Last updated: February 21, 2026
What is the scope of AU2011313852?
Patent AU2011313852, titled "Method and apparatus for treating reflex sympathetic dystrophy," was filed by Eli Lilly and Company on December 19, 2011, and published on June 28, 2012. It claims a novel method involving a medical device designed for nerve modulation to treat complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), formerly known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD).
The patent's scope covers:
- Methods for nerve stimulation or modulation specifically targeting sympathetic nerves involved in CRPS.
- Devices capable of delivering electrical or other forms of neuromodulation to identified nerve sites.
- Specific parameters for stimulation, including pulse frequency, duration, and intensity.
- Use of such devices for diagnosing or treating CRPS in limbs or other regions.
The claims emphasize targeted neuromodulation of the sympathetic nervous system with minimally invasive techniques, asserting novelty over prior art that involves broad or non-specific nerve stimulation.
What are the key claims?
The patent comprises 20 claims, with the core claims as follows:
Independent Claims
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Claim 1: A method of treating CRPS involving delivering electrical stimulation to sympathetic nerves associated with the affected limb or region.
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Claim 8: A medical device comprising an electrode assembly configured for implantation or external attachment, adapted to deliver electrical pulses with specified parameters to sympathetic nerves.
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Claim 15: A combination of a nerve stimulation device and a control unit designed to deliver stimulation according to pre-defined parameters for CRPS treatment.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims specify parameters such as:
- Stimulation pulse frequency between 1 Hz and 100 Hz.
- Stimulation duration ranging from a few seconds to several minutes per session.
- Use of particular electrode placement techniques to target specific nerve pathways.
- Implementation of feedback mechanisms to modulate stimulation based on patient response.
Scope of Claims
The claims primarily protect:
- The method of treating CRPS via targeted neuromodulation.
- Devices with specific configurations for nerve stimulation.
- Specific stimulation parameters believed to optimize therapeutic outcomes.
Claims do not broadly cover general nerve stimulation, but focus on treating CRPS with defined stimulation protocols and device configurations.
How does the patent landscape look for AU2011313852?
Overlap and Related Patents
The patent exists within a landscape involving neuromodulation, nerve stimulation, and pain management. Key related patents include:
- US patent 7,288,213 (Stimulation Devices for Pain), assigned to Medtronic, filed in 2004.
- WO patent 2010/135724 (Electrical Stimulation Apparatus Targeting Sympathetic Nerves), filed by Boston Scientific.
- EP patent 2,475,693 (Method for Treating Pain with Peripheral Nerve Stimulation).
Broadly, the patent landscape indicates early patenting activity around nerve stimulation for CRPS from 2000 onward, with several major players holding patents on device configurations and specific stimulation protocols.
Patent Families and Priority
AU2011313852 claims priority from an earlier provisional application filed in 2010, and is part of a patent family that includes corresponding patents in Europe (EP), U.S. (US), and Canada (CA). The filing strategy appears to cover key markets for medical devices used in pain management.
Patent Status and Potential Challenges
- The patent is granted and remains enforceable until 2032, subject to maintenance fee payments.
- Some prior art references exist, focusing on nerve stimulation for pain relief, but claims tailored to specific parameters or device configurations may sustain validity.
- Litigation or opposition has not been publicly recorded in Australian patent tribunals to date.
Trends and Innovation Focus
The patent consolidates a niche within neuromodulation, emphasizing precise nerve targeting and parameter control. Innovations in electrode design, feedback systems, and minimally invasive procedures continue to expand the landscape.
Competitive Position
While Eli Lilly traditionally focuses on pharmaceuticals, this patent indicates strategic diversification into medical devices for pain management. Competitors such as Medtronic and Boston Scientific possess broad portfolios in nerve stimulation with overlapping claims but generally pursue wider claims or broader device categories.
Summary of Market and Legal Position
- The patent's current scope captures specific methods and device configurations for treating CRPS with electrical neuromodulation.
- Validation of claims relies on distinguishing features like stimulation parameters and electrode placement.
- The protected territory includes Australia and, via the patent family, key international markets.
- The competitive landscape encompasses devices and methods, with ongoing innovations focused on refinement of stimulation techniques, feedback integration, and minimally invasive procedures.
Key Takeaways
- AU2011313852 secures rights to specific neuromodulation methods for CRPS treatment.
- Claims focus on targeted nerve stimulation parameters and device configurations.
- The patent operates within a crowded landscape but maintains enforceability based on narrow claim scope.
- Patent strategy underscores a focus on device personalization and therapeutic efficacy.
- The patent family coverage grants broader international protection, supporting potential commercialization.
FAQs
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What is the primary medical condition addressed by the patent?
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).
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Which components are protected under the patent claims?
Methods of treatment via electrical stimulation, specific device configurations, and stimulation parameters.
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Are similar patents available in other jurisdictions?
Yes, similar claims exist in the US, Europe, and Canada as part of a broader patent family.
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What are the primary technical innovations?
Targeted neuromodulation with specific pulse frequencies, durations, electrode placement, and control mechanisms.
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What is the current patent status?
The patent is granted and remains enforceable until 2032 if maintenance fees are paid; no significant legal disputes are publicly known.
References
[1] Eli Lilly and Company. (2012). Patent AU2011313852. "Method and apparatus for treating reflex sympathetic dystrophy."
[2] United States Patent and Trademark Office. (2008). US patent 7,288,213.
[3] World Intellectual Property Organization. (2010). WO publication 2010/135724.
[4] European Patent Office. (2013). EP 2475693.
