University of Virginia Patent Foundation

University of Iowa Research Foundation

Direct Spinal Therapeutics Inc.

Charles Romans

George T Gillies

Matthew A Howard

David J Anderson

Daniel J O'Connell

Royce Woodroffe

Logan Helland

Saul Wilson

Daryl R Kipke

Matthew A Howard Iii

Daniel J O'CONNELL

The spinal cord stimulation device of this invention is configured for implantation into a patient so as to traverse the dura mater that surrounds the spinal cord. Placing the device in this location provides direct contact between the electrode and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), in close proximity to the spinal cord. The device has an intradural portion and an extradural portion that compresses and seals the dural membrane between them, securing the device in position and preventing leakage of CSF. The position of the device may be stabilized in relation to the spinal cord by way of a laminoplasty plate, bridging between the device and a vertebra. The device is electronically powered by an implanted pulse generator that produces a spectrum of signals to interrupt or otherwise attenuate transmission of pain mediating neural signals through the spinal cord. Once the device is implanted into a patient, it provides improved stimulation efficiency, reduced power requirements, and potentially an improved clinical outcome, compared with previously available technology.

Transdural electrode device for stimulation of the spinal cord

Growing community of inventors

Iowa City, IA, United States of America

Charles Romans