12th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights part 56 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20090076418 | Repetitive strain mitigation - Embodiments provide an apparatus, a system, a device, a computer program product, and a method. A method embodiment includes a method implemented in an environment that includes a person interacting with an electronic device via a user interface. The method includes monitoring at least one of a movement or a position of an appendage of the person with respect to the user interface of the device. The method also includes determining if the monitored movement or position of the appendage of the person is indicative of a risk of a repetitive injury to the person. The method further includes implementing an action facilitating a reduction of the determined indicated risk of a repetitive injury to the person. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076419 | LOSS-OF-BALANCE AND FALL DETECTION SYSTEM - A wireless monitoring/assessment system identifies and records selected basic activities of daily living, loss of balance, and falls of at-risk elderly using a minimum set of sensors. A wearable system collects data over an extended period from sensors mounted under each shoe/slipper inner sole, and three kinetic measurement sensors, one mounted on the subject's chest, and the other two on each thigh. The resulting data can be processed off line to determine if a loss of balance or fall has occurred and identify the basic activity that the subject was performing when it happened. The two inner sole foot pressure sensors provide data on the loading of the plantar aspect of each fore- and rear foot. Each kinematics measurement sensor module provides 3-axis acceleration and angular rate data from the torso and each thigh. All data is sampled at a high rate using an analog to digital converter, time stamped, and then stored in memory. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076420 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ADIPOSE TISSUE TREATMENT - A system and method for treatment of adipose tissue. One or more shock waves are generated focused on a region of adipose tissue located between 0.2 and 3 cm below the skin surface. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076421 | Frequency Stimulation Trainer - A preferably non-electrical nerve communication enhancement tool that sends specific, pre-timed, controlled vibrational and/or acoustical stimulation frequencies to the body to enhance nerve communication for the purpose of assisting in proper function of skeletal muscle, smooth muscle, sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, and facilitating rapid and improved cerebellar timing circuit and related cerebellar learning mechanism pathways such as the inferior olivary-Purkinje-Thalamus cell system and other similar neuronal pools, to improve muscle memory, coordinated functional neuron-musculo-skeletal performance improvement, enhance blood flow, increased range of motion, flexibility, strength and dexterity, neuromuscular re-education, muscle tone recovery, pain modulation, improved eye-hand coordination, gait improvement, balance and stability gains, kinetic chain integration, neurological performance enhancement, sensory dysfunction reduction, and improvement in mental and cognitive function. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076422 | Smart acupressure pen and methods of administering acupressure - The present invention relates to an acupressure pen and methods of acupressure treatment, wherein said pen is capable of determining the optimal range for treatment on a particular acupoint, and recalling such optimal range during subsequent treatments. Through the use of a grid system, infrared communicator, and microcontroller, the pen is capable of being set and storing results in a matrix. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076423 | Method and System for Treating Person suffering from a Circulatory Disorder - A method for therapeutically affecting the circulation of blood in a person in combination with or with medication to treat a medical condition includes the steps of administering a composition for treating a circulatory condition, providing a source of high pressure air in fluid communication with a plurality of air pressure actuated valves, each of the valves mounted on, and in fluid communication with, an inflatable bladder disposed within a cuff removably attached about at least one of the feet, calves, thighs, buttocks of the person; providing a source of low pressure air in fluid communication with said plurality of valves, wherein a constant pressure is exerted against said valves; and controlling inflation of said bladders in a predetermined sequence, magnitude of inflation pressure and period of time during a cardiac cycle of the person and as a function of said person's physiological reaction to said composition. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076424 | Pneumatic Massaging Device - A pneumatic massaging device comprising a first inflatable part ( | 2009-03-19 |
20090076425 | Equilateral Foot Bed and Systems Having Same - An equilateral foot bed and a system using the equilateral foot bed are provided for treating foot injuries and deformities, while allowing the patient to remain ambulatory. Embodiments include a foot bed having a first portion and a second portion, the second portion having a greater thickness than the first portion. The portions of differing thickness support, align and cushion portions of the foot. The foot bed is selectively usable in either a left foot-receiving or a right foot-receiving configuration. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076426 | Wearable device - A wearable device includes a unitary first frame assembly which is integrally formed from first and second polymeric materials. The first frame assembly has a first frame portion formed by the first polymeric material and extends around part of a second frame portion formed by the second polymeric material. The first frame member includes a flexible first shell and a first connecting portion which depends from the first shell. The second frame portion forms part of the first shell and continuously extends to the first connecting portion without interruption. The second polymeric material has greater rigidity than the first polymeric material. The device also includes a second frame assembly having a second connecting portion which links to the first connecting portion. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076427 | THERAPEUTIC BOOTS STABILIZATION WEDGE - A device for stabilizing a limb, typically when the limb is in a therapeutic boot. A wedge-shaped stabilization block includes an outwardly-extending tether. A fastener in the form of spaced fastener elements is located on the tether for securing the stabilization block in place. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076428 | Ambidextrous ankle support - An ankle brace, comprising a truss and an envelope, the envelope having left and right wrapping straps and a truss sleeve suitable for securably holding said truss, and the truss having a bottom connected to left and right uprights having left and right ends, wherein said left and right uprights have equally sized ankle protrusions. The ankle brace is preferably constructed from nylon coated neoprene. The left and right straps of the invention allow a user to adjust the tension of the brace around the user's ankle. The equally sized ankle protrusions on the truss allow the brace to be worn on either the left or the right foot. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076429 | Clubfoot Orthotics - Disclosed is an orthotic for treating at least one component of talipes equinovarus. The orthotic includes an orthotic shell having a plantar support surface configured to support a portion of a foot disposed in the orthotic. The plantar support surface includes a cutout extending laterally through at least a portion of a midfoot portion, and a posterior cuboid supporting surface having a medial boundary, at least a portion of the medial boundary being defined by at least a portion of the cutout. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076430 | SUPER-HYDROPHOBIC BANDAGES AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME - A bandage that includes a material, which can be breathable, having a first surface, and a plurality of superhydrophobic particles attached to the first surface. The plurality of superhydrophobic particles ranging in size from about 100 nanometers to about 10 micrometers. The superhydrophobic particles including a protrusive material defining a plurality of nanopores and a plurality of spaced apart nanostructures that define an external boundary of the hydrophobic particles. The nanopores providing a flow through porosity. The first surface can be rendered superhydrophobic by the attached superhydrophobic particles. The material can have a second surface opposite the first surface that is hydrophilic. The superhydrophobic particles can be adhered to the first surface by a binder. Also included is a method of making the bandages described herein. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076431 | Bevelled Foam - The invention relates to a foam dressing with a bevelled edge and where the density at the edge is higher than the density at the central part of the foam. The high density at the edges causes gel blocking of the wound exudate thereby preventing leakage of exudate through the edges. In a preferred embodiment the foam dressing is non-adhesive. The foam dressing may have a water-impervious backing layer, which extends all the way over the top of the dressing and down to the wound-contacting surface. The wound dressing is particularly useful in treatment of venous ulcers in connection with compression bandages, as the bevelling of the edges markedly reduces the indentations in the leg following use of this dressing when compared to a dressing with straight edges. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076432 | Compression garment - A compression garment comprises a plurality of longitudinal yarns arranged to form a fabric having a length and generally parallel to the length, and a plurality of transverse elastomeric yarns connecting adjacent longitudinal yarns and equally spaced about a length of the longitudinal yarns. In a stretched state, the longitudinal yarns are spaced from one another and remain generally parallel to the length. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076433 | AUTOMATIC PRIME OF AN EXTRACORPOREAL BLOOD CIRCUIT - A system for priming an extracorporeal blood circuit is described. The system includes a fluid circuit with an air venting mechanism, a reversible pump, arterial and venous lines, a prime waste bag and a switchable coupler selectively connecting the arterial and venous lines to the waste bag or alternatively interconnecting the arterial and venous lines. A priming fluid is connected to the circuit and circulated in the circuit under different configurations of the arterial and venous line connections. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076434 | Method and System for Achieving Volumetric Accuracy in Hemodialysis Systems - Volumetric accuracy in hemodialysis systems is provided by swapping pumps between the replacement fluid side and the output side for a hemofiltration system and between the return fluid side and the sorbent side for a closed-loop, sorbent-based system, such that same quantity of fluid is pumped at each point after the end of an even number of pump swaps. A method for calculating the time interval between swaps is provided based on an allowable difference in amount pumped in the two functions at any given time. A mechanism is provided for compensating for the differences in head pressure presented to the pumps for fluid coming from the replacement-fluid containers or the reservoir and that coming back from the patient through the dialyzer. The pump-swapping system provides an accurate means that can be inexpensively implemented, including using a disposable device. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076435 | Catheter Assembly - A catheter assembly is provided with a flexible tubular body having two lumens. A solid slidable member with a sharp distal end is disposed within one of the lumens. The slidable member is capable of sliding within the lumen of the tubular body between an exposed position in which the sharp distal end of the slidable member protrudes from the distal end of the tubular body and a shielded position in which the distal end of the slidable member is within the tubular body. One advantage is that the sharp distal end of the slidable member may be withdrawn into the tubular body in order to shield a patient from unintentional cutting or irritation from the sharp distal end of the slidable member. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076436 | OCULAR IMPLANTS WITH DEPLOYABLE STRUCTURE - An implant has a tubular member with an inlet configured to receive fluid from an anterior chamber of an eye, an outlet configured to deliver fluid from the inlet to a physiological outflow pathway of the eye, and a lumen therebetween configured for substantially free flow of the fluid and which generally defines a flow axis. At the outlet of the tubular member is a distal deployable portion that has a compacted position and an expanded position. The deployable portion is configured to expand in the physiological outflow pathway of the eye and moves transversely when transitioning between the compacted and expanded positions about a pivot axis which is substantially perpendicular to the flow axis. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076437 | Drug Delivery from Electroactive Molecularly Imprinted Polymer - A device delivers a chemical or biological agent, the device comprises an imprint molecule (IM) to be delivered by the device; an electroactive molecularly imprinted polymer (EMIP) imprinted with the imprint molecule, the EMIP having a plurality of binding sites capable of binding the imprint; and an electric potential producing member (EPM), the EPM being capable of producing an electric potential between the EPM and the EMIP; whereby when the EMIP has a predetermined density of imprint molecule bound at the binding sites, and whereby when a sufficient potential is produced between the EPM and the EMIP, the imprint molecule is released from the binding site and thereby delivered by the device. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076438 | Method for treating a sphincter - A method for treating a sphincter provides a polymer material having a liquid state. The method also provides a catheter having a distal end, a tissue piercing device carried by the distal end, and an energy delivery device coupled to the tissue piercing device. The tissue piercing device has a lumen. The method introduces the catheter into an esophagus and pierces an exterior sphincter tissue surface within with the tissue piercing device. The method advances the tissue piercing device into an interior sphincter tissue site and conveys the polymer material while in a liquid state through the lumen into the interior sphincter tissue site. The method delivers energy to the tissue piercing device to transform the polymer material into a less liquid state within the interior sphincter tissue site, to thereby remodel the sphincter. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076439 | Inflation System for Balloon Catheter - The present invention is directed towards an inflation system for a balloon catheter that automatically determines and outputs a balloon diameter. The present invention is also directed towards an inflation system that automatically controls the surgical procedure using the balloon diameter. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076440 | LIQUID JET SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATING CHANNEL OPENINGS ALIGNED ALONG THE JET BEAM - Certain embodiments of the surgical instruments provided according to the invention utilize a channel positioned adjacent to and downstream of a liquid jet-forming nozzle such that at least a portion of the liquid jet passes at least one of within the channel and adjacent to and along the length of at least a portion of a longitudinally-oriented opening in the channel, when the instrument is in operation. The use of such channels in certain embodiments of the inventive surgical instruments can enable the instruments to provide enhanced control over the depth and degree of cutting and/or ablation of tissue; and/or can provide improved and enhanced functionality for cleaning, debriding, and/or trimming and cutting a tissue/surface; and/or can provide longer effective liquid jet beam cutting/ablation lengths by reducing the degree of dispersion of the jet along its length. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076441 | Aspirator assembly - An assembly structured aspirate nasal cavity of individuals including, but not limited to, children. A hand held and operative casing includes a negative pressure source preferably battery operated, and a cover assembly removably connected to the casing and structured to at least partially define a receiving chamber. An inlet assembly is formed in the casing and communicates with the negative pressure source at least partially by means of a path of fluid flow. A container is removably disposed within the receiving chamber in a predetermined, operative orientation sufficient to receive and collect a predetermined portion of the aspirated fluid, such as mucus removed from the nasal cavity. The path of fluid flow is disposed, dimensioned and structured to restrict passage of the heavier, predetermined portion of the aspirated fluid thereby facilitating its collection within the container, which is disposable along with the collected aspirated fluid after use. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076442 | Apparatus for Automatic Insertion of a Solid Medicine - An apparatus for insertion of a medicine peg ( | 2009-03-19 |
20090076443 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR THE AUTOMATIC INITIATION OF AN INJECTION - A system and method to automatically initiate an injection procedure of a medicament into a patient. In the system, a delivery assembly includes an injector for infusing the medicament into the patient. Further, the system includes a monitor for detecting a parameter characteristic of the procedure, for instance, a pressure indicative of a partial vacuum between the injector and the injection site, a pressure exerted by the patient against the delivery assembly, a conductance, a capacitance, or an optical blood reading. Also, the system includes a timer for determining compliance of the parameter within a predetermined range during a first time interval. In response to the timer, an actuator initiates the injection procedure at the expiration of the first time interval. Further, the actuator may stop the injection procedure if the parameter is outside the predetermined range during a second time interval. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076444 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SECURING A NEUROMODULATION LEAD TO NERVOUS TISSUE OR TISSUE SURROUNDING THE NERVOUS SYSTEM - An apparatus for securing a neuromodulation lead to nervous tissue or surrounding tissue (i.e. meninges) is provided. The neuromodulation lead includes an elongated member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a passage extending there between. The lead further includes at least one electrical contact secured around an outer surface of the distal end of the elongated member for stimulating nervous tissue. The apparatus comprises first and second tubular members are disposed within the passage of the elongated member. Each of the tubular members terminates at the distal end of the elongated member. First and second glue components are provided for injecting into the first and second tubular members, respectively. The first and second glue components, when injected, exit the respective tubular members at the distal end of the elongated member and mix to create a solidified glue that anchors the distal end of the elongated member within the nervous tissue. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076445 | Sterile catheter pullback mechanism assemblies - One aspect of the invention provides catheter pullback apparatuses in which a reusable drive component is enclosed in a sterile disposable barrier enclosure, such as a polymeric sheath/bag. In one embodiment, the reusable drive component includes a pullback carriage that is magnetically coupled, through the sterile barrier, to a slideable catheter shuttle adapted to retain a catheter hub of a catheter. In another embodiment, a sterile barrier-enclosed drive component is inserted into a housing, in which process a piercing tip provided on the catheter shuttle pierces the enclosure and mechanically mates the slideable catheter shuttle and pullback carriage. In this manner, non-sterility of the operating environment is minimized. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076446 | ADJUSTABLE CATHETER FOR DILATION IN THE EAR, NOSE OR THROAT - The improved balloon catheter includes a first tubular segment, which has multiple zones of differing malleability along its length. The catheter further includes a coaxially aligned hypotube formed of a malleable material, which is positioned within the lumen of the first tubular segment and extends from the distal end of the first tubular segment. In one embodiment the hypotube runs the length of the first tubular segment; while in another embodiment, the hypotube runs along only a portion of the length of the first tubular segment. A portion of the outer circumferential surface of the hypotube is permanently affixed and sealed to an inner circumferential surface of the first tubular segment in the vicinity of the distal end of the first tubular segment. The outer circumference of the distal end of the first tubular segment is gently tapered along its length so as to smoothly transition to the circumference of the hypotube. The hypotube terminates with an atraumatic tip and includes a balloon dilator affixed near the tip. An aperture near the tip of the hypotube fluidly connects the interior of the balloon with the lumen of the hypotube enabling the balloon to selectively expand and contract. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076447 | Method and apparatus for conducting peripheral vascular disease procedures using a novel anchor balloon catheter - An anchor balloon for conducting peripheral vascular disease procedures in an remote entry point such as an opposite extremity is provided, and includes a flexible catheter, which includes a wire lumen and a balloon lumen with a control port for connecting to balloon control and a balloon inflation port; and, a compliant anchor balloon connected near the flexible catheter distal end. A method for treating peripheral vascular disease in an opposite femoral artery includes inserting a first flexible catheter with flexible guide wire into an artery on an opposite side, advancing the flexible catheter to a location upstream of the surgery location, advancing the guide wire through the catheter to an anchor location, withdrawing the first catheter leaving the wire in place, inserting an anchor balloon catheter over the wire to an anchor location, withdrawing the first wire; inflating the anchor balloon against the arterial walls, inserting a stiff guide wire through the anchor balloon catheter to the point of surgery, deflating the anchor balloon, and withdrawing the anchor balloon catheter while leaving the stiff wire in place for further procedures. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076448 | Methods and devices for eluting agents to a vessel - Systems, devices and methods for eluting an agent at a treatment site are disclosed. The devices include an expandable frame and at least one membrane. The membrane may carry an agent to elute at the treatment site. The membrane may allow blood flow at the treatment site during agent delivery. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076449 | COATING AND METHOD FOR APPLYING A COATING TO A MEDICAL INSTRUMENT, AND MEDICAL INSTRUMENT - The invention relates to a cover ( | 2009-03-19 |
20090076450 | Syringe with Disabling Mechanism - Syringe assemblies having a passive disabling system to prevent reuse are provided. In one embodiment, the passive disabling system activates after completion of an injection cycle. An exemplary syringe assembly incorporates a stopper and plunger rod attached in a manner to prevent users from disassembling the syringe prior to completion of the injection cycle. The barrel may also include an annular extension or collar that extends from the proximal end of the barrel. In a specific configuration, the annular extension at least partially envelopes a portion of the thumb press to prevent the user from accessing the thumb press and moving the plunger rod in a proximal direction Syringe assemblies of one or more embodiments also include visual indicators or markers indicating whether a syringe assembly is used or the plunger rod is locked within the barrel. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076451 | Medical Device with Protected Transcutaneous Device - A medical device is provided comprising a first a second units, the first unit comprising a housing with a skin-mountable surface, and a transcutaneous device having a distal portion adapted to be arranged through the skin of the subject in a situation of use in which the housing has been applied on a skin surface. The second unit is adapted to be releasably coupled to the first unit thereby, in a situation of use, substantially covering an introduction site of the transcutaneous device through the skin, whereby at least partial removal of the second unit from the first unit at least partially uncovers the introduction site. In this way the transcutaneous device can be protected during use, yet it allows the user to inspect the introduction site. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076452 | Disposable device for washing wounds and surgical sites - The present invention concerns a new device for washing wounds and surgical sites that is equipped with a grip ( | 2009-03-19 |
20090076453 | Device for Administration - The application relates to a device for an intermittent or continuous administration of a therapeutical substance, such as insulin, comprising an injection part and a fluid delivery part ( | 2009-03-19 |
20090076454 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING AN OBTURATOR FOR ENHANCED DIRECTIONAL CAPABILITIES IN A VASCULAR ENVIRONMENT - An apparatus for assisting in a vascular procedure includes an obturator that interfaces with a surface of tissue, the obturator including a shaft and a groove that can guide one or more tips of a medical device into a targeted region. In more specific embodiments, the targeted region is an aortic hole. The obturator can include a knob that stabilizes the medical device laterally on a surface of the targeted region. The obturator can also include a flange element that extends beyond the knob onto an outside surface of the targeted region. The knob can include a chamfer feature that can provide room for the tips of the medical device to enter the targeted region at an angle without bumping into the knob. In still other embodiments, the tips are sharp needle tips of the medical device and the groove is a V-shaped groove. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076455 | Variable diameter tube for use in a vasal inserter for performing hemodinamics researches and related operations - A variable diameter tube for use in a vessel inserter for performing hemodynamics researches and related operations comprises two coupled different-characteristic materials which are coupled to one another to provide a single stretchable tube assembly. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076456 | TROCAR ASSEMBLY - Methods and devices for accessing a body cavity are disclosed. In general, a trocar assembly is provided that can include a housing having a cannula that extends therefrom to define a working channel that is sized and configured to receive a surgical instrument. The trocar assembly can also include a seal unit that is disposed in the housing. The seal unit can be generally configured to allow off-axis insertion of an instrument through the working channel without lateral movement of the seal unit. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the seal unit can be rotatably disposed in the housing and have at least one seal element that is adapted to selectively seal the working channel. The seal unit can also be adapted to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the assembly and an axis perpendicular thereto. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076457 | MEDICAL ANCHORING SYSTEM - An anchoring system for an elongated medical article comprises an anchor pad and a retainer mounted upon the anchor pad. The retainer includes a base, a cover, and a compressible member including a receptacle into which the medical article to be retained is placed. When the cover is closed, the medical article is secured within the receptacle by the pressure of the compressible member and the cover upon the medical article. One or more biasing members act upon the compressible member to increase the frictional forces acting on the retained section of the medical article. The receptacle may form a channel that follows a curved path through the retainer. The retainer may also include guide extensions to support the medical article along a transverse bend toward the skin of the patient. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076458 | Injection Device with Means for Signalling the Time Since the Last Injection - The present Invention relates to an injection device capable of emitting a flashing light signal indicating the time elapsed since last ejection and/or the size of the last ejected dosage and/or a return signal indicating the operable state of the device and/or a time out signal indicating when the pen can be removed after ejecting of a dosage. The injection device comprises an electronic control circuit comprising: a sensor unit arranged to detect the occurrence of an ejection of a drug from the injection device; a timer for determining an approximate time elapsed since last ejection; a signal emitting device being able to emit a signal, the signal emitting device being controllable by the electric control circuit, so as to emit a time signal that varies with the time elapsed since last ejection. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076459 | APPLICATOR DEVICE FOR APPLYING A MULTI-COMPONENT FLUID - Disclosed is an applicator device ( | 2009-03-19 |
20090076460 | Device And Method For Contact Free Absolute Position Determination - The present invention relates to a contact free arrangement for determining an absolute position of a member adapted for setting an amount of medicament to be injected from a medication delivery device, or adapted for determining an amount of medicament injected from a medication delivery device. The arrangement according to the present invention comprises at least one track of reflector means, at least one emitter means, and at least one receiver means. The at least one emitter means and the at least one receiver means are adapted to electrically couple to a number of the reflector means. The electrical coupling may be capacitive or inductive. In addition, the present invention relates to a medication delivery device or a syringe having such arrangement. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076461 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATION WITH AN INFUSION DEVICE - It may desirable to monitor or control a pump remotely. For example, the pump may be positioned near the patient, with remote control or monitoring of the pump occurring in a control room. In one exemplary embodiment, the pump is used in an MRI environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the pump is used in a hyperbaric chamber. The pump may monitor one or more physiological parameters and transmit them to the remote. The pump may also transmit information relating to the pump's operation. The pump may send the device and/or physiological data using one or more packets. The packets may consist of low priority sequential packets and high-priority asynchronous packets. The high-priority packets may enable the real-time monitoring of a patient's heart beat or other physiological parameter. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076462 | FLUID TITRATION SYSTEM - A fluid titration system has an optical sensor, a physiological monitor, a titration controller and an infusion device. The optical sensor transmits multiple wavelengths of light into a tissue site of a person and detects the optical radiation after attenuation by pulsatile blood flowing within the tissue site. The physiological monitor receives a resulting sensor signal and derives a plethysmograph that corresponds to the pulsatile blood flow. The monitor also calculates a plethysmograph variability measure that is responsive to changes in perfusion at the tissue site. A titration controller generates a fluid control output according to the variability measure. The infusion device administers a liquid solution via an intravenous (IV) connection to the person according to the fluid control output so as to regulate at least one of a fluid flow start, rate and stop. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076463 | Trocar Cannula - A cannula having a tube that is longitudinally split and open along the entire, or along substantially the entire, length of the tubing. Attached to the proximal end of the tubing is a hub that is also longitudinally split and open. The hub acts as a stop to prevent the entire cannula from entering the incision. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076464 | SURGICAL PORTAL WITH GEL AND FABRIC SEAL ASSEMBLY - A surgical portal assembly includes a portal adapted to provide access to underlying tissue and having a longitudinal opening extending along a longitudinal axis of the portal, and defining proximal and distal ends, and a seal. The seal comprises a gel material and a fabric material mounted relative to the gel material. The seal includes internal surfaces defining a passage for reception and passage of a surgical object in substantial sealed relation therewith. A fabric layer may be mounted adjacent each of proximal and distal surfaces of the seal. The internal surfaces defining the passage of the seal may include the gel material whereby the gel material establishes the sealed relation with the surgical object. The seal includes an inner seal segment which may generally taper in a distal direction to define a general funnel configuration. Alternatively, the seal includes an inner seal segment which defines a general sloped portion to facilitate insertion of the surgical object and possibly minimize potential of inversion of the inner seal area upon withdrawal of the surgical object. The seal may include at least one support collar mounted adjacent a periphery of the seal element. The seal may further include an elastomeric material having a rigidity greater than the rigidity of the gel material. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076465 | COMPOSITE SEAL AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING - The present disclosure provides a composite surgical seal for use in a surgical access device which defines an access channel through it and includes a seal member configured and dimensioned to form a seal with a housing interior wall of a surgical access device. The seal member includes a layer defining an orifice therethrough and a fabric layer substantially encapsulating the resilient layer such that a surface of the resilient layer which defines the orifice is covered by the fabric layer. The access channel is configured and dimensioned such that insertion of a surgical instrument into the access channel causes the seal member to form a substantial sealing relation with the surgical instrument inserted therethrough. A method of forming a composite surgical seal in accordance with the present disclosure is also provided herewith. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076466 | Sutureless venous access port - Disclosed is a compact, low profile venous access port to be implanted below the skin of a patient and coupled to a (e.g., subclavian) vein by a Seldinger technique, or the like, so that a supply of fluid medication can be delivered directly to the patient's circulatory system via a medication delivery lumen. The target axis of the venous access port herein disclosed advantageously makes a small acute angle with to the patient's skin (as opposed to the | 2009-03-19 |
20090076467 | METHODS FOR APPLICATION OF REDUCED PRESSURE THERAPY - Described generally herein are tissue therapy devices, which may comprise a sealant layer and a suction apparatus. The sealant layer functions so as to create a sealed enclosure between it and the surface of a patient by forming, preferably, an airtight seal around an area of tissue that requires negative pressure therapy. The tissue therapy device may comprise a suction apparatus. The suction apparatus is typically in fluid communication with the sealant layer and functions so as to reduce the amount of pressure present underneath the sealant layer. The reduced pressure is self-created by the suction apparatus. Together the sealant layer and the suction apparatus preferably create a closed reduced pressure therapy system. Preferably, the pressure under the sealant layer is reduced by expanding the volume of the enclosure space and thereby decreasing the density of the air molecules under the sealant layer. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076468 | PORTABLE LAVAGE - A liquid dispenser for enabling personal lavage, comprising a housing containing a see-through liquid reservoir, a pump, and a rechargeable battery. Liquids discharged from the pump pass through a flexible conduit which for at least part of its length is routed outside the housing. The housing may include a clip for holding the flexible conduit. The flexible conduit terminates in a form holding nozzle which may have a removable nozzle cover for discharging liquids, and a controller. The controller may comprise a resistor type switch arranged to vary pump speed, or may comprise a wireless signal generator. In the latter case, the liquid dispenser includes a transducer adapted to respond to wireless signals to control the pump. Both the form holding nozzle and its removable nozzle cover may be readily removed and replaced. A lamp may signal low battery voltage. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076469 | Modular Dry Chamber Assembly - A dry chamber ( | 2009-03-19 |
20090076470 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DISPOSING OF LIQUID SURGICAL WASTE FOR PROTECTION OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS - An improved method for measuring and automatically disposing of infectious waste generated during and after surgical and clinical procedures is provided. The infectious waste removal device includes a suction source, a method for pressure verification, separation chamber for isolating fluids, containment reservoir, measurement chamber for determining fluid received, an information source for such fluid volumes, a quantitative method for calculating fluid dynamics, a post use cleaning method, and other attributes for use by the surgical team or healthcare staff in order to minimize health care worker handling of said infectious waste and to limit their possible exposure. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076472 | Absorbent layer, structure and article along with a method of forming the same - An absorbent layer is disclosed which is capable of absorbing a fluid and which maintains the superabsorbent particles, powder or fibers in a predetermined position. The absorbent layer is constructed of a bulky, three-dimensional fabric which has a liquid adhesive applied thereto in a non-continuous fashion. A superabsorbent is then positioned on the liquid adhesive. The absorbent layer can be secured to a liquid-impermeable outer cover to form a disposable absorbent article. A method of forming the absorbent layer is also disclosed. Furthermore, a method of forming a disposable absorbent article using the absorbent layer is described. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076473 | Absorbent Article - An absorbent article | 2009-03-19 |
20090076474 | ABSORBENT ARTICLES COMPRISING AN AGLYCONE DERIVABLE FROM AN IRIDOID GLYCOSIDE - An absorbent article comprising aglycone derivable from an iridoid glycoside and/or one or more derivative thereof have an improved body fluid retention properties. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076475 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DELIVERING THERAPEUTIC OXYGEN TREATMENTS - The present invention provides an applicator for directing a flow of medically pure, therapeutic gas onto a selected portion of the body of a patient. The applicator receives the flow of medically pure, therapeutic gas, such as oxygen, from a source, via a conduit coupled to the source and to the applicator. The applicator can be an adhesive bandage having an inlet for receiving the flow of gas, and one or more outlets for directing the flow of gas. The applicator can also be a mask, patch or similar article configured to be applied to the skin of a patient and connected to a source of medically pure, therapeutic gas via a conduit. The applicator can also having other therapeutic materials impregnated therein. The applicator can also be configured to deliver other therapeutic substances introduced into the flow of gas. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076476 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS EMPLOYING FORCE SENSING FOR MAPPING INTRA-BODY TISSUE - A medical instrument system includes a controller and a guide instrument coupled to an instrument driver, the instrument driver configured to manipulate a distal end portion of the guide instrument in response to control signals generated by the controller. A force sensor is associated with the guide instrument or with a working instrument carried by the guide instrument, and generates force signals responsive to a force applied to a respective distal end portion of the guide instrument or working instrument. A position determining system generates position data indicative of a position of the respective guide or working instrument distal end portion associated with the force sensor, and a processor operatively coupled to the force sensor and position determining system processes respective force signals and position data to generate and display a geometric rendering of an internal body tissue surface based on sensed forces applied to the respective instrument distal end portion as the guide instrument is maneuvered within an interior region of a body containing the body surface. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076477 | Automatic Liquid Injection System and Method - A power assisted method and injector device for controllably delivering to patients a dispersion medicament or diagnostically active agent, the homogeneity of which is preserved throughout delivery. Diagnostically active agents disclosed are gas microbubble suspensions useful in ultrasonic diagnostic imaging and liposomal formulations in which liposome vesicles are loaded with iodinated compounds. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076478 | CATHETER FOR UNIFORM DELIVERY OF MEDICATION - A catheter is provided for uniform distribution of fluid medication within an anatomical region. One embodiment of the catheter is compromised of an elongated, proximal tube defining a lumen and an elongated, distal tube having a closed end. The distal tube is constructed from a bio-absorbable material and also defines a lumen, which communicates with the lumen of the proximal tube. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the distal tube defines a porous side wall that permits fluid within the lumen to pass through the portion of the distal tube. In another embodiment, the proximal tube and the distal tube overlap one another and are secured to one another at the overlapping surfaces. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076479 | DEVICE FOR TREATMENT OF BARRIER MEMBRANES - The present invention features a device having a barrier membrane contacting surface, the device containing: a power source; a first conductive electrode; a second conductive electrode; and a carrier; wherein the power source is in electric communication with the first conductive electrode and the second conductive electrode, wherein the first conductive electrode and the second conductive electrode are in ionic communication with the carrier, and wherein the carrier is in communication with the barrier membrane contacting surface. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076480 | Active Ingredient-Containing Silicone Elastomers - The invention relates to compositions comprising silicone elastomers and antimicrobially active substances in homogeneous distribution, a process for their production and their use in medical articles. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076481 | Therapeutic angiogenesis for treatment of the spine - The invention relates to methods for the diagnosis, amelioration, and treatment of back pain, particularly lumbar back pain, in particular, back pain caused by muscular abnormalities, vertebral body osteoporosis, and disc degeneration. Patients with back pain are categorized into specific subsets that are deemed to have potential to respond to therapy. In particular, the invention includes a therapy involving stimulation of neovascularization so as to increase perfusion of various spine compartments. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076482 | CANNULA REINFORCING BAND AND METHOD - A cannula assembly having a hollow elongate cannula with a proximal end, a distal end, and a central axis. A coiled reinforcing member is disposed along a portion of the hollow elongate cannula and is adapted to provide structural support to the elongate cannula. An intermediate reinforcing band is disposed on the elongate cannula between the proximal end and the distal end to reinforce a perforated section in the wall of the cannula and includes a forward edge, a rearward edge, at least one rib and at least one protrusion extending orthogonally from the forward edge and at least one protrusion extending from the rearward edge. A distal reinforcing band is disposed at the distal end of the elongate cannula and has a plurality of fingers that taper slightly inwardly toward the central axis of the hollow elongate cannula. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076483 | CATHETER LOCALIZATION SYSTEM - A system and method for localizing a catheter is provided. Distance values are determined between a plurality of reference electrodes and a catheter electrode. At least two circles are identified based on the distance values. The catheter electrode is located at a position where the at least two circles substantially coincide or within a minimum distance between the at least two circles. A transformation is applied to the at least two circles to express the at least two circles in a global coordinate system. An image is displayed as a function of the catheter electrode position. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076484 | Therapeutic Catheter - The therapeutic catheter comprises a lumen communicating from the user's side end to the terminal tip part thereof, a main shaft having, at its tip, a guide wire lumen, a hub at its user's side end, and a slit in the guide wire lumen through its entire length, or the therapeutic catheter comprises a main shaft having a lumen communicating from the user's side end to the terminal tip part thereof, a guide wire shaft having, at its tip, a guide wire lumen, a hub at the user's side end of the main shaft, and a slit in the guide wire shaft through its entire length. The guide wire or the shaft of the other catheter playing the role of the guide wire can be rapidly disposed in the guide wire lumen through the slit. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076485 | Alarm system for implantable pumps for intravenous drug delivery - An arrangement for administering a medication to a patient. The arrangement is provided with a dual output element having first and second outputs, and an input for receiving the medication. A first catheter is coupled to the first output of the dual output element for delivering the medication intravenously, the first catheter being provided with a pressure valve that opens at a pressure P | 2009-03-19 |
20090076486 | Multi-core connector system for interfacing first and second subsystems supporting air and electrical lines - A multi-core connector system for interfacing first and second subsystems. The system includes a first multi-port connector provided on a first subsystem and supporting a first set of air-power supply-line connectors and electrical control signal connectors; and a second multi-port connector provided on a second subsystem and supporting a second set of air-power supply-line connectors and electrical control signal connectors. A first multi-port connector plug is adapted for connection to the first multi-port connector, and a second multi-port connector plug is adapted for connection to the second multi-port connector. A multi-core cable structure is provided for interconnecting the first and second multi-port connector plugs, and includes a plurality of air-supply tubes and a plurality of electrical control signal wires encased within a flexible casing. When the first multi-port connector plug is connected to the first multi-port connector and the second multi-port connector plug is connected to the second multi-port connector, then the first set of air-power supply-line connectors are operably connected to the second set of air-power supply-line connectors by way of said plurality of air-supply tubes, and also the first set of electrical control signal connectors are electrically connected to the second set of electrical control signal connectors by way of the plurality of electrical control signal wires. The multi-core connector system of the present invention can be used in diverse medical and industrial applications where interfacing air and electrical lines is required. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076487 | Methods and Systems for Laser Calibration and Eye Tracker Camera Alignment - The present invention provides methods, systems, and apparatus for calibrating a laser ablation system, such as an excimer laser system for selectively ablating a cornea of a patient's eye. The invention also facilitates alignment of eye tracking cameras that measure a position of the eye during laser eye surgery. A calibration and alignment fixture for a scanning laser beam delivery system having eye tracking cameras may include a structure positionable in a treatment plane. The structure having a feature directing laser energy incident thereon to a calibration energy sensor, at least one reference-edge to determine a characteristic of the laser beam (shape, dimensions, etc.), and an artificial pupil to determine alignment of the eye tracking cameras with the laser system. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076488 | THERMAL SURGERY SAFETY SUITE - A laser surgical method is disclosed including: providing a laser surgical device including a handpiece including: an optical delivery component that transmits laser energy from a source to a treatment volume; and an accelerometer configured to provide information indicative of the position of the handpiece. The method includes using the handpiece to transmit laser energy from the source to a plurality of positions within the treatment volume; using the accelerometer, providing information indicative of the position of the handpiece; determining information indicative of an amount of energy delivered at each of the plurality of positions within the treatment volume based on the information indicative of the position of the handpiece, and displaying a graphical representation indicative of the amount of energy delivered at each of the plurality of positions within the treatment volume. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076489 | THERMAL SURGERY SAFETY APPARATUS AND METHOD - A laser surgical method is disclosed including: providing a laser surgical device including a handpiece including: an optical delivery component that transmits laser energy from a source to a treatment volume; and an accelerometer configured to provide information indicative of the position of the handpiece. The method includes using the handpiece to transmit laser energy from the source to a plurality of positions within the treatment volume; using the accelerometer, providing information indicative of the position of the handpiece; determining information indicative of an amount of energy delivered at each of the plurality of positions within the treatment volume based on the information indicative of the position of the handpiece, and displaying a graphical representation indicative of the amount of energy delivered at each of the plurality of positions within the treatment volume. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076490 | FIBER TIP FLUID OUTPUT DEVICE - A fiber tip fluid output device is provided for holding a fiber tip in an electromagnetic energy cutting apparatus and for directing water particles over a radiation delivery end of the fiber tip. The fiber tip fluid output device includes a generally cylindrical body having an outer surface, a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The lumen is sized and shaped to accommodate a fiber tip therethrough so that the fiber tip extends through the lumen from the proximal end to the distal end of the generally cylindrical body. The fiber tip fluid output device further includes a plurality of apertures extending around the generally cylindrical body, with each of the apertures of the plurality of apertures fluidly connecting the outer surface to the lumen. Fluid is mixed around the cylindrical body, before entering the lumen through the plurality of apertures for additional mixing. The mixed fluid is then output from the lumen of the fiber tip fluid output device onto the fiber tip, for subsequent interaction with electromagnetic energy in an interaction zone above a target surface. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076491 | METHODS FOR MAINTAINING THE PATENCY OF COLLATERAL CHANNELS IN THE LUNGS USING CRYO-ENERGY - The methods disclosed herein are directed to altering gaseous flow within a lung to improve the expiration cycle of, for instance, an individual having Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. More particularly, these methods produce and maintain collateral openings or channels through the airway wall so that expired air is able to pass directly out of the lung tissue to facilitate both the exchange of oxygen ultimately into the blood and/or to decompress hyper-inflated lungs. Devices and methods apply cryo-energy to maintain the patency of the surgically created openings. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076492 | Frequency tuning in a microwave electrosurgical system - A method and apparatus is disclosed for the ablation of biological tissue to produce a therapeutic effect. An adjustment is made to the output frequency of an electrosurgical generator during the ablation cycle to accommodate changes in the electrical properties of the apparatus and the biological tissues that occur as energy is transferred to the tissue. The adjustment is made to better align the source impedance with that of the load. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076493 | Electrosurgical medical system and method - A medical device system and method provide an RF electrosurgical generator coupled to an electrosurgical electrode via a patient box disposed in close proximity to the patient. An RF signal is delivered from the generator to the patient box where signal power is increased and the RF signal delivered to the electrosurgical electrode. The patient box is coupled to the electrosurgical electrode by a short cable capable of carrying an HV, high frequency 5 MHz signal without leakage. An electrical characteristic associated with the electrosurgical electrode is monitored and a desired RF power output and duty cycle maintained by adjusting DC input voltage applied to an RF amplifier, responsive to the monitoring. The system determines when the electrosurgical cutting electrode has started cutting and switches from a start mode to a run mode having a different RF duty cycle and a reduced RF power output controlled by a servo system. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076494 | Transurethral systems and methods for ablation treatment of prostate tissue - Transurethral systems and methods for delivering electrical energy and controlled, mild heating to a prostate tissue of a patient for destruction of cancerous and/or hyperplastic tissue. A method includes positioning an elongate urethral probe having an expandable member with electrode elements at a target location in the patient's urethra, and inflating or expanding at the target location. Secondary electrodes are positioned within or adjacent to the prostate tissue and spaced from the electrode elements of the expandable member, and an alternating electrical current flow is established between the electrode elements of the expandable member and the one or more secondary electrodes. Current delivery can be selected so as to destroy or ablate cancerous cells of the prostate tissue. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076495 | Ablation catheter with sensor array and discrimination circuit to maximize variation in power density - A catheter is designed with a virtual electrode structure for creating a linear lesion. The catheter includes a sensor array that measures temperatures of adjacent tissue along the length of the virtual electrode section. The sensors in the sensor array include a conductive material that is substantially coated with an electrically and thermally insulating material. An aperture is formed in the insulating coating to expose an area of the conductive material. Leads are coupled with each sensor and are connected at their opposite, proximal ends with a discrimination circuit. The circuit processes the signals induced in the sensors to output a single temperature measurement, for example, the highest temperature, the lowest temperature, or the average temperature. The sensors also measure cardiac electrical activity and the leads are further connected to an electrocardiograph monitor to determine the efficacy of treatment. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076496 | PROSTATE CANCER ABLATION - Methods and systems for delivering electrical energy and controlled, mild hyperthermia to a prostate tissue of a patient for destruction of cancerous and/or hyperplastic tissue. A method includes positioning a plurality of electrodes in a target tissue region comprising the prostate tissue, and establishing an alternating electrical current flow through a volume of the prostate tissue to induce mild heating and destruction of cancerous cells in the volume. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076497 | Tissue surface treatment apparatus and method - A method of controlling ablation volume depth includes providing a treatment apparatus. The apparatus comprises a housing having a proximal and distal end including a tissue contacting surface. The housing defines an interior with an energy delivery device positionable in the interior. The energy delivery device includes at least one electrode with a tissue penetrating distal end and is configured to be advanced from the interior into a target tissue site to define an ablation volume. An advancement device is coupled to the energy delivery device and is configured to advance the at least one electrode. The at least one electrode is advanced to a selected deployment depth beneath a tissue surface while avoiding a critical structure. Energy is delivered from the energy delivery device. An ablation volume is created at a controlled depth below the tissue surface responsive to the deployment depth while minimizing injury to the critical structure. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076498 | VISUALIZATION AND ABLATION SYSTEM VARIATIONS - Visualization and ablation system variations are described which utilize various tissue ablation arrangements. Such assemblies are configured to facilitate the application of bipolar energy delivery, such as RF ablation, to an underlying target tissue for treatment in a controlled manner while directly visualizing the tissue during the bipolar ablation process. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076499 | MULTI-LAYER ELECTRODE ABLATION PROBE AND RELATED METHODS - Electric field delivery and ablation of target tissue regions, including cancerous cells and solid tumors. Methods and systems include delivering an electric field to a target tissue, and may include positioning a first electrode or plurality to at least partially define a first treatment volume in the target tissue; positioning a second electrode or plurality to at least partially define a second treatment volume, the first volume is disposed in the second volume; and establishing a first current flow extending through the first volume and a second current flow extending through the second volume. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076500 | MULTI-TINE PROBE AND TREATMENT BY ACTIVATION OF OPPOSING TINES - The present invention provides devices and systems, as well as methods, of electric field delivery and non-thermal or mild hyperthermia, and preferential or selective ablation of cancerous cells of target tissue regions. A method can include, for example, advancing a probe comprising a plurality of electrodes to a target tissue region comprising cancerous cells, and deploying the plurality of electrodes from a distal portion of a probe, and applying an alternating current so as to provide one or more electric fields extending through the volume and selectively or preferentially destroy cancerous cells within the volume. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076501 | CARDIAC TREATMENT DEVICES AND METHODS - Devices and methods provide for ablation of cardiac tissue for treating cardiac arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation. Although the devices and methods are often be used to ablate epicardial tissue in the vicinity of at least one pulmonary vein, various embodiments may be used to ablate other cardiac tissues in other locations on a heart. Devices generally include at least one tissue contacting member for contacting epicardial tissue and securing the ablation device to the epicardial tissue, and at least one ablation member for ablating the tissue. Various embodiments include features, such as suction apertures, which enable the device to attach to the epicardial surface with sufficient strength to allow the tissue to be stabilized via the device. For example, some embodiments may be used to stabilize a beating heart to enable a beating heart ablation procedure. Many of the devices may be introduced into a patient via minimally invasive introducer devices and the like. Although devices and methods of the invention may be used to ablate epicardial tissue to treat atrial fibrillation, they may also be used in veterinary or research contexts, to treat various heart conditions other than atrial fibrillation and/or to ablate cardiac tissue other than the epicardium. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076502 | Prostate cancer ablation - Methods and systems for delivering electrical energy and controlled, mild hyperthermia to a prostate tissue of a patient for destruction of cancerous and/or hyperplastic tissue. A method includes positioning a plurality of electrodes in a target tissue region comprising the prostate tissue, and establishing an alternating electrical current flow through a volume of the prostate tissue to induce mild heating and destruction of cancerous cells in the volume. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076503 | CONDUCTION BLOCK VERIFICATION PROBE AND METHOD OF USE - Devices and methods provide for ablation of cardiac tissue for treating cardiac arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation. Although the devices and methods are often be used to ablate epicardial tissue in the vicinity of at least one pulmonary vein, various embodiments may be used to ablate other cardiac tissues in other locations on a heart. Devices generally include at least one tissue contacting member for contacting epicardial tissue and securing the ablation device to the epicardial tissue, and at least one ablation member for ablating the tissue. Various embodiments include features, such as suction apertures, which enable the device to attach to the epicardial surface with sufficient strength to allow the tissue to be stabilized via the device. For example, some embodiments may be used to stabilize a beating heart to enable a beating heart ablation procedure. Many of the devices may be introduced into a patient via minimally invasive introducer devices and the like. Although devices and methods of the invention may be used to ablate epicardial tissue to treat atrial fibrillation, they may also be used in veterinary or research contexts, to treat various heart conditions other than atrial fibrillation and/or to ablate cardiac tissue other than the epicardium. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076504 | Four-position rocker switch for electrosurgical handpiece - A surgical apparatus includes an actuation unit disposed on a handle and a control unit providing at least three modes for controlling the electrical instrument. The actuation unit contains a switching rocker with an operating element, which is rotatable about a rocker axis that can be shifted perpendicular to the surface of the handle, so that starting from an initial position a first or second function position can be reached by forwards or backwards rotation about the rocker axis, and a third function position can be reached by pressing the operating element inward, two sensors being disposed on the operating element, one on the left and the other on the right side of the rocker axis, in such a way that by means of the sensors the function position selected by means of the switching rocker can be determined by the control unit. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076505 | Electrosurgical instrument - An electrosurgical instrument provides pressurized gas to a surgical site and includes a hand-held applicator having a housing with proximal and distal ends and a tube defined therethrough. The tube is adapted to connect to a source of pressurized gas and is configured to selectively deliver a volume of pressurized gas to a surgical site. An actuator is also included which is configured to selectively regulate the volume of pressurized ionizable gas flowing through the tube. The actuator selectively regulates the flow of the gas through the tube. The actuator is positionable from a first position which allows a first predetermined volume of pressurized ionizable gas to flow through the tube for dissection purposes to at least one subsequent position which allows a different volume of pressurized ionizable gas to flow through the tube for coagulation purposes. The actuator, when disposed in the at least one subsequent position, operatively communicates with an active electrode to ionize the different volume of pressurized ionizable gas prior to the different volume of pressurized ionizable gas exiting the tube. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076506 | ELECTROSURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND METHOD - An electrosurgical working end and method for sealing and transecting tissue are provided. An exemplary electrosurgical working end has openable-closeable first and second jaws for progressively clamping a selected tissue volume. A method of the invention comprises applying electrosurgical energy to the tissue in either a first mode or a second mode based on the degree of jaw closure. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076507 | FEMORAL HEAD CENTER LOCATING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A femoral head center locating mechanism and method for using same. The femoral head center locating mechanism may include a frame and a plurality of lasers which emit laser beams which intersect to identify a reference point relative to a center of a femoral head. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076508 | IMPLANTABLE PROSTHESIS - An implant having a substantially solid basic structure and a porous jacket structure at least partially enclosing the basic structure for attachment of cellular tissue wherein the basic structure and the jacket structure are connected integrally to each other and the porous jacket structure is formed substantially by a structure with open pores. The disclosure also relates to a method for manufacturing such an implant. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076509 | Dynamic cervical plate - A dynamic subsidence plate is described having a first plate member and a second plate member in sliding engagement that may infinitely subside between a first and second assembled position. The plate includes a lock assembly associated with the first and second plate members. The lock assembly includes a ramp portion, an interference portion, and a bearing member situated between the ramp portion and the interference portion. The lock assembly of the plate is configured to allow movement of the first member with respect to the second member in a first direction in an infinite number of positions between a first assembled position and a second assembled position. Further, the lock assembly alternatively prevents movement of the first member with respect to the second member in an opposite second direction between the first and second assembled positions. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076510 | Surgical Staple Line Reinforcements - A surgical staple line reinforcement is provided for use with a variety of surgical staplers to protect against tissue damage from surgical staples. The surgical staple line reinforcement is made up of a tubular structure of bio-implantable material with one or more stiffening members attached to or integrated within the tubular structure to resist, prevent or inhibit movement, rotation, or longitudinal compression of the tubular structure. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076511 | Intervertebral Disc Reamer - An intervertebral disc reamer includes a flexible shaft having a shaft channel, and a reamer head attached to the flexible shaft and movable relative to the flexible shaft. The reamer head has a reamer channel. The shaft channel and the reamer channel are aligned to define a continuous guide wire channel for the disc reamer. The disc reamer addresses the quality of disc removal and endplate preparation, minimizes the trauma of surgery, minimizes blood loss, and markedly reduces surgical time. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076512 | Method and apparatus for reconstructing a ligament and/or repairing cartilage, and for performing an open wedge, high tibial osteotomy - A method for reconstructing a knee ligament and for performing a tibial osteotomy on the knee in a single procedure, the method comprising: | 2009-03-19 |
20090076513 | SPHERICAL OSTEOTOMY DEVICE AND METHOD - A spherical osteotomy device for the efficient surgical sectioning of bone includes a part spherical body and a shank. The part spherical body includes an outer surface, an inner surface, a cutting end between the outer surface and the inner surface, an axis extending from the outer surface through the inner surface, and an origin on the axis. The inner surface has a substantially constant radius extending from the origin. The shank extends outwardly from the outer surface of the body and is substantially aligned with the axis. Other embodiments of an osteotomy device are described. Also provided is a method of using the osteotomy device for performing spherical osteotomies. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076514 | Methods and apparatus for improved profile based resection - Alignment guides, cutting guides, cutting tools and soft tissue management techniques for profile based resection (PBR) arthroplasty facilitate intraoperative and postoperative efficacy and ease of use. In one embodiment, a manual alignment guide is provided that permits less invasive incisions by providing soft tissue accommodating contours or reliefs. In another embodiment, a single medial drill guide plate is used for the PBR arthroplasty. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076515 | INSTRUMENT FOR DISIMPACTING A DAMAGED VERTEBRAL BODY - The invention relates to an instrument for disimpacting a damaged vertebral body, comprising a unit, whose effective length can be adjusted in a longitudinal direction and whose underside can be positioned on the skin above a damaged vertebral body. According to the invention, supports that can be displaced in relation to one another are located on the adjustable unit, the distance between the exteriors of the two supports that face away from one another in the longitudinal direction defining the effective length of the adjustable unit. The adjustment range of the effective length is dimensioned in such a way that the supports can be positioned between lever elements, which are provided for the distraction of the vertebral bodies lying cranially and caudally adjacent to the damaged vertebral body and the supports are designed to maintain the mutual distance between the lever elements. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076516 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TISSUE RETRACTION IN SPINAL SURGERY - The invention relates to a system and methods for retracting soft tissue during spinal repair or reconstruction procedures, particularly procedures within intervertebral sites of degenerated discs and associated neural compression. A retractor system includes an implantable bone plate, two or more retractor blades, the bone plate and retractor blades being mutually engageable; and a mechanism to adjust the retractor blade relative to the bone plate. In some embodiments, the retractor system may be applied to span more than one intervertebral space. An implanted retractor system provides an aperture for a clear operating field, and protects collateral tissue. A method for retracting soft tissue to facilitate spinal surgery includes securing a bone plate to adjacent vertebral bodies, engaging one or more retractor blades to the bone plate; and adjusting the angular position of the retractor blade relative to the bone plate so as to retract tissue lying external to the bone plate. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076517 | Systems and methods for treating bone using expandable bodies - A tool served to convey a bone filling material into a cancellous bone volume. The tool carries an expandable structure, which is sized and configured for expansion within the cancellous bone volume to condition the cancellous bone volume for receiving the bone filling material. | 2009-03-19 |
20090076518 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR STABILIZING ADJACENT VERTEBRAE - A method of stabilizing adjacent vertebrae including the steps of forming at least one annulotomy in an annulus. At least a portion of the nucleus material is removed through the annulotomy to form a cavity in an intervertebral disc space between the adjacent vertebrae. A reservoir containing a flowable biomaterial is fluidly coupled to the intervertebral disc space. A flowable biomaterial is delivered to the cavity. The delivery of the flowable biomaterial into the intervertebral disc space is controlled in accordance with at least a first operating parameter. The biomaterial is at least partially cured to stabilize the adjacent vertebrae. | 2009-03-19 |