Implantable device and method for treating gastro esophageal reflux disease (gerd) and the digestive system

A method for treating digestive system disorders, the method comprising:

• providing a device for treating digestive system disorders, the device comprising:
• a control unit,
• a power source,
• a pulse generator, and
• a plurality of implantable electrodes comprising at least (i) a first electrode adapted to be positioned in electrical contact with a first abdominal muscle of a patient, and (ii) a second electrode adapted to be positioned in electrical contact with a second abdominal muscle of the patient,
• wherein said pulse generator is adapted to deliver stimulation signals via said first and second electrodes, wherein said power source is adapted to provide power to said pulse generator, and wherein said control unit is adapted to control said pulse generator and said power source;
• implanting in said patient at least said first electrode in electrical contact with said first abdominal muscle and said second electrode in electrical contact with said second abdominal muscle;
• and
• delivering said stimulation signals via said first and second electrodes to activate said first and second abdominal muscles, wherein said activating is adapted to induce instances of rapid increase in intraabdominal pressure in the patient which cause an increase in the tonus of the lower esophageal sphincter and/or the upper esophageal sphincter and/or invoke phasic contraction of the crural diaphragm.