Miniature implantable array and stimulation system suitable for eyelid stimulation
US6792314B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 31, 2002 |
| Grant date | Sep 14, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 6, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/04
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An implantable miniature eyelid electrode apparatus that causes a paralyzed eyelid to close or open by passing an electrical stimulating current to a nerve or muscle, is comprised of a longitudinally flexible, nonconductive body containing electrodes that pass an electrical signal to the nearby nerve or muscle, which closes or opens the eyelid. The apparatus is electrically actuated by a source that may be located remotely from the apparatus. The electrical signal passes along wires from the source to the apparatus. The apparatus is biocompatible with the environment in the living tissue and is electrically insulated from the surrounding tissue, except where the electrodes contact the living tissue. The apparatus is very small and is not obvious to visual inspection when implanted.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.