Inventors list

Assignees list

Classification tree browser

Top 100 Inventors

Top 100 Assignees


44th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights (10-29-09/10-29-09_51) part 51
Patent application numberTitlePublished
20090270826Absorbent Garment With Strain Resistant Core Cover - The present disclosure relates to an absorbent garment comprising an absorbent core having a nonwoven core cover that offers improved performance on holding back fine particulate material after having been exposed to external strain.10-29-2009
20090270827Dressing - A wound dressing comprising a backing layer and an absorbent layer, wherein the absorbent layer comprises a wound facing surface and a non-wound facing surface, said absorbent layer comprises discrete foam pads covering at least 50% of the wound facing surface of the absorbent layer and wherein the non-wound facing surface of the foam pads are attached to the backing layer. The structure of the dressing renders it possible for the foam to expand during wetting without changing the external dimensions of the absorbent layer substantially.10-29-2009
20090270828ABSORBENT ARTICLE - It is an object of the present invention to provide an absorbent article having an excellent utilization efficiency of an absorber. The object is attained by an absorbent article including: a leak preventer including a bottom surface part extending in a front-rear direction, and side parts raised to an upper side at both left and right sides of the bottom surface part; an absorber containing super absorbent polymer for absorbing a body fluid placed in an internal space formed by the bottom surface part and the side parts of the leak preventer in at least one layer; and a liquid guide unit placed in a front body part of the internal space, at a position where a flow of discharged urine directly collides with the liquid guide unit, for moving, when urine is discharged, the urine from the position where the urine has collided therewith to other positions.10-29-2009
20090270829PACKAGED UNDERGARMENT AND CHANGING ACCESSORIES - An undergarment and undergarment changing accessory system includes an undergarment, at least one changing accessory for cleaning or treating an undergarment wearer or caregiver, and a container comprising sheet portions that are partially sealed together with releasable seals along perimeter edge portions that may be readily pulled or peeled apart to expose the undergarment (such as a diaper) and changing accessory contained therein. A fixed or non-releasable seal or fold region may optionally connect the sheet portions after the releasable seals are opened so that the sheet portions form an enlarged sheet that can be used as a sanitary changing surface. A releasable seal established along a divider portion between the sheet portions and separating the undergarment from the changing accessory maintains the undergarment and changing accessory in isolation from one another and from the environment to prevent leaks or contamination prior to opening the releasable seals.10-29-2009
20090270830BLOW-MOLDED PLASTIC INFUSION CONTAINER - A bottle-type blow-molded plastic infusion container that can be set in an upright position. When liquid is discharged from the container, almost no dead space occurs in shoulder and bottom portions (required amount of air to be placed in the container to remove residual liquid is less). The blow-molded container has a mouth section (10-29-2009
20090270831Cough Germ Containment Device - The present device is a suppression device for containing sound and germs emanating from a user's cough. A substantially hollow tube forms a gas conduit with a gas-permeable end membrane fixed within the tube across the gas conduit. A layer of a gas-permeable anti-bacterial material is fixed within the tube against the end membrane and a gas-permeable filter material is fixed within the tube against the anti-bacterial material. When a user needs to cough, the user coughs into the suppression device whereby the emanating germs and sound are suppressed as they encounter the filter material, the anti-bacterial material, and the end membrane. The suppression device further includes a lanyard permitting a user to wear the device and a label to write the user's name on the device. The suppression device is primarily comprised of biodegradable materials, allowing the suppression device to be disposable in an environmentally friendly way.10-29-2009
20090270832NEEDLELESS PORT ASSEMBLY FOR A CONTAINER - A needleless access port is assembled from parts sealed to a flexible container, such as a container for intravenous infusion, parenteral nutrition or transfusion. The port includes a lower housing for sealing to the container, the lower housing having an upright tower for mounting an upper housing. The upper housing has at least one connector or valve and a sleeve for mounting to the tower. The sleeve includes connectors so the upper housing can be mounted in a first, upper resting position, and a second lower, active position, for adding liquid to the container or for removing liquid from the container. Even after assembly to a container, the upper housing may be removed and the lower housing may be used instead with a standard IV spike set.10-29-2009
20090270833Software Features for Medical Infusion Pump - Various software features useable in a medical infusion pump are disclosed. In certain aspects, localized alarm and message handling systems are disclosed. In other aspects, variable intensity alarms are disclosed. In further aspects, cost tracking systems and methods for medical infusion pumps are disclosed. In still further aspects, methods and systems implementing a variable delay of pressure decay in a medical infusion pump are disclosed. In other aspects, methods and systems implementing a timed intermittent bolus by pressure are disclosed.10-29-2009
20090270834DRUG DELIVERY DEVICE - The invention refers to an electrically actuated, needle-free injection device. The main field of application is drug delivery. The device is based on a piezoelectric actuator (10-29-2009
20090270835STEERABLE SONOHYSTEROGRAPHIC INJECTION CATHETER FOR UTERINE CANCER SENTINEL LYMPH NODE MAPPING - A steerable sonohysterographic injection catheter for identifying sentinel lymph nodes in uterine cancer patients includes a tubular shaft housing a needle extendible therefrom. The needle is preferably sized for intrauterine insertion and configured to deliver a fluid such as a contrast media to a tumor location. The catheter preferably includes a sealing device such as a selectively inflatable balloon disposed at a position along the outside of the catheter. The sealing device is configured for placement at an opening of a patient's cervix to prevent the leaking of the contrast media out of the uterus through the cervix. The distal end of the catheter is steerable so as to allow the tip of the needle to be positioned substantially near the tumor location.10-29-2009
20090270836CORONARY SINUS LEAD DELIVERY CATHETER - A guide catheter for accessing the coronary sinus ostium has a proximal portion and a distal portion formed into a preformed shape including a curved segment. The preformed shape includes a first arc, a second arc, a third arc, a fourth arc, and a generally straight terminal portion. The preformed shape is generally a J-shape, having a terminal portion generally parallel to the proximal portion, a generally closed arc or a generally open arc.10-29-2009
20090270837MULTI-PURPOSE TUBING APPARATUS - An improved tubing device, preferably for use in the medical industry is provided. The tubing device provides a seamless transport path by using the tubing itself as the transport means without any other internally wetted parts, or connections, to provide a substantial reduction in the number of fluid contact components, and eliminate the need for cutting tubes into segments to be later bonded via tubing connectors. This can reduce the risk of contamination of the transported materials and can also reduce the use of chemicals such as adhesives and bonding agents.10-29-2009
20090270838Catheter Flushing Mandrel - A mandrel includes a mandrel body with a proximal major diameter barrel section, a diameter reducing/tapered portion and a distal minor diameter barrel section. The tapered portion connects the proximal major diameter barrel section and distal minor diameter barrel section. The proximal major diameter barrel section has a major diameter, the distal minor diameter barrel section has a minor diameter, the minor diameter less than the major diameter. The minor diameter is less than a diameter of an inner lumen of a coaxial catheter, and the major diameter exceeds the inner diameter of the outer lumen guidewire exit port of the coaxial catheter, and the tapered portion is sized to form a fluid seal the inner diameter of the outer lumen guidewire exit port. The distal minor diameter barrel section of the mandrel occupies and substantially seals and prevent flow through it to the catheter distal end guidewire entry port.10-29-2009
20090270839Braided Catheter Reinforcement Layer Having Short Axial Filament Segments - A catheter includes an elongate member having a braided reinforcing layer. The reinforcing layer comprises a plurality of continuous filaments that transform from a braided configuration to short axially oriented segments in a least one location along the catheter. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing a braided elongate member including providing a core, forming at least one braided portion with a plurality of filaments and forming at least one short axially oriented segment with at least a portion of the same plurality of filaments.10-29-2009
20090270840DELIVERY SYSTEMS FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE AND RELATED METHODS - Delivery systems for a medical device and related methods are provided. In one embodiment the delivery system includes a handle, a handle extension, and a sleeve. The handle extension extends from the handle and includes at least one channel defined therein along a longitudinal length of the handle extension. The handle extension also includes an abutment surface positioned in the at least one channel. The sleeve is disposed around the handle extension and is coupled to a catheter. The sleeve also includes a biased actuator configured to be moved between at least two actuator positions. The sleeve is moveable from a distal position to an intermediate position where it is stopped via the abutment surface to partially unsheathe a medical device from the catheter. The actuator can then be manually actuated to enable displacement of the sleeve to a proximal position to fully unsheathe the medical device from the catheter.10-29-2009
20090270841Catheters - A catheter arrangement comprises a central tube with a wall of porous material, a proximal portion of which is covered with a non-porous layer. A hub member at the proximal end of the catheter arrangement has a port in fluid communication via the lumen of the central tube with the region surrounding the exposed distal end of the tube.10-29-2009
20090270842Handle for a Medical Instrument - A handle for a medical instrument having a handle housing that can be closed by a cover and having at least one drainage or irrigation hose in the handle housing that can be connected to a hose connection support. To create a handle that is of simple construction and ensures a reliable fluid-proof insulated connection of the hose and hose connection support while protecting the hose material, it is proposed that each drainage or irrigation hose should be connectable by an adaptor to the related hose connection support and that the adaptor upon closing the handle housing can be pressed against the hose connection support by a stop positioned on the cover or on the base portion of the handle housing.10-29-2009
20090270843MICROMECHANICAL FORCE DEVICES FOR WOUND HEALING ACCELERATION - An apparatus provides micromechanical forces on a wound bed to accelerate healing of a wound. The apparatus includes a pressure chamber having a substantially airtight plunger and an inlet fluidly connected to a first end of a conduit. A constant force spring is operatively connected to apply a constant force to the plunger. A suction cup is in fluid communication with a second end of the conduit.10-29-2009
20090270844FLOW SENSOR CONTROLLED INFUSION DEVICE - An implantable infusion device includes an outlet through which a fluid is deliverable and a reservoir for containing the fluid. A flow path is in fluid communication with the reservoir and the outlet. The flow path includes a pressure regulator and a flow restrictor. The pressure regulator has a housing defining a major chamber and a diaphragm disposed in the housing such that the diaphragm sealingly divides the major chamber into first and second minor chambers. The flow restrictor is in fluid communication with the first and second minor chambers of the pressure regulator and is disposed downstream of the first minor chamber and upstream of the second minor chamber. The device further includes (i) a flow sensor configured to detect information regarding flow rate of the fluid downstream of the flow restrictor, and (ii) a pressure adjustment actuator assembly configured to vary pressure in the first minor chamber of the pressure regulator relative to pressure in the second minor chamber. The device also includes a processor operably coupled to the flow sensor and the pressure adjustment actuator assembly. The processor is configured to provide instructions to the actuator assembly for adjusting the pressure in the first minor chamber relative to pressure in the second minor chamber based on the information from the sensor to regulate flow rate of the fluid.10-29-2009
20090270845Scalp treatment device - The invention provides a hand held hair treatment device for the stimulation of hair growth on the scalp, which device comprises: 10-29-2009
20090270846CATHETER, EXAMINATION SYSTEM AND THROMBUS REMOVING DEVICE - The position of a metal marker 10-29-2009
20090270847Treating erythematotelangiectatic rosacea or papulopustular rosacea with narrow-band infrared light radiation and radiation kits therefor - A method of treating erythematotelangiectatic rosacea or papulopustular rosacea in a subject comprises exposing the subject's skin in need thereof to narrow-band infrared radiation at a wavelength(s) in a range of between 790 nm and 900 nm and having a band width of between 0 nm and 20 nm, in an effective dose to treat erythematotelangiectatic rosacea or papulopustular rosacea and essentially not to cause photothermolysis of the skin. Alternatively, a method of treating erythematotelangiectatic rosacea or papulopustular rosacea in a subject comprises exposing the subject's skin in need thereof to narrow-band infrared radiation at a wavelength(s) in a range of between 790 nm and 900 nm and having a band width of between 0.1 nm and 20 nm, in an effective dose to treat erythematotelangiectatic rosacea or papulopustular rosacea. A kit for such methods comprises a radiation source generating narrow-band infrared radiation at a wavelength(s) in a range of between 790 nm and 900 nm, the narrow-band infrared radiation having a band width of between 0 nm and 20 nm and having a power density of between 1 mW/cm10-29-2009
20090270848Optical Sensor and Method for Identifying the Presence of Skin and the Pigmentation of Skin - Apparatus and methods are provided to control a device, such as a light emitting dermatologic or cosmetic treatment device, and ensure that the device is in contact with skin while also determining the pigmentation level of skin. One or more light sources contact the skin and one or more detectors measure spectral remission from the skin. The obtained remission measurements are compared with known skin spectral remission values, and calibration allows measurements of absolute remission to be converted to fractional remission values. Skin pigmentation levels are compared to known base-line levels to determine and control appropriate treatment parameters. A temperature sensor allows correction for temperature variations. The apparatus may or may not be incorporated into the treatment device.10-29-2009
20090270849Electrosurgical Device and Method - The present invention relates to the field of electrosurgery, and more particularly to a system that produces an ionized gas flows that are configured to function as an electrode arrangement. A working end of an elongated member can use spaced apart conductive gas flows to coagulate or ablate tissue interstitially, intraluminally or topically.10-29-2009
20090270850DEVICES AND METHODS FOR THE ABLATION OF TISSUE IN THE LATERAL DIRECTION - Various devices for ablating tissue in a lateral direction and methods of operation thereof. One embodiment of such a device includes: (1) an elongated body configured to carry ablative energy from an ablative energy source associated with a proximal end to a distal end and (2) a distal tip located at the distal end, the distal tip configured to deliver the ablative energy in a direction substantially lateral to a longitudinal axis of the elongated body.10-29-2009
20090270851Method and System for Cryoablation Treatment - A system and a method for its use are provided to cool a cryotip at the distal end of a probe for a cryosurgical procedure. In particular, the cryotip is cooled by a liquid refrigerant to cryogenic temperatures in order to perform a cryosurgical procedure on biological tissue. The system is closed-loop, and during transit of the liquid refrigerant through the entire system, the liquid refrigerant always remains in a liquid state at a relatively low pressure.10-29-2009
20090270852TREATMENT SYSTEM, AND TREATMENT METHOD FOR LIVING TISSUE USING ENERGY - A treatment system that applies energy to a living tissue to treat the same, the treatment system includes 10-29-2009
20090270853SURGICAL OPERATING APPARATUS - A surgical operating apparatus includes a sheath provided with a distal end part and a proximal end part, an apparatus main body to be coupled to the proximal end part of the sheath, a probe which is provided with a distal end part and a proximal end part, is inserted into the sheath, and transmits ultrasonic vibration from the proximal end part side to the distal end part side, a jaw which is turnably supported at the distal end part of the sheath, and is operated to be opened or closed between a closed position at which the jaw is engaged with the distal end part of the probe, and an opened position at which the jaw is separated from the distal end part of the probe, a handle which is provided in the apparatus main body, and operates the opening/closing operation of the jaw, a slider section which is provided in the apparatus main body, and is advanced/retreated to be moved in a central axis direction of the probe between a first movement position corresponding to the opened position of the jaw and a second movement position corresponding to the closed position of the jaw in accordance with the operation of the handle, and a notification mechanism for notifying of a state where the slider section has moved by an amount equal to or larger than a predetermined amount on the way thereof from the first movement position to the second movement position.10-29-2009
20090270854SURGICAL OPERATING APPARATUS - A surgical operating apparatus includes a sheath provided with a distal end part and a proximal end part, an apparatus main body to be coupled to the proximal end part of the sheath, a probe which is inserted into the sheath, and transmits ultrasonic waves, a probe distal end section provided at a distal end part of the probe, and a jaw pivotally supported at the distal end part of the sheath, the jaw being supported so that the jaw can be operated to be opened or closed between a closed position at which the jaw is engaged with the probe distal end section, and an opened position at which the jaw is separated from the probe distal end section, wherein the apparatus main body includes a handle for operating the opening/closing operation of the jaw, a slider section which is moved to be advanced/retreated in an axial direction of a central axis line of the probe in accordance with the operation of the handle, a pin which is provided to the handle, is engaged with the slider section, and transmits the operation of the handle to the slider section, and a frictional force reduction section which is provided to the slider section and/or the pin at a surface at which the slider section and the pin are engaged with each other, and reduces the frictional force acting at the engagement surface at which the slider section and the pin are engaged with each other.10-29-2009
20090270855Thermal Cautery Devices with Improved Heating Profiles - Thermal cautery and thermal ligating devices improved by the addition of a thermally conductive plate proximate the resistive heating element used in those devices.10-29-2009
20090270856APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING MUCOSECTOMY - Apparatus and methods are provided for performing mucosectomy, such as to map out gastrointestinal surgery, including endoluminal gastric reduction. In one variation, tie apparatus comprises a separating element and an integrated resection element. In one variation, the apparatus is configured to simultaneously separate mucosal tissue from underlying muscularis tissue and to resect the separated mucosal tissue. Methods of using the apparatus are provided.10-29-2009
20090270857Ablation Device with Jaws - System, device and method for ablating target tissue adjacent pulmonary veins of a patient through an incision. An ablation device can include a hinge including a cam assembly, a moving arm, a floating jaw, and a lower jaw. Fingers can engage the floating jaw to hold the floating jaw in a first position with respect to the moving arm. Some embodiments of the invention can provide an ablation device including a central support, an upper four-bar linkage coupled to the central support, an upper jaw coupled to the upper linkage, a lower four-bar linkage coupled to the central support, and a lower jaw coupled to the lower linkage. Some embodiments of the invention can provide an ablation device having an upper jaw including a first cannula connection and a lower jaw including a second cannula connection. The system can include a first catheter coupled to the first cannula connection and a second catheter coupled to the second cannula connection. The first and second catheters can be inserted through the incision and can move the upper and lower jaws adjacent the pulmonary veins.10-29-2009
20090270858CARDIAC VALVE LEAFLET ATTACHMENT DEVICE AND METHODS THEREOF - A medical device system comprising a guide catheter and a leaflet fastening applicator, the guide catheter having suitable dimensions for deployment and insertion percutaneously into a human heart in a vicinity of a heart valve, the leaflet fastening applicator having a size allowing insertion through the guide catheter and being capable of holding portions of opposing heart valve leaflets, wherein the fastening applicator comprises a pair of grasping-electrodes adapted for holding and engaging the portions of opposing heart valve leaflets together and for applying energy to fasten the portions, in which heart valve leaflets can be captured and securely fastened, thereby improving coaptation of the leaflets and improving competence of the valve.10-29-2009
20090270859FLUID COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR THE USE THEREOF - A method of performing transurethral surgery on the human or animal body. A tissue is cut using a first active cutting electrode and a second neutral electrode, both electrodes being immersed in an electrically conductive aqueous fluid and connected to a power source for applying a voltage and a current between the electrodes. According to the invention, the electrical conductivity of the fluid is at least 25 mS/cm at room temperature. With the invention, complications of surgery can be significantly reduced.10-29-2009
20090270860FLUTED INTRAMEDULLARY STEM - An intramedullary stem that provides enhanced distal fixation and flexibility and methods for implanting the stem. Certain embodiments of the stem have primary and secondary flutes (or ridges or wedges). Other embodiments have transitional regions.10-29-2009
20090270861Adjacent level cervical spine plate - A surgical plate system for stabilizing vertebrae of a backbone which includes a first surgical plate, which when connected to adjacent vertebrae of a backbone is constructed to allow attachment with an additional plate which is then interconnectable with a first of the adjacent vertebrae and a third adjacent vertebrae. The connection between the adjacent surgical plates is constructed to allow lateral adjustment between the plates prior to the plates being secured with the vertebrae.10-29-2009
20090270862MEDICAL DEVICE WITH ONE-WAY ROTARY DRIVE MECHANISM - Apparatuses and methods for accessing and disrupting a tissue are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method includes inserting a distal end portion of an elongate member into a biological body. After inserting the elongate member, an actuator is manually actuated to produce translational motion of a drive element. The translational motion is converted into rotational movement of the distal end portion of the elongate member. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an elongate member having a tissue interaction member at a distal end portion that is configured to be inserted within a biological body. A conversion mechanism is coupled to the elongate member and includes a drive element. An actuator is coupled to the conversion mechanism and is configured to cause translational motion of the drive element. The conversion mechanism is configured to convert the translational motion of the drive element into rotational motion of the elongate member.10-29-2009
20090270863MANUAL GLENOID REAMER - A reamer arranged to ream a surface of a bone is provided. The reamer includes a guide portion having a non-reaming lower surface configured to slidably engage a corresponding guide reamed portion of the bone and an eccentric reaming lobe. The reaming lobe extends from part of the periphery of the guide portion. The reaming lobe has a reaming lower surface configured to ream bone outside of the guide reamed portion of the bone when the guide portion is rotated and urged towards the guide reamed portion of the bone. A second reamer may also be provided to form a reaming kit.10-29-2009
20090270864CUTTING GUIDE ASSEMBLY - A cutting guide assembly is provided for resecting a head of a bone. The cutting guide assembly includes an elongate support rod and at least one cutting plate couplable to the support rod, the at least one cutting surface defining a cutting surface arranged such that when coupled to the support rod, the bone can be cut to form a resection surface by aligning a cutting tool with the cutting surface. The support rod is configured to be partially disposed in and rotatable within a cavity extending into the head of the bone, defines a longitudinal axis and including a reference formation.10-29-2009
20090270865REAMING GUIDE ALIGNMENT INSTRUMENT - An alignment system for aligning a reaming guide during insertion into a cavity of a bone is provided. The bone has a resected surface and the cavity defines a cavity axis. The system includes a reaming guide that includes an elongate stem portion having a stem axis, a neck portion extending from the stem portion at an incline with respect to the stem axis, and an alignment instrument. The alignment instrument includes a handle defining a handle axis, the handle being releasably couplable to the reaming guide such that the handle axis is in a predetermined relationship with the stem axis. The alignment instrument further comprises a plane finder slidably coupled to the handle, the plane finder comprising a surface defined by a plane that intersects the axis of the handle at an angle having a predetermined relationship with the angle at which a resection surface of the bone intersects the cavity axis.10-29-2009
20090270866VARIABLE OFFSET REAMER ASSEMBLY FOR MODULAR HUMERAL COMPONENT - An instrument kit for reaming a cavity within a resected head of a bone is provided. The kit includes a reaming guide, at least two adaptor sleeves and a reamer. The reaming guide includes an elongate stem portion insertable into a cavity extending into the bone from a resection surface at the head of the bone and a neck portion. The at least two adapter sleeves are mountable upon the reaming guide. Each adapter sleeve has a longitudinal axis, being generally cylindrical and a bore configured to receive part of the neck portion of the reaming guide. When the adapter sleeve is mounted upon the neck portion of a reaming guide inserted into a cavity in a bone the reamer is arranged to ream a cavity into the resection surface of the bone around the neck portion.10-29-2009
20090270867REAMER GUIDE FOR REVISION PROCEDURE - An instrument kit is provided for reaming bone around a head of a bone, the bone including an implanted epiphysis component. The instrument kit includes a reaming guide and a reamer. The reaming guide is couplable to the epiphysis component and has a first reamer support feature and a second reamer support feature. The reamer is couplable to one of the first reamer support feature and the second support feature to ream bone around the epiphysis component.10-29-2009
20090270868GENERATION OF A COMPUTERIZED BONE MODEL REPRESENTATIVE OF A PRE-DEGENERATED STATE AND USEABLE IN THE DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE OF ARTHROPLASTY DEVICES - Disclosed herein is a method of generating a computerized bone model representative of at least a portion of a patient bone in a pre-degenerated state. The method includes: generating at least one image of the patient bone in a degenerated state; identifying a reference portion associated with a generally non-degenerated portion of the patient bone; identifying a degenerated portion associated with a generally degenerated portion of the patient bone; and using information from at least one image associated with the reference portion to modify at least one aspect associated with at least one image associated the generally degenerated portion. The method may further include employing the computerized bone model representative of the at least a portion of the patient bone in the pre-degenerated state in defining manufacturing instructions for the manufacture of a customized arthroplasty jig. Also disclosed herein is a customized arthroplasty jig manufactured according to the above-described method. The customized arthroplasty jig is configured to facilitate a prosthetic implant restoring a patient joint to a natural alignment. The prosthetic implant may be for a total joint replacement or partial joint replacement. The patient joint may be a variety of joints, including, but not limited to, a knee joint.10-29-2009
20090270869DISTRACTOR INSTRUMENT - A distractor instrument for use in knee joint surgery is provided that includes a tibial plate, a femoral plate, a tibial arm having a plate end and a control end, wherein the tibial plate is fastened to the plate end of the tibial arm at its anterior edge, and wherein, when the tibial plate is engaged with the tibia, the tibial arm is configured to extend from the tibial plate generally medially or laterally of the knee joint. The distractor instrument also includes a femoral arm having a plate end and a control end, wherein the femoral plate is fastened to the plate end of the femoral arm, and wherein, when the femoral plate is engaged with the femur, the femoral arm extends from the femoral plate generally aligned with the tibial arm. The tibial arm and the femoral arm are pivotably connected to one another at a point between their respective plate and control ends so that pivotal movement of the femoral arm relative to the tibial arm reduces the distance between their control ends and causes the distance between the tibial plate end and the femoral plate end to increase.10-29-2009
20090270870Dynamic distractor - A dynamic distractor is described for distracting an intervertebral space and determining a size of an artificial intervertebral disc to be implanted in the intervertebral space.10-29-2009
20090270871Impulsive percussion instruments for endplate preparation - A hand-held instrument, with a rotary power input to a camshaft, has cam and follower arrangement to provide a reciprocating shaft output. A cutter is provided on the output shaft. In one example, rotating cam percussion is transmitted to the cutter by engaging the cutter with the tissue to be cut, and pushing the instrument forward toward the cutter. In another example, rotating cam percussion is transmitted to the cutter by engaging the cutter with the tissue to be cut, and pulling the instrument back toward the user while maintaining engagement of the cutter with the tissue. In both examples, the cutter remains in idle condition until an axially directed load, forward in the one example, or backward on the other example, is placed on the cutter by moving the instrument forward or backward, respectively, while the camshaft is rotating. A distractor with frame is used to spread and maintain space between vertebral bodies, enabling entrance of the cutter.10-29-2009
20090270872REMOTELY-ACTIVATED VERTEBROPLASTY INJECTION DEVICE - A remotely-activated injection device for use in vertebroplasty is provided to inject a flourescent probe material into a patient. The injection device includes a pump defining an injection chamber having an exit opening; an actuator; and a cable having a first end coupled to the actuator, and a second end remotely engaging the pump. The actuator remotely controls the pump by responsive movement of the cable to thereby cause injection of a flourescent probe material from the injection chamber of the pump through the exit opening to the patient.10-29-2009
20090270873SPINE SURGERY METHOD AND INSERTER - A surgical inserter for use in inserting an implant into a vertebral space may include: (a) a handle; (b) a gripper having one end attached to the handle and a second end having a pair of arms; and (c) a grip activator having an opening that threadingly receives the gripper. The grip activator can be rotated in a first direction with respect to the gripper to cause the arms to move toward each other to grip the inserter and in a second direction with respect to the gripper to cause the arms to move away from each other to release the inserter. In one embodiment a compression force activator is used to deploy the implant and in another embodiment a tension force activator is used to deploy the implant.10-29-2009
20090270874Modular hip inserter/positioner - A modular hip body/stem inserter comprises a stem inserter and a holder. A proximal body portion of an implant is loaded, or mounted, onto the holder. A distal stem portion of the implant is affixed onto the stem inserter. The modular hip body/stem inserter maintains the proximal body portion and distal stem portion a short distance apart. The stem inserter can be adjusted to control the version of the distal stem, while the holder can be independently adjusted to control the version of the proximal body. Once the version is adjusted to determine a final seating position, the stem inserter portion is removed and the holder is then used to impact the proximal body and distal stem together, thereby locking the implant components together through a taper locking mechanism.10-29-2009
20090270875MEASURING INSTRUMENT FOR VERSION ANGLE - An instrument for measuring an angle about a cavity axis defined by a cavity extending into a head of a bone is provided, the bone having been resected on a plane that is inclined relative to the cavity axis. The instrument includes a stem arranged to be inserted into the cavity, a plane finder and a scale. The plane finder is coupled to the stem and arranged to contact the resection surface as the stem is inserted into the cavity and to move relative to the stem until the plane finder lies in a plane parallel to the resection surface. Movement of the plane finder relative to the stem is indicative of the angle about the cavity axis between a radial position indicated by part of the stem and a line extending perpendicularly from the resection surface. The scale is configured such that movement of the plane finder relative to the stem is indicated by the position of a portion of the plane finder relative to the scale.10-29-2009
20090270876BACK LOADED IOL INSERTION CARTRIDGE - A rear-loaded injector cartridge for an intraocular lens (IOL) having a proximal opening that provides a haptic slot. The haptic slot receives a leading haptic of an IOL loaded therein, and temporarily retains the leading haptic while the optic of the IOL is inserted into a holding area of the cartridge. As the optic passes by, the leading haptic folds over the top of the optic, on its anterior side. The length of the haptic retention slot is sufficient to maintain the leading haptic in its anteriorly folded position while the IOL remains in holding area, typically while the cartridge is mated with a handpiece of the injector. The cartridge also has a rear or proximal cut out which advantageously keys with a similarly-sized rail on the handpiece so that the cartridge cannot be inserted in the wrong way.10-29-2009
20090270877Detachment Actuator for Use With Medical Device Deployment Systems - A detachment actuator for use with an implantable medical device deployment system that guide and deploys the medical device at a target location within a body vessel. The detachment actuator includes a first portion that is connected the implantable medical device and a second portion that is attached to a control member the controls the release of the medical device, The second portion of the detachment actuator detaches and moves away from the first portion of the detachment actuator to move the control member and release the medical device.10-29-2009
20090270878QUICK-RELEASE TAG APPLICATOR - An identification tag applicator is provided, which is especially suited to applying identification tags to animals. The applicator includes a body (10-29-2009
20090270879Newborn baby shoulder cup extractor - During deliver of a baby unexpected shoulder dystocia will be encountered. Shoulder dystocia will cause temporarily or permanent paralysis of upper Extremity or Erb's syndrome. Nowadays vacuum cup extractor is available for obstetricians to deal with mild head dystocia and nothing is available for obstetricians to deal with shoulder dystocia. Newborn baby shoulder cup extractor can assist obstetrician to deliver baby's shoulder when shoulder dystocia is encountered. Newborn baby shoulder cup extractor can prevent the injury to brachial plexus to cause paralysis of upper extremity and unnecessary Cesarean section. After failure of two attempts to deliver baby's shoulder then obstetrician can perform Cesarean section to deliver baby abdominally.10-29-2009
20090270880CLUTCH MECHANISM - A clutch mechanism for use with a carrier of a linear drive device includes a housing, a first gear, and a first clutch arrangement. The first gear coupled to the housing and has gear teeth to engage a threaded shaft of a linear drive device. Rotation of the shaft causes the housing to move along the shaft in a first mode of operation. The first clutch arrangement prevents substantial rotation of the first gear. The first gear permits rotation of the first gear with respect to the housing. The housing can be manually moved along a length of the shaft, in a second mode of operation, by exerting a force on the housing. The rotational force applied to the first gear through the interaction of the threaded shaft and the gear teeth exceeds the first threshold.10-29-2009
20090270881FACIAL BLEMISH REMOVING DEVICE - A device and method for removing facial blemishes, including sebum that blocks facial pores. The device includes a substantially flat, elongated and rigid element having a first surface and a second surface, and a distal end and a proximal end. The device also includes a base member to which the rigid element is attached such that a collection area is formed between the second surface of the distal end of the rigid element and a portion of the base member.10-29-2009
20090270882NEEDLE COVER WITH SITE PREPARATION TIP - A needle cover is disclosed which includes a site preparation tip at a distal end of a needle cover body. The tip may be configured with rounded and/or beveled edges in order to facilitate material removal from a cannulation site. The proximal end of the needle cover body may include features to facilitate handling, removal of the needle, and operation of the needle cover in removing material, such as a scab, from a cannulation site.10-29-2009
20090270883EPILATING APPARATUS - The present invention is directed to an epilating apparatus (10-29-2009
20090270884Mesh Dispensing Device Having a Closed Loop of Backing Film - A mesh dispensing device includes a housing having a substantially enclosed interior and an opening; a plurality of routing guide elements mounted in the interior of the housing; and a closed loop of backing film having a defined circumference. The closed loop of backing film is routed around at least a portion of the plurality of routing guide elements to define a path along which the closed loop of backing film moves. The device also includes a defined length of mesh that is detachably adhered to the closed loop of backing film and an opening guide element mounted near the opening of the housing. The opening guide element receives mesh that has been detached from the closed loop of backing film for dispensing.10-29-2009
20090270885TISSUE CLOSING DEVICE - A tissue closing device includes an elongate arrangement device of which a distal end portion can penetrate an opening penetrating an living tissue membrane and which has a handling portion on the proximal side, and a clip which is detachably retained at a distal end portion of the arrangement device and which closes the opening. The arrangement device includes a retaining member for detachably retaining the clip and pulling the clip in the proximal direction, a cover tube, and a fixed tube. The handling portion has a first elastic member. When a restriction for maintaining the coil spring in a deformed state is canceled, the thread is moved to the proximal direction by the restoring force of the coil spring in the condition where the clip is locked to a distal end portion of the fixed tube, and the clip is pulled in the axial direction by the thread, whereby a deformation portion is deformed.10-29-2009
20090270886Hollow suture needle with handle - A suture needle instrument having improved connection means enabling a hollow suture needled to be attached to a handle in a variety of orientations. The suture needle is provided with user accessible suture channels and suture advancing wheels to facilitate cleaning and repair.10-29-2009
20090270887Anastomotic staple with capillary which expels a bonding agent upon deformation - A surgical fastener for use with an anastomosis of two tissues includes a base leg and an upright leg. The base leg is selectively deformable and includes a traumatic tip for piecing tissue. The surgical fastener also includes at least one capillary disposed on the base leg which has a reservoir defined therein for retaining a liquid, e.g., bioadhesive, bonding agent, medicament, etc. Each of the capillaries is ruptureable upon deformation of the surgical fastener to dispense the liquid to the anastomosis site.10-29-2009
20090270888Catheter System and Method for Boring through Blocked Vascular Passages - A rotating cutting head catheter for passage through chronic total occlusions or other refractory atherosclerotic plaque from diseased arteries is disclosed. The catheter's rotating cutting head is designed to reside safely within an outer protective sheath when not in use. The outer protective sheath contains one or more helical groves or slots, and the cutting head contains protruding blades or projections that fit into these helical groves or slots. Application of torque to an inner catheter or wire attached to the cutting head applies spin to the cutting head, and the force of the sheath's helical groves or slots against the cutting head's protruding blades or projections advances the cutting head outward from the protective sheath. Once extended, the cutting head may now rotate freely. The device may use a guidewire to direct the cutting head to the desired position.10-29-2009
20090270889Vascular Treatment Device - A vascular treatment device may include (1) a handle having a motor, a trigger, and a male coupling, and (2) a cartridge, engageable to the handle, having a female coupling, a wire, and a sheath fixed to the cartridge. When the female coupling is not engaged to the male coupling, the sheath may cover the distal end of the wire, allowing safe advancement of the device into the patient's vasculature, and when the female coupling is engaged by the male coupling, the distal end of the wire may be exposed from the sheath and used.10-29-2009
20090270890Methods and apparatus for crossing occlusions in blood vessels - Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a device for facilitating treatment via a vascular wall defining a vascular lumen containing an occlusion therein. The device includes an intravascular device including a shaft having a distal end and a proximal end. The device further includes a handle assembly fixed about the proximal end of the shaft, the handle assembly including a first portion. Further rotation of the first portion in a first direction about a longitudinal axis of the shaft causes rotation of the shaft in the first direction when a torque applied by the first portion to the shaft is below a first maximum torque. Still further, rotation of the first portion in the first direction about a longitudinal axis of the shaft does not cause rotation of the shaft in the first direction when the torque applied by the first portion to the shaft is equal to or above the first maximum torque.10-29-2009
20090270891Balanced ultrasonic curved blade - Methods and devices that provide reduced transverse motion in a curved ultrasonic blade and/or ultrasonic surgical instrument with functional asymmetries. An ultrasonic blade in accordance with embodiments of the present invention includes a curved functional portion of an ultrasonic blade, wherein the center of mass of the curved functional portion lies on the mid-line of a waveguide delivering ultrasonic energy to the blade. Balancing in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, using placement of the center of mass of the curved portion of the blade appropriately, provides blade balance in a proximal portion of the blade, without reduction of mass and inherent stress increase proximal to the end-effector.10-29-2009
20090270892STEERABLE MEDICAL DEVICE FOR TISSUE DISRUPTION - Apparatuses and methods for accessing and disrupting a tissue are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method includes inserting a distal end portion of a medical device into a biological body such that a cutting member disposed at a distal end of the medical device is at a first location within the biological body. A tissue is disrupted at the first location within the biological body. The distal end portion of the medical device is reconfigured from a first configuration in which the distal end portion of the medical device has a first curvature to a second configuration in which the distal end portion of the medical device has a second curvature different than the first curvature and the cutting member is at a second location within the biological body. A tissue is then disrupted at the second location within the biological body.10-29-2009
20090270893MEDICAL DEVICE FOR TISSUE DISRUPTION WITH SERRATED EXPANDABLE PORTION - Apparatuses and methods for accessing and disrupting a tissue are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an elongate member. A distal end portion of the elongate member includes multiple elastically deformable arms that are configured to perform a medical procedure in a biological body. The elastically deformable arms collectively have an unconstrained expanded configuration. Each of the elastically deformable arms has a serrated edge portion. The distal end portion of the elongate member can be rotated while disposed within a biological body such that the serrated edge portion of the arms disrupts tissue within the biological body. The elastically deformable arms can collectively have a collapsed configuration in which the elastically deformable arms define a smaller outer diameter than an outer diameter of the elastically deformable arms in the unconstrained expanded configuration.10-29-2009
20090270894SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH INTERNAL IRRIGATION - A surgical cutting instrument comprises an outer tubular member and an inner tubular member. The outer tubular member includes a proximal section, an intermediate section, a distal section, and a side wall. The side wall defines a central lumen extending from the proximal section to the distal section. The side wall also includes means for conducting fluid within a sidewall of the outer tubular member from the proximal section to the distal section and includes a distal opening positioned to direct fluid at the bur and a treatment site. The inner tubular member is rotatably received within the central lumen. A distal end of the inner tubular member forms a bur extending distally beyond, and exposed relative to, the distal section of the outer tubular member.10-29-2009
20090270895LOW ADVANCE RATIO, HIGH RECIPROCATION RATE TISSUE REMOVAL DEVICE - Disclosed is a tissue removal device having an outer tube with a resection window and an inner tube disposed within the outer tube. The inner tube is slidable and rotatable relative to the outer tube so that the distal end of the inner tube moves back and forth across the resection window to sever tissue extending therethrough. The inner tube may be driven to rotate at a speed of at least about 1100 rpm, to axially translate at a rate of at least about 1.5 cps, and with an advance ratio of no more than about 0.25. The drive system for controlling axial reciprocation and rotation of the inner tube may be totally mechanical.10-29-2009
20090270896TISSUE CUTTER WITH DIFFERENTIAL HARDNESS - Disclosed is a tubular cutting element for axial reciprocal movement within an outer tubular sleeve. The cutting element has an elongate tubular body, having a proximal end, a distal end and a cutting tip. The tubular body is formed in a drawing operation and the cutting tip is formed in a milling operation. The tubular body may have a Rockwell C hardness of no more than about 40, and the cutting tip may have a Rockwell C hardness of at least about 50.10-29-2009
20090270897METHODS OF HIGH RATE, LOW PROFILE TISSUE REMOVAL - Disclosed are methods and devices for removing tissue from a site in a hollow organ, where the device has a low crossing profile and is capable of removing tissue at a high rate of speed. The device includes an elongate outer tube with a side opening and an inner tube moveably coaxially positioned within the outer tube. Tissue drawn into the side opening can be severed by moving the inner tube across the opening. Tissue may be removed through the device at a rate of at least about 1.4 cc per minute, through a lumen having a cross-sectional area of no greater than about 12.010-29-2009
20090270898TISSUE REMOVAL DEVICE WITH HIGH RECIPROCATION RATE - Disclosed is a tissue removal device. The device includes an outer tubular body, an inner tubular body and a cutting edge on the inner tubular body. The outer tubular body includes a window, which may be opened or closed by moving the cutting edge. The cutting edge has a hardness that exceeds the hardness of the material of the inner tube. The cutting edge may have a Rockwell C hardness of at least about 50, while the inner tube has a Rockwell C hardness of no more than about 40. The cutting edge may be formed by a milling step, and the inner tube may be formed by a drawing step. Tissue severed by the cutting edge may be removed at a rate of at least about 1.8 grams per minute through the inner tube, and the outer tubular body may have an outside diameter of no more than about 3.5 mm.10-29-2009
20090270899SURGICAL TOOL SYSTEM - A surgical tool system comprising a handpiece and a cutting accessory that is releaseably secured to the handpiece. The handpiece has a gear assembly with two drive heads. The gear assembly turns the drive heads at different rotational speeds relative to each other. The cutting accessory is provided with one of two drive hubs. If the cutting accessory is provided with a first drive hub, the drive hub mates to a first one of the drive heads so as to turn of the speed of that head. If the cutting accessory is provided with a second drive hub, the drive hub mates to the second drive head so as to turn at the speed of that head. Thus, the speed at which the cutting accessory is actuated is a function of the associated drive head.10-29-2009
20090270900Multiple Purpose Body Pierce System - A body friendly, multi-purpose, largely invisible, sub-dermal or trans-dermal body pierce system offering numerous applications. One embodiment is for the rapid mounting of extremely compact, attractive, comfortable, magnetically self aligning, temples, eyewear. Another is as a means for quick change, body friendly, pierce-style jewelry. Yet another is as a sub-dermal medication dispenser. The thin, flexible and essentially invisible pierce component is inserted with specialized tooling for minimal tissue damage and discomfort with a substantially reduced healing period.10-29-2009
20090270901Degradable detachment mechanisms for implantable devices - Described herein are degradable detachment mechanisms for implantable devices and assemblies comprising these devices. Also provided are methods of using the detachment mechanisms and assemblies.10-29-2009
20090270902BONE DILATOR SYSTEM AND METHODS - Disclosed are surgical tools, tool sets and methods for percutaneously accessing and preparing treatment sites within the spine for subsequent treatment procedures. The treatment site may be an inter-vertebral motion segments in the lumbar and sacral regions of the spine. The tool set may comprise introducer tools and bone dilators for accessing and tapping into a targeted site, such as, for example, the anterior surface of the S1 vertebral body. The tool set may also comprise cutters and extractors for preparing the treatment site for subsequent treatment procedures. The tool set may additionally comprise a bone graft inserter, an exchange system, and/or a temporary distraction tool for further preparing the treatment site for subsequent treatment procedures.10-29-2009
20090270903CHEMICALLY BASED VASCULAR OCCLUSION DEVICE DEPLOYMENT - A vascular occlusion device deployment system for placing an occlusion device at a preselected site within the vasculature of a patient. The deployment system employing a pusher having a lumen with an opening at the distal end of the pusher. A vascular occlusion device is connected to the distal end of the pusher by a portion that is removeably disposed within the opening. The portion of the occlusion device is forced out of the opening by an expandable reaction chamber, thereby deploying the occlusion device. The expandable reaction chamber, prior to deployment, has multiple chambers separated by a heat-dissolvable membrane. When the membrane is dissolved, components from the chambers react and expand, leading to deployment.10-29-2009
20090270904Remotely Adjustable Gastric Banding System - Presently described are systems for facilitating obesity control comprising: a gastric banding device including at least one inflatable member for containing fluid; a fluid reservoir; an implantable pump unit in communication with the fluid reservoir for controlling pressure within the inflatable member, the implantable pump unit including a piezoelectric diaphragm pump and a remote control device capable of communicating with the pump.10-29-2009
20090270905STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - A balloon dilation catheter comprising a tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end. An inflatable balloon is disposed at the distal end of the tubular member. A first lumen is disposed in the tubular member and in is communication with an interior of the inflatable balloon. A second lumen is disposed in the tubular member for receiving a guidewire substantially along a portion of its length. The second lumen has a first opening in the proximal region of the tubular member and a second opening at the distal region of the tubular member. A first slit is disposed longitudinally in the tubular member and extends along at least a portion of the tubular member, the first slit comprising a first pair of longitudinal edges in a side by side relationship. The tubular member is constructed of a resilient material such that, as the guidewire is separated from the second lumen, the longitudinal edges are biassed open from a first position to a second position having a gap greater than or equal a diameter of the guidewire. The subject balloon dilation catheter provides improved rapid exchange advantages of either the catheter or the guidewire used in a catheterization technique.10-29-2009
20090270906METHODS AND DEVICES FOR TREATING LESIONS - An method and apparatus are disclosed including an expandable body having a diameter suitable for insertion into a blood vessel and capable of being modified from a first diameter to a second larger diameter in response to an inflation pressure. The expandable body includes an outer wall having a plurality of delivery outlets extending from a working length of the outer wall. The delivery outlets coincide with regions of a lesion exposed between a framework implanted within the vessel when the expandable body is in an expanded state. A treatment agent is delivered from the delivery outlets to regions of the lesion exposed between the implantable framework.10-29-2009
20090270907Retrievable urethra sparing prosthetic stent and kidney stone intervention system - The present invention provides devices, a system, and a method for removing kidney stones from the urinary system of a patient with reduced pain and expenses. The system includes expandable, elongated balloon sheaths that deliver and retrieve forceps and a urethral sparing prosthetic stent. The stent is reconstrainable with interwoven nylon strands that are strategically positioned amongst the struts to ensure smooth collapse for removal. An atraumatic coating of PTFE or PET lining on the stent extends from the struts through the tip of the penis to assist patients in passing stones while the stent is in place at the bladder neck. The stent can stay in place for several days while permitting urine drainage. The basket-shaped forceps device has multiple curved, rigid arms to dilate the urethra and capture occluded or embedded stones with a built-in camera. The method is for removing stones through a protected urethral canal.10-29-2009
20090270908DEVICE AND METHOD FOR OCCLUSION OF FLUID FLOW THROUGH A BODY VESSEL - The present invention provides an improved occluding device and an improved method of occluding fluid through a body vessel. The occluding device comprises an inner coil. At least one outer coil is disposed about a portion of the inner coil. The outer coil has a pre-curled tension to facilitate the outer coil to be curled within the lumen of the body vessel when deployed.10-29-2009
20090270909BACK-LOADING CATHETER - A catheter provided with a collapsible inner lumen within a main body. The catheter can deploy a distal protection device using a guidewire which is threaded through the inner lumen, the inner lumen collapsing upon retrieval of the device into the catheter main body.10-29-2009
20090270910Method and Apparatus for Increasing Blood Flow in a Body Part - An enclosure is dimensioned to enclose an affected area of a body part plus a small margin around which a releasable seal is attached to make the enclosure substantially airtight around the body part without contacting the area to be treated. A port in the enclosure is attached to tubing for connection of a pump for forcing air under pressure into the enclosure. In the preferred embodiment, the enclosure is an inflatable plastic bag. The compression provided by the air pressure is applied uniformly to the body part to increase blood flow within the body part without physically contacting the affected area of the body part. In one embodiment, the pump is a combination air and vacuum pump so that pressures within the enclosure may be cycled between high and low pressures.10-29-2009
20090270911Vessel Sealing Device and Method of Using Same - A sealing device for sealing openings in blood vessels has a first and second sealing elements. The first element is preferably fixed attached to a rigid shaft. The second sealing element is slidingly movable relative to the rigid shaft in only one direction. The first and second sealing elements directly engage the walls of the blood vessel. One embodiment has a two portion shaft and one of the portions can be removed after the hole in the blood vessel is sealed.10-29-2009
20090270912TACKING DEVICE - The present embodiments provide apparatus and methods suitable for coupling a graft member to tissue, closing a bodily opening, and the like. At least one proximal deployable member and at least one distal deployable member are provided, each having a contracted state suitable for delivery and further comprising an expanded state. In the expanded state, the proximal and distal deployable members are configured to secure the graft member to the tissue. Optionally, a loop member may be provided for receiving a suture for further securing the graft member to the tissue.10-29-2009
20090270913Sacrifical teething attachment for books - A replaceable article can be secured to and removed from the binding or backing of a children's book. The device can be chewed on without damage to the book or injury to the child. The device can slide onto the binding area and extend away from the book to provide an attracting appearance. The article may be replaced or partially replaced and the size of the device avoids any significant issue of potential choking for the child.10-29-2009
20090270914Spinal Therapy Apparatus - A spinal therapy apparatus (10-29-2009
20090270915Portable chiropractic adjustor - A portable battery power operated chiropractic adjustor, manipulator or thruster for applying an adjustment energy to a patient through a plunger having a resilient or cushioned head with the energy applied to the plunger being supplied by non-manual sources and the impulse is adjustable or tunable along with having annunciators or indicators for preload and readiness to operate. The power source may be an internal rechargeable battery or removable rechargeable battery pack and the adjustor is DC motor operated to impart selectively single or multiple thrusts.10-29-2009
20090270916IMPLANTS FOR SECURING SPINAL FIXATION ELEMENTS - Embodiments of the present invention provide an implant having a protrusion. The protrusion aids in the insertion and placement of the implant as well as the spinal fixation element. In certain embodiments the protrusion may be configured as a guide for the insertion of the spinal fixation element as well as closure mechanisms for connecting the spinal fixation element to the implant.10-29-2009
20090270917DEVICE AND METHOD FOR IMPLANTATION THAT RESTORES PHYSIOLOGIC RANGE OF MOTION BY ESTABLISHING AN ADJUSTABLE CONSTRAINED MOTION OF THE SPINE WITHOUT INTRUSION OF ASSOCIATED FACET JOINTS - A device and method of insertion and use that provides for adjustable, constrained motion of a spinal motion segment that is affected by degenerative disease, microinstability, etc. is disclosed. The device does so by establishing a specified range of motion of said target motion segment. The specified range of motion is thought to recapitulate the natural planes of movement and, in this fashion, the device restores the natural, physiologic motion of said target motion segment.10-29-2009
20090270918Surgical Intervertebral Implant Forming a Swivel Joint - A surgical implant that supports and assists movement adjacent vertebrae including a top part and a bottom part associated with the spinous process of one of the vertebrae, each part including means for association with one process and reciprocal means or rotational association with the other part and forming a swivel joint.10-29-2009
20090270919INTERSPINOUS DEVICE - The present invention discloses an interspinous device that enables the suitable and safe positioning of the spinous processes in column treatments. More specifically, it discloses a device constituted of a structure that facilitates the insertion thereof into patients, demanding less effort from surgeons and, principally reducing the size of the incisions needed in patients, being made of polymeric material and comprised by a central body (10-29-2009
20090270920System for Stabilizing at Least a Portion of the Spine - Disclosed are embodiments of a dynamic stabilizer system for dynamically stabilizing the sacrum and at least lumbar vertebra L5. The dynamic stabilizer system may comprise two anchoring members that can be implanted at distinct locations in the sacrum, a mechanical fastener element having two ends and a flexible portion that can be securely fastened on the spinous process of a lumbar vertebra, and two distinct rods, each securing onto the anchoring members and the mechanical fastener element. In some embodiments, the dynamic stabilizer system may further comprise one or more spacers, each interposed between two spinous processes. The mechanical fastener element further comprises features for securing the one or more spacers.10-29-2009
20090270921FLEXIBLE SPINE COMPONENTS HAVING A CONCENTRIC SLOT - The invention relates to a flexible spine stabilization and/or vertebral replacement system and having one or more flexible segments within a spinal element. The flexibility is created through the use of at least one circumferential slot formed in the spinal element. One or more fasteners are connected to the distal and proximal attachments and secured to the vertebra. The spinal element can The element can have an elastomeric material in any or all of the following combinations: filling at least one of the at least one slot; at least a portion of the inside core; encompass at least a portion of the exterior diameter. Vertebral replacement is achieved by securing the spinal element to healthy inferior and superior vertebra through use of securing members.10-29-2009
20090270922ROD-SHAPED IMPLANT, IN PARTICULAR FOR SPINAL STABILIZATION, METHOD AND TOOL FOR PRODUCING THE SAME - A rod-shaped implant for spinal stabilization includes a first component comprising a first material, and a second component comprising a second material, wherein at least the first material is a plastic material, and wherein the first and the second component are connected by melting at least the first component to connect to the second component10-29-2009
20090270923Bioabsorbable band system,a bioabsorbable band, a method for producing a bioabsorbable band, a needle system of a bioabsorbable band and a locking mechanism - A bioabsorbable band system for securing a bone fracture, or an osteotomy, or a soft tissue on a bone. The bioabsorbable band system includes a needle system and a bioabsorbable band including a bioabsorbable locking member. The bioabsorbable band includes a length having an at least partially oriented structure. The bioabsorbable band further includes a locking mechanism with a locking member. Also a method for producing the bioabsorbable band.10-29-2009
20090270924Occipitocervical Fixation System - An occipital plate system comprising: (a) a plate having one or more apertures for receiving bone fasteners adapted for securing the plate to the skull; (b) two rails extending outwardly from opposing sides of the plate; and (c) two rod receptacles, each comprising a body portion and a receiver portion, the body portion defining a passageway through which one of the rails slides, the receiver portion defining a cavity to receive a rod and threads above the cavity for receiving a set screw such that at least a portion of each of a rail, the rod and the set screw are contained within the rod receptacle.10-29-2009
20090270925BONE PLATE SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system, components of the system, and methods for attaching a plate between two or more bones or bone fragments. The system includes distraction pins having a threaded bone attachment or screw section and a detachable shaft section. The screw section of the distraction pins remain in the bone and are used to affix a plate to the bones.10-29-2009