NZ616894B2 - Systems and methods for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease - Google Patents
Systems and methods for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease Download PDFInfo
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- NZ616894B2 NZ616894B2 NZ616894A NZ61689412A NZ616894B2 NZ 616894 B2 NZ616894 B2 NZ 616894B2 NZ 616894 A NZ616894 A NZ 616894A NZ 61689412 A NZ61689412 A NZ 61689412A NZ 616894 B2 NZ616894 B2 NZ 616894B2
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Classifications
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- A61B17/3478—Endoscopic needles, e.g. for infusion
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
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- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
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- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/02—Details
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- A61N1/05—Electrodes for implantation or insertion into the body, e.g. heart electrode
- A61N1/0517—Esophageal electrodes
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- A61N1/18—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes
- A61N1/32—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents
- A61N1/36—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation
- A61N1/36007—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation of urogenital or gastrointestinal organs, e.g. for incontinence control
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- A61N1/36—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation
- A61N1/372—Arrangements in connection with the implantation of stimulators
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- A61N1/37282—Details of algorithms or data aspects of communication system, e.g. handshaking, transmitting specific data or segmenting data characterised by communication with experts in remote locations using a network
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Abstract
method of programming a stimulation device is disclosed. The stimulation device comprises a housing having a length ranging from at least 6 mm to no more than 10 cm and has a diameter of greater than 6 mm but less than 25 mm. The method comprises a. generating pH data; b. transmitting the pH data to a processor housed within a computing device external to a patient and storing the pH data within the computing device; c. obtaining information relating to gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms; d. analyzing the pH data in relation to the information to generate programming parameters; and e. programming the stimulation device using the programming parameters. The programming step comprises establishing fixed start times for initiating the electrical stimulation and fixed end times for terminating the electrical stimulation a to a processor housed within a computing device external to a patient and storing the pH data within the computing device; c. obtaining information relating to gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms; d. analyzing the pH data in relation to the information to generate programming parameters; and e. programming the stimulation device using the programming parameters. The programming step comprises establishing fixed start times for initiating the electrical stimulation and fixed end times for terminating the electrical stimulation
Description
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING
GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE
CROSS REFERENCE
The t application relies on US. Provisional Application No. 61/475,368, filed on
April 14, 2011, entitled “Electrical Stimulation Systems and Methods”, which is incorporated
herein by reference. The present application is also a continuation in part of US. Patent
Application No. 13/041,063, entitled “Device and tation System for ical Stimulation
of Biological Tissues”, filed on March 4, 2011, which is also incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD
This invention relates generally to a method and apparatus for electrical stimulation of
the biological systems. More particularly, this invention relates to methods and s for
treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by implanting an electrical stimulation device
using laparoscopic or endoscopic techniques, capturing an eating event and detecting eating,
using an implantable electrical ation device, enabling a patient to interface with an
implanted stimulation device, and applying predefined treatment processes.
BACKGROUND
Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common problem and is expensive to
manage in both primary and secondary care settings. This condition results from exposure of
esophageal mucosa to c acid and bile as the gastro-duodenal t refiuxes from the
h into the esophagus. The acid and bile damages the esophageal mucosa resulting in
heartburn, ulcers, bleeding, and ng, and long term complications such as Barrett's
esophagus (pre-cancerous esophageal lining) and adeno-cancer of the esophagus.
Lifestyle advice and d therapy are advocated as first line treatment for the disease.
However, since most patients with moderate to severe cases of GERD do not respond adequately
to these first-line measures and need r treatment, other alternatives including
pharmacological, endoscopic, and surgical treatments are employed.
The most commonly employed pharmacological treatment is daily use of H2 receptor
nists (HZRAs) or proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid ssion. Since gastro-
esophageal reflux disease usually es once drug therapy is discontinued, most patients with
the disease, ore, need long-term drug therapy. However, daily use of PPIs or HZRAs is not
sally effective in the relief of GERD symptoms or as maintenance therapy. Additionally,
not all patients are comfortable with the concept of having to take daily or ittent
medication for the rest of their lives and many are interested in nonpharmacological options for
managing their reflux disease.
Several endoscopic procedures for the treatment of GERD have been tried. These
ures can be divided into three ches: endoscopic suturing wherein stitches are
inserted in the gastric cardia to plicate and strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, endoscopic
application of energy to the lower esophagus, and injection of bulking agents into the muscle
layer of the distal esophagus. These ures, r, are not without their risks, besides
being technically demanding and involving a long procedure time. As a result, these procedures
have largely been discontinued.
Open surgical or laparoscopic fiandoplication is also used to correct the cause of the
disease. However, surgical procedures are associated with significant morbidity and small but
not ificant mortality rates. Moreover, long-term follow-up with patients treated by surgery
suggests that many patients continue to need acid suppressive medication. There is also no
convincing evidence that fundoplication reduces the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma in the
long term.
While electrical stimulation has been suggested for use in the treatment of GERD, an
effective electrical ation system has yet to be demonstrated. In particular, the prior art
teaches that effective electrical stimulation es active, real-time sensing for a patient’s
swallow and, based on a sensed swallow, to immediately cease stimulation. For example,
certain prior art approaches require the constant sensing of certain physiological changes in the
esophagus, such as changes in esophageal pH, to detect acid reflux and/or esophageal motility
and, based on such sensed s, initiating or terminating an electrical stimulation to
instantaneously close or open the LES, respectively, thereby avoiding an acid reflux episode.
Other prior art approaches require continuous stimulation with sensing for swallow and stopping
2012/033695
stimulation to allow for normal swallow to happen. This creates a complex device and has not
proven to be feasible or effective in practice.
Therefore, there is still a need for a safe and effective method of treatment that can help
alleviate ms of GERD in the long term, without adversely affecting the y of life of
the patients. In particular, there is a need for simple, efficient GERD device and treatment
s that does not inhibit a patient from swallowing and do not rely on an instantaneous
response from the patient’s LES to avoid episodes of acid reflux. There is a need for treatment
protocols and deVices which are programmed to implement such protocols, which can be easily
programmed and do not require complex physiologic g mechanisms in order to operate
effectively and safely. In addition, there is still a need for minimally invasive and effective
treatment for obesity. Moreover, there is not only a need for better deVices in stimulation based
therapies, but there is also a need for a safe and minimally invasive method and system that
enables easy and expeditious deployment of such deVices at any desired location in the body.
It is r desirable to have a system for the treatment of GERD which includes a
stimulator and an optional sensor adapted to be placed in a patient’s LES tissue.
It is further desirable to have a system for the treatment of GERD which includes an
active table medical device (AIMD) and ary sensor d to be placed in a
patient’s GI lumen where the sensors are designed to naturally dissolve or pass out through the
lumen and the AIMD is adapted to dynamically acquire, process, measure the y of, and use
sensed data only when the sensor is present.
It is further ble to have a system for the temporary treatment of GERD which
includes an AIMD, which is adapted to be placed in a patient’s GI lumen, designed to naturally
dissolve or pass out through the lumen, and is adapted to deliver electrical stimulation to tissue at
or in the vicinity of the LES. Such temporary stimulation scheme can onally be used for
reening of patients likely to t from permanent stimulation.
It would further be desirable for the stimulator to use periodic or occasional sensing data
to improve the treatment of GERD by dynamically detecting when a sensor is present,
determining when a sensor is transmitting, or capable of transmitting, data, and processing the
sensed data using an application having a special mode which opportunistically uses the sensed
data to change stimulation parameters.
It is also desirable to automate the setting or calibration of some or all device parameters
in order to reduce the need for medical follow-up , reduce s on healthcare providers
and patients, decrease the rate of programming mistakes, and improve outcomes, thereby
improving the treatment of GERD.
The t specification is directed toward a device, having a ity of dimensions,
d for placement proximate a patient’s lower esophageal sphincter (LES) using endoscopic
or laparoscopic or surgical techniques and programmed to treat geal dysfilnction,
comprising a stimulator enclosed within a housing and a plurality of electrodes wherein said
electrodes are attached to the outer e of the housing using conductors at least 1 mm in
length. In one embodiment, the electrodes are adapted to be placed in a right or left or
quadrant of the LES. In one embodiment, the housing comprises a needle having a length in the
range of 5 — 50 mm and, more preferably, in the range of 10 — 25 mm, for creating a pathway for
electrode implantation into the muscularis of the LES.
In one embodiment, electrodes are of sufficient length to allow them to be placed entirely
within the LES. In another embodiment, the electrodes are of sufficient length to allow them to
be placed proximate to the LES wherein the electrical field generated stimulates the LES.
In one embodiment, the device is at least 6 mm long and no more than 10 cm long to
minimize fibrosis within peritoneal cavity.
In one embodiment, the device is adapted to be inserted into a laparoscopic trocar and has
a diameter of greater than 6 mm but less than 25 mm.
In one embodiment, the device has an energy source that is rechargeable. In one
embodiment, the device has a recharge frequency of no more than once per day for 6 hours. In
one embodiment, the device has an energy source that is a battery that is a solid state battery,
lithium ion battery, or super capacitor battery. In another embodiment, the device has an energy
receiving unit anchored to an abdominal wall of the patient to ze ng between
energy transmitting and receiving units. In another embodiment, the is not rechargeable and has
an implant life of at least 1 year.
WO 42539
In one embodiment, the electrodes of the device are permanently attached to the housing
by insulated conductors no longer than 65 cm. In another embodiment, the odes of the
device are ed to the housing by insulated conductors which are detachable from the
housing and are no longer than 65 cm.
In one embodiment, the device is adapted to be attached to an abdominal wall of the
patient. In another embodiment, the device is adapted to be attached to the outer surface or
serosa of a h wall of the patient.
In one embodiment, the device is adapted to be delivered and anchored through a single
port laparoscopic procedure. In another embodiment, the device is adapted to be delivered and
ed using an articulated trocar in a laparoscopic procedure. In yet another ment, the
device is adapted to be delivered into a peritoneal cavity of the t through an incision that is
created for a laparoscopic port.
The t specification is also directed toward a system for detecting eating by a
patient, having a gastrointestinal tract, comprised of a transmitter and a receiver that
communicate with each other, n the transmitter is placed within a portion of the
intestinal tract, wherein the receiver is placed within a portion of the gastrointestinal tract,
wherein the transmitter and receiver are separated by a portion of the gastrointestinal tract, and
wherein a modulation of the communication between the transmitter and receiver is monitored
by a processor and used by the processor to determine if the patient has ingested a quantity of
liquid, solids, or both.
In various embodiments, the transmitter is adapted to be placed on a portion of an
abdominal wall of the patient, a portion of an esophagus of the patient, a portion of a lower
esophageal sphincter of the patient, a portion of a cardia sphincter of the patient, or an outer
anterior stomach wall of the patient.
In various embodiments, the receiver is adapted to be placed on a portion of an
abdominal wall of the patient, a portion of an esophagus of the patient, a portion of a lower
esophageal sphincter of the patient, a portion of a cardia ter of the patient, or an outer
anterior h wall of the patient.
In one embodiment, modulation occurs when a distance between the itter and
receiver is affected by an ingestion of liquid, food, or both.
WO 42539
In one embodiment, the distance between the transmitter and receiver is continuously
measured to determine if liquid, food, or both is being ingested. In various embodiments, the
distance is measured using ultrasonic waves, electric fields, magnetic fields, optical waves, or
electro-magnetic fields.
The present specification is also ed toward a method for treating gastroesophageal
reflux occurring within a patient comprising implanting within the patient a stimulation device
having a stimulator ed within a housing and a plurality of electrodes attached in electrical
communication with said stimulator wherein said electrodes are anchored in a position that is at
least 1 mm and, more preferably, at least 5 mm, from the t’s cardiac tissue. In r
embodiment, the electrodes are positioned at a distance at least 1/4, and more preferably, greater
than 1/2, the shortest distance between two odes, from the patient’s cardiac tissue. In
another embodiment, the electrodes are positioned such that the electric field is less than 75% of
the maximum electric field between two electrodes.
In one embodiment, the ator has a plurality of anchor points and anchoring is
performed by s or Nitinol suturing techniques. In another embodiment, the ator has
a plurality of fixation points and fixation is performed by a plurality of clips.
The present specification is also directed toward a method for treating gastroesophageal
reflux occurring within a patient comprising implanting within the patient a stimulation deVice
haVing a stimulator ed within a g and a ity of electrodes attached in electrical
communication with said stimulator wherein said electrodes are anchored in a position that is at
least 1 mm and, more preferably, at least 5 mm, from the patient’s main vagal trunk.
In one embodiment, the stimulator has a plurality of anchor points and anchoring is
performed by s or Nitinol suturing ques. In another embodiment, the stimulator has
a plurality of fixation points and fixation is performed by a plurality of clips.
The present specification is also directed toward a method of treating gastroesophageal
reflux disease (GERD) in a patient haVing a lower esophageal sphincter (LES) comprising:
implanting a stimulation deVice ate the LES wherein the stimulation deVice is
programmable and provides electrical stimulation to the LES to produce a ction of the
LES; measuring a pH in the patient’s esophagus and generating pH data; transmitting the pH
data to a processor housed within a computing device external to the patient and storing the pH
data within the computing device; electronically presenting the patient with questions relating to
symptoms arising from the patient’s GERD; electronically receiving answers from the t;
analyzing the pH data in relation to the answers to generate programming parameters; and
programming the ation device using the programming parameters.
In one embodiment, measuring the pH comprises implanting at least one pH sensor in the
esophagus proximate the LES wherein the pH sensor is red to continually monitor the pH
of the lower esophagus and is capable of transmitting sensed pH data. In one embodiment, the
pH sensor is adapted to be implanted endoscopically.
In various embodiments, the questions include any one or more of questions relating to a
timing of the t’s GERD symptoms, a duration of the patient’s GERD ms, a severity
of the patient’s GERD symptoms, the t’s meal times, types of food ingested by the patient,
types of liquid ingested by the patient, the patient’s sleep times, and the patient’s exercise
regimens.
In one embodiment, programming of the stimulation device ses changing at least
one operational parameter, wherein the at least one operational parameter comprises stimulation
start time, stimulation duration, and/or stimulation amplitude.
In one embodiment, the questions are electronically presented to the patient by
communicating those questions through a network to a computing device in the patient’s
possession. In one embodiment, the ing device is a mobile phone.
In one embodiment, the pH data, programming parameters, and patient’s answers are
stored in a memory and in relation to a user account that is lled by the patient and
accessible using a k accessible computing device.
In one embodiment, the method of treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in a
patient having a lower esophageal sphincter (LES) further comprises ing an online service
that electronically receives the pH data through a network and stores the pH data. In one
embodiment, the online service electronically receives the patient’s answers through the network
and stores the answers. In one embodiment, the online service also electronically receives other
data representing at least one physiological value wherein the logical value includes at
least one patient eating state, supine position, level of physical ty, or blood glucose level.
In one embodiment, the method of treating gastroesophageal reflux e
(GERD) in a patient having a lower esophageal sphincter (LES) further comprises
using a remote process to tically program the stimulating device after
generating the programming parameters.
In one embodiment, the online service r electronically transmits
ers and/or recommendations to the patient regarding diet and exercise
regimens. In one embodiment, the online service further electronically receives
questions and appointment requests from the patient.
In one embodiment, the online service monitors the patient’s compliance with
at least one of a treatment, diet, or exercise regimen or scheduled tment,
determines a degree of compliance, and generates a reward for the patient based on
the degree of compliance.
In yet a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a
method of programming a stimulation device, wherein the stimulation device
comprises a housing having a length ranging from at least 6 mm to no more
than 10 cm, is adapted to be inserted into a laparoscopic trocar and has a
er of greater than 6 mm but less than 25 mm, the method comprising:
a. ting pH data;
b. transmitting said pH data to a processor housed within a computing
device external to a patient and storing said pH data within said
computing device;
c. obtaining information relating to gastroesophageal reflux e
symptoms;
d. ing said pH data in relation to said information to generate
programming parameters; and
e. programming said stimulation device using said programming
parameters, wherein said programming step comprises establishing
fixed star times for initiating said electrical stimulation and fixed end
times for terminating said electrical stimulation.
The aforementioned and other embodiments of the present ion shall be
described in r depth in the drawings and detailed description provided below.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The aforementioned and other embodiments shall be described in greater
depth in the drawings and detailed description provided below.
Figure 1 is a first exemplary esophageal pH trace of a t receiving non-
specific LES electrical stimulation;
Figure 2 is a second exemplary esophageal pH trace of the same patient
receiving LES electrical stimulation therapy following the implantation of a patient
specific optimization;
Figure 3 is a flowchart detailing one process for optimizing the operational
parameters of a patient ; and,
Figure 4 is a art detailing another process for optimizing the operational
parameters of a patient device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present specification describes s and s for ng gastroesophageal
reflux disease (GERD) by implanting an electrical stimulation device using
laparoscopic or endoscopic techniques, capturing an eating event and detecting eating,
using an implantable electrical stimulation device, ng a patient to interface with
an implanted stimulation device,
[Text continued on page 9]
2012/033695
and applying treatment processes. It should be appreciated that the methods and systems are
being described with respect to specific embodiments, but are not limited thereto.
The present specification is directed towards multiple embodiments. The following
disclosure is provided in order to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to practice the
claimed embodiments. Language used in this specification should not be interpreted as a general
disavowal of any one specific embodiment or used to limit the claims beyond the meaning of the
terms used therein. The general ples defined herein may be applied to other embodiments
and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed embodiments. Also,
the terminology and phraseology used is for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments
and should not be considered limiting. Thus, the t specification is to be accorded the
widest scope encompassing numerous atives, modifications and equivalents consistent with
the ples and features disclosed. For purpose of y, details relating to technical material
that are known in the technical fields related to the claims have not been described in detail so as
not to unnecessarily obscure the claimed embodiments.
It should be appreciated that the systems and methods described herein can be used with
a plurality of different devices, including those electrical stimulation devices disclosed in US.
Patent No. 7,702,395, US. Patent Application Numbers 10/557,362 and 12/598,871, United
States Patent Number 6,901,295, PCT Application No. PCT/USO8/56479, United States Patent
ation Numbers 12/030,222, 11/539,645, 12/359,317, and 13/041,063, and PCT
Application Numbers PCT/USO9/55594 and PCT/USlO/35753, which are herein incorporated by
reference.
Devices Adapted to Be Implanted Using Laparoscopic Surgical Techniques
In one embodiment, surgical or endoscopic techniques are used to implant an electrical
stimulation device to treat GERD in a manner that is less invasive than those currently employed.
In one embodiment, an electrical stimulation device, or ns thereof, is d to be
placed within or proximate the lower esophageal sphincter using laparoscopic surgical
techniques and programmed to treat GERD, l GERD, nal GERD, and/or transient
lower esophageal sphincter tion (tLESR). The outer surface of the device has electrodes
ed thereto which comprise conductors at least 1 mm in length. The device may be a
conventional pulse generator, a miniature pulse generator, or a microstimulator.
In one embodiment, the odes are adapted to be placed in the right anterior quadrant
of the LES. In one ment, the electrodes are adapted to be placed the furthest le
distance from cardiac tissue while still being positioned to stimulate the LES. In one
embodiment, the odes are positioned at least 1 mm and, more preferably, at least 5 mm
from the patient’s cardiac tissue. In another embodiment, the electrodes are positioned at a
distance at least 1/4, and more preferably, greater than l/2 the st ce n two
electrodes, from the patient’s cardiac tissue. In another embodiment, the odes are
positioned such that the electric field is less than 75% of the maximum electric field between two
odes.
In one embodiment, the device has a plurality of structures or members which serve to
anchor the device in the patient’s tissue whereby the structures or members are configured to
enable anchoring using sutures or nitinol suturing techniques.
In one embodiment, the device has a plurality of fixation points, structures, or members
which serve to fix the device in the patient’s tissue, preferably using clips.
In one embodiment, the device has at least one protrusion or needle for forming a
pathway through a patient’s tissue, where the pathway serves to enable ode implantation
into the muscularis of the patient’s LES. In various embodiments, the protrusion or needle
measures from 10 - 25 mm in length.
In one embodiment, the device comprises at least one electrode of sufficient length that
allows the electrode to be placed entirely within the LES, without extending beyond the LES.
In one embodiment, the device is at least 1 cm long and no more than 10 cm long to
minimize s within the peritoneal cavity.
In one ment, the device has a form factor, and is contained entirely within a
housing, that can be inserted into a conventional laparoscopic trocar. The device has dimensions
greater than 6 mm, but less than 25 mm, in diameter. In another embodiment, the device is
ally configured and/or adapted to be delivered and anchored through a single port
laparoscopic procedure. In another embodiment, the device is physically configured and/or
adapted to be delivered and anchored using an articulated trocar in a laparoscopic procedure. In
another embodiment, the device is physically configured and/or adapted to be delivered and
anchored into the peritoneal cavity through an incision that is created and/or sized for a
laparoscopic port.
In one embodiment, the device has a local energy source, such as a battery, that has one
or more of the following characteristics: the energy source is rechargeable; has a recharge
frequency of once per day for 6 hours, once per week for approximately 60 minutes, once per
month, or once per year, comprises lithium ion battery technology, comprises solid state battery
technology, comprises lithium polymer battery technology, comprises super capacitor
technology; is not rechargeable, is not geable and/or has an t life of at least one
year.
In one embodiment, the device comprises an energy receiving unit that is adapted to be
anchored into the abdominal wall in order to maximize coupling between an energy transmitting
unit and an energy ing unit.
In one embodiment, the device has electrodes which are ently attached by
insulated conductors. In another embodiment, the electrodes attached to insulated conductors are
able from the device.
In one embodiment, the device is d to be attached to the nal wall, on either
the subcutaneous side or the peritoneal side, and/or d to be attached to the submucosa or
outer surface or serosa of the stomach wall.
In one embodiment, the device is physically conf1gured or adapted to be placed entirely
within the submucosa adjacent to the LES.
In one embodiment, the device is adapted to be ted within a patient such that the
device is oriented between 45 degrees and 135 degrees within a standing patient in relation to a
ground surface, which is at 0 degrees.
In one embodiment, the device comprises a plurality of electrodes which are d to
be implanted such that they face the same LES muscularis.
Eating Detection Systems
In one embodiment, the present system is used to detect an eating event based upon an
implanted transmitter and an implanted receiver, which are separated by a distance in a range of
0.5cm to 20cm, or preferably l-2cm. In one embodiment, the system ses an implantable
transmitter and er pair which are used to determine if a patient has ingested a quantity of
liquid, solids, or both.
In one ment, the transmitter is adapted to be placed in or on the abdominal wall.
In one ment, the transmitter is adapted to be placed on the outer anterior stomach wall, to
be placed on the serosal surface of the stomach, to cross the LES, to cross the esophagus, or
cross the cardia sphincter.
In one embodiment, the receiver is adapted to be placed in or on the abdominal wall. In
one embodiment, the receiver is adapted to be placed on the outer anterior stomach wall.
In one embodiment, the transmitter and receiver are placed such that the distance between
the transmitter and receiver is only modulated, changed, or otherwise affected by ingested liquid,
food, or both. A controller rs the distance between the transmitter and receiver. As the
ce changes, the controller determines whether the distance change is indicative of whether
a patient has ingested liquid, food, or both. In one embodiment, the distance between the
transmitter and receiver is continuously measured to determine if liquid, food, or both is
uously being ingested. In one embodiment, the distance between the transmitter and
er is continuously measured to differentiate if liquid, food, or both has been ingested.
The distance between the transmitter and receiver pair may be measured using ultrasonic
sensors, electric field sensors, magnetic field sensors, electro-magnetic field sensors, and/or
optical s.
Patient Interfacing Systems
In one embodiment, the system is adapted to be used to treat GERD using treatment
thms and systems for collecting patient data, which are used to optimize treatment efficacy.
In one embodiment, the specification provides apparatuses and methods for collecting
diet or lifestyle data from patients that are related to and are used to evaluate reflux events and/or
GERD symptoms. Such data can be, for example, meal times, the type of food ingested, the type
of liquid ingested, exercise ns, sleep routines, as well as data related to time and ty
of reflux symptoms.
WO 42539
The specification describes an apparatus used for said lifestyle data collection as well as
storage and ication of said data. In one embodiment, the apparatus takes the form of a
stand-alone device specially designed for this purpose. In another embodiment, the apparatus is
an embedded component of a system used for health related purposes within the patient, such as
a charger for an table device that includes lifestyle data collection and communication
capabilities. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes software running on general purpose
systems such as ers, smartphones, or other mobile devices. The device can be y
operated, portable, and handheld or have a desktop form factor using mains power. In another
embodiment, such data is collected using paper diary and input into the external device by a
health care professional and inputted into the device using wireless communication.
In one embodiment, the device performs le functions to enable the treatment of
patients. For example, the device is adapted to be used for wireless charging of an implantable
pulse generator (IPG) battery used as an energy source for an electrical stimulator for the LES.
In another embodiment, the device can be integrated into a physician controlled computing
device which is used in a clinic to wirelessly program the device parameters and which may also
be used to collect patient input. r example is that of a diagnostic pH monitoring device
adapted to receive patient yle data. Various combinations of the devices mentioned can be
implemented and be interconnected using wireless or wired communication so that patient data is
available when decisions are taken on parameter setting of the stimulation .
In another embodiment, the device is programmable to implement changes in GERD
treatment algorithms based on any patient data collected.
One objective of the device is to treat, prevent, or otherwise minimize opriate
relaxations of the LES while allowing appropriate relaxations of the LES, such as for vomits,
swallows, or burps. Another objective of the device is to stimulate the LES while not inhibiting
normal physiological relaxations of the LES, such as for , swallows, or burps. Another
objective of the device is to reduce a t’s esophageal pH and/or modulate a patient’s LES
pressure while not causing a patient’s cardia sphincter to completely close.
In some embodiments of the t specification, an apparatus for combining data from
implantable sensors with patient input is used for optimizing GERD treatment algorithms.
Preferably, a sensor generates a signal indicative of the swallowing of food and/or content
f, providing information d to eating habits of the patient. An analysis module
typically determines a quality of the food, for e, whether it is predominantly solid or
liquid, and stores this information in an electronic memory. Alternatively or additionally, the
analysis module determines other teristics of the ingested material, for example, the
ional, chemical, and/or caloric content. "Food," as used in the context of the present patent
application and in the claims, is to be understood as including a bolus of solid food, a liquid, or
both a solid food bolus and a liquid. "Swallowing," as used in the context of the present patent
ation and in the claims, is to be understood as being indicative of the onset of eating as
defined by the contraction of musculature of the esophageal body and relaxation of the LES to
pass food from the esophagus into the stomach.
In some embodiments of the present ion, swallowing is detected by tracking the
electrical ty in muscle tissue in the stomach, in the esophagus or in other parts of the GI
tract. Typically, the commencement of enhanced electrical activity is also detected in muscle
tissue in the stomach. Measurement of the time delay n swallowing and the
commencement of electrical activity in the antrum is typically used to differentiate between solid
and liquid matter, which are generally passed at different rates through the stomach.
Alternatively or additionally, swallowing is detected by at least one sensor placed at a site
on the gastrointestinal tract wherein the sensor generates a signal indicative of swallowing.
riate sites include, but are not limited to, a site on the esophagus, a site on the stomach,
and a site on the throat.
Whenever detection of swallowing is bed in the present patent application with
respect to any specific sensor such as a sensor in the LES, it is to be understood as being by way
of example, and not as excluding, detection by a sensor located elsewhere on the gastrointestinal
tract.
Typically, electrical activity response criteria of the stomach of an dual patient are
determined and calibrated by measuring the response of the patient's stomach to various types of
solid and liquid food. To ensure appropriate compliance, calibration is typically performed under
the ision of a healthcare worker.
For some applications, various supplemental sensors are also applied to the
gastrointestinal tract or elsewhere on or in the patient's body. These supplemental sensors, which
may comprise pH sensors, blood sugar s, ultrasound transducers or mechanical sensors,
typically convey signals to a control unit of the apparatus indicative of a characteristic of solids
or liquids ingested by the patient. For example, an ound transducer may be coupled to
indicate whether ingesta are solid or liquid, and a pH sensor may indicate that an acidic drink
such as tomato juice was consumed rather than a more basic liquid such as milk.
In some ments, the data collected from the patient is used to adjust the parameters
of electrical stimulation applied to the lower esophageal ter with the intent of enhancing its
tone using an implantable neuro-stimulating system.
In such applications the electrical stimulation is lly delivered intermittently rather
than continuously. Such ittent stimulation is beneficial to preserve battery life of the
implantable device and also to minimize the risk of physiological adaptation to the ical
stimulation that might reduce its efficacy over time or require increasing levels of energy to be
delivered.
In another embodiment, the sensor is a pH sensor that records the pH data indicative of a
reflux event and such data is used to design a stimulation algorithm to treat GERD. In this
embodiment the stimulation could be programmed to be delivered a fixed time prior to such
measured event to prevent fiJture reflux events.
Adjusting stimulation time based on meal times and d symptoms
In many GERD patients, there is significant association between food intake and
symptoms. In some embodiments, the stimulation timing is adjusted manually or automatically
to meal times so as to optimize efficacy of electrical stimulation of the LES in treating GERD.
Additionally, ent thms take into account the unique association between
stimulation session timing and the enhancement effect on the tone of the LES. Two important
elements of this effect are critical in setting stimulation timing: latency effect and residual .
The latency effect means that the impact on tone is not immediate upon initiation of
electrical stimulation but rather some time delay, typically between 5 minutes and one hour,
needs to pass before the tone reaches optimal enhancement. In addition, the electrical stimulation
is known to have a residual effect beyond the time of cessation of ation that typically lasts
between 20 minutes and 6 hours but can last up to 24 hours. All of the above means that
initiation of the ation session needs to start enough time before any potential meal time in
order to “cover” the expected reflux events or symptoms following the meal.
In order to tailor the stimulation time to eating habits of different patients and to the
changes of eating habits of each patient over time, some embodiments use patient input and/or
data from physiological sensors.
Utilization ofpatient input
In a red embodiment the patient input data includes answers to the following
exemplary questions:
I. At what times do you start your three most ant meals of the day (three can vary
from 1-8)
2. When you have GERD symptoms, do they usually — mark one answer:
(a)follow meals?
([9) happen during night time or when you lay down?
(c) occur both when you lay down and after meals?
(d) occur at a specific time ofthe day unrelated to meals or body position?
3. What times ofday do you typicallyfeel reflux ms (allow 2-6 answers)?
The s to the above questions can lly be used as follows: If the answer to Q2
is (a) or (c), then specific stimulation sessions are programmed to start prior to, or in proximity
to, the start of meals associated with symptoms. Setting the timing of stimulation to the earliest
reported start of the meal is beneficial because of the known latency effect of electrical
stimulation on LES tone. The latency period is n about 15 minutes to one hour so a
preferred embodiment will program stimulation session to start one hour before the earliest
reported time of meal start.
Answers to the questions above should be preferably obtained before the first time
ation parameters are set and then be verified occasionally or as patients habit change.
An exemplary stimulation algorithm may include sessions 30 minutes before each meal,
when a supine position is detected and specific times prior to reported GERD events. However,
in a patient with erratic lifestyles, the total number of daily sessions can be equally spaced during
the day such as every 2 hours or every 4 hours. In another embodiment, based on predominant
upright reflux or predominant supine reflux, more sessions could be programmed for the t
or supine period, respectively.
Utilization ofpH input in conjunction with patient input
In a preferred embodiment, acid exposure traces (pH esophageal traces) from the t
are also used in conjunction with the meal diary of the subject, if available, to determine optimal
treatment. Such traces are used as follows:
1. Meal times indicated on the pH traces are used in combination with meal periods
reported by the patient on the patient ication . Such combination can be
performed so that meal times from both sources are super-imposed and the combined set of meal
times is used in the same way as a patient diary to adjust stimulation times.
2. Acid exposure events are analyzed so that time relations to various t conditions
(as indicated on the pH trace) are noted. Such conditions can be meal times, supine position and
reported symptoms.
In a preferred embodiment, the acid exposure events are used in different stages of the
patient ent cycle to optimize treatment as follows:
During the eatment stage, acid exposure times indicate if the patient has a tendency
to reflux following meals, during sleep or both, serving as a validation to the patient
questionnaire as described. Such validation is used in some embodiments to adjust parameters so
that if at least one of the following conditions is ed, then supine stimulation is programmed
in the IPG: (a) patient questionnaire reports supine symptoms (b) in more than 0-5% of supine
time acid exposure is noted in the pH trace or (c) any esophageal pH event is associated with
patient symptom.
During the patient treatment stage, if a patient reports GERD symptoms, sub-optimal
improvement in GERD and/or symptoms appearing in ic times, then the questionnaire is
repeated and parameters d as necessary. The pH traces te times during which
treatment is not optimal and therefore an enhanced stimulation regime is required. The pH traces
are further used to prescribe the said treatment enhancement where as acid exposure events are
first related to patient reports or other external information such as meal times, supine time,
exercise time etc. and a stimulation session is added about one hour prior to the expected acid
exposure event or preferably adjustable between 5 minutes and two hours before an expected
reflux event. The pH trace can be related to the patient questionnaire in the following way: If an
acid event is detected at a certain time and a meal is ted about 0-2 hours prior to that event,
then the patient is asked about the earliest time that such a meal is typically started so that the
enhanced treatment addresses not only the events of the specific day of the test but also the
variable meal times that the patient reports.
An example of using a combination of t s and pH traces for treating a patient
is described. The patient is a GERD patient that presented with high acid exposure and GERD
symptoms prior to treatment. The t was implanted with an IPG that was programmed to
deliver stimulation irrespective of patient meal times and symptom times of acid exposure
periods. During the first two weeks of treatment, the patient received a stimulation session at 2
pm, at the time at which the device detected sleep (using an accelerometer that sensed when the
patient had decreased motion and was in a supine posture for at least 30 s), and 8 hours
following the sleep detection using the above algorithm.
Following two weeks of treatment, the t was still complaining of GERD symptoms
with only a small improvement ed to baseline. At week 2, the patient was questioned
about eating habits and his pH trace was reviewed so as to adjust the ation times. The
patient was reporting meals at about 2 pm, which was verified in his baseline pH trace. The pH
trace also showed a short meal at 4:30 pm. The patient also complained of symptoms between 5
and 6 pm so a 4 pm stimulation session was added. Finally, a 6 pm stimulation was added to
address post dinner symptoms. At week 4, the patient was questioned again about symptoms
and this time a dramatic ement was noted. The pH exposure trace on the current
stimulation algorithm confirmed an improvement or normalization of esophageal acid re.
onal patients underwent similar processes with similar results, demonstrating the
importance of ing stimulation time to precede meals and other events that are precursors of
pH exposure and GERD symptoms.
Referring to Figure 1, an esophageal pH trace of the t is shown wherein the shaded
periods 105 indicate meal times and wherein areas with esophageal pH<4 are considered
abnormal acid exposure periods 110. The X-axis is time of day and the Y-axis is the pH at each
given time. As shown, the patient presents with many events of acid exposure mainly post meals
(e.g. post 11 am breakfast 110a, post 1-2 pm lunch llOb and post 9:30 pm dinner llOc) as well
as during night time (supine time 115 marked as time between about 1 am and 8:30 am). Total
acid exposure is 10.4% of the time, which is considered abnormal (4% is the threshold for
normal exposure). Such high acid exposure can result in various issues such as GERD
symptoms, esophagitis, or Barrett’s esophagus.
Referring to Figure 2, an esophageal pH trace of the patient is shown after the patient,
whose trace is shown in Figure 1, has been treated with electrical stimulation using the patient
c algorithm for 4 weeks. The trace demonstrates that the ty of the esophageal acid
exposure s 210 are prevented and the esophagus acid exposure decreased to only 3.6% of
the recording time, which is considered .
Methods and Utilities related to a Patient communication device
The following will be a new component of the GERD treatment that can utilize
patient input, communicate with the implantable pulse generator (IPG) and/or communicate
externally with a clinic or other service provider. Such an apparatus, namely a nt
communication device”, can preferably include a processing unit that can integrate and analyze
patient input with or without additional data as described above, such as pH data, and integrate
the data to form a ent recommendation in the form of stimulation session times,
amplitudes, duration, etc. The patient communication device operates via an online service in
which a patient can access his key logical data and answer questions, such as those on the
patient questionnaire that will help existing or new doctors program the patient’s IPG. Use of
the patient ication device frees the patient from being tied to one particular doctor and
prevents the patient from being in a situation where they need treatment adjustment but don’t
have access to their data.
In one embodiment, any computer running the appropriate software and having online
access can function as a patient ication device. Additionally or alternatively, the patient
communication device can be a smart phone or other mobile device running the software so that
the patient can use it without a need for a computer.
Figures 3 and 4 are flowcharts describing exemplary embodiments of different s
by which the online service and patient communication device operate to tailor GERD therapy
for a specific patient. At steps 302 and 402, the patient communication device acquires sensed
physiological data from sensors within the patient and, in steps 304 and 404, stores the data
online using cloud based storage. The stored data is reviewed by a processor at steps 306 and
406 or a health care provider in a clinic or hospital setting at steps 308 and 408. In various
embodiments, the sensed physiological data includes any one or more of esophageal pH,
h pH, ingestion of food (using distance sensors as described above), supine position,
t weight, patient physical activity, and blood glucose level.
Using the sensed physiological data as a basis, either the remote processor at steps 310
and 410 or the health care provider at steps 312 and 412, generates a set of questions designed to
further modify the GERD therapy. In various embodiments, the questions include any one or
more of those in the questionnaire and questions regarding timing of reflux symptoms, duration
of reflux symptoms, intensity of reflux symptoms, meal times, types of food ingested, types of
liquid ingested, sleep times, and exercise regimens. At steps 314 and 414, the online service
transmits the question set to the patient communication device which then presents it to the
t. At steps 316 and 416, the patient answer the questions directly on the t
communication device and the answers are stored in the cloud based storage at steps 318 and
418. The s are also reviewable by a remote processor or a health care provider in a clinic
or hospital setting.
In one embodiment, as shown at step 320 in Figure 3, a processor d at the clinic or
hospital automatically compares the sensed physiological data and the patient’s answers and at
step 324 automatically generates a set of operational parameters for the IPG ic to the
patient’s data. In another ment, as shown at step 322, a health care provider reviews the
data and t answers and then at step 326 programs operational parameters for the IPG. In
r embodiment, as shown in step 420 in Figure 4, a processor is located within the patient
communication device tically compares the sensed physiological data and the patient’s
answers and at step 424 automatically generates a set of operational parameters for the IPG
specific to the patient’s data. In yet another embodiment, as shown at step 422, the patient
compares the data and his answers and at step 426 programs the IPG using the patient
communication device. In various embodiments, the operational parameters include any one or
more of stimulation start times, stimulation duration, and ation amplitude.
The ted or mmed ional parameters are then transmitted to the IPG.
When the operational parameters are generated ly by a processor or programmed remotely
by a health care provider, said parameters are transmitted by the online service to the patient
communication device at step 328, which then transmits the parameters to the IPG at step 330.
When the operational parameters are generated locally by a processor on the t
communication device or are programmed by the t using the patient communication
device, then the patient communication device transmits said parameters directly to the IPG at
step 428.
In a preferred embodiment, the t questionnaire is applied using a patient
communication device, being convenient for the patient as well as facilitating electronic data
collection and analysis. Accessing the questionnaire is done via a web page to which patients
log-on with a code from anywhere and the data will be transferred to the treating clinic
electronically through an electronic database utilizing cloud based storage that is accessible by
the clinic. In one embodiment, ation relating to the patient, including the pH data,
programming parameters, and patient’s answers, is stored in the memory and in relation to a user
account that is controlled by the t and accessible using a network accessible computing
device. Patient data will be protected from unauthorized access by standard web site protection
tools such as SSL/HTTPS.
In a preferred embodiment, the clinic can communicate with the patient through the
patient communication device. There can be various uses for such a communication channel,
such as patient periodic reminders advising him/her to log in and answer the questionnaire. The
means of communications can be rd, such as emails or instant phone messages, or can use
special software and/or ication interfaces. When the patient uses a mobile application,
the entire communication between the patient and the clinic can take place h the mobile
application including patient reminders, questionnaire answering and data transfer to the clinic.
The clinic can use the application or the other communication channels used for t
reminders to send him other relevant material such as medication information, scheduling of the
next clinic visit, diet endations, and advice on various products and services that can be
WO 42539
determined based on the patient profile stored in the clinic whereas such profile can be adapted
from time to time based on the data communicated by the patient. The patient communication
channel can be used for collecting additional medical information from the patient that can be
used as initial screening ation and may trigger (possibly in conjunction with physician
review) scheduling in-person visits and c tests.
In another preferred ment, the patient communication device can be centered
around a patient r that is used by the t to wirelessly charge an implantable IPG with
a rechargeable battery. Such a charger can have a screen for ying patient messages and a
keyboard for keying in information by the patient. It can also serve as a way station that can have
a ication channel (wireless or wired) with a cell phone or a computer ted to the
web to serve as a user interface, communication channel or both.
In embodiments in which the patient communication device can also establish a
communication channel with the IPG, it can be adapted to configure or adjust the stimulation
parameters to treat GERD of the subject. The patient communication device is adapted to
monitor, using the received data, information regarding the applied stimulation, the information
selected from the group consisting of: an amount of time per day that the implantable control unit
drives the stimulator to apply the stimulation to the GI tract, and a number of times per day that
the implantable control unit drives the stimulator to apply the stimulation to the patient and the
time of day thereof
For some ations, the patient communication system includes an output element,
which is adapted to output the information regarding the d stimulation. In a preferred
embodiment, the GI tract includes the lower esophageal ter (LES) of the subject, and the
one or more sensors are adapted to generate the respective sensor s responsively to the GI
tract physiological parameter of the esophagus and/or LES. For some applications, the patient
communication device is adapted to monitor changes in the electrical properties of the
esophageal tissue indicative of swallowing and/or the content of each swallow. Such electrical
ties can include, for example, sensing of electrical action potentials and/or changes in the
tissue impedance. In some embodiments, a gastric slow wave rate of the subject can be used as
indicative of digestive state to improve the analytical capabilities of the system.
In one embodiment, the IPG is adapted to store data using patient input. The data is
ed using the accelerometer in the IPG. The patient can communicate the information to the
IPG by simply tapping on the IPG and the tapping is recorded by the accelerometer. In this
embodiment, the number or intensity of taps could represent a specific event. For e, one
tap on the device may indicate start of a meal event, while two taps may te start of a reflux
event. The event data can be recorded for download by the clinic to modify the stimulation
thm or can be used by the IPG directly to modify the stimulation algorithm without input of
a health care provider. The information gathered by the IPG will continuously modify the
patient’s lifestyle and GERD profile and adjust the stimulation algorithm to address the ng
patient profile.
In another embodiment, an external device is used which produces a vibration with a
characteristic that is specific to the event. The patient will place this device on the site of the IPG
implant and press a specific event button on the external device which will then e with the
characteristic specific to the event. The vibrations are transmitted through the human tissue to the
IPG which registers the specific event. The event data can be recorded for download by the clinic
to modify the stimulation algorithm or can be used by the IPG directly to modify the stimulation
algorithm without input of a health care provider. The information gathered by the IPG will
continuously modify the patient’s yle and GERD profile and adjust the ation
algorithm to address the changing patient profile.
In another embodiment, the IPG is adapted to store information regarding eating habits of
the subject as detected by the swallowing sensors. For some applications, the IPG es an
output element, which is adapted to output the eating habit information. For some applications,
the patient communication device is adapted to integrate and verify patient answers to the
questionaires with the eating detection data received from the IPG. The t communication
device can be adapted to transmit the integrated eating habit information to the clinic via the
communication channel.
For some applications, the patient communication device is d to receive, e
and integrate indication of non-GI tract physiological parameters. Such parameters can include
an indication of a weight of the subject, level of physical activity of the patient, blood glucose of
2012/033695
the patient, etc. The patient communication device can generate a message to the IPG for
adjustment of parameters and/or a transmission of the information to the clinic.
For some applications, the IPG is adapted to modify a parameter of the stimulation at
least in part responsively to the information. For example, the stimulation parameter may include
an ity of the stimulation, and the IPG is adapted to modify the intensity of the stimulation
at least in part sively to the ation, and/or the stimulation parameter may include a
timing parameter of the stimulation, and the IPG is adapted to modify the timing parameter of
the stimulation at least in part responsively to the information.
In an embodiment, the patient ication device is adapted to be coupled to a remote
service provider. In one embodiment, the remote service er can analyze the t data,
for example, pH and symptom data, and convert it into parameter setting s recommended
for a given patient, thereby making the work of the clinic easier and shorter. For some
applications, the apparatus includes an external cradle, and the patient communication device is
adapted to be removably coupled to the cradle, and to be coupled to the service er via the
cradle. For some applications, the patient communication device is adapted to receive
ation from the service provider. Alternatively or additionally, the patient communication
device is adapted to send ation to the service provider selected from the group consisting
of at least a portion of the received data and information d from an analysis of at least a
portion of the received data.
In an embodiment, the patient communication device is configured to serve as a charger
for the IPG. In such a case, the patient communication device includes a power source, and is
adapted to drive the power source to wirelessly transfer energy via one or more transducers, and
the implantable pulse generator includes a rechargeable battery, and is adapted to receive the
transmitted energy, using one or more transducers, and charge the battery using the energy.
In one embodiment, the patient communication device is adapted to be located remotely
from the subject. In such an embodiment, the patient communication device is not capable of
recharging the IPG. Data is transmitted between the patient ication device and the IPG
via RF communication at a distance of up to 3 meters. In r embodiment, the patient
communication device is adapted to be located ate the subject.
WO 42539
In another embodiment, the patient communication device is adapted to be coupled wired
or wirelessly to a point-of—sale terminal. In one embodiment, the online service monitors the
patient’s compliance with the recommended treatment, diet, or exercise regimen or scheduled
appointment, determines a degree of compliance, and generates a reward for the patient based on
the degree of compliance. In an embodiment, ting the reward includes providing a
financial incentive to the patient. In one embodiment, providing the al incentive is based
on a measure of successful responses to the clinic communication requests. In various
embodiments, the financial incentive comprises any one or more of the following: ing to
the patient a n of the purchase price of the device/and or software; providing a discount to
the patient on routine medical care; and, providing a free device ng n for
rechargeable devices.
For some ations, a method includes sending a reminder from the e provider to
the site, and communicating the reminder to the subject. In an embodiment, the method includes
analyzing, at the service provider, the -related information. For some applications,
analyzing the eating-related information includes developing a recommendation based on the
eating-related information, g the recommendation from the service provider to the site, and
communicating the recommendation to the subject from the site. For example, the
recommendation may be selected from the group consisting of a recommended food and a
recommended recipe. For some applications, the recommendation is commercial in nature.
For some applications, receiving of data from the IPG includes logging the data, and
providing the financial incentive includes providing the financial incentive responsively to the
logged data.
In an embodiment, providing the financial incentive includes providing the financial
incentive in response to determining, responsively to the data, that the t has followed a
prescribed regimen. For some applications, the regimen includes a diet regimen intended to
improve GERD symptoms, and providing the financial incentive includes providing the financial
incentive upon determining, responsively to the data, that the subject has adhered to the
prescribed diet n. Alternatively or additionally, the regimen es an exercise regimen,
and providing the financial incentive includes providing the al incentive upon
determining, sively to the data, that the subject has adhered to the prescribed
exercise regimen.
For some applications, functionality described herein with respect to a patient
communication device is embodied that can communicate with a stationary or
portable receiving device located in the clinic and is configured to collect data from
the patient communication system.
The above examples are merely illustrative of the many applications of the
system of the t ion. Although only a few embodiments of the present
invention have been described herein, it should be understood that the present
invention might be embodied in many other ic forms without departing from the
spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the present examples and ments are
to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention may be ed
within the scope of the appended claims.
Throughout the specification and claims, unless the context requires otherwise,
the word “comprise” or variations such as ises” or “comprising”, will be
understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the
exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.
Claims (17)
1. A method of programming a stimulation device, wherein the stimulation device comprises a housing having a length ranging from at least 6 mm to no more than 10 cmand has a diameter of greater than 6 mm but less than 25 mm, the method comprising: a. generating pH data; b. transmitting said pH data to a processor housed within a computing device al to a patient and storing said pH data within said computing device; c. obtaining information relating to gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms; d. analyzing said pH data in relation to said information to generate programming parameters; and e. mming said stimulation device using said programming parameters, wherein said programming step comprises establishing fixed start times for initiating said electrical stimulation and fixed end times for terminating said electrical stimulation.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein measuring said pH comprises receiving pH data from at least one pH sensor.
3. The method of claim 1 n the information includes answers to any one or more of questions relating to a timing of the t’s GERD ms, a duration of the patient’s GERD symptoms, a severity of the patient’s GERD symptoms, the patient’s meal times, types of food ed by the patient, types of liquid ingested by the patient, the t’s sleep times, and the patient’s exercise regimens.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein programming said stimulation device comprises changing at least one operational parameter, wherein said at least one operational parameter comprises stimulation start time, ation duration, and/or stimulation amplitude.
5. The method of claim 1 n the information is obtained by electronically presenting questions related to the t’s symptoms to the patient through a network to a computing device in the patient’s possession andelectronically ing answers to said questions from said computing device.
6. The method of claim 5 wherein the computing device is a mobile phone.
7. The method of claim 5 wherein the pH data, programming parameters, and patient’s s are stored in a memory and in relation to a user account that is controlled by the patient and accessible using a network accessible computing device.
8. The method of claim 1 further comprising providing an online service that electronically receives said pH data through a network and stores said pH data.
9. The method of claim 8 wherein said online service electronically receives the ation h the network and stores said information.
10. The method of claim 8 wherein said online service electronically receives other data representing at least one physiological value and wherein said physiological value includes at least one patient eating state, supine position, level of physical activity, or blood glucose level.
11. The method of claim 1 further comprising using a remote process to automatically program said stimulating device after generating said programming parameters.
12. The method of claim 8 wherein said online service further electronically its reminders and/or recommendations to the patient regarding diet and exercise regimens.
13. The method of claim 8 wherein said online service further electronically es questions and appointment ts from the patient.
14. The method of claim 8 wherein said online service monitors the t’s compliance with at least one of a treatment, diet, or exercise regimen or scheduled appointment, determines a degree of compliance, and generates a reward for the patient based on said degree of compliance.
15. The method of claim 1 wherein the stimulation device comprises a stimulator enclosed within the g and a plurality of electrodes wherein said electrodes are ed to an outer surface of the housing using conductors at least 1 mm in length.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein the housing comprises a needle having a length in the range of 5 – 50 mm.
17. The method according to claim 1 substantially as herein before described with reference to the Examples. REPLACEMENT SHEET Title: Systems and Methods for ng Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease First Named Inventor: Policker, Shai Application Number:
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201161475368P | 2011-04-14 | 2011-04-14 | |
US61/475,368 | 2011-04-14 | ||
PCT/US2012/033695 WO2012142539A1 (en) | 2011-04-14 | 2012-04-14 | Systems and methods for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ616894A NZ616894A (en) | 2016-01-29 |
NZ616894B2 true NZ616894B2 (en) | 2016-05-03 |
Family
ID=
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