Methods and apparatus for effectuating a lasting change in a neural-function of a patient
First Claim
1. A method for treating a neural function in a brain of a patient, the method comprising:
- during at least one therapy session, applying electrical stimulation to a cortical stimulation site and simultaneously having the patient engage in a behavioral therapy, wherein applying electrical stimulation to the stimulation site includes applying electrical stimulation to the stimulation site at a level below a threshold level of neurons at the stimulation site; and
discontinuing the electrical stimulation delivered to the cortical stimulation site after expiration of a therapy period that includes the at least one therapy session.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Methods and apparatus for treating an impaired neural function in a brain of a patient. In one embodiment, a method for treating a neural function in a brain of a patient includes determining a therapy period during which a plurality of therapy sessions are to be performed to recover functional ability corresponding to the neural function. The method continues by identifying a stimulation site in or on the brain of the patient associated with the neural function, and positioning an electrode at least proximate to the identified stimulation site. The patient is then treated by providing electrical stimulation treatments to the stimulation site. The treatment can comprise delivering electrical stimulation signals to the electrode during the therapy sessions. After expiration of the therapy period, the method includes preventing electrical stimulation signals from being delivered to the stimulation site.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. A method for treating a neural function in a brain of a patient, the method comprising:
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during at least one therapy session, applying electrical stimulation to a cortical stimulation site and simultaneously having the patient engage in a behavioral therapy, wherein applying electrical stimulation to the stimulation site includes applying electrical stimulation to the stimulation site at a level below a threshold level of neurons at the stimulation site; and discontinuing the electrical stimulation delivered to the cortical stimulation site after expiration of a therapy period that includes the at least one therapy session. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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16. A method for treating a neural function in a brain of a patient, the method comprising:
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during at least one therapy session, applying electrical stimulation to a cortical stimulation site at a level below a threshold level of neurons at the stimulation site, and simultaneously having the patient engage in a behavioral therapy; and discontinuing the electrical stimulation delivered to the cortical stimulation site after expiration of a therapy period that includes the at least one therapy session, wherein discontinuing the electrical stimulation includes discontinuing the electrical stimulation after the patient achieves a predetermined level of functional recovery.
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Specification