Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus is disclosed for detecting a wireless energy receiving device subcutaneously implanted in a patient's body to enable accurate positioning of a wireless energy transmission device outside the patient's body relative to the energy receiving device. Also disclosed is a method for detecting the wireless energy receiving device whereby an energy transmission device can be positioned to efficiently transmit wireless energy to the implanted energy receiving device. The apparatus includes a magnetic device that is subcutaneously implanted in the patient adjacent to the energy receiving device to emit a local magnetic field through the patient's skin adjacent to the energy receiving device. A magnetic detector movable externally along the patient's body is capable of detecting the local magnetic field emitted by the magnetic device. This allows the energy transmission device to be located for the efficient transmission of wireless energy to the implanted energy receiving device. Alternatively, the apparatus can include a magnetic detector subcutaneously implanted in the patient at the energy receiving device and an exterior magnetic device movable along the patient's skin to emit a magnetic field that is detected by the implanted magnetic detector. Preferably, the magnetic detector includes a semiconductor circuit that is comprised of at least one Hall element. The magnetic device may be a solenoid or a permanent magnet. The energy receiving device can be used to control a restriction device implant designed for treating reflux disease, urinary incontinence, impotence, anal incontinence or obesity.

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First Claim