Apparatus and methods for treating congestive heart failure
US6076013A · kind A · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 14, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jun 13, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 14, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/368
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus and method for the treatment of congestive heart failure are disclosed that utilize a cuff that surrounds the heart and constrains cardiac dilation, while electrodes embedded in the cuff stimulate the myocardium to contractile function. An EKG signal can be processed to create an optimal pattern of selective stimulation of different areas of the heart at different times. An implantable circuit contains a power source and stimulation circuits. In some embodiments, a telemetry unit and an EKG collection circuit are also included. In accordance with the present disclosure, cuff limits the dilation of the heart and the stimulation electrodes enhance ventricular function by optimizing ventricular contractility.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.