38th week of 2008 patent applcation highlights part 54 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20080228076 | Ultrasonic Imaging Device - This invention provides an ultrasonic imaging system that implements imaging by distinguishing sharply and definitely the echo components generated by scattering in a microbubble contrast medium, from the tissue harmonic components generated by nonlinear propagation of a transmitted pulse. This ultrasonic imaging system, constructed to transmit/receive ultrasonic pulses to/from a living body and form a contrast image of the inside of the living body by using the contrast-imaging microbubbles, repeats the transmitting/receiving operations four times in all, under the same transmitting/receiving focus conditions at different phase angles [(a)=0°, (b)=120°, (c)=−120°, (d)=180°] of the carrier of a transmitted pulse wave including a common envelope signal, sums up three time-series receive echo signals associated with (a), (b), (c), forms the contrast image, sums up two time-series receive echo signals associated with (a), (d), forms an image of the living body having a nonlinear pulse propagation property, and makes a superimposed display of the two kinds of images. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228077 | Ultrasonic medical device and associated method - A medical system includes a carrier and a multiplicity of electromechanical transducers mounted to the carrier, the transducers being disposable in effective pressure-wave-transmitting contact with a patient. Energization componentry is operatively connected to a first plurality of the transducers for supplying the same with electrical signals of at least one pre-established ultrasonic frequency to produce first pressure waves in the patient. A control unit is operatively connected to the energization componentry and includes an electronic analyzer operatively connected to a second plurality of the transducers for performing electronic 3D volumetric data acquisition and imaging (which includes determining three-dimensional shapes) of internal tissue structures of the patient by analyzing signals generated by the second plurality of the transducers in response to second pressure waves produced at the internal tissue structures in response to the first pressure waves. The control unit includes phased-array signal processing circuitry for effectuating an electronic scanning of the internal tissue structures which facilitates one-dimensional (vector), 2D (planar), and 3D (volume) data acquisition. The control unit further includes circuitry for defining multiple data gathering apertures and for coherently combining structural data from the respective apertures to increase spatial resolution. When the data gathering apertures are contained in a flexible web or carrier so that the instantaneous positions of the data gathering apertures are unknown, a self-cohering algorithm is used to determine their positions so that coherent aperture combining can be performed. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228078 | ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DISPLAYING A DOPPLER SPECTRUM IMAGE - The present invention is directed to an ultrasound diagnostic system for displaying an enhanced Doppler spectrum image. The ultrasound diagnostic system includes: a period setting unit operable to set a period for computing spectral Doppler components from ultrasound data obtained by transmitting/receiving ultrasound signals to/from a target object; a Doppler spectrum data acquiring unit operable to compute the spectral Doppler components at the set period from the ultrasound data for acquiring Doppler spectrum data; a storage unit operable to store the acquired Doppler spectrum data; a user input unit operable to receive sweep speed information from a user for selecting a sweep speed; a data adjusting unit operable to compare the set period with the selected sweep speed and adjust the Doppler spectrum data based on the comparison result; and a display unit operable to display a Doppler spectrum image based on the adjusted Doppler spectrum data. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228079 | CLINICAL UTILIZATION OF CONTRAST AGENTS TO DEFINE SPECIFIC AREAS WITHIN THE MYOCARDIAL WALL TO PROVIDE GUIDANCE AND LOCALIZATION FOR ABLATION, CYROABLATION, OR OTHER TECHNIQUES IN PATIENTS WITH POST MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION - Certain embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for ablating non-viable cardiac tissue. In an embodiment, the method may include locating non-viable cardiac tissue utilizing an electronic medical image. The method may also include locating non-viable cardiac tissue utilizing an ultrasound unit, wherein a contrast agent is used to characterize the non-viable cardiac tissue. The method may also include guiding a catheter to the location of the non-viable cardiac tissue according to the imaging of the ultrasound unit. The method may also include ablating the non-viable cardiac tissue. The ablating of the non-viable cardiac tissue may include cauterizing the non-viable cardiac tissue, cyroablating the non-viable cardiac tissue, or include radiofrequency ablation. The method may also include attempting to locate the non-viable cardiac tissue utilizing an electronic medical image after ablating the non-viable cardiac tissue. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228080 | Perfusion Assessment Method and System Based on Bolus Administration - A perfusion assessment system is proposed. The system includes means for providing an echo-power signal indicative of a perfusion of a contrast agent in a body-part under analysis, the contrast agent being administered as a bolus and undergoing a significant destruction during a passage of the contrast agent in the body-part, means for associating the echo-power signal to a model function including the product between a bolus function indicative of the passage of the contrast agent without said destruction and a reperfusion function indicative of a reperfusion of the contrast agent in the body part following the destruction corresponding to a substantially constant inflow of the contrast agent, and means for estimating at least one perfusion indicator from the bolus function and/or the reperfusion function. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228081 | Ultrasonic Intracavity Probe For 3D Imaging - An intracavity ultrasound probe includes a pivotally mounted array transducer which is oscillated to scan a volumetric region from within the body. The transducer is oscillated by a motor located in the probe handle. The array transducer is immersed in a liquid which acoustically couples ultrasonic energy between the elements of the transducer and the body. The acoustic coupling liquid is located in the distal tip of the probe shaft, where only 6 cc of liquid is required. The small amount of liquid reduces the weight of the shaft of the probe so that the center of gravity of the probe is in the handle, making the probe comfortable and easy to manipulate. The majority of parts in the probe shaft are made of aluminum or other low density materials, keeping the overall weight of the probe to about 250 grams. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228082 | Intracavity Probe With Continuous Shielding of Acoustic Window - An ultrasound probe has a transducer array which is moved to scan a patient with ultrasonic energy. The array is located in a fluid chamber ( | 2008-09-18 |
20080228083 | Non-Evasive Method and Apparatus of Detection of Organism Tissues - The invention relates to a non-invasive method to diagnose the changes of molecular structures of organism tissues from body surface and a dedicated apparatus. The apparatus is comprised of a Fourier Transform infrared spectrometer and a set of additional accessories. Said additional accessories include a mid-IR fiber optics sampling attachment, a fiber coupling part, and an infrared detector part. The detection method is comprised of placing the ATR probe of the dedicated apparatus on the skin surface of a region to be tested, and scanning more than one time in which the resolution of the apparatus is 1-32 cm | 2008-09-18 |
20080228084 | Method and Apparatus for Reduction of Spurious Effects on Physiological Measurements - A method and apparatus for reducing motion artifact and spurious noise effects when computing estimates of values representative of at least one physiological parameter of a subject. For motion, measured motion values are compared with a motion threshold and the taking of physiological measurements used for computing the physiological parameter estimate values are either suspended until a measured motion value is under the threshold or a correction function is applied to the physiological measurements, the correction function being based on the measured motion values. As for spurious noise, physiological measurements taken while emitters are turned off are subtracted from physiological measurements taken while emitters are turned on in order to eliminate outside noise contamination. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228085 | SINUS ILLUMINATION LIGHTWIRE DEVICE - An illuminating wire medical device may include an elongate flexible housing and an illuminating fiber and a core wire extending through at least part of the housing, the core wire providing desired pushability and torquability. The illuminating device may further include a connector assembly cooperating with the illuminating fiber to accommodate changes in length and to absorb forces applied during use of the device. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228086 | Systems and methods for evaluating vessels - Disclosed are systems and methods for evaluating body vessels. Images of the vessel are captured, analyzing to generate a three-dimensional model of the vessel, and the data associated with the three-dimensional model is analyzed. In cases in which the vessel is a coronary artery, the vessel model can be analyzed to determine the vulnerability of plaques within the artery to rupture. In some embodiments, the images are optical coherence tomography images. In some embodiments, the images are captured with an optical catheter that includes a tracking device. In some embodiments, the analysis includes flow and/or structural analysis. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228087 | PRESSURE MEASUREMENT DEVICE - A pressure measurement device isolates liquid, such as blood, from an intermediate fluid, such as air, by means of a diaphragm. The diaphragm is arranged between first and second chambers of respective first and second shells of a pressure pod body. The first shell has first and second ports, which are connected to the first chamber. The second shell has a measurement port with a connector in communication with the second chamber. A pressure transducer with a mating connector is directly connected to the measurement port connector to minimize the sealed volume between the diaphragm and the pressure transducer. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228088 | System and Method for Detecting and Predicting a Syncope Event - The present invention relates to a system ( | 2008-09-18 |
20080228089 | Method and apparatus for cufflessly and non-invasively measuring wrist blood pressure in association with communication device - A method of cufflessly and non-invasively measuring blood pressure in a wrist region of a patient in association with a communication device that relays the information being measured includes: detecting a magnitude difference between a plurality of pulse wave signals detected from a wrist of a user; detecting feature points from an electrocardiogram (ECG) and pulse wave signals detected from the user; extracting variables needed to calculate the highest blood pressure and the lowest blood pressure using the detected feature points; and calculating the highest blood pressure and the lowest blood pressure of the user by deducing a scatter diagram using the extracted variables. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228090 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MANAGEMENT OF HEART FAILURE HOSPITALIZATION - A hospitalization management system including a heart failure analyzer that receives diagnostic data including at least sensor data representative of one or more physiological signals sensed from a hospitalized patient using one or more sensors and assesses risk of rehospitalization for the patient using the diagnostic data. The outcome of the risk assessment is used during and following the patient's hospitalization for reducing the risk of rehospitalization. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228091 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PATIENT EVALUATION - A method for evaluating a patient is disclosed herein. The method includes performing an exercise test on a patient, obtaining an electrocardiogram during the exercise test, converting the electrocardiogram to an audio file, and analyzing the audio file in order to evaluate the patient. A corresponding system for evaluating a patient is also provided. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228092 | Cardiac Sensing by Implantable Medical Devices During Magnetic Resonance Imaging - Embodiments of the invention can include a method for reducing MRI interference from a physiological electrical signal received in an implantable medical device. The method can include the steps of amplifying the physiological electrical signal with a high bandwidth amplifier and sampling the amplified physiological electrical signal at a sampling frequency of at least 8 kHz to obtain a first high-frequency sequence of samples. The method can further includes the steps of processing the first high-frequency sequence of samples to identify a signal artifact that is characteristic of MRI interference and creating a second high-frequency sequence of samples by reducing the signal artifact characteristic of MRI interference from the first sequence of samples. Embodiments can also include a method of determining a heart rate from a physiological electrical signal received in an implantable medical device. Embodiments can also includes an implantable medical device that receives and processes a physiological electrical signal. Other embodiments are also described herein. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228093 | Systems and methods for enhancing cardiac signal features used in morphology discrimination - Methods and devices used to classify cardiac events based on morphological analysis of sensed signals are described. A signal comprising a cardiac signal component and a noise signal component is sensed. The sensed signal is processed to preferentially alter morphology of the cardiac signal component. The altered morphology of the cardiac signal component enhances detection of one or more features of the cardiac signal component. The features of the cardiac signal component are detected and the cardiac event is classified using the detected features. Processing the sensed signal may involve the use of adaptable signal processing parameters. For example, the signal processing parameters may be selected to accentuate one or more desirable features of the cardiac signal component or to mitigate one or more undesirable features of the cardiac signal component. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228094 | Heart Monitoring Systems, Apparatus and Methods Adapted to Detect Myocardial Ischemia - Embodiments include heart monitoring systems, apparatus, and methods adapted to detect myocardial ischemia. An apparatus includes at least one first-tier sensor/analyzer adapted to sense a first input related to cardiac function, and to produce a first-tier trigger signal when the first input indicates myocardial ischemia. In an embodiment, a first-tier sensor/analyzer includes an ECG sensor/analyzer. In another embodiment, a first-tier sensor/analyzer includes a patient activator. An apparatus further includes at least one second-tier sensor/analyzer adapted to sense a second input related to cardiac function, and to produce a second-tier trigger signal when the second input indicates myocardial ischemia. In an embodiment, a second-tier sensor-analyzer includes a heart sound sensor/analyzer. A triggering element is adapted to produce a response-invoking signal in response to the first-tier trigger signal and the second-tier trigger signal. The response-invoking signal may invoke a patient alert, a message to an external system, and/or a cardiac stimulus. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228095 | MEDICAL DEVICE - A multi-functional, hand-held medical device for measuring bodily functions and physiological parameters and for medical screening and diagnosis by dual sound detection. A multi-functional, hand-held medical device capable of accurate, automatic and instantaneous readings of data received from the patient's different bodily functions, enhances productivity of the user, allows for flexibility to adjust the distance between the patient and the user, and reduces the potential for transmission of infectious or contagious organisms between the patient and the user. A multi-functional, hand-held medical device that does not require the use of earpieces. A method for measuring bodily functions and physiological parameters and for medical screening and diagnosis by dual sound detection. An undoubtable useful tool not only for professionals but also for lay persons who may require frequent monitoring of vital sounds during home care assessments | 2008-09-18 |
20080228096 | End-Tidal Gas Estimation System and Method - An apparatus and method of indicating the reliability of an end-tidal gas value that includes measuring a plurality of gas concentration values, measuring a plurality of ventilation values, determining an end-tidal gas value from the gas concentration values, determining the degree of ventilatory stability from the ventilation values, and providing an estimate of reliability of the end-tidal gas values using the degree of ventilatory stability. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228097 | RESPIRATION MONITORING SYSTEM - The present invention provides a sleep respiration monitoring system for monitoring sleep quality of a user. The sleep respiration monitoring system has a sensing fabric, a detecting circuit and a judging and analysis circuit. The electrical characteristics of the sensing fabric vary with respiration status or extent of body movement of a user. The detecting circuit detects the electrical characteristics of the sensing fabric. The judging and analysis circuit performs signal processing, signal collection, signal classification and signal determination on output signals of the detecting circuit, so as to determine whether the user lies on the sensing fabric and the sleep quality of the user. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228098 | Method and Device For Measurement of Exhaled Respiratory Gas Temperature - An apparatus for the measurement of exhaled respiratory gas temperature during free voluntary tidal breathing, comprises a housing | 2008-09-18 |
20080228099 | ADAPTORS FOR INHALERS TO IMPROVE PERFORMANCE - A child-sized adaptor for a DPI or MDI is provided. Also provided is a patient feedback mechanism for signaling and/or teaching proper inhaler use. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228100 | Eeg Seizure Analysis - Automated seizure detection from within an electroencephalogram (EEG) by instrumental means employs novel algorithms within software, using specific measurements of individual waves in trains, rather than any “bulk” process. The acquired signal is filtered, the wave shapes are individually described within a number of parallel runs using a variety of parameters, then criteria (including regularity criteria) are calculated and applied in order to create raw detection results. Finally the raw results are “integrated” for display. As a result, reported seizures closely follow the incidence and duration of seizures detected by trained clinicians. The invention is useful in intensive-care monitoring of EEGs from neonates and in EEG monitoring in general. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228101 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CALIBRATING AND DETERMINING HEARING STATUS - Method and System for characterizing an incident pressure wave in a hearing test. The method includes introducing a sound signal of a predetermined frequency and amplitude into an ear canal, measuring at least a sound pressure level (P | 2008-09-18 |
20080228102 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PATHOLOGICAL MAPPING OF TARGETED TISSUE - A system and method for collecting specimens removed from different regions of targeted tissue, e.g., the prostate gland. The system is made up a plurality of templates for receipt of respective ones of the specimens and a plurality of specimen identifiers. The templates include respective areas representing corresponding to respective regions of the targeted tissue and each area bears respective visible indicia representative of the corresponding region of the targeted tissue. The specimen identifiers, e.g., label for specimen containers, include visible indicia corresponding to the respective visible indicia areas of the templates. Graphic representations of the targeted tissue showing the pathology of the regions thereof can be computer generated based on the specimens collected. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228103 | Vacuum Timing Algorithm For Biopsy Device - A biopsy system has a cutter defining a cutter lumen along an axis. One conduit in the system is configured to provide fluid communication along the cutter lumen axis; while another conduit in the system is configured to provide fluid communication lateral to the cutter lumen axis. The system may be operated in a variety of modes, including a sample cycle, a clear probe cycle, a cutter positioning cycle, an aspirate cycle, and a maintenance vacuum pulse cycle. The operational modes are selectable by a user. Depending on the mode selected by the user, the communication of vacuum, saline, or atmospheric air through the conduits, or the sealing of the conduits, will vary as a function of the axial position of the cutter. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228104 | Energy Assisted Medical Devices, Systems and Methods - A device for penetrating tissue and removing a biological sample includes a biological sampling element to remove a biological sample. The biological sampling element includes a passage therethrough. The device further includes a penetrator positioned within the passage. The penetrator is energized in a repetitive manner to assist in penetrating tissue. The biological sample element can be adapted to remove a tissue sample or a biological fluid sample (for example, blood). A device for penetrating tissue and positioning a tissue resident conduit (for example, a catheter), includes a tissue resident conduit (for example, a catheter) including a passage therethrough; and a penetrator in operative connection with the catheter. A device for inserting a tissue resident conduit includes at least one component that is energized during penetration to assist in penetrating tissue. In one embodiment, the tissue resident conduit is flexible and the energized component is positioned or a forward end of the tissue resident conduit. The device can further include a mechanism for directing the penetration of the tissue resident conduit. A needle for penetrating tissue includes a first effector including a surface and at least one actuator in operative connection with the first effector. The actuator is adapted to cause motion of the first effector such that tearing of tissue takes place in regions where there is close proximity of tissue to the surface of the first effector. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228105 | Sampling Means - Sampling Means A sampling means for obtaining an organic sample ( | 2008-09-18 |
20080228106 | URINE COLLECTION DEVICE - A urine collection device comprises a collector to collect urine voided by a user; first and second outlets adapted to allow urine collected by the collector to drain from the device and a transfer passage adapted to transfer urine collected by the collector to a receptacle. The first outlet includes a flow rate variation device so constructed and arranged that an initial drain flow rate through the variation device is greater than a second drain flow rate through the variation device; and the second outlet comprises an overflow outlet adapted to allow urine collected by the collector to drain from the urine collection device at a third drain flow rate equal to or higher than the initial drain flow rate through the variation device. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228107 | BIO-TESTING BOOTH - In one embodiment of the invention, a booth for bio-testing is provided. The booth comprises a specimen collection mechanism for collecting a biological specimen; and a storage mechanism to store the collected specimen for analysis. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228108 | Composite Radiopaque Intracorporeal Product - The invention is directed to a guidewire having a distal flexible member, such as a helical coil, which is formed with at least one highly radiopaque component and at least one high strength component. In a presently preferred embodiment, the highly radiopaque component is at least 10% and less than about 60% of the transverse cross-section of the flexible member, preferably at least 20% but less than 40%. The highly radiopaque component may be formed of radiopaque material such as platinum, gold, iridium and the like and the high strength component may be formed of a material such as tantalum, stainless steel, NiTi alloys, Co—Cr—Mo alloys and the like. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228109 | GUIDE WIRE - A guide wire includes a member with a core wire. The guide wire may have a marker-forming layer which partly encircles the outer surface of the member and differs in color from the member, and a coating layer which covers the marker-forming layer and the member at least in the region where the marker-forming layer is formed and has such transparency as to make the marker-forming layer visible. The marker-forming layer and the coating layer can be formed from mutually miscible resins, while the marker-forming layer functions as a visible marker. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228110 | Device for computerized dynamic posturography and a method for balance assessment - A device for balance training and assessing dynamic balance by measuring a subject's ability to react to perturbations. A universal joint assembly is translated at the base of a support plate while a top plate on which the subject stands is fixed against translation. The universal joint permits the attached top plate to rotate about at least one and preferably multiple axes, and the subject must control balance following the translation of the universal joint. All components are housed in a one-piece platform assembly, made up of two plates in which the components are mounted. An existing force plate measurement system is placed on the top plate, and the subject stands thereon during use. A virtual environment, by image-creating devices, may be used to create a realistic sensation of tripping and general postural instability, or shifting of the support surface. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228111 | Therapeutic ultrasound system - An ultrasound system has a catheter including an elongate flexible catheter body having at least one lumen extending longitudinally therethrough. The catheter further includes an ultrasound transmission member extending longitudinally through the lumen of the catheter body, the ultrasound transmission member having a proximal end connectable to a separate ultrasound generating device and a distal end coupled to the distal end of the catheter body. The distal end of the catheter body is deflectable. The ultrasound system also includes a sonic connector that connects the ultrasound transmission member to an ultrasound transducer. The ultrasound system also provides a method for reverse irrigation and removal of particles. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228112 | Shock wave conductor - The invention relates to a device for reducing the coupling-in surface area of a shock wave reflector and for forwarding a shock wave focus zone. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228113 | Breath Training Device - The inventive breath training device comprises a respiratory tube, a low-frequency mechanical air oscillation generator provided with an oscillation chamber embodied therein and provided with an input channel which is embodied in the form of an upwardly extending saddle-shaped body of revolution, contains a spherical ball and is connected to the respiratory tube and to an output channel communicating with ambient air, wherein the respiratory tube is provided with a jacket in which the body of the low-frequency mechanical air oscillation generator rotatable about a horizontal axis is fixed and a bypass chamber provided with an inspiratory tube is formed, said inspiratory tube comprises an inspiratory valve provided with a tubular attachment and the output channel of the oscillation chamber of the low-frequency mechanical air oscillation generator is also provided with an expiratory valve. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228115 | Massage chair - A massage apparatus is disclosed comprising a frame, a rigid footplate, a resilient back support, a rigid backing member providing stiffening at least a portion of the back support, first and second vibration transducers providing a vibration force to the footplate and the back support, and the footplate and the back support are isolated from the frame. The back support forms an angle with the ground that is in a range from about 35 degrees to about 65 degrees, and the back support forms an angle with the footplate that is in a range from about 80 to about 100 degrees. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228116 | Ergonomic universal sling - A support sling is provided. A partial sleeve component is provided and adapted to be secured to the upper/opposing upper arm/shoulder area of a user, the partial sleeve component including hook or a loop adhesive fabric. A shoulder strap is provided, the shoulder strap including a hook or a loop adhesive fabric. The shoulder strap is adapted to connect to a load. In one embodiment, the shoulder strap can be secured to an arm sling adapted to cradle an arm of a user. The combined arm sling and the shoulder strap is placed over the head of the user, with the user's arm being placed in the arm sling, with the hook or loop adhesive fabric of the shoulder strap being strategically adhered to the hook or loop adhesive fabric of the partial sleeve component in a position designed to place and hold the injured arm and/or shoulder in the appropriate position for optimum healing advantages and enhanced pain management/comfort. In addition to bearing the weight of an arm, in further embodiments, the partial sleeve component and shoulder strap of the present invention can be utilized to bear other loads and transfer the load to a stronger, more capable part of the body such as, for example, carryalls such as personal travel bags, equipment bags, firearms, and other, as of yet unseen uses/advantages of secure sling technology. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228117 | Apparatus for the treatment of arm disorders and the methods of using same - A method treating the symptoms of tendonitis, arthritis, capsulities, lymphedema and ganglion cysts in the arm of a user which involves the steps of placing a pressure imparting device around selected portions of the user's arm and applying controlled pressure to the discrete areas of the skin directly overlying the selected portions. The pressure imparting device includes two discrete compression plates that are placed around selected portions of the user's arm and are drawn toward one another to apply bipolar transaxial compression of equal magnitude simultaneously to discrete areas of the skin directly overlying the selected portions. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228118 | Joint Brace - A joint brace, for example a shoulder brace, includes one or more straps ( | 2008-09-18 |
20080228119 | Knee brace and method for securing the same - A knee brace divided into anterior and posterior sides by a frontal plane, and having first and second sides divided by a median plane. The knee brace having a frame, and at least one cross strap that is connected to the frame and extends across over at least a portion of the first and second brace sides. The at least one cross strap is arranged obliquely relative to the median plane. The brace also includes a tightening mechanism that is connected to the frame and is configured to incrementally tension the at least one cross strap at predefined settings and to release tension on the at least one cross strap. A first end of the at least one cross strap engages the tightening mechanism. A dosage meter is connected to the frame, and includes an indication feature representing tension settings of the at least one cross strap. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228120 | Pediatric Splint - A splinting device for receiving and stabilizing a plurality of fingers. The splinting device has a main body having a generally rigid and planar upper surface and lower surface, a first side edge and a second side edge, a distal end portion and a proximal end portion. The main body has a hood at its distal end portion upending proximally over the upper surface of the main body. The hood has an upper surface and a lower surface, and the lower surface of the hood and the upper surface of the main body define an interior space for receiving a plurality of fingers. In one embodiment, the splinting device also includes a glove portion comprising a wrist attachment and a flap. The main body may comprise an attachment mechanism for attaching the main body to the wrist attachment of the glove portion. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228121 | BACK SUPPORT APPARATUS AND METHOD - A device to support the human back/spine and provide assistance in bending, lifting and standing upright comprises a strap and belt system for attachment to the body and one or more bias/tension member to provide the force necessary to urge the user's back to remain or return to a straight position. When used as intended, the device serves to encourage a healthy body position for lifting, and/or to alleviate or prevent back pain associated with bending or lifting. The bias/tension member preferably comprises at least one tension rod that is adjustably fixed to a waist belt, and slidably received by an upper bracket at or near the shoulder blade region of the back. The length of the preferred two tension rods, in effect, may be adjusted by adjusting how or where the rods are fixed to the waist belt, for example. The angle at which the tension rods are held by the upper bracket, and, hence, the angle the upper portions of the tension rods are held relative to the lower portions of the tension rods, may be adjusted to accommodate different body types. With the device installed on the user's upper body, bending over will tend to bend the rods, and, hence, the resilient rods will support or tend to suspend the upper body and will help the user to straighten when desired. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228122 | Device for Protecting Wounds on Limbs - A device which comprises an enclosure of a plastics material, having an opening at an end thereof with fastening means to enable the opening to be closed around a limb or stump with an affected part contained within the enclosure, and including a fluid-absorbent material within the enclosure. The device is particularly suitable for use in the treatment of leg ulcers. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228123 | BANDAGE WITH A HYDROPHILIC FOAM CONTAINING SILVER AND A HEMASTATIC AGENT - A compression stretch bandage formed from a hydrophillic foam having at least one layer of a stretchable, textile material attached to one side of the foam and a hemastasis agent attached to another side of the foam for activating the intrinsic arm of the hemostatic cascade of the healing process. The bandage may also include a silver material contained within the foam for reducing risk of infection. The bandage may be a flexible, stretchable, hydrophilic bandage that reduces the risk of infection at a wound by providing a moist environment that will aid in optimum release of silver ions into the wound. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228124 | RADIOGRAPHIC CONTRAST MEDIA CAPTURE MATERIAL - The present invention relates to materials, coatings, apparatus, and methods for removing radiocontrast agent from a patient. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, molecular imprinting technologies are utilized to create a safe, predictable and reliable medium for removal of nephrotoxic contrast agent from body fluids of a patient, such as the bloodstream. In accordance with certain aspects of the present invention, the contrast agent can be removed without mechanical filtering or any other mechanically damaging technique affecting the blood matrix. The molecularly imprinted medium (MIM) can be used to extract the contrast agent from the blood either intra- or extracorporeally. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228125 | Methods and Devices for Rendering Different Types of Patient Access Devices Compatible with Different Types of Tubing Sets - In general, this invention relates to methods and devices for introducing and/or draining fluids into and/or from a patient's body. Methods and devices are provided for rendering conventional tubing sets, or fluid flow sets, which are normally coupleable with only specific complementary patient access devices, compatible with other access devices also. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, methods and devices are provided which render conventional extracorporeal tubing sets to be interchangeably connectable with other specific transcutaneous catheters. In yet another aspect of the invention, non-conventional tubing sets and corresponding non-conventional access devices for use in hemodialysis, or hemofiltration, are provided such that specific tubing sets and access devices can be used interchangeably. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228126 | Method of inhibiting disruption of the healing process in a physically modified stomach - Methods for inhibiting disruption of the healing process in a hollow body organ such as a stomach that is physically modified to restrict or reduce its food receiving capability are described. A physical boundary is used to form the stomach modification. An inlet portion of the modified stomach communicates with the esophagus and an outlet portion of the modified stomach communicates with the small intestine. A bypass shunt is inserted into the modified stomach alongside the physical boundary. The shunt enables food to pass from the esophagus through the shunt to the small intestine thereby reducing food and fluid contact with the physical boundary, and reducing pressure and tension forces at the physical boundary that establishes the stomach pouch. The shunt is inserted during the stomach modification procedure. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228127 | UVEOSCLERAL SHUNT AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING SAME - Devices and methods for treating intraocular pressure are disclosed. The devices include shunts for draining aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to the uveoscleral outflow pathway, including the supraciliary space and the suprachoroidal space. The shunts are preferably implanted by ab interno procedures. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228128 | Applicator having an intermittent gripping structure - An applicator having an intermittent gripping structure. The applicator can have an insertion member having an insertion end and a gripping portion opposite the insertion end. The gripping portion can have at least one substantially continuous ring disposed along substantially the entire circumference of the gripping portion and can have two or more elongated ridges extending along at least a portion of the circumference. The two or more elongated ridges can have a length extending perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the applicator and a width, and the length can be greater than the width. The two or more ridges can extend along less than substantially the entire circumference of the gripping portion. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228129 | Fluid dispensing apparatus - A compact fluid dispenser for use in controllably dispensing fluid medicaments, such as antibiotics, blood clotting agents, analgesics, and like medicinal agents from collapsible containers at a uniform rate. The dispenser includes a novel stored energy source that is provided in the form of a compressible-expandable member that functions to continuously and uniformly expel fluid from the apparatus reservoir. The apparatus further includes a novel fluid flow control assembly that precisely controls the flow of the medicament solutions from the apparatus reservoir to the patient. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228130 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR OCCLUDING COLLATERAL FLOW CHANNELS IN THE LUNG - The lateral flow between adjacent lung segments is occluded by blocking collateral flow channels with particles. A gas flow is established from one lung segment through the flow channels in an intermediate fibrous septum, and out through the adjacent lung segment. Particles entrained in the gas flow become lodged in the collateral flow channels to eventually block flow. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228131 | Microdialysis Probe with a Spiral Line - A microdialysis probe with a probe body, a probe needle for introduction into a tissue, an inlet line and an outlet line for a perfusion solution and a dialysis membrane, wherein at least one hollow channel forms the outlet line and extends at least partly spirally about the probe needle on an external surface of the probe needle. The inlet for the perfusion solution may also be in the form of spiral about the external surface of the probe needle. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228132 | Valve for Transcutaneous Access to Existing Blood Vessel or Fistula - A valve for facilitating the introduction of fluids into or withdrawal of fluids from the vascular system of an animal, including a human animal, which connects to a natural or artificial blood vessel to allow access to blood in the vascular system without the need to additionally puncture the skin with needles. The valve will often be connected to a pre-installed fistula interconnecting natural blood vessels. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228133 | DELIVERY OF A SYMPATHOLYTIC CARDIOVASCULAR AGENT TO THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM - A sympatholytic cardiovascular agent delivered by a drug delivery pump to a central nervous system site to alleviate symptoms of acute or chronic cardiac insult or impaired cardiac performance. The drug delivery pump can be external or implantable infusion pump (IIP) coupled with a drug infusion catheter extending to the site. A patient activator can command delivery of a dosage and/or an implantable heart monitor (IHM) coupled with a sensor can detect physiologic parameters associated with cardiac insult or impaired cardiac performance and trigger dosage delivery. The IIP and IHM can be combined into a single implantable medical device (IMD) or can constitute separate IMDs that communicate by any of known communication mechanisms. The sympatholytic cardiovascular agent is one of the group consisting of an alpha-adrenergic agonist and an alpha2-adrenergic agonist (e.g., clonidine, p-aminoclonidine, guanabenz, lidamidine, tizanidine, moxonidine, methyldopa, xylazine, guanfacine, detomidine, medetomidine, and dexmedetomidine). | 2008-09-18 |
20080228134 | Methods to store human breast milk - Methods for storing human breast milk, preserving its natural flavor and nutritional content. Through the use of an apparatus such as a breast pump, breast milk is expressed from a lactating woman. The milk is transferred through a fill line into a storage container. After the container is substantially filled with breast milk, the fill line is decoupled from the breast pump output, and a vacuum is applied to the line. After the remaining air is evacuated from the container, an isolation valve in the fill line is closed, sealing the container in an evacuated condition. The fill line is removed from the valve, and the container is placed into a freezer or refrigerator for storage. When ready for use, the container is removed from the freezer or refrigerator, the milk is thawed, and the vacuum is broken, allowing removal of the milk for transfer to a bottle. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228135 | APPARATUS FOR TREATING A DAMAGED SPINAL DISC - The advantages of this invention are provided by a surgical tool for repairing a damaged spinal disc of a patient comprising: a catheter having a proximal end and a distal end; a guide wire contained within the catheter so that when the guide wire is pulled, the catheter will flex into a non linear shape allowing it to be steered once inserted in the patient; a heating element carried by the catheter, probe or heating member, and connected to a power source so that the heating element can be activated and provide heat to treat a disk; a grasping probe that extends from the catheter so that the grasping probe can be extended out of the catheter; and, a grasping member that can from the distal end of the catheter. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228136 | DUAL MODULUS BALLOON FOR INTERVENTIONAL PROCEDURES - A device for interventional surgical or medical procedures is presented. The device is generally in the form of a balloon and is used to position itself or other working elements up against or through lumen walls in the body. The balloon is comprised of at least two materials of different elastic modulus, which allows for a flexible but relatively non-distensible, unfolding component of the balloon as well as an elastomeric, inflatable component of the balloon. The elastomeric component is fixedly attached to the flexible but relatively non-distensible component and together they form a pressure vessel that can be inflated within the lumens of the body. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228137 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PASSIVE RESIDUAL LUNG VOLUME REDUCTION AND FUNCTIONAL LUNG VOLUME EXPANSION - The volume of a hyperinflated lung compartment is reduced by sealing a distal end of the catheter in an airway feeding the lung compartment. Air passes out of the lung compartment through a passage in the catheter while the patient exhales. A one-way flow element associated with the catheter prevents air from re-entering the lung compartment as the patient inhales. Over time, the pressure of regions surrounding the lung compartment cause it to collapse as the volume of air diminishes. Residual volume reduction effectively results in functional lung volume expansion. Optionally, the lung compartment may be sealed in order to permanently prevent air from re-entering the lung compartment. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228138 | Catheter with balloon having visual marker - A balloon catheter may have a flexible shaft extending between a proximal and distal end, with a hub affixed to the proximal end, and a balloon that has one or more visual markers. The visual marker(s) indicate and confirm specific information about attribute(s) of that individual product. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228139 | Angioplasty Balloon With Concealed Wires - A balloon catheter having wires situated between an outer layer and a surface of a balloon is described. Each wire may be confined within an interior space of a pocket or encapsulated within a sheath. The pocket includes the outer layer and the balloon surface. The outer layer and balloon surface are unattached to allow the wire to slidably fit between therewithin. The pocket is selectively bonded to the balloon. The sheath includes a preformed shape that completely circumscribes the wire along the longitudinal and radial directions of the wire. The confined and encapsulated feature of the wires enable the wires to be atraumatic and remain spaced apart during treatment of calcification of a lesion. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228140 | CATHETER WITH PORTIONS THAT CAN CHANGE IN VOLUME - A catheter for administering a substance into body tissues includes an elongated catheter body that has at least one portion of the length of the catheter body that expands after the catheter is inserted in the patient's body. The portion that expands provides a seal against backflow of the substance along the outer surface of the catheter body and away from the intended treatment area. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228141 | Methods and Apparatus for Regional and Whole Body Temperature Modification - Methods and apparatus for temperature modification of selected body regions including an induced state of local hypothermia of the brain region for neuroprotection. A heat exchange catheter is provided with heat transfer fins projecting or extending outward from the catheter which may be inserted into selected blood vessels or body regions to transfer heat with blood or fluid in the selected blood vessels or body regions. Another aspect of the invention further provides methods and apparatus for controlling the internal body temperature of a patient. By selectively heating or cooling a portion of the catheter lying within a blood vessel, heat may be transferred to or from blood flowing within the vessel to increase or decrease whole body temperature or the temperature of a target region. Feed back from temperature sensors located within the patient's body allow for control of the heat transfer from the catheter to automatically control the temperature of the patient or of the target region within the patient. The apparatus may include a blood channeling sleeve that directs body fluid over a heat exchanger where the body fluid's temperature is altered, and then is discharged out the distal end of the sleeve to a desired location, for example, cooled blood to the brain for neuroprotection. The catheter may be used alone or in conjunction with other heat exchangers to cool one region of a patients body while heating another. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228142 | PORTABLE INTRAVENOUS FLUID HEATING SYSTEM - The present invention discloses a portable intravenous fluid heating system comprising (a) a metallic heated conduit for warming IV fluids passed therethrough at a continuously regulated normal body temperature and transporting said IV fluids; and, (b) a controller unit including a power source operative to apply an electric potential across said conduit. The conduit comprises a wall made of a metallic material capable of producing resistance heat by the passage of electric current, such that said IV fluid is heated by the contact with said wall. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228143 | Injection Device - An injection device comprising an outer housing inside which is located a medicament-holding barrel ( | 2008-09-18 |
20080228144 | INSERTION HEAD FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL APPLICATIONS - An insertion head for medical use, including a housing formed by two housing parts, a puncture needle and a flexible cannula supported by the puncture needle, wherein before use the puncture needle and cannula are arranged in a protected position inside the housing and can be deployed by gripping the housing parts and moving at least one of the parts relative to the other, wherein upon depolyment the puncture needle and cannula can be inserted into the body of a patient, and wherein after insertion the puncture needle can be removed from the cannula by moving the housing and puncture needle away from the body counter to the direction of insertion, the puncture needle being automatically pivoted into a protected position in the housing. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228145 | GUIDEWIRE INTRODUCER AND SHAPING TOOL - The improved guidewire introducer and shaping tool includes a polymer inner layer and a metal outer layer. A polymer luer hub is provided on a polymer tubing shaft so that the internal taper of the hub has a smooth transition to the inner diameter of the polymer tubing shaft. A metal outer layer is provided over the outer surface of the polymer layer and can be rigidly attached to the hub to provide support and stiffness to the polymer layer. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228146 | POSITIONING DEVICE FOR OSTIAL LESIONS - A device and methods for positioning of a catheter at an ostium includes an anchoring portion and an expandable portion. The anchoring portion is configured to be attached to the shaft of the catheter at a location proximal to a treatment device positioned on the catheter. The expandable portion extends from a distal end of the anchoring portion and is immovable with respect to the anchoring portion along a longitudinal axis, The expandable portion is configured to extend outwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis and is configured to be bendable in a direction of a proximal end of the anchoring portion. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228147 | Injector for use with pre-filled syringes and method of assembly - An injection device for use with a pre-filled syringe. The device features a track and track follower engagement which facilitates locking a protective needle guard over the tip of the needle at the conclusion of the injection. The device further includes a tamper evidence overcap which, once removed from the device cannot be readily reinstalled. The injection device features a tubular handle which is grasped by the hand and moved towards the injection site to administer the injection. The device is suitable for self-administration of injections. Use of the device is not technique dependent. Its design, including tubular handle which is grasped in one hand, is easy to use even by the elderly and persons with limited dexterity. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228148 | Medicament cartridge - Many of those having diabetes take a combination of slow and fast acting types of insulin. It is important that the different forms of medicament do not become confused. To this end, a medicament cartridge is provided comprising a sleeve having a bottleneck providing a flange at a first end, a fluid impermeable membrane secured across the first end by a metal cap beaded beneath the flange, and a displaceable piston located internally of the sleeve towards a second end of the sleeve, a collar located against an external periphery of the cartridge housing beneath the flange and an adaptor top press fit over the cap and the collar, the adaptor top being provided with means to act upon the collar thereby to retain the adaptor top on the sleeve. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228149 | BLUNT CANNULA FOR ACCESSING A SLIT SEPTUM - A blunt cannula ( | 2008-09-18 |
20080228150 | Soft body catheter with low friction lumen - The disclosure is directed to radiation catheter devices, methods for controlled application of irradiation to tissue at a body site, such as a cavity formed after removal of tissue, e.g. cancer, using such radiation catheter devices, solutions for forming a more lubricious luminal surface and method for lining lumens of such devices to improve the frictional characteristics thereof. The catheter device includes a flexible elongated shaft which is formed of low durometer polymeric material, which can be readily folded or coiled for securing the shaft to or under the skin of the patient and a radiation lumen lined with high durometer polymeric material to improve the frictional characteristics. The elongated shaft has at least one inner lumen for receiving a radiation source which has a layer of high durometer polymeric material that provides lower surface friction to facilitate advancement of a radiation source therein. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228151 | Transdermal drug delivery with controlled heat for treating musculoskeletal pain and/or inflammation - Systems and methods for transdermal drug delivery with controlled heat are provided. Such systems can comprise a heating apparatus that includes an exothermic chemical composition, typically in the form of individual heating elements. The heating apparatus can be exposed to ambient oxygen through a cover. The cover can reduce the amount of ambient oxygen capable of contacting the chemical composition compared to when the cover is not present. In some embodiments, the heating apparatus can include more than one heating element. The systems can further include a drug-containing layer that includes a drug. The drug-containing layer can have a surface area of about 50 cm | 2008-09-18 |
20080228152 | Treatment brassiere and method of producing same - A treatment brassiere includes a breasts-supporting garment and a treatment layer. The breast-supporting garment includes at least a breast support having an inner surface and a securing device for securing the breast support on a user that the inner surface of the breast support is contacting with the breast surface of the user. The treatment layer, which is made of a non-absorptive material with respect to a breast treatment, is fittingly provided on the inner surface of the breast support, wherein the treatment layer form as a treatment barrier between the breast surface of the user and the inner surface of the breasts-supporting garment for substantially keeping the breast treatment on the breast surface. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228153 | Apparatus and Method for Collecting Cord Blood - The invention is devices and methods for collecting fetal blood from the umbilical cord and placenta after the birth of a baby. Embodiments of the invention are open circuit devices and methods that allow collection of relatively large quantities of cord blood while reducing the risk of contamination to levels lower than those presently associated with closed circuit systems. Other embodiments are methods and devices for use in closed system procedures that increase the amount of blood collected and also reduce the amount of contamination in presently employed closed systems. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228154 | DEVICE, SYSTEM, KIT OR METHOD FOR COLLECTING EFFLUENT FROM AN INDIVIDUAL - The present invention relates to a device, method, system and kit for receiving effluent from an individual. In an alternative embodiment, the present invention is directed to a device, method, system and kit for collecting effluent from an individual during a medical or diagnostic procedure including but not limited to, imaging or viewing one or more sections of an individual's gastrointestinal tract. In another alternative embodiment, the effluent is collected in a hollow area in order to prevent the effluent form contaminating a component, device or apparatus used in connection with the medical or diagnostic procedure. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228155 | Colostomy bag - A colostomy bag provided with a stoma ring, a gas outlet and an external deodorizing filter in which a vertical baffle is provided intermediate the stoma ring and the gas outlet and extending from the upper marginal wall of the bag and a level slightly below the lowest point of the stoma ring. The baffle is designed to prevent feces from being squeezed sideways and upwardly into the gas outlet and clogging it. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228156 | Device for collection of fluid - The present invention relates to a device for collecting liquid and, in particular, a device for collecting liquid or liquid-like substances used and/or generated in the course of medical procedures, said device consisting of a bag-like product that is removable attachable to the site being treated, such as the ear or the nose, and including at least one opening for transporting the flushing liquid or other liquid-like substance from the site being treated into the bag. In accordance with the invention, the bag includes a collection section to be placed at the site being treated and a connecting support section that extends at least over the patient's one shoulder, the bag being designed to be supported on at least one shoulder when being used. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228157 | Absorbent Article Having A Potty Training Readiness Indicator - A potty training readiness indicator, which can be utilized in a disposable absorbent article, having at least one indicating member. The potty training readiness indicator which indicates to the caregiver when the wearer is ready to be potty trained. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228158 | Absorbent article with patterned SBS based adhesive - An SBS based construction adhesive that includes an amount of SIS adhesive to make an SBS/SIS adhesive that shows excellent shear hang time values when used to manufacture disposable absorbent articles. The SBS/SIS adhesive is applied in a spiral pattern having a particular width and frequency to form an endflap seal that may reduce the likelihood of a gel on skin occurrence. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228159 | Breathable and Liquid Impermeable Web and Method of Making the Web - A method is disclosed for modifying the physical characteristics of a web which involves passing the web between at least one pair of interengaged rolls to incrementally stretch the web, and then withdrawing the incrementally stretched web from between the rolls under tension. A web modified according to the disclosed method has desirable breathability and liquid impermeability, as well as extensibility and a soft, cloth-like textured surface. One embodiment of the present invention provides a breathable web comprising a microporous film exhibiting an MVTR of at least about 2000 g/m | 2008-09-18 |
20080228160 | ESSENTIAL HOME PHARMACY KITS - A home pharmacy kit provided to organize, educate, simplify and add convenience to the consumer regarding self-treatment with over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and self-management of therapy with widely and commonly used OTC medications. The kit of the invention allows a consumer to achieve appropriate therapy when self-medicating and allows a consumer to avoid therapeutic duplication and over utilization and/or underutilization of medications, which may result from a lack of consumer related to the action and effects of common active ingredients found in a wide variety of cold and cough combination drug products as well as in gastrointestinal combination drug products. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228161 | Materials for Facilitating Administration of Dimethyl Sulfoxide (Dmso) and Related Compounds - The invention relates generally to materials for facilitating the administration of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and related compounds. In one embodiment, the invention comprises a kit comprising items used for the safe and effective administration of DMSO. In another embodiment, the invention relates to indicating containers for holding or delivering DMSO. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228162 | SINGLE-USE AMPOULE - A single-use, blow-molded container for medical or pharmaceutical media is presented. The container comprises a flexible storage portion connected to one end a dispensing portion and a cap connected to the other end of the dispensing portion, wherein the cap is separated from the dispensing portion to create an outlet opening so that the medical media can be expelled from the flexible storage portion. One improvement comprises at least one barrier member disposed on the dispensing portion, wherein the barrier member is sized and dimensioned to limit the insertion of the dispensing member into a patient's nostril. Another improvement comprises an orifice controlling the pattern and direction of the medical media as it exits the ampoule container and wherein the orifice is spaced apart from the outlet opening. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228163 | Needle venting device for sealed containers - An improved liquid handling needle device for use with the reconstitution of toxic drugs such as those used in chemotherapy and other applications. When diluent, in this example, is added through a septum into a sealed container, a positive pressure builds up. Aerosols containing the reconstituted drugs can be release through the punctured opening exposing personnel to potential contamination. This improved needle device provides a low-cost aerosol resistant vent channel between the outside diameter of the needle and the inside diameter of the tubular member holding it allowing gas diffusion from inside of the sealed container through the vent channel to the outside of the container when said needle device is inserted into the sealed container. This specifically engineered aerosol resistant vent channel prohibits the flow of the aerosol particles from flowing due to the frictional contact of the aerosol particles with either of the opposing walls forming the vent channel causing any aerosol particles to condense and be redirected back into the liquid receiving sealed container, thus providing sterile air venting for both the injecting and withdrawal of fluids. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228164 | Implant delivery system - An embodiment includes a site marker deployment system that includes a deployment device having an inner cannula and a site marker that may be selectively interposed within the inner cannula. The site marker includes at least one generally elongated filament member. The filament member is selectively configurable between a first configuration, where the site marker can not be interposed within the inner cannula, and a second configuration, where the site marker may be interposed within the inner cannula. A portion of the site marker is elastically deformed when the site marker is interposed within the inner cannula. The site marker deployment system also includes a restraining member selectively interposed within the inner cannula and selectively engaging the site marker such that a force exerted on the restraining member may urge the site marker at least partially into the inner cannula. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228165 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INTRODUCING ELEMENTS INTO TISSUE - Systems, devices and methods for securing tissue including the annulus of a mitral valve. The systems, devices and methods may employ catheter based techniques and devices to plicate tissue and perform an annuloplasty. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228166 | Sonography guided embryo transfer for in vitro fertilization - The present provides novel systems and methods to facilitate embryo transfer, to maximize implantation rates and to improve pregnancy rates resulting from In Vitro fertilization. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228167 | CATHETER WITH PRESSURE SENSOR SYSTEM - A catheter for administering a substance into a patient's tissue including a number of pressure sensors for detecting changes in the shape of the catheter or a backflow along the surface of the catheter. In response to the pressure distribution profile collected along the surface or length of the catheter, the physician may simulate or adapt the substance administration plan to accommodate the actual position of the catheter or the backflow along the surface of the catheter. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228168 | CATHETER WITH CHANGING MATERIAL PROPERTIES - A catheter for administering a substance into a patient's tissue includes an elongated catheter body surrounding a lumen. At least one part of the length of the catheter body includes a material that changes its stiffness due to changes in the ambient conditions in the administering environment. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228169 | OVER-THE-WIRE CATHETER WITH LATERAL ACCESS - An over-the-wire catheter includes a guide wire lumen that is defined by a distal bracket and a proximal bracket. Both brackets are formed as part of the catheter, and the lumen is dimensioned for receiving a guide wire therethrough. Between the distal bracket and the proximal bracket is a lateral aperture that extends along the length of the catheter and provides for selective access to the guide wire during the use and operation of the catheter. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228170 | Vascular Fluoroscopic Marker - A radiopaque marker configured for being securing to a tubular member adapted for introduction into a patient and having relief sections to provide localized accommodation of diametrical-circumferential dimensional reduction. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228171 | Endovascular devices and methods for exploiting intramural space - Devices and methods for exploiting intramural (e.g., subintimal) space of a vascular wall to facilitate the treatment of vascular disease, particularly total occlusions. For example, the devices and methods disclosed herein may be used to visually define the vessel wall boundary, protect the vessel wall boundary from perforation, bypass an occlusion, and/or remove an occlusion. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228172 | INTRAVENOUS ACCESS SAFETY DEVICE - An intravenous catheter system comprises a Y-shape, where one arm includes a needle for catheterization, another accommodates a syringe assembly, and the third is threaded for attachment to IV tubing. A syringe assembly is threadedly attached to the Y for cannulation, after which the needle is withdrawn into a tube and lugs prevent re-exposure of the needle's point. A basket connector/valve in the third arm substantially prevents flow through the third arm when no IV tubing is attached thereto. An adhesive strip with backing is wrapped around the Y, perpendicular to its axis, and adheres (or, alternatively, is integrally attached) in its middle to the Y. After cannulation, the backing is removed and the ends of the strip are folded to be parallel to the catheter where it attaches to the Y. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228173 | Safety Catheter For Injecting Fluid - A catheter includes a tubular body having a channel having its ends opening out respectively at the ends of the tubular body, injector element for injecting fluid into the channel, a tubular endpiece having a channel with ends opening out respectively at the ends of the tubular endpiece, and element for connecting the endpiece and the body together so that the end of the channel and the end of the channel are in alignment on an axis, the connection element being constituted essentially by a ring that partially covers the body and the endpiece, and being also arranged in such a manner that the connection can be broken by exerting a force couple of predetermined value respectively on the endpiece and on the body. The invention is applicable to safety catheters for performing endovascular treatments by injecting embolic fluid, for example for treating arteriovenous malfunctions. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228174 | Drain Tube Assembly for Draining a Body Cavity - A drain tube assembly for draining a body cavity, the assembly comprising a flexible drain tube having a distal end for insertion into the body cavity and a proximal end, the distal end having at least one drainage hole therein, and at least one attachment ring so as to provide an attachment for suture, the attachment ring being connected to the drain tube by a flexible arm permitting rotational movement of the attachment ring relative to the drain tube. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228175 | Medical device - The invention provides a medical device with a retention section for anchoring the medical device in the body of a living being, a drainage section for draining fluids from the body, e.g. urine, and a tip which facilitates insertion into the body. During the anchoring of the medical device, the tip is retracted toward a proximal end of the device, improving the users control over the position of the tip relative to other parts of the device and achieving the free flow of fluids through the device. An indicator may be provided to give a visual, audible, or tactile indication of at least a first position of the tip relative to the remaining part of the medical device. | 2008-09-18 |
20080228176 | Eye-Contact Element - An optical eye-contact element is disclosed that is at least partly translucent, the optical eye-contact element giving rise to a wavefront error of at most about λ/2, preferentially at most about λ/4, highly preferentially at most about λ/10, in a traversing light beam. The optical eye-contact element may be a so-called applanation plate or applanation lens. | 2008-09-18 |