MICHAEL M WARREN, M.D.
Urology at University Blvd, Galveston, TX

5328451, Jul 12, 1994

Aug 15, 1991

7/745592

Charles P. Davis - Galveston TX
Michael M. Warren - Galveston TX

Board of Regents, the University of Texas System - Austin TX

A61N 130

604 20

An apparatus and method for killing microbes, including bacteria or yeast-like fungus within or on a conductive medium, is provided including positive and negative electrodes which may be activated to generate antimicrobial agents from within the conductive medium. The agents are any form of anions including atoms or molecules derived from inorganic salts present within the conductive medium. Due to residual killing effect caused by the presence of internally generated antimicrobial agents, constant activation of the electrodes is not necessary thereby allowing intermittent activation in order to prolong the life of the metallic or non-metallic electrodes. Electrode polarity can be reversed periodically to drive precipitation from the electrode surface and to also extend electrode life.

4411648, Oct 25, 1983

Jun 11, 1981

6/272484

Charles P. Davis - Galveston TX
Michael M. Warren - Galveston TX
David W. Arnett - Monrovia CA

Board of Regents, The University of Texas System - Austin TX

A61H 130

604 21

A urinary catheter which comprises two internal heavy metal-containing electrodes disposed proximate the distal orifice of the catheter. The catheter is adapted for iontophoresis application for the purpose of preventing bacterial infection associated with catheterization procedures. Provision is made for connecting the electrodes to a constant electromotive force source. Iontophoretic operation of the catheter employs electromotive force to generate heavy metal ions at the electrode surfaces. The heavy metal ions are driven into an electrolyte solution provided by urine or tissue fluid near the site of the catheter tip. Heavy metal ions such as gold, silver, platinum, iron, and copper have been demonstrated to have antibacterial activity.