Stimulator for auricular branch of vagus nerve
US9089691B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 7, 2004 |
| Grant date | Jul 28, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 2, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/0556
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Devices and methods to stimulate the auricular branch of the vagus nerve are provided. Various device embodiments comprise a lead, a neural stimulation circuit, and a controller. The lead has a neural stimulation electrode. The neural stimulation circuit is connected to the lead to deliver a neural stimulation signal adapted to stimulate the auricular nerve branch using the neural stimulation electrode. The controller is connected to the neural stimulation circuit and is adapted to control delivery of the neural stimulation signal from the neural stimulation circuit to provide a vagal stimulation therapy. In various embodiments, the electrode is adapted to be placed in an external auditory canal. In various embodiments, the electrode includes a transcutaneous neural stimulation electrode adapted to be placed behind an ear.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.