| 35th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights part 53 |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20090216195 | Surgical Needle or Introducer with Precise Penetrator - A penetrating instrument and method for piercing a desired tough or elastic tissue to a controlled and predetermined depth so as to avert any danger of damaging organs or tissues more deeply disposed. The instrument may comprise an introducer needle capable of independently penetrating bodily tissue and having a central hollow channel wherein a piercing needle is axially movable therein. The piercing needle may comprise a distal tip that is preferably fully disposed within the central hollow channel when the piercing needle is in a retracted position, but the piercing needle is capable of being deployed a predetermined distance beyond the distal end of the central hollow channel when disposed in an extended/piercing position. The introducer needle may be advanced through tissue until selected, problematic, or tough tissue is encountered. Subsequently, the piercing needle may be deployed and retracted, as necessary, to facilitate advancement of the instrument through the specific tissue. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216196 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ACCESSING A SINUS CAVITY - A system for accessing a sinus cavity of a subject includes an access tool configured to penetrate into the sinus cavity from a location external the subject. The system further includes an access sheath having a distal tubular portion, a lumen extending through the access sheath and the distal tubular portion and dimensioned to receive the access tool, the distal tubular portion comprising one or more cutting surfaces disposed about an external surface thereof. The one or more cutting surfaces may include a plurality of longitudinally oriented grooves for flutes disposed about the periphery of the distal tubular member. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216197 | Urinary Catheter Holder - A catheter holder is provided. The catheter holder comprises a cushioned platform for shielding a patent's skin from rigid portions of a catheter. The cushioned platforms comprises a central portion and two sections extending in opposite directions from the central portion, each section having a width that is less than a width of the central portion. The catheter holder further comprises a stretchable band extending from at least one of the two sections and a catheter locking mechanism disposed on the central portion of the cushioned platform, the locking mechanism being secured to the central portion at a first location and at least one tab for preventing rotational motion of the rigid portions of the catheter. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216198 | SYRINGE NEEDLE GUIDE INSERTION APPARATUS - A syringe and needle apparatus, comprising a needle having a sharpened beveled point at one end thereof and having a hollow bore extending from the sharpened end and through the needle to a hub end thereof. The syringe and needle apparatus further includes a syringe including a syringe barrel and a plunger, wherein the barrel possesses a forward hub end adapted to be secured to a hub member of a needle assembly. An identifiable marking is associated with the needle and/or the syringe, such that the identifiable marking ensures a proper and consistent needle position with respect to the sharpened beveled point for entry into a body. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216199 | Retained Needle Structure of Non-radial Operating Structure - A retained needle structure of a comprises a syringe needle with one or more fastening portion, a catheter with a cannula having a flexible tube, as well as a syringe cover with an aperture and gliding portion. The syringe needle has an inserting portion which is axially operated by users to enhance safety practice in clinical use. First design is the sliding slot has a deflected slant portion at the distal end. When the fastening portion is at the rear end of sliding slot, the injection needle is already inside of syringe cover. At the same point, body of the syringe needle is deflected laterally from the center of the syringe cover. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216200 | System for Introducing an Agent Into a Blood Vessel - The present invention relates to a system for introduction of an agent into a blood vessel (G), wherein the system ( | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216201 | Safety Needle Guard - A needle guard is disclosed. The needle guard includes a binding plate defining a multi-slot aperture adapted to receive a needle cannula therethrough. The needle guard also includes a biasing member for biasing the needle cannula within the multi-slot aperture, and a sensing arm connected to the binding plate. The sensing arm is adapted to contact a portion of the needle cannula, and is positionable for restricting movement of the needle cannula. The multi-slot aperture may include a first region having a first dimension, a second region having a second dimension, and optionally, a third region having a third dimension with the third dimension being smaller than the second dimension and the second dimension being smaller than the first dimension. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216202 | DELIVERY NEEDLE APPARATUS WITH SLEEVE - A delivery needle apparatus in which a sleeve is fitted over an exterior surface of a delivery needle and methods of manufacturing the same. An elongate medical device may be delivered through the interior of the delivery needle and out of an opening in the distal end of the delivery needle (i.e., the delivery opening). The sleeve may cover a proximal portion of the delivery opening and may align an elongate medical device during insertion and/or withdrawal through the delivery opening. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216203 | Intimacy medical needle designed for nerve stimulation through soft tissue and microadhesiolysis of adhered soft tissue and medical instrument using the same - A medical needle comprises a main body extending from a proximal end to a distal end, and a tip portion formed at the distal end of the body. The tip portion has a first inclined region, the cross-sectional area of which decreases toward the distal end and has a pair of surfaces inclined with an angle of 15° to 20°. The tip portion has a second inclined region extending from the first inclined region, the cross-sectional area of which decreases toward the distal end and has a pair of surfaces inclined with an angle of 30° to 45°. A tip is formed at the point of juncture of the pair of surfaces of the second inclined region. Tapered portions are formed on both sides of the first inclined region. Each tapered portion is inclined at an angle of 5° to 15°. Curved portions are formed at the points of juncture of the tip and the tapered portions. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216204 | AUTO-REPLENISHING, WOUND-DRESSING APPARATUS AND METHOD - Apparatus and methods to treat skin defects include a pump with reservoirs for a pressurization gas and a fluid, the fluid loaded at a factory and sealed or filled at point of use through a valve, septum, or the like. Upon activation, the pump generates a gas introduced into the gas reservoir, a movable wall of which displaces a movable wall of a fluid source, thus dispensing the fluid into the dressing to spread throughout irrespective of orientation of the dressing, maintaining a transport fluid (e.g. carrier) in the dressing and in contact with a skin defect being treated. Delivery may be periodic, constant, programmatically controlled, or manual. A dressing may maintain intimate contact, a transport fluid, and a controllable concentration of active ingredient against a skin defect. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216205 | FLUID WASTE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method for continuously aspirating and collecting fluid waste during a medical procedure without interruption for disposal of the collected fluid waste. The system includes a first reservoir in communication with a vacuum source which produces a negative pressure therein to draw the fluid waste from the patient using a suction hose connected thereto. A second reservoir is in communication with the first reservoir. A pump draws fluid from the first and second reservoirs while additional fluid waste continues to be drawn into the first reservoir through the fluid inlet. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216206 | Waste Management System - A waste management system includes a waste transport device and a waste collection device. The waste transport device includes a collection member with a distal end opening having a first cross-sectional area and a proximal end opening having a second cross-sectional area less than the first cross-sectional area, a retention cuff disposed about an outer surface of the collection member, and a first section having a lumen in fluid communication with a lumen of the collection member. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216207 | Biodegradable Barrier Film - The present invention discloses the construction of a biodegradable film that has barrier towards faeces odour and with no cracking sounds. This is obtained through using a substantially exfoliated silicate filler material, which is applied with water (evaporating under mild conditions) such that the softener of the biodegradable material can be maintained in the film. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216208 | Ostomy Carrier Device - The invention relates to an ostomy carrier device comprising, a base plate for securing the carrier device to a user's skin around a stoma, the base plate having an opening for receiving the stoma; a circumferential flange adapted for connection with and removal of an ostomy collecting bag, the circumferential flange having an opening for receiving a stoma; at least one connecting ring arranged between the circumferential flange and the base plate; and at least one point on said connecting ring being radially displaceable from a neutral position, where no force is applied to the connecting ring, to a displaced position when force is applied to said at least one point, and that when said at least one point is in the displaced position said at least one point will move towards the neutral position when no force is applied to said connecting ring. This reduces the risk of unwanted leakage and/or inconvenience to the user. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216209 | DOUBLE GUSSET CLOTH DIAPER ALONG WITH METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - A double gusset cloth diaper including an inner surface and an outer surface forming an hourglass shape, having a groin area proximate a center line of the reusable diaper and defining at least one recess therebetween. A fluid absorbent material is removably located in the recess through the opening. A first gusset is attached to the reusable diaper to form a first seal between the inner surface and the legs of the user. A second gusset is attached to the reusable diaper proximate the first gusset. The gussets are formed of an elastic material attached to the wrong side of the inner surface in a channel formed by stitching the inner surface to form channels. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216210 | ABSORBENT ARTICLE - The present invention relates to an absorbent article and a method for manufacturing the same. The absorbent article is made from an absorbent nonwoven fabric having a density from about 0.01 g/cc to about 0.05 g/cc. The absorbent nonwoven fabric has a first major surface and a second major surface. An apertured film is secured, e.g., by frictional engagement or with the use of an adhesive, to the first major surface of the nonwoven fabric. Optionally, a top layer may be secured to the second major surface of the nonwoven fabric. The absorbent article may be used as a wound covering or as a component of a variety of products such as adhesive bandages, disposable diapers and sanitary protection products. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216211 | Device for the treatment of a medical fluid - A device for the treatment of a medical fluid including a permanently installed fluid treatment machine and a cassette with fluid-carrying channels as well as an elastic matt placed between these two items. The matt channels are recessed in the elastic matt and are provided with slits. Via the matt channels, an optimised vacuum distribution takes place and the slits serve the purpose of removing air between the cassette and the fluid treatment machine. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216212 | VIAL ADAPTOR - A vial adaptor configured to be attached to a wide range of vial sizes, the adaptor being configured to penetrate the vial seal so that the contents of a vial can be removed. The vial adaptor can have a body portion, a penetrating portion projecting from the body portion and configured to be inserted through the seal and positioned within an interior space of the vial so that the contents of the vial can flow through an opening in the penetrating portion, an interface portion supported by the body portion that is connectable to a syringe or other medical implement, at least one deflectable tab configured be bendable by hand or to bend in response to contact with the vial. The vial can also have a filtered air vent to allow air to fill the vial as the contents thereof are being removed. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216213 | CONTAINER SYSTEM FOR RELEASABLY STORING A SUBSTANCE - The present invention provides a container system for releasably storing a substance. The container system includes a vial having a sample storage chamber and a piercing member for piercing a membrane in the lid, which membrane seals a substance within a reservoir in the lid until the membrane is pierced by the piercing member. The container system optionally includes a funnel. There is also provided a method and kit for use of such a container system. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216214 | Therapeutic agent treat to target system - A method of calculating doses of insulin for a person with diabetes and administering the calculated doses to the person with diabetes is presented. Blood glucose values are provided to an insulin dosing calculator which implements a Treat to Target protocol to calculate appropriate doses of insulin. An insulin dispenser is also provided to fill an insulin administration device with the calculated dose. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216215 | INSERTION DEVICE FOR INSERTION HEADS AND INFUSION SETS - An insertion device for applying an infusion set to the body of a patient, wherein the device has two actuation members which have to be actuated simultaneously to trigger an insertion movement by which a cannula of the infusion set is introduced into the body and wherein, in some embodiments, one of the actuation members is a securing slide including a contact face to be placed on the body of the patient, the securing slide being actuated by the insertion device being pressed, via the contact face, against the body of the patient. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216216 | METHODS OF PERFORMING A POWER INJECTION PROCEDURE - Methods of performing a power injection procedure are described. One method includes taking an x-ray of a subcutaneously implanted access port in a patient to determine whether the access port includes a radiographic feature indicating that the access port is suitable for flowing fluid at a rate of at least about 1 milliliter per second through the access port, identifying the indicating radiographic feature on the x-ray, and flowing a fluid through the access port at a rate of at least about 1 milliliter per second. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216217 | METHOD AND SYSTEMS FOR LASER TREATMENT OF PRESBYOPIA USING OFFSET IMAGING - An ophthalmic surgery system and method for treating presbyopia by performing ablative photodecomposition of the corneal surface. The offset image of a variable aperture, such as a variable width slit and variable diameter iris diaphragm, is scanned in a preselected pattern to perform ablative sculpting of predetermined portions of a corneal surface. The scanning is performed to ablate an optical zone sized to match the patient pupil with a peripheral transition zone outside the pupil. The shape of the ablated optical zone is different from the shape of the final optical correction on the anterior surface of the cornea. The optical zone corrects for near-vision centrally and far-vision peripherally. A movable image displacement mechanism enables radial displacement and angular rotation of the profiled beam exiting from the variable aperture. The invention enables wide area treatment with a laser having a narrower beam than the treatment area, and can be used in the treatment of many conditions in conjunction with presbyopia such as hyperopia, hyperopic astigmatism and irregular refractive aberrations. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216218 | PRESBYOPIA CORRECTION THROUGH NEGATIVE SPHERICAL ABERRATION - Devices, systems, and methods for treating and/or determining appropriate prescriptions for one or both eyes of a patient are particularly well-suited for addressing presbyopia, often in combination with concurrent treatments of other vision defects. High-order spherical aberration may be imposed in one or both of a patient's eyes, often as a controlled amount of negative spherical aberration extending across a pupil. A desired presbyopia-mitigating quantity of high-order spherical aberration may be defined by one or more spherical Zernike coefficients, which may be combined with Zernike coefficients generated from a wavefront aberrometer. The resulting prescription can be imposed using refractive surgical techniques such as laser eye surgery, using intraocular lenses and other implanted structures, using contact lenses, using temporary or permanent corneal reshaping techniques, and/or the like. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216219 | PHOTON THERAPY DEVICE - The invention provides a controller unit for controlling the emission of at least on photon emitted source, the controller unit includes a central processing unit pre-programmed with selectable pre-programmed photonic emission protocols. The photonic emission protocols include parameters for regulating photonic emission from photon emitting sources, with the protocols having a pulsed emission mode for about 30% of the duration of each protocol, and a continuous emission mode for about 70% of the duration of each protocol, with a pulse rate selected from a range of frequencies of between 120 Hz and 20,000 Hz when in the pulsed emission mode. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216220 | MEDICAL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - An instrument and method for tissue thermotherapy including an inductive heating means to generate a vapor phase media that is used for interstitial, intraluminal, intracavity or topical tissue treatment. In one method, the vapor phase media is propagated from a probe outlet to provide a controlled vapor-to-liquid phase change in an interface with tissue to thereby apply ablative thermal energy delivery. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216221 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REDUCTION OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to ablation catheter systems configured, for example, to ablate tissue adjacent an ostium of the pulmonary vein in a left atria of a heart. In one embodiment, an ablation catheter system includes a handle including an actuator and a catheter coupled to the handle defining a lumen extending through a length of the catheter, the catheter including a tip portion at a distal end thereof. The ablation catheter system may also include an electrode coupled to the handle with lines extending through the lumen of the catheter, the electrode being configured to be constrained within the tip portion of the catheter and configured to be deployed from the tip portion and self expand to an expanded configuration. With this arrangement, the electrode is configured to self expand to a conical configuration with a tip portion configured to be disposed within the pulmonary vein. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216222 | ELECTROSURGICAL METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TREATING FOOT ULCER - An electrosurgical method for treating foot ulcer, including diabetic foot ulcer, comprising: positioning an active electrode in close proximity to the ulcer, the active electrode being disposed on a distal end of an electrosurgical shaft; applying a high-frequency voltage potential difference across the active electrode and a return electrode in the presence of an electrically conductive fluid, the voltage potential being sufficient to generate plasma at the active electrode; and stimulating the ulcer with the active electrode to increase blood flow, remove unhealthy tissue and induce the body's natural healing response. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216223 | ELECTROSURGICAL METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TREATING FOOT ULCER - An electrosurgical method for treating foot ulcer, including diabetic foot ulcer, comprising: positioning an active electrode in close proximity to the ulcer, the active electrode being disposed on a distal end of an electrosurgical shaft; applying a high-frequency voltage potential difference across the active electrode and a return electrode in the presence of an electrically conductive fluid, the voltage potential being sufficient to generate plasma at the active electrode; and stimulating the ulcer with the active electrode to increase blood flow, remove unhealthy tissue and induce the body's natural healing response. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216224 | ELECTROSURGICAL METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TREATING FOOT ULCER - An electrosurgical method for treating foot ulcer, including diabetic foot ulcer, comprising: positioning an active electrode in close proximity to the ulcer, the active electrode being disposed on a distal end of an electrosurgical shaft; applying a high-frequency voltage potential difference across the active electrode and a return electrode in the presence of an electrically conductive fluid, the voltage potential being sufficient to generate plasma at the active electrode; and stimulating the ulcer with the active electrode to increase blood flow, remove unhealthy tissue and induce the body's natural healing response. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216225 | THERMAL CAPSULOTOMY TOOL AND SYSTEM - A system and tool for performing a capsulotomy procedure. The system includes an air pressure unit, a capsulotomy and movement control unit providing electrical current and movement control, and a capsulotomy tool, and an extendable-retractable burning element coupled to the tool. A capsulotomy and movement control unit provides electrical current to the burning element and movement control for extending and retracting the burning element. When the burning element is in a flattened, retracted configuration, the tip of the tool can be inserted through a relatively small corneal incision. Then, the burning element is opened to a circular, extended configuration, allowing a capsulotomy by applying an electrical pulse to the burning element. Optionally, predefined points of weakness allow removal of the tool should breakage occur during surgery. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216226 | ELECTROSURGICAL METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TREATING FOOT ULCER - An electrosurgical method for treating foot ulcer, including diabetic foot ulcer, comprising: positioning an active electrode in close proximity to the ulcer, the active electrode being disposed on a distal end of an electrosurgical shaft; applying a high-frequency voltage potential difference across the active electrode and a return electrode in the presence of an electrically conductive fluid, the voltage potential being sufficient to generate plasma at the active electrode; and stimulating the ulcer with the active electrode to increase blood flow, remove unhealthy tissue and induce the body's natural healing response. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216227 | ELECTROSURGICAL METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TREATING FOOT ULCER - An electrosurgical method for treating foot ulcer, including diabetic foot ulcer, comprising: positioning an active electrode in close proximity to the ulcer, the active electrode being disposed on a distal end of an electrosurgical shaft; applying a high-frequency voltage potential difference across the active electrode and a return electrode in the presence of an electrically conductive fluid, the voltage potential being sufficient to generate plasma at the active electrode; and stimulating the ulcer with the active electrode to increase blood flow, remove unhealthy tissue and induce the body's natural healing response. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216228 | Surgical operating apparatus - A surgical operating apparatus includes a sheath having a distal end portion and a proximal end portion, a shaft-shaped probe body which is inserted in the sheath and has a distal end portion and a proximal end portion, and in which ultrasonic is transmitted, a probe distal end portion which is provided at the distal end portion of the probe body and constitutes a first electrode section which is one of bipolar electrodes, and a jaw which is rotatably supported on the distal end portion of the sheath, has an engaging surface which is engaged with the probe distal end portion, and has a second electrode section which is the other of the bipolar electrodes, wherein the jaw includes, at a distal end portion of the engaging surface for engagement with the probe distal end portion, a distal end chip which tolerates a positional displacement relative to the probe distal end portion when the jaw is engaged with the probe distal end portion. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216229 | Monocoque Jaw Design - A jaw member for use with an electrosurgical forceps includes a support member having a first surface and a pair of depending sides which extend therefrom forming a generally U-shaped configuration. The free end of the sides each including a flange which extends outwardly therefrom which is designed to attach to an electrically conductive plate such that the plate bridge the two flanges to enclose the U-shaped support member to form a box-like skeleton having a cavity defined therein. An insulative material is disposed within the cavity and an insulative cover is disposed about a periphery of the box-like support skeleton to insulate surrounding tissue during activation of the conductive plate. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216230 | PERCUTANEOUS PATELLAR OSTEOSYNTHESIS SYSTEM APPLICABLE TO DISLOCATED PATELLA FRACTURES - The present invention relates to a percutaneous patellar osteosynthesis system applicable to any type of fracture of the knee cap, formed by two arms that contain two multidirectional movable securing devices for fitting to any type of knee cap, in which the arms close in a parallel manner by means of a scissors closure mechanism in order to keep the fragments confined and secured by means of a “zipper” based on manual compression. The devices for securing the knee cap have antero-posterior, up/down and also lateral mobility in order to mobilize the fractured fragments and to achieve a reduction and a satisfactory knee cap joint congruence. The arms have slidable guides for placing the implant in any required direction in order to keep the fragments stable, the guides slide on the arms and the parallelism sought in this type of fixing is achieved without having to be based on manual calculation, the latter customarily being used in broad tissue dissection. The system achieves reduction and internal fixing by means of a minimally invasive technique and less tissue damage. The system also has guides for fitting cerclage wiring on an implant of any configuration, facilitating reduction and fixing of patellar fractures and the taking of X-rays with the system in place. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216231 | Pelvic Clamp - A pelvic clamp has a rail-like straight guide for two arms which are displaceable relative to one another along this straight guide and project from the straight guide and on each of the free ends of which an approximately tubular carrier for a tip intended for bone contact is provided. A locking device releasable using at least one handle is provided between the two parts displaceable relative to one another, namely between at least one of the arms and the straight guide. Preferably at least one of the arms preferably both arms, is or are capable of being folded or dismantled and thus shortened via at least one joint which can be fixed in a desired position and/or a plug connection. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216232 | MODULAR SEGMENTED INTRAMEDULLARY SYSTEM, APPARATUS AND METHODS - A modular implantable segmented intramedullary structure adapted to be received in the intramedullary canal of a bone configurable between a relatively flexible, bent configuration for implantation or extraction and a relatively rigid, straightened configuration for bone treatment. The segmented intramedullary structure comprises a plurality of interconnected segments with a first interface and a complementarily-shaped second interface such that the first interface of a segment cooperatively engages the second interface of an adjacent segment. The segments define a channel for a tensioning member to lock the structure in a compressed configuration. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216233 | BIOSTAPLES SUITABLE FOR WRIST, HAND AND OTHER LIGAMENT REPLACEMENTS OR REPAIRS - The disclosure describes implantable medical products, that include dry or partially hydrated biocompatible biostaples suitable for ligament repairs or replacements comprising collagen fibers that may be configured to expand in situ after implantation to frictionally engage a bone tunnel wall or bone sleeve to thereby affix the construct in the bone tunnel. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216234 | Spinal Access Systems and Methods - A system for accessing a spine from a curved postero-lateral approach may include a curved cannula positioned along a curved path from an opening in the skin to a location proximate the spine. The location may be at the L4-L5 vertebral level, and the curved path may lie in a plane oblique to the transverse, coronal and sagittal planes of the spine, and avoid the iliac crest. A targeting post may be inserted adjacent the spine to determine the location, and a guide member may be inserted to establish the curved path. A micrometer assembly may adjust a cephalad-caudal displacement between the post and the guide member. One or more intermediate cannulas may be inserted over the guide member to dilate tissues prior to insertion of the main cannula. An interbody device may be implanted into an intervertebral space through the cannula. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216235 | DRILL BIT AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING A DRILL BIT - A drill bit including a shaft which has a pyramidal shaped end defining a drill tip with a plurality of edges defining the pyramidal shape. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216236 | DEVICE FOR ORIENTING THE TIBIAL TUNNEL POSITION DURING AN ACL RECONSTRUCTION - A device for positioning a tibial tunnel during ACL reconstruction is provided. The device includes a portion insertable into a pre-formed opening in the femur. Also provided is a method for positioning a tibial tunnel during ACL reconstruction. The method includes the steps of forming an opening in a femur bone, inserting a portion of a device into the opening, and using the device to position an opening in a tibia bone. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216237 | Instrument for Moving a Vertebra - The invention concerns an instrument for moving a vertebra ( | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216238 | Tools for performing less invasive orthopedic joint procedures - A tool set for preparing a joint, inserting an implant or removing an implant from a joint in an open or less invasive procedure generally comprises a set of nested tools, pin guides, jigs, and/or immobilization elements. The nested tool set comprises at least one pin and at least one cannulated tool. In some embodiments, the cannula can comprise tangs that project from the distal end of the cannula. The tangs can be offset such that drilling would remove different amounts of bone relative to drilling through a centered drill guide. The cannulated tool kit generally can comprise at least one tool guide/cannula, drill bits/reamer, syringe, and/or inserter. With the pin positioned into the joint, at least one cannula is positioned over and around the pin. The channel of the cannula guides the other tools into the joint. A plurality of cannulae in a nested arrangement can be used to afford selectively sized channels for tools and/or implants based on selected cannulae configuration. Jigs can be used to facilitate the procedure. Multiple implants can be placed to immobilize the joint. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216239 | Positioning Device for a Prosthesis Device and System Therefore - A positioning device ( | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216240 | SURGICAL INSERTION DEVICE FOR USE IN ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY - A device, and a method for using it, for implanting a cup liner within a cup attached to the acetabulum of the hip bone, during hip replacement surgery. In a preferred embodiment, the device includes a main body with proximal and distal ends. The distal end may terminate in a liner seat and an engaging mechanism. Initially, the engaging mechanism may be coupled to the cup liner; a slight retraction of the engaging mechanism relative to the main body and liner seat may be sufficient to properly seat the cup liner on the liner seat. The device is now used to place the cup liner within the cup. The engaging mechanism may again be retracted to disengage the cup liner from the engaging mechanism, without dislodging the cup liner from the cup. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216241 | Instrumentation and Methods for Inserting an Intervertebral Disc Prosthesis - Embodiments of instrumentation and methods are provided for the insertion of intervertebral disc prosthesis. The instrumentation of the embodiments comprises a guide comprising at least two lateral faces, at least one upper plate, at least one lower plate, at least one retainer, a cage defining an insertion axis for the prosthesis, and an angle adjuster adapted to adjust an angle formed by the insertion axis and an antero-posterior sagittal axis; and at least one separator sized to maintain a gap between the upper vertebra and the lower vertebra. Methods for implanting a prosthesis using the disclosed instrumentation comprise implanting a pin in the median sagittal axis of a vertebrae; measuring the dimensions of the intervertebral space; choosing the prosthesis; choosing the guide; adjusting the angle adjuster; positioning the guide adjacent to the intervertebral space; inserting the prosthesis into the guide; and inserting the prosthesis into the intervertebral space. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216242 | Kirschner wire clamp - A Kirschner wire clamp is used to reliably and simply fix bone plates to a bone surface. The wire clamp consists of a tubular guide member for receiving a Kirschner wire. The guide member has a bore surrounded by a wall and a base for engaging a hole in a bone plate such as a bone screw hole. A spring clamp is mounted adjacent an open end of the tubular guide bore opposite the base which clamps the Kirschner wire to the guide member after the wire has been fixed in bone. The Kirschner wire clamp can be aligned simply and reliably by the guide member, and by the clamping mechanism, can be reliably fixed to the Kirschner wire. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216243 | GUIDE FOR CREATING FEMORAL TUNNEL DURING ACL RECONSTRUCTION - A guide for positioning a guide wire on a femur to allow a tunnel to be formed in the femur along the guide wire is provided. The guide includes an elongated body having proximal and distal ends, and a distal tip formed on the distal end of the elongated body, the distal tip having a diameter substantially similar in size to the diameter of the desired resultant femoral tunnel, wherein the elongated body and the distal tip are cannulated to receive the guide wire. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216244 | Two Stage Plunger for Intraocular Lens Injector - A plunger ( | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216245 | Flexible Hollow Spine With Locking Feature And Manipulation Structure - An apparatus is disclosed for introducing surgical instruments into a body cavity. The apparatus includes a series of interconnected segments configured to pivot relative to one another allowing an end effector to be steered into position. The apparatus is also capable of achieving a rigidized state wherein the interconnected segments are in high frictional contact with one another providing a stable platform for the manipulation of tissue. Tensile elements are attached to the end effector and a control member such that an operator may use the same control member to both rigidize the instrument and also to thereafter control the end effector. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216246 | ULTRASOUND CATHETER DEVICES AND METHODS - Ultrasound catheter devices and methods provide enhanced disruption of blood vessel obstructions. Generally, an ultrasound catheter device includes an elongate flexible catheter body with one or more lumens, an ultrasound transmission member extending longitudinally through the catheter body lumen and a distal head coupled with the transmission member and positioned adjacent the distal end of the catheter body for disrupting occlusions. A proximal housing of the catheter device may include one or more features for dissipating heat from the ultrasound transmission wire, such as a fluid inlet aperture for passage of fluid, use of heat conductive materials in the proximal housing, surface features to increase the housing's surface area, heat conductive members disposed adjacent the transmission member and the like. Various irrigation fluids may be used, such as cooled, oxygen supersaturated or lubricious fluids. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216247 | Sighting instrument for determining the mechanical axis of the femur - A device for the determination of a plane containing the mechanical axis of the femur includes a mechanical member of articulated and or/sliding elements for the determination and memorization of two positions in space (F | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216248 | MANIPULATOR - A manipulator includes a hollow joint shaft, wires extending through the joint shaft, pulleys mounted on an end of the joint shaft, for imparting a drive force to the wires, a distal-end working unit mounted on another end of the joint shaft, for being actuated by the wires, and a sealing member for preventing liquid such as blood from flowing from the distal-end working unit through the joint shaft to a connector. The sealing member has holes defined therein, and the wires are slidably inserted through the holes. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216249 | MANIPULATOR - A manipulator has a treating portion, a driving portion which are connected by a connecting portion, a first pulley on which a first wire which passes through inside of the connecting portion and is driven by the driving portion is hung for rotation, and a main shaft portion which rotatably supports the treating portion around a main shaft along a direction different from a first rotor axis that the first pulley rotates, one end portion of which is fixed to the first pulley. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216250 | Device and Method for Carrying Material Through Tissue - A material carrying device comprising a delivery element having a tapered distal end for penetrating target tissue and a central channel for housing an axially movable carrier element. The delivery element may further comprise an actuating member for both advancing the carrier element to an extended position and withdrawing the carrier element to a retracted position. The carrier element may be composed of any known shape memory material whose native shape will influence the trajectory of the carrier element upon its extension beyond the distal tip of the delivery element. The exit path of the carrier element from the delivery element may also influence the carrier element's trajectory. The scope of the present invention further comprises both a method of carrying material through tissue as well as a providing a shape memory fastener allowing for fixation where only one side of a tissue is accessible. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216251 | Surgical suturing device, method and tools used therewith - A suture insertion device is provided for positioning a suture inside a layer of subcutaneous tissue from a remote access point. A tether insertion device is provided for positioning a tether within subcutaneous tissue for operating on the suture from a remote access point. The suture insertion device and the tether insertion device cooperate to form the suture into a tissue-supporting sling useful for performing various surgical procedures, including but not limited to plastic surgery such as mid face lifts, neck lifts, brow lifts, under eye lifts, breast lifts, and organ repositioning. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216252 | A COUPLING DEVICE ENABLED BY MECHANICAL CONTINUITY OF CELLULAR SCAFFOLDING ACROSS TISSUE BOUNDARIES - A device and method for achieving load-bearing living-tissue-to-living-tissue coupling comprises a myriad of fine fibers extending directly from within the substance of one tissue to within the substance of the other tissue. Fibers are similar in cross-sectional area to, or smaller than, host tissue cells. This enables fibers to provide a scaffolding into which proliferating cells of each tissue may grow to form a collagenous matrix enveloping individual fibers and transferring mechanical loads between each tissue's extracellular matrix and the fibers. Also taught are devices and methods (1) for delivering bundles of independent fibers into soft or hard tissue, (2) for transiently reducing tissue drag during insertion, (3) for temporarily stabilizing position during tissue ingrowth, and (4) for spatial distribution of fiber bending stress in the event of a hard tissue. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216253 | Methods and Apparatus for Treating Ventral Wall Hernia - This invention relates to a surgical implant system for repairing abdominal hernias and is particularly useful for repairing ventral hernias. In particular, the present invention relates to an implant, a delivery device and a method for implanting the implant. The implant is implanted in a substantially slackened condition relative to the ventral wall. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216254 | Device for Preventing Dilation of an Anatomical Lumen or Body Object - A novel device is provided for the treatment or prevention of a disorder of a patient characterized by regaining lost weight after RNY surgery as a result of dilation failure of the gastro-jujunal stoma. One embodiment the device involves inserting an envelope-like device into the patient's body during or post RNY surgery. Once inserted, the surgeon positions the device to substantially surround the RNY pouch. The device automatically applies a localized compressive force against the proximal Roux limb (jujunum), proportional to the degree of over—fullness of the Roux pouch. Thus a sphincter-like replacement for the pyloric valve is created that substantially reduces the efferent flow of chyme through the g-j stoma, thereby substantially preventing traumatic dilating pressure forces from being imposed on the g-j stoma. The present invention thus uniquely provides a safe and reliable means to ensure the long-term success of the RNY procedure. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216255 | CONTROLLING PRESSURE IN ADJUSTABLE RESTRICTION DEVICES - Methods and devices are provided for regulating a hydraulic restriction system. In general, the methods and devices can allow for non-invasive pressure control using a flow control mechanism. The flow control mechanism can be disposed between an implantable restriction device and a fluid source and include an adjustable, variably-sized fluid communication member in fluid communication with the restriction device and the fluid source. The geometry of the fluid communication member can control a rate of fluid flow between the restriction device and the fluid source, thereby also regulating a rate at which a pressure of fluid within the restriction device changes. Alternatively, the fluid flow control mechanism can include a biasing mechanism that can control the rate of fluid flow between the restriction device and the fluid source. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216256 | METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR PREVENTION OF ADJUSTABLE GASTRIC BAND SLIPS - A gastric restrictive device positionable around a human stomach to limit the flow of food therethrough is provided with structure for facilitating suturing of the gastric restrictive device to the stomach and thereby preventing movement of the gastric restrictive device relative to the stomach. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216257 | SURGICAL TREATMENT APPARATUS - A surgical treatment apparatus includes a first unit including a first vibration transmission member and a first holding member, a second unit including a second vibration transmission member, a second holding member, and an elastic member provided between the second vibration transmission member and the second holding member, configured to be deformed in accordance with a relative arrangement of the second vibration transmission member and the second holding member with respect to the axial direction to give the second vibration transmission member an elastic force in the axial direction, and an adjustment coupling mechanism to couple the first unit and the second unit with each other, arrange the first vibration transmission member and the second vibration transmission member coaxially to abut the end portion of the first vibration transmission member and the end portion of the second vibration transmission member against each other, and adjust a relative arrangement of the first holding member and the second holding member with respect to the coaxial direction to be constant to adjust a deformation amount of the elastic member to be constant. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216258 | MEDICAL HAND ATTACHMENT - A hand-held medical instrument, in particular a surgical cutting instrument, preferably for use in ophthalmology, with a housing that serves a grip, and with a tool holder that is provided in particular for a knife and is arranged so as to be displaceable in the housing via an actuation member, tool being able to be displaced from a storage position in the housing to a working position outside of the housing by actuation of the actuating member, is characterized in that the housing has openings in the housing wall, at least in the area of the tool located in the storage position. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216259 | Insertion Needle and Lancet With the Same - The present invention relates to a puncture needle ( | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216260 | INTERLOCKING HANDLE - Described herein are interlocking surgical tools (e.g., trocars, cannula, etc.) that form a composite surgical device having a handle and a finger grip region that are separate, when the component portions are interlocked. In particular, these tools are configured so that the separate handle and finger grip regions are perpendicular to each other. This arrangement may provide benefits in manipulating these devices. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216261 | Device and method for treating a vessel - A device and method for treating bodily diseases and/or conditions, for example, varicose veins, tumors and aneutisms including for example insertion of a blocking device toward a target destination using a catheter and delivery of sclerosing or other agents to the vessel while maintaining minimal, for example zero pressure in the treatment area. The blocking device may prevent treatment materials, embolisms, debris etc., from entering the upstream section of vessel. The blocking device may include, for example, a cap or other concave shape and may be expandable or extendible towards the vessel walls. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216262 | GASTRIC RETAINING DEVICES AND METHODS - Methods, devices and systems facilitate gastric retention of a variety of therapeutic devices. devices generally include a support portion for preventing the device from passing through the pyloric valve or esophagus wherein a retaining member may optionally be included on the distal end of the positioning member for further maintaining a position of the device in the stomach. Some embodiments are deliverable into the stomach through the esophagus, either by swallowing or through a delivery tube or catheter. Some embodiments are fully reversible. Some embodiments self-expand within the stomach, while others are inflated or otherwise expanded. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216263 | OCCLUSION DEVICE - An occlusion device for occluding a body vessel is provided. The occlusion device has a tubular expandable body having an interior side and an exterior side. A restricting ring is located around the exterior side of the tubular expandable body and collapses a portion of the tubular expandable body. The occlusion device is configured to move between an expanded state for occlusion within a body vessel and a collapsed state for delivery or retrieval of the device, and the device is configured to open radially to define the expanded state and to collapse along the longitudinal axis to define the collapsed state. A delivery assembly for an occlusion device and a method of constructing an occlusion device are also disclosed. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216264 | IMPLANTABLE CLOSURE APPARATUS AND METHODS - Implantable closure apparatus and methods for sealing or closing openings at internal body locations. The apparatus and methods may involve the delivery and attachment of a patch, patch and plug, or plug only to seal or close the opening. The closure apparatus and methods may be used to close a patent foramen ovale (PFO). | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216265 | Tissue fasteners and related deployment systems and methods - Surgical tissue fasteners and related deployment systems and methods are disclosed. A tissue fastener used to join multiple tissue layers includes a first member, a second member, and a connecting member connecting the first and second members. In some embodiments, the first and second members are configured to expand from a delivered state to a deployed state in which the fastener secures the tissue layers together. Other tissue fastener embodiments include means for applying a substantially constant force on the tissue layers and/or means for adjusting a length of the connecting member between the first and second members. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216266 | TISSUE CLOSING DEVICE - A tissue closing device includes a closure configured to close a hole penetrating a tissue membrane. The closure has a seal part for covering a hole penetrating a tissue membrane and a peripheral part of the hole from one surface side of the tissue membrane, and a deformable deformation part. The tissue closing device also comprises an arrangement device which removably retains the closure and closes the hole with the closure so as to arrange the closure in a living organism. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216267 | CLOSURE DEVICE WITH RAPIDLY DISSOLVING ANCHOR - Closure devices with a rapidly dissolving anchor, systems delivering closure devices, and methods for making and using the same. An example closure device for closing an opening in a body lumen may include a plug, a rapidly dissolving anchor, and a suture coupling the plug to the anchor. The rapidly dissolving anchor may be configured to dissolve within the body lumen within about 30 days or less. At least a portion of the plug may be disposed adjacent an exterior surface of the body lumen. At least a portion of the rapidly dissolving anchor may be disposed within the body lumen. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216268 | SUTURE AND SUTURING TECHNIQUE FOR FACILITATING KNOTTING - A suture for facilitating tying of knots includes a length of suture material fixed to a needle. At least part of the length of the suture material is resiliently biased to a coiled state which is straightenable under applied tension but which returns to its coiled state when released. In use, part of the suture material is drawn through a region of tissue so that portions of the suture material lie on opposite sides of the tissue. A knot is then formed in the suture material by passing one of the portions through at least one resiliently-formed coil formed in the other of the portions, and pulling tight the suture material. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216269 | MULTICOMPONENT FUSED SUTURE LOOP AND APPARATUS FOR MAKING SAME - A fused loop of an elongated material, such as a surgical suture, and apparatus for making the loop are described. Portions of one or more segments of elongated material may be fused in an ultrasonic welding process to form a welded joint. Multiple materials each with different a different melting point may be used for one or more fibers within the elongated material. The elongated material may include a sheath, which may be used to protect a core within the elongated material. A fused region of the fused loop may be formed when a material with a lower melting temperature, compared to one or more other materials in the elongated material, is caused to melt. A related ultrasonic welding apparatus may include a temperature sensor for control of the welding process. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216270 | FIXABLE SUTURE ANCHOR PLATE AND METHOD FOR TENDON-TO-BONE REPAIR - A fixable suture anchor plate including an anchor plate having a tunnel aperture that aligns with one or more bone tunnels formed in the bone. The anchor plate also includes one or more suture passages that align with one or more grooves formed along an edge of the anchor plate to permit passing a suture through the anchor plate after the anchor plate is fixed to the bone. The anchor plate also includes a screw hole that allows the anchor plate to be fixed to a bone with a screw. A method for tendon-to-bone repair includes sewing a medial row of stitches proximate to a medial line of tendon-to-bone attachment and securing the suture to the anchor plate through a bone tunnel and sewing a lateral row of stitches along a lateral line of tendon-to-bone attachment and securing the second suture to the anchor plate. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216271 | Device and Method for Securing Sutures and the Like - A bandage and method for securing a tension member comprising a central body and a plurality of tabs disposed about the central body. A tension member may be disposed across or through a slit or aperture of the central body. A body adhesive on the lower surface of the central body may secure the bandage to the patient. The tension member may then be pulled across the upper surface of the central body and a first tab may be folded over and adhered to the tension member and central body. The tension member may then be pulled back across the first tab and a second tab may be folded over and adhered to the tension member and first tab. Likewise, the tension member may then be pulled back across the second tab and a third tab may be folded over and adhered to the tension member and second tab. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216272 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TRANS-LAMINA SPINAL FIXATION - A method of providing spinal stabilization is provided herein. More specifically, the method includes positioning a plurality of fixation assemblies within a plurality of vertebrae in a trans-lamina orientation wherein each fixation assembly includes a proximal portion configured to securely receive a stabilization element (e.g., a stabilization rod). The proximal portions of the various fixation assemblies can be aligned so as to secure at least one stabilization element in a desired position (e.g., along and above a midline of the patient's spine, adjacent and parallel to the midline). A system for providing spinal stabilization is also provided which utilizes trans-lamina delivery and positioning of fixation assemblies within target vertebrae thereby providing stronger fixation and a significant reduction in associated tissue damage. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216273 | CURVED FACET JOINT FIXATION ASSEMBLY AND ASSOCIATED IMPLANTATION TOOL AND METHOD - The present disclosure relates to a curved facet joint fixation assembly and an associated implantation tool and method. The curved facet joint fixation assembly includes an elongated curved shaft adapted to conform to various spinal morphologies. The implantation tool includes a bone fastening device with an angled lower end portion and a removable drive for cutting a hole and for driving the curved facet joint fixation assembly through the hole. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216274 | EXPANDABLE INTERSPINOUS PROCESS SPACER WITH LATERAL SUPPORT AND METHOD FOR IMPLANTATION - An interspinous process spacer and method of implanting same is provided for maintaining separation between adjacent spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae. The spacer has two lateral portions and a medial portion therebetween, the medial portion adapted to reside between the adjacent superior and inferior spinous processes in the deployed configuration to maintain separation therebetween. The lateral portions each comprise a superior lateral portion and an inferior lateral portion adapted to reside on the lateral side of the respective superior and inferior spinous process in the deployed configuration to maintain positioning of the interspinous process spacer between the two adjacent vertebrae. The lateral portions each comprise an expandable lateral member that is expandable from an insertion configuration to the deployed configuration, and at least one of the lateral portions includes within it a lateral support member configured to be deformable for the insertion configuration and expanded in the deployed configuration. The method includes introducing the spacer through a tubular delivery device to the region between the spinous processes and positioning therein, followed by retraction of the delivery device and expansion of the expandable lateral members and lateral support members. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216275 | FACET JOINT PROSTHESIS - A prosthetic implant for replacing a facet joint of a spinal motion segment includes a generally conical superior component adapted to be implanted at a surgically prepared site on a lower articular process of a cephalad vertebra of a spinal motion segment, and a cup-shaped inferior component adapted to be implanted at a surgically prepared site on a superior articular process of a caudad vertebra of the spinal motion segment. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216276 | INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT FOR LUMBOSACRAL JOINT - The invention relates to an implant for placing between the sacrum of a patient and the fifth lumbar vertebra. It comprises a connection bar ( | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216277 | POSTERIOR LUMBAR JOINT PROSTHESIS - There is provided a posterior lumbar joint prosthesis which includes prosthetic elements reproducing the movements of the joint facets and vertebral anchors which adapt to the variations in the anatomy of vertebra. In use, the prosthesis has lower and upper connectors on each side of the lumbar vertebra. The lower connectors are coupled with, and pivotably mounted onto, respective lower pedicular screws, and a member defining a member axis links lower and upper connectors on each side of the lumbar vertebra. Upon lateral flexion of one of the upper and lower vertebrae relative to the other, each lower connector is capable of multiaxis pivotable movement relative to the respective lower pedicular screws such that each member is capable to pivot with respect to (i) the axis of the lower screw, (ii) a first axis intersecting the lower screw and the lower connector, and/or (iii) an axis intersecting the above first axis and the lower screw, while the member can also move along the member axis. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216278 | Method and device for stabilization - A method and device for percutaneously mating a spinal connecting rod to spinal screws utilizing guide wires. Numerous embodiments are described whereby a connecting rod is passed over a guide wire through the skin and into the heads of spinal screws. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216279 | ARTIFICIAL FACET JOINT AND METHOD - An artificial facet joint includes a pair of connectors, each having a first device connecting member having structure for slidably engaging a rod, and a second device connecting member having an aperture for slidably engaging a screw. The first and second device connecting members are rotatably engaged to one another. A spinal implant and spinal implant screws are also provided. The first device connecting member of each connector is slidably engaged to the rod and the second device connecting member of each connector is slidably engaged to a respective one of the pair of spinal implant screws, whereby the screws can be engaged to the pedicles on one lateral side of adjacent vertebrae and the rod and connectors will limit movement of the joint. Another artificial facet joint can be provided on another lateral side of the adjacent vertebrae. A transverse member can be connected between the rods on each lateral side of the vertebrae. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216280 | Methods for Correction of Spinal Deformities - A method of treating a spinal column shape deformation includes fixing at least two fixation screw assemblies to respective vertebrae, sliding a rod between the arm extensions on each of the fixation screw assemblies, swinging the channels of the screw assemblies relative to the fixation screws so that the channels become less inclined to the axes of the fixation screws, and so that the rod is located generally posteriorly of the spinal column, locking the channel against swinging relative to the screw, rotating the rod about its axis relative to at least one of the channels, and locking the rod against movement relative to the channel. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216281 | INSTALLATION SYSTEMS FOR SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for implantation of a spinal stabilization system includes a vertebral anchor having a top portion. The top portion has a perimeter and a first engaging element. The first engaging element has a first longitudinal axis that is generally parallel to a second longitudinal axis of the top portion. The perimeter extends around the second longitudinal axis. The system also includes a driving tool that has a second engaging element that is configured to cooperate with the first engaging element to substantially restrict rotation of the driving tool relative to the top portion about the second longitudinal axis. The first engaging element is configured to slidably receive the second engaging element in a direction along the first longitudinal axis, and the second engaging element is configured to extend substantially within the perimeter of the top portion. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216282 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR RETAINING A PLATE TO A SUBSTRATE WITH AN ASYNCHRONOUS THREAD FORM - The present disclosure provides systems and methods for retaining a plate, such as a cervical plate, to a substrate, such as bone, through a locking screw with upper asynchronous threads and lower cancellous threads. The present invention utilizes the locking screw with cancellous-type threads to draw the screw into the substrate. The screw is operable to retain a plate to the substrate and is configured to gall and lock to the plate through the upper threads which are out-of-phase with corresponding threads on the plate thereby preventing reverse threading or backing out of the screw. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216283 | BLOCKING DEVICE FOR A BROKEN OR CRACKED BONE - Locking mechanism for a broken or fractured bone, comprising a medulla nail with a proximal portion which may incorporate perforations and a distal portion, and at least one locking aid, characterised in that the distal portion has a surface structure which is designed so that the bone can be stabilised by means of the medulla nail due to the at least one locking aid acting on the surface structure of the nail through the bone from outside, preferably preventing it from rotating and/or being subjected to axial stress. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216284 | BALLOON CANNULA SYSTEM FOR ACCESSING AND VISUALIZING SPINE AND RELATED METHODS - Balloon cannula systems may be used for accessing and visualizing the spine and related methods of treatment, including a forward-looking balloon system for creating a working space and the balloon system having atraumatic dissection capability to allow visualization in spine. The devices and methods described may be used, for example, to perform annulus repair, herniated disc excision, and denervation of neurological tissue; to dispense pharmacological agents and/or cell or tissue therapy agents; to diagnose disc degeneration and bony degeneration, spinal stenosis, and nucleus decompression, and to perform disc augmentation. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216285 | Bone Resurfacing System and Method - The present disclosure relates to bone resurfacing. One embodiment includes a method for preparing an implant site in bone, comprising establishing a first working axis extending from said bone; establishing a second working axis extending from said bone, the second working axis is displaced from the first working axis; creating a first socket in the bone by reaming about the first working axis; and creating a second socket in the bone, adjacent the first socket, by reaming about the second working axis. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216286 | Methods and apparatus for neuromodulation and physiologic modulation for the treatment of obesity and metabolic and neuropsychiatric disease - The present invention teaches a method and apparatus for physiological modulation, including neural and gastrointestinal modulation, for the purposes of treating several disorders, including obesity, depression, epilepsy, and diabetes. This includes chronically implanted neural and neuromuscular modulators, used to modulate the afferent neurons of the sympathetic nervous system to induce satiety as well as to modulate the efferent neurons of the sympathetic nervous system to modulate metabolism, including metabolic rate. Furthermore, this includes neuromuscular stimulation of the stomach to effect baseline and intermittent smooth muscle contraction to increase gastric intraluminal pressure, which induces satiety, and stimulate sympathetic afferent fibers, including those in the sympathetic trunk, splanchnic nerves, and greater curvature of the stomach, to augment the perception of satiety. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216287 | STIMULATION METHOD FOR THE SPHENOPALATINE GANGLIA, SPHENOPALATINE NERVE, OR VIDIAN NERVE FOR TREATMENT OF MEDICAL CONDITIONS - A method is provided for surgically implanting a first electrode and a second electrode on or proximate to at least one of the sphenopalatine ganglia, the sphenopalatine nerves, or the vidian nerves located on different sides of a patient's face. One step of the method includes inserting the first electrode into a coronoid notch located on one side of the patient's face. A second electrode is inserted into a coronoid notch located on the other side of the patient's face. The first and second electrodes are then advanced on or proximate to first and second locations on different sides of the patient's face, respectively. Each of the first and second locations includes at least one of the sphenopalatine ganglia, the sphenopalatine nerves, or the vidian nerves. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216288 | FEEDBACK METHOD FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION WITH DETECTION OF GENERALIZED EFFERENCE COPY SIGNALS - Disclosed is a method for improving cognitive function or for improving coordination of function across a patient's cortical regions. The method includes applying electrical stimulation to at least a portion of the patient's subcortical structures involved in the generation and control of generalized efference copy signals. Internally generated movement of the patient is then detected and, in response to such internally generated movement, application of electrical stimulation is controlled. The method of the present invention has a number of benefits, including increasing flexibility in identifying targets for stimulation, improving the probability of successfully treating brain injury, and permitting patient biofeedback and self-regulation. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216289 | CARDIAC RHYTHM MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS USING MULTIPLE MORPHOLOGY TEMPLATES FOR DISCRIMINATING BETWEEN RHYTHMS - This document describes systems, devices, and methods that use multiple morphology templates for discriminating between rhythms, such as supraventricular tachyarrhythmias (SVTs) and ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VTs), for delivering a countershock in response to a VT episode, but withholding delivery of such a countershock in response to an SVT episode. In certain examples, the particular morphology used for storing morphological features is selected at least in part using a sensor-indicated activity level of a subject, or a metabolic need of the subject. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216290 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TREATING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION AND ATRIAL TACHYCARDIA - A method and device for treating an electrical problem in an organ, especially a heart, of a human or animal patient comprises atraumatically blocking the transmission of one or more electrical signals external to the organ. Nerve cell membranes near a cathode are depolarized while nerve cell membranes near an anode are hyperpolarized, inducing a DC conduction block. The method and device are especially suitable for treating atrial tachycardia where unwanted signals from at least one pulmonary vein and/or at least one fat pad are blocked within the construct of the heart. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216291 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING ELECTRIC EVENTS IN CHAMBERS OF A HEART - In a system and method for detecting electrical cardiac events, and a heart stimulator embodying such a system, cardiac events are detected in respective chambers of a heart by sensing electrical signals in at least two different chambers of the heart and forming a difference signal from the sensed signals, and using the difference signal to automatically distinguish between events originating from one of the chambers and events originating in another of the chambers. At least one of the sensed signals is sensed in a coronary vein on the left atrium or the left ventricle. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216292 | DEVICES, METHODS, AND SYSTEMS FOR HARVESTING ENERGY IN THE BODY - In some embodiments, the power generator for converting mechanical energy to electrical energy is described may include a compressible element adapted and configured to be placed in an environment having a variable compressive force such as varying ambient pressures. The compressible element may be compressed by a force applied by the variable pressure to the compressible element. The power generator may further include a transducer that may be coupled to the compressible element and that may convert mechanical energy from the compression of the compressible element to electrical energy. In some embodiments, the power generator may be adapted to be an implantable power generator for converting mechanical energy from a patient to electrical energy, such that the compressible element adapted and configured to be placed between two adjacent tissue layers of the patient and to be compressed by a force applied from the two adjacent tissue layers to the compressible element. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216293 | APNEA PREVENTING STIMULATION APPARATUS - An apnea preventing stimulation apparatus in which a conductive unit is attached to a mental region of a patient and electric pulses conduct from the conductive unit to the mental region of the patient to thereby apply stimulation thereto. The apparatus includes a stimulus generating means that outputs, across output terminals of the conductive unit, stimulation signals which alternately repeat, for a preset time, a conduction period during which electric pulse groups comprising plural electric pulses are generated and a pause period during which no electric pulse groups are generated. Hence, without monitoring a respiratory condition during sleep, the upper airway obstruction can be quickly prevented. Further, as the stimulation signals can be applied to the patient irrespective of presence or absence of respiration of the patient, the patient hardly awakes by sensing the stimulation signals. | 2009-08-27 |
| 20090216294 | SELF-CONTAINED ELECTRONIC MUSCULOSKELETAL STIMULATION APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE - The present invention provides a self-contained electronic musculoskeletal stimulation apparatus that is a battery operated device that applies electronic stimulation to a human with a pre-programmed treatment stimulation protocol to introduce pain relieving electronic stimulation to the body for immediate, symptomatic relief of minor, chronic and acute musculoskeletal aches and pains and mild muscle tension. This invention also provides a method of using a self-contained electronic musculoskeletal stimulation apparatus whereby pain relieving electronic stimulation is applied to the body on predetermined, sequential stimulation points with electronic stimulation being activated at each consecutive stimulation point. Further, this invention provides a method of applying pain relieving electronic stimulation to a body using a self-contained reusable electronic musculoskeletal stimulation bandage with a preprogrammed treatment stimulation protocol. Also provided is a stimulation apparatus that transmits apparatus and patient information by a wireless signal, so the number of times the apparatus was used and intensity level for each use of the apparatus can be determined. | 2009-08-27 |
