Heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus with energy transfer device

[0002] This application is based upon provisional application Ser. No. 60/148,345 filed Aug. 12, 1999, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0003] The present invention relates to a heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus. More specifically, the invention relates to a heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus for surgical application in the abdomen of a patient for forming a restricted food passageway in the esophagus or stomach. The term “patient” includes an animal or a human being.

[0004] Chronic heartburn and reflux disease is a widespread medical problem. This is often due to hiatal hernia, i.e. a portion of the stomach immediately below the gastric fundus slides upwardly through the esophageal hiatus. In consequence, stomach acids and foods are regurgitated into the esophagus.

[0005] In the late 1970s a prior art prosthesis called Angelchik, according to U.S. Pat. No. 3,875,928, was used to operatively treat heartburn and reflux disease. However, the Angelchik prosthesis had a major disadvantage in that it was not possible to adjust the size of the restriction opening after the operation. A further disadvantage was that the prosthesis did not satisfactorily protect the esophagus and the surrounding area against injuries due to poor shape of the prosthesis. Therefore, operations using the Angelchik prosthesis are no longer practiced.

[0006] An operation technique, semi-fundoduplicatio, is currently in use for treating heartburn and reflux disease. A most common operation is Nissen semi-fundoduplicatio, in which one takes the fundus of the stomach and makes a three quarter of a turn around the esophagus and suture between the stomach and esophagus. Although this operation works fairly well it has three main disadvantages. Firstly, most patients treated in accordance to “ad modum Nissen” lose their ability to belch. Secondly, many of these patients get dysphagia, i.e. have difficulties in swallowing after the operation. Thirdly, it is not possible to adjust the food passageway in the esophagus or stomach in any way after the operation. Characteristic for these patients is the variation of their problems over the course of a day. For example, many patients have difficulties during the night when they lie down because of stomach acid leaking up into the esophagus.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a new convenient heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus, the performance of which may be affected by the patient at any time after operation, in particular when various needs arise over the course of a day, so that the patient substantially always is satisfied or comfortable.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention a heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus is provided. The apparatus comprises: An energy transmission device for wireless transmission of energy of a first form from outside a patient's body. An operable restriction device implanted in a patient and engaging the stomach close to the cardia or engaging the esophagus to form a restricted passageway in the stomach or esophagus, the device operable in response to a second energy form different than the first form to vary the restricted passageway. And, an energy transfer device implanted in the patient for transferring energy of the first form transmitted by the energy transmission device into energy of the second form, the energy transfer device comprising at least one element having a positive region and a negative region, and creating an energy field between the positive and negative regions when exposed to the first form energy transmitted by the energy transmission device, so that the energy field produces the energy of the second form.

[0009] As a result, the advantage is achieved that the heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus of the invention provides simple and effective energy transmission which ensures an extended and reliable functionality of the apparatus, possibly for the rest of the patient's natural life, and at least many years.

[0010] The restriction device preferably controls the cross-sectional area of the food passageway in the stomach or esophagus, which gives the advantage that the patient is enabled to adjust the cross-sectional area of the food passageway whenever he likes during the day. This advantage should not be underestimated, because if the patient would need to vomit it would be very difficult for him to do so if he were unable to enlarge the cross-sectional area of the food passageway.

[0011] Advantageously, the restriction device is directly operated with the energy of the second form, preferably in a non-magnetic and/or non-mechanical manner, as the energy transmission device transmits the energy of a first form. The restriction device may be directly operated with the energy of the second form without externally touching subcutaneously implanted components of the apparatus. The advantage of directly using energy as it is transmitted is that the apparatus can be of a very simple design and the few components involved makes the apparatus extremely reliable.

[0012] The restriction device may be non-inflatable, i.e. with no hydraulic or pneumatic fluid involved for the adjustments of the restriction device. This eliminates problems with fluid leaking from the restriction device.

[0013] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, the element comprises an electrical junction element, and the electrical junction element is capable of inducing an electric field between the positive and negative regions when exposed to the energy of a first form transmitted by the energy transmission device, whereby the energy of a second form comprises electric energy.

[0014] Consequently, the restriction device suitably is electrically operated, whereby the positive and negative regions of the electrical junction element supply electric energy for the operation of the restriction device. The apparatus suitably comprises implanted electric conductors connected to the positive and negative regions of the electrical junction element, whereby the electrical junction element is capable of supplying an electric current, such as a direct current, a pulsating direct current, a combination of a, direct and pulsating direct current, an alternating current or a combination of a direct and alternating current, via the conductors. Furthermore, the electrical junction element may be capable of supplying a frequency, amplitude, or frequency and amplitude modulated analog, digital, or a combination of analog and digital signal, which is used in connection with control of the restriction device.

[0015] The element, preferably in the form of an electrical semiconductor junction element, suitably forms a flat and thin sheet and has a volume of less than 2000 cm³to be suited for subcutaneous implantation, so that the electrical junction element is located just behind the skin of the patient. The electrical junction element should be designed to generate an output current exceeding 1 μA when exposed to the energy of the first form transmitted by the energy transmission device. Of course, all the components of the energy transfer device including the electrical junction element in contact with the patient's body should be of a biocompatible material. Alternatively, it would be possible to implant the energy transfer device in the thorax or cephal region of the patient, or in an orifice of the patient's body and under the mucosa or intraluminar outside the mucosa of the orifice.

[0016] For in vitro appliances, a particular type of an electrical semiconductor junction element has been commonly used, namely a so called p-n (positive/negative) junction element, typically in the form of solar cells. A solar cell transfers solar energy in the form of visible light into electric energy in the form of direct current. For example, a p-n junction element may comprise two layers of semiconductor, one p-type (positive) and the other n-type (negative), sandwiched together to form a “p-n junction”. This p-n junction induces an electric field across the element when absorbing quanta of light (photons).

[0017] To be more precise, the quanta of light transfer their energy to some of the semiconductor's electrons, which are then able to move about through the material. For each such negatively charged electron, a corresponding positive charge—a “hole”—is created. In an ordinary semiconductor, these electrons and holes recombine after a short time and their energy is wasted as heat. However, when the electrons and holes are swept across the p-n junction in opposite directions by the action of the electric field, the separation of charge induces a voltage across the p-n junction element. By connecting the p-n junction element to an external circuit, the electrons are able to flow thereby creating a current.

[0018] Surprisingly, it has been proven that although both the skin and subcutis absorb energy from an external light beam directed against the skin portion behind which a properly designed p-n junction element is located, the light energy transmitted through the skin can induce a current from the p-n junction element strong enough (minimum 1 μA) to enable the operation of the electrically operated restriction device. Thus, such a p-n junction element is now for the first time used for in vivo applications.

[0019] However, the apparatus of the present. invention is not limited to the use of visible light for the wireless transmission of energy. Thus, in accordance with a broad aspect of the invention, the energy transmission device transmits energy by at least one wireless signal, preferably containing radiant energy.

[0020] The wireless signal may comprises a wave signal, for example an electromagnetic wave signal, such as an infrared light signal, a visible light signal, an ultra violet light signal,a laser signal, a micro wave signal, a radio wave signal, an x-ray radiation signal, and a gamma radiation signal. Where applicable, one or more of the above signals may be combined. Alternatively, the wave signal may comprise a sound wave signal, such as an ultrasonic signal. Generally, the wireless signal may comprise a digital, analog or a digital and analog signal.

[0021] The energy of the first form transmitted by the energy transmission device may comprise an electric or magnetic field transmitted in pulses, for example digital pulses. Furthermore, the energy transfer device may transfer the energy of the first form, which may comprise polarized energy, into a direct current, pulsating direct current, a combination of a direct and pulsating direct current, an alternating current or a combination of a direct and alternating current. Alternatively, the energy of the first form may comprise kinetic energy.

[0022] The energy of the second form may comprise a frequency, amplitude or frequency and amplitude modulated analog, digital or combined analog and digital signal.

[0023] The apparatus may further comprise an implanted pulse generator for generating electrical pulses from the energy of the second form rendered by the energy field created by the element having positive and negative regions.

[0024] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the apparatus comprises an implanted operation device for operating the restriction device and a control device for controlling the operation device, wherein the element powers the operation device with the energy of the second form. The operation device preferably comprises a motor, for example an electric linear motor or an electric rotary motor which is controlled by the control device to rotate a desired number of revolutions. The electric motor may have electrically conductive parts made of plastics. Alternatively, the motor may comprise a hydraulic or pneumatic fluid motor, wherein the control device controls the fluid flow through the fluid motor. Motors currently available on the market are getting smaller and smaller. Furthermore, there is a great variety of control methods and miniaturized control equipment available. For example, a number of revolutions of a rotary motor may be analyzed by a Hall-element just a few mm in size.

[0025] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the restriction device comprises hydraulic means and the operation device comprises a pump for pumping a fluid in the hydraulic means, a motor for driving the pump, a valveless fluid conduit between the pump and the hydraulic means of the restriction device, and a reservoir for fluid, wherein the reservoir forms part of the conduit. All of the hydraulic components involved are preferably devoid of any non-return valve. This is of great advantage, because with valves involved there is always a risk of malfunction due to improperly working valves, especially when long time periods passes between valve operations. The reservoir may form a fluid chamber with a variable volume, and the pump may distribute fluid from the chamber to the hydraulic means of the restriction device by reduction of the volume of the chamber and withdraws fluid from the hydraulic means to the chamber by expansion of the volume of the chamber.

[0026] The control device may reverse the operation device by shifting polarity of the energy of the second form. Where the operation device comprises an electric motor the energy of the second form suitably comprises electric energy.

[0027] In accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention, the restriction device is operable to perform a reversible function, such as enlarging and restricting the food passageway, and there is a reversing device implanted in the patient for reversing the function performed by the restriction device. Such a reversing function preferably involves enlarging and restricting the food passageway by the restriction device, suitably in a stepless manner. In this connection, the control device suitably controls the reversing device, which may include a switch, to reverse the function performed by the restriction device. The reversing device may comprise hydraulic means including a valve for shifting the flow direction of a fluid in the hydraulic means. Alternatively, the reversing device may comprise a mechanical reversing device, such as a switch or a gear box.

[0028] Where the reversing device comprises a switch the control device suitably controls the operation of the switch by shifting polarity of energy supplied to the switch. The switch may comprise an electric switch and the source of energy may supply electric energy for the operation of the switch.

[0029] In accordance with a advantageous embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises an energy storage device implanted in the patient for storing the energy of the second form and for supplying energy in connection with the operation of the restriction device. The implanted energy storage device preferably comprises an electric source of energy, such as an accumulator, a rechargeable battery or a combination of an accumulator and rechargeable battery.

[0030] The apparatus may further comprise a switch implanted in the patient for switching the operation of the restriction device and a source of energy implanted in the patient. This embodiment is particularly suited for applications where the energy transmission efficiency of the apparatus is insufficient, i.e. where the implanted restriction device is to perform more advanced operations. Such a source of energy preferably is a battery. Alternatively, the source of energy is an accumulator which also may store the energy of the second form.

[0031] In accordance with a first alternative, the switch is operated by the energy of the second form supplied by the energy storage device to switch from an off mode, in which the source of energy is not in use, to an on mode, in which the source of energy supplies energy for the operation of the restriction device. In this case, the implanted source of energy may comprise a battery, preferably having a life-time of at least 10 years, or an accumulator. However, other kinds of sources are also conceivable, such as a nuclear source of energy or a chemical source of energy.

[0032] In accordance with a second alternative, the apparatus further comprises a remote control for controlling the supply of energy of the implanted source of energy, wherein the switch is operated by the energy of the second form supplied by the energy storage device to switch from an off mode, in which the remote control is prevented from controlling the source of energy and the source of energy is not in use, to a standby mode, in which the remote control is permitted to control the source of energy to supply energy for the operation of the restriction device.

[0033] In accordance with a third alternative, the energy storage device is omitted, wherein the switch is operated by the energy of the second form supplied by the energy transfer device to switch from an off mode, in which the remote control is prevented from controlling the source of energy and the source of energy is not in use, to a standby mode, in which the remote control is permitted to control the source of energy to supply energy for the operation of the restriction device.

[0034] In accordance with a fourth alternative, also the remote control is omitted, wherein the switch is operated by the energy of the second form supplied by the energy transfer device to switch from an off mode, in which the source of energy is not in use, to an on mode, in which the source of energy supplies energy for the operation of the restriction device. Where applicable, in the described embodiments the switch may switch when the energy transmission device is transmitting wireless energy, preferably while the transferred energy of the second form is stabilized by an implanted capacitor, which may temporarily (for a few seconds) store the energy of the second form.

[0035] The switch mentioned above may comprise an electronic switch or, where applicable, a mechanical switch.

[0036] The advantage of using a switch above all is increased control safety, i.e. interfering signals in the patient's surroundings cannot affect the implanted restriction device. Furthermore, the lifetime of the implanted source of energy will be significantly prolonged, since the energy consumption of the apparatus will be reduced to a minimum. During the above mentioned standby mode, the remote control uses energy from the implanted source of energy. By means of the energy transmission device energy may be transmitted to activate the switch to connect the implanted source of energy only when energy is required in connection with the operation of the restriction device.

[0037] All of the above embodiments may be combined with at least one implanted sensor for sensing at least one physical parameter of the patient, wherein the control device may control the restriction device in response to signals by the sensor. For example, the sensor may comprise a pressure sensor for directly or indirectly sensing the pressure against the restriction device, human tissue or in the food passageway. The pressure'sensor may be any suitable known or conventional pressure sensor such as shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,540,731, 4,846,181, 4,738,267, 4,571,749, 4,407,296 or 3,939,823; or an NPC-102 Medical Angioplasty Sensor. The control device may comprise an internal control unit implanted in the patient for, preferably directly, controlling the restriction device in response to signals from the sensor. In response to signals from the sensor, for example pressure, the patient's position or any other important physical parameter, the internal control unit may send information thereon to outside the patient's body. The control unit may also automatically control the restriction device in response to signals from the sensor. For example, the control unit may control the restriction device to further restrict the food passageway in the stomach in response to the sensor sensing that the patient is lying, or enlarge the food passageway in response to the sensor sensing an abnormally high pressure against the restriction device.

[0038] Alternatively, the control device may comprise an external control unit outside the patient's body for, suitably directly, controlling the restriction device in response to signals by the sensor. The external control unit may store information on the physical parameter sensed by the sensor and may be manually operated to control the restriction device based on the stored information. In addition, there may be at least one implanted sender for sending information on the physical parameter sensed by the sensor.

[0039] An external data communicator may be provided outside the patient's body and an internal data communicator may be implanted in the patient for communicating with the external communicator. The implanted communicator may feed data related to the patient, or related to the implanted restriction device, back to the external communicator. Alternatively or in combination, the external communicator may feed data to the internal communicator. The implanted communicator may suitably feed data related to at least one physical signal of the patient. The arrangement of external and internal communicators gives the advantage, among other things, that a long term control of activities related to the implanted restriction device.

[0040] The apparatus may further comprise an implanted programmable control unit for controlling the restriction device, preferably over time in accordance with an activity schedule program. This will advance the apparatus and make possible an adaptation of the apparatus to the individual patients.

[0041] All of the above embodiments are preferably remote controlled. Thus, the apparatus advantageously comprises a wireless remote control transmitting at least one wireless control signal for controlling the restriction device. With such a remote control it will be possible to adapt the function of the apparatus to the patient's need in a daily basis, which is beneficial with respect to the treatment of the patient.

[0042] The wireless remote control may be capable of obtaining information on the condition of the implanted restriction device and of controlling the restriction device in response to the information. Also, The remote control may be capable of sending information related to the restriction device from inside the patient's body to the outside thereof.

[0043] In a particular embodiment of the invention, the wireless remote control comprises at least one external signal transmitter or transceiver and at least one internal signal receiver or transceiver implanted in the patient. In another particular embodiment of the invention, the wireless remote control comprises at least one external signal receiver or transceiver and at least one internal signal transmitter or transceiver implanted in the patient.

[0044] The wireless remote control may transmit a carrier signal for carrying the control signal, wherein the carrier signal is frequency, amplitude or frequency and amplitude modulated and is digital, analog or digital and analog. Also the control signal used with the carrier signal may be frequency, amplitude or frequency and amplitude modulated.

[0045] The control signal may comprise a wave signal, for example, a sound wave signal, such as an ultrasound wave signal, an electromagnetic wave signal, such as an infrared light signal, a visible light signal, an ultra violet light signal, a laser signal, a micro wave signal, a radio wave signal, an x-ray radiation signal, or a gamma radiation signal. Where applicable, two or more of the above signals may be combined.

[0046] The control signal may be digital or analog, and may comprise an electric or magnetic field. Suitably, the wireless remote control may transmit an electromagnetic carrier wave signal for carrying the digital or analog control signal. For example, use of an analog carrier wave signal carrying a digital control signal would give safe communication. The control signal may be transmitted in pulses by the wireless remote control.

[0047] The energy transfer device may be placed in the thorax, abdomen or cephalic region, or implanted subcutaneous.

[0048] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a semiconductor circuitry is substituted for the element of the apparatus having positive and negative regions.

[0049] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a transistor circuitry is substituted for the element of the apparatus having positive and negative regions.

[0050] In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, a microchips is substituted for the element of the apparatus having positive and negative regions.

[0051] Where applicable, the above embodiments described in connection with the first aspect of the invention may also be implemented in the apparatus related to the second, third and fourth aspects of the invention.

[0052] Another object of the present invention is to provide methods for implanting the heartburn and reflux disease apparatus of the invention, and for treating chronic heartburn and reflux disease.

[0053] Accordingly, there is provided an implanting method, comprising the steps of providing a heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus as described above, cutting an opening in a patient's mucosa in an orifice of the patient's body, and

[0054] implanting the energy transfer device in the patient's body through the opening. Alternatively, the cutting step may comprise cutting an opening in the patient's skin and the implanting step may comprise implanting the energy transfer device in the patient's body through the opening.

[0055] There is also provided a laparascopical implanting method, in accordance with a first alternative, comprising the steps of providing a heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus as described above, placing at least two laparascopic cannula within a patient's body, and implanting the energy transfer device in the patient's body by using the at least two laparascopic cannula.

[0056] In accordance with a another alternative there is provided a laparoscopic surgical method of implanting a heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus, comprising the steps of a) laparascopically placing a restriction device of the apparatus through the abdomen or thorax of a patient, b) placing at least two laparoscopic trocar within the patient's body, c) using at least one dissceting tool inserted through the laparoscopic trocar, dissecting the region of the esophagus or stomach, d) introducing the restriction device through the trocar, e) placing the restriction device in engagement with the esophagus or the upper part of the stomach to create a restricted stoma, and f) implanting an energy transfer device of the apparatus.

[0057] The method as recited in a)-e) may further comprise postoperatively adjusting the restricted stoma in a non-invasive procedure.

[0058] The energy transfer device of the apparatus may be implanted, for example subcutaneously, in the abdomen, thorax or cephal region, or other locations in the patient's body.

[0059] According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of treating a human or animal having chronic heartburn and reflux disease comprising: (a) Surgically implanting in the human, or animal a restriction device engaging the human's or animal's stomach, close to the cardia, or esophagus, to form a restricted passageway in the stomach or esophagus. (b) Surgically implanting in the human or animal an operation device which can adjust the restricted passageway in response to supplied energy. And, (c) in a non-invasive post-operative procedure, from time to time, supplying energy to the operation device so as (i) to enlarge the restricted passageway to allow food to readily pass therethrough into the human's or animal's stomach, or to allow the human or animal to regurgitate, or (ii) to restrict the restricted passageway sufficiently so as to substantially prevent regurgitation of stomach acids and foods into the esophagus. In the method (c) may be practiced at least once a day, e.g. several times (e.g. 2-10) a day.

[0060] It is the primary object of the present invention to provide a simple yet effective method and apparatus for treating chronic heartburn and reflux disease in humans or animals. This and other objects of the invention will become clear from an inspection of the detailed description of the invention and from the appended claims.

[0061] FIGS. 1 to 12 are schematic block diagrams illustrating twelve embodiments, respectively, of the heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus of the invention, in which wireless energy is transmitted from outside a patient's body to energy consuming components of the apparatus implanted in the patient;

[0062] FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram illustrating conceivable combinations of implanted components for achieving various communication options;

[0063] FIG. 14 illustrates an electrical junction element for use in the apparatus of the present invention; and

[0064] FIG. 15 illustrates the apparatus in accordance with the invention implanted in a patient.

[0065] FIG. 1 schematically shows a very simple embodiment of the heartburn and reflux disease apparatus of the invention having some parts implanted in a patient and other parts located outside the patient's body. Thus, in FIG. 1 all parts placed to the right of the patient's skin 2 are implanted and all parts placed to the left of the skin 2 are located outside the patient's body.

[0066] The apparatus of FIG. 1 comprises an implanted operable restriction device 4, which engages the patient's stomach close to the cardia (or alternatively engages the esophagus) to form a restricted food passageway in the stomach. The restriction device 4 is capable of performing a reversible function, i.e. to enlarge and reduce the cross-sectional area of the food passageway, so that the restriction device 4 works as an artificial sphincter. An implanted energy transfer device 6 is adapted to supply energy consuming components of the restriction device 4 with energy via a power supply line 12. An external energy transmission device 10 includes a wireless remote control transmitting a wireless signal which is received by a signal receiver incorporated in the implanted energy transfer device 6. The implanted energy transfer device 6 transfers energy from the signal into electric energy which is supplied via the power supply line 12 to the restriction device 4, which energy causes portions of the device 4 to move and thus adjust the opening.

[0067] FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of the invention identical to that of FIG. 1, except that a reversing device in the form of an electric switch 14 also is implanted in the patient for reversing the restriction device 4. The wireless remote control of the external energy transmission device 10 transmits a wireless signal that carries energy and the implanted energy transfer device 6 transfers the wireless energy into a current for operating the switch 14. When the polarity of the current is shifted by the energy transfer device 6 the switch 14 reverses the function performed by the restriction device 4.

[0068] FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of the invention identical to that of FIG. 1, except that an operation device in the form of a motor 15 for operating the restriction. device 4 also is implanted in the patient. The motor 15 is powered with energy from the energy transfer device 6, as the remote control of the external energy transmission device 10 transmits a wireless signal to the receiver of the energy transfer device 6.

[0069] FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the invention identical to that of FIG. 1, except that an assembly 16 including a motor/pump unit 18 and a fluid reservoir 20 also is implanted in the patient. In this case the restriction device 4 is hydraulically operated, i.e. hydraulic fluid is pumped by the motor/pump unit 18 from the reservoir 20 through a conduit 22 to the restriction device 4 to reduce the cross-sectional area of the food passageway, and hydraulic fluid is pumped by the motor/pump unit, 18 back from the restriction device 4 to the reservoir 20 to enlarge the cross-sectional area. The implanted energy transfer device unit 6 transfers wireless energy into a current, for example a polarized current, for powering the motor/pump unit 18 via an electric power supply line 24.

[0070] FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the invention comprising the external energy transmission device 10 with its wireless remote control, the restriction device 4, in this case hydraulically operated, and the implanted energy transfer device 6, and further comprising an implanted hydraulic fluid reservoir 30, an implanted motor/pump unit 32 and an implanted reversing device in the form of a hydraulic valve shifting device 34. The motor of the motor/pump unit 32 is an electric motor. In response to a control signal from the wireless remote control of the external energy transmission device 10, the implanted energy transfer device 6 powers the motor/pump unit 32 with energy from the energy carried by the control signal, whereby the motor/pump unit 32 distributes hydraulic fluid between the reservoir 30 and the restriction device 4. The remote control of the energy transmission device 10 controls the shifting device 34 to shift the hydraulic fluid flow direction between one direction in which the fluid is pumped by the motor/pump unit 32 from the. reservoir 30 to the restriction device 4 to reduce the cross-sectional area of the food passageway, and another opposite direction in which the fluid is pumped by the motor/pump unit 32 back from the restriction device 4 to the reservoir 30 to enlarge the cross-sectional area.

[0071] FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of the invention identical to that of FIG. 1, except that a control unit 36 controlled by the wireless remote control of the external energy transmission device 10, an accumulator 38 and a capacitor 40 also are implanted in the patient. The control unit 36 stores electric energy received from the energy transfer device 6 in the accumulator 38, which supplies energy to the restriction device 4. In response to a control signal from the wireless remote control of the energy transmission device 10, the control unit 6 either releases electric energy from the accumulator 38 and transfers the released energy via power lines 42 and 44, or directly transfers electric energy from the energy transfer device 6 via a power line 46, the capacitor 40, which stabilizes the electric current, a power line 48 and the power line 44, for the operation of the restriction device 4.

[0072] In accordance with one alternative, the capacitor 40 in the embodiment of FIG. 6 may be omitted. In accordance with another alternative, the accumulator 38 in this embodiment may be omitted.

[0073] FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the invention identical to that of FIG. 1, except that a battery 50 for supplying energy for the operation of the restriction device 4 and an electric switch 52 for switching the operation of the restriction device 4 also are implanted in the patient. The switch 52 is operated by the energy supplied by the energy transfer device 6 to switch from an off mode, in which the battery 50 is not in use, to an on mode, in which the battery 50 supplies energy for the operation of the restriction device 4.

[0074] FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of the invention identical to that of FIG. 7, except that a control unit 36 controllable by the wireless remote control of the external energy transmission device 10 also is implanted in the patient. In this case, the switch 52 is operated by the energy supplied by the energy transfer device 6 to switch from an off mode, in which the wireless remote control is prevented from controlling the control unit 36 and the battery -is not in use, to a standby mode, in which the remote control is permitted to control the control unit 36 to release electric energy from the battery 50 for the operation of the restriction device 4.

[0075] FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of the invention identical to that of FIG. 8, except that an accumulator 38 is substituted for the battery 50 and the implanted components are interconnected differently. In this case, the accumulator 38 stores energy from the energy transfer device 6. In response to a control signal from the wireless remote control of the external energy transmission device 10, the implanted control unit 36 controls the switch 52 to switch from an off mode, in which the accumulator 38 is not in use, to an on mode, in which the accumulator 38 supplies energy for the operation of the restriction device 4.

[0076] FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of the invention identical to that of FIG. 9, except that a battery 50 also is implanted in the patient and the implanted components are interconnected differently. In response to a control signal from the wireless remote control of the external energy transmission device 10, the implanted control unit 36 controls the accumulator 38 to deliver energy for operating the switch 52 to switch from an off mode, in which the battery 50 is not in use, to an on mode, in which the battery 50 supplies electric energy for the operation of the restriction device 4.

[0077] Alternatively, the switch 52 may be operated by energy supplied by the accumulator 38 to switch from an off mode, in which the wireless remote control is prevented from controlling the battery 50 to supply electric energy and is not in use, to a standby mode, in which the wireless remote control is permitted to control the battery 50 to supply electric energy for the operation of the restriction device 4.

[0078] FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of the invention identical to that of FIG. 7, except that a motor 15, a mechanical reversing device in the form of a gear box 54 and a control unit 36 for controlling the gear box 54 also are implanted in the patient. The implanted control unit 36 controls the gear box 54 to reverse the function performed by the restriction device 4 (mechanically operated).

[0079] FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of the invention identical to that of FIG. 10 except that the implanted components are interconnected differently. Thus, in this case the control unit 36 is powered by the battery 50 when the accumulator 38, suitably a capacitor, activates the switch 52 to switch to an on mode. When the switch 52 is in its on mode the control unit 36 is permitted to control the battery 50 to supply, or not supply, energy for the operation of the restriction device 4.

[0080] FIG. 13 schematically shows conceivable combinations of implanted components of the apparatus for achieving various communication options. Basically, there are the implanted restriction device 4, control unit 36 and motor/pump unit 18, and the external energy transmission device 10 including the external wireless remote control. As already described above the wireless remote control transmits a control signal which is received by the implanted control unit 36, which in turn controls the various implanted components of the apparatus.

[0081] A sensor 56 may be implanted in the patient for sensing a physical parameter of the patient, such as the pressure in the food passageway. The implanted control unit 36, or alternatively the external wireless remote control of the energy transmission device 10, may control the restriction device 4 in response to signals from the sensor 56. A transceiver may be combined with the sensor 56 for sending information on the sensed physical parameter to the external wireless remote control. The wireless remote control may comprise a signal transmitter or transceiver and the implanted control unit 36 may comprise a signal receiver or transceiver. Alternatively, the wireless remote control may comprise a signal receiver or transceiver and the implanted control unit 36 may comprise a signal transmitter or transceiver. The above transceivers, transmitters and receivers may be used for sending information or data related to the restriction device 4 from inside the patient's body to the outside thereof.

[0082] Where the motor/pump unit 18 and battery 50 for powering the motor/pump unit 18 are implanted, the battery 50 may be equipped with a tranceiver for sending information on the condition of the battery 50.

[0083] Those skilled in the art will realize that the above various embodiments according to FIGS. 1-13 could be combined in many different ways. For example, the energy operated switch 14 could be incorporated in any of the embodiments of FIGS. 3,6-12, the hydraulic shifting device 34 could be incorporated in the embodiment of FIG. 4, and the gear box 54 could be incorporated in the embodiment of FIG. 3.

[0084] FIG. 14 shows an energy transfer device in the form of an electrical junction element 58 for use in any of the above embodiments according to FIGS. 1-13. The element 58 is a flat p-n junction element comprising a p-type semiconductor layer 60 and an n-type semiconductor layer 62 sandwiched together. A light bulb 64 is electrically connected to opposite sides of the element 58 to illustrate how the generated current is obtained. The output of current from such a p-n junction element 58 is correlated to the temperature. See the formula below.

[0085] I=I0(exp(qV/kT)−1)

[0086] where

[0087] I is the external current flow,

[0088] I0 is the reverse saturation current,

[0089] q is the fundamental electronic charge of 1.602×10−19 coulombs,

[0090] V is the applied voltage,

[0091] k is the Boltzmann constant, and

[0092] T is the absolute temperature.

[0093] Under large negative applied voltage (reverse bias), the exponential term becomes negligible compared to 1.0, and I is approximately −I0. I0 is strongly dependent on the temperature of the junction and hence on the intrinsic-carrier concentration. I0 is larger for materials with smaller bandgaps than for those with larger bandgaps. The rectifier action of the diode—that is, its restriction of current flow to only one direction—is in this particular embodiment the key to the operation of the p-n junction element 58.

[0094] An alternative way to design a p-n junction element is to deposit a thin layer of semiconductor onto a supporting material which does not absorb the kind of energy utilized in the respective embodiments. For use with wirelessly transmitted energy in terms of light waves, glass could be a suitable material. Various materials may be used in the semiconductor layers such as but not limited to cadmium telluride, copper-indium-diselenide and silicon. It is also possible to use a multilayer structure with several layers of p and n-type materials to improve efficiency.

[0095] The electric energy generated by the p-n junction element 58 could be of the same type as generated by solar cells, in which the negative and positive fields create a direct current. Alternatively, the negative and positive semiconductor layers may change polarity following the transmitted waves, thereby generating an alternating current. The p-n junction element 58 is designed to make it suited for implantation. Thus, all the external surfaces of the element 58 in contact with the human body are made of a biocompatible material. The p-n junction semiconductors are designed to operate optimally at a body temperature of 37° C. because the current output, which should be more than 1 μA, is significantly depending on temperature as shown above. Since both the skin and subcutis absorb energy, the relation between the sensitivity or working area of the element 58 and the intensity or strength of the wireless energy transmission is considered. The p-n junction element 58 preferably is designed flat and small. Alternatively, if the element 58 is made in larger sizes it should be flexible, in order to adapt to the patient's body movements. The volume of the element 58 should be kept less than 2000 cm³.

[0096] FIG. 15 generally illustrates how any of the above-described embodiments of the heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus of the invention may be implanted in a patient. Thus, a restriction device 4 implanted in a patient engages the esophagus 66 close to the cardia to form an artificial sphincter around the food passageway in the esophagus. An implanted operation device 68, which may also be referred to as an adjustment device, such as an electric motor or a motor/pump assembly, operates the restriction device 4 through a transmission member 70, such as a mechanical transmission cord or a fluid tube. An energy transfer device in the form of an element 6 having a positive region and a negative region, as described above in more detail, is placed underneath the skin of the patient.

[0097] Wireless energy carried by a signal transmitted by a wireless remote control of an external energy transmission device 10 at least partly penetrates the patient's skin and hits the element 6. The energy thus hitting the element 6 is transferred into energy of a different form that is suited for powering the operation device 68. For example, where the operation device 68 is an electric motor the element 6 comprises an electric p-n junction element that transfers the wireless energy into an electric current for powering the electric motor. Where the operation device 68 comprises a pump, the element 6 may transfer the wireless energy into kinetic energy for powering the pump.

[0098] The transferred energy may be utilized for directly operating the restriction device 4 or, where the restriction device 4 is electrically operated, for storage in a capacitor and/or an accumulator for later or parallel use. Preferably (but not necessarily) the element 6 is controlled by a microprocessor. The wireless remote control of the external energy transmission device 10 is used to control the utilization of the transmitted energy and any function or command to/from the implanted restriction device 4.

[0099] In the practice of the present invention the details of the elongated restriction device 4 (such as a gastric band) and the adjustment/operation device (which may have electric, hydraulic, or mechanical, etc. actuation) 6, may be as described in copending applications Ser. No. 09/133,319, filed Aug. 13, 1998 (Atty Ref: 2333-12), Ser. No. 09/133,320, filed Aug. 13, 1998 (Atty Ref: 2333-11) and Ser. No. 09/133,322, filed Aug. 13, 1998 (Anty Ref: 2333-13), the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0100] The invention also comprises or consists of the foregoing structures and method steps, and is to be interpreted as broadly as allowed by the prior art.