Systems and methods for reversibly blocking nerve activity
US7389145B2 · kind B2 · utility
263Cited by
8References
14Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 20, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jun 17, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 24, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/36178
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Systems and methods for blocking nerve impulses use an implanted electrode located on or around a nerve. A specific waveform is used that causes the nerve membrane to become incapable of transmitting an action potential. The membrane is only affected underneath the electrode, and the effect is immediately and completely reversible. The waveform has a low amplitude and can be charge balanced, with a high likelihood of being safe to the nerve for chronic conditions. It is possible to selectively block larger (motor) nerve fibers within a mixed nerve, while allowing sensory information to travel through unaffected nerve fibers.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.