Wireless recharging systems and methods for flexible implantable subcutaneous medical devices

Abstract

The present invention relates to wireless recharging systems and methods for flexible implantable subcutaneous medical devices. A flexible subcutaneous implantable medical device (IMD) includes an elongated and flexible body (256), a plurality of electronic components, at least one rechargeable battery (426), at least one antenna (260, 422), at least one lead (254), and at least a transition unit (252), the antenna for receiving and emitting electromagnetic radiation and the leads for delivering the shock, wherein the elongated and flexible body is formed from a plurality of units, a first of the plurality of units enclosing a rechargeable battery, Each of the other plurality of units respectively encapsulates a corresponding one of the plurality of electronic components, wherein the antenna is positioned in the transition unit, wherein the transition unit is covered with a biocompatible polymer, wherein the antenna receives electromagnetic radiation for The rechargeable battery is recharged, and wherein the antenna comprises a copper coil having a generally cylindrical shape.

Description

technical field [0001] The disclosed technology relates generally to rechargeable subcutaneous medical devices, and in particular to methods and systems for wirelessly recharging such devices. Background technique [0002] Implantable medical devices (abbreviated herein as IMDs) are used by the medical industry to deliver various treatments to different kinds of medical conditions, whether they be cardiac conditions, gastrointestinal conditions or neurological and brain conditions. Most IMDs require a power source, either as part of the procedure or therapy to operate the device, provide electrical stimulation to the part of the body, or both. Due to the implantation of the IMD, various types of surgical procedures are required to insert the IMD into the patient. These surgical procedures may be fully or minimally invasive, however a variety of surgical procedures are required to place the IMD within the patient. Most prior art IMDs employ batteries that can keep the IMD f...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Such batteries, also known as accumulators, may not carry as much charge as non-rechargeable batteries, also known as primary batteries, however since they can be recharged, they may be able to operate for a longer period of time before requiring replacement. Internally powers the IMD

Even though the battery can only be recharged a limited number of times, the total amount of charge that a rechargeable battery can impart to the IMD may be longer than the total charge stored on the primary battery, thereby increasing the time between battery replacements

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