Implantable electroacupuncture device and method for treating obesity
US9364390B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 7, 2013 |
| Grant date | Jun 14, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 29, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49208
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) treats obese conditions of a patient through application of stimulation pulses applied at acupoints SP4, LR8 or ST40, or their underlying nerves saphenous and peroneal. 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.