| 16th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights (04-16-09/04-16-09_49) part 49 |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20090099521 | Cannula Insertion Device and Related Methods - A cannula insertion device includes a housing defining an opening for receiving therethrough a cannula and further defining a channel, and a cannula forming a lumen, the cannula adapted for sliding movement within the housing from a retracted position to an extended position. When the cannula is in the retracted position, the lumen is located remotely from the channel and the channel is in fluidic communication with the opening. When the cannula is in the extended position, the lumen is in fluidic communication with the channel. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099522 | Microneedle Systems and Apparatus - A medical system. The medical system includes at least one compartment for a fluid, a fluid path and at least one microneedle fluidly connected to the at least one compartment by the fluid path. A medical infusion system is also disclosed. The system includes a wearable housing, at least one non-pressurized compartment for a fluid contained within the housing, at least one fluid path fluidly connected to the at least one compartment and at least one microneedle fluidly connected to the at least one compartment by the fluid path wherein the fluid path extends through the microneedle. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099523 | INFUSION PUMP ASSEMBLY - An infusion pump assembly is disclosed. The infusion pump assembly includes a locking tab and a pump barrel inside a pump barrel housing, where the pump barrel accommodates a reservoir assembly. The reservoir assembly includes a reservoir and a plunger rod. The infusion pump assembly also includes a locking disc at a terminus of the pump barrel. The locking disc includes a clearance hole for the plunger rod. The locking disc also includes at least one locking tab notch in close proximity with the locking tab. The locking tab is in moveable engagement with the locking tab notch, and the reservoir moves the locking tab from a locked position to an unlocked position when the plunger rod is inserted through clearance hole. The locking disc rotates upon torque being applied to the reservoir assembly, the locking disc rotating from a non-loaded position to a loaded position with respect to the plunger rod and a drive screw. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099524 | DEVICE FOR ADMINISTERING A FLUID PRODUCT - A device for administering a substance, e.g. a medicament or a therapeutic agent, at a controllable administration rate, wherein the device includes a housing with a drive receptacle area for a drive unit, a substance receiving region to hold a substance container and an arrangement for hydraulic power transmission, which does not contribute to controlling the administration rate, located between the drive receptacle area and the substance receiving region, whereby the administration rate is controlled exclusively by the drive unit. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099525 | Drug Delivery System with Breakaway Plunger Extractor - Described is a drug delivery system and method for inserting a cartridge into a chamber in a drug infusion device to inhibit refilling or reuse of a cartridge. In one embodiment, a drug delivery system is provided that includes a chamber and a cartridge configured for insertion into the chamber. The cartridge includes a hollow barrel for receiving and storing a drug, a plunger having a distal end and a proximal end, where the distal end of the plunger is slidably insertable and movable within the barrel. A breakaway extractor is disposed external to the barrel and is removably attached to the proximal end of the plunger. After insertion of the cartridge into the barrel, the breakaway extractor may be detached from the cartridge, to inhibit the retraction of the plunger from within the barrel of the cartridge and refilling of the cartridge. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099526 | IMPLANTABLE CATHETER PORT - A single or multi-port vascular access device including one or more reservoirs each covered by a needle-penetrable, self-sealing septum. The one or more reservoirs each open to an outlet in a stem to which the catheter is attached. The reservoir may be generally circular or ellipsoid in shape and large enough so that fluid movement into and out of the needle is unimpeded. In order to maximize flow between the reservoir and catheter and to minimize any regions of impeded or low fluid flow where coagulation or cell shearing may occur, the fluid passage leading from the reservoir through the outlet into the catheter is defined by unique tapered and tangential geometries. For example, the outlet surface may be globally tangent along the entire reservoir surface, or may be globally tangent along only one side of the reservoir surface. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099527 | ANCHOR INSTRUMENTATION AND METHODS - Some embodiments of a medical device anchor system include an anchor sleeve that receives a catheter (or other medical instrument) though a working channel of the anchor sleeve. The anchor sleeve may include a first actuator that controls the extension of one or more subcutaneous tines into the subcutaneous region under the skin. The anchor sleeve can also include a second actuator that can cause the anchor sleeve to lock onto an outer portion of the catheter (or other medical instrument) arrange in the working channel. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099528 | Protector and Needle Set - A protector comprising an inner tube, a lid connected to the upper opening of the inner tube through a hinge, and an outer tube for holding the inner tube in its inner cavity part. A blood collecting needle to which a tube is connected is stored in the inner tube. The inner tube comprises an annular seat face which seats on the base end part of a hub formed integrally with the blood collecting needle when the blood collecting needle moves downward. An operation lever extending downward is installed at the side of the lid, and the end part of the operation lever is slightly projected outward. When the blood collecting needle is moved, the inner tube is pulled integrally with the tube by the annular seat face to be slid relative to the outer tube until the end part abuts on the lower end part of an operation hole. Then, the lid is closed and the blood collecting needle is stored in the inner tube. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099529 | Antiseptic cap with thread cover - A syringe assembly including: ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099530 | VALVE LOADER METHOD, SYSTEM, AND APPARATUS - A valve loading system is provided that uses a valve loader to transfer a valve or other medical device from a storage cartridge into a deployment catheter. The valve or other medical device can be implanted or positioned within a patient using the catheter after the valve or other medical device has been compressed and loaded into the catheter using the valve loader. The process then can be repeated by using the valve loading system to load or introduce another valve or other medical device into the catheter. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099531 | Packaging for selectivity lubricating part of a medical device - A medical device lubricating assembly for imparting a lubricious and/or antimicrobial liquid onto a medical device is provided. The medical device is surrounded by a pouch and the assembly includes a barrier for bifurcating the pouch into a wet compartment and a dry compartment. Lubricating fluid is stored in the wet compartment or is otherwise introduced into the wet compartment prior to removal of the medical device from the pouch. This assists in insertion and implantation of the device into a body cavity or opening. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099532 | Assembly for lubricating a portion of a medical device - A medical device assembly for imparting a lubricious and/or antimicrobial liquid onto a medical device is provided. The medical device is surrounded by a pouch and includes a burst package or frangible cells for storage of the liquid prior to delivery onto the surface of the medical device. This helps prevent contamination of the medical device upon removal of the medical device from its pouch, insertion of the device into a body cavity, and implantation of the device into the body cavity. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099533 | VIRUS DERIVED ANTIMICROBIAL PEPTIDES - Described herein are peptides having antimicrobial activity (antimicrobial peptides). The antimicrobial peptides, designated LBU, WLBU and WR, are analogs of the Lentivirus Lytic Peptide 1 (LLP1) amino acid sequence. The antimicrobial peptides are monomers or multimers of peptides referred to as the Lytic Base Unit (LBU) peptides, derived from the LLP1 analogs and also having antimicrobial activity. Also described herein are using the peptides in a variety of contexts, including the treatment or prevention of infectious diseases. Methods of killing fungi, such as | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099534 | 3D fabrication of needle tip geometry and knife blade - The present invention provides a method for creating a beveled needle or a blade. The method employs a side wall surface of an angled post as a base to control beveled tip geometry. The invention provides needles, microneedle arrays, blades and microblade arrays with sufficient sharpness and toughness. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099535 | Disposable Needle for Syringes and Infusions and the Manufacture Thereof - A disposable needle for syringes and infusions includes a tubular needle body ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099536 | Bidirectional Phacoemulsification Needle Tips for Torsional and Longitudinal Motion - Tips for phacoemulsification needles feature geometry that allows each tip to cut or emulsify bidirectionally when used torsionally, when used longitudinally or, in some cases, when used both torsionally or longitudinally. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099537 | PROCESS FOR MAKING MICRONEEDLES, MICRONEEDLE ARRAYS, MASTERS, AND REPLICATION TOOLS - A process for making a microneedle array master comprises: (a) providing a photoreactive composition, the photoreactive composition comprising: (1) at least one reactive species that is capable of undergoing an acid- or radical-initiated chemical reaction, and (2) at least one multiphoton photoinitiator system; and (b) imagewise exposing at least a portion of the composition to light sufficient to cause simultaneous absorption of at least two photons, thereby inducing at least one acid- or radical-initiated chemical reaction where the composition is exposed to the light, the imagewise exposing being carried out in a pattern that is effective to define at least the surface of a plurality of microneedles. The microneedles may be solid and the outer surface of the microneedles may be characterized by at least one concave area. The master may be used to fabricate a tool for replication. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099538 | MEDICAL IMPLANTABLE SITE HAVING A MULTI-LAYER PUNCTURE ZONE - An implantable device ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099539 | Potty training liners - Potty training liners are a comfortable, child sized, absorbent liner, with a concave center and an expandable, flexible bottom to allow rapid flowing urine collection and retention. The Liner has unique absorbent collapsible side walls with an unobstructed center containing superabsorbent for quick pooling of urine. The liner is adhered to the inside of the child's underwear with a thick adhesive strip on the bottom outer portion of the liner. The Liner is soft and flexible, and does not have the feel of a diaper. It is a unique stop-gap solution for children progressing from pull-on diapers to unprotected underwear. The purpose of the liner is for training, and short term emergency “accident” protection, as opposed to long term wearable protection. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099540 | ABSORBENT CORE FOR USE IN A DISPOSABLE WEARING ARTICLE - An absorbent core for use in a disposable wearing article for absorbing of liquid body exudates in humans and preventing leakage from the article is provided. The absorption of the liquid body exudates is facilitated by use of two different super absorbent polymers having different absorption under load and capable of forming a gel on contact with liquid. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099541 | Absorbent composites having improved fluid wicking and web integrity - An absorbent article includes an absorbent composite which comprises substantially water-insoluble, water-swellable, non-regenerated, carboxyalkyl cellulose fibers. The fibers have a surface having the appearance of the surface of a cellulose fiber and comprise a plurality of first intra-fiber multi-valent metal ion crosslinks and a plurality of second intra-fiber crosslinks selected from ether crosslinks or ester crosslinks. In addition, the absorbent composite has been subjected to a treatment to create interfiber bonding between the fibers of the composite either throughout the composite or only on the surface of the composite. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099542 | NONWOVEN WEB MATERIAL CONTAINING A CROSSLINKED ELASTIC COMPONENT FORMED FROM A LINEAR BLOCK COPOLYMER - A nonwoven web material that contains an elastic component is provided. The elastic component contains a crosslinked network formed from a linear block copolymer having a monoalkenyl aromatic midblock positioned between conjugated diene endblocks (e.g., butadiene-styrene-butadiene (“B-S-B”) triblock copolymer). Prior to crosslinking, such linear block copolymers have a relatively low viscosity and thus may be readily formed into a precursor elastic component that is subsequently crosslinked to achieve the desired elastic and mechanical properties. Crosslinking is typically achieved through the formation of free radicals (unpaired electrons) that link together to form a plurality of carbon-carbon covalent bonds at the conjugated diene endblocks. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099543 | Hands-free Medicine Vial Holder - As an Orthopedist I have found that if I have to hold both the vial and the syringe while I draw up medications it poses numerous problems. The first problem is that when I was aiming the needle towards the small vial in my hand, if my aim were to be off there was a likelihood that I would end up sticking my hand. Another problem was that having only one free hand to draw up the syringe (while the other hand was holding the vial) required me to contort my fingers in such a way that led to fatigue. Another problem that came up was that in certain situations administering injections had to be done under aseptic conditions which became more difficult when I had to handle the vial at the same time. The Hands-free medicine vial holder solves all these problems. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099544 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLED DEPLOYMENT OF NEEDLES IN TISSUE - Needles are deployed in tissue under direct ultrasonic or other imaging. To aid in deploying the needle, a visual needle guide is projected on to the image prior to needle deployment. Once the needle guide is properly aligned, the needle can be deployed. After needle deployment, a safety boundary and treatment region are projected on to the screen. After confirming that the safety boundary and treatment regions are sufficient, the patient can be treated using the needle. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099545 | Self-contained portable apparatus for administration of a drug solution - A self-contained portable apparatus for administration of a drug solution is disclosed, comprising: a housing having an enclosure for receiving a flexible pouch containing a drug solution, the output of which is connectable to a conduit for delivering said drug solution to a recipient. A pressurization system is arranged for providing a constant and controllable gas pressure to the housing, wherein a controllable pressure is obtained for a controllable delivery of the drug solution. The pressurization system comprises: a pressure source for delivering positive pressure gas; a pressure accumulation tank connected to said source and to said second chamber, arranged to provide a positive pressure reservoir; a one-way valve arranged between said pressure source and said pressure accumulation tank, enabling gas to flow solely in the direction from the pressure source to the pressure accumulation tank; and a mechanical pressure regulator arranged between said pressure accumulation tank and said housing. Hereby, an extremely stable and well controllable output pressure and output flow is obtainable. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099546 | APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION - Apparatuses and methods for medication administration via a body cavity. In one aspect, a medication administration device includes: a tip portion having a plurality of holes and a balloon defining a balloon cavity. When the balloon is deflated the tip portion can be inserted into a body cavity, such as rectum, to allow medication delivery through the holes in the tip portion. When inflated, the balloon can prevent the tip portion from being withdrawn from the body cavity and/or hold dispersed medication within the body cavity. The device further includes a port portion that has a first port and a second port, and an elongated tubular portion that is coupled between the tip portion and the port portion. The tubular portion has a first lumen connecting the first port to the plurality of holes in the tip portion, and a second lumen connecting the second port to the balloon cavity. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099547 | Transfer System for Forming a Drug Solution from a Lyophilized Drug - A transfer system ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099548 | Device for Regenerating Adipose Tissue and Method for Utilizing Thereof - A device and method for regenerating adipose tissue has developed comprising: a washing container filled with an sterile solution for washing the adipose tissues; a syringe container holding syringes for washing and separating adipose tissues; injecting the wash solution and mixing the Bio-Gel, respectively; a second syringe container containing Bio-Gel syringes filled with materials to induce adipogenesis; and connector containers holding connectors for injection of the wash solution, and mixing of washed tissues and Bio-Gel. These containers are restrained in the kit by grooves in the bottom of the box. The box top holds needle containers for transplantation needles; and a protocol for fat transplantation, restrained by grooves. The kit minimizes risk of infection in fat transplantations using the patient's own tissues. It enables stable tissue transplantation as well as adipose tissue regeneration via use of aseptic/sterile implements, and a protocol for fat transplantation, solving the problems associated with conventional adipose tissue transplantation. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099549 | Sheath - A sheath shaped and dimensioned for reducing trauma and easing insertion thereof includes an inner sheath member shaped and dimensioned to fit around a guidewire in a manner permitting relative movement, the inner sheath member including an inner sheath tip having a primary bevel and a circumferential conical surface. The sheath also includes an outer sheath member shaped and dimensioned to fit around the inner sheath member in a manner permitting relative movement. The outer sheath member includes an outer sheath tip having a primary bevel and a circumferential conical surface. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099550 | Rapid Exchange Catheter with Depressable Channel - A rapid exchange catheter extends from a proximal portion which remains outside of a patient's body during use to a distal portion which, during use, is located within a body lumen adjacent to a target area to be treated, wherein the proximal and distal portions are coupled by a medial portion. The catheter comprises a guide wire lumen extending longitudinally through the distal portion and a guide wire receiving channel formed by an outer surface of the medial portion, wherein the guide wire lumen is open to a distal end of the channel. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099551 | Sensors and control for an interventional catheter - This invention provides small position sensors for applications where localized sensing in a small volume of space is needed but where measurement of large relative displacement is also necessary. The invention enables a surgeon to accurately position the tip of a catheter during minimally invasive therapy. The current invention further improves the quality of tactile feedback to a physician during catheter-based surgeries with an axial force sensor at the tip of the catheter that allows for the transmission of force information to the physician. One embodiment of this invention is a position sensor for active interventional catheters, where the sensor may be laser-machined shape memory alloy (SMA), and the catheter actuators may be heated SMA or wire-pulleys. Providing position feedback from a catheter during minimally invasive therapy allows for closed-loop control of the catheter tip position under computer-aided guidance and enable force feedback to the physician. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099552 | Drug delivery route-based connector system and method - A route-based connector for interconnecting a first drug delivery component with a second drug delivery component having a mating route-based connector. The connector has a geometrically-coded shape corresponding to a drug delivery route. A set of route-based connectors may be provided with plural geometrically-coded shapes that are each assigned to a corresponding drug delivery route according to a key. The connectors may also be color coded to designate the delivery route. A port adapter may be provided having a flow control valve for stopping and starting a flow of medication through the adapter. The port adapter may include a universal connector on one end thereof and a route-based connector on another end thereof that has a geometrically coded shape that allows the port adapter to connect to one of the route-based connectors. Machine readable or light emitting route identifiers may be provided on the connectors or on components associated therewith. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099553 | DEVICE FOR THE CONTROLLED RELEASE OF A SUBSTANCE AND METHOD OF RELEASING A SUBSTANCE - This invention provides a device for the controlled release of a substance and a method of controllably releasing a substance from a compartment. The device comprises a plurality of compartments in a substrate, each compartment being closed by at least one release mechanism, wherein the release | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099554 | Elongate Flexible Torque Instruments And Methods Of Use - Torque shafts and other related systems and methods are described herein. In one embodiment, the torque shafts are both flexible and capable of transmitting torque. An apparatus for transmission of torque includes an elongate body, comprising a plurality of joint segments, each joint segment configured to pivot with respect to an adjacent segment and being further configured to have at least two link elements. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099555 | REDUCTION OF RF INDUCED TISSUE HEATING USING CONDUCTIVE SURFACE PATTERN - The present invention provides, among other things, means to suppress AC current propagation along elongated medical devices incorporating long conductive structures. AC currents in the frequency range from approximately 10 MHz to 3 GHz can be substantially suppressed without altering the low and DC frequency response of the medical device. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099556 | TUNNEL MEASURING DEVICE FOR LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION - Measuring devices and methods of determining the appropriate graft length for reconstructive surgery, for example for an all-inside ACL reconstruction ligament repair. The measuring device accurately determines the graft length based on the total length between the femoral and tibial tunnels (sockets) plus the intraarticular space between them. The measuring device may comprise two small, cannulated beads (preferably polished metal) and three strands (for example, three suture strands). The beads may have a diameter of about 5 mm and the three sutures may preferably have distinct and different colors. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099557 | Methods and compositions for optimizing the outcomes of refractive laser surgery of the cornea - Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for use in surgical procedures for refractive ablation of the cornea to achieve vision correction with a minimum of undesirable side effects and for a broad range of optical conditions such myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia and astigmatism. Specifically disclosed are compositions, and methods involving their use, wherein the compositions act as agents for the reversible removal of corneal epithelial layers to provide access for UV radiation in manipulation of the refractive properties of the cornea. The methods and compositions of the present invention are capable of achieving desirable results in corrective surgery not possible with current methods for exposing the corneal stroma to far-UV laser radiation. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099558 | Methods and Systems for Differentiating Left and Right Eye Images - Methods and systems for determining whether an image is of a left eye or a right eye may be used to enhance laser eye surgery systems and techniques. Methods generally involve locating an iris center and/or pupil center on an image of the eye, locating a corneal vertex and/or at least one reflection on the image, and determining whether the image is of a left eye or a right eye, based on the location of the corneal vertex and/or reflection(s) relative to the iris center and/or pupil center. Systems include a laser emitting a beam of an ablative light energy and a computer processor having a computer program for determining whether the image is of a left eye or a right eye, based on a location of the corneal vertex and/or reflection(s) relative to the iris center and/or pupil center. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099559 | COHERENT IMAGING FIBER BASED HAIR REMOVAL DEVICE - A photoepilation device including a compact hand piece applicator and a portable electronics module for use in a non-medical setting. The hand piece, which contains no electrical signals, allows the user to focus on individual hair follicles by observing a magnified image provided on a semiconductor display. The image from the hand piece is transported to a remote CCD through a coherent imaging fiber, which also delivers the therapeutic energy pulse from a remotely located source to the localized target. Destruction of pluripotential follicular stems cells found in the hair bulb and bulge regions is possible via a single low power laser diode. Control of pulse width and spot size attains a range of fluence levels up to 85 J·cm | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099560 | PERCUTANEOUS TISSUE ABLATION PROBE WITH OCCLUSIVE BODIES - A tissue treatment system comprising a tissue treatment probe to be introduced in a target tissue region, wherein the probe comprises one or more perfusion ports that perfuse electrically conductive fluid to the target tissue region, one or more electrodes that deliver RF energy to the target tissue region to therapeutically treat the tissue, and at least one occlusive body that expands to occlude an anatomical vessel in or near where the probe is located in order to prevent heat generated by the delivery of the RF energy from being lost to mobile bodily fluids. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099561 | Coaptive tissue fusion method and apparatus with current derivative precursive energy termination control - Biological tissue is sealed or fused to occlude an opening by compressing apposite sidewall portions of the tissue and applying sufficient energy to cause the fibers of the compressed opposed sidewall portions to intertwine and fuse with one another to form a permanent seal. The energy application is controlled by detecting a precursor fusion condition while applying the energy and before sufficient energy has been applied to achieve a permanent seal. The application of energy is terminated in a time-delayed relationship to the detection of the precursor fusion condition. The precursor fusion condition is detected from derivative values of an envelope established by peak values of cycles of high-frequency current conducted through the tissue. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099562 | Orthotic device and method for securing the same - An orthotic device includes a frame having a first shell defining front and rear surfaces, and extending longitudinally into the anterior and posterior sides of the brace. The first shell defining an opening located on the posterior side of the brace. A tightening mechanism is mounted onto the first shell, and has a ratchet strap located along the rear surface of the first shell and a ratchet device mounted on the front surface of the first shell so as to extend partially into the opening and engage the ratchet strap. An elongate tensioning device having a first end portion is connected to the ratchet strap, and the first end portion of the tensioning device extends along the rear surface of the first shell. The tensioning device has a second end portion anchored to a portion of the frame. A channel is mounted to the rear surface of the first shell and entirely encloses at least a portion of the ratchet strap. The tensioning device is a textile-based and substantially inelastic strap. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099563 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLEMENTING HEART GEOMETRICAL MEASUREMENTS - In some embodiments, the disclosed subject matter provides a method of identifying the source of arrhythmia, e.g. reentrant ventricular tachycardia, in a patient. In other embodiments, the disclosed subject matter provides a method for treating or preventing reentrant ventricular tachycardia in a patient. In still other embodiments, the disclosed subject matter provides systems for identifying the location of a candidate ablation site in a patient. In some embodiments, the patient has suffered from a myocardial infarction or has undergone structural remodeling of the heart caused by, e.g., cardiac fibrosis or the presence of dense trebeculation, resulting in nonviable areas with border zones (BZ). | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099564 | Surgical Probe For Supporting Inflatable Therapeutic Devices In Contact With Tissue In Or Around Body Orifice And Within Tumors - A probe that facilitates the creation of lesions in bodily tissue. The probe includes a relatively short shaft and an inflatable therapeutic element. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099565 | Method Of Fracture Fixation - An external fixator includes a main body and an outrigger for extending over a fractured joint, such as a wrist joint. The main body can be positioned next to a right arm, or flipped over and positioned next to a left arm. The outrigger is attachable to extend either to the left or to the right of the main body, as appropriate. A distal body is removeably connectable to the distal end of the main body, and the distal body can be affixed to bone on the opposite side of the fracture to immobilize the joint where the fracture occurs. The distal body is connected to the main body with an adjustable securement section which provides six degrees of adjustment freedom. The outrigger is attached to the main body through a slide plate in a dual rail configuration which provides two dimensions of adjustment. Fragment pin supports ride in a track of the outrigger, and provide seven degrees of adjustment freedom for directed fixation of fragments at the fracture site. The outrigger is pivotally adjustable relative to the main body, and includes track portions separated by a wrap around angle. The major components of the fixator are molded of plastic. A surgical technique using the fixator includes immobilizing the joint for an initial healing duration and retaining fragment pins in place during a secondary healing duration. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099566 | MODULAR STEM INSERTER - A kit for use in implanting a stem into a long bone. The kit includes a universal handle including a locking mechanism, and a plurality of shafts. Each of the plurality of shafts is adapted to couple with the universal handle such that the locking mechanism of the universal handle locks each of the plurality of shafts to the handle. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099567 | Customized Patient-Specific Bone Cutting Blocks - A number of orthopaedic surgical instruments are also disclosed. A method, apparatus, and system for fabricating such instruments are also disclosed. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099568 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR VARIABLY ADJUSTING INTERVERTEBRAL DISTRACTION AND LORDOSIS - A removably insertable surgical apparatus is configured for insertion between adjacent vertebrae during spinal surgery and adjusted in-situ to produce varying degrees of distraction, neural-decompression, lordotic, kyphotic and/or scoliotic adjustment in the spine. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099569 | Intervertebral implant - In the case of an intervertebral implant with at least one abutment element forming a vertebral body abutment surface, in which the vertebral body abutment surface comprises at least two relatively movable parts, which in a first insertion position are arranged in relation to one another so that they jointly assume a small cross-section, and in a second implantation position so that the cross-section of the vertebral body abutment surface is increased in size in relation to the insertion position, and with an adjusting device for moving the movable parts from the insertion position into the implantation position, to simplify the adjustment of the movable parts from the insertion position into the implantation position, it is proposed that the adjusting device comprises at least one flexible pull element, which acts on one of the relatively movable parts and when pulled moves this relative to the other part into the implantation position. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099570 | HIP REPLACEMENT IN COMPUTER-ASSISTED SURGERY - A system for calculating a position and orientation of an acetabular cup in computer-assisted surgery comprises a first trackable reference secured to a pelvis, with a frame of reference being associated with the first trackable reference. A device is positionable between a femoral neck and the acetabulum of the pelvis in a known relation, the device having a second trackable reference. Sensors track the trackable references for position and orientation. A position/orientation calculator calculates a position and orientation of the frame of reference and of the device and for determining an orientation of the neck axis with respect to the frame of reference from the known relation at a desired position of the femur. An implant position/orientation calculator provides cup implanting information with respect to the orientation of said neck axis as a function of the tracking for position and orientation of at least the first trackable reference. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099571 | VARIABLE ANGLE TARGETING DEVICE - An orthopedic device includes a targeting member, an elongated guiding member, and an adjustment member. The targeting member has an elongated body along a first longitudinal axis and can be coupled to an intramedullary implant such that the first longitudinal axis is parallel to the intramedullary implant. The targeting member includes a first bore extending along a second longitudinal axis through the elongated body, the first bore having a cross-section elongated in the direction of the first longitudinal axis. The first and second longitudinal axes define a first plane. The elongated guiding member passes through the first bore and is pivotable relative to the first longitudinal axis. The adjustment member is coupled to the elongated body and operable to change an orientation of the guiding member relative to the first longitudinal axis in the first plane. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099572 | Magnetic Targeting System And Method Of Using The Same - The present invention describes a magnetic targeting system suitable for guiding a biocompatible device to a target area within the body (in vivo) and method of using the same. The system includes a targeting member having a steering material and is attached to the biocompatible device. The system also includes at least one anchoring member constructed and arranged for the inclusion of a magnetic material effective for influencing the traversal of the steering material, in vivo. The magnetically influenced anchoring member interacts with the targeting member such that the biocompatible device is positionable relative to the target area. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099573 | Apparatus and Method for Treating Eustachian Tube Dysfunction - A method and apparatus for treating Eustachian tube dysfunction. The apparatus may include a tube with an aperture extending through the tube and a retention mechanism for retaining the tube in the Eustachian tube. The method may include endoscopically inserting the tube through the nasopharynx and into the Eustachian tube. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099574 | Filter retrieval catheter system, and methods - A filter retrieval system for retrieving a previously implanted medical filter, and methods of using the retrieval system, are disclosed. The filter retrieval system has a flexible shaft, a retrieval element, and a handle with an actuator. The flexible shaft may be catheter-based, and has a proximal and a distal end, and has an opening near its distal end. The handle is affixed to the shaft near the proximal end of the shaft, and the actuator is adapted to manipulate the retrieval element. When an operator manipulates the actuator, the retrieval element is adapted to protrude slightly from the shaft opening. As the actuator is operated, the retrieval element can grasp or hook or otherwise engage a portion of the filter, and then pull the filter in through the opening into a passage or lumen of the catheter shaft. The retrieval system is capable of retrieving a filter in into a proximal and distal space defined by the flexible shaft, though only one space at a time. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099575 | SURGICAL ISOLATOR - This invention is directed to a surgical isolator and cradle, suitable for the use in a surgical method involving the removal of prematura eggs from birds m order to generate germ-free eggs and birds. In particular, the surgical isolator is used in the generation of birds of specified germ-free status. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099576 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGICAL TRAINING USING ROBOTICS AND TELECOLLABORATION - A medical system that allows a mentor to teach a pupil how to use a robotically controlled medical instrument. The system may include a first handle that can be controlled by a mentor to move the medical instrument. The system may further have a second handle that can be moved by a pupil to control the same instrument. Deviations between movement of the handles by the mentor and the pupil can be provided as force feedback to the pupil and mentor handles. The force feedback pushes the pupil's hand to correspond with the mentor's handle movement. The force feedback will also push the mentor's hand to provide information to the mentor on pupil's movements. The mentor is thus able to guide the pupil's hands through force feedback of the pupil handles to teach the pupil how to use the system. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099577 | Implant System - A system and method for inserting an implant into soft tissue. The system may include an elongate arm having an implant at a first end of the elongate arm and an actuator at a second end of the elongate arm. The implants may be contained in a cartridge assembly. Methods of inserting an implant may be used during nasal septum reconstruction. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099578 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR DELIVERING SUTURES IN TISSUE - Methods and devices for driving a suture assembly employing elastically pre-shaped needles for piercing a tissue. The pre-shaped needles are held in a constrained state and can revert to a natural pre-shaped state prior to or during ejection from the device before entry into tissue allowing for the suture to follow a defined path similar to the pre-shaped needle such that removal of the needle allows for subsequent securing of the suture in or around tissue. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099579 | SELF-ADHERENT IMPLANTS AND METHODS OF PREPARATION - Implants are described herein which contain an activated adhesive on at least a portion of the surface of the implant. A release sheet may be positioned over at least a portion of the adhesive. Packages which contain the implants and methods of preparing the implants are also described. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099580 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ENHANCED GROWTH OF PERIPHERAL NERVES AND NERVOUS TISSUE - A medical device comprises a tubular body having a lumen and a long axis; and a plurality of silk elements laid substantially parallel along the long axis of the lumen of the tubular body. A method of manufacturing the medical device comprises forming the tubular body and introducing the silk elements into the lumen of the tubular body so as to lie substantially parallel along the long axis of the lumen of the tubular body. The device can be used in a method for the regeneration of nerve cells comprising the implantation of a medical device at a site for regeneration of nerves. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099581 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING VASCULAR OCCLUSIONS - Embodiments of the present invention are suitable for treating a vascular occlusion. In one embodiment, a tissue removal apparatus includes a catheter having a lumen; a rotatable shaft disposed in the lumen of the catheter; a tissue removal portion connected to the rotatable shaft; and an expandable element circumferentially disposed at a distal end of the catheter, wherein upon expansion, at least a portion of the expandable element extends past the distal end of the catheter. In another embodiment, the rotatable shaft may include an auger portion to facilitate withdrawal of the removed tissue. In yet another embodiment, the tissue removal portion may include a plurality of expandable cutting members. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099582 | ULTRASONIC DEVICE FOR CUTTING AND COAGULATING - An ultrasonic clamp coagulator assembly that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation, and fine dissection required in fine and delicate surgical procedures. The assembly includes a housing, a curved blade assembly and a first shroud and a second shroud. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099583 | Pleurabrade device - An abrading device for use in irritating and blotting a surgical area, preferably the area between the chest wall and lung of a patient, to allow the user to more easily insert and remove the surgical device reducing contact with surrounding tissue and wound edges. The device is primarily comprised of a cannula, a plurality of radial springs, an abrasive tip, an actuator and an adjuster. The actuator is configured to selectively move the abrasive tip and plurality of radial springs into and out of the cannula. The adjuster allows the user to selectively expand or collapse the abrasive tip. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099584 | SURGICAL MARKING TOOLS AND METHODS FOR MARKING A PATIENT - A surgical marking tool for marking a location on a patient includes a cutting head and a handle. The cutting head includes a screw thread. The handle is coupled to the cutting head to rotate the cutting head. The screw thread is configured to progressively embed in the patient to mark the location when the cutting head is placed in contact with the patient and rotated with respect to the patient using the handle. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099585 | LANCING DEVICE WITH MULTI-LANCET CARTRIDGE - A lancing device and a removable and replaceable multi-lancet cartridge for use in connection therewith are disclosed. The multi-lancet cartridge is advanced through sequential lancets, and anti-reverse features prevent reverse advancement of the cartridge. Interlocks are provided to prevent double-cocking the device, to reduce the likelihood of jamming of the mechanism. Improved trigger mechanisms and depth control mechanisms are provided. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099586 | COMPACT MULTI-USE LANCING DEVICE - A multi-use micro-sampling or lancing device having an outer housing, a lancet holder that engages a lancet and constrains the lancet along a controlled and pre-defined path of travel during the lancing stroke, and a drive mechanism with a pair of opposed, off-axis torsion springs working in tandem to drive and return the lancet holder through its lancing stroke. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099587 | Ophthalmic Operative Keratometer With Movable Fixation/Centration Device - Provided is an operative keratometer consisting of a built-in bright LED ring light, which uniquely provides immediate direct preoperative confirmation to the ophthalmologist of the proper meridian for astigmatic cuts and the most advantageous location of cataract incisions to minimize postoperative astigmatism. Also provided are methods for using the operative keratometer device to facilitate evaluation of the amount and direction of astigmatism in a patient. Further provided is a movable fixation/centration device and methods for its use to focus the operative keratometer, particularly for treating astigmatism, permitting the ophthalmologist to qualitatively assess both the amount and direction of the astigmatism; to more accurately conduct surgery near the pupil by providing a patient fixation point that permits the ophthalmologist to more precisely control movement of the patient's eye during an ophthalmic procedure; and to provide monocular centration of the patient's eye. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099588 | Devices and methods for treatment of obesity - Implantable devices, methods of implantation and tools for performing the implantations. A device includes a volume occupying member having a working configuration such that, when the device is implanted into the abdominal cavity of the patient, the device performs at least one of: prevention of expansion of the stomach of the patient into a space occupied by the volume occupying member in the abdominal cavity; and compression of a portion of the stomach. A device is configured to have substantially neutral buoyancy or a slightly positive buoyancy when implanted in the abdominal cavity external of the stomach. An attachment member is connected to the volume occupying member, and at least a portion of the attachment member is configured to encourage tissue ingrowth from at least one internal abdominal structure when held in contact therewith. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099589 | INVERTING OCCLUSION DEVICES, METHODS, AND SYSTEMS - Described are devices, methods and systems useful for achieving occlusion of vascular vessels. Percutaneous procedures can be used to occlude and obliterate the greater saphenous vein, for example in the treatment of varicose vein condition caused by venous reflux. Certain embodiments encompass the percutaneous delivery of an occlusion device inverted within a cannula, its deployment and filling, so as to occlude or obliterate a portion of a vascular vessel. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099590 | EMBOLIC PROTECTION DEVICE HAVING A FILTER FRAME WITH INTEGRAL DISTAL STRAIN RELIEF - An embolic protection device provides a filter membrane for removing emboli from a fluid flowing in a vessel of a patient. The filter membrane is mounted on a filter frame having an integrated strain relief mechanism that provides strain relief and kink resistance in the transition between the relatively stiff filter and the flexible distal tip of the guidewire that is used to guide the filter into the treatment area. The strain relief mechanism is one or more cuts through the distal end of the filter frame. The cut pattern, pitch and variation of the pitch from one end to the other provides a way of fine-tuning the strain relief to a wide variety of filter frames, guidewires and flexible distal guidewire tips. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099591 | Coil Anchor Systems and Methods of Use - Described herein is a coil anchor having an anchor body configured for placement within a large diameter blood vessel, wherein the anchor body includes a radially expandable sidewall, a proximal opening dimensioned to receive an embolic coil, and a distal opening dimensioned to permit blood flow within the blood vessel. The coil anchor further includes at least one coil retaining element configured to retain the embolic coil within the blood vessel while permitting blood flow within the blood vessel. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099592 | Detachable Interlock Systems and Methods of Use - Described herein are various implant delivery systems and methods of use. The systems can include an implantable medical device mated to a pusher wire via a detachable link. The user can detach the detachable link by rotating the pusher wire. For example, the detachable link can include first and second interlocking members, where the first interlocking member including a male mating surface and the second interlocking member including a female mating surface. The first and second body members can be mechanically interlocked, for example, with a pin and a slot. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099593 | EMBOLIC PROTECTION DEVICE - An embolic protection device has a collapsible filter element ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099594 | FILTER ELEMENT WITH RETRACTABLE GUIDEWIRE TIP - A medical guidewire assembly comprises a guidewire having a flexible tip. A medical device such as a collaptible filter for use as an embolic protection device is mounted on the guidewire. The filter is advanced through a body lumen with the guidewire tip extending distally. At a first location the filter is advanced relative to the tip to a location which is distally advanced from the first location. Placement of the filter in an optimal distal location is thereby achieved. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099595 | Method and mixture for treating unilateral vocal fold paralysis - The present invention provides methods and mixtures for treating unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) and/or enhancing functional recovery of a damaged recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN). The method of the present invention comprises applying a fibrin glue mixture to a portion of laryngeal muscle. The fibrin glue mixture comprises a growth factor, fibrinogen, aprotinin and divalent calcium ion. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099596 | Closure device for left atrial appendage - A device for closing the left atrial appendage of a patient comprising a retention member composed of a shape memory material and a mesh material supported by the retention member. The retention member has a first elongated configuration for delivery and a second expanded configuration for placement within the left atrial appendage. The mesh is configured to block blot clot migration from the appendage. In the second configuration the retention member moves toward a shape memory position. The retention member has a plurality of appendage wall engagement members to secure the retention member to the appendage. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099597 | SUTURE ASSEMBLY WITH TISSUE ENGAGING ELEMENTS - Multiple embodiments of a suture assembly for use with tissue are provided. One suture assembly includes a tubular body having a plurality of tissue engaging elements formed from the tubular body. An outer surface is disposed on each tissue engaging element, and the outer surface contacts the tissue. An interior surface is disposed on each tissue engaging element, and the interior surface accepts tissue growth. A supporting member joins and separates two tissue engaging elements. Another embodiment offers a suture assembly comprising a tubular body and a plurality of tissue engaging elements are formed from the tubular body. Each tissue engaging element has an outer surface that contacts the tissue. A supporting member joins and separates two tissue engaging elements. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099598 | SELF-LOCKING SUTURE ANCHOR - A tissue anchor having a length of filament held so that an applied force greater than a threshold force will cause the filament to move longitudinally, while an applied force less than the threshold force will not move the filament, and methods of attaching soft tissue to bone using such an anchor. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099599 | ROD CONNECTION IN A SURGICAL DEVICE AND ROD-SHAPED BONE STABILIZATION DEVICE COMPRISING THE SAME - A rod connection for fixing a rod part in a surgical device within a bore of a rod receiving member includes the rod receiving member having a bore having an inner diameter, the rod part having an outer diameter, the rod part being introduced into the bore, wherein the inner diameter of the bore and the outer diameter of the rod part are selected, such that the rod part is press-fitted into the bore of the rod receiving member. The bore has an inner wall surface opposing an outer wall surface of the rod part, the inner wall surface or the outer wall surface being provided with at least one recess in order to reduce a contact surface area between the rod part and the rod receiving member. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099600 | HIGH MODULUS POLYURETHANE AND POLYURETHANE/UREA COMPOSITIONS - The present invention provides a polyurethane or polyurethane/urea composition which has a tensile strength greater than 10 MPa, a modulus of elasticity greater than 400 MPa and an elongation at break greater than 30% at a temperature of between 0° C. and 60° C. and at a relative humidity of between 0% and 100%. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099601 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE LATERAL INTERVERTBRAL FIXATION SYSTEM, DEVICE AND METHOD - A system, device and method are disclosed for minimally invasive lateral intervertebral fixation. An intervertebral fixation device includes a weight-bearing shell configured to fit into a disk space between plural vertebrae, the weight-bearing shell including a keyway opening between and through plural sidewalls. A first plurality of anchors is rotatably disposed in a first orientation in relation to the weight-bearing shell. A second plurality of anchors is rotatably disposed in a second orientation in relation to the weight-bearing shell. A key is adapted to rotate the first plurality of anchors in divergent directions from the second plurality of anchors and to secure a first vertebra and a second vertebra, respectively. The key is further adapted to support the first plurality of anchors and the second plurality of anchors in divergent directions in relation to the weight-bearing shell, the first plurality of anchors and the second plurality of anchors secured to the first vertebra and the second vertebra. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099602 | Method of lateral facet approach, decompression and fusion using screws and staples as well as arthroplasty - A method of performing vertebral facet fusion by lateral approach and related devices. The lateral approach to facet fusion involves identifying the lateral mass and then introducing any of the fixation methods known or described herein laterally at one or more facets through the use of a hollow cannula. A surgical bone staple have a perforated bridge is used across the lateral facet joint where fixation is required. Where fusion is desired, a bone screw have lateral perforations of the shank is inserted through the bridge perforation at the joint to promote fusion. The staple and screw may be used in conjunction with one another or individually. The facet joint may be distracted prior to fixation to increase the foraminal space and decompress the neural structures to relieve pain. The method involves less surgical time, reduced blood loss and discomfort for the patient as compared to the posterior approach. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099603 | Minimally-Invasive Implant for Opening and Enlargement of Processus Spinosus Interspace and Method of Percutaneously Enlarging Processus Spinosus Interspace Therewith - For the purpose of realizing of a method of minimally-invasive therapy for spinal canal stenosis, it is intended to provide a therapeutic device capable of stationing an interspinous process spacer without the need of large skin incision or ligamentous tissue incision and also without the need of detaching of the paraspinal muscle from the spine. There is provided an interspinous process spacer comprising conoid screw region ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099604 | Transverse Spinal Linking Device and System - A transverse spinal linking device links at least one spinal osteosynthesis bar to a transverse bar. The device may include a first part that has a vertical axis and a first jaw, a second part that has a second jaw, and a clamping resource. The first part may include a sliding surface, which may be inclined in relation to the vertical axis, and which may mate with at least one sliding surface of the second part. The sliding surfaces may be configured so that the descent of the second part results in an approach of the jaws, with the clamping action of the clamping resource causing the fixing and/or the locking of the device on the osteosynthesis bar and the fixing and/or the locking of the transverse bar. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099605 | Rod contouring apparatus for percutaneous pedicle screw extension - Anatomic points within the body are projected outside the body through the use of extenders ( | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099606 | FLEXIBLE MEMBER WITH VARIABLE FLEXIBILITY FOR PROVIDING DYNAMIC STABILITY TO A SPINE - The present invention relates to spinal support devices and, more specifically, to a flexible member having variable flexibility attributable to a specified configuration for use with a dynamic stabilization system or implant to provide dynamic stability to a person's spine. The flexible member generally includes a body having a lengthwise axis, an outer surface, and opposing first and second ends with an intermediate portion extending therebetween. The outer surface has one or more grooves providing the flexible member with a variable flexibility. The one or more grooves may be situated generally perpendicular to the lengthwise axis of the body and extending around less than the outer surface of the body, and/or situated generally perpendicular to the lengthwise axis of the body and extending around the outer surface of the body substantially directly in-between the ends. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099607 | Apparatus and method for dynamic vertebral stabilization - A posterior vertebral stabilizer has a resilient member such as a linear spring, which operates in tension and compression. The resilient member may be kept straight by a stabilization rod extending through the spring, or by a telescoping assembly that encases the resilient member. The ends of the stabilizer are attachable to pedicles of adjacent vertebrae so that the stabilizer adds stiffness to control flexion and extension of the vertebrae. Two such stabilizers may be used, and may be connected together by a crosslink designed to limit relative rotation of the stabilizers. Thus, the stabilizers may restrict axial rotation and lateral bending between the vertebrae, while permitting stiffened flexion and extension. Such stabilizers help provide the stiffness of a healthy intervertebral disc. In the event that fusion of the joint becomes necessary, a set screw or other component may be used to further restrict flexion and extension. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099608 | ROD ASSEMBLY FOR DYNAMIC POSTERIOR STABILIZATION - An assembly for dynamic stabilization of the spine includes a rod having a first end having a first diameter and a second end having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter. A hollow housing forms a passage that receives the second end of the rod. An elastic member connects the first end of the rod with the housing. The assembly includes or is operable with a first pedicle screw and a second pedicle screw, each pedicle screw having a rod receiving slot. The first end of the rod is supported in the rod receiving slot of the first pedicle screw, and the housing is supported in the rod receiving slot of the second pedicle screw. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099609 | BONE ANCHOR SYSTEM - A bone anchor system anchors a support member to a bone. The bone anchor system comprises a body having a shank adapted for insertion into a hole in the bone. A head is formed on the shank. The head has a support engagement portion adapted to secure the support member to the body. A passage extends from an entry point to an exit point formed in the body. An expandable member has a flexible wall at least partially enclosing an anchoring chamber. The expandable member has an expanded state configured to conform to a cavity in the bone. The anchoring chamber is in fluid communication with the exit point. The expandable member is adapted to expand when a filler material is provided into the anchoring chamber. A portion of the expandable member conforms to the cavity and the body and the support member are substantially anchored to the bone. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099610 | METHODS OF STABILIZING THE SACROILIAC JOINT - Methods of stabilizing the sacroiliac joint by placing an expandable device in the joint to generate laterally opposing forces against the iliac and sacral surfaces of the SI joint to securely seat the device in a plane generally parallel to the SI joint. The expandable device is coated with or otherwise contains a bone material to promote fusion of the joint. The expandable device used in methods of the present invention can be, for example, an expandable cage, a balloon, a balloon-expandable stent or a self-expanding stent. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099611 | BIOLOGICAL PACEMAKERS INCLUDING MUTATED HYPERPOLARIZATION-ACTIVATED CYCLIC NUCLEOTIDE-GATED (HCN) CHANNELS - A composition for implantation into cardiac tissue includes a biological pacemaker that, when implanted, expresses an effective amount of a mutated hyperpolarization-activated and cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) isoform to modify I | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099612 | ELECTRICAL CONDUCTOR HAVING A BIOERODIBLE COATING - An apparatus includes an elongate member having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The proximal end portion is configured to receive an electrical current from a current source. The elongate member is configured to transmit the electrical current from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion. At least a portion of the elongate member is configured to be disposed within a body of a patient. An electrode is coupled to the distal end portion of the elongate member. The electrode is configured to transmit a portion of the electrical current from the distal end portion of the elongate member to a target bodily tissue. A coating is disposed on at least a portion of the elongate member. The coating is formulated to release at least one of a therapeutic agent, a conductive agent, and/or an insulative agent into the body of the patient in response to the electrical current being transmitted from the proximal end portion to the distal end portion of the elongate member. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099613 | COMBINATION ELECTRICAL STIMULATING AND INFUSION DEVICE AND METHOD - A combined electrical and chemical stimulation lead is especially adapted for providing treatment to intervertebral discs. The combination lead may be placed proximate to intervertebral disc cellular matrix and nucleus pulposus tissue to promote tissue regeneration and repair, as well as nociceptor and neural tissue modulation. The stimulation lead includes electrodes that may be selectively positioned along various portions of the stimulation lead in order to precisely direct electrical energy to stimulate the target tissue. The lead also includes a central infusion passageway or lumen that communicates with various infusion ports spaced at selected locations along the lead to thereby direct the infusion of nutrients/chemicals to the target tissue. One embodiment utilizes a dissolvable matrix for infusion as opposed to remote delivery through an infusion pump. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099614 | Method and Implantable Medical Device for Classifying Sensor Signals - In a method and an apparatus for creating hemodynamic sensor signal templates using an implantable medical device connectable to a patient heart activity of the patient is sensed in order to identify a paste or sensed sequence of events of a heart cycle. Hemodynamic sensor signals for consecutive heart cycles are sensed and the sensed hemodynamic sensor signals for consecutive heart cycles are stored. The sensed sensor signals are classified dependent on at least one predetermined heart event sequence condition. A template may be created using the classified sensor signals. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099615 | High Accuracy Painless Method for Measuring Defibrillation Lead Impedance - Methods and apparatus for accurately and painlessly measuring the impedance between defibrillation electrodes implanted in a patient utilize a high current test pulse delivered with a sufficiently high current to produce an accurate measurement of the defibrillation electrode impedance while limiting the duration of the test pulse such that the pain sensing cells in the patient do not perceive the test pulse. In one embodiment, the test pulse is generated from the high voltage transformer without storing energy in the high voltage capacitors and is delivered to the defibrillation electrodes in the patient utilizing the high voltage switching circuitry. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099616 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONCURRENT ATRIO-VENTRICULAR ANTI-TACHYCARDIA PACING - An implantable medical device delivers anti-tachyarrhythmia therapies including anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP). If a detected tachyarrhythmia is classified as a type suitable for treatment using ATP, the implantable medical device selects one of an atrial ATP (A-ATP) mode, a ventricular ATP (V-ATP) mode, and a concurrent atrio-ventricular ATP (concurrent AV-ATP) mode according to the characteristics of the detected tachyarrhythmia. The concurrent ATP mode is an ATP mode during which the atrial pacing pulses and the ventricular pacing pulses are delivered concurrently. In one embodiment, the concurrent AV-ATP mode includes a synchronized atrio-ventricular ATP (synchronized AV-ATP) mode during which atrial and ventricular pacing pulses are delivered synchronously and an independent atrio-ventricular ATP (independent AV-ATP) mode during which atrial and ventricular pacing pulses are delivered concurrently but timed independently. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099617 | IMPLANTABLE HEART STIMULATOR PROVIDING LONG TERM CARDIAC MONITORING WITH AUTOMATIC NOTIFICATION - An implantable medical device that continuously measures the patient's intracardiac ventricular impedance. Extracts cardiac performance information based on the intracardiac impedance, including amplitude, timing and variability of cardiac contraction function. The device records and analyses trends in the performance information. The device identifies changes, which exceed the selected threshold limits. In the event of an incipient crisis, the device transmits an alert message. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099618 | Apparatus and Method for Delivering Electrical Signals to a Heart - Devices, systems and methods for controlling (inhibiting or enabling) the delivery of electrotherapeutic signals to a heart using sensing of local and/or global ECG signals to detect ventricular arrhythmia or indication of possible ventricular arrhythmia in the heart. The devices, systems and methods process the sensed signals and are capable of delivering electroptherapeutic signals to the heart in the presence of a supra-ventricular arrhythmia such as atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter, while inhibiting the delivering electroptherapeutic signals in the presence of PVCs and/or extopic beats, and/or ventricular arrhythmia. The electrotherapeutic signals may include, among others, pacing signals and cardiac contractility modulating signals. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099619 | Method for optimizing CRT therapy - A method to optimize CRT therapy using ventricular lead motion analysis, either radiographically or with three dimensional electromagnetic mapping, to determine whether focal dyssynchrony is present at baseline, and whether biventricular pacing improves synchronicity and fractional shortening, and if no improvement is evidenced, changing the timing offset, pacing configuration and/or repositioning the ventricular leads to optimize effectiveness of CRT therapy. Various uses of this method include: diagnostic, with temporary leads to determine presence or absence of dyssynchrony and response to pacing; and therapeutic, to guide lead placement and programming during implant of CRT, and to optimize reprogramming of CRT during follow-up. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090099620 | CONTACT CONFIGURATION, CONTACT ASSEMBLY, IMPLANTABLE APPARATUS AND ELECTRODE LINE - A contact configuration for producing an electrical connection between a plug and a socket, preferably for connecting an electrode to an electronic implantable device (such as a pacemaker), has a contact section on the plug and/or the socket. The contact section includes metallic conductive fibers which project between the plug and socket when the socket receives the plug. The contact configuration has a high degree of redundancy in providing electrical communication between the socket and plug, and high contact stability under mechanical load. In addition, friction corrosion is avoided. | 04-16-2009 |
