Disc therapy
US9770591B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 29, 2015 |
| Grant date | Sep 26, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 29, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/37518
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method of treating an intervertebral disc of a subject is provided, comprising implanting, within a nucleus pulposus of the disc, at least three intra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces at different respective locations; and implanting one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces outside the nucleus pulposus, in electrical communication with the disc. Control circuitry is activated to configure the intra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to be cathodes, and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to be one or more anodes, and to drive the intra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces and the one or more extra-pulposus exposed electrode surfaces to electroosmotically drive fluid into the nucleus pulposus to increase pressure in the disc. Other embodiments are also described.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.