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AssigneeUniversity of Iowa Research Foundation
InventorsMatthew A. Howard, Hiroyuki Oya, Steve Viljoen, Chandan G. Reddy
Estimating the term…
This invention provides a device for implantation directly into the spinal cord for the purpose of treating back pain. Electrodes on a backing that conforms directly to the spinal cord are installed as a source of electrical stimulation and pain relief. The electrode array is maintained on the spinal cord at a chosen location by way of a spring or support structure that is anchored to an anatomical structure outside the spinal cord but near the site of implantation. Suitable anchoring structures include the vertebrae and the dura. Secured in this fashion, the support structure maintains a gentle pressure of the electrode array against the spinal cord so as to stay in electrical contact but minimize injury or inflammation. The device may accommodate and buffer movement of the spinal cord both laterally and in a caudal-rostral fashion so that the electrode array remains in place.
An implantable device for stimulating the spinal cord of a subject, comprising:
The device of any preceding claim, wherein the support structure comprises a first flexible member that extends laterally towards and engages the left margin of the dura, and a second flexible member that extends laterally towards and engages the right margin of the dura.
The device of any preceding claim, wherein the support structure is configured for securing outside the dura.
The device of any preceding claim, wherein the support structure comprises a cuff configured to engage the dura at or near an access site during implantation of the device into the subject, thereby sealing the access site.
An implantable device for stimulating the spinal cord of a subject, comprising:
An implantable device for stimulating the spinal cord of a subject, comprising:
An implantable device for stimulating the spinal cord of a subject, comprising:
The device of any preceding claim, further comprising an electrical connector at or near the position where the device exits the dura, whereby electrical leads passing from the electrodes through the connecting member(s) to the connector may be electrically and reversibly connected to a power source.
The device of any preceding claim, wherein the electrodes are arrayed on a compliant backing, and the backing further comprises semi-rigid extensions in rostral and/or caudal directions that increase surface area of the backing in contact with the spinal cord.
The device of any preceding claim, wherein the array of electrodes are disposed on a flexible substrate configured to conform to the spinal cord, wherein the array has opposed axial ends along the spinal cord, and wherein the substrate extends sufficiently beyond both opposed axial ends so as to inhibit lifting of any electrodes of the array when the array moves with spinal cord physiological movement within the spinal canal along an axis of the spinal cord.
A method for implanting a spinal cord stimulation device, the method comprising:
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.