Apparatus and method for locating a nerve

Patent 5775331 Issued on July 7, 1998. Estimated Expiration Date:

July 7, 2015. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.

Abstract Claims Description Full Text

Patent References

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Method for artificially inducing urination, defecation, or sexual excitation
Patent #: 3941136
Issued on: 03/02/1976
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Diagnostic device
Patent #: 4099519
Issued on: 07/11/1978
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Inventors

Assignee

Application

No. 484390 filed on 06/07/1995

US Classes:

600/554Sensitivity to electric stimulus

Examiners

Primary: Kamm, William E.

Attorney, Agent or Firm

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C.

International Class

A61B 005/05

Abstract

An apparatus and method for stimulating and locating a nerve is described. The apparatus is closed-loop in nature in that the device is automated and is independent of the skill of the operator. The apparatus includes a stimulating probe having an array of electrodes, an automatic control means, and a response detecting means. Response feedback is analyzed according to an electrode selecting algorithm (incorporating a response interpreting algorithm) so that ongoing stimulation is restricted to a subset of the array which produces a criterion response with the least magnitude of stimulation. A method of use is also described. The device and method are also intended to permit optimal stimulation of a located nerve for therapeutic purposes.

Other References

Ford et al., "Electrical Characteristics . . . Localization," Regional Anesth 9:73-77 (1984)
Greenblatt et al, "Needle Nerve Stimulator-Locator," Anest Analg 41:599-602 (1962)
Pither et al., "The Use of Peripheral . . . Clinical Applications," Regional Anesth 10:49-58 (1985)
Raj, P., "The Use of Peripheral Nerve . . . Anesthesia," Clinical Issues in Regional Anest I:1-6 (1985)
Raj et al., "Use of the Nerve Stimulator for Peripheral Blocks," Regional Anest 5:14-21 (1980)
Raj et al., "Infraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block--A New Approach," Anesth Analg 52:897-903 (1973)
Shafik, A., "Cavernous Nerve Stimulation . . . Penile Erection," Eur Urol 26:98-102 (1994)
Martin et al., Initiation of Erection . . . Probe ElectroStimulation (RPE), Martin and Associates (1983