47th week of 2008 patent applcation highlights part 55 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20080287847 | Orthotic hinge system with spring-biased pawl control of ratchet member - The invention relates to an orthopedic hinge system, including an outer and an inner later base, each substantially complemental in peripheral dimension to each other, the bases each having a major vertical axis, the inner base having a recess. Also included is an elongate distal member having a semi-circular pivot end including, upon a portion of the end, ratchet teeth pointing in a counter-clockwise direction, the pivot end rotationally secured to both of the bases. Further included is an elongate proximal member having a transverse end element proportioned for complemental securement within the recess of the inner base, transverse end element including an axis of rotation co-linear with an axis of rotation of the distal member and defining an axis of rotation of the pivot end of the distal member. The system also includes a cam lever including a pawl surface having teeth pointing in a clockwise direction and, upon contact with the ratchet teeth of the distal member, then complemental therewith, the lever having an axis of rotation co-linear with a second axis within a transverse element of the proximal member, the lever also including a radial projection disposed radially oppositely from the pawl surface to which an end of a biasing spring is attached. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287848 | Ambidextrous Wrist Brace with Thumb Immobilizer - An ambidextrous wrist brace is described, having a substantially rectangular main strap ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080287849 | Multi Function knee device - A knee support device is formed of which possesses a plurality of individual device segments of which comprise the body. Many of the comprising multiple device components of the body may be used independently as separate devices, and are attached, assembled, and joined to form the body. Therapeutic tempered care and maximum support are the main premises to the body. Strategically positioned pockets integrated within the body, along with separate attachable pockets and support pads allow for a maximum and unique tempered therapeutic joint support device. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287850 | SAFETY AND CONTROL EXOSKELETON FOR SNOW SKIING - Exoskeleton for physical activity, specially snow skiing, for preventing knee, leg and hip injuries by preventing the excessive torsion of the knee and other movements that could be dangerous for the person wearing it, furthermore allowing control over the skis during the practice of said sport. The exoskeleton includes at least one first support member configured to couple above the knee; at least one second support member configured to couple below the knee; both of them linked together by a linkage assembly that limits that the coupling to the body of the support members reach dangerous positions; at least one clutch mechanism operatively coupled between two elements of the exoskeleton, allowing the clutching and unclutching of said two elements of the exoskeleton; and at least one sensor that detects movement or/and pressure, of a part of the body of the skier to transmit a signal to the clutch mechanism. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287851 | FLEXIBLE TETHER MEMBER CONNECTING A KNEE BRACE TO A BOOT - The invention provides a device for protecting ligaments in a knee joint of a user. The device includes a knee brace positionable about a knee joint of a user and a boot wearable on a foot of a user. Additionally, the device includes a flexible tether member including a first coupling element coupled to the knee brace and a second coupling element coupled to the boot. The boot and knee brace are attachable and detachable via the first and second coupling elements. The flexible tether member is adjustable in length to dispose the flexible tether member in tension at least in a portion of a maximum foot range of rotation, where the maximum foot range of rotation of the user's foot relative to the knee joint causes hyperextension of a knee ligament. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287852 | WATER RESISTANT ELASTICIZED RETENTION BANDAGE AND UNDERCAST LINER - A fabric substrate suitable for lining between a cast and a person. The fabric substrate includes a pair of opposing faces formed by pillar and inlay stitches. The fabric is constructed at least in part of hydrophobic, water-resistant yarns configured to provide enhanced water resistance and sufficient stretch in both a length and width direction to facilitate conforming the undercast liner around the anatomical shape without wrinkling during application. An intermediate tying layer spans between the opposing faces, and the tying layer includes elastic yarns stitched in a V stitch pattern such that the elastic yarns extend between one opposing fabric face and the other face. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287853 | Method and system for producing dressing products of polymer fibres useful for covering moist wounds - The invention provides a method and system for producing an improved dressing product, useful for covering/protecting a moist wound. The dressing product comprising fibres of a spinnable polymer forming a twisted ribbon. By virtue of this twisting, the fibres, in particular at the periphery of the ribbon, are connected to one another so as to afford better mechanical cohesion and a smoother outer appearance, without affecting the action of absorption, dilation and gel formation for extracting the biological fluid, nor the action of retention of proteins and other cellular and bacterial waste matter which would impede the phenomenon of cicatrization. The ribbon twisting equipment comprises a conical bowl ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080287854 | Emergency-Disengagement Device for Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis - An Emergency-Disengagement Device (EDD) comprises three holders ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080287855 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING DETRIMENTAL CARDIAC REMODELING - A system and method for managing and inhibiting cardiac remodeling in MI patients. Bi-ventricular stimulation is constantly provided with and without sensing to encourage normal pumping of the heart on a consistent basis. Pulses are administered using an anodal pulse followed by a cathodal pulse to stimulate cardiac muscle contraction. Stem cells are administered to MI areas to encourage regeneration of cardiac tissue in the damaged area. Stimulation may be provided to both healthy and compromised cardiac tissue. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287856 | Process and apparatus for treating biological organisms - An apparatus for treating a biological organism comprising a device for emitting and delivering energy to the biological organism, a programmable controller for varying the type and amount of energy emitted, and apparatus for sensing a condition of the biological organism. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287857 | Device and method for single-needle in vivo electroporation - Described is a device and method for administration of molecules to tissue in vivo for various medical applications, the device comprising a single-needle electrode which provides for the ability, when the needle is inserted into tissue, such as skin or muscle, to pulse tissue with a non-uniform electric field sufficient to cause reversible poration of cells lying along or in close proximity to the track made by the needle upon its insertion into said tissue | 2008-11-20 |
20080287858 | Microneedle Arrays and Methods of Use Thereof - A method of treating a patient with a microneedle array having an active agent disposed on at least a portion of one or more of the microneedles, wherein the array with active agent is characterized by a first optical response when probed with a selected incident light spectrum. The array with active agent is applied to a skin surface, optionally allowed to remain on the skin surface for a specified time, and removed. The used array is probed with the selected incident light spectrum, a second optical response is sensed, and the difference between the first optical response and the second optical response is determined and compared to a predetermined threshold value. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287859 | Method and Apparatus to Monitor Patients and Treat with Intraosseous Fluids - Automatic external defibrillator apparatus may be provided for use in cooperation with an intraosseous apparatus. Apparatus and methods may also be provided to execute protocols calling for external defibrillation and drug delivery. The disclosure provides a medical apparatus including two electrodes, a processor, a display, a driver, a drug delivery slot, a drug delivery port, and a voltage source. The two electrodes may include an attachment operable to releasably connect the two electrodes to the patient. The processor may be operable to collect and analyze a rhythm associated with the patient's heart from the two electrodes. The display may be operable to communicate instructions to a user. The driver may be operable to insert an intraosseous device into a bone and associated bone marrow of the patient. The drug delivery slot may be operable to receive a drug. The drug delivery port may be operable to communicate the drug from the drug delivery slot to the patient via the intraosseous device. The voltage source may be operable to deliver an electric shock to the patient via the two electrodes. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287860 | SURGICAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITH A TRACKABLE ULTRASOUND CATHETER - A surgical navigation system including an ultrasound catheter is disclosed herein. The ultrasound catheter includes a flexible catheter housing defining a distal end, a transducer array disposed at least partially within the catheter housing, and a motor coupled with the transducer array. The motor is configured to rotate the transducer array in order to image a three-dimensional volume. The ultrasound catheter also includes a tracking element adapted to provide an estimate of a position and/or orientation of the distal end of the catheter housing. The tracking element is disposed within the catheter housing and immediately adjacent to the distal end. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287861 | Device and method for treatment of wounds with nitric oxide - Topical exposure of nitric oxide gas to wounds such as chronic non-healing wounds may be beneficial in promoting healing of the wound and in preparing the wound bed for further treatment and recovery. Nitric oxide gas may be used, for example, to reduce the microbial infection and burden on these wounds, manage exudate secretion by reducing inflammation, upregulate expression of endogenous collagenase to locally debride the wound, and regulate the formation of collagen. High concentration of nitric oxide ranging from about 160 to 400 ppm may be used without inducing toxicity in the healthy cells around a wound site. Additionally, exposure to the high concentration for a first treatment period reduces the microbial burden and inflammation at the wound site and increase collagenase expression to debride necrotic tissue at the wound site. After a first treatment period with high concentration of nitric oxide, a second treatment period at a lower concentration of nitric oxide preferably ranging from about 5-20 ppm may to provided to restore the balance of nitric oxide and induce collagen expression to aid in the closure of the wound. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287862 | Drive systems and methods of use - Drive systems and methods of use are disclosed herein for performing medical procedures on a patient. The drive systems include various handle types and triggers for controlling catheters and end effectors. The various handle types include a flexible handle and ambidextrous handles that can alter the handedness of the handle for particularized use. The handles drive articulation sections of the catheter and end effectors with various degrees of freedom, and include locks for holding the catheter and/or end effector in place. The catheter systems include structures for allowing degrees of freedom, such as notches, mechanical interlocks, and articulation joints. In addition, the catheters articulate via cables or fluids. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287863 | Enhanced chest compressor - A chest compressor includes a piston ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080287864 | Method and Apparatus for the Transdermal Administration of a Substance - A transdermal delivery device includes a plurality of microneedles for injecting a substance such as a pharmaceutical agent into or below the stratum corneum of the skin. The device has housing formed from a top and bottom wall to define a chamber for containing a pharmaceutical agent. An inlet port is provided in the top wall of the housing for supplying the pharmaceutical agent to the chamber and directing the agent to the microneedles. The housing can have a Luer lock type fitting for coupling with a syringe having a Luer lock collar to inject the pharmaceutical agent into the housing. The housing can be divided into a plurality of chambers by an internal wall for supplying different agents simultaneously or sequentially to a patient. The microneedles have a length of about 5-250 microns and generally about 50-100 microns. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287865 | Injection Device Comprising An Optical Sensor - The present invention relates to an injection device comprising an optically-based sensor for determining the position or setting of a dose setting member arranged to set a dose to be injected from the injection device. In particular, the present invention relates to an injection device comprising a rotatably mounted member having a plurality of optically coded paths arranged on an outer surface thereof. The rotatably mounted member is operatively connected to the dose setting member and is adapted to rotate with the dose setting member. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287866 | Methods and compositions for the treatment of pain - The invention features methods, kits, and compositions for the treatment of pain. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287867 | Universal needlefree bag access device - An attachment arrangement has a housing and a needle located within the housing. The arrangement allows administration ports of different sizes to be inserted into and secured within the housing. In certain embodiments, compliant retainers secure the administration port within the housing. In certain other embodiments, the administration port is secured within the housing when the housing is compressed against the administration port by a housing compression element. Once the administration port is secured within the housing, a fluid-tight seal is formed between the attachment device and the administration port. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287868 | Abdominal Cavity Balloon for Preventing a Patient's Bleeding - An abdominal cavity balloon for preventing a haemorrhage in a patient's pelvic region, comprising an inflatable balloon, wherein the balloon is provided with a smooth surface and with a strip that is flexurally stiff and formed to follow the balloon's shape for positioning the balloon. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287869 | Safety Syringe - A safety syringe that includes syringe assembly retained within a hollow tubular shell, whereby a retaining member is utilized for retaining the syringe assembly in an operative position such that it is available for administering a shot. After the safety syringe is used, a retracting assembly retracts the syringe assembly into the shell and locks it in place thereby preventing any accidental pricks. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287870 | Vented Drug Reservoir Unit - A reservoir unit ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080287871 | Method and Device for Intradermally Delivering a Substance - A device for delivering a substance into the skin of a patient includes a body and a skin penetrating device having at least one skin penetrating member, such as a microneedle. The body includes an internal cavity and a device for indicating the delivery of a sufficient amount of the substance to the patient and for producing a dispensing pressure to dispense and deliver the substance from the cavity. The indicating device is visible from the exterior of the delivery device. In some embodiments, the indicating device is an elastic expandable diaphragm which, when the cavity is filled with a substance, creates the dispensing pressure. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287872 | Pump Module For Use In A Medical Fluid Dispensing System - A pump module is provided for use in a medical fluid dispensing system that includes a pump body made of a non-compliant material and first and second pump chambers formed in the body. Each of the chambers has a first, open end and an opposite, closed end. The pump module further includes first and second pistons in the first and second pump chambers, respectively. At least one fluid inlet and a fluid outlet are selectively in fluid communication with the first and second pump chambers. Each of the pistons extends through the open end of a respective one of the pump chambers, with each of the pistons being operably translatable within the pump chamber toward and away from the closed end of the chamber. The pistons are translatable independently of one another. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287873 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING OPERATION OF A SYRINGE - A system is provided for controlling operation of a syringe. The system comprises a controller having an interface and at least one input mechanism; and a syringe gun communicably connected to the controller. The syringe gun comprises an elongated body with an open faced barrel cradle and open faced plunger bay for holding a syringe in the body, a plunger cradle moveable within the plunger bay for operating on a plunger of the syringe, and an actuating device for moving the plunger cradle according to a control signal. The controller generates the control signal for controlling the syringe gun. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287874 | CONTROLLING DEAD VOLUME OF A PISTON PUMP USING AN ADJUSTMENT SCREW - The present invention relates generally to infusion devices. More particularly, the present invention is directed toward an inexpensive design to adjust the dead space of a piston pump by adjusting the end position of the piston's forward stroke. The piston pump may include an actuator member with a piston that articulates between a retracted and a forward position in a piston channel. Movement between the retracted and forward position, a pumping stroke, may expel a known quantity of fluid. Because of manufacturing tolerances, the forward position may not exactly line up with the end of the piston channel, resulting in dead space, or ullage, that may result in less than desired accuracy for fluid volume pumped. Utilization of an adjustable stop or stop that contacts the actuator member at the desired forward position may allow for selective elimination of the ullage and precise adjustment of the fluid pumped. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287875 | INFUSION PUMP WITH PHASE SEPARATOR - An infusion pump comprising a substance and pushing fluid inlet, a substance outlet, a central chamber communicating with said inlet and said outlet, and injecting means for injecting a substance into a biological object, wherein the infusion pump further includes a pushing fluid outlet in communication with the central chamber in such a way as to allow a pushing fluid to exhaust the pump. The outlet of the infusion pump is advantageously connected to the proximal end of a catheter, the distal end being inserted into the biological object. A sensor, e.g., an optical device, is preferably placed at the outlet of the infusion pump and checks that the outlet is free of gas. The infusion pump is preferably remotely controlled so that it can be placed in limited access locations. It is also preferably computer controlled. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287876 | Intravenous catheter introducing device - An intravenous catheter introducing device includes a barrel, a tubular grip member disposed to hold a tubular member and a needle seat to permit a tip end of a needle cannula to extend forwardly of the barrel, a tubular plunger movable along a passage of the barrel, and a tubular receptacle retained in the plunger. Forward movement of the plunger permits engagement of a socket end of the receptacle with the rear plug portion of the tubular member and release of the grip member from the barrel such that the needle cannula can be retracted into the plunger. The tubular member has a pre-chamber so that flashback blood flowing thereinto is visible. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287877 | Flexible Cannula With Associated Seal - A cannula assembly includes a housing and a cannula member connected to the housing. The cannula member has leading and trailing ends and defines a longitudinal axis. The cannula member further includes a main body, a seal adjacent the leading end and a flexible portion disposed between the main body and the seal. The seal is capable of receiving an instrument therethrough while maintaining a substantial sealed relation with the instrument. The flexible portion is configured to permit movement of the seal relative to the longitudinal axis during manipulation of the endoscopic instrument. The flexible portion of the cannula member may include one or more bellows. The one or more bellows may form a goose neck configuration. Alternatively, the one or more bellows define a series of ridges and grooves. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287878 | PULMONARY VISCERAL PLEURA ANASTOMOSIS REINFORCEMENT - A pulmonary visceral pleura anastomosis reinforcement device may be positioned in proximity to a pulmonary pleural stabilizer or conduit to be inserted into a lung. The reinforcement device provides structural reinforcement and aids in preventing damage to the visceral pleura during insertion of a conduit or other device into the lung. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287880 | Dispensing Assembly Including a Syringe or Cartridge, a Closing Cap, and a Mixer - The invention relates to a system for dispensing two components, which comprises a syringe or cartridge, a closing cap and a mixer. The aim of the invention is to provide a system of the aforementioned kind wherein the closing cap is detachable fastened on the syringe or cartridge and the mixer is non-detachable fastened on the cartridge. For this purpose, the fastening means are configured accordingly. The inner bead on the closing cap, in the zone of transition to the cap interior, is provided with a bevelled section that rests on the retaining cams or the retaining bead of the cartridge, while the retaining means on the mixer engage behind the retaining means on the cartridge, thereby forming a non-detachable connection. The invention provides an inexpensive and yet reliable system for dispensing two components, especially for use in dental and medical technology. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287881 | Syringe for use with nuclear medicines - A no leak syringe has:
| 2008-11-20 |
20080287882 | Syringe - A syringe ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080287883 | Injection Device - The application concerns an injection device for apportioning set doses of a drug from a reservoir ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080287884 | CONVERTIBLE SYRINGE SYSTEM - The present invention relates to a syringe system that allows rapid conversion between a needle/syringe system and a needleless/syringe system and in doing so allows an operator to move seamlessly between both systems, while minimizing needle stick risk. In this way, an operator may rapidly access medication bottles requiring a needle puncture and access needleless tubing systems requiring a needleless interface. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287885 | Cylinder/Piston Unit Having a Non-Cylindrical Chamber - The invention relates to a cylinder/piston unit having a cylinder and a piston which is guided therein, wherein the cylinder and the piston enclose a chamber which can be filled at least for a time with an additive, and the cylinder has at least one exit element at its front end. Here, the cross section of the chamber or the cross section of the cylinder inner wall is increased at least in regions of the cylinder from the front to the back, wherein the cylinder end having the exit element is at the front. The piston has an elastic skirt at least in the front region, the front outer edge of said elastic skirt defining a cross-sectional area in the case of an unloaded piston, which is greater than an area which is defined by a contour line. The present invention develops a cylinder/piston unit which ensures simple and reliable handling and can be stored for a long time in the filled state, in a manner which is impervious to gas and moisture. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287886 | SYSTEM AND DEVICE FOR REMOVING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS - A system for removing or tranferring a pharmaceutical product from a reservoir including an ampoule with a moveable piston therein and an adaptor which includes, generally along a longitudinal axis, a reservoir connector and an ampoule connector for coupling to the ampoule, wherein the ampoule connector includes at least one locking mechanism which, in a side wall, includes a resilient element generally corresponding to a portion of the side wall which extends along the periphery thereof and, at opposing ends, merges with the side wall. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287887 | Pump Module For Use In A Medical Fluid Dispensing System - A pump module for use in a medical fluid dispensing system is provided that includes a pump body and first and second pump chambers formed in the pump body. The module further includes a pair of chamber inlets and chamber outlets formed in the pump body, each associated with one of the pump chambers. Each of the pump chambers further includes a first portion having a generally spherical segment shape and a second portion integral with the first portion and having a generally conical shape, with the first and second portions in fluid communication with the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet. The second, conically shaped portion converges to the chamber outlet. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287888 | CATHETER DEVICE - A catheter includes an elongate body having first and second chambers extending within the elongate body from a proximal end to an intermediate section, the first chamber having a first opening and the second chamber having a second opening at the intermediate section. The catheter also includes a valve structure that may have first and second barrier elements to open or close the first and second openings, respectively. The first and the second barrier elements may be coupled by a connecting structure moving within an opening in a guide structure. Alternatively, the first and the second barrier elements may be coupled in a U-shaped structure that moves over the guide structure. To permit flushing of the chambers when the first and second openings are closed, the first and second chambers may also be connected by a connecting channel defined by an opening in a wall of the elongate body. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287889 | Apparatus, System and Method for Administration of a Substance - The present disclosure relates to an infusion control valve adapted to be actuated by a valve actuator. The present disclosure further relates to an infusion valve actuator adapted to actuate an infusion control valve upon being triggered by an authentication unit. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to methods for the administration of a substance | 2008-11-20 |
20080287890 | Device for irrigating and inspecting a wound - The invention relates to a device for more effectively performing wound irrigation and cleansing. The device consists of a coupling member that may be releasably coupled by threaded engagement with the dispensing outlet of a manually compressible container having a reservoir of cleansing fluid. The coupling member has an upstream end portion containing a void region which is in fluid communication with the reservoir after coupling. A magnifying lens is carried by the coupling member and is located intermediate the upstream and downstream ends of the coupling member. The magnifying lens has a multiplicity of orifices adjacent its peripheral edge where the orifices communicate with both the void region and a chamber region. The chamber region is located downstream of the lens and has an opening of its downstream end to permit cleansing fluid to be delivered to the wound upon manually compressing the container. After cleansing the coupling member is de-coupled from the container and the wound inspected through the magnifying lens. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287891 | Device for irrigating and inspecting a wound - The invention relates to a device for more effectively performing wound irrigation and cleansing. The device consists of a coupling member that may be releasably coupled by threaded engagement with the dispensing outlet of a manually compressible container having a reservoir of cleansing fluid. The coupling member has an upstream end portion containing a void region which is in fluid communication with the reservoir after coupling. A magnifying lens is carried by the coupling member and is located intermediate the upstream and downstream ends of the coupling member. The magnifying lens has a multiplicity of orifices adjacent its peripheral edge where the orifices communicate with both the void region and a chamber region. The chamber region is located downstream of the lens and has an opening at its downstream end to permit cleansing fluid to be delivered to the wound upon manually compressing the container. After cleansing the wound, the coupling member is de-coupled from the container and the wound inspected through the magnifying lens for contaminants or debris. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287892 | Wound treatment system - A wound treatment system includes a sponge including a first surface adapted to confront a wound bed of a patient, a drape in contact with a second surface of the sponge, and a vacuum source for distributing a vacuum force through the sponge. The system also includes a wound separator having a sidewall defining an interior chamber, wherein at least a portion of an exterior of the sidewall confronts at least an interior portion of the sponge. An ostomy appliance is operatively connected to the wound separator to receive substances passing out of the wound separator. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287893 | AIR SUCTIONING AND FILTERING DEVICE HAVING INSTANTLY AVAILABLE AIR SUCTIONING AND THERMAL SENSING - An air suctioning and filtering device for use in an surgery plume evacuation system comprises a suction inlet, a filter connected in fluid communication with the suction inlet, a connector pipe connected in fluid communication with the filter, and a vacuum fan connected in fluid communication with the connector pipe to suction air into the suction inlet, through the filter, and through the connector pipe. An air by-pass inlet having a shutter valve mounted thereon permits air to be suctioned to the source of suction without ingressing into the suction inlet, when the shutter valve is in a standby position. A much smaller amount of air is suctioned through the auction inlet. In a full suctioning position, with the shutter valve closed over the air by-pass inlet, all of the air is suctioned into the suction inlet from an electrosurgical pencil. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287894 | Urine Collecting Device - A pad assembly for use with a urine collection device comprises an external layer ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080287896 | Absorbent Article With Hydrophilic Lotion And High Barrier Cuffs - This invention is directed to an absorbent article to be worn by a wearer comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, an absorbent core and a hydrophilic lotion to reduce the adherence of the menses or feces to the skin, thereby improving the ease of menses or bowl movement (BM) clean up; the absorbent article further comprises one or more cuffs to provide a high barrier to reduce leakage of liquids, such as urine. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287897 | Absorbent article and method of making same - Disposable protective undergarments and methods for manufacturing the same, in which the undergarments include a front portion and a back portion each having a stretchable waist area, a stretchable leg area longitudinally spaced from the waist area, and a stretchable belly area positioned between the waist area and the leg area is provided. The belly area is separated from the waist area thereby defining a substantially non-stretchable portion therebetween, and the belly area is also separated from the leg area thereby also defining a substantially non-stretchable portion therebetween. The undergarment optionally includes front and back portions with waist areas each having an outer layer folded over an inner layer, between which layers stretchable web material is sandwiched between. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287898 | Absorbent article and method of making same - Disposable protective undergarments and methods for manufacturing the same, wherein a protective undergarment includes a front portion having a body-side and a garment side and including stretch material, a back portion longitudinally spaced from the front portion, and a crotch insert having a body-side and a garment-side, the body-side of the crotch insert has an front end fixed to the garment-side of the front portion and a back end fixed to the fixed to the body-side of the back portion and the crotch insert bridges a gap between the front and back portions. A disposable protective undergarment also includes a stretch material deactivated where the crotch insert is fixed to the front portion. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287899 | Absorbent article and method of making same - Disposable protective undergarments and methods for manufacturing the same, wherein the undergarments include a front portion and a back portion longitudinally spaced from one another, each of the front and back portions having a waist area, a leg area longitudinally spaced from the waist area and a belly area positioned between the waist area and the leg area are provided, in which the belly area includes an ultrasonically bonded, stretchable film. A crotch insert bridges a gap between the front and back portions. Alternatively, protective undergarments including ultrasonic bonds fixing the crotch insert to the front portion and the back portion is also provided. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287900 | Absorbent Article With Lotion - This invention is directed to an absorbent article to be worn by a wearer comprising a skin-contacting sheet such as a topsheet, a backsheet, an absorbent core and a colored hydrophilic lotion, that not only helps to reduce the adherence of the menses or feces to the skin, thereby improving the ease of menses or bowl movement (BM) clean up, but that also may serve as a wetness indicator. Absorbent articles may be infant (baby) diapers, including training pants, adult incontinence articles and the like. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287901 | Absorbent Article - An absorbent article | 2008-11-20 |
20080287902 | TAMPON PLEDGET FOR INCREASED BY-PASS LEAKAGE PROTECTION - The present invention provides a tampon pledget with one or more of the following properties: increased absorbency rate; high absorbent capacity and fluid retention; rapid expansion potential; and ease of ejection of the pledget from the applicator. Surprisingly, the one or more properties are achieved by using a modified dual cross-pad, folded, compressed tampon pledget design. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287903 | Absorbent Article With Colored Lotioned Sheet - This invention is directed to an absorbent article to be worn by a wearer comprising a skin-contacting sheet such as a topsheet, a backsheet, an absorbent core and a colored hydrophilic lotion, that not only helps to reduce the adherence of the menses or feces to the skin, thereby improving the ease of menses or bowl movement (BM) clean up, but that also may serve as a wetness indicator. Preferred absorbent articles are infant (baby) diapers, including training pants, adult incontinence articles and the like. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287904 | Absorbent Article with Folded Side Flap Portions - An absorbent article and a method for manufacturing the absorbent article, wherein the article includes a backsheet covered at least partly by a topsheet and delimited by a first and a second longitudinally extending side edge and a first and a second opposing laterally extending short edge. The backsheet includes a first flap portion extending at least partly along the first side edge and folded over the first side edge and over parts of the topsheet. The backsheet further includes a second flap portion extending at least partly along the second side edge and folded over the second side edge and over parts of the topsheet, wherein the first and second flap portions are at least partly covered with an adherent. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287905 | Medical valve - A medical valve includes: (a) a housing having a hollow body opened at the top end, wherein the tip of a male luer is to be removably inserted in the housing; (b) a spike disposed to extend longitudinally in the housing, the spike except at least the top end portion being formed in an approximately tapered shape in which its outside diameter becomes progressively smaller toward the top end portion, wherein a fluid transferring passage, which is opened radially outwardly, is formed to extend longitudinally in the spike; and (c) an elastic seal having an elastically deformable tubular shape fitted on the spike to seal the spike, the elastic seal including a top end portion having an openable/closable portion to be openably closed over the spike, wherein the elastic seal is elastically deformed to be downwardly shrunk by downward pressure due to the tip of the male luer. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287906 | EXTRAVASCULAR SYSTEM VENTING - A vascular access device may form part of an extravascular system and function as an adapter including a gas permeable vent. A method of venting a medical device may include providing a vascular access device as part of an extravascular system, providing a gas permeable vent within the vascular access device, venting gas from the system through the vent, and closing the vent. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287907 | Systems and methods for introducing and applying a bandage structure within a body lumen or hollow body organ - Systems and methods provide intraluminal delivery of a bandage structure within a body lumen or hollow body organ. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287908 | Ethmoidotomy System and Implantable Spacer Devices Having Therapeutic Substance Delivery Capability for Treatment of Paranasal Sinusitis - Substance delivering spacer devices may comprise expandable reservoirs that are implantable in paranasal sinuses and other cavities, openings and passageways of the body to maintain patency and to provide sustained local delivery of a therapeutic or diagnostic substance. Also provided are sinus penetrator devices and systems for performing ethmoidotomy procedures or for creating other openings in the walls of paranasal sinuses or other anatomical structures. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287909 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INTRA-CHAMBER NEEDLE INJECTION TREATMENT - A method is disclosed that enables intra-chamber needle injection treatment using a navigable interventional device. The method includes navigation steps to systematically inject cells, drugs, or other agents in diagnostically identified target tissues, such as ischemic heart wall tissues. Magnetic navigation of a specifically designed needle catheter permits safe access to remote structures of the heart and depth-adaptable needle injections. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287910 | INTRAMEDULLARY ACCESS OR INFUSION DEVICES - Intramedullary access or infusion devices that includes a tubular conduit having a distal end and a proximal end with a length sufficient to pass through the cortical region to the cancellous region of a bone; a flange circling the outside of the proximal end of the conduit; and a penetrable diaphragm positioned within the tubular conduit, are described. The devices may be placed in bone and later used, for example, as a site for administering a pharmacologically active agent. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287911 | CATHETER WITH LAMINAR FLOW DRUG DELIVERY PROPERTIES - Catheters with laminar flow bioactive agent delivery properties and methods of using for treating or preventing vascular disease are disclosed. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287912 | Method, Device And Formulation For The Treatment Of Nail Disorders - An improved method, device and formulation for the treatment of nail disorders characterized by de-lamination, thickening or crumbling of the nails. The invention consists of a tubular proboscis ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080287913 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CO-INJECTION - Systems and methods of co-injecting a solid object and an amount of fluid into a patient's tissue includes separably coupled syringe and needle portions. The syringe portion includes a barrel, a plunger, and a pushrod for disposing the solid object that is capable of independent movement with respect to the plunger. The needle portion includes a hollow needle configured to allow both the object and the fluid to pass out of the needle and into the patient's tissue. The needle portion may include a housing located behind the needle that is configured to hold the solid object. Once the needle portion and the syringe portion are coupled together, the device is operated in accordance with methods of the present invention to effectively co-inject the patient with the object and the amount of fluid. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287914 | Medicament administration apparatus - An apparatus for removal of premixed drugs or reconstitution of lyophilized drugs and for the injection of the reconstituted drug into the patient. The apparatus includes a syringe assembly and an adapter assembly that can be removably connected to a medicament container containing a premixed drug or lyophilized medicament. The syringe assembly of the apparatus includes a body portion to form a liquid chamber between the forward end of the body portion and the piston and a syringe cannula assembly. The syringe cannula assembly, which can be removably interconnected with the body portion, comprises a cannula support and a hypodermic needle sealably connected to the cannula support. The adapter assembly comprises an adapter preferably molded from a moldable plastic that includes a top wall, an adapter cannula connected to and extending from the top wall and a variety of connectors connected to the top wall for removably interconnecting the adapter with the medicament container. The adapter assembly further includes syringe connector member connected to the top wall for removably interconnecting the syringe with the adapter in a manner to uniquely position the syringe cannula within the lumen of the adapter cannula wherein it is completely shielded from external contamination to prevent print damage and injury to the user. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287915 | Tissue engineering system with scleral lens - A scleral lens is provided with a drug that is retained in the reservoir of fluid between the scleral lens and the cornea. This system can be used to deliver drugs not currently used because of poor bioavailability, to increase bioavailability of drugs used in patients already wearing a scleral lens, and to improve bioavailability in patients who are not currently wearing the lens. Dosing can be provided less frequently, thus decreasing the risk of non-compliance. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287916 | GUIDE FOR PLACEMENT OF CATHETER INTO BRAIN AND A METHOD OF UTILIZING THE SAME - The subject matter discloses a method and apparatus for detecting an environment within a body comprising a stylet and a catheter capable of being inserted into the body and a bio-sensing module for detecting a predefined material within the body, upon insertion of the stylet and catheter with close proximity to the predefined material. The predefined material may be beta-transferrin, and the apparatus may comprise a transmitter and an indication unit for transmitting data related to the presence of the predefined material in the body. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287917 | Apparatus and Method for Convection Enhanced Therapeutic Delivery - A system for convection enhanced delivery of therapeutic comprises one or more flexible, biocompatible microcatheters that are directed to a target location to deliver a therapeutic agent. The microcatheter is releasably coupled to a guide tube and directed to the desired location. The microcatheters are small and flexible in order to reach the target areas, minimize trauma at the injection site, and minimize reflux of the injectable therapeutic. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287918 | Steerable Guide Catheters and Methods For Their Use - Methods for easy, atraumatic access to areas of the vasculature that are otherwise difficult to access, using steerable guide catheters constructed with components that are selected to provide optimal navigability, torque transfer, and push ability for a variety of typical percutaneous access routes. The catheter wall thickness in the deflecting segment of the guide catheter is about 1 French (⅓ mm) or less, and includes a slotted deflection tube, and this construction allows a very tight turning radius which in turn enables guide catheter access to regions of the vasculature that are otherwise inaccessible. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287919 | System and method for effecting non-standard fluid line connections - A Luer-like non-standard quick disconnect medical fluid connector that cannot be engaged with a standard Luer fitting. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287920 | MEDICAL CONNECTOR WITH CLOSEABLE MALE LUER - A luer connector including a rigid housing having a first end and a second end. The housing further including a rigid tubular male portion at the first end, a rigid tubular female portion at the second end, and a longitudinal opening therethrough. The male portion is configured to be engageable with a female connector. The female portion is configured to be engageable with a male connector and to prevent the disengagement of the male connector from the female portion. In some embodiments, the female portion is configured to maintain a fixed rotational position when the male connector is being threaded therewith, but to rotate with the male connector once the male connector has become fully engaged with the female portion so as to prevent the male connector from becoming unthreaded from the female portion. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287921 | Luer hub connector - A luer hub connector comprises a hub having a cylindrical bore extending there through. The hub is adapted to have a luer device connected at one end. A cap having a hollow nozzle extending therefrom is formed at the other end of the hub. A cylindrical spring-like member is positioned within the bore in the hub, and a septum membrane closes the end of the spring-like member. A sliding, hollow sleeve member is received in the bore of the hub member, with a hollow nozzle extending from the sleeve member into the bore of the spring-like member. When a luer device is threaded onto the end of the hub, it contacts and drives the sleeve member towards the septum. The end of the hollow nozzle is pushed through the septum, and the spring-like member is also compressed. When the luer device is removed, the spring-like member pushes the sleeve member back, and the hollow nozzle withdraws out of contact with the septum. The septum then closes and seals. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287922 | User Interface for Delivery System Providing Graphical Programming of Profile - The invention provides a delivery system comprising a reservoir and an expelling assembly to expel drug out of the resorvoir. The system further comprises a display for graphically displaying a profile showing a first parameter as a function of a second parameter, the profile comprising at least one segment, each segment indicating an interval for the second parameter and an associated value for the first parameter, wherein each segment has a starting and an ending value for the first parameter. The display further shows an indicator arranged corresponding to a given value for the second parameter. User input means is provided allowing a user (i) to move the indicator corresponding to a desired value for the second parameter for the displayed profile, and (ii) to adjust the first parameter for a segment defined by the actual position of the indicator and an adjacent starting or ending point for a neighbouring segment. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287923 | Loading a Tissue Closure Device onto a Delivery Device - A compression tool is configured to compress one or more components of a delivery device, such as a closure element and one or more flanges of a pusher tube. The compression tool includes clamping means configured to close or release with rotation of actuating means (e.g., rotating means). In a closed position, the clamping means can sufficiently compress the one or more components of the delivery device so that a technician can easily position a garage tube about the compressed delivery device components. The assembled delivery device (or assembled garage tube) can then be removed from the compression tool upon reverse rotation of the actuating means, and subsequent opening of the clamping means. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287924 | Hospital Operating Room Re-Design - An improved operating room design is disclosed. Interfering connection devices, such as wires, cables, and hoses, are eliminated from the working area by use of disappearing floor pods mounted between a sub-floor and a finished floor. The floor pods recess flush with said finished floor, thereby allowing floor cleaning by a robotic device that incorporates disposable, sterile cleaning cartridges. Movable carts, such as an anesthesiology cart, are adapted for docking with said pods on the upper surface of said pods with connectors presented underneath said carts. Said pods provide numerous utility connections such as gas, vacuum, and electric. Gas and vacuum lines are preferably supplied from a universal adaptor. A surgical table is mounted on the sub-flooring of the operating room. AU utilities are fed to the table from underneath the floor. The surgery operating room has a wall with an array of built-in compartments for carrying medical supplies that allows access to personnel both in and outside the operating room. The operating room preferably also includes a ceiling with focusing, “shadow-less” lights and/or a mounted imaging C-arm. Flat panel monitors are also embedded in one or more walls for real-time displays of information. In addition, the operating room walls provide a calming, ambient light by way of surfacing with translucent materials which are backlit. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287925 | HANDHELD MEDICAL DEVICE - A handheld medical device comprises an internal flow passage that is in axial alignment with an output drive shaft. The drive shaft is powered by a motor assembly that is offset from the internal flow passage and the output drive shaft. The drive shaft and the motor assembly can be connected by a gear train. A collet mechanism can be used to secure a surgical implement to the handheld medical device. A first button assembly and a second button assembly can be positioned on diametrically opposed portions of the handheld medical device. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287926 | Multi-Purpose Minimally Invasive Instrument That Uses a Micro Entry Port - A multi-purpose minimally invasive instrument having a small diameter elongated rod with a distal end that receives different interchangeable tools for a variety of uses, and also a handle used by an operator to control the interchangeable tool by manipulating the electricity it receives from a generator. The rod enters a cavity through a very small diameter telescopic port, which provides it with added support during its use. Interchangeable tools comprising imaging/surgical/sensing/electromagnet/radiofrequency/laser/heat-generating probes and/or other devices enter the cavity, supported by an introducer removed after tool attachment, one-at-a-time through a regular-size port that is concurrently used by an endoscope/camera. The instrument is adaptable for therapeutic, investigative, and/or other applications, in any space. An important medical benefit is the usage of many tools simultaneously while employing only one regular-size port and a very small diameter port for each additional tool used, which expedites patient recovery with excellent cosmetic outcome. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287927 | Protective device for ophthalmic laser treatment - A protective device for ophthalmic laser treatment comprises a transparent foil for protecting an eye from direct contact by a reference body disposed between a laser applicator and the eye. The protective device further comprises means for disposing the foil between the reference body and the eye, for example a carrier frame, having the foil attached thereto, and a suction ring for attachment to the eye around an operative area. The suction ring is designed for receiving the carrier frame such that the operative area is covered by the foil when the suction ring is attached to the eye. Furthermore, the suction ring is provided with coupling means for attachment to the laser applicator. When the laser is activated, laser pulses are projected from the laser applicator through the reference body and the foil to dissolved tissue of the eye. By moving the focal point of the pulsed laser beam into the foil, open cuts can be made in the eye, without damaging the reference body. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287928 | OPERATOR-CONTROLLED SCANNING LASER PROCEDURE DESIGNED FOR LARGE-AREA EPITHELIUM REMOVAL - Systems and methods for removing an epithelial layer disposed over a stromal layer in a cornea irradiate a region of the epithelial layer with a pulsed beam of ablative radiation. The ablative radiation is scanned to vary the location of the beam within the region in accordance with a pulse sequence. The pulse sequence is arranged to enhance optical feedback based on a tissue fluorescence of the epithelial layer. The penetration of the epithelial layer is detected in response to the optical feedback. The use of scanning with the pulse sequence arranged to enhance optical feedback allows large areas of the epithelium to be ablated such penetration of the epithelial layer can be detected. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287929 | CUSTOMIZED LASER EPITHELIAL ABLATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods to treat a region of a cornea of an eye having an epithelial layer disposed over a stromal layer. The system comprises a device to map a thickness of the epithelial layer over the region of the cornea to generate a map of epithelial thickness over the region, and a laser to generate a laser beam of an ablative radiation. A movable scan component is coupled to the laser to scan the laser beam over the region. A processor system is coupled to the laser and the movable scan component, and the processor system is configured to arrange pulses of laser beam to ablate the epithelial layer of the region in response to the map of epithelial thickness. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287930 | Thermal Energy Applicator - An apparatus and method, for selective thermal treatment of tissue, below the surface, while avoiding injury to the superficial layers of the tissue. The apparatus comprises a reflective beam conversion system for providing a pre-selected therapeutic dose of light energy of optimal spectrum and optimal pulse duration to a confined target volumes at predetermined depth under the tissue surface, while reducing the thermal exposure of the surface of the tissue, and the overlying and surrounding tissues. The method is advantageous for treating a variety of medical and dermatological conditions in a safer and more effective manner. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287931 | Use of iontophoresis and ultrasound to deliver melanin or other chromophores for laser hair removal - The method disclosed includes the combining of iontophoresis and ultrasound to deliver the appropriate chromophores to blonde, grey, white, vellus, and other non-pigmented or laser resistant hair follicles to facilitate photothermolysis hair removal using a laser, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), a combination of laser and RF energy, or combination of IPL and RF. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287932 | Apparatus and Method for Treatment and Particularly Laser Treatment of a Cancer or Precancerous Condition - An apparatus for treatment of a cancer or precancerous condition which includes a therapeutic light source for outputting a therapeutic light beam at a wavelength between 1.2 μm and 1.3 μm. This light source is preferably a laser for outputting a pulsed beam. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287933 | Multifiber Instrument for Contact Laser Surgery - The surgical instrument comprises a handpiece ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080287934 | Laser Handle and Fiber Guard - A protective handle for a mobile laser unit wherein the protective handle provides protection to a front section of the mobile laser unit from damage due to bumps and other impacts as the mobile laser unit is transported between treatment locations. The protective handle simultaneously acts to protect an attached optical fiber from damage during transport by limiting a bend radius of the laser fiber. The protective handle includes a U-shaped central segment having rear and forward surfaces defining a fiber optic support structure. The protective handle is attached to the mobile laser unit such that an optical fiber connector is centered within the U-shaped central segment and the optical fiber can rest on the fiber optic support structure. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287935 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PHOTOABLATION USING MULTIPLE FOCAL POINTS USING CYCLICAL PHASE MODULATION - A system and method for performing ophthalmic laser surgery requires directing a laser beam through a stationary beam splitter to create a pattern of multi-focal spots. Also, a beam scanner is used to move this pattern along a substantially spiral path in a target area of tissue. To compensate for cyclical changes in orientation of the pattern relative to its spiral path, a computer is used to phase modulate pattern movement. Specifically, this phase modulation is expressed as: | 2008-11-20 |
20080287936 | Telescope with Integrated Optical Filter - A medical laser system having a telescope and a laser unit, wherein the laser unit includes an optical fiber for performing medical surgical procedures, and a telescope designed to view a target area during the medical procedure and to illuminate the target area. The telescope includes a tubular case, an optical train, an integrated optical filter, and an optical fiber to provide illumination. The telescope can be connected to a camera to allow for viewing the target area on a monitor. Alternatively, the telescope can end in an eyepiece. The integrated optical filter blocks a selected laser light wavelength such that the laser light does not overexpose or damage the camera. The integrated optical filter can include an integrated flat filter or integrated coated lens. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287937 | Surgical Instrument for Illuminating and Monitoring a Surgical Site - The present application discloses embodiments of a surgical instrument to monitor a surgical site within a patient. In one embodiment, the instrument includes an elongated extender including a distal end and a proximal end. A body may be attached to the distal end of the extender. A plurality of light elements may be permanently attached to the body. The light elements may be spaced around the body and form a perimeter to provide dispersed light to the surgical site. An optical input member may be permanently attached to the body. The optical input member may include a distal end that faces outward away from the extender and towards the surgical site. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287938 | Illuminated Directional Laser Probe - An ophthalmic surgery illuminated directional laser probe has a handle and a rigid tubular tip projecting from the handle, and has an illumination optic fiber and a laser optic fiber that extend through the handle and the tip. A mechanism on the handle is operable to extend distal ends of the illumination optic fiber and the laser optic fiber from the distal end of the instrument tip, and to retract the distal ends of the illumination optic fiber and the laser optic fiber back into the interior of the tip. At least one of the distal ends of the illumination optic fiber and the laser optic fiber is held in a curved configuration. The distal ends of the illumination optic fiber and the laser optic fiber are secured to each other, whereby both the illumination optic fiber and the laser optic fiber curve into a bent configuration as the distal ends of the illumination optic fiber and the laser optic fiber are extended from the distal end of the instrument tip. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287939 | ENDOVASCULAR THERMAL TREATMENT DEVICE WITH FLEXIBLE GUIDE TIP AND METHOD - An elongated thermal energy delivery device for use in endovenous thermal treatment of blood vessel is provided. The energy device includes a flexible guide tip attached to its distal portion which provides for direct tracking and advancement of the energy device through the vein without the use of a treatment sheath. Also provided is a method of using the thermal energy delivery device with flexible guide tip. The method eliminates the need for a treatment sheath and accessory procedural components and the procedural steps associated with these components. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287940 | Fiber Pole Tip - A medical laser unit having a fiber pole tip providing protection and maneuverability to an optical fiber. The fiber pole tip includes a longitudinal channel for retaining the optical fiber so as to limit a bending radius of the optical fiber and prevent the creation of sharp stress risers in the optical fiber. A top surface of the fiber pole tip can include at least one tab projecting over the longitudinal channel to retain the optical fiber within the longitudinal channel. The fiber pole tip is rotatably attached to a fiber pole connected to the laser unit allowing for ease in positioning and manipulating the optical fiber without inducing sharp bends in the optical fiber and to remove stress from the optical fiber. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287941 | TAPERED FUSED WAVEGUIDE FOR TEETH WHITENING - A radiation emitting apparatus is disclosed that emits a substantially homogenous beam of radiation from an irregularly shaped output end. As described herein, a radiation emitting apparatus includes a bundled fiber guide coupled to an energy distribution tuner. The bundled fiber guide is coupled to the energy distribution tuner to receive a substantially uniform distribution of high power energy. The bundled fiber guide is configured to distribute the energy to emit a substantially uniform distribution of lower power energy toward a target surface, such as a body surface. The bundled fiber guide may include a plurality of fused optic fibers, a plurality of beam splitting mirror elements, or tapered waveguides. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287942 | RF Ablation Catheter with Side-Eye Infrared Imager - An ablation catheter has an imager useful in connection with an ablation operation such as used in the treatment of a cardiac arrhythmia. The catheter has an ablation electrode positioned on a catheter tip, and the imager is located on a side of the catheter. Because the catheter tip is generally articulated when the lesion is formed, this position of the imager provides an image that corresponds with the position of the catheter when it is used to form a lesion. Rings for recording tissue electrograms are also positioned on the catheter tip. This arrangement allows the user to accurately place and contact the electrode and to monitor the ablation process such as by viewing bubbles and thrombi that may undesirably be formed. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287943 | TREATMENT APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR INDUCING MICROBURN PATTERNS IN TISSUE - Treatment apparatus and methods for inducing microburn patterns in tissue. The treatment apparatus comprises a delivery device positionable adjacent to the tissue and a plurality of energy-transfer elements. The energy-transfer elements are adapted to contact the skin surface over discrete surface contact areas and transfer energy to the tissue for forming damaged regions in the form of microburns at a corresponding plurality of locations in the tissue. Energy may be transferred between the energy-transfer elements and the tissue by either electrical conduction or thermal conduction. Adjacent microburns are separated by non-damaged regions, which promotes wound healing and efficacy. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287944 | TISSUE ABLATION APPARATUS AND METHOD - A method and apparatus for carrying our thermal ablation of target tissue is disclosed. The apparatus includes an RF ablation device having a multi-electrode electrode assembly designed to be deployed in target tissue, defining a selected-volume tissue region to be ablated, and having infusion channels for infusing a liquid into the target tissue during the ablation process. A control unit in the apparatus is operably connected to an RF energy source, for controlling the RF power level supplied to the electrodes, and to an infusion device, for controlling the rate of infusion of a liquid through the device into the tissue. During both electrode deployment and tissue ablation, impedance and or temperature measurements made within the tissue are used to control the RF source and infusion device, for optimizing the time and extent of tissue ablation. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287945 | Linear ablation assembly - An intravascular device for the formation of linear lesions which has particular utility in the treatment of atrial fibrillation and flutter. The intravascular device has an outer delivery member with a distal section which has an elongated opening and a support element coextending with the opening. An EP device having a plurality of electrodes on its distal section is slidably disposed within the inner lumen of the delivery member but it is secured by its distal end within the distal extremity of the delivery member at least while in operation. In this manner an axial force in the proximal direction on the proximal extremity of the EP device, which extends out of the patient during the procedure, will cause the distal shaft section of the EP device to arch outwardly out of and away from the distal section of the delivery shaft along an inner side of the curved distal section and engage the surface of the patient's heart chamber. RF electrical energy delivered to the electrodes on the distal shaft section of the EP device will form a linear lesion which terminates the fibrillation or flutter. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287946 | Cool-Tip Thermocouple Including Two-Piece Hub - A surgical device for performing a surgical procedure on a patient is provided and includes a handle assembly including a housing having a distal end and a proximal end; a tissue engaging member supported in and extending from the distal end of the housing of the handle assembly; at least one conduit having a first end operatively associated with the tissue engaging member and a second end extending from the housing of the handle assembly; and a strain relief member supported on the at least one conduit and connected to the housing, wherein the strain relief member and the housing are configured to enable poly-axial movement of the strain relief member with respect to the housing. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287947 | RF intervertebral electrosurgical probe - An electrosurgical instrument for spinal procedures comprises an elongated tubular member configured to fit within and be extended down a standard sized cannula. The instrument comprises a proximal end including a handle for the surgeon and supplied with fittings for connection to a source of irrigation fluid and a source of suction. The distal end of the instrument has an active end comprising a slightly-flexible curved wire electrode that extends in the plane of the tubular member. Beyond the wire electrode is an exit port for irrigation fluid, and in front of the electrode is a receiving port for suction. The wire electrode is thus flanked in front by the exiting irrigation fluid and behind by the suction, with the result that fluid flow is drawn by the suction across the wire electrode creating pressure forces that direct removed tissue to the suction entrance and its removal from the surgical site. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287948 | Electrosurgical system - An electrosurgical system includes a generator for generating radio frequency power, an electrosurgical instrument including at least first and second bipolar electrodes carried on the instrument, and a monopolar patient return electrode separate from the instrument. The generator comprises a source of radio frequency (RF) power, and has a first supply state in which the RF waveform is supplied between the first and second bipolar electrodes of the electrosurgical instrument, and a second supply state in which the RF waveform is supplied between at least one of the first and second bipolar electrodes and the monopolar patient return electrode. A controller is operable to control the generator such that, in at least one mode of the generator, a feeding means is adapted to alternate between the first and second supply states to supply an alternating signal. | 2008-11-20 |