Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080275445 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT ABLATION FOR TREATMENT OF OBESITY - Devices and methods for ablating tissue in the wall of various organs of the gastrointestinal tract of a patient in order to cure or ameliorate metabolic pathophysiological conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, or type 2 diabetes mellitus are provided. Ablational treatment of target areas may be fractional or partial, rendering a post-treatment portion of target tissue ablated and another portion that is substantially intact. Fractional ablation is achieved by controlling the delivery of ablational energy across the surface area being treated, and controlling the depth of energy penetration into tissue. Surface area control of energy delivery may controlled by the spatial pattern of distributed ablation elements or by the selective activation of a subset of a dense pattern of ablation elements. Embodiments of the device include an ablational electrode array that spans 360 degrees and an array that spans an arc of less than 360 degrees. | 11-06-2008 |
20080281302 | DETACHABLE ANEURYSM NECK BRIDGE - In one embodiment, a neck bridge for bridging the neck of an aneurysm includes a junction region, a number of radially extending array elements attached to the junction region, and a cover attached to one or both of the junction region and an array element. The array elements are configured to be positioned within the aneurysm after the neck bridge is deployed from a delivery device. In a second embodiment, the neck bridge includes a junction region and a braided or mesh-like structure secured to the junction region. The braided or mesh-like structure is made from an elastic material. | 11-13-2008 |
20080312660 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MEASURING THE SPACE AROUND A NERVE ROOT - Described herein are method, systems and devices for measuring the region adjacent to or around a nerve root, such as the space within an intervertebral foramen before, during and/or after a spinal decompression procedure. Measurement devices may be advanced by pulling on them using a guidewire passing through the intervertebral foramen and out of the subject. The measurement device may include sounds for determining one or more dimensions of the space around a nerve root within an intervertebral space, lateral recess or central canal. Various embodiments of sounds, including calibrated, inflatable, expandable, moldable, and tapered sounds (or combinations of these) are described. | 12-18-2008 |
20080319350 | ELECTRICAL MEANS TO NORMALIZE ABLATIONAL ENERGY TRANSMISSION TO A LUMINAL TISSUE SURFACE OF VARYING SIZE - Methods and devices for measuring the size of a body lumen and a method for ablating tissue that uses the measurement to normalize delivery of ablational energy from an expandable operative element to a luminal target of varying circumference are provided. The method includes inserting into the lumen an expandable operative element having circuitry with resistivity or inductance that varies according to the circumference of the operative element, varying the expansion of the operative element with an expansion medium, measuring the resistivity of the circuitry, and relating the resistivity or inductance to a value for the circumference of the operative element. In some embodiments the sizing circuit includes a conductive elastomer wrapped around the operative element. Other embodiments of the method apply to operative elements that include an overlapping energy delivery element support in which the overlap varies inversely with respect to the state of expansion, and which is configured with sizing electrodes that sense the amount of the overlap. | 12-25-2008 |
20090012513 | Ablation in the Gastrointestinal Tract to Achieve Hemostasis and Eradicate Lesions With a Propensity for Bleeding - Devices and methods are provided for the ablation of regions of the digestive tract to achieve hemostasis and to eradicate chronically bleeding lesions as occur with gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE), portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG), radiation proctopathy and colopathy, arteriovenous malformations, and angiodysplasia. Ablation is typically provided in a wide-field manner, and in conjunction with sufficient pressure to achieve coaptive coagulation. Ablation, as provided the invention, starts at the mucosa and penetrates deeper into the gastrointestinal wall in a controlled manner. Ablation control may be exerted by way of electrode design and size, energy density, power density, number of applications, pattern of applications, and pressure. Control may also be provided by a fractional ablation that ablates some tissue within a target region and leaves a portion substantially unaffected. Embodiments of the device include an ablational electrode array that spans 360 degrees and an array that spans an arc of less than 360 degrees. | 01-08-2009 |
20090012518 | Method and Apparatus for Ablation of Benign, Pre-Cancerous and Early Cancerous Lesions That Originate Within the Epithelium and are Limited to the Mucosal Layer of the Gastrointestinal Tract - Devices and methods are provided for ablating areas of the gastrointestinal tract affected with certain benign, pre-cancerous, or early cancerous lesions that originate within the epithelium and are limited to the mucosal layer of the gastrointestinal tract wall. Examples of such lesions include benign conditions such as cervical inlet patch (ectopic gastric mucosa in the upper esophagus), as well as pre-cancerous and cancerous conditions such as intestinal metaplasia/intra-epithelial neoplasia/early cancer of the stomach, squamous intra-epithelial neoplasia and early cancer of the esophagus, oral and pharyngeal leukoplakia, flat colonic polyps, anal intra-epithelial neoplasia (AIN), and early cancers of the anal canal. Ablation, as provided the invention, commences at the epithelial layer of the gastrointestinal wall and penetrates deeper into the gastrointestinal wall in a controlled manner to achieve a successful patient outcome, the latter of which is defined generally as eradication of the targeted lesion, and/or a change in the targeted lesion to prevent or forestall patient morbidity. Embodiments of the device include an ablational electrode array that spans 360 degrees and an array that spans an arc of less than 360 degrees. | 01-08-2009 |
20090069709 | METHOD, SYSTEM, AND APPARATUS FOR NEURAL LOCALIZATION - Described herein are devices, systems and methods for determining if a nerve is nearby a device or a region of a device. In general, a device for determining if a nerve is nearby a device includes an elongate body having an outer surface with one or more bipole pairs arranged on the outer surface. Bipole pairs may also be referred to as tight bipoles. The bipole pairs may be arranged as a bipole network, and may include a cathode and an anode that are spaced relatively close together to form a limited broadcast field. In general, the broadcast filed is a controlled or “tight” broadcast field that extends from the bipole pair(s). Methods of using these devices and system are also described. | 03-12-2009 |
20090124978 | MODULAR STEERABLE SHEATH CATHETERS - An apparatus for accessing a site within a body includes a cannula and an elongate member. The cannula has a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending therebetween. The elongate member has a distal end configured for insertion into the lumen, wherein the distal end of the elongate member is attachable to and releasable from the distal end of the cannula. A method for accessing a site within a body includes inserting a distal end of an elongate member into a lumen of a cannula, detachably attaching the distal end of the elongate member to the cannula, and steering a distal end of the cannula to a desired site using the elongate member. | 05-14-2009 |
20090125054 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE COILS WITH NON-OVERLAPPING SECTIONS - A vaso-occlusive implant has a primary helical-coil shape that defines a primary axis and a three-dimensional secondary shape. The secondary shape includes a substantially helical section and a second section having a plurality of non-overlapping loops or loop sections. Each loop defines a plane that is oriented at an angle from about 30-150 degrees relative to a plane defined by an immediately preceding or immediately succeeding loop along the primary axis. The coil sections or loops can be generally circular loops or other smooth shapes. | 05-14-2009 |
20090149865 | TISSUE MODIFICATION DEVICES - Described herein are elongate device for modifying tissue having a plurality of flexibly connected rungs or links, and methods of using them, including methods of using them to decompress stenotic spinal tissue. These devices may be included as part of a system for modifying tissue. In general, these devices include a plurality of blades positioned on (or formed from) rungs that are flexibly connected. The rungs are typically rigid, somewhat flat and wider than they are long (e.g., rectangular). The rungs may be arranged, ladder like, and may be connected by a flexible connector substrate or between two or more cables. Different sized rungs may be used. The blades (on the rungs) may be arranged in a staggered arrangement. A tissue-collection or tissue capture element (e.g., chamber, bag, or the like) may be used to collect the cut or modified tissue. In some variations the tissue modification devices may have a non-linear axial shape, or may be converted from a first axial shape to a second axial shape. | 06-11-2009 |
20090171381 | DEVICES, METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR NEURAL LOCALIZATION - Described herein are tissue manipulation devices having a tight bipole network. In particular, described herein are smart tools such as rongeurs configured to sense the presence of a nerve or portion of nerve. Tissue may be cut (or otherwise manipulated) by using a tool having a tight bipolar network to sense when a nerve or portion of a nerve is in the tool prior to cutting. | 07-02-2009 |
20090177194 | AUTO-ALIGNING ABLATING DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - An ablation device and methods for use thereof including a support structure adapted to support an ablation structure within an alimentary tract of a patient are provided. The support structure includes a longitudinal support with a longitudinal axis and a rotational support. The rotational support is adapted to permit at least part of the ablation structure to rotate with respect to the longitudinal support's longitudinal axis. | 07-09-2009 |
20090177241 | MULTIPLE PATHWAYS FOR SPINAL NERVE ROOT DECOMPRESSION FROM A SINGLE ACCESS POINT - A method of accessing target tissue adjacent to a spinal nerve of a patient includes the steps of accessing a spine location of the patient by entering the patient through the skin at an access location, inserting a flexible tissue modification device through the access location to the spine location, advancing a distal portion of the first flexible tissue modification device from the spine location to a first exit location, passing through the first exit location and out of the patient, advancing the first or a second flexible tissue modification device through the same access location to the spine location and to a second exit location, and passing through the second exit location and out of the patient. | 07-09-2009 |
20100004654 | ACCESS AND TISSUE MODIFICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Described herein are methods and systems for precisely placing and/or manipulating devices within the body by first positioning a guidewire or pullwire through the body from a first location, around a curved pathway, and out of the body through a second location, so that the distal and proximal ends of the guidewire extend from the body, then pulling a device into position using the guidewire. The device to be positioned within the body is coupled to the proximal end of the guidewire, and the device is pulled into the body by pulling on the distal end of the guidewire that extends from the body. The device may be bimanually manipulated by pulling the guidewire distally, and an attachment to the device that extends proximally, allowing control of both the proximal and the distal ends. In this manner devices (and particularly implants such as innerspinous distracters, stimulating leads, and disc slings) may be positioned and/or manipulated within the body. Devices to modify tissue may also be positioned or manipulated so that a target tissue within the body is modified. | 01-07-2010 |
20100042133 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICE HAVING PIVOTABLE COUPLING - An assembly for occluding a vascular site (e.g., an aneurysm) of a human or veterinary patient includes a vaso-occlusive member, a pusher member having a distal end and a severable junction located proximal to the distal end, and a pivotable coupling that couples the pusher member to the occlusive member. A delivery catheter can be used to deliver the vaso-occlusive member to the vascular site. A method of using the assembly to occlude an aneurysm having an aneurysmal sac and an aneurysmal neck, includes locating the catheter within the aneurysmal neck, and manipulating the pusher member to place the vaso-occlusive member within the aneurysmal sac. The method further includes severing the severable junction to detach the vaso-occlusive member from the pusher member. As a result, an axial force is applied by the vaso-occlusive member in a proximal direction, which buckles the pivotable coupling to laterally deflect the axial force. The lateral deflection of the axial force caused by the buckling of the pivotable coupling prevents the catheter from being displaced from the aneurysmal neck by the axial force. | 02-18-2010 |
20100174301 | POLYMER COVERED VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICES AND METHODS OF PRODUCING SUCH DEVICES - This is a medical device for forming an embolism within the vasculature of a patient. More particularly, it concerns an occlusion device comprising an inner core covered with a polymer. The medical device encourages cellular attachment and growth while maintaining favorable handling, deployment and visualization characteristics. | 07-08-2010 |
20100222803 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF DE-ENDOTHELIALIZATION - Apparatus and methods for treating a wall of an aneurysm formed in a vessel includes introducing a tubular member into the body lumen until a distal end of the tubular member is located within the aneurysm. A fluid is delivered via a lumen of the tubular member into the aneurysm to at least partially de-endothelialize the wall of the aneurysm, thereby causing an endothelium of the wall to generate fibrous tissue to strengthen the wall of the aneurysm. | 09-02-2010 |
20100222804 | DETACHABLE ANEURYSM NECK BRIDGE - In one embodiment, a neck bridge for bridging the neck of an aneurysm includes a junction region, a number of radially extending array elements attached to the junction region, and a cover attached to one or both of the junction region and an array element. The array elements are configured to be positioned within the aneurysm after the neck bridge is deployed from a delivery device. In a second embodiment, the neck bridge includes a junction region and a braided or mesh-like structure secured to the junction region. The braided or mesh-like structure is made from an elastic material. | 09-02-2010 |
20100228278 | EXPANDING VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICE - This is a device for occluding a space within the body. In particular, the device comprises an expandable member, an inner member and one or more stop elements. The devices may be placed in a desired site within a mammal to facilitate the formation of an occlusion. | 09-09-2010 |
20100274250 | TISSUE MODIFICATION DEVICES AND METHODS - Described herein are devices, systems and methods for cutting tissue in a patient. In some embodiments, a tissue modification region of a device includes a pair of flexible elongate cutting members extending along the length of the tissue modification region. Each elongate cutting member may be configured to cut a discrete trough into tissue to a depth that is greater than the thickness of the cutting member. In some embodiments, the device includes a spacer. The spacer may be sized and configured to operate in one of two modes. A first mode, in which the spacer is coupled to the cutting members such that it holds a portion of each of the two cutting members a distance from one another, and a second mode, in which at least a portion of the spacer is moved away from a cutting member to allow the cutting members to cut further into tissue. | 10-28-2010 |
20100331666 | SYSTEM FOR EMBOLIZING A TARGET SITE IN A BODY BY APPLICATION OF AN EXTERNAL ENERGY - A vaso-occlusive device is introduced in a cavity of a patient's vasculature, such as an aneurysm, after which an external energy source, such as a MRI machine is activated to heat the vaso-occlusive device to assist in forming a thrombus or embolism within the treatment site, to release and/or activate a diagnostic or therapeutic agent carried by the vaso-occlusive device, and/or to fuse together portions of the vaso-occlusive device to help stabilize the device in a three-dimensional shape. | 12-30-2010 |
20100331883 | ACCESS AND TISSUE MODIFICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Described herein are methods and systems for precisely placing and/or manipulating devices within the body by first positioning a guidewire or pullwire through the body from a first location, around a curved pathway, and out of the body through a second location, so that the distal and proximal ends of the guidewire extend from the body, then pulling a device into position using the guidewire. The device to be positioned within the body is coupled to the proximal end of the guidewire, and the device is pulled into the body by pulling on the distal end of the guidewire that extends from the body. The device may be bimanually manipulated by pulling the guidewire distally, and an attachment to the device that extends proximally, allowing control of both the proximal and the distal ends. In this manner devices (and particularly implants such as innerspinous distracters, stimulating leads, and disc slings) may be positioned and/or manipulated within the body. Devices to modify tissue may also be positioned or manipulated so that a target tissue within the body is modified. | 12-30-2010 |
20100331900 | SURGICAL TOOLS FOR TREATMENT OF SPINAL STENOSIS - Described herein are pullwire handle devices for securing to a tissue-penetrating pullwire. In some embodiments, the device includes a handle body, a pullwire lock configured to removably lock the pullwire handle device onto a pullwire within the handle body, and a tip containment element configured to retain the distal tip of the pullwire. In some embodiments, the handle body further comprises a storage chamber configured to store a distal portion of the pullwire. Also described herein are methods for capturing a pullwire using a pullwire handle device. In some embodiments, the method includes the steps of inserting the distal end of a pullwire into the pullwire handle device, advancing the pullwire further into the pullwire handle device while the distal portion of the pullwire is contained within the pullwire handle device, and locking the distal portion of the pullwire within the pullwire handle device. | 12-30-2010 |
20110004207 | Flexible Neural Localization Devices and Methods - Described herein are devices, systems and methods for determining if a nerve is nearby a device or portion of a device. The neural stimulation tools described herein are configured to be flexible and low-profile, so that they can be used within body regions that may be tortuous or difficult to reach, such as within a compressed or partially occluded neural foramen. In most cases, these tools described herein are ribbon-shaped and adapted to be manipulated bimanually, for example, by applying force to the ends of the devices from separate locations outside of the patient's body. Thus, in some of the exemplary neural localization devices described herein, the distal end region of the device are configured to couple to the proximal end of a guidewire. One or more surfaces of the devices may include an electrode or multi-polar network of electrodes configured to stimulate only nerves within a predetermined distance of a particular face of the device. | 01-06-2011 |
20110060314 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATING TISSUE - Described herein are devices, systems and methods for treating target tissue in a patient's spine. In general, the methods include the steps of advancing a wire into the patient from a first location, through a neural foramen, and out of the patient from a second location; connecting a tissue modification device to the wire; positioning the tissue modification device through the neural foramen using the wire; modifying target tissue in the spine by moving the tissue modification device against the target tissue; and delivering an agent to modified target tissue, wherein the agent is configured to inhibit blood flow from the modified target tissue. In some embodiments, the step of modifying target tissue comprises removing target tissue located ventral to the superior articular process while avoiding non-target tissue located lateral to the superior articular process. | 03-10-2011 |
20110082396 | Ultrasound-enhanced stenosis therapy - Apparatus and methods are disclosed for vascular stenosis and vulnerable plaque therapies, including enhancing permeability of the vessel wall using ultrasound energy and delivering a therapeutic agent into the arterial wall. Ultrasound energy may also be delivered at frequencies less than 10 MHz and power less than 20 watts using transcutaneous techniques and endovascular methods. Therapeutic agents may be delivered to the treatment area via intravenous and endovascular methods. In some embodiments, ultrasound energy and therapeutic agent application may be combined with angioplasty techniques and with blood flow protection devices. | 04-07-2011 |
20110082414 | Ultrasound-enhanced stenosis therapy - Apparatus and methods for enhancing vascular stenosis therapy involve applying ultrasound energy to delivery of a therapeutic agent to enhance vessel wall penetration of the agent in an area of stenosis. In some embodiments, ultrasound energy and therapeutic agent application may be combined with angioplasty techniques and/or with blood flow protection devices to prevent dissipation of the therapeutic agent from the treatment site. | 04-07-2011 |
20110082534 | Ultrasound-enhanced stenosis therapy - Apparatus and methods are disclosed for vascular stenosis therapy, including enhancing permeability of the vessel wall using ultrasound energy and delivering a therapeutic agent into the arterial wall. Ultrasound energy may also be delivered using transcutaneous techniques and endovascular methods. In some embodiments, ultrasound energy and therapeutic agent application may be combined with angioplasty techniques and with blood flow protection devices to prevent dissipation of the therapeutic agent from the treatment site. | 04-07-2011 |
20110105960 | Ultrasound-enhanced Stenosis therapy - Apparatus and methods are disclosed for vascular stenosis and vulnerable plaque therapies, including enhancing permeability of the vessel wall using ultrasound energy and delivering a therapeutic agent into the arterial wall. Ultrasound energy may also be delivered at frequencies less than 10 MHz and power less than 20 watts using transcutaneous techniques and endovascular methods. Therapeutic agents may be delivered to the treatment area via intravenous and endovascular methods. In some embodiments, ultrasound energy and therapeutic agent application may be combined with angioplasty techniques and with blood flow protection devices. In some other embodiments, a therapeutic agent may be removed from the body after exposure to the vessel wall to minimize a systemic effect of the therapeutic drug. | 05-05-2011 |
20110112539 | TISSUE MODIFICATION DEVICES - Described herein are elongate devices for modifying tissue having a plurality of flexibly connected and rungs or links, and methods of using them, including methods of using them to decompress stenotic spinal tissue. These devices may be included as part of a system for modifying tissue. In general, these devices include a plurality of blades positioned on for formed from) rungs that are flexibly connected and may be separated by one or more spacers. The rungs are typically wider than they are long (e.g., rectangular). The rungs may be arranged, ladder like, and may be connected by a flexible connector substrate or between two or more cables. Different sized rungs may be used, or rungs with different cutting properties. In some variations the tissue modification devices may have a non-linear axial shape, or may be converted from a first axial shape to a second axial shape. | 05-12-2011 |
20110118768 | OCCLUSIVE CINCHING DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE - Methods and devices for blocking orifices and occluding cavities within a patient are provided. The device in one variation comprises first and second tubular members attached to a collapsible sealing element. The device can be placed through an orifice and the collapsible sealing element can be collapsed to seal the orifice. An embolic may be introduced distal to the sealing element to occlude a cavity. The device may incorporate a locking mechanism which can be engaged to lock the sealing element into the collapsed position. The device may incorporate a valve to prevent flow through the tubular members, for example to prevent egress of the embolic from a cavity. The device can be detached to provide a permanent seal of the orifice, and can retain the embolic within the cavity. The device may be used in conjunction with a stent or other retention device to assist the sealing element in maintaining the seal. | 05-19-2011 |
20110160772 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING SPINAL FUSION - Described herein are methods, devices and systems for performing an interspinous fusion, in particular for performing an interspinous fusion unilaterally. In general an interspinous fusion system may include a first fixation plate configured to couple to a first lateral side of a spinous process, a rod extending from the first fixation plate at a joint such that the rod is pivotable with respect to the first fixation plate, and a second fixation plate configured to couple to a second lateral side of a spinous process opposite from the first fixation plate. In general, a method of performing an interspinous fusion unilaterally may include the steps of placing a first fixation plate, having a rod extending from the fixation plate, between two adjacent spinous processes from a fist lateral side of the spinous processes, pivoting the rod with respect to the first fixation plate such that the plate abuts the second, opposite, lateral side of at least one of the spinous processes, and placing a second fixation plate such that it abuts the fist lateral side of at least one of the spinous processes. | 06-30-2011 |
20110196257 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR NEURAL LOCALIZATION - Described herein are devices, systems and methods for determining if a nerve is nearby a device or a region of a device. In general, a device for determining if a nerve is nearby a device includes an elongate body having an outer surface with one or more bipole pairs arranged on the outer surface. Bipole pairs may also be referred to as tight bipoles. The bipole pairs may be arranged as a bipole network, and may include a cathode and an anode that are spaced relatively close together to form a limited broadcast field. In general, the broadcast filed is a controlled or “tight” broadcast field that extends from the bipole pair(s). Methods of using these devices and system are also described. | 08-11-2011 |
20110237982 | Ultrasound-enhanced stenosis therapy - Apparatus and methods are disclosed for vein and arterial-venous fistulas stenosis and occlusion therapies, including enhancing permeability of the vessel wall using ultrasound energy and delivering a therapeutic agent into the vessel wall. Ultrasound energy may be delivered at frequencies less than 10 MHz and power less than 20 watts using transcutaneous techniques and endovascular methods. Therapeutic agents may be delivered to the treatment area via intravenous and endovascular methods. In some embodiments, ultrasound energy and therapeutic agent application may be combined with angioplasty techniques and with blood flow protection devices. In some other embodiments, a therapeutic agent may be removed from the body after exposure to the vessel wall to minimize a systemic effect of the therapeutic drug. | 09-29-2011 |
20110270249 | PRECISION ABLATING METHOD - Methods of ablating tissue in an alimentary tract are provided. The methods include advancing an ablation structure into an alimentary tract while supporting the ablation structure with an endoscope. The methods further include a step of moving at least part of the ablation structure with respect to the endoscope and toward a tissue surface, before activating the ablation structure to ablate a tissue surface. | 11-03-2011 |
20110282378 | DETACHABLE ANEURYSM NECK BRIDGE - A device for bridging a neck of an aneurysm, comprises a junction region, one or more radially extending array elements secured to the junction region, each array element having an unfolded shape and a delivery shape; and a cover attached to the junction region, and extending over the delivery shape of the array elements, wherein each array element is attached at one end to the junction region and the array elements are constructed and arranged to unfold the cover when assuming their unfolded shape, and wherein the device further comprises a tip, and each array element is attached at another end to the tip, the tip comprising an opening through which a vaso-occlusive device or occlusion fluid may be delivered. | 11-17-2011 |
20120065639 | TISSUE MODIFICATION DEVICES - Described herein are elongate devices for modifying tissue having a plurality of flexibly connected rungs or links, and methods of using them, including methods of using them to decompress stenotic spinal tissue. These devices may be included as part of a system for modifying tissue. In general, these devices include a plurality of blades positioned on (or formed from) rungs that are flexibly connected. The rungs are typically rigid, somewhat flat and wider than they are long (e.g., rectangular). The rungs may be arranged, ladder like, and may be connected by a flexible connector substrate or between two or more cables. Different sized rungs may be used. The blades (on the rungs) may be arranged in a staggered arrangement. A tissue-collection or tissue capture element may be used to collect the cut or modified tissue. | 03-15-2012 |
20120078255 | MULTIPLE PATHWAYS FOR SPINAL NERVE ROOT DECOMPRESSION FROM A SINGLE ACCESS POINT - A method of accessing target tissue adjacent to a spinal nerve of a patient includes the steps of accessing a spine location of the patient by entering the patient through the skin at an access location, inserting a flexible tissue modification device through the access location to the spine location, advancing a distal portion of the first flexible tissue modification device from the spine location to a first exit location, passing through the first exit location and out of the patient, advancing the first or a second flexible tissue modification device through the same access location to the spine location and to a second exit location, and passing through the second exit location and out of the patient. | 03-29-2012 |
20120095468 | TISSUE MODIFICATION DEVICES AND METHODS - Described herein are devices and methods for cutting tissue in a patient. In some embodiments, a bimanually controlled device may include a tissue modification region; at least two flexible elongate lengths of cable that extend substantially adjacent to each other proximally to distally; a plurality of rungs extending between the lengths of cable; and a pair of flexible elongate cutting members extending along the length of the tissue modification region of the device. Each elongate cutting member has a thickness cuts a discrete trough into tissue to a depth that is greater than the thickness of the cutting member. The device may further include a substrate sized and configured to releasably hold the cutting members a distance from one another and a pair of couplers positioned toward an outer edge region of the substrate and configured to releasably secure a cutting member to the outer edge region of the substrate. | 04-19-2012 |
20120109234 | METHOD OF STIMULATING FASTIGIUM NUCLEUS TO TREAT NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS - A method of treating a neurological disorder comprises introducing an electrical stimulation lead within a patient's head, locating the stimulation lead within the 4 | 05-03-2012 |
20120123294 | FLEXIBLE NEURAL LOCALIZATION DEVICES AND METHODS - Methods for determining if a nerve is nearby a device. The neural stimulation tools described herein are configured to be flexible and low-profile, so that they can be used within body regions that may be tortuous or difficult to reach, such as within a compressed or partially occluded neural foramen. In most cases, these tools described herein are ribbon-shaped and adapted to be manipulated bimanually, applying force to the ends of the devices from separate locations outside of the patient's body. Thus, the distal end region of the device may be configured to couple to the proximal end of a guidewire. One or more surfaces of the devices may include an electrode or multi-polar network of electrodes configured to stimulate only nerves within a predetermined distance of a particular face of the device. Methods of using these devices are described. | 05-17-2012 |
20120143206 | SURGICAL TOOLS FOR TREATMENT OF SPINAL STENOSIS - Described herein are devices and methods for positioning a wire around a target tissue. In some embodiments, a probe device includes a rigid outer cannula having a curved distal region and a flexible inner cannula slideably disposed within the rigid outer cannula, wherein the inner cannula is configured to assume a curved shape when extended distally from the outer cannula. In some embodiments, the probe device further includes a distal tip at the distal end of the inner cannula and a safety retainer cable coupled to the distal tip and secured to the probe proximally from the distal end of the safety retainer; wherein the safety retainer cable extends proximally from the distal tip and is slack. In some embodiments, the inner cannula comprises an elongate body with a longitudinally extending support member and a longitudinally extending tubular body, configured to pass a wire, disposed inside the elongate body. | 06-07-2012 |
20120191003 | FLEXIBLE NEURAL LOCALIZATION DEVICES AND METHODS - Described herein are bimanually controlled neural localization devices capable of determining if a nerve is nearby a region of the device. In general, the device may include at least two electrodes including an anode in electrical communication with a anodal conductor and a cathode in electrical communication with a cathodal conductor. The device may further include a flexible elongate body, wherein the flexible elongate body has an axial length, a width and a thickness, wherein the axial length is greater than the width, and the width is greater than the thickness and is greater than a width of the at least two electrodes. The at least two electrodes may be disposed substantially in-line and centered along the length of the elongate body. In some embodiments, the device may further include a guidewire coupler at the distal end region of the elongate body. | 07-26-2012 |
20120203300 | Method and Apparatus for Ablation of Benign, Pre-Cancerous and Early Cancerous Lesions That Originate Within the Epithelium and are Limited to the Mucosal Layer of the Gastrointestinal Tract - Devices and methods are provided for ablating areas of the gastrointestinal tract affected with certain benign, pre-cancerous, or early cancerous lesions that originate within the epithelium and are limited to the mucosal layer of the gastrointestinal tract wall. Examples of such lesions include benign conditions such as cervical inlet patch (ectopic gastric mucosa in the upper esophagus), as well as pre-cancerous and cancerous conditions such as intestinal metaplasia/intra-epithelial neoplasia/early cancer of the stomach, squamous intra-epithelial neoplasia and early cancer of the esophagus, oral and pharyngeal leukoplakia, flat colonic polyps, anal intra-epithelial neoplasia (AIN), and early cancers of the anal canal. Ablation, as provided in an embodiment of the invention, commences at the epithelial layer of the gastrointestinal wall and penetrates deeper into the gastrointestinal wall in a controlled manner to achieve a successful patient outcome. | 08-09-2012 |
20120215099 | Methods and Apparatus for Endovascular Ultrasound Delivery - Apparatus and methods are disclosed for endovascular ultrasound delivery to treat stenosis and inhibit restenosis, including delivery of therapeutic agents into the vessel wall. In some embodiments, delivery of therapeutic agent may be combined with angioplasty techniques and with blood flow protection devices. In other embodiments, treatment of endovascular stenosis or restenosis may be achieved without the use of ultrasound energy, and without performing an interventional procedure. In some other embodiments, a therapeutic agent may be removed from the body after exposure to the vessel wall to minimize a systemic effect of the therapeutic drug. | 08-23-2012 |
20120239028 | SELECTIVELY EXPANDABLE OPERATIVE ELEMENT SUPPORT STRUCTURE AND METHODS OF USE - In one embodiment, a device is provided including an expandable support member having a first portion and a second portion is provided. The first portion is adapted to have a smaller expansion index than the second portion. A therapeutic or diagnostic instrument is supported, at least in part, by the expandable support member first portion. In another embodiment, the support member is adapted for non-uniform expansion of the first and second portions. There are also described methods of forming therapeutic devices. There are also described methods of providing therapy to tissue in a body by positioning a device in proximity to tissue in a body selected to receive therapy. Next, the expandable support member second portion is expanded until the instrument is at a therapeutic position relative to the tissue in a body selected to receive therapy. Thereafter, therapy or diagnosis is provided to the selected tissue using the device. | 09-20-2012 |
20120310270 | DETACHABLE ANEURYSM NECK BRIDGE - In one embodiment, a neck bridge for bridging the neck of an aneurysm includes a junction region, a number of radially extending array elements attached to the junction region, and a cover attached to one or both of the junction region and an array element. The array elements are configured to be positioned within the aneurysm after the neck bridge is deployed from a delivery device. In a second embodiment, the neck bridge includes a junction region and a braided or mesh-like structure secured to the junction region. The braided or mesh-like structure is made from an elastic material. | 12-06-2012 |
20130012831 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR NEURAL LOCALIZATION - Described herein are devices, systems and methods for determining if a nerve is nearby a device or a region of a device. In general, a device for determining if a nerve is nearby a device includes an elongate body having an outer surface with one or more bipole pairs arranged on the outer surface. Bipole pairs may also be referred to as tight bipoles. The bipole pairs may be arranged as a bipole network, and may include a cathode and an anode that are spaced relatively close together to form a limited broadcast field. In general, the broadcast filed is a controlled or “tight” broadcast field that extends from the bipole pair(s). Methods of using these devices and system are also described. | 01-10-2013 |
20130023897 | Devices and Methods for Endovascular Therapies - Medical devices to treat stenosis, inhibiting restenosis, plaque removal, crossing totally occluded arteries or veins, treatment of vulnerable plaque, as well as removal of blood clots from the patient body arc disclosed. Such devices maybe used alone or in combination with therapeutic drugs. In some embodiments, flow protection devices are used for homogeneous drug delivery and removal from the patient to minimize the systemic effect. In some other embodiments, ablated tissue or blood clots are removed from the body after the procedure. | 01-24-2013 |
20130053851 | ACCESS AND TISSUE MODIFICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Described herein are methods and systems for precisely placing and/or manipulating devices within the body by first positioning a guidewire or pullwire. The device to be positioned within the body is coupled to the proximal end of the guidewire, and the device is pulled into the body by pulling on the distal end of the guidewire that extends from the body. The device may be bimanually manipulated by pulling the guidewire distally, and an attachment to a device that extends proximally, allowing control of both the proximal and the distal ends. In this manner devices (and particularly implants such as innerspinous distracters, stimulating leads, and disc slings) may be positioned and/or manipulated within the body. Guidewire exchange systems, devices and methods are also described. A guidewire may be exchanged between different surgical devices and may be releaseably or permanently coupled. | 02-28-2013 |
20130053853 | DEVICES, METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR NEURAL LOCALIZATION - Described herein are tissue manipulation devices having a tight bipole network. In particular, described herein are smart tools such as rongeurs configured to sense the presence of a nerve or portion of nerve. Tissue may be cut (or otherwise manipulated) by using a tool having a tight bipolar network to sense when a nerve or portion of a nerve is in the tool prior to cutting. | 02-28-2013 |
20130150855 | MULTIPLE PATHWAYS FOR SPINAL NERVE ROOT DECOMPRESSION FROM A SINGLE ACCESS POINT - A method of accessing target tissue adjacent to a spinal nerve of a patient includes the steps of accessing a spine location of the patient by entering the patient through the skin at an access location, inserting a flexible tissue modification device through the access location to the spine location, advancing a distal portion of the first flexible tissue modification device from the spine location to a first exit location, passing through the first exit location and out of the patient, advancing the first or a second flexible tissue modification device through the same access location to the spine location and to a second exit location, and passing through the second exit location and out of the patient. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150856 | TISSUE MODIFICATION DEVICES AND METHODS - Devices and methods for cutting tissue in a patient. In some embodiments, a bimanually controlled device may include a tissue modification region; one or more (e.g., two) flexible elongate length of cable that extend proximally to distally, a tissue modification region along a portion of the length of cable; and a guidewire coupler at the distal end of the device for attaching the distal end of the tissue modification device to the proximal end of a guidewire. Method of using these devices (including devices having two or more parallel length of cutting regions) to cut tissue (e.g., spinal lamina) are also described. | 06-13-2013 |
20130172895 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TISSUE MODIFICATION - Devices and methods of modifying tissue for low profile and ultra profile rongeur devices to treat spinal tissue. These devices may include a curved or curveable distal region; the cutting member may be configured to operate in the curved region. Also described herein are tissue modification devices that may be flexible or bendable for positioning in the tissue (including the spinal region) but can be made rigid once in position, or otherwise fixed in place to allow leverage when modifying the tissue. | 07-04-2013 |
20130178904 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING SPINAL FUSION - Described herein are methods, devices and systems for performing an interspinous fusion, in particular for performing an interspinous fusion unilaterally. In general an interspinous fusion system may include a first fixation plate configured to couple to a first lateral side of a spinous process, a rod extending from the first fixation plate at a joint such that the rod is pivotable with respect to the first fixation plate, and a second fixation plate configured to couple to a second lateral side of a spinous process opposite from the first fixation plate. In general, a method of performing an interspinous fusion unilaterally may include the steps of placing a first fixation plate, having a rod extending from the fixation plate, between two adjacent spinous processes from a first lateral side of the spinous processes, pivoting the rod with respect to the first fixation plate such that the plate abuts the second, opposite, lateral side of at least one of the spinous processes, and placing a second fixation plate such that it abuts the first lateral side of at least one of the spinous processes. | 07-11-2013 |
20130190800 | DETACHABLE ANEURYSM NECK BRIDGE - A device for bridging a neck of an aneurysm, comprises a junction region, one or more radially extending array elements secured to the junction region, each array element having an unfolded shape and a delivery shape; and a cover attached to the junction region, and extending over the delivery shape of the array elements, wherein each array element is attached at one end to the junction region and the array elements are constructed and arranged to unfold the cover when assuming their unfolded shape, and wherein the device further comprises a tip, and each array element is attached at another end to the tip, the tip comprising an opening through which a vaso-occlusive device or occlusion fluid may be delivered. | 07-25-2013 |
20130226173 | ABLATION IN THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT TO ACHIEVE HEMOSTASIS AND ERADICATE LESIONS WITH A PROPENSITY FOR BLEEDING - Devices and methods are provided for the ablation of regions of the digestive tract to achieve hemostasis and to eradicate chronically bleeding lesions as occur with gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE), portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG), radiation proctopathy and colopathy, arteriovenous malformations, and angiodysplasia. Ablation is typically provided in a wide-field manner, and in conjunction with sufficient pressure to achieve coaptive coagulation. Ablation, as provided the invention, starts at the mucosa and penetrates deeper into the gastrointestinal wall in a controlled manner. Ablation control may be exerted by way of electrode design and size, energy density, power density, number of applications, pattern of applications, and pressure. Control may also be provided by a fractional ablation that ablates some tissue within a target region and leaves a portion substantially unaffected. Embodiments of the device include an ablational electrode array that spans 360 degrees and an array that spans an arc of less than 360 degrees. | 08-29-2013 |
20130345617 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR REMOVAL OF TISSUE, BLOOD CLOTS AND LIQUIDS FROM THE PATIENT - The present invention provides methods and devices for removal of tissue, blood clots and liquids from the patient that are located inside or outside of the patient's endovascular system using vibrational energy. One or more therapeutic agents or bubbles/microbubbles may be delivered to the treatment location to further facilitate the removal process. | 12-26-2013 |
20140088581 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT ABLATION FOR TREATMENT OF OBESITY - Devices and methods for ablating tissue in the wall of various organs of the gastrointestinal tract of a patient in order to cure or ameliorate metabolic pathophysiological conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, or type 2 diabetes mellitus are provided. Ablational treatment of target areas may be fractional or partial, rendering a post-treatment portion of target tissue ablated and another portion that is substantially intact. Fractional ablation is achieved by controlling the delivery of ablational energy across the surface area being treated, and controlling the depth of energy penetration into tissue. Surface area control of energy delivery may controlled by the spatial pattern of distributed ablation elements or by the selective activation of a subset of a dense pattern of ablation elements. Embodiments of the device include an ablational electrode array that spans 360 degrees and an array that spans an arc of less than 360 degrees. | 03-27-2014 |
20140107709 | ACCESS AND TISSUE MODIFICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Described herein are methods and systems for precisely placing and/or manipulating devices within the body by first positioning a guidewire or pullwire. The device to be positioned within the body is coupled to the proximal end of the guidewire, and the device is pulled into the body by pulling on the distal end of the guidewire that extends from the body. The device may be bimanually manipulated by pulling the guidewire distally, and an attachment to a device that extends proximally, allowing control of both the proximal and the distal ends. In this manner devices (and particularly implants such as innerspinous distracters, stimulating leads, and disc slings) may be positioned and/or manipulated within the body. Guidewire exchange systems, devices and methods are also described. A guidewire may be exchanged between different surgical devices and may be releaseably or permanently coupled. | 04-17-2014 |
20140114315 | TISSUE MODIFICATION DEVICES - Tissue modification devices, methods of using them, and devices, systems and methods of adapting them to form tissue modification devices. | 04-24-2014 |
20140142494 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR ENDOVASCULAR THERAPY - The present invention provides methods and devices for treating endovascular disease. Vibrational energy is delivered to change compliance and increase permeability at the treatment area. To improve clinical outcomes, one or more therapeutic drugs may be delivered to the treatment area. | 05-22-2014 |
20140180293 | TISSUE MODIFICATION DEVICES - Described herein are elongate devices for modifying tissue having a plurality of flexibly connected rungs or links, and methods of using them, including methods of using them to decompress stenotic spinal tissue. These devices may be included as part of a system for modifying tissue. In general, these devices include a plurality of blades positioned on (or formed from) rungs that are flexibly connected. The rungs are typically rigid, somewhat flat and wider than they are long (e.g., rectangular). The rungs may be arranged, ladder like, and may be connected by a flexible connector substrate or between two or more cables. Different sized rungs may be used. The blades (on the rungs) may be arranged in a staggered arrangement. A tissue-collection or tissue capture element may be used to collect the cut or modified tissue. | 06-26-2014 |
20140207162 | OCCLUSIVE CINCHING DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE - Methods and devices for blocking orifices and occluding cavities within a patient are provided. The device in one variation comprises first and second tubular members attached to a collapsible sealing element. The device can be placed through an orifice and the collapsible sealing element can be collapsed to seal the orifice. An embolic may be introduced distal to the sealing element to occlude a cavity. The device may incorporate a locking mechanism which can be engaged to lock the sealing element into the collapsed position. The device may incorporate a valve to prevent flow through the tubular members, for example to prevent egress of the embolic from a cavity. The device can be detached to provide a permanent seal of the orifice, and can retain the embolic within the cavity. The device may be used in conjunction with a stent or other retention device to assist the sealing element in maintaining the seal. | 07-24-2014 |
20140243817 | AUTO-ALIGNING ABLATING DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - An ablation device and methods for use thereof including a support structure adapted to support an ablation structure within an alimentary tract of a patient are provided. The support structure includes a longitudinal support with a longitudinal axis and a rotational support. The rotational support is adapted to permit at least part of the ablation structure to rotate with respect to the longitudinal support's longitudinal axis. | 08-28-2014 |
20140243818 | AUTO-ALIGNING ABLATING DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - An ablation device and methods for use thereof including a support structure adapted to support an ablation structure within an alimentary tract of a patient are provided. The support structure includes a longitudinal support with a longitudinal axis and a rotational support. The rotational support is adapted to permit at least part of the ablation structure to rotate with respect to the longitudinal support's longitudinal axis. | 08-28-2014 |
20140276848 | TISSUE MODIFICATION DEVICES - Tissue modification devices, and particularly very low-profile, yet strong and manipulatable Rongeur devices. In general, these devices are low-profile, with a flat and thin distal end that may be much thinner than it is wide. The distal end includes a cutting window within which one or more blades move to cut tissue. The distal end region and the curved region forming an angle with an elongate rigid body may be sufficiently stiff and rigid so that the distal end can be pushed (or pulled) against a tissue to be cut with sufficient force so that even hard tissue such as bone may be held within the window and cut by the blade(s). | 09-18-2014 |
20140277099 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICES INCLUDING A FRICTION ELEMENT AND METHODS OF USE - Vaso-occlusive apparatuses, including implants, and methods of using them to treat aneurysms. The vaso-occlusive implants described herein include one or more soft and expandable braided member coupled to a pushable member such as a coil that maybe inserted and retrieved from within an aneurism using a delivery catheter as well as a friction element between the soft braided member and the coil. The friction element allows the relatively soft and elongate implant to be pushed out of a cannula without binding up within the cannula. | 09-18-2014 |
20140288547 | ELECTRICAL MEANS TO NORMALIZE ABLATIONAL ENERGY TRANSMISSION TO A LUMINAL TISSUE SURFACE OF VARYING SIZE - Methods and devices for measuring the size of a body lumen and a method for ablating tissue that uses the measurement to normalize delivery of ablational energy from an expandable operative element to a luminal target of varying circumference are provided. The method includes inserting into the lumen an expandable operative element having circuitry with resistivity or inductance that varies according to the circumference of the operative element, varying the expansion of the operative element with an expansion medium, measuring the resistivity of the circuitry, and relating the resistivity or inductance to a value for the circumference of the operative element. In some embodiments the sizing circuit includes a conductive elastomer wrapped around the operative element. Other embodiments of the method apply to operative elements that include an overlapping energy delivery element support in which the overlap varies inversely with respect to the state of expansion, and which is configured with sizing electrodes that sense the amount of the overlap. | 09-25-2014 |
20140324080 | INTRACEREBRAL HEMORRHAGE TREATMENT - A method for removing a blood clot from a cranium of a patient may involve forming an opening in the patient's cranium, advancing an elongate blood clot removal device through the opening into the cranium, positioning a distal end of the clot removal device at or near the clot, rotating a rotating member of the clot removal device at or near the distal end of the clot removal device to at least partially break up the clot, and removing the at least partially broken up clot from the cranium through the clot removal device. | 10-30-2014 |
20140330286 | Methods and Devices for Removing Obstructing Material From the Human Body - The present invention provides devices and methods for removal of obstructive matter from the patients that are located inside or outside of the patient's endovascular system using rotational energy. One or more therapeutic agents may be delivered to the treatment location to further facilitate the removal process | 11-06-2014 |