03rd week of 2014 patent applcation highlights part 54 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20140018785 | THERAPEUTIC APPARATUS HAVING INSULATED REGION AT THE INSERTION AREA - Apparatus and methods for insulating tissue during therapeutic procedures. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018786 | Instruments and Methods for Thermal Tissue Treatment - Disclosed herein are high efficiency surgical devices and methods of using same using radio frequency (RF) electrical power and/or electrically heated filaments to destroy tumors, form lesions, denaturize, desiccate, coagulate and ablate soft tissues, as well as to drill, cut, resect and vaporize soft tissues. According to the principles of this invention, the electrosurgical instruments can be used with externally supplied conductive or non-conductive liquids, as well as without externally supplied liquids, a mode of operation often referred to as “dry field” environment. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018787 | CARTILAGE TREATMENT PROBE - An electrosurgical instrument for ablating cartilage while limiting collateral damage includes a non-conducting head with a small electrically conductive surface. The head of the instrument is coupled to a shaft by a flexible portion. The flexible portion biases the electrically conductive surface towards a tissue surface. The head is pivotably coupled to the shaft such that the electrically conductive surface is oriented substantially parallel to the tissue surface as the head slides across the tissue surface. A method of performing electrosurgery includes positioning the electrically conductive surface adjacent to the tissue surface, and sliding the shaft across the tissue surface with the head pivoting such that the electrically conductive surface is oriented substantially parallel to the tissue surface. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018788 | Devices and Systems for Carotid Body Ablation - Methods and endovascular catheters for assessing, and treating patients having sympathetically mediated disease, involving augmented peripheral chemoreflex and heightened sympathetic tone by reducing chemosensor input to the nervous system via transmural carotid body ablation. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018789 | ENERGY DELIVERY DEVICES AND METHODS - A method for treating a subject includes positioning an intraluminal device at a treatment location in an airway of the subject, and delivering energy from an electrode of the intraluminal device to nerve tissue extending along the airway so as to permanently damage the nerve tissue while cooling airway tissue disposed radially between the electrode and the nerve tissue. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018790 | ENERGY DELIVERY DEVICES AND METHODS - A method of treating an airway includes inserting a treatment device into the airway, wherein the treatment device includes an energy delivery element configured to deliver energy to tissue of the airway, advancing the treatment device to a treatment location in the airway, activating the energy delivery element to deliver energy to tissue at the treatment location, and cooling tissue near the treatment location simultaneously with the activating step. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018791 | Systems and Methods for Transmural Ablation - A method of applying ablation energy to achieve transmurality including applying ablation energy at a starting power to a tissue site and monitoring the impedance of the tissue site. A power applied to the tissue site can be reduced as a function of a rate of an increase in impedance according to some embodiments. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018792 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MAGNETICALLY GUIDED CATHETER FOR RENAL DENERVATION EMPLOYING MOSFET SENSOR ARRAY - A system for a mapping and ablation catheter. The catheter includes a MOSFET sensor array that provides better fidelity of the signal measurements as well as data collection and reduces the error generated by spatial distribution of the isotropic and anisotropic wave fronts and error associated with near and far field's signal averages. The system maps the change in bioelectric potential in the vicinity of an activation wave front. During measurement, the manifold carrying the sensor array translates and rotates so as to achieve a measure of high potential employing an impedance value. The system of guiding and controlling the movement of the catheter distal end is able to deliver energy for ablating the renal artery nerve and thereby providing a safe and efficient method and apparatus for neuromodulation. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018793 | HEAT-DISTRIBUTION INDICATORS, THERMAL ZONE INDICATORS, ELECTROSURGICAL SYSTEMS INCLUDING SAME AND METHODS OF DIRECTING ENERGY TO TISSUE USING SAME - An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical power generating source, an energy applicator operably associated with the electrosurgical power generating source, a heat-distribution indicator adapted to change echogenic properties in response to heat generated by energy delivered by the energy applicator, and a processor unit configured to generate at least one electrical signal for controlling at least one operating parameter associated with the electrosurgical power generating source. The system also includes an imaging system capable of acquiring image data. The imaging system is communicatively-coupled to the processor unit. The processor unit is adapted to determine an ablation rate at least in part based on analysis of one or more images acquired by the imaging system. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018794 | OFF-WALL ELECTRODE DEVICES AND METHODS FOR NERVE MODULATION - Systems for nerve modulation are disclosed. An example system for nerve modulation may include a catheter shaft having a proximal end, a distal end and lumen extending therebetween. An inflatable member may be fluidly connected to the lumen of the catheter shaft proximate the distal end of the catheter shaft. The inflatable member may have an outer wall defining a groove in an outer surface of the inflatable member. An electrode may be disposed in or under the groove. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018795 | MULTI-BUTTON ELECTROSURGICAL APPARATUS - A multi-button electrosurgical apparatus includes a housing having a passage extending therethough, a distal end configured to support an electrode; at least four switches disposed on a surface of the housing configured to be selectively activated by a user; and three wires connected between the housing and a connector, the connector configured to be operatively coupled to an electrosurgical generator, a first wire being coupled to the electrode and configured to receive electrosurgical energy from the electrosurgical generator, a second wire being coupled to a first switch and configured to generate a first activation signal and a third wire being coupled to a second switch and configured to generate a second activation signal, wherein a third and fourth switch are coupled to the first wire and the second or third wire via a respective reactive switching element configured to generate third and forth activation signals. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018796 | REMOVABLE INK FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for preventing reuse of a surgical instrument. The single-use surgical instrument includes a housing, an electrical connector and a treatment component. Indicia may be printed on the housing, the electrical connector and/or the treatment component. A removable ink is applied to any portion of the surgical instrument in the form of indicia that is readable by a scanning device. The removable ink includes a protein-based composition that is reactivateable with a sterilization solution having an enzyme-based composition such that upon sterilization, the removable ink reacts with the sterilizing solution and becomes unreadable by the scanning device. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018797 | PRESHAPED LOCALIZATION CATHETER, SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR GRAPHICALLY RECONSTRUCTING PULMONARY VEIN OSTIA - Catheters, systems, and methods are provided for performing medical procedures, such as tissue ablation, adjacent the ostia of anatomical vessels, such as pulmonary veins. The catheter comprises an elongated flexible catheter body, which includes a proximal shaft portion and a distal shaft portion, and a tracking element carried by the distal shaft portion. The proximal section is pre-shaped to form a curve having an apex sized to be inserted into the vessel ostium, and a distal section configured to contact the adjacent tissue when the curve apex is inserted within the vessel ostium. The method may comprise inserting the curve apex into the vessel ostium to place the distal section in contact with a first tissue site adjacent the vessel ostium, and determining a location of the tracking element(s) within a coordinate system while the distal section is in contact with the first tissue site. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018798 | ELECTROSURGICAL WAND AND RELATED METHOD AND SYSTEM - Electrosurgical wand. At least some of the illustrative embodiment are electrosurgical wands including: an elongate housing that defines a handle end and a distal end; an aspiration aperture on the distal end of the elongate housing the aspiration aperture fluidly coupled to a first fluid conduit, the first fluid conduit within the elongate housing; a discharge aperture on the distal end of the elongate housing, the discharge aperture fluidly coupled to a second fluid conduit, and the second fluid conduit within the elongate housing; a first active electrode of conductive material on the distal end of the elongate housing, the first active electrode between the discharge aperture and the aspiration aperture; and a conductive plate that abuts the discharge aperture, at least a portion of the conductive plate disposed over the discharge aperture. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018799 | RESECTOSCOPE - A resectoscope includes an electrode arrangement having at least one electrode and being connected to a contact at a proximal end region of the electrode arrangement; a retaining body mounted on the resectoscope that is movable in the direction of movement of the electrode arrangement and includes an electrode mounting for accommodating the end region of the electrode arrangement; and a cable with a plug body for fixing to the retaining body while making contact with the contacts. The retaining body has a plug receptacle for fixing the plug body by an insertion movement aligned at right angles to the direction of movement of the electrode arrangement. In the position which is reached at the end of the insertion movement, the plug body can be turned into an end position where it is blocked by the plug receptacle against a movement in the opposite direction to the insertion movement. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018800 | MEDICAL INSTRUMENT FOR ENDOSCOPE AND TREATMENT METHOD - A medical instrument for an endoscope according to the invention is the medical instrument to be used in the endoscope by being inserted therein, and the medical instrument includes: a flexible elongated sheath having a first lumen and a second lumen; a conductive wire which is inserted into the first lumen and of which a portion of a distal side is exposed to the outside of the sheath as an instrument unit; and a balloon which is attached to the sheath and is expandable with the supply of fluid from the second lumen. The balloon is configured such that an axial dimension thereof is larger than a radial dimension upon expansion and a distal end of the balloon upon expansion is located closer to a proximal side than the treatment unit exposed from the sheath. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018801 | Anti-Sticking Electrosurgical Instrument - The present invention relates to a non-stick coated electrosurgical diathermy instrumentation, comprising: a handle portion; an isolation tube, connected to the handle portion by one end thereof; an instrument portion, connected to another end of the isolation tube, wherein an anti-sticking layer is formed on the surface of the instrument portion; and an electrode, connected to the handle portion and an external conductive member. In the present invention, the instrument portion is able to generate heat when the conductive member conducts electricity to the instrument portion. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018802 | BIPOLAR OR ULTRASONIC SURGICAL DEVICE - An electro-mechanical surgical device, system and/or method may include a housing, at least two opposing jaw, and at least one electrical contact associated with at least one of the jaws. The electrical contact may include at least one of a bipolar electrical contact and an ultrasonic electrical contact. The electrical contact may be a row of electrodes located on one or all of the jaws. A sensor may also be associated with any tissue located between the jaws to sense and report the temperature of that tissue. A piercable ampulla containing fluid may also be placed on at least one of the jaws so that the fluid is releasable when the jaws are in closed position and the electrode(s) pass through the tissue into the piercable ampulla. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018803 | ADJUSTABLE FIXATION CLAMP AND METHOD - An adjustable fixation clamp having first and second clamp assemblies positioned about a shaft. The clamp assemblies may each have a pair of vise plates. Each pair of vise plates may define at least two receiving portions and insertion portions intersecting the receiving portions. The receiving portions of one clamp assembly may receive at least two fixation components such as screws, pins or wires. The receiving portions of the other clamp assembly may receive at least one connector such as a rod, bar and/or ring. A biasing structure may be positioned between the first and second clamp assemblies and may allow for the fixation components to be snapped into the receiving portions through the insertion portions. Two or more adjustable fixation clamps may be used to form an external fixation system. At least two screws, pins or wires may be inserted into bone and one of the clamp assemblies may be attached thereto. A guide may be used for insertion of screws, pins or wires into bone. The other clamp assembly may be connected to a rod, bar or ring. Thereafter, the clamp assemblies may be oriented relative to each other and locked in place. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018804 | DYNAMIC TISSUE HOLDING DEVICE WITH LOW PROFILE SPRING - A dynamic tissue holding device is disclosed for dynamically holding two tissue portions in contact with one another. The device comprises a biasing spring having a relatively low profile, and a band adapted for extending about the tissue portions to be held together. The band has a first end for attachment to a first attachment portion on the biasing spring and a second end for attachment to a second attachment portion on the biasing spring. The band establishes a path of tension along its length and extending linearly between the two ends of the band. Advantageously, more than one-half of the biasing spring is disposed outside of the path of tension when the dynamic tissue holding device is in place and holding the two tissue portions together. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018805 | PEDIATRIC INTRAMEDULLARY NAIL - Among other things, there are disclosed embodiments of an intramedullary nail system for use in pediatric cases, including an intramedullary nail and a targeting assembly. Embodiments of the nail may be one-piece and include a proximal portion, a medial portion and a distal portion. The junction of the medial portion and distal portion is a bend that provides a small angle between the medial portion and the distal portion as viewed when the nail is substantially in a medial-lateral plane. The targeting assembly attaches to the proximal portion of the nail securely and enables easy insertion of fixing screws. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018806 | Systems and Methods for Separating Bone Fixation Devices from Introducer - Systems and methods for separating an internal bone fixation device from an introducer are disclosed. In some embodiments, a separation system includes a stabilizer configured to slide over an introducer for delivery of a bone fixation device to a bone cavity, the stabilizer being further configured to score a proximal end of the bone fixation device; and a separator configured to engage the introducer and to provide an impact to the introducer to separate the introducer from the bone fixation device. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018807 | LOW FRICTION BUCKLE TIGHTENING SYTEMS AND METHODS - A tensioning device comprises an elongate member, preferably a band, and a frame having first and second sides. The band has a first end that is attachable to the first side of the frame and a second end that is releasably securable to the second side of the frame. A movable clamping member on the frame secures the second end of the band to the second side of the frame by cinching the second end of the band between an engagement surface on the band and a mating engagement surface on the second side of the frame. A restraining member is provided for restraining the clamping member to a first position spaced from the mating locking surface on the second side of the frame, when the restraining member is in a restraining orientation. The restraining member is movable out of the restraining orientation after the band is tensioned to a predetermined level using the second end. The band is tensioned to the aforementioned predetermined level and is secured to the second side of the frame, so that the band establishes a path of tension along its length that extends linearly between the two ends of the band. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018808 | HYBRID MEDICAL DEVICE IMPLANT WITH MIGRATION MANAGEMENT - A dynamic tissue holding device for dynamically holding two tissue portions in contact with one another includes a resilient body having a spring and a band arranged for extending about the tissue portions to be held together. The band has a first end for attachment to a first attachment portion on the resilient body and a second end for attachment to a second attachment portion on the resilient body. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018809 | COMPRESSION BONE STAPLE - The present invention relates to devices and techniques for securing bone segments across a fracture site, and more particularly relates to bone staples for achieving compression between segments. A method and apparatus for interosseous bone fixation uses a compression staple, generally U-shaped, having a pair of legs with proximal ends interconnected by a bridge portion that is resilient and bowed, the staple having an initial configuration and capable of a tensioned configuration by spreading apart the legs by a certain amount causing the curvature of the bowed bridge to lessen and the legs to move towards each other with certain compressive spring force. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018810 | DRILL GUIDE - A drill guide for drilling bone comprising a housing having a bore running through the housing is disclosed. In one embodiment, the drill guide may comprise a locking member coupled to the housing that is adapted to engage with a locking portion of a drill bit to lock the drill bit axially within the housing. The locking member may also be adapted to disengage with the drill bit to allow the drill bit to move within the bore of the housing and be inserted into bone. A movable guide may also be provided with the drill guide, such movable guide including a bore for receiving a portion of the drill bit and allowing the same to move axially within the housing. Methods of using the aforementioned drill guide are also disclosed. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018811 | Saw, A Saw Blade, A Connection Mechanism and Associated Methods - The present disclosure relates to a saw, comprising a drive, a first blade configured to oscillate about an axis perpendicular to a plane defined by a surface of the first blade, a second blade configured to oscillate about an axis perpendicular to the plane in a direction opposite to that of the first blade, and wherein gearing is provided between the drive and the first and second blades to reduce the speed transmitted from the drive to the blades. A saw blade, a connection mechanism for connecting a blade to a saw and associated methods are also provided. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018812 | ARTHROPLASTY DEVICE - An arthroplasty device for attachment to adjacent first and second bones includes a first member with a base for securing to an extramedullary portion of the first bone and a pin that extends along an axis from the base. A second member has a base for securing to an extramedullary portion of the second bone and a sleeve that extends along an axis from the base and receives the pin of the first member. The pin and sleeve are rotatable relative to one another about the axes when the first and second members are secured to the first and second bones. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018813 | PATIENT MATCH INSTRUMENT - A patient matched instrument for a patient's femur is disclosed. The instrument includes a body having a cutting slot and a patient matched surface that mates with the patient's trochlear groove, a first leg portion extending from the body, a second leg portion extending from the body; and each leg portion has a contacting pad for tangential contact with the patient's femoral medial and lateral condyles. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018814 | CEMENTING OF AN ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANT - Apparatus, kits, and methods for cementing an orthopedic implant to a bone, post attachment, are disclosed. A kit can include a prosthetic component and a cement applicator. The prosthetic component can include an attachment profile that corresponds to a mating profile formed on or in a bone. The cement applicator can be configured to apply a bone cement between the bone and the prosthetic component following alignment between the prosthetic component and the bone or another prosthetic component. The kit can also include a bone cement. The kit can further include directions for using one or more of the prosthetic component, the cement applicator, and the bone cement. A method can include positioning the prosthetic component adjacent to the bone, aligning the prosthetic component relative to the bone or another prosthetic component, and applying a bone cement between the bone and the aligned prosthetic component. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018815 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH PIVOTABLE IMPLANT HOLDER - A surgical instrument for inserting an implant is shown. The instrument has a housing having a first end and a second end, a rotatable drive member having an elongated member comprising a grip that is associated with the first end, an implant holder having a securing member that extends through the second end and that is adapted to receive and hold the implant. A universal joint couples the implant holder and the elongated member and is adapted to permit a user to rotatably drive the implant holder when the implant holder is in a pivoted position. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018816 | TORQUE TRANSMITTING BALL JOINT DRIVER HAVING A RIGID FIXATION MECHANISM - An articulating driver having a ball-in-socket joint. The driver may include a driver tip having a spherical head, a retention cap having a domed surface to mate with the spherical head, an input shaft, a spring disposed in an end of the input shaft and in a recess of the retention cap opposite that of the domed surface, and a housing that receives the input shaft, the spring, the retention cap and the spherical head. The housing may have a tapered end to positionally retain the spherical head therein. In another aspect, the driver may include a driver tip coupled to the input shaft that includes an interface to engage a screw. A bushing may engage the driver tip at one end and receive the screw at the other end to retain the screw within the driver. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018817 | SCREW DELIVERY SYSTEM - A screw delivery system is provided. Such a system may include a carrier including a carrier body, a driver, and a nose. The carrier may define a bore that extends at least partially through the carrier body. The driver may be configured to be at least partially disposed in the bore. The driver may include a head that is configured to mate with a head of a fastener. At least a first guide member may be carried by the carrier body. The nose may be operably aligned with the bore, and may include at least a second guide member that is configured to engage the first guide member. The system may be configured such that insertion of the driver from the bore into the nose causes the first and second guide members to engage so as to cause the nose to rotate relative to the carrier body. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018818 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF IMPLANTING A MEDICAL DEVICE - A system for implanting an implantable medical device (IMD) within a patient may include a main handle assembly having proximal and distal ends, a device-connection control handle connected to the proximal end of the main handle assembly, an introducer connected to the distal end of the main handle assembly, and a connection tool extending from the introducer. The connection tool may include a device-engaging member configured to change at least one of shape or orientation to selectively connect to and disconnect from the IMD. The device-connection control handle may be operatively connected to the device-engaging member and the device-connection control handle may be configured to manipulate the device-engaging member between connected and disconnected states by changing the at least one of the shape or orientation. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018819 | Anthro-Centric Multisensory Interface for Sensory Augmentation of Telesurgery - A multisensory interface for a tele-robotic surgical control system. The invention allows the surgeon to use natural gestures and motions to control the actions of end effectors in the robotic surgical apparatus. Multiple feedback mechanisms are provided to allow the physician a more intuitive understanding of what is being controlled, along with a greater situational awareness. Prior art robotic end effectors are inserted into the patient through a small incision—as is already known in the art. The invention presents an improved method of controlling these effectors. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018820 | PALPATION APPARATUS AND METHOD USING ROBOT - A palpation apparatus and method using a robot may include a motion controller to control a motion of the robot based on an input of a user, and a force measuring unit to measure a magnitude of a reaction force of an object in contact with the robot based on the motion, through a sensor attached to the robot. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018821 | SURGICAL MANIPULATOR - The present invention provides a surgical manipulator including a manipulator arm, an end-effector held by the robotic arm, surgical tools held by the end-effector and manipulator joints, particularly right-angle drive devices for transmitting rotational motion in one axis to a perpendicular axis. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018822 | SURGICAL POSITIONING ASSEMBLY AND SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - A surgical positioning assembly for use with a surgical instrument which has an elongated shaft defining a longitudinal axis, for example a minimally invasive surgical instrument. The positioning assembly comprises: a base member comprising a skin contact surface, wherein the base member defines an opening for the elongated shaft; a rotating assembly configured to rotate relative to the base member about a rotation point located below the skin contact surface wherein the rotating assembly defines an opening for the elongated shaft; and a locking mechanism for locking the position of the positioning assembly on the elongated shaft and for locking the orientation of the rotating assembly relative to the base member. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018823 | CURVED CANNULA INSTRUMENT - A robotic surgical system is configured with rigid, curved cannulas that extend through the same opening into a patient's body. Surgical instruments with passively flexible shafts extend through the curved cannulas. Force isolation elements within the flexible shafts prevent shaft bending from affecting end effector actuation elements that extends through the shafts. The cannulas are oriented to direct the instruments towards a surgical site. Various port features that support the curved cannulas within the single opening are disclosed. Cannula support fixtures that support the cannulas during insertion into the single opening and mounting to robotic manipulators are disclosed. A teleoperation control system that moves the curved cannulas and their associated instruments in a manner that allows a surgeon to experience intuitive control is disclosed. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018824 | In Vivo Accessories for Minimally Invasive Surgery - Surgical accessories are presented in vivo and used by surgical tools in the surgical site to perform additional tasks without the need to remove the tools from the surgical site for tool change or instrument loading. The accessories can be introduced into the surgical site by a dedicated accessory introducer, or can be supported on the body of a surgical tool inserted into the surgical site and be manipulated using another surgical tool in the surgical site. The accessory introducer can be resiliently biased to bias the accessories toward a predetermined position in the surgical site. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018825 | Functional Head - A functional head is disclosed which may be generally employed in a device for industrial or private use, particularly in a device for beauty care, such as an epilator device. The functional head has at least one first element which has a frictional surface, and at least one second element which is movable over the frictional surface when mechanical friction is overcome. A lubricating device is provided by which a lubricant may be applied to the frictional surface. The lubricant is accommodated in a lubricant reservoir, and the lubricant is transported to the frictional surface by means of at least one outlet opening. An increase of mechanical friction by the movement of the at least one second element over the frictional surface leads to heating of at least parts of the lubricant reservoir. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018826 | Articulating Joint for Surgical Instruments - A surgical apparatus is disclosed. An actuation mechanism is operable from a proximal portion of the surgical apparatus and a tool assembly is pivotally positioned on a distal portion of the surgical apparatus. The tool assembly is movable between a first position in which the tool assembly is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the surgical apparatus, and a second position in which the tool assembly is pivoted away from the longitudinal axis of the surgical apparatus. An articulation mechanism is positionable to move the tool assembly between the first and second positions. A drive mechanism includes a first shaft operably engaged with a second shaft at an articulation joint. The drive mechanism is configured to transfer rotational motion from the first shaft to the second shaft. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018827 | MENISCUS REATTACHMENT DEVICE - In a meniscus reattachment device, with at least one needle and at least one implant, the implant is intended to have at least one extensible subsidiary surface. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018828 | VARIABLE FRICTION BUCKLE TIGHTENING SYSTEM WITH FRICTION INDICATOR - A method for repairing separated tissues utilises a tissue tensioner including a locking member, a band, a frame, and a restraining member. One end of the band is attached to a first end of the frame. Tension is applied to the band so that it moves freely between spaced engaging surfaces on the locking bar and a second end of the frame, while a restraining member restrains the locking member to a non-engaging position. Application of a predetermined level of tension on the band causes the restraining member to move to a non-restraining orientation, thereby in turn causing the locking member to move so that its engaging surfaces engage the engaging surfaces of the frame, clamping the band. An alarm is triggered to notify a practitioner that the predetermined level of tension has been achieved and that the restraining member has thus moved to the non-restraining orientation. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018829 | SLIDING OVERHEAD CLIP AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - Sliding overhead clips and associated methods are disclosed that generally involve surgical clips with improved installation efficiency and higher forces for suture retention. The surgical clips include a first side and a second side, each of said sides having an upper body and a lower body. The surgical clips also generally include a flexible hinge integrally disposed between and joining the first side and second side. Further, the surgical clips include a first pair and second pair of female locking member and male locking member. The first pair of female and male locking members includes a first female locking member positioned on the first side and the corresponding first male locking member positioned on the second side. Additionally, the second pair of female and male locking members includes a second female locking member positioned on the second side and the corresponding second male locking member positioned on the first side. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018830 | Surgical Clip Having Compliant Portion - A clip is provided that can be used for ligating tissue, such as vessels, other tubular ducts, and the like. The clip has opposed first and second leg members having proximal and distal ends. The proximal end of each leg member is connected by an apex. The clip has a compliant portion formed on the inner surface of at least one of the first and second leg members. The compliant portion can fill gaps left by springback of the clip after formation. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018831 | ATRIAL APPENDAGE OCCLUSION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Atrial appendage occlusion systems and methods of using the same. In an exemplary embodiment of a system for occluding an atrial appendage of a heart, the system comprises a first device and a second device, wherein the first device comprises a first tube sized and shaped for insertion into the heart and a balloon coupled to the first tube, wherein the balloon is capable of inflation and deflation, wherein the second device comprises a second tube sized and shaped for insertion into a pericardial space surrounding the heart, the second tube comprising a lumen extending at least partially from a second tube distal end to a second tube proximal end and a loop sized and shaped to fit at least partially within the lumen of the second tube, wherein the loop is capable of protraction from the second tube distal end, and wherein the loop of the second device is configured for placement around the atrial appendage and to be secured around the atrial appendage. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018832 | Method For Applying A Surgical Clip Having A Compliant Portion - A method of applying a surgical clip, wherein the clip has a rigid portion with a pair of opposed first and second leg members having proximal and distal ends and a knee portion formed therebetween. The clip also has an apex with opposed ends joining the proximal ends of the first and second leg members, and a compliant portion formed on an inner surface of at least one of the first and second leg members. The method includes the step of placing the opposed first and second leg members around a tissue to be ligated, and deforming the opposed first and second leg members towards each other. The method further comprises releasing the first and second leg members to cause a separation of the first and second leg members, wherein the separation is less than the total of thickness of the compliant portion and the thickness of the tissue within the first and second leg members. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018833 | WIRE-GUIDED RECANALIZATION SYSTEM - A recanalization catheter assembly for recanalization of an occluded blood vessel is disclosed. The recanalization catheter assembly includes an elongate shaft having a tubular portion, a guide member, and a rotary ablation tool. The tubular portion includes a distal opening, from where the rotary ablation tool extends distally. The guide member extends distal of the distal opening and includes a guidewire lumen to receive a guidewire therethrough. The guide member is configured to advance over the guidewire in a subintimal space between a first tissue layer and a second tissue layer of a wall of the blood vessel, while the rotary ablation tool is advanced in a true lumen of the blood vessel. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018834 | Curved Burr Surgical Instrument - A tissue resection device may include an hourglass shaped bun to resect tissue according to the shape and curvature of the hourglass shaped burr. The tissue resection device may also include a depth stop window and a movable protective guard to control the amount of cutting. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018835 | HAND-HELD DEVICE FOR PIERCING A HUMAN OR ANIMAL SKIN, AND NEEDLE MODULE - A hand-held device for piercing a human or animal skin, comprises a housing, a drive device, which is arranged in the housing and is suitable for repeatedly providing a feed motion. The device also comprises a piercing device, which is formed in the housing with a needle and is coupled directly or, via a coupling device, indirectly to the drive device in such a way that the feed motion provided by the drive device can be introduced onto the piercing device. There is a housing opening, relative to which the needle moves forwards and backwards during operation, and a piercing depth adjuster, which is coupled to the piercing device in such a way that the piercing depth adjuster is displaceable relative to the tip of the needle and is entrained with the needle as the needle moves forwards/backwards during operation. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018836 | Endo-Safe-Bag-Gasless support system - The present invention relates to an Endo-Safe-Bag-Gasless support system, comprising: an air tube, having a gas port formed on the tube side thereof; at least two inflatable bags, which are connected to the air tube and have one laminating-line layer on the surface thereof; and a plurality of air bags, which is formed on the laminating-line layer. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018837 | SUBINTIMAL REENTRY SYSTEM - A subintimal recanalization catheter system for recanalizing a blood vessel. The system includes a support catheter and a balloon catheter configured to extend through the support catheter. The support catheter includes a tubular portion and an extension segment extending distal of the distal opening of the tubular portion. The balloon catheter, having a balloon secured to a distal portion thereof, is positionable through the tubular portion of the support catheter to position the balloon alongside the extension segment. The system is configured to be advanced into a subintimal space between a first tissue layer and a second tissue layer of a blood vessel wall where the balloon may be inflated against the extension segment to cause a distal portion of the catheter shaft of the balloon catheter to deflect toward the vessel lumen within the subintimal space to facilitate reentry into the vessel lumen. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018838 | BLOCKSTENT DEVICE AND METHODS OF USE - What is disclosed is a medical device comprising a compressed, cylindrical or oblong, thin-walled, expandable metal structure (a “blockstent”) and a flexible, elongated device (a “delivery catheter”) to position the compressed blockstent into the lumen of a blood vessel segment to be treated, and methods of use for occlusion of treated blood vessel segments. A blockstent can be made with ductile metals such as gold, platinum, or silver such that the blockstent will conform to the shape of the lumen of the treated blood vessel segment during expansion and allow for the shape of the blockstent to be permanently changed by the application of an external force. The surface of the blockstent can be configured to promote local thrombus on the external surface of the blockstent and to promote the growth of tissue into the wall of the blockstent in order to occlude the treated blood vessel and fix the blockstent in place. The wall of the blockstent can also be configured to release drugs or pharmacologically active molecules such as those that promote thrombosis, cell proliferation, extracellular matrix deposition to promote this thrombus formation and tissue growth. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018839 | STENT FOR SPLINTING A NASAL PASSAGE - The present invention relates to a stent for splinting a nasal passage. The stent ( | 2014-01-16 |
20140018840 | MULTI-LUMEN SHEATH CENTRAL VENOUS CATHETER WITH VENA CAVA FILTER APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USING SAME - A combined multi-lumen sheath with a wire body and a filter. The filter may be removably coupled to the multi-lumen sheath within a filter capsule for temporary placement and retrieval. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018841 | OCCLUSION DEVICE FOR AN ATRIAL APPENDAGE - Occlusion device for an atrial appendage, the device having proximal and distal ends and a central axis and comprising a cage-like structure formed of struts, the struts having proximal strut ends and distal strut ends, wherein at the proximal end of the device the struts extend towards the central axis and are connected to each other at their proximal strut ends, and wherein at least some of the struts are connected to each other at their distal strut ends within the cage-like structure so that the struts form an atraumatic distal end of the device. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018842 | METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND USE OF ENDOLUMINAL DEVICES - A seamless, self-expanding implantable device having a low profile is disclosed along with methods of making and using the same. The implantable device includes a frame cut out of a single piece of material that is formed into a three-dimensional shape. The implantable device may comprise an embolic filter, stent, or other implantable structure. The present invention also allows complicated frame structures to be easily formed from planar sheets of starting material, such as through laser cutting, stamping, photo-etching, or other cutting techniques. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018843 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR LUMINAL STENTING - Described herein are flexible implantable occluding devices that can, for example, navigate the tortuous vessels of the neurovasculature. The occluding devices can also conform to the shape of the tortuous vessels of the vasculature. In some embodiments, the occluding devices can direct blood flow within a vessel away from an aneurysm or limit blood flow to the aneurysm. Some embodiments describe methods and apparatus for adjusting, along a length of the device, the porosity of the occluding device. In some embodiments, the occluding devices allows adequate blood flow to be provided to adjacent structures such that those structures, whether they are branch vessels or oxygen-demanding tissues, are not deprived of the necessary blood flow. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018844 | MULTISTRAND COIL FOR INTERVENTIONAL THERAPY - The embolic coil includes a microcoil and an elongated wire electrically connected to the microcoil for accelerating embolization of an aneurysm into which the embolic coil is placed. The microcoil is formed of a first metallic material having a first reduction potential, and the elongated wire is formed of a second metallic material having a second reduction potential lower than the first reduction potential of the first metallic material. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018845 | RADIAL ARTERY COMPRESSION DEVICE - A radial artery compression device configured to be secured to a wrist or other portion of a patient to provide adjustable and consistent compression pressure in the area of a radial artery access site or other physiological portion of a patient to achieve hemostasis either during or after a medical procedure such as a percutaneous coronary procedure. The radial artery compression device includes a rotatable member and a compression pad adapted such that rotation of the rotatable member does not affect the rotational orientation of the compression pad. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a single rotation of the rotatable member results in complete extension or retraction of the radial artery compression device. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the rotation of the rotatable member results in a compounding of the extension or retraction of the compression pad relative to the body of the radial artery compression device. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018846 | IMPLANTS AND METHODS FOR PERCUTANEOUS PERFORATION CLOSURE - A device for sealing an aperture in a tissue includes: a foot including a distal portion configured to be disposed distal to the tissue when the device is implanted in a position to seal the aperture; and a flexible wing positionable against a distal surface of the tissue adjacent the aperture such that the flexible wing is disposed between the distal portion of the foot and the distal surface adjacent the aperture. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018847 | PERCUTANEOUS PERFORATION CLOSURE SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS - A device for sealing an aperture in a tissue includes: an implant configured to seal the aperture when positioned adjacent to the aperture; and a delivery shaft configured to engage the implant to allow the implant to be maneuvered into sealing engagement with a distal surface of the tissue, the delivery shaft comprising a retaining sleeve comprising a locking projection engagable with the locking recess of the implant to secure the implant to the delivery shaft, and a release sleeve axially slideable relative to the retaining sleeve between a first axial position in which the release sleeve is configured to maintain locking engagement between the locking recess and the locking projection, and a second axial position in which the release sleeve permits the locking projection to disengage the locking recess. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018848 | Screw Catch Mechanism for PFO Occluder and Method of Use - Devices, delivery systems and delivery techniques for an occlusion device for the closure of physical anomalies, such as an atrial septal defect, a patent foramen ovale (PFO), and other septal and vascular defects are described. The devices, delivery systems and delivery techniques relate particularly to, but are not limited to, a patent foramen ovale (PFO) occluder made from a polymer tube, specifically, a petal-shaped occluder. In certain embodiments, the catch system includes a catch member with a screw catch mechanism for connecting to the occluder. A delivery system for use with the catch member includes a component for rotating the catch member relative to the occluder to engage the screw catch mechanism. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018849 | MEDICAL DEVICES INCORPORATING FUNCTIONAL ADHESIVES - A method for bonding a polymeric medical device to tissue is provided which includes providing a polymeric medical device having a plurality of reactive members of a specific binding pair attached on a surface of the medical device, and providing tissue with a plurality of complementary reactive members of the specific binding pair, wherein upon contact of the reactive members on the surface of the medical device with the complimentary reactive members on the tissue, covalent bonds are formed between the reactive members and the complementary reactive members, thus adhering the device to the tissue. A kit is provided including a polymeric medical device such as a patch or mesh having a plurality of reactive members of a specific binding pair attached to a surface of the device and an applicator containing a solution or suspension of complementary reactive members of the specific binding pair, the complementary reactive members having a functionality that will adhere them to biological tissue upon contact, said applicator adapted to deliver the solution or suspension to biological tissue. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018850 | VESSEL CLOSURE DEVICE - The present invention relates to closing an opening within a subcutaneous bodily vessel by using a spiral closure device to engage tissue around the opening. The spiral closure device is adapted to be threaded into the vessel wall surrounding the opening in the bodily vessel. A deployment mechanism may be used to rotate the spiral closure device. As the deployment mechanism is rotated the spiral closure device is rotated such that a tip of the spiral closure device engages the vessel wall around the opening in the bodily vessel. Continued rotation of the spiral closure device threads the closure device through the tissue around the opening. The closure device may have a tapered configuration in which the distal end is larger than the proximal end. As the distal end is threaded through the vessel wall, the narrowing closure device pulls the vessel wall tissue together, thereby effectively closing the opening. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018851 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ATTACHING SOFT TISSUE TO BONE - Methods and devices for securing soft tissue to a rigid material such as bone are disclosed herein. A bone anchor is described that comprises a base and a top such that suture material may be compressed between surfaces on the base and top to secure the suture to the anchor. Also described is an inserter that can be used to insert the bone anchor into bone and move the anchor top relative to the anchor base to clamp suture material there between. Also described is a soft-tissue and bone piercing anchor and associated inserter. Methods are described that allow use of the bone anchors to provide multiple lengths of suture material to compress a large area of soft tissue against bone. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018852 | ANCHOR FOR SECURING A SUTURE - An anchor for securing a suture relative to bone. The anchor includes a generally cylindrical body portion formed of a first material, a suture passage proximate the trailing end of the generally cylindrical body portion formed of a different second material, and at least one bone engaging projection to engage the anchor to the bone. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018853 | ANCHOR FOR SECURING A SUTURE - An anchor, formed of at least two different materials, for securing a suture relative to bone. The anchor includes a generally cylindrical body portion having a leading end configured to facilitate insertion of the body portion into the bone; a passage which is oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis of the body portion and proximate the leading end of the body portion; and bone engaging projections to secure the anchor in the bone. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018854 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SECURING A SUTURE - An improved method and device to secure a suture relative to body tissue. The device includes an outer sleeve with a generally cylindrical outer surface and an opening extending from the leading end to the trailing end adapted to receive at least a portion of the suture therein. The device also includes an inner member configured to be coaxially advanceable within the opening of the outer sleeve. The inner member and outer sleeve are configured to fixedly couple to each other and to trap at least a portion of the suture therebetween after advancement of the inner member within the outer sleeve. The device is also configured to expand from a first maximum dimension transverse to the central longitudinal axis to a second maximum dimension after advancement of the inner member within the outer sleeve. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018855 | REVISABLE ANTERIOR CERVICAL PLATING SYSTEM - An improved anterior cervical plating system and methods of cervical fusion using such a system are provided. The cervical plating system includes an interlocking mechanism that integrated into each of the plates such that any two plates may cooperatively engage through the interlocking mechanism such that a new cervical plate can be interconnected with a pre-existing plate during revision surgery without removal of the pre-existing plate. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018856 | ROD-SHAPED IMPLANT ELEMENT FOR THE APPLICATION IN SPINE SURGERY OR TRAUMA SURGERY AND STABILIZATION DEVICE WITH SUCH A ROD-SHAPED IMPLANT ELEMENT - A rod-shaped implant element is provided for connecting at least two bone anchoring elements. Each bone anchoring element includes an anchoring section to be anchored in the bone and a receiver member to be connected to the rod-shaped implant element. The rod-shaped implant element includes, a longitudinal axis, at least one first length of a rigid section that is configured to cooperate with and be received in the receiver member, a second length of a flexible section adjacent to the rigid section, a bore coaxial to the longitudinal axis and extending through the rigid section and the flexible section, and a core accommodated in the bore, the core having two opposite ends. At least one end of the core is freely movable in the bore when said flexible section is extended or compressed in a direction of the longitudinal axis. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018857 | DYNAMIC STABILIZATION CONNECTING MEMBER WITH CORD CONNECTION - A dynamic fixation medical implant having two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having a transition portion and cooperating outer sleeve, both the transition portion and sleeve being disposed between the two bone anchors. In a first embodiment, the transition portion includes a rigid length or rod having apertures therein for tying or otherwise attaching the rigid length to a second rigid length or to a flexible cord. Slender ties or cords extend through a plurality of apertures in the rigid lengths or are threaded, tied or plaited to the larger flexible cord or cable. In a second embodiment, a transition portion includes slender ties of a cord that are imbedded in a molded plastic of a more rigid member. The sleeve surrounds the transition portion and extends between the pair of bone anchors, the sleeve being compressible in a longitudinal direction between the bone anchors. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018858 | Device, Kit and Method for Correction of Spinal Deformity - A device, kit and method for the correction of spinal deformity using an anterior approach. The device comprises a screw-head platform ( | 2014-01-16 |
20140018859 | RECEIVING PART FOR RECEIVING A ROD FOR COUPLING THE ROD TO A BONE ANCHORING ELEMENT AND A BONE ANCHORING DEVICE WITH SUCH A RECEIVING PART - A receiving part for coupling a rod to a bone anchoring element includes a receiving part body including a rod receiving portion having a channel for receiving a rod, and a head receiving portion for accommodating a head of a bone anchoring element, the head receiving portion having an open end and being flexible for inserting and clamping of the head; and a locking ring around the head receiving portion, wherein in a pre-locking position, a spring portion on one of the locking ring or the receiving part body engages a corresponding portion on the other one of the locking ring or the receiving part body, and the locking ring exerts a first force onto the head receiving portion, and wherein in a locking position, the locking ring exerts a second force greater than the first force onto the head receiving portion to lock the head therein. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018860 | PERCUTANEOUS COMPRESSION AND DISTRACTION SYSTEM - A compression and distraction shaft assembly applies compression and distraction to bones including vertebrae. Shaft A assembly and shaft B assembly are attached together via a polyaxial fulcrum. The polyaxial fulcrum allows all rotational degrees of freedom between shaft A assembly and shaft B assembly. Such fulcrum, during compression and distraction, does not impart ancillary stresses or motion to vertebrae. An hourglass-shaped bore for engaging pliers is formed in approximately middle of both the shaft A assembly and the shaft B assembly. Distraction pliers having cylindrical tips are used to apply distraction to vertebrae. Once handles are pressed to impart an appropriate amount of distraction to the vertebrae, they are locked in this position. Compression pliers having cylindrical tips are used to apply compression to vertebrae. Once handles are pressed to impart an appropriate amount of compression to the vertebrae, they are locked in this position. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018861 | Methods for Correction of Spinal Deformities - A method of treating a spinal column shape deformation includes fixing at least two fixation screw assemblies to respective vertebrae, sliding a rod between the arm extensions on each of the fixation screw assemblies, swinging the channels of the screw assemblies relative to the fixation screws so that the channels become less inclined to the axes of the fixation screws, and so that the rod is located generally posteriorly of the spinal column, locking the channel against swinging relative to the screw, rotating the rod about its axis relative to at least one of the channels, and locking the rod against movement relative to the channel. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018862 | VARIABLE ANGLE BONE FIXATION DEVICE - A bone fixation element includes a threaded head and a shaft extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end, an outer surface of the head being one of carburized and nitrided and including a first groove extending into an outer surface of the head along a path interrupting the threading and extending along an angle counter to an angle of the threading. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018863 | POLYAXIAL BONE ANCHOR WITH POP-ON SHANK, FRICTION FIT RETAINER, WINGED INSERT AND LOW PROFILE EDGE LOCK - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert, a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring having inner and outer tangs and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018864 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW WITH SHANK ARTICULATION PRESSURE INSERT AND METHOD - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion, a receiver member or head, a retaining and articulating structure, and a pressure insert disposed between the shank upper portion and a rod. The receiver has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a receiver cavity. The retaining and articulating structure attaches to the shank and rotates with the shank in the cavity during positioning. The pressure insert presses upon the shank upper portion and not the retaining and articulating structure. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018865 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW WITH SHANK ARTICULATION PRESSURE INSERT AND METHOD - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion, a receiver member or head, a retaining and articulating structure, and a pressure insert disposed between the shank upper portion and a rod. The receiver has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a receiver cavity. The retaining and articulating structure attaches to the shank and rotates with the shank in the cavity during positioning. The pressure insert presses upon the shank upper portion and not the retaining and articulating structure. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018866 | SURGICAL SCREW ASSEMBLY WITH INCREASED ARTICULATION - A system, method, and apparatus for a surgical screw with increased articulation. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a saddle; a split collet; a fastener with a head that fits inside the split collet; a cage for housing the saddle and split collet. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018867 | PRECAUTION AGAINST JAMMING ON OPEN BONE SCREWS - In a bone screw ( | 2014-01-16 |
20140018868 | Instrumentation for Spinal Fixation Using Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques - A cable threader device for passing a guide cable between pedicle screws during minimally invasive spinal surgery, the device comprising a handle with a trigger mechanism, the handle mounted onto an elongated shaft having a curved free end with a detachable curved lead member retained in telescoping manner on the end of the body. The guide cable is affixed to the lead member, the instrument is inserted into a first screw tower, the trigger mechanism is activated to advance the lead member into the adjacent tower, and the lead member and guide cable are retrieved through the second tower. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018869 | SPINAL IMPLANT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A surgical instrument comprises a first wall defining a cavity disposed for communication with a suction source and extending between a first end and a second end. The first end includes at least a portion of a valve disposed for communication with the cavity. The second end includes at least a portion of an implant engaging surface. A second wall is connected to the first wall and extending between a first end and a second end. The first end includes an impact surface and the second end includes at least a portion of the implant engaging surface. Methods of use are disclosed. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018870 | MRI OPERATION MODES FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - One embodiment of the present invention relates to an implantable medical device (“IMD”) that can be programmed from one operational mode to another operational mode when in the presence of electro-magnetic interference (“EMI”). In accordance with this particular embodiment, the IMD includes a communication interface for receiving communication signals from an external device, such as a command to switch the IMD from a first operation mode to a second operation mode. The IMD further includes a processor in electrical communication with the communication interface, which is operable to switch or reprogram the IMD from the first operation mode to the second operation mode upon receiving a command to do so. In addition, the IMD includes a timer operable to measure a time period from when the processor switches the IMD to the second operation mode. In accordance with this aspect of the invention, the processor is in electrical communication with the timer, and is further operable to switch the IMD from the second operation mode back to the first operation mode when the measured time period reaches a predetermined time period. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018871 | ENDOCARDIAL PACING DEVICES AND METHODS USEFUL FOR RESYNCHRONIZATION AND DEFIBRILLATION - According to one aspect, various methods and apparatus are used for treating a condition of a patient's heart, and for monitoring cardiac operation. In one approach consistent therewith, an electrode arrangement is placed in a right ventricle of the heart. The electrode arrangement is used to capture the myocardium for re-synchronization of the left and right ventricles by providing first and second signal components having opposite polarity on respective electrodes. The electrode arrangement is connected to an implantable CRM device that has the capability of pacing/sensing atrium, pacing/sensing ventricles, and deliver defibrillation therapy from the right side of the heart. The CRM device captures ventricular contractions to treat conduction abnormalities in one or more of the ventricles. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018872 | ADAPTIVE PHRENIC NERVE STIMULATION DETECTION - An example of a system comprises a cardiac pulse generator configured to generate cardiac paces to pace the heart, a sensor configured to sense a physiological signal for use in detecting pace-induced phrenic nerve stimulation (PS), a storage, and a phrenic nerve stimulation detector. The storage is configured for use to store patient-specific PS features for PS beats with a desirably large signal-to-noise ratio. The phrenic nerve stimulation detector may be configured to detect PS features for the patient by analyzing a PS beat with a desirably large signal-to-noise ratio induced using a pacing pulse with a large energy output and store patient-specific PS features in the storage, and use the patient-specific PS features stored in the memory to detect PS beats when the heart is paced heart using cardiac pacing pulses with a smaller energy output. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018873 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING LEAD DISLODGEMENT - A medical device system and method for detecting cardiac lead dislodgement measures intervals between sensed cardiac events for detecting an event interval pattern including at least one short event interval consecutively followed by a long event interval. Responsive to detecting the event interval pattern, a cardiac signal amplitude associated with a detected short event interval is measured. Dislodgement of the cardiac lead is detected in response to the measured amplitude. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018874 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MONITORING EFFICIENCY OF PACING - Various systems, methods, devices and arrangements are implemented for use in pacing of the heart. One implementation is directed to methods and systems for determining a pacing location in the right ventricle of a heart and near the His bundle. A pacing signal is delivered to the location in the right ventricle. The pacing signal produces a capture of a left ventricle. Properties of the capture are monitored. Results of the monitored capture are used to assess the effectiveness of the delivered pacing signal as a function of heart function. The heart function can be, for example, at least one of a QRS width, fractionation and a timing of electrical stimulation of a late activation site of a left ventricle relative to the QRS. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018875 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PACING SAFETY MARGIN - An apparatus comprises a cardiac signal sensing circuit, a pacing therapy circuit, and a controller circuit. The controller circuit includes a safety margin calculation circuit. The controller circuit initiates delivery of pacing stimulation energy to the heart using a first energy level, changes the energy level by at least one of: a) increasing the energy from the first energy level until detecting that the pacing stimulation energy induces stable capture, or b) reducing the energy from the first energy level until detecting that the stimulation energy fails to induce capture, and continues changing the stimulation energy level until confirming stable capture or the failure of capture. The safety margin calculation circuit calculates a safety margin of pacing stimulation energy using at least one of a determined stability of a parameter associated with evoked response and a determined range of energy levels corresponding to stable capture or intermittent failure of capture. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018876 | Temperature Sensor for a Leadless Cardiac Pacemaker - A leadless cardiac pacemaker comprises a housing, a plurality of electrodes coupled to an outer surface of the housing, and a pulse delivery system hermetically contained within the housing and electrically coupled to the electrode plurality, the pulse delivery system configured for sourcing energy internal to the housing, generating and delivering electrical pulses to the electrode plurality. The pacemaker further comprises a temperature sensor hermetically contained within the housing and adapted to sense temperature information, wherein the pacemaker can control electrical pulse delivery at least partly based on the temperature information. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018877 | METHODS FOR PROMOTING INTRINSIC ACTIVATION IN SINGLE CHAMBER IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC PACING SYSTEMS - Cardiac pacing methods for an implantable single chamber pacing system, establish an offset rate for pacing at a predetermined decrement from either a baseline rate (i.e. dictated by a rate response sensor), or an intrinsic rate. Pacing maintains the offset rate until x of y successive events are paced events, at which time the offset rate is switched to the baseline rate for pacing over a predetermined period of time. Following the period, if an intrinsic event is not immediately detected, within the interval of the offset rate, the rate is switched back to baseline for pacing over an increased period of time. Some methods establish a preference rate, between the offset and baseline rates, wherein an additional criterion, for switching from the offset rate to the baseline rate, is established with respect to the preference rate. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018878 | LOCAL AND NON-LOCAL SENSING FOR CARDIAC PACING - Systems and methods for determining pacing timing intervals based on the temporal relationship between the timing of local and non-local cardiac signal features are described. A device includes a plurality of implantable electrodes electrically coupled to the heart and configured to sense local and non-local cardiac signals. Sense circuitry coupled to first and second electrode pairs senses a local cardiac signal via a first electrode pair and a non-local cardiac signal via a second electrode pair. Detection circuitry is used to detect a feature of the local signal associated with activation of a heart chamber and to detect a feature of the non-local signal associated with activation of the heart chamber. A control processor times delivery of one or more pacing pulses based on a temporal relationship between timing of the local signal feature and timing of the non-local signal feature. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018879 | Apparatuses for Renal Neuromodulation - Methods and apparatus are provided for renal neuromodulation using a pulsed electric field to effectuate electroporation or electrofusion. It is expected that renal neuromodulation (e.g., denervation) may, among other things, reduce expansion of an acute myocardial infarction, reduce or prevent the onset of morphological changes that are affiliated with congestive heart failure, and/or be efficacious in the treatment of end stage renal disease. Embodiments of the present invention are configured for extravascular delivery of pulsed electric fields to achieve such neuromodulation. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018880 | METHODS FOR MONOPOLAR RENAL NEUROMODULATION - Methods and apparatus are provided for monopolar neuromodulation, e.g., via a pulsed electric field. Such monopolar neuromodulation may effectuate irreversible electroporation or electrofusion, necrosis and/or inducement of apoptosis, alteration of gene expression, action potential attenuation or blockade, changes in cytokine up-regulation and other conditions in target neural fibers. In some embodiments, monopolar neuromodulation is applied to neural fibers that contribute to renal function. In some embodiments, such monopolar neuromodulation is performed bilaterally. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018881 | TRANSCRANIAL CURRENT STIMULATION DEVICE AND METHOD - A device for transcranial stimulation. The device for transcranial stimulation comprises an adjustable current source for providing a stimulation current; a first electrode connected to the current source for electrical connection to a patient; a second electrode connected to the current source for electrical connection to the patient; a first current interruptor for interrupting current flow between the current source and the electrode, the first current interruptor connected between the adjustable current source and the first electrode; and an output monitor connected between the current source and the first electrode for monitoring current to the patient. The output monitor detects an abnormal current it signals the first interruptor, which interrupts the current to the patient. A method of operating a device for transcranial stimulation is also provided. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018882 | BRAIN REPAIR USING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF HEALTHY NODES - A method and system of compensating for a damaged brain node is disclosed. The damaged node is determined by techniques such as fMRI or neural recording. A healthy node that can compensate for the function of the damaged node is determined. A stimulating electrode is placed on at least one functioning node to bypass the activity from the damaged node to compensate for a missing node. The functioning node is then stimulated to compensate for the damaged node. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018883 | Techniques for Sensing and Adjusting a Compliance Voltage in an Implantable Stimulator Device - Disclosed herein are methods and circuitry for monitoring and adjusting a compliance voltage in an implantable stimulator devices to an optimal value that is sufficiently high to allow for proper circuit performance (i.e., sufficient current output), but low enough that power is not needlessly wasted via excessive voltage drops across the current output circuitry. The algorithm measures output voltages across the current source and sink circuitry during at least periods of actual stimulation when both the current sources and sinks are operable, and adjusts the compliance voltage so as to reduce these output voltages to within guard band values preferably indicative for operation in transistor saturation. The output voltages can additionally be monitored during periods between stimulation pulses to improve the accuracy of the measurement, and is further beneficial in that such additional measurements are not perceptible to the patient. | 2014-01-16 |
20140018884 | LEAD ANCHOR AND RELATED METHODS OF USE - A lead anchor includes a core housing defining a cavity; a swivel anchor disposed in the cavity and having a tubular portion and a locking portion; at least two locking members; and at least two sleeves with a portion of each of the sleeves and each of the locking members disposed within the cavity at a periphery of the cavity. The tubular portion is adapted to receive an external tool to rotate the swivel anchor within the cavity. The lead anchor has an unlocked configuration, in which the swivel anchor can rotate within the cavity of the core housing without compressing the sleeves, and a locked configuration, in which opposing ends of the locking portion of the swivel anchor each lie between one of the sleeves and one of the locking members and compress the sleeves and any lead disposed within the sleeves to hold that lead in place. | 2014-01-16 |