Rechargeable spinal cord stimulator system
US6516227B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 26, 2000 |
| Grant date | Feb 4, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 2, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/37241
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system provides multiple stimulation channels, each capable of producing up to 10 mA of current into a 1 K&OHgr; load. The SCS system further includes a replenishable power source, e.g., a rechargeable battery, that requires only an occasional recharge, and offers a life of at least 10 years at typical settings. Each of the multiple stimulus channels of the system may be combined with other channels to deliver more than 10 mA of current. Additionally, the SCS system has the capability to stimulate simultaneously on all available channels. Each channel has at least two outputs (one positive and one negative) that can be mapped via a low impedance switching matrix to any electrode contact or the system case, thereby allowing a clinician to provide unique electrical stimulation fields for each current channel. Moreover, this feature, combined with multi-contact electrodes arranged in two or three dimensional arrays, allows “virtual electrodes” to be realized. When the system's replenishable power source is fully charged, the user may operate the SCS system independent of external controllers or power sources. The replenishable power source m…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.