| 15th week of 2010 patent applcation highlights part 56 |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20100094294 | CERCLAGE SYSTEM FOR BONE - Cerclage system, including methods, devices, and kits, for stabilizing bone, such as a sternum. The cerclage system may include a wire or cable that encircles bone, and a bone plate to which segments of the wire or cable lock. The cerclage system also or alternatively may include a tensioner for applying tension to a wire or cable. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094295 | Minimally Invasive Bone Broach - A broaching system is disclosed for creating a cavity in a bone. The cavity has a cross section which has a generally triangular profile having a first side generally parallel with an axis of the bone and a second side forming an acute angle with the first side. The cavity is contiguous with a pre-existing conical cavity in the bone. The apparatus comprises as shaft and a broach. The shaft has a longitudinal axis. The broach is mounted to the shaft and has a first cutting side mounted at the acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The first cutting side is formed to include teeth. The shaft and broach are configured so that when the longitudinal axis of the shaft is advanced into the bone along the axis of the bone, the teeth of the broach form the triangular cavity. A method for cutting a triangular cavity in bone is also described. The method comprises a providing a shaft step, an incising step and a cutting step. The provided shaft is configured to be movable relative to the bone to be prepared and includes a broach coupled thereto to dispose a cutting surface of the broach at an acute angle relative to the shaft. The shaft and broach have a width defined by the distance between the shaft and the outer most portion of the cutting surface. The incising step includes incising the patient adjacent the bone to be prepared to form an incision having a length approximating the width of shaft and broach. The cutting step includes cutting the cavity by driving the broach by moving the shaft relative to the bone. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094296 | TOOL FOR FORMING A CAVITY WITHIN A BONE | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094297 | SURGICAL BONE MILLING INSTRUMENT - A surgical bone milling instrument, suited to operate in a hole formed in a bone, comprising a milling element ( | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094298 | REARCHITECTING THE SPINE - A surgical tool well suited for less invasive surgery. Uses include spinal surgery and microdecompressive techniques. The method and device are useful for rearchitecting the spine. A cutting tip or head on a shaft is shielded during non-use to protect tissue and neural elements. To further protect neural elements and tissue, an inflatable retractor is introduced into the body with the surgical tool. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094299 | Spinal interspace shaper - A device and method for use in a vertebral spine to prepare a space between adjacent vertebral bodies to receive an implant. The device includes a shaft, and a mounting member at one end of the shaft. A working end is mounted on the mounting member and is coupled to a drive mechanism adjacent to the working end. The drive mechanism is operable to move the upper and lower cutters of the working end to create surfaces having predetermined contours in the end plate region of the adjacent vertebral bodies. A guard provides protected access to the disc space and the adjacent vertebral bodies for the working end of the bone removal device through a passageway. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094300 | APPARATUS FOR KNEE SURGERY AND METHOD OF USE - The present invention comprises a set of instruments and a method for their use in preparing a knee joint to receive knee implants. The inventive instruments and method are generally suitable for knee joint surgery. Furthermore, they include features that make them suitable for performing a minimally invasive knee surgery in which a smaller than normal incision is made and oriented to preserve the quadriceps mechanism and protect the suprapatellar pouch. The instruments permit switching from a minimally invasive technique to a standard open technique at any point in the procedure. An illustrative set of instruments for total knee arthroplasty and an associated minimally invasive technique are described. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094301 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DISTAL RESECTIONS OF A KNEE PROSTHETIC - A device and method for resecting a distal portion of a femur comprises a distal cutting guide [ | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094302 | SPINAL DISTRACTION SYSTEM - A spinal distraction system includes an adjustable spinal distraction rod having first and second members, the adjustable spinal distraction rod configured for non-invasive elongation of the first and second members. The system includes an anchor rod configured for mounting to a bone of a subject, and a socket coupled to the anchor rod, the socket having a lumen dimensioned to receive an end of a first member, wherein the end of the first member is configured for telescopic sliding movement within the lumen of the socket and wherein the second member is configured for mounting to a second bone of a subject. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094303 | SPINAL DISTRACTION SYSTEM - A spinal distraction system, according to one aspect, includes an adjustable spinal distraction rod comprising first and second members, the adjustable spinal distraction rod configured for non-invasive elongation of the first and second members. The system includes an anchor rod configured for mounting to a bone of a subject, the anchor rod having one or more spring-biased tabs disposed at one end thereof, and a connector having first end and a second end, the first end having a receiving cup configured for detachable mounting on the anchor rod, wherein the one or more spring-biased tabs are configured to engage with an inner surface of the receiving cup, the connector having a second end operatively coupled to an end of a first member and wherein the second member is configured for mounting to a second bone of a subject. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094304 | SPINAL DISTRACTION SYSTEM - A spinal distraction system, according to one aspect, includes an adjustable spinal distraction rod comprising first and second members, the adjustable spinal distraction rod configured for non-invasive elongation of the first and second members, the first member having a splined tip. The system further includes a coupler operatively fixed relative to a first bone of a subject, the coupler comprising a tubular portion having a recess therein, wherein an inner surface of the tubular portion comprises one or more longitudinally oriented channels configured to mate with the splined tip of the first member and prevent relative rotation of the first member relative to the second member, and wherein the second member is configured for mounting to a second bone of a subject. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094305 | SPINAL DISTRACTION SYSTEM - A spinal distraction system, according to one embodiment, includes an adjustable spinal distraction rod comprising first and second members, the adjustable spinal distraction rod configured for non-invasive elongation of the first and second members. The system includes an anchor rod configured for mounting to a bone of a subject, the anchor rod comprising a threaded portion and a ball disposed at one end thereof and a nut disposed on the threaded portion of the anchor rod the nut having a first contact surface. The system further includes a locking joint having a cup portion configured to receive an end of the first member, the cup portion comprising a second contact surface, wherein tightening of the nut binds the first and second contact surfaces to thereby lock the joint and prevent articulation and wherein the second member is configured for mounting to a second bone of a subject. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094306 | SPINAL DISTRACTION SYSTEM - A spinal distraction system, according to one embodiment, includes an adjustable spinal distraction rod comprising first and second members, the adjustable spinal distraction rod configured for non-invasive elongation of the first and second members. The system includes an anchor rod configured for mounting to a bone of a subject, and a housing coupled to the anchor rod, the housing comprising a cavity and a plate having first and second surface. A strain gauge is mounted on a first surface of the plate. A coupling element is configured to mount on a second surface of the plate, the coupling element comprising a portion configured to receive an end of the first member. In the system, the second member is configured for mounting to a second bone of a subject. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094307 | Multi-use surgical cement dispenser apparatus and kit for same - The present invention is directed to a system and method for percutaneous delivery of bone cement during a surgical procedure. The system of the present invention has a plunger assembly | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094308 | ARTIFICIAL JOINT REPLACEMENT ASSISTING DEVICE, ARTIFICIAL JOINT REPLACEMENT ASSISTING METHOD USING SAME, AND ASSISTING SYSTEM - A technique of adequately determining the position of the bone resection plane of artificial joint replacement and the size of the implant. The three-dimensional relative position relation (the three-dimensional position relation between the relation among frontal three elements and the relation among lateral three elements) among the five elements, i.e., a frontal The source of X-ray (FS), the plane (PS) to which the frontal radiograph belongs, a lateral The source of X-ray (FL), the plane (PL) to which the lateral radiograph belongs, a lateral The source of X-ray (FL), the plane (PL) to which the lateral radiograph belongs, and three-dimensional CAD data is determined (S | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094309 | Automated Intraocular Lens Injector Device - An intraocular lens injection device comprises a tubular housing with a plunger longitudinally disposed within the tubular housing. An electric drive system longitudinally translates the plunger so that its tip engages an insertion cartridge to fold and displace an intraocular lens disposed within and to inject the folded lens into the lens capsule of an eye. A control circuit is configured to start translation of the plunger, responsive to user input, to detect at least one fault condition based on a counter-electromotive force produced by the electric motor, and to stop translation of the plunger assembly responsive to the detected fault condition, which may comprise excessive resistance to forward or rearward translation of the plunger or insufficient resistance to forward translation of the plunger. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094310 | INTRAVENOUS CATHETER INSERTION DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - A catheter insertion device with a housing and an interior space. An access needle and a guide wire supported by and moveable relative to the access needle. A restraining element attached to a handle to limit the motion of the guide wire relative to the access needle. A catheter insertion device with a housing and an interior space. An access needle and a guide wire channel attached to the access needle. A guide wire supported by the guide wire channel. A handle attached to the guide wire to move the guide wire relative to the guide wire support channel. A method of introducing a catheter into a vessel by inserting a guide wire substantially contained within a housing into a vessel. Next, advance a catheter over the guide wire and into the vessel. Next, withdraw the guide wire out of the vessel and completely into the housing. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094311 | Implant Electrode and Accessories for Use in Robotic Surgery - An implant electrode for a cochlear implant system includes a basal electrode lead passing from an implant housing to a mastoid cortex surface for carrying one or more electrical stimulation signals from the implant housing. An apical electrode array fits through a cochleostomy opening into a cochlea scala and has multiple electrode contacts for applying the electrical stimulation signals to target neural tissue. A middle electrode section passes through the mastoid cortex and the middle ear to the cochleostomy opening for connecting the electrode lead and the electrode array. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094312 | FORCE ESTIMATION FOR A MINIMALLY INVASIVE ROBOTIC SURGERY SYSTEM - A method of force estimation for a minimally invasive medical system comprising a robot manipulator ( | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094313 | WOUND BED PREPARATION - A wound bed preparation device for delivering a fluid jet to tissue includes a handpiece having a deck height in the range of −0.0254 mm to 0.2032 mm, a channel width in the range of 0.8636 mm to 1.1684 mm, and a nozzle diameter in the range of 0.10668 mm to 0.12192 mm. The handpiece may have a constant channel width over a majority of a tissue impacting section of the handpiece. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094314 | TETHER TENSIONING DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS - Devices, methods, and kits for tensioning tethers during a tissue modification procedure are described. In some variations, a tether coupled to anchors embedded in tissue may be tensioned to provide a cinching effect that tightens or compresses the tissue by bringing two pieces or sections of the tissue together. In certain variations, the tether may then be locked (e.g., to maintain the tension), and/or excess tether may be severed. The devices, methods, and/or kits may be used, for example, in minimally invasive procedures. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094315 | Dissection Tip And Introducer For Surgical Instrument - The present disclosure describes a surgical fastener applying apparatus that includes an elongate body portion having proximal and distal ends, an end effector including a first movably coupled to a second jaw that is positioned at the distal end of the elongate body portion, and an introducer member. The introducer member has proximal and distal portions, and is configured and dimensioned for releasable connection with the end effector. The introducer member is at least partially formed from a flexible material, and is configured and dimensioned to separate target tissue from collateral tissue prior to positioning of the target tissue between the first and second jaws of the end effector. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094316 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR FIXING AND/OR MANIPULATING TISSUE - The invention concerns a device for the fixation and manipulation of those tissues which are at least temporarily suitable for being fixed by suction. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094317 | FIXATION DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ENGAGING TISSUE - The invention provides devices, systems and methods for tissue approximation and repair at treatment sites. The devices, systems and methods of the invention will find use in a variety of therapeutic procedures, including endovascular, minimally-invasive, and open surgical procedures, and can be used in various anatomical regions, including the abdomen, thorax, cardiovascular system, heart, intestinal tract, stomach, urinary tract, bladder, lung, and other organs, vessels, and tissues. The invention is particularly useful in those procedures requiring minimally-invasive or endovascular access to remote tissue locations, where the instruments utilized must negotiate long, narrow, and tortuous pathways to the treatment site. In addition, many of the devices and systems of the invention are adapted to be reversible and removable from the patient at any point without interference with or trauma to internal tissues. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094318 | METHODS OF MAKING COLLAGEN FIBER MEDICAL CONSTRUCTS AND RELATED MEDICAL CONSTRUCTS, INCLUDING NERVE GUIDES AND PATCHES - The disclosure describes methods of winding collagen fiber to make medical constructs and related collagen fiber tube and patch devices. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094319 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ANASTOMOSIS INCLUDING AN EXPANDABLE ANCHOR - The present disclosure is directed to devices for approximating body vessels and method for performing the same. In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the device includes an inner member having a first expandable anchor operatively coupled near a distal end thereof, an outer member having a second expandable anchor, and a sleeve disposed about at least a portion of the inner member and the outer member. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094320 | Atherectomy and Thrombectomy Devices, Methods for Making, and Procedures for Using - Embodiments are directed to devices for removing material from interior walls of vessels such as during atherectomy or thrombectomy procedures where the devices includes an ablation tool and at least one ablation tool stabilizer that can be used to radially position the ablation tool at desired locations within a vessel. In some embodiments, the ablation tool may a rotary cutting element that has an axis of rotation that is approximately parallel to the local axis of a vessel to be cleared. In some embodiments, the ablation tool may have a single side and or a top that allows clearing of material and which is capable of both radial positioning and rotational positioning via the stabilization device or devices and which may also be capable of axial motion via the stabilization device. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094321 | Ultrasound Handpiece - A handpiece having at least one pair of vibrating piezoelectric elements that are polarized and arranged within the handpiece so as to produce vibrations that are orthogonal, or otherwise at an angle to, the longitudinal centerline of the handpiece. Vibrating the cutting tip at an angle to its longitudinal axis creates additional shearing at the distal end of the tip, enhancing the tissue cutting action of the tip. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094322 | Laryngeal microsurgery operating instrument - A laryngeal microsurgery operating instrument comprises a harmonic generator, as smart-chip technology handle, including a piezoelectric ceramics transducer clamped between two steel cylinders and a plurality of blades with a reduced length and size stem, to fit the instrument to the intended specific surgical application. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094323 | TISSUE PAD FOR AN ULTRASONIC DEVICE FOR CUTTING AND COAGULATING - A tissue pad for use with an ultrasonic clamp coagulator assembly that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation, and fine dissection required in fine and delicate surgical procedures. The tissue pad defines a first end and a second end and has a first surface adapted for engaging tissue against an ultrasonic end effector. The tissue pad defines a width dimension from the first end to the second end, and the width at the first end is greater than a second width located halfway between the first end and the second end. The second end has a width smaller than the width halfway between both ends. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094324 | LANCING DEVICE - A lancing device for ejecting a lancet having a pricking element protruding therefrom along an ejection axis is provided. The lancing device includes a front cap having an opening facing against an object to be pricked, a lancet holder slideable between a cocked position and a pricking position, and a safety switch moveable between a safety position and a passing position, wherein the pricking element extends beyond the opening when the lancet is ejected; the safety switch prevents the lancet holder form being cocked when the safety switch is in the safety position, and the safety switch allows the lancet holder to be cocked and moved when the safety switch is in the passing position. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094325 | Pricking system - A pricking system includes lancets for producing a prick wound, sampling devices for collecting a sample of a body fluid from the prick wound, a housing having an opening for application of a body part in which the prick wound is to be produced, a drive arranged in the housing for moving one of the lancets to produce the prick wound and to then move one of the sampling devices to the prick wound so produced, a coupling part for coupling to the drive one of the lancets for a pricking movement and then coupling to the drive one of the sampling devices for a sampling movement, the coupling part being moved, during the pricking movement and the sampling movement, respectively, from a starting position into an end position by an advancing movement, and from the end position back into the starting position by a reversing movement, respectively, and a motion control which, during the sampling movement, causes the coupling part to reach an end position that differs from the end position reached by the coupling part during the pricking movement, wherein the end position reached by the coupling part in the sampling movement is laterally displaced relative to the end position reached by the coupling part in the prickling movement. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094326 | MULTI-LANCET CARTRIDGE AND LANCING DEVICE - A medical lancing device including a clam-shell housing that holds a replaceable multi-lancet cartridge. A control mechanism includes a linear-pull slider that is moved in and out to operate various mechanisms of the device. An interlock mechanism includes at least one rib on the slider that engages at least one finger on the housing to lock the housing closed when the slider is in a retracted or only partially extended position. And the interlock mechanism includes at least one void on the slider that aligns with at least one finger on the housing to permit the housing to be opened when the slider is in a fully extended position. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094327 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR STRAIGHTENING AND FLATTENING THE SIDE WALL OF A BODY LUMEN OR BODY CAVITY SO AS TO PROVIDE THREE DIMENSIONAL EXPOSURE OF A LESION OR ABNORMALITY WITHIN THE BODY LUMEN OR BODY CAVITY, AND/OR FOR STABILIZING AN INSTRUMENT RELATIVE TO THE SAME - Apparatus for straightening and flattening a side wall of a body lumen or body cavity so as to provide three dimensional exposure of an abnormality within the body lumen, and simultaneously providing for the stabilization of the working end of an endoscope or surgical tool, the apparatus comprising a deployable hoop expander comprising a structure defining a volume and being configured so as to be transitionable between a reduced cross-sectional configuration for easy insertion into a body lumen and an expanded cross-sectional configuration for engaging, straightening and flattening the side wall of the body lumen, whereby to provide three dimensional exposure of the abnormality within the body lumen, the deployable hoop expander being configured for simultaneously providing for the docking of the end of the endoscope or other instrument so as to stabilize the same for endoscopic viewing and/or therapy. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094328 | SYSTEM, DEVICE AND A METHOD FOR DILATING A STRICTURE IN A LUMEN AND FOR DETERMINING THE TRANSVERSE CROSS-SECTIONAL AREA OF A LUMEN OR CAVITY | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094329 | Collagen Antral Membrane Expander - A subantral membrane elevator comprising an inflatable balloon and an over-formed membrane (e.g., collagen membrane), which is resorbable into the body, and a method of using the same in bone augmentation surgery, such as alveolar bone augmentation preparatory to implantation of a dental implant. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094330 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR PREVENTING DISTAL EMBOLIZATION USING FLOW REVERSAL AND PERFUSION AUGMENTATION WITHIN THE CEREBRAL VASCULATURE - A medical device having catheter with first and second elongate member and one or more expandable constricting/occluding members. The catheter is adapted for use with therapeutic or diagnostic devices, including an angioplasty/stent catheter and an atherectomy catheter. A first constrictor/occluder is mounted at the distal end of the first elongate member. A second elongate member is adapted to extend through the first elongate member. A second constrictor is mounted on the second elongate member proximal. Pressure measuring devices may be included, and filters may be used to capture embolic debris. Methods of using the devices for preventing distal embolization during extracranial or intracranial carotid procedures or vertebral artery procedures by augmenting collateral cerebral circulation by coarctation of the aorta to enhance reversal of blood flow in an internal carotid artery, an external carotid artery, and/or a common carotid artery toward the subclavian artery are disclosed. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094331 | CATHETER - Disclosed is a catheter for penetrating a stenotic lesion occurred in a lumen in a human body, including:
| 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094332 | Device and Method for Altering Cardiac Activity - A device for altering cardiac activity, said device comprising a neck engaging member, said neck engaging member having at least one pressure applicator provided as a predefined area which in use comes into contact with and occludes or partially occludes at least one carotid artery, said device including a control mechanism which is operable to cause the pressure applicator to rapidly occlude or partially occlude the artery in order to provoke heart rate turbulence. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094333 | HAND-HELD ACUPRESSURE DEVICE - A hand-held acupressure device which includes a ball attached to an elongated rigid handle by an elastic cord enabling the user to easily position the ball over trigger points. Pressure is applied to the trigger points by pressing the body to the ball against a hard surface. The elastic cord allows the ball freedom of movement apart from the handle while in use, and pulls the ball back to its original position at the end of the handle after use. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094334 | PLICATION DEVICE WITH FORMABLE LINEAR FASTENER FOR USE IN THE DIRECT PLICATION ANNULOPLASTY TREATMENT OF MITRAL VALVE REGURGITATION - A system for the treatment of mitral valve regurgitation by reshaping the mitral valve annulus using one or more plications of annular tissue each fixed by a retaining clip is described. The system includes four devices to achieve such percutaneous direct plication annuloplasty. The first is a prolapsable crossing catheter. Second, a deflecting guide catheter is used to provide a means for guiding the plication device into proper position at the subvalvular region of the mitral valve annulus. The plication device is then used to make plications in the subvalvular region of the mitral valve annulus. Fourth, a formable linear retainer clip is deployed by the plication device in order to retain the plicated tissue in the plicated form. The formable linear retainer is formed into a reverse “C” clip by the jaws of the plication device acting in conjunction with a retainer pusher. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094335 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SUPPORTING OR OCCLUDING A PHYSIOLOGICAL OPENING OR CAVITY - Implantable devices for placement at a cavity or opening such as an aneurysm are disclosed. The implantable devices, in a deployed condition, have a generally inverted U-shaped profile with a curved or angled framework support structure sized and configured for placement in proximity to tissue surrounding the opening and anchoring legs extending proximally from the framework structure sized and configured to contact the wall of a neighboring lumen at opposed locations. Occlusive and semi-occlusive membranes may be associated with the framework support structure and deployed over the opening to provide exclusion of the opening and flow diversion. Proximal anchoring segments providing additional lumen wall surface area contact for the implantable device following deployment may be incorporated. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094336 | SURGICAL SE SUTURE NEEDLE - A surgical needle possesses enhanced needle attributes including needle sharpness and resistance to bending or breaking during use. The surgical needle includes an elongated needle body defining a longitudinal y axis and x and z axes transverse to the y axis. The elongated needle body includes a central shaft and a first end for attachment to a suture and a second needled end for penetrating tissue. The needled end includes lower and upper opposed planar surfaces and a pair of side surfaces extending between the lower and upper planar surfaces and contiguous therewith. The upper surface and side surfaces extend to a pointed tip. The lower surface extends to a cutting edge defined at the intersection of the side surfaces and proximal of the pointed tip. The cutting edge extends in oblique relation relative to the longitudinal axis of the needle body and terminates at the pointed tip. The linear cutting edge intersects the upper planar surface at an angle ranging from about 15° to about 30° relative to the longitudinal axis. The needle end may define a first transverse cross-sectional dimension adjacent the central shaft, and having a general trapezoidal configuration. The needle end also defines a second transverse cross-sectional dimension adjacent the pointed tip, and having a general triangular configuration. The first cross-sectional dimension may define a dimension along the z-axes corresponding to a first width of the needle end with the first width being greater than a corresponding shaft width of the central shaft. The first cross-sectional dimension defines a dimension along the x-axis corresponding to a first height of the needle end with the first height being less than a corresponding shaft height of the central shaft. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094337 | KNOTTED SUTURE END EFFECTOR - A suture including a knotted end effector is provided. The suture includes a body portion defining a longitudinal axis and an end effector integrally formed from the body portion. The end effector includes first and second extensions extending outwardly from the longitudinal axis in opposite directions. Each of the first and second extensions includes at least one throw. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094338 | HYDROXAMATE-INITIATED POLYMERS - Polymers initiated with hydroxamates and compositions containing such polymers are suitable for use in making medical devices, delivery agents, coatings for such items, and the like. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094339 | COATING COMPOSITIONS - The present disclosure provides compositions suitable for forming medical devices and coatings for medical devices, including sutures, which include a copolymer, at least one phosphorylcholine, and a fatty acid component. Sutures and other medical devices possessing such coatings are also provided. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094340 | COATING COMPOSITIONS - The present disclosure provides compositions suitable for forming medical devices and coatings for medical devices, including sutures, which include a copolymer, at least one hydroxamate, and a fatty acid component. Sutures and other medical devices possessing such coatings are also provided. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094341 | NEEDLE-ELECTRODE AND TISSUE ANCHOR SYSTEM - The disclosure provides a needle-electrode anchor system having a needle and an optional electrode with one or more anchors. The system can provide an electrical cutting current to the needle-electrode to create an opening in a tissue portion. An anchor coupled to the needle-electrode can be pushed through the opening with a pusher and pulled into position to set the anchor on a distal surface of the opening. If the tissue portion is to be approximated to another tissue portion, the system can be relocated to another tissue portion and another opening created with the cutting current with another anchor pushed through the opening and secured on a distal surface. Lines coupled to the anchors can be pulled together, approximating the tissue portions. If the tissue portion is to be retracted, an anchor line can be grasped to retract the tissue portion from an adjacent tissue portion. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094342 | DEVICE FOR THE DECOMPRESSION AND THERAPY OF THE CERVICAL SPINAL COLUMN - The device consists of a shaped shoulder piece ( | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094343 | UNIPLANAR SCREW - A spinal stabilization system for surgical implantation in the spine having a bone fastener. The bone fastener is provided with a head portion and a shaft portion. A housing is also provided with a recess defined by sidewalls and an opening for receiving the head portion of the bone fastener. A seating element is disposed within the housing and positioned over the head portion of the bone fastener. An elongate rod is positioned on the seating element within the recess of the housing. The system also includes a cap capable of engaging with a top portion of the housing and capturing the elongate rod within the recess of the housing when the cap is rotated. The bone fastener articulates in a single plane with respect to the housing and the seat element. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094344 | Pedicle-Based Posterior Stabilization Members and Methods of Use - The present application is directed to pedicle-based posterior stabilization members and methods of stabilizing vertebral members. The stabilization members generally include a body with first and second connector sections. The first connector section is configured to connect to a pedicle of a first vertebral member. The second connector section is configured to contact an adjacent vertebral member. The second connector section may be positioned at an end of the body, or an intermediate section away from the end. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094345 | TRANSCONNECTOR - The present invention is directed to a transconnector for joining adjacent longitudinal spinal rods. The transconnector preferably includes a bridge member and a pair of bone fixation coupling elements, the bridge member is preferably sized and configured to span a distance between the pair of bone fixation coupling elements. The bone fixation coupling elements are preferably sized and configured to engage the bridge member and sized and configured to receive one of the bone fixation elements. The bone fixation coupling elements are preferably sized and configured to engage the body portion of the bone fixation element. The bone fixation coupling elements may include a locking cap having a first set of threads for threadably engaging the bone fixation element. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094346 | SPINAL CONNECTION ASSEMBLY - A spinal connection assembly for use with a posterior spinal connector having a head and a groove adjacent the head for providing a neck and a connector element to treat a spine of a mammalian body is provided. The assembly includes a housing having first and second side portions and a top and a bottom. The first side portion is provided with a bottom-facing first opening adapted for receiving the posterior spinal connector. A capture mechanism is carried by the first side portion for engaging the head of the posterior spinal connector and extends at least partially into the groove so as to capture the head within the first opening. The second side portion is provided with a second opening. A securement mechanism is carried by the second side portion for capturing the connector element within the second opening. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094347 | FRACTURE FIXATION DEVICE, TOOLS AND METHODS - A bone fixation device is provided with an elongate body having a longitudinal axis and having a first state in which at least a portion of the body is flexible and a second state in which the body is generally rigid, an actuateable gripper disposed at a distal location on the elongated body, and an actuator operably connected to the gripper to deploy the gripper from a retracted configuration to an expanded configuration. Methods of repairing a fracture of a bone are also disclosed. One such method comprises inserting a bone fixation device into an intramedullary space of the bone to place at least a portion of an elongate body of the fixation device in a flexible state on one side of the fracture and at least a portion of a hub on another side of the fracture, and operating an actuator to deploy at least one gripper of the fixation device to engage an inner surface of the intramedullary space to anchor the fixation device to the bone. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094348 | BONE ANCHORING ELEMENT AND STABILIZATION DEVICE FOR BONES, IN PARTICULAR FOR THE SPINAL COLUMN - A bone anchoring element includes an anchoring section for anchoring in the bone and a receiving part connected to the anchoring section. The receiving part includes an opening suitable for accommodation of a stabilization rod having a rod axis, the opening being limited along the rod axis by two side walls. The side walls include guides orientated along the rod axis for guiding at least one connection rod therethrough. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094349 | Multi-Axial Connection System - A system and method for a multi-axial connection of an apparatus to bone. The system may include a fastener inserted into a body and a head of the fastener held within a chamber of the body through a combination of a retention ring, a pressure cap, a rod, and a compression element. The compression element applies force to the rod which, in turn, pushed on the pressure cap. The force on the pressure cap urges it against the head of the fastener and pushed it against the retention ring. The force on the retention ring causes it to expand to the walls of the chamber. Once the ring can no longer expand within the chamber, the head of the fastener is wedged between the retention ring and the pressure cap. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094350 | METHOD FOR ROTATING A VERTEBRA OR VERTEBRAE - A method for rotating a vertebra or vertebrae in a spine that is curved using a vertebral osteosynthesis device that includes polyaxial screws, linking rods, clamping parts, tightening nuts, and set screws. The method includes the steps of: implanting two series of the screws, clamping parts, and linking rods; completely tightening the tightening nuts of a first series of screws on the convex side of the spine curvature; completely tightening the set screws of a second series of screws on the concave side of the spine curvature; tightening the tightening nuts of the second series; and tightening the set screws of the first series. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094351 | OCCIPITAL PLATE FOR CERVICAL FIXATION - An adjustable occipital plate includes a central body portion having a plurality of arms extending therefrom in a generally Y-shaped configuration. Two of the arms include elongate slots for slidably receiving retaining members therein. Each retaining member includes a U-shaped channel for receiving a spine rod and a set screw. The central body portion and one arm include openings for receiving bone screws therein. Each of the arms may be angled with respect to the central body portion. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094352 | BONE SCREW - The present invention provides a bone screw which can be used for fixation and/or fastening of prosthetic devices or instruments to bone tissue whose structure or dimensions differ from one region to another. In particular, the present invention provides a bone screw which is designed to optimize purchase in both the cancellous and cortical regions of a vertebral body. In an exemplary embodiment, the bone screw has a distal portion and a proximal portion in which the diameter of the thread on the proximal portion of the screw is greater than the diameter of the thread on the distal portion of the screw. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094353 | PEDICLE SCREW - A pedicle screw is provided to be inserted into and fixed to a pedicle of a spinal disease patient, and more particularly, a pedicle screw in which a screw thread of a clamp screw is formed to have dents and protrusions with trapezoid cross-sections so as to form a predetermined gap with a screw thread of a fixing unit having dents and protrusions with rectangular cross-sections when the clamp screw is combined with the fixing unit, and the screw thread of the clamp screw has different pitches to disperse an external impact so as to further firmly combine the clamp screw with the fixing unit. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094354 | MONOAXIAL AND POLYAXIAL PEDICLE SCREW - The present invention relates to an alternatively monoaxial and polyaxial pedicle or other similar surgical screw that can be used in a polyaxial manner and then locked or otherwise secured at a desired angle or orientation, i.e. used in a monoaxial manner, prior to engaging a rod or other similar stabilization member with the pedicle or other similar surgical screw. In other words, the present invention provides a pedicle or other similar surgical screw that can be selectively used in either a monoaxial or polyaxial configuration, as is desirable in a particular application or at a particular point of a given surgical procedure. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094355 | VARIABLE TENSION POST FIXATION - A variable tension post fixation device includes an outer screw including a head configured to receive a driver, a conical tip, a threaded shaft extending between the head and the tip, and an incompletely cannulated core, and an inner screw including a proximal end, a distal end, and at least one suture hole, wherein the inner screw is configured to be insertably coupled with the outer screw. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094356 | INTERLOCKING BONE SCREW AND WASHER CONCEPTS - The present disclosure provides a cannulated bone screw system including a screw with a threaded portion, a non-threaded portion, and a first plurality of teeth spaced apart from a screw head; and a washer with an interior portion with a second plurality of teeth and an opening and an outer portion with a plurality of spikes. The first plurality of teeth are on an inferior convex surface; wherein the second plurality of teeth are on a superior concave surface; and wherein the first plurality of teeth and the second plurality of teeth are operable to mate to prevent the screw from backing out of the washer while allowing the cannulated bone screw system to conform/pivot in order to accommodate different bone morphologies. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094357 | SEMI-CONSTRAINED SCREW AND SPINAL PLATE ASSEMBLY - A semi-constrained screw and a cervical plate assembly that engages to a cervical area of the human vertebrae system are disclosed. The semi-constrained screw and cervical plate assembly includes a cervical plate and one or more semi-constrained bone screws. Each semi-constrained bone screw includes an elongated shank, which is mechanically and releasably coupled to a head portion. The head portion includes one or more threaded segments which define one or more slits therebetween. As the semi-constrained bone screw is driven through the screw opening in the cervical plate and into the bone, the head portion allows poly-axial movement of the shank relative to the head portion. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094358 | SPINAL STAPLE - A bone anchor assembly includes a bone fixation member and a bone screw. The bone fixation member includes at least one opening therethrough for receiving the bone screw. Two pairs of legs extend from a plate portion of the bone fixation member and are configured for insertion into bone. A lip of the opening is configured for engaging a set of threads on the bone screw such that the bone screw and the bone fixation member are affixed to one another once the bone screw is inserted through the opening of the plate portion. An installation tool for inserting the bone fixation member into bone includes a proximal region, a tubular member, a rotatable collar, and a gripping mechanism. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094359 | PIVOTING IMPLANT HOLDER - A medical inserter tool is provided for introducing medical implants into a surgical site, preferably using minimally invasive techniques. The inserter tool can have a variety of configurations, but in general, the inserter tool should be effective to engage and manipulate the implant into two or more positions. In an exemplary embodiment, the tool includes an elongate shaft having proximal and distal ends and defining a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, and a pivoting element that is coupled to the distal end of the shaft and that is adapted to engage a spinal implant. In use, the pivoting element is movable between first and second positions to allow an implant to be introduced through a percutaneous access device in a lengthwise orientation, and to be manipulated subcutaneously to be positioned in a desired orientation. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094360 | PRESERVATION AND RESTORATION OF CRANIAL BONE FLAPS - Methods are provided for preserving and restoring cranial bone flaps. In one aspect, the method to preserve a cranial bone flap includes cleaning a cranial bone flap, washing the cranial bone flap with a sterile saline solution including gentamycin, and washing the bone with a sterile saline solution including vancomycin. The cranial bone flap may be dried, wrapped, and packaged before being stored in a freezer. The fixing method may include removing the preserved cranial bone flap from a freezer and unwrapping the preserved cranial bone flap from any wrappings. A previous wound may be opened for insertion of the preserved cranial bone flap. The preserved cranial bone flap may be washed with a sterile saline solution including gentamycin and a sterile saline solution including vancomycin. The edges of the previous wound may be refreshed by nipping free margins to expose diploic spaces, and the preserved cranial bone flap may be fixed in place within the previous wound. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094361 | FLEXIBLE TREPHINE AND METHOD OF REMOVING A BOWED IMPLANT FROM A BONE - A flexible trephine includes a flexible section that is formed of a spring member. The trephine is tubular and includes a central passage so that the trephine can coaxially fit over a longitudinal implant while force is applied to the trephine. The trephine has an annular cutting head for removing bone that surrounds the implant, so that the implant can be removed. The trephine is urged in the longitudinal direction of the implant while fitted coaxially on the implant so that the implant can be separated from the bone. The flexible section of the trephine allows the trephine to conform to and follow a bowed implant. The cutting head can include multiple teeth or a single osteotome. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094362 | Surgical instrument for tensioning plate-shaped engaging elements with respect to each other - In a surgical instrument for tensioning two plate-shaped engaging elements with respect to each other at opposite sides of bone portions, a first engaging element carrying next to each other at a spacing from each other two pin-shaped or rod-shaped connecting members which pass through openings in the second engaging element, with a supporting surface for engagement on the side of the second engaging element that faces away from the first engaging element, and with a tensioning device engaging the connecting members for displacement of the connecting members and consequently of the first engaging element in the direction towards the second engaging element, to enable an individual adjustment of the engaging elements to the shape of the bone portions, it is proposed that the surgical instrument comprise next to each other two grip elements, each releasably connectable to a connecting member, and that the tensioning device engage the grip elements through a compensating element which, upon tensioning of the tensioning device, allows a differently sized displacement of the two grip elements and consequently of the two connecting members. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094363 | INSTRUMENT KIT AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING MENISCAL REPAIR - An instrument kit for performing a repair procedure on a meniscal tear in a knee for use in combination with a mechanical repair device is disclosed. The instrument kit includes at least one template including an elongate body defining X, Y and Z axes. The elongate body adapted for insertion in a knee of the patient to approximate a path to a meniscal tear within the knee. The elongate body has a length defining the X-axis. The instrument kit including a first template having a linear elongate body, a second template having a distal end portion which is offset in a direction of the Y-axis, and a third template having a distal end portion which is offset in a direction of the Z-axis. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094364 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION LEADS HAVING RF COMPATIBILITY AND METHODS OF USE AND MANUFACTURE - An implantable lead has an inner core, a plurality of coiled conductor guides, and a plurality of conductors. The inner core defines a plurality of lumens. Each coiled conductor guide defines a plurality of helical lumens. Each coiled conductor guide is disposed in a coiled arrangement over a portion of the inner core. Each of the conductors electrically couples at least one electrode to at least one terminal. At least one of the conductors includes a plurality of units. Each unit includes a first conductor segment extending along the inner core from a beginning point to a first position, a coiled conductor segment disposed at least partially in one of the lumens of the coiled conductor guides and extending from the first position to the second position, and a second conductor segment extending along the inner core from the second position to an endpoint. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094365 | Method and system for responding to non-perfusing and non-shockable heart rhythms - A system and method are disclosed for prompting emergency medical personnel who are attending to a patient. When the patient presents a heart rhythm that is a non-perfusing and non-shockable rhythm or perfusing but unstable, the attending personnel are prompted to administer therapy, such as reestablishing perfusion by performing CPR. The attending personnel may also be urged to defer taking the pulse of the patient. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094366 | AIR/OXYGEN SUPPLY SYSTEM AND METHOD - Provided is a method that includes automatically providing air/oxygen at a pre-selected maximum pressure limit, breath volume and respiratory-rate. The pre-selected maximum pressure limit, breath volume, and respiratory-rate are automatically set as a function of a size of a mask coupled to an air/oxygen supply system. Further provided is a ventilator system that includes a ventilator mask, a ventilator supply system, and a mask conduit. The ventilator mask is configured in a size that will fit upon a selected range of sizes of human faces. The ventilator supply system includes an air/oxygen source and an air/oxygen regulator system configured to regulate air/oxygen flow parameters as a function of the size of the mask. The mask conduit is configured to couple the ventilator supply to the ventilator mask. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094367 | Non-electrode-lead ultra-thin flexible micro multifunctional heart rate adjusting device - A non-electrode-lead ultra-thin flexible micro multifunctional heart rate adjusting device comprises an integrative ultra-thin flexible micro non-electrode-lead pacemaker formed by assembling a micro battery, an ultra-low-power source circuit, a wireless receiving/transmitting circuit and an application circuit unit together, the needle electrodes are positioned on one side of the pacemaker and all of them form a small electrode body which can directly implanted into heart or external surface of heart; a multifunctional microcomputer heart rate adjusting remote controller connects with various non-electrode-lead pacemakers via wireless communication; the non-electrode-lead pacemakers and/or the heart rate adjusting remote controller connect with a control base station via wireless network, and the control base station connects with a computer. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094368 | System and/or method for refibrillation of the heart for treatment of post-countershock pulseless electrical activity and/or asystole - A method and/or system for inducing ventricular fibrillation (VF) of the heart for treatment of post-countershock pulseless electrical activity (PEA) or asystole. In certain example embodiments, it has been found that reinduction of ventricular fibrillation, followed by restoration of blood flow with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), can make subsequent countershocks more successful in restoring a heart rhythm associated with blood flow. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094369 | Methods and Devices for Accurately Classifying Cardiac Activity - Methods, systems, and devices for signal analysis in an implanted cardiac monitoring and treatment device such as an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. In illustrative examples, captured data including detected events is analyzed to identify likely overdetection of cardiac events. In some illustrative examples, when overdetection is identified, data may be modified to correct for overdetection, to reduce the impact of overdetection, or to ignore overdetected data. New methods for organizing the use of morphology and rate analysis in an overall architecture for rhythm classification and cardiac signal analysis are also discussed. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094370 | METHODS AND APPARATUS TO STIMULATE HEART ATRIA - A method and apparatus for treatment of hypertension and heart failure by increasing secretion of endogenous atrial hormones by pacing of the heart atria. Atrial pacing is done during the ventricular refractory period resulting in premature atrial contraction that does not result in ventricular contraction. Pacing results in the atrial wall stress, peripheral vasodilation, ANP secretion. Concomitant reduction of the heart rate is monitored and controlled as needed with backup pacing. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094371 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PAIRED/COUPLED PACING - A coupled/paired stimulus pulse is delivered to the heart at an inter-pulse interval following one of i) detection of an intrinsic depolarization or ii) delivery of a primary stimulus pulse. Capture resulting from the coupled/paired stimulus pulse is sensed for. In response to capture by a coupled/paired stimulus pulse, the inter-pulse interval is incrementally decreased by a first amount until there is no capture by a coupled/paired stimulus pulse. In response to no capture by a coupled/paired stimulus pulse, the inter-pulse interval is incrementally increased by a second amount greater than the first amount, until capture by a coupled/paired stimulus pulse is detected. Once capture is again detected, paired/coupled pacing is delivered at the inter-pulse interval which resulted in capture for a predetermined period of time or until loss of capture occurs. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094372 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SELECTIVELY STIMULATING COMPONENTS IN, ON, OR NEAR THE PUDENDAL NERVE OR ITS BRANCHES TO ACHIEVE SELECTIVE PHYSIOLOGIC RESPONSES - Systems and methods selectively stimulate components of the pudendal nerve away from the sacral root to evoke desired physiologic responses in persons who lack the ability to otherwise produce these responses—e.g., maintain continence and/or produce micturition, and/or provide male/female sexuality responses, and/or provide bowel responses. The systems and methods use a multiple electrode array, or individual electrodes, placed on, in, or near the pudendal nerve. The electrode array, or individual electrodes, in association with a pulse generator, provide selective stimulation of individual fascicles within the pudendal nerve, to achieve different physiologic responses. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094373 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR STIMULATING THE VASCULAR SYSTEM - The present invention provides methods of treating a gastrointestinal condition. In some embodiments, the method generally includes administering a chemical or electrical stimulus to an artery of the gastrointestinal vasculature of the subject, a vein of the gastrointestinal vasculature of the subject, a nerve supplying an artery of the gastrointestinal vasculature of the subject, and/or a nerve supplying a vein of the gastrointestinal vasculature of the subject, wherein the chemical or electrical stimulus is effective for treating a gastrointestinal condition. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094374 | RESPONSIVE GASTRIC STIMULATOR - A responsive gastrointestinal stimulation device is provided where one or more sensors sense data corresponding to a subject or the gastrointestinal tract of a subject and responds to sensing the data by stimulating, adjusting stimulation, or stopping stimulation of the gastrointestinal tract. A stimulation device is also provided to stimulate the gastrointestinal tract to produce a sensation of satiety or to control hunger or food consumption. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094375 | NEURAL ELECTRODE TREATMENT - An apparatus for applying a signal to a nerve for the treatment of a disorder includes a first electrode and a second electrode. Each of the electrodes is adapted to be secured to a nerve of a patient. A signal generator is electrically connected to each of the first and second electrodes. The signal generator is adapted to create a signal having a first waveform at the first electrode and a second waveform at the second electrode. The waveforms have parameters selected to block propagation of neural action potentials. The waveforms have a repeating pattern of cycles of pulses with a delay period between at least selected ones of said pulses. In one embodiment, the first and second waveforms are out of phase for a cycle of one of the waveforms to occur during a delay period of the other of the waveforms. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094376 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF THE DIAPHRAGM AND NERVES - Medical devices, systems, and methods are provided for providing respiratory therapy by electrically stimulating the phrenic nerves and/or the thoracic diaphragm. In one embodiment, at least one electrode is deployed to a position within the patient's airway and placed in proximity to a phrenic nerve or to the diaphragm. The electrode may be attached to a controller housing including a pulse generator using one or more electrical lead or leads or may be in wireless communication with the pulse generator. The controller housing may be implanted at a position within the patient or the controller housing may reside external to the patient. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094377 | Method and apparatus for closed-loop deep brain stimulation in treating neurological diseases - A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, implanted deep brain stimulation electrodes, a stimulation sequence pulse generator, one or more implanted sensors for collecting data associated with one or more electrical signal from the vicinity of the site where stimulation is applied by the stimulation electrodes, and one or more noninvasive surface EMG electrodes to be attached to the patient's skin, say, on certain limbs and which may incorporate a wireless transmitter microchip, and a controller. The controller may incorporate one or more wireless receiver microchips to receive inputs from the sensors. It may also have wire input, if placed under the skin of the skull, for inputs from the implanted sensors. It will incorporate a signal processor to process and coordinate the sensed data from the various sensors and to predict the timing for its output commands. The controller also incorporates a decision element to produce a control output to be sent by wire or wireless to the stimulation sequence generator and which may be an on-off command. The signal processor will also discriminate between tremors and intentional movements in the EMG signals utilizing the EMG spectrum. An electronic switch device may be incorporated to allow the implanted electrodes to switch between serving as stimulation electrodes and voltage sensors, thus eliminating the need to implant any separate sensing electrodes. Alternatively, only noninvasive EMG sensing may be employed for closed-loop control. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094378 | PAIN SENSORY NERVE STIMULATION APPARATUS - A pain sensory nerve stimulation apparatus includes: an electrode portion including: a first electrode, a tip end of which is adapted to be inserted into a skin; and at lease one second electrode which is disposed in a circumference of the first electrode without being electrically conductive with the first electrode, and which is adapted to be in contact with a skin; and a pulse signal supplier, supplying a pulse signal in which an electrical polarity of the first electrode is set as a anode and an electrical polarity of the second electrode is set as a cathode. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094379 | Method of Stimulating a Hypoglossal Nerve for Controlling the Position of a Patient's Tongue - A method for controlling a position of a patient's tongue includes attaching at least one electrode to the patient's Hypoglossal nerve and applying an electric signal through the electrode to at least one targeted motor efferent located within the Hypoglossal nerve to stimulate at least one muscle of the tongue. Methods may also include the use of more than one contact to target more than one motor efferent and stimulating more than one muscle. The stimulation load to maintain the position of the tongue may be shared by each muscle. The position of the patient's tongue may be controlled in order to prevent obstructive sleep apnea. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094380 | ELECTRONEURAL INTERFACE FOR A MEDICAL IMPLANT - Embodiments are generally directed to improving the interface between one or more electrode contacts of a medical implant and the neurons of a recipient of the medical implant. In an embodiment, a growth factor is applied to stimulate the growth of peripheral processes (also referred to as dendrites). Then an electric field is applied to direct the growth of the peripheral processes towards the electrode contact. Growing peripheral processes towards the electrode contacts may reduce the charge required to stimulate the peripheral processes and improve operation of the medical implant. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094381 | APPARATUS FOR DRIVING ARTIFICIAL RETINA USING MEDIUM-RANGE WIRELESS POWER TRANSMISSION TECHNIQUE - Provided is an apparatus for driving an artificial retina using a medium-range power transmission technique. The apparatus can wirelessly transmit power to an artificial retina circuit within a medium range of about 1 m using resonance between a first coil equipped around a user's waist and a second coil implanted in a user's eye. Thus, it is possible to solve the difficulty of implanting a coil in a lens, provide convenience to a user by eliminating the necessity of artificial glasses, and stably supply power to the artificial retina circuit. In addition, it is possible to remarkably lessen the difficulty in connecting the second coil with the artificial retina circuit in an eye. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094382 | VISUAL PROSTHESIS AND METHODS OF CREATING VISUAL PERCEPTIONS - A visual prosthesis and methods of allowing a subject to view visual information from an artificial source are provided. The visual prosthesis has one or more electrodes operative to deliver electrical signals to a lateral geniculate nucleus of a mammal, a power supply operative to provide power to the electrodes, a visual information translator operatively connected to the electrode array, and a visual sensor operatively connected to the visual information translator. The visual prosthesis is operative to translate visual information into an electrical signal and transmit the electrical signal to electrodes to stimulate brain activity to recognize visual information. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094383 | IRRADIATION DEVICE BY MODULATED PHOTONIC ENERGY RADIATION - An irradiation device by modulated photonic energy radiation comprising a photonic emitter module ( | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094384 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING PHOTOTHERAPY TO THE BRAIN - A therapeutic treatment system and method are provided. The therapeutic system includes a light source adapted to irradiate at least a portion of the brain with light and a non-light energy source adapted to apply non-light energy to the at least a portion of the brain. The therapeutic treatment method includes irradiating at least a portion of a patient's brain with light and applying a non-light energy to the at least a portion of the patient's brain. The therapeutic treatment method provides therapeutic treatment without damaging the scalp tissue of the patient. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094385 | TEMPERATURE CONTROL OF PATIENTS DURING SURGERY - An infrared radiant heating system for raising or maintaining a uniform core temperature of the body of a patient during surgery, substantially without affecting the temperature of the area surrounding the patient's body, comprising: infrared radiant heating means which in use is located in an unobtrusive position near the patient to provide radiant heat to the entire body or one or more parts of the body of the patient; and control means in communication with the heating means for controlling the intensity level and distribution of intensity of the radiant heat on the patient's body such that in use the skin temperature of the patient's body is raised or maintained within a predetermined range resulting in the uniform core body temperature, substantially without affecting the temperature of the area surrounding the patient's body. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094386 | METHODS & APPARATI FOR THE CLOSE APPLICATION OF THERAPEUTIC & OTHER DEVICES TO THE PELVIC AREA - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to apparati and associated methods for an easy on-off device to support and provide direct therapeutic cooling relief to the affected genitalia of persons having post-operative pain and swelling. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094387 | ELECTRODE DESIGN FOR LEADS OF IMPLANTABLE ELECTRIC STIMULATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING - A lead includes a lead body with a distal end and a proximal end. A plurality of terminals are disposed at the proximal end of the lead body. A plurality of electrodes are disposed at the distal end of the lead body. Each electrode includes an electrode body and at least one anchoring member. The at least one anchoring member couples to the electrode body and extends into the lead body and beneath the electrode body to anchor the electrode to the lead body. A plurality of conductive wires electrically couple the plurality of electrodes to the plurality of terminals. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094388 | HALIBUT RELEASE LINER FOR A DEFIBRILLATOR ELECTRODE PAD - A release liner for electrode pads is described which enables the pads to be used with defibrillators requiring the electrodes to be electrically interconnected for self-test prior to use, and with defibrillators which do not require the electrodes to be electrically interconnected. In one example this variation is afforded by folding the release liner one way to electrically connect conductive layers underlying two attached electrodes. In another example this variation is afforded by leaving the conductive layers electrically connected or breaking the connection. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094389 | SELF-EXPANDABLE STENT SYSTEMS FOR BIFURCATED LESIONS - Self-expandable bifurcation stent and systems for delivery and implantation of the self-expandable bifurcation stent, comprising a self-expandable bifurcation stent made of a material possessing shape memory, capable of shaping a mesh with cylindrical surface and marked by radioactive labels, and the delivery system for its implantation, comprising a polymeric tubular catheter with a cap at the distal end, a guiding wire and a pushing wire, where the tubular catheter is executed double-barreled, one lumen accommodating the guiding wire, and the second lumen accommodating the pushing wire with a cap at its distal end, which cap is executed in the shape of a polymeric elastic cap put over the tubular catheter accommodating, between the polymeric elastic cap and the tubular catheter, the stent in the first position with the reduced diameter, the cap is executed with the capability of distal | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094390 | WOVEN AORTIC SINUS PROSTHESIS HAVING A BULB - A woven aortic sinus prosthesis has a first substantially cylindrical section position away from a patient's heart, which optionally passes into an aortic arch of the patient, a second section having a greater diameter than the first section and forming a bulb, which second section is connected to the first section, and optionally a third substantially cylindrical section close to the heart, which is connected to the bulb section, wherein the prosthesis is continuously woven and has a constant number of warp yarns over its axial length, whereby there is a greater distance between the warp yarns in a region of the bulb section than in the first and third cylindrical sections. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094391 | STENT SUITABLE FOR DEPLOYMENT IN A BLOOD VESSEL | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094392 | Expandable Sheath for Introducing an Endovascular Delivery Device into a Body - Embodiments of an expandable sheath can be used in conjunction with a catheter assembly to introduce a prosthetic device, such as a tissue heart valve, into a patient. Such embodiments can minimize trauma to the vessel by allowing for temporary expansion of a portion of the introducer sheath to accommodate the delivery apparatus, followed by a return to the original diameter once the prosthetic device passes through. Some embodiments can comprise a sheath with inner and outer tubular layers, and an intermediate tubular layer comprising a shape memory alloy. Other embodiments comprise one or more layers having one or more longitudinal notches or cuts to facilitate expansion of the sheath. Embodiments of the present expandable sheath can avoid the need for multiple insertions for the dilation of the vessel, thus offering advantages over prior art introducer sheaths. | 2010-04-15 |
| 20100094393 | LOCKING DEVICE FOR ENDOLUMINAL PROSTHESIS DELIVERY SYSTEM - A locking device for preventing movement of an elongated instrument includes a tubular base that has an outer surface and an inner surface. At least one lateral opening extends through the tubular base from the outer surface through the inner surface. At least one rocker arm is mounted to the base. Each of the rocker arms has a locking projection that extends radially inwardly aligned with one of the lateral openings of the base. An actuating member is rotatable relative to the base portion between first and second positions. In the first position the actuating member engages the rocker arm to urge the locking projection radially inward through the lateral opening and beyond the inner surface of the tubular base. Movement of the actuating member to the second position causes the locking projection to move radially outward through at least a portion of the lateral opening. | 2010-04-15 |
