductor 24 to stimulate
the target tissue. Alternatively, prefabricated terminations 30
(for example, plates or sheets in the form of ovals or polygons)
can be attached directly to the pick-up end 26 and/or stimulating
end 28. Further, terminations 30 can be coated or modified with
conductive materials to maximize the flow of electrical current
through the target body tissue.
[0040] The spatial arrangement of the terminations 30 can be
varied; for example, multiple terminations 30 can also be applied
to different parts of a body tissue. In some embodiments, the
terminations 30 can be in the form of closely-spaced contacts
enclosed within an embracing cuff 32 placed around the nerve 12.
The embracing cuff 32 can be formed, for example, with conductive
silicone rubber.
[0041] Electrical impedance can be further reduced by providing
conductive or capacitive coatings, or an oxide layer on the
terminations 30. The coating can be selected from a material whose
structural or electrical properties improve the electrical
conductance between the tissue and the conductor, for example, by
providing a complex surface into which tissue can grow (for
example, a polymer such as poly-diethoxy-thiophene, or suitable
oxide layers including tantalum and sintered iridium). In addition,
the terminations 30 can have coatings which provide an
anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial or tissue in-growth effect. The
coating can be, for example, a substance selected from an
anti-inflammatory agent, antibacterial agent, antibiotic, or a
tissue in-growth promoter.
[0042] In some embodiments, a second implant including an
electrical return conductor 34 can be included with the implant 18,
as shown in FIG. 1. The electrical return conductor 34 can be
sufficient length to extend from the target body tissue to
subcutaneous tissue located below the surface anodic electrode 22.
The electrical return conductor 34 provides a low-impedance
conductive pathway from the target body tissue to the surface
anodic electrode 22, thereby concentrating the electric field
through the target tissue. The electrical return conductor 34 can
be formed, for example, from a metal wire, carbon fibers, a
conductive rubber or other conductive polymer, or a conductive salt
solution in rubber. The electrical return conductor 34 has a
collecting end 36 and a returning end 38, and is insulated between
its ends 36, 38. Both the collecting end 36 and the returning end
38 form electrical terminations 30 (as described above for
conductor 24) for reducing the electrical impedance of the
interface between the collecting end 36 and returning end 38 of the
electrical return conductor 34 and the surrounding body tissues.
The collecting end 36 forms an electrical termination 30 (shown in
FIG. 1 in the form of a cuff), which has a sufficient surface area
to allow a portion of the electrical current delivered to the
target body tissue to return through the electrical return
conductor 34 in preference to returning through body tissue. The
returning end 38 forms an electrical termination 30 (shown in FIG.
1 as a plate or sheet in the form of an oval), which returns the
electrical current to the surface anodic electrode 22 via the
subcutaneous tissue and skin underlying the surface anodic
electrode 22.
[0043] Multiple surface electrodes 20, 22 can be fabricated on a
single non-conductive substrate to form an electrode array that may
be conveniently attached to the skin 10. Similarly, multiple
terminations 30 of implanted conductors 24 can be fabricated on a
substrate to form an array. By matching the physical layout of the
surface electrode array to that of the implanted terminations
array, a good spatial correspondence of surface and implanted
conductors may be achieved in a convenient and reproducible manner.
Surface electrode arrays in which the conductivity of each element
of the array may be independently controlled could also be used to
adjust the conductivity between the surface electrodes and the
terminations in an implanted array.
[0044] A power source (not shown) can be used to provide operating
power to a stimulator (not shown), which is disposed external to
the subject's body. The stimulator can be electrically connected to
the surface cathodic and anodic electrodes 20, 22 via electrical
wires or conductors 42 and 44, to supply electrical current to the
surface cathodic and anodic electrodes 20, 22. The current can be
resistive or capacitive, depending on the net impedance encountered
between the electrodes 20, 22.
[0045] The stimulator can be, for example, a pulse generator.
Examples of stimulators are described in U.S. Patent Publication
No. 2006/0184211 ("the '211 publication"), the disclosure of which
is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The use of a
pulse generator and various examples applications are also
described in the '211 publication. In general, a flow of electrical
current from the power source 40 can be supplied into the skin 10
via a cathodic wire 42 at the surface cathodic electrode 20, and
via an anodic wire 44 at the surface anodic electrode 22. Power can
be provided to the stimulator either through a wire connection or
through a wireless connection, via a wireless energy source, such
as, radiofrequency (RF).
[0046] Although most of the electrical current flows through the
body tissues in proximity to the surface cathodic and anodic
electrodes 20, 22, there is also flow of electrical current through
the electrical conductor 24, nerve 12, and electrical return
conductor 34. As shown in FIG. 1, the surface cathodic electrode 20
is positioned over the pick-up end 26 of the electrical conductor
24, so that a portion of the current is transmitted through the
conductor 24 to the target body tissue, and current flows through
the target body tissue and returns to the anodic surface electrode
22 through body tissues. This can also be achieved through the
implanted electrical return conductor 34 extending between the
target body tissue and subcutaneous tissue located below the
surface anodic electrode 22.
[0047] The complete electrical path of the portion of the
electrical current is as follows: cathodic wire 42, surface
cathodic electrode 20, skin 10, termination 30, pick-up end 26,
electrical conductor 24, stimulating end 28, termination 30, nerve
sheath 14, nerve 12, termination 30, collecting end 36, electrical
return conductor 34, returning end 38, termination 30, skin 10,
surface anodic electrode 22 and anodic wire 44. The pulses of
electrical current can elicit action potentials which are conducted
along nerve 12 to muscle 16, causing it to contract. Alternatively,
electrical current in the form of high frequency waveforms can
block action potentials conducted along nerve 12 to muscle 16 to
prevent muscle contractions.
[0048] Various disorders are amenable to treatment using an
implant, such as implant 18, shown in FIG. 1. As described below
and in the '211 publication incorporated herein, the implanted
passive electrical conductors are capable of routing electrical
current to stimulate various target body tissues to either activate
or block neural impulses depending upon the frequency and disorder
to be treated.
[0049] In one example procedure, a stimulation system can be used
in conjunction with a joint replacement procedure (for example,
knee replacement or hip replacement) to condition the muscles
before the surgery, reduce the post-procedure pain, enhance the
post-operative recovery and/or reduce or prevent some of the side
effects associated with a joint replacement procedure.
[0050] Joint replacement is a common operation used in modern
orthopaedic surgery. It includes the replacement of painful,
arthritic, worn or cancerous parts of a joint with artificial
surfaces shaped in such a way as to allow joint movement. Although
not always accomplished, many joint replacement procedures result
in a full recovery of range of motion. Because joint replacement is
a major surgery, an extensive pre-operative activity is typically
required. This activity includes selection of implant design and
size by matching x-ray images. Early mobilization of the patient is
thought to be a key to reducing the chances of complications, such
as venous thromboembolism and Pneumonia. It is common practice to
try to mobilize a patient as soon as possible after surgery and to
ambulate with walking aids when tolerated. Depending on the joint
involved, and the pre-op status of the patient, the time of
hospitalization can vary, for example, from 1 day to 2 weeks, with
an average being 4-7 days.
[0051] Physiotherapy is also used extensively to help patients
recover function after joint replacement surgery. A graded exercise
program can be used. Initially, the patients' muscles have not
healed after the surgery; exercises for range of motion of the
joints and ambulation should not be strenuous. Later when the
muscle is healed the aim of exercise expands to include
strengthening and recovery of function.
[0052] The stress of a surgical operation may result in medical
problems of varying incidence and severity, like heart attack,
stroke, venous thromboembolism, pneumonia, increased confusion, and
urinary tract infection (UTI). Intra-operative risks include
mal-position of the components, shortening,
instability/dislocation, loss of range of motion, fracture of the
adjacent bone, nerve damage, or damage to blood vessels. Some
immediate risks include deep or superficial infection and
dislocation. Some medium-term risks include dislocation, persistent
pain, loss of range of motion, weakness, indolent infection.
Long-term risks can include loosening of the components due to
fatigue and/or wear of the bearing surfaces. As a result, the
component may move inside the bone resulting in pain. Fragments of
wear debris may also cause an inflammatory reaction with bone
absorption which can cause loosening.
[0053] Knee replacement, or knee arthroplasty, is a common
procedure performed to relieve the pain and disability from
degenerative arthritis, most commonly osteoarthritis, but other
arthritides as well. Such procedures include replacing the diseased
and painful joint surfaces of the knee with metal and plastic
components that are shaped to allow continued motion of the knee. A
total knee replacement (TKR) may be performed to treat
incapacitating pain from arthritis of the knee that may affect such
activities as walking and/or standing. A TKR surgery involves
exposure of the front of the knee, with detachment of part of the
quadriceps muscle (vastus medialis) from the patella. Minimally
invasive surgery is being developed in TKR, but has not yet found
complete acceptance. The goal is to spare the patient a large cut
in the quadriceps muscle which could increase post-operative pain
or lengthen disability.
[0054] A unicompartmental arthroplasty (UKA), also called partial
knee replacement, is an option for some patients. In such a
procedure, the knee is generally divided into three "compartments":
medial (the inside part of the knee), lateral (the outside), and
patellofemoral (the joint between the kneecap and the thighbone).
Most patients with arthritis severe enough to consider knee
replacement have significant wear in two or more of these
compartments and are best treated with total knee replacement. A
minority of patients (for example, 10-30%) have wear confined
primarily to one compartment, usually the medial, and may be
candidates for unicompartmental knee replacement. Advantages of
UKA, as compared to TKR, include smaller incision, easier post-op
rehabilitation, shorter hospital stay, less blood loss, lower risk
of infection, stiffness, and blood clots, and easier revision if
necessary. Lupus, Psoriatic, or marked deformity may not be
candidates for a UKA procedure.
[0055] Post-operative rehabilitation usually includes the use of
protected weight bearing on crutches or a walker until the
quadriceps muscle has healed and recovered its strength. Continuous
passive motion (CPM) is also commonly used. Post operative
hospitalization can vary, for example, from one day to seven days
on average depending on the health status of the patient and the
amount of support available outside the hospital setting. Usually
full range of motion is recovered over the first two weeks. At six
weeks, patients typically have progressed to full weight bearing
with a cane. Complete recovery from the operation involving return
to full normal function can take, for example, three months, and
some patients notice a gradual improvement lasting many months
longer than that.
[0056] There are risks and complications that accompany TKR or UKA
procedures. For example, blood clots in the leg veins are the most
common complication of knee replacement surgery. Periprosthetic
fractures are also becoming more frequent with aging patients and
can occur intraoperatively or postoperatively. The knee at times
may not recover its normal range of motion (e.g., 0-135 degrees)
after total knee replacement. Some patients can achieve 0-110
degrees of motion, but in some cases stiffness of the joint can
occur. In some situations, manipulation of the knee under
anesthetic is used to improve post operative stiffness. In some
patients, the kneecap is unstable post-surgery and dislocates to
the outer side of the knee. This can be painful and may require
surgery to realign the kneecap. Knee replacement implants can last
up to, for example, 20 years in many patients, and this can depend,
for example, on how active the patient is after surgery.
[0057] Hip replacement, also referred to as hip arthroplasty, is a
surgical procedure in which the hip joint is replaced by a
prosthetic implant. Such joint replacement orthopaedic surgery
generally is conducted to relieve arthritis pain or fix severe
physical joint damage as part of the hip fracture treatment. Some
hip replacement patients can suffer chronic pain after the surgery.
Because such side effects are usually not detectable with X-ray or
MRI, it can be difficult to determine the source of such pain.
Generally, it is believed that such pain is caused by nerve damage
during the replacement surgery.
[0058] As an alternative to seeking a joint replacement, such as
hip and knee replacement described above, the use of electrical
stimulation can delay or defer the need for such joint replacement
surgery. For example, a pulsed electrical stimulation device can be
used to defer total knee replacement surgery.
[0059] Following a TKR procedure, patients can exhibit long-term
weakness of the quadriceps and diminished functional capacity
compared to age-matched healthy controls. The pain and swelling
resulting from surgery may contribute to quadriceps weakness.
Electrical stimulation can also be used to enhance recovery after a
joint replacement procedure. For example, neuromuscular electrical
stimulation (NMES) can be added to a voluntary exercise program to
improve quadriceps muscle strength. The application of electrical
stimulation during recovery from TKR can also effectively reduce
extensor lag and decrease the length of the hospital stay.
[0060] Thus, a stimulation system as described herein and in the
'211 publication can be used in conjunction with joint replacement.
As described above, a portion of the electrical stimulation
delivered transcutaneously by the external stimulator (e.g., pulse
generator) is picked up by the pick-up end (e.g., 26) of the
implanted conductor (e.g., conductor 24) and is delivered to the
stimulating end (e.g., 28) of the conductor, which is located near
the targeted stimulating location. For example, the stimulating end
can be positioned in proximity to a joint, such as a hip or knee
joint, or it may be positioned near the motor point(s) activating
the muscles associated with the joint.
[0061] With a stimulation system as described herein as compared
with a transcutaneous device, the stimulation may be delivered to
the specific location (e.g. to the specific nerve) with no
unpleasant sensation from cutaneous receptors due to delivery of
the stimulation thru the skin and with no risk of activating
non-targeted areas (as in TENS). In addition, as compared with
percutaneous stimulation, the risk of inflammation or contamination
due to the lead protruding thru the skin can be reduced or
eliminated using a stimulation system as described herein. As
compared to full size implantable stimulators, only a minimally
invasive procedure is required with the stimulation system
described herein. A stimulation system as described herein is
usually also not associated with tunneling the leads from the
targeted stimulation location to the place available for
implantation of the stimulator (under-skin pocket), which may be
relatively far away. For example, stimulating the arm may require
tunneling the leads from the arm to the chest, where the stimulator
will be implanted. In addition to the invasiveness of such a
procedure, there is a risk of lead migration or lead damage
associated with the long leads crossing the joints.
[0062] A stimulation system as described herein used in conjunction
with a joint replacement procedure can be used to achieve a variety
of different benefits. For example, use of stimulation can delay or
defer the need for a joint replacement procedure. Conditioning of
the muscles/joint can be done before a replacement procedure (e.g.
increasing range of motion). Stimulation of a joint can also
improve recovery after a joint replacement procedure. For example,
improvements can be made in pain management and/or in management of
muscle performance. In some cases, stimulation of a joint can also
help prevent deep venous thrombosis.
[0063] For example, to improve range of motion or muscle condition
related to a knee replacement procedure, knee extensors and/or knee
flexors can be stimulated using a stimulation system as described
herein. In this example, knee extension is performed by Quadriceps
Femoris muscle (which include Sartorius, Vastus intermedius, Vastus
Lateralis and Vastus medialis), innervated by the Femoral nerve),
as shown FIG. 2. Knee flexion can be performed by the Hamstring
(Lateral Hamstring and Medial Hamstring), controlled by the Sciatic
nerve and Tibial nerve, as shown in FIG. 3.
[0064] To cause motor point stimulation, a stimulation system
including an implant (e.g., implant 18) can be implanted near the
subject nerves. The stimulation frequency can be, for example,
lower than 50 Hz. A single implant can be used, for example,
causing knee extension, and it can be operated cyclically. For
example, stimulus can be applied every 30 seconds for 5 seconds.
The knee will be extended during the stimulation, and will be
relaxed to its original position (by gravity) during the rest of
the cycle. It is also possible to use two or more implants. For
example, one implant to cause knee extension and the other to cause
knee flexion. In this case, the implants can be operated
synchronously, for example, a cycle of 5 seconds stimulating the
extension, 10 seconds pause, 5 seconds stimulating flexors, 10
seconds pause, etc. When using a higher frequency of stimulation
(e.g., above 30 Hz), pain relief can be achieved, which may be
helpful at any of multiple stages of a knee replacement
procedure.
[0065] In another example application, a stimulation system as
described herein can be used to treat urinary incontinence by
applying electrical stimulation to the common peroneal (CP) nerve
(e.g., common fibular nerve; external popliteal nerve; peroneal
nerve), and/or the tibial nerve. FIGS. 4-8 illustrate applications
of various configurations of a implant with the cathodic
electrode(s) and anodic electrode(s) positioned at various
locations on a feline F. A schematic illustration of a feline
subject is illustrated in FIGS. 4-8.
[0066] FIG. 4 illustrates the feline F with two implants implanted
under the skin of the feline F. A first implant 118 includes a
passive conductor 124 having a pick-up end 126 and a stimulating or
delivery end 128 and terminations 133. The delivery end 128 is
disposed in proximity to a common peroneal nerve (not shown in FIG.
4) of the feline F. A second implant 118' includes a passive
conductor 124' having a pick-up end 126' and a stimulating or
delivery end 128', and terminations 135. The delivery end 128' is
disposed in proximity of a tibial nerve (not shown in FIG. 4) of
the feline F. FIGS. 5-8 do not show the implants 118 and 118'
disposed under the skin of the feline F for purposes of
illustration. Reference to the implants 118 and 118' in the below
description refer to FIG. 4.
[0067] FIG. 5 illustrates a stimulation system attached to the
feline F with the implants 118 and 118' implanted within the feline
F. A first cathodic electrode 120 is attached to the external
surface of the feline F over the pick-up end 126 of a the conductor
124 and a second cathodic electrode 121 is attached to the surface
of the feline F over the pick-up end 126' of the conductor 124'. In
this example, an electrical current is applied to the first
cathodic electrode 120 and the second cathodic electrode 121 (e.g.,
via a pulse generator), and a portion of the electrical current is
picked up by the pick-up ends 126, 126' of the conductors 124,
124', passed through the conductors 124, 124' to the stimulating
ends 128, 128' of the conductors 124, 124' in proximity of the CP
nerve and the tibial nerve, respectively. Thus, this example
provides cathodic stimulation. In this example, a single anodic
electrode 122 is positioned 8 cm from the cathodic electrode 121
and 5 cm from the cathodic electrode 120.
[0068] FIG. 6 illustrates a system having cathodic electrodes over
the delivery terminals (e.g., stimulating ends of the implants) in
the proximity of the nerves to be treated, and anodic electrodes
over the pick-up terminals of the implants. In this embodiment, a
first cathodic electrode 120 is attached to the feline F over the
delivery end 128 of the implant 118 in the proximity of the CP
nerve, and a second cathodic electrode 121 is attached to the
feline F over the delivery end 128' of the implant 118' in the
proximity of the tibial nerve. A first anodic electrode 122 is
attached to the feline F at 7 cm from the first cathodic electrode
120, and a second anodic electrode 123 is attached to the feline F
at 7 cm from the second cathodic electrode 121. In this embodiment,
electrical current is provided and a portion of the electrical
current is picked up by the pick-up ends 126, 126' of the
conductors 124, 124', passed through the conductors 124, 124' to
the stimulating ends 128, 128' of the implants 118, 118' over which
the cathodic electrodes 120, 121 are disposed.
[0069] FIG. 7 illustrates a system having a cathodic pick-up and an
anodic delivery configuration. In this embodiment, a first cathodic
electrode 120 is attached to the feline F over the pick-up end 126
of the implant 118, and a second cathodic electrode 121 is attached
to the feline F over the pick-up end 126' of the implant 118'. A
first anodic electrode 122 is attached to the feline F over the
delivery end 128 of the implant 118 in the proximity of the CP
nerve, and a second anodic electrode 123 is attached to the feline
F over the delivery end 128' of the implant 118' in the proximity
of the tibial nerve. In this embodiment, the first cathodic
electrode 120 is positioned 12 cm from the first anodic electrode
122, and the second cathodic electrode 121 is positioned 15 cm from
the second anodic electrode 123. Electrical current is provided to
the cathodic electrodes 120, 121 and a portion of the electrical
current is picked up by the pick-up ends 126, 126' of the
conductors 124, 124', passed through the conductors 124, 124' to
the delivery ends 128, 128' over which the anodic electrodes 122,
123 are disposed.
[0070] FIG. 8 is an example of a system having the cathodic
electrodes over the delivery terminals and the anodic electrodes
over the pick-up terminals. In this configuration, a first cathodic
electrode 120 is placed over the delivery end 128 of the implant
118 in the proximity of a CP nerve, and a second cathodic electrode
121 is placed over the delivery end 128' of the implant 118' in the
proximity of the tibial nerve. A first anodic electrode 122 is
placed over the pick-up end 126 of the implant 118 and a second
anodic electrode 123 is placed over the pick-up end 126' of the
implant 118'. As with the embodiment of FIG. 7, the first cathodic
120 is positioned 12 cm from the first anodic electrode 122, and
the second cathodic electrode 121 is positioned 15 cm from the
second anodic electrode 123. In this embodiment, electrical current
is provided to the anodic electrodes 122, 123, a portion of the
electrical current is picked up by the pick-up ends 126, 126' of
the conductors 124, 124', passed through the conductors 124, 124',
to the delivery ends 128, 128' over which the cathodic electrodes
120, 121 are disposed. Thus, this configuration is an example of
anodic stimulation.
[0071] For each of the illustrated configurations in FIGS. 5-8, a
surface threshold current can be determined. FIG. 9 is a graph
illustrating an example of the threshold currents associated with
each configuration when a cuff-style implant was implanted within
the feline F. As shown in FIG. 9, when external electrodes are
placed over both the pick-up ends and the stimulating ends of the
conductors (as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8), only half the threshold is
required than for the configuration where there is no external
electrode placed over the pick-up end of the conductor (FIG.
5).
[0072] In another example application, an implant described herein
can be used to rehabilitate muscle attached to bone, such as in
podiatry applications. An implant can also be used to provide
assistance to movement of immobile limbs, such as a paralyzed hand.
Such electrical stimulation is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,961,623
("the '623 patent") the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety. For example, the '623 patent
describes an apparatus and method for controlling a device or
process with vibrations produced through clicking together of a
patient's teeth. Such a device can be used to actuate a stimulator
(e.g., pulse generator) in a stimulation system as described
herein.
[0073] Other applications for which a system and implant as
described herein can be used include increasing blood flow, for
example, within a limb, and/or to increase the speed of recovery of
wounds. Chronic wounds, including venous ulcers, diabetic foot
ulcers and pressure sores, can be a major public health problem.
The total prevalence of such wounds in the United States has been
estimated to range from 3 to 6 million. Difficult to heal wounds
may lead to high rates of morbidity and mortality, and negative
effects on quality of life. While leg and foot ulcers have numerous
causes, such as venous disease, arterial disease, mixed
venous-arterial disease, diabetic neuropathy, trauma, immobility,
and vasculitis, over 90% of chronic lesions are related to venous
disease, arterial disease, and neuropathy. Chronic wounds may
require intervention to promote healing and to prevent infection,
progression, and recurrence. Regardless of the cause, ulcer
treatment usually begins with conservative therapies such as
pressure relief, sterile dressings, and topical antibiotics. If
conservative treatments fail to promote wound healing, surgical
treatments such as sclerotherapy of the affected vein, skin flap
reconstruction, or amputation of a digit or foot may be necessary.
A less invasive approach to management of chronic wounds involves
electrical stimulation.
[0074] When skin is damaged, not only are epithelial cells
sometimes destroyed, but a large quantity of collagen can also be
lost. This is important because collagen makes up approximately 75%
of the weight of the skin. To stimulate skin healing, a variety of
methods have been used, such as, for example, the topical
application of herbal remedies like Aloe Vera extract, the use of
soft laser, natural honey, electromagnetic pulses and fibroblast
growth factor. Even though good results have been achieved by these
methods, the customary approach remains the prevention of infection
using antibacterial and antiseptic agents, and sometimes
hygroscopic powders. However, these approaches may be of limited
benefit if an adequate blood supply to the affected area is not
promoted especially in severe cases such as extensive burn
injuries, diabetic ulcers, ischemic flaps, necrotic wounds and
large areas of skin.
[0075] Thus, stimulating wound healing using electricity can be
done using an implant as described herein. In addition, numerous
morphological and functional effects of electric stimulation have
been identified, both at the cellular and at the tissue level.
[0076] As described above, electrical stimulation refers to the
application of an electrical current through electrodes placed
directly onto the skin in close proximity of the wound. Electrical
stimulation as a technique to promote wound healing may: 1)
increase ATP concentration in the skin, 2) increase DNA synthesis,
3) attract epithelial cells and fibroblasts to wound sites, 4)
accelerate recovery of damaged neural tissue, 5) reduce edema, 6)
increase blood flow, and/or 7) inhibit pathogenesis.
[0077] Similar to the other above-described applications of a
stimulation system and implant, electrical stimulation (ES) in
wound care involves the placement of electrodes in direct contact,
or in close proximity to a skin wound, thereby creating an
electrical current that passes through the wound. The skin
possesses an electrical field, and the presence of a wound can
disrupt this electrical field. The use of ES as an adjunctive
treatment for wound healing can help repair the electrical field of
the skin. There are several modalities of ES used in the treatment
of chronic wounds. In one example, low intensity direct current
(LIDC) can be applied, which involves application of direct current
of low intensity, typically between 100 .mu.A and 1 mA. In another
example, low intensity pulsed current (LIPC) can be applied, which
involves application of a pulsed direct current of about 10 mA,
with a pulse repetition of the order of 100 pulses per second. In
another example, high voltage pulsed current (HVPC) can be applied,
which includes the application of a pulsed direct current of high
voltage. The pulses, can be, for example, twin pulses of short
duration, between 100 and 500 V.
[0078] Electrical stimulation can be applied in several ways as
illustrated in FIGS. 10-12. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, a
first electrode 220 (positive or negative polarity) is applied to a
sterile, conductive material, such as saline-moistened gauze pad
246 placed in the wound W. A conductive surface of a second
electrode 222 is applied nearby on intact dry skin. An external
pulse generator (EPG) 248 is connected to the first electrode (and
gauze pad 246).
[0079] FIG. 11 is a top view illustrating an example application
including positioning a conductive surface of each of two gel
electrodes 320, 322 with the same polarity on intact dry skin on
opposite borders of a wound W, such that they straddle the wound W.
A third gel electrode 324 with the opposite polarity is placed
nearby on intact dry skin. The first electrode 320 and the second
electrode 322 are connected to a first terminal of an external
pulse generator (EPG) 348, and the third electrode 324 is connected
to a second terminal of the external pulse generator 348.
[0080] FIG. 12 is a top view illustrating an example application
that includes positioning multiple electroacupuncture needles 450
and 452 around a perimeter of a wound W. In this embodiment, three
electroacupuncture needles 450 are connected to a first terminal of
an external pulse generator (EPG) 448 and have a first polarity,
and two electroacupuncture needles 452 are connected to a second
terminal of the external pulse generator 448 and have an opposite
polarity. In each of the applications described and shown with
reference to FIGS. 10-12, the pulse frequency can be, for example,
set to about 100 pulses/second, and the voltage can be set, for
example, to deliver a current that produces a moderately strong,
but comfortable tingling sensation (in sensate skin) or a
just-visible muscle contraction (in insensate skin, as in patients
with spinal cord injuries).
[0081] The polarity of the electrode or electrodes placed in a
straddling position around a wound, as shown in FIG. 11, can depend
on the wound's clinical need. To promote autolysis, positive
polarity may be desired to attract negatively charged neutrophils
and macrophages. To encourage granulation tissue development,
negative polarity may be desired to attract positively charged
fibroblasts. To stimulate wound resurfacing, it may be desirable to
use positive polarity to attract negatively charged epidermal
cells.
[0082] Electrical stimulation with negative polarity can be used,
for example, to improve collagen deposition in excisional wounds of
diabetic and non-diabetic animals. Direct current (DC) stimulation
can be used, for example, to reduce wound area more rapidly than
alternating current (AC), but AC stimulation can reduce wound
volume more rapidly than DC. Both DC and AC stimulation can cause
significant increase of collagen content around experimental
incisions and a similar result can arise using AC with switching
polarities every second. DC currents of, for example, 50 to 300
.mu.A can in some cases accelerate the rate of epithelialization,
suggesting that electrical fields can influence the proliferative
and/or migratory capacity of epithelial and connective tissue
cells.
[0083] Use of an implant as described herein for wound healing can
provide several advantages over other known techniques. FIG. 13
illustrates one example use of an implant for wound healing. In
this example, the electrical stimulation can be delivered through
the wound by placing the stimulating end or stimulating electrode
below or within the wound. As shown in FIG. 13, an implant 518
includes a conductor (e.g. lead) 524 that is connected on one end
to a pick-up electrode 526 (i.e., pick-up end) and at another end
to a stimulating electrode 528 (i.e., stimulating end). The
stimulating electrode 528 is positioned beneath a wound W. An
external cathodic electrode 520 and an external anodic electrode
522 are attached to the surface of the skin. An external pulse
generator (EPG) 548 delivers electrical current to the external
electrode 520 and a portion of the electrical current is picked-up
by the pick-up electrode 526. The pick-up electrode 526 delivers
the electrical current through the conductor 524 and to the
stimulating electrode 528 located near the wound W. The stimulation
returns from the stimulating electrode 528 to the EPG 548 via the
wound W and the anodic electrode 522. Thus, electrical current
passes through the wound W, stimulating deeper parts of the wound
W.
[0084] FIG. 14 illustrates an example of a use of an implant where
the stimulation is applied to deeper parts of a wound or to a deep
or internal wound. As shown in FIG. 14, an implant 618 includes a
conductor (e.g. lead) 624, a pick-up electrode 626 (i.e., pick-up
end) connected to one end of the conductor 624 and a stimulating
electrode 628 (i.e., stimulating end) connected to the other end of
the conductor 618. The stimulating electrode 628 is positioned
beneath a deep wound W. An external cathodic electrode 620 and an
external anodic electrode 622 are attached to the surface of the
skin. An external pulse generator (EPG) 648 delivers electrical
current to the external electrode 620 and a portion of the
electrical current is picked-up by the pick-up electrode 626. The
pick-up electrode 626 delivers the electrical current through the
conductor 624 and to the stimulating electrode 628 located near the
wound W. As with the previous embodiment, the stimulation passes
through the wound W, to the anodic electrode 622 and to the EPG
648. It also noted that other embodiments can include, for example,
an additional implanted lead (e.g. conductor) on the other side of
the wound with one terminal near the wound and the other terminal
below the surface electrode 622.
[0085] In some embodiments, an implant can also be used in
applications to enhance healing of fractures or breaks in bones
and/or to promote bone growth. For example, bone in an area of a
fracture can be electronegative with respect to the ephysis or
diaphysis (relatively inactive areas of growth or repair). When the
fracture is healed, the area of electronegativity has been found to
be no longer observed. The region under compression of a bone that
is, for example, bent, can be electronegative and the region under
tension can be, for example, electropositive compared to the
non-stressed portion of the bone. The production of electricity
accompanying the stress is sometimes called the "piezoelectricity
of bone." It has been observed that changes in environmental
conditions (e.g., chemical, thermal, or mechanical) are first
converted to electrical energy or stimuli that act on bone cells
causing callus formation. The connection between the environmental
stimulus and the callus is electricity, and therefore, the callus
can be produced by electricity. Electrodes can be inserted into,
for example, a medullary canal of a femur and a current can be
applied such that over time, a ridge of callus is formed between
the electrodes. Thus, greater new bone formation in the region of a
negative electrode can be achieved.
[0086] In one example, a fracture in an ankle can be treated with
electrical stimulation. For example, a cathodic electrode can be
surgically inserted into the fracture site and an anodic electrode
can be placed on the skin over the medial aspect of the foot. A
constant electric current can then be applied to the cathodic
electrode to deliver electrical stimulation to the fracture site.
There are various modalities of electrical stimulation that can be
used. For example DC stimulation, capacitive-coupled (or pulsed DC)
stimulation, or pulsed electromagnetic filed stimulation (inductive
coupled stimulation).
[0087] In an example of a DC stimulation (DC) application, multiple
cathodic electrodes can be surgically inserted into a fracture
site. The current source can be, for example, either implanted or
external, or connected percutaneously to the implanted electrodes.
An anodic electrode is placed on the skin close to the non-united
(e.g. fractured or broken) site. The current carried by each
cathodic electrode can vary depending on the material from which
the cathodic electrode is made.
[0088] In another example application, capacitively coupled
stimulation (CC) is applied in a non-invasive procedure. Electrodes
are placed on either side of the fracture site. Windows are cut
into a cast at the fracture site, if needed. An electrical field
(e.g., 1-10 mV/cm) can be established in the tissue between the
electrodes and the induced current is dispersed over a wide volume
of tissue. The stimulation can be applied, for example, for 24
hours a day.
[0089] In an example using pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF), an
inductive coupling involving a time-varying magnetic field is
applied. An electric field is produced when specific current
waveforms are passed through coils placed around the fracture site.
In some embodiments, two waveforms can be used, for example,
pulsing electromagnetic fields and combined magnetic fields. With
either waveform, voltage gradients (e.g., 1-10 mV) can be produced.
The stimulation can be applied over a time period, for example, of
30 minutes to 10 hours per day.
[0090] The use of an implant as described herein can provide a
minimally invasive, efficient delivery of electrical stimulation to
an area of a bone defect, such as a fracture or a break in a bone
structure. As described for previous embodiments, and as
illustrated in FIG. 15, an implant 718 includes a conductor 724, a
pick-up electrode 726 and a stimulating electrode 728 that can be
implanted under a patient's skin. The stimulating electrode 728 is
positioned adjacent or in contact with a bone defect, such as
fracture site Fr to be treated. An electrode 720 (e.g., a cathodic
electrode or an anodic electrode) is positioned at an exterior
location on the patient's skin and over the pick-up electrode 726.
Another electrode 722 (e.g., the other of a cathodic electrode or
anodic electrode) is positioned at a location on the patient's skin
at a spaced distance from the electrode 720. The electrodes 720 and
722 can be, for example, gel electrodes.
[0091] An external pulse generator (EPG) 748 can be used to deliver
electrical stimulation transcutaneously via the electrode 720. Part
of the delivered stimulation is then picked up by the pick-up
electrode 726 and is delivered to the stimulating electrode 728
implanted in the targeted area via the conductor 724.
[0092] The electrodes can be attached to a patient's skin out of
the area covered by, for example, a case or cast disposed over a
fracture site. In some embodiments, an opening is made in the cast,
which will enable access to the skin and replacement of the
electrodes, as desired. For example, it may be desirable to replace
gel electrodes periodically. It is also possible to use wetted
electrodes, which my be either replaceable or be attached between
the cast and the skin. In such a case, periodic wetting of the
electrodes may be performed via small openings in the cast.
[0093] In some embodiments, the case or cast can serve as an
orthosis, carrying the electrodes and the EPG. For example, the
stimulator (e.g., pulse generator) can be embedded within a cast or
coupled to a cast that has been disposed over a broken or fractured
limb (e.g., an arm or leg). An example of such an embodiment is
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,607,500, the disclosure of which is
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0094] FIG. 16 illustrates an embodiment of a system that includes
a cast C disposed over a portion of a patient's anatomy, for
example, over an area of a bone defect (not shown). In this
embodiment, a system includes an implant 818 having a conductor 824
(e.g., lead), a pick-up electrode 826, and a stimulating electrode
828. An external pulse generator (EPG) 848 can be used to deliver
electrical stimulation transcutaneously via the gel electrodes 820
and 822 attached to the skin S. As described above, a portion of
the delivered stimulation is picked up by the pick-up electrode 826
and is delivered via the conductor 824 to the stimulating electrode
828 implanted in the targeted area. In this embodiment, the gel
electrodes 820, 822 are attached to the skin out of the area
covered by the case/cast C. In some situations, this can provide an
advantage as compared to a standard TENS stimulation. For example,
the external gel electrodes 820 and 822 can enable easy access and
replacement being located outside the cast, while still delivering
stimulation to the targeted location.
[0095] Thus, electrical stimulation has a variety of short-term
therapeutic applications after injury or surgery as well as
long-term applications for bone healing, or for prevention of
muscle atrophy in paralyzed muscles as described above (see e.g.,
FIGS. 15 and 16).
[0096] Electrical stimulus can also be used in the prevention of
deep venous thrombosis. During periods of immobilization, it can be
important to continue to contract the limb muscles to move the
venous blood back to the heart and to prevent pooling of the blood.
This is especially applicable after pelvic fractures, as well as
after total hip or knee replacements. If there is pooling of blood
in the legs, a blood clot or thrombus formation can result in a
small portion of the clot (emboli) breaking off. The emboli can
lodge in the lungs resulting in pulmonary embolism and possible
death. Electrical stimulation can be used to prevent the blood from
pooling by frequent contraction of the muscles (for example the
calf muscles). In addition to the creation of a muscle pump,
electrical stimulation may increase plasma fibrinolytic activity
and reduce the potential of clotting.
[0097] Electrical stimulation can also be used in the management of
stiffness and joint contractures after immobilization. Electrical
stimulation can provide several benefits in the rehabilitation of
stiff joints. Electrical stimulation can be used to augment
contraction of the muscles and hold the contraction at the end of
the available joint range. Electrical stimulation can modulate
discomfort or pain during the early mobilization period, and can
enhance the force production, work capability and endurance of the
stimulated muscles. Severe muscle atrophy can occur rapidly
following traumatic spinal cord injury. In such a case, electrical
stimulation may be beneficial in preventing secondary impairments
of patients with spinal cord injuries when applied before extensive
post-injury atrophy occurs.
[0098] Electrical stimulation can also be used in the management of
muscle performance. For example, electrical stimulation of a muscle
or of a nerve innervating the muscle may be applied to maintain
muscle contractility during periods of immobilization when the
effect of muscle contraction would not interfere with the healing.
Although electrical stimulation during immobilization may not
completely prevent shrinkage or atrophy of muscle, it may minimize
the loss and maintain the metabolic capability of muscle to speed
recovery when it is safe to resume movement and exercise. When the
resumption of exercise is permitted after injury or surgery,
electrical stimulation may be used to provide sensory input and to
improve muscle recruitment.
[0099] In a situation where a nerve block (neuropraxia) is present,
electrical stimulation may be used to maintain the paralyzed muscle
until the nerve block resolves. Depending on the location of the
weak or paralyzed muscles, electrical stimulation may be used to
substitute a brace or orthosis. In some embodiments, augmentation
of muscle strength with electrically elicited muscle contractions
can occur in a similar manner to augmentation of muscle strength
with voluntary exercise. In some cases, augmentation of muscle
strength using percutaneous stimulation is fundamentally different
from augmentation of strength with voluntary exercise.
[0100] Electrical stimulation can be delivered transcutaneously,
percutaneously or using fully implanted stimulators. In one
example, electrical stimulation includes the use of electrical
stimulation of quadriceps femoris and hamstring muscle groups
during a period of low extremity cast immobilization for an athlete
who sustained grade II medial, collateral and anterior cruciate
ligament sprains. Three weeks after cast removal, single-leg,
vertical-leap height was 92% of that accomplished by the dominant,
uninjured leg, and the patient was able to return to athletic
competition. This example illustrates that electrical stimulation
may attenuate denervation and age-related muscle atrophy. In
another example, electrical stimulators were implanted in rats,
stimulating the extensor digitorum longus. This example illustrates
that electrical stimulation can be used to reduce age-related
atrophy and weakness by ensuring that all of the muscle fibers
underwent titanic contraction. In another example, percutaneous
electrical stimulation can be used in preventing
immobilization-induced muscle atrophy. In some cases, brief periods
of percutaneous electrical stimulation can reduce quadriceps
atrophy secondary to knee immobilization, and can aid in the
prevention of the fall in muscle protein synthesis that usually
occurs on immobilization. In some cases, electrical stimulation can
prevent a fall in oxidative enzyme activity.
[0101] Each of the above described procedures can also be performed
using a miniature implantable stimulator(s) for delivery of the
electrical stimulation in a patient Such miniature implantable
electrical stimulators are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,735,475,
6,941,171 and 6,735,474, each of the disclosures of which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0102] For example, a miniature implantable electrical
stimulator(s) can be used in conjunction with a joint replacement
procedure to improve patient healing and decrease pain. A miniature
implantable stimulator has several advantages compared to other
techniques, for example, as follows. Compared with a transcutaneous
device, with a miniature implantable electrical stimulator, an
electrical stimulation can be delivered to a specific location
(e.g. to the specific nerve), with no unpleasant sensation from
cutaneous receptors, due to delivery of the stimulation thru the
skin. There are also no external gel electrodes, which may cause
skin irritation and require replacement and/or re-alignment. As
with the stimulation systems and implants described above, compared
with percutaneous stimulation, with a miniature implantable
electrical stimulator, the risk of inflammation or contamination
due to the lead protruding thru the skin can be reduced or
eliminated. Also, compared to a full size implantable stimulator,
with a miniature implantable electrical stimulator, only a
minimally invasive procedure is typically required.
[0103] Miniature implantable electrical stimulator(s) used in
conjunction with a joint replacement procedure can also be used to
delay or defer the need for a joint replacement procedure as
described above. Conditioning of the muscles/joint can be done
before a joint replacement procedure (e.g. increasing range of
motion). Improvements can be made in pain management and/or in
management of muscle performance. In some cases, stimulation of a
joint can also help prevent deep venous thrombosis. It is also
noted that the use of electrical stimulation based on implanted
passive conductors as described herein can have benefits similar to
those of miniature stimulators, while providing a significantly
less expensive alternative.
[0104] While various embodiments have been described above, it
should be understood that they have been presented by way of
example only, and not limitation. Where methods and steps described
above indicate certain events occurring in certain order, those of
ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure
would recognize that the ordering of certain steps may be modified
and that such modifications are in accordance with the variations
of the invention. Additionally, certain of the steps may be
performed concurrently in a parallel process when possible, as well
as performed sequentially as described above. The embodiments have
been particularly shown and described, but it will be understood
that various changes in form and details may be made.
[0105] Although various embodiments have been described as having
particular features and/or combinations of components, other
embodiments are possible having a combination or sub-combination of
any features and/or components from any of the embodiments
described herein. For example, one or more of the implants (e.g.,
18, 118, 118', 518, 618, 718, 818) can be used in a procedure to
stimulate a bodily tissue (e.g., soft tissue, muscle, ligaments,
bone structures, etc.). Thus, in any procedure described herein,
although not necessarily illustrated, a second implant can be
included, such as shown in FIG. 1 (e.g., including return conductor
34). It is also noted that any embodiment of an implant can be used
for any of the various procedures described herein. For example, an
implant can be used for any of the above-described procedures with
or without a cuff electrode (as described in FIG. 1).
[0106] Further, the quantity of electrodes can vary depending on
the particular treatment. The type of electrode can also vary, for
example, a plate electrode or a cuff electrode can be used.
Although some embodiments describe applying or delivering electric
current from a stimulator (e.g., pulse generator) to a cathodic
electrode attached to a surface of a patient over the pick-up end
or pick-up electrode of an implant, it should be understood, that
an anodic electrode can alternatively be placed over the pick-up
end or pick-up electrode and electrical current delivered thereto.
For example, as described with reference to FIGS. 5-8, various
configurations and combinations of cathodic electrodes and anodic
electrodes (e.g., positioning relative to the implanted conductor)
can be used.
[0107] Further, the various components of an implant as described
herein can have a variety of different shapes and or size not
specifically illustrated. For example, the terminations (e.g., 30),
the conductors (e.g., 24, 124, etc.), the pick-up end or pick-up
electrode (e.g., 26, 126, etc.), the stimulating ends or
stimulating electrodes (also referred to as delivering ends or
electrodes) (e.g., 28, 128, etc.) can each have a variety of
different shapes sizes, cross-sections, thickness, etc. In
addition, the electrodes (e.g., 20, 22, 120, 122, etc.), can be a
variety of different shapes, sizes, types, etc.. Although a
stimulator for delivering electric current to the electrodes was
described as a pulse generator, in some embodiments, other types of
stimulators can alternatively be used. Various power sources can
also be used, including for example, a wireless or wired connection
to the stimulator.
* * * * *