03rd week of 2009 patent applcation highlights part 52 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20090018544 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SOFT TISSUE BALANCING - A soft tissue balancer in the form of a tensioner, a controller, and software for operating the controller and, correspondingly, the tensioner. The tensioner may be configured for receipt between the femur and the tibia and includes a pair of condylar components having individual, extendable support platforms. The support platforms may be raised or lowered to contact the femoral condyles and distraction the tibia and femur for ligament tensioning and soft tissue balancing. Once the support platforms contact the femoral condyles, range of motion testing of the knee joint may be performed and the various heights achieved and/or forces experienced by the support platforms recorded. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018545 | Automatic Bone Traction Device - An automatic bone traction device for correction bone deformities is disclosed. The automatic bone traction device can include a main body, a step motor, a series of transmission gears, and connectors. In one implementation, the step motor operates at a speed of eight steps per second, and the series of transmission gears can step down the motion of the step motor to two revolutions per day. The generated driving torque is then transmitted to a bone distractor, such as a commercially available intermittent distractor. The automatic bone traction device is capable of activating the bone distractor continuously at a rate of two revolutions per day. Advantageously, a flexible shaft is used to connect between the transmission gear assembly and the bone distractor. The flexible shaft allows the main body of the bone traction device to be mounted away from the bone distractor at a convenient location for the user. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018546 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING PIN PLACEMENT DURING HIP SURGERY - New apparatuses and methods for their design and use are disclosed that can be used to assist a surgeon in placing a guide pin during hip surgery. Specifically, a hip surgery method is disclosed in which an image of a patient's femur can be obtained and used to design and prepare a mold that contains an aperture for guiding a drill at the desired location and angle. During surgery the mold can be quickly and accurately positioned on the exposed femur head. Then, a drill bit can be inserted through the aperture and an opening for a pin can be drilled into the femur head. The mold can have a unique contoured surface adapted to fit to the femur head in a single unique position such that the opening is made in a unique desired position. The apparatuses and methods facilitate faster, more accurate surgery and are less invasive. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018547 | MINIMAL ACCESS OCCIPITAL DRILL/TAP PERSUADER - An assembly includes a lever to guide a surgical tool, such as drill, during operation. The lever includes an arm for engaging a surgical tool. A guide member is pivotally coupled to the lever. The arm is pivotally displaceable relative to the guide member in an arc-shaped path, while the guide member is adapted to restrict movement of a surgical tool in a generally linear direction in response to pivotal displacement of the arm. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018548 | Pneumatically-Powered Intraocular Lens Injection Device with Removable Cartridge - A device for injecting an intraocular lens into an eye includes a compartment for holding an intraocular lens, a plunger engaged with the compartment, a nozzle coupled to the compartment, and a pneumatic cylinder. The pneumatic cylinder has a chamber and a cylinder connected to a shaft. The shaft is connected to the plunger. The shaft has teeth located on its surface. A pawl engages the teeth to limit the movement of the shaft to a dispensing direction. Pneumatic pressure introduced into the chamber moves the piston, shaft, and plunger in the dispensing direction so as to push the intraocular lens through the nozzle | 2009-01-15 |
20090018549 | APPARATUS FOR OCCLUDING BODY LUMENS - A luminal occlusion device comprises a tension member, an elongate shaft, and a flat film having an axial receptacle which is received over a distal portion of the tension member. The flat film has proximal and distal ends which are attached to the distal ends of the tension member and the elongate shaft, respectively. Thus, distal advancement of the tension member relative to the shaft will cause the flat film to assume a low profile configuration, while proximal retraction of the tension member relative to the elongate shaft will cause the flat film to assume a foreshortened, compacted configuration. The film usually includes one or more radioopaque markers which help shape the compacted film. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018550 | FRAGMENTATION AND EXTRACTION BASKET - A surgical instrument for fragmenting and extracting stones includes an outer sheath having a proximal end and a distal end and an inner core longitudinally extending through the core and longitudinally movable relative to the core. The outer sheath has a basket sized for entrapping the stones and located near the distal end of the outer sheath. The distal end of the inner core is longitudinally moveable from a retracted position within the basket to an extended position past the distal end of the outer sheath. The distal end of the inner core is also adapted to engage and fragment the stones. Longitudinal movement of the inner core relative to the outer sheath transforms the basket from an expanded condition to a collapsed condition to entrap stones within the basket and provide a small profile for insertion and withdrawal. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018551 | Back hair removal system - A method and apparatus for removal of back hair involving the delivery of a depilatory agent by means of wearing a garment, cloth or article of clothing. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018552 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR FORMING AND SECURING GASTROINTESTINAL TISSUE FOLDS - Apparatus and methods are provided for forming a gastrointestinal tissue fold by engaging tissue at a first tissue contact point, moving the first tissue contact point from a position initially distal to a second tissue contact point to a position proximal of the second contact point to form a tissue fold, and extending an anchor assembly through the tissue fold near the second tissue contact point. Adjustable anchor assemblies, as well as anchor delivery systems, are also provided. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018553 | MULTI-ACTUATING TRIGGER ANCHOR DELIVERY SYSTEM - A single trigger system and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchor devices for such purposes. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018554 | Suture passing and retrieval device - A surgical instrument has a suture passer/advanoer and a suture retriever manipulated from a common handle. The retriever is preferably a loop that closes around the suture advanced through it by the advancer. The loop is retracted to draw it around the suture. The retriever has a fork like distal end to readily advance and let go of the suture after it is in the loop of the retriever. The advancer and retriever can be manipulated longitudinally and rotationally with respect to a tubular body through which they extend so that the suture retriever can be passed through a needle pierced through tissue to be sutured, the suture may be advanced and guided into the retriever loop to be gripped. Retracting the instrument will cause one end of the suture to be pulled retrograde through the tissue. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018555 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ATTACHING A VEIN, AN ARTERY, OR A TUBE IN A VASCULAR ENVIRONMENT - A device for assisting in a vascular procedure is provided that includes a handle and one or more legs that are operable to move in response to a force being applied to the handle. The legs are operable to extend and to contract in order to manipulate a conduit. In a more particular embodiment, the device can be used in conjunction with a stand operable to receive the conduit such that the conduit can be removed from the stand by the device. The stand may include one or more graduations that indicate the size of the conduit once it is positioned on the stand. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018556 | CLAMP FOR POSITIONING A SUPERELASTIC OSTEOSYNTHESIS CLIP - A clamp has two arms with gripping jaws for supporting and positioning a superelastic osteosynthesis clip The osteosynthesis clip comprising a web from which two flanges to be inserted into two portions of bone emerge. The clamp also has component for preventing the jaws from being opened beyond a point at which the angle between the flanges of a clamp supported clip is greater than 90°; and a second component for preventing the jaws from being closed beyond a point at which the angle between the flanges and the web is substantially 90°. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018557 | Multi-axis connection and methods for internal spinal stabilizers - A multi-axis connection for transferring load from the vertebrae of a patient to a plate extending from one vertebra to another vertebra when the plate is affixed to the respective vertebrae by screwing screws into the bodies of the vertebrae. The screws extend through holes in the plate at the level of the respective vertebrae, each screw being oriented at any one of a plurality of angles relative to the plate so as to effectively transfer load. The threaded shank of each screw is screwed into the vertebral body and the head of each screw is positioned in the central portion of the hole, the hole being defined by an aperture, an opening through which the shank of the screw extends, and the central portion between the aperture and the opening. The diameter of the head of the screw is larger than the diameter of the aperture of the hole in the plate and the head is provided with a screw thread that engages the smaller diameter aperture of the hole to pull the head of the screw into the central portion of the hole when the screw is rotated relative to the plate, the head of the screw being retained within the hole by the smaller diameter aperture and the opening of the hole. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018558 | METHODS OF ORGAN RECONFIGURATION - An endoluminal treatment device and method includes introducing an endoluminal device into a lumen of a patient and engaging a wall of the lumen with an implant device. The implant device can be a drug delivery device or medical device. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018559 | Temporarily Stiffened Mesh Prostheses - The present invention relates to medical prostheses and methods of manufacturing those devices. In particular, the prostheses are temporarily stiffened meshes with particular coatings to provide initial stiffness and thereby permit easier surgical handling for treatment or reconstruction of soft tissue defects. Preferred embodiments include surgical meshes coated with one or more biodegradable polymers that can act as a stiffening agent by coating the filaments or fibers of the mesh to temporarily immobilize the contact points of those filaments or fibers and/or by increasing the stiffness of the mesh by at least 1.1 times its original stiffness. The devices of the invention can also provide relief from various post-operative complications associated with their implantation, insertion or surgical use. By including biologically active agents and/or drugs in the coating, the devices provide prophylaxis for and can alleviate side effects or complications associated with the surgery or use of prostheses in general. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018560 | METHOD FOR FASTENING AN IMPLANT TO BONE TISSUE AND CORRESPONDING IMPLANT SYSTEM - An implant designed e.g. as a replacement for an articulating surface of a human or animal joint is secured to the bone tissue with the aid of a plurality of fasteners ( | 2009-01-15 |
20090018561 | Medical device for repair of tissue and method for implantation and fixation - The present invention relates to medical devices for repairing tissue and more specifically to devices which facilitate tissue regeneration and to surgical methods for the implantation and fixation of such devices. In one embodiment, the medical device is an elongate conduit that includes a longitudinal bore extending therethrough to facilitate the transfer of blood from a vascular region of tissue to a tear or damaged area located in an avascular and/or semi-vascular region of tissue. A filament and/or filaments are attached to the conduit and are positioned to secure the conduit and fixate the adjacent tear walls in mutual engagement. In another embodiment, a series of conduits are connected via a filament and/or filaments to facilitate the implantation of multiple conduits. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018562 | Percutaneous catheter directed intravascular occlusion devices - The present invention provides an improved vascular occlusion device having improved flexibility and retention of the type fabricated from braided tubular metal fabric having an expanded preset configuration and an elongated collapsed reduced diameter configuration for delivery through a catheter to a treatment site and shaped to create an occlusion of an abnormal opening in a body organ or vessel, the woven metal fabric having a memory property whereby the medical device tends to return to said expanded preset configuration when unconstrained. The device further including at least one disk portion adjacent a body cylindrical portion formed from the fabric and having a transition diameter between the disk and cylindrical portion, significantly smaller than the diameter of the disk and the diameter of the cylindrical portion. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018563 | STRIPPING DEVICE FOR REMOVAL OF VARICOSE VEINS - A vein stripping device for removal of varicose veins including a base body and a guide cable, which is connectable to the base body and insertable into a varicose vein. Attached to the base body is at least one lens which receives incident optical light to generate light energy for cutting and severing the varicose vein. The surgery is substantially pain-free and ensures a blood-dry lumen or stripping-channel. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018564 | Rotational Device with Eccentric Abrasive Element and Method of Use - A rotational device for removing an occlusion from inside a tubular structure, the device comprising a drive shaft ( | 2009-01-15 |
20090018565 | Atherectomy devices, systems, and methods - The devices and methods generally relate to treatment of occluded body lumens. In particular, the present devices and method relate to removal of the occluding material from the blood vessels as well as other body lumens. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018566 | Atherectomy devices, systems, and methods - The devices and methods generally relate to treatment of occluded body lumens. In particular, the present devices and method relate to removal of the occluding material from the blood vessels as well as other body lumens. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018567 | Atherectomy devices, systems, and methods - The devices and methods generally relate to treatment of occluded body lumens. In particular, the present devices and method relate to removal of the occluding material from the blood vessels as well as other body lumens. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018568 | Medical Instrument - A medical instrument has a shaft. The shaft has an outer shaft and an inner shaft. The outer shaft encloses the inner shaft. The medical instrument further has an actuator for rotating the inner shaft about a longitudinal axis relative to the outer shaft, arranged at a proximal end region of the shaft. The medical instrument has at least two tappet elements for transferring a rotary movement of the actuator to the inner shaft, which are engaged interchangeably with the inner shaft for transferring the rotary movement of the actuator to the inner shaft. The tappet elements reach through peripherally limited openings in a proximal end region of the outer shaft, which openings are offset with respect to one another in the longitudinal direction. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018569 | APPARATUS FOR OCCLUDING BODY LUMENS - A luminal occlusion device comprises a tension member, an elongate shaft, and a flat film having an axial receptacle which is received over a distal portion of the tension member. The flat film has proximal and distal ends which are attached to the distal ends of the tension member and the elongate shaft, respectively. Thus, distal advancement of the tension member relative to the shaft will cause the flat film to assume a low profile configuration, while proximal retraction of the tension member relative to the elongate shaft will cause the flat film to assume a foreshortened, compacted configuration. The film usually includes one or more radioopaque markers which help shape the compacted film. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018570 | EXPANDABLE PROSTHETIC VALVE CRIMPING DEVICE - A device for crimping an implantable device or a part thereof between a radially expanded condition and a radially contracted condition, includes first and second annular bodies arranged about a common axis, and a ring-like array of linear crimping elements having respective opposite ends linked to the first and second annular bodies, respectively. These annular bodies are relatively rotatable around the common axis between a first position, wherein the annular array of crimping elements define a wider orifice for receiving a device to be crimped, and a second position, wherein the annular array of crimping elements define a narrower orifice. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018571 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING AIR PRESSURE ON A PORTION OF THE BODY OF AN INDIVIDUAL - A system is provided by applying pressure to a portion of a body of an individual in a chamber having an aperture along a vertical axis for receiving the portion of the body of the individual. A pressure sensor is coupled to the chamber for measuring a pressure inside the chamber. A negative feedback control system, calibrates, adjusts and maintains the pressure inside the chamber. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018572 | Device for grasping and/or severing - A surgical device ( | 2009-01-15 |
20090018573 | Medical instrument - The invention relates to a medical instrument having a hollow shaft, a tool positioned on the distal end of the shaft consisting of a rigid jaw member and a jaw member that can rotate with respect to the rigid jaw member, as well as a handle positioned on the proximal end of the shaft. The tool and the handle are in active connection with one another by a push-pull rod mounted in the shaft, and the jaw members of the tool are mounted on one another by pins. It is proposed with the invention that the push-pull rod should be configured as a hollow slide tube mounted in the shaft so that it can slide axially and is in active connection with the rotatable jaw member by an actuation element that is essentially rod-shaped. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018574 | CLOSURE DEVICE - An interventional medical closure device comprises a first engagement element for engagement with an external surface of a vessel on a first side of an opening | 2009-01-15 |
20090018575 | TISSUE-ADHESIVE FORMULATIONS - A tissue-adhesive formulation comprises a particulate material having tissue-reactive functional groups, in admixture with a particulate buffer material. The formulation is preferably free or substantially free of materials of human or animal origin. In preferred embodiments, the formulation consists, or consists essentially of, an anhydrous or partially hydrated blend of particulate material having tissue-reactive functional groups and particulate buffer material. Also disclosed is a multilayer sheet comprising a structural support coated on at least one side thereof with such a tissue-adhesive formulation. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018576 | Methods and Systems for Treating Hiatal Hernias - The present invention relates generally to medical methods and systems used to restore the angle of His and treat hiatal hernias and other conditions of the lower esophagus. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method and system that allows fixation of the distal esophagus and fundus of the stomach directly to the diaphragmatic crus muscle. The present invention provides a method where the diaphragmatic crus muscle is identified and precisely located from within and through the gastrointestinal lumen followed by the placement of a translumenal anchor which connects and secures the esophagus and stomach to the diaphragmatic crus muscle. This procedure reduces the hiatal hernia, restores the normal anatomy and treats conditions associated with the lower esophagus. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018577 | BARBED SUTURES - A barbed suture for connecting tissue, and a combination surgical needle with a barbed suture. The suture includes an elongated body and a plurality of barbs projecting from the body. Each barb causes the suture to resist movement in an opposite direction from which the barb faces. The disposition of the barbs on the body may be staggered, twist cut multiple spiral, overlapping, or random. Also, the configuration of the barbs may be a certain spirality angle α, barb cut angle θ, barb cut depth, barb cut length, barb cut distance, corrugated barb underside, arcuate barb base, or varying barb size. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018578 | Wound closure product - A wound closure system and a method of closing a wound are disclosed. The wound closure system includes a plurality of skin anchors mechanically attached to external skin tissue around a periphery of a wound, a line extending between the skin anchors, the line slidably engaged with each skin anchor, and a biasing member that provides tension on the line to draw all of the skin anchors toward the wound. The method of closing a wound includes the steps of attaching a plurality of skin anchors to external skin around a periphery of a wound, extending a line between the skin anchors around substantially the entire periphery of the wound, and providing tension to the line to draw the skin anchors toward the wound. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018579 | Wound closure product - A wound closure system and a method of closing a wound are disclosed. The wound closure system includes a plurality of skin anchors mechanically attached to external skin tissue around a periphery of a wound, a line extending between the skin anchors, the line slidably engaged with each skin anchor, and a biasing member that provides tension on the line to draw all of the skin anchors toward the wound. The method of closing a wound includes the steps of attaching a plurality of skin anchors to external skin around a periphery of a wound, extending a line between the skin anchors around substantially the entire periphery of the wound, and providing tension to the line to draw the skin anchors toward the wound. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018580 | Surgical Method and Apparatus - A surgical method and apparatus is provided for reducing the effects of aging skin. SSTFM under the skin is engaged through an incision by a suture needle that carries a suture. The sutured SSTFM is lifted, and sutured to a fixed facial structure such as a ligament, bone, periosteum or deep facia (hereby reattaching the tissue under the skin to the fixed facial structure. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018581 | SOFT TISSUE FIXATION ASSEMBLY AND METHOD - A soft tissue fixation assembly comprises an anchor element which is installed in a bone or other tissue and a suture joiner element which mates with the anchor element. The suture joiner element includes a suture retaining element that securely retains suture and which is connected to the anchor element. Energy is transmitted through the suture joiner element to cause relative vibratory motion between the respective components and localized collapsing and compressing of the suture joiner element to secure the suture within the suture joiner element and to secure the suture joiner element within the anchor element. The soft tissue segment is thus fixed to the bone via the sutures secured in the bone anchor. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018582 | Lip Closing Tool - A lip closing tool can be configured to encourage an infant or the like to close his/her mouth unconsciously and keep his/her mouth closed, thereby encouraging formation of a habit of nasal respiration. The lip closing tool can include a lip contact portion that is contacted by the outer surface of the lips during use, and a main body that is configured to be disposed inside the oral cavity during use. The main body can include a teeth contact portion that is disposed on the outer surface of the teeth during use and extends in a left-right direction. A thin lip contacting portion can connect the lip contact portion to the teeth contact portion and can be contacted by the upper and lower lips during use. The teeth contact portion can be formed entirely and integrally from a flexible material. Stimulation portions can be provided by enlarging the volume of the teeth contact portion near the end of right and left paths thereof. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018583 | Dynamic spinal stabilization system incorporating a wire rope - A device, or series of devices, for use in stabilizing two or more vertebrae of the spine—specifically, a wire rope which is used with pedicle screws as a dynamic spinal stabilization system, thereby allowing limited motion of the vertebrae. The system may also allow load transfer to an intervertebral bone graft or bone graft substitute. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018584 | VERTEBRA ATTACHMENT METHOD AND SYSTEM - A vertebral attachment method and system that minimizes or eliminates the risk of severing, compressing, impinging or otherwise injuring the vertebral artery vertebral vein, spinal nerve roots and/or spinal cord. The system includes at least one plate that may be anchored to a posterior region of a vertebra using at least one clamp and fastener. The system may be specifically designed to retain a portion of the posterior region of the vertebra. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018585 | FACET ARTHROPLASTY DEVICES AND METHODS - Devices and surgical methods treat various types of adult spinal pathologies, such as degenerative spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, degenerative lumbar scoliosis, and kypho-scoliosis. Various types of spinal joint replacement prostheses, surgical procedures for performing spinal joint replacements, and surgical instruments are used to perform the surgical procedures. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018586 | Spinal Cross-Connector - A spinal cross-connector is configured for adjustable connection between spinal fixation devices such as spinal fixation rods and allows for adjustment in length or distance between adjacent spinal rod clamping members and provides independent rotational adjustment of the two spinal rod clamping members for individual and independent attachment thereof to adjacent spinal rods of a spinal rod assembly. The cross-connector has first and second connection members that are adjustable in length and rotation relative to one another. A first spinal rod clamping member is provided on an end of the first connection member and defines first and second arced jaws that are adapted to clamp onto a first spinal rod. A second spinal rod clamping member is provided on an end of the second connection member and defines first and second arced jaws that are adapted to clamp onto a second spinal rod. Both the first and second clamping members are rotatable relative to the connection arms and thus provide the rotational adjustment. The individual and independent rotational adjustment of the spinal rod clamping members allows the present cross-connector to adjust to variations in skew between adjacent spinal rods as well as provide the ability to attach to the adjacent spinal rods at various angles between the adjacent spinal rods. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018587 | FRACTURE PLATE AND METHOD FOR FIXATION OF SAME TO A BONE SHAFT - Embodiments of the invention provide bone plates with an upper surface, a lower surface, and a longitudinal plate portion for fixation to a bone shaft. A longitudinal plate portion may have three or more non-collinear holes for locking screws, whereby the axis of at least one hole may be angled relative to the axis of another hole to improve the torsional strength of the plate-bone construct. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018588 | Orthopedic screw fastener system - An orthopedic screw fastener system, includes at least one screw, consisting in each case of a screw head and of a screw shank, the screw head being provided with a thread, and at least one plate with a thickness, provided with at least one through-bore which is able to receive a screw. The plate has a through-opening, formed by at least two through-bores, each through-bore being defined by a midpoint and by a radius, and the through-bores are offset relative to each other and intersect each other in such a way that intersection lines and/or intersection surfaces form, which extend into the depth of the through-opening. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018589 | Bone Screw - A bone screw is provided for securing a medical device to bone. The bone screw can engage with a bone screw hole in a medical device, such as an anterior cervical plate or sternal closure plate. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018590 | Device for fixation of bone fractures - A device and method for fixation of bone fractures has a bone screw comprising a shank with a threaded end portion, on the outer surface. The screw has a through bore with two bore portions differing in diameter. A step in the diameter is formed between these bore portions and is located within the end of the screw having the thread. This step in diameter can support a metal insert which in turn supports a polymer pin when the latter if pressurized with a sonotrode in the bone screw. Together with an applied ultrasonic vibration the pressure fluidizes the polymer pin and presses the material through holes configured in the wall of the bone screw and into surrounding bone. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018591 | Polyaxial Pedicle Screw Assembly - A fastener and a bone fixation assembly for the internal fixation of vertebral bodies such as a pedicle screw is provided which allows a detachable tulip to be provisionally locked to a pedicle screw, while separately, the rod securely locks to the tulip. According to one exemplary embodiment, the tulip assembly includes a tulip body and an inner tulip member, the tulip body having a non-circular surface disposed on an outer surface. Additionally, a fastener is coupled to the tulip assembly and positionable to retain the tulip assembly on the head of a screw. Further, a cap having an outer surface and a plurality of inner protrusions is provided, wherein the plurality of inner protrusions are configured to mateably connect to the non-circular surface on the tulip body to compress the tulip assembly and secure a rod. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018592 | BONE SCREW FOR ORTHOPEDIC APPARATUS - A bone screw deforms on the same order as the bone, thus providing substantially uniform loading along an entire length of the thread of the bone screw. The bone screw of the present invention evenly distributes stress by matching the effective cross-sectional area of the bone screw times its modulus of elasticity with the effective cross-sectional area of the parent material (i.e. bone) times its modulus of elasticity so that they are preferably substantially equal to each other. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018593 | ROD REDUCTION DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - Provided is a novel rod reducing device including a screw jack mechanism that is moveably engaged with an elongated grasping fork assembly, the screw jack mechanism having an elongated threaded portion, the elongated threaded portion being connected at its most distal end to a rod contact member, which is positioned in sliding circumferential contact with each of the two opposing elongated grasping members and the most proximal end of the elongated threaded portion terminating in a controlling member, which can be activated in a measured and controlled manner. A method of using the device is also provided. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018594 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT - An endoluminal treatment device and method includes introducing an endoluminal device into a lumen of a patient and engaging a wall of the lumen with an implant device. The implant device can be a drug delivery device or medical device. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018595 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EMPLOYING MULTIPLE FILTERS TO DETECT T-WAVE OVERSENSING AND TO IMPROVE TACHYARRHYTHMIA DETECTION WITHIN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Techniques are described for detecting tachyarrhythmia and also for preventing T-wave oversensing using a narrowband bradycardia filter in combination with a narrowband tachycardia filter. In some embodiments, a separate wideband filter is also exploited. In one illustrative example, ventricular tachycardia (VT) is detected by: detecting a preliminary indication of VT using signals filtered by the bradycardia filter and, in response, confirming the detection of VT using signals filtered by the tachycardia filter. That is, the bradycardia filter, traditionally used only to detect bradycardia, is additionally used to provide a preliminary indication of VT. The tachycardia filter is then activated to confirm the detection of VT before therapy is delivered. In this manner, the tachycardia filter need not run continuously, but is instead activated only when there is some indication of possible VT, and hence power is saved. Numerous other exemplary techniques are set forth herein for arrhythmia detection and for T-wave oversensing detection. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018596 | BAROREFLEX ACTIVATION THERAPY DEVICE WITH PACING CARDIAC ELECTRICAL SIGNAL DETECTION CAPABILITY - An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides systems, devices, and methods for using the same for activating (stimulating) the baroreflex system of a patient using a baroreflex activation system with pacing cardiac electrical signal detection capability. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018597 | System and Method for Estimating Cardiac Pressure Based on Cardiac Electrical Conduction Delays Using an Implantable Medical Device - Techniques are provided for estimating left atrial pressure (LAP) or other cardiac performance parameters based on measured conduction delays. In particular, LAP is estimated based interventricular conduction delays. Predetermined conversion factors stored within the device are used to convert the various the conduction delays into LAP values or other appropriate cardiac performance parameters. The conversion factors may be, for example, slope and baseline values derived during an initial calibration procedure performed by an external system, such as an external programmer. In some examples, the slope and baseline values may be periodically re-calibrated by the implantable device itself. Techniques are also described for adaptively adjusting pacing parameters based on estimated LAP or other cardiac performance parameters. Still further, techniques are described for estimating conduction delays based on impedance or admittance values and for tracking heart failure therefrom. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018598 | SYSTEM FOR THE REMOTE PROGRAMMING OF A PERSONAL MEDICAL DEVICE - The invention comprises a system and a method for secure remote programming of an implant. For this purpose, a TAN list is generated on the part of the programming device and both stored in the implant ( | 2009-01-15 |
20090018599 | Cardiac Stimulation Using Leadless Electrode Assemblies - An implantable cardiac tissue excitation system includes an implantable pacing controller unit with a pulse generation circuit. The system also includes a lead with a lead body extending between a proximal lead end attachable to the pacing controller unit and a distal lead end configured to be implanted within a heart. A lead conductor extends within the lead body. The system also includes a transmitter assembly located near the distal lead end that is electrically connected to the pulse generation circuit through the lead conductor to wirelessly transmit pacing control information and pacing energy. The system also includes a leadless electrode assembly configured to be implanted within the heart that includes a receiver to receive the wireless transmission, a charge storage unit to store the charge energy, and an electrical stimulation circuit to deliver an electrical stimulus to cardiac tissue using the pacing control information and the charge energy. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018600 | FORM FOR RETAINING BATTERY IN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A form for retaining a battery in implantable medical device includes outer edge and first and second opposing major surfaces. The first major surface of the form includes a recess, a ridge disposed between the recess and the outer edge, and a trough forming element disposed between the ridge and the outer edge. The ridge is configured to engage at least a portion of a major surface of the battery retained in the form. The trough forming element has first and second edge surfaces positioned to engage an edge surface of the retained battery to form a trough configured to receive adhesive. The recess is disposed adjacent the ridge and is configured to allow for expansion of the retained battery during recharge. The retention assembly is configured to secure the first major surface of the battery against the ridge to prevent adhesive from leaking from the trough into the recess. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018601 | CONNECTOR HEADER FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A connector header includes a housing formed from a plastic material having a modulus of rigidity of 100 ksi or greater. The housing defines an opening for insertion of a lead. The connector header further includes a lead receptacle having an electrically conductive element. The electrically conductive element is operably couplable to a feedthrough of the implantable medical device. The lead receptacle is in communication with the opening and is disposed within the housing such that an electrical contact of the lead is electrically couplable to the conductive element of the receptacle when the lead is inserted into the receptacle. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018602 | Methods And Systems For Performing Submucosal Medical Procedures - Instruments, systems and methods are provided for performing submucosal medical procedures in a desired area of the digestive tract using endoscopy. Instruments include a safe access needle injection instrument, a submucosal tunneling instrument, a submucosal dissection instrument, a mucosal resection device. Systems include a combination of one or more of such instruments with or without injectable agents. Embodiments of various methods for performing the procedures are also provided. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018603 | Methods and Systems for Submucosal Implantation of a Device for Diagnosis and Treatment of a Body - Instruments, systems and methods are provided for performing submucosal medical procedures in a desired area of the digestive tract using endoscopy. Instruments include a safe access needle injection instrument, a submucosal tunneling instrument, a submucosal dissection instrument, and a mucosal resection device. Systems include a combination of one or more of such instruments with or without injectable agents. Embodiments of various methods for performing the procedures are also provided. In accordance with one aspect there is provided a submucosal implant device for diagnosing and treating disorders of the body. The submucosal implant device may take the form of a gastric stimulator in which signals are supplied to the muscular wall of a mammal to treat motility disorders. In accordance with yet another aspect there is provided a method for performing a submucosal medical procedure to deploy a submucosal implant device in the digestive tract of a mammal. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018604 | Methods And Systems for Submucosal Implantation of a Device For Diagnosis and Treatment with a Therapeutic Agent - Instruments, systems, implants, and methods are provided for performing submucosal medical procedures in a desired area of the digestive tract using endoscopy. Instruments include a safe access needle injection instrument, a submucosal tunneling instrument, a submucosal dissection instrument, and a mucosal resection device. A submucosal implant device for diagnosing and treating disorders of the body may be implanted. A passive submucosal implant device may take the form of a drug delivery depot in which a therapeutic agent within the depot elutes from the depot according to a predetermined elution profile. An active submucosal implant device may take the form of a drug delivery device that incorporates a self-contained diagnostic system to determine the appropriate delivery time and dosage of a therapeutic agent to be administered. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018605 | Gastric Treatment/Diagnosis Device and Attachment Device and Method - A device, system and method for diagnosing and treating gastric disorders is provided. A functional device resides within the patient's stomach and is secured to the stomach wall by an attachment device. The functional device may be a sensor for sensing various parameters of the stomach or stomach environment, or may be a therapeutic delivery device. The functional device in one embodiment provides a device, system and method for gastric electrical stimulation where stimulating electrodes are secured to the wall of the stomach by the attachment device or otherwise. A preferred device includes: at least one stimulating electrode in electrical contact with the stomach wall; an electronics unit containing the electronic circuitry of the device; and an attachment mechanism for attaching the device to the stomach wall. The functional devices may be programmed to respond to sensed information or signals. An endoscopic delivery system delivers the functional device through the esophagus and into the stomach where it is attached the stomach wall. The endoscopic instruments attach or remove the attachment devices and functional devices from the stomach and may be used to assist in determining the optimal attachment location. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018606 | Methods and Devices for Stimulation of an Organ with the Use of a Transectionally Placed Guide Wire - Devices, systems and methods are provided for electrical stimulation of a body organ, particularly within the gastrointestinal tract. In preferred embodiments, the stomach is the organ within the gastrointestinal tract which is targeted for such stimulation. A guide wire or other delivery device is positioned within the body so as to transect the stomach wall. Devices and systems are then advanced over the guide wire for attachment to the stomach wall. The guide wire may be placed by endoscopic, open, laparoscopic or a modified percutaneous approach. In a modified percutaneous approach, the stomach is accessed without the use of general anesthesia by advancing a needle through the abdomen, transecting the stomach wall with the needle and advancing the guide wire through the needle. In some embodiments, particularly for use in obese patients, the modified percutaneous approach includes advancing a trocar through the tissue of the patient toward the outer surface of the organ and advancing the needle through the trocar prior to transecting the wall with the needle. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018607 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR CONTROLLING BATTERY LIFE IN AN IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR - Methods, devices, and systems for controlling an implantable pulse generator for activation of a nerve or receptor are provided. In particular, the method, devices, and systems embodying features of the present invention control the energy output of a battery in an implantable pulse generator for stimulation of the baroreflex system of the patient. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018608 | CARDIAC STIMULATION APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THE CONTROL OF HYPERTENSION - The method calls for the periodic electrical stimulation of the heart muscle to alter the ejection profile of the heart thus reducing the observed blood pressure of the patient. The therapy may be invoked by an implantable blood pressure sensor associated with a pacemaker like device. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018609 | Closed-Loop Feedback-Driven Neuromodulation - A neurological control system for modulating activity of any component or structure comprising the entirety or portion of the nervous system, or any structure interfaced thereto, generally referred to herein as a “nervous system component.” The neurological control system generates neural modulation signals delivered to a nervous system component through one or more neuromodulators, comprising intracranial (IC) stimulating electrodes and other actuators, in accordance with treatment parameters. Such treatment parameters may be derived from a neural response to previously delivered neural modulation signals sensed by one or more sensors, each configured to sense a particular characteristic indicative of a neurological or psychiatric condition. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018610 | System and methods for assessing the neuromuscular pathway prior to nerve testing - The present invention involves a system and methods for assessing the state of the neuromuscular pathway to ensure further nerve tests aimed at detecting at least one of a breach in a pedicle wall, nerve proximity, nerve direction, and nerve pathology, are not conducted when neuromuscular blockade levels may decrease the reliability of the results. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018611 | Method and apparatus for laryngeal elevator musculature rehabilitation - The current invention generally relates to a method of treating decreased laryngeal elevation. This invention further relates to the use of a neuro-orthotic device in combination with electrical stimulation of the submandibular muscles to treat laryngeal elevator musculature. This invention also relates to muscle re-education and rehabilitation using a neuro-orthotic device in combination with electrical stimulation of the submandibular muscles to treat laryngeal elevator musculature. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018612 | Exercise Apparatus For A Person With Muscular Deficiency - An exercise system for exercising at least one limb, such as the legs, of a subject with spinal cord injury or deficiency. The system comprises an exercise bicycle having a crank and pedals to which the feet of the subject can be mounted, and a functional electrical stimulation (FES) system. The FES system stimulates the muscles of the legs and includes a transducer mountable to at least one of the legs of the subject that outputs signals representative of the position and/or movement of the leg when performing the exercise. The FES system further includes a control means that receives and processes the signals output by the transducer and outputs control signals to a stimulator that through electrodes provides electrical stimulation to the legs of the subject so as to cause the legs to drive the crank of the bicycle. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018613 | REGULATION OF VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR (VEGF) GENE EXPRESSION IN TISSUE VIA THE APPLICATION OF ELECTRIC AND/OR ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS - Methods and devices for the regulation of gene expression in tissue by applying an electric and/or electromagnetic field generated by specific and selective signals so as to treat diseases, conditions, and/or tissue. Gene expression is the up-regulation or down-regulation of the process whereby specific portions (genes) of the human genome (DNA) are transcribed into mRNA and subsequently translated into protein. Methods and devices are described for the regulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) protein gene expression in endothelial cells of various targeted tissues via the capacitive coupling or inductive coupling (e.g., by electrodes or one or more coils or other field generating devices disposed with respect to the targeted cells) of specific and selective signals to the cells of these tissues, where the resultant electric and/or electromagnetic fields treat diseased or injured tissues. The resulting methods and devices are useful for the targeted treatment of peripheral vascular disease, cardiovascular disease, macular degeneration, wound healing, tendon and ligament healing, in preventing tumor growth or spread, and other conditions in which VEGF protein may be implicated. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018614 | Electrical Nerve Stimulation with Broad Band Low Frequency Filter - A system and method of generating electrode stimulation signals for an implanted multi-channel electrode array of a cochlear implant includes processing an acoustic audio signal with a bank of filters. Each filter in the bank of filters is associated with at least one channel having an electrode. The bank of filters includes a first band pass filter that produces a broadband signal b(t) with frequencies that substantially cover at least one of a pitch frequency range of 100 Hz to 400 Hz and a first format range of 400 Hz-1000 Hz. At least one electrode associated with the first band pass filter is activated with electrode stimulation signals based, at least in part, on the broadband signal b(t). The filter bank may include at least one electrode associated with one or more filters other than the first band pass filter, the one or more filters producing signals having only higher frequencies than broadband signal b(t). | 2009-01-15 |
20090018615 | INCREMENTAL STIMULATION SOUND PROCESSOR - In one aspect of the invention, a cochlear implant constructed and arranged to successively generate stimulation signals each comprising at least one stimulus pulse such that said successive stimulation signals incrementally build a neural excitation pattern that accurately reflects a received sound. In one embodiment, each said successive stimulation signal is generated based on the cumulative effect of all previous stimulus pulses, thereby compensating for finite spatial spreading of individual stimulus pulses as well as for the temporal integration of the neural excitation pattern along the neural pathways. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018616 | Systems and Methods for Determining a Threshold Current Level Required to Evoke a Stapedial Muscle Reflex - Exemplary cochlear implant systems include an implantable cochlear stimulator configured to be implanted within a patient and generate a stimulation current having an adjustable current level, one or more electrodes communicatively coupled to the stimulator and configured to apply the stimulation current to one or more locations within an ear of the patient, and a probe configured to acquire sound data used to derive an acoustic reflectance of the ear. The implantable cochlear stimulator is configured to adjust the current level of the stimulation current until a change in the acoustic reflectance above a threshold is detected. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018617 | PARAMETER-DIRECTED SHIFTING OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION ELECTRODE COMBINATIONS - The disclosure provides techniques for parameter-directed shifting of electrical stimulation electrode combinations having substantially similar electrode patterns. An external programmer permits a user to shift electrode combinations along the length of a lead or leads. The external programmer accepts parameter-directed shift input and causes an electrical stimulator to shift electrode combinations as indicated. The external programmer may present an electrode combination as a parameter that can be adjusted or selected to shift the electrode combination along the length of a lead. An electrode combination may be presented as a value that can be incremented, decremented, or otherwise adjusted to indicate a shift in a desired direction. An external programmer that permits a patient or other user to shift electrode combinations in a manner similar to adjustments of other parameters may enable the patient to maintain or improve therapeutic efficacy. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018618 | TELEMETRY LISTENING WINDOW MANAGEMENT FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An improved arbitration scheme for allowing concurrent stimulation and telemetry listening in a microstimulator is disclosed. A listening window for telemetry is permitted to proceed, and access to the microstimulator's coil granted, during at least a portion of the inter-pulse period that follows the issuance of a stimulation pulse. This is permissible because access to the coil is not needed during the entirety of the inter-pulse period. For example, the listening window can issue during that portion of the inter-pulse period when the decoupling capacitor is discharged, but cannot issue during that portion of the inter-pulse period when the compliance voltage is being generated for the next stimulation pulse. However, because compliance voltage generation occupies only a small portion of the inter-pulse period, the technique is not substantially limited. By allowing the listening window to issue during the majority of the inter-pulse period, the listening window produces smaller gaps between the pulses, and stimulation therapy is thus brought closer to its ideal. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018619 | SHIFTING OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION ELECTRODE COMBINATIONS AMONG DIFFERENTLY SIZED ELECTRODE ARRAYS - The disclosure provides techniques for parameter-directed shifting of electrical stimulation electrode combinations. An external programmer permits a user to shift electrode combinations, e.g., along the length of a lead or leads. The external programmer accepts shift input and causes an electrical stimulator to shift electrode combinations as indicated by the input. Different sets of electrodes may have different electrode counts. For example, an array of electrodes carried by one lead may have a greater number of electrodes than an array of electrodes carried on another lead. The disclosure provides techniques for shifting electrode combinations among leads with different electrode counts. For example, an external programmer may execute shifts in a series of shift operations, where the number of shift operations along the length of a lead having a greater electrode count is greater than the number of shift steps along the length of a lead having a lesser electrode count. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018620 | METHOD FOR RESTORING AN EJACULATORY FAILURE - The present invention relates to a method for eliciting ejaculation in a male individual, comprising delivering one or more stimulation pulses to lumbar spinothalamic (LSt) cells. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018621 | Medical and/or Cosmetic Radiation Device - A medical and/or cosmetic radiation device has a plurality of LEDs ( | 2009-01-15 |
20090018622 | BODY COVER, GLASSES AND/OR AT LEAST PARTIAL HEAD COVER, METHOD FOR RADIATING AT LEAST PART OF A HUMAN BODY AND USE OF A BODY COVER - Body cover, comprising a substrate, for covering at least part of a human body, and at least one electroluminescent source coupled to the substrate, for illuminating at least a part of the body, wherein the cover is configured to at least partly surround at least a part of the body and/or a body support. Method for radiating at least part of a human body, especially in the treatment of jaundice and/or crigler najjar, comprising covering at least part of the body and/or a body support with a cover with at least one electroluminescent source and emitting light from the electroluminescent source to at least part of the body. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018623 | SYSTEM FOR TREATING LIPID-RICH REGIONS - A system is described for removing heat from a subject's subcutaneous lipid-rich regions, such as tissues, organs, cells, and so forth. In various embodiments, the system includes a controller, a computing device, a data acquisition device, a chiller, and one or more applicators. The system can employ these components to receive a selection of a treatment profile and apply the selected treatment using an applicator. The treatment profile may be received from a patient protection device that connects to an applicator. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018624 | LIMITING USE OF DISPOSABLE SYSTEM PATIENT PROTECTION DEVICES - A system is described for removing heat from a subject's subcutaneous lipid-rich regions, such as tissues, organs, cells, and so forth. In various embodiments, the system includes a controller, a computing device, a data acquisition device, a chiller, and one or more applicators. The system can employ these components to receive a selection of a treatment profile and apply the selected treatment using an applicator. The applicator can function with a disposable patient protection device. The disposable patient protection device can be limited in its use, such as based on a count, a time duration, or a date. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018625 | MANAGING SYSTEM TEMPERATURE TO REMOVE HEAT FROM LIPID-RICH REGIONS - A system is described for removing heat from a subject's subcutaneous lipid-rich regions, such as tissues, organs, cells, and so forth. In various embodiments, the system includes a controller, a computing device, a data acquisition device, a chiller, and one or more applicators. The system can employ these components to receive a selection of a treatment profile and apply the selected treatment using an applicator. The treatment profile may be received from a disposable patient protection device that connects to an applicator. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018626 | USER INTERFACES FOR A SYSTEM THAT REMOVES HEAT FROM LIPID-RICH REGIONS - A system is described for removing heat from a subject's subcutaneous lipid-rich regions, such as tissues, organs, cells, and so forth. In various embodiments, the system includes a controller, a computing device, a data acquisition device, a chiller, and one or more applicators. The system can employ these components to receive a selection of a treatment profile and apply the selected treatment using an applicator. The system provides various user interfaces. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018627 | SECURE SYSTEMS FOR REMOVING HEAT FROM LIPID-RICH REGIONS - A secure system is described for removing heat from a subject's subcutaneous lipid-rich regions, such as tissues, organs, cells, and so forth. In various embodiments, the secure system includes a controller, a computing device, a data acquisition device, a chiller, and one or more applicators. The secure system can employ these components to receive a selection of a treatment profile and apply the selected treatment using an applicator. The secure system includes authentication and encryption. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018628 | TREATMENT APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING HIGH FREQUENCY ENERGY ACROSS LARGE TISSUE AREAS - Apparatus and methods for treating skin conditions that deliver high frequency energy across large tissue areas. The treatment apparatus comprises a treatment tip carrying a plurality of electrodes that are switched such that fewer than all of the electrodes are concurrently energized. The treatment tip includes a cooling mechanism that cools near-surface tissue regions disposed between the skin surface and the treated tissue by cooling the respective electrode that treats each of the regions. The cooling mechanism may include a heat transfer body intervening between the electrodes and a fluid delivery member configured to discharge coolant that impinges the heat transfer body. Alternatively, the cooling mechanism may include a fluid delivery member having individually valve-controlled passages configured to discharge a dedicated stream of coolant at each of the electrodes, a thermoelectric cooler, or a closed-loop fluid delivery member. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018629 | Heat exchanger, method for manufacturing the same, and heart-lung machine - In a heat exchanger including a plurality of tubes | 2009-01-15 |
20090018630 | SELF-EXPANDABLE EPIDURAL CORTICAL ELECTRODE - A self-expandable epidural cortical electrode includes an electrically conductive expandable body and a connecting lead extending from the body. The body has an insulating layer on a first side and at least one region on a second side without an insulating layer. The connecting lead is adapted and configured for electrical communication with a control unit for providing power to the body electrical cortical stimulation. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018631 | Surgical insertion apparatus - This invention is an apparatus for inserting and reinserting a medical device in a patient comprising a medical device such as a intrathecal catheter, electrical lead and lead wire, a sheath for being inserted into the patient using a hollow medical device so that once the sheath is inserting subcutaneously into the patient, the sheath receives the medical device and the medical device can be position in the patient; and, a separation portion carried by the sheath so that after the sheath receives the medical device. The sheath can be removed from around the medical device by using the separation portion so that the medical device can be inserted in the patient without having to remove the medical completely from the patient thus eliminating the requirement for a second incision. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018632 | DESIGN-RULE MEDIATED LEAD PLACEMENT - Aspects of the invention include design rule mediated lead placement methods. Also disclosed are methods of using the resultant positioned leads, e.g., e.g., during evaluation of tissue motion, such as of a cardiac tissue motion, e.g., heart wall motion, via electric tomography, are provided. Also provided are devices and systems for practicing the subject methods. In certain embodiments, innovative data processing and display protocols, as well as systems that provided for the same, are provided. The subject methods, devices and systems find use in a variety of different applications, such as cardiac related applications, e.g., cardiac resynchronization therapy, and other applications. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018633 | PROTECTOR FOR AN INSERTABLE OR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A protector for a medical device including a tubular member, the tubular member including a polymer matrix material and a scavenger for moisture, oxygen or a combination thereof dispersed in the polymer matrix material. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018634 | DUAL TAPER STENT PROTECTOR - A dual taper stent protector having a first stent covering region configured to cover a stent without substantially engaging the stent, a second covering region, and an engagement region for engaging a product mandrel removably disposed within a catheter shaft, and first and second tapered regions connecting the first stent covering region and the second stent covering region and the second covering region and the engagement region respectively, and to methods of making and using the same. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018635 | STENT PROTECTOR - A method for providing a catheter assembly with a protective sleeve for a stent delivery system wherein the protective sleeve has a removable portion that is removed from about the stent before the system is inserted into a patient, and the protective sleeve made thereby. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018636 | Methods and apparatus for rapid endovascular vessel occlusion and blood flow interruption - An occluding device including expandable scaffold and a flow-limiting member is described. In some embodiments the scaffold is an expandable or self-expanding stent deliverable over a guide wire. The flow-limiting member can include a valve that can be closed following deployment. On deployment the stent and flow-limiting member can engage an inner surface of a body cavity lumen, blocking flow of material. In some embodiments the body cavity is a blood vessel, and the device can be used to block blood flow. In some embodiments the device includes bioactive agents. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018637 | TUBULAR DEVICES HAVING REVERSIBLE COMPONENTS FOR DEPLOYMENT OF ENDOLUMINAL OCCLUDERS AND RELATED METHODS AND SYSTEMS - Described are devices, methods, and systems useful for deploying one or more occlusive prostheses within the vasculature of a patient. Illustrative devices can include a deployment tube or sheath that contains an occlusive prosthesis, wherein a segment of the sheath is reversible by a user so as to deploy the prosthesis from the sheath lumen within a bodily lumen of a patient. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018638 | Minimally invasive medical device and method for delivery of therapeutic or diagnostic agents into a vessel wall - The invention relates to minimally invasive device for delivering therapeutic or diagnostic agents into a vessel wall. The device includes an introducer tube, a tubular member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a first lumen extending therebetween, the tubular member being slidably disposed within the introducer tube; a plurality of hollow delivery struts, each delivery strut adapted to pierce through inner most layers of the vessel wall and each comprising at least one exit port and at least one stopper to prevent the delivery strut from piercing through the outer most layers of the vessel wall. The delivery struts are disposed on the distal end of the tubular member and are in fluid communication with the first lumen. The invention also relates to methods of delivering the device of this invention and methods of treating conditions or diseases of body lumens. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018639 | ENDOPROSTHESIS COATING - An endoprosthesis, such as a stent, includes anchoring regions formed of polymer that enhance adherence of a coating, e.g. a drug eluting polymer coating, to a stent surface, e.g. made of ceramic. The anchoring regions can be formed using stamping processes. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018640 | Dual Taper Stent Protector - A dual taper stent protector having a first stent covering region configured to cover a stent without substantially engaging the stent, a second covering region, and an engagement region for engaging a product mandrel removably disposed within a catheter shaft, and first and second tapered regions connecting the first stent covering region and the second stent covering region and the second covering region and the engagement region respectively, and to methods of making and using the same. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018641 | LARGE VESSEL STENTS - Large cell stents can be made having a plurality of cylindrical segments; and a plurality of connectors that join the segments to form a hollow tube, in which each segment comprises a series of support elements joined end to end at turning points in a zig-zag pattern to form a cylinder; a first segment is joined to a second segment by a plurality of connectors, each connector connecting a turning point of a first segment to a corresponding turning point of a second segment; and cells of the stent comprise two support elements in a first segment, one connector, two support elements in a second adjacent segment, and a second connector, all connected in series to form a continuous line. In some embodiments, each turning point in the first segment is longitudinally aligned with turning point in the second segment. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018642 | Methods to improve the stability of celluar adhesive proteins and peptides - The present disclosure provides surface-binding cell adhesion polypeptides including cell adhesion polypeptides attached to a surface-binding moiety having binding affinity for one or more materials present in a metallic and/or non-metallic inorganic surface. The surface-binding cell adhesion polypeptides are useful for forming a layer having improved adhesion to and stability on at least a portion of a surface of an implantable medical device, such as a stent. | 2009-01-15 |
20090018643 | Stents - The invention provides a composition comprising a stent and a polymer scaffold. | 2009-01-15 |