Enhanced Implantable and Non-Invasive Stimulators for Gastrointestinal Therapeutics
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An improved system for gastrointestinal therapeutics, offering miniaturized implantable devices and non-invasive transcutaneous stimulation systems, enhancing treatment efficacy, safety, and patient comfort.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a system for gastrointestinal therapeutics using implantable and non-invasive stimulators. However, the existing system had limitations, such as bulkiness, limited sensing capabilities, and lack of personalized treatment options. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing miniaturized implantable devices, advanced sensing capabilities, and personalized treatment options, providing a more efficient, safe, and effective solution for gastrointestinal therapeutics.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises a miniaturized implantable device configured to provide electrical stimulation to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract through direct stimulation on enteric nervous system/ICCs or the cercial and celiac branches of the vagus nerve. The device further includes advanced sensors, such as pH and pressure sensors, to monitor the GI tract. Additionally, the system includes a non-invasive, transcutaneous stimulation system, comprising a wearable device with an array of independently addressable electrodes and a mobile device configured to deliver instructions to the wearable device. The system also enables personalized treatment options, including monitoring food intake and calorie consumption, and providing recommendations for improving GI health.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces several novel and non-obvious features, including the miniaturized implantable device, advanced sensing capabilities, and personalized treatment options. These features provide a significant improvement over the existing system, enabling more efficient, safe, and effective treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include variations in the design and configuration of the miniaturized implantable device, such as different shapes, sizes, and materials. Additionally, the system may be adapted for use in different applications, such as treating obesity or expediting healing of the bowel after surgery.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced implantable and non-invasive stimulators for gastrointestinal therapeutics have significant commercial potential in the healthcare industry, particularly in the areas of gastroenterology, obesity treatment, and post-surgical care. The market for gastrointestinal therapeutics is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by the increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders and the need for more effective and safe treatment options.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering, specifically electrical stimulation systems for gastrointestinal tract interventions, involving medical device design, neurological stimulation techniques, and patient monitoring technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with expertise in electrical stimulation, neural interface technologies, and minimally invasive medical interventions, possessing knowledge of electrical stimulation parameters, sensor integration, and patient-specific treatment approaches
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's core electrical stimulation technology, applying known miniaturization techniques, sensor integration strategies, and personalized treatment methodologies to the existing gastrointestinal stimulation framework. The disclosed improvements follow established design progression patterns in medical device engineering, combining known elements to achieve enhanced functionality and patient-specific treatment options.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,783 |
|---|---|
| Title | Implantable and non-invasive stimulators for gastrointestinal therapeutics |
| Assignee(s) | The Regents of the University of California |