Patent · US Active

Rechargeable spinal cord stimulator system

US7496404B2 · kind B2 · utility

210Cited by
43References
18Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateDec 10, 2004
Grant dateFeb 24, 2009
Priority date
Expiry dateJul 23, 2026

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
  • CPC primaryA61N1/37241
  • WIPO fieldMedical technology
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

A spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system includes multiple electrodes, multiple, independently programmable, stimulation channels within an implantable pulse generator (IPG) which channels can provide concurrent, but unique stimulation fields, permitting virtual electrodes to be realized. The SCS system includes a replenishable power source (e.g., rechargeable battery), that may be recharged using transcutaneous power transmissions between antenna coil pairs. An external charger unit, having its own rechargeable battery can be used to charge the IPG replenishable power source. A real-time clock can provide an auto-run schedule for daily stimulation. An included bi-directional telemetry link in the system informs the patient or clinician the status of the system, including the state of charge of the IPG battery. Other processing circuitry in the IPG allows electrode impedance measurements to be made. Further circuitry in the external battery charger can provide alignment detection for the coil pairs.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.