Reservoir electrodes for electroencephalograph headgear appliance

• US 6,301,493 B1
• Filed: 11/01/1999
• Issued: 10/09/2001
• Est. Priority Date: 07/10/1999
• Status: Expired due to Term

• Current Assignee: SEDLine, Inc. (Masimo Corporation)
• Original Assignee: Physiometrix, Inc. (Pfizer Inc.)
• Inventors: Washburn, Thomas T., LaBombard, Denis E., Marro, Dominic P.
• Primary Examiner(s): COHEN, LEE S
• Application Number:
  US09/431,966
• Time in Patent Office: 708 Days
• Field of Search: 600/372, 600/382-384, 600/386, 600/395, 600/393, 607/149, 607/152, 607/153
• US Class Current: 600/383
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 5/1106 to assess neuromuscular blockade, e.g. to estimate depth of anaesthesia
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 5/291 for electroencephalography [EEG]
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 5/6803 Head-worn items, e.g. helmets, masks, headphones or goggles

Abstract

This invention defines a system for monitoring the brain activity of a human patient under anesthesia in order to determine the patient'"'"'s level of consciousness. The system uses a plurality of receptors which are mounted in predetermined anatomical positions on the patient'"'"'s head. The receptors are secured by adhesive foam patches. The appliance fits snugly to the head with the aid of self-adjusting strip that carry imbedded electrical circuitry for the receptors. Electrical connectivity in locations where scalp hair is most likely to be present is improved by the use of braille-tip electrodes fitted with large gel reservoirs.

Claims

1. A receptor for collecting electroencephalographic signals comprising an approximately hemispherical reservoir with pressure opened partially slit flat radially arranged surfaces on the side adapted to be adjacent to the patient'"'"'s head and containing electrolytic gel, the hemispherical reservoir being pressed to deploy the electrolytic gel.

2. A receptor for collecting electroencephalographic signals comprising a Braille tip electrode having protuberances molded into it the electrode including perforations to permit electrolytic gel to be transmitted to the patient'"'"'s skin.