13th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights part 51 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20090082712 | PATTERNED TAMPON AND METHOD OF MAKING - A tampon including a compressed pledget of absorbent material. The tampon has a body portion and a longitudinal axis, wherein the tampon includes at least one patterned impression with one or more design elements oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein at least one design element is formed by contact with at least one corresponding pattern including at least one lead in portion. A method and apparatus for making the tampon are also disclosed. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082713 | METHOD OF ENHANCING IONTOPHORETIC DELIVERY OF A PEPTIDE - The present invention provides methods for the administration of a peptide to a body surface of the patient comprising treating said body surface by microporation and iontophoretically administering the peptide to the body surface. The present invention also encompasses a method of transdermally administering a peptide to the skin of a patient comprising treating the skin with microporation and iontophoretically administering said peptide to the skin. In one embodiment, the body surface or skin is microporated using one or more microneedles. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082714 | Systems and methods for treating superficial venous malformations like spider veins - Systems and methods treat superficial venous malformations, such as spider veins. The systems and methods distribute a light-reactive agent, e.g., verteporfin, at or near an inner wall of a vein. The systems and methods activate the light-reactive agent by applying non-thermal light energy at a wavelength that activates the light-reactive agent to cause localize injury to the inner wall of the vein. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082715 | System and Method For Actuation of A Vitreous Cutter - Embodiments of systems and methods disclosed herein regard simplifying and improving the performance and reliability of pneumatic actuators operable to actuate surgical cutters or shears. Various embodiments include systems and methods for vitreous cutting apparatuses utilizing self-valving vitreous cutters that actuate at a frequency based on the properties of the vitreous cutter. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082716 | Linear to Torsional Converter for Phaco Handpieces - A linear-to-torsional converter changes the linear motion imparted by a phaco handpiece to torsional or rotational motion. The converter attaches to the needle mount of a conventional linear handpiece. A lock can be used to defeat the torsional motion and restore linear motion without requiring the converter to be removed from the handpiece. Alternatively the converter can be built into a handpiece. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082717 | Dermal micro-organs, methods and apparatuses for producing and using the same - Embodiments of the present invention provide Dermal Micro-organs (DMOs), methods and apparatuses for producing the same. Some embodiments of the invention provide a DMO including a plurality of dermal components, which substantially retain the micro-architecture and three dimensional structure of the dermal tissue from which they are derived, having dimensions selected so as to allow passive diffusion of adequate nutrients and gases to cells of the DMO and diffusion of cellular waste out of the cells so as to minimize cellular toxicity and concomitant death due to insufficient nutrition and accumulation of waste in the DMO. Some embodiments of the invention provide methods and apparatuses for harvesting the DMO. An apparatus for harvesting the DMO may include, according to some exemplary embodiments, a support configuration to support a skin-related tissue structure from which the DMO is to be harvested, and a cutting tool able to separate the DMO from the skin-related tissue structure. Other embodiments are described and claimed. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082718 | Dual-capacity insufflator tube - An insufflation system is provided that includes an insufflator having a delivery assembly for delivering insufflating gas from a pressurized source of insufflation gas to at least one gas delivery path. At least one output line is coupled to the at least one gas delivery path. At least one dual-capacity tube has a first tube with a first end coupled to the at least one output line and a second end. The dual-capacity tube has a pair of tubes that each has a first end attached with the second end of the first tube. The dual-capacity tube provides for fluid communication of the insufflating gas between the insufflator and laparoscopic equipment that is insertable into a peritoneal cavity. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082719 | Injection device for the intervertebral disc - The intervertebral disc is avascular. With aging, calcified layers occlude the cartilaginous endplates, blocking the diffusion of nutrients and oxygen into the avascular disc. Under anaerobic condition, excessive production of lactic acid irritates nerves and further hinders transport of sodium sulfate essential for biosynthesis of the water retaining and load sustaining sulfated glycosaminoglycans. As the result of acid irritation and load shifting to facet joints, pain ensues. Through the pedicle, calcified endplate is punctured by a well-supported and elastically curved needle, injecting antacid to neutralize the lactic acid and enhance transport of sodium sulfate into the shielded discs between ilia. Disc filler or nutrients can also be injected through the curved needle into the degenerated disc. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082720 | Seal assembly for surgical access device - Seal assemblies are provided, comprising a seal holder including a cylindrical wall portion having a tapered distal portion, wherein the cylindrical wall portion defines a central passage. The seal assembly comprises a ball seal supported in the central passage of the seal holder. The ball seal includes a distal aperture and a proximal aperture, wherein the distal and/or proximal aperture is dimensioned for substantial sealed reception with a surgical instrument. The ball seal is adapted for angular movement relative to a central longitudinal axis of the seal holder upon angulation of the surgical instrument, whereby the ball seal substantially maintains the seal with the surgical instrument. The seal assembly comprises a seal cover defining an aperture formed in a transverse wall thereof. The seal cover is configured for connection with the seal holder for maintaining the ball seal within the central passage of the seal holder. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082721 | Systems and methods for applying a selected treatment agent into contact with tissue to treat sphincter dysfunction - Systems and methods apply a selected treatment agent or agents into contact with tissue at or in the region of a dysfunctional sphincter (in the case of GERD, fecal incontinence, or other dysfunctional sphincter disorders) to affect improved sphincter barrier function and/or to disrupt abnormal nerve pathways. The treatment agent can include at least one cytokine and/or at least one tissue bulking agent and/or at least one vanilloid compound to evoke a desired tissue response. The systems and methods can be used a primary treatment modality, or applied as a supplementary treatment before, during or after a primary intervention. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082722 | REMOTE NAVIGATION ADVANCER DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE - Various systems for advancing medical devices within a subject's body are provided that configured to engage the outer surface of the medical device at a number of points about the circumference of the medical device, to thereby grip the medical device for enabling advancement of the device. The advancing systems include engaging portions configured to engage the outer surface of a medical device at a number of points about the circumference of the medical device. The engaging portions preferably engage opposing sides of the medical device's outer surface over a predetermined longitudinal length, to clamp against a longitudinal portion of the medical device that provides improved surface contact with the medical device over conventional roller guides. Various methods for performing medical procedures utilizing various medical devices and advancer systems are also provided. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082723 | Medical devices and methods for their fabrication and use - An elongate device for introduction into a body lumen comprises a body extending in a longitudinal direction (L), and having at least two skeletal members ( | 2009-03-26 |
20090082724 | MULTI-LAYER FILM WELDED ARTICULATED BALLOON - A method of fabrication of a medical balloon, and a balloon device useful for various medical balloon procedures, such as gastrointestinal, vascular, reproductive system, urinary system and pulmonary applications. At least two layers of a thermoplastic film are sealed at their peripheral edges and heat sealed at one or more locations inside an area enclosed by the sealed edges at predetermined locations, in one implementation of the balloon device. Such configuration enables the balloon to articulate to a desired shape upon inflation, with the desired shape being selected to accommodate a specific medical application. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082725 | CLOSURE PIECE FOR MEDICAL SYRINGE - A closure piece ( | 2009-03-26 |
20090082726 | Infusion Fluid Heating Apparatus - An infusion fluid heating apparatus applicable to various types of infusion tube with different length dimensions includes a front-side tube fitting groove or a rear-side tube fitting groove formed on one of surfaces of a heating plate that receives an infusion tube in a first length between an inlet opening and an outlet opening open at the end surfaces of the heating plate. The groove also receives the infusion tube in a second length shorter than the first length. Therefore, the groove uses the second length for a relatively short infusion tube, capable of heating the tube appropriately and achieving high versatility. In addition, the tube fitting groove uses the first length for an infusion bag with a relatively long infusion tube, capable of heating the tube appropriately and increasing the maximum infusion fluid flow. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082727 | Credit Card Sized Injection Device - A mechanical operated injection device which has the size of a credit card. The very compact size is obtained by using a flexible reservoir ( | 2009-03-26 |
20090082728 | INFUSION MEDIUM DELIVERY SYSTEM, DEVICE AND METHOD WITH NEEDLE INSERTER AND NEEDLE INSERTER DEVICE AND METHOD - An infusion medium delivery system, device and method for delivering an infusion medium to a patient-user, includes a needle inserter device and method for inserting a needle and/or cannula into a patient-user to convey the infusion medium to the patient-user. The needle inserter device and method operate to insert a needle and cannula into a patient-user's skin and automatically withdraw the needle from the patient-user, leaving the cannula in place and in fluid flow communication with a reservoir. The delivery device may include a base portion and a durable portion connectable to the base portion, and wherein the base portion can be separated from the durable portion and disposed of after one or more specified number of uses. The base portion supports the reservoir and the needle inserter device, while the durable portion supports a drive device for selectively driving the infusion medium out of the reservoir and into the needle and/or cannula. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082729 | Personal cleaning device - A douche device which can be supported on a shower head. The device has a reservoir, a cross-support which can be removably connected to the reservoir, and a central semi-circular portion in the cross-support which can be clipped to the shower head pipe. The reservoir has a bottom outlet connected by a flexible hose to a douche wand. The reservoir also has an overflow outlet located on its rear wall above the bottom outlet, with an unobtrusive flexible overflow hose extending from the overflow outlet down to the floor. In use, the device can readily be connected to or disconnected from a shower head, and when in use, excess water from the shower head will not overfill the reservoir and fall onto the user from above. Instead, excess water will exit the reservoir via the overflow opening and will be conducted down to the floor and into a floor drain. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082730 | NEEDLE INJECTION ASSEMBLY - An injection device is provided to deposit fluids or medications under the skin. The skin is first drawn up into a cavity of an injection head using a vacuum source. A telescoping housing is then activated to move an entire syringe so that a needle on the syringe penetrates the skin that has been pulled up into the injection head. In one embodiment, the syringe barrel is then retraced away from the skin to deposit fluids under the skin. In another embodiment, the syringe barrel is held stationary while the plunger rod is moved to deposit fluids under the skin. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082731 | DILATING TROCAR CANNULA - Various methods and devices are provided for dilating tissue. In one embodiment, a braided tube is provided having an inner lumen extending along a longitudinal axis between first and second ends, and at least one axial support member slidably disposed along a length of the braided tube. In use, the axial support member(s) can move longitudinally to selectively increase and decrease a diameter of the inner lumen of the braided tube, and thereby dilate tissue. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082732 | TIP SHIELD FOR NEEDLE STICK PREVENTION - A vascular access system for preventing needle sticks includes a needle, a tip shield, and a housing. The needle may be a hypodermic needle or other conventional needle having a needle shaft terminating at a needle tip. The tip shield provides an enclosure defining a chamber. The enclosure includes a closed distal end and a proximal end that slidably engages the needle shaft. The enclosure further includes at least one side wall configured to slidably engage the needle shaft. The housing defines a passageway with respective proximal and distal openings through which the needle extends. The tip shield is also disposed in the passageway and is releasably retained therein. The needle and/or the tip shield is adapted to prevent the needle shaft from being completely withdrawn from the tip shield. The tip shield further secures the needle tip in the chamber upon withdrawal of the needle tip into the chamber. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082733 | Indwelling needle device - An indwelling needle device includes a shield tube | 2009-03-26 |
20090082734 | Method And Apparatus For Delivering A Therapeutic Substance Through An Injection Port - Adapters for utilizing a syringe or pen injector with a subcutaneous injection port to deliver a therapeutic substance through the injection port and methods of using the adapters are provided. A syringe adapter has a body having a first end and a second end. The first end of the body is configured to receive and engage the end of a syringe so that the cannula of the syringe is held at a fixed position with the respect to the adapter. The second end of the adapter configured to mate with a mating portion of the injection port. When the second end of the adapter engages the mating portion of the injection port, the adapter assures that the cannula of the syringe is properly aligned with the subcutaneous injection port and assures that the cannula penetrates the injection port to the proper depth. Adapters for use with pen style delivery systems are also disclosed. Additionally, an adapter to facilitate loading a syringe with a therapeutic substance from a vial is disclosed. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082735 | Surgical sealing element, surgical seal, and surgical sealing system - In order to improve a surgical sealing element, in particular, for a trocar and/or for sealing shafts of elongated surgical instruments during insertion into a human or animal body, wherein the sealing element defines a longitudinal axis, is provided with an opening, which is variable in diameter and is oriented transversely or essentially transversely to the longitudinal axis and through which an instrument can be inserted, and comprises a flexible wall which is closed annularly, wherein the wall has a first and a second edge each closed upon itself and wherein the first edge limits the opening, such that all instruments currently available can be reliably sealed irrespective of the diameter of their instrument shaft it is suggested that the wall be foldable in a wave-like manner and in a sealing position be folded in a wave-like manner without kinks with fold lines extending in the direction towards the first edge in such a manner that the first edge defines a wave line which is located entirely on a cylindrical surface. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082736 | Gastric access port - An improved mechanism for attaching a feeding tube to a feeding delivery system is presented. The feeding delivery system is attached to an elongated connecting member that is pivotally attached to a bolster. After attachment, the elongated connecting member is rotated to engage another tube at the base of the pivot. Before pivoting, the passageway is blocked by the interference of the elongated connecting member. As the elongated connecting member is rotated, the conduit system aligns and becomes a passageway to and from the stomach. The device provides a three part rigid plastic fit that does not wear out over a number of uses. The device prevents splash events, which occur when a feeding adapter is opened or when the adapter or valve is forced open by a cough or gastric pressure build up. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082737 | Syringe Cylinder - A syringe cylinder comprising an interior space, having a stopper that can be displaced in the interior space and delimits an active ingredient space, is proposed. The syringe cylinder is characterized by an indicator device biuniquely indicating a longitudinal movement of the stopper occurring in one direction. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082738 | Natural Anti-Inflammatory Agents for Reducing Pain - An oral supplement or topical supplement containing glucosamine sulfate and oleocanthal provides relief of pain and reduces inflammation in joints. The topical supplement is used in conjunction with a heat patch. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082739 | ADJUSTABLE EYE DROP METERING DEVICE - A drop metering device for use in combination with an eye dropper or other liquid dispenser comprises a rigid receptacle having an open chamber for removably receiving a squeeze bottle of the dropper. The plunger is mounted to reciprocate radially inwardly with respect to the rigid receptacle so that, when the squeeze bottle is in place, a controlled deflection can be induced in the squeeze bottle. The plunger may be mounted on a lever arm with a ring adjustment mechanism which provides a variable stop surface between the lever arm and the receptacle. Alternatively, the plunger may be mounted in a radially oriented slide bearing with a threadably mounted stop member for adjusting the length of travel. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082740 | VACUUM BANDAGE PACKING - A vacuum bandage is provided for use with a wound having a wound surface. The bandage is connectable to a vacuum source and includes a wound dressing member having a wound contacting surface, a top surface, and a port configured for communication with the vacuum source. The wound dressing member further includes holes in the wound contacting surface configured for communication with the wound surface of the wound and a passageway between the port and each hole. The vacuum bandage further includes a pack adjacent to the top surface of the member. The pack may include an aperture positioned about the port. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082741 | Combo suction regulator for medical use - A combo suction regulator for medical use which comprises a cover (casing), a vacuum gauge, a regulating module, a integrated flow channel module, an intermittent timer regulating means, a mode select switch, a vacuum relief and air buffer, wherein a flow channel board and a bottom board coupled with each other to form the integrated flow channel module; the air buffer are disposed inside the casing on the board surface of the flow channel board which forms part of the integrated flow channel module, and tow holes disposed at a bottom part thereof for communicating corresponding flow channels of the integrated flow channel module; a sleeve seat is disposed at the center for installing vacuum gauge. The probe/adapter port is used to input of vacuum source and needle vales are used to timer adjusting in the bottom board at a middle part thereof; the flow channel board has a pole on a front side thereof for installing the mode select switch, and channel holes for communicating with flow channels on the flow channel board thereof; in a lower part of the flow channel board, an sleeve seat is disposed for installing the regulating module, which communicates with a flow channel on the flow channel board and adjusts the output vacuum; the fitting port is used to output of the suction regulator and disposed the bottom side. The intermittent timer module comprises the diaphragm piston disposed on one side and the change valve disposed on another side of the middle part of the front side of the flow channel board. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082742 | ADJUSTABLE DRAIN LOOP FOR URINE COLLECTION SYSTEM - Disclosed is a device for maintaining an adjustable loop in the drain tube of a urine collection and/or monitoring system. The clip, band or bands act to maintain the adjustable loop such that the adjustment in size of the loop created in the drain tube varies the effective length of the drain tube. Further disclosed is a method for preventing back pressure from developing in the drain tube of urine collection and/or monitoring system. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082743 | POUCH FOR COLLECTING HUMAN BODY WASTE AND DRAINAGE ADAPTER THEREFOR - A drainable urine pouch includes a discharge portion that is foldable between a discharge position and a closed position. A security flap is sealed to both walls of the pouch by a through weld, to define a baffle near the discharge portion. The discharge portion includes a constriction, and a stepped profile with multiple step stages. The discharge portion has one or more bias members. A drainage adapter is releasably coupled to the discharge portion. The drainage adapter has a plug with a shoulder for abutting the constriction in the discharge portion, to locate the adapter correctly for obtaining a liquid-tight seal. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082744 | ABSORBENT PRODUCT AND METHOD FOR THE MANUFACTURE OF AN ABSORBENT PRODUCT - An absorbent product, such as an incontinence pad, a sanitary towel, a panty liner or the like, having a liquid-permeable top layer, a preferably liquid-impermeable bottom layer and an absorbent core arranged between the top layer and the bottom layer. The top layer is joined together with a subjacent admission material by means of ultrasonic processing, in conjunction with which the laminate that is defined by the top layer and the admission material when these are joined together includes a reinforcement executed with ultrasonic processing essentially along its peripheral edge. Also, a method for manufacturing the aforementioned products. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082745 | SANITARY ARTICLE FOR ABSORBING EXCRETIONS OF HUMAN BODY - A sanitary article that is used to cover the crotch portion of a human body so as to prevent excretions of the human body from leaking to the outside includes a liquid-permeable surface thin layer, a liquid-impermeable back thin layer and a liquid-absorptive core layer sandwiched between the above two layers. The liquid-absorptive core layer is provided with a draining means for allowing some of the excretions of the human body to pass through. A detecting body is provided between the liquid-impermeable back thin layer and the liquid-absorptive core layer, thereby receiving the excretions guided by the draining means. A window portion is provided on the liquid-impermeable back thin layer at a position corresponding to the detecting body. Via this arrangement, the use can observe the reaction represented by the internal detecting body directly via the window portion. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082746 | Thin web - Embodiments of a thin web comprising a plurality of channels extending through the film are disclosed. The channels are in a substantially closed position but are capable of being in an open position to allow flow from the female side through the film to the male side. In certain applications, a greater pressure on the female side than the male side is capable of opening the channels. Embodiments may also include a thin web comprising a plurality of three dimensional apertures extending through the plastic film. The apertures may form a substantially closed channel defined by a sidewall and the channels being disposed at an angle greater than 70° with respect to a female side of the film. The thin web may be a plastic film or a thermoplastic film comprising a polyolefin, for example, or any other suitable material. The polyolefin may comprise at least one of polyethylene, polypropylene, low density polyethylene, or high density polyethylene, for example. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082747 | METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT FOR DETECTION OF A SYNCHRONIZING MARK BEING USED IN SYNCHRONIZED POSITIONING OF AT LEAST ONE ESSENTIALLY CONTINUOUS MATERIAL WEB - A method for detection of a synchronizing mark ( | 2009-03-26 |
20090082748 | SINGLE STAGE TAMPON MOLDING - A method for making a tampon including providing a tampon pledget, and providing a compression/stabilization mold. The method includes moving the tampon pledget into the compression/stabilization mold via a transfer member, wherein the compression/stabilization mold is in an open position, and laterally compressing the tampon pledget in the compression/stabilization mold by closing the compression/stabilization mold to form a stabilized tampon. An apparatus for making a tampon and a tampon made by the method are also disclosed. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082749 | Thong-style sanitary pad and disposable thong for supporting same - An improved sanitary pad is adapted for use in a thong-style pair of underwear. One embodiment includes a disposable pair of thong-style underwear which have a thong-style sanitary pad built in to the underwear's saddle. To absorb and retain the anticipated menstrual flow volume and at the anticipated flow rate, the pad contains a double layer of absorbent material in a waisted, water impervious flexible channel within the pad. The waisting of the channel is sized to accommodate the narrow lateral width of the thong saddle. The upright substantially flat or otherwise smooth sides of the channel guide flow entering a capture zone of the pad saddle away from the capture zone to longitudinally outer reservoir zones formed in the front and rear of the pad. In one embodiment flexible guides, which may be longitudinal rails of a flexible water-impervious substance or material, run longitudinally or substantially parallel to the sides of the channel, spaced inwardly therefrom, to assist in guiding or urging flow in and below the capture zone longitudinally towards the reservoir zones. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082750 | FLUID TRANSFER DEVICES FOR USE WITH CARTRIDGES - Fluid transfer devices for use with syringes and cartridges having an open ended tube hermetically sealed by a rubber stopper and a slidable seal at opposite leading and trailing ends, respectively. The fluid transfer devices include a syringe port and a cartridge port for correspondingly slidingly receiving a syringe and a cartridge. The cartridge port preferably includes a primary puncturing member and a secondary puncturing member for correspondingly puncturing a cartridge's rubber stopper offset from its center for fluid transfer purposes between a syringe and a cartridge, and venting purposes. The fluid transfer devices are preferably used with stopping devices for preventing ejection of a cartridge's seal during a filling procedure. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082751 | Device for transferring fluid from a cartridge to a container - A system and method for transferring a fluid from a first container to a second container, the system comprising a first container ( | 2009-03-26 |
20090082752 | Container For Introducing at Least One Non-Sterile Vessel in a Sterile Region - The invention relates to a container ( | 2009-03-26 |
20090082753 | NEEDLE FREE INJECTOR WITH DOSE ADJUSTMENT ASSEMBLY - A needle-free injector with a mechanism to adjust the volume of liquid administered is provided. The injector includes a power base, a fluid path having a plunger to force substances from a cavity defined within the fluid path, and a dose adjustment assembly for adjustably positioning the fluid path relative to the power base to adjust the volume of substance administered to the subject. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082754 | Cannula implantation instrument - A cannula implantation instrument for use with the delivery of guide wire based implants includes a handle having an open slot for receiving a guide wire and a cavity for receiving an implant pre-mounted on the guide wire, a cannula having an open slot for also receiving a guide wire and a sharpened tip for introducing the cannula and guide wire simultaneously into the vas deferens of a patient, and a guide wire on which an intra vas implant is pre-mounted. The instrument further includes a safety clip on the handle that secures the guide wire and/or implant to the handle until released by a physician. The cannula implantation instrument may be ergonomically formed to provide comfort and ease while being handled by the physician. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082755 | PRESSURE FEEDBACK UNIT FOR A CATHETER - A pressure feedback unit ( | 2009-03-26 |
20090082756 | Transradial coronary catheter - Provided is a catheter suitable for catheterization of a right coronary artery using a right transradial approach. The catheter presents improved directionality, thereby requiring minimized external torque to be applied during insertion and diagnostic procedures. A catheter according to the disclosed design includes a tip near its distal end, a primary curve, a secondary curve, a tertiary curve and a proximal end accessible external a catheterized body. When properly inserted, the secondary curve may rest near the junction of the bracheocephalic trunk and the right subclavian artery, and the tertiary curve may rest in the superior curve of the right subclavian artery. In addition to improved directionality, the secondary and/or tertiary curve offers additional resistance against cephalic, or upward, back-up force by providing caudal, or downward, torque to more distal portions of the catheter body. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082757 | PRESSURE BASED REFILL STATUS MONITOR FOR IMPLANTABLE PUMPS - The present invention includes systems and methods for detecting fluid flow into or out of a port chamber or a reservoir of an implantable medical device utilizing a pressure sensor. The system detects characteristic pressure profiles associated with fluid flowing into the medical device, out of the medical device, and also whether one or both of the port chamber or reservoir are substantially empty or substantially full. In addition, the present invention may generate a sensory cue to a clinician to indicate the fluid status. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082758 | Implantable Fluid Distribution Device and Method of Fluid Delivery - An implantable fluid distribution device is described. The device includes a first inlet for receiving fluid under pressure from a remote pump. A plurality of outlets are also provided, each outlet being connectable to a fluid delivery catheter. A valve mechanism is arranged to control the passage of fluid from the first inlet to the plurality of outlets. Apparatus including the fluid distribution device, an implantable pump and a plurality of drug delivery catheters is also described. The fluid distribution device can be used to delivery drug to multiple regions in the body and the sequential delivery of drugs to different sites in the brain is disclosed. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082759 | LASER APPARATUS FOR THE REDUCTION OF PAIN AND INFLAMMATION CAUSED BY INJECTIONS - This invention discloses a laser apparatus to be used pre, during, and/or post medical injections for the reduction of pain caused by the injection. Applications include cosmetic injections such as Botox or dermal filling, mesotherapy, immunization shots, etc. The laser apparatus may comprise a wand or pad/bandage through which laser treatment can be applied to the injection area. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082760 | GUIDEWIRE TIPPED LASER FIBER - A device for application of energy within a tubular bodily structure including an optical fiber couplable to a source of laser energy and a guidewire tip. The optical fiber has a laser emitting portion remote from the source of laser energy and a distal end. The guidewire tip is operably secured to the optical fiber and extends distally outwardly away from the distal end of the optical fiber. The guidewire tip assists in advancing the device through the tubular bodily structure. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082761 | CRYOSURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH EMBEDDED SEPARATING UNIT - A cryosurgical instrument, in which a separator is installed in a central feeding lumen and/or in a cryotip to separate gaseous and liquid components of a cryogen. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082762 | RADIO FREQUENCY ENERGY TRANSMISSION DEVICE FOR THE ABLATION OF BIOLOGICAL TISSUES - A radio frequency energy transmission device comprises a hollow coaxial electrically conductive cable adapted for conduction of radio frequency (RF) energy, particularly microwave energy, for the ablation of biological tissue. The hollow cable has a proximal end and a distal end and comprises coaxial inner and outer conductors extending substantially the entire length of the cable from the proximal end to a distal end portion of the cable. The inner conductor comprises an elongated electrically conductive tubular member having a hollow, axially extending lumen, and the outer conductor comprises an elongated electrically conductive tubular member disposed in a substantially coaxial relationship over at least a portion of the inner conductor. Dielectricity to impede conduction between the inner and outer conductors is introduced with a vacuum or dielectric medium disposed between the inner and outer conductors. An ablating member, which delivers radio frequency energy, particularly microwave energy, to body tissue is disposed at a distal end portion of the cable. The ablating member can be a helical coil, a monopole of a microstrip circuit. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082763 | Shapeable electrosurgical scalpel - The invention is directed to an electrosurgical device having a shapeable elongate cutting electrode having a free distal end with an exposed length of at least 0.5 inch and secured by its proximal end to the distal end of a handle. The electrosurgical device is designed for use with a high frequency electrosurgical generator which has an output at a frequency of between about 1 MHz and about 10 MHz, preferably about 3 to about 8 MHz. Preferably, the output has an essentially sinusoidal waveform with little harmonic distortion. The methods provide for the enhanced cutting of a variety of tissue including muscular, connective, glandular and fatty tissue. The device is particularly suitable in performing a breast biopsy. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082764 | METHODS FOR CREATING TISSUE EFFECT UTILIZING ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY AND A REVERSE THERMAL GRADIENT - A method of creating a tissue effect at a tissue site delivers electromagnetic energy through a skin surface from an electromagnetic energy delivery device coupled to an electromagnetic energy source. At least one of the electromagnetic energy delivery device or electromagnetic energy source includes a memory. A reverse thermal gradient is created through the skin surface to sufficiently heat an underlying tissue site to provide that a temperature of the skin surface is lower than a temperature of the underlying tissue. Information is stored from the memory to facilitate operation of at least one of the electromagnetic energy delivery device or the electromagnetic energy source. Electromagnetic energy is applied through the skin surface to the underlying tissue. A tissue effect is created on at least a portion of the tissue site. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082765 | REAL-TIME ARC CONTROL IN ELECTROSURGICAL GENERATORS - An electrosurgical generator is disclosed. The generator includes a radio frequency output stage configured to generate a radio frequency waveform and a sensor circuit configured to measure a property of the radio frequency waveform during a predetermined sampling period to determine whether an arc event has occurred. The generator also includes a controller configured to determine a total charge and/or total energy deposited by the radio frequency waveform during the predetermined sampling period associated with the arc event. The controller is further configured to adjust the output of the electrosurgical generator based on at least one parameter to limit arcing. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082766 | Tissue Sealer and End Effector Assembly and Method of Manufacturing Same - A bipolar forceps for sealing tissue includes at least one shaft having an end effector assembly disposed at a distal end thereof. The end effector assembly includes a pair of first and second opposing jaw members movable relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. At least the first jaw member includes proximal and distal ends which define a cavity along a length thereof which houses an insulative member therein. The insulative member includes an electrically conductive sealing surface mounted thereto which resides in substantial opposition with a second electrically conductive sealing surface disposed on the second jaw member. One end of the first jaw member which defines the cavity extends a fixed distance toward the second jaw member to form a gap between electrically conductive surfaces when the jaw members are closed to grasp tissue. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082767 | Tissue Sealer and End Effector Assembly and Method of Manufacturing Same - A method for manufacturing an end effector assembly for sealing tissue includes the initial step of providing a pair of first and second jaw members each including an inwardly facing electrically conductive sealing surface. The method also includes the steps of: coating the inwardly facing electrically conductive sealing surface of one or both jaw members with an insulative material, the coating having a thickness within the range of about 0.001 inches to about 0.010 inches; allowing the insulative material to cure onto the inwardly facing electrically conductive sealing surface; removing a portion of the insulative material from the inwardly facing electrically conductive sealing surface to form a series of stop members arranged thereacross; and assembling the pair of first and second jaw members about a pivot such that the two inwardly facing electrically conductive sealing surfaces are substantially opposed to each other in pivotal relation relative to one another. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082768 | Bipolar Medical Instrument - A bipolar medical instrument has a shaft and two jaw parts arranged at said distal end thereof. An axially movable force transmission element is disposed with said shaft and is surrounded by an isolating element. Said isolating element is connected to at least one of said two jaw parts in an articulated manner. Said two jaw parts are electrically isolated from one another and each provides an electrode to which high frequency current can be applied. A first electrical supply line is formed along said shaft via an electrically conductive first contact element to one of said two jaw parts. A second electrical supply line is formed along said axially movable force transmission element via an electrically conductive second contact element to the other of said two jaw parts. The first contact element is fixed at said isolating element surrounding said distal end area of said force transmission element. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082769 | Tissue Sealer and End Effector Assembly and Method of Manufacturing Same - A method for manufacturing an end effector assembly for sealing tissue includes the initial step of providing first and second electrically conductive sealing plates. The method also includes the steps of: encasing at least one of the electrically conductive sealing plates in a substantially moldable insulative material; applying a load to the electrically conductive sealing plates; allowing the insulative material to deform to create a gap between the sealing plates between about 0.001 inches to about 0.010 inches; and allowing the insulative material to cure. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082770 | MEDICAL FOOT IMPLANT AND SYSTEM - A medical foot implant ( | 2009-03-26 |
20090082771 | DUAL REAMER DRIVER - The disclosure illustrates a dual driver for surgical reamers in which either of a crossbridge and crossbar style reamers are axially inserted in the distal end of a central shaft for the reamer driver. A pair of L shaped grips are adapted to connect and disconnect the different style of reamers by the movement of an external sleeve biased towards the connection position. Movement of the sleeve away from the distal end allows an internal plunger to cam the grips to an open position and urge the appropriate reamer from the tool driver directly in an axial direction. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082772 | ADAPTER DRIVER FOR ORTHOPAEDIC REAMER - An adapter for a crossbar surgical reamer having a base with an interface for connecting with another style of reamer such as a crossbar reamer. Intersecting axially facing recesses are provided on the end of the base for connection with a crossbar type of reamer. A pair of grips are pivotally mounted on the base and urged to a closed position by a cross spring to releasably hold the crossbar reamer within the recesses for installation and removal substantially in an axial direction. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082773 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR WIREPLASTY BONE RESECTION - A cutting tool to be utilized in the resection or removal of bone tissue from patients includes a handle that tensions a wire or cable-like cutting member with a small diameter between at least two features on the handle to present a thin cutting profile. The design of the cutting tool includes features that protect against soft tissue damage and minimize the incision size necessary to utilize the tool. Some embodiments feature details of the cutting tool that interface with a surgical cutting guide system. Other embodiments describe a cutting tool with a selectively changeable length of the cutting profile of the wire cutting member. In one embodiment, the wire cutting member of the cutting tool is energized by mechanical energy in the form of a unidirectional rotation of the cutting member, a mechanical vibration of the cutting member, or an oscillating movement of the wire cutting member. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082774 | Surgical cutting guide - A surgical cutting guide is adapted to receive a cutting instrument during a surgical procedure. The surgical cutting guide comprises at least one body portion including a bone engaging surface. A plurality of separate plates are secured to the at least one body portion. At least one cutting slot is formed in the surgical cutting guide between the plurality of separate plates. The at least one cutting slot is configured to receive the cutting instrument and orient the cutting instrument for the surgical procedure. The at least one body portion is comprised of a first material, such as a plastic material, and the plurality of separate plates are comprised of a second material, such as a metal material. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082775 | Spondylolisthesis reduction system and method - A percutaneous spondylolisthesis reduction instrument and method are disclosed for minimally invasive surgery. The spondylolisthesis reduction instrument includes tangs threadingly connected to an upper knob at the proximal end and configured to connect with a tower construct at the distal end. When connected to a tower which is attached to a bone fastener assembly implanted in a vertebral body, rotation of the upper knob retracts the tangs and the connected tower construct and vertebral body to reduce spondylolisthesis. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082776 | EXTERNAL FIXATION TENSIONER - A tensioner for tensioning a wire/cable coupled to an external orthopedic device. The tensioner can include a housing, an outer sleeve movable relative to the housing, a movable tension actuator handle operable to move the outer sleeve relative to the housing, and a plurality of movable jaws supported in the outer sleeve. The jaws can move between an open position for receiving the wire/cable and a closed position for gripping the wire/cable when the tension actuator handle is operated. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082777 | Insertion Aid with Interference Fit - The present disclosure relates to an insertion device including a shaft with a head supported on a distal end thereof. The shaft includes a proximal end with an engagement member that is configured to frictionally engage a distal end of a surgical fastening apparatus such that an interference fit is created therebetween to facilitate selective detachment of the insertion device from the surgical fastening apparatus. The head has an atraumatic configuration, and is dimensioned to be received in a body orifice. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082778 | APPLICATOR, ASSEMBLY, AND METHOD FOR CONNECTING AN INLET CONDUIT TO A HOLLOW ORGAN - The invention provides an applicator for forming a hole in a wall of a hollow organ and for connecting a hemostatic connection assembly to the hollow organ, wherein, when the hole is formed in the wall of the hollow organ, a first fluid seal exists between the hemostatic connection assembly and the wall of the hollow organ and a second fluid seal exists between the hemostatic connection assembly and the applicator, thereby minimizing fluid loss from the hollow organ. The invention further provides a hemostatic connection assembly for connecting an inlet conduit to a hollow organ, the hemostatic connection assembly comprising a organ wall connection portion, a cuff portion, an extension portion, and a seal ring portion, wherein, during the process of connecting the inlet conduit to the hollow organ, a first fluid seal exists between the organ wall connection portion and the wall of the hollow organ, and a second fluid seal exists between the hemostatic connection assembly and the inlet conduit, thereby minimizing fluid loss from the hollow organ. A method is also disclosed in which the applicator and hemostatic connection assemblies of the invention are used to connect an inlet conduit to a hollow organ. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082779 | Medical instrument with stop motion override and associated method - A medical instrument comprises a tubular introducer member, an operative element, an elongate shifter connected at a distal end to the operative element, a handle, at least one stop component, and an override. The shifter and the operative element are movable relative to the tubular member, while the first part of the handle is fixed to a proximal end of the tubular member and the second part of the handle is fixed to a proximal end of the shifter. The stop component is disposed on the first part or second part to limit relative motion of the first part and the second part and concomitantly to stop travel of the operative element at a predetermined location relative to a distal end of the tubular member. The override enables a user to override or passivate the stop component and thereby permit travel of the operative element past the predetermined location. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082780 | WIRE CAPTURE SURGICAL DEVICE WITH FIXABLE HANDLE - A medical device including a wire capture member such as, for example, a lithotripsy basket or a snare member, as well as a motion limiting means configured to limit a maximum expanded diameter of the wire capture member. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082781 | Implantable ultrasound system for maintaining vessel patency and perfusion - An apparatus comprising an implantable acoustic transducer, an acoustic transducer interface circuit communicatively coupled to the acoustic transducer, and a controller circuit communicatively coupled to the acoustic transducer interface circuit. The controller is configured to, in response to receiving an indication of a patient condition associated with a development of a blood vessel obstruction, initiate delivery of acoustic energy that mitigates the blood vessel obstruction. Other systems and methods are described. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082782 | NEEDLE TO PORT TRAJECTOR INDICATOR - A system includes (i) a needle for insertion into a port of an implantable infusion device, and (ii) a receiver apparatus having a port location signal receiver module capable of receiving a signal from the implantable infusion device regarding spatial orientation of the port. The system further includes a processor operably coupled to the receiver apparatus and capable of determining the orientation of the needle relative to the port based on the received signal. The system also includes a display operably coupled to the processor. The processor is configured to cause the display to graphically render trajectory of the needle relative to the port. The port is graphically rendered as a target structure having a reference area. The needle is graphically rendered as an object moveable relative to the target structure. Occupation of the reference area by the object indicates trajectory alignment of the port and the needle. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082783 | CONTROL UNIT FOR MRI-GUIDED MEDICAL INTERVENTIONAL SYSTEMS - A control unit for a medical interventional system includes a housing and a plurality of elongate control devices. The housing includes opposite first and second sides and a plurality of adjacent, spaced-apart passageways extending through the housing from the first side to the second side. Each elongate control device is operably associated with a respective one of the housing passageways, and includes an elongated first flexible member having a bore extending longitudinally therethrough and an elongated second flexible member slidably inserted through the bore of the first flexible member. The first flexible member has a proximal end secured to the housing and an opposite distal end. The elongated second flexible member has a proximal end that extends through a housing passageway and outwardly from the housing second side and a distal end with a connector that extends outwardly from the distal end of the first flexible member. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082784 | Interventional medical system - The invention relates to an interventional medical diagnosis or therapy system comprising: an imaging device, which is embodied for recording 3D images of an object under examination, with a control unit and an image processing unit; an at least two-axis robot arm, having means for yield control of the robot arm and a robot control unit for control of the robot arm; an instrument holder, which is connected to the robot arm, for holding an instrument; a position detection device, by means of which the position of the instrument is able to be detected for the robot control unit. The robot arm is embodied to yield to system-external force effects or to follow a system-external guidance. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082785 | Anvil Delivery Device Accessory - An anvil delivery system includes an anvil assembly, a flexible tube, and a fitting. The fitting is coupled to the flexible tube and includes a body having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion and a tip disposed on the distal end portion. The proximal end portion of the body is adapted to attach the body to the flexible tube. The tip is configured for insertion into a body lumen. The anvil delivery system may further include a plurality of protrusions disposed on the proximal end portion of the body of the fitting. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082786 | MEDICAL DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR USING TISSUE ANCHORS - Medical devices, systems and related methods for delivering a tissue anchor. The medical devices generally comprise a needle and a sheath that assist in retaining the tissue anchor at the distal end of the need during manipulation of the medical device. The medical systems include one or more tissue anchors in conjunction with one of the medical devices. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082787 | Suturing Device - A suturing device is disclosed. The suturing device comprises a shaft with a proximal end and a distal end and a passage extending therebetween disposed on a longitudinal axis. A rod is disposed within the shaft passage and is capable of moving axially along the longitudinal axis. A loop-forming opening extends partly along the shaft and into the shaft passage, and is disposed proximal to the distal end. A stop is disposed between the rod and the distal end. A resiliently flexible wire is coupled to the rod and to the stop. In use, movement of the rod towards the distal end compresses the wire against the stop to form a suture-receiving loop extending from the loop-forming opening and wherein movement of the rod towards the proximal end retracts the suture-receiving loop from the loop-forming opening to move the wire into the shaft. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082788 | SUTURE MANAGEMENT METHOD AND APPARATUS - An instrument for minimally invasive surgery includes a shank attachable to a handle, the shank extending lengthwise along a shank axis between a handle end and a tip end; and a tip joined to the tip end of the shank, the tip comprising a slender, elongate body extending between a proximal end adjacent the tip and of the shank and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The tip includes a jaw member adjacent the distal end, the jaw member movable between open and closed positions. The tip includes an outer surface that converges, at least when the jaw member is in the closed position, to a sharp point opposite the tip end of the shank to facilitate penetration through tissue. The tip has a tip length extending between the proximal end and the point, the tip including a compound curve segment along at least a portion of the tip length. The instrument further includes an actuator coupled to the jaw member and extending lengthwise of the instrument to the handle end of the shank. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082789 | Insertion Shroud for Surgical Instrument - A shroud is provided which includes a rounded atraumatic distal configuration. The shroud is configured and dimensioned to be positioned on the distal end portion of a surgical instrument. The shroud is movable between a first position in which a distal portion of the shroud extends beyond a distal end of a tool assembly of the surgical instrument and a second position in which the distal portion of the shroud is positioned proximal to the distal end of the tool assembly. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082790 | STERNAL CLOSURE DEVICE - A device to facilitate post-operative sternal closure by twisting the opposite end regions of the suture wire together comprises spaced guides in the form of limbs ( | 2009-03-26 |
20090082791 | Self-anchoring tissue lifting device, method of manufacturing same and method of facial reconstructive surgery using same - A self-anchoring tissue lifting device for use with facial cosmetic reconstructive surgery includes an implant and a removable foil cover disposed on the implant. The implant includes an elongated mesh strip having a distal end on which is situated a tissue anchoring fleece material. Opposite lateral edges of the mesh material are preferably laser cut during the manufacturing process of the implant to provide a plurality of tissue engaging prickles along the longitudinal length of the implant. For treating the mid face and jowl, a stab incision is made within the hairline of the temple region of the patient and the device is applied from the temporal area to the peak of the ipsilateral cheek to capture the malar fat pad to correct midface abnormalities or the ptotic tissue causing the jowl. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082792 | Hernia mesh support device - A hernia mesh support device includes an outer ring, an inner ring and a plurality of ring support members extending between and interconnected to the outer ring and inner ring. On a first axial side of the outer ring and inner ring is situated a layer of mesh material. On a second axial side of the outer ring and inner ring is situated an anti-adhesion barrier. A plurality of barbed pins or hollow needles extend from the first axial side of the outer ring. A removable protective cover covers the plurality of barbed pins or hollow needles. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082793 | RELEASABLY-SECURABLE ONE-PIECE ADJUSTABLE GASTRIC BAND - A releasably-securable gastric band ( | 2009-03-26 |
20090082794 | Simultaneous Proportional Control of Surgical Parameters in a Microsurgical System - A microsurgical system, and a foot controller for the improved operation of a microsurgical system, are disclosed. A surgeon may use the foot controller to simultaneously control multiple surgical parameters based upon movement of a foot pedal of the foot controller in a single plane of motion. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082795 | Medical gripping and/or cutting instrument - The invention relates to a medical gripping and/or cutting instrument having a shaft on whose distal end a tool is positioned consisting of at least two jaw members and on whose proximal end a handle is positioned consisting of at least two gripping members. For opening and closing, at least one jaw member of the tool can move by means of a rotatably configured gripping member of the handle with respect to the other jaw member of the tool, and the rotatable gripping member of the handle can be secured by means of a notching mechanism on the at least one other gripping member of the handle, with the jaw members in an at least partly closed position. To produce a medical gripping and/or cutting instrument which allows a simple and rapid unnotching of the gripping members of the handle, it is proposed with the invention that a portion of at least one gripping member of the handle can move with respect to the remaining portion of this gripping member in such a way that the notching mechanism can be released, with the gripping members in an essentially unchanged position with respect to one another. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082796 | MODIFIED TENOTOMY SCISSORS WITH CONJUNCTIVA RISERS - A tenotomy scissors for implantation procedures generally includes a first blade having a handle and a tip with a cutting edge thereon, a second blade having a handle and a tip with a cutting edge thereon, along with a swivel pivotally attaching the first and second blades for enabling insertion of the cutting edges for cutting a pocket in tissue when the handle is operated. One or more risers upstanding from at least one of the blade tips are provided for keeping the pocket open to facilitate insertion of an implant device. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082797 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR REMOTE SUTURE MANAGEMENT - Described here are devices and methods for suture management. In some variations, the devices comprise an elongate tubular member having a proximal end, a distal end, a lumen therebetween, a cantilever blade positioned near the distal end of the elongate tubular member, and an expandable member positioned adjacent the cantilever blade for actuating the cantilever blade. Also described are devices comprising an elongate tubular member having a proximal end, a distal end, a lumen at least partially therebetween, and an aperture in a wall thereof for passage of a suture therethrough. These devices further comprise a blade connected to a blade housing disposed within the lumen, where the blade is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lumen. The blade and blade housing may be slidable within the lumen, or an inner shaft for may be slidable within the lumen. Methods of using the devices are also described. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082798 | Lancing Device for One Skin Puncture - A lancing device comprises a main housing, a movable housing, and a damping ring. The main housing forming an inner aperture that encloses a portion of a lancet assembly. The lancet assembly has a lancet body, a lancet-plunger housing, and a lance. The lancet assembly is adapted to move between a resting position, a cocking position, and a puncture position. The movable housing is adjacent to the main housing. The moveable housing is adapted to move from a resting position to a cocking position. The moveable housing is adapted to connect to the lancet assembly. The damping ring is adapted to engage the lancet assembly as the lancet assembly moves from the puncture position back towards the resting position to reduce movement of the lancet assembly back towards the puncture position. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082799 | Medical Instrument For Punching Out Tissue - Medical instrument serves to punch out tissue. punching out tissue. It has a shaft, a first cap-shaped tool arranged at a distal end of said shaft and having a circular cutting edge. A second tool has a circular cutting edge at a distal end thereof. Said first and said second tool can be shifted relative to one another along said shaft thereby that second tool can enter into the cavity of that first tool. Said second tool bears a plate-like element, distally spaced apart from its cutting edge, said plate-like element has an extension in a cross-section plane corresponding to a clear internal cross-section plane of said cavity. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082800 | Distal Embolic Protection Devices With A Variable Thickness Microguidewire And Methods For Their Use - A distal embolic protection device for dedicated use in cerebral arterial blood vessels is described. The distal embolic protection device comprises a variable-thickness micro-guidewire and a collapsible filtering device mounted on the microguidewire over two mobile attachment points so that in its collapsed configuration, the thickness of the microguidewire and the filtering device at this region is less than or equal to 0.017 inch (0.432 mm) in thickness to be able to pass through existing conventional microcatheters. The mobile attachment points allow for rotatory and longitudinal mobility of the microguidewire while the filtering device is stable thereby decreasing the risk of trauma to the fragile cerebral arterial blood vessels. Preferably, the filtering device comprises an expansion assembly, e.g., a plurality of struts attached to a filter membrane that are in a folded position which self expand to the desired dimensions within the cerebral blood vessels. Also described are methods of using the distal embolic protection devices of this invention. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082801 | Tool for inserting a receiver of a hearing apparatus into an auditory canal - The insertion of an external receiver of a hearing apparatus and in particular a hearing device into an auditory canal of a user is to be facilitated. Provision is made for this purpose for a tool comprising a pair of tweezers with a first and a second tweezer arm, which are affixed to one another at one end. The first tweezer arm has a holding device at its free end by means of which the movements of the receiver to be held are restricted in at least three directions. Furthermore at least one of the two tweezer arms has a stopper that stands substantially perpendicular to the tweezer arm and serves to abut against a concha of the user during insertion of the receiver. In this way the external receiver can not only be grasped well but also inserted into the auditory canal to a defined depth. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082802 | Mechanism and Method for Closing an Arteriotomy - Devices and methods for closing an arteriotomy by gripping surfaces of tissue disposed about the arteriotomy, without piercing the tissue, and drawing the gripped tissue together to approximate the edges of the arteriotomy, and, while holding the tissue, applying a more permanent closure to the tissue. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082803 | BRAIDED VASCULAR DEVICES HAVING NO END CLAMPS - In some embodiments, a medical device may include one or more of the following features: (a) a metal fabric formed of braided metal strands, (b) the medical device having a collapsed configuration for delivery through a channel in a patient's body and having a generally dumbbell-shaped expanded configuration with two expanded diameter portions separated by a reduced diameter portion formed between opposed ends of the device and unsecured metal strand ends at the opposed ends, and (d) a thrombogenic agent located on the metal fabric. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082804 | Defect-Closure Device and Delivery Apparatus - Provided is a defect-closure device which has small area, and fixed position even in indwelling, and is surely retained in the predetermined position and has a simple configuration. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082805 | ADJUSTABLE KNOTLESS LOOPS - Methods of attaching a soft tissue to an adjacent bone at a defect site are provided. At least one adjustable loop of a flexible construct is passed through the soft tissue. The at least one adjustable loop is passed through a passage construct. A locking member is passed through the at least one adjustable loop and the adjustable loop is reduced about or within the locking member such that the at least one loop is frictionally retained in the passage construct and locked in place by the locking member to thereby secure the soft tissue. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082806 | MENISCAL REPAIR SYSTEM - A meniscal repair system including a pair of elongate needles with a suture filament attached between respective proximal ends of the needles. Two implants are attached to the suture (e.g., molded thereon) between the needles so as to form a suture bridge between the implants. One implant may comprise a barbed shaft aligned with the suture, while the other may be in the form of a T-bar that can be deployed so as to be perpendicular to a portion of the suture filament. The system may further include one or more dilators (e.g., one or more suture knots or molded beads) disposed along the length of the suture filament to aid in passage of the implant after the associated needle. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082807 | Suture anchor having a suture engaging structure and inserter arrangement - A suture anchor and inserter arrangement, including a suture anchor for implanting in hard tissue, such as bone, and an inserter device for installing the suture anchor in hard tissue. The suture anchor carries thereon a suture-engaging structure formed from suture, which structure cooperates with working suture associated with the inserter device so as to attach the working suture to the suture anchor. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082808 | Expandable Spinal Spacer - A spinal spacer or stenotic device is expandable, inflated and/or filled in situ or ex vivo through the addition of a biocompatible fill material into the spinal implant once inserted or implanted in like manner to an angioplasty bag. Once implanted, expansion or inflation of the present expandable spinal spacer distracts the spine (creates spacing). The present expandable spinal spacer can operate as an interspinous, interspinous process, or intralaminar spinal spacer. In general the present expandable spinal space creates and/or maintains spacing between vertebrae or components of vertebrae. The present expandable spinal spacer is formed of a generally pliable biocompatible material that is collapsible and expandable/fillable. Preferably, but not necessarily, the biocompatible material is a mesh or weave type material, although other materials may be used. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082809 | System and Method for Minimally Invasive Posterior Fixation - The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for aligning and implanting orthopedic fixation or stabilization implants within the body. In one embodiment, the system includes at least two bone anchors, at least one of which is provided with an angularly adjustable connector. In one aspect, the system also includes at least one linkage rod, for linking two or more bone anchors through their respective adjustable connectors. The bone anchors and the linkage rod may be locked into place to form a spinal fusion or fixation prosthesis. An alignment tool is provided, for guiding a guidewire through one or more connectors. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082810 | Spinal Fixation with Selectively Applied Bone Growth Promoting Agent - A spinal fixation system including a selectively applied bone growth promoting agent is disclosed. The types of spinal fixation systems which may include a selectively applied bone growth promoting agent include systems comprised of rods, plates, screws, and hooks as well as other types of prostheses. | 2009-03-26 |
20090082811 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR POSITIONING A SPINAL FIXATION ELEMENT - Methods for delivering a spinal fixation element to a surgical site are provided herein. More specifically, the method includes delivering a plurality of percutaneous access devices to a corresponding number of spinal locations, inserting a spinal fixation element through tissue, and manipulating the element through opposed sidewall openings formed in each access device. In an exemplary embodiment, the method can be optimized for position of large-scale fixation elements (e.g., greater than about 95 mm in length). In addition, a manipulation instrument configured to position such spinal fixation elements is also provided herein. | 2009-03-26 |