Electrode arrays and related methods

US 20070106143A1
Filed: 11/08/2005
Published: 05/10/2007
Est. Priority Date: 11/08/2005
Status: Abandoned Application

First Claim

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1. An electrode system comprising:

a probe assembly comprising a plurality of probes configured to penetrate tissue of a patient; and

a guide assembly comprising a plurality of guiding channels, each of the guiding channels being configured to guide one or more of the plurality of probes to a desired tissue site.

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Abstract

Various embodiments of an electrode array system and related methods are disclosed. The system may include a probe assembly having a plurality of probes configured to penetrate tissue of a patient and a guide assembly having a plurality of guiding channels. Each of the guiding channels may be configured to guide one or more of the plurality of probes to a desired tissue site. Some embodiments of an electrode array may include a housing and a plurality of probes extending from the housing. At least one of the plurality of probes may be individually deployable from the housing.

Citations

361 Claims

1. An electrode system comprising:
- a probe assembly comprising a plurality of probes configured to penetrate tissue of a patient; and
  
  a guide assembly comprising a plurality of guiding channels, each of the guiding channels being configured to guide one or more of the plurality of probes to a desired tissue site.
- View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 123, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, 320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325, 326, 327, 328, 329, 330, 331, 332, 333, 334, 335, 336, 337)
- - 2. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes is configured to detect cellular signals.
  - 3. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes is configured to deliver energy to tissue.
  - 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the energy delivered to tissue is selected from the group consisting of:
    - heat energy;
      
      cryogenic energy;
      
      light energy;
      
      radiation energy;
      
      chemical energy;
      
      mechanical energy;
      
      electrical energy; and
      
      any combination thereof.
  - 5. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the probes is configured to deliver agent.
  - 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the agent comprises a pharmaceutical agent.
  - 7. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the probes is configured to produce a magnetic field.
  - 8. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the probes comprises a sensor.
  - 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the sensor is selected from the group consisting of:
    - a thermal sensor;
      
      a pressure sensor;
      
      a chemical sensor;
      
      a force sensor;
      
      an electromagnetic field sensor;
      
      a physiologic sensor;
      
      a photodetector;
      
      a pH sensor;
      
      an oxygen sensor;
      
      a blood sensor;
      
      an electrode; and
      
      any combination thereof.
  - 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the physiologic sensor comprises at least one of an electrocardiogram sensor and a blood glucose sensor.
  - 11. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the probes is flexible.
  - 12. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the probes is rigid.
  - 13. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the probes has a resiliently biased shape.
  - 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the resiliently biased shape has a curved portion.
  - 15. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the probes comprises a shape memory material.
  - 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the shape memory material comprises a shape memory alloy.
  - 17. The system of claim 1, wherein at least two of the probes have lengths that are different from one another.
  - 18. The system of claim 1, wherein at least two of the probes have thicknesses that are different from one another.
  - 19. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the probes comprises a first functional element and a second functional element.
  - 20. The system of claim 19, wherein at least one of the first and second functional elements comprises an electrode.
  - 21. The system of claim 20, wherein the electrode is located at a distal tip of the probe.
  - 22. The system of claim 19, wherein the first functional element is an electrode with a first set of characteristics, and the second functional element is an electrode with a second set of characteristics.
  - 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the characteristics comprise at least one of:
    - an impedance;
      
      a surface area;
      
      a material of construction;
      
      a surface texture;
      
      a porosity;
      
      a length;
      
      a width;
      
      a diameter;
      
      a thickness;
      
      a surface energy;
      
      a coating; and
      
      any combination thereof.
  - 24. The system of claim 19, wherein at least one of the first and second functional elements comprises at least one of a photodiode and a photosensor.
  - 25. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the probes or at least one of the guiding channels comprises a conductive trace.
  - 26. The system of claim 25, wherein the conductive trace is configured to provide an electrical connection between the at least one of the probes and the at least one of the guiding channels.
  - 27. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the probes comprises a lumen along at least a portion of its length.
  - 28. The system of claim 27, wherein the lumen is configured to permit passage of fluid.
  - 29. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of probes are arranged in an array.
  - 30. The system of claim 1, wherein the probe assembly comprises a housing from which the plurality of probes project, and at least one of the plurality of probes is individually deployable from the housing.
  - 31. The system of claim 30, wherein at least two of the plurality of probes are simultaneously deployable from the housing.
  - 32. The system of claim 30, wherein the housing comprises a probe deployment mechanism configured to move the at least one of the plurality of probes relative to the housing.
  - 33. The system of claim 30, wherein at least one of the probes is configured to be deployed while the housing is being implanted on the tissue of the patient.
  - 34. The system of claim 30, wherein at least one of the probes is configured to be deployed after the housing is implanted on the tissue of the patient.
  - 35. The system of claim 30, wherein the housing comprises at least one internal guiding lumen configured to receive at least one probe of the probe assembly, the housing comprising a drive assembly positioned adjacent the internal guiding lumen to move the probe within the internal guiding lumen.
  - 36. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly is controllable manually.
  - 37. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly is controllable remotely.
  - 38. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly is controllable automatically.
  - 39. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - a screw extending along at least a portion of the internal guiding lumen;
      
      a drive member configured to engage the probe and the screw; and
      
      a drive mechanism configured to drive the drive member so as to move the probe distally or proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 40. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly comprises at least one pinch roller in contact with the probe, wherein rotating the roller causes the probe to move distally or proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 41. The system of claim 40, wherein the at least one pinch roller is disposed adjacent the internal guiding lumen or has a portion disposed in the internal guiding lumen.
  - 42. The system of claim 40, wherein the at least one pinch roller comprises two pinch rollers.
  - 43. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly comprises a gas discharging member having an outlet valve and being configured to discharge gas into the internal guiding lumen, wherein discharge of the gas causes the probe to advance the probe distally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 44. The system of claim 43, wherein the gas discharging member comprises an electrolytic cell.
  - 45. The system of claim 43, wherein the drive assembly further comprises a gas suction member having an inlet valve and being configured to suction gas out of the internal guiding lumen, wherein suctioning of the gas causes the probe to retract proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 46. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly comprises a suction member having an inlet valve and being configured to suction fluid out of the internal guiding lumen so as to retract the probe proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 47. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - an extendable piston having a distal end connected to the probe; and
      
      a drive mechanism configured to extend or retract the extendable piston so as to move the probe distally or proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 48. The system of claim 47, wherein the drive mechanism comprises at least one of a hydraulic drive element and a pneumatic drive element.
  - 49. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - a roller coupled to a portion of the probe, a surface of the roller being in contact with an inner surface of the internal guiding lumen; and
      
      a controller configured to control rotation of the roller, wherein rotation of the roller causes the probe to move distally or proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 50. The system of claim 49, wherein the drive assembly further comprises a second roller coupled to the probe.
  - 51. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - a tube having inner threads and being disposed inside the internal guiding lumen;
      
      a screw attached to a proximal end of the probe, the screw being configured to engage with and ride over the inner threads; and
      
      a drive mechanism configured to rotate at least one of the tube and the screw, wherein rotating at least one of the tube and the screw causes the screw to move relative to the tube so as to move the probe distally or proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 52. The system of claim 51, wherein the drive mechanism comprises a stepper motor.
  - 53. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - first teeth disposed at least partially along the internal guiding lumen;
      
      a drive member coupled to the probe, the drive member comprising a forward-moving member configured to engage or disengage at least one tooth of the first teeth when a first predetermined condition is applied, such that when the forward-moving member engages and disengages the at least one tooth of the first teeth, the probe moves distally along the internal guiding lumen; and
      
      an actuator configured to actuate the forward-moving member so as to move the probe distally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 54. The system of claim 53, wherein the forward-moving member comprises a shape memory material.
  - 55. The system of claim 53, wherein the forward-moving member is disengaged from the at least one tooth of the first teeth when the probe moves proximally.
  - 56. The system of claim 53, wherein the drive assembly further comprises second teeth disposed at least partially along the internal guiding lumen, and wherein the drive member further comprises a backward-moving member configured to engage or disengage at least one tooth of the second teeth when a second predetermined condition is applied, so that when the backward-moving member engages and disengages the at least one tooth of the second teeth, the probe moves proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 57. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - teeth disposed at least partially along the internal guiding lumen;
      
      a drive member coupled to the probe, the drive member comprising a backward-moving member configured to engage or disengage at least one tooth when a first predetermined condition is applied, such that when the backward-moving member engages and disengages the at least one tooth of the teeth, the probe moves proximally along the internal guiding lumen; and
      
      an actuator configured to actuate the backward-moving member so as to move the probe proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 58. The system of claim 57, wherein the backward-moving member comprises a shape memory material.
  - 59. The system of claim 57, wherein the backward-moving member is disengaged from the at least one tooth when the probe moves distally.
  - 60. The system of claim 35, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - at least one first magnet disposed at least partially along the internal guiding lumen;
      
      a drive member coupled to the probe and comprising at least one second magnet; and
      
      a controller for energizing either the first magnet or the second magnet, wherein energizing either the first magnet or the second magnet causes the probe to move distally or proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 61. The system of claim 60, wherein at least one of the first and second magnets is configured to be activated by the controller.
  - 62. The system of claim 60, wherein at least one of the first and second magnets is an electromagnet.
  - 63. The system of claim 60, wherein at least one of the first and second magnets is a permanent magnet.
  - 64. The system of claim 60, wherein one of the first and second magnets is an electromagnet, and the other of the first and second magnets is a permanent magnet.
  - 65. The system of claim 60, wherein at least one of the first and second magnets comprises a plurality of magnets.
  - 66. The system of claim 60, wherein the controller is configured to energize either the first magnet or the second magnet by supplying electrical current to the magnet to be energized.
  - 67. The system of claim 66, wherein the electrical current supplied in a first direction causes the probe to move distally along the internal guiding lumen, and the electrical current supplied in a second direction opposite the first direction causes the probe to move proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 68. The system of claim 60, wherein the at least one first magnet or the at least one second magnet comprises a plurality of magnets arranged in a row, the plurality of magnets separated from one another by a predetermined distance.
  - 69. The system of claim 68, wherein energizing either the first magnet or the second magnet causes the probe to move a length that is substantially equal to the predetermined distance.
  - 70. The system of claim 30, wherein the housing further comprises at least one of:
    - a memory storage device;
      
      a signal processing unit;
      
      a power transfer device;
      
      a power conversion device;
      
      a wireless communication device;
      
      a CPU;
      
      a microcontroller;
      
      a drug delivery assembly or reservoir;
      
      an electromagnetic field generator;
      
      a light source;
      
      a camera assembly;
      
      an impedance measurement device;
      
      a radiopaque marker; and
      
      a power supply.
  - 71. The system of claim 30, wherein the housing further comprises a power transfer device configured to convert non-electrical energy to electrical energy.
  - 72. The system of claim 30, wherein the housing comprises a wireless communication device configured to transfer information via:
    - radiofrequency;
      
      microwave;
      
      infrared;
      
      ultrasound;
      
      or any combination thereof.
  - 73. The system of claim 30, wherein the housing further comprises a signal processing element configured to perform a signal processing function selected from the group consisting of:
    - amplification;
      
      filtering;
      
      sorting;
      
      conditioning;
      
      translating;
      
      interpreting;
      
      encoding;
      
      decoding;
      
      combining;
      
      extracting;
      
      sampling;
      
      multiplexing;
      
      analog to digital converting;
      
      digital to analog converting;
      
      mathematically transforming; and
      
      any combination thereof.
  - 74. The system of claim 1, wherein the guide assembly comprises a tissue contacting surface, and at least one of the guiding channels comprises a portion that is substantially parallel to at least a portion of the tissue contacting surface.
  - 75. The system of claim 1, wherein the guide assembly comprises a tissue contacting surface, and at least one of the guiding channels comprises a portion that forms an approximately 45°
    - angle with respect to at least a portion of the tissue contacting surface.
  - 76. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the guiding channels or the corresponding one or more probes received in the at least one of the guiding channels comprises a conductive trace configured to provide an electrical connection between the at least one of the guiding channels and the one or more probes.
  - 77. The system of claim 76, wherein energy is transferred via the electrical connection.
  - 78. The system of claim 76, wherein signals are transferred via the electrical connection.
  - 79. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes comprises one or more reservoirs or ports for delivery of an agent.
  - 80. The system of claim 79, wherein the agent is a fluid.
  - 81. The system of claim 79, wherein the probe assembly comprises a pump configured to supply the agent to the one or more reservoirs or ports.
  - 82. The system of claim 81, wherein at least one of the one or more reservoirs or ports is refillable.
  - 83. The system of claim 1, wherein the probe assembly is a micro electro-mechanical system.
  - 84. The system of claim 83, wherein the micro electromechanical system is integrated into a silicon substrate.
  - 85. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes comprises at least one electrode.
  - 86. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes comprises at least one of:
    - a recording electrode;
      
      a stimulating electrode;
      
      a sensor;
      
      an acoustic transducer;
      
      a light source;
      
      a heat source;
      
      a cooling source;
      
      an agent eluding port; and
      
      a reservoir.
  - 87. The system of claim 1, wherein the guide assembly comprises a housing that defines the plurality of guiding channels, each of the guiding channels extending from an entry hole on a top surface of the housing to an exit hole on a tissue contacting surface.
  - 88. The system of claim 87, wherein the tissue contacting surface is substantially opposite to the top surface.
  - 89. The system of claim 87, wherein at least one of the guiding channels comprises an entry hole facing in a first axis on the top surface and an exit hole facing in a second axis on the tissue contacting surface, wherein the first axis and the second axis form an angle therebetween.
  - 90. The system of claim 89, wherein the angle ranges from about 15°
    - to about 90°
      
      .
  - 91. The system of claim 87, wherein the tissue contacting surface comprises multiple planes.
  - 92. The system of claim 87, wherein the exit holes on the tissue contacting surface are equally spaced.
  - 93. The system of claim 87, wherein the entry holes on the top surface are arranged in a first pattern and the exit holes on the tissue contacting surface are arranged in a second pattern different from the first pattern.
  - 94. The system of claim 87, wherein the entry holes on the top surface are arranged to receive the plurality of probes of the probe assembly.
  - 95. The system of claim 87, wherein the guide assembly is custom made so that the tissue contacting surface of the housing closely matches the topography of a tissue surface of the patient to which the plurality of probes are to be placed.
  - 96. The system of claim 87, wherein at least a portion of the tissue contacting surface is curved.
  - 97. The system of claim 87, wherein at least a portion of the tissue contacting surface comprises a geometric shape selected from the group consisting of:
    - a convex shape;
      
      a concave shape;
      
      a wedge shape; and
      
      a flat shape.
  - 98. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the guiding channels is curved.
  - 99. The system of claim 98, wherein the curved guiding channel is configured to guide a corresponding probe of the probe assembly along a predetermined tissue penetration trajectory.
  - 100. The system of claim 1, wherein the probe assembly and the guide assembly are configured to engage one another.
  - 101. The system of claim 100, wherein the probe assembly and the guide assembly engage one another via at least one of:
    - a snap-fastener;
      
      a screw;
      
      a magnet; and
      
      a glue or adhesive.
  - 102. The system of claim 100, wherein one of the probe assembly and the guide assembly comprises a projecting member, and the other of the probe assembly and the guide assembly comprises a corresponding hole to engage the projecting member.
  - 103. The system of claim 100, wherein the engagement between the probe assembly and the guide assembly is one of a permanent engagement and a detachable engagement.
  - 104. The system of claim 1, wherein one of the probe assembly and the guide assembly comprises a recess configured to receive the other of the probe assembly and the guide assembly.
  - 105. The system of claim 1, further comprising a second probe assembly, wherein the guide assembly is configured to guide the probes of the second probe assembly.
  - 106. The system of claim 1, further comprising a second guide assembly configured to guide the plurality of probes of the probe assembly.
  - 107. The system of claim 1, wherein the guide assembly comprises a tubular housing.
  - 108. The system of claim 107, wherein the tubular housing is formed from a flexible, substantially flat body.
  - 109. The system of claim 108, wherein the flat body comprises a connecting member configured to connect ends of the flat body to form the tubular housing.
  - 110. The system of claim 107, wherein the tubular housing is formed by two semi-circular portions connected together via a hinge.
  - 111. The system of claim 107, wherein the tubular housing defines the plurality of guiding channels, at least one of the guiding channels extending from an entry hole on an outer surface of the tubular housing to an exit hole on an inner surface of the tubular housing.
  - 112. The system of claim 1, further comprising a conduit for transmitting signals to an external device.
  - 113. The system of claim 112, wherein the conduit comprises at least one of a wire and a fiber optic.
  - 114. The system of claim 112, wherein the conduit is detachably connected to the probe assembly.
  - 115. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of probes are sized and configured to penetrate tissue of the patient'"'"'s central or peripheral nervous system.
  - 116. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of probes are sized and configured to penetrate tumor tissue or organ tissue.
  - 123. The system of claim 117, wherein the first holes on the first surface are equally spaced.
  - 314. A system comprising:
    - the electrode system of claim 1;
      
      and a functional device associated with the electrode system.
  - 315. The system of claim 314, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes comprises a sensor configured to detect signals generated from one or more living cells, and the functional device is controllable by a control signal generated based on the signals detected by the sensor.
  - 316. The system of claim 315, further comprising a processing unit configured to receive the detected signals to produce processed signals.
  - 317. The system of claim 316, wherein the processing unit receives the detected signals wirelessly.
  - 318. The system of claim 316, wherein the processed signals comprise the control signal.
  - 319. The system of claim 318, wherein the processing unit is configured to transmit the control signal to the functional device wirelessly.
  - 320. The system of claim 316, wherein the processing unit is implanted in the patient'"'"'s body.
  - 321. The system of claim 316, wherein the processing unit is placed external to the patent'"'"'s body.
  - 322. The system of claim 316, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform at least one of:
    - amplification;
      
      filtering;
      
      sorting;
      
      conditioning;
      
      translating;
      
      interpreting;
      
      encoding;
      
      decoding;
      
      combining;
      
      extracting;
      
      sampling;
      
      multiplexing;
      
      analog to digital converting;
      
      digital to analog converting; and
      
      mathematically transforming.
  - 323. The system of claim 314, wherein the functional device is controlled by control signals generated under voluntary control of the patient.
  - 324. The system of claim 314, wherein the functional device is configured to receive wireless signals from the probe system.
  - 325. The system of claim 314, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes is configured to send signals to one or more living cells.
  - 326. The system of claim 325, wherein the functional device is configured to transmit the signals to the at least one of the plurality of probes.
  - 327. The system of claim 325, further comprising a processing unit configured to transmit the signals to the at least one of the plurality of probes.
  - 328. The system of claim 327, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform at least one of:
    - amplification;
      
      filtering;
      
      sorting;
      
      conditioning;
      
      translating;
      
      interpreting;
      
      encoding;
      
      decoding;
      
      combining;
      
      extracting;
      
      sampling;
      
      multiplexing;
      
      analog to digital converting;
      
      digital to analog converting; and
      
      mathematically transforming.
  - 329. The system of claim 325, wherein the signals are configured to polarize, stimulate, or affect the one or more living cells.
  - 330. The system of claim 325, wherein the signals comprise at least one of:
    - electric current, an electromagnetic field, acoustic energy, heat energy, cooling energy, pharmaceutical drug or agent, light, and mechanical vibration.
  - 331. The system of claim 314, wherein the functional device comprises at least one of:
    - a therapeutic device;
      
      a restorative device; and
      
      diagnostic device.
  - 332. The system of claim 331, wherein the therapeutic device is configured to perform a therapeutic function comprising a treatment of one or more of:
    - obesity, an eating disorder, a neurological disorder, a psychiatric disorder, a cardiovascular disorder, an endocrine disorder, sexual dysfunction, incontinence, a hearing disorder, a visual disorder, a sleeping disorder, a movement disorder, a speech disorder, physical injury, migraine headaches, stroke, and chronic pain.
  - 333. The system of claim 331, wherein the diagnostic device is configured to perform a patient diagnosis comprising a diagnosis of one or more of:
    - obesity, an eating disorder, a neurological disorder, a psychiatric disorder, a cardiovascular disorder, an endocrine disorder, sexual dysfunction, incontinence, a hearing disorder, a visual disorder, sleeping disorder, a movement disorder, a speech disorder, physical injury, migraine headaches, stroke, and chronic pain.
  - 334. The system of claim 331, wherein the restorative device is configured to restore a bodily function of the patient, the bodily function comprising one or more of vision, hearing, speech, communication, limb motion, ambulation, reaching, grasping, standing, rolling over, bowel movement, and bladder evacuation.
  - 335. The system of claim 314, wherein the functional device is implanted in the patient'"'"'s body.
  - 336. The system of claim 314, wherein the functional device is placed external to the patent'"'"'s body.
  - 337. The system of claim 314, wherein the functional device comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of:
    - a computer, a computer display, a mouse, a cursor, a joystick, a personal data assistant, a robot or robotic component, a computer controlled device, a teleoperated device, a communication device, a vehicle, an adjustable bed, an adjustable chair, a remote controlled device, a Functional Electrical Stimulator device, a muscle stimulator, an exoskeletal robot brace, an artificial or prosthetic limb, a vision enhancing device, a vision restoring device, a hearing enhancing device, a hearing restoring device, a movement assist device, a medical therapeutic equipment, a drug delivery apparatus, a medical diagnostic equipment, a bladder control device, a bowel control device, a human enhancement device, and a closed loop medical equipment.

117. A device for guiding a plurality of probes, comprising:
- a main body comprising;
  
  a first surface having a plurality of first holes;
  
  a second surface having a plurality of second holes; and
  
  a plurality of guiding channels each extending between a respective first hole and a respective second hole, the guiding channels being configured to guide a plurality of probes to desired tissue sites.
- View Dependent Claims (118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136)
- - 118. The device of claim 117, wherein at least one of the plurality of guiding channels is curved.
  - 119. The device of claim 117, wherein the second surface comprises a tissue contacting surface.
  - 120. The device of claim 119, wherein at least a portion of the tissue contacting surface is custom made so that at least the portion of the tissue contacting surface closely matches the topography of the desired tissue site to which the plurality of probes are to be placed.
  - 121. The device of claim 119, wherein at least a portion of the tissue contacting surface is curved.
  - 122. The device of claim 119, wherein at least a portion of the tissue contacting surface comprises a geometric shape selected from the group consisting of:
    - a convex shape;
      
      a concave shape;
      
      a wedge shape; and
      
      a flat shape.
  - 124. The system of claim 117, wherein the second holes on the second surface are equally spaced.
  - 125. The device of claim 117, wherein the first holes on the first surface are arranged in a first pattern and the second holes on the second surface are arranged in a second pattern different from the first pattern.
  - 126. The device of claim 117, wherein the first holes on the first surface are arranged to receive the plurality of probes of a probe assembly.
  - 127. The device of claim 117, wherein the main body is configured to engage with a probe assembly containing the plurality of probes.
  - 128. The device of claim 117, wherein the main body is configured to engage with a plurality of probe assemblies each containing at least one probe.
  - 129. The device of claim 117, wherein the main body has a tubular shape, the first surface being an outer surface of the main body, the second surface being an inner surface of the main body.
  - 130. The device of claim 129, wherein the main body is formed from a flexible, substantially flat body.
  - 131. The device of claim 130, wherein the flat body comprises a connecting member configured to connect ends of the flat body to form the main body.
  - 132. The device of claim 129, wherein the main body is formed by two semi-circular portions, each semi-circular portion having a first end and a second end, the first ends pivotally connected to each other.
  - 133. The device of claim 132, wherein the main body comprises a connecting member configured to connect the second ends of the two semi-circular portions together.
  - 134. The device of claim 117, wherein the main body further comprises an anchor for attaching the main body to tissue near the desired tissue sites.
  - 135. The device of claim 134, wherein the anchor comprises at least one tissue penetrating member.
  - 136. The device of claim 135, wherein the anchor comprises at least two tissue penetrating members.

137. An electrode array comprising:
- a housing; and
  
  a plurality of probes extending from the housing, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes is individually deployable from the housing.
- View Dependent Claims (138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195, 196, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 221, 222, 223, 224, 225, 226, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 253, 254, 255, 256, 338, 339, 340, 341, 342, 343, 344, 345, 346, 347, 348, 349, 350, 351, 352, 353, 354, 355, 356, 357, 358, 359, 360, 361)
- - 138. The array of claim 137, wherein the at least one of the plurality of probes is retractable into the housing.
  - 139. The array of claim 137, wherein at least two of the plurality of probes are simultaneously deployable from the housing.
  - 140. The array of claim 137, wherein at least one of the probes is flexible.
  - 141. The array of claim 137, wherein at least one of the probes is rigid.
  - 142. The array of claim 137, wherein at least one of the probes has a resiliently biased shape.
  - 143. The array of claim 142, wherein the resiliently biased shape has a curved portion.
  - 144. The array of claim 137, wherein at least one of the probes comprises a shape memory material.
  - 145. The array of claim 144, wherein the shape memory material comprises a shape memory alloy.
  - 146. The array of claim 137, wherein at least two of the probes have lengths that are different from one another.
  - 147. The array of claim 137, wherein at least two of the probes have thicknesses that are different from one another.
  - 148. The array of claim 137, wherein at least one of the probes comprises a first functional element and a second functional element.
  - 149. The array of claim 148, wherein the first functional element is different from the second functional element.
  - 150. The array of claim 148, wherein at least one of the first and second functional elements comprises an electrode.
  - 151. The array of claim 150, wherein the electrode is located at a distal tip of the probe.
  - 152. The array of claim 148, wherein the first functional element is an electrode with a first set of characteristics, and the second functional element is an electrode with a second set of characteristics.
  - 153. The array of claim 152, wherein the characteristics comprise at least one of:
    - an impedance;
      
      a surface area;
      
      a material of construction;
      
      a surface texture;
      
      a porosity;
      
      a length;
      
      a width;
      
      a diameter;
      
      a thickness;
      
      a surface energy;
      
      a coating; and
      
      any combination thereof.
  - 154. The array of claim 148, wherein at least one of the first and second functional elements comprises at least one of a photodiode and a photosensor.
  - 155. The array of claim 147, wherein at least one of the probes comprises a conductive trace.
  - 156. The array of claim 155, wherein the conductive trace is configured to mate with another trace disposed in the housing.
  - 157. The array of claim 137, wherein at least one of the probes comprises a hollow lumen along at least a portion of its length.
  - 158. The array of claim 137, wherein the plurality of probes are arranged in an array.
  - 159. The array of claim 137, wherein the housing comprises a probe deployment mechanism configured to move one or more of the plurality of probes relative to the housing.
  - 160. The array of claim 137, wherein at least one of the probes is configured to be deployed after the housing is implanted on a tissue surface of a patient.
  - 161. The array of claim 137, further comprising a guide assembly comprising a plurality of guiding channels configured to guide one or more of the plurality of probes to a desired tissue site.
  - 162. The array of claim 161, wherein the guide assembly comprises a tissue contacting surface, and at least one of the guiding channels comprises a portion that is substantially parallel to at least a portion of the tissue contacting surface.
  - 163. The array of claim 161, wherein the guide assembly comprises a tissue contacting surface, and at least one of the guiding channels comprises a portion that forms an approximately 45°
    - angle with respect to at least a portion of the tissue contacting surface.
  - 164. The array of claim 161, wherein at least one of the guiding channels is curved.
  - 165. The array of claim 164, wherein the curved guiding channel is configured to guide a corresponding probe along a predetermined tissue penetration trajectory.
  - 166. The array of claim 161, wherein at least one of the guiding channels or the corresponding probe received in the at least one of the guiding channels comprises a trace configured to provide an electrical connection between the at least one of the guiding channels and the probe.
  - 167. The array of claim 166, wherein energy is transferred via the electrical connection.
  - 168. The array of claim 166, wherein signals are transferred via the electrical connection.
  - 169. The array of claim 161, wherein at least one of the guiding channels comprises a first trace and the corresponding probe received in the at least one of the guiding channels comprises a second trace, the first trace and the second trace frictionally engage one another.
  - 170. The array of claim 161, wherein the guide assembly comprises a tissue contacting surface, at least a portion of the tissue contacting surface is curved.
  - 171. The array of claim 170, wherein the portion of the tissue contacting surface is custom made so that the tissue contacting surface closely matches the topography of a tissue surface to which the plurality of probes are to be placed.
  - 172. The array of claim 161, wherein the guide assembly comprises a tissue contacting surface, at least a portion of the tissue contacting surface comprises a geometric shape selected from the group consisting of:
    - a convex shape;
      
      a concave shape;
      
      a wedge shape; and
      
      a flat shape.
  - 173. The array of claim 161, wherein the guide assembly comprises a guide housing that defines the plurality of guiding channels, each of the guiding channels extending from an entry hole on a top surface of the guide housing to an exit hole on a tissue contacting surface.
  - 174. The array of claim 173, wherein the exit holes on the tissue contacting surface are arranged in an array.
  - 175. The array of claim 174, wherein the plurality of guiding channels have at least 8 rows and at least 8 columns.
  - 176. The array of claim 173, wherein the exit holes on the tissue contacting surface are equally spaced.
  - 177. The array of claim 161, wherein the guide assembly comprises a tubular housing defining the plurality of guiding channels.
  - 178. The array of claim 177, wherein at least one of the guiding channels extends from an entry hole on an outer surface of the tubular housing to an exit hole on an inner surface of the tubular housing.
  - 179. The array of claim 138, further comprising a conduit for transmitting signals to an external device.
  - 180. The array of claim 179, wherein the conduit comprises at least one of a wire and a fiber optic.
  - 181. The array of claim 179, wherein the conduit is detachably connected to the housing.
  - 182. The array of claim 138, wherein the housing comprises at least one internal guiding lumen configured to receive one or more probes, the housing comprising a drive assembly positioned adjacent the internal guiding lumen and being configured to move one or more probes along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 183. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly is manually controllable.
  - 184. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly is remotely controllable.
  - 185. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly is automatically controllable.
  - 186. The array of claim 185, wherein the plurality of probes comprises a signal detector, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes is configured to move when a quality of a signal detected by the signal detector falls below a threshold level.
  - 187. The array of claim 186, wherein the signal detected by the signal detector comprises signals used in diagnosis of:
    - obesity;
      
      an eating disorder;
      
      a neurological disorder;
      
      a stroke;
      
      a coma;
      
      amnesia;
      
      irregular blood flow in the brain;
      
      a psychiatric disorder;
      
      a cardiovascular disorder;
      
      an endocrine disorder;
      
      sexual dysfunction;
      
      incontinence;
      
      a hearing disorder;
      
      a visual disorder;
      
      a sleeping disorder;
      
      a movement disorder;
      
      impaired limb function;
      
      absence of a limb or a limb portion;
      
      a speech disorder;
      
      a physical injury;
      
      migraine headaches;
      
      stroke;
      
      a chronic or severe pain condition;
      
      or any combination thereof.
  - 188. The array of claim 185, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes is configured to transmit a therapy signal, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes is configured to move when a quality of the therapy signal falls below a threshold level.
  - 189. The array of claim 188, wherein the therapy signal comprises signals used in treatment of:
    - obesity;
      
      an eating disorder;
      
      a neurological disorder;
      
      a stroke;
      
      a coma;
      
      amnesia;
      
      irregular blood flow in the brain;
      
      a psychiatric disorder;
      
      a cardiovascular disorder;
      
      an endocrine disorder;
      
      sexual dysfunction;
      
      incontinence;
      
      a hearing disorder;
      
      a visual disorder;
      
      a sleeping disorder;
      
      a movement disorder;
      
      impaired limb function;
      
      absence of a limb or a limb portion;
      
      a speech disorder;
      
      a physical injury;
      
      migraine headaches;
      
      stroke;
      
      a chronic or severe pain condition;
      
      or any combination thereof.
  - 190. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - a screw extending along at least a portion of the internal guiding lumen, a drive member configured to engage the one or more probes and the screw; and
      
      a drive mechanism configured to drive the drive member so as to move the one or more probes along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 191. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly comprises at least one pinch roller in contact with the one or more probes, wherein rotating the roller causes the one or more probes to move distally or proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 192. The array of claim 191, wherein the at least one pinch roller is disposed adjacent the internal guiding lumen or has a portion disposed in the internal guiding lumen.
  - 193. The array of claim 191, wherein the at least one pinch roller comprises two pinch rollers.
  - 194. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly comprises a gas discharging member having an outlet valve and being configured to discharge gas into the internal guiding lumen, wherein discharge of the gas causes the one or more probes to advance the probe distally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 195. The array of claim 194, wherein the gas discharging member comprises an electrolytic cell.
  - 196. The array of claim 194, wherein the drive assembly further comprises a gas suction member having an inlet valve and being configured to suction gas out of the internal guiding lumen, wherein suctioning of the gas causes the one or more probes to retract proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 197. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly comprises a suction member having an inlet valve and being configured to suction fluid out of the internal guiding lumen so as to retract the one or more probes proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 198. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - an extendable piston having a distal end connected to the probe; and
      
      a drive mechanism configured to extend or retract the extendable piston so as to move the probe distally or proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 199. The array of claim 198, wherein the drive mechanism comprises at least one of a hydraulic drive element and a pneumatic drive element.
  - 200. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - a roller coupled to a proximal end of the one or more probes, a surface of the roller being in contact with an inner surface of the internal guiding lumen; and
      
      a controller configured to control rotation of the roller, wherein rotation of the roller causes the one or more probes to move distally or proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 201. The array of claim 200, wherein the drive assembly further comprises a second roller coupled to the one or more probes.
  - 202. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - a tube having inner threads and being disposed inside the internal guiding lumen;
      
      a screw attached to a proximal end of the one or more probes, the screw being configured to engage with and ride over the inner threads; and
      
      a drive mechanism configured to rotate at least one of the tube and the screw, wherein rotating at least one of the tube and the screw causes the screw to move relative to the tube so as to move the one or more probes distally or proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 203. The array of claim 202, wherein the drive mechanism comprises a stepper motor.
  - 204. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - first teeth disposed at least partially along the internal guiding lumen;
      
      a drive member coupled to the one or more probes, the drive member comprising a forward-moving member configured to engage or disengage at least one tooth of the first teeth when a first predetermined condition is applied, such that when the forward-moving member engages and disengages the at least one tooth of the first teeth, the probe moves distally along the internal guiding lumen; and
      
      an actuator configured to actuate the forward-moving member so as to move the probe distally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 205. The array of claim 204, wherein the forward-moving member comprises a shape memory material.
  - 206. The array of claim 204, wherein the forward-moving member is disengaged from the at least one tooth of the first teeth when the one or more probes moves proximally.
  - 207. The array of claim 204, wherein the drive assembly further comprises second teeth disposed at least partially along the internal guiding lumen, and wherein the drive member further comprises a backward-moving member configured to engage or disengage at least one tooth of the second teeth when a second predetermined condition is applied, so that when the backward-moving member engages and disengages the at least one tooth of the second teeth, the one or more probes moves proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 208. The array of claim 182, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - teeth disposed at least partially along the internal guiding lumen;
      
      a drive member coupled to the probe, the drive member comprising a backward-moving member configured to engage or disengage at least one tooth when a first predetermined condition is applied, such that when the backward-moving member engages and disengages the at least one tooth, the one or more probes moves proximally along the internal guiding lumen; and
      
      an actuator configured to actuate the backward-moving member so as to move the one or more probes proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 209. The array of claim 208, wherein the backward-moving member comprises a shape memory material.
  - 210. The array of claim 208, wherein the backward-moving member is disengaged from the at least one tooth when the one or more probes moves distally.
  - 211. The array of claim 181, wherein the drive assembly comprises:
    - at least one first magnet disposed at least partially along the internal guiding lumen;
      
      a drive member coupled to the probe and comprising at least one second magnet; and
      
      a controller for energizing either the first magnet or the second magnet, wherein energizing either the first magnet or the second magnet causes the one or more probes to move distally or proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 212. The array of claim 211, wherein at least one of the first and second magnets is configured to be activated by the controller.
  - 213. The array of claim 211, wherein at least one of the first and second magnets is an electromagnet.
  - 214. The array of claim 211, wherein at least one of the first and second magnets is a permanent magnet.
  - 215. The array of claim 211, wherein one of the first and second magnets is an electromagnet, and the other of the first and second magnets is a permanent magnet.
  - 216. The array of claim 211, wherein at least one of the first and second magnets comprises a plurality of magnets.
  - 217. The array of claim 211, wherein the controller is configured to energize either the first magnet or the second magnet by supplying electrical current to the magnet to be energized.
  - 218. The array of claim 217, wherein the electrical current supplied in a first direction causes the one or more probes to move distally along the internal guiding lumen, and the electrical current supplied in a second direction opposite the first direction causes the one or more probes to move proximally along the internal guiding lumen.
  - 219. The array of claim 211, wherein the at least one first magnet or the at least one second magnet comprises a plurality of magnets arranged in a row, the plurality of magnets separated from one another by a predetermined distance.
  - 220. The array of claim 219, wherein energizing either the first magnet or the second magnet causes the one or more probes to move a length that is substantially equal to the predetermined distance.
  - 221. The array of claim 138, wherein the housing further comprises at least one of:
    - a memory storage device;
      
      a signal processing unit;
      
      a power transfer device;
      
      a power conversion device;
      
      a wireless communication device;
      
      a CPU;
      
      a microcontroller;
      
      a drug delivery assembly or reservoir;
      
      an electromagnetic field generator;
      
      a light source;
      
      a camera assembly;
      
      an impedance measurement device;
      
      a radiopaque marker; and
      
      a power supply.
  - 222. The array of claim 138, wherein the housing further comprises a power transfer device configured to convert non-electrical energy to electrical energy.
  - 223. The array of claim 138, wherein the housing comprises a wireless communication device configured to transfer information via:
    - radiofrequency;
      
      microwave;
      
      infrared;
      
      ultrasound;
      
      or any combination thereof.
  - 224. The array of claim 138, wherein the housing further comprises a signal processing element configured to perform a signal processing function selected from the group consisting of:
    - amplification;
      
      filtering;
      
      sorting;
      
      conditioning;
      
      translating;
      
      interpreting;
      
      encoding;
      
      decoding;
      
      combining;
      
      extracting;
      
      sampling;
      
      multiplexing;
      
      analog to digital converting;
      
      digital to analog converting;
      
      mathematically transforming; and
      
      any combination thereof.
  - 225. The array of claim 138, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes comprises one or more reservoirs or ports for delivery of an agent.
  - 226. The array of claim 225, wherein the agent is a fluid.
  - 227. The array of claim 225, further comprising s a pump configured to supply the agent to the one or more reservoirs or ports.
  - 228. The array of claim 227, wherein at least one of the one or more reservoirs or ports is refillable.
  - 229. The array of claim 138, wherein the housing and the plurality of probes are a micro electromechanical system.
  - 230. The array of claim 229, wherein the micro electromechanical system is integrated into a silicon substrate.
  - 231. The array of claim 138, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes comprises at least one electrode.
  - 232. The array of claim 138, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes comprises at least one of:
    - a recording electrode;
      
      a stimulating electrode;
      
      a sensor;
      
      an acoustic transducer;
      
      a light source;
      
      a heat source;
      
      a cooling source;
      
      an agent eluding port; and
      
      a reservoir.
  - 233. The array of claim 138, further comprising an anchor for anchoring the array to a tissue surface to which the plurality of probes are to be inserted.
  - 234. The array of claim 233, wherein the anchor comprises at least one tissue penetrating member.
  - 235. The array of claim 233, wherein the anchor comprises at least two tissue penetrating members.
  - 253. A method of inserting a probe assembly into a patient, comprising:
    - providing a kit of claim 235;
      
      determining a topography of a tissue surface into which the probe assembly is to be inserted;
      
      selecting at least one of the first and second guide assemblies that closely matches the topography of the tissue surface;
      
      placing the selected guide assembly onto the tissue surface with the second surface in contact with the tissue surface; and
      
      inserting the plurality of probes into the entry holes on the first surface.
  - 254. The method of claim 253, wherein at least one of the guide assemblies is custom made to match the topography.
  - 255. The method of claim 253, wherein determining the topography comprises performing at least one of:
    - a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a functional MRI, a computed tomography (CT-scan), an ultrasound imaging procedure, an X-ray imaging, or a fluoroscopy.
  - 256. The method of claim 255, wherein placing the selected guide assembly comprises anchoring the selected guide assembly on the tissue surface prior to inserting the plurality of probes.
  - 338. A system comprising:
    - an electrode array of claim 137;
      
      and a functional device associated with the electrode array.
  - 339. The system of claim 338, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes comprises a sensor configured to detect signals generated from one or more living cells, and the functional device is controllable by a control signal generated based on the signals detected by the sensor.
  - 340. The system of claim 339, further comprising a processing unit configured to receive the detected signals to produce processed signals.
  - 341. The system of claim 340, wherein the processing unit receives the detected signals wirelessly.
  - 342. The system of claim 340, wherein the processed signals comprise the control signal.
  - 343. The system of claim 342, wherein the processing unit is configured to transmit the control signal to the functional device wirelessly.
  - 344. The system of claim 340, wherein the processing unit is implanted in the patient'"'"'s body.
  - 345. The system of claim 340, wherein the processing unit is placed external to the patient'"'"'s body.
  - 346. The system of claim 340, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform at least one of:
    - amplification;
      
      filtering;
      
      sorting;
      
      conditioning;
      
      translating;
      
      interpreting;
      
      encoding;
      
      decoding;
      
      combining;
      
      extracting;
      
      sampling;
      
      multiplexing;
      
      analog to digital converting;
      
      digital to analog converting; and
      
      mathematically transforming.
  - 347. The system of claim 338, wherein the functional device is controlled by control signals generated under voluntary control of the patient.
  - 348. The system of claim 338, wherein the functional device is configured to receive wireless signals from the electrode array.
  - 349. The system of claim 338, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes is configured to send signals to one or more living cells.
  - 350. The system of claim 349, wherein the functional device is configured to transmit the signals to the at least one of the plurality of probes.
  - 351. The system of claim 349, further comprising a processing unit configured to transmit the signals to the at least one of the plurality of probes.
  - 352. The system of claim 351, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform at least one of:
    - amplification;
      
      filtering;
      
      sorting;
      
      conditioning;
      
      translating;
      
      interpreting;
      
      encoding;
      
      decoding;
      
      combining;
      
      extracting;
      
      sampling;
      
      multiplexing;
      
      analog to digital converting;
      
      digital to analog converting; and
      
      mathematically transforming.
  - 353. The system of claim 349, wherein the signals are configured to polarize, stimulate, or affect one or more living cells adjacent the at least one of the plurality of probes.
  - 354. The system of claim 349, wherein the signals comprise at least one of:
    - electric current, an electromagnetic field, acoustic energy, heat energy, cooling energy, pharmaceutical drug or agent, light, and mechanical vibration.
  - 355. The system of claim 338, wherein the functional device comprises at least one of:
    - a therapeutic device;
      
      a restorative device; and
      
      diagnostic device.
  - 356. The system of claim 355, wherein the therapeutic device is configured to perform a therapeutic function comprising a treatment of one or more of:
    - obesity, an eating disorder, a neurological disorder, a psychiatric disorder, a cardiovascular disorder, an endocrine disorder, sexual dysfunction, incontinence, a hearing disorder, a visual disorder, a sleeping disorder, a movement disorder, a speech disorder, physical injury, migraine headaches, stroke, and chronic pain.
  - 357. The system of claim 355, wherein the diagnostic device is configured to perform a patient diagnosis comprising a diagnosis of one or more of:
    - obesity, an eating disorder, a neurological disorder, a psychiatric disorder, a cardiovascular disorder, an endocrine disorder, sexual dysfunction, incontinence, a hearing disorder, a visual disorder, sleeping disorder, a movement disorder, a speech disorder, physical injury, migraine headaches, stroke, and chronic pain.
  - 358. The system of claim 355, wherein the restorative device is configured to restore a bodily function of the patient, the bodily function comprising one or more of vision, hearing, speech, communication, limb motion, ambulation, reaching, grasping, standing, rolling over, bowel movement, and bladder evacuation.
  - 359. The system of claim 338, wherein the functional device is implanted in a patient'"'"'s body.
  - 360. The system of claim 338, wherein the functional device is placed external to a patent'"'"'s body.
  - 361. The system of claim 338, wherein the functional device comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of:
    - a computer, a computer display, a mouse, a cursor, a joystick, a personal data assistant, a robot or robotic component, a computer controlled device, a teleoperated device, a communication device, a vehicle, an adjustable bed, an adjustable chair, a remote controlled device, a Functional Electrical Stimulator device, a muscle stimulator, an exoskeletal robot brace, an artificial or prosthetic limb, a vision enhancing device, a vision restoring device, a hearing enhancing device, a hearing restoring device, a movement assist device, a medical therapeutic equipment, a drug delivery apparatus, a medical diagnostic equipment, a bladder control device, a bowel control device, a human enhancement device, and a closed loop medical equipment.

236. A kit used for implanting an electrode system, comprising:
- a probe assembly comprising a plurality of probes configured to penetrate tissue of a patient; and
  
  a first guide assembly and a second guide assembly, each of the first and second guide assemblies comprising a housing defining a plurality of guiding channels, each of the guiding channels extending between an entry hole on a first surface of the housing and an exit hole on a second surface of the housing, wherein the entry holes of the first guide assembly and the entry holes of the second guide assembly are arranged in substantially identical patterns, and wherein the second surface of the first guide assembly has a characteristic differing from that of the second surface of the second guide assembly.
- View Dependent Claims (237, 238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247, 248, 249, 250, 251, 252)
- - 237. The kit of claim 236, wherein each of the first surfaces of the first and second guide assemblies is configured to engage with the probe assembly.
  - 238. The kit of claim 237, wherein the entry holes on each of the first surfaces of the first and second guide assemblies is arranged such that, when the probe assembly engages with one of the first and second guide assemblies, the plurality of probes are inserted into the entry holes.
  - 239. The kit of claim 236, wherein the characteristic is a contour of the second surface of the first guide assembly that is different from a contour of the second surface of the second guide assembly.
  - 240. The kit of claim 236, wherein the characteristic is an arrangement of the exit holes on the second surface of the first guide assembly that is different from an arrangement of the exit holes on the second surface of the second guide assembly.
  - 241. The kit of claim 236, wherein the first and second guide assemblies are configured such that each of the second surfaces are contoured to substantially match a different tissue surface of a patient.
  - 242. The kit of claim 236, wherein the first and second guide assemblies are custom made so that second surfaces are contoured to substantially match a different tissue surface of a particular patient.
  - 243. The kit of claim 236, wherein at least one of the plurality of guiding channels in at least one of the first and second guide assemblies is curved.
  - 244. The kit of claim 236, wherein at least one of the first and second guide assemblies comprises a recess configured to receive the probe assembly.
  - 245. The kit of claim 236, wherein the plurality of guiding channels in at least one of the first and second guide assemblies are configured to guide the probes in different penetration trajectories.
  - 246. The kit of claim 236, wherein the probe assembly and the guide assembly are configured to engage one another.
  - 247. The kit of claim 246, wherein the probe assembly and the guide assembly engage one another via at least one of:
    - a snap-fastener;
      
      a screw;
      
      a magnet; and
      
      a glue or adhesive.
  - 248. The kit of claim 246, wherein one of the probe assembly and the guide assembly comprises a projecting member, and the other of the probe assembly and the guide assembly comprises a corresponding hole to engage the projecting member.
  - 249. The kit of claim 246, wherein the engagement between the probe assembly and the guide assembly is one of a permanent engagement and a detachable engagement.
  - 250. The kit of claim 236, further comprising a signal processing element configured to perform a signal processing function selected from the group consisting of:
    - amplification;
      
      filtering;
      
      sorting;
      
      conditioning;
      
      translating;
      
      interpreting;
      
      encoding;
      
      decoding;
      
      combining;
      
      extracting;
      
      sampling;
      
      multiplexing;
      
      analog to digital converting;
      
      digital to analog converting;
      
      mathematically transforming; and
      
      any combination thereof.
  - 251. The kit of claim 250, further comprising a communication device configured to send and/or receive signals from and/or to the signal processing element.
  - 252. The kit of claim 236, further comprising at least one of a therapeutic device or a diagnostic device configured to communicate with the communication device.

257. A method of implanting a plurality of probes into a patient, comprising:
- providing a plurality of probes;
  
  determining a topography of a tissue surface into which the probes are to be inserted;
  
  providing a guide assembly comprising;
  
  a first surface having a plurality of entry holes configured to receive the plurality of probes;
  
  a second surface having a plurality of exit holes, the second surface having a surface contour substantially matching the topography of the tissue surface; and
  
  a plurality of guiding channels each extending from a corresponding entry hole on the first surface to a corresponding exit hole on the second surface;
  
  bringing the second surface of the guide assembly in contact with the tissue surface; and
  
  inserting at least one of the probes into the entry holes of the guide assembly.
- View Dependent Claims (258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271, 272)
- - 258. The method of claim 257, wherein the plurality of probes are arranged in one or more probe assemblies.
  - 259. The method of claim 258, wherein one of the probe assembly and the guide assembly comprises a recess configured to receive the other of the probe assembly and the guide assembly.
  - 260. The method of claim 257, wherein the guide assembly is custom made so that at least the second surface of the guide assembly substantially matches the topography of the tissue surface.
  - 261. The method of claim 260, wherein the guide assembly is custom made by utilizing at least one of:
    - a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);
      
      a functional MRI;
      
      a computed tomography (CT-scan);
      
      an ultrasound imaging;
      
      an X-ray imaging; and
      
      a fluoroscope.
  - 262. The method of claim 257, wherein determining the topography comprises performing at least one of:
    - a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);
      
      a functional MRI;
      
      a computed tomography (CT-scan);
      
      an ultrasound imaging;
      
      an X-ray imaging; and
      
      a fluoroscopy.
  - 263. The method of claim 257, wherein at least one of the plurality of guiding channels is curved.
  - 264. The method of claim 257, wherein the plurality of guiding channels are configured to guide the probes in different penetration trajectories.
  - 265. The method of claim 257, wherein the plurality of probes are arranged in a housing, and at least one of the plurality of probes is individually deployable from the housing.
  - 266. The method of claim 265, wherein the housing comprises a probe deployment mechanism configured to move the at least one of the plurality of probes relative to the housing.
  - 267. The method of claim 257, wherein the entry holes on the first surface are arranged in a first pattern and the exit holes on the second surface are arranged in a second pattern, different from the first pattern.
  - 268. The method of claim 257, wherein at least one of the probes is movable relative to another of the probes.
  - 269. The method of claim 257, further comprising moving at least one of the probes relative to another of the probes after inserting the probes into the entry holes of the guide assembly.
  - 270. The method of claim 257, further comprising moving at least two of the probes simultaneously after inserting the probes into the entry holes of the guide assembly.
  - 271. The method of claim 257, wherein bringing the second surface of the guide assembly in contact with the tissue surface comprises anchoring the guide assembly on the tissue surface.
  - 272. The method of claim 271, wherein anchoring the guide assembly on the tissue surface is performed prior to inserting the at least one of the probes into the entry holes.

273. A method of implanting an electrode sensor system, comprising:
- providing an electrode system comprising at least one probe, a processing unit, and a conduit for transmitting signals between the probe and the processing unit;
  
  creating an opening in the skull;
  
  inserting the probe through the opening;
  
  placing the processing unit on an external portion of the skull;
  
  creating a slot on the surface of the skull, the slot extending at least partially from the opening to the processing unit; and
  
  placing the conduit in the slot.
- View Dependent Claims (274, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, 280, 281, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286, 287, 288)
- - 274. The method of claim 273, wherein inserting the probe through the opening comprises inserting the probe at least partially into the brain.
  - 275. The method of claim 273, wherein the at least one probe comprises a plurality of probes.
  - 276. The method of claim 275, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes comprises at least one of:
    - a recording electrode;
      
      a stimulating electrode;
      
      a sensor;
      
      an acoustic transducer;
      
      a light source;
      
      a heat source;
      
      a cooling source;
      
      an agent eluding port; and
      
      a reservoir.
  - 277. The method of claim 275, wherein at least one of the plurality of probes comprises at least one electrode.
  - 278. The method of claim 275, further comprising connecting the conduit to one or more additional probes.
  - 279. The method of claim 273, wherein the probe is configured to record cellular activity.
  - 280. The method of claim 273, wherein the probe is configured to deliver energy to tissue.
  - 281. The method of claim 280, wherein the energy delivered comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of:
    - heat energy;
      
      cryogenic energy;
      
      light energy;
      
      radiation energy;
      
      chemical energy;
      
      mechanical energy;
      
      electrical energy; and
      
      any combination thereof.
  - 282. The method of claim 273, wherein the probe is configured to deliver agent.
  - 283. The method of claim 282, wherein the agent comprises a pharmaceutical agent.
  - 284. The method of claim 273, wherein the probe comprises a sensor.
  - 285. The method of claim 284, wherein the sensor comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of:
    - a thermal sensor;
      
      a pressure sensor;
      
      a chemical sensor;
      
      a force sensor;
      
      an electromagnetic field sensor;
      
      a physiologic sensor;
      
      a photodetector;
      
      a pH sensor;
      
      an oxygen sensor;
      
      a blood sensor;
      
      an electrode; and
      
      any combination thereof.
  - 286. The method of claim 273, wherein the processing unit is located less than 20 cm from the probe.
  - 287. The method of claim 273, further comprising placing the processing unit above the skin of the patient.
  - 288. The method of claim 273, further comprising placing the processing unit on top of the skull of the patient under the scalp.

289. A method of implanting a plurality of probes into a patient, comprising:
- providing a probe assembly having a main body and a plurality of probes extending from the main body, at least one of the plurality of probes being movable relative to the main body;
  
  inserting the plurality of probes into tissue of the patient;
  
  detecting signals with the at least one of the plurality of probes; and
  
  selectively moving the at least one of the plurality of probes relative to the main body until the at least one of the plurality of probes detects signals having a desired signal strength.
- View Dependent Claims (290, 291, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296, 297, 298)
- - 290. The method of claim 289, wherein selectively moving is controlled automatically.
  - 291. The method of claim 289, wherein selectively moving is controlled manually.
  - 292. The method of claim 289, wherein selectively moving is controlled remotely.
  - 293. The method of claim 289, wherein selectively moving comprises advancing or retracting the at least one of the plurality of probes.
  - 294. The method of claim 289, further comprising transmitting stimulating signals into the tissue.
  - 295. The method of claim 294, wherein detecting signals comprises detecting signals from the tissue responsive to the stimulating signals.
  - 296. The method of claim 289, wherein selectively moving the at least one of the plurality of probes is performed after the step of inserting the plurality of probes into tissue of the patient.
  - 297. The method of claim 289, wherein the desired signal strength is above a predetermined threshold level.
  - 298. The method of claim 297, further comprising adjusting the predetermined threshold level.

299. A method of implanting a plurality of probes into a patient, comprising:
- providing a probe assembly having a main body and a plurality of probes extending from the main body, at least one of the plurality of probes being movable relative to the main body;
  
  inserting the plurality of probes into tissue of the patient;
  
  transmitting therapeutic signals to the tissue with the at least one of the plurality of probes; and
  
  selectively moving the at least one of the plurality of probes relative to the main body until a desired therapeutic result is achieved.
- View Dependent Claims (300, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312, 313)
- - 300. The method of claim 299, wherein the desired therapeutic result comprises at least one of:
    - prevention or reduction of a seizure;
      
      reduction in pain;
      
      improvement in cellular activity;
      
      or improvement in motor function of a patient, in response to the therapeutic signals.
  - 301. The method of claim 299, further comprising observing the patient'"'"'s condition relating to the desired therapeutic result.
  - 302. The method of claim 301, wherein the observing is performed with at least one sensor selected from the group consisting of:
    - a thermal sensor;
      
      a pressure sensor;
      
      a chemical sensor;
      
      a force sensor;
      
      an electromagnetic field sensor;
      
      a physiologic sensor;
      
      a photodetector;
      
      a pH sensor;
      
      an oxygen sensor;
      
      a blood sensor; and
      
      any combination thereof.
  - 303. The method of claim 301, further comprising stopping the selective movement of the at least one of the plurality of probes when a change in the patient'"'"'s condition exceeds a predetermined threshold level.
  - 304. The method of claim 301, wherein the observing is performed by a visual observation of the patient.
  - 305. The method of claim 299, wherein selectively moving is controlled automatically.
  - 306. The method of claim 299, wherein selectively moving is controlled manually.
  - 307. The method of claim 299, wherein selectively moving is controlled remotely.
  - 308. The method of claim 299, wherein selectively moving comprises advancing or retracting the at least one of the plurality of probes.
  - 309. The method of claim 299, further comprising transmitting stimulating signals into the tissue.
  - 310. The method of claim 309, wherein detecting signals comprises detecting signals from the tissue responsive to the stimulating signals.
  - 311. The method of claim 299, wherein selectively moving the at least one of the plurality of probes is performed after the step of inserting the plurality of probes into tissue of the patient.
  - 312. The method of claim 299, wherein the desired therapeutic result is above a predetermined threshold level.
  - 313. The method of claim 312, further comprising adjusting the predetermined threshold level.

Specification

Resources

Litigation Campaign Assessment

Current Assignee
Cyberkinetics Neurotechnology Systems, Inc.
Original Assignee
Cyberkinetics Neurotechnology Systems, Inc.
Inventors
Flaherty, J.

Application Number

US11/268,637
Publication Number

US 20070106143A1
Time in Patent Office

Days
Field of Search
US Class Current

600/373
CPC Class Codes

A61B 5/24   Detecting, measuring or rec...

A61B 5/388   Nerve conduction study, e.g...

A61N 1/05   for implantation or inserti...

A61N 1/0529   Electrodes for brain stimul...

A61N 1/0531   Brain cortex electrodes

A61N 1/0534   Electrodes for deep brain s...

A61N 1/325   for iontophoresis, i.e. tra...

A61N 1/36082   Cognitive or psychiatric ap...

Electrode arrays and related methods

First Claim

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Abstract

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361 Claims

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Electrode arrays and related methods

First Claim

1 Assignment

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0 Petitions

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Accused Products

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Abstract

Citations

361 Claims

Specification

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Solutions

Use Cases

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