Implantable electroacupuncture device and method for treating depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety
US9198828B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 28, 2012 |
| Grant date | Dec 1, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 11, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49002
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) treats depression, bipolar disorder or Anxiety through application of stimulation pulses applied at acupoints GV20 and/or EXHN3. The IEAD comprises an implantable, coin-sized, self-contained, leadless electroacupuncture device having at least two electrodes attached to an outside surface of its housing. The device generates stimulation pulses in accordance with a specified stimulation regimen. Power management circuitry within the device allows a primary battery, having a high internal impedance, to be used to power the device. The stimulation regimen generates stimulation pulses during a stimulation session of duration T3 minutes applied every T4 minutes. The duty cycle, or ratio T3/T4, is very low, no greater than 0.05. The low duty cycle and careful power management allow the IEAD to perform its intended function for several years.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.