C12285: Vestibular Implant System with Low Battery AlertNovelty:
This technology is a vestibular implant system with a low battery alert. The system includes an implantable stimulator which provides a signal to electrically stimulate target neural tissue for vestibular sensation.
Value Proposition:
One significant challenge for vestibular implant system is supplying and maintaining the amount of power demanded by such a system to function continuously. The relatively high power consumption requires a large battery placed within the system. Changes in the battery levels and power status can affect the patient’s status and result in severe patient discomfort. The variability of functioning levels of the implant system poses potentially dangerous situations, as the patient must adjust to the changes in electrical stimulation patterns. The technology addresses this through a warning system. Other advantages include:
• Alerts the patient well in advance of battery depletion
• Creates more stable and secure lifestyle for vestibular implant system patients
• Can restore vestibular balance to patients with nonfunctioning vestibular system
Technical Details:
Johns Hopkins researchers have developed an implantable stimulator which provides a signal to electrically stimulate target neural tissue for vestibular sensation. Additionally, they have developed the vestibular implant system to include a low battery alert functionality. As a part of the inner ear, the vestibular system is involved in balance sensing. If the vestibular system is damaged or impaired, balance problems such as unsteadiness and vertigo can result from the dysfunction. With a more advanced vestibular implant system, these handicaps can be avoided, reduced, or corrected.
Looking for Partners:
To develop & commercialize this technology to vestibular implant systems with alert mechanisms.
Stage of Development:
Pre-clinical
Data Availability:
Under NDA / CDA
Publications/Associated Cases:
Not at this time
