Patent ID: 7206641
Filing Date: 2007-04-17
Classification: A61B,A61N

Abstract:
1. A monopolar neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) apparatus for use with a cannula and a remote electrode, said apparatus comprising: a longitudinally rigid tube configured to be received and moved in the cannula throughout a range of operative positions in which inner and outer end portions of said rigid tube extend longitudinally outward from the inner and outer ends of the cannula; a single non-suction contact electrode that is configured to be mounted as a solitary contact electrode at the terminal inner end of said rigid tube to close said inner end, configured to be moved through the cannula with said rigid tube, and configured to be moved into and out of contact with internal test sites to apply NMES at the internal test sites in an electrical circuit with the remote electrode upon movement of said rigid tube back and forth in the cannula; and an NMES electrode assembly that is interchangeable with said non-suction contact electrode at said inner end of said rigid tube for said movement with said rigid tube, said electrode assembly comprising a suction tip electrode and a flexible tube configured to communicate said suction tip electrode pneumatically with said rigid tube.