Bioelectric implant and method
US8738144B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 12, 2009 |
| Grant date | May 27, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 11, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/326
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Bioelectric implants are provided in three distinct embodiments, namely a bone/tissue anchor, a suture construction, and a plate. The bioelectric implants function in dual capacities as both fixation devices, and as galvanic cells for the production of electrical energy used for therapeutic purposes in tissue regeneration and healing. The bioelectric anchor may take the general form of a screw or pin having a hollow interior or cavity that extends through the body of the anchor. A coating can be applied to the cavity to form the anode portion of the galvanic cell. The outer surface of the anchor serves as a cathode. Bodily fluids and tissue act as an electrolyte to facilitate the chemical reactions necessary for the galvanic cell. For the suture construction, one or more strands of material are the cathode, and one or more strands of peripheral surrounding material act as the anode. Bodily fluids/tissue in contact with the suture act as an electrolyte. The bioelectric plate can be used in combination with the bioelectric anchor to supplement delivery of electrical energy. The plate has anode and cathode portions also making it a source of electrical energy.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.