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17th week of 2010 patent applcation highlights part 52
Patent application numberTitlePublished
20100106096PREFILLED SYRINGE - A prefilled syringe is provided that has high heat resistance, low adsorbability, low moisture permeability and low oxygen permeability.2010-04-29
20100106097DRUG ACCEPTABILITY INDICATOR - The invention relates generally to an indicator for a syringe. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for testing the compatibility of a fluid before injecting the fluid into a medical device. An indicator may be attached to an interior of the reservoir body wherein the indicator strip contacts the fluid medication loaded into the reservoir body and visually indicates the presence of a selected parameter. The indicator may be an indicator strip infused with an chemical indicator that changes color when in contact with a selected target material.2010-04-29
20100106098Medication Injector Apparatus with Drive Assembly that Facilitates Reset - A medication injector apparatus such as an injection pen. The injection pen includes a resettable, cartridge plunger drive assembly including an axially floating nut, a cartridge plunger engaging screw, and a drive clutch movable with the nut and which when rotated causes the screw to screw through the nut. When a cartridge assembly is mounted to the pen base, the floating nut and drive clutch are shifted proximally such that the drive clutch is in torque transmitting engagement with a rotatable drive member of the pen, such that rotation of that drive member results in drive screw advancement through the nut in the distal direction. When the cartridge assembly is not mounted to the pen base, the floating nut and drive clutch are biased distally to disengage the drive clutch from torque transmitting engagement with the rotatable drive member and to thereby allow the drive screw to be reset proximally through the nut to a position more retracted within the pen base. The injection pen also may include an injection clicker assembly having a collar arranged coaxially on a drive sleeve and which oscillates axially on the drive sleeve that rotates during medication dispensing to provide an audible clicking sound that indicates injecting use of the pen. The injection pen also may include a closeable quantity identifier that uses a rotational matrix and a sensor for electrically sensing the arrangement of the dose setting mechanism of the pen, which identifier may be part of a therapeutic dose indicating system that utilizes a cartridge recognizer to recognize a concentration of medication so as to allow an automatic determination of a therapeutic dose. The injection pen further may include an assembly for selectively rotating a drive sleeve of the pen, which assembly has a dial that rotates out during dose setting and which translates in without rotation during dose injecting.2010-04-29
20100106099Syringe Device - A medical delivery system comprising a container and a coupling mechanism movable between a coupling position wherein distal movement of a drive mechanism is transferred to an actuator, and a non-coupling position wherein distal movement is not transferred to the actuator. Moreover the present invention relates to a dosing assembly for use in the medical delivery system and a container for use in the medical delivery system. Finally, the present invention relates to medical delivery system comprising a dosing assembly having means for preventing a drive stem of the dosing assembly from being moved in a distal direction.2010-04-29
20100106100MEDICAL DELIVERY SYSTEM HAVING CONTAINER RECOGNITION AND CONTAINER FOR USE WITH THE MEDICAL DELIVERY SYSTEM - A medical delivery system comprising a container and a dosing assembly where the container is fastenable to the dosing assembly. When the container is secured to the dosing assembly, a recognition feature on the container is adapted to co-operate with a variable resistor disposed in the dosing assembly to thereby facilitate an identification of the specific type of container which is secured to the dosing assembly. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a container and a dosing assembly suitable for use in the medical delivery system according to the present invention.2010-04-29
20100106101CLAMP FOR FLEXIBLE TUBING - A clamp assembly (2010-04-29
20100106102APPARATUS FOR DELIVERY OF DEVICE AND ANTIMICROBIAL AGENT INTO TRANS-DERMAL CATHETER - An apparatus for delivery of an elongate member into the lumen of a trans-dermal catheter. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus comprises a protective sheath configured to at least substantially surround an elongate member; and slidable member configured to travel along the protective sheath, the slidable member operatively coupled to the elongate member; wherein the elongate member is insertable into a lumen of a trans-dermal catheter by moving the slidable member along at least a part of the length of the protective sheath. In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a protective sheath configured to at least substantially surround an elongate member; a slidable member configured to travel along the protective sheath, the slidable member operatively coupled to the elongate member; and a connecting member positioned on the distal end of the protective sheath, the connecting member configured to lock onto the distal end of a trans-dermal catheter; wherein the elongate member is insertable into the lumen of the trans-dermal catheter by moving the slidable member along at least a part of the length of the protective sheath.2010-04-29
20100106103DEVICE FOR DELIVERY OF ANTIMICROBIAL AGENT INTO TRANS-DERMAL CATHETER - A system for delivering an antimicrobial agent into the lumen of a trans-dermal catheter. In an embodiment, the system comprises an elongate member configured for insertion into a lumen of a catheter; an expandable portion of the elongate member, said expandable portion configured to increase in diameter upon exposure to an aqueous fluid; and an antimicrobial composition positioned to be delivered into the catheter. In another embodiment, the system comprises an elongate member configured for insertion into a lumen of a trans-dermal catheter, said elongate member comprising a hydrogel; and an antimicrobial composition positioned to be delivered into the catheter; wherein the elongate member defines a volume of liquid that is at least substantially contained within the lumen of the trans-dermal catheter.2010-04-29
20100106104INJECTION NEEDLE - The invention relates to an injection needle for injecting a pharmaceutical product into a human or animal body. The needle comprises a tubular body with an end for penetrating into a human or animal body, and having a main bevel and a secondary bevel forming a tip of the needle. The secondary bevel is positioned opposite the main bevel and forms, with the main bevel, a single cutting edge oblique to the longitudinal axis of the tubular body. The cutting edge extends on both sides of a middle plane of the main bevel that passes through the longitudinal axis of the tubular body.2010-04-29
20100106105Microneedle Structure And Production Method Therefor - A method for processing a wafer to form a plurality of hollow microneedles projecting from a substrate includes forming, by use of a dry etching process, a number of groups of recessed features, each including at least one slot deployed to form an open shape having an included area and at least one hole located within the included area. The internal surfaces of the holes and the slots are then coated with a protective layer. An anisotropic wet etching process is then performed in such a manner as to remove material from outside the included areas while leaving a projecting feature within each of the included areas. The protective layer is then removed to reveal the microneedles.2010-04-29
20100106106REDUCED-PRESSURE, WOUND-CLOSURE AND TREATMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A reduced-pressure, wound closure system is presented that generates a closing force on a surface wound and optionally provides reduced pressure to a body cavity or tissue site. The sealed contracting member, when placed under reduced pressure, generates the closing force. One illustrative system includes a first attachment member and a second attachment member, a sealed contracting member coupled to the first attachment member and the second attachment member, and wherein the closing force is generated between the first attachment member and the second attachment member when reduced pressure is supplied to the sealed contracting member. Other systems and methods are presented.2010-04-29
20100106107Membrane envelop bandage for application of medicine or ointment - A membrane envelope bandage for treating an animal foot or hoof wherein the bandage is generally arcuate in shape and has a membrane envelope affixed to an upper surface of the bandage. The membrane envelope contains a medicine or treatment for applying to the bottom of an animal's hoof or foot. When the bandage is affixed to the bottom of an animal's foot or hoof, the medicine is released from the membrane envelope while the bandage protects the animal's foot or hoof and keeps the medicine from being contaminated.2010-04-29
20100106108FLUID CONTAINMENT APPARATUS - The invention relates to the treatment of wounds. In particular, the invention relates to systems, devices, and methods enabling pulse lavage irrigation of wounds in a non-controlled setting while providing containment of contaminated irrigation fluid, thereby preventing exposure of individuals and surfaces in proximity to the patient to infectious materials.2010-04-29
20100106109WOUND AND THERAPY COMPRESS AND DRESSING - A wound dressing or therapy compress containing a fill material permanently loaded with an antimicrobial such as silver is used to cover and protect a wound while absorbing exudate, and may also provide and maintain a heated and/or a moist environment to promote the healing of wounds to promote a germ and microbial free environment approximate the shell and within the dressing or compress.2010-04-29
20100106110Reinforced stocking or sock for the prevention and/or treatment of hallux valgus - A stocking or sock with a foot portion includes a pocket for containing the big toe that is separate from the pocket(s) for the other toes. At least one medial reinforcement, integrally attached to the foot portion, entirely or partially surrounds the big toe pocket, while the medial part of the foot portion, and the posterior part or heel of the foot portion are anchored to the posterolateral or lateral part of foot portion, coming to bear on the anterior part of said pocket, counteracting any lateral deflections, and on the medial part, corresponding to the metatarsophalangeal joint and the first metatarsal of the foot, counteracting any medial deflections.2010-04-29
20100106111DISPOSABLE SLEEP MASK FOR TREATING DRY EYE SYNDROME - A mask for the relief of dry eye in a dry eye subject, including a unitary shell shaped to cover at least one eye and a portion of a face. The shell includes a first layer and a second layer the first layer that is substantially moisture impermeable and the second layer that is moisture absorbent. The first layer and the second layer meeting at a layer interface. The first layer and the second layer are substantially coextensive over substantially the entire layer interface and are secured together over substantially the entire layer interface.2010-04-29
20100106112WOUND IRRIGATION DEVICE - An apparatus includes a fluid permeable dressing and a cover membrane configured to extend over the fluid permeable dressing. A tube is coupled to the fluid permeable dressing and is configured to apply suction through the fluid permeable dressing. A fluid reservoir is coupled to the cover membrane, the fluid vessel including an inlet port configured to receive a fluid and an outlet port fluidically coupled to the fluid permeable dressing.2010-04-29
20100106113THIN FILM DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - A carrier delivered dressing is disclosed which has a conformable backing with a pressure sensitive adhesive coated on a bottom face and removable carrier attached to the top face of the backing. A bond block material is positioned between the backing and the carrier. A cut line traverses both the carrier and the bond block material to form a tab.2010-04-29
20100106114DRESSING - A dressing (2010-04-29
20100106115OPEN-CAVITY, REDUCED-PRESSURE TREATMENT DEVICES AND SYSTEMS - An open-cavity, reduced-pressure treatment device and system for treating a cavity in a patient's body, such as an abdominal cavity, is presented. In one instance, an open-cavity, reduced-pressure treatment device includes a plurality of encapsulated leg members, each having an interior portion with a leg manifold member and formed with fenestrations operable to allow fluid flow into the interior portion, and a central connection member fluidly coupled to the plurality of encapsulated leg members. The central connection member has a connection manifold member. The open-cavity, reduced-pressure treatment devices, systems, and methods allow for, among other things, removal of fluids.2010-04-29
20100106116MEDICAL CANISTER CONNECTORS - A medical canister connector is presented for connecting to a medical canister, which has a patient port and a reduced-pressure port. The medical canister connector includes a first connection member that is coupled to a patient-port-attachment member, which is for coupling to a patient port on a medical canister and has a patient-port opening with a first longitudinal axis. The medical canister connector also includes a second connection member coupled to a reduced-pressure-port-attachment member, which is for coupling to a reduced-pressure port on the medical canister and has a reduced-pressure-port opening with a second longitudinal axis. A spacing member or pressure transport member may be used to couple the first connection member to the second connection member. The spacing member or transport member flexes and twists during connection. The medical canister connector may also help organize one or more pressure-sensing conduits. Methods are also presented.2010-04-29
20100106117VACUUM THERAPY AND CLEANSING DRESSING FOR WOUNDS - Wound treatment apparatuses comprising a vacuum source and a bandage (e.g., a wound-care bandage) configured to be coupled (and/or coupled) to the vacuum source. Some embodiments of the bandage including a wound dressing member configured to be placed in contact with a wound surface, and a suction port associated with the wound dressing member and/or configured to be connected to the vacuum source. Some embodiments of the member including a plurality of spacers configured to contact the wound surface to define suction space between the member and the wound surface. Some embodiments of the member including holes configured to communicate with the suction space, and/or a plurality of passageways between the suction port and the holes.2010-04-29
20100106118SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVED CONNECTION TO WOUND DRESSINGS IN CONJUNCTION WITH REDUCED PRESSURE WOUND TREATMENT SYSTEMS - A system for applying reduced pressure to tissue includes a multi-lumen reduced pressure delivery tube having a proximate end, a distal end, a primary lumen extending through the conduit from the proximate end to the distal end, and an ancillary lumen extending through the conduit from the proximate end to the distal end. A vacuum pump is coupled to the proximate end of the primary lumen, and a reduced pressure adapter is coupled to the distal end of the reduced pressure delivery tube. The adapter includes channels to direct liquid away from the ancillary lumens and into the primary lumen.2010-04-29
20100106119WASTE RECEPTACLE AND ATTACHMENT MEANS THEREFOR - A waste system for use in conjunction with a patient's bed is described. The system comprises an elongate arm with first and second ends configured to permit the first end to be inserted between a mattress and a bed box of the bed. A receptacle for receiving human vomit is connected to the second end of the arm. A clamp is connected to the arm, configured to clamp onto a portion of the bed to prevent movement of the system in relation to the bed.2010-04-29
20100106120WOUND DRESSING - A wound dressing comprising an absorbent pad, an adhesive layer, and a backing layer is described, along with a dressing support layer having a tab positioned to overlap the absorbent pad for easy placement on a patient.2010-04-29
20100106121CONFORMABLE WOUND DRESSING - A wound dressing comprising an absorbent pad, an adhesive layer, and a backing layer is described, along with a dressing support layer configured to retain and deliver the wound dressing to a wound, the dressing support layer having a radial configuration that forms a plurality of alternating covered and uncovered portions of the backing layer along the perimeter of the wound dressing.2010-04-29
20100106122FLUID EXTRACTING WOUND DRESSING - A wound dressing including a composite body of predetermined length adapted for insertion into a wound cavity. The composite body includes a hydrophilic foam matrix. A first layer of polymer-based mesh is disposed at a first position within the foam matrix and at least a second layer of polymer-based mesh is disposed at a second position within the foam matrix in spaced apart opposing relation to the first layer of polymer-based mesh. The first layer of polymer-based mesh and the second layer of polymer-based mesh are in sandwiching relation to a foam core. The wound dressing provides among other advantages strength and substantially enhanced wicking action.2010-04-29
20100106123DISPOSABLE DIAPER - [Problems] To prevent a hip cover portion of a back-side outer sheet from swelling and curling2010-04-29
20100106124Absorbent Pad - An absorptive pad having a frontward pad section and a rearward pad section of sufficient length to cover the buttocks of a user to thereby control rearward leakage of fluid. The width of the rearward pad section is less than the width of the frontward pad section, and may become increasingly narrower until the rear edge of the absorptive pad. This ergonomic shape of the pad allows for the absorptive pad to feel comfortable to the user while providing adequate protection from rearward leakage.2010-04-29
20100106125ABSORBENT ARTICLE AND ABSORBENT BODY - To provide an absorbent article or the like including an absorbent body with a large absorption capacity and that is easy to place in the buttocks or the like.2010-04-29
20100106126Absorbent Article Having a Multi-Dimensionally Contoured Barrier Cuff - A disposable absorbent article may comprise a chassis and a pair of longitudinally disposed barrier cuffs. Each cuff may contain a barrier zone, an attachment zone, and a transition edge separating the barrier zone and attachment zone. The barrier cuffs exhibit a cuff span and a cuff height at a given cross-section through a crotch point and an end region. The absorbent article exhibits a cuff span ratio, defined as a maximum cuff span as measured in the end region of the barrier cuff divided by a cuff span as measured at the crotch point, of greater than 1. The absorbent article exhibits a cuff height ratio, defined as a cuff height as measured at the crotch point divided by a minimum cuff height as measured in the end region, of greater than 1.2010-04-29
20100106127DISPOSABLE DIAPER - A disposable diaper is provided with a skin-contactable sheet piece above a liquid-pervious topsheet. The skin-contactable sheet piece is formed with openings extending in a back-and-forth direction through which body waste is guided toward the topsheet and both lateral zones of the sheet piece on both sides of these openings as viewed in a transverse direction B are provided with elastic members attached under tension. Outside the skin-contactable sheet piece as viewed in the transverse direction B, leak-barriers are provided and the lateral zones of the skin-contactable sheet piece are bonded to the leak-barriers along regions defined between proximal edges and free edges of the respective leak-barriers.2010-04-29
20100106128CONTACT LENS CASES FOR DELIVERY OF OPHTHALMIC AGENTS - Contact lens cases for delivering ophthalmic active agents to contact lenses. A contact lens case includes a container defining a reservoir for soaking a contact lens in a solution, and a lid assembly that may be secured to the container for closing the reservoir. The lid assembly includes a lid and a dispenser pack. The dispenser pack includes one or more compartments containing a treatment unit which may be dispensed from the compartment(s) into the solution. After the contact lens soaks in solution and retains or absorbs a suitable amount of the ophthalmic agent from the treatment unit, the contact lens is inserted in a user's eye for treating the eye.2010-04-29
20100106129CONTROLLED FORCE MECHANISM FOR A FLUID CONNECTOR - A piercing assembly for a fluid connector, where the piercing assembly includes a piercing member, a hub that supports the piercing member, and a disk-shaped flange connected to the hub. The disk shaped flange includes a plurality of arms. At least a portion of an outer surface of the arms is curved to enable the piercing assembly to slide within a portion of the tubular fluid connector. The arms of the flange may be formed in a curved shape, an S-shape, a tab shape or in a maze-like configuration. The arms may also be defined by a plurality of cuts or slits formed into the flange. The arms of the flange are sized to engage one or more flanges on the inside of the fluid connector when the fluid connector is in an activated state.2010-04-29
20100106130METHOD FOR TREATING OBESITY BY EXTRACTING FOOD - The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for treating obesity. An artificial obstruction is introduced into the patient's gastrointestinal tract, and a tube is positioned that passes through a patient's abdominal wall into the upper digestive system of the patient. The patient is allowed to carry out his/her everyday affairs including ingesting food. After the patient has ingested food, the food is extracted by pumping it out of the upper digestive system through the tube. The present invention is less invasive than current surgical procedures for reducing weight and allows patients to live a normal and active lifestyle without experiencing adverse side effects.2010-04-29
20100106131METHOD FOR TREATING OBESITY BY EXTRACTING FOOD - The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for treating obesity. A tube is positioned that passes through a patient's abdominal wall into the upper digestive system of the patient. The patient is allowed to carry out his/her everyday affairs including ingesting food. After the patient has ingested food, the food is extracted by pumping it out of the upper digestive system through the tube. The present invention is less invasive than current surgical procedures for reducing weight and allows patients to live a normal and active lifestyle without experiencing adverse side effects.2010-04-29
20100106132DRUG CARTRIDGE FOR DELIVERING A DRUG DEPOT COMPRISING SUPERIOR AND INFERIOR COVERS - A drug cartridge is provided for delivering a drug pellet to a site beneath the skin of a patient, the drug cartridge comprising: two or more chambers, each chamber holding a drug pellet and having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the chamber having an opening to receive the drug pellet and a plunger, the distal end of the chamber having an opening for receiving the plunger and passage of the drug pellet, superior and inferior locking covers disposed on at least one chamber opening, wherein movement of the plunger to an extended position moves the drug pellet within the chamber of the cartridge out the distal end of the chamber and out of the drug cartridge. Devices that utilize the drug cartridge are also provided.2010-04-29
20100106133DRUG CARTRIDGE FOR DELIVERING A DRUG DEPOT COMPRISING A BULKING AGENT AND/OR COVER - A drug cartridge is provided for delivering a drug pellet to a site beneath the skin of a patient, the drug cartridge comprising: two or more chambers, each chamber holding a drug pellet and having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the chamber having an opening to receive the drug pellet and a plunger, the distal end of the chamber having an opening for receiving the plunger and passage of the drug pellet, a bulking agent disposed within at least a portion of each chamber, wherein movement of the plunger to an extended position moves the drug pellet within the chamber of the cartridge out the distal end of the chamber and out of the drug cartridge. In some embodiments, instead or with the bulking agent pierceable superior and inferior covers are used to contain the drug pellets.2010-04-29
20100106134Inner Ear Drug Delivery Device and Method - A drug delivery device for the inner ear is described. A drug delivery member for the inner ear without any stimulation electrodes has an intra-cochlear portion that penetrates into the inner ear of the patient and contains a drug eluting polymer material having at least one therapeutic drug which is released over time in a therapeutically effective amount into fluid in the inner ear of the patient.2010-04-29
20100106135ANGIOCATHETER AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME - An improved angiocatheter device for introducing intravenous fluids or drugs into the lumen of a patient through a sheath. At the point of the procedure where a needle needs to be removed but the sheath is to remain implanted, a spring in the needle portion of the device is expanded thereby retracting the needle and allowing the operator to remove the needle from the sheath and an introducer hub. This feature allows for quick insertion and removal from the patient without the necessity of sliding or otherwise removing the needle from the sheath in a multiple step process. In this manner, the catheter or lead can implanted quickly and safely while also protecting the operator from accidental exposure to the patient's blood and eliminating the need to apply positive pressure to the lumen while the needle is being removed.2010-04-29
20100106136DRUG DELIVERY DEVICE WITH SLIDING CARTRIDGE - Drug depot delivery devices and methods for delivering a drug depot to a site beneath the skin of a patient are provided. In various embodiments, a device for delivering a drug depot to a site beneath the skin of a patient is provided, the device comprising: a cannula capable of insertion to the site beneath the skin of the patient and having an opening for passage of the drug depot; a drug cartridge comprising at least two chambers, wherein each chamber is configured to store and release a drug depot into the cannula when the cannula is aligned with a first chamber and the plunger. In some embodiments, the drug depot delivery device and methods provide slide-a-dose technology for delivering the drug depot to the target tissue site.2010-04-29
20100106137Drug Delivery System - Drug depot delivery devices and methods for delivering a drug depot to a site beneath the skin of a patient are provided. In various embodiments, a device for delivering a drug depot to a site beneath the skin of patient is provided, the device comprising: a cannula capable of insertion to the site beneath the skin of the patient and having an opening for passage of the drug depot; a drug cartridge comprising at least two chambers, wherein each chamber is configured to store and release a drug depot into the cannula when the cannula is aligned with a first chamber and the plunger. In some embodiments, the drug depot delivery device and methods provide dial-a-dose technology for delivering the drug depot to the target tissue site.2010-04-29
20100106138METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTAINING, TRANSPORTING, AND PROVIDING A MATERIAL - A system for expressing two materials onto a selected site is disclosed. The system can include a syringe that is operable to maintain two separated materials substantially separate until a selected time. The system can further include a tip portion operable to direct the two materials, either mixed or unmixed, to a selected site. The materials can include tissue sealants, growth factors, or other appropriate materials to be directed to a selected site.2010-04-29
20100106139Syringe-Carpule Assembly - A syringe-carpule assembly comprising first and second carpules, a housing holding the first and second carpules in an end-to-end relationship, an outer hollow plunger rod supported by and slidable relative to the housing, and an inner hollow rod having first and second openings and being slidably arranged inside the outer hollow plunger rod. The inner hollow rod is slidable between first and second positions. The inner hollow rod in the first position has the first opening disposed within the first carpule and the second opening disposed within the second carpule. This allows liquid solvent in the second carpule to flow into the first carpule, which comprises an evacuated chamber containing solid matter that dissolves in the presence of that solvent to form a mixture. The second carpule is then removed and the mixture in the first carpule is injected into the patient.2010-04-29
20100106140ASSAY CATHETER WITH PRESSURE MONITORING - An apparatus adapted to position a functional device tip, such as a sensor, in a body site having both fluid and non-fluid tissue components, in a manner that substantially mitigates the impingement of non-fluid tissue impingement on the device tip. One such apparatus can be used to both remove fluid from a tissue site, such as a site exhibiting tissue swelling, and to determine tissue pressure, using a single catheter. An apparatus can provide a pressure sensor that is adapted to be positioned and used within the tissue site itself, without substantial impingement by non-fluid tissue, and optionally also provides the ability to concurrently remove and/or deliver fluids or components thereof to or from the tissue site.2010-04-29
20100106141Catheter Control Mechanism and Steerable Catheter - A steerable multi-polar lead shaft assembly includes a core member extending longitudinally through the shaft assembly, a plurality electrically conductive elements disposed within the core member, a plurality of steering wires circumferentially distributed about the core member. A control mechanism for a steerable catheter, such as the steerable multi-polar lead assembly, includes a mounting portion adapted to engage a steerable shaft, a stem extending from the mounting portion, a swivel joint arranged at a proximal end of the stem, a control yoke rotatably mounted on the swivel joint, adapted to engage a plurality of steering wires of the steerable catheter, and a handle connected with the yoke, adapted for direct manipulation by a user.2010-04-29
20100106142Partial-Length Indwelling Urinary Catheter Permitting Selective Urine Discharge - A partial-length catheter, or an extendable tube or sleeve member of the catheter, is selectively movable within the prostatic urethra to open a urine drainage passageway through and obstructed portion of the prostatic urethra or to open the external urinary sphincter muscle and thereby discharge urine from the bladder. A control element is manipulated at a position exterior of the urinary canal to selectively move the catheter or the extendable tube or sleeve member, thereby selectively controlling urine discharge.2010-04-29
20100106143APPARATUS, METHOD AND CONTROL PROGRAM FOR OPHTHALMOLOGICAL, IN PARTICULAR, REFRACTIVE LASER SURGERY - Disclosed is an apparatus for opthalmological, in particular, refractive laser surgery, which aligns a required ablation profile on a specified corneal point, which it calculates from the image data of an eye tracker, taking account of the depth of the anterior chamber of the eye, including the depth of the cornea, calculated individually for the respective patient.2010-04-29
20100106144PUNCTURE DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SAME - A puncture device 2010-04-29
20100106145ABLATION TECHNIQUE FOR COSMETIC SURGERY - A method of non-invasive treatment of the human body is described by ablating a muscle or a nerve controlling the muscle. The method comprises stimulating a muscle to emit an electromyographic signal. The electromyographic signal is detected to ascertain the location of the said muscle or alternatively the nerve. The muscle or nerve is heated by means of optical energy while cooling the skin in the vicinity of the said muscle or nerve. Then radio frequency energy is applied to the muscle or nerve to ablate or partially to ablate said muscle or nerve.2010-04-29
20100106146HAND-HELD PORTABLE LASER SURGICAL DEVICE - A hand-held, portable diode laser surgical device includes a power supply, at least one laser diode, integral control interface and display, and a multi-component sterile, disposable tip apparatus featuring assembly for alignment of a self-contained optical fiber to the surgical device, and releasably locking assembly between the tip apparatus and surgical device. An embodiment includes wireless foot pedal on/off control and a dock providing sterile, antiseptic recharging environment.2010-04-29
20100106147SURGICAL LASER TIP APPARATUS WITH ALIGNMENT ASSEMBLY - An assembly for alignment of a sterile, releasably locking optical tip assembly housing an optical fiber connection to a laser surgical device includes a conductive wire sensing element A second embodiment includes an emitter and a detector.2010-04-29
20100106148Cryosurgical Fluid Supply - Improved systems, devices, and methods for delivering cryogenic cooling fluid to cryosurgical probes such as cryosurgical endovascular balloon catheters take advantage of the transients during the initiation and termination of cryogenic fluid flow to moderate the treatment temperatures of tissues engaged by the probe. A flow limiting element along a cryogenic fluid path intermittently interrupts the flow of cooling fluid, often cycling both the fluid flow and treatment temperature. This can maintain the tissue treatment temperature within a predetermined range which is above the treatment temperature provided by a steady flow of cryogenic fluid. In another aspect, room temperature single-use cooling fluid cartridges are filled with a sufficient quantity of cryosurgical fluid to effect a desired endovascular cryosurgical treatment.2010-04-29
20100106149APPARATUS FOR ADMINISTERING THERAPY AT A REMOTE LOCATION IN THE BODY - Devices suitable for insertion into a hollow anatomical structure within a patient for the purpose of ablating tissue within or surrounding the hollow structure so as to induce occlusion of the hollow structure are provided. The devices are in the form of guidewires with functional tips, that comprise at least one heating module, at their distal ends. The devices of the invention are suitable for occluding hollow anatomical structures selected from vasculature or from non-vascular ducts and tubes, via percutaneous, laparoscopic or endoscopic routes of access. Methods of using the devices in the treatment of patients are also described.2010-04-29
20100106150SYSTEMS FOR TREATING A HOLLOW ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE - A working end of a catheter includes at least one therapeutic element, such as a resistive heating element, usable to deliver energy for ligating, or reducing the diameter of, a hollow anatomical structure. In certain examples, the catheter includes a lumen to accommodate a guide wire or to allow fluid delivery. In certain embodiments, a balloon is inflated to place resistive element(s) into apposition with a hollow anatomical structure and to occlude the structure. Indexing devices and methods are also disclosed for successively treating portions of the hollow anatomical structure. In certain examples, marks along the catheter shaft provide visual verification to the physician of the relative position of the therapeutic element of the catheter. Embodiments of indexing devices may include pairs of rings and/or hinged arms that move a catheter a desired indexed position between successive treatments.2010-04-29
20100106151SURGICAL INSTRUMENT FOR PERFORMING CONTROLLED MYOTOMIES - A surgical instrument (2010-04-29
20100106152ENDOMETRIAL ABLATION METHOD - Systems and methods for endometrial ablation. The systems include a handle and elongated introducer sleeve extending to an expandable working end having a fluid-tight interior chamber. A thin dielectric wall surrounds at least a portion of the interior chamber and has an external surface for contacting endometrial tissue. The thin dielectric wall surrounds a collapsible-expandable frame and receives an electrically non-conductive gas. First and second polarity electrodes are exposed to the interior and exterior of the chamber, respectively. A radiofrequency power source operatively connects to the electrode arrangement to apply a radiofrequency voltage across the first and second electrodes, wherein the voltage is sufficient to initiate ionization of the neutral gas into a conductive plasma within the interior chamber, and to capacitively couple the current in the plasma across the thin dielectric wall to ablate endometrial tissue engaged by the external surface of the dielectric structure.2010-04-29
20100106153ELECTROSURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AN ABLATION MODE AND A COAGULATION MODE - Electrosurgical instruments are configured to selectively perform ablation or coagulation as desired. The electrosurgical instruments include at least two electrodes on the electrode probe that can be activated using an RF generator. The electrosurgical instruments are selectively switchable between an ablation mode and a coagulation mode by changing the amount of active electrode surface area. In particular, in the ablation mode, a relatively small electrode surface area is active. Thus, for a given power input, the current density is relatively high. In the coagulation mode, the active electrode surface area is increased, thereby reducing the current density in the coagulation mode for the given power input.2010-04-29
20100106154Tracking System Using Field Mapping - In some aspects, a method includes (i) securing multiple sets of current injecting electrodes to an organ in a patient's body, (ii) causing current to flow among the multiple sets of current injecting electrodes to generate a field in the organ, (iii) in response to current flow caused by the multiple sets of current injecting electrodes, measuring the field at each of one or more additional electrodes, (iv) determining expected signal measurements of the field inside the organ using a pre-determined model of the field, and (v) determining a position of each of the one or more additional electrodes in the organ based on the measurements made by the additional electrodes and the determined expected signal measurements of the field.2010-04-29
20100106155ABLATION CATHETER - An ablation catheter 2010-04-29
20100106156APPARATUS FOR TREATING VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY - A catheter delivers an electrode within a vein for a minimally invasive treatment of varicose veins and venous insufficiency using RF energy. The catheter is introduced into a patient and positioned within the section of the vein to be treated. The electrode radiates high frequency energy towards the vein, and the surrounding venous tissue becomes heated and begins to shrink. The catheter includes a controllable member for limiting the amount of shrinkage of the vein to the diameter of the member. The electrode remains active until there has been sufficient shrinkage of the vein. The extent of shrinkage of the vein may be detected by fluoroscopy. After treating one section of the vein, the catheter and the electrode can be repositioned intraluminally within the vein to treat different sections of the vein until all desired venous sections and valves are repaired and rendered functionally competent.2010-04-29
20100106157MEDICAL MANIPULATION APPARATUS - An active mechanism control apparatus includes a state detecting section which detects an output state of energy supplied to an energy treatment instrument by a status signal from an energy output apparatus. The state detecting section controls an energy output device, an active endoscope control section and an active treatment instrument control section based on the output state of the energy to the energy treatment instrument.2010-04-29
20100106158High-frequency surgical apparatus and high-frequency surgical method for closure of patent foramen ovale - A high-frequency surgical PFO closure apparatus used to treat patent foramen ovale in the heart includes a first and second electrodes which grasp living tissue of the patent foramen ovale; a high-frequency power supply section which supplies high-frequency power to the living tissue via the electrodes; an impedance measuring section which measures an impedance value by supplying high-frequency power to the living tissue; a grasping condition determining section which determines, based on the measured impedance value, a grasping condition regarding how the living tissue is grasped in blood by the electrodes; and a control section which controls high-frequency power supply at a predetermined power level needed to treat the patent foramen ovale, according to a result of the determination.2010-04-29
20100106159Inserter For Minimally Invasive Joint Surgery Having an Interchangeable Prosthesis Engaging Piston - An acetabular inserter (2010-04-29
20100106160INTRAOCULAR LENS INJECTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An embodiment of an injector for an intraocular lens includes an injector body having a longitudinal axis. The body includes a first housing configured to receive the lens and a second housing configured to move relative to the first housing in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The injector also includes a lens engagement surface configured to engage a first, but not a second, viewing element of the lens. The injector includes opposing lens compaction members configured to move from a first position in which the lens compaction surfaces are spaced from each other to a second position in which the lens compaction surfaces are closer to each other and in which a lens positioned therebetween is compacted. In response to relative longitudinal movement of the housings, the lens engagement surface displaces the first viewing element from the second viewing element in the direction of the longitudinal axis, and the opposing lens compaction surfaces move from the first position to the second position. A retention member is configured to apply a longitudinal retention force on the lens compaction members to retain the compaction members in the second position.2010-04-29
20100106161Surgical methods, devices, and kits - Devices and techniques for establishing button-hole openings in arteriovenous fistula (or other target site located in the interior of a subject's body), without requiring the same nurse or technician to prepare the patient in the first several sessions, utilizing or encompassing a first button-hole forming device including in sequence: an external connection component; a scar-tissue forming component; and an indwelling cannula component. The first button-hole forming device has a lumen running through the longitudinal axis of the tube such that blood can be transported therethrough to or from the fistula (or other target site located in the interior of a subject's body) to a hemodialysis machine or other device. The devices and techniques also utilize or encompass a support device for supporting the first button-hole forming device at a constant angle relative to the plane formed by the subject's skin proximate to the fistula (or other target site located in the interior of a subject's body) when the first button-hole forming device is secured to the subject's body with the indwelling cannula component inserted into the fistula (or other target site located in the interior of a subject's body) such that a stable button-hole opening can be formed in a patient.2010-04-29
20100106162FLEXIBLE EMBOLIC DEVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM - The present invention provides an embolic assembly delivery apparatus having superior flexibility characteristics at its distal end, that is, at the point of attachment of the embolic assembly to the delivery apparatus. It also provides a method of using the apparatus to deliver an embolic assembly to a target site in a patient's body.2010-04-29
20100106163Uterine Manipulator Assemblies and Related Components and Methods - A uterine manipulator includes an elongate shaft and a tip hub. The elongate shaft has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is configured to be inserted into a vagina. The tip hub is disposed at the distal end and is configured to releasably receive and support a tip mount for engaging a uterus. The elongate shaft includes one or more channels extending between the distal and proximal ends. The channels are configured to releasably receive catheter tubing.2010-04-29
20100106164Retrieval Basket with Releasable Tip - A medical retrieval device is used to retrieve and/or fragment stones (and/or other objects) from the body of a patient. The device has a retrieval basket with a releasable tip. The tip release is designed to release in a controlled pre-determined manner and under a predetermined force before any other component of the device fails due to a force exerted on the basket.2010-04-29
20100106165RETENTION DEVICE, MEDICAL ROBOT AND METHOD TO SET THE TOOL CENTER POINT OF A MEDICAL ROBOT - In a retention device, a medical robot and a method to set the tool center point of a medical robot, the retention device has a fixing device to fix the head of a person held by the retention device. The fixing device provides an indication of the position of the openings of the auditory canals of the ears of the person relative to the retention device based on the relation between the fixing device and the head of the person and the relation between the fixing device and the retention device.2010-04-29
20100106166METHODS AND DEVICES FOR APPLYING MULITPLE SUTURE ANCHORS - Methods and devices are provided for deploying and applying multiple suture anchors. In one embodiment, a surgical device is provided having a shaft configured to be introduced into a body, e.g., through a scoping device, and to deliver a plurality of suture anchors, each having a suture attached thereto, into tissue, preferably without the need to remove the shaft from the body. The shaft can be configured to penetrate tissue and to deploy one or more of the suture anchors through the tissue such that the sutures extending from the deployed suture anchors extend through the tissue to allow the anchors to engage the tissue. The surgical device can also include a knotting mechanism configured to secure the sutures attached to the deployed anchors, thereby securing the anchors to the tissue.2010-04-29
20100106167FLEXIBLE CLIP APPLIER - A clip applier includes a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. Further, the distal end of the shaft includes a flexible tool having at least two rails connected to each other by at least one jointed connection, and the at least two rails configured to rotate about the jointed connection. Additionally, a pair of jaws may be provided at a distal end of the flexible tool. Further, an actuator may be provided at the proximal end of the shaft to advance the surgical clip within the flexible tool.2010-04-29
20100106168BIOPSY DEVICES AND METHODS - An improved system for mammography analysis and methods of using the same. In one aspect, a clip comprises a first portion and at least one additional second portion connected to the first portion, the first and second portions adapted for elastic deformation for engaging tissue. In anther aspect, an improved actuator for performing a breast biopsy is used to deploy a clip. In yet another aspect of the invention, there is contemplated a system for marking an evacuated breast cyst.2010-04-29
20100106169MENISCAL REPAIR SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A device for repairing a tear in a portion of tissue comprises a proximal actuator portion, a transfer needle extending distally from the proximal actuator portion and a catch needle extending distally from the proximal actuator portion. A suture needle is disposed in the transfer needle, and is extendable from the transfer needle toward the catch needle and retractable from the catch needle toward the transfer needle. An extendable catch plunger is disposed in the catch needle for capturing suture therein when it is transferred from the transfer needle. A retractable insertion sheath is provided for covering the transfer needle and the catch needle when the device is inserted into a procedural site. A depth limiting apparatus limits the depth of insertion of the needle into the procedural site.2010-04-29
20100106170SUTURE SLEEVE AND A METHOD FOR IMPLANTING ONE OR TWO LEADS INTO A VEIN - For a suture sleeve and implantation method for one or two implantable leads, the suture sleeve is adapted to be inserted into a vein to secure and protect the lead from damage when a suture thread is positioned and tied around the vein in the region over the suture sleeve to prevent bleeding from the vein. The suture sleeve has two lead receiving through holes, into each of which a medical implantable lead is insertable. The suture sleeve also has two elongated sleeve portions, each including a lead receiving through hole, which are positioned in parallel and displaced in relation to each other such that they are connected in a connecting portion. At least one sleeve portion projects further in one direction.2010-04-29
20100106171TRANSCAVAL MESENTERIC VENOUS ANASTOMOSIS AND ACCESS SYSTEM - Disclosed is a system for creating an anastomosis between the inferior vena cava (IVC) and the mesenteric portal vein. The system includes an anastomosis device and a catheter. The anastomosis device brings the IVC and the portal vein into apposition. The resulting anastomosis enables treatment for portal hypertension as well as provides repeated and easy access to the portal system for direct delivery of therapeutic agents to portal organs. The anastomosis device has a proximal flange part, a distal flange part, a flow lumen between them. The proximal and distal flange parts include a plurality of radial struts. A valve part is disposed on one or both of the proximal and distal flange parts. The anastomosis device is made of a memory shape material. The catheter contains a collapsed anastomosis device for insertion and has one or more RF antennas to make the catheter visible under MRI guidance.2010-04-29
20100106172MECHANICAL ANASTOMOSIS SYSTEM FOR HOLLOW STRUCTURES - A system for making anastomoses between hollow structures by mechanical means is provided with a device in the shape of an annular or tubular element comprising circumferentially provided means, such as pin-shaped elements, for joining the abutting walls of the hollow structures together. An applicator is intended for moving said annular or tubular element in position and activating the joining means thereof, so as to make the anastomosis. Possibly, intraluminal joining means can be inserted without using an annular or tubular element.2010-04-29
20100106173ULTRASONIC SURGICAL DEVICE - There is disclosed an ultrasonic surgical instrument which comprises a sheath having a distal end and a proximal end and an ultrasonic probe to be inserted into the sheath, the ultrasonic probe having an interpolating portion positioned in the sheath and a hook-like treatment portion arranged in the distal end of the interpolating portion so that the treatment portion protrudes from the sheath, wherein the treatment portion has an extending portion which extends obliquely forward and downward from the upper portion of the distal end of the interpolating portion, and has a recess formed under the extending portion.2010-04-29
20100106174LANCING DEVICE AND MULTI-LANCET CARTRIDGE - A medical lancing device including a replaceable multi-lancet cartridge. The lancing device includes a drive mechanism, an activation mechanism, and an advancing mechanism. The advancing mechanism includes a linear-pull slide that is moved in and out to operate an indexing ratchet mechanism, a cam-guided charger mechanism, and a cam-guided lancet cap displacement mechanism. The indexing ratchet mechanism sequentially advances the lancets in the cartridge to an active position. The cam-guided charger mechanism charges the drive mechanism and separates the cap from the active lancet. And the cam-guided cap displacement mechanism moves the separated cap from the lancing stroke path of the active lancet. The activation mechanism then releases the charged active lancet to traverse the unobstructed lancing stroke path to pierce the subject's skin at a desired lancing site.2010-04-29
20100106175METHOD AND DEVICE FOR GRAFT FENESTRATION - The present invention provides a method of creating fenestrations in situ through a body wall of a covered stent or endograft lumen. The fenestration is aligned with a side branch of the body lumen. The created fenestration of the graft is in communication with a side branch. That is the patent or open side branch permits fluid communication from the main lumen across the stented or endograft lumen. Tools are described to carry out these fenestrations for either a graft or a side branch that is communication with a graft in vivo. Further these tools are described to carry out these methods for both in situ branch tissue and graft fenestration and alignment of the fenestrations The present invention provides a method for in situ fenestration, the method including the steps of: positioning a graft or graft unit in situ within a body lumen and forming an initial void or space between graft unit and the inner wall of the body lumen. The present invention also provides a catheter including a: a) a distal tip that can perform a piercing and opening action; and or b) a distal tip rotates by means of a drive shaft within the catheter to cut and or open a tissue or graft to form fenestration; and or c) a stabilization means to stabilize the position of the catheter during fenestration.2010-04-29
20100106176Trocar Obturator - A trocar obturator includes a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. The shaft also includes an outer surface. A tip member is secured to the distal end of the shaft, the tip member including a first end and a second end, as well as an outer surface. A keyed coupling structure links the tip member to the shaft, wherein the shaft adjacent the tip member tapers to a surface diameter substantially coextensive with the outer surface of the tip member and the tip member adjacent the shaft tapers to a surface diameter substantially coextensive with the outer surface of the shaft.2010-04-29
20100106177Transseptal Puncture Apparatus - Devices and methods for performing a transeptal puncture procedure are described. In certain embodiments, the device includes a blunt outer needle, and a second inner needle disposed longitudinally through the lumen of the outer needle, wherein the inner needle is flexible, e.g., has a flexible portion and/or a bend or other non-traumatic conformation at its tip.2010-04-29
20100106178VASCULAR PLUGS - Certain aspects of the present invention provide devices for occluding vascular vessels. In some preferred forms, these devices are able to move from a first condition to a less compact, second condition in a vascular vessel so as to fully or partially prevent fluid from passing through the vessel. One such device includes a frame and a flexible sheet material. The device also includes an occluding material that is located in an interior region of the frame. The flexible sheet material and frame are associated with one another such that when the device is in the second condition in the vascular vessel, the sheet material is positioned in the vessel lumen so as to block fluid flow through the lumen.2010-04-29
20100106179DEVICES AND METHODS FOR PREVENTING DISTAL EMBOLIZATION USING FLOW REVERSAL AND PERFUSION AUGMENTATION WITHIN THE CEREBRAL VASCULATURE - Methods of using a medical device having catheter with one or more expandable constricting/occluding members 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. An interventional catheter can also be advanced into a left cerebral artery and a procedure performed on a lesion in the left cerebral artery.2010-04-29
20100106180APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TREATING AN ANEURYSM - In an apparatus and method for treating an aneurysm, a flow control member is positioned within a blood vessel at least in part upstream of an aneurysm and extending radially inward of the blood vessel wall into the flow path of blood flowing within the blood vessel. The flow control member alters the blood flow path within the blood vessel upstream of the aneurysm to inhibit blood flow to the aneurysm. A retention member may be positioned within the blood vessel at least in part upstream from the aneurysm and having an outer surface engageable with the blood vessel wall. In such an instance, the flow control member is retained by the retention member and extends radially inward of the blood vessel wall upstream from the aneurysm.2010-04-29
20100106181IN-SITU FILTER - Apparatus is provided including a filter (2010-04-29
20100106182ANGIOPLASTY DEVICE WITH EMBOLIC FILTER - An angioplasty device has a filter associated with it to capture embolic particles that may be broken free during an angioplasty procedure. In one embodiment the embolic filter has a frame in which struts are connected to end rings and to each other by a plurality of interconnected oval members. In another embodiment the device includes an actuator at the proximal end of an actuator wire. By rotating a knob on the device, the physician can smoothly tension the wire by a predetermined amount to prevent the filter from opening too much or too little. Various other embodiments of filter frames are also disclosed.2010-04-29
20100106183Surgical instrument - The surgical instrument includes a distal tool, a rigid or flexible elongated shaft that supports the distal tool, and a proximal handle or control member, where the tool and the handle are coupled to the respective distal and proximal ends of the elongated shaft via distal and proximal bendable motion members. Actuation means extends between said distal and proximal members whereby any deflection of said control handle with respect to said elongated instrument shaft causes a corresponding bending of said distal motion member for control of said working member. The proximal movable member comprises a movable ring assembly supported from the handle and adapted for three dimensional motion relative to the handle. A manually rotatable member may be arranged adjacent to the control handle for manually rotating the instrument shaft and working member relative to the control handle. A locking member may be supported from the control handle. The locking member is manually operable by a user and includes a follower the position of which is responsive to the position of the movable members.2010-04-29
20100106184REDUCED-PRESSURE, ABDOMINAL TREATMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A reduced-pressure abdominal treatment system has an open-cavity treatment device for providing reduced-pressure treatment proximate a patient's abdominal contents; a deep-tissue closure device for applying a closing force on a deep-tissue wound on a patient's fascia; a surface-wound closure subsystem for providing a closing force on a surface wound on the patient's epidermis; and a reduced-pressure supply subsystem operable to develop a reduced pressure. Methods are also included.2010-04-29
20100106185DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR ENDOSCOPIC GASTRIC MAGNETIC RESTRICTION - A device, system and method for providing tissue and organ restriction. A device is described with respect to restricting gastric capacity while avoiding nutritional deficiencies and other complications. Additionally, a system and method are described for using the device to restrict gastric capacity to perform a non surgical gastric procedure.2010-04-29
20100106186REDUCED-PRESSURE, DEEP-TISSUE CLOSURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A reduced-pressure, deep-tissue closure device for applying a closing force on a deep tissue includes a contractible matrix that is formed with a first plurality of apertures and which has a first side and a second, inward-facing side. The contractible matrix is for disposing proximate to the deep tissue. A reduced-pressure source is fluidly coupled to the contractible matrix and operable to deliver reduced pressure to the contractible matrix. When under reduced pressure, the contractible matrix grips the deep tissue adjacent the contractible matrix and provides a closing force on the deep tissue. A system and method are also presented.2010-04-29
20100106187MODULAR, REDUCED-PRESSURE, WOUND-CLOSURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A modular, reduced-pressure, wound-closure system for providing a closing force on a surface would includes a flexible strap operable to be formed into a closed loop inbound and around the surface wound and a plurality of modular closing members coupled to the flexible strap. A reduced-pressure source is fluidly coupled to the plurality of modular closing members. The modular closing members are operable to generate a closing force on the surface wound. A portion of the modular closing members are releasably attached to the patient's epidermis proximate the surface wound and another portion are attached to the flexible strap. A reduced pressure from the reduced-pressure source is delivered to each modular closing member to generate the closing force on the surface wound. Methods and other systems are presented.2010-04-29
20100106188MODULAR, REDUCED-PRESSURE, WOUND-CLOSURE SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A modular, reduced-pressure, wound-closure system for generating a closing force on a surface wound on a patient includes a sealed contracting member, a plurality of attachment base members, and a plurality of connecting members. The combination of the plurality of attachment base members and plurality of connecting members forms a circumferential wall around the surface wound. The sealed contracting member is operable to be disposed within an interior space defined by the circumferential wall and coupled to at least of portion of the circumferential wall. When reduced pressure is provided to the sealed contracting member, the sealed contracting member contracts and the circumferential wall delivers a closing force. Other systems and methods are presented.2010-04-29
20100106189ANCHOR WITH TWO MEMBER SECURING MECHANISM FOR ATTACHING AN ELONGATED MEMBER TO A BONE - A device to attach an elongated member to a bone in a patient with the device including a receiver with arms that are spaced apart that form a channel sized to receive the elongated member, and a groove on an inner surface of at least one of the arms. A shaft may be operatively connected to the receiver and configured to attach to the bone. A securing mechanism is attached to the receiver that includes an outer member and an inner member. The outer member may include a bore and a non-threaded exterior that may be configured to engage with the groove to attach the securing mechanism to the receiver. The second member may be sized to fit in the bore and move axially along the bore in a non-rotational manner. The second member may also include a compressible extension sized to fit in the bore when the extension is moved in the bore and to expand to a width greater than the bore when the second member extends outward beyond the bore.2010-04-29
20100106190SUPPORT INSERT ASSOCIATED WITH SPINAL VERTEBRAE - An insert for establishing a desired spacing between a pair of succeeding vertebrae and having a body including an extending end for supporting a location associated with a first selected lumbar vertebrae. An opposite extending end supports a spaced apart and opposing location associated with a second successively positioned lumbar vertebrae. Upon pre-positioning the body in an open space established between the vertebrae, an actuating input causes the first extending end to displace outwardly relative to the second end and into contacting support with the vertebrae.2010-04-29
20100106191CONICAL INTERSPINOUS APPARATUS AND A METHOD OF PERFORMING INTERSPINOUS DISTRACTION - A conical interspinous apparatus comprising: an insertion portion with a proximal end, a distal end, and conical screw-shaped grooves configured to distract two adjacent spinous processes; a shaft portion, coupled to the distal end of the insertion portion, and having a smaller cross-section than a cross-section at the distal end of the insertion portion, such that the two spinous processes rest on the shaft portion; and a clamp portion being movable and securable along the shaft, and being configured to secure the two spinous processes between the clamp portion and the distal end of the insertion portion.2010-04-29
20100106192System and method for aligning vertebrae in the amelioration of aberrant spinal column deviation condition in patients requiring the accomodation of spinal column growth or elongation - A system and method for ameliorating spinal column anomalies, such as scoliosis, while accommodating growth of juvenile patients, which include pedicle screws and an extendable telescopic spinal rod of non-circular cross section. Each pedicle screw includes spinal rod engagement means of complementary shape to the spinal rod for allowing longitudinal movement of the spinal rod, while resisting axial rotation of the pedicle screw relative to the spinal rod. The spinal rod is thereby allowed to slide longitudinally as attached vertebrae move during growth, while movement in other directions is arrested to preserve a proper orientation of involved vertebrae and to maintain scoliotic correction in three dimensions.2010-04-29
20100106193SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ALIGNING VERTEBRAE IN THE AMELIORATION OF ABERRANT SPINAL COLUMN DEVIATION CONDITIONS IN PATIENTS REQUIRING THE ACCOMODATION OF SPINAL COLUMN GROWTH OR ELONGATION - A system and method for ameliorating spinal column anomalies, such as scoliosis, while accommodating growth of juvenile patients, includes pedicle screws and a spinal rod of non-circular cross section. Each pedicle screw includes spinal rod engagement mean for achieving a slide-only engagement between each segment of said spinal rod that is respectively engaged with the pedicle screw. Pedicle screws are thereby allowed to slide longitudinally along the spinal rod as attached vertebrae move during growth, while movement in other directions is arrested in order to preserve a proper orientation of involved vertebrae to maintain scoliotic correction in three dimensions.2010-04-29
20100106194STABILIZING A SPINAL ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE - Methods and devices for stabilizing spinal anatomical structures. Some example methods may include introducing a curved segment of an elongate fastener placement rod adjacent to a spinal anatomical structure, providing a fastener at the leading end of the curved segment, and/or securing the fastener in place with respect to the spinal anatomical structure.2010-04-29
20100106195LOW PROFILE SPINAL TETHERING METHODS - Methods and devices for treating spinal deformities are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a low-profile spinal anchoring device is provided for receiving a spinal fixation element, such as a tether, therethrough. The device generally includes a staple body that is adapted to seat a spinal fixation element, a fastening element for fixing the staple body to bone, and a locking assembly for coupling a spinal fixation element to the staple body. In one embodiment, the locking assembly includes a washer that is adapted to couple to the staple body such that the spinal fixation is disposed therebetween, and a locking nut that is adapted to engage the staple body to mate the washer to the staple body.2010-04-29