Implantable generator having current steering means
First Claim
1. An implantable pulse generator for use with an array of electrodes implantable within a patient so as to lie adjacent selected nerve tissue, the implantable pulse generator being characterized by having current-steering capability, the implantable pulse generator comprising:
- a pulse generator responsive to programming signals for generating stimulation currents;
means responsive to the programming signals for selectively applying the stimulation currents to at least two electrodes within the array of electrodes, said at least two electrodes comprising a first group of electrodes; and
current steering means responsive to directional signals for steering the stimulation currents from the first group of electrodes to a second group of electrodes;
wherein stimulation currents flowing between electrodes within the first group of electrodes and steered to electrodes within the second group of electrodes as controlled by the directional signals.
2 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
An implantable pulse generator includes a current steering capability that allows a clinician or patient to quickly determine a desired electrode stimulation pattern, including which electrodes of a group of electrodes within an electrode array should receive a stimulation current, including the amplitude, width and pulse repetition rate of such current. Movement of the selected group of electrodes is facilitated through the use of remotely generated directional signals, generated by a pointing device, such as a joystick. As movement of the selected group of electrodes occurs, current redistribution amongst the various electrode contacts takes place. The redistribution of stimulus amplitudes utilizes re-normalization of amplitudes so that the perceptual level remains fairly constant. This prevents the resulting paresthesia from falling below the perceptual threshold or above the comfort threshold.
-
Citations
17 Claims
-
1. An implantable pulse generator for use with an array of electrodes implantable within a patient so as to lie adjacent selected nerve tissue, the implantable pulse generator being characterized by having current-steering capability, the implantable pulse generator comprising:
-
a pulse generator responsive to programming signals for generating stimulation currents;
means responsive to the programming signals for selectively applying the stimulation currents to at least two electrodes within the array of electrodes, said at least two electrodes comprising a first group of electrodes; and
current steering means responsive to directional signals for steering the stimulation currents from the first group of electrodes to a second group of electrodes;
wherein stimulation currents flowing between electrodes within the first group of electrodes and steered to electrodes within the second group of electrodes as controlled by the directional signals. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
-
-
13. An implantable pulse generator having a multiplicity of output channels to which a stimulating electrode may be selectively connected, comprising:
- a pulse generator responsive to programming signals for generating stimulation currents, means responsive to the programming signals for selectively applying the stimulation currents to a first group of output channels, said first group of output channels comprising at least two output channels that are selectively connected to a first group of electrodes; and
current steering means responsive to directional signals for steering the stimulation currents from the first group of output channels to a second group of output channels, said second group of output channels being selectively connected to a second group of electrodes;
wherein stimulation currents provided through the first group of output channels are steered to the second group of output channels. - View Dependent Claims (14, 15, 16, 17)
- a pulse generator responsive to programming signals for generating stimulation currents, means responsive to the programming signals for selectively applying the stimulation currents to a first group of output channels, said first group of output channels comprising at least two output channels that are selectively connected to a first group of electrodes; and
Specification