33rd week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 51 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20120209312 | OBSTRUCTION CAPTURE AND REMOVAL DEVICE - A thrombus retrieval device ( | 2012-08-16 |
20120209313 | Nasal Dilator With Means To Direct Resilient Properties - A nasal dilator comprises a laminate of vertical layers that form a unitary, or single body, truss having horizontal regions adapted to engage outer wall tissues of first and second nasal passages and to traverse the bridge of a nose therebetween. When in use the dilator acts to stabilize and/or expand the nasal outer wall tissues and prevent said tissues from drawing inward during breathing. The dilator includes multiple parallel resilient members or a resilient member having a plurality of component spring fingers extending from a common center. The dilator may further include material separations, or discontinuity of shape of material, formed in at least one region of the truss and extending through at least one layer of the dilator. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209314 | Methods and Systems for Indicating a Clamping Prediction - End effectors with closing mechanisms, and related tools and methods are disclosed. The disclosed end effectors may be particularly beneficial when used for minimally invasive surgery. An example surgical tool comprises a first and second jaw movable between a closed grasped or clamped configuration and an open configuration. The tool further comprises a soft grip mode for grasping the tissue at a first force during which a separation parameter between the jaws is measured, and a therapeutic clamping mode in which the jaws clamp on the body tissue at a force greater than the grasping force. The methods comprise grasping the body tissue between jaw members, measuring the separation parameter between jaws, indicating on a user interface the separation parameter for comparison to a desired separation parameter, and then releasing the body tissue for repositioning or therapeutically clamping the body tissue in response to the separation parameter indication. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209315 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE LAPAROSCOPIC SURGICAL PLIERS - Laparoscopic surgical pliers include jaws mounted on a rotating body and first and second transmissions each including at least one tendon including several cables, and each transmission adapted to transmit movement of the jaws and the rotating body, respectively. The tendons of the first and second transmissions are each respectively formed of several cables arranged so that a cross-section of at least one tendon associated with the first transmission has a variable geometry therealong formed by a first arrangement in which the cables are arranged, in cross-section, with their longitudinal axes in a radial distribution, a second arrangement in which said axes are arranged in a first orientation, and a third arrangement in which said axes are arranged in a second orientation, perpendicular to the first orientation. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209316 | MULTIFUNCTIONAL GROOMING TWEEZERS - Multifunctional grooming tweezers can include a first prong extending from a proximal end to a distal end and having an inner surface on one side of the first prong and an outer surface on an opposite side of the first prong. The tweezers can further include a second prong extending from a proximal end to a distal end and having an inner surface on one side of the second prong and an outer surface on an opposite side of the second prong. The first and second prongs are fixedly attached to each other solely at their proximal ends such that the distal ends of the first and second prongs are free to move relative to each other. The inner surfaces of the first and second prongs face toward each other and are spaced apart from each other along substantially the entire length of the first and second prongs, and the outer surfaces of the first and second prongs face away from each other. A file portion on the first prong can have a file surface substantially co-planar with the outer surface of the first prong and configured to grind down and shape an edge of a nail. A buffer portion on the second prong can have a buffing surface substantially co-planar with the outer surface of the second prong and configured to polish the nail. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209317 | VESSEL CLOSURE SYSTEM - A power driven vessel closure device is configured for closing a hole in a wall of a body lumen. The vessel closure device can include a power operated drive system and a closure element delivery system. The closure element delivery system can be removably, operably, couplable with the power operated drive system. That is, the closure element system can be directly or indirectly attached to and removed from the power operated drive system, or components thereof. The operation of the power operated drive system can operate the closure element delivery system so as to move the closure element within the vessel closure device and deploy the closure element to close the hole. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209318 | NATURAL ORIFICE TRANSLUMINAL ENDOSCOPIC DEVICES FOR CLOSURE OF LUMINAL PERFORATIONS AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - Devices include at least two spaced apart flexible legs formed of a shape memory material, each leg having a respective free end configured to engage local tissue. The devices can also include at least one resilient member having opposing end portions, a respective end portion being attached to each leg at a location away from the free end. The resilient member is configured to take on a stretched configuration inside an endoscope during delivery. Alternatively or additionally, the devices include a cinch that is configured to snugly hold portions of both legs to force the legs closer together. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209319 | REINFORCED SURGICAL ADHESIVES AND SEALANTS AND THEIR IN-SITU APPLICATION - In situ application of reinforced adhesive: applying uncured and curable matter to a surface, applying biocompatible inert reinforcing agent comprising at least one curing agent to the uncured composition; allowing curing within subject, cured composition together with the added reinforcing agent being configured to have improved mechanical support and strength. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209320 | TISSUE DRESSING KIT - A kit comprising a tissue dressing material for being applied in contact with the tissue of a patient and a detachment solvent for removing the tissue dressing material from the tissue. A method of treating a tissue of a patient, the method comprising the steps of: applying a water-soluble tissue dressing material in contact with the patient's tissue; and applying an acidic detachment solvent to the tissue dressing material for removing the tissue dressing material from the tissue. A method of treating a tissue of a patient, the method comprising the steps of: applying a liquid tissue dressing material in contact with the patient's tissue; and applying a detachment solvent to the tissue dressing material for removing the tissue dressing material from the tissue. A method of treating a tissue of a patient, the method comprising the steps of: applying a water-soluble tissue dressing material in contact with the patient's tissue; and allowing the water-soluble tissue dressing material to convert into a form in which it is insoluble in water at neutral pH. And a solid material comprising a polymer salt and glycerol, the glycerol content being at least 10% of the polymer salt content by weight, for use in a method of treating a human or animal tissue. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209321 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING HEMOSTATIC MATERIALS FOR BLOOD VESSEL CLOSURE - Apparatus for sealing a vascular wall penetration disposed at the end of the tissue tract comprises a shaft, an occlusion element, a hemostatic implant, and a protective sleeve. The apparatus is deployed through the tissue tract with the occlusion element temporarily occluding the vascular wall penetration and inhibiting backbleeding therethrough. The hemostatic implant, which will typically be a biodegradable polymer such as collagen carrying an anti-proliferative agent or coagulation promoter, will then be deployed from the sealing apparatus and left in place to enhance closure of the vascular wall penetration with minimum scarring. The implant may be radiopaque to allow observation before release. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209322 | TACKING DEVICE - The present embodiments provide apparatus and methods suitable for coupling a graft member to tissue, closing a bodily opening, and the like. At least one proximal deployable member and at least one distal deployable member are provided, each having a contracted state suitable for delivery and further comprising an expanded state. In the expanded state, the proximal and distal deployable members are configured to secure the graft member to the tissue. Optionally, a loop member may be provided for receiving a suture for further securing the graft member to the tissue. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209323 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR SEALING A VASCULAR PUNCTURE - A sealant is provided for sealing a puncture through tissue that includes an elongate first section including a proximal end, a distal end, and a cross-section sized for delivery into a puncture through tissue, and a second section fused to and extending from the distal end of the first section. The first section may be formed from a freeze-dried hydrogel that expands when exposed to physiological fluid within a puncture. The second section may be formed from a solid mass of non-freeze-dried, non-crosslinked hydrogel precursors, the precursors remaining in an unreactive state until exposed to an aqueous physiological, whereupon the precursors undergo in-situ crosslinking with one another to provide an adhesive layer bonded to the first section. Apparatus and methods for delivering the sealant into a puncture through tissue are also provided. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209324 | BIODEGRADABLE, NON-TOXIC BIOLOGICAL ADHESIVE FOR USE IN ABDOMINAL SURGERY - A biological adhesive formulation comprising dextrin, at least one adhesiveness modifier agent, and at least one antibiotic is suitable for promoting healing of tissue in a patient, for example, to prevent anastomosis of a surgical wound in the digestive system of a patient, and for affixing prosthesis during a hernia operation in a patient and occluding a fistula within a patient. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209325 | NOVEL SUTURE - A knotless suture system formed from two lengths of suture joined at a suture junction point, with at least four suture limbs extending from the suture junction. The knotless suture system provides the ability to construct a suture bridge for soft tissue repair and fixation across a medial and lateral row bone fixation anchor configuration while passing the suture system in a simplified method of suture management. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209326 | ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT PACIFIER - An ultraviolet light pacifier ( | 2012-08-16 |
20120209327 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FACET FIXATION - A spinal fixation element includes a screw and a washer. The screw comprises an elongated body of a first diameter and the body includes a threaded portion at a distal end and a semispherical head of a second diameter at a proximal end. The second diameter is larger than the first diameter. The washer comprises a semispherical through opening of a third diameter at the top, of a fourth diameter in the middle and of a fifth diameter at the bottom. The third diameter is slightly smaller than the second diameter, the fourth diameter is slightly larger than the second diameter and the fifth diameter is smaller than the second diameter. The washer surrounds the semispherical head, is non-removably attached to the semispherical head and is rotatable and positionable at an angle relative to the elongated body. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209328 | STRUCTURES AND METHODS FOR CONSTRAINING SPINAL PROCESSES WITH SINGLE CONNECTOR - Spinous process constraint structures include a first attachment element for placement over a first spinous process and a second attachment element for placement over a second spinous process. The attachment elements are joined by a single connector which may optionally include a compliance member for providing controlled elasticity between the spinous processes. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209329 | METHOD FOR DILATING BETWEEN SPINOUS PROCESSES - Disclosed is a method for dilating between spinous processes wherein a filamentous body provided with an expansion body is percutaneously inserted to locate the expansion body between the spinous processes, a filling material is injected into the expansion body to dilate between the spinous processes, and the expansion body is cut off from the filamentous body to be located between the spinous processes. This method exerts very little burden on the patient. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209330 | Spinal Stabilization Device - A flexible connection unit for use in a spinal fixation device, including: a longitudinal member having first end portion, a second end portion and a flexible member interposed between the first end portion and the second end portion, at least one of the first end portion and the second end portion configured to be coupled to a first bone securing member; and a spacer located between the first and second end portions, wherein at least a portion of the flexible member passes through an axial channel of the spacer and wherein the spacer comprises a resilient element configured to be coupled to a second bone securing member. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209331 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR LOCKING A SCREW WITH A BENDABLE PLATE PORTION - A spinal device for stabilizing adjacent vertebral bodies of the human spine. The device includes a combination of a screw and a member having a screw hole and a length sufficient to span a disc space between the adjacent vertebral bodies. The member has a portion that is bendable or deformable to prevent the outward excursion of the screw from the screw hole of the member. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209332 | Spinal Fixation System And Method - A spinal fixation system is provided that, in one form, comprises a pedicle screw assembly having a coupling device with an elongate member for guiding a fixation element, such as a spinal rod, into the coupling device and a lock device for fixing the spinal rod to the coupling device. The pedicle screw assembly may be passed through a small incision and connected to a vertebral bone. By connecting a second pedicle screw assembly to a second vertebral bone, the elongate members of the pedicle screw assemblies provide guideposts for directing the spinal rod subcutaneously between the pedicle screw assemblies and into the coupling devices thereof. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209333 | FRACTURE FIXATION PLATE - A plate for fracture fixation is provided including a plurality, of individually adjustable heads and various features to achieve: a.) superior fixation of the plate to osteoporotic diaphyseal bone; b.) improved visualization of the fracture line; c.) intraoperative adjustability to achieve better contact of the plate and the bone; d.) reduced risk of post-surgery tendon rupture; d.) improved fixation of small volar marginal fragments and, e.) improved targeting and fixing of particular fractured bone fragments. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209334 | ORTHOPEDIC COMPRESSION PLATE - An orthopedic plate has a first end including a locking screw hole that receives a locking screw and spaced from that hole is a compression housing that extends from the bone-facing side of the plate and which receives a compression screw that forms an angle of from about 10° to about 70° with a longitudinal axis of the plate. In a further embodiment, the plate also includes a second end with a chamfer for insertion of the plate into bone, and in a still further embodiment, the plate is an MTP plate. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209335 | MULTI-AXIAL PEDICLE FIXATION ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR USE - An implantable orthopedic assembly comprises a bone fixator and head assembly for securing a stabilizing rod to the spine. The head assembly allows multi-axial repositioning of the bone fixator relative to the head assembly. A primary drive interface located on the bone fixator may be used to adjust the depth of bone penetration when the bone fixator and head assembly are substantially coaxial. A secondary drive interface located on the head assembly may be used to adjust the depth of bone penetration while independently adjusting the stabilizing rod position when the bone fixator and the head assembly are not coaxial, transferring torsional loads to the bone fixator. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209336 | Polyaxial bone anchor with pop-on shank, friction fit retainer and winged insert - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert with tool receiving arm extensions, a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209337 | Method And Apparatus For Preparing And Fusion Of Small Joints - An embodiment includes a system for preparing fusion of joints, such as joints in the toes or fingers of an animal such as a human. The system may include one or more of complementary ball and socket joint reamers. A reamer may be separable from an intramedullary fixation rod. The rod may include channels to prevent rotation of the rod once implanted in bone. Other embodiments are discussed herein. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209338 | DEVICE FOR CORRECTION OF BONE AND SOFT TISSUE DISORDERS - A device for correction of bone and/or soft tissue disorders and methods for obtaining the device, the device comprising an elongated wire entirely made of a shape-memory alloy and thermally treated and mechanically deformed to have at least one portion exhibiting a shape memory characteristic and a desired shape, and at least one remaining portion without exhibiting the shape memory characteristic. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209339 | DEVICE FOR SPINAL FUSION - An improved device for filling a void created in the lamina during spinal surgery including a top layer, a bottom layer and a body portion. The body portion is attached to the top layer and the bottom layer and includes a compliant mesh portion. The compliant mesh portion includes a bone material with bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) growth factor entrained thereon. The body portion is adapted to be conformable to a void left in a vertebral space after a surgeon has performed a laminectomy or hemi-laminectomy procedure. The flexible top layer has a periphery larger than that of the bottom layer such that the body portion has a section that is oblique or perpendicular to another section of the body portion or the top layer to define a flange. A method of using the device is also disclosed. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209340 | ELECTROKINETIC NERVE STIMULATOR - A device and method for stimulating nerves. In one application, the approaches treat nausea and vomiting caused by a reaction to general anesthesia. A bi-modal approach involving acustimulation and medicants is contemplated for specific conditions. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209341 | METHOD FOR THE TREATMENT OF GALLSTONES - There is provided a method for controlling the movement of bile and/or gall stones in the biliary duct. The method comprises gently constricting (i.e., without substantially hampering the blood circulation in the tissue wall) at least one portion of the tissue wall to influence the movement of bile and/or gallstones in the biliary duct, and stimulating the constricted wall portion to cause contraction of the wall portion to further influence the movement of bile and/or gallstones in the biliary duct. The method can be used for restricting or stopping the movement of bile and/or gallstones in the biliary duct, or for actively moving the fluid in the biliary duct, with a low risk of injuring the biliary duct. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209342 | METHOD AND APPARATUS OF ACOUSTIC COMMUNICATION FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable medical device includes an acoustic transducer for intra-body communication with another medical device via an acoustic couple. The acoustic transducer includes one or more piezoelectric transducers. In one embodiment, an implantable medical device housing contains a cardiac rhythm management (CRM) device and an acoustic communication circuit. The acoustic transducer is electrically connected to the acoustic communication circuit to function as an acoustic coupler and physically fastened to a wall of the implantable housing, directly or via a supporting structure. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209343 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THREE-STAGE ATRIAL CARDIOVERSION THERAPY - Methods and apparatus for a three-stage atrial cardioversion therapy that treats atrial arrhythmias within pain tolerance thresholds of a patient. An implantable therapy generator adapted to generate and selectively deliver a three-stage atrial cardioversion therapy and at least two leads, each having at least one electrode adapted to be positioned proximate the atrium of the patient. The device is programmed for delivering a three-stage atrial cardioversion therapy via both a far-field configuration and a near-field configuration of the electrodes upon detection of an atrial arrhythmia. The three-stage atrial cardioversion therapy includes a first stage for unpinning of one or more singularities associated with an atrial arrhythmia, a second stage for anti-repinning of the one or more singularities, both of which are delivered via the far-field configuration of the electrodes, and a third stage for extinguishing of the one or more singularities delivered via the near-field configuration of the electrodes. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209344 | ENERGY-RELEASING CARBON NANOTUBE TRANSPONDER AND METHOD OF USING SAME - An energy-releasing carbon nanotube transponder comprising a nanocapacitor connected to at least one carbon nanotube and method of using same are described. An adjustable amount of electric energy is stored within the nanocapacitor so that the energy-releasing carbon nanotube transponder delivers either a biologically destructive or a biologically non-destructive electrical charge to target cells in response to biological, chemical or electrical stimuli. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209345 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REDUCING OCCURRENCES OF ATRIAL ARRHYTHMIAS - A method for reducing occurrences of atrial arrhythmias includes obtaining measures indicative of atrial pressure of a patient, and monitoring for a change in the measures indicative of atrial pressure that is indicative of an increased vulnerability to an atrial arrhythmia. In response to detecting the change in the measures indicative of atrial pressure that is indicative of the increased vulnerability to an atrial arrhythmia, pacing therapy that is adapted to reduce atrial pressure and thereby reduce vulnerability to an atrial arrhythmia is selectively delivered. Additionally, or alternatively, pacing therapy is adjusted to reduce atrial pressure and thereby reduce vulnerability to an atrial arrhythmia. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209346 | TRANSCRANIAL STIMULATION - A method includes coupling electrodes to a patient's head and identifying whether any of the electrodes form a functional set, such that a desired therapeutic effect is achieved when the two or more electrodes deliver a total amount of current to the patient regardless of what portion of the total amount of current each respective electrode carries. One or more constant current sources are provided, each having a supply and return terminal, which supply and return equal amounts of current at any given time. The constant current source(s) are coupled to the electrodes in such a manner that each supply terminal and each return terminal is coupled to no more than the electrodes of a single one of the functional sets, if any, or to a single one of the electrodes not included in one of the functional sets. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209347 | Apparatus And Method For Modulating Neurochemical Levels In the Brain - A treatment for Parkinson's Disease uses a stimulus electrode implanted in a subthalamic nucleus with a chemosensor implanted in a globus pallidus pars interna (GPi) of the subject. A level of a neurochemical is sensed with the chemosensor, and compared to a desired level. When the level of the neurochemical is less than desired, an electrical stimulation is provided to the stimulus electrode. In alternative embodiments, the neurochemical sensed is glutamate or dopamine. An alternative system uses a chemosensor implanted in the striatum instead of the GPi. An alternative system for treating benign essential tremor uses a stimulus electrode implanted in the thalamus with feedback taken from a chemosensor in the striatum. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209348 | Nocipoint Therapy: Threshold-gated Electrical Neuro-Immuno-Stimulation Procedure - A method of reducing pain includes first identifying a muscle; then identify a related pair of Nocipoints on the identified muscle; and applying electrical stimulation to the pair If required, the method may further comprise identifying additional pairs of Nocipoints and applying electrical stimulation to them. The stimulation should be from about 1.5 to 3.5 minutes. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209349 | SELECTIVE HIGH FREQUENCY SPINAL CORD MODULATION FOR INHIBITING PAIN WITH REDUCED SIDE EFFECTS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal chord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side affects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209350 | Fractal interconnects for neuro-electronic interfaces and implants using same - A neuro-electronic interface device has a micro-electrode electrically connected to an interconnect that has scaling gradients between 1.1 and 1.9 over a scaling range of at least one order of magnitude. The device preferably has an array of such fractal interconnects in electrical contact with an array of micro-electrodes. Such fractal interconnect arrays may be components of implants including a retinal implant device having an array of photodetectors in electrical contact with the array of micro-electrodes. The interconnects may be fabricated by forming nanoscale particles and depositing them onto a non-conductive surface that is smooth except for electrodes which serve as nucleation sites for the formation of fractal interconnect structures through diffusion limited aggregation. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209351 | Enhancing Fine Time Structure Transmission for Hearing Implant System - A system and method of signal processing for a hearing implant. The hearing implant includes at least one electrode, each electrode associated with a channel specific sampling sequence. An acoustic audio signal is processed to generate for each electrode a band pass signal representing an associated band of audio frequency. For each electrode, a sequence signal is determined as a function of the electrode's associated band pass signal and channel specific sampling sequence. An envelope of each band pass signal is determined. The envelope of each band pass signal is filtered to reduce modulations resulting from unresolved harmonics, creating for each electrode an associated filtered envelope signal. Each electrode's sequence signal is weighted based, at least in part, on the electrode's associated filtered envelope signal. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209352 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable medical device includes a housing having a coating selectively provided on only a portion of the housing and a plurality of electronic components provided within an interior space defined by the housing. A first of the electronic components is a charging or telemetry coil and a second of the electronic components is a circuit board. The coating is provided on the housing in a first region near a component of the circuit board and is not provided on the housing in a second region near the charging or telemetry coil. The coating has a magnetic permeability suitable to and is provided in an amount effective to reduce MRI image distortion caused by the component of the circuit board. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209353 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE TELEMETRY WITH ADAPTIVE FREQUENCY HOPPING - A far-field radio-frequency (RF) telemetry system transmits data between an implantable medical device and an external system using an active channel selected from a plurality of channels each representing a frequency band within a predetermined frequency range. One or more preferred channels are identified from the plurality of channels based on channel quality indicators produced for each of the channels. When channel hopping is needed, a hop channel is selected from the one or more preferred channels and becomes the active channel. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209354 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING AND DELIVERING ELECTRICAL IMPULSES - A system and method for delivery of selected electrical impulses to selected locations on the body of a patient. In certain embodiments, the selected electrical impulses mimic the natural impulses that travel along neurons and the inverse thereof. A system for administering the selected electrical impulses may include an input element, impulse generator, impulse shaper, circuit booster element, output control element, time and sequence controller, display element, power source, and output element. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209355 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ADMINISTERING LIGHT THERAPY - A sleep mask is configured to provide light therapy to a subject. The sleep mask may provide a comfortable delivery mechanism for the light therapy, and may deliver the light therapy to the subject while the subject is asleep, in the process of going to sleep, and/or waking from sleep. In one embodiment, the sleep mask includes one or more of a shield, a strap, a first lighting module, and/or a second lighting module. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209356 | EYE PROTECTIVE ARTICLE FOR PERSONAL COSMETIC SKIN TREATMENT - Disclosed is an article designed to attenuate intensive and unwanted light emitted by an IPL or laser device that may occasionally reach the eyes of a user or operator, while not limiting their ability to see in a bright region. Eye protection is achieved by an assembly of baffles extending towards the source of IPL. The baffles limit the field of view of the article to a value sufficient for coupling a safe amount of light intensity enabling comfortable IPL or laser applicator tracking and operation. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209357 | PORTABLE SKIN TREATMENT DEVICE USING LIGHT AND HEAT AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE SAME - A method of controlling an operation of a portable skin treatment device, the method including: if a control button of the treatment device is pressed, heating a heater to prepare heating of a tip of the treatment device in a predetermined temperature range; and if heating of the tip is completed, turning on a light source disposed inside a housing of the treatment device and performing light irradiation treatment of irradiating light onto the skin through the tip together with heat. By using the method of controlling the operation of the portable skin treatment device by applying heat to the skin area of a disease of sebaceous glands such as acne etc. or itch and by irradiating light onto the skin area, treatment effects can be improved, and the fact that a user is getting treatment can be more realistically recognized. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209358 | COLOR ADAPTIVE THERAPEUTIC LIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM - A system for influencing a state of a user includes a light source for emitting light influencing the state of the user. A light controller selectively controls the emission of the light including at least one of: (1) the spectrum of the light; (2) the duration of the light; (3) the distribution of the light; (4) the intensity of the light; and (5) the timing of the light. An analysis engine provides a signal to the light controller indicating a desired emission of the light, wherein the system selectively reflects a substantial portion of the emission of blue light from the light source of which a substantial portion is re-emitted as light different than blue light. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209359 | LOW-PROFILE INTRALUMINAL LIGHT DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - A light delivery system to provide light treatment to a patient includes an elongated catheter having a light emitter that transmits light towards a target site within a patient. The catheter is sized and configured to pass through anatomical body structures to reduce or eliminate trauma associated with the delivery procedure. A visualization system of the catheter can assist a user before, during, and/or after performing light therapy. The visualization system includes sensors that provide real-time imaging or feedback. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209360 | PATIENT WARMING SYSTEM - The present invention relates to a patient warming system and in particular a patient warming blanket for warming patients undergoing medical care. The patient warming blanket is particularly for use in veterinary medicine. The warming blanket includes a porous surface from which warmed air can escape over the entire porous surface, evenly warming the patient. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209361 | Cold Therapy Apparatuses, Systems and/or Methods - A cold therapy apparatus, a cold therapy system and a method of using a cold therapy apparatus, including a method for lowering the body temperature in a subject. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209362 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR RELIEF OF ABDOMINAL DISCOMFORT - Therapy apparatus and method for use on, among others, human infants. In one embodiment, the apparatus provides apryrogenic enhancement of body heat production by external application of heated rubefacient herbs and seeds of the botanical family Crucifererae, in an elastic breathable and flexible fabric belt. Heating of the herbal belt in a microwave of other facility produces radiant heat, which when the apparatus is placed around the abdominal wall of an infant's body, provides therapy. A balance of enhanced body heat combined with the body's dissipation of heat creates a steady warming of the abdomen in conjunction with the relaxing olfactory effects of the herbal scents. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209363 | HOT AND COLD THERAPY DEVICE - A thermal therapy device including a hollow roller having a non-uniform cross-section along its length and a thermally conductive external surface. Two end caps, one on each end of the hollow roller, which, in combination with the thermally conductive external surface of the hollow roller, collectively define a thermal-medium-receiving reservoir and a central axis about which the hollow roller may rotate. A pair of pins, one on each of the end caps, are longitudinally aligned along the central axis. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209364 | LEAD HAVING THIN DISTAL END PORTION - A deep brain stimulation lead includes a distal end portion having a length of greater than 5 millimeters and a largest outer diametric dimension of 1 millimeter or less. One or more electrodes are disposed at the distal end portion. The lead also includes a proximal end portion having one or more contacts electrically coupled to the one or more electrodes. The lead further includes a mid portion between the proximal end portion and the distal end portion. The mid portion has an outer diametric dimension of greater than 1 millimeter and is configured and positioned to be located in proximity to a burr hole of a skull of patient when the distal end portion is positioned in the brain of the patient at a location to deliver a signal to a target region. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209365 | MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING COMPATIBLE MEDICAL ELECTRICAL LEAD AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME - This disclosure describes an implantable medical lead, and method of making such a lead or components of the lead, that reduces the undesirable effects the fields generated by an MRI device may have on the implantable medical lead and the implantable medical device. The implantable medical lead includes an RF filter placed in series with an electrical path to an electrode of the lead. In one example, the RF filter may comprise a conductor wound in such a manner that it provides an inductance and capacitance that provides the RF filter with a resonant frequency, and in some instances, multiple resonant frequencies. At frequencies around the resonant frequency of the RF filter, the RF filter presents a high impedance, thereby blocking the signal from or at least attenuating the signal propagating to the electrode. At frequencies far from the resonant frequency, the RF filter presents a low impedance. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209366 | STENT AND STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM - A stent includes a plurality of annular bodies arrayed in an axial direction, each having a plurality of one-end-side bent sections and other-end-side bent sections, and adjacent ones of the annular bodies being linked by link sections. The stent includes at least three kinds of link sections selected from four kinds of link sections including: a vertex-vertex bent link section; a central part-central part bent link section; a central part-vertex bent link section; and a vertex-central part bent link section, the at least three kinds of the link sections including at least the vertex-vertex bent link section and the central part-central part bent link section, and the adjacent annular bodies being linked by at least two different kinds of the link sections | 2012-08-16 |
20120209367 | BIFURCATION CATHETER DUAL BALLOON BOND AND METHODS - A catheter assembly includes a main catheter branch having a catheter shaft and a distal end portion. A main balloon and a side balloon are positioned at the distal end portion of the catheter shaft. The main balloon includes a distal waist portion at a distal end thereof and a proximal waist portion at a proximal end thereof. The side balloon includes an inflatable portion, a proximal waist portion, and a distal waist portion, wherein the proximal and distal waist portions define a side inflation lumen. The proximal waist portion of the side balloon and the proximal waist portion of the main balloon are secured to the distal end portion of the catheter shaft at a single bond or connection point to create a proximal balloon joint, wherein the main inflation lumen is in fluid communication with the main balloon and the side inflation lumen. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209368 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING A STENT TO A BIFURCATED VESSEL - A stent delivery catheter system for accurately positioning a stent in a bifurcated vessel is disclosed. The system includes a catheter having a terminal portion and distal tip that is placed in a main branch of the vessel proximate the bifurcation. A fixed guidewire is attached to distal tip. A port is defined in the terminal portion of the catheter. The port is aligned with an ostium of a side branch of the bifurcated vessel to allow the passage of a stent delivery device, such as a balloon catheter having a stent crimped thereon, into the side branch. Radiopaque bands are positioned on opposite ends of the port. A positioning balloon is included on a surface of the catheter opposite the port and is selectively inflatable to position the radiopaque bands adjacent the side branch ostium. The radiopaque bands are referenced to place the stent proximate the side branch ostium. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209369 | FENESTRATED ENDOGRAFT - A fenestrated endograft having an expandable stent frame and a lumen is described herein. The stent frame has a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a central portion. The central portion may include a fabric that has an aperture partially surrounded by part of the expandable stent frame. The lumen extends through the proximal end portion, the central portion, and the distal end portion. The stent frame is radially expandable from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration. The central portion is coupled to a fabric, which extends about a perimeter of the central portion. The fabric has an aperture with a cross-sectional dimension that is substantially equal to a cross-sectional dimension of an outer cross-sectional dimension of the distal end portion. The central portion has a curved elongate member, which includes a curved segment extending around at least one-fourth of a perimeter of the aperture. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209370 | Stentless Support Structure - A stentless support structure capable of being at least partly assembled in situ. The support structure comprises a braided tube that is very flexible and, when elongated, becomes very long and very small in diameter, thereby being capable of placement within a small diameter catheter. The support structure is preferably constructed of one or more thin strands of a super-elastic or shape memory material such as Nitinol. When released from the catheter, the support structure folds itself into a longitudinally compact configuration. The support structure thus gains significant strength as the number of folds increase. This radial strength obviates the need for a support stent. The support structure may include attachment points for a prosthetic valve. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209371 | DRUG ELUTING IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE WITH HEMOCOMPATIBLE AND/OR PROHEALING TOPCOAT - The present invention relates to implantable medical devices coated with polymer having hemocompatible and/or prohealing moieties appended thereto and to their use in the treatment of vascular diseases. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209372 | DRUG ELUTING IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE WITH HEMOCOMPATIBLE AND/OR PROHEALING TOPCOAT - The present invention relates to implantable medical devices coated with polymer having hemocompatible and/or prohealing moieties appended thereto and to their use in the treatment of vascular diseases. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209373 | Coated Stint - The invention relates to a stent, in particular intended for cardiovascular applications, provided with a bioresorbable polymer coating containing a restenosis-inhibiting agent, with said stent below its polymer coating having a metal surface which is smoothed by electropolishing and passivated and into which carbonium ions are implanted, with said polymer coating containing a (homo- or copolymer of hydroxycarboxylic acids which is terminally esterified. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209374 | METHODS OF TREATING VALVES - The implant implantation unit ( | 2012-08-16 |
20120209375 | STABILITY DEVICE FOR USE WITH PERCUTANEOUS DELIVERY SYSTEMS - A delivery system for stabilizing a catheter shaft across an aortic arch can include one or more stabilizing members configured to fix or stabilize the position of the catheter relative to the aortic arch of a patient. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209376 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR RESHAPING MITRAL VALVE ANNULUS - Methods for treating a defective mitral valve are provided. One preferred method comprises attaching opposing ends of a tether to opposing regions of the mitral valve annulus. The tether is advanced percutaneously into the left atrium by a therapy catheter. Vacuum ports may be provided on the therapy catheter for grasping tissue along the mitral valve annulus. The therapy catheter may also include advanceable needles for passing the tether through the tissue. Alternatively, the ends of the tether may be attached to fastener elements which are secured to the tissue. Tension in the tether pulls the opposing regions of the mitral valve annulus into closer proximity for improving mitral valve function. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209377 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR RESHAPING A HEART VALVE ANNULUS, INCLUDING THE USE OF MAGNETIC TOOLS - Implants or systems of implants and methods apply a selected force vector or a selected combination of force vectors within or across the left atrium, which allow mitral valve leaflets to better coapt. The implants or systems of implants and methods make possible rapid deployment, facile endovascular delivery, and full intra-atrial retrievability. The implants or systems of implants and methods also make use of strong fluoroscopic landmarks. The implants or systems of implants and methods make use of an adjustable implant and a fixed length implant. The implants or systems of implants and methods may also utilize a bridge stop to secure the implant, and the methods of implantation employ various tools. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209378 | Venous Valve With Sinus - A venous valve-with a structural member and valve leaflets that provide a sinus. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209379 | ADJUSTABLE ANNULOPLASTY RING AND ACTIVATION SYSTEM - An adjustable annuloplasty device is described. In some embodiments, the device includes a body member having a surface that conforms at least partially to a cardiac valve annulus. The body member comprises a shape-memory member that transforms from a first configuration to a second configuration in response to an applied energy. In some embodiments, the device further includes a first electrode assembly, coupled to the shape-memory member, that transfers energy to the shape-memory member, and a second electrode assembly, coupled to the shape-memory member, that transfers at least a portion of the energy away from the shape-memory member. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209380 | INTRA-ANNULAR MOUNTING FRAME FOR AORTIC VALVE REPAIR - An intra-annular mounting frame for an aortic valve having native aortic cusps is provided which includes a frame body with native leaflet reorienting curvatures and interconnecting points; the curvatures shaped to be received inside the valve below the native aortic cusps and to reorient the native aortic cusps within the aortic valve, where each of the curvatures extends concavely upward from a reference latitudinal plane tangential to each curvature's base. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209381 | BIOERODIBLE MATRIX FOR TISSUE INVOLVEMENT - Disclosed herein are polyurethane polymer matrices with a porosity of from about 20 microns to about 90 microns that are useful in promoting closure and protection of incision sites; supporting the lower pole position of breast implants; and providing a partial or complete covering of breast implants to provide a beneficial interface with host tissue and to reduce the potential for malpositioning or capsular contracture. The disclosed matrices can be seeded with mammalian cells. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209382 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHOD OF IMPLANTING THE MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable medical device for implantation in a mammal joint having at least two contacting surfaces is provided. The medical device comprises; an artificial contacting surface adapted to replace at least the surface of at least one of the mammal's joint contacting surfaces, wherein the artificial contacting surface is adapted to be lubricated, when implanted in said joint. Furthermore the medical device comprises at least one inlet adapted to receive a lubricating fluid from a reservoir, at least one channel at least partly integrated in the artificial contacting surface in connection with the at least one inlet for distributing the lubricating fluid to the surface of the artificial contacting surface. The medical device could be adapted to be operable by an operation device to receive the distributed lubricated fluid from a reservoir. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209383 | INTERVERTEBRAL CAGE AND IMPLANTING APPARATUS AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF - An intervertebral cage, an implanting apparatus and an operating method thereof are provided. The intervertebral cage for being implanted between two adjacent vertebral bodies includes a body and a connecting portion. The body has a lateral convex surface, an inclined surface, a lateral concave surface and a connecting surface connected sequentially. The connecting portion includes a main portion and a protrusion. The main portion connected to the connecting surface has a through hole. The protrusion is protruded from the main portion into the through hole to form first and second inner arc surfaces. The maximum width of the intervertebral cage is a distance between first and second lines. The first and second lines are substantially parallel to a tangent line of the lateral convex surface and the first line, respectively. The distance between the inclined surface and the first line decreases gradually along a direction away from the connecting portion. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209384 | Vertebral body replacement - The present invention involves a system and methods for assembling and implanting a vertebral body implant. The vertebral body implant includes, but is not necessarily limited to, an expandable core body and endplates that can be attached at both ends. Endplates of various shapes, sizes and angles are attachable to the expandable core so that a suitable vertebral body implant can be implanted between vertebrae. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209385 | Anterior intervertebral fusion with fixation system, device and method - A system, device, and method are disclosed for anterior intervertebral fusion with fixation. An intervertebral fusion with fixation device includes a spacer configured to fit into a disc space between plural vertebrae, the spacer including through holes between and through plural sidewalls. A first fixating element is rigidly preloaded in a first portion of the spacer along a first linear trajectory. A second fixating element is rigidly preloaded in a second portion of the spacer along a second linear trajectory. An integrated drill and screwdriver instrument is adapted to extend through a cannula of the first fixating element and second fixating element and penetrate the vertebra. The instrument is further adapted to drive the head of the first fixating element and second fixating element into the vertebra and lock the first fixating element and second fixating element with respect to the spacer to prevent extrusion from the spacer. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209386 | EXPANDABLE INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANTS AND INSTRUMENTS - Systems for interbody fusion of adjacent bone portions may include an expanding implant and related instruments. An expanding implant may be formed as a linkage which is movable between a compact configuration and an expanded configuration. A shaft of the implant may increase and decrease in length to move between the compact and expanded configurations, and an implant width perpendicular to the length may be increased in the expanded configuration. The implant width may increase more in a first direction than a second direction opposite the first direction. An inserter instrument may releasably grasp the spacer and transform the implant between the compact and expanded configurations. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209387 | Methods and Systems for Repairing an Intervertebral Disc Using a Transcorporal Approach - The invention includes a system and methods for performing surgery on a spinal disc. The system includes an implantable bone plate with an access port to accommodate a bone cutting device, a spinal repair device insertable through the access port of the bone plate configured to occupy a surgically-formed vertebral channel from an anterior surface of the host vertebral body to a site central to an end plate of the host vertebral body, a trajectory control sleeve engageable to the bone plate to direct the trajectory of a cutting device, and a cutting device engageable within the trajectory control sleeve. Methods are directed to forming a vertebral channel and restoring the vertebral body and disc with devices that both repair the bone and the disc. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209388 | Systems and Methods for Spinal Fusion - A system and method for spinal fusion comprising a spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction releasably coupled to an insertion instrument dimensioned to introduce the spinal fusion implant into any of a variety of spinal target sites. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209389 | ARTIFICIAL DISC REPLACEMENT DEVICE - An artificial disk replacement device includes opposing plate members with a pivoting assembly disposed therebetween. The pivoting assembly allows the plate members to pivot relative to each other in a first direction, but inhibit movement of the plate members in a second direction. The plate members may be installed prior to installing the pivoting assembly. An installation tool for use with the artificial disk replacement device is also disclosed. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209390 | IMPLANT FOR BONE AND CARTILAGE RECONSTRUCTION - The aim of the invention is to restore the mobility of an articular end ( | 2012-08-16 |
20120209391 | MODULAR PROSTHESIS - Modular prosthesis components having first and second relief patterns, the first relief pattern being complementary to the second relief pattern such that a component having the first relief pattern may seat fully on and in register with a component having the second relief pattern. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209392 | ADJUSTABLE REVERSE SHOULDER PROSTHESES - Adjustable reverse shoulder prostheses are disclosed herein. A glenoid assembly includes a glenoid plate configured for fixation to a glenoid bone for a reverse shoulder prosthesis; a glenosphere configured for connection to the glenoid plate; and an adjustment plate, wherein the adjustment plate has a connection for directly engaging the glenosphere, and wherein the adjustment plate has an articulation for directly engaging the glenoid plate at a variable angular orientation. During a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty method, a glenoid plate is fixated to a glenoid bone; an adjustment plate, configured for interfacing with both the glenoid plate and a glenosphere, is locked to the glenoid plate, wherein the adjustment plate is configured for angular orientation or positional change relative to the glenoid plate; a glenosphere is connected to the adjustment plate; and an angular orientation and position of the glenosphere relative to the fixated glenoid plate is independently adjusted. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209393 | PATELLAR PROSTHESES AND INSTRUMENTATION - A prosthetic patellar implant has a posterior articulation surface and an anterior attachment surface. The anterior attachment surface has a medial attachment surface and a lateral attachment surface. The medial and lateral attachment surfaces can be planar and angled relative to one another, meeting at a common intersection medially offset from the sagittal centerline of the implant. The medial and lateral attachment surfaces can include convexities. The anterior attachment surface can have one or more pegs and/or recesses. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209394 | Patient-Adapted and Improved Articular Implants, Designs and Related Guide Tools - Methods and devices are disclosed relating improved articular models, implant components, and related guide tools and procedures. In addition, methods and devices are disclosed relating articular models, implant components, and/or related guide tools and procedures that include one or more features derived from patient-data, for example, images of the patient's joint. The data can be used to create a model for analyzing a patient's joint and to devise and evaluate a course of corrective action. The data also can be used to create patient-adapted implant components and related tools and procedures. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209395 | TROCHLEAR GROOVE PROSTHESIS - A trochlear groove prosthesis includes a base plate and cap. The base plate and cap are shaped to correspond to the shape of the trochlear groove. A cut is made in the femur to remove the worn or damaged trochlear groove. The base plate is attached to the cut portion of the femur. The cap is mated with the base plate. The prosthesis and procedure provide a properly shaped prosthesis with a single planar cut of the femur. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209396 | ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANTS HAVING GRADIENT POLYMER ALLOYS - Orthopedic implants having a bone interface member and a water swellable IPN or semi-IPN with a stiffness, hydration, and/or compositional gradient from one side to the other and physically attached to the bone interface member. The invention also includes an orthopedic implant system including an implant that may conform to a bone surface and a joint capsule. The invention also includes orthopedic implants with water swellable IPN or semi-IPNs including a hydrophobic thermoset or thermoplastic polymer first network and an ionic polymer second network, joint capsules, labral components, and bone interface members. The invention also includes a method of inserting an orthopedic implant having a metal portion and a flexible polymer portion into a joint, including inserting the implant in a joint in a first shape and changing the implant from a first shape to a second shape to conform to a shape of a bone. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209397 | ACETABULAR CUP WITH ROTATABLE BEARING - A prosthetic hip implant system includes a prosthetic femoral component having a stem portion, a neck portion coupled to the stem portion and a part-spherical head coupled to the neck portion. An acetabular component is provided which has a housing, the housing having a part-spherical inner surface having an open end with a circumferential rim portion. The rim portion has a circumferential radially inwardly extending flange. A bearing element is mounted within the housing and has a part-spherical first outer surface region engaging the part-spherical inner surface of the housing. The part-spherical first outer surface region extends at a first radius from a center. The bearing element has a second part-spherical outer surface region extending a distance from the center less than the first radius to form a stop surface for contacting the rim. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209398 | ACETABULAR CUP WITH ROTATABLE BEARING MEMBER - A prosthetic hip implant system includes a prosthetic femoral component having a stem portion, a neck portion coupled to the stem portion and a part-spherical head coupled to the neck portion. An acetabular component is provided which has a housing, the housing having a part-spherical inner surface having an open end with a circumferential rim portion. The rim portion has a circumferential radially inwardly extending flange. A bearing element is mounted within the housing and has a part-spherical first outer surface region engaging the part-spherical inner surface of the housing. The part-spherical first outer surface region extends at a first radius from a center. The bearing element has a second part-spherical outer surface region extending a distance from the center less than the first radius to form a stop surface for contacting the rim. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209399 | Two-stage system and method for oxygenating and removing carbon dioxide from a physiological fluid - A two-stage system for oxygenating and removing carbon dioxide from a physiological fluid, including: a primary exchange module configured to receive a gas having oxygen therein and a carrier fluid having carbon dioxide therein. The primary exchange module is configured to transfer oxygen from the gas to the carrier fluid and transfer carbon dioxide from the carrier fluid to the gas to create an oxygen loaded carrier fluid and a carbon dioxide load gas. A secondary exchange module is configured to receive the oxygen loaded carrier fluid and a physiological fluid having the carbon dioxide therein. The secondary exchange module is configured to transfer the oxygen from the oxygen loaded carrier fluid to the physiological fluid and transfer carbon dioxide from the physiological fluid to the carrier fluid to create an oxygen loaded physiological fluid. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209400 | Medical Implant - A medical implant is disclosed, said implant having a flexible hollow body ( | 2012-08-16 |
20120209401 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DELIVERING AND POSITIONING SHEET-LIKE MATERIALS - An implant delivery system for delivering a sheet-like implant is disclosed. The device includes an implant spreader assembly disposed proximate the distal end of a delivery shaft. The implant spreader assembly includes a first arm and a second arm. The arms are coupled to the delivery shaft such that the first arm and second arm are moveable between a closed position and an open position. When the first and second arms are in the closed position, the arms extend generally in the longitudinal direction. When pivoting to the open position the distal end of each arm travels in a generally transverse direction to spread a sheet-like implant. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209402 | Implant for Tissue Engineering - The present invention relates to uses of resorbable medical implants that are metallic or semi-metallic, to produce soft tissues, membranous tissues, organs or organ parts within the body by fibrosis. The present invention further relates to such uses when the implants are made of specified alloys or metals, e.g. magnesium and its alloys. The present invention further relates to such uses when the implant is surface modified. The present invention further relates to such uses when the implant is pre-implanted at another part of the body before implantation into the target site. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209403 | VASCULARIZED TISSUE GRAFT - The present invention relates to improved methods for tissue engineering including tissue transplantation, augmentation and regeneration, and more particularly, a method for the generation of donor vascularized tissue suitable for use in tissue transplantation, augmentation and/or repair. The present invention enables the use of a support matrix in the generation of an anatomical construct comprising the donor vascular tissue. The support matrix may be devised such that it has dimensions of a size and shape adapted to simulate those of tissue to be transplanted, augmented and/or repaired. The methods and support matrix of the present invention may also find application as a means for delivering a desirable gene product to a subject. The method and support matrix of the present invention is conveniently made available in the form of a kit, for use in the field of tissue engineering. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209404 | AMPUTATION RESIDUUM DEVICE AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME - An apparatus and method for post amputation residuum maintenance and for preserving motion of the knee are provided. The apparatus includes an elongated shell having a longitudinal axis and defining a hollow interior closed at a distal end, the shell having an opening extending from a proximal end and adapted to receive a residuum into the interior of the shell, and a longitudinal slit having a circular aperture at each end. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209405 | Artificial Ankle-Foot System with Spring, Variable-Damping, and Series-Elastic Actuator Components - An artificial foot and ankle joint consists of a curved leaf spring foot member having a heel extremity and a toe extremity, and a flexible elastic ankle member that connects the foot member for rotation at the ankle joint. An actuator motor applies torque to the ankle joint to orient the foot when it is not in contact with the support surface and to store energy in a catapult spring that is released along with the energy stored in the leaf spring to propel the wearer forward. A ribbon clutch prevents the foot member from rotating in one direction beyond a predetermined limit position. A controllable damper is employed to lock the ankle joint or to absorb mechanical energy as needed. The controller and sensing mechanisms control both the actuator motor and the controllable damper at different times during the walking cycle for level walking, stair ascent, and stair descent. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209406 | Foot Plate Device for An Artificial Foot - A foot plate device is connected to a prosthetic lower leg of an artificial foot, and includes a flexible foot plate. The foot plate has a front plate section, an inclined intermediate plate section extending rearwardly and upwardly from a rear end of the front plate section, and a rear plate section extending rearwardly from a rear end of the intermediate plate section and generally parallel to the front plate section. The front plate section has at least one open-ended slot formed vertically therethrough and extending across the front plate section along a longitudinal direction of the foot plate, so as to divide the front plate section into two force-receiving plate portions. The rear plate section is connected with the prosthetic lower leg. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209407 | NETWORK DRIVEN ACTUATOR MAPPING AGENT AND BUS AND METHOD OF USE - A network driven actuator mapping agent is provided. A system includes a sensor configured to sense an event in a first environment. The system also includes an actuator configured to perform an action in a second environment. Moreover, the system further includes a mapping manager configured to map the sensed event to the actuator to provide a custom interaction in the second environment. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209408 | ALIGNMENT SOFTWARE PROCESS MANAGEMENT - A predictive alignment process for aligning coupled rotating shafts extending from a pair of adjacently located rotating machines. The process includes a step of monitoring the rotating machines to obtain physical characteristics that change during operation and could cause variance in alignment between a non-operating state and an operating state. The process would monitor changes in alignment and correlate the changes in physical characteristics and the operational alignment. The process can monitor and record environmental conditions proximate the rotating machinery and correlate the operational alignment and the environmental changes to provide predictive alignment directions used to guide an alignment engineer to align coupled shafts where the alignment is optimized when in operation. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209409 | CONTROLLING DEVICE AND CONTROLLING METHOD - A controlling device has a transient operating quantity upper limit value storing portion storing a transient quantity upper limit value, effective at the time of a transient response due to a change in a setting value. A steady operating quantity upper limit value storing portion storing an operating quantity upper limit value, effective at the time of a steady operation. A setting value change detecting portion detecting a change in the setting value A transient response completion detecting portion detecting the completion of a transient response; an operating quantity upper limit value switching portion setting the operating quantity upper limit value as the operating quantity upper limit value is used in control calculations in a time band from the point in time of the change of the setting value to the point in time of the completion of the transient response. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209410 | ASSEMBLY FOR DIAGNOSING A DEVICE WTIH MOVING PARTS - The invention is based on refining and developing an arrangement such that reliable diagnosis of the state and/or of the operating parameters of an apparatus can be performed inexpensively. | 2012-08-16 |
20120209411 | Abnormality Detection for Isolating a Control System - A mechanism is provided for effectively detecting an abnormality occurring in a control system and isolating the control system in which abnormality is acknowledged. The mechanism receives, from one or more control systems in the plurality of control systems, respective abnormality notifications for respective counter control systems to be monitored by the plurality of control systems. The mechanism adds up abnormality notifications transmitted from respective monitoring sections of the plurality of control systems so as to evaluate the reputation of a control system suspected to have an abnormality. The mechanism causes a protected area for operating the control system suspected to have an abnormality to restrict outbound traffic from at least the inside of the protected area, when an indication is identified that the control system is abnormal according to criteria from a result of the evaluation. | 2012-08-16 |