48th week of 2011 patent applcation highlights part 57 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20110295245 | Flow Rate Verification Monitor for Fluid-Cooled Microwave Ablation Probe - A microwave ablation system includes an antenna assembly configured to deliver microwave energy from an energy source to tissue and a coolant source operably coupled to the energy source and configured to selectively provide fluid to the antenna assembly via a fluid path. The system also includes a controller operably coupled to the energy source and a piezoelectric transducer operably coupled to the fluid path to detect a force of fluid flow through the fluid path. The piezoelectric transducer is configured to generate a signal based on the detected force of fluid through the fluid path. The controller is configured to control the energy source output based on the generated signal. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295246 | System and Method for Chemically Cooling an Ablation Antenna - A method of performing an ablation procedure includes the steps of inserting an antenna assembly into tissue and supplying energy thereto for application to tissue. The method also includes the step of causing contact between a first material and at least one other material disposed within the antenna assembly to thermally regulate the antenna assembly. According to another embodiment, an ablation system includes an energy delivery assembly. A first chamber is defined within the energy delivery assembly and is configured to hold a first chemical. Another chamber is defined within the energy delivery assembly and is configured to hold at least one other chemical. The first chamber and the other chamber are configured to selectively and fluidly communicate with each other to cause contact between the first chemical and the at least one other chemical to cause an endothermic reaction and/or an exothermic reaction. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295247 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED MINIMALLY INVASIVE THERAPY USING RADIOMETRY - Systems and methods are described for automating aspects of minimally invasive therapeutic treatment of patients. In one embodiment a robotic catheter system may comprise a controller including a master input device; and an electromechanically steerable elongate instrument having a proximal interface portion and a distal portion, the proximal interface portion being configured to be operatively coupled to an electromechanical instrument driver in communication with the controller, the distal portion being configured to be interactively navigated adjacent internal tissue structures of a patient's body in response to signals from the controller; wherein the distal portion of the elongate instrument comprises an antenna operatively coupled to the controller, and wherein the controller is configured to determine the temperature of structures adjacent to the distal portion of the elongate instrument utilizing radiometry analysis. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295248 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED MINIMALLY INVASIVE INSTRUMENT COMMAND - In one embodiment a system may comprise a controller including a master input device; and an electromechanically steerable elongate instrument having proximal interface and portions, the proximal interface portion being configured to be operatively coupled to an electromechanical instrument driver in communication with the controller, the distal portion being configured to be interactively navigated adjacent internal tissue structures of a patient's body in response to signals from the controller; wherein the controller is operatively coupled to a treatment interactivity variable sensor selected from the group consisting of: a cardiac electrogram electrode, an RF generator power output sensor, an instrument distal portion impedance sensor, and an instrument distal portion force sensor; and wherein the controller is configured to affect the operation of the electromechanically steerable elongate catheter by automatically executing an instrument movement or treatment command based upon changes in information received from the treatment interactivity variable sensor. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295249 | Fluid-Assisted Electrosurgical Devices, and Methods of Manufacture Thereof - This invention provides a fluid-assisted electrosurgical device to treat tissue in a presence of radio frequency energy and a fluid provided from the device. The device comprises a handle, a rigid shaft member distal to the handle, and at least one electrode distal to the shaft member. The shaft member comprises a shaft member first body and a shaft member second body joined together along a length of the shaft member. The shaft member further comprises a plurality of longitudinally oriented shaft member passages, with each of the passages having a length defined by the shaft member first body and the shaft member second body. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295250 | System and Method for Sensing Tissue Characteristics - A medical device for treating and analyzing tissue is disclosed. The device includes a plasma applicator having a housing. The housing includes a substantially tubular shape and defining a lumen therethrough. The lumen is in fluid communication with an ionizable media source configured to supply ionizable media thereto. The applicator also includes one or more electrodes coupled to the housing. The electrodes are adapted to couple to a power source configured to that energizes electrodes to ignite the ionizable media to form a plasma plume for treating tissue. The device also includes an effluent-collection attachment coupled to the plasma applicator, the effluent-collection attachment configured to collect at least a portion of a plasma effluent. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295251 | Surgical Device for Performing an Electrosurgical Procedure - An electrosurgical forceps includes a handle and a shaft extending from the handle. The handle is selectively movable to actuate a pair of first and second opposable jaw members pivotably connected to each other at a distal end of the shaft. The jaw members are moveable from an open position to a closed position and are each adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source. A first linkage is disposed at least partially within the shaft and is operably coupled between the first jaw member and a second linkage disposed proximal to the first linkage. Selective movement of the handle rotates the second linkage in a first direction, thereby rotating the first linkage in an opposite second direction to move the jaw members between the open and closed positions. In some embodiments, the jaw members are configured in a releasably locked configuration when in the closed position. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295252 | LAGWIRE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THE FIXATION OF BONE FRACTURES - A lagwire system and method for facilitating the fixation of bone fractures is disclosed. The lagwire system includes an anchor component, a wire, a sleeve and a cap. The sleeve and cap are operable to slide along the length of the wire and also operable to be used to fixate a fracture individually by using a canal prepared by the anchor and wire. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295253 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR TRAUMA WELDING - The present invention provides a method for stabilizing a fractured bone. The method includes positioning an elongate rod in the medullary canal of the fractured bone and forming a passageway through the cortex of the bone. The passageway extends from the exterior surface of the bone to the medullary canal of the bone. The method also includes creating a bonding region on the elongate rod. The bonding region is generally aligned with the passageway of the cortex. Furthermore, the method includes positioning a fastener in the passageway of the cortex and on the bonding region of the elongate rod and thermally bonding the fastener to the bonding region of the elongate rod while the fastener is positioned in the passageway of the cortex. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295254 | IMPLANT LOCKING DEVICE AND CORRESPONDING IMPLANT - This insertion and locking device ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295255 | PROXIMAL FEMUR FIXATION APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS WITH ANGLED ELONGATE ELEMENTS - An implantable femoral fixation device adapted to be received the femoral neck and femoral head configured to support at least a portion of the inner surface of the cortical bone of the femur. In various embodiments the femoral fixation device is transformable between a first radially reduced configuration and a second, radially expanded configuration, is attached to an anchor, and/or is configured to be encased in fixation media. In one embodiment the anchor is a segmented intramedullary structure disposed in the intramedullary canal configurable between a relatively flexible, bent configuration for implantation or extraction and a relatively rigid, straightened configuration for bone treatment. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295256 | DISTAL CLAVICLE PLATE WITH CORACOID-CLAVICULAR LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION - Provided is a system for stabilizing a fractured clavicle, the system having a bone plate capable of being attached at the site of a distal clavicle fracture, the bone plate defining a ligament attachment through passage sized to permit passage there through of a coracoid ligament graft, the system further including a plate hole cap configured to securely engage into the upper portion of the through passage after the ligament graft has been secured to the clavicle. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295257 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR STERNUM REPAIR - The invention provides systems and methods for sternum repair. A sternum repair device may include a central body, which may include a plurality of bands and buckles, such that a band extends from the central body and is received by a buckle component. The band may wrap around the sternum and the device may be tightened to keep the separate sternum pieces together. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295258 | Implantation System for Tissue Repair - A prosthesis delivery and implantation system for tissue repair is disclosed. The implantation system includes provisions for manually applying a prosthesis to a treatment area. This system may be applied to heal any imperfections in various different types of tissue. The system also provides provisions for independently inserting two end portions of the prosthesis into tissue. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295259 | SURGICAL TECHNIQUE AND INSTRUMENTATION FOR MINIMAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY SURGERY - Improved instruments for modifying a shape of a proximal femur of a patient for installation of a stem of a femoral component of a prosthetic hip during hip replacement surgery, comprising a handle including an elongated shaft extending downward approximately in a z-direction, a first offset extending from a bottom of the elongated shaft approximately in a y-direction, a second offset extending from the second offset approximately in an x-direction, and a shaping member elongated downward from the second offset approximately in the z-direction. Provided is an improved femoral broach and an improved osteotome. Also provided is a method of improving a patient's positioning during hip replacement surgery by using a variable configuration mattress for positioning the patient. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295260 | KNEE RECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURE AND SURGICAL IMPLEMENT PARTICULARLY USEFUL FOR SUCH KNEE RECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURE - A surgical implement for use in a surgical procedure involving the manipulation of a wire or like article in a body cavity. The surgical implement includes: an elongated stem; a handle carried at the proximal end of the elongated stem; a socket in the form of a removable insert, carried at the distal end of the elongated stem and configured for insertion into a body cavity during the surgical procedure and for receiving the wire or like article; an actuator carried by the elongated stem and movable from a normal position closing the socket at the distal end of the elongated stem, to an actuated position opening the socket; a finger-piece carried by the actuator adjacent the handle so as to be conveniently engageable by a user, while gripping the handle, to move the actuator from its normal position closing the socket, to its actuated position opening the socket; and a spring urging the actuator to its normal position closing the socket. The described preferred embodiment is one wherein the surgical procedure is a knee reconstruction procedure, and the socket is configured to enter through a lateral-medial portal of the knee into the intercondylar notch of the femur bone for forming the femoral tunnel therein. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295261 | SYSTEM FOR USE IN TREATMENT OF VERTEBRAL FRACTURES - Methods and devices that displace bone or other hard tissue to create a cavity in the tissue. Where such methods and devices rely on a driving mechanism for providing moving of the device to form a profile that improves displacement of the tissue. These methods and devices also allow for creating a path or cavity in bone for insertion of bone cement or other filler to treat a fracture or other condition in the bone. The features relating to the methods and devices described herein can be applied in any region of bone or hard tissue where the tissue or bone is displaced to define a bore or cavity instead of being extracted from the body such as during a drilling or ablation procedure. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295262 | SYSTEM FOR USE IN TREATMENT OF VERTEBRAL FRACTURES - Methods and devices that displace bone or other hard tissue to create a cavity in the tissue. Where such methods and devices rely on a driving mechanism for providing moving of the device to form a profile that improves displacement of the tissue. These methods and devices also allow for creating a path or cavity in bone for insertion of bone cement or other filler to treat a fracture or other condition in the bone. The features relating to the methods and devices described herein can be applied in any region of bone or hard tissue where the tissue or bone is displaced to define a bore or cavity instead of being extracted from the body such as during a drilling or ablation procedure. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295263 | Navigation System For Remote-Controlled Actuator - A remote controlled actuator ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295264 | Intraocular Lens Insertion Devices - A cartridge for an intraocular lens insertion device is disclosed. An example cartridge may include an intraocular lens insertion cartridge body having a distal end and a proximal end and configured to receive an intraocular lens for insertion into a patient's eye through an incision; the intraocular lens insertion cartridge body having an inner surface comprising at least one polymeric material having a hardness greater than about 50 D and an elongation at break greater than about 150%; the inner surface of the intraocular lens insertion cartridge body defining an at least partially tapering insertion pathway disposed within the intraocular lens insertion cartridge body and extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the intraocular lens insertion cartridge body. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295265 | Delivery System Having Stent Retention Structure - A drainage stent delivery system including an elongate shaft of a medical device, a drainage catheter or stent, and an engagement member, such as a distensible member or a compressible member, for selectively coupling the stent to the elongate shaft. The engagement member is positioned between the inner surface of the stent and the outer surface of the elongate shaft and is elongatable from a first length to a second length by longitudinal movement generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the stent to release the stent. At the first length, the engagement member is engaged with the inner surface of the stent to secure the stent on the elongate shaft, and at the second length the engagement member is sufficiently disengaged from the inner surface of the stent to release the stent from the elongate shaft such that the elongate shaft may be withdrawn from the stent. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295266 | EXTRACTION DEVICE - Extraction devices adapted to grasp, hold and move a variety of biological materials. The extraction devices include a sheath with an interior passage and legs slidably received within the passage of the sheath. The legs are adapted to move outwardly away from each other when deployed from the sheath to establish a deployed position, and to move inwardly toward each other to collapse within the sheath and define a stowed position. Each leg has a transverse cross-sectional shape defined by a first surface that is concave and an oppositely-disposed second surface that is convex. The legs have adjacent distal ends that define a grasping and holding feature when the legs are moved between their deployed and stowed positions. Each distal end has an arcuate portion and defines a distal surface that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the corresponding leg thereof when the legs are in the stowed position. The concave inward surface of each leg and its distal surface cooperate to define at least two points adapted for grasping when the legs are retracted into the sheath. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295267 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED TISSUE STRUCTURE TRAVERSAL - Systems and methods are described for automating aspects of minimally invasive therapeutic treatment of patients. A robotic tissue structure traversal system may comprise a controller including a master input device, an electromechanically controlled elongate instrument having a proximal interface portion and a distal portion, the proximal interface portion being configured to be operatively coupled to an electromechanical instrument driver in communication with the controller, the distal portion comprising a traversing tip and being configured to be interactively navigated about internal structures of a patient's body in response to signals from the controller; and a load sensor operatively coupled between the distal portion of the elongate instrument and the controller; wherein the controller is configured to automatically advance the traversing tip through a thickness of an internal structure by observing loads from the load sensor. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295268 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED MASTER INPUT SCALING - Embodiments are described for automating aspects of minimally invasive therapeutic treatment of patients. A robotic medical instrument system, comprising an elongate instrument having proximal and distal ends; a controller configured to selectively actuate one or more motors operably coupled to the instrument to thereby selectively move the instrument; a master input device in communication with the controller and configured to generate input commands in response to a directional movement of the master input device; and a load sensor operatively coupled to the elongate instrument and configured to sense magnitude and direction of loads applied to the distal end of the elongate instrument; wherein the controller is configured to compute an instrument movement command to selectively move the instrument based upon the input commands and an input command scaling factor applied to the input commands, the input command scaling factor being variable with the magnitude of sensed loads. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295269 | ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - A surgical cutting and fastening instrument that is motorized and configured for operation in connection with a robotic system. The instrument comprises in one embodiment a charge accumulator device, separate from a battery, that provides additional power to the motor under certain conditions. In addition, the motor may comprise multiple windings. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295270 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH WIRELESS COMMUNICATION BETWEEN A CONTROL UNIT OF A ROBOTIC SYSTEM AND REMOTE SENSOR - A surgical instrument for use with a robotic system that has a control unit and a shaft portion that includes an electrically conductive elongated member that is attached to a portion of the robotic system. The elongated member is configured to transmit control motions from the robotic system to an end effector. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295271 | APPARATUS FOR SUPPORTING AN ADJUSTABLE SURGICAL PLATFORM - In one aspect, an apparatus for supporting an adjustable surgical platform is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a supporting platform portion with a body portion that defines bore along a central axis. Arm portions with engaging means extend radially from the supporting platform portion. The apparatus also includes a shaft portion extending from the supporting platform portion in a first direction, with a shaft body portion that defines a bore along a longitudinal axis B. The bore of the shaft body portion is in communication with the bore of the supporting platform portion. The apparatus further includes a base portion connected to the shaft portion, and that defines a bore in communication with the bore of the shaft portion and the bore of the supporting platform portion. Mounting means are configured to secure the base portion to a region of interest of a living subject. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295272 | RADIAL DEPLOYMENT SURGICAL TOOL - A radial deployment surgical tool having an inner shaft, an outer shaft and a function head. The radial deployment surgical tool is adapted for performing surgical procedures within narrow regions within a patient. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295273 | DEVICE FOR APPLYING LIQUID SKINCARE PRODUCTS IN COMBINATION WITH VACUUM AND ABRASION - A liquid delivery wand includes a centrally located fluid storage chamber. An absorbent pad is located within the working end of the wand for applying the treatment liquid to the skin while a vacuum is applied to the skin through an abrasive coated treatment tip. Coaxial, cylindrical tubes with flow channels between tube surfaces control the flow rate, the pressure drop being established by the close fit and length of adjacent surfaces of the coaxial components. The flow rate of the liquid is adjustable by simply rotating the interfitting components. The chamber that holds the liquid is sealed from the atmosphere at the distal and proximal end. When the wand is connected to vacuum and the distal end contacts the skin, the vacuum applies a negative pressure to the fluids within a fluid chamber. A small portion of liquid is thus transferred to wet the filter pad. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295274 | HAIR REMOVAL APPARATUS AND METHOD - A hair removal apparatus and method is presented. The hair removal apparatus can have a pair of tension units and at least one hair removal line. In one aspect, each of the tension units can have a first arm and a second arm that is moveable in relation to the first arm such that the distance between the distal ends of the two arms can be changed with respect to one another. In one aspect of the hair removal method, the line is configured to form an “X,” with the center of the “X” being the twist point. The hair is removed by moving the twist point past the target hair, catching the target hair in a portion of the twist point, removing it from the skin. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295275 | HAIR REMOVAL APPARATUS AND METHOD - A hair removal apparatus and method is presented. The hair removal apparatus can have a pair of tension units and at least one hair removal line. In one aspect, each of the tension units can have a first arm and a second arm that is moveable in relation to the first arm such that the distance between the distal ends of the two arms can be changed with respect to one another. In one aspect of the hair removal method, the line is configured to form an “X,” with the center of the “X” being the twist point. The hair is removed by moving the twist point past the target hair, catching the target hair in a portion of the twist point, removing it from the skin. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295276 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INTERVERTEBRAL DISC BULGE REDUCTION - A system and method for treating a bulge in an intervertebral disc annulus fibrosus adjacent to a vertebral body of a patient's spine using a repair device including a suture element, a patch element and a bone anchor. A bore is formed through a portion of the vertebral body, including an endplate thereof adjacent to the intervertebral disc. A suture picker is deployed through the bore and the annulus fibrosus, and the suture element is coupled to the suture picker. The suture picker is withdrawn from the bore. The suture element is pulled so as to draw the patch element against the bulge, and continued tension on the suture element urges the patch and the bulged anteriorly so as to re-approximate the natural shape of the annulus fibrosus. The suture element is secured to the vertebral body using the bone anchor. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295277 | HANDHELD SAFETY SUTURING DEVICE - Needle-stick injuries are associated with considerable risk of morbidity for healthcare workers and patients. The present invention of a handheld surgical suturing device allows for visualization of surgical field and better control of the suture needle with possible one-hand operation The device also provides active safety features that protect the surgeon from needle-stick injury. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295278 | SUTURING INSTRUMENT - An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295279 | Method and Apparatus for Passing a Suture - A suture passing instrument includes an operation handle, a cannulated needle member, a suture pusher, and a guide tube. The handle has an actuator movable between first and second positions. The needle member extends from the operation handle. The needle member has a curved end portion. The needle member has an outer sidewall and an inner sidewall defining a bore extending through the needle member for receiving a suture. The suture pusher is movable within the needle member from a retracted position to an extended position. The guide tube has a body telescopically receiving a retriever loop. The loop is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. A suture can be moved by the suture pusher and captured by the retriever loop. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295280 | Auxiliary Device for a Puncture Needle - An auxiliary device for a puncture needle allowing an easier manipulation of puncture needles as well as being capable of improving the suture stability. The auxiliary device for a puncture needle comprises a plate-shaped auxiliary device main body on the surface of which parallel guide grooves were formed, and a plate-shaped rotating-sliding contact part rotatably attached to one of the edge parts of the auxiliary device main body. Moreover, a stabilization plate was provided at the lower end part of the auxiliary device main body. And, a window part for confirming an insertion-puncture needle-outer needle and a pullout-puncture needle were provided at the lower part side portion of the auxiliary device main body. Moreover, a projecting edge part was formed at the upper end part of the auxiliary device main body, and an opening side width of a portion located at the projecting edge part of the guide grooves was made wider than the width of the other portion of the guide grooves. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295281 | MEDICAL GRIPPING DEVICE - In a background-art medical gripping device, when a wall surface of an in vivo tissue has a large tear, a side portion of the tear can be gripped by the gripping device, but the other side portion opposed to the side portion cannot be gripped simultaneously. Therefore, to close the tear, complicated operation is required to be performed using plural gripping devices. A medical gripping device according to the present invention includes a fixed clip, a pair of movable clips made from an elastic material and provided to face the fixed clip, the movable clips having lower ends fixed to the fixed clip and the other ends opened, and a control mechanism which shifts from each other a timing at which a gripping target is gripped between one of the movable clips and the fixed clip and a timing at which the target is gripped between the other movable clip and the fixed clip. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295282 | FASTENER AND DRIVE METHOD FOR SOFT TISSUE REPAIR - A surgical fastener for delivering into body tissue during a surgical procedure is disclosed. The surgical fastener includes a continuous helical coil having a proximal end and a distal end. The continuous helical coil has a cross-section with at least five sides. A first helical coil section is located at the distal end. A tapered point extends from the first helical coil. A central passage that passes through the center of the fastener has a non-circular shape. The central passage defines a longitudinal axis. The continuous helical coil has a profile transverse to the longitudinal axis. The profile is non-circular. A tail is located at the proximal end of the continuous helical coil. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295283 | SOFT TISSUE REPAIR PROSTHESIS, EXPANDABLE DEVICE, AND METHOD OF SOFT TISSUE REPAIR - A hernia repair device is provided which may include a soft tissue repair prosthesis and an expandable device configured to be removably connected with the soft tissue repair prosthesis. When expanded, the expandable device may be configured to position the soft tissue repair prosthesis adjacent a hernia defect. The soft tissue repair prosthesis may include at least one loop or slit configured to receive a portion of the expandable device. The prosthesis may include a tether to hoist, locate or position the soft tissue repair prosthesis. The expandable device may include indicia for positioning the prosthesis relative to the edge of the hernia defect. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295284 | SURGICAL MESH AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - The present invention provides a surgical mesh device ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295285 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MAGNET-INDUCED COMPRESSION ANASTOMOSIS BETWEEN ADJACENT ORGANS - Methods and apparatus for creating an anastomosis or fistula between the gallbladder and an adjacent organ are disclosed. First, a parent magnet, typically a permanent magnet, is deployed in the stomach, small intestine, or another organ adjacent to the gallbladder, and a mating daughter material is deployed in the gallbladder in order to create a magnet-compression anastomosis. The gallbladder may then be ablated or otherwise functionally inactivated through the anastomosis. Another aspect of the invention relates to an all-in-one surgical kit that contains all the necessary specialized tools for a surgeon to perform the procedure. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295286 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR REGULATING THE ACTIVATION OF GHRELIN HORMONES WITHIN A STOMACH - Methods and devices regulate the activation of ghrelin hormones within a stomach in order to treat weight disorders, to promote learning and memory functions, to treat stress-induced depression, and to control sleep duration. In one embodiment, a method for regulating activation of ghrelin hormones within a stomach comprises a means for isolating non-activated ghrelin hormones from food content and dietary lipids within the stomach. These means for isolating may take any number of forms and may comprise one or more of a surgical procedure, an implanted device, or an ingestible substance. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295287 | ACTUATION SYSTEM FOR AN ANASTOMOSIS DEVICE - An anastomosis device including an actuation system adapted to control the deployment of the anastomosis device. The anastomosis device includes a watertight barrier for preventing bodily fluids from traversing an actuation wire lumen containing a plurality of actuation wires. The anastomosis device can include a lockout system on a mechanical actuator that prevents disengagement of a grasping assembly until healing from an anastomosis procedure is complete and the anastomosis device is removed. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295288 | SURGICAL DEVICE FOR THE TEMPORARY PROTECTION OF ANASTOMOSIS - A surgical device ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295289 | MICROSURGERY CLAMP, IN PARTICULAR MICROINCISION CAPSULORHEXIS CLAMP - Microsurgery clamp, particularly a microincision capsulorhexis clamp, having a proximal handling portion or handle including two branches or arms interconnected at one of the ends thereof, so as to be suitable for being approached or separated elastically, and a distal clamping portion having two narrow and thin clamping blades connected to the distal ends of the handling branches and oriented laterally relative thereto. The distal end of each of the clamping blades being curved in a direction opposite to that of the handle, so as to form a clamping tip. The clamping blades are oriented in a direction or plane corresponding to the approaching or separation directions of the handling branches. The clamping blades are arranged above each other, relative to a vertical position of said handle, so that the approaching or separation movement of said handling branches results in the approaching or separation movement of said clamping tips, respectively. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295290 | SURGICAL HEMOSTATIC CLIP INCLUDING WORK-HARDENED, MOVEMENT-INHIBITING STRUCTURE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING SAME - A surgical clip includes a clip body defining opposed, first and second leg portions. Each of the first and second leg portions includes a distal end region and a proximal end region, with the proximal end regions connected at an apex to form a bail portion. The surgical clip also includes a work-hardened, movement-inhibiting structure defined in the clip body adapted to enhance clip retention on tissue. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295291 | Novel Vascular Clamp - The present invention relates to vascular clamps, in particular, a clamp designed to clamp a vein or artery such as an umbilical vascular, without severing the vasculature. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295292 | VIBRATION DAMPENING OPHTHALMIC PNEUMATIC SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - An ophthalmic pneumatic surgical instrument | 2011-12-01 |
20110295293 | Feedback control of on/off pneumatic actuators - A surgical system having feedback control for pneumatic actuators includes a pneumatic pressure source and a vitrectomy cutter having a cutting mechanism, a first pneumatic input port, and a second pneumatic input port. A pneumatic actuator is configured to direct pneumatic pressure to one of the first and second pneumatic input ports. A first pressure transducer is located and configured to detect actual pressure at the first pneumatic input port, and a second pressure transducer is located and configured to detect actual pressure at the second pneumatic input port. A controller communicates with the first and second pressure transducers and the pneumatic actuator. It is configured to change the pneumatic actuator actuation timing based on the data communicated from the first and second pressure transducers. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295294 | ULTRASONIC TIP FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE CROWN LENGTHENING - An ultrasonic tip for minimally invasive crown lengthening, the tip includes a distal end having an external side having a serrated and/or a diamond and/or a rough surface or edge, which extends outward to a cutting edge, and an internal side having a polished area ending in a soft angle with the cutting edge; and a proximal end, which is adapted for mechanical coupling to a surgical handpiece that generates ultrasonic vibrations. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295295 | ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES - A surgical instrument. The surgical instrument includes an end effector that comprises a staple channel and an anvil that is movably translatable relative to the staple channel. A tool mounting portion is configured to interface with a robotic system and operably communicate with the end effector. The instrument further includes a first sensor that has an output that represents a first condition of a portion of the robotic system A second sensor has an output that represents a position of the anvil. An third sensor has an output that represents a position of a reciprocating knife within the end effector. An externally accessible memory device communicates with the first, second and third sensors. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295296 | Variable drive vitrectomy cutter - A vitrectomy probe having a variable duty cycle cutting mechanism is disclosed. The probe includes a motor and a cam driver rotationally driven by the motor. The cam driver has a non-planar driver surface having surface features that vary at different radii. A follower mechanism is arranged to selectively interface with the driver surface at different radii on the driver surface in a manner to selectively interface with the varied surface features at the different radii. The follower is arranged to transfer rotational movement of the cam driver into linear movement of the follower mechanism. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295297 | DICE CUTTING SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - Surgical punch tools remove a waste portion of tissue from a main portion and subdivide the waste portion into two or more smaller debris portions. The tools may also grasp the waste portion or eject the debris from the tool. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295298 | Method Of Producing A Medical Implantable Device And Medical Implantable Device - A method for producing a connection between two components of a medical implant which preferably are composed of different materials which cannot be welded to one another is described. Furthermore, a medical implant which is produced according to the method is described. Moreover, the medical implant comprises an connection interface whereon said medical implant is detachable from an introduction wire or introduction implement. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295299 | GASTRIC VOLUME FILLING CONSTRUCT - The technology described herein provides methods for addressing obesity by introducing a device into the stomach. Embodiments of a device for treating obesity may comprise a shaped membrane construct that contains a swellable material. The construct may be contained within a capsule which is ingested by a patient. When the capsule dissolves in the stomach, the gastric secretions may diffuse through the membrane and spontaneously swell the internal material, which swells and stiffens the construct sufficiently to create a sensation of satiety by both filling gastric volume and by distending the walls of the stomach. The volume of the construct may be sufficient to prevent passage through the pyloric sphincter. After a set period of time or after the administration of a degradation formulation, the device may structurally degrade to allow passage through the pyloric sphincter and eventual passage from the body. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295300 | INTRAGASTRIC TREATMENT ASSEMBLY - This invention relates to an assembly comprising an intragastric balloon ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295301 | Catheter System and Method For Occluding A Body Vessel - Some embodiments of a balloon catheter device for introduction into a body vessel, in particular the coronary sinus, can include a catheter shaft which carries an inflatable balloon on its distal portion and in which a plurality of different lumens are formed. In particular embodiments, a system for treating heart tissue can include a coronary sinus occlusion catheter configured for improved deliverability to the coronary sinus and for thereafter performing intermittent occlusion of the coronary sinus. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295302 | Treating Heart Tissue - Some systems and methods for treating heart tissue may include instruments for intermittently occluding the coronary sinus using a coronary sinus occlusion catheter device. In some embodiments, the coronary sinus occlusion catheter can be used before or during a coronary intervention procedure in which a blockage in a heart is repaired or removed. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295303 | Embolization Device - In an embolization device ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295304 | Temporary Embolic Protection Device And Medical Procedure For Delivery Thereof - An embolic protection device and medical procedure for positioning the device in the aortic arch is disclosed. The device and method effectively prevent material from entering with blood flow into side branch vessels of the aortic arch. The device is a collapsible embolic protection device devised for temporary transvascular delivery to an aortic arch of a patient, wherein the device has a protection unit that comprises a selectively permeable unit adapted to prevent embolic material from passage with a blood flow into a plurality of aortic side branch vessels at the aortic arch. The protection unit is permanently attached to a transvascular delivery unit at a connection point provided at the selectively permeable unit, and a first support member for the protection unit that is at least partly arranged at a periphery of the selectively permeable unit. In an expanded state of the device, the connection point is enclosed by the first support member or arranged at said support member. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295305 | BLOOD CLOT REMOVAL DEVICE - A blood clot removal device ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295306 | BLOOD FILTER RETRIEVAL DEVICES AND METHODS - Devices for retrieving intravascular blood filters can include sheaths into which the devices can be received. Some devices can include catches by which the filters can be manipulated to facilitate introduction of the filters into the sheaths. Some devices can include tapered regions that can align the sheaths with other portions of the devices. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295307 | EXPANDABLE RETRIEVAL DEVICE - A device for retrieving an intravascular device from a body lumen is disclosed. A retrieval device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a braided member coupled to an elongated shaft member. The braided member may include a number of filaments defining a radially expandable inner lumen configured to receive and encapsulate the intravascular device therein. An elastomeric jacket disposed about at least a portion of the braided member may encase the filaments. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295308 | LASER-CUT CLOT PULLER - A device for removing blood clots and methods of making and using the same. The clot pulling device may include a first spine, a second spine disposed parallel to the first spine, and a basket disposed between and coupled to the spines. In addition, a pushing member may be coupled to the first spine and extend proximally therefrom. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295309 | Combination belt buckle and tourniquet - A combination belt buckle and tourniquet includes a main body, a cover and a cover axle on which the main body and the cover are mounted so as to be rotatable relative to each other. When the combination is used as a tourniquet, webbing is fed between the main body and the cover, and the main body and the cover are rotated toward each other so as to form a pinching vice for capturing the webbing tightly therebetween. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295310 | STYPTIC DEVICE - A styptic device ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295311 | Neck enhancement device - Neck enhancement device with a pair of flexible rectangular adhesive strips, a flexible filament and a filament retaining device. A plurality vertically aligned apertures are located near the end of each strip. The first and second adhesive members are placed next to each other in a mirror-like fashion. The filament is laced through the apertures in the strips. The filament retaining member is slid along the filament and then locked in place. The strips are adhered to the back of a user's neck so that when the filament lace is drawn together, the skin at the rear of the user's neck is drawn together causing the skin at the side and front portion of the user's neck to tighten thereby reducing wrinkles at the side and front portion of the user's neck. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295312 | Nasal Dilator with Means to Direct Resilient Properties - A nasal dilator comprises a laminate of vertical layers each consisting of one or more members or components. The laminated layers form a unitary, or single body, truss featuring horizontal regions adapted to engage outer wall tissues of first and second nasal passages and to traverse the bridge of a nose therebetween. When in use the dilator acts to stabilize and/or expand the nasal outer wall tissues and prevent said tissues from drawing inward during breathing. The dilator includes means to direct its resilient properties comprising one or more interior or exterior material separations, or discontinuity of shape of material, formed in at least one region of the truss and extending through at least one layer of the dilator. Said material separation or discontinuity of shape may comprise an opening, relief cut, slit or notch, and which may be configured to separate or vertically protrude, in part, from the truss when the dilator is in use on the nose of a wearer. Said separation or vertical protrusion changes the angle of focused delaminating spring biasing forces generated by the resilient layer, transforming said forces, at least in part, from primarily peel forces into primarily shear forces, and further redistributing or imparting said transformed forces to tissue engaging surface areas extending outward and beyond said material separation. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295313 | Accurate Jaw Closure Force in a Catheter Based Instrument - A surgical instrument includes a housing, an end effector and an elongated shaft extending therebetween. The end effector is movable between open and closed configurations. The elongated shaft includes a distal portion that is movable between aligned and articulated configurations. The surgical instrument further includes a driving assembly that induces motion in the end effector between open and closed configuration and maintains a closure pressure in the range of about 3 kg/cm | 2011-12-01 |
20110295314 | MEDICAL GRIPPING TOOL - A medical gripping tool includes a synthetic body and a metallic layer on a surface of the synthetic body, whereby the synthetic body is configured to be elastically reshaped in its expected application. According to the invention, the gripping tool is configured so that the metallic layer is structurally reshaped in the expected application. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295315 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RELEASABLY HOLDING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - The invention is directed to a system and method for releasably holding a surgical instrument ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295316 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VESSEL ACCESS CLOSURE - Embodiments are described for closing vascular access ports, such as arteriotomies, which involve placement and deployment of an expandable device configured to prevent blood flow across a subject arteriotomy while also keeping disturbance of intravascular flow to a minimum. Suitable prostheses may comprise one or more frames constructed from lengths of flexible materials, such as shape memory alloys or polymers. Such frames may be coupled to sheetlike or tube-like structures configured to spread loads, minimize thrombosis which may be related to intravascular flow, and maintain hemostasis. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295317 | Restraint system for a spinal decompression table - A spinal decompression table includes a table frame, a back support portion attached to the table frame and defining a longitudinal direction, at least one pair of arms coupled with and extending from the back support portion. When in a release position, the at least one pair of arms is generally coplanar with the back support portion. Each pair of arms has a pair of respective distal ends which are substantially aligned relative to the longitudinal direction. The respective distal ends of each of the at least one pair of arms are removably coupled together with a securing mechanism. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295318 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR LATERALLY STABILIZED CONSTRAINT OF SPINOUS PROCESSES - A spinal implant for limiting flexion of the spine includes a tether structure for encircling adjacent spinal processes. Usually, a pair of compliance members will be provided as part of the tether structure for elastically limiting flexion while permitting an extension. A cross-member is provided between the compliance member or other portions of the tether structure to stabilize the tether structure and prevent misalignment after implantation. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295319 | DYNAMIC PEDICLE SCREW - A bone screw, such as a pedicle screw, comprises en elongate structure having a head, an anchoring portion or tip distal from the head, and an open, helical body extending there-between. In one embodiment, the invention provides a screw having an anchoring portion, which engages bone and which includes a means for engaging a driver or the like whereby the screw is driven into the bone by the anchoring portion. A method of driving a screw is also provided. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295320 | Dynamic stabilization assembly with frusto-conical connection - A dynamic fixation medical implant for attachment to at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having first and second rigid sections, at least one section having a convex or frusto-conical surface held in spaced relation with the other section by an elastic spacer. The spacer may be an over-mold that connects the first and second rigid sections. Some embodiments include an inner, tougher spacer and a separate over-molded spacer. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295321 | Methods for Correction of Spinal Deformities - A method of treating a spinal column shape deformation includes fixing at least two fixation screw assemblies to respective vertebrae, sliding a rod between the arm extensions on each of the fixation screw assemblies, swinging the channels of the screw assemblies relative to the fixation screws so that the channels become less inclined to the axes of the fixation screws, and so that the rod is located generally posteriorly of the spinal column, locking the channel against swinging relative to the screw, rotating the rod about its axis relative to at least one of the channels, and locking the rod against movement relative to the channel. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295322 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR INCREASING THE BENDING STIFFNESS AND CONSTRAINING THE SPREADING OF A SPINAL SEGMENT - A system for restricting spinal flexion includes superior and inferior tether structures joined by a pair of compliance members. Compliance members comprise tension members which apply a relatively low elastic tension on the tether structures. By placing the tether structures on or over adjacent spinous processes, flexion of a spinal segment can be controlled in order to reduce pain. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295323 | FACET REPLACEMENT/SPACING AND FLEXIBLE SPINAL STABILIZATION - The present invention is related to spinal stabilization devices. More particularly, this invention relates to devices for addressing back pain originating in the facet joints and the spinous processes of the vertebrae. One embodiment of the present invention includes a substantially T-shaped facet implant for insertion between the facets of two successive vertebrae after a desired amount of the articulating surfaces have been resected. The long and flat portion of the T-shaped facet implant is inserted in between the facets and then the wings of the T-shape, also called fixation tabs, are secured to the spine to secure the facet implant into place. The T-shape implant may also be a part of a spinal stabilization system that includes a facet implant, a spinous process spacer, and a flexible connecting member securing the same. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295324 | TABBED COMPRESSION PLATE AND METHOD OF USE - An orthopedic fixation system includes a compression plate member, a lag screw member, and a plurality of threaded screw members for applying compression across a fracture site. The compression plate member has a generally planar body, an upper surface, and bone contacting surface. The planar body includes a plurality of through-apertures and a hinged tab member having an elongated through aperture, which is adapted to receive the lag screw member and cause the tab member to recess towards a bone divot formed in the underlying bone. The compression plate member is also adapted to receive the plurality of screw members within the through-apertures for fixably and threadably coupling the compression plate member across a fracture site. The lag screw member applies a direct compressive force across the fracture site through the deformable tab that is recessed in the bone divot. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295325 | Bone Plate - A bone plate includes an upper surface, a bone contacting surface, and at least one hole extending through the upper and bone contacting surfaces. The bone plate defines a longitudinal axis. The at least one hole defines a central axis and is elongated in a direction substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis. The hole may include a threaded portion and a non-threaded portion, and the threaded portion may extend through an angle of between about 190° and about 280° with respect to the central axis. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295326 | Bone Plate with Pre-Assembled Drill Guide Tips - Removable drill guide tips are pre-assembled into threaded holes of a bone plate. The tips may be used with an extension to together function as a conventional drill guide. After drilling, the extension or another tool is used to remove the tips from the plate. According to another use, the tip is used as a guide for a drill bit without any additional extension and then removed with a tool. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295327 | BI-DIRECTIONAL FIXATING TRANSVERTEBRAL BODY SCREWS AND POSTERIOR CERVICAL AND LUMBAR INTERARTICULATING JOINT CALIBRATED STAPLING DEVICES FOR SPINAL FUSION - A self-drilling bone fusion screw apparatus is disclosed which includes at least first and second sliding boxes. A first screw member having a tapered end and a threaded body is disposed within the first sliding box, and a second screw member having a tapered end and a threaded body disposed within the second sliding box. An adjuster adjusts the height of the sliding boxes. The screw members are screwed into vertebral bodies in order to fuse the vertebral bodies together. A plurality of the self-drilling bone fusion screw apparatuses may be attached together and/or integrated via a plate or cage. Also disclosed is a cervical facet staple that includes a curved staple base and at least two prongs attached to the bottom surface of the curved staple base. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295328 | 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. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295329 | Patient Selectable Joint Arthroplasty Devices and Surgical Tools - A patellar 3-D guidance tool includes a template. The template includes at least one contact surface for engaging a surface of the patella. The at least one contact surface substantially conforms with the surface associated with the patellar. At least one guide aperture directs movement of a surgical instrument, wherein the shape and/or position of the guide aperture is based, at least in part, on three or more anatomic reference points associated with the patellar. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295330 | ANCHORING UNITS FOR LEADS OF IMPLANTABLE ELECTRIC STIMULATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING - A nerve stimulation lead has a distal end, a proximal end, and a longitudinal length. The nerve stimulation lead includes a plurality of electrodes disposed at the distal end, a plurality of terminals disposed at the proximal end, and a plurality of conductive wires electrically coupling the plurality of electrodes electrically to the plurality of terminals. The nerve stimulation lead also includes at least one anchoring unit disposed on the nerve stimulation lead. The at least one anchoring unit is configured and arranged for anchoring the nerve stimulation lead against a bony structure. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295331 | LASER-BASED NERVE STIMULATORS FOR, E.G., HEARING RESTORATION IN COCHLEAR PROSTHESES AND METHOD - Apparatus and method for optical- or optical-and-electrical stimulation of e.g., auditory nerve pathways, for example spiral ganglion in the cochlea or neurons in the cochlear nerve. Several configurations for guiding and directing the optical stimulation are disclosed. Several configurations for guiding and directing the electrical field (used in some embodiments, for sensitization) in and through the destination tissue to which the optical stimulation is directed are disclosed. In some embodiments, and array of IR VCSELs emit stimulation light, in particular to tissue in the cochlea for restoring hearing. In some embodiments, an electrical signal is also applied in a manner that reduces the amount of light in a pulse that is otherwise needed to elicit a NAP. In some embodiments, a heat dissipater is used to spread the heat generated by operation of the lasers and their circuits, to avoid heat damage to the tissue. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295332 | QUANTITATIVE MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS OF SEIZURES - Methods, including a method, comprising selecting a plurality of dependent variables relating to each of a plurality of seizures in a patient; selecting a plurality of independent variables, wherein each independent variable comprises a therapy parameter, a therapy delivery parameter, a temporal factor, an environmental factor, or a patient factor; quantifying at least one relationship between each of at least two dependent variables and each of at least two independent variables; and performing an action in response to said quantifying, selected from reporting said at least one relationship, assessing an efficacy of a therapy, assessing an adverse effect of said therapy, providing a therapy modification recommendation, or adjusting said therapy. A medical device system capable of implementing a method. A non-transitory computer readable program storage medium containing instructions that, when executed by a computer, perform a method. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295333 | IMPLANTABLE SYSTEMS AND DEVICES FOR PROVIDING CARDIAC DEFIBRILLATION AND APNEA THERAPY - An aspect relates to a system for providing baroreflex stimulation. An embodiment of the system comprises a cardiac activity monitor to sense cardiac activity and provide a signal indicative of the cardiac activity, and a baroreflex stimulator. The stimulator includes a pulse generator and a modulator. The pulse generator provides a baroreflex stimulation signal adapted to provide a baroreflex therapy. The modulator receives the signal indicative of the cardiac activity and modulates the baroreflex stimulation signal based on the signal indicative of the cardiac activity to change the baroreflex therapy from a first baroreflex therapy to a second baroreflex therapy. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295334 | Method and System for Adjusting a Stimulation Rate of an Implantable Medical Device - An implantable medical device includes a lead, a pulse generator, a cardiac signal module, a fusion detection module and a rate modification module. The lead includes electrodes that are configured to be positioned within a heart to sense cardiac signals of the heart. The pulse generator delivers stimulus pulses to the heart through at least one of the electrodes. The cardiac signal module monitors the cardiac signals and directs the pulse generator to deliver one or more of the stimulus pulses to the heart at a stimulation rate based on the cardiac signals. The fusion detection module identifies a presence of fusion-based behavior of the heart that is associated with delivery of the one or more of the stimulus pulses. The rate modification module then adjusts the stimulation rate based on the presence of the fusion-based behavior. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295335 | DEVICE AND IMPLANTATION SYSTEM FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS - The present specification discloses devices and methodologies for the treatment of nocturnal GERD. Individuals with nocturnal GERD may be treated by implanting a stimulation device within the patient's lower esophageal sphincter and applying electrical stimulation to the patient's lower esophageal sphincter, in accordance with certain predefined protocols. The presently disclosed devices have a simplified design because they do not require sensing systems capable of sensing when a person is engaged in a wet swallow and have improved energy storage requirements. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295336 | DEVICE AND IMPLANTATION SYSTEM FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS - The present specification discloses devices and methodologies for the treatment of diurnal GERD. Individuals with GERD may be treated by implanting a stimulation device within the patient's lower esophageal sphincter and applying electrical stimulation to the patient's lower esophageal sphincter, in accordance with certain predefined protocols. The presently disclosed devices have a simplified design because they do not require sensing systems capable of sensing when a person is engaged in a wet swallow and have improved energy storage requirements. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295337 | Systems and Methods For Regulating Metabolic Hormone Producing Tissue - A method for regulating hormone production comprises placing at least one electrode in a gastrointestinal tract of a patient and recording an electrical signal during a preselected event produced by the gastrointestinal tract. The method further involves the steps of storing the electrical signal, and playing back the electrical signal by activating the electrode during the absence of the preselected event. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295338 | BCI APPARATUS FOR STROKE REHABILITATION - A BCI apparatus ( | 2011-12-01 |
20110295339 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR STABILIZING, IMPROVING MOBILITY, AND CONTROLLING CARTILAGE MATRIX DEGRADATION OF WEIGHT-BEARING ARTICULAR JOINTS - An apparatus and method for improving mobility and/or the quality of synovial fluid of an affected articular joint are disclosed, wherein the joint is associated with at least a first muscle group and at least a second muscle group each having an antagonistic relationship for effecting mobility of the joint through a range of motion when recruited by natural neural impulses. The apparatus and method include an electro-medical device configured to apply motor-level electrical stimulation in a multiphasic pattern via at least a first channel and at least a second channel, the multiphasic pattern being programmed into the electro-medical device and corresponding to the sequence of an electromyographic output for the joint; at least two first electrodes connected to the at least first channel of said electro-medical device, the at least two first electrodes being positioned proximate to the at least first muscle group; at least two second electrodes connected to the at least second channel of said electro-medical device, the at least two second electrodes being positioned proximate to the at least second muscle group; and an applicator configured to be worn on the articular segment such that the at least two first electrodes and the at least two second electrodes are disposed between the applicator and the articular segment, the applicator being further configured to reduce compressive forces on at least one compartment of the affected joint. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295340 | Multiple Telemetry and/or Charging Coil Configurations for an Implantable Medical Device System - Embodiments of an improved implantable medical device system for orientation-independent telemetry to and from the device are disclosed. The system includes an external controller which produces an electromagnetic field to induce a current in a coil in the implantable medical device and vise versa. In a preferred embodiment, the external controller comprises three orthogonal coils, each of which is potentially activated to generate or receive the electromagnetic field. Algorithms are disclosed to allow for the choice of one or more of the coils best suited for telemetry based on the chosen coil's orientation with respect to the telemetry coil in the implantable medical device. Because all three of the orthogonal coils are potentially activated if necessary, the result is that at least one of the coils will be in a proper orientation with respect to the coil in the implantable medical device, thereby improving telemetry efficiency. The disclosed techniques may be used to improve induction-based powering or charging of the device as well. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295341 | MEDICATION DELIVERY SYSTEM AND MONITOR - Systems and methods for the delivery and monitoring of a medication, such as insulin, to a recipient are provided. An exemplary feature-rich system comprises an infusion pump with a control system for controlling medication delivery by the infusion pump and a bolus estimator for estimating an appropriate amount of medication for delivery by the control system with the infusion pump. Estimating the appropriate amount of medication for delivery is based upon one or more settings which each vary according to a setting profile. In other embodiments, the control system comprises a suspend function for temporarily suspending medication delivery by the infusion pump, an alarm profile function for programming a variable alarm volume of the alarm and a simplified menu for controlling the dual wave bolus delivery function. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295342 | Method for enhancing cell-mediated immunity - Disclosed are a light irradiating device for enhancing cell-mediated immunity and a method using the same. The light irradiating device generates a radiation with a specific peak wavelength at 610±20 nm or 710±30 nm which activates the structure of proteins involved in the activation of T lymphocytes responsible for cell-mediated immunity thus effecting immunopotentiation. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295343 | NEAR-INFRARED ELECTROMAGNETIC MODIFICATION OF CELLULAR STEADY-STATE MEMBRANE POTENTIALS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for applying near-infrared optical energies and dosimetries to alter the bioenergetic steady-state trans-membrane and mitochondrial potentials (ΔΨ-steady) of all irradiated cells through an optical depolarization effect. This depolarization causes a concomitant decrease in the absolute value of the trans-membrane potentials ΔΨ of the irradiated mitochondrial and plasma membranes. Many cellular anabolic reactions and drug-resistance mechanisms can be rendered less functional and/or mitigated by a decrease in a membrane potential ΔΨ, the affiliated weakening of the proton motive force Δp, and the associated lowered phosphorylation potential ΔGp. Within the area of irradiation exposure, the decrease in membrane potentials ΔΨ will occur in bacterial, fungal and mammalian cells in unison. This membrane depolarization provides the ability to potentiate antimicrobial, antifungal and/or antineoplastic drugs against only targeted undesirable cells. | 2011-12-01 |
20110295344 | OPTICAL BUNDLE APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL AND/OR ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION OF PERIPHERAL NERVES - Apparatus and method for making and using devices that generate optical signals, and optionally also electrical signals in combination with one or more such optical signals, to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a sensory-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to treat nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) or the central nervous system (CNS) and provide sensations to stimulate and/or simulate “sensory” signals in nerves and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human) to treat other sensory deficiencies (e.g., touch, feel, balance, visual, taste, or olfactory) and provide sensations related to those sensory deficiencies, and/or to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a motor-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to control a muscle or a robotic prosthesis. | 2011-12-01 |