37th week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 55 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20120232559 | NON-INVASIVE ADJUSTABLE DISTRACTION SYSTEM - A spinal distraction system includes a distraction rod having a first end and a second end, the first end being configured for affixation to a subject's spine at a first location, the distraction rod having a second end containing a recess having a threaded portion disposed therein. The system further includes an adjustable portion configured for affixation relative to the subject's spine at a second location remote from the first location, the adjustable portion comprising a housing containing a magnetic assembly, the magnetic assembly affixed at one end thereof to a lead screw, the lead screw operatively coupled to the threaded portion. A locking pin may secure the lead screw to the magnetic assembly. An o-ring gland disposed on the end of the housing may form a dynamic seal with the distraction rod. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232560 | Orthopedic Surgical Pin Positioning Device - An orthopedic drill guide and surgical pin positioning device includes a primary surgical pin for insertion into a fractured bone and a longitudinal drum supported on said primary surgical pin. A set screw is also provided in said longitudinal drum for preventing the longitudinal drum from rotation about the primary surgical pin. A transverse drum is also provided and is rotatably disposed in the longitudinal drum as is a set screw for fixing the position of the transverse drum with respect to the longitudinal drum. A secondary pin extends through the transverse drum and is fixed in a second position on the hard tissue of the fractured bone. Finally, a pair of aligned openings extends through the transverse drum for guiding a drill bit and locating a surgical pin within the broken bone. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232561 | COPLANAR X-RAY GUIDED AIMING ARM FOR LOCKING OF INTRAMEDULLARY NAILS - A novel coplanar X-ray guided method and aiming arm device for insertion of distal locking screws in intramedullary bone nails. Radiopaque target markers in the aiming arm enable the easy positioning of an X-ray source such that an X-ray beam is coplanar with the aiming arm transverse holes. After the X-ray source is accurately oriented, a single X-ray snapshot is enough to assess the exact distortion of the implanted intramedullary nail. The X-ray beam need not be coaxial with the nail holes. The aiming arm includes a mobile portion and a fixed portion fastened to the nail, and the aiming arm can be adjusted, displacing the mobile portion over the fixed portion, to compensate for the distortion of the intramedullary nail caused by implantation in bone. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232562 | Pneumatic Surgical Instrument and Corresponding Methods for Implanting, Extracting and Reorienting Orthopedic Implants - Various embodiments of components, devices, systems and methods are provided for a pneumatic surgical instrument having a probe or an impactor disposed at a distal end thereof and configured to make contact with a selected portion of an orthopedic implant or device. The instrument is configured to generate a shock wave, which is then transferred to the distal end of the probe or impactor, and thence into the orthopedic implant or probe. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232563 | IMPLANT CATHETERS FOR PHYSIOLOGICAL PACING - A catheter for implanting a cardiac pacing electrode within a right atrial septum, to stimulate the His bundle, includes a deflectable shaft having a wall that includes an adjustable segment, a pre-formed segment and a substantially straight distal segment. The pre-formed segment extends distally from a pull wire anchoring member of the adjustable segment and out of a single plane in which the adjustable segment is deflectable; and the substantially straight distal segment extends distally, directly from the pre-formed segment, along a plane oriented at an angle with respect to that in which the adjustable segment is deflectable, and over a length between approximately seven and nine millimeters. An arc through which the pre-formed segment extends is preferably greater than approximately 80 degrees and less than approximately 130 degrees, and the angle of the plane of the distal segment is preferably between approximately 40 and 60 degrees. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232564 | EPIDURAL NEEDLE FOR SPINAL CORD STIMULATION - An epidural needle for implanting therapy delivery elements in an epidural space. The epidural needle includes at least an outer cannula containing an inner cannula, and a stylet located within the lumen of the inner cannula. The inner cannula substantially extends across the elongated opening at the distal end of the outer cannula to form a seal with the ligament during “loss of resistance” testing. Loss of resistance testing is performed by removing the stylet from the inner cannula. Once the epidural needle is positioned in the epidural space, the inner cannula is removed to facilitate implantation of a therapy delivery element in the epidural space. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232565 | DELIVERY OF CARDIAC STIMULATION DEVICES - Some embodiments of an electrical stimulation system employ wireless electrode assemblies to provide pacing therapy, defibrillation therapy, or other stimulation therapy. In certain embodiments, the wireless electrode assemblies may include a guide wire channel so that each electrode assembly can be advanced over a guide wire instrument through the endocardium. For example, a distal tip portion of a guide wire instrument can penetrate through the endocardium and into the myocardial wall of a heart chamber, and the electrode assembly may then be advanced over the guide wire and into the heart chamber wall. In such circumstances, the guide wire instrument (and other portions of the delivery system) can be retracted from the heart chamber wall, thereby leaving the electrode assembly embedded in the heart tissue. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232566 | STERILE SURGICAL DRAPE - An improved sterile drape, system, and method for draping portions of a telerobotic surgical system are provided. In one embodiment, a sterile drape includes an exterior surface adjacent to a sterile field for performing a surgical procedure, and an interior surface forming a cavity for receiving the non-sterile portion of a robotic surgical system, such as a manipulator. The drape further includes a fastener coupled to the exterior surface for securing the sterile drape to the non-sterile portion of the robotic surgical system while reducing the volume of the sterile drape. Advantageously, the drape allows for quick and simple installation and increases visualization of the patient by reducing the size of the drape with more form fitting features, while allowing for freedom of movement of the manipulator. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232567 | FLEXIBLE SUTURING INSTRUMENT - A suturing instrument includes a handle, an elongate shaft, and a suturing head. One or more pull wires extend from the handle into the elongate shaft for controllably deflecting a deflectable portion of the elongate shaft in one or more directions and/or planes for improved maneuverability within the body of a patient during an endoscopic or laparoscopic surgical procedure and for changing the positioning of the suturing head. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232568 | SURGICAL TREATMENT OF GASTRIC EMPTYING DISORDERS - Devices and methods for surgically altering stomach tissue to change gastric emptying. Plications are formed in the stomach speed up or slow down gastric emptying, depending on the number and locations of plications used. The plications may be formed endolumenally. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232569 | Clamp and Applicator - The present invention provides a surgical clamp comprising a temperature sensitive shape memory material, the clamp capable of taking up a first form in which the clamp ( | 2012-09-13 |
20120232570 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TREATING OCCLUDED VASCULATURE - Occluded vasculature such as occluded arterial vasculature can be recanalized using a device that is configured to penetrate an occlusion, while limiting a distance that said penetration structure can extend in order to limit inadvertent vascular damage. The device can include an elongate shaft of a guidewire and a stylet disposed within a lumen of the elongate shaft such that the stylet is selectively actuatable within the elongate shaft. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232571 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY - A surgical instrument assembly configurable for performing a dermatotomy in a percutaneous procedure and further configurable for performing cuts in open surgery includes a pointed scalpel blade and a hollow sheath body disposed to encapsulate the pointed scalpel blade inside a longitudinal instrument cavity to protect a user. The hollow sheath body is supported for longitudinal translation with respect to the scalpel blade. The hollow sheath may be positioned and locked at a first position to completely encapsulate the scalpel blade inside the instrument cavity for safe handling. The hollow sheath body is movable to second and third positions with different lengths of the surgical instrument extending out through a front face of the hollow sheath body. A compression spring biases the hollow sheath body toward the first safety position. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232572 | Multi-Trocar System - A trocar mandrel comprises a head, a first mandrel having an elongated shaft, a proximal end of said first mandrel being mounted at said head. At least a second trocar mandrel having an elongated shaft is mounted at said head. Said mandrels are mounted at a distance one to another and project from a distal face of said head. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232573 | MULTI-ARM INSIDE-OUT TOOL FOR DELIVERING IMPLANTS AND METHODS THEREOF - In a general aspect, a medical device can include an external arm having a receiving mechanism, and an internal arm coupled to the external arm such that the receiving mechanism of the external arm is movable with respect to the internal arm. The medical device can also include a sliding component including a needle configured to be coupled to a portion of an implant and configured to slidably move the needle toward the receiving mechanism of the external arm. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232574 | TRANSCATHETER CORONARY SINUS MITRAL VALVE ANNULOPLASTY PROCEDURE AND CORONARY ARTERY AND MYOCARDIAL PROTECTION DEVICE - A protective device or bridge comprising a central arch is suitable to be placed between an annuplasty device placed in the coronary sinus and an underlying coronary artery to inhibit transmission of compressive force on the coronary artery by the annuplasty device. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232575 | INFLATABLE MULTI-CHAMBERED DEVICES AND METHODS OF TREATMENT USING THE SAME - Inflatable multi-chambered devices are provided for repairing or replacing spinal discs and distracting neighboring vertebral elements. Also included are cushioning devices that may be used in a joint replacement device cushioning system. Further included are kits and systems that include such devices, methods for making such devices, and methods of treating patients in need of such devices. Examples further include cosmetic augmentation and restoration devices. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232576 | INTRAGASTRIC DEVICE - Devices and methods for treating obesity are provided. More particularly, intragastric devices and methods of fabricating, deploying, inflating, monitoring, and retrieving the same are provided. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232577 | BARIATRIC DEVICE AND METHOD FOR WEIGHT LOSS - A bariatric device for use in inducing weight loss, comprising a cardiac element, a pyloric element, and a connecting element between the two other elements, wherein the connecting element provides structure between the cardiac and pyloric elements, keeping them largely in place and at least intermittently touching and applying pressure to the stomach's cardiac, adjacent fundic and pyloric regions, respectively, which produces a satiety signal to the user, giving the recipient a feeling of fullness and reducing his or her hunger feelings. Alternatively, the cardiac and pyloric elements may be symmetrical, so that the device can orient itself either way in the stomach and still achieve the weight loss function. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232578 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING BLEEDING USING EXTERNALLY APPLIED PRESSURE - An apparatus and system is disclosed for applying a compressive force to the axilla of an individual to reduce or inter the flow of blood to the individual's upper extremity. An inflatable bladder may be mounted on a flexible plate and directed toward the apex of the axilla. The flexible plate may be attached to a flexible retention strap that can be wrapped around the individual's torso or over the individual's shoulder. The retention strap may be secured in a number of ways, and the flexible plate and attached strap provide enough stiffness to direct the expanding bladder toward the axilla. The expanded shape of the bladder may conform to the shape of the axillary recess, or an attached adjacent compression mass may be sufficiently flexible upon expansion of the bladder to conform to the shape of the axillary recess. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232579 | METHOD TO RELIEVE MENSTRUAL PAIN - A method to relieve menstrual cramping which includes the step of placing one or more symmetrical tapered pads having an inner and outer side, each outer side being semi-rigid and each inner side being flexible and compressible. The outer side of each pad is affixed to one or more straps having a first and corresponding second end. A fastener is connected so to attach the first end of each strap to a corresponding second fastener at the second end of each strap as an additional step. The apparatus also includes a constricting device (such as a ratchet) located on or proximate to one pad sufficient to create a compression force through each strap when the first and corresponding second fasteners connect to one another. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232580 | SURGICAL FORCEPS HAVING ENGAGEMENT IN A GROOVE - Surgical forceps are provided having an elongated shaft which at its distal end bears a forceps jaw having two jaw parts which are movable relative to one another, and at its proximal end bears an actuating handle which by means of a longitudinally displaceable actuating rod that passes through the shaft controls the relative motion of the jaw parts via the engagement of at least one cam on the forceps jaw or on the actuating rod in a groove which is inclined at an angle with respect to the direction of displacement of the actuating rod on the shaft or on the forceps jaw. The groove is provided, at least in one section, with an angle of inclination which is smaller than the angle of inclination up to which self-locking in the groove occurs. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232581 | Tamponade for Biopsy Surgery and Method of Operation - A device for a biopsy procedure using a probe is provided. The probe, such as a needle, has an inner bore. A tamponade device is provided having a stem portion and an expandable portion, the tamponade device is sized to fit within the probe inner bore. The expandable portion is changeable between a first size and a second size with the second size being larger than the first size. A sheath disposed about the expandable portion, the sheath sized to fit within the probe inner bore. The expandable portion applies direct pressure to a hemorrhage location when inflated to the second size. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232582 | VASCULAR CLOSURE PLUG WITH PROXIMAL CAP AND METHODS OF USE - The disclosure pertains to a vascular closure plug having a reinforced proximal end and methods of use therefor. The reinforcement may comprise a proximal force distributing member and a plurality of plug restraining members thereby tending to limit tearing or spreading of at least the proximal end of the vascular closure plug. In some embodiments, the reinforcement may also comprise a distal force distributing member and a plurality of plug restraining members, a circumferential collar, and/or a supplemental force distributing member. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232583 | VASCULAR HOLE CLOSURE DELIVERY DEVICE - A surgical delivery instrument for delivering a vascular hole closure device having a hole covering member. The delivery instrument comprises a housing, a plunger and an advancer movable within the housing, the advancer having a first portion and a distal portion hingedly connected to the first portion and forming a casing for supporting the hole covering member. Distal movement of the advancer pivots the casing from an angled position to a more linear position to change the orientation of the covering member from a transverse position to a more aligned position. The plunger is advanceable to advance the covering member into the vessel. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232584 | Methods and Systems for Medializing a Turbinate - Methods and systems for medializing a turbinate. Exemplary embodiments comprise methods and systems for repositioning a turbinate proximal to a septum. Certain embodiments comprise an implant and a flexible member coupled to the implant. Embodiments may also comprise an insertion device to install the implant in a desired location. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232585 | METHOD OF CLOSING AN OPENING IN A WALL OF THE HEART - Disclosed is a closure catheter, for closing a tissue opening such as an atrial septal defect, patent foreman ovale, or the left atrial appendage of the heart. The closure catheter carries a plurality of tissue anchors, which may be deployed into tissue surrounding the opening, and used to draw the opening closed. Methods are also disclosed. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232586 | Tissue Repair System - A tissue repair system is disclosed. The tissue repair system can include a prosthesis with a first end portion, a second end portion and an intermediate portion disposed therebetween. The first end portion can engage the second end portion when installed to retain tissue in a desired configuration. The tissue repair system can also include a delivery device configured to implant and fasten the prosthesis to repair imperfections in tissue or retain tissue in a desired configuration. The delivery device may be configured to fasten the first end portion and second end portion of the prosthesis on a distal portion of the tissue. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232587 | Wound Closing Device - A wound closure system comprises a forceps including first and second legs adapted to close into a proximate position in response to a squeezing force applied to the forceps. The forceps also includes a ratchet strip connected to the second leg and passing through an opening in the first leg. The lower edge of the opening is formed as a ratchet pawl for engaging the ratchet strip, thereby providing a ratchet mechanism. Engaging the ratchet mechanism maintains the proximate position of the forceps; rotation of the ratchet strip about the hinge causes it to move upward, thereby disengaging the ratchet mechanism. The forceps may also include a safety latch connected to the first leg by a hinge. Rotation of the safety latch about the hinge inserts a portion of the safety latch into the opening to contact the ratchet strip and thereby prevent disengaging of the ratchet mechanism. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232588 | SURGICAL THREAD COMPRISING CELLS AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE THREAD - A thread, in particular surgical thread includes a cell-retaining structure and cells and a method for manufacturing the thread. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232589 | Suture treatment method and suture construction/kit therrefor - A suture method, suture construction, and suture kit enables health care providers and patients to select colored sutures from a wide variety of colors. The variously colored sutures enable the patient to adorn a skin wound site so as to more effectively treat the wound with patient input and cooperation. The suturing method involves the steps of assessing a suture site or skin wound; selecting a suturing technique based on the assessed suture site or skin wound; providing a visual depiction of exemplary suture layout schema to the patient, which exemplary suture layout schema are reflective of the selected suturing technique; providing a patient with a selection of suture colors; inviting the patient to select at least one suture color from the suture color palette; selecting at least one suture color from the selection of suture colors; and suturing a suture site with a variously colored suture as selected by the patent. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232590 | SUTURE ANCHOR HAVING A SUTURE ENGAGING STRUCTURE AND INSERTER ARRANGEMENT - A suture anchor and inserter arrangement, including a suture anchor for implanting in hard tissue, such as bone, and an inserter device for installing the suture anchor in hard tissue. The suture anchor carries thereon a suture-engaging structure formed from suture, which structure cooperates with working suture associated with the inserter device so as to attach the working suture to the suture anchor. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232591 | Sterling silver and/or metal gel and/or liquid centered teether - The present invention is a multi-textured infant teether or teething device, where a portion of the teether is a rounded and curved, hard, smooth, hollow, metal exterior that is comprised of sterling silver, aluminum or any other rust-resistant metal material and a portion of the teether is a handle that is comprised of either metal covered by rubber or plastic or solely of rubber or plastic to prevent the teether from becoming too cold to hold. Inside the multi-textured teether will be a liquid or gel, comprised of water, food grade propalyne glycol, any other food grade, freezer-friendly gel or similar non-toxic material, that has the ability to remain cold for a prolonged time period following refrigeration or freezing, which shall be enclosed in a sealed bag, enclosed expandable plastic material or other container capable of being frozen while holding a liquid and/or gel in order to prevent leakage. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232592 | SPINAL IMPLANT DEVICE WITH FIXATION PLATES AND LAG SCREWS AND METHOD OF IMPLANTING - There is provided a spinal implant device for placement between adjacent spinous processes. The spinal implant device includes first and second fixation plates, a connector, and first and second lag screws. The first fixation plate includes a first and second screw holes. The second fixation plate includes third and fourth screw holes. The first lag screw extends through the first and third screw holes and threadedly engages a respective one of the first or third screw holes with the superior spinous process disposed between the first and second superior ends. The second lag screw extends through the second and fourth screw holes and threadedly engages a respective one of the second or fourth screw holes with the inferior spinous process disposed between the first and second inferior ends. A method of implanting the device is provided. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232593 | Posterior Cross Connector Assembly - A spinal rod cross connector assembly for connection to adjacent spinal rods provides polyaxial positioning of polyaxial heads of the cross connector assembly relative to each spinal rod and which allows adjustment and fixation of the span of a cross connector or arm of the cross connector assembly between the two polyaxial heads through movement of the cross member relative to only one polyaxial head. Each polyaxial head has a clamp that provides attachment to the respective spinal rod and which allows the body of the polyaxial head to rotate relative thereto. Fixation of the orientation of a polyaxial head is achieved through placement and interaction of a set screw in the polyaxial head. The arm is preferably integral with and extends from a lateral side of one of the polyaxial heads. The second one of the polyaxial heads receives the arm and allows length adjustment relative thereto. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232594 | System and Method for Facet Joint Replacement - A system for replacing at least a portion of a natural facet joint includes a fixation member implantable in a vertebra, an inferior facet articular surface and an inferior strut which may be formed separately from the inferior articular surface. The inferior strut has a first end securable to the fixation member and a second end which may comprise a sphere with a hemispherical surface. An attachment mechanism may include a capture feature shaped to receive the second end of the inferior strut, and the mechanism may provide an adjustable configuration, allowing polyaxial adjustment between the inferior articular surface and the second end. A locking member may be actuated to exert force on the second end to provide a locked configuration. The system may further include a superior facet joint implant with a superior articular surface shaped to articulate with the inferior articular surface. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232595 | FASTENER RETENTION SYSTEM FOR SPINAL PLATES - A fastener retention system for retaining fasteners within apertures of an orthopedic plate includes a first pocket disposed between two of the apertures in the plate, a blocking member disposed between the two apertures and including a second pocket that forms a cavity with the first pocket, and a spring that expands from a compressed configuration within the first pocket to a decompressed configuration within the cavity. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232596 | MULTI-ADJUSTABLE PLATE FOR OSTEOTOMY - The invention relates to a mechanical device intended for correcting a malformation of the bones of the body. The device is continuously adjustable, making the surgeon's work easier and reducing surgery time, thus reducing the risk of infection and, above all, guaranteeing the desired precision for surgery. The device comprises a top plate ( | 2012-09-13 |
20120232597 | FLEXIBLE FIXATION DEVICE - Disclosed are several embodiments directed to a flexible fixation device and method to provide adequate purchase into bone at angles that are awkward for properly engaging inflexible and rigid screws. In one instance, the fixation device is comprised of a head to effect engagement of the device and to acts as an insertion-stop for the device, as well as a helical portion of a suitable cross-sectional geometry to allow for adequate purchase into bone. The helical portion provides fixation as the helical form engages the bone over a relatively large surface area relative to the size of the entry point. The helical portion may be variously configured to resemble, for example, a cork screw, a coiled spring, and so forth. Most variations offer both flexibility (to make angled insertion achievable) while still retaining enough helical-directional rigidity to achieve the desired implantation and fixation. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232598 | POLYAXIAL PEDICLE SCREW WITH INCREASED ANGULATION - A polyaxial bone anchor including a housing and a bone screw. A bottom surface of the housing includes an aperture that defines an angulation limit of the bone screw for each azimuthal angle around a longitudinal axis of the housing. The aperture is V-shaped, with the V-shape having converging side walls that define a low-angulation direction near their intersection and a high-angulation direction opposite the low-angulation direction. In some cases, the angulation limit of the bone screw is generally constant over a range of azimuthal angles centered around the high-angulation direction. The housing may be modular, including tabs on one component that are plastically deformed to engage a lip on another component. During assembly, a mandrel advances longitudinally along a bore in the housing, and forces the tabs radially outward toward the lip to a radially outward plastically deformed state. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232599 | AWL SCREW FIXATION MEMBERS AND RELATED SYSTEMS - Provided are fixation members useful in fixing an implant to a bone. The fixation members include an awl tip so as to enable their secure installation by use of an awling motion, which in turn speeds the installation of the fixation members. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232600 | BONE SCREW - A bone screw comprises a threaded portion. The threaded portion has a first thread including a first front surface ( | 2012-09-13 |
20120232601 | SURGICAL TOOL FOR ADJUSTING A SPINAL IMPLANT - A surgical instrument and/or method of using a surgical instrument during spinal surgery. The surgical instrument may find particular applicability to spinal implants for the intervertebral disc space that require relative rotation between parts in order to change the height of the implant. The instrument includes a knob that rotatable and selectively longitudinally moveable relative to a handle section. In a forward position, turning the knob turns a drive shaft that is coupled to the rotatable actuator of the implant, and causes the implant to expand or retract depending on the direction of rotation. In the rearward position, the drive shaft is retracted, and turning the knob turns a coupling shaft, distinct from the drive shaft, for decoupling the implant from the instrument. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232602 | OSSEOINTEGRATION SYSTEM FOR A LONG BONE - An osseointegration system for a long bone comprises a sleeve system comprising at least two osseointegrated sleeves being mutually uncoupled in the sense that respective ones of the sleeves do not prevent one another to perform transverse displacements relative to one another; a stem arranged for being, in said operation condition, received within the at least two osseointegrated sleeves in such manner that at least low amplitude to-and-fro axial sliding displacements of the stem relative to said sleeves are allowed; at least one fitting collar; and retaining means arranged for realizing that in said operation condition the stem is retained by the long bone. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232603 | LOW INSERTION FORCE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A low-insertion force electrical connector for implantable medical devices. The electrical contact includes a housing with a pair of opposing sidewalls each with center openings oriented generally concentrically around a center axis. The housing also includes a recess with a recess diameter. An inner coil is located in the recess with a coil axis generally co-linear with the center axis of the center openings. The inner coil includes an outer diameter less than the recess diameter, and an inner diameter greater than a center opening diameter. An outer coil is threaded onto the inner coil to form a generally toroidal-shape. The outer coil has an outer diameter less than the recess diameter, and an inner diameter less than the center opening diameter. The outer coil is radially expanded within the recess in response to engagement with contact rings on the implantable medical device, such that the outer diameter of the outer coil is at least equal to the recess diameter. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232604 | SYSTEM TO TREAT AV-CONDUCTED VENTRICULAR TACHYARRHYTHMIA - Various aspects of the present subject matter provide devices and methods to treat AV-conducted ventricular tachyarrhythmia (AVCVT). According to various embodiments of the method, an AVCVT is sensed, an IVC-LA fat pad is stimulated when the AVCVT is sensed to block AV conduction, and bradycardia support pacing is provided while the IVC-LA fat pad is stimulated. Other aspects and embodiments are provided herein. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232605 | USING FOCAL MYOCARDIAL STIMULATION TO DISTINGUISH SUPRAVENTRICULAR TACHYCARDIA FROM VENTRICULAR TACHYCARDIA - An apparatus and method to discriminate cardiac events by sensing atrial and ventricular depolarizations having associated refractory periods thereafter. A fast ventricular rate is detected in response to the sensed ventricular depolarizations. Responsive to detecting the fast ventricular rate, at least one stimulus pulse is delivered to atrial tissue within the associated refractory period of the ventricle but outside of an associated refractory period of the stimulated atrial tissue. A ventricular response to the atrial tissue stimulus pulse is determined, and the cardiac event is discriminated based on the ventricular response to the atrial tissue stimulus pulse. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232606 | USING FOCAL MYOCARDIAL STIMULATION TO DISTINGUISH SUPRAVENTRICULAR TACHYCARDIA FROM VENTRICULAR TACHYCARDIA - An apparatus and method to discriminate cardiac events by sensing atrial and ventricular depolarizations having associated refractory periods thereafter. A fast ventricular rate is detected in response to the sensed ventricular depolarizations. Responsive to detecting the fast ventricular rate, at least one stimulus pulse is delivered to atrial tissue within the associated refractory period of the ventricle but outside of an associated refractory period of the stimulated atrial tissue. A ventricular response to the atrial tissue stimulus pulse is determined, and the cardiac event is discriminated based on the ventricular response to the atrial tissue stimulus pulse. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232607 | ESTIMATING ACUTE RESPONSE TO CARDIAC RESYNCHRONIZATION THERAPY - Systolic timing intervals are measured in response to delivering pacing energy to a pacing site of a patient's heart. An estimate of a patient's acute response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) for the pacing site is determined using the measured systolic timing intervals. The estimate is compared to a threshold. The threshold preferably distinguishes between acute responsiveness and non-responsiveness to CRT for a patient population. An indication of acute responsiveness to CRT for the pacing site may be produced in response to the comparison. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232608 | CARDIAC STIMULATING DEVICE - An implantable medical device, IMD, comprises atrial and ventricular sensing units for sensing atrial or ventricular electric events. The IMD also comprises atrial and ventricular pulse generators for generating atrial or ventricular pacing pulses. A controller controls the operation of the IMD ( | 2012-09-13 |
20120232609 | SECONDARY HEADER FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE INCORPORATING AN ISO DF4 CONNECTOR AND CONNECTOR CAVITY AND/OR AN IS4 CONNECTOR AND CONNECTOR CAVITY - A secondary header for an active implantable medical device (AIMD) incorporates a secondary header plug configured for mating insertion into an AIMD ISO DF4 or IS4 connector cavity, a secondary header ISO DF4 or IS4 connector cavity, and at least one replacement lead connector cavity. The secondary header plug has four electrical contacts which correspond to four electrical contacts of the AIMD connector cavity. The secondary header connector cavity has less than four electrical contacts conductively coupled to the secondary header plug electrical contacts. The replacement lead connector cavity has at least one electrical contact conductively coupled to at least one electrical contact of the secondary header plug. An intermediate conformal section between the secondary header plug and a housing for the secondary header connector cavity places the secondary header connector cavity housing adjacent to an exterior surface of the AIMD. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232610 | Systems and Methods for Electrically Stimulating the Lower Esophageal Sphincter to Treat Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - The present specification describes methods and devices using electrical stimulation to modulate lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure. The electrical stimulation may be delivered to the LES via one or more electrodes that is placed in contact with the LES tissue. The methods and devices are useful to treat a number of conditions or disease conditions, including for example, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). | 2012-09-13 |
20120232611 | APNEA PREVENTING STIMULATION APPARATUS - An apnea preventing stimulation apparatus having a conductive unit is attached to a mental region of a patient and electric pulses flow from the conductive unit to the mental region of the patient to thereby apply stimuli thereto. A formula is utilized to increase a rate of an output level of the amplitude in an electric pulse until a first time width elapses. Consequently, immediately after outputting stimulation signals, the amplitude of the electric pulse groups does not abruptly increase, thus enabling the patient to be hardly affected by the stimulation signals. Until just before the time reaches the end of a time width after the output start of the stimulation signal, the rate of the output level of the amplitude in the electric pulse groups does not reach 1, permitting the emotional strain on the patient to be eased. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232612 | Methods And Apparatus For Treating Anaphylaxis Using Electrical Modulation - Methods and devices for treating anaphylaxis, anaphylactic shock, bronchial constriction, and/or asthma include providing an electrical impulse to a selected region of the vagus nerve of a patient suffering from anaphylaxis to block and/or modulate nerve signals that would regulate the function of, for example, myocardial tissue, vasodilation/constriction and/or pulmonary tissue. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232613 | AUTOMATIC BAROREFLEX MODULATION RESPONSIVE TO ADVERSE EVENT - A system for providing baroreflex stimulation comprises a sensor to detect a parameter and provide a signal indicative of the parameter and a baroreflex stimulator. The baroreflex stimulator includes a driver to provide a control signal adapted to deliver a baroreflex therapy and a controller to receive the signal indicative of the parameter and modulate the control signal based on the signal indicative of the parameter to change the baroreflex therapy from a first baroreflex therapy to a second baroreflex therapy. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232614 | POSTURE-DEPENDENT STIMULATION FOR IMPLANTABLE STIMULATORS - A therapeutic stimulator, e.g., a spinal neurostimulator for pain relief, adapts stimulation delivered to the patient in dependence on measurements of patient orientation (e.g., from a three-axis accelerometer), and also on impedance measurements from leads situated within or upon the patient's body (e.g., from electrodes on neurostimulation leads extending alongside the spine). Since the impedance measurements can provide additional data regarding body positioning, as well as providing data regarding electrode status (such as lead migration, electrode encapsulation, etc.), use of the impedance measurements can provide more refined (and more appropriate) control of delivered stimulation. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232615 | Modular Limb Peripheral Nerve Stimulation System and Method of Use - The present disclosure provides a modular neurostimulator system. The system includes a stage one implant that can be externally powered and controlled. The stage one implant is made of one or more leads as well as a passive receiver and an external controlling and powering device. The receiver and the external device can be utilized either as a long-term trial system, or as a permanent system. Since the receiver and the external device can have limited costs and features, they are suited for a long-term trial without risk of infection and excessive upfront cost. The system may also include a stage two implant that includes an implantable power supply and/or control elements connectable to one or more previously implanted stage one implants. A method of treatment for limb peripheral nerves using such a modular system is also disclosed. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232616 | WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS IN MEDICAL DEVICES - A medical device, comprising first and second components coupled via a first wireless link; and a third component coupled to the first device via a second wireless link. The device implements a communication scheme in which transmissions via the second wireless link occur during a time period that is interleaved between periods including transmissions via the first link. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232617 | HEADER DESIGN FOR IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR - In one embodiment, an implantable pulse generator for electrically stimulating a patient comprises: a metallic housing enclosing pulse generating circuitry; a header mechanically coupled to the metallic housing, the header adapted to seal terminals of one or more stimulation leads within the header and to provide electrical connections for the terminals; the header comprising an inner compliant component for holding a plurality of electrical connectors, the plurality of electrical connectors electrically coupled to the pulse generating circuitry through feedthrough wires, wherein the plurality of electrical connectors are held in place in recesses within the compliant inner component, the header further comprising an outer shield component adapted to resist punctures, the outer shield component fitting over at least a portion of the inner compliant component. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232618 | DEVICE USED FOR TREATMENT OF RHINITIS BY BIOSTIMULATIVE ILLUMINATION - A device for the treatment of rhinitis by biostimulative illumination. The device comprises a pair of LEDs ( | 2012-09-13 |
20120232619 | Reinforced High Strength Microwave Antenna - High-strength microwave antenna assemblies and methods of use are described herein. The microwave antenna has a radiating portion connected by a feedline to a power generating source, e.g., a generator. Proximal and distal radiating portions of the antenna assembly are separated by a junction member. A reinforcing member is disposed within the junction member to increase structural rigidity. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232620 | Infant Heel Heat Pack - A heat pack for warming the heel of an infant with a front panel and a rear panel wherein the rear panel is adapted for placement on the infant's heel and has an outer layer formed of a nonwoven material. A band is provided for attaching the heat pack to the infant's heel. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232621 | THERMAL TREATMENT DEVICE WITH VARIABLE HEAT DISTRIBUTION - A thermal treatment device having variable heat distribution along the device is disclosed. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232622 | FAST HEATING HEAT PACKS WITH BINARY ACTION - A thermal treatment device having at least one fast-acting heat pack and at least one long lasting heat pack is disclosed. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232623 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COUPLING CONDUCTORS TO CONDUCTIVE CONTACTS OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS - An electrical stimulation lead includes a plurality of conductive contacts disposed at a distal end and a proximal end of a lead body. The plurality of conductive contacts includes a plurality of electrodes and a plurality of terminals. At least one of the conductive contacts is a first conductive contact that includes at least one adhesive aperture defined between an inner surface and an outer surface of the at least one conductive contact. A plurality of conductors each electrically couple at least one of the electrodes to at least one of the terminals. Each first conductive contact has a conductor associated with, and electrically coupled to that first conductive contact. The adhesive is disposed in proximity to the at least one adhesive aperture of at least one first conductive contact to adhesively couple that first conductive contact to the at least one associated conductor. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232624 | ANCHOR FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An anchor for an implantable medical device, anchor delivery tools, kits, and methods, all directed to securing a therapy delivery element at a target location in a patient. An anchor for a therapy delivery element having an outer surface about which the anchor is disposable. The anchor includes a body portion having elastomeric properties, a first opening, a second opening, and a non-linear lumen extending though the body portion from the first opening to the second opening in a relaxed state. The non-linear lumen becomes a linear lumen in a stretched state. The linear lumen of the body portion is adapted to receive the therapy delivery element and the non-linear lumen frictionally engages the outer surface of the therapy delivery element in the relaxed state. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232625 | IMPLANTABLE LEAD WITH BRAIDED CONDUCTORS - A therapy delivery element adapted to be implanted into a living body. The therapy delivery element includes an electrode portion with a plurality of electrodes. At least one elongated lead body is attached to the electrode portion. The elongated lead body includes a stylet coil having a stylet coil lumen. The stylet coil extends within the elongated lead body and along at least a portion of the electrode portion. A conductor assembly with a plurality of insulated electrical conductors is braided to extending around the stylet coil and to electrically couple to one or more of the electrodes. The conductor assembly includes an inner lumen with a diameter greater than an outside diameter of the stylet coil. Axial elongation of the elongated lead body reduces the inner diameter of the conductor assembly. A low durometer insulator extends around the conductor assembly. A stylet sized to slide freely within the stylet coil lumen is provided for use during implantation of the therapy delivery element into the living body. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232626 | ANCHOR SLEEVE FOR IMPLANTABLE LEAD - An anchor sleeve for securing a therapy delivery element, such as a stimulation lead or catheter, within a living body, that includes an inner sleeve with pre-formed locations of weakness that facilitate localized deformation. The anchor includes a deformable outer sleeve with a primary lumen extending along an axis. The outer surface of the outer sleeve includes a plurality of suture grooves oriented generally concentric to the axis. The inner sleeve includes a plurality of beams connected at deflection regions arranged around a secondary lumen. The inner sleeve is located in the primary lumen adjacent to the suture grooves so that the secondary lumen is generally concentric with the primary lumen. A plurality of locations of weakness are preformed in each of the beams to facilitate localized deformation in response to a radially inward force applied around the suture grooves by a suture material. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232627 | PRE-SUTURED ANCHOR FOR IMPLANTABLE LEADS - A pre-sutured anchor including a deformable anchor sleeve with a lumen sized to receive the therapy delivery element. An outer surface of the anchor sleeve including one or more annular compression grooves oriented generally co-axial to the lumen. At least one compression member is located in a compression groove in an open configuration. The compression member includes at least one stop. A suture material pre-tied in a self-locking compression knot extends around each compression member. The suture material includes distal ends adapted to receive a tension force that is transmitted as a radial compression force to deform the compression members and substantially engage the stop in a compressed configuration. The anchor sleeve compressively engages the therapy delivery element in the compressed configuration. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232628 | DRUG ELUTING LEAD SYSTEMS - Medical electrical lead systems and related methods are described. The lead systems may be configured to be at least partially implanted in neural tissue of a subject, such as a brain of a subject. Some variations of the lead systems may comprise a lead body, an electrode connected to the lead body, and a bioactive agent. The electrode and/or lead body may comprise a substrate, and the bioactive agent may be supported by the substrate (e.g., by a substantial portion of the area of the substrate). Methods described herein may comprise contacting the substrate of a lead body and/or an electrode of a medical electrical lead system with at least one bioactive agent, where the lead body and the electrode are connected to each other. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232629 | MULTI-ELECTRODE LEADS FOR BRAIN IMPLANTATION - A lead for use in Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and similar applications has a rigid lead tip with multiple electrodes thereon. The electrodes are formed by coating a lead tip core with a conductive material; selectively removing the conductive material to define the electrodes and conductive tracks leading therefrom; and then applying a layer of insulating material over the tracks to leave the electrodes exposed. Terminals are also left exposed on the tracks for connection to energy supply and/or data transmission lines. Such lines are preferably provided on or within a flexible lead body connected to the lead tip. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232630 | ARTICULATING INTERFACES FOR BIOLOGICAL TISSUES - A biological tissue interface system is disclosed which employs an electroactive polymer actuator to pivot a tissue interface portion which may be adapted to engage with neural tissue. The system comprises a base portion, an articulating portion having a proximal end attached to the base portion and a free distal end, and an actuator operably coupled to the articulating portion, driven by a conjugated polymer that changes dimension in response to an electric charge. The polymer applies a force to pivot the articulating portion, relative to the base portion, to engage tissue at the distal tissue interface. In neural interface applications, the articulating portion may comprise at least one conducting surface for neural communications, such as a microelectrode or a polymer. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232631 | CUBIC SILICON CARBIDE IMPLANTABLE NEURAL PROSTHETIC - An implantable neuronal prosthetic and method of manufacture thereof includes at least one elongated electrode shank adapted for arrangement in the brain having at least one electrode contact disposed on its surface and arranged to electrically couple with said brain. The at least one elongated electrode shank is formed form a single crystal cubic silicon carbide. An insulation layer of amorphous, polycrystalline, or single crystal silicon carbide is disposed over the elongated electrode shank; the insulation layer of amorphous, polycrystalline, or single crystal silicon carbide is removed from the at least one electrode contact. Signal control electronics are attached to the at least one elongated electrode shank and are in electrical communication with the at least one electrode contact. In an embodiment, a plurality of the at least one elongated electrode shanks are arranged into a matrix. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232632 | MEDICAL IMPLANTABLE LEAD - The present invention relates to a medical implantable lead having a coaxial structure, where an insulating tube arranged between an inner coil and an outer coil is provided with a periodically alternating capacitance along the length thereof in order to reduce lead tip heating during MRI scanning. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232633 | Medical Pacing Wires - A medical pacing wire comprising a clamp that is adapted to be moved between an open position and a closed position and further adapted to allow a user to attach an electrode to a living tissue. In particular embodiments, the medical pacing wire may include a memory shape alloy having a memory state, which is adapted to cause the clamp to move from the closed position toward the open position when the memory shape alloy is caused to move from a non-memory state to the memory state. Also, in some embodiments, the clamp may comprise a superelastic material, and the medical pacing wire may be adapted to allow a user to remotely cause the clamp to substantially release the living tissue that has been closed within the clamp without substantially damaging the living tissue. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232634 | Electrotherapy Electrode Device - An electrotherapy electrode device. A generally thin, flexible top layer includes an aperture. A terminal is adjacent the top layer. The terminal has a generally planar shoulder, a post projecting from the shoulder, and a generally planar contact surface opposing the shoulder. The terminal includes a magnetic material. The post of the terminal extends through the aperture of the top layer and the shoulder of the terminal contacts the top layer. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232635 | INTRODUCER ASSEMBLY AND CARRIER ELEMENT FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE - An introducer assembly includes a carrier element ( | 2012-09-13 |
20120232636 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR VASCULAR THERAPY - Medical devices, as well as methods of treatment and manufacturing such devices, are provided for applying vascular therapy locally within the body vessel. The medical devices include an expandable tubular frame and a sleeve. The medical devices can be used for local delivery of a therapeutic agent within a body vessel or a tamponade for a lacerated body vessel, while simultaneously allowing perfusion of fluid or blood flow distal of the implanted medical device. The tubular frame of the medical device can have a middle region with a plurality of members. The members can expand radially outward away from a longitudinal axis of the tubular frame, which can urge the sleeve to contact the wall of the body vessel. In the expanded configuration, a portion of the device allows fluid flow to continue while the sleeve is against the body vessel wall. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232637 | STENT/GRAFT DEVICE FOR OPEN SURGICAL PLACEMENT - An assembly for open surgical repair of a damaged wall portion of a body vessel includes a stent/graft device comprising an elongated stent body and a graft material covering the stent body. The device is expandable from a compressed condition having a diameter less than a diameter of the vessel to an expanded condition at least as great as the diameter of the vessel. A sheath enclosing the device when in the compressed condition includes a sheath body and a pull string for selectively splitting the sheath body to allow expansion of the device. The device and enclosing sheath are sized for insertion through the damaged wall portion into the vessel, wherein the pull string is extendable through the damaged wall portion for splitting the sheath body. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232638 | CUTTING BALLOON ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THEREOF - A method for fabrication of a cutting balloon assembly is described. The method includes providing a predetermined number of filaments having predetermined properties, diameter and length and fabricating a scoring mesh on a weaving jig having a plurality of pins disposed circumferentially about the jig's surface. The fabrication of the scoring mesh includes placing the filaments between the pins and interlacing the filaments to form a scoring mesh by interweaving and intertwining at least a part of filament to form one or more permanent links with neighboring filaments. The fabrication of the scoring mesh also includes forming distal and proximal filament loops that protrude from the mesh distal and proximal ends, respectfully. The scoring mesh is mounted on an expandable balloon mounted on a distal end of a delivery catheter. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232639 | Intraluminary Stent Relocating Apparatus - An apparatus for moving an object disposed within a body lumen. The apparatus includes a first sheath, a coupling member and at least one contraction member for engaging at least a portion of the object. The coupling member is movable relative to the first sheath between a retracted position and a capture position. In the retracted position, a distal portion of the coupling member is disposed within the first sheath. In the capture position, the coupling member distal portion is disposed outside the first sheath. The coupling member is also selectively attachable to the object in at least the capture position. When the coupling member is attached to the object and the contraction member is directly engaged with the object, a predetermined coupling member movement relative to the contraction member radially contracts at least a portion of the object thereby facilitating movement of the object within the body lumen. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232640 | NARROW PROFILE COMPOSITION-RELEASING EXPANDABLE MEDICAL BALLOON CATHETER - The present invention relates to a composition-eluting balloon catheter ( | 2012-09-13 |
20120232641 | PERCUTANEOUS ENDOPROSTHESIS - An endoprosthesis to be implanted in vessels damaged in a way as to be detrimental to the flow of the biological fluids they convey, intended for the treatment of aneurysms in areas of a vessel in the vicinity of a bifurcation, such as, for example, an aneurysm of the abdominal aorta. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232642 | Punching-based stent and its manufacturing method - The present invention is to provide a stent comprising a main body or at least a strut and a principal manufacturing method by means of one punching die for precision punching machining without a follow-up rolling & precision welding step in order to fulfill improved yield rate, mass production, effectively curtailed throughput time and manufacturing cost, and stent's lowered price benefiting more patients. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232643 | STENT FABRICATION VIA TUBULAR CASTING PROCESSES - Tubular casting processes, such as dip-coating, may be used to form substrates from polymeric solutions which may be used to fabricate implantable devices such as stents. The polymeric substrates may have multiple layers which retain the inherent properties of their starting materials and which are sufficiently ductile to prevent brittle fracture. Parameters such as the number of times the mandrel is immersed, the duration of time of each immersion within the solution, as well as the delay time between each immersion or the drying or curing time between dips and withdrawal rates of the mandrel from the solution may each be controlled to result in the desired mechanical characteristics. Additional post-processing may also be utilized to further increase strength of the substrate or to alter its shape. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232644 | STENT FABRICATION VIA TUBULAR CASTING PROCESSES - Tubular casting processes, such as dip-coating, may be used to form substrates from polymeric solutions which may be used to fabricate implantable devices such as stents. The polymeric substrates may have multiple layers which retain the inherent properties of their starting materials and which are sufficiently ductile to prevent brittle fracture. Parameters such as the number of times the mandrel is immersed, the duration of time of each immersion within the solution, as well as the delay time between each immersion or the drying or curing time between dips and withdrawal rates of the mandrel from the solution may each be controlled to result in the desired mechanical characteristics. Additional post-processing may also be utilized to further increase strength of the substrate or to alter its shape. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232645 | 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. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232646 | SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR BIOPROSTHETIC VALVES WITH COMMISURAL POSTS WITH HEART-SHAPED OPENINGS - A novel support system for bioprosthetic cardiac valves with heart shape commissural posts (18) and intercommissural conjunctions with long openings with oval closures (8), allows the better function of the valve by diminishing the forces applied on the leaflets during the cardiac cycle. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232647 | ADJUSTABLE WEIGHTED EYELID CLOSURE DEVICES AND METHODS - Provided herein are embodiments of a weighted eyelid closure device for use in treating lagophthalmos. In accordance with an embodiment, the device can be implanted by an oculoplastic surgeon into a patient's eyelid, to treat lagophthalmos. The device's weight can then be adjusted later by the surgeon, if necessary, without requiring removal of the entire device. For example, if it is discovered that an implanted device is too heavy or too light after it has been implanted within the patient's eyelid, the load of the device can be adjusted by modifying the previous load. Alternatively, a new load having the desired weight can be implanted. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232648 | IMPLANTATION OF SHAPE MEMORY POLYMER INTRAOCULAR DEVICES - A shape memory polymer (SMP) intraocular lens may have a refractive index above 1.45, a Tg between 10° C. and 60° C., inclusive, de minimis or an absence of glistening, and substantially 100% transmissivity of light in the visible spectrum. The intraocular lens is then rolled at a temperature above Tg of the SMP material. The intraocular device is radially compressed within a die to a diameter of less than or equal to 1.8 mm while maintaining the temperature above Tg. The compressed intraocular lens device may be inserted through an incision less than 2 mm wide in a cornea or sclera or other anatomical structure. The lens can be inserted into the capsular bag, the ciliary sulcus, or other cavity through the incision. The SMP can substantially achieve refractive index values of greater than or equal to 1.45. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232649 | Intraocular Lens Cell Migration Inhibition System - Generally, an intraocular implant and methods for treating an ocular condition. In particular, an intraocular implant which implanted between an intraocular lens and the surface of the posterior capsule of the eye inhibits migration of residual lens epithelial cells after cataract surgery by providing structural barriers to reduce posterior capsule opacification of the eye. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232650 | Accommodating Intraocular Lenses and Associated Systems, Frames, And Methods - An intraocular lens for providing accommodative vision to a subject includes a frame disposed about an optical axis, a first optical element, a second optical element, and a connecting element operably coupling the frame to the optical elements. The frame comprises an anterior frame element and a posterior frame element. The connecting element is configured to convert a first displacement between the frame elements in a direction that is substantially parallel to the optical axis into a second displacement between the optical elements that is substantially perpendicular to the optical axis. The second displacement may be translational and/or rotation. In some embodiments, the optical elements are two varifocal lenses. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232651 | SHAPE MEMORY POLYMER INTRAOCULAR LENSES - A shape memory polymer (SMP) intraocular lens may have a refractive index above 1.45, a Tg between 10° C. and 60° C., inclusive, de minimis or an absence of glistening, and substantially 100% transmissivity of light in the visible spectrum. The intraocular lens is then rolled at a temperature above Tg of the SMP material. The intraocular device is radially compressed within a die to a diameter of less than or equal to 1.8 mm while maintaining the temperature above Tg. The compressed intraocular lens device may be inserted through an incision less than 2 mm wide in a cornea or sclera or other anatomical structure. The lens can be inserted into the capsular bag, the ciliary sulcus, or other cavity through the incision. The SMP can substantially achieve refractive index values of greater than or equal to 1.45. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232652 | IMPLANT WITH A VISUAL INDICATOR OF A BARRIER LAYER - An implantable soft tissue prosthesis device comprising a silicone elastomer-shell filled with silicone gel or liquid, which among the layers that constitute its shell includes a barrier layer formed of a low permeability silicone, which impedes the bleeding or diffusion of the silicone gel from the inside of the implant to its surroundings through the shell. This barrier layer is given a coloration different to the other layers of the shell, making it visible in the finished product. The coloration of the barrier layer gives the fabricator of the implant as well as to medical personnel, the possibility to identify the presence of the barrier layer and its homogeneity, improving the safety of the device. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232653 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE TISSUE SUPPORT - Described are methods and apparatus for use in supporting tissue in a patient's body. In some embodiments, the patient's breast is supported. In some embodiments, the methods provide ways of supporting and adjusting tissue, and the apparatus includes components and embodiments for supporting and adjusting the tissue. Some embodiments include a supporting device, having a first portion, a second portion, and a support member positioned between the first portion and second portion. Some embodiments include advancing the first portion of the supporting device into the body to a first location in the body; advancing the second portion of the supporting device into the body to a second location in the body; securing the first portion of the supporting device at the first location; and shifting soft tissue in the body with the support member. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232654 | POROUS IMPLANT STRUCTURES - Porous biocompatible structures suitable for use as medical implants and methods for fabricating such structures are disclosed. The disclosed structures may be fabricated using rapid manufacturing techniques. The disclosed porous structures has a plurality of struts and nodes where no more than two struts intersect one another to form a node. Further, the nodes can be straight, curved, portions that are curved and/or straight. The struts and nodes can form cells which can be fused or sintered to at least one other cell to form a continuous reticulated structure for improved strength while providing the porosity needed for tissue and cell in-growth. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232655 | KNOT SLIP RESISTANT WOVEN CORD - A woven surgical cord having interwoven warps ( | 2012-09-13 |
20120232656 | METHOD AND IMPLANT FOR REPLACING DAMAGED MENISCAL TISSUE - A method and apparatus for replacing damaged meniscal tissue includes a meniscus implant including a porous body having a plurality of interconnected open micro-pores and one or more open cavities for receiving meniscal tissue. The interconnected micro-pores are arranged to allow fluid to flow into the porous body and are in fluid communication with the one or more open cavities. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232657 | Hydrogel Arthroplasty Device - An arthroplasty device is provided having an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogel that is strain-hardened by swelling and adapted to be held in place in a joint by conforming to a bone geometry. The strain-hardened IPN hydrogel is based on two different networks: (1) a non-silicone network of preformed hydrophilic non-ionic telechelic macromonomers chemically cross-linked by polymerization of its end-groups, and (2) a non-silicone network of ionizable monomers. The second network was polymerized and chemically cross-linked in the presence of the first network and has formed physical cross-links with the first network. Within the IPN, the degree of chemical cross-linking in the second network is less than in the first network. An aqueous salt solution (neutral pH) is used to ionize and swell the second network. The swelling of the second network is constrained by the first network resulting in an increase in effective physical cross-links within the IPN. | 2012-09-13 |
20120232658 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE INSERTION OF INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANTS - A dilation introducer for orthopedic surgery is provided for minimally invasive access for insertion of an intervertebral implant. The dilation introducer may be used to provide an access position through Kambin's triangle from a posterolateral approach. A first dilator tube with a first longitudinal axis is provided. A second dilator tube may be introduced over the first, advanced along a second longitudinal axis parallel to but offset from the first. A third dilator tube may be introduced over the second, advanced along a third longitudinal axis parallel to but offset from both the first and the second. An access cannula may be introduced over the third dilator tube. With the first, second, and third dilator tubes removed, surgical instruments may pass through the access cannula to operate on an intervertebral disc and/or insert an intervertebral implant. | 2012-09-13 |