Methods for implanting a spinal cord stimulator
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Abstract
Methods for implanting spinal cord stimulators are provided, including implanting at least one electrode in an anterolateral area of the spine. Stimulation provided by the stimulator(s) may be used to treat patients with chronic pain. The stimulator(s) use a power source/storage device, such as a rechargeable battery. Periodic recharging of such a power source/storage device is accomplished, for example, by inductive coupling with an external applience. The stimulators provide means of stimulating a nerve(s) or other tissue when desired, without the need for external appliances during the stimulation session. When necessary, external appliances are used for the transmission of data to and/or from the stimulator(s) and for the transmission of power, if necessary. In a preferred embodiment, the system is capable of open- and closed-loop operation. In closed-loop operation, at least one implant includes at least one sensor, and the sensed condition is used to adjust stimulation parameters.
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Citations
44 Claims
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1-24. -24. (canceled)
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25. A method for implanting a spinal cord stimulator, comprising:
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providing at least one stimulator having at least two electrodes;
implanting the at least one stimulator in, on or near an anterolateral area of the spinal cord;
providing operating power to the at least one stimulator;
providing stimulation parameters to the at least one stimulator;
generating stimulation pulses in accordance with the stimulation parameters; and
delivering the stimulation pulses to nerves and tissue of the anterolateral area of the spinal cord via the at least two electrodes;
wherein the stimulator has a size and shape suitable for placement in, on or near the anterolateral area of the spinal cord. - View Dependent Claims (26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36)
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37. A method for treating a patient with chronic pain, comprising:
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providing at least one stimulator having at least two electrodes;
implanting at least one electrode in, on or near an anterolateral area of the spinal cord;
providing operating power to the at least one stimulator;
providing stimulation parameters to the at least one stimulator;
generating stimulation pulses in accordance with the stimulation parameters; and
delivering the stimulation pulses to nerves and tissue of the anterolateral area of the spinal cord via the at least two electrodes;
wherein the stimulator has at least one electrode suitable for placement in, on or near the anterolateral area of the spinal cord. - View Dependent Claims (38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44)
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Specification