48th week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 56 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20120303018 | Tissue Dissectors - A tissue dissector is provided. The tissue dissector includes an introducer including a lumen extending along a length thereof and defining a longitudinal axis therethrough. The introducer configured for placement adjacent target tissue. A shaft operably coupled to the introducer is deployable from a distal end thereof and includes a proximal end for approximating the distal end of the shaft adjacent target tissue. The distal end of the shaft is movable from a non-expanded configuration to an expanded configuration for separating target tissue from neighboring tissue. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303019 | Kind of cardiac ablation catheter with guide-wire - Existing ordinary cardiac ablation catheter, especially, the catheter for atrial fibrillation ablation is easily skipped off the target site of ablation when it is being moved from one site to another. The present invention provides a cardiac ablation catheter with a guide-wire. During a procedure of pulmonary vein electrical isolation, the guide-wire needs to be advanced into the distal end of pulmonary vein. With the assistant of the powerful sustainability from the guide-wire, the ablation catheter will be more controllable. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303020 | Method of Destroying Tissue Cells by Electroporation - A method of treating a human body by destroying tissue cells is provided. The method involves positioning an electric field generating element near a target area containing tissue cells to be killed in the human body, and treating the human body by applying electrical pulses through the positioned electric field generating element in an amount above an upper limit of electroporation to irreversibly open pores in membranes of the tissue cells in the target area, thereby killing the tissue cells in the target area. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303021 | Dual Durometer Insulating Boot for Electrosurgical Forceps - An electrosurgical forceps includes a shaft having a pair of jaw members at a distal end and movable about a pivot from a first position and disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue, a movable handle that actuates a drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to one another. At least one jaw member conducts electrical energy to tissue held therebetween. A flexible insulating boot is disposed on an exterior surface of at least one jaw member and about the pivot and includes a first longitudinal portion made from a high durometer material and a second longitudinal portion made from a low durometer material. The high durometer material may operably retain the flexible insulating boot atop the proximal ends of the jaw members. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303022 | Endovascular Tissue Removal Device - A monopolar electrosurgical apparatus is disclosed which includes a tissue removal device having electrical, mechanical and chemical tissue removal capabilities. The device can be operated to use any of its tissue removal capabilities alone or in combination with one or more of the other capabilities. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303023 | Endoscopic Electrosurgical Jaws with Offset Knife - A forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members. Each jaw member includes a proximal flange having an inwardly-facing surface. The proximal flanges are coupled to one another for moving the jaw members relative to one another between a first position and a second position for grasping tissue therebetween. The inwardly-facing surfaces of the proximal flanges are disposed in abutting relation relative to one another. A knife is configured to move along a knife path defined along an outwardly-facing surface of one of the proximal flanges. The knife is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the knife extends between the jaw members to cut tissue grasped therebetween. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303024 | THERMAL PENETRATION AND ARC LENGTH CONTROLLABLE ELECTROSURGICAL PENCIL - An electrosurgical pencil is provided, which includes an elongated housing, an electrocautery electrode supported within the housing and extending distally from the housing. The electrocautery electrode is connected to a source of electrosurgical energy. The pencil also includes at least one voltage divider network supported on the housing and electrically connected to the source of electrosurgical energy for controlling intensity, frequency, and/or mode of electrosurgical energy being delivered to the electrocautery electrode. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303025 | Apparatus for Performing an Electrosurgical Procedure - An endoscopic forceps is provided and includes a housing having a shaft that extends therefrom. An end effector assembly is operatively connected to a distal end of the shaft and includes a pair of pivotably coupled first and second jaw members. The jaw members are movable relative to one another. A drive mechanism includes a driving structure. A link assembly includes two or more links that are operably coupled to each other and the drive structure. The two or more links are operably coupled to respective ones of the first and second jaw members. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303026 | Vessel Sealer and Divider With Non-Conductive Stop Members - An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes an elongated shaft having opposing jaw members at a distal end thereof. The jaw members are movable relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. The jaws members are connected to a source of electrical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a tissue seal. At least one non-conductive and spaced-apart stop member is disposed on an inner-facing surface of the jaw members to regulate the gap distance between the jaw members when tissue is held therebetween. The forceps also includes a longitudinally reciprocating knife which severs the tissue after sealing at a location which is proximate the sealing site. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303027 | APPARATUS FOR SECURING AN ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY PROBE TO A CLAMP - An apparatus for use with a clamp including a base member configured to be secured to the clamp and at least one energy transmission device carried by the base member. An apparatus for use with a clamp and a probe that carries at least one energy transmission device including a base member configured to be secured to the clamp and an engagement device associated with the base member and configured to engage the probe. A clamp including first and second clamp members, at least one of which is malleable, and a movement apparatus that moves at least one of the first and second clamp members relative to the other. A surgical system including a clamp with first and second clamp members and a device that removably mounts at least one electrode on at least one of the first and second clamp members. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303028 | ORTHOPEDIC EXTERNAL FIXATION DEVICE - A telescopically adjustable strut for use with orthopedic external fixators has a first end and a second end and includes a universal-hinged connector provided at each of the first and second ends for connecting the strut to orthopedic external fixator base members. The universal-hinged connector is configured and adapted for pivoting the strut relative to the base members and to lock the universal-hinged connector at a desired angle. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303029 | FIXATION DEVICE AND MULTIPLE-AXIS JOINT FOR A FIXATION DEVICE - A fixator system includes an active strut that that can be gradually or acutely adjusted. Adjustments can be made in six degrees of freedom. Embodiments of the active strut can provide for two of the six degrees of freedom being about a first common point of rotation, and another two of the six degrees of freedom being about a second common point of rotation. Embodiments of the fixator can include one or more active struts in combination with one or more passive struts. The passive struts can be rigidly locked or can be unlocked so as to be freely and acutely adjustable while gradual or acute adjustments are made using the one or more active struts. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303030 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS FOR MECHANICALLY REDUCING AND FIXING BONE FRACTURES - An array of mechanical force reduction assemblies sized and configured to independently mechanically manipulate a fractured bone region. Each assembly functions independently of the other assemblies, to apply and maintain one of the prescribed mechanical reduction forces to the fracture, to thereby mechanically reduce the fracture in a desired way. A carrier coupled to the assembly accommodates temporary attachment of an orthotic brace, residing thereon, partially or fully assembled in a region of the bone fracture. A linkage mechanism accommodates the rotational articulation of the brace in response to the application of one or more mechanical force vectors, to move the bone fracture into a desired anatomic orientation. A locking mechanism maintains the orientation of the brace to maintain the desired anatomic orientation. After release from the carrier, the brace serves in an ambulatory fashion to maintain the desired anatomic orientation after reduction and as healing occurs. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303031 | DISTRACTOR DEVICE AND A METHOD FOR DISTRACTING A JAW BONE - A distractor device for distracting a jaw bone divided by osteotomy into an anterior segment and a posterior segment. The distractor device comprises a body, an expansion member adapted to extend relative to the body, a first fixing member extending from the expansion member and having a first mounting portion adapted for mounting to one of the anterior and posterior segments, and a second fixing member extending from the body and having a second mounting portion adapted for mounting to the other of the anterior and posterior segments. In this embodiment, one of the first and second fixing members is shorter in length than the other fixing member, and a distance between the first and second mounting portions being adjustable by movement of the expansion member relative to the body to distract the jaw bone in use. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303032 | EXTERNAL FIXATION DEVICE FOR FRACTURES - An external fixation device for the setting and corrective treatment of bone fractures is disclosed. The device comprises a splint member having a first and a second axially slidable and mutually fastenable base portions for adjusting the length of the splint member and a plurality of bone pins. Each of the base portions of the splint member includes mountings for the bone pins to traverse the site of the bone fracture in a multi-angle and multi-planar pin configuration, so as to permit direct fixation of the fracture and provide a significant degree of stability. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303033 | BONE DEFECT REPAIR DEVICE AND METHOD - In a method and system for corrective bunionectomy surgery of a bone, a saw template is positioned at a proximal portion of the bone. The saw template has a plurality of pin holes, for the insertion of pins. The saw template is replaced with a saw block placed over a portion of the plurality of pins. The bone is cut into first and second bone segments based on a position of the saw block. The saw block is removed. A corrective angle is applied to the second bone segment relative to the first bone segment. A mating plate compatible with the corrective angle is positioned over the plurality of pins to join the first bone segment and the second bone segment. A plurality of bone screws is screwed into the mating plate to secure the first bone segment and the second bone segment to form a corrective construct. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303034 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING SPINAL SURGERY - Implants, instruments, and methods for performing surgical procedures on the spine, including one or more of creating an operative corridor to the spine, delivering implants to the spine, fusing one or more segments of the spine, and fixing one or more segments of the spine. A method for attaching a fixation system to the spine of a patient, the fixation system including at least two bone anchors and a spinal rod linking the at least two bone anchors. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303035 | GUIDING INSTRUMENTS AND IMPACTORS FOR AN ACETABULAR CUP IMPLANT, COMBINATIONS THEREOF, METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING AND USES THEREOF - The invention relates to guiding instruments ( | 2012-11-29 |
20120303036 | BONE TREATMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - The present invention relates in certain embodiments to medical devices for treating osteoplasty procedures such as vertebral compression fractures. More particularly, embodiments of the invention relate to instruments and methods for controllably restoring vertebral body height by controlling the geometry of fill material introduced into cancellous bone. A method of treating bone includes injecting a volume of fill material into a bone and selectively modifying a viscosity of the bone filler to control the direction of flow of the fill material within the bone. A system for treating bone using this method includes an introducer for delivering fill material into the bone and an energy source selectively coupleable to the fill material to alter the viscosity of the fill material via an energy emitter. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303037 | ADJUSTABLE AIMING ASSEMBLY - Provided are distal aiming assemblies useful in aiming fixation members for insertion into an intramedullary device, such as a nail. The assemblies include a spring that flexibly connects an elongate arm to a base. The spring enables deflection of the elongate arm to compensate for curvature of the intramedullary device when inserted into a bone, in turn enabling the user to accurately install fixation members into the intramedullary device through the deflected elongate arm. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303038 | AIMING DEVICE HAVING RADIO-OPAQUE MARKERS - An aiming arm can include at least a pair of radiographic markers that define a first radiographic image characteristic when a radiographic image source is not adequately aligned with the aiming arm, and a second desired radiographic image characteristic when the radiographic image source is adequately aligned with the aiming arm. Once the radiographic image source has been aligned with the aiming arm, the position of the aiming arm relative to an underlying implant can be visually inspected to determine whether the aiming arm is aligned with the underlying implant. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303039 | METHODS, TOOLS AND DEVICES FOR PERCUTANEOUS ACCESS IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINAL SURGERIES - A cannula assembly for providing percutaneous access in minimally invasive spinal surgeries, includes an outer cannula, a nerve probe dilator and a multistage dilator system comprising a first dilator, a second dilator, a third dilator and a fourth dilator. The outer cannula and the dilators are slidable relative to each other and are arranged sequentially so that the fourth dilator surrounds the nerve probe dilator, the third dilator slides over a surface of the fourth dilator, the second dilator slides over a surface of the third dilator, the first dilator slides over a surface of the second dilator, and the outer cannula surrounds the first dilator. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303042 | Methods, Devices and Systems for the Prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infants Predisposed to SIDS - Methods and systems for preventing the underlying anatomical cause that gives rise to a predisposition to SIDS are provided. Methods and systems are provided for the diagnosis of infants predisposed to SIDS. Methods and systems are provided for the therapeutic treatment of infants predisposed to SIDS. A treatment device includes an auditory stimulation system, a monitoring system, a warming system and a response system that can respond to and alleviate crisis situations. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303043 | Medical Device Inserters and Processes of Inserting and Using Medical Devices - An apparatus for insertion of a medical device in the skin of a subject is provided, as well as methods of inserting medical devices. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303044 | Systems and Methods for Harvesting, Storing, and Implanting Hair Grafts - A system and method for harvesting, storing, and implanting biological units, in particular hair follicular units (FUs). The system is particularly useful to facilitate hair transplant procedures. FUs are harvested from a body surface, either attached to a patient or in a strip of removed tissue, and shuttled into a cartridge having a plurality of receptacles. The receptacles are open in a distal direction toward a removal tool, but a cover over the proximal ends of the receptacles prevents the FUs from continuing out of the cartridge. One way to shuttle the FUs is to provide a pressure differential, such as by applying suction to the proximal end of a receptacle. The shuttle subsystem may be incorporated within an overall automated or robotic system, or the shuttle subsystem may form part of a semi-automated or even manual apparatus. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303045 | SKIN REMOVAL INSTRUMENT - A skin removal instrument that comprises first and second resilient arms. Each of the first and second arms includes a main body that has a middle, an attachment end and a nipping end opposite the attachment end. The attachment ends are attached to one another, thereby forming a spring area that allows the nipping ends to resiliently move toward and away from each other. Each of the first and second arms includes an outer gripping area disposed offset from the middle of the main body of the first and second arms, respectively. The outer gripping area has a substantially bulbous shape. Each of the nipping ends of the first and second arms includes an extension portion that extends from the main body and a nipping blade portion that extends from the extension portion. Each of the nipping blade portions has an angled surface angled downwardly from an inner surface of the extension portions, respectively, such that the nipping blade portions converge toward one another. Each of the nipping blade portions includes a nipping edge at an end of the respective angled surface, wherein the nipping blade portions meet when the first and second arms are compressed together to remove a section of skin. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303046 | Method and Apparatus for Passing a Suture - A suture passing instrument including an operation handle, a needle member, and a suture holder assembly. The operation handle has at least one actuator movable between a first position and a second position. The needle member extends from the operation handle. The needle member has a curved end portion and defines an eyelet extending therethrough. The suture holder assembly extends from the operation handle and has a movable suture carrier at a distal end configured to hold a suture. The movable suture carrier has a suture pusher telescopically and movably received in the movable suture carrier. The suture carrier is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The suture pusher is movable beyond the suture carrier to carry the suture through the eyelet. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303047 | VASCULAR CLAMP - A vascular clamp is provided. The vascular clamp includes a first clamp side and a second clamp side. The first clamp side has a first handle, a first coupling section, a first curved section, and a first jaw section. The second clamp side has a second handle, a second coupling section, a second curved section, and a second jaw section. Further, the first jaw section is structurally coupled to the first curved section; the second jaw section is structurally coupled to the second curved section; and the first clamp side and the second clamp side are coupled together via the first coupling section and the second coupling section such that the first jaw section and the second jaw section form a jaw for partially occluding a posterior or lateral portion of a vessel, and the first curved section and the second curved section form an opening above the jaw for keeping a blood flow of the vessel uninterrupted while the vessel is clamped by the jaw. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303048 | TRANSAPICAL VALVE REPLACEMENT - Techniques for reaching the interior of the heart, such as for aortic valve replacement, can combine elements of percutaneous implantation methods and elements of surgical implantation methods. In some instances, aortic valve replacement may include a dual transapical approach in which a transfemoral approach is used to reach the apex of the patient's heart from inside the left ventricle while a minimally invasive surgical procedure provides access to the exterior of the apex via an intercostal approach. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303049 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - The invention is to offer a surgical instrument, where the pressure-opposing force and bending characteristics of the spring parts can be easily adjusted and the manipulability is improved. This surgical instrument comprises functional parts | 2012-11-29 |
20120303050 | SURGICAL SUPPORT ASSEMBLY - A surgical support apparatus is disclosed, including an elongate member, a first tissue penetrating member, and a second tissue penetrating member. The second tissue penetrating member includes two segments hingably attached to each other. A distal portion of the second segment of the second tissue penetrating member includes an engagement surface. The first tissue penetrating member has a distal portion including a receiving surface. The engagement surface radially approaches the receiving surface causing the secure engagement of the first and second tissue penetrating members. Surgical objects can be attached to the surgical support apparatus and supported within an internal body cavity. Also disclosed is a method of assembling the surgical support apparatus in an internal body cavity. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303051 | INSERTION PORTION RIGIDITY CHANGEABLE CATHETER WITH BALLOON - An insertion portion rigidity changeable catheter with a balloon has an insertion portion including a coil-shaped member which is extensible and contractible, with a compression length set to be a predetermined length, and a sheath which is a tube body with flexibility having a fluid conduit, includes a sheath main body surrounded by the coil-shaped member, and a sheath end portion provided at one end side of the sheath main body, and having a contact surface which one end surface of the coil-shaped member contacts, has one opening of the fluid conduit in the sheath end portion and has another opening of the fluid conduit at another end side of the sheath main body, an inflatable/deflatable balloon which is inflated by being supplied with a fluid via the one opening of the fluid conduit to expand to a diameter larger than an outside diameter of the sheath end portion, and is deflated by the fluid being discharged via the one opening to be brought into close contact with an outer circumferential face of the sheath end portion, and an operation section which is fixedly provided at another end side of the sheath, and includes an operation section main body including a fluid supply and discharge apparatus connection portion which is directly or indirectly connected to a fluid supply and discharge apparatus which performs supply of the fluid into the balloon via the fluid conduit, or discharge, and a slide member which is slidably disposed in an inner surface side of the operation section main body, and is disposed at another end side of the operation section main body by an elastic force of the coil-shaped member, wherein the fluid supply and discharge apparatus connection portion is fixed to the operation section main body, and the slide member is provided to freely advance and retract with respect to the fluid supply and discharge apparatus connection portion. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303052 | Aneurysm occlusion by rotational dispensation of mass - This invention is a device for occluding an aneurysm comprising: a rotating member that is inserted into, and then rotated within, the aneurysm; and one or more fill members that are dispensed outwards from one or more openings in the rotating member toward the aneurysm walls. Coordination of the rate of rotation of the rotating member with the rate at which the one or more fill members are dispensed from the rotating member can create a densely-packed spiraling mass that fills a higher percentage of the volume of the aneurysm interior than is possible with deployment of coils in the less-directed, relatively-random manner used in the prior art. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303053 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICES WITH IN-SITU STIFFENING - A vaso-occlusive device includes a first coil made from a first substantially non-expansile material, and a second coil at least partially co-wound with the first coil and made from a second expansile material. The second coil has a contracted state and an expanded state, in which the second coil expands radially and/or longitudinally. The vaso-occlusive device has increased stiffness when the second coil is in its expanded state. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303054 | CATHETER WITH STEPPED SKIVED HYPOTUBE - Catheter having a hypotube with a skive defined by a first angled cut, an axial cut, and a second angled cut. A midshaft member includes a guidewire lumen and an inflation lumen in fluid communication with an inflation lumen of the hypotube, the inflation lumen of the midshaft member configured to receive at least a portion of the hypotube. A distal tubular shaft member extends distally from the midshaft member. The distal tubular shaft member has a guidewire lumen and an inflation lumen defined therein, the guidewire lumen of the distal tubular shaft member in fluid communication with the guidewire lumen of the midshaft member. The inflation lumen of the distal tubular shaft member is in fluid communication with the inflation lumen of the midshaft member and a balloon is coupled to the distal tubular shaft member and in fluid communication with the inflation lumen. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303055 | PERCUTANEOUS ROD DELIVERY TECHNIQUES AND SYSTEMS - There are disclosed techniques for positioning a connecting element adjacent one or more bones or bony portions, such as the spinal column, through a minimally invasive surgical approach. The system generally includes at least one bone anchor engageable to the one or more bones or bony portions and at least one extender removably engaged to the bone anchor. A connecting element is movable into the patient and guided by the at least one extender to a first position in the patient. A second bone anchor and extender is then inserted into the patient and engaged to a bony portion. The connecting element is then moved from the at least one extender to extend to the second bone anchor and second extender. The connecting element is then engaged to each of the bone anchors. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303056 | Thermosetting Shape Memory Polymers with Ability to Perform Repeated Molecular Scale Healing - A composition comprising thermoset shape memory polymer and a composition for molecular scale healing is disclosed; the composition has the ability to resolve structural defects by a close-then-heal mechanism. In use the shape memory polymer serves to bring opposing surfaces in a structural defect into proximity, whereafter heating the molecular scale healing composition to a level at or above its melting point allows for molecular scale healing. The composition has the ability to close macroscopic defects, and to do so repeatedly even if another wound occurs in a previously healed area. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303057 | Suture Comprising Drug-Loaded Polymer Layer and Method of Manufacturing the Same - This invention relates to a suture including a drug-loaded polymer layer and a method of manufacturing the same, and more particularly, to a suture, the surface of which is wound with a film including a drug-loaded biodegradable polymer layer, or coated with a drug-loaded biodegradable polymer layer, and to a method of manufacturing the same. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303058 | THERMOFORMING PROCESS AND PRODUCTS OBTAINABLE BY THE PROCESS - The invention concerns composite surgical devices and a method of manufacturing thereof. The device comprises a tissue fixation implant and a protruding member attached to the implant. The method comprises providing a polymeric implant preform comprising a fixation zone for the protruding member, inserting a protruding member into the fixation zone of the preform, inserting the preform into a mold cavity corresponding to desired shape of the tissue fixation implant and comprising at least one orifice for receiving the protruding member and subjecting the preform to heat and pressure for giving the tissue fixation implant the desired shape and attaching the protruding member to the tissue fixation implant. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303059 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR POSITIONING AND SECURING ANCHORS - Apparatus and methods for positioning and securing anchors are disclosed herein. The anchors are adapted to be delivered and implanted into or upon tissue, particularly tissue within the gastrointestinal system of a patient. The anchor is adapted to slide uni-directionally over suture such that a tissue plication may be cinched between anchors. A locking mechanism, either within the anchor itself or positioned proximally of the anchor, may allow for the uni-directional translation of the anchor while enabling the anchor to be locked onto the suture if the anchor is pulled, pushed, or otherwise urged in the opposite direction along the suture. This uni-directional anchor locking mechanism facilitates cinching of the tissue plication between the anchors, and it may be utilized in one or several anchors in cinching a tissue fold. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303060 | System and Method For Facet Joint Replacement with Detachable Coupler - A facet joint replacement system includes an inferior implant with an inferior articular surface, and a superior implant with a superior articular surface. The implants may be coupled together by a detachable coupler which can align and rigidly hold the inferior and superior articular surfaces in a preferred alignment relative to one another. A portion of the coupler may be deformable to allow detachment of the coupler from at least one of the implants. In one method of implantation, the superior and inferior implants may be aligned and coupled together with the coupler, and then secured to fixation members anchored in adjacent vertebrae. Alternatively, a first implant may be secured to a fixation member anchored in a first vertebra, and a second implant coupled to the coupler, aligned with the first implant and then secured to a fixation member anchored in a second vertebra. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303061 | Spinal Fixation with Selectively Applied Bone Growth Promoting Agent - A spinal fixation system including a selectively applied bone growth promoting agent is disclosed. The types of spinal fixation systems which may include a selectively applied bone growth promoting agent include systems comprised of rods, plates, screws, and hooks as well as other types of prostheses. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303062 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM INCLUDING VERTEBRAL ALIGNMENT FEATURES - A bone anchor coupler assembly is configured to couple a bone anchor to a spine stabilization member, and includes a coupler body and an angular adjustment member movably coupled to the coupler body. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303063 | Bone Screw Assembly - Spine stabilization systems are disclosed. One spine stabilization system includes a bone screw assembly including a coupling member and a screw member received therein. The coupling member includes a pair of extension elements that form a pair of slots. The slots include bottom angled surfaces. An angled wedge member having a substantially horizontal bottom surface and an angled top surface is delivered on top of the screw member within the coupling member. A rod member can be delivered down the coupling member such that it rests on the slots and on top of the angled wedge member. A locking assembly comprising a cap member and set screw can be delivered down the coupling member to secure the rod member to the coupling member. The rod member and locking assembly components can be delivered through a single incision and at a same or similar angle as the screw member during surgery. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303064 | PEDICLE SCREWS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Pedicle screws that can include a pedicle screw body, housing, plurality of clamps, rod, and set screw are disclosed herein. The clamps may be positioned side by side inside the lower portion of the housing. When the rod and set screw are provided in the housing, the set screw applies a force on the rod and the rod engages the plurality of clamps, causing the clamps to frictionally engage a head of the pedicle screw between the clamps. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303065 | BONE HOLDING DEVICE - A bone holding device comprising: at least one conformable elongated member ( | 2012-11-29 |
20120303066 | Variable angle spinal screw assembly - A spinal screw assembly providing an adjustable securement of a fixation rod across at least two vertebrae. The assembly includes a pedicle screw having a spherical head portion, a threaded shaft portion and a tool engagement surface in the head portion for use in driving the screw into a vertebrae. The head portion of the screw is positioned in a body member adjacent a curvilinear surface disposed about an aperture in the end of the body member such that the shaft portion of the screw extends therethrough and the curvilinear inner surface abuts and mates with the head portion of the screw so as to define a ball joint therewith. The body member additionally defines a pair of opposed parallel slots therein adapted to receive a portion of the fixation rod and a locking cap bears against the fixation rod to releasably secure the rod within the assembly. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303067 | Elbow Compression Instrument - A device for compressing fractured portions of a bone includes (a) first and second jaws movable relative to one another to compress fractured portions of a bone therebetween, the first and second jaws being connected to one another such that bone gripping portions thereof remain parallel to one another throughout a permitted range of motion of the first and second jaws and (b) a first guide sleeve attached to the distal end of the first jaw and a second guide sleeve attached to the distal end of the second jaw. The first and second guide sleeves have central axes coaxial with one another. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303068 | Bone Plate Positioning Scaffold - A device to maintaining temporary engagement with a bone plate and a bone, the device comprising: (a) a first biased appendage positioned opposite a second biased appendage, the first and second biased appendages including an arcuate vertical profile that partially defines an interior region; (b) a platform concurrently coupled to the first and second biased appendages, the platform also partially defining the interior region, the platform including a through hole open to the interior region; and, (c) a first tab extending from at least one of the first biased appendage, the second biased appendage, and the platform, the first tab extending into the interior region to engage a bone plate. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303069 | RING AND BONE FIXATION SYSTEM - The present invention discloses a ring, embedded in a bone plate for fixing the relative position of a bone screw and the bone plate. The ring has a sidewall and the sidewall has a plurality of gaps. The ring further comprises a lower holding portion and an upper holding portion, the lower holding portion and the upper holding portion are utilized to hold the ring on one of the surface of the bone plate and the corresponding surface thereof respectively. The present invention is capable of fixing the screw to the through hole of the bone plate in various directions or angles so as to prevent the bone screw from passing through the joint, the smashed area or the area of severe osteoporosis thereof. Furthermore, the present invention is easy to operate, capable of avoiding damage and decreasing the trouble for the operator thereof. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303070 | Polyaxial bone anchor assembly with one-piece closure, pressure insert and plastic elongate member - A medical implant assembly includes a polyaxial bone anchor having a shank, a receiver, a lower compression insert with planar surfaces for closely receiving an elongate connecting member with planar surfaces and a one-piece closure structure. The connecting member is made from a polymer. The closure structure engages both the connecting member and the insert with the engagement between the closure structure and the insert securely locking the polyaxial mechanism even if the connecting member exhibits creep. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303071 | Securing Fasteners - A fastener, for example a bone screw, is sized to pass into an aperture of an implant, for example a bone plate, the fastener having an anchor portion engageable with body tissue, and a head portion formed by an assembly of an insert and an anchor extension. The implant has an aperture with a reduced entry dimension. The insert and anchor extension cooperate to form a reduced dimension passable into the aperture, and an expanded dimension not passable out of the aperture. The size of the assembly is configurable by bending resilient tabs of the anchor extension or the implant, using ramped surfaces, or an expanding diameter of a threadable insert. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303072 | BONE SCREW SYSTEM WITH CONNECTING PORTION - A bone screw system includes a bone screw and a connecting device for coupling the bone screw to an elongate rod-shaped member. The bone screw has proximal and bone-engaging portions disposed at opposing ends relative to a long axis of the screw. The proximal portion includes a proximal locking feature that extends away from the long axis in a radial direction that is perpendicular to the long axis. The connecting device includes first and second coupling portions at opposing ends relative to the long axis when the coupling device is assembled to the bone screw. The first coupling portion defines an opening for receiving the proximal portion of the bone screw. The second coupling portion is configured to receive the rod-shaped member. The connecting device also includes a restraining feature that frictionally resists rotational motion of the connecting device relative to the bone screw. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303073 | METHODS OF USE OF A BOTTOM MOUNTED PEDICAL SCREW ASSEMBLY - A bone screw, which can be a pedicle screw, is generally tulip-shaped. A bore in the bottom of the tulip permits a threaded shaft to be partially inserted into the open interior of the tulip. A seat is formed on the threaded shaft and receives the bottom of the tulip, and prevents the threaded shaft from being inserted too far into the tulip. A saddle is positioned in the interior of the tulip and receives the end of the threaded shaft on one end and can include a trough on its opposite face which can receive a rod that connects together two or more such assemblies. A retaining screw threads into the upper interior surface of the tulip to hold the subcomponents together. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303074 | Drilling Screw - A drilling screw contains on its front end facing away from the screw head a drill bit having two drilling cutters. At an axial distance from the drilling cutters the screw shank has a constriction, within which the diameter of the screw shank is smaller than the diameter of the hole produced by the drill bit. The constriction is configured such that it has a shoulder running almost transversely to the longitudinal axis and facing the screw head and from which the diameter gradually approaches again the core diameter of the shank. Within this constriction begins the thread, wherein the thread edge initially has a distance from the longitudinal axis of the screw which corresponds roughly to the radius of the hole. The thread edge then runs along a spiral up to the final outer diameter of the thread on the shank. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303075 | Dynamic stabilization connecting member with elastic core and outer sleeve - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having an elongate core and an outer sleeve. The core is of one-piece construction, elastic, and includes end portions for attachment to the bone anchors. The outer sleeve may include compression grooves. The sleeve surrounds the core and extends between the pair of bone anchors, the sleeve being compressible between the bone anchors. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303076 | Systems and Methods of Powered Muscle Stimulation Using an Energy Guidance Field - NMES systems and methods for stimulating muscle tissue, and in some embodiments deep muscle tissue. The impedance near the surface of the skin is controllably increased to increase the percentage of energy delivered to a subject that stimulates muscle tissue. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303077 | MEDICAL NEUROLOGICAL INSTRUMENT - The present invention relates to a medical neurological instrument which can be used to improve balance, comprising: (A) a control system for managing energy sources of different nature and (B) an emitter of said energy sources, wherein the emitter is configured to simultaneously apply the different types of energy to a patient by means of transducers, wherein the energies employed are: (i) light energy 18 with a wavelength of between 500 and 700 nm, (ii) light energy 19 with a wavelength of between 701 and 1050 nm, (iii) TENS Energy (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator) 20 with a maximum amplitude of 200V. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303078 | SENSOR RESPONSE DELAY FOR HEMODYNAMIC STABILITY DETECTION DURING ARRHYTHMIA - An apparatus comprises a cardiac signal sensing circuit, a physiologic sensor circuit configured to provide a physiologic sensor signal representative of mechanical cardiac activity, a therapy circuit, and a control circuit. The control circuit includes a cardiac depolarization detection circuit, a tachyarrhythmia detection circuit, and a timer circuit. A time interval between a mechanical cardiac event and a detected fiducial electrical cardiac event is monitored. The control circuit is configured to correct the monitored time interval for variation with heart rate to form a corrected electromechanical time interval, initiate anti-tachyarrhythmia therapy when the corrected electromechanical time interval satisfies a specified time interval threshold value during a detected episode of tachyarrhythmia, and withhold anti-tachyarrhythmia therapy otherwise. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303079 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR COMBINED CARDIAC FUNCTION MANAGEMENT AND RENAL THERAPIES - A system can coordinate operation of a cardiac function management (CFM) device and a renal device, such as during a vulnerable period in which a patient has an increased risk of tachyarrhythmia. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303080 | PARASYMPATHETIC NERVE STIMULATION - A method is provided, including identifying that a subject is at risk of suffering from atrial fibrillation (AF). Responsively to the identifying, a risk of an occurrence of an episode of the AF is reduced by coupling an electrode device to a site of a subject containing parasympathetic nervous tissue; driving, by a control unit, the electrode device to apply an electrical current to the site not responsively to any physiological parameters sensed by any device directly or indirectly coupled to the control unit; and configuring the current to stimulate autonomic nervous tissue in the site. Other embodiments are also described. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303081 | OPTICAL SENSOR AND METHOD FOR DETECTING A PATIENT CONDITION - An implantable medical device for monitoring tissue perfusion that includes a light source emitting a light signal and a light detector receiving emitted light scattered by a volume of body tissue. The light detector emits a signal having an alternating current component corresponding to the pulsatility of blood flow in the body tissue volume. A processor receives the current signal and determines a patient condition in response to the alternating component of the current signal. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303082 | Adjusting Cardiac Pacing Response Sensing Intervals - Discrimination between different types of possible cardiac pacing responses may depend on the timing of expected features that are sensed within a temporal framework. The temporal framework may include classification intervals, blanking periods and appropriately timed back up paces. The classification intervals and blanking periods of the temporal framework are intervals of time that have time parameters that include start time, end time, and length. The relationships and timing parameters of the elements of the temporal framework, e.g., blanking periods, classification intervals, delay periods, and backup pacing, should support detection of features used to discriminate between different types of pacing responses. As the system learns the morphology of the particular patient by analyzing the waveform of the pacing response signal, the temporal framework for pacing response determination may be adjusted to accommodate the individual patient. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303083 | NOVEL DESMIN PHOSPHORYLATION SITES USEFUL IN DIAGNOSIS AND INTERVENTION OF CARDIAC DISEASE - This invention relates to novel phosphorylation sites in the desmin protein that are associated with the onset of heart failure. The phosphorylation sites, i.e., Ser-27 and Ser-31, can be used as biomarkers for (i) identifying subjects at risk for the development of heart failure, (ii) treating subjects having a higher than normal level of the biomarker, and (iii) monitoring therapy of a subject at risk for the development of heart failure. Also described are antibodies, reagents, and kits for carrying out a method of the present invention. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303084 | SECURE AND EFFICACIOUS THERAPY DELIVERY FOR A PACING ENGINE - The above-described methods and apparatus are believed to be of particular benefit for patients suffering heart failure including cardiac dysfunction, chronic HF, and the like and all variants as described herein and including those known to those of skill in the art to which the invention is directed. It will understood that the present invention offers the possibility of monitoring and therapy of a wide variety of acute and chronic cardiac dysfunctions. The current invention provides systems and methods for delivering therapy for cardiac hemodynamic dysfunction via the innervated myocardial substrate receives one or more discrete pulses of electrical stimulation during the refractory period of said innervated myocardial substrate. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303085 | METHODS AND APAPRATUS FOR MANUALLY SUSPENDING INTRATHORACIC IMPEDANCE FLUID STATUS MEASUREMENTS - The capability to suspend a patient alert relating to a monitored physiologic parameters addresses a need to selectively shut off a patient-alert signal or signals during the time a patient is being treated for an excursion in the parameter. Of course, in general a signal call attention to a patient's a potentially deleterious status or condition for which they should seek medical attention. Once a chronically-implanted monitoring device has detected or provided information about the parameter relative to a desired value, trend, or range and a clinician has been notified and intervened the alert signal is temporarily disabled for a predetermined period. That is, once the notification occurs and alert has served its purpose, the alert mechanism is selectively deactivated while the patient ostensibly begins to gradually correct the monitored physiologic parameter under a caregiver's direction and control. After which time, the alert will reactivate. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303086 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COLLECTING PATIENT EVENT INFORMATION - A method of and system for collecting patient event information is described, where the system includes an implantable medical (IMD) and an external interface device. The external interface device is remote from the IMD and includes a communication module, a display device adapted to prompt a user of the system to select a reason for a particular transmission session and a user input device adopted to accept input indicating a selected reason. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303087 | COLLECTION OF CLINICAL DATA FOR GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS - A method of treating a patient and an external programmer for use with a neurostimulator. Electrical stimulation energy is conveyed into tissue of the patient via a specified combination of a plurality of electrodes, thereby creating one or more clinical effects. An influence of the specified electrode combination on the clinical effect(s) is determined. An anatomical region of interest is displayed in registration with a graphical representation of the plurality of electrodes. The displayed anatomical region of interest is modified based on the determined influence of the specified electrode combination on the clinical effect(s). | 2012-11-29 |
20120303088 | System and A Method for Determination of an Orientation of a Biomedical Stimulation Device - The application relates to a system ( | 2012-11-29 |
20120303089 | Method and System for Determining Settings for Deep Brain Stimulation - A method and control system for determining and applying stimulation settings for a brain stimulation probe ( | 2012-11-29 |
20120303090 | Apparatus and Method Using Near Infrared Reflectometry to Reduce the Effect of Positional Changes During Spinal Cord Stimulation - A spinal cord stimulation apparatus and method for automatic adjustments of SCS using near-infrared (NIR) reflectometry are provided. A positionally sensitive system for spinal cord stimulation including an electrode assembly with integrated optical components for sensing spinal cord position relative to a stimulating electrode array is provided. The integrated optical components include an IR emitter and a pair of IR photodetectors. As light from the IR emitter reflects from the spinal cord, it is detected by each of the pair of IR photodetectors. As the spinal cord changes position so do the angles of incidence for detected light from the IR emitter, a ratio of optical intensities in combination with a total optical intensity is measured and used to interpolate a set of electrode stimulation settings from a calibration table. Electrode pulse characteristics are adjusted in real time to minimize changes in stimulation perceived by the patient during motion. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303091 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR POLYCHRONOUS ENCODING AND MULTIPLEXING IN NEURONAL PROSTHETIC DEVICES - Apparatus and methods for encoding sensory input information into patterns of pulses and message multiplexing. In one implementation, the patterns of pulses are polychronous (time-locked by not necessary synchronous), and a retinal prosthetic encodes the input signal into the polychronous patterns for delivery via stimulating electrodes. Different polychronous patterns simultaneously encode different sensory signals; (such as different features of the image), thus providing for message multiplexing. Increasing data transmission capacity allows for a reduction in the number of electrodes required for data transmission. In one implementation, an adaptive feedback mechanism is employed to facilitate encoder operation. In another aspect, a computer vision system is described. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303092 | Method and Apparatus for Predicting and Controlling the Percepts Induced by a Visual Prosthesis - Here we present the first model that quantitatively predicts the apparent spatial position and shape of percepts elicited by retinal electrical stimulation in humans based on the known anatomy of the retina. This model successfully predicts both the shape of percepts elicited by single electrode stimulation and the shape and relative positions of percepts elicited by multiple electrode stimulation. Model fits to behavioral data show that sensitivity to electrical stimulation is not confined to the axon initial segment, but does fall off rapidly with the distance between stimulation and the initial segment. Using the model, it is possible to compensate, preferably with a look up table, to match percepts to a desired image. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303093 | INTERAURAL TIME DIFFERENCE ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY - Aspects of the present invention are generally directed to a modulation enhancement strategy that helps improve ITD perception by explicitly modulating the electrical stimulation signal. In an embodiment, the timing of the applied modulations is based on amplitude inflections (i.e., peaks or troughs) in the received sound signal. In an embodiment, the identified inflections (i.e., peaks or troughs) represent the most energetic portions of the signal over a particular time period (e.g., the time period prior to the inflection having a length equal to the expected fundamental period of the signal. Further, in an embodiment, the cochlear implant applies a delay to the stimulation signal to help maintain interaural timing cues. The application of this delay helps account for the traveling wave delay in the acoustic path of the opposite ear in embodiments in which the opposite ear is fitted with a hearing aid or is not fitted with a hearing device. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303094 | Optimal Model Constants For Simultaneous Stimulation With Channel Interaction Compensation - Approaches are described for fitting a simultaneous stimulation arrangement of a cochlear implant system to an implanted patient. Electrode contacts in an electrode array implanted in a patient cochlea are stimulated with a fitting pattern of stimulation signals. Then current spread decay parameters are determined for patient specific amplitude compensation of the simultaneous stimulation arrangement based on either a psychoacoustic aspect or an objective measurement of patient percept to the fitting pattern. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303095 | Progressive Parameter Scan for Cochlear Implants - A channel fitting process is described for a cochlear implant. A check is made for a channel fitting response condition to a stimulation signal, and if the condition is present, a channel operating parameter is set for the current electrode contact based on the channel fitting response condition, and if channel operating parameters have been set for all the electrode contacts, the channel fitting process ends. Otherwise, a next electrode contact is selected, the stimulation level is changed by a channel fitting increment, and if a stimulation level limit has been reached, the channel fitting process ends, or otherwise, the currently selected electrode contact is stimulated with the stimulation signal at the current stimulation level and the channel fitting process repeats. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303096 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS OF AUTOMATICALLY DETECTING AN IMPEDANCE OF ONE OR MORE ELECTRODES IN A COCHLEAR IMPLANT SYSTEM - An exemplary method includes a sound processing unit 1) directing an implantable cochlear stimulator coupled to a plurality of electrodes to generate an electrical stimulation current in accordance with one or more stimulation parameters, 2) automatically detecting an impedance of at least one of the electrodes, and 3) directing, in accordance with the detected impedance, the implantable cochlear stimulator to adjust a pulse width of the electrical stimulation current to maintain constant a total electric charge level of the electrical stimulation current. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303097 | HEARING AID COMPRISING AN INTRA-COCHLEAR ACTUATOR - An at least partially implantable hearing aid has an input transducer ( | 2012-11-29 |
20120303098 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROL OF PANCREATIC BETA CELL FUNCTION TO IMPROVE GLUCOSE HOMEOSTASIS AND INSULIN PRODUCTION - The present invention provides methods, systems and apparatuses for effecting excitation or inhibition of small sensory nerve fibers, such as C-afferent fibers, by electrical stimulation of nerves innervating the pancreas in diabetic subjects. In an aspect the methods are directed to effecting insulin production and for the treatment of diabetes. This invention includes a closed or open loop feedback control system in which biomarker levels are monitored in order to direct electrical stimulation. An implantable or external neural stimulation device is also provided. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303099 | PROGRAMMABLE CIRCADIAN RHYTHM ADJUSTMENT - A computer implemented method and apparatus can create an exposure regimen for a user. The regimen can be used to instruct an exposure device to expose the user to light at a wavelength, duration, and intensity, and over one or more days, which is sufficient to alter the user's circadian rhythm. The user may provide one or more preferences which allow the technology to create the exposure regimen sufficient to alter the user's circadian rhythm. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303100 | Phototherapy Apparatus with Built-In Pressure Sensor - An improved phototherapy apparatus for preventing and treating pressure ulcer and other abnormal skin conditions. The phototherapy apparatus comprises a flexible pad which can be built into or placed on top of a bed. A plurality of light emitting diode (LED) or laser light sources and a plurality of pressure sensors are embedded in the flexible pad. Each pressure sensor is associated with one LED or laser light source for monitoring the pressure endured by a specific body area of the patient. When a pressure above certain level is observed, the corresponding LED or laser light source is turned on to provide phototherapy treatment to the pressured area for preventing and treating pressure ulcer and other abnormal skin conditions. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303101 | CONTINUOUS LOW IRRADIANCE PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY ILLUMINATION SYSTEM - A system for photodynamic therapy is provided that includes a light delivery device that delivers the illumination necessary to perform photodynamic therapy. The light delivery device includes one or more etched fibers arranged to illuminate a selective region of a body for photodynamic therapy. An illumination device is coupled to the light delivery device to provide the necessary illumination to the light delivery device. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303102 | ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT APPLICATOR SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method of mitigating the effect of bodily pathogens including providing a light applicator including a housing, a power supply, and at least one light source wherein the light source is configured to emit light in the ultraviolet range when energized by the power supply, and directing the applicator toward a bodily orifice so as to directly irradiate the orifice for a period of time. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303103 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TREATMENT OF TISSUE ADJACENT A BODILY CONDUIT BY THERMOCOMPRESSION - A method and apparatus of treating tissue adjacent to a bodily conduit using thermotherapy, while preventing obstructions of the bodily conduit due to edema employs the circulation of warmed fluid to maintain the temperature of the bodily conduit walls and compresses the tissue to be treated to increase the effectiveness of the irradiated heat. An energy-emitting source containing catheter is inserted in a bodily conduit and is positioned in a region of the tissue to be treated so that the energy-emitting source radiates energy to the tissue to be treated. Fluid warmed to over 30° C. is circulated into and through the catheter to warm walls of the bodily conduit adjacent the catheter. The warmed circulated fluid inflates a balloon to a pressure to compress the tissue to form a natural stent that remains after the catheter and compression balloon are removed. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303104 | Cosmetic and Dermatological Cryotherapy Device - A dermatological device for cooling the skin comprised of an ice pack and a heat conductive shield configured to operate as an aseptic separator between said skin and the ice pack and to conduct heat from the skin to the ice pack. This invention is also a method of cooling the skin which comprises cooling an ice pack, placing the ice pack over an aseptic shield and applying the other side of the shield to the skin. Heat flow is controlled by adjusting the contact surface between components within the shield. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303105 | ELECTRODE STRUCTURE FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An IMD may include a liquid crystal polymer (LCP) outer housing defining an outer surface of the IMD, an electrical feedthrough extending through the LCP outer housing to the outer surface, and an electrode structure disposed on the outer surface. The electrode structure may include a LCP substrate defining a first major surface and a second major surface substantially opposite the first major surface, a contact pad disposed on the first major surface, and an electrode disposed on the second major surface. The LCP substrate may be attached to the LCP outer housing and the contact pad may be electrically coupled to the electrical feedthrough. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303106 | PADDLE LEAD CONFIGURATIONS FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING - A paddle lead includes a paddle body with a plurality of electrodes disposed on the paddle body. The plurality of electrodes includes a first electrode and a second electrode. The first electrode and the second electrode are disposed laterally around the circumference of the paddle body. At least one connecting wire is disposed on, or within, the paddle body to electrically couple the first electrode and the second electrode. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303107 | System for Medical Stimulation Comprising a Probe - The invention relates a system ( | 2012-11-29 |
20120303108 | EMBOLIZATION DEVICE AND A METHOD OF USING THE SAME - Non-expandable space-occupying devices for treating voids within the body are disclosed. The devices can have multiple non-expandable space-occupying elements connected to a flexible leader. Methods of making and using the devices are also disclosed. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303109 | STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM - A stent delivery system has a pusher catheter having an opening to which a filament is tied to the distal end thereof, and a stent having a catching hole. Because a knot is loosely fit in the catching hole from inside, with an inner catheter supporting the loose-fitting, inadvertent uncoupling of the stent and the pusher catheter can be prevented until the inner catheter is pulled out, and the two can be easily uncoupled by pulling out the inner catheter. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303110 | Reduced Foreshortening Stent With Bio-Resorbable Fibers - A device and method for reducing stent foreshortening are provided herein. The device includes a balloon and stent thereon. The stent has a first end portion and a second end portion and bio-resorbable fibers disposed over at least a portion of the first end portion and the second end portion. The bio-resorbable fibers over the end portions prevent the ends of the stent from prematurely expanding, thereby reducing stent foreshortening. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303111 | Attachment Mechanism for Stent Release - An attachment mechanism for coupling a stent to a delivery system is disclosed. The attachment mechanism is configured to pivot relative to an inner shaft assembly of the delivery system in order to release the stent from the delivery system. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303112 | STENT - The invention relates to a medical device and a method of using it. The device is a stent which can be percutaneously deliverable with (or on) an endovascular catheter or via other surgical or other techniques and then expanded. The stent is configured to have a central portion defined by “open” cells and at least two end portions, defined by “closed” cells, spaced apart and directly connected to the distal and proximal ends of the central portion of the stent. The stent may also optionally have a covering or a lattice with openings. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303113 | IMPLANTABLE PROSTHETIC VALVE ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - An implantable prosthetic valve assembly having a support stent, or frame, having circumferential struts with multiple bends forming obtuse angles when the valve assembly is expanded to its functional size. The frame can be manufactured with one or more of the circumferential struts in a partially collapsed state and a flexible valve member can be mounted to the partially collapsed frame. The partially collapsed struts can be formed with multiple bends having angles selected to facilitate crimping of the frame to a profile suitable for percutaneous delivery. When the frame is expanded, the bends can expand to form obtuse angles, thereby enhancing the rigidity of the frame to better resist closing forces exerted on the valve assembly. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303114 | Implantable Medical Devices Fabricated From Polymers With Radiopaque Groups - Implantable medical devices comprising radiopaque star-block copolymers. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303115 | EXPANDABLE DEVICES COATED WITH A RAPAMYCIN COMPOSITION - Medical devices may be utilized for local and regional therapeutic agent delivery. These therapeutic agents or compounds may reduce a biological organism's reaction to the introduction of the medical device to the organism. In addition, these therapeutic drugs, agents and/or compounds may be utilized to promote healing, including the prevention of thrombosis. The drugs, agents, and/or compounds may also be utilized to treat specific disorders, including restenosis, vulnerable plaque, and atherosclerosis in type 2 diabetic patients. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303116 | VALVE PROSTHESIS - The present disclosure relates to valve replacement devices that are foldable for catheter-based deployment to the site of implantation, as well as systems for the delivery of valve prostheses, including prostheses having the special characteristics of the disclosed valve replacement devices. The devices include highly effective adhering mechanisms for secure and enduring precision implantation. The adhering mechanisms may employ a unique sealing mechanism that includes a cuff that expands slowly whereby the device is not secured in place until the completion of the implantation procedure. The implanted device, optionally together with the cuff, prevents perivalvular leaks and incorporate an appropriate leaflet system for reliable functioning in situ. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303117 | EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX MATERIAL CONDUITS AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING SAME - Extracellular matrix (ECM) material conduits are disclosed. Methods for regenerating atrioventricular valves to replace defective atrioventricular valves within a heart of a subject using the ECM material conduits are also disclosed. Methods of sterilizing and decellularizing an ECM material are also disclosed. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303118 | ACCOMMODATING INTRAOCULAR LENS - Systems, devices, and methods are presented for a prosthetic injectable intraocular lens. One or more silicone elastomeric patches located outside the optical path on the anterior side but away from the equator can be accessed by surgical needles in order to fill or adjust optically clear fluid within the lens. The fluid can be adjusted in order to set a base dioptric power of the lens and otherwise adjust a lens after its initial insertion. The elastomeric patches are sized so that they self-seal after a needle is withdrawn. A straight or stepped slit in the patch can allow a blunt needle to more easily access the interior of the lens. | 2012-11-29 |
20120303119 | CAPSULAR OPACIFICATION BLOCKING LENS - The invention is directed to a lens that comprises an optic and two haptic rings, one positioned to rest against the posterior capsule distally outward from the optic zone, the other to rest on the anterior capsule some distance from the equator. The haptic rings of the lens are connected by segments of haptic material that may be arched or straight, and sections of open space to provide for ample circulation of the aqueous humor. The optic is positioned against the posterior capsule as close as possible to the nodal zone of the eye. | 2012-11-29 |