47th week of 2013 patent applcation highlights part 55 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20130310837 | POWERED TISSUE MODIFICATION DEVICES AND METHODS - A device for modifying tissue in a spine may include: a shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion, the distal portion having dimensions which allow it to be passed into an epidural space of the spine and between target and non-target tissues; at least one distal force application member extending from the distal portion of the shaft and configured to facilitate application of at least one of anchoring force and tensioning force to the shaft; at least one movable tissue modifying member coupled with the shaft at or near its distal portion; at least one drive member coupled with the at least one tissue modifying member to activate the at least one tissue modifying member; and at least one power transmission member coupled with the at least one drive member to deliver power to the at least one drive member. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310838 | Combined Measured Resection Methods and Instruments for Knee Arthroplasty - Described are methods, processes, tools, techniques and/or devices suitable for use in total or partial knee arthroplasty procedures, which can be used to balance the knee and/or allow confirmation of the various gaps in flexion and/or extension prior to resecting the distal and posterior cuts of the femur and/or the resection of the tibia. The various techniques and embodiments described herein may be particularly useful in optimizing and/or reducing the number of resection cuts and/or improper resection cuts made during knee surgery which could result from resecting the knee before balancing. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310839 | CERVICAL DISTRACTION/IMPLANT DELIVERY DEVICE - Systems for distracting a facet joint and positioning a permanent implant in the joint are disclosed. The implants serve to retain a distracted position of the facet joint which is achieved with positioning of the leading end of a distraction tool in the facet joint and then distracting or enlarging the joint a desired amount. The permanent implant could be part of the distraction mechanism which can be separated from the delivery tool once the joint has been distracted or an auxiliary implant may be positioned before the distraction mechanism is removed from the distracted joint. The permanent implants can be solid, mechanical devices that may have fixation means thereon to hold them in place or injected fluids such as hydrogels or fluids confined within balloons. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310840 | BONE CEMENT MIXING AND DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - In at least one embodiment of the present invention, a device for mixing and dispensing a bone cement mixture is provided. The device comprises a housing having a chamber configured to contain a first and second bone cement. A plunger including a plunger rod having a piston at a first end and a plunger handle at a second end is configured to actuate within the chamber. A mixing element is disposed adjacent the piston and is configured to rotate within the chamber to mix the first and second bone cement components to form the bone cement mixture. The plunger is configured to rotate the mixing element to mix the bone cement mixture. The plunger is also configured to advance through the chamber. As the plunger is advanced through the chamber, the piston is configured to receive the mixing element and dispense the bone cement mixture from the device. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310841 | Femoral Sizing Devices and Procedures for Use in Knee Surgery - The present invention is directed to a femoral sizing device that can be used in knee surgery and to techniques in which this device may prove useful. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310842 | INSTALLATION TOOL FOR BONE SCREW - A tool for installing a bone screw in a bone. The tool has a guide wire having an inner end adapted to be seated at the bone at a site where the screw, which is tubular and can fit around and slide along the wire, is to be installed, a tubular tool body fittable over and around the wire and having a tip fittable with the bone screw when same is traversed by the wire to rotate and drive the bone screw, a stabilizer axially and rotationally fixable to the wire offset from the tool body so that the screw can be screwed axially into the bone at the site while the wire is prevented from moving axially by the stabilizer. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310843 | PLUNGER SYSTEM FOR INTRAOCULAR LENS SURGERY - Various systems, apparatuses, and processes may be used for intraocular lens surgery. In particular implementations, a system for intraocular lens surgery may include a shell, a plunger, and a deformable sleeve. The shell may, for example, include an outer wall and an inner wall, wherein the inner wall defines a passage through the body. The plunger may be adapted to move within the passage and include first end adapted to be engaged by a user for advancing the plunger within the passage and a second end adapted to interface with an intraocular lens. The deformable sleeve may be sized to fit around the plunger and adapted to engage with the shell and the plunger to provide force feedback to advancing the plunger through the passage. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310845 | THROMBECTOMY CATHETER DEPLOYMENT SYSTEM - A thrombectomy catheter deployment for operation of a thrombectomy catheter includes a stand alone drive unit and a disposable pump/catheter assembly which is manually placed into a carriage assembly in the drive unit. The pump/catheter assembly has a plurality of preconnected components including tubular structure and a thrombectomy catheter connected thereto and is transported into or out of the interior of the drive unit for automatic high pressure pump piston head engagement or disengagement with a reciprocating linear actuator and for automatic engagement of disengagement of an effluent waste tube with a roller pump. A barcode reader senses specific operational data pertaining to an individual pump and provides an interface for operation of the reciprocating linear actuator. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310846 | INSERTION TOOLS AND METHODS FOR AN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION IMPLANT - In some embodiments, a method includes inserting at least a distal end portion of an insertion tool within a body. The distal end portion of the insertion tool is coupled to an electronic implant having a stimulation portion, a terminal portion and a substantially flexible conductor disposed between the stimulation portion and the terminal portion. The distal end portion of the insertion tool is moved within the body such that the stimulation portion of the electronic implant is disposed adjacent a target location and the terminal portion of the electronic implant is disposed beneath a skin of the body. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310847 | FRICTION COMPENSATION IN A MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGICAL APPARATUS - Devices, systems, and methods for compensate for friction within powered automatic systems, particularly for telesurgery and other telepresence applications. Dynamic friction compensation may comprise applying a continuous load in the direction of movement of a joint, and static friction compensation may comprise applying alternating loads in positive and negative joint actuation directions whenever the joint velocity reading falls within a low velocity range. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310848 | HANDLE ASSEMBLY FOR ENDOSCOPIC SUTURING DEVICE - A handle assembly for operating an articulatable surgical instrument is provided and includes a housing; an actuation shaft translatably and rotatably supported in the housing; a first trigger supported on the housing and connected to the actuation shaft, the first trigger being configured to translate the actuation shaft to operate a first function of the surgical instrument; a second trigger supported on the housing and connected to the actuation shaft, the second trigger being configured to rotate the actuation shaft to operate a second function of the surgical instrument; and a second-trigger release supported in the housing, the second-trigger release having a first position blocking actuation of the second trigger and a second position permitting actuation of the second trigger, where the second-trigger release is actuated from the first position to the second position upon and complete actuation of the first trigger. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310849 | JAW CLOSURE MECHANISM FOR A SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER - A jaw closure mechanism for use in a surgical clip applier having first and second jaws movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to form a surgical clip about tissue. The jaw closure mechanism includes first and second eccentric wheels rotatably coupled to the respective first and second jaws. Each of the wheels includes a center and a pivot point that is offset relative to the center. A cable is disposed about each of the wheels. The cable is engaged to the first wheel at a first engagement point and to the second wheel at a second engagement point such that, upon application of a drive force to the cable, the wheels are rotated and displaced relative to the respective jaws from a first position to a second position to urge the jaws from the spaced-apart position to the approximated position. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310850 | Lock Bar Spring and Clip for Implant Deployment Device - A system for closing an aperture in a biological tissue includes at least one clip connected to at least one frame arm and for releasably retaining a surgical implant to the frame arm. The clip includes at least one locking structure for engaging a lock bar. A portion of the lock bar selectively engages or contacts the locking structure of the at least one clip to lock the at least one clip in a closed position by inhibiting rotation of the at least one clip when the lock bar is in a locked position. The lock bar allows the at least one clip to rotate to an open position when the lock bar is in an unlocked position. Methods for utilizing the system are also disclosed. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310851 | Magnetic Clip for Implant Deployment Device - An instrument for deploying a surgical implant includes a handle, a shaft, and a frame arm coupled to the shaft. A magnetic clip system is disposed on the frame arm for releasably retaining a surgical implant to the frame arm. The magnetic clip system includes a clip, a first ferromagnetic member, and a second ferromagnetic member. The magnetic clip system biases the clip towards a closed position. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310852 | Lock Bar Spring and Clip for Implant Deployment Device - A system for closing an aperture in a biological tissue includes an implant deployment device having at least one frame arm. At least one clip is connected to the at least one frame arm and configured to releasably retain a surgical implant to the frame arm. A lock bar including at least one spring member is disposed on the at least one frame arm and is configured to bias the clips towards a closed position. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310853 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PERCUTANEOUS TREATMENT OF A BLOOD VESSEL - Method and apparatus for percutaneous repair of an affected area in a blood vessel. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310854 | MENISCAL REPAIR SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A device for repairing a tear in a portion of tissue comprises a proximal actuator portion, a transfer needle extending distally from the proximal actuator portion and a catch needle extending distally from the proximal actuator portion. A suture needle is disposed in the transfer needle, and is extendable from the transfer needle toward the catch needle and retractable from the catch needle toward the transfer needle. An extendable catch plunger is disposed in the catch needle for capturing suture therein when it is transferred from the transfer needle. A retractable insertion sheath is provided for covering the transfer needle and the catch needle when the device is inserted into a procedural site. A depth limiting apparatus limits the depth of insertion of the needle into the procedural site. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310855 | METHODS AND SUTURES FOR CONTINUOUS SURGICAL SUTURING - A machine constructed and configured for automatic continuous suturing for reduced or minimized scarring and reduced suturing time, including methods of using the same. A device for continuous suturing. A variety of needles designed and constructed for suturing and more particularly for use with a machine operable for continuous suturing for reduced or minimized scarring and reducing the suturing time. Suture stitches by the same device. A device, method and suture for subcuticular suturing. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310856 | Suture Passer Guides and Related Kits and Methods - This disclosure relates to suture passer guides and related kits and methods. In certain aspects, a suture passer guide includes an elongate member and a suture positioning member that can be radially extended from a distal end region of the elongate member and rotated relative to the elongate member such that the suture positioning member can reposition a suture from a first side area of the elongate member to a second side area of the elongate member. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310857 | Clip for Implant Deployment Device - An instrument for deploying a surgical implant includes a handle, an elongated shaft extending from the handle, and a frame arm. The frame arm includes a clip pair for releasably attaching the surgical implant to the frame arm. The clip pair includes first and second clips operably coupled by a spring member. The first and second clips are repositionable from a closed position to an open position. The spring member biases the first and second clips towards the closed position. A lock bar is coupled to the frame arm and translatable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the locked position, the lock bar maintains the first and second clips in either the open or the closed position. When the lock bar is in the unlocked position, the first and second clips are freely rotatable between the open and closed positions. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310858 | Lock Bar Spring and Clip for Implant Deployment Device - A system for closing an aperture in a biological tissue includes an implant deployment device having a frame arm, a clip connected to the frame arm, and a lock bar including a protrusion. The protrusion extends away from the frame arm and is configured for selectively holding the clip in an open position or a closed position. A surgical implant is releasably attached to the frame arm. The clip retains the surgical implant in contact with the frame arm when the clip is in the closed position and the clip allows the surgical implant to be separated from the frame arm when the clip is in the open position. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310859 | Rotational Device with Inflatable Support Elements and Torque Transmitting Membrane - A rotational atherectomy device for removing a stenotic tissue from a vessel of a patient is disclosed. The device comprises a rotatable, flexible, hollow drive shaft having a fluid impermeable wall defining a lumen of the drive shaft and, an abrasive element mounted to a distal end portion of the drive shaft proximal to and spaced away from a distal support element formed at a distal end of the drive shaft. The distal support element is inflatable by pressurized fluid which flows in an antegrade direction through said lumen of the drive shaft and is least partially re-directed into the distal fluid inflatable support element. The distal fluid inflatable support element has an outer wall comprising an outflow opening. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310860 | ORAL CARE IMPLEMENT - An oral care implement for cleaning soft oral tissue. In one aspect, the invention can be an oral care implement comprising: a handle extending along a longitudinal axis; first and second prong members extending from a distal end of the handle; a pad for engaging soft tissue, the pad having a first major surface and a second major surface, the pad positioned between and coupled to the first and second prong members. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310861 | RETINAL INSTRUMENT - In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of removing scar tissue from an eye that includes inserting a device including an array of micro-rods into an eye, wherein at least one glass micro-rod of the array of glass micro-rods includes a sharp feature; contacting a scar tissue with the array of micro-rods; and removing the array of micro-rods and the scar tissue from the eye. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a medical device for engaging a tissue including and an array of glass micro-rods, wherein at least one glass micro-rod of the array of glass micro-rods includes a sharp feature opposite a base of the array of glass micro-rods that is connected to the cannula, wherein the sharp feature of the at least one micro-rod is angled from a plane that is normal to a face of the base of the array of glass micro-rods. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310862 | MEDICAL APPARATUS - Liquid is ejected in a pulse-like manner from a nozzle provided at the distal end of a liquid ejection pipe. When the liquid is ejected, moving speed of the nozzle is detected. A driving frequency of a piezoelectric element is increased when the moving speed increase. The driving frequency is reduced when the moving speed decreases. Consequently, it is possible to prevent the number of times the liquid is ejected per unit length from changing according to the moving speed of the nozzle. Therefore, it is possible to excise a biological tissue at stable excision depth. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310863 | ENERGY BASED HYPERHIDROSIS TREATMENT - A method and system for energy-based (e.g., ultrasound treatment and/or other modalities) of sweat glands are provided. An exemplary method and system for targeted treatment of sweat glands can be configured in various manners, such as through use of therapy only, therapy and monitoring, imaging and therapy, or therapy, imaging, and monitoring, and/or through use of focused, unfocused, or defocused ultrasound (or other energy) through control of various spatial and temporal parameters. As a result, ablative energy can be deposited at the particular depth at which the aberrant sweat gland population is located below the skin surface. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310864 | REUSABLE BLADE HUB ASSEMBLY - A surgical instrument including a reusable and sterilizable hub assembly and a releasably connectable disposable blade assembly allows multiple reuse of the hub assembly in conjunction with single use disposable blade assemblies. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310865 | Unknown - A tool for a medical instrument includes an effecting device, a transmission rod, of which the distal end is coupled to the effecting device, for transferring at least either a force or a torque to the effecting device, and a cutting device, which, to cut tissue, is movable in a channel in the transmission rod and in the effecting device. To cut tissue, the cutting device is movable in a channel in the transmission rod and in the effecting device. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310866 | SURGICAL HANDPIECE WITH A COMPACT CLUTCH - A surgical handpiece with a rotating spindle for receiving the coupling head of a surgical attachment or a cutting accessory. A gear train has plural drive heads that simultaneously rotate at different speeds. A clutch assembly has pins that move along the length of the spindle. The clutch assembly sets the position of the pins so they will engage one of the drive heads. The spindle rotates with the drive head with which the clutch pins are engaged. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310867 | SINGLE-PUNCTURE LANCING SYSTEM - A lancing mechanism is adapted to move between resting, cocking and puncture positions and comprises a lancet holder, a shaft, at least one spring and a mass. The shaft is attached to the lancet holder and has an enlarged end opposite the lancet holder. The spring surrounds at least a portion of the shaft and has first and second portions. The second portion of the spring is attached to the lancet holder. The spring drives the lancing mechanism between the cocking and puncture positions. The mass is located along the spring with the first and second portions of the spring extending on opposite sides of the mass. The mass is distinct from the lancet holder. The first portion dampens the lancing mechanism when moving from the puncture position to the resting position. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310868 | ENDOVASCULAR DEVICES AND METHODS FOR EXPLOITING INTRAMURAL SPACE - Devices and methods for the treatment of chronic total occlusions are provided. One disclosed embodiment comprises a method of facilitating treatment via a vascular wall defining a vascular lumen containing an occlusion therein. The method includes providing a first intravascular device having a distal portion with a concave side, inserting the first device into the vascular lumen, positioning the distal portion in the vascular wall, and orienting the concave side of the distal portion toward the vascular lumen. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310869 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR SOFT TISSUE DISSECTION - A differential dissecting instrument for differentially dissecting complex tissue is disclosed. The differential dissecting instrument comprises a handle and an elongate member having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to the handle. The differential dissecting instrument comprises a differential dissecting member configured to be rotatably attached to the second end and further comprises at least one tissue engaging surface. The differential dissecting instrument comprises a mechanism configured to mechanically rotate the differential dissecting member around an axis of rotation, thereby causing the at least one tissue engaging surface to move in at least one direction against the complex tissue. The at least one tissue engaging surface is configured to selectively engage the complex tissue such that the at least one tissue engaging surface disrupts at least one soft tissue in the complex tissue, but does not disrupt firm tissue in the complex tissue. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310870 | BALLOON DILATION CATHETER HAVING TRANSITION FROM COAXIAL LUMENS TO NON-COAXIAL MULTIPLE LUMENS - A shaft for a balloon dilation catheter comprises a proximal portion wherein a guidewire tubular member is disposed coaxially within an outer tubular member, a shaft transitional portion, wherein the guidewire member is disposed within the outer member, with at least one distal tubular member not present in the proximal portion, a shaft distal portion, wherein the guidewire member and the distal members are disposed side-by-side and encased within a distal body, and fluid-tight barrier within a proximal lumen blocking the flow of fluid in the proximal lumen, but allowing the proximal lumen to remain in fluid communication with a distal lumens. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310871 | PERCUTANEOUS TRANSLUMINAL ANGIOPLASTY DEVICE WITH INTEGRAL EMBOLIC FILTER - A percutaneous transluminal angioplasty device includes an embolic filter mounted to the catheter shaft at a location distal to the angioplasty balloon. Thus the filter can be down-stream from the blockage and can be properly positioned to capture embolic particles that may be set loose into the blood stream as the angioplasty procedure can be performed. The embolic filter can be normally un-deployed against the catheter shaft to facilitate introduction and withdrawal of the device to and from the operative site. Once the angioplasty balloon can be properly positioned, however, means operatively associated with the embolic filter can be actuated to deploy the filter to position a filter mesh across the lumen of the vessel. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310872 | PORTABLE PNEUMATIC ABDOMINAL AORTIC COMPRESSION SYSTEM - A portable pneumatic abdominal aortic tourniquet for occlusion of the abdominal descending aorta to restrict blood supply to a non-compressible arterial hemorrhage in the abdominal region. The tourniquet comprising an adjustable waist strap for securing around an abdomen; a directed air bladder mounted to the waist strap having a generally “V” shaped construction operable between a deflated condition wherein the directed air bladder is collapsed, and an inflated condition wherein the directed air bladder is expanded for exerting pressure against the abdomen; and, an air source connected to the directed air bladder for operating the directed air bladder between the deflated condition and the inflated condition. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310873 | BUTTRESS AND SURGICAL STAPLING APPARATUS - Multilayer structures including a porous layer and a non-porous layer are useful as buttresses when associated with a surgical stapling apparatus. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310874 | CLOSURE DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TISSUE REPAIR - A method of closing a tissue wound includes providing a wound closure device having a first anchor, a second anchor, and a flexible member movably attached to the second anchor, positioning the first anchor against tissue, passing the flexible member across the wound, positioning the second anchor against tissue, and pulling on a free end of the flexible member to shorten a length of the flexible member between the first and second anchors, thereby closing the wound. A wound closure device includes a first anchor, a second anchor; and a flexible member connecting the first anchor to the second anchor, the flexible member being movably attached to the second anchor, such that pulling on a free end of the flexible member shortens a length of the flexible member between the first and second anchors. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310875 | Apparatus and Methods for Attaching Soft Tissue to Bone - Suture anchors and methods for using the suture anchors for attaching soft tissue, such as ligaments, tendons, and muscles, to bone are disclosed herein. A suture anchor for attaching soft tissue to bone includes a catheter having an elongated shaft with a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the catheter has at least one inner lumen capable of allowing a light curable adhesive to pass therethrough; a balloon portion engaging the distal end of the catheter, wherein the balloon portion expands from a deflated state to an inflated state when a light curable adhesive is delivered to the balloon portion; and at least one suture material for passing through soft tissue to attach the soft tissue to a bone. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310876 | METHOD FOR SECURING VERTEBRAE - A method of fixing vertebrae of a patient together at a surgical site includes the following steps: inserting a first cannula ( | 2013-11-21 |
20130310877 | DEVICE FOR STRAIGHTENING AND STABILIZING THE VERTEBRAL COLUMN - A device for straightening and stabilizing the vertebral column, particularly for stabilizing broken vertebrae, includes a supporting implant which is plastically expandable by internal pressure. The supporting implant can be placed into the interior of a vertebral body which has been fractured under compression or between adjacent vertebral bodies. A pressure balloon to which pressure fluid can be admitted may be arranged in the interior of the supporting implant for producing the internal pressure. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310878 | CERVICAL DISTRACTION/IMPLANT DELIVERY DEVICE - Systems for distracting a facet joint and positioning a permanent implant in the joint are disclosed. The implants serve to retain a distracted position of the facet joint which is achieved with positioning of the leading end of a distraction tool in the facet joint and then distracting or enlarging the joint a desired amount. The permanent implant could be part of the distraction mechanism which can be separated from the delivery tool once the joint has been distracted or an auxiliary implant may be positioned before the distraction mechanism is removed from the distracted joint. The permanent implants can be solid, mechanical devices that may have fixation means thereon to hold them in place or injected fluids such as hydrogels or fluids confined within balloons. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310879 | CERCLAGE SYSTEM FOR BONE - Method of stabilizing a sternum with a fastening member defining a plurality of cleats. In the method, the fastening member may be disposed on a sternum having a discontinuity, with the fastening member spanning the discontinuity and the cleats contacting the sternum. The fastening member may be arranged with a wire or cable such that the wire or cable extends twice through the fastening member and forms a loop around a portion of the sternum. The fastening member may be crimped to secure both ends of the loop to the fastening member. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310880 | DISTRACTOR DEVICE INCLUDING MULTIPLE DIAMETER INTERNAL POST AND RELATED METHODS - A distractor device ( | 2013-11-21 |
20130310881 | ANTI-BACKOUT MECHANISM FOR ORTHOPEDIC DEVICES - Disclosed embodiments relate to a fastener operable to be received into an opening defined in a plate. The fastener may include a modular sleeve having an actuatable mechanism operable to prevent the rotation of the fastener relative to the plate. The modular sleeve may be moved from a non-actuated first position and an actuated second position to actuate the actuatable mechanism. A portion of the modular sleeve may be accessible from a top side of the head of the fastener through a plurality of channels in the head, and the modular sleeve may be accessible through the plurality of channels in the head in order to actuate the modular sleeve. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310882 | Self-Drilling Self-Tapping Bone Screw - A self-drilling, self-tapping bone screw includes a body having a head at one end and a cutting end at an opposite end, the cutting end having a generally flat cutting surface supporting two symmetrical cutting edges which extend from the longitudinal centerline to diametrically opposed thread start points. A recess is formed in the head for receiving an end of an insertion tool. A dual lead thread extends outwardly from the body in a spiral path from the cutting end towards the head. The dual lead thread pitch is tapered towards the cutting end, and transitions to a straight or slightly tapered thread towards the head. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310883 | EXPANDABLE BONE FIXATION ELEMENT - A threaded bone fastener including a threaded shank, a head extending from the shank, one or more expandable elements, each having a distal end or a proximal end pivotally attached to the shank, the expandable elements being expandable radially outwards from the shank and contractible radially inwards towards the shank, wherein expansion and contraction of the expandable elements does not change an overall length of the shank. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310884 | SURGICAL ASSEMBLY - A surgical assembly has a first section having a first hole with a smallest diameter and a second section having a threaded second hole with a minor thread diameter smaller than the smallest diameter of the first hole. The first hole encloses a center axis of the second hole and a clearance is provided between the first section and the second section. The assembly includes a screw member having a length for engaging the first hole and the second hole so as to bridge the clearance. The screw member has a first portion with a largest outer diameter smaller than or equal to the smallest diameter of the first hole, and a threaded second portion axially spaced from the first portion and configured to threadedly engage the second hole. A major thread diameter of the second portion is larger than the smallest diameter of the first hole. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310885 | Securing Device To Secure Fixation Devices To Bone Portions - The present invention discloses a securing device that is used to secure a fixation device to two bone portions to promote healing between the two bone portions. The bone portions commonly include a skull bone portion and a skull bone flap or implant, and the fixation device is commonly a cranial clamp. The securing device provides for securing the fixation device in a uniform, single movement as opposed to currently available products. The securing device has two handles pivotably connected, and a gripping means moveably associated with one handle. As the handles are activated, the gripping means travels proximally along the one handle and grips an elongated section of the fixation device and exerts a tensioning force along the shaft of the elongated section prior to the cutting means cutting the elongated shaft to secure the fixation device in place. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310886 | SUPRAPATELLAR SYSTEM AND METHOD - Suprapatellar systems, system components, and methods of operating on a tibial fracture of a patient are disclosed. A method can include making an incision proximal to a patella of a knee joint, forming an operation space, and inserting a portion of a retractor in the operation space to define an entry canal. The retractor can be inserted in a low profile configuration and, once positioned as desired by a surgeon, expanded to a high profile configuration. Expansion of the retractor can expand the operation space in at least one of an anterior-posterior direction or a medial-lateral direction and can increase a diameter of the entry canal. The method can further include inserting a trocar, having at least one guide hole, in the entry canal and guiding a guide pin through the at least one guide hole and into a tibia. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310887 | Extracorporeal Unit for Inspecting the Insulation of an Electrical Wire of an Implanted Medical Device - A system is provided for testing the electrical integrity of an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator lead. The system includes a container holding an electrically conductive solution, such as a saline solution. A voltage source and two electrodes are provided to pass an electrical current through the solution. To use the system, the proximal end of the electrical lead is disconnected from the implanted electronic device, passed through the saline solution and then electrically connected to a device/monitor. During testing, the device/monitor sends a test pulse through the lead and monitors electrical activity in the lead. To test sequential locations along the length of the proximal segment, the segment is drawn through the saline solution and between the electrodes while test pulses are sent and monitored. The monitor detects abnormal electrical activity in the lead indicative of a break in lead insulation. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310888 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATIC OPTIMIZATION OF ATRIOVENTRICULAR DELAY FOR AN ACTIVE MEDICAL DEVICE - A method for use by an active medical device includes using a stimulation device and an endocardial acceleration sensor to obtain a plurality of hemodynamic parameters associated with at least three atrioventricular delays. The method further includes using the plurality of hemodynamic parameters to find a second derivative associated with the atrioventricular delays. The method further includes using interpolation to estimate an atrioventricular delay which will reduce the second derivative associated with the atrioventricular delays. The method further includes using the estimated atrioventricular delay in a subsequent stimulation. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310889 | SYMPATHETIC STIMULATION FOR IMPROVED MYOCARDIAL RELAXATION - Described are methods and devices for improving diastolic function with electrostimulation in heart failure patients who exhibit relatively normal systolic function. Such patients are characterized by impaired myocardial relaxation during diastole that prevents adequate filling of the ventricles during diastole to thereby reduce cardiac output. An implantable device is described for effecting strategic and periodic stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system to elicit myocardial adrenergic activation for improved myocardial relaxation. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310890 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CARDIAC RESYNCHRONIZATION THERAPY CONTROL PARAMETER GENERATION USING VENTRICULAR ACTIVATION SIMULATION AND SURFACE ECG REGISTRATION - A system and method for cardiac resynchronization therapy (“CRT”] in which a model of baseline cardiac electrical activity, such as a model of global baseline cardiac electrical activity derived from various surface electrocardiograph (“ECG”) signals, is utilized to automatically adjust pacing control parameters of a cardiac implantable electrical device (“CIED”) are provided. The baseline model is modified with simulated pacing control parameters in an iterative fashion until ventricular electrical asynchrony is minimized. The simulated pacing control parameters resulting in the minimum ventricular electrical asynchrony are used to generate an updated model of ventricular activation, and this updated model is used to generate control parameters for the CIED using a QRS glyph morphological framework. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310891 | AUTOMATIC PACING CONFIGURATION SWITCHER - A system or apparatus can provide electrostimulations via an electrode configuration that can be selected from multiple electrode configurations, the electrostimulations of the type for inducing a desired heart contraction, or a neurostimulation response. The system or apparatus can allow communicating with an external device to receive an input indicating a degree of patient discomfort with an electrostimulation delivered using a first electrode configuration, and can associate information about the degree of discomfort with information about the corresponding first electrode configuration for use by a controller circuit in determining a second electrode configuration for delivering a subsequent electrostimulation. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310892 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ADJUSTING ELECTRICAL THERAPY BASED ON IMPEDANCE CHANGES - System and methods for adjusting electrical therapy based on impedance changes are disclosed herein. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes applying a therapeutic electrical signal to a patient via an implanted portion of a patient stimulation system that includes a signal delivery device in electrical communication with a target neural population of the patient. The electrical signal is delivered in accordance with a signal delivery parameter having a first value. Using the implanted portion of the patient stimulation system, a change in an impedance of an electrical circuit that includes the signal delivery device is detected. Based at least in part on the detected impedance change, the method can further include automatically adjusting the value of the signal delivery parameter from the first value to a second value different from the first, without human intervention. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310893 | SPATIALLY SELECTIVE VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION - By targeting on selected branches or fascicles of a vagus nerve using electrode placement and/or selection, one or more target branches of the vagus nerve are substantially activated by electrical stimulation pulses delivered to a branch without substantially activating one or more non-target branches. In one embodiment, vagus nerve stimulation is delivered through an electrode placed on a thoracic vagus nerve that is separated from a recurrent laryngeal nerve, such that the vagus nerve is stimulated without causing laryngeal muscle contractions. In another embodiment, vagus nerve stimulation is delivered through a multi-contact electrode with one or more contacts selected for delivering the electrical stimulation pulses to stimulate the vagus nerve without causing laryngeal muscle contractions. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310894 | Current Steering Neurostimulator Device with Unidirectional Current Sources - The present disclosure provides a medical device that includes a neurostimulator. The neurostimulator includes one or more channels. Each channel includes a digitally-controlled switch coupled to a voltage source. The switch is in one of an “on” state and an “off” state in response to a first control signal. Each channel also includes a digitally-controlled current sink coupled to the switch. The current sink is coupled between the switch and the voltage source. The current sink draws a variable amount of electrical current in response to a second control signal. Each channel further includes a conductor coupled to the switch and the current sink. The conductor is configured to be coupled to an electrode that is operable to deliver the electrical current drawn by the current sink to a target tissue area. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310895 | NEUROSTIMULATOR SYSTEM APPARTUS AND METHOD - An apparatus ( | 2013-11-21 |
20130310896 | WIRELESS PATIENT COMMUNICATOR FOR USE IN A LIFE CRITICAL NETWORK - A portable housing supports a processor coupled to memory for storing medical firmware and wireless radio firmware, first and second radios, a processor, and a power source. Communications are effected between an implantable medical device and the first radio in accordance with program instructions of the medical firmware, and between the second radio and the wireless network in accordance with program instructions of the wireless radio firmware. The first and second radios are configured to operate cooperatively in a first testing configuration, by which the first radio operates as a transmitter and the second radio operates as a receiver, and cooperatively in a second testing configuration, by which the second radio operates as a transmitter and the first radio operates as a receiver. Functional testing of the first and second radios is implemented using one or both of the first and second testing configurations. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310897 | Pulse-by-Pulse Compliance Voltage Generation for an Implantable Stimulator - Circuitry for generating a compliance voltage (V+) for the current sources and/or sinks in an implantable stimulator device in disclosed. The circuitry assesses whether V+ is optimal for a given pulse, and if not, adjusts V+ for the next pulse. The circuitry uses amplifiers to measure the voltage drop across active PDACs (current sources) and NDAC (current sinks) at an appropriate time during the pulse. The measured voltages are assessed to determine whether they are high or low relative to optimal values. If low, a V+ regulator is controlled to increase V+ for the next pulse; if not, the V+ regulator is controlled to decrease V+ for the next pulse. Through this approach, gradual changes that may be occurring in the implant environment can be accounted for, with V+ adjusted on a pulse-by-pulse basis to keep the voltage drops at or near optimal levels for efficient DAC operation. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310898 | CARDIAC OR CEREBRAL VESSEL MICROLEAD WITH ELECTRODE RING - A method of manufacturing a detection/stimulation lead for implantation into a venous, arterial, or lymphatic network is shown and described. The method includes providing a microcable comprising a sheath of insulating material covering an electrically conductive core. The method further includes surrounding a portion of the microcable with an electrically conductive metal ring. The method also includes crimping the ring such that the thickness of the sheath is penetrated by a portion of the metal ring and such that an electrical connection is formed between the metal ring and the electrically conductive core. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310899 | STIMULATION METHOD FOR MAINTAINING THE RESPONSIVENESS OF ELECTRICALLY EXCITABLE CELLS TO REPEATED ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - A method of neural stimulation is described for maintaining the responsiveness of electrically excitable cells to repeated electrical stimulation. A stimulating signal ( | 2013-11-21 |
20130310900 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVING RF COMPATIBILITY OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION LEADS - An implantable lead assembly for an electrical stimulation system includes a first lead configured for insertion into a patient. A current-limiting arrangement is coupleable with the first lead. The current-limiting arrangement is configured for limiting the amount of RF-induced current propagating along a body of the first lead during an MRI procedure. The current-liming arrangement includes a safety device configured to couple to the lead body when the lead body is implanted in the patient. The safety device defines a first port extending along a length of the safety device. The first port is configured for receiving a proximal end portion of the lead body and covering each of multiple terminals disposed along the lead body to prevent the terminals from contacting patient tissue. The safety device provides an impedance of at least 50 ohms at one or more MRI RF frequencies. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310901 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR MODULATING EXCITABLE TISSUE OF THE EXITING SPINAL NERVES - A method for modulating nerve tissue in a body of a patient includes implanting a wireless stimulation device in proximity to a dorsal root ganglion or an exiting nerve root such that an electrode, circuitry and a receiving antenna are positioned completely within the body of the patient. An input signal containing electrical energy and waveform parameters is transmitted to the receiving antenna(s) from a control device located outside of the patient's body via radiative coupling. The circuitry within the stimulation device generates one or more electrical impulses and applies the electrical impulses to the dorsal root ganglion or the exiting nerve roots through the electrode. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310902 | Apparatus for Maintaining Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy - An apparatus for maintaining treatment of peripheral neuropathy is disclosed. The apparatus includes a controller, a memory device coupled to the controller, and a radiation generator. The radiation generator is controlled by the controller to generate light pulses for irradiating a selected component of a human's body. The radiation generator includes a first group of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to provide light pulses having a wavelength centered around approximately 640 nm, a second group of LEDs to provide light pulses having a wavelength centered around approximately 780 nm, and a third group of LEDs to provide light pulses having a wavelength centered around approximately 880 nm. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310903 | Anti-Depression Light-Wave Device and Usage Thereof - An anti-depression light-wave device includes a switch module, a control module and a light source module, wherein the switch module is connected to a regulatory module by the control module and the regulatory module is connected to the light source module. It provides a voltage of 2.3-2.5V for the light source module. The light produced by the light source is monochromatic light of visible light. Preferable wave range is 590-630 nm of the orange light. Moreover, a light source is provided. The anti-depression light-wave device is used as a device to prevent and treat depression. A significant improvement effect for depression, reduction of side effects of antidepressants is shown. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310904 | PHOTOTHERAPEUTIC APPARATUS - Disclosed is a phototherapeutic apparatus, which includes a net consisting of a strand of optical fiber; a connector connected to one end of the optical fiber; and a radiation device connected to the connector. The net may be easily attached onto a wig, hat, underwear, or the like, thus enabling a user to unconsciously receive a phototherapy during normal daily life. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310905 | Personal Tuner with Biosensor and Bioscanner - Portable therapeutic treatment devices and methods with a triangular arrangement of crystals in an induction coil with an external wrapped coil for sensing effected area body part emissions. A biosensor/bioscanner sensor can be used as an indicator to find an effected body part needing treatment and determine when treatment has been effective. The device can be passed over a body until a RED LED light indicates an effected part needing treatment. Treatment can occur with approximately 8 Hz emissions, and the sensor will indicate when the effected area has reached a treated state of approximately 8 Hz by lighting a GREEN LED light. Treatment can occur within approximately 2 minutes. A variety of ailments can be treated such as but not limited to inflammations, nerve problems, joint-pain, muscle-pain, gall bladder problems, and the like. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310906 | Device and Method for Treating Skin Disorders with Thermal Energy - A device and a method for thermal treatments of target material with various thermal interactions are disclosed. A preferred treatment includes at least one capacitor and thermal heat generator that provides a predetermined known quota of energy to the target surface. In particular, the launching of thermal energy quanta from various energy sources in lumps of energy quanta and leading to the treatment and healing of a variety of skin conditions are disclosed. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310907 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TITRATING CALORIC VESTIBULAR STIMULATION - A device for delivering caloric vestibular stimulation to an individual, includes: (a) an earpiece configured to be at least partially insertable into the ear canal of the individual for delivering a first thermal stimulus; (b) an input unit for receiving a user input indicating efficacy of said first thermal stimulus, and (c) a controller operatively associated with said earpiece and said input unit for: (i) controlling said earpiece to provide said first thermal stimulus, and (ii) receiving a signal corresponding to the user input and generating a control signal to control the earpiece and delivering a subsequent thermal stimulus different from said first thermal stimulus. In some embodiments, each thermal stimulus is an actively controlled time varying waveform stimulus. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310908 | PLASMONIC NANOPARTICLE-DOPED SILK MATERIALS - Provided herein are silk fibroin-based photothermal elements and uses thereof. The silk fibroin-based photothermal elements comprise a plurality of plasmonic nanoparticle distributed in a silk fibroin matrix, and can generate heat when the plasmonic nanoparticles are exposed to electromagnetic radiation. The silk fibroin-based photothermal elements can be adapted to be conformable and biodegradable, and can further be integrated with various electronic components, such as a thermo-electric device for conversion of heat into electricity. The invention is useful for various in vivo applications, such as photothermal therapy, controlled drug-delivery devices or wireless powering of implanted micro-devices. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310909 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VAGAL NERVE STIMULATION - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve to treat or prevent disorders in a patient. The methods comprise transmitting impulses of energy to the vagus nerve according to a treatment paradigm that includes single doses of 30 seconds to 5 minutes of continuous stimulation. The treatment paradigm further comprises one or more daily treatment sessions that each include one or more doses for prophylactic or acute treatment of the patient's condition. Vagus nerve stimulation is used to modulate the release of inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain, such as GABA, norepinephrine, and/or serotonin. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310910 | LEAD INCLUDING CONDUCTORS CONFIGURED FOR REDUCED MRI-INDUCED CURRENTS - An implantable medical device lead includes an inner conductor coil comprising one or more generally cylindrically wound filars. The inner conductor coil is configured to have a first inductance value greater than or equal to 0.2 μH/inch when the inner conductor coil is subjected to a range of radio frequencies. The implantable medical device lead also includes a multi-filar outer coil comprising two or more generally cylindrically wound filars. The multi-filar outer coil is configured to have a second inductance value greater than or equal to 0.1 μH/inch when the multi-filar outer coil is subjected to the range of radio frequencies. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310911 | PARYLENE-BASED MICROELECTRODE ARRAY IMPLANT FOR SPINAL CORD STIMULATION - An implantable electrode array assembly configured to apply electrical stimulation to the spinal cord. A substantially electrically nonconductive layer of the device has a first portion positionable alongside the spinal cord that includes a plurality of first openings. The layer has a second portion that includes a plurality of second openings. Electrodes and traces are positioned inside a peripheral portion of a body portion of the device and alongside the layer. At least one of the first openings is adjacent each of the electrodes to provide a pathway through which the electrode may provide electrical stimulation to the spinal cord. At least one of the second openings is adjacent each of the traces to provide a pathway through which the trace may receive electrical stimulation. At least one trace is connected to each electrode and configured to conduct electrical stimulation received by the trace(s) to the electrode. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310912 | COVALENT MODIFICATION OF METAL SURFACES - The present invention provides modified metal surfaces, methods of preparing the same, and intermediates thereto. These materials are useful in a variety of applications including biomaterials. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310913 | Polymer Scaffold With Multi-Pleated Balloon - A medical device includes a polymer scaffold crimped to a balloon. The balloon is formed with between 6 and 15 pleats to provide a uniform expansion of the scaffold when the balloon is inflated. Also provided are methods for crimping a scaffold to a multi-pleated balloon and methods for making a multi-pleated balloon. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310914 | STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM HAVING A FIBROUS MATRIX COVERING WITH IMPROVED STENT RETENTION - Stent delivery system comprising a catheter shaft having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion and an expandable member provided at the distal end portion of the shaft, the expandable member having a delivery condition and a deployed condition and formed at least in part from a matrix of fiber elements to define a continuous surface substantially free of openings when in the delivery condition. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310915 | IMPLANTATION SYSTEM WITH HANDLE AND CATHETER AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF - A system for deploying an implantable medical device into a body lumen is disclosed. The system comprises a catheter having functional zones for stability, protection, flexibility, trackability and pushability. The system further comprises a device for deploying an implantable medical device with the catheter. A method for deploying an implantable medical device into a body lumen using the system is also disclosed. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310916 | IMPLANTATION SYSTEM WITH HANDLE AND CATHETER AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF - A system for deploying an implantable medical device into a body lumen is disclosed. The system comprises a catheter having functional zones for stability, protection, flexibility, trackability and pushability. The system further comprises a device for deploying an implantable medical device with the catheter. A method for deploying an implantable medical device into a body lumen using the system is also disclosed. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310917 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ASSEMBLING A FOLDED PERCUTANEOUS VALVE - The invention provides a multi-component (modular) percutaneous valve device that includes a valve module having valve leaflets and a valve frame. The valve frame includes one or more, for example two, ring members and a plurality of masts. Also provided is a valve frame having specially designed pivot points at the connection between masts and first and second ring members to assist folding the valve module and minimizing delivery diameter. The valve frame may also include wire guides to facilitate combining the valve module with a support module. The masts or a ring of the valve frame may also include locking members, such as shafts for closing the valve module and securing the valve module to the support module. The support module includes corresponding locking members, such as spears that align with the shafts on the valve module for assembly and locking the valve module to the support module. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310918 | EXPANDABLE MEMBER FOR DEPLOYING A PROSTHETIC DEVICE - An apparatus and method for delivering a prosthetic device through the vasculature of a patient includes a radially expandable member coupled to the distal end of an elongate shaft. The expandable member has an open frame configuration and an outer mounting surface for mounting the prosthetic device in a collapsed state thereon. The expandable member expands radially outwards from a first configuration to a second configuration to expand a prosthetic device mounted thereon. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310919 | Elephant Trunk Thoracic Endograft and Delivery System - A delivery system for delivering a device within a body lumen. The delivery system includes a self-expanding stent/graft composite prosthesis and a deployment device. The deployment device includes an outer sheath which overlies the graft, and a stent retaining means for maintaining the one end of the stent in a radially compressed state. The outer sheath is retractable with respect to the graft, and the stent retaining means is removable to allow the stent end to radially expand. The deployment device may further include an inner sheath to overlie the composite and is retractable with respect to the composite. An endoluminal prosthesis including a graft attached to one stent and a second stent unattached within the graft lumen. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310920 | Coil Bioabsorbable Bifurcation Stent - A bioabsorbable, expandable coil bifurcation stent having a first, second, and third segment, in which the second and third segments are extensions of a coiled fiber in the first segment. Also disclosed is a three-segment expandable coil bifurcation stent in which the second and third segments extend from supporting fibers in the first segment. Further disclosed is an expandable bifurcation stent in which supporting fibers in the first segment also support the second and third segments. The three segments are independently adjustable to fit varied geometries. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310921 | Polymeric Stents and Method of Manufacturing Same - A pattern is used to form a stent scaffold from a polymeric precursor tube having a particular outer diameter. A new pattern can be derived from a base pattern, wherein the new pattern can be used to form a stent scaffold from a precursor tube having an outer diameter OD | 2013-11-21 |
20130310922 | VESSEL IMPLANT FOR THE TREATMENT OF AN ANEURYSM - A vessel implant for the treatment of an aneurysm, i.e. a dilatation of the cross-sectional area of a blood vessel, may include an elongate body having an inlet opening, an outlet opening, and a passage connecting the inlet opening to the outlet opening for the blood flowing through the blood vessel. The passage may be bounded in the peripheral direction by a blood-impermeable wall and the inlet opening may have a larger cross-sectional area than the outlet opening. The body may be provided with blood-permeable fixing means for the end of the body at the outlet opening side. The fixing means may be designed for contact with the vessel wall of the blood vessel. The fixing means may be designed to hold the body spaced apart from the vessel wall of the blood vessel in the region of the outlet opening. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310923 | PERCUTANEOUS HEART VALVE DELIVERY SYSTEMS - Embodiments described herein address the need for improved catheter devices for delivery, repositioning and/or percutaneous retrieval of the percutaneously implanted heart valves. One embodiment employs a plurality of spring-loaded arms releasably engaged with a stent frame for controlling expansion for valve deployment. Another embodiment employs a plurality of filaments passing through a distal end of a pusher sleeve and apertures in a self-expandable stent frame to control its state of deployment. With additional features, lateral positioning of the stent frame may also be controlled. Yet another embodiment includes plurality of outwardly biased arms held to complimentary stent frame features by overlying sheath segments. Still another embodiment integrates a visualization system in the subject delivery system. Variations on hardware and methods associated with the use of these embodiments are contemplated in addition to those shown and described. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310924 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING LUMENAL VALVES - The present embodiments relate to systems and methods for treating lumenal valves. Particularly, and in accordance with one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to methods and systems for partial or complete replacement of lumenal valves. An exemplary catheter in accordance with the disclosure includes an elongate body having a proximal end and a distal end, and a retractable sheath mounted on the elongate body proximate the distal end. The sheath and elongate body cooperating to define a first annularly-shaped compartment between the body and sheath. The catheter further includes a valve prosthesis mounted in the compartment, the prosthesis having proximal and distal ends connected to a means for deploying the valve prosthesis from the catheter. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310925 | Balloon Mitral Spacer - A heart valve implant according to one embodiment may include a shaft and an anchor disposed on one end of the shaft, the anchor configured to engage tissue. The heart valve implant may further include an expandable member disposed over at least part of the shaft, the expandable member comprising a resiliently deformable internal layer and a resiliently deformable external layer disposed over the internal layer, the expandable member defining a chamber and being configured to receive an inflation medium in the chamber to expand the expandable member, the expandable member further configured to deform upon contact with at least a portion of at least one leaflet of a heart valve to at least partially conform to the shape of the leaflet. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310926 | LOW PROFILE TRANSCATHETER HEART VALVE - An implantable prosthetic valve, according to one embodiment, comprises a frame, a leaflet structure, and a skirt member. The frame can have a plurality of axial struts interconnected by a plurality of circumferential struts. The leaflet structure comprises a plurality of leaflets (e.g., three leaflets arrange to form a tricuspid valve). The leaflet structure has a scalloped lower edge portion secured to the frame. The skirt member can be disposed between the leaflet structure and the frame. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310927 | Implantable Valve System - An implantable valve system comprises a flexible tube and a flexible valve structure. The flexible tube and flexible valve structure can be made of a synthetic polymer material. The flexible valve structure is disposed within the flexible tube. The flexible valve structure can comprises a first leaflet, a second leaflet, and a valve orifice between the first leaflet and the second leaflet. Additional leaflets are possible. Each of the first leaflet and the second leaflet comprises an upper portion forming the valve orifice and a lower portion attached to the flexible tube. The valve orifice has a maximum circumference less than an internal circumference of the flexible tube. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310928 | PROSTHETIC HEART VALVE DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Prosthetic heart valve devices for percutaneous replacement of native heart valves and associated systems and method are disclosed herein. A prosthetic heart valve device configured in accordance with a particular embodiment of the present technology can include an expandable support having an outer surface and configured for placement between leaflets of the native valve. The device can also include a plurality of asymmetrically arranged arms coupled to the expandable support and configured to receive the leaflets of the native valve between the arms and the outer surface. In some embodiments, the arms can include tip portions for engaging a subannular surface of the native valve. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310929 | METHODS OF CONDITIONING SHEET BIOPROSTHETIC TISSUE - Methods for the conditioning of bioprosthetic material employ bovine pericardial membrane. A laser directed at the fibrous surface of the membrane and moved relative thereto reduces the thickness of the membrane to a specific uniform thickness and smoothes the surface. The wavelength, power and pulse rate of the laser are selected which will smooth the fibrous surface as well as ablate the surface to the appropriate thickness. Alternatively, a dermatome is used to remove a layer of material from the fibrous surface of the membrane. Thinning may also employ compression. Stepwise compression with cross-linking to stabilize the membrane is used to avoid damaging the membrane through inelastic compression. Rather, the membrane is bound in the elastic compressed state through addition cross-linking. The foregoing several thinning techniques may be employed together to achieve strong thin membranes. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310930 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH DOUBLE ANCHOR MECHANISM - The invention relates generally to medical devices and methods for the treatment of ocular disorders. An ocular implant having an inlet portion with a first anchor and an outlet portion with a second anchor is provided. The first anchor is configured to be positioned adjacent eye tissue, for example, within an anterior chamber of an eye, and the second anchor is configured to be positioned within a physiological outflow pathway of the eye. The implant, when implanted in the eye, is configured to conduct fluid from the anterior chamber to the physiological outflow pathway. Desirably, the second anchor is deployable and is configured to secure the implant within the physiological outflow pathway. Also provided is an ocular treatment method which involves implanting the implant to secure the implant within the physiological outflow pathway by deploying the second anchor. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310931 | MODULAR INTRAOCULAR LENS DESIGNS AND METHODS - A modular IOL system including intraocular primary and secondary components, which, when combined, form an intraocular optical correction device, wherein the secondary component is placed on the primary component within the perimeter of the capsulorhexis, thus avoiding the need to touch or otherwise manipulate the capsular bag. The secondary component may be manipulated, removed, and/or exchanged for a different secondary component for correction or modification of the optical result, on an intra-operative or post-operative basis, without the need to remove the primary component and without the need to manipulate the capsular bag. The primary component may have haptics extending therefrom for centration in the capsular bag, and the secondary component may exclude haptics, relying instead on attachment to the primary lens for stability. Such attachment may reside radially inside the perimeter of the capsulorhexis and radially outside the field of view to avoid interference with light transmission. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310932 | Intraocular Lens with Accommodation - An intraocular lens (IOL) assembly for correcting myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism using the intraocular lens assembly are provided. In particular, the intraocular lens assembly comprises a lens extending along an optical axis between an anterior optical surface and a posterior optical surface. The IOL has a circumferential edge disposed about the optical axis at a junction of anterior and posterior optical surfaces. The IOL assembly further has N haptics, where N is an integer greater than 1. Each haptic extends from an associated portion of the circumferential edge and along an associated haptic axis. In addition, each haptic is loop-like or paddle-like and extends between end portions at opposite ends thereof. The end portions are joined to the lens at the circumferential edge. The resultant vaulted structure provides an intraocular lens assembly that, when implanted in the eye, allows accommodation. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310933 | RETINAL PROSTHESIS SYSTEM USING NANOWIRE LIGHT DETECTOR, AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - A retinal prosthesis system can comprise: a flexible substrate; a nanowire light detector which is placed on the substrate, and comprises one or more nanowires of which the resistance changes according to the applied light; one or more micro-electrodes which are placed on the substrate, are electrically connected to the nanowire light detector, and come in contact with retinal cells; and an electric power supply source for applying electric power to the nanowire light detector and the micro-electrodes. The retinal prosthesis system can be implemented into a very thin and flexible substrate type high resolution retinal system by manufacturing a nanowire light detector on a substrate in which micro-electrodes are implemented. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310934 | SOFT FILLED PROSTHESIS SHELL WITH DISCRETE FIXATION SURFACES - A soft prosthetic implant shell, such as a silicone breast implant shell, that has discrete fixation surfaces thereon for tissue adhesion. The fixation surfaces may be provided on the posterior face of the shell, as well as either on the periphery or at discrete areas on the anterior face. Band-shaped fixation surfaces may be provided on the anterior face of the shell to generally match the angle of pectoralis major or pectoralis minor muscle groups. The fixation surfaces may be roughened areas of the shell, or may be separate elements adhered to the shell. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310935 | STAND-ALONE SPINAL CAGE - A spinal cage device for fusion of spinal vertebrae comprising a cage body having a cavity defined by upper, lower, and side walls; a piston selectively insertable into the cavity through a side wall, the piston having at least one angled surface; at least one channel extending through at least one of the upper wall and the lower wall; at least one fastening member moveable within the at least one channel between a first disengaged position and a second engaged position; and wherein in second engaged position the at least one fastening member is held substantially stationary relative to the cage body by contact with the piston. According to one aspect of the invention, the device includes a locking means for supplementing fixation of the piston to the cage body. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310936 | BILATERALLY PLACED DISC PROSTHESIS FOR SPINAL IMPLANT AND METHOD OF BILATERAL PLACEMENT - A spinal prosthesis for insertion bilaterally into an annulotomy hole created laterally in a spinal disc between two abutting vertebrae that is composed of a first elongated member having first threading at one end and an end cap at its other end, a second elongated member having an end cap with a threaded hole fixed to one end of a hollow tube open-ended at its other end. The members are telescoped together with the threading of the first member mated with the threaded hole of the second member and the open end of said hollow tube disengageably engaged with the end cap of the first member for rotation together. A method for bilaterally implanting the members of the prosthesis using a wire, and then telescopically mating them. | 2013-11-21 |
20130310937 | Spinal Implants for Rotationally Adjusting Vertebrae - A spinal implant adapted to be positioned within a disc space between adjacent vertebrae includes a first intradiscal element, a second intradiscal element, and a coupling mechanism. The first and second intradiscal elements include respective first and second outer surfaces adapted to be positioned adjacent an endplate of respective first and second adjacent vertebrae. The first and second intradiscal elements further include respective first and second medial surfaces that are opposite the respective first and second outer surfaces, where the second medial surface is adapted to generally face the first medial surface upon assembly of the first intradiscal element with the second intradiscal element. The coupling mechanism is associated with the first and second medial surfaces and is adapted to provide relative rotational movement between the first and second intradiscal elements in a plane generally parallel with the first and second medial surfaces. | 2013-11-21 |