PATENT ABSTRACT
A device, including a display and an implant for placement within a hollow body organ, the device includes a member having an undeployed shape for delivery within a hollow body and one or more deployed shapes for implantation therein. The member having sufficient rigidity in its deployed shape to exert an outward force against an interior of the hollow body so as to bring together two substantially opposing surfaces of the hollow body. The device includes a means for changing the deployed shape of the member while implanted within the hollow body. The device also includes a wireless device, external to a body of a patient, for controlling the means and for changing the deployed shape of the member while implanted within the hollow body.

PATENT DESCRIPTION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to an implanted distension device and, more particularly, to a communication system for monitoring physiological parameters related to an implanted stomach distension device. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    Obesity is a growing concern, particularly in the United States, as the number of obese people continues to increase, and more is learned about the negative health effects of obesity. Morbid obesity, in which a person is 100 pounds or more over ideal body weight, in particular poses significant risks for severe health problems. Accordingly, a great deal of attention is being focused on treating obese patients. One proposed method of treating morbid obesity has been to place a distension device, such as a, spring loaded coil inside the stomach. Examples of satiation and satiety inducing gastric implants, optimal design features, as well as methods for installing and removing them are described in commonly owned and pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/469564, filed Sep. 1, 2006, and pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/469,562, filed Sep. 1, 2006, which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. One effect of the coil is to more rapidly induce feelings of satiation defined herein as achieving a level of fullness during a meal that helps regulate the amount of food consumed. Another effect of the coil is to prolong the effect of satiety which is defined herein as delaying the onset of hunger after a meal which in turn regulates the frequency of eating. By way of a non-limiting list of examples, positive impacts on satiation and satiety may be achieved by an intragastric coil through one or more of the following mechanisms: reduction of stomach capacity, rapid engagement of stretch receptors, alterations in gastric motility, pressure induced alteration in gut hormone levels, and alterations to the flow of food either into or out of the stomach. 
         [0003]    With each of the above-described food distension devices, safe, effective treatment requires that the device be regularly monitored and adjusted to vary the degree of distension applied to the stomach. 
         [0004]    During these gastric coil adjustments, it may be difficult to determine how the adjustment is proceeding, and whether the adjustment will have the intended effect. In an attempt to determine the efficacy of an adjustment, some physicians have utilized fluoroscopy with a Barium swallow as the adjustment is being performed, although fluoroscopy can be both expensive and raise concerns about radiation dosage. A physician may simply adopt a “try as you go” method based upon their prior experience, and the results of an adjustment may not be discovered until hours or days later, when the patient experiences an excessive distension of the stomach cavity, or the coil induces erosion of the stomach tissue due to excessive pressure on the tissue walls. 
         [0005]    In addition, tracking or monitoring the long-term performance of the gastric coil and/or the patient has been difficult in the past, but promises a wide range of benefits. For example, obtaining and displaying data from or related to the gastric coil over a period of time (or real-time data) may be useful for adjustment, diagnostic, monitoring, or other purposes. It may be further advantageous to store such data, process it to obtain other kinds of meaningful data and/or communicate it to a remote location. Allowing a physician or patient to manipulate or track such information would add a new dimension to obesity treatment or other forms of treatment. The foregoing examples are merely illustrative and not exhaustive. While a variety of techniques and devices have been used treat obesity, it is believed that no one prior to the inventors has previously made or used an invention as described in the appended claims. 
         [0006]    Accordingly, methods and devices are provided for use with an implantable distension device, and in particular for logging, displaying, analyzing, and/or processing data from or related to an implantable distension device. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0007]    While the specification concludes with claims which particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed the present invention will be better understood from the following description of certain examples taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify the same elements and in which: 
           [0008]      FIG. 1  is a simplified, schematic diagram of an implanted distension device and a bi-directional communication system between the implanted device and a remote monitoring unit; 
           [0009]      FIG. 2  is a more detailed, perspective view of an implantable portion of the stomach distension device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0010]      FIG. 3  is a side, partially sectioned view of the injection port shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0011]      FIG. 4  is a side, sectional view, taken along line A-A of  FIG. 3 , illustrating an exemplary pressure sensor for measuring fluid pressure in the intake distension device of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0012]      FIG. 5  is a simplified schematic of a variable resistance circuit for the pressure sensor shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
           [0013]      FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of an alternative bi-directional infuser for the stomach distension device of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0014]      FIG. 7A  is a schematic diagram of a mechanically adjustable distension device incorporating a pressure transducer; 
           [0015]      FIG. 7B  is a cross-sectional view of the mechanically adjustable device of  FIG. 7A  taken along line B-B; 
           [0016]      FIG. 8  is a block diagram of the major internal and external components of the intake distension device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0017]      FIG. 9  is a schematic diagram illustrating a number of different communication links between the local and remote units of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0018]      FIG. 10  is a flow diagram of an exemplary communication protocol between the local and remote units for a manually adjustable distension device; 
           [0019]      FIG. 11  is a flow diagram of an exemplary communication protocol between the local and remote units for a remotely adjustable distension device; 
           [0020]      FIG. 12  is a flow diagram of an exemplary communication protocol in which communication is initiated by the patient; 
           [0021]      FIG. 13  is a simplified schematic diagram of a data logger for recording pressure measurements from the implanted distension device; 
           [0022]      FIG. 14  is a block diagram illustrating the major components of the data logger shown in  FIG. 13 ; 
           [0023]      FIG. 15  is a graphical representation of a fluid pressure measurement from the sensor shown in  FIG. 4 , as communicated through the system of the present invention; 
           [0024]      FIG. 16  is a simplified schematic diagram of a data logging system for recording pressure measurements from the stomach distension device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0025]      FIG. 17  is a block diagram illustrating several components of the data logging system shown in  FIG. 16 ; and 
           [0026]      FIG. 18  is a simplified schematic diagram showing the data logging system shown in  FIG. 16  in a docking state with a number of different communication links. 
           [0027]      FIG. 19A  shows an exemplary pressure graph display for a graphical user interface; 
           [0028]      FIG. 19B  shows an exemplary pressure meter display for a graphical user interface; 
           [0029]      FIG. 19C  shows an exemplary pulse counter display for a graphical user interface; 
           [0030]      FIG. 20  shows another exemplary pressure graph display for a graphical user interface; 
           [0031]      FIG. 21  shows another exemplary pressure meter display for a graphical user interface; 
           [0032]      FIG. 22  shows yet another exemplary pressure meter display for a graphical user interface; 
           [0033]      FIG. 23A  shows another exemplary pulse counter display for a graphical user interface; 
           [0034]      FIG. 23B  shows the pulse counter display shown in  FIG. 23A  over the course of a two-pulse sequence; 
           [0035]      FIG. 24A  shows an exemplary area distended by a distension device; 
           [0036]      FIG. 24B  shows the display of  FIG. 24A  after a change in pressure sensed by the distension device; 
           [0037]      FIG. 25  shows an exemplary graph of pressure over time which can be correlated to the displays shown in  FIG. 24A-B ; 
           [0038]      FIG. 26  shows an exemplary display with one set of data overlaying another set of data; 
           [0039]      FIG. 27  shows another exemplary display with one set of data overlaying another set of data; 
           [0040]      FIG. 28A  shows an exemplary graph of population data related to distension devices; 
           [0041]      FIG. 28B  shows another exemplary graph of population data related to distension devices; 
           [0042]      FIG. 29  shows a display device with a screen showing annotated data values, and a menu of annotation events; 
           [0043]      FIG. 30  shows a display device with a screen showing data values which can be annotated via text entered in a text box via an input device; 
           [0044]      FIG. 31  shows the display device of  FIG. 30  with another exemplary screen of data values; 
           [0045]      FIG. 32A  shows an exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device at a 100 Hz data rate; 
           [0046]      FIG. 32B  shows an exemplary plot of pressure values over time from  FIG. 32A  which have been converted to a 10 Hz data rate; 
           [0047]      FIG. 32C  shows an exemplary plot of pressure values over time from  FIG. 32A  which have been converted to a 5 Hz data rate; 
           [0048]      FIG. 32D  shows an exemplary plot of pressure values over time from  FIG. 32A  which have been converted to a 3 Hz data rate; 
           [0049]      FIG. 32E  shows an exemplary plot of pressure values over time from  FIG. 32A  which have been converted to a 1 Hz data rate; 
           [0050]      FIG. 32F  is an exemplary flow diagram for converting collected data from a distension device to other data rates; 
           [0051]      FIG. 33A  is an exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device and overlaid with plots of running averages calculated from the pressure values according to a first technique; 
           [0052]      FIG. 33B  is an exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device and overlaid with plots of running averages calculated from the pressure values according to a second technique; 
           [0053]      FIG. 33C  is an exemplary flow diagram for calculating running averages of data collected from a distension device; 
           [0054]      FIG. 34A  is an exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device with annotations related to calculating a baseline value; 
           [0055]      FIG. 34B  is an exemplary flow diagram for determining the baseline value of a parameter from data collected from a distension device; 
           [0056]      FIG. 34C  is an exemplary plot of pressure values over time exhibiting a change in baseline value; 
           [0057]      FIG. 35A  is an exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device with annotations related to predicting characteristics of a baseline value; 
           [0058]      FIG. 35B  is an exemplary flow diagram for predicting characteristics related to a baseline value of a parameter from data collected from a distension device; 
           [0059]      FIG. 36A  is an exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device exhibiting superimposed pulses of differing frequencies; 
           [0060]      FIG. 36B  is another exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device exhibiting superimposed pulses of differing frequency; 
           [0061]      FIG. 36C  is an exemplary flow diagram for determining information about a physiological parameter from data collected from a distension device; 
           [0062]      FIG. 36D  is another exemplary flow diagram for determining information about a physiological parameter from data collected from a distension device; 
           [0063]      FIG. 37A  is an exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device with information about a physiological parameter extracted therefrom; 
           [0064]      FIG. 37B  is an exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device and averaged data overlaid therewith; 
           [0065]      FIG. 37C  is an exemplary plot of pressure values over time extracted from the data shown in  FIG. 37B ; 
           [0066]      FIG. 37D  is an exemplary flow diagram for determining a physiological parameter from data collected from a distension device; 
           [0067]      FIG. 38A  is an exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device exhibiting superimposed pulses of differing frequencies; 
           [0068]      FIG. 38B  is a detail view of the plot shown in  FIG. 38A ; 
           [0069]      FIG. 38C  is another detail view of the plot shown in  FIG. 38A ; 
           [0070]      FIG. 39A  is an exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device with annotations related to determining the presence of a pulse; 
           [0071]      FIG. 39B  is an exemplary flow diagram for determining the presence of a pulse in data collected from a distension device; 
           [0072]      FIG. 40A  is another exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device with annotations related to determining the presence of a pulse via another technique; 
           [0073]      FIG. 40B  is another exemplary flow diagram for determining, via the technique described in connection with  FIG. 40A , the presence of a pulse in data collected from a distension device; 
           [0074]      FIG. 41A  is yet another exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device with annotations related to determining the presence of a pulse via yet another technique; 
           [0075]      FIG. 41B  is yet another exemplary flow diagram for determining, via the technique described in connection with  FIG. 41A , the presence of a pulse in data collected from a distension device; 
           [0076]      FIG. 42A  is another exemplary plot of pressure values over time collected from a distension device with annotations related to comparing pulse areas; and, 
           [0077]      FIG. 42B  is an exemplary flow diagram for comparing pulses areas using data collected from a distension device. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0078]    The following description of certain examples of the invention should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is by way of illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive. The features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. 
         [0079]    In one aspect, a display for a physiological monitoring device displaying information from or related to an implantable distension device is provided. This distension device may be adjustable. Exemplary non-limiting examples of adjustable implantable distension devices (e.g., satiation and satiety inducing gastric implants), optimal design features, as well as methods for installing and removing them are described in commonly owned and pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. [______], filed on even date herewith and entitled “Devices and Methods for Adjusting a Satiation and Satiety-Inducing Implanted Device” [Atty. Docket No. END6514USNP], which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For example, an exemplary display can include a simulated graphic of a disposition of a region enclosing an implantable distension device, such as an adjustable gastric coil, the simulated graphic indicating a size of the disposition through the region. The indicated size can be based at least in part on a clinically relevant parameter sensed by the implantable distension device and communicated to the physiological monitoring device. Sensed parameters, in this and other embodiments described herein, can include a wide variety of parameters such as pressure, pulse count, pulse width, pulse duration, pulse amplitude, pulse frequency, sensed electrical characteristics, as well as system status parameters and so on. In some embodiments, the simulated graphic can include one or more isobars displayed on the graphic representation of the enclosed region, the isobars representing sensed parameter values so that a perimeter of the disposition in the region is indicative of the sensed parameter. The isobars can change color to signal a condition related to the sensed parameter values. In other embodiments, the simulated graphic can include an image of a cross-section of a coil, an image of the distension device disposed in an anatomical lumen, an image of, icons, markings, and/or three dimensional images. The simulated graphic also can include a video image for showing a change in the size of the separation between ends of the coil in accordance with pressure (or other parameter) sensed by the implantable distension device over a time period. The simulated graphic also can be based on an image obtained from the body of a patient in which the implantable distension device is implanted. The display can further include a textual indicator of a sensed parameter, sensed parameter data shown on a graph or dial indicator, and/or an indication of a distension state of the implantable distension device. By way of a non-limiting example, if the distension device is not a fluid filled pressure based device, then the parameter being sensed may be the force on a force gauge disposed to determine the intragastric forces on the coil. Accordingly, the graphic may display force vectors or deflections on an image of the coil or. Alternatively, the graphic may show the stomach affecting coil size, or the coil affecting stomach size. 
         [0080]    In another aspect, an exemplary display can include a graph of a sensed parameter over time, the graph including a graphic representation of data representing parameter values sensed by an implantable distension device, for example an adjustable gastric coil, and communicated to the physiological monitoring device. The display can also include one or more annotation markers disposed on the graphic representation to indicate a presence of an annotation at a selected time, the one or more annotation markers each associated with a description, such as text or an image. The associated description can include, for example, a description of a medical event, description of a physiological state, a system status (device), description of a symptom, a patient comment, and/or a physician comment. The graphic representation can include a curve plotting sensed pressure values. The display can further include a list of predefined annotation events from which a user can select the description. 
         [0081]    In another aspect, an exemplary display can include a plurality of graphic representations of parameter/volume datasets (for example, parameter datasets, such as pressure, pulse count, pulse width, pulse amplitude, pulse frequency pH, chemical content, system fluid levels, system drug or therapeutic levels, and so on), each parameter/volume dataset corresponding to an implantable distension device, such as an adjustable gastric coil, in a patient and comprising one or more associations of (a) a fill volume for the implantable distension device, with (b) a parameter sensed by the implantable distension device at the fill volume and communicated to the physiological monitoring device. One of the plurality of the graphic representations can represent a pressure/volume dataset for a current patient and another of the graphic representations can represent a parameter/volume dataset for group of patients as a baseline for comparison. 
         [0082]    In some embodiments, one of the plurality of the graphic representations of a parameter/volume dataset represents a current patient and the remainder of the plurality of the graphic representations represent parameter/volume datasets for a patient population. The graphic representations can be, for example, curves plotted on a graph of parameter vs. fill volume. The graphic representations also can include curves plotted on a graph of parameter vs. fill volume, and wherein one of the plurality of the graphic representations represents a parameter/volume dataset for a current patient and another graphic representation represents an average parameter/volume dataset for a patient population, the average parameter/volume dataset comprising one or more associations of (a) a fill volume, and (b) an average of a parameter (such as pressure) sensed by implantable distension devices at the fill volume across a patient population. The display can further include an upper bound trendline and a lower bound trendline and defining surrounding the line plotting the average parameter/volume dataset. Alternatively, the parameter being graphed may be presented along the curve of the coil, showing, for example, pressure any of a plurality of points along the curve as an indication of local pressure conditions. 
         [0083]    In an additional embodiment, the display may show whether the coil is in chronic contact with the inner wall of the stomach either as a percentage or as an absolute value or series of values. This may be displayed graphically to indicate the potential for onset of erosions or internal stomach wall damage. 
         [0084]    A method for monitoring an implantable distension device can also be provided, which in one embodiment can include providing a plurality of parameter/volume datasets, each corresponding to an implantable distension device in a patient and comprising one or more associations of (a) a fill volume for the implantable distension device, and (b) a parameter sensed by the implantable distension device at the fill volume and communicated to an external device. The method can also include displaying a graphic representation of a selected parameter/volume dataset corresponding to a selected implantable distension device along with one or more other graphic representations of one or more other parameter/volume datasets corresponding to one or more other implantable distension devices. The method also can include calculating an average pressure for each volume across the one or more other parameter/volume datasets to create an average parameter/volume dataset, and displaying a graphic representation of the average parameter/volume dataset. 
         [0085]    In yet another aspect, an exemplary display can include a graph which includes a parameter axis and a pulse count axis for relating a parameter sensed by an implantable distension device, such as an adjustable gastric coil, with a pulse count. The pulse count can represent a sequence number of a pulse of the sensed parameter within a sequence of pulses in a swallowing event. The display can also include a plurality of discrete indicators disposed on the graph at an intersection of parameter and pulse count, wherein each discrete indicator represents a predetermined parameter amplitude and the plurality of discrete indicators thereby represents a total parameter amplitude measured for each pulse in a sequence of pulses. In some embodiments, a time stamp can be displayed for at least one pulse in the sequence of pulses. The time stamp can indicate the time at which the pulse occurred, the duration of the pulse, the intra-pulse time, or other metrics. 
         [0086]    In yet another aspect, an exemplary display can include a parameter vs. time graph, the parameter (such as pressure, or any other parameter, as previously mentioned) being sensed by an implantable distension device, a graphic representation indicating a value related to the parameter sensed by an implantable distension device, such as an adjustable gastric coil, during a first time period, and a graphic representation indicating a value related to the parameter sensed by an implantable distension device during a second and later time period. In some embodiments, the graphic representation for the first time period overlays at least in part the graphic representation for the second time period. The first time period can be before a medical action and the second and later time period can be after a medical action, and the medical action can be the adjustment of the implantable distension device. In some embodiments, the graphic representations for the first time period and for the second and later time period comprise curves plotted on the graph having one or more parameter pulses there within. The graphic representations for the first time period and second time period can be overlaid such that at least one parameter pulse in the graphic representations for the first time period overlaps with at least one parameter pulse in the graphic representations for the second time period. 
         [0087]    In yet another aspect, an exemplary display can include a pressure screen displaying a sensed pressure, the sensed pressure being sensed by an implantable distension device (such as an adjustable gastric coil) and communicated to the physiological monitoring device and a pulse count display indicating a number of pulses in sensed pressure that occur during a swallowing event, and/or pressure display having an indicator for sensed pressure, the indicator falling within one of a plurality of pressure ranges corresponding to a condition of the implantable distension device. The pressure display can include, for example, a graph displaying pressure over time, wherein the sensed pressure is represented by a plotted curve, a linear meter comprising a plurality of discrete indicators, wherein in each discrete indicator corresponds to a predetermined sensed pressure, an indicator adapted to change color to indicate a condition, a circular pressure meter, and/or a textual indicator. The pressure ranges can correspond to conditions for a fluid-filled implantable distension device that include “overfilled,” “optimal” and “under-filled.” In some embodiments, the graph, the linear meter, the circular pressure meter, and/or the textual indicator can be configured to signal a visual warning or alarm condition. In other embodiments, an audible alarm can be configured to activate when any of the graph, the linear meter, the circular pressure meter, and the textual indicator indicates a value above a threshold. 
         [0088]    In yet another aspect, an exemplary method can include obtaining a physiological monitoring device having any of the foregoing displays or attributes, and repurposing the physiological monitoring device and/or the display. Repurposing can include, for example, reconstructing the device or display, modifying, reprogramming, erasing, or customizing the device or display. Repurposing also can include repairing, reconditioning, or sterilizing the device or display. 
         [0089]    Data obtained from the implanted device can be used, processed, and/or analyzed in a wide variety of ways. For example, one exemplary method of obtaining information about a physiological parameter can include collecting data from an implantable distension device over a time period, the collected data containing information about values of a parameter (such as pressure) sensed within a body during the time period, and, analyzing the data in data processing device to determine information about a physiological parameter (e.g., heart rate, breathing rate, rate of pulses caused by a peristaltic event, baseline parameter, etc.) for at least a portion of the time period. The determined information can include, for example, frequency, value, amplitude, change in value over at least a portion of a time period, and average value over a time period. In one embodiment, the method can include determining the frequency content of variations in the values of the sensed parameter during the time period and identifying one or more frequencies in the frequency content as a frequency of the physiological parameter. The method can further include comparing one or more frequencies (or an average of them) to one or more predetermined frequencies that are designated as frequencies associated with the physiological parameter. In some embodiments, the method can include determining the frequency content of variations in the values of pressure over at least a portion of the time period, selecting one or more frequencies existing in the frequency content that fall within a predetermined range of frequencies designated as possible rates of the physiological event (e.g., heart rate, breath rate, and so on), and identifying a rate for the physiological event based on the one or more selected frequencies. Determining the frequency content can further be accomplished by applying Fourier analyses. In other embodiments, the method can include calculating a frequency exhibited in the variations in the value of pressure over at least a portion of the time period, and comparing the frequency to a predetermined range of frequencies designated as possible rates of the physiological event to determine if the frequency falls within the range. Calculating the frequency can be achieved by, for example, recording at least two times at which values of pressure are at a local maximum or minimum; and calculating the frequency based on the difference between the at least two times. The method can further include determining an amplitude of the variations in the values of pressure at the calculated frequency, and comparing the amplitude to a predetermined range of amplitudes designated as possible physiological event amplitudes to determine if the amplitude falls within the range. In yet other embodiments, the method can include calculating the difference between (i) a value of pressure at a time within the time period, and (ii) an average value of pressure at the time, wherein the difference represents a value corresponding to the physiological parameter. The average value can be calculated, for example, based on values falling within a window of time. Further, the determination of physiological events or rates can lead to alarms, or can cause the data processing device to generate reports. 
         [0090]    In another aspect, an exemplary method for analyzing data from an implantable distension device to determine a baseline value for a physiological parameter can include collecting data from an implantable distension device over a time period, the collected data containing information about values of a parameter sensed within a body over the time period. The method can also include defining a range of values to represent a tolerance range, and comparing one or more values of the sensed parameter during the time period to the tolerance range to determine if all of the one or more values fell within the tolerance range, and if so, identifying a baseline as having been established. The range of values can be defined in a variety of ways, including with respect to the running average, or by setting an upper limit that exceeds the running average and a lower limit that is less than the running average. The method can further include calculating a running average based on the values of the sensed parameter during an averaging window within the time period; and, identifying the running average as the baseline value. In some embodiments, the method can further include calculating a running average based on the values of the sensed parameter during an averaging window within the time period; and identifying the running average as the baseline value. In other embodiments, the method can include generating an alarm or report upon the occurrence of an event, such as (i) identification of the baseline value; (ii) failure to identify the baseline value within a threshold time; and (iii) identification of the baseline value and the baseline value passes a threshold value. In some embodiments, fluid can be added or removed from the implantable distension device, and/or the determined baseline value can be correlated to a condition of the implantable distension device, the condition being one of optimally-filled, over-filled, or under-filled (or optimally tighted, over-tightened, and under-tightened). 
         [0091]    In another aspect, an exemplary method for analyzing data from an implantable distension device to determine information about a baseline of a physiological parameter can be provided. The method can include collecting data from an implantable distension device over a time period, the collected data containing information about values of a parameter sensed within a body during the time period. The method can further include calculating, based at least in part on one more values of the sensed parameter during the time period, a predicted amount of time until the values of the physiological parameter will have a rate of change that is about zero. In some embodiments, calculating the predicted amount of time can involve calculating a rate of change of the values of the sensed parameter for a window within the time period, calculating a rate of change of the rate of change of the values of the sensed parameter for the window, and calculating the predicted amount of time until the values of the sensed parameter will have a rate of change that is about zero, based at least in part on the rate of change and the rate of change of the rate of change. In some embodiments, a predicted baseline value can be calculated, for example, by extrapolating from one or more values within the window to the predicted baseline value of the sensed parameter, and by multiplying the rate of change of the values of the sensed parameter for the window within the time period and the predicted amount of time. In some embodiments, an alarm or report can be generated if the rate of change passes a threshold value. Further, the rate of change can be correlated to a condition of the implantable distension device, the condition being one of: optimally-filled, over-filled, or under-filled (or optimally tighted, over-tightened, and under-tightened). 
         [0092]    In another aspect, an exemplary method for analyzing data from an implantable distension device to identify the presence of a pulse can be provided. The method can include can include collecting data from an implantable distension device over a time period, the collected data containing information about values of a parameter sensed within a body over the time period, identifying the presence of a pulse in the values of the sensed parameter. Identifying can comprise finding one or more values of the sensed parameter that exceeds a first threshold value and finding one or more subsequent values of the sensed parameter that fall below the first threshold or a second threshold (such thresholds can be defined relative to a baseline value for the parameter, and/or can be different or the same values). In some embodiments, identifying can further comprise finding one or more subsequent values of the sensed parameter that fall below a second threshold within a time window, the time window being within the time period and beginning at a time associated with the one or more values that exceeded the first threshold. Another exemplary method for analyzing data from an implantable distension device to determine the presence of a pulse can include collecting data from an implantable distension device over a time period, the collected data containing information about values of a parameter sensed within a body over the time period, and identifying the presence of a pulse in the values of the sensed parameter. Identifying can comprise finding one or more values of the sensed parameter that exceed a first threshold value, finding one or more subsequent values of the sensed parameter that are followed by decreasing values, the one or more subsequent values representing a peak value; and finding one or more other subsequent values of the sensed parameter that fall below a second threshold within a time window. The time window can be within the time period, beginning at virtually any time, such as when a peak value occurs, or otherwise. In some embodiments, an alarm or report can be generated upon identification of a pulse or if the number of pulses passes a threshold value during a predetermined time period. Further, such information can be correlated to a condition of the implantable distension device, the condition being one of: optimally-filled, over-filled, or under-filled (or optimally tighted, over-tightened, and under-tightened). 
         [0093]    In another aspect, an exemplary method for analyzing data from an implantable distension device to detect the presence of a physiological condition or a condition related to an implantable distension device can be provided. The method can include collecting data from an implantable distension device over a time period, the collected data containing information about values of a parameter sensed within a body during the time period, finding one or more areas corresponding to an area under a pressure vs. time curve, and, comparing the areas, the result of the comparison being correlated to a condition. In some embodiments, finding one or more areas can include for each of the one or more areas, evaluating an integral (including numerical integration in some embodiments) based on values of the sensed parameter over each of a window within the time period, the evaluation of the integration producing a result representing the area under the pressure vs. time curve (which can be the area under one or more pulses). The method can further include correlating a decreasing sequence of areas that occurs at a first predetermined rate to an optimally filled implantable distension device, correlating a sequence of areas that are substantially equal to an overfilled implantable distension device, and/or can include correlating a decreasing sequence of areas that occurs at a second predetermined rate to an underfilled implantable distension device. 
         [0094]    In another aspect, an exemplary method of analyzing data from an implantable distension device to remove noise in the data can be provided. Such a method can include collecting data from an implantable distension device over a time period, the collected data containing information about values of a parameter sensed within a body over the time period, and conditioning the sensed parameter values for display or further analysis. Conditioning can include filtering and/or converting the sensed parameters from a first sampling rate to a second and lower sampling rate, and/or can include calculating a root mean square of the sensed parameters or performing a regression analysis on the sensed parameters. In some embodiments, conditioning can include calculating an average value of the sensed parameters at each time in the time period based on a group of surrounding sensed parameter values. In other embodiments, conditioning can include dividing at least a portion of the time period into a plurality of averaging windows of a predetermined size; and, calculating the average value of the sensed parameter in each averaging window. Conditioned values can be stored as compressed information. 
         [0095]    In another aspect, an exemplary method for analyzing data from an implantable distension device can include collecting data from an implantable distension device over a time period, the collected data containing information about values of a parameter sensed within a body over the time period. The method can further include calculating an average value of the physiological parameter for a time X within the time period, the average value being calculated based on one or more values of the sensed parameter within an averaging window in the time period. In some embodiments, the averaging window (i) can precede the time X or (ii) can surround the time X. The method can further include displaying the average value on a graph of the sensed parameter vs. time. 
         [0096]    In yet another aspect, an exemplary method can include obtaining a data processing device for processing data as described in any of the foregoing embodiments, and repurposing the device. Repurposing can include, for example, reconstructing the device, modifying, reprogramming, erasing, or customizing the device hardware/software. Repurposing also can include repairing, reconditioning, or sterilizing the device. 
         [0097]    Still other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which includes by way of illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive. 
         [0098]    Referring now to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals indicate the same elements throughout the views,  FIG. 1  provides a simplified, schematic diagram of a bi-directional communication system  20  for transmitting data between an implanted distensive-opening device and a remotely located monitoring unit. Through communication system  20 , data and command signals may be transmitted between the implanted device and a remotely located physician for monitoring and affecting patient treatment. The communication system of the invention enables a physician to control the distension device and monitor treatment without meeting face-to-face with the patient. For purposes of the disclosure herein, the terms “remote” and “remotely located” are defined as being at a distance of greater than six feet. In  FIG. 1  and the following disclosure, the distension device is shown and described as being a stomach distension device  22  for use in bariatric treatment. The use of a stomach distension device is only representative however, and the present invention may be utilized with other types of implanted distension devices without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, it should be understood that the distension device  22  can be (or include) any category of distension device, such as a fluid-fillable distension device, mechanically based distension device, and so on. 
         [0099]    As shown in  FIG. 1 , a first portion  24  of intake distension device  22  is implanted in the patient&#39;s stomach  27 , while a second portion  26  is located external to the patient&#39;s skin. Implanted portion  24  comprises an adjustable distension coil  28  that is implanted about the gastrointestinal tract for the treatment of morbid obesity. In this application, adjustable coil  28  is placed in the patient&#39;s stomach  30  to create a distension of the stomach. Adjustable coil  28  may include a cavity made of silicone rubber, or another type of biocompatible material, that inflates outwardly against stomach  30  when filled with a fluid. Alternatively, coil  28  may comprise a mechanically adjustable device having a fluid cavity that experiences pressure changes with coil adjustments, or a combination hydraulic/mechanical adjustable coil. 
         [0100]    An injection port  36 , which will be described in greater detail below, is implanted in a body region accessible for needle injections and telemetry communication signals. In the embodiment shown, injection port  36  fluidly communicates with adjustable coil  28  via a catheter  40 . The surgeon may implant injection port  36  in the stomach of the patient. 
         [0101]      FIG. 2  illustrates adjustable coil  28  in greater detail. In this embodiment, coil  28  includes a variable volume cavity  42  that expands or contracts against the inner wall of the stomach to form a distension for controllably restricting food intake into the stomach. A physician may decrease the size of the distension opening by subtracting fluid to variable volume cavity  42  or, alternatively, may increase the distension size by adding fluid from the cavity. Fluid may be added or withdrawn by inserting a needle into injection port  36 . The fluid may be, but is not restricted to, a 0.9 percent saline solution. 
         [0102]    Returning now to  FIG. 1 , external portion  26  of intake distension device  22  comprises a hand-held antenna  54  electrically connected (in this embodiment via an electrical cable assembly  56 ) to a local unit  60 . Electrical cable assembly  56  may be detachably connected to local unit  60  or antenna  54  to facilitate cleaning, maintenance, usage, and storage of external portion  26 . Local unit  60  is a microprocessor-controlled device that communicates with implanted device  22  and a remote unit  170 , as will be described further below. Through antenna  54 , local unit  60  non-invasively communicates with implanted injection port  36 . Antenna  54  may be held against the patient&#39;s skin near the location of injection port  36  to transmit telemetry and power signals to injection port  36 . 
         [0103]    Turning now to  FIG. 3 , which depicts a side, partially sectioned view of an exemplary injection port  36 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , injection port  36  comprises a rigid housing  70  having an annular flange  72  containing a plurality of attachment holes  74  for fastening the injection port to tissue in a patient. A surgeon may attach injection port  36  to the inner tissue of the stomach, such as the muscular layer, using any one of numerous surgical fasteners including suture filaments, staples, and clips. Injection port  36  further comprises a septum  76  typically made of a silicone rubber and compressively retained in housing  70 . Septum  76  is penetrable by a endoscopic Huber-like needle, or a similar type of injection instrument, for adding or withdrawing fluid from the port. Septum  76  self-seals upon withdrawal of the syringe needle to maintain the volume of fluid inside of injection port  36 . Injection port  36  further comprises a reservoir  80  for retaining the fluid and a catheter connector  82 . Connector  82  attaches to catheter  40 , shown in  FIG. 2 , to form a closed hydraulic circuit between reservoir  80  and cavity  42 . Housing  70  and connector  82  may be integrally molded from a biocompatible polymer or constructed from a metal such as titanium or stainless steel. 
         [0104]    Injection port  36  also comprises a pressure sensor  84  for measuring fluid pressure within the device. The pressure measured by sensor  84  corresponds to the amount of distension applied by coil  28  to the patient&#39;s stomach or other body cavity. The pressure measurement is transmitted from sensor  84  to local unit  60  via telemetry signals using antenna  54 . Local unit  60  may display, print and/or transmit the pressure measurement to a remote monitoring unit for evaluation, as will be described in more detail below. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3 , pressure sensor  84  is positioned at the bottom of fluid reservoir  80  within housing  70 . A retaining cover  86  extends above pressure sensor  84  to substantially separate the sensor surface from reservoir  80 , and protect the sensor from needle penetration. Retaining cover  86  may be made of a ceramic material such as, for example, alumina, which resists needle penetration yet does not interfere with electronic communications between pressure sensor  84  and antenna  54 . Retaining cover  86  includes a vent  90  that allows fluid inside of reservoir  80  to flow to and impact upon the surface of pressure sensor  84 . 
         [0105]      FIG. 4  is a side, sectional view of pressure sensor  84 , taken along line A-A of  FIG. 3 , illustrating an exemplary embodiment for measuring fluid pressure. Pressure sensor  84  is hermetically sealed within a housing  94  to prevent fluid infiltrating and effecting the operation of the sensor. The exterior of pressure sensor  84  includes a diaphragm  92  having a deformable surface. Diaphragm  92  is formed by thinning out a section of the bottom of titanium reservoir  80  to a thickness between 0.001″ and 0.002″. As fluid flows through vent  90  in reservoir  80 , the fluid impacts upon the surface of diaphragm  92 , causing the surface to mechanically displace. The mechanical displacement of diaphragm  92  is converted to an electrical signal by a pair of variable resistance, silicon strain gauges  96 ,  98 . Strain gauges  96 ,  98  are attached to diaphragm  92  on the side opposite the working fluid in reservoir  80 . Strain gauge  96  is attached to a center portion of diaphragm  92  to measure the displacement of the diaphragm. The second, matched strain gauge  98  is attached near the outer edge of diaphragm  92 . Strain gauges  96 ,  98  may be attached to diaphragm  92  by adhesives, or may be diffused into the diaphragm structure. As fluid pressure within coil  28  fluctuates, the surface of diaphragm  92  deforms up or down at the bottom of reservoir  80 . The deformation of diaphragm  92  produces a resistance change in the center strain gauge  96 . 
         [0106]    As shown in  FIG. 5 , strain gauges  96 ,  98  form the top two resistance elements of a half-compensated, Wheatstone bridge circuit  100 . As strain gauge  96  reacts to the mechanical displacements of diaphragm  92 , the changing resistance of the gauge changes the potential across the top portion of the bridge circuit. Strain gauge  98  is matched to strain gauge  96  and athermalizes the Wheatstone bridge circuit. Differential amplifiers  102 ,  104  are connected to bridge circuit  100  to measure the change in potential within the bridge circuit due to the variable resistance strain gauges. In particular, differential amplifier  102  measures the voltage across the entire bridge circuit, while differential amplifier  104  measures the differential voltage across the strain gauge half of bridge circuit  100 . The greater the differential between the strain gauge voltages, for a fixed voltage across the bridge, the greater the pressure difference. If desired, a fully compensated Wheatstone bridge circuit could also be used to increase the sensitivity and accuracy of the pressure sensor  84 . In a fully compensated bridge circuit, four strain gauges are attached to the surface of diaphragm  92 , rather than only two strain gauges as shown in  FIG. 4 . 
         [0107]    Returning to  FIG. 4 , the output signals from differential amplifiers  102 ,  104  are applied to a microcontroller  106 . Microcontroller  106  is integrated into a circuit board  110  within housing  94 . A temperature sensor  112  measures the temperature within injection port  36  and inputs a temperature signal to microcontroller  106 . Microcontroller  106  uses the temperature signal from sensor  112  to compensate for variations in body temperature and residual temperature errors not accounted for by strain gauge  98 . Compensating the pressure measurement signal for variations in body temperature increases the accuracy of the pressure sensor  84 . Additionally, a TET/telemetry coil  114  is located within housing  94 . Coil  114  is connected to a capacitor  116  to form a tuned tank circuit for receiving power from and transmitting physiological data, including the measured fluid pressure, to local unit  60 .  FIGS. 3-5  illustrate one exemplary embodiment for measuring fluid pressure within an intake distension device. Additional embodiments for measuring fluid pressure are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/065,410 entitled “Non-invasive Measurement of Fluid Pressure in a Bariatric Device,” (now published as U.S. Patent Publication No. 2006/0189888) the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0108]    As an alternative to injection port  36 , implanted portion  24  may include a bi-directional infuser for varying the fluid level within the adjustable distension coil  28 . With an infuser, fluid can be added or withdrawn from coil  28  via telemetry command signals.  FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary infuser  115 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , infuser  115  includes a pump, designated generally as  118 , for non-invasively transferring fluid into or out of the coil in response to telemetry command signals. Pump  118  is encased within a cylindrical outer housing  120  having an annular cover  121  extending across a top portion. A collapsible bellows  122  is securely attached at a top peripheral edge to cover  121 . Bellows  122  is comprised of a suitable material, such as titanium, which is capable of repeated flexure at the folds of the bellows, but which is sufficiently rigid so as to be noncompliant to variations in pressure. A lower peripheral edge of bellows  122  is secured to an annular bellows cap  123 , which translates vertically within pump  118 . The combination of cover  121 , bellows  122  and bellows cap  123  defines the volume of a fluid reservoir  124 . A catheter connector  119  attaches to catheter  40  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) to form a closed hydraulic circuit between the coil and fluid reservoir  124 . The volume in reservoir  124  may be expanded by moving bellows cap  123  in a downward direction, away from cover  121 . As bellows cap  123  descends, the folds of bellows  122  are stretched, creating a vacuum to pull fluid from the coil, through catheter  40  and connector  119 , and into reservoir  124 . Similarly, the volume in reservoir  124  may be decreased by moving bellows cap  123  in an upward direction towards cover  121 , thereby compressing the folds of bellows  122  and forcing fluid from the reservoir through catheter  40  and connector  119  and into coil  28 . 
         [0109]    Bellows cap  123  includes an integrally formed lead screw portion  125  that operatively engages a matching thread on a cylindrical nut  126 . The outer circumference of nut  126  is securely attached to an axial bore of a rotary drive plate  127 . A cylindrical drive ring  128  is in turn mounted about the outer annular edge of rotary drive plate  127 . Nut  126 , drive plate  127  and drive ring  128  are all securely attached together by any suitable means to form an assembly that rotates as a unit about an axis formed by screw portion  125 . A bushing frame  129  encloses TET and telemetry coils (not shown) for transmitting power and data signals between antenna  54  and pump  118 . 
         [0110]    Drive ring  128  is rotatably driven by one or more piezoelectric harmonic motors. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 6 , two harmonic motors  131  are positioned so that a tip  113  of each motor is in frictional contact with the inner circumference of drive ring  128 . When motors  131  are energized, tips  113  vibrate against drive ring  128 , producing a “walking” motion along the inner circumference of the ring that rotates the ring. A microcontroller (not shown) in pump  118  is electrically connected to the TET and telemetry coils for receiving power to drive motors  131 , as well as receiving and transmitting data signals for the pump. To alter the fluid level in coil cavity  42 , an adjustment prescription is transmitted by telemetry from antenna  54 . The telemetry coil in infuser  115  detects and transmits the prescription signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller in turn drives motors  131  an appropriate amount to collapse or expand bellows  122  and drive the desired amount of fluid to/from coil  28 . 
         [0111]    In order to measure pressure variations within infuser  115 , and, thus, the size of the coil, a pressure sensor, indicated by block  84 ′, is included within bellows  122 . Pressure sensor  84 ′ is similar to pressure sensor  84  described above. As the pressure against coil  28  varies due to, for example, peristaltic pressure from swallowing or stomach processing of the food, the fluid in coil  28  experiences pressure changes. These pressure changes are conveyed back through the fluid in catheter  40  to bellows  122 . The diaphragm in pressure sensor  84 ′ deflects in response to the fluid pressure changes within bellows  122 . The diaphragm deflections are converted into an electrical signal indicative of the applied pressure in the manner described above with respect to  FIGS. 4 and 5 . The pressure signal is input to the infuser microcontroller, which transmits the pressure to a monitoring unit external to the patient via the telemetry coil. Additional details regarding the operation of bi-directional infuser  115  may be found in commonly-assigned, co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/065,410 entitled “Non-invasive Measurement of Fluid Pressure in a Bariatric Device” which has been incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0112]      FIGS. 7A and 7B  depict a mechanically adjustable coil  153  for creating a stomach distension in the abdomen of a patient. Mechanical coil  153  may be used as an alternative to hydraulically adjustable coil  28  for creating a stoma. Mechanically adjustable coil  153  comprises a substantially circular resilient core  133  having overlapping end portions  135 ,  137 . Core  133  is substantially enclosed in a fluid-filled compliant housing  139 . An implanted motor  141  is spaced from core  133  to mechanically adjust the overlap of the core end portions  135 ,  137  and, accordingly, the coil size. Motor  141  adjusts the size of core  133  through a drive shaft  143  that is connected to a drive wheel (not shown) within housing  139 . Motor  141  is molded together with a remote-controlled power supply unit  145  in a body  147  comprised of silicon rubber, or another similar material. 
         [0113]    As motor  141  changes the size of core  133 , the pressure of the fluid within housing  139  varies. To measure the pressure variations, a pressure sensor, similar to that described above, is placed in communication with the fluid of housing  139 . The pressure sensor may be placed within housing  139 , as shown by block  84 ″, so that the pressure variations within the coil are transferred through the fluid in housing  139  to the diaphragm of the sensor. Sensor  84 ″ translates the deflections of the diaphragm into a pressure measurement signal, which is transmitted to an external unit via telemetry in the manner described above. In an alternative scenario, the pressure sensor may be placed within the implanted motor body  147 , as indicated by block  84 ′″, and fluidly connected to housing  139  via a tube  151  extending alongside drive shaft  143 . As fluid pressure varies in housing  139  due to pressure changes within the coil, the pressure differentials are transferred through the fluid in tube  151  to sensor  84 ′″. Sensor  84 ′″ generates an electrical signal indicative of the fluid pressure. This signal is transmitted from the patient to an external unit in the manner described above. 
         [0114]      FIG. 8  is a block diagram illustrating the major components of implanted and external portions  24 ,  26  of intake distension device  22 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , external portion  26  includes a primary TET coil  130  for transmitting a power signal  132  to implanted portion  24 . A telemetry coil  144  is also included for transmitting data signals to implanted portion  24 . Primary TET coil  130  and telemetry coil  144  combine to form antenna  54  as shown. Local unit  60  of external portion  26  includes a TET drive circuit  134  for controlling the application of power to primary TET coil  130 . TET drive circuit  134  is controlled by a microprocessor  136 . A graphical user interface  140  is connected to microprocessor  136  for inputting patient information and displaying and/or printing data and physician instructions. Through user interface  140 , the patient or clinician can transmit an adjustment request to the physician and also enter reasons for the request. Additionally, user interface  140  enables the patient to read and respond to instructions from the physician. 
         [0115]    Local unit  60  also includes a primary telemetry transceiver  142  for transmitting interrogation commands to and receiving response data, including sensed fluid pressure, from implanted microcontroller  106 . Primary transceiver  142  is electrically connected to microprocessor  136  for inputting and receiving command and data signals. Primary transceiver  142  drives telemetry coil  144  to resonate at a selected RF communication frequency. The resonating circuit generates a downlink alternating magnetic field  146  that transmits command data to implanted microcontroller  106 . Alternatively, transceiver  142  may receive telemetry signals transmitted from secondary coil  114 . The received data may be stored in a memory  138  associated with microprocessor  136 . A power supply  150  supplies energy to local unit  60  in order to power intake distension device  22 . An ambient pressure sensor  152  is connected to microprocessor  136 . Microprocessor  136  uses the signal from ambient pressure sensor  152  to adjust the received fluid pressure measurement for variations in atmospheric pressure due to, for example, variations in barometric conditions or altitude. 
         [0116]      FIG. 8  also illustrates the major components of implanted portion  24  of device  22 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , secondary TET/telemetry coil  114  receives power and communication signals from external antenna  54 . Coil  114  forms a tuned tank circuit that is inductively coupled with either primary TET coil  130  to power the implant, or primary telemetry coil  144  to receive and transmit data. A telemetry transceiver  158  controls data exchange with coil  114 . Additionally, implanted portion  24  includes a rectifier/power regulator  160 , microcontroller  106  described above, a memory  162  associated with the microcontroller, temperature sensor  112 , pressure sensor  84  and a signal conditioning circuit  164  for amplifying the signal from the pressure sensor. The implanted components transmit the temperature adjusted pressure measurement from sensor  84  to local unit  60  via antenna  54 . The pressure measurement may be stored in memory  138  within local unit  60 , shown on a display within local unit  60 , or transmitted in real time to a remote monitoring station. 
         [0117]    As mentioned hereinabove, it is desirable to provide a communication system for the remote monitoring and control of an intake distension device. Through the communication system, a physician may retrieve a history of fluid pressure measurements from the distension device to evaluate the efficacy of the bariatric treatment. Additionally, a physician may downlink instructions for a device adjustment. A remotely located clinician may access the adjustment instructions through local unit  60 . Using the instructions, the clinician may inject a syringe into injection port  36  and add or remove saline from fluid reservoir  80  to accomplish the device adjustment. Alternatively, the patient may access the instructions through local unit  60 , and non-invasively execute the instructions in infuser  115  or mechanically adjustable coil  153  using antenna  54 . Real-time pressure measurements may be uplinked to the physician during the adjustment for immediate feedback on the effects of the adjustment. Alternatively, the patient or clinician may uplink pressure measurements to the physician after an adjustment for confirmation and evaluation of the adjustment. 
         [0118]    As shown in  FIG. 1 , communication system  20  includes local unit  60  and a remote monitoring unit  170 , also referred to herein as a base unit. Remote unit  170  may be located at a physician&#39;s office, a hospital or clinic, or elsewhere. Remote unit  170  of the present example is a personal computer type device comprising a microprocessor  172 , which may be, for example, an Intel Pentium® or current microprocessor or the like. Alternatively, remote unit  170  may comprise a dedicated or non-dedicated server that is accessible over a network such as the Internet. In the present example, a system bus  171  interconnects microprocessor  172  with a memory  174  for storing data such as, for example, physiological parameters and patient instructions. A graphical user interface  176  is also interconnected to microprocessor  172  for displaying data and inputting instructions and correspondence to the patient. User interface  176  may comprise a video monitor, a touch screen, or other display device, as well as a keyboard or stylus for entering information into remote unit  170 . Other devices and configurations suitable for providing a remote unit  170  will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0119]    A number of peripheral devices  178  may interface directly with local unit  60  for inputting physiological data related to the patient&#39;s condition. This physiological data may be stored in local unit  60  and uploaded to remote unit  170  during an interrogation or other data exchange. Examples of peripheral devices that can be utilized with the present invention include a weight scale, blood pressure monitor, thermometer, blood glucose monitor, or any other type of device that could be used outside of a physician&#39;s office to provide input regarding the current physiological condition of the patient. A weight scale, for example, can electrically communicate with local unit  60  either directly or wirelessly through antenna  54 , to generate a weight loss record for the patient. The weight loss record can be stored in memory  138  of local unit  60 . During a subsequent interrogation by remote unit  170 , or automatically at prescheduled intervals, the weight loss record can be uploaded by microprocessor  136  to remote unit  170 . The weight loss record may be stored in memory  174  of remote unit  170  until accessed by the physician. 
         [0120]    Also as shown in  FIG. 1 , a communication link  180  is created between local unit  60  and remote unit  170  for transmitting data, including voice, video, instructional information and command signals, between the units. Communication link  180  may comprise any of a broad range of data transmission media including web-based systems utilizing high-speed cable or dial-up connections, public telephone lines, wireless RF networks, satellite, T 1  lines or any other type of communication medium suitable for transmitting data between remote locations.  FIG. 9  illustrates various media for communication link  180  in greater detail. As shown in  FIG. 9 , local and remote units  60 ,  170  may communicate through a number of different direct and wireless connections. In particular, the units may communicate through the Internet  190  using cable or telephone modems  192 ,  194  or any other suitable device(s). In this instance, data may be transmitted through any suitable Internet communication medium such as, for example, e-mail, instant messaging, web pages, or document transmission. Alternatively, local and remote units  60 ,  170  may be connected through a public telephone network  196  using modems  200 ,  202 . Units  60 ,  170  may also communicate through a microwave or RF antenna  204  via tunable frequency waves  206 ,  210 . A communication link may also be established via a satellite  209  and tunable frequency waves  212 ,  214 . In addition to the links described above, it is envisioned that other types of transmission media, that are either known in the art or which may be later developed, could also be utilized to provide the desired data communication between local and remote units  60 ,  170  without departing from the scope of the invention. 
         [0121]      FIG. 10  is a data flow diagram of an exemplary interaction using bidirectional communication system  20 . In this interaction, a physician may download an adjustment prescription that is subsequently manually executed by a clinician present with the patient. A physician initiates the communication session between remote unit  170  and local unit  60  as shown at step  220 . The session may be initiated by transmitting an e-mail or instant message via the Internet link  190 , or through any of the other communication links described with respect to  FIG. 9 . During the communication session, the physician may download instructions to memory  138 , or may upload previously stored data obtained from device  22  or peripheral devices  178 , as shown at step  222 . This data may include fluid pressure, a weight history, or a patient compliance report. After the data is uploaded, the physician may evaluate the data and determine the need for a device adjustment, as shown at step  234 . If an adjustment is indicated, the physician may download an adjustment prescription command to local unit  60  as shown at step  224 . Local unit  60  stores the prescription in memory  138  for subsequent action by a clinician, as shown by step  226 . With the patient present, the clinician accesses the prescription from memory  138 . The clinician then inserts a syringe into septum  76  of injection port  36  and adds or withdraws the fluid volume specified in the prescription. Following the adjustment, the clinician places antenna  54  over the implant and instructs microcontroller  106  to transmit pressure measurements from sensor  84  to local unit  60 . The pressure measurements are uploaded by microprocessor  136  in local unit  60  to remote unit  170 , as shown at step  230 , to provide a confirmation to the physician that the adjustment instructions were executed, and an indication of the resulting effect on the patient. In an off-line adjustment, the base unit terminates communication with local unit  60  following the downloading of the adjustment prescription, as shown by line  229 , or following receipt of the patient data if an adjustment is not indicated, as shown by line  231 . 
         [0122]    In addition to the off-line adjustment session of steps  220 - 234 , a physician may initiate a real-time interactive adjustment, as indicated at step  236 , in order to monitor the patient&#39;s condition before, during and after the adjustment. In this instance, the physician downloads an adjustment prescription, as shown at step  237 , while the patient is present with a clinician. The clinician inserts a syringe into septum  76  of injection port  36  and adds or withdraws the specified fluid from reservoir  80 , as shown at step  238 , to execute the prescription. After the injection, the physician instructs the clinician to place antenna  54  over the implant, as shown at step  241 , to transmit fluid pressure measurements from the implant to local unit  60 . The pressure measurements are then up linked to the physician through link  180 , as shown at step  243 . The physician evaluates the pressure measurements at step  245 . Based upon the evaluation, the physician may provide further instructions through link  180  to readjust the coil as indicated by line  242 . Additionally, the physician may provide instructions for the patient to take a particular action, such as eating or drinking, to test the adjustment, as shown at step  244 . As the patient performs the test, the physician may upload pressure measurements from the implant, as shown at step  246 , to evaluate the pressure against the coil as the food or liquid attempts to pass through the stomach. If the pressure measurements are too high, indicating a possible over-distension, the physician may immediately transmit additional command signals to the clinician to readjust the coil and relieve the obstruction, as indicated by line  249 . After the physician is satisfied with the results of the adjustment, the communication session is terminated at step  232 . As shown in the flow diagram, communication link  180  enables a physician and patient to interact in a virtual treatment session during which the physician can prescribe adjustments and receive real-time fluid pressure feedback to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment. 
         [0123]    In a second exemplary interaction, shown in  FIG. 11 , the physician downloads an adjustment prescription for a remotely adjustable device, such as infuser  115  shown in  FIG. 6 . The physician initiates this communication session through link  180  as shown at step  220 . After initiating communications, the physician uploads previously stored data, such as fluid pressure histories, from memory  138  of local unit  60 . The physician evaluates the data and determines whether an adjustment is indicated. If the physician chooses an off-line adjustment, an adjustment command is downloaded to local unit  60  and stored in memory  138 , as indicated in step  224 . With the prescription stored in memory  138 , the patient, at his convenience, places antenna  54  over the implant area and initiates the adjustment through local unit  60 , as indicated in step  233 . Local unit  60  then transmits power and command signals to the implanted microcontroller  106  to execute the adjustment. After the adjustment, the patient establishes a communication link with remote monitoring unit  170  and uploads a series of pressure measurements from the implant to the remote unit. These pressure measurements may be stored in memory  174  of remote unit  170  until accessed by the physician. 
         [0124]    In an alternative scenario, the patient may perform a real-time adjustment during a virtual treatment session with the physician. In this situation, the physician establishes communication with the patient through link  180 . Once connected through link  180 , the physician instructs the patient to place antenna  54  over the implant area, as shown at step  250 . After antenna  54  is in position, the physician downloads an adjustment command to infuser  115  through link  180 , as shown at step  252 . During and/or after the adjustment is executed in infuser  115 , a series of pressure measurements are up linked from infuser  115  to the physician through link  180 , as shown at step  254 . The physician performs an immediate review of the fluid pressure changes resulting from the adjustment. If the resulting fluid pressure levels are too high or too low, the physician may immediately readjust the distension coil, as indicated by line  255 . The physician may also instruct the patient to perform a particular action to test the adjustment, such as drinking or eating, as shown at step  256 . As the patient performs the test, the physician may upload pressure measurements from the pressure sensor, as shown at step  258 , to evaluate the peristaltic pressure against the coil as the patient attempts to pass food or liquid through the stoma. If the pressure measurements are too high, indicating a possible obstruction, the physician may immediately transmit additional command signals to readjust the coil and relieve the obstruction, as indicated by line  259 . After the physician is satisfied with the results of the adjustment, the communication session is terminated at step  232 . In the present invention, local unit  60  is at all times a slave to remote unit  170  so that only a physician can prescribe adjustments, and the patient is prevented from independently executing adjustments through local unit  60 . 
         [0125]    In a third exemplary communication session, shown in  FIG. 12 , a patient may initiate an interaction with remote unit  170  by entering a request through user interface  140 , as shown at step  260 . This request may be in the form of an e-mail or other electronic message. At step  262 , the patient&#39;s request is transmitted through communication link  180  to remote unit  170 . At remote unit  170 , the patient&#39;s request is stored in memory  174  until retrieved at the physician&#39;s convenience (step  264 ). After the physician has reviewed the patient&#39;s request (step  266 ), instructions may be entered through user interface  176  and downloaded to local unit  60 . The physician may communicate with the patient regarding treatment or the decision to execute or deny a particular adjustment request, as shown at step  268 . If the physician determines at step  269  that an adjustment is required, the physician may initiate a communication session similar to those shown in the flow diagrams of  FIGS. 10 and 11 . If an adjustment is not indicated, the base unit terminates the session following the responsive communication of step  268 . 
         [0126]    In addition to the above scenarios, a physician may access local unit  60  at any time to check on patient compliance with previous adjustment instructions, or to remind the patient to perform an adjustment. In these interactions, the physician may contact local unit  60  to request a data upload from memory  138 , or transmit a reminder to be stored in memory  138  and displayed the next time the patient turns on local unit  60 . Additionally, local unit  60  can include an alarm feature to remind the patient to perform regularly scheduled adjustments, such as diurnal relaxations. 
         [0127]    As mentioned above, communication system  20  can be used to uplink a fluid pressure history to remote unit  170  to allow the physician to evaluate the performance of device  22  over a designated time period.  FIG. 13  illustrates a data logger  270  that may be used in conjunction with communication system  22  of the present invention to record fluid pressure measurements over a period of time. In this example, data logger  270  is external to the patient, and is positioned over the region under which injection port  36  is implanted within the patient. In another embodiment, data logger  270  is also implanted within the patient. As shown in  FIG. 13 , data logger  270  comprises TET and telemetry coils  285 ,  272  which may be worn by the patient so as to lie adjacent to implanted portion  24 . TET coil  285  provides power to the implant, while telemetry coil  272  interrogates the implant and receives data signals, including fluid pressure measurements, through secondary telemetry coil  114 . In another embodiment, TET coil  285  and telemetry coil  272  are consolidated into a single coil, and alternate between TET and telemetry functions at any suitable rate for any suitable durations. 
         [0128]    The fluid pressure within the distension coil  28  is repeatedly sensed and transmitted to data logger  270  at an update rate sufficient to measure peristaltic pulses against the coil. Typically, this update rate is in the range of 10-20 pressure measurements per second. As shown in  FIG. 13 , data logger  270  may be worn on a belt  274  about the patient&#39;s waist to position coils  272  adjacent injection port  36  when the port is implanted in the patient&#39;s abdominal area. Alternatively, data logger  270  can be worn about the patient&#39;s neck, as shown by device  270 ′, when injection port  36  is implanted on the patient&#39;s sternum. Data logger  270  is worn during waking periods to record fluid pressure variations during the patient&#39;s meals and daily routines. At the end of the day, or another set time period, data logger  270  may be removed and the recorded fluid pressure data downloaded to memory  138  of local unit  60 . The fluid pressure history may be uploaded from memory  138  to remote unit  170  during a subsequent communication session. Alternatively, fluid pressure data may be directly uploaded from data logger  270  to remote unit  170  using communication link  180 . 
         [0129]      FIG. 14  shows data logger  270  in greater detail. As shown in  FIG. 14 , data logger  270  includes a microprocessor  276  for controlling telemetry communications with implanted device  24 . Microprocessor  276  is connected to a memory  280  for, among other functions, storing pressure measurements from device  24 . In the present example, memory  280  comprises 40 Mb of SRAM and is configured to store 100 hours of time stamped pressure data. Of course, any other type of memory  280  may be used, and memory  280  may store any amount of and any other type of data. By way of example only, any other type of volatile memory or any type of non-volatile memory may be used, including but not limited to flash memory, hard drive memory, etc. While data logger  270  of the present example is operational, fluid pressure is read and stored in memory  280  at a designated data rate controlled by microprocessor  276 . Microprocessor  276  is energized by a power supply  282 . In one embodiment, power supply  282  comprises a rechargeable cell (not shown), such as a rechargeable battery. In one version of this embodiment, the rechargeable cell is removable and may be recharged using a recharging unit and replaced with another rechargeable cell while the spent cell is recharging. In another version of this embodiment, the rechargeable cell is recharged by plugging a recharging adapter into a data logger  270  and a wall unit. In yet another version of this embodiment, the rechargeable cell is recharged wirelessly by a wireless recharging unit. In another embodiment, power supply  282  comprises an ultra capacitor, which may also be recharged. Of course, any other type of power supply  282  may be used. 
         [0130]    To record fluid pressure, microprocessor  276  initially transmits a power signal to implanted portion  24  via TET drive circuit  283  and TET coil  285 . After the power signal, microprocessor  276  transmits an interrogation signal to implanted portion  24  via telemetry transceiver  284  and telemetry coil  272 . The interrogation signal is intercepted by telemetry coil  114  and transmitted to microcontroller  106 . Microcontroller  106  sends a responsive, temperature-adjusted pressure reading from sensor  84  via transceiver  158  and secondary telemetry coil  114 . The pressure reading is received through coil  272  and directed by transceiver  284  to microprocessor  276 . Microprocessor  276  subsequently stores the pressure measurement and initiates the next interrogation request. 
         [0131]    When the patient is finished measuring and recording fluid pressure, logger  270  is removed and the recorded pressure data downloaded to local unit  60 , or directly to remote unit  170 . As shown in  FIGS. 9 and 14 , data logger  270  may comprise a modem  286  for transmitting the sensed fluid pressure directly to remote unit  170  using a telephone line  288 . The patient may connect logger modem  286  to a telephone line, dial the physician&#39;s modem, and select a “send” button on user interface  292 . Once connected, microprocessor  276  transmits the stored pressure history through the phone line to microprocessor  172  in remote unit  170 . Alternatively, data logger  270  may include a USB port  290  for connecting the logger to local unit  60 . Logger USB port  290  may be connected to a USB port  198  on local unit  60  (shown in  FIG. 8 ), and the “send” switch activated to download pressure data to memory  138  in the local unit. After the pressure data is downloaded, logger  270  may be turned off through user interface  292 , or reset and placed back on the patient&#39;s body for continued pressure measurement. 
         [0132]      FIG. 15  is a graphical representation of an exemplary pressure signal  294  as measured by sensor  84  during repeated interrogation by local unit  60  or data logger  270  over a sampling time period. Pressure signal  294  may be displayed using graphical user interface  140  of local unit  60  or graphical user interface  176  of remote unit  170 . In the example shown in  FIG. 15 , the fluid pressure in coil  28  is initially measured while the patient is stable, resulting in a steady pressure reading as shown. Next, an adjustment is applied to coil  28  to increase the coil size. During the coil adjustment, pressure sensor  84  continues to measure the fluid pressure and transmit the pressure readings through the patient&#39;s skin to local unit  60 . As seen in the graph of  FIG. 15 , fluid pressure rises following the coil adjustment. 
         [0133]    In the example shown, the patient is asked to drink a liquid after the adjustment to check the accuracy of the adjustment. As the patient drinks, pressure sensor  84  continues to measure the pressure spikes due to the peristaltic pressure of swallowing the liquid. The physician may evaluate these pressure spikes from a remote location in order to evaluate and direct the patient&#39;s treatment. If the graph indicates pressure spikes exceeding desired levels, the physician may immediately take corrective action through communication system  20 , and view the results of the corrective action, until the desired results are achieved. Accordingly, through communication system  20  a physician can perform an adjustment and visually see the results of the adjustment, even when located at a considerable distance from the patient. 
         [0134]    In addition to adjustments, communication system  20  can be used to track the performance of an intake distension device over a period of time. In particular, a sampling of pressure measurements from data logger  270  may be uploaded to the physician&#39;s office for evaluation. The physician may visually check a graph of the pressure readings to evaluate the performance of the distension device. It will be appreciated that long term pressure data may be helpful in seeing when the patient eats or drinks during the day and how much. Such data may thus be useful in compliance management. 
         [0135]    Pressure measurement logs can also be regularly transmitted to remote monitoring unit  170  to provide a physician with a diagnostic tool to ensure that a stomach distension device is operating effectively. For instance, pressure data may be helpful in seeing how much coil  28  pressure or tightness varies, and if coil  28  tends to obstruct at times. If any abnormalities appear, the physician may use communication system  20  to contact the patient and request additional physiological data, prescribe an adjustment, or, where components permit, administer an adjustment. In particular, communication system  20  may be utilized to detect a no pressure condition within coil  28 , indicating a fluid leakage. Alternatively, system  20  may be used to detect excessive pressure spikes within coil  28  or pressure being stuck at a fixed level, which may indicate a kink in catheter  40  or another issue. 
         [0136]    Local unit  60 , another type of docking station  360 , remote unit  170 , or some other device may further comprise a logic that is configured to process pressure data and actively provide an alert to a physician, the patient, or someone else when a dramatic change in pressure is detected or under other predefined conditions. Such an alert may comprise any of the following: an e-mail, a phone call, an audible signal, or any other type of alert. The conditions for and/or type of an alert may also vary relative to the recipient of the alert. For instance, with respect to alerts for physicians, such alerts may be limited to those provided upon an indication that some component of implanted portion  24  has structurally failed (e.g., a kink in catheter  40 , a burst coil  28 , etc.). With respect to alerts for patients, such alerts may be limited to those provided upon an indication that the patient is eating too much, eating to quickly, or if the bite sizes are too big. A variety of other conditions under which alerts may be directed to a physician or patient will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. In addition, it will be appreciated that physicians and patients may receive alerts under similar conditions, or that either party may simply not receive alerts at all. 
         [0137]    To the extent that local unit  60  has a graphical user interface permitting the patient to see pressure data, local unit  60  may be used by the patient to evaluate pressure readings at home and notify their physician when the coil  28  pressure drops below a specified baseline, indicating the need for an adjustment of the device. Communication system  20  thus has benefits as a diagnostic and monitoring tool during patient treatment with a bariatric device. The convenience of evaluating an intake distension device  22  through communication system  20  facilitates more frequent monitoring and, components permitting, adjustments of the device. 
         [0138]    The graphical user interface of local unit  60 , remote monitoring unit  170 , or another external or physiological monitoring device in the communication system  20 , can provide a wide variety of displays based on or related to data or information from the distension device  22 . Further, in some embodiments, the data logger  270  can have such a graphical user interface. The displays can include information about measurements taken by the distension device  22 , such as the measurements of the fluid pressure sensed within a fluid-fillable distension device, pressure in a mechanically-adjustable distension device, or other parameters (e.g., pulse widths, pulse durations, pulse amplitude, pulse count or pulse frequency, sensed electrical characteristics, etc.), or about physiological events, conditions (e.g., of the distension device  22 , such as its restricted or fill state), or trends.  FIG. 19A , for example, shows one exemplary embodiment of a display  1900  that can be used as part of a graphical user interface. As shown, the display includes a plot or graph  1902  of pressure over time, which is shown as a line graph but could also be a bar graph, scatter graph, or virtually any other graphic representation. The time scale along the horizontal axis  1901  can be automatically sized to the amount of pressure data available or can be user-adjustable, e.g., to examine a time period of interest. The display  1900  can also include a textual indicator  1904 , which as shown numerically provides a current or instantaneous pressure reading. A wide variety of other kinds of information also can be presented on display  1900 , including a baseline indicator  1906  showing a steady-state or baseline value of the pressure and pulse indicators  1908  showing the number of pulses (for example, the pulses may be pressure pulses which can represent or be caused by the peristaltic contractions of a patient swallowing). In some embodiments, this information can be obtained through user input (via the “Set Baseline” button  1912  or by entering visually detected pulses, for example), but in many embodiments this information can be obtained by analyzing, filtering or otherwise processing pressure or other data from the distension device  22  and/or data logger  270  via one or more algorithms, which will be discussed in more detail below. The local unit  60 , remote monitoring unit  170  or other device can implement these algorithms and continuously update the display  1900  with the results. The display  1900  can also include a cluster  1910  of recording controls to allow a user to control when pressure is recorded or logged to a file, and the location of such a log file can be shown in window  1924 . In addition, an annotation function can be provided via control  1914 . In other embodiments, the display  1900  can include pressure readings taken from prior visits (for example, prior visits of the same patient, or from previous adjustments of the distension device), and/or pressure readings of previous peristaltic events representing swallowing, heart rate, breathing rate, or virtually any other physiological parameter. The display  1900  also can include a patient&#39;s name or other identifying information, along with notes, lists of activities or guidelines for the patient, and so on. 
         [0139]    In  FIG. 19A , the display  1900  has a menu  1916  that includes three graphics or icons  1918 ,  1920 ,  1922 . Selection of each one of these icons can cause a different display screen to be presented. As shown in  FIG. 19A , the second icon  1920  is selected and the graph  1902  of sensed pressure over time is shown. Selection of the first icon  1918  can lead to a display  1930  as shown in  FIG. 19B , which indicates pressure via a meter  1932 . In this embodiment the meter  1932  is vertical and linear, however, a wide variety of other orientations and shapes can be used, such as a horizontal meter, circular, and so on. The meter  1932  can include discrete indicators or bars  1934  which can be divided into one or more zones or ranges  1936   a - c.  As shown, three discrete pressure ranges  1936   a - c  are provided with limits (in this example, 80 to 140 mmHg, 0 to 80 mmHg, and −10 to 0 mmHg), however any number of pressure ranges can be provided, and their size and endpoints can be adjustable. As one skilled in the art will understand, the ranges  1936   a - c  can be set by a physician or other user and can vary from patient to patient. In some embodiments, the pressure ranges  1936   a - c  can correspond to conditions related to an implantable distension device, for example, the highest range can indicate that the distension device is over-filled or over-distended, the middle range can indicate an optimally filled or optimally tightened distension device, and the lower range can indicate an under-distended or loose distension device. In use, the pressure can be indicated by a marker  1937 , which can represent current pressure, average pressure, or other metrics related to pressure. In some embodiments, the marker  1937  can move continuously along the meter  1932 , while in other embodiments, the marker  1936  can move in a discrete fashion from bar  1934  to bar  1934 . Display  1930  also can contain many of the same or similar interface elements as in display  1900  shown in  FIG. 19A , such as an cluster  1910  of recording controls, a window  1924  showing the location of a log file, and/or an annotation control  1914 . Alternatively, the display of the fill condition may be represented by a series of colors superposed on an image of the coil in which one color such as green may represent an optimally distended coil, red may represent an over distended coil and yellow may represent an under distended coil. 
         [0140]    Returning to  FIG. 19A , selection of the third icon  1922  can lead to a pulse count display  1940 , as shown in  FIG. 19C , for counting the number of pulses in a sequence of pulses. The sequence of pulses can represent a peristaltic event such as swallowing. The display  1940  can include a circular meter  1944  with numbering or indicators around its periphery. In use, an indicator needle  1932  can rotate within meter  1944  to provide an indication of the number of pulses detected in a sequence. Textual indicators  1946 ,  1948  can also be provided to indicate the number of pulses in the current or a past sequence of pulses. Control  1950  can reset the count. 
         [0141]    A wide variety of other displays for pressure, pulses, and for other physiological parameters and events can be provided. For example,  FIG. 20  shows an alternate waveform display  2000  of pressure vs. time, which provides a time scale delineated by textual markers  2002  along the x-axis. The pressure sensed by the distension device  22  can be plotted as waveform  2004  in this display  2000 . In addition, any of the displays, or the indicator, meters, graphs, or other display elements within them, can be configured to signal an alarm. For example, the pressure graph  1902 , the textual indicator  1904 , or the meters  1931 ,  1944  (or other display elements) can flash when the pressure, or other parameter, passes a threshold value. The alarm can also be indicated by an illumination change (e.g., the color, intensity, hue, etc. can change) of the display or a warning message, or other visual indicator. An audible alarm can also be included in addition to or instead of a visual alarm. Any of the displays described herein can use a green-yellow-red bar, circle, or other representative geometric figure, graphic representation or indicator in which color shift occurs as the parameter being sensed changes. For example, the color of an indicator can turn red as the coil nears an overdistension (e.g., as indicated by pressure, or otherwise), since this may be health endangering, but can turn yellow as the distension device loosens (e.g., as indicated by pressure or otherwise), as this may not be considered a life threatening issue. In some embodiments, such colors can be achieved using color light emitting diodes (LEDs) or liquid crystal display (LCD) screens. 
         [0142]      FIG. 21  shows an alternate embodiment of a display  2100  which indicates pressure (for example, current pressure, or pressure at a selected point on display  2000 , etc.). Display  2100  can include a vertical meter  2103  that is divided into discrete segments  2102 . Each segment can represent a group of pressures, illuminating when the sensed pressure is within the group. As shown in  FIG. 21 , segment  2114  is illuminated. Labels  2104 ,  2112  can identify the group. The segments  2102  can be grouped into zones or ranges which can be differentiated by a color. As shown in  FIG. 21 , the meter  2103  includes three ranges  2106 ,  2108 ,  2110  (e.g., red, yellow, green) which can correspond to high, medium, and low pressure, respectively. The ranges  2106 ,  2108 ,  2110  can be user-configurable and can correspond to a variety of conditions, for example the high range can correspond to a distension device  22  being too tight, and so on. A medium range, which can be designated by green, can correspond to an optimally restricted adjustment zone. In use, the meter  2100  can display static and/or dynamic pressure measurements. In static measurements, for example, the meter  2100  can present a baseline pressure or pressure sensed by the distension device  22 , which can be advantageous after implantation or adjustment of the device  22 . In dynamic or instantaneous measurements, for example, the meter  2100  can present the pressure detected in the distension device  22  during a swallowing event. As a result, the illuminated segment  2102  can rise and fall along with changes in pressure. 
         [0143]      FIG. 22  shows another alternate embodiment of a display  2200  which indicates pressure. In this illustrated embodiment, the display  2200  is in the form of a circular meter  2202  with a rotating needle  2206  and labels  2204  located around the periphery of the meter  2202 . The meter  2002  can be divided in a plurality of zones or ranges  2208 , which can function as previously described. In use, the needle  2206  can rotate to point to the pressure reading, such as baseline pressure, average pressure, static or dynamic pressure, and so on. 
         [0144]      FIG. 23A  shows an alternate embodiment of a display  2300  which presents information about a sequence of pulses in a parameter, such as can occur with pressure pulses during a swallowing event. As shown, display  2300  includes a graph  2302  of pulse amplitude vs. pulse count. In other embodiments, the magnitude of another parameter can be displayed instead of pressure. The pulse count can correspond to the number of the pulse in a sequence. For example, as shown pulse label  2304  identifies the sixth pulse in a seven pulse sequence. (It should be noted that although the example illustrated in  FIGS. 23A  shows 7 pulses, any number of pulses may be determined and displayed.) In use, vertical bars  2306  can indicate the pulse amplitude of each pulse in the pulse sequence. Each vertical bar  2306   a - g  can be composed of segments or discrete indicators  2308 , each of which can represent a pressure or group of pressures. The height of the vertical bar can represent the magnitude or amplitude of the pressure, which can be an absolute pressure reading or a change in pressure from a baseline pressure or other pressure reference. In use, the vertical bars  2306   a - g  can be displayed as pulses are detected. For example, as the pressure detected by the distension device  22  rises, the display  2300  can present a rising vertical pressure bar  2306   a  at the left hand side of the graph  2302 . If that rise in pressure is considered a pulse, which for example can be determined via algorithms which will be discussed below, then the vertical bar  2306   a  can rise and stop at the peak of the pulse, and a pulse count of “1” can appear on the bottom axis  2308 . If another pulse occurs, another bar  2306   b  can appear in similar fashion, accompanied by a pulse count under it reading “2.” This can continue until the pressure no longer exhibits pulse events, until the user indicates that the event is over, until the pulses become infrequent (as measured by, for example, inter-pulse periods), or until through the expiration of a predetermined timer, and so on. By way of illustration,  FIG. 23B  shows a series of displays  2312 , as they might appear during the course of a two-pulse sequence. 
         [0145]    The display can also include a time stamp for a pulse. For example, as shown on  FIG. 23A , a time stamp  2314  can be placed near the pulse count number to indicate the time at which the pulse was detected (e.g., at a time of 4 seconds within a time sample period) or, alternatively, the stamp can indicate the measured duration of the pulse (e.g., the pulse was 4 seconds long), the time since the last pulse (e.g, 4 seconds since the onset, peak or, end, other point of a previous pulse), or any of a wide variety of time metrics related to the pulses. As one skilled in the art will understand, although  FIG. 23A  shows one time stamp  2314  as an example, time stamps can be associated with other pulses as well. 
         [0146]      FIGS. 24-25  show yet other exemplary displays for the graphical user interface of the local unit  60 , remote monitoring unit  170 , data logger  270 , or other device. Generally, these displays can present a static or dynamic image of the stomach, distension device, and/or surrounding physiology which can change or otherwise be representative of a parameter (such as pressure) sensed by the distension device. The displays can be still images shown in sequence or at appropriate times, video, or other kind of image. For example,  FIG. 24A  shows one exemplary display  2400 , which has a simulated graphic of the disposition of a region contacted by a distension device  2404 , which in this example includes a cross-section of the stomach enclosed by a distension device  2404 . The graphic can show the size, shape, configuration, effect of the distension device  2404  on the region, or other aspect of the region&#39;s disposition. The illustration of the stomach  2402  region herein is by way of example only, as virtually any region within the body and particularly any anatomical lumen, can be illustrated. 
         [0147]    In use, the display  2400  can change in accordance with pressure sensed by the distension device. For example,  FIG. 24B  shows display  2400  as it might appear after a rise in pressure, with the stomach  2402  increasing in size and surrounding tissue becoming more distended. In some embodiments, the display  2400  can be continuously updating (as in a live display), but in other embodiments it can be composed of static or still images which are shown as necessary, each image corresponding to a range of pressures. For example,  FIG. 25  shows an exemplary plot of pressure over a time period, and includes three segments labeled A, B, C, each exhibiting a different sensed pressure.  FIG. 24A  can correspond to segment A,  FIG. 24B  can correspond to segment C. In some embodiments, the segments A,B,C, might correspond to the condition of the distension device  2404 , such as the distension state or fill state of the distension device  2404 , for example, segment A might be correlated to the distension device being too loose or under-filled, segment B might represent optimal adjustment, and segment C might represent an overly tight or over-filled or distension device. In other embodiments, the display  2400  can change in accordance with different sensed pulse amplitudes, pulse counts, or pulse frequencies, and so on (such pulse information obtained, for example, in response to a standardized tests such as a water swallow, or by monitoring pulses characteristics over a prescribed amount of time). 
         [0148]    Display  2400  can have a wide variety of other configurations. In some embodiments, one or more reference lines, isobars, or other indicators can be shown on the display  2400 . For example, a circle (or one or more concentric circles) can be shown on display  2400 , allowing a physician or other user to more easily visualize changes in the size of the stomach  2402  or other changes in the disposition of the region. In some embodiments, the size of the circles can be chosen and labeled to indicate a measured pressure, for example, a label on a circle can represent a sensed pressure, and when the size of the stomach or opening  2402  substantially matches the size of the circle, the sensed pressure can be substantially equal to that labeled pressure. Information such as the sensed pressure and/or the state of the distension device can also be presented textually on display  2400 , or by using color, for example, the image of the stomach turning red as the stomach neared maximal distension, and so on. 
         [0149]    Furthermore, while in  FIGS. 24A-B  the display  2400  presents a cross-sectional image, in other embodiments other two-dimensional images (such as a side view, a view of the distension device alone, and so on), or three-dimensional graphics can be provided. 
         [0150]    As previously mentioned, the graphical user interface of the local unit  60 , remote monitoring unit  170 , or other external device can be suited to presenting historical trends or data analysis, for example based on parameter data captured by the data logger  270 . Such functionality can be useful, for example, when a patient visits a physician to review progress, to address a complication, and/or to adjust an implanted distension device  22 . In one exemplary embodiment, shown in  FIG. 26 , a display  2900  can present a graph or plot of pressure over a time period, however other physiological parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, etc., also can be displayed. The display  2900  can include multiple sets of data, for example, a trendline  2902  or other graphical representation of data from a first time period (e.g., a first visit to the physician) and another trendline  2904  or graphical representation of data captured at a later time period (e.g., a second visit to the physician) overlaid on the trendline  2902  from the first time period. The overlay of data from two different time periods can allow a user to compare the trend lines. In some embodiments, the later time period can follow some significant medical event, such as the adjustment of the distension device  22 , and the overlay of data allows for the assessment of the adjustment to the distension device  22 . Although  FIG. 26  shows an example with pressure over a time period resulting from a water swallow, pressure from any source or time period can be used. Additionally, a wide variety of data can be plotted in this manner, including weight, weight loss, body mass index, body dimensions, intracoil pressure, heart rate (resting and under exercise), breathing rate (resting and under exercise). By way of illustration,  FIG. 27  shows an exemplary display  3000  which overlays a trend line  3002  representing patient&#39;s breathing rate after one adjustment of a distension device with a second trend line  3004  representing the breathing rate after a later adjustment. Different types of data can be presented in an overlaid fashion (e.g., pressure trend lines with overlaid heart rate trend lines). 
         [0151]      FIG. 28A  shows one exemplary display  3100  which presents data for a population or group of patients. The population data can come from a wide variety of datasets, including data collected by a physician, regional data, nationwide data, and/or data selected from a larger dataset to match the body type (or other physiological/medically significant characteristics) of a particular patient. A variety of parameters can be plotted and compared, but as shown, display  3100  presents a plot of pressure vs. fill volume for a fluid-fillable distension device. Other parameters such as pulse count, pulse amplitude, pulse width, pulse amplitude, and pulse frequency, can also be plotted against fill volume, and as previously mentioned, such pulse information can be obtained, for example, in response to a tests such as a water or bolus swallow, which can be of a standardized volume and/or viscosity, or by monitoring pulse characteristics over a prescribed amount of time, inclination (body supine, or erect), acceleration etc. Display  3100  can also includes several trend lines  3102  (although a bar graph, scatter graph, or other graphical representations of the data can be used), each trend line plotting data from patient, as shown in the legend  3104 . More specifically, the trend lines  3102  can represent pressure (baseline pressure, average pressure, or any other pressure measurement) sensed for each patient for a given fill volumes of their distension device. In some embodiment, this data can come from the data logger  270 , but in this example the trend lines  3102  represent static volume measurements taken by adding a known volume of liquid (e.g., 1 ml) at a time to the distension device  22  and measuring the resulting pressure. As can be seen, the trend lines  3102  exhibit a range of pressures at each volume, which can be due to variability in anatomy or distension device placement and fit from patient-to-patient. The display  3100  can be useful to allow a physician or other user to visualize how one patient compares to another patient or to a population. 
         [0152]      FIG. 28B  shows another exemplary display  3150  which presents data for a population of patients. As shown in  FIG. 28B , display  3150  includes a plot of pressure vs. fill volume. The display  3150  includes a trend line  3152  representing a nominal value of the pressure for a group or population of patients. In this embodiment, the nominal value is a mean value, but in other cases it can be a midpoint, weighted average, minimum, maximum, range, standard deviation, or the result of any other mathematical calculation. The display  3150  also can include an upper bound trend line  3154  and a lower bound trend line  3156 , which collectively can define a range  3158  around the nominal value. In some embodiments, a trend line for a particular patient can be overlaid onto the display  3152 , revealing where the patient falls relative to the population. In other embodiments, the display  3152  can be presented without overlaid data for a particular patient. 
         [0153]    Displays also can provide the ability to annotate historical data, particularly data that is collected over an extended time period (e.g., by the data logger).  FIG. 29  shows an external device  3200 , such as the local unit  60  with a display  3202 . It should be understood that the external device  3200  can represent any external device for display and/or physiological monitoring, including the remote monitoring unit  170 . As shown, the display  3200  presents a plot of pressure values over a time period and provides the ability to annotate the plotted values using a pull-down menu  3204 . The menu  3204  can include a variety of descriptions of predefined events  3206 , such as a tests conducted, symptoms, observations by a user or physician, and so on. By way of illustration, in  FIG. 29  an annotation  3210  is disposed on the waveform  3208  and includes an annotation marker  2310  which indicates that at a particular point in time a “Water Swallow—20 ml” occurred. A user can annotate historical data in a variety of ways. For example, the external device  3200  can be adapted for home use, and the patient can annotate events on a day-to-day basis. Such an embodiment can be useful if the data logger  270  is capturing data over several days, for example. Alternatively, the external device  3200  can be updated by a physician during patient visits or when the distension device  22  is adjusted. The physician can annotate the day-to-day data, or can conduct additional tests (such as a Water Swallow) to create data logs separate from any day-to-day monitoring. It should be understood that while display  3200  presents predefined events for annotation, in many embodiments the user can create their own user-defined events for annotation, and/or can enter free-form descriptions about the data values.  FIG. 30  shows one exemplary embodiment display  3300  on the external device  3200  in which descriptions can be entered into a text box  3302 . In some embodiments, an image or icon can also be used for the description, for example, an icon of a cup can indicate a “Water Swallow” event. 
         [0154]    The ability to present data with annotations is not limited to pressure data. For example,  FIG. 31  shows a display  3400  that includes a graphical representation, in this case a bar graph, of weight loss over time, with the amplitude of the bars  3402  corresponding to the amount of the weight loss. As shown, a bar  3402  is provided for a series of dates  3404 . A user can enter comments or annotations associated with each bar  3402  and/or date  3404  in text box  3406 , which can be helpful for tracking and/or revealing events in the patient&#39;s life that affect weight loss. The external device  3200  can include a keypad  3408  or other user input device for this purpose. 
         [0155]    Any or all of the preceding displays can be provided in virtually any combination to create a graphical user interface for the local unit  60 , remote monitoring unit  170 , data logger  270 , or other physiological monitoring device. In some embodiments, a remote server can be provided to allow users to download displays and/or display elements they desire to a local unit  60  or remote monitoring unit  170 . For example, a library of display screens, display modes, visual skins, desktop images, screensavers, and other display configurations can be available for download, allowing a user to customize the graphical user interfaces of the devices. In addition, the remote server can provide the ability to store and categorize displays and/or display elements that were customized or designed and uploaded by users. Such functionality can allow users to exchange and to share display elements with one another. 
         [0156]    In addition, any or all of the graphical user interface and/or displays described herein can be repurposed by being modified, altered, erased, reprogrammed, upgraded, revised, added to, and so on. For example, a device having a graphical user interface can be obtained, and desired modifications can be made by programming the appropriate software through a data input port or docking station (e.g., USB port  198  shown in  FIG. 8 ) of the local unit  60 , remote monitoring unit  170 , or other physiological monitoring unit. In other embodiments, such modifications can be performed telemetrically. For example, additional icons, graphs, indicators and so on can be added, displays customized for a particular user, and so on. Use of such techniques, and the resulting device, are all within the scope of the present application. 
         [0157]    An alternate embodiment of a data logging system  300  is shown in  FIG. 16 . In this example, data logging system  300  comprises a coil head  354  and a data logger  370 . Coil head  354  and data logger  370  are in communication via a cable  356 . Cable  356  is detachable from coil head  354  and data logger  370 . Of course, it will be appreciated that cable  356  is merely exemplary, and that any suitable alternative may be used, including but not limited to a wireless transmitter/receiver system. In the present example, coil head  354  is worn around the neck of the patient, and is positioned generally over injection port  36 . Data logger  370  is worn on a belt  274  about the patient&#39;s waist. Of course, these respective locations are merely exemplary, and it will be appreciated that coil head  354  and data logger  370  may be positioned elsewhere. By way of example only, where injection port  36  is implanted in the patient&#39;s abdomen, coil head  354  may be worn on a belt  274 . It will also be appreciated that coil head  354  and data logger  370  are represented as simple blocks in  FIG. 16  for illustrative purposes only, and that either of coil head  354  or data logger  370  may be provided in a variety of shapes, sizes, and configurations. 
         [0158]    Exemplary components of data logging system  300  are shown in  FIG. 17 . As shown, data logger  370  comprises a microprocessor  276 , a memory  280 , a power supply  282 , a USB port  290 , and a user interface  292 . Coil head  354  comprises a TET drive circuit  283 , a telemetry transceiver  284 , a TET coil  285 , and a telemetry coil  272 . TET drive circuit  283  is configured to receive power from power supply  282  via cable  356 . TET drive circuit is further configured to receive signals from microprocessor  276  via cable  356 . Telemetry transceiver  284  is configured to receive signals from microprocessor  276 , and transmit signals to microprocessor  276 , via cable  356 . In another embodiment, telemetry transceiver  284  is configured to only transmit signals to microprocessor  276 . It will be appreciated that many of the components depicted in  FIG. 17  are similar to those depicted in  FIG. 14  and described in the accompanying text. Accordingly, the above discussion of such components with reference to  FIG. 14  may also be applied to the components shown in  FIG. 17 . In the present example, coil head  354  and data logger  370  may be viewed as a separation of components comprising data logger  270  (described above) into two physically separate units. It will further be appreciated that any of the components shown in  FIG. 17 , as well as their relationships, functions, etc., may be varied in any suitable way. 
         [0159]    In the present example, coil head  354  is configured similar to and functions in a manner similar to antenna  54  described above. TET coil  285  of coil head  354  is configured to provide power to injection port  36 . Of course, to the extent that any other devices (e.g., a pump, etc.) are implanted in the patient that are configured to receive power from a TET coil  285 , TET coil  285  may also provide power to such devices. Power provided by TET coil  285  may be provided to TET coil  285  by and regulated by TET drive circuit  285 , which may itself receive power from power supply  282  via cable  356 . Such power provided to TET drive circuit  283  may be regulated by microprocessor  276  via cable  356 . In addition, or in the alternative, microprocessor  276  may regulate the manner in which TET drive circuit  285  provides power to TET coil  285 . Other suitable configurations and relationships between these components, as well as alternative ways in which they may operate, will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. It will also be appreciated that, while the present example contemplates the use of RF signaling through TET coil  285 , any other type of powering technique, as well as alternative power communicators, may be used. 
         [0160]    Telemetry coil  272  of coil head  354  is configured to receive signals from coil  114  of injection port  36 , including signals indicative of the pressure of fluid within the implanted device (e.g., pressure of fluid within the injection port  36 , within catheter  40 , and/or within adjustable coil  28 , pressure obtained using pressure sensor  84 , etc.) and signals indicative of temperature. It will be appreciated that telemetry coil  272  may also receive any other type of signal representing any other type of information from any other source. Signals received by telemetry coil  272  are communicated to telemetry transceiver  284 , which is configured to communicate such signals to microprocessor  276  via cable  356 . Telemetry transceiver  284  may perform any appropriate translation or processing of signals received from telemetry coil  272  before communicating signals to microprocessor  276 . Other suitable configurations and relationships between these components, as well as alternative ways in which they may operate, will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. It will also be appreciated that components may be combined. By way of example only, TET coil  285  and telemetry coil  272  may be consolidated into a single coil, and alternate between TET and telemetry functions at any suitable rate for any suitable durations. In addition, while the present example contemplates the use of RF signaling through telemetry coil  272 , it will be appreciated that any other type of communication technique (e.g., ultrasonic, magnetic, etc.), as well as alternative communicators other than a coil, may be used. 
         [0161]    Data logger  370  may receive pressure measurements throughout a given day, and store the same in memory  280 , thereby recording fluid pressure variations during the patient&#39;s meals and daily routines. In the present example, memory  280  comprises 40 Mb of SRAM and is configured to store 100 hours of time stamped pressure data. Of course, any other type of memory  280  may be used, and memory  280  may store any amount of and any other type of data. By way of example only, any other type of volatile memory or any type of non-volatile memory may be used, including but not limited to flash memory, hard drive memory, etc. While data logger  370  of the present example is operational, fluid pressure is read and stored in memory  280  at a designated data rate controlled by microprocessor  276 . In one embodiment, fluid pressure is repeatedly sensed and transmitted to data logger  370 , then stored in memory  280 , at an update rate sufficient to measure peristaltic pulses against adjustable coil  28 . By way of example only, the update rate may range between approximately 10-20 pressure measurements per second. Other suitable update rates may be used. 
         [0162]    In another embodiment, implanted portion  24  comprises a memory (not shown). By way of example only, such implanted memory may be located in injection port  36  or elsewhere. Such implanted memory may be used for a variety of purposes, to the extent that such memory is included. For instance, such implanted memory may store the same data as memory  280  of data logger  370 , such that implanted memory provides a backup for memory  280  of data logger  370 . In this version, such data may be further retained in implanted memory for archival purposes, may be replaced on a daily basis, may be replaced or updated after data logger  370  transmits the same data to remote unit  170 , or may otherwise be used. It will also be appreciated that an implanted memory may be used to store pre-selected information or pre-selected types of information. For instance, an implanted memory may store maximum and minimum pressure measurements, fluoroscopic images or video of a patient swallowing, and/or any other information. Other information suitable for storing in an implanted memory will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. It will also be appreciated that any type of memory may be implanted, including but not limited to volatile (e.g., SRAM, etc.), non-volatile (e.g., flash, hard drive, etc.), or other memory. 
         [0163]    In the present example, microprocessor  276  is energized by a power supply  282 . In one embodiment, power supply  282  comprises a rechargeable cell (not shown), such as a rechargeable battery. In one version of this embodiment, the rechargeable cell is removable and may be recharged using a recharging unit and replaced with another rechargeable cell while the spent cell is recharging. In another version of this embodiment, the rechargeable cell is recharged by plugging a recharging adapter into a data logger  370  and a wall unit. In yet another version of this embodiment, the rechargeable cell is recharged wirelessly by a wireless recharging unit. In another embodiment, power supply  282  comprises an ultra capacitor, which may also be recharged. Of course, any other type of power supply  282  may be used. 
         [0164]    Data logger  370  of the present example may be configured to provide an alert to the patient under a variety of circumstances in a variety of ways. For instance, data logger  370  may provide an audible and/or visual alert when there is a drastic change in fluid pressure. Alternatively, data logger  370  may provide an audible and/or visual alert upon a determination, based at least in part on pressure data that the patient is eating too much, too quickly, etc. Data logger  370  may also alert the patient upon a determination that coil head  354  is not communicating with injection port  36  properly. Still other conditions under which a patient may be alerted by data logger  370  will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. It will also be appreciated that user interface  292  may comprise any number or types of features, including but not limited to a speaker, an LED, and LCD display, an on/off switch, etc. In the present example, user interface  292  is configured to provide only output to the patient, and does not permit the patient to provide input to data logger  370 . User interface  292  of the present example thus consists of a green LED to show that the power supply  282  is sufficiently charged and a red LED to show that the power supply  282  needs to be recharged. Of course, user interface  292  may alternatively permit the patient to provide input to data logger  370 , and may comprise any suitable components and features. 
         [0165]    As shown in  FIG. 18 , data logging system  300  further comprises a docking station  360 . Docking station  360  is configured to receive data communications from data logger  370 , and is further configured to transmit data communications to remote unit  170 . In the present example, data logger  370  comprises a USB port  290 , such that docking station  360  may receive communications from data logger  370  via a USB cable (not shown) coupled with USB port  290 . In one embodiment, docking station  360  comprises the patient&#39;s personal computer. Of course, docking station  360  may receive communications from data logger  370  in any other suitable way. For instance, such communications may be transmitted wirelessly (e.g., via RF signals, Bluetooth, ultra-wide coil, etc.). 
         [0166]    In another embodiment, docking station  360  is dedicated to coupling with data logger  370 , and comprises a cradle-like feature (not shown) configured to receive data logger  370 . In this example, the cradle-like feature includes contacts configured to electrically engage corresponding contacts on data logger  370  to provide communication between docking station  360  and data logger  370 . Docking station  360  may thus relate to data logger  370  in a manner similar to docking systems for personal digital assistants (PDAs), BLACKBERRY® devices, cordless telephones, etc. Other suitable ways in which data logger  370  and docking station  360  may communicate or otherwise engage will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. It will also be appreciated that docking station  360  is depicted in  FIG. 18  as a desktop computer for illustrative purposes only, and that docking station  360  may be provided in a variety of alternative shapes, sizes, and configurations. 
         [0167]    In one embodiment, docking station  360  comprises local unit  60  described above. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above discussion referring to components depicted in  FIG. 9  may also be applied to components depicted in  FIG. 18 . Similarly, methods such as those shown in  FIGS. 10-12  and described in accompanying text may also be implemented with docking station  360 . In another embodiment, data logger  370  comprises local unit  60 . In yet another embodiment, data logger  370  is provided with an AC adapter or similar device operable to recharge power supply  282 , and data logger  370  further comprises an Ethernet port (not shown) enabling data logger  370  to be connected directly to a network such as the Internet for transmitting information to remote unit  170 . It will therefore be appreciated that any of the features and functions described herein with respect to local unit  60  and/or docking station  360  may alternatively be incorporated into data logger  370  or may be otherwise allocated. 
         [0168]    In one exemplary use, the patient wears coil head  354  and data logger  370  throughout the day to record pressure measurements in memory  280 . At night, the patient decouples data logger  370  from coil head  354  and couples data logger  370  with docking station  360 . While data logger  370  and docking station  360  are coupled, docking station  360  transmits data received from data logger  370  to remote unit  170 . To the extent that power supply  282  comprises a rechargeable cell, docking station  360  may be further configured to recharge the cell while data logger  370  is coupled with docking station  360 . Of course, it will be immediately apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that a patient need not necessarily decouple data logger  370  from coil head  354  in order to couple data logger  370  with docking station  360 . It will also be appreciated that pressure measurements may be recorded in memory  280  during the night in addition to or as an alternative to recording such measurements during the day, and that pressure measurements may even be recorded twenty four hours a day. It is thus contemplated that the timing of pressure measurement taking and recordation need not be limited to the daytime only. It is also contemplated that every pressure measurement that is taken need not necessarily be recorded. 
         [0169]    As described above, data logger  370  is configured to receive, store, and communicate data relating to the pressure of fluid. However, data logger  370  may receive, store, and/or communicate a variety of other types of data. By way of example only, data logger  370  may also receive, process, store, and/or communicate data relating to temperature, EKG measurements, eating frequency of the patient, the size of meals eaten by the patient, the amount of walking done by the patient, etc. It will therefore be appreciated that data logger  370  may be configured to process received data to create additional data for communicating to docking station  360 . For instance, data logger  370  may process pressure data obtained via coil head  354  to create data indicative of the eating frequency of the patient. It will also be appreciated that data logger  370  may comprise additional components to obtain non-pressure data. For instance, data logger  370  may comprise a pedometer or accelerometer (not shown) to obtain data relating to the amount of walking done by the patient. Further, the logger may include a gravitometer or inclinometer to show the position of the patient for correlation to eating habits (while lying down, after going to bed, just before bed time, too long after waking up etc. Data obtained by such additional components may be stored in memory  280  and communicated to docking station  360  in a manner similar to pressure data. Data logger  370  may also comprise components for obtaining data to be factored in with internal fluid pressure measurements to account for effects of various conditions on the fluid pressure. For instance, data logger  370  may comprise a barometer for measuring atmospheric pressure. In another embodiment, data logger  370  comprises an inclinometer or similar device to determine the angle at which the patient is oriented (e.g., standing, lying down, etc.), which may be factored into pressure data to account for hydrostatic pressure effects caused by a patient&#39;s orientation. Alternatively, an inclinometer or other device for obtaining non-pressure data may be physically separate from data logger  370  (e.g., implanted). Still other types of data, ways in which such data may be obtained, and ways in which such data may be used will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0170]    The data captured by the data logger  270  (or data logger  370 , or any other data logger) can be processed and analyzed in a variety of ways. In many embodiments, the local unit  60 , remote monitoring unit  170 , data logger  270 ,  370  or other external device, can be configured to execute one or more data processing algorithms which can be used in tracking and analyzing physiological parameters and events, and also can produce results that can be presented in the graphical user interface displays previously described. It should be understood that the captured and/or logged data can provide information about a wide variety of sensed parameters, including without limitation pressure (e.g., of a fluid or otherwise). Sensed parameters can also include pulse counts, pulse widths, pulse amplitudes, pulse durations, pulse frequency, sensed electrical characteristics (e.g., voltages, capacitances, etc.), and so on. 
         [0171]    Some data processing techniques or algorithms can be generally directed to smoothing or conditioning data, (e.g., converting, filtering or other conditioning) into a form suitable for later analysis (by computer or by a user) or for display. A wide variety of conditioning algorithms are possible. For example,  FIG. 32A  shows a plot  3500  of pressure values  3502  sensed by a distension device  22  such as coil  28  and pressure sensor  84 . In this exemplary embodiment, the pressure values  3502  are sensed, or sampled, over a period of time, from a pressure signal developed by the pressure sensor  84  in the distension device  22  (which, as previously mentioned, can be any kind of distension device, including fluid-fillable or mechanically based devices). The sensed values can be captured by a data logger  270  via repeated interrogation of the distension device  22 . It should be understood that while pressure values are used as an example, any sensed parameter can be used in this algorithm, or any other algorithms described herein.  FIG. 32A  shows values that have been collected at a rate of 100 Hz, although virtually any sampling rate can be used. The values of the pressure can be converted to a lower rate, which can be helpful in presenting phenomena of interest (for example, a pulse from a swallowing event might occur on the order of 0.1 Hz), removing noise in the data, and/or compressing the size of the dataset, among other things. The conversion can be accomplished in a variety of ways, but in one exemplary embodiment, the pressure values  3502  can be averaged to effectively decrease the sampling rate, the results of which are shown in  FIG. 32B , which shows a plot  3506  of the pressure values  3502  averaged down to a 10 Hz rate. The average can be calculated by defining an averaging window within the time period on the plot  3500  (for example, by dividing time period into a sequence of averaging windows  3504 , each 1/10 of a second), and taking the average of the pressure values  3502  occurring within each window. The window can be defined by time (for example, every 10 seconds) or by the number of data points therein (for example, averaging every 10 values or data points). The size of the averaging window can be user-defined, and in some embodiments can be defined based on the phenomena or physiological parameter of interest. As one skilled in the art will understand, a wide variety of mathematical techniques can be used, for example, instead of averaging, the 100 Hz data can be directly converted to 10 Hz data by sampling the pressure values  3502  at 10 Hz, in other words, downsampling or filtering.  FIGS. 32C-E  show three plots  3508 ,  3510 , and  3512  which present the results of converting the pressure values  3502  plotted in  FIG. 32A  to lower rates. As shown in  FIG. 32E , some lower-frequency phenomena, such as a pulses  3514 ,  3516 , are still discernible while smaller amplitude changes are removed.  FIG. 32F  shows an exemplary flow diagram illustrating an averaging algorithm. 
         [0172]      FIGS. 33A-B  illustrate the output of an exemplary running average algorithm that can be used with data captured by the data logger  270 , and  FIG. 33C  shows such an exemplary running average algorithm. A running average algorithm can take a variety of forms, but in one embodiment it can include computing each value or data point for the running average based on an averaging window, which can be of user-defined size. The averaging window can be used to determine the number of data values (the data values representing pressure values, for example) that are averaged together to obtain each running average value. The averaging window can be shifted as each new data point is collected, so the running average value can be updated at the same rate as the sampling rate. In one embodiment, the running average value for a particular point in time can be computed by averaging the data values falling within a time window occurring before that point in time, in other words a backward-looking running average. The backward-looking running average can be defined by the following formula, where RA is the running average value, p is the data value, and n is the window sample number: 
         [0000]    
       
         
           
             
               RA 
               i 
             
             = 
             
               
                 1 
                 n 
               
                
               
                 
                   ∑ 
                   i 
                   
                     i 
                     + 
                     n 
                     - 
                     1 
                   
                 
                  
                 
                   p 
                   i 
                 
               
             
           
         
       
     
         [0173]    In use, for each data value collected, the averaging window can be applied and the running average for that point in time can be calculated. The running average values can then be displayed, for example alone or with the original data values.  FIG. 33A  illustrates the result of running such an algorithm on pressure data.  FIG. 33A  presents a graph  3600  which includes a plot of raw data values  3602  that have not been averaged. Also shown on the graph  3600  are three plots  3604 ,  3606 ,  3608  which represent the data values following application of a backward-looking average running average algorithm. As shown, plot  3604  corresponds to a running average calculated with a 10 second averaging window, plot  3606  corresponds to a 30 second averaging window, and plot  3608  corresponds to a 60 second averaging window. 
         [0174]    In another embodiment, the running average for a particular point in time can be computed by averaging the data values in an averaging window which includes data values both before and after the point in time, in other words a centralized running average method. If half of the averaging window precedes the point in time and half of the time window follows the averaging window, the centralized running average can be defined by the following formula, where RA is the running average value, p is the data value, and n is the window sample number: 
         [0000]    
       
         
           
             
               RA 
               i 
             
             = 
             
               
                 1 
                 n 
               
                
               
                 
                   ∑ 
                   
                     i 
                     - 
                     
                       n 
                       2 
                     
                   
                   
                     i 
                     + 
                     
                       n 
                       2 
                     
                     - 
                     1 
                   
                 
                  
                 
                   p 
                   i 
                 
               
             
           
         
       
     
         [0175]      FIG. 33B  illustrates the result of running such an algorithm on pressure data. Graph  3620  includes a plot  3622  of raw data values that have not been averaged. Also shown on the graph  3620  are three plots  3624 ,  3626 ,  3628  which represent the raw data following the application of the centralized running average algorithm. Plot  3624  corresponds to a running average calculated with a 10 second averaging window, plot  3626  corresponds to a 30 second averaging window, and plot  3628  corresponds to a 60 second averaging window. Other variations are possible in which the averaging window is not centered on the point of time for which the running average is being calculated but surrounds the data value in some other proportion. For example, the running average for a point in time can be calculated based on the data values in an averaging window in which one-quarter of the time window precedes and three-quarters of the averaging window follows the point in time.  FIG. 33C  shows an exemplary flow diagram illustrating the above-described exemplary running average algorithm. 
         [0176]    In other embodiments, data conditioning can be performed through a variety of statistical and/or mathematical calculations, including root mean square calculations, mean absolute deviation calculations, regression analyses to produce fitted curves (both linear and non-linear), crest factor and form factor calculations, and so on. These approaches can be performed on the parameter data values as described above for the running average calculations. The use of other statistical and/or mathematical calculations can be chosen depending on the particular application. For example, root mean square calculations can be particularly advantageous in embodiments in which the data parameters produced by the distension device  22  have both positive and negative values (such as an electrical voltage). 
         [0177]    The determination of a running average value, or any other value resulting from a conditioning calculation, also can trigger a variety of alarms or can be recorded for reports maintained by the local unit  60 , remote monitoring device  170 , and/or the system  20 . For example, an alarm or notification signal can be generated if the running average falls within a predetermined range, if it exceeds or falls below a threshold, if it changes too quickly (e.g., its rate of change exceeds a threshold), and so on. Alternatively, the occurrence of such events can be logged or stored for inclusion in a report or log produced by the local unit  60 , remote monitoring device  170 , and/or the system  20 . 
         [0178]    In some embodiments, analog filters can be employed in addition to or as an alternative to processing parameter data mathematically. A bank of analog filters (or selectable bank of such filters) can be included in one more devices for removing noise, or signals at undesired frequencies. For example, the conditioning and filtering achieved in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 32A-32E  can be implanted via appropriate low-pass filtering. As one skilled in the art will understand, high-pass and band-pass filtering embodiments are also possible and depend on the desired results. The filters can be placed in a variety of locations, such as the injection port  36  (e.g., the injection port  36  that serves as a communication link for the distension device  22 ), the local unit  60 , the remote monitoring unit  170 , or any other device in the signal path. In some embodiments, placing the filters in the implant (such as the injection port  36  or in the distension device  22 ) can be advantageous because by pre-conditioning the information it can reduce the bandwidth and/or power requirements needed for telemetrically transmitting (or receiving) such data. In addition, by reducing the amount of data through analog filtering, the data processing requirements of the devices (for example, the remote monitoring device) in analyzing the data can be reduced. 
         [0179]    Data processing algorithms also can be useful for determining baseline levels of a physiological parameter represented by the data collected from the distension device  22 . For example, the baseline pressure sensed by a fluid-filled distension device  22  can be determined from collected pressure values. A wide variety of methods to determine a baseline value can be used. However, in one exemplary embodiment, which is illustrated via  FIGS. 34A-B , an algorithm for finding a baseline can involve collecting data from a distension device (box  3710  of flow diagram  FIG. 34B ) and calculating a running average value based on past data values (box  3712 ). The data used in the running average calculation can be defined by an averaging window (for example, an averaging window preceding the point in time for which a running average is being calculated, or covering a certain number of data values, e.g., the last ten values.) With the collection of each new data value, the running average can be updated. As shown in box  3714 , the algorithm can determine whether a baseline value has been established by comparing the data values within the averaging window to a tolerance range, which can be defined around the running average, to determine if all of the values (or, alternatively, a portion of them) were within the tolerance range. If so, at box  3716  the algorithm can identify the running average as the baseline value of the parameter. If not, at box  3718  additional data values can be collected, which can involve the definition of a new averaging window, or the collection of a specified number of additional data values. A new running average can be computed, and the process repeated until a baseline value is found. As one skilled in the art will understand, any or all of the foregoing thresholds, limits, times, window sizes, or other variables can be user-defined.  FIG. 34A  shows a plot of data  3700  which illustrates the foregoing algorithm applied to collected data, and shows the tolerance range  3702  and the averaging window  3704 , in the context of pressure values measured over a time period  3706 . 
         [0180]    In some embodiments, the occurrence of specified events can initiate an algorithm to determine or search for a baseline value. For example, it can be desirable to check or determine whether a new baseline value exists at the start of data collection, the expiration of a timer, or after an adjustment is made to a distension device  22 , which can involve adding or removing fluid.  FIG. 34C  shows a plot of pressure data  3720  over a time period which exhibits an upwards baseline shift  3722  due to the addition of approximately 7.5 ml to a fluid-filled distension device. The adjustment can trigger the execution of a baseline-determining algorithm, such as those described above, to find the new baseline value. 
         [0181]    Another exemplary algorithm for determining or predicting baseline levels of a parameter is illustrated by  FIGS. 35A-B .  FIG. 35A  shows an exemplary plot of data over time to illustrate application of the algorithm to a set of data and  FIG. 35B  shows an exemplary flow diagram. In this embodiment, the algorithm generally can involve calculating when the rate of change of the parameter values will be zero or substantially near zero, and what the parameter value will be at that time. A rate of change that is zero or substantially near zero can be treated as indicating that the baseline value has been reached. More specifically, with reference to boxes  3802 ,  3804  and  FIG. 35B , the algorithm can include collecting parameter data values over a time period, and calculating a rate of change at a point of time or for a group of data values (group A) in a time window  3820  within the time period. For example, the rate of change can be determined by a slope calculation defined by 
         [0000]    
       
         
           
             
               
                 d 
                 ParameterA 
               
               
                 d 
                 timeA 
               
             
             . 
           
         
       
     
         [0000]    With reference to box  3806 , the algorithm can further include calculating how fast the rate of change is itself changing—in other words, the rate at which the rate of change is changing. The rate at which the rate of change is changing can be determined for example, by executing two slope calculations (e.g., group A in window  3820  and group B in window  3822 ), and then calculating the change in slopes. The windows  3820 ,  3822 , can be defined by time (a time window) or by a group of data values, or in any other way suitable for selecting a portion of data values. For example: 
         [0000]    
       
         
           
             
               Slope 
                
               
                   
               
                
               A 
             
             = 
             
               
                 d 
                 ParameterA 
               
               
                 d 
                 timeA 
               
             
           
         
       
       
         
           
             
               Slope 
                
               
                   
               
                
               B 
             
             = 
             
               
                 d 
                 ParameterB 
               
               
                 d 
                 timeB 
               
             
           
         
       
       
         
           
             
               Δ 
                
               
                   
               
                
               Slope 
             
             = 
             
               SlopeB 
               - 
               SlopeA 
             
           
         
       
     
         [0182]    Furthermore, the rate of change and how fast the rate of change is itself changing can be used to determine when the rate of change will be about zero, and what the value of the parameter will be at that time. For example, as indicated in box  3808 , the time needed to reach a rate of change of about zero (which in this example indicates that the baseline value has been reached) can be predicted according to the following formula: 
         [0000]    
       
         
           
             
               Time 
                
               
                   
               
                
               to 
                
               
                   
               
                
               Baseline 
             
             = 
             
               
                 SlopeB 
                 
                   Δ 
                    
                   
                       
                   
                    
                   Slope 
                 
               
               * 
               
                 Period 
                 B 
               
             
           
         
       
     
         [0183]    The predicted baseline value can be calculated by extrapolation using a parameter value and the amount the parameter will change until the Time to Baseline, as shown by the following formula: 
         [0000]      Baseline Value=(Time to Baseline)*(Slope B )+(Parameter Value in Group  B ) 
         [0184]    As one skilled in the art will understand, the foregoing approach can be varied widely, without departing from the scope of the technique described herein. For example, the Time to Baseline and Baseline Value formulas can be cast in terms of Slope A and Period A as well, more than two data windows can be used, and/or the spacing between data windows  3820 ,  3822  can be modified. Further, one skilled in the art will understand that the foregoing approach can be described in terms of a derivative (for example, to represent a rate of change) and a second derivative (for example, to represent a rate at which the rate of change it itself changing). 
         [0185]    The determination of a baseline value can trigger a variety of alarms or can be recorded for reports maintained by the local unit  60 , remote monitoring device  170 , and/or the system  20 . For example, an alarm or notification signal can be generated if the baseline pressure exceeds or falls below a threshold (for example, for a specified time period), when there is a fluctuation in baseline pressure, when a baseline cannot be found after a specified time, when rate of change of the pressure exceeds a threshold value, and/or when the baseline pressure is determined. Alternatively, the occurrence of such events can be logged or stored for inclusion in a report or log produced by the local unit  60 , remote monitoring device  170 , and/or the system  20 . In addition, the baseline value can be correlated (either alone or in conjunction with other data, as described herein) to the condition of the distension device. The baseline value can indicate an over-tightened, optimally-tightened, or under-tightened distension device, which for a fluid-fillable distension can represent an over-filled, optimally-filled, or under-filled condition. For example, a baseline value that exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., a level considered to be “too high”) can be indicative of an over-filled or over-tightened distension device, while a baseline value that falls or remains below a predetermined threshold (e.g., a level considered to be “too low”) can be indicative of an under-filled or loose distension device, and so on. Predetermined thresholds can be obtained using historical patient data, group data, or other clinical data. Also, in other embodiments, the rate of change of the pressure (as described above with respect to baseline determinations) can be correlated to the condition of the distension device. For example, a rate of change that exceeds a predetermined rate of change can indicate an over-filled fluid-fillable distension coil. A rate of change that falls below another threshold can indicate an under-filled distension coil. 
         [0186]    Data values collected by the data logger  270  can be used to obtain information about physiological parameters of a patient wearing a distension device  22 . For example, as previously mentioned, the data logger  270  can collect data representing pressure (or other parameter) sensed by an implanted distension device  22 . Information about physiological parameters such as heart rate, breathing rate, and others, can be determined from the collected pressure values (or values of another parameter). Information about peristaltic or swallowing events, which can manifest themselves as pulses or a series of pulses in pressure, can also be determined, and such information can include the number, rate, and duration of such pulses. As shown in  FIGS. 36A-B , multiple frequencies can exist in a set of pressure data (or other data). As shown in  FIG. 36A , relatively high frequency pulses  3904 , which in  FIG. 36A  represent pressure changes caused by heartbeats (the heartbeat can exert a detectable force on the distension device  22 ), can be superimposed on low-frequency pulses  3902 , which in  FIG. 36A  represent swallowing events.  FIG. 36B  shows heartbeat pulses  3906  superimposed on pulses  3908  caused by breathing. As shown the breathing pulses are occurring about once every four seconds. 
         [0187]    In one exemplary embodiment, the frequency content of pressure data can be analyzed. Frequency or frequencies in the data can be selected and identified as the frequency of a physiological parameter of interest, for example by comparing the frequency to a range of frequencies which are designated as the possible range for the particular physiological parameter. The amplitude, or other characteristics of the physiological parameter also can be determined by extracting or filtering the data at the selected frequencies. A variety of techniques can be used to analyze and extract information having a desired frequency content. The following examples refer to  FIGS. 36A-C  and sometimes use heart rate as an exemplary physiological parameter, but as one skilled in the art will understand, a variety of periodic physiological parameters can be analyzed, and data other than pressure data can be used. 
         [0188]    As illustrated in  FIG. 36C , one exemplary algorithm can involve calculating the period of pulses or variations in the data values representing the sensed parameter. With reference to box  3920 , a local maximum or minimum in the data can be identified, e.g., by determining when the slope changes passes through zero. The time can be recorded at that point (box  3922 ), and again at a subsequent maximum or minimum (box  3924 ). The period can be calculated based on the time between adjacent maxima and/or minima, and this period can be examined to see if it falls within a designated target range of possible frequencies associated with the physiological parameter of interest. For example, a heart rate might be associated with a frequency of 65 to 150 beats or cycles per minute, or about 1.1 to 2.5 Hz. The range can be defined by the device, or user-defined. If the calculated frequency falls within the range, at box  3926  the frequency can be identified or designated as the frequency of the physiological parameter. In some embodiments, the algorithm can include comparing the magnitude of the values at the maxima or minima to ensure that they are within a tolerance range of one another. As can be seen with reference to  FIG. 36A , such an approach can enable the maximum, or peak, of a swallowing pulse to be distinguished from the maximum or peak of a heart rate pulse. Distinguishing between the two can determine the appropriate maxima to use in calculating the frequency for a particular physiological parameter. In some embodiments, the value of the parameter at the maximum or minimum also can be used to calculate the amplitude of the pulses, and the algorithm can also include comparing the amplitude to a predetermined target range associated with the physiological parameter to see if it whether it falls within the range. For example, heart rate pulses can have an amplitude of about 7-8 mmHg, as shown in  FIG. 36B , and a range can be size to include at least 7-8 mmHg. As one skilled in the art will understand, the target frequencies and amplitudes described above will vary depending on the physiological parameter about which information is sought. 
         [0189]    As illustrated in  FIG. 36D , in another exemplary embodiment, a discrete Fourier transform (in many cases, computed by fast Fourier transform) can be applied to data values of a sensed parameter that were logged over a time period. The data values can thereby be transformed from time domain values to the frequency domain. The frequency content of the data values can be examined to identify a frequency or frequencies that exist in the data values that corresponds to a range of frequencies associated with a physiological parameter range. In some embodiments, the frequency content can be examined to identify one or more frequencies that exist and exceed a magnitude threshold, and that correspond to a range of frequencies associated with a physiological parameter. If multiple frequencies exist in the range, the frequency with the largest magnitude can be selected, or a weighted average of the frequencies can be computed, and designated as the frequency of the physiological parameter. The amplitude can be given by the Fourier coefficients of the identified frequencies. Alternatively, frequencies not falling within the target range can be removed from the data (for example, by setting the Fourier coefficients of unselected frequencies to zero), and the values of the sensed parameter in the time domain can be reconstructed by performing an inverse Fourier transform. The data values in the time domain can be displayed or analyzed further, e.g., analyzing the amplitude by comparing the values at the maxima and minima, etc. 
         [0190]      FIGS. 37A-C  illustrate the output of another algorithm which can extract information about a physiological parameter from the value of a sensed parameter (such as pressure) from a distension device  22  and collected by the data logger  270 , and  FIG. 37D  shows an exemplary flow diagram of such an algorithm. In this exemplary embodiment, values of a sensed parameter, such as pressure values  4002 , can be averaged to create average values  4004 . In many embodiments, the average can be calculated by averaging the values falling within a averaging window within a time period, e.g., taking the average of every X seconds of data values, or computing the average of a defined number (a data group) of surrounding data values. The size of the averaging window can vary widely, and can be informed by the relationship between the phenomena of interest. For example, as shown in  FIG. 37A , pressure values have been collected at a rate of about 100 Hz, while swallowing events can occur at about 0.1 Hz, and the average  4004  has been calculated and plotted by averaging every 100 data values, e.g., falling within window  4008 . The average values  4004  can be subtracted from the original data, e.g., the pressure values  4002  in this example, to produce physiological parameter values  4006 , such as values representing heart rate, breath rate, and so on. These physiological parameter values  4006  can be displayed. In addition, the frequency, amplitude, volatility, or other characteristics of the physiological values  4006  can be further analyzed, for example using one or more of the previously described algorithms. The foregoing average-and-subtract technique can be repeated on the physiological data  4006  (e.g., with a smaller averaging window) to extract another set of physiological values therefrom (for example, the pulse values can be separated from the breath rate values, then the breath rate values can be separated from the heart rate values). 
         [0191]      FIGS. 37B  illustrates another set of exemplary pressure values  4010  and average values  4012  calculated therefrom. The averaged data  4012  also can be useful for analyzing physiological phenomena, such as relatively low-frequency phenomena and/or swallowing rates.  FIG. 37C  illustrates physiological values that can be obtained by taking the difference between the exemplary pressure values  4010  and the average values  4012 . 
         [0192]      FIGS. 38A-C  show another exemplary dataset which illustrates how pressure data can be differentiated to reveal information about various physiological responses. As shown in  FIG. 38A , pressure values  4100  collected over a time period can be used to examine the total duration (e.g., examining amplitude and number of pulses) of a swallowing event or peristalsis represented by a series of pulses  4102 , a single pulse  4104  from a peristaltic event, and/or superimposed or minor pulses  4106  representing other physiological parameters.  FIG. 38B  shows the single pulse  4104  in more detail. As shown, a smooth curve can be used (e.g., by calculating an average value) to analyze the amplitude, duration, or other characteristics of the pulse  4104 .  FIG. 38C  shows the minor pulses  4106  in more detail, which can be converted to a linear (e.g., by one of the previously described approaches), as shown under arrow  4108 , to measure frequency, amplitude or other characteristics. 
         [0193]    The determination of a physiological rate, amplitude or other parameter can trigger a variety of alarms or can be recorded for reports maintained by the local unit  60 , remote monitoring device  170 , and/or the system  20 . For example, an alarm or notification signal can be generated if the heart rate or breathing rate (or other rate) is too high, too low, cannot be detected, is changing drastically (e.g., has a rate of change that exceeds a threshold), and so on. Alternatively, the occurrence of such events or conditions can be logged or stored for inclusion in a report or log produced by the local unit  60 , remote monitoring device  170 , and/or the system  20 . 
         [0194]    A wide variety of algorithms can be used to detect the presence of pulses in pressure values or other data values collected by the data logger  270 . One exemplary embodiment of such an algorithm is illustrated in  FIGS. 39A-B .  FIG. 39A  shows a plot  4200  of exemplary pressure values over a time period, although any parameter values can be used.  FIG. 39B  shows a flow diagram illustrating exemplary steps of an algorithm. As shown, a predetermined threshold value  4202  can be defined relative to the baseline value  4212  (boxes  4222 ,  4224  of  FIG. 39B ). (For example, the threshold value can be set to be 10 mmHg above the baseline value  4212 .) At box  4226 , the algorithm can determine the time  4206  at which the parameter value exceeds the threshold value  4204 . (As the threshold value  4202  can be relative to the baseline value  4212 , in absolute terms, the time  4206  at which the parameter value exceeds the threshold value  4202  can occur when the parameter exceeds the baseline value  4212  plus the threshold value  4202 .) If the parameter value decreases such that it no longer exceeds the threshold value  4202  within a predetermined time  4210 , a pulse can be said to have occurred (boxes  4228 - 4230 ). The predetermined time  4210  also can be user-defined. 
         [0195]      FIG. 40A  illustrates the application of an alternative embodiment of an algorithm that can be used to detect the presence of a pulse to a set of data, and  FIG. 40B  shows an exemplary flow diagram for such an algorithm. As shown, a first threshold value  4302  and a second threshold value  4304  can be defined (boxes  4324   a,    4324   b ), both defined relative to the baseline value  4308 , as discussed with respect to  FIGS. 39A-B . The first threshold value  4302  can apply when the parameter is increasing (for example, before the peak of the pulse) and the second threshold  4304  can apply when the parameter is decreasing (for example, after the peak  4312 ). At box  4326 , the algorithm can determine the time  4314  at which the parameter value exceeds the first threshold value  4302 . If the parameter value then falls below the second threshold  4304  within a predetermined time  4306 , a pulse can be said to have occurred (boxes  4328 - 4330 ). 
         [0196]      FIG. 41A  illustrates the application another alternative embodiment of an algorithm that can be used to detect the presence of a pulse in a set of data, and  FIG. 41B  shows an exemplary flow diagram for such an algorithm. In this embodiment, a first threshold  4402  can be defined relative to the baseline value  4408 , and a second threshold  4404  can be defined relative to a peak value  4412  (boxes  4424   a - b  in  FIG. 41B ). The time  4414  at which the parameter exceeds the first threshold  4402  and the time  4412  at which the parameter reaches a peak (for example, when it has a zero slope) can be recorded (boxes  4426 ,  4428   a - b ). If the parameter value falls below the second threshold  4404  within a predetermined time  4406 , then a pulse can be said to have occurred (boxes  4430 ,  4432 ). In many embodiments, the second threshold  4404  can be defined as a proportion of the peak value  4412  (e.g., 75% of the peak value), which the algorithm can then compute when it finds a peak value  4412 . In other embodiments, the second threshold  4404  can be defined directly (e.g., 10 mmHg below the peak value  4412 ). 
         [0197]    An algorithm for finding a pulse can also trigger a variety of alarms or can record pulse events for reports maintained by the local unit  60 , remote monitoring device  170 , and/or the system  20 . For example, an alarm or notification signal can be generated when a pulse is detected, when no pulse can be detected, when a pulse appears during certain times (such as outside meal times), when a pulse count exceeds a threshold value, when pulses are detected for a specified period of time, when the rate of change pressure indicates either a start of a pulse or an end of a pulse, and so on. Alternatively, the occurrence of such events can be logged or stored for inclusion in a report or log produced by the local unit  60 , remote monitoring device  170 , and/or the system  20 . In addition, the determination that one or more pulses has occurred can be correlated (either alone or in conjunction with other data, as described herein) to the condition of the distension device. For example, if pulses continue to occur over a time period (e.g., during a predetermined time period, in some cases such as 5-6 minute window, although any time period is possible) can indicate that the distension device is over-filled or too tight. The amplitude of the pulses and the time between pulses (either taken alone, or in conjunction with other metrics) can also be used or involved in this determination, e.g., pulses of a threshold amplitude can be considered. In other embodiments, the number of pulses in a sequence, or the number of pulses within a time period, can be used to make a correlation. Also, the absence of pulses over a predetermined time period can indicate that the distension device is too loose or under-filled. Such pulse analysis can further involve giving water/food swallows or dry swallow instructions to a patient who is wearing a distension coil and monitoring the resulting pulse(s), either to determine an appropriate predetermined time period to watch for pulses, to assess the condition of the distension device, or otherwise. 
         [0198]    The area under a pulse, or sequence of pulses or other waveform, in parameter vs. time data can be used for analytical purposes.  FIG. 42A  shows an exemplary plot  4500  of pressure over a time period;  FIG. 42B  shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary algorithm for making such an analysis. As shown, the values of the pressure are represented by a graphical representation  4502 , in this case a waveform, which exhibits a series of pulses. The areas under one or more pulses can be evaluated. The areas can be calculated by evaluating an integral for each pulse over a window, such as time windows  4512 ,  4514 ,  4516 ,  4518 . The areas can be calculated with reference to a baseline value  4510  or to a zero value. In many embodiments, the window can be sized to cover the time of the pulse, for example, by beginning the window when the parameter value exceeds a threshold, and ending it when the parameter value falls below that threshold value, or by using any of the times discussed in connection with  FIGS. 42-44 , such as times T 2 -T 1  illustrated in  FIG. 40B  or Peak Time—T 1  in  FIG. 41B . The results of the integrals can be compared, and the nature of sequence of areas (increasing, decreasing, etc.) as well as their magnitude can be correlated to conditions or events related to the distension device  22 , the patient, and so on. For example, the presence of pulses with substantially equivalent areas, generally indicated by bracket  4506  in  FIG. 45 , can be indicative of a fluid-filled distension device that is overfilled, or generally a distension device that is too tight. The presence of pulses with decreasing areas, or areas decreasing at a predetermined rate, generally indicated by bracket  4508 , can be indicative of an optimally filled or adjusted coil. The decrease of such areas at a second predetermined rate (for example, a rate higher than that associated with an optimally filled coil) can be correlated to an underfilled distension device. The presence of a single pulse without any peaks following, as generally indicated by bracket  4504 , can be indicative of a distension device that is underfilled, or of coughing or talking. 
         [0199]    It should be understood that any or all of the foregoing algorithms and techniques can be integrated with a graphical user interface to allow a user to provide input to the algorithm and to display results, both intermediate and final results. For example, plots of pressure over time can be displayed to a user, and the user can manually define or select windows for averaging, slope calculations, or for calculating the area of a pulse (e.g., by manually marking beginning and ending times). In other embodiments, the user can manually mark the baseline value by adjusting a horizontal line on the display after viewing pressure values for a timed period. Such variations are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure. 
         [0200]    It will be appreciated that several embodiments described herein may enable health care providers or others to use pressure data as a feedback mechanism to identify, train, and/or prescribe dietary advice to a patient. Such a feedback mechanism may provide data or otherwise be used in multiple ways. For instance, pressure feedback may be obtained when a patient swallows a particular food portion, and based on such pressure feedback, the patient may be taught to eat smaller portions, larger portions, or portions equal to the portion tested. Of course, a food portion so prescribed may be tested by evaluating pressure feedback obtained when the patient swallows the prescribed food portion, such that a food portion prescription may be refined through reiteration. As another example, a patient may test desired foods for appropriateness based on pressure feedback together with portion size and/or based on any other parameters. It will also be appreciated that continuous pressure data monitoring may be used to enable portion size monitoring, food consistency monitoring (e.g., liquids vs. solids) and/or eating frequency. Still other ways in which pressure data may be used to provide dietary advice will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. It will also be appreciated that such uses may be practiced locally, remotely (e.g., via remote unit  170 ), or combinations thereof. 
         [0201]    While data logging system  300  is described herein as being implemented with injection port  36 , it will be appreciated that data logging system  300  may alternatively be implemented with any other type of pressure sensing system or other implanted systems. By way of example only, data logging system  300  may be combined with any of the pressure sensing devices disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2006-0211914 (application Ser. No. 11/369,682), filed Mar. 7, 2006, and entitled “System and Method for Determining Implanted Device Positioning and Obtaining Pressure Data,” and U.S. Patent Publication No. filed Mar. 6, 2007, and U.S. Non-Provisional patent application 11/682,459, entitled “Pressure Sensors for Gastric Band and Adjacent Tissue” (Attorney Docket No. END6042USNP and attached hereto as an Appendix), the disclosures of both of which are incorporated by reference herein for illustrative purposes. For instance, data logging system  300  may receive pressure measurements obtained by any of the pressure sensors described in that patent application. In addition, the needle guidance sense head described in that patent application may be used with at least a portion of data logging system  300  to provide needle guidance for a local clinician to adjust fluid pressure in accordance with a remote physician&#39;s instructions that are based on pressure measurements obtained by the needle guidance sense head and communicated to the remote physician in substantially real-time. For instance, the needle guidance sense head may be coupled with data logger  370 , which may connected directly to the Internet (or via docking station  360 ) to provide pressure measurements to the remote physician. Still other ways in which devices and components described herein may be combined with components described in U.S. Patent Application Publications US 2006-0211912, US 2006-0211913, and US 2006-0211914, hereby incorporated by reference, will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0202]    Any of the devices disclosed herein can also be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. Devices which can be external, such as the local unit, remote monitoring device, data loggers, and so on, are in many cases suitable for reuse. Devices can be reconditioned or reconstructed for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning or reconstructing can include any combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by replacement, upgrade, cleaning, or modification of particular pieces (including mechanical components, computer hardware and software, and so on) and subsequent reassembly. In particular, the device can be disassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. The device can be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, or by a physician before using the device with a patient. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning or reconstructing of a device can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning and/or replacement, and reassembly. Additionally, repairs can be made to devices and/or to their individual parts or pieces. Use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioned, reconstructed, or repaired device, are all within the scope of the present application. 
         [0203]    The devices described herein, particularly including but not limited to those devices that can be implanted in or attached to a patient, preferably can be processed or sterilized before use. First, a new or used device (or part thereof) is obtained. The device can then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and device are then placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as beta or gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation kills bacteria on the instrument and in the container. The sterilized instrument can then be stored in the sterile container. The sealed container keeps the instrument sterile until it is opened in a medical facility. In other embodiments, ethylene oxide, or steam can be used for sterilization. 
         [0204]    Any patent, publication, application or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material. 
         [0205]    While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. For example, as would be apparent to those skilled in the art, the disclosures herein have equal application in robotic-assisted surgery. In addition, it should be understood that every structure described above has a function and such structure can be referred to as a means for performing that function. Accordingly, it is intended that the invention be limited only by the spirit and scope of the appended claims. 
         [0206]    While the present invention has been illustrated by description of several embodiments, it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or limit the spirit and scope of the appended claims to such detail. Numerous other variations, changes, and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, the device and method of the present invention has been illustrated with respect to transmitting pressure data from the implant to the remote monitoring unit. However, other types of data may also be transmitted to enable a physician to monitor a plurality of different aspects of the distension implant. Additionally, the present invention is described with respect to a stomach distension device for bariatric treatment. The present invention is not limited to this application, and may also be utilized with other distension implants or artificial sphincters without departing from the scope of the invention. The structure of each element associated with the present invention can be alternatively described as a means for providing the function performed by the element. It will be understood that the foregoing description is provided by way of example, and that other modifications may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the appended claims.