Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080215117 | Electrical Stimulation of Blood Vessels - Apparatus ( | 09-04-2008 |
20080233053 | Method and Device for Ophthalmic Administration of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients - Disclosed is the use of a mist of a pharmaceutical composition for ophthalmic delivery of a protein or peptide active pharmaceutical ingredient, a related method of treatment and a device useful in implementing the use and method. Disclosed is also the use of a mist for ophthalmic delivery of a pharmaceutical composition including a highly irritating penetration enhancer and an ophthalmically acceptable carrier, a related method of treatment and a device useful in implementing the use and method. Disclosed is also a device for ophthalmic administration configured to direct a mist of a pharmaceutical composition to the eye only when the eye is open. Disclosed is also a self-sterilizing device for ophthalmic administration. Disclosed is also a device and a method for increasing the bioavailability of an ophthalmically administered API in a pharmaceutical composition. | 09-25-2008 |
20080234537 | Extracardiac Blood Flow Amplification Device - Apparatus ( | 09-25-2008 |
20080262567 | Implanted energy source - Apparatus is described for use with (a) a muscle of a subject's body and (b) an implanted functional device in the subject's body. An electrode is coupled to the muscle. A stimulator causes the muscle to undergo movement by driving a current into the muscle, via the electrode. An energy assembly including a flywheel and an energy converter, stores energy associated with the movement of the muscle. The energy assembly powers the stimulator and powers the implanted functional device, based on the movement of the muscle. Other embodiments are also described. | 10-23-2008 |
20080319287 | Implantable Power Sources and Sensors - A protein is provided, including a glucose binding site, cyan fluorescent protein (CFP), and yellow fluorescent protein (YFP). The protein is configured such that binding of glucose to the glucose binding site causes a reduction in a distance between the CFP and the YFP. Substance monitoring apparatus ( | 12-25-2008 |
20090030473 | GASTROINTESTINAL DEVICE FOR TREATING OBESITY AND DIABETES - Apparatus is provided, including an ingestible capsule, one or more electrodes coupled to the capsule, and a control unit configured to maintain the capsule in a vicinity of a designated site of a subject by driving at least a subset of the electrodes to apply a current that induces reverse intestinal peristalsis in the subject. Other embodiments are also described. | 01-29-2009 |
20090036946 | PELVIC DISORDER TREATMENTS - In a method, at least one electrode is implanted in a pelvic muscle of a patient and a control unit is provided. An electrical waveform is applied to the pelvic muscle through the at least one electrode using the control unit. A condition of the patient is treated in response to the application of the electrical waveform. The condition of the patient is fecal incontinence, interstitial cystitis, chronic pelvic pain or urine retention. | 02-05-2009 |
20090036982 | Injectable Intraocular Implants - An injectable intraocular implant including an optics portion and a resilient, flexible haptics portion mounted coaxially with the optics portion and a method for inserting the implant into the eye. | 02-05-2009 |
20090048514 | DEVICE FOR ULTRASOUND MONITORED TISSUE TREATMENT - Apparatus is provided for lipolysis and body contouring of a subject. The apparatus includes a housing adapted for placement on tissue of the subject. The apparatus also includes a plurality of acoustic elements disposed at respective locations with respect to the housing, including at least a first and a second subset of the acoustic elements, wherein the first subset is configured to transmit energy in a plane defined by the housing, such that at least a portion of the transmitted energy reaches the second subset. Other embodiments are also described. | 02-19-2009 |
20090062881 | GI AND PANCREATIC DEVICE FOR TREATING OBESITY AND DIABETES - A method is provided, including placing first and second electrodes ( | 03-05-2009 |
20090093758 | Fibroid treatment apparatus and method - Apparatus is provided, including a tube that is passed into a patient's vagina and to penetrate vaginal tissue until a distal tip of the tube is outside of a uterine artery of the patient, but in a vicinity of a portion of the uterine artery that supplies a uterine fibroid. A balloon, disposed at the distal tip, is inflated to cause local squeezing of the portion of the uterine artery to an extent sufficient to occlude the uterine artery. Other embodiments are also described. | 04-09-2009 |
20090093792 | EXTERNAL DRUG PUMP - Apparatus is described for administering a substance to a subject. A vial contains the substance and a stopper is disposed within the vial and is slidably coupled to the vial. A first threaded element is (a) rotatable with respect to the vial and (b) substantially immobile proximally with respect to the vial during rotation of the first threaded element. A second threaded element is threadedly coupled to the first threaded element. At least a distal end of the second threaded element is substantially non-rotatable with respect to the vial, and the distal end of the second threaded element defines a coupling portion that couples the second threaded element to the stopper. The first threaded element, by rotating, linearly advances the stopper and at least the distal end of the second threaded element toward a distal end of the vial. Other embodiments are also described. | 04-09-2009 |
20090093793 | EXTERNAL DRUG PUMP - Apparatus is described for administering a substance to a subject. A vial contains the substance, an inner surface of the vial being shaped to define a protrusion therefrom. A stopper within the vial is slidably coupled to the vial. A first threaded element is (a) rotatable and (b) substantially immobile proximally with respect to the vial during rotation of the first threaded element. A second threaded element is threadedly coupled to the first threaded element. The protrusion impedes rotation of the second threaded element with respect to the vial. The distal end of the second threaded element remains proximal to a distal end of the stopper during rotation of the first threaded element. The first threaded element, by rotating, linearly advances the stopper and the second threaded element toward a distal end of the vial. Other embodiments are also described. | 04-09-2009 |
20090107511 | IMPLANTABLE RESPIRATION THERAPY DEVICE - Apparatus ( | 04-30-2009 |
20090149872 | MITRAL VALVE TREATMENT TECHNIQUES - Apparatus ( | 06-11-2009 |
20090182197 | TOOLS FOR USE IN SMALL INTESTINE - Apparatus ( | 07-16-2009 |
20090187223 | PELTIER UNIDIRECTIONAL AND SELECTIVE NERVE STIMULATION - Apparatus is provided including an assembly ( | 07-23-2009 |
20090198271 | ELECTRODE BASED FILTER - Apparatus is described including a filter, configured to be implanted in a blood vessel of a subject. An electrode is configured to be disposed in a vicinity of the blood vessel. A control unit breaks up matter that aggregates on the filter, by driving the electrode to drive a current into the blood vessel and configuring the signal to increase nitric oxide (NO) secretion by the wall. Other embodiments are also described. | 08-06-2009 |
20090198308 | INTRA-AORTIC ELECTRICAL COUNTERPULSATION - In some embodiments of the present invention, apparatus is provided, including a sensing electrode configured to be implanted at a non-cardiac site in a vicinity of an aorta of a subject and to detect an electrical parameter of the aorta, and a control unit configured to receive the detected parameter and to generate an output in response to the detected parameter. Additional embodiments are also described. | 08-06-2009 |
20090312816 | IONTOPHORETIC AND ELECTROOSMOTIC DISC TREATMENT - Apparatus ( | 12-17-2009 |
20090318950 | FIBROID TREATMENT APPARATUS AND METHOD - Apparatus is provided, including a tube ( | 12-24-2009 |
20100021536 | ENHANCED-DIFFUSION CAPSULE - An ingestible capsule is provided for delivering medication to a subject. A capsule coating dissolves in a gastrointestinal tract of the subject. An inner core of the capsule has an outer surface associated therewith. The outer surface is disposed within the coating and expands when the coating dissolves. A medication is disposed on the outer surface, and the outer surface is configured such that the medication contacts an intestinal wall of the subject when the outer surface expands. Other embodiments are also provided. | 01-28-2010 |
20100030129 | DERMAL PATCH - The invention is generally directed to a kit and patch for transdermal or intradermal delivery of at least one substance into the skin. The kit includes a dermal patch having an electrochemical cell with two electrodes and a retainer for retaining a conductive fluid which further includes an active substance. The conductive fluid can be deposited on at least one of the two electrodes. Alternatively, the conductive fluid can be applied topically to the skin. | 02-04-2010 |
20100042186 | Electrode devices for nerve stimulation and cardiac sensing - Apparatus is provided for application to a nerve of a subject, the apparatus comprising an electrode device, which comprises a housing, which is configured to be placed at least partially around the nerve, so as to define an outer surface of the electrode device and an inner surface that faces the nerve. The electrode device further comprises one or more first electrode contact surfaces, fixed to the inner surface of the housing, and one or more second electrode contact surfaces, fixed to the outer surface of the housing. Other embodiments are also described. | 02-18-2010 |
20100081111 | SINUS LIFT IMPLANT - A dental implant is provided that has a proximal-most part, a lateral external surface, and a distal implant portion that extends from a distal implant end along up to 50% of a longitudinal length of the implant. The implant is shaped so as to define a lumen therethrough (a) having at least one distal opening through a distal external surface of the distal implant portion, (b) having a lateral opening through the lateral external surface, and (c) not open to a proximal external surface of the implant within 2 mm of the proximal-most part of the implant. Other embodiments are also described. | 04-01-2010 |
20100081112 | IMPLANTS, TOOLS, AND METHODS FOR SINUS LIFT AND LATERAL RIDGE AUGMENTATION - Apparatus is provided that includes a dental implant having a proximal implant end and a lateral external surface. The implant is shaped so as to define a lumen therethrough having a lateral opening through the lateral external surface. The apparatus further includes an applicator, which is removably coupled to the proximal implant end. The applicator includes a delivery tube having a distal tube end that is removably coupled to the implant such that the delivery tube is in fluid communication with the lumen via the lateral opening. Other embodiments are also described. | 04-01-2010 |
20100100195 | Implant and delivery tool therefor - An implant system including a transurethral prostatic implant positioned in a prostate and including a lumen with an inner perimeter that surrounds an outer perimeter of a urethra at the prostate. The implant system may include a delivery tool including a shaft having a distal portion and an implant-holding portion proximal to the distal portion, the distal portion being sized for entry into a urethra, and the implant-holding portion being thicker than the distal portion, and an implant positioned on the implant-holding portion. | 04-22-2010 |
20100106181 | IN-SITU FILTER - Apparatus is provided including a filter ( | 04-29-2010 |
20100130815 | INTRAURETHRAL AND EXTRAURETHRAL APPARATUS - A method is provided, including distally advancing an implant through a urethra of a patient until the implant emerges in a bladder of the patient, and facilitating expanding of a pre-operative perimeter of a portion of the urethra to a post-operative perimeter of the portion of the urethra that is larger than the pre-operative perimeter by proximally retracting the implant and implanting the implant in prostate tissue surrounding the urethra. Other embodiments are also described. | 05-27-2010 |
20100160749 | IMPLANTABLE OPTICAL GLUCOSE SENSING - Apparatus is provided, including a support configured to be implanted within a body of a subject and a sampling region coupled to the support. The apparatus is configured to passively allow passage through the sampling region of at least a portion of fluid from the subject. The apparatus also comprises an optical measuring device in optical communication with the sampling region. The optical measuring device comprises at least one light source configured to transmit light through at least a portion of the fluid, and at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter of the fluid by detecting light passing through the fluid. Other embodiments are also described. | 06-24-2010 |
20100161042 | IMPLANTATION OF REPAIR CHORDS IN THE HEART - A method is provided, including positioning, at an intraventricular site of a ventricle of a patient, a spool coupled to a first end portion of a longitudinal member and coupling a second end portion of the longitudinal member to a portion of tissue facing a lumen of the ventricle. Other embodiments are also described. | 06-24-2010 |
20100161043 | IMPLANTATION OF REPAIR CHORDS IN THE HEART - Apparatus is provided for adjusting at least one dimension of an implant, including a rotatable structure having first and second openings and a channel extending between the first and second openings. The channel allows passage therethrough of an elongate tool. The second end of the structure has a lower surface having one or more recesses along a circumference thereof. A mechanical element provides a protrusion that is disposed within one of the recesses of the rotatable structure during a resting state of the mechanical element, in a manner that restricts rotation of the rotatable structure. The mechanical clement comprises a depressible portion coupled to the protrusion disposed in communication with the second opening of the lower surface, and configured to dislodge the protrusion from within the recess in response to a force applied thereto by the elongate tool. Other applications are also described. | 06-24-2010 |
20100179646 | GLUCOSE OXIDASE TECHNIQUES - Apparatus and methods are described including an implantable medical device for implanting in contact with a portion of a subject's body. Glucose oxidase, having a mass thereof, is coupled to the medical device. The medical device does not have coupled thereto a mass of glucose that exceeds 0.01 percent of the mass of the glucose oxidase. Other embodiments are also described. | 07-15-2010 |
20100202966 | Implantable Sensor - Apparatus is provided for detecting a concentration of an analyte in a subject. The apparatus includes a housing ( | 08-12-2010 |
20100204754 | RETINAL PROSTHESIS - Apparatus is provided, including an external device, including a mount, which is placed in front of an eye of a subject. A laser is coupled to the mount and configured to emit toward the eye radiation that is outside of 380-750 nm. A partially-transparent mirror is coupled to the mount. An intraocular device is implanted entirely in the subject's eye, and includes a plurality of stimulating electrodes, and an energy receiver, which receives the radiation from the laser and generates a voltage drop in response thereto. A plurality of photosensors detect photons and generate a signal in response thereto. Driving circuitry is coupled to the energy receiver and to the photosensors, and receives the signals from the photosensors and utilizes the voltage drop to drive the electrodes to apply currents to the retina in response to the signals from the photosensors. Other embodiments are also described. | 08-12-2010 |
20100217369 | HAT FOR HAIR LOSS TREATMENT - Apparatus and methods are described for stimulating hair growth of a subject. A housing is placed on the subject's scalp, the housing having a plurality of at least 24 electrodes coupled thereto. A control unit drives the plurality of electrodes to stimulate hair growth by driving the plurality of electrodes to apply a current to the subject's scalp. Other embodiments are also described. | 08-26-2010 |
20100255446 | Implants, tools, and methods for sinus lift and bone augmentation - A minimally-invasive sinus lift implant and implantation methods are disclosed. An implant apparatus may included an anchor having a distal implant end and an opposite proximal end. The implant apparatus may further include a channel extending though a portion of the anchor and having an outlet opening in the distal implant end. The channel may also include an inlet opening on a side of the anchor between the distal implant end and the proximal end. Further, the inlet opening, the channel, and the outlet opening may be configured to convey fluid therethrough and the implant is configured for implantation in a bone such that when fully implanted, the side inlet opening is buried in the bone. | 10-07-2010 |
20100274161 | IMPLOSION TECHNIQUES FOR ULTRASOUND - A housing ( | 10-28-2010 |
20100280603 | IMPLANTATION OF REPAIR CHORDS IN THE HEART - A method is provided, including advancing a distal end of an inner shall of a delivery tool between leaflets of an atrioventricular valve, of a patient and into a ventricle of the patient. The method further includes, while maintaining the distal end of the inner shaft in place and within the ventricle, proximally withdrawing a surrounding shaft of the delivery tool with respect to the distal end of the inner shaft and toward the leaflets. This surrounding shaft surrounds a portion of the inner shaft. The method additionally includes using the surrounding shaft to engage at least one of the leaflets with at least one leaflet-engaging element. After engaging, the distal end of the inner shaft is proximally withdrawn from within the ventricle. Other applications are also described. | 11-04-2010 |
20100280604 | OVER-WIRE ROTATION TOOL - Apparatus is provided that includes an implant structure, which includes a contracting mechanism, which includes a rotatable structure, arranged such that rotation of the rotatable structure contracts the implant structure. A longitudinal member is coupled to the contracting mechanism. A tool for rotating the rotatable structure is configured to be guided along the longitudinal member, to engage the rotatable structure, and to rotate the rotatable structure in response to a rotational force applied to the tool. Other embodiments are also described. | 11-04-2010 |
20100286587 | SUBLINGUAL ELECTRICAL DRUG DELIVERY - Apparatus is provided that includes an oral housing, which is configured to be placed at least partially in a mouth of a subject, and which comprises a drug, and two or more electrodes. The apparatus further includes a power supply, and circuitry coupled to the power supply and the electrodes, and configured to drive the electrodes to drive, into oral tissue of the subject, a current having a frequency of between 30 and 300 kHz. Other embodiments are also described. | 11-11-2010 |
20100286628 | GASTRIC ANCHOR - A swallowable medical treatment device is configured to initially assume a contracted state having a volume of less than 4 cm3. The device includes a gastric anchor, which initially assumes a contracted size, and which is configured to, upon coming in contact with a liquid, expand sufficiently to prevent passage of the gastric anchor through a round opening having a diameter of between 1 cm and 3 cm. The device also includes a duodenal unit, which is configured to pass through the opening, and which is coupled to the gastric anchor such that the duodenal unit is held between 1 cm and 20 cm from the gastric anchor. Other embodiments are also described. | 11-11-2010 |
20100286660 | GASTRORETENTIVE DUODENAL PILL - Apparatus is provided that includes a swallowable medical treatment device, which is configured to initially assume a contracted state having a volume of less than 4 cm3. The device includes a gastric anchor, which initially assumes a contracted size, and which is configured to, upon coming in contact with a liquid, expand sufficiently to prevent passage of the anchor through a round opening having a diameter of between 1 cm and 3 cm. The device also includes a duodenal unit, which is configured to pass through the opening, and which is coupled to the gastric anchor such that the duodenal unit is held between 1 cm and 20 cm from the gastric anchor. Other embodiments are also described. | 11-11-2010 |
20100286767 | ANNULOPLASTY RING WITH INTRA-RING ANCHORING - Apparatus is provided that includes an annuloplasty system for use on a subject. The system includes an annuloplasty ring, which includes a sleeve having a lumen, and at least one anchor, shaped so as to define a coupling head and a tissue coupling element, which tissue coupling element is shaped so as to define a longitudinal axis, and is configured to penetrate cardiac tissue of the subject in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. The system further includes an anchor deployment manipulator, configured to be removably positioned within the lumen of the sleeve, and, while so positioned, to deploy the tissue coupling element from a distal end of the deployment manipulator through a wall of the sleeve into the cardiac tissue in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tissue coupling element and parallel to a central longitudinal axis through the distal end of the deployment manipulator. | 11-11-2010 |
20100298741 | DUODENAL EATING SENSOR - Apparatus ( | 11-25-2010 |
20100305392 | THORACIC AORTA AND VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION - Apparatus and methods are described including identifying a subject as suffering from a condition selected from the group consisting of congestive heart failure, diastolic heart failure, and hypertension. In response to the identifying, an electrode is placed on a vagus nerve of the subject at a vagal site that is between (a) a vagal bifurcation with a thoracic cardiac branch of the subject, and (b) thoracic vagal branching into the esophageal plexus of the subject. The subject is treated by driving a current into the vagal site, via the electrode. Other embodiments are also described. | 12-02-2010 |
20110014294 | STIMULATION OF OCULAR RETROBULBAR BLOOD FLOW USING OCULAR IRRITANTS - Disclosed are uses of an ocular irritant such as saponin in stimulating the retrobulbar blood flow of an eye. Disclosed are also methods of treatment including administration of a pharmaceutical composition including an ocular irritant to an eye, for example as a mist, in order to stimulate the retrobulbar blood flow. In some embodiments, the stimulation of the retrobulbar blood flow has a beneficial effect. | 01-20-2011 |
20110022073 | BALLOON WITH RIGID TUBE FOR OCCLUDING THE UTERINE ARTERY - Apparatus is provided for use with a subject's body, vagina, vaginal fornix, uterus, and uterine artery. A fornix-engaging structure is inserted into the vagina and engages the vaginal fornix. A rod is inserted into the subject's body via the fornix-engaging structure, such that a distal end of the rod passes through vaginal tissue at a first vaginal site until the distal end of the rod is at a first extrauterine site outside of the uterine artery, but in a vicinity of a portion of the uterine artery that supplies a uterine fibroid. A rod-guide is coupled to the fornix-engaging structure, and guides the distal end of the rod to the first extrauterine site. A uterine artery compression device is disposed on the distal end of the rod. Other embodiments are also described. | 01-27-2011 |
20110054599 | MIRROR IMPLANT - An intraocular implant including a plurality of mirrors, including mirrors having optical power, being operative, when the implant is implanted, for receiving light from a scene and focusing the light onto a retina, the mirrors containing bio-incompatible materials and at least one hermetically sealed enclosure, enclosing the plurality of mirrors, and being operative, when the implant is implanted, to seal the bio-incompatible materials from the interior of the eye, without interfering with the passage of light therethrough from the scene to the plurality of mirrors and from the plurality of mirrors to the retina. | 03-03-2011 |
20110066175 | GASTRIC ANCHOR - A swallowable medical treatment device is configured to initially assume a contracted state having a volume of less than 4 cm3. The device includes a gastric anchor, which initially assumes a contracted size, and which is configured to, upon coming in contact with a liquid, expand sufficiently to prevent passage of the gastric anchor through a round opening having a diameter of between 1 cm and 3 cm. The device also includes a duodenal unit, which is configured to pass through the opening, and which is coupled to the gastric anchor such that the duodenal unit is held between 1 cm and 20 cm from the gastric anchor. Other embodiments are also described. | 03-17-2011 |
20110071628 | ACCOMMODATIVE INTRAOCULAR LENS - An accommodating intraocular lens (AIOL) implant includes at least an anterior floating lens complex and a posterior lens complex, each of which comprises one or more optical elements, and a frame comprising one or more levers, which are coupled to the frame and the anterior floating lens complex. The levers are configured to leverage motion of the frame to move the anterior floating lens complex with respect to the posterior lens complex. Other embodiments are also described. | 03-24-2011 |
20110077729 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONTROL OF BLOOD PRESSURE - Apparatus and methods are described, including identifying a subject as suffering from hypertension. In response to the identifying (a) a radius of curvature of a first set of at least three regions of an arterial wall of the subject is increased at a given longitudinal location, while (b) allowing the first set of regions of the arterial wall to pulsate. A device is implanted inside the artery at the longitudinal location such that the device applies pressure to the arterial wall at a second set of at least three regions of the artery, but does not contact the first set of regions, the first set of regions and the second set of regions alternating with each other. Other embodiments are also described. | 03-31-2011 |
20110092765 | TOOLS FOR USE IN ESOPHAGUS - Apparatus ( | 04-21-2011 |
20110118773 | ELLIPTICAL DEVICE FOR TREATING AFTERLOAD - Apparatus and methods are provided, including an elongate element that is inserted into a subject's artery via a catheter, the catheter being configured to be withdrawn from the artery subsequent to the insertion. Expandable elements are disposed on the elongate element, the expandable elements comprising respective distal tips that are substantially aligned with the elongate element. During insertion of the elongate element via the catheter, the expandable elements are in contracted states thereof. In response to the withdrawal of the catheter from the artery, the expandable elements cause the artery to change a shape thereof, by the expandable elements expanding such that the distal tips of the expandable elements contact respective contact points on the wall of the artery. Subsequently, the distal tips of the expandable elements are freed from the contact points upon pulling of the elongate element. Other embodiments are also described. | 05-19-2011 |
20110137370 | THORACIC AORTA AND VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION - Apparatus and methods are provided, including an electrode that is placed in contact with an artery of a subject. A control unit drives the electrode to perform a function with respect to the artery, the function selected from the group consisting of: driving a current into the artery, and sensing an electrical parameter of the artery. A transmitter is placed in a vein of the subject that is in a vicinity of the artery, the transmitter being wiredly connected to the control unit. The control unit is configured to drive the electrode by wirelessly transmitting a signal via the transmitter. Other embodiments are also described. | 06-09-2011 |
20110165536 | ALVEOLAR RIDGE AUGMENTATION - Apparatus is provided for use with a gingival periosteum lining a bone. The apparatus comprises a periosteal mesher, which comprises a mesher surface, and a plurality of cutting elements distributed over the mesher surface, which are configured to cut the gingival periosteum to increase flexibility thereof. Other embodiments are also described. | 07-07-2011 |
20110166509 | PAINLESS INJECTOR - Apparatus for use with tissue ( | 07-07-2011 |
20110178416 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONTROL OF BLOOD PRESSURE - Apparatus and methods are described including an implantable device shaped to define (a) at least two artery-contact regions, the artery-contact regions comprising struts that are configured to stretch an arterial wall by applying pressure to the arterial wall, and (b) at least two crimping regions that comprise locking mechanisms configured to prevent the crimping regions from becoming crimped due to pressure from the wall of the artery on the artery-contact regions. The crimping regions are configured to be crimped during insertion of the device, via a catheter, by the locking mechanisms being unlocked during insertion of the device. Other embodiments are also described. | 07-21-2011 |
20110184494 | Method and apparatus for stimulating the sphenopalatine ganglion to modify properties of the BBB and cerebral blood - Apparatus for modifying a property of a brain of a patient is provided, including one or more electrodes ( | 07-28-2011 |
20110202108 | ELECTRICAL MENORRHAGIA TREATMENT - Apparatus and methods are provided for treating menorrhagia of a subject. At least one electrode is coupled to a pelvic site of the subject. A control unit reduces nitric oxide production by pelvic tissue of the subject by driving the electrode to drive an electric current into the pelvic site of the subject. Other embodiments are also described. | 08-18-2011 |
20110212415 | SINUS LIFT IMPLANT - A dental implant is provided that has a proximal-most part, a lateral external surface, and a distal implant portion that extends from a distal implant end along up to 50% of a longitudinal length of the implant. The implant is shaped so as to define a lumen therethrough (a) having at least one distal opening through a distal external surface of the distal implant portion, (b) having a lateral opening through the lateral external surface, and (c) not open to a proximal external surface of the implant within 2 mm of the proximal-most part of the implant. Other embodiments are also described. | 09-01-2011 |
20110213408 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONTROL OF BLOOD PRESSURE - Apparatus is provided for reducing hypertension of a subject. A selective circumferential pressure applicator ( | 09-01-2011 |
20110218401 | PRESSURE-PROPELLED SYSTEM FOR BODY LUMEN - An apparatus for use with a biologically-compatible-fluid pressure source, the apparatus includes an elongate carrier, adapted to be inserted through a proximal opening of a body lumen, and a piston head coupled to a distal portion of the carrier. The piston head is adapted to form a pressure seal with a wall of the lumen after the carrier has been inserted into the lumen, and to be advanced distally through the body lumen in response to pressure from the fluid pressure source. The apparatus is configured to facilitate distal advancement of the piston head by facilitating passage of fluid out of the lumen from a site within the lumen distal to the piston head. | 09-08-2011 |
20110224749 | NERVE STIMULATION TECHNIQUES - A method is provided for treating heart failure in a subject in need of such treatment, including applying a stimulating current to parasympathetic nervous tissue of the subject, selected from the group consisting of: a vagus nerve and an epicardial fat pad. The stimulating current is configured to inhibit release of at least one proinflammatory cytokine sufficiently to the treat heart failure of the subject. A level of the at least one proinflammatory cytokine is measured. Optionally, the stimulating current is configured to change a level of Connexin 43 of the subject, and the level of Connexin 43 is also measured. Other embodiments are also described. | 09-15-2011 |
20110238133 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF THE EYE - Apparatus and methods are described for treating an eye of a subject. One or more electrodes are placed at least partially inside the subject's eye. A control unit treats the eye by driving the electrodes to apply an electrical signal to the eye that induces production of nitric oxide (NO). Other embodiments are also described. | 09-29-2011 |
20110251471 | IMPLANTABLE POWER SOURCES AND SENSORS - A protein is provided, including a glucose binding site, cyan fluorescent protein (CFP), and yellow fluorescent protein (YFP). The protein is configured such that binding of glucose to the glucose binding site causes a reduction in a distance between the CFP and the YFP. Substance monitoring apparatus ( | 10-13-2011 |
20110251524 | DEVICE FOR ULTRASOUND TREATMENT AND MONITORING TISSUE TREATMENT - Apparatus is provided, including first and second support structures for placement on skin of a subject. At least one of the first and second structures is moveable with respect to the other so as to draw a portion of the skin and underlying tissue of the subject between respective lateral surfaces of the support structures. At least one ultrasound transducer is moveably coupled to the first support structure along an axis of the structure that is not parallel to the lateral surface of the structure. The ultrasound transducer is configured to transmit toward the portion of skin and underlying tissue one or more forms of acoustic radiation energy, including treatment energy. At least one acoustic element is coupled to the second support structure. Other applications are also described. | 10-13-2011 |
20110262544 | OPHTHALMIC ADMINISTRATION OF A COMPOSITION INCLUDING BRIMONIDINE AS A MIST - Disclosed are methods of treatment including administration of a pharmaceutical composition including brimonidine to an eye as a mist, the composition devoid of a penetration enhancer. | 10-27-2011 |
20110282203 | REFLECTANCE-FACILITATED ULTRASOUND TREATMENT AND MONITORING - A method comprising providing a reflective region at a far side of tissue of a subject is provided. The method includes assessing whether the reflective region is in a desired location, by means of acoustic sensing; and in response to assessing that the reflective region is in the desired location, activating an ultrasound transducer to ablate the tissue by applying ultrasound energy to a near side of the tissue, such that at least a portion of the transmitted energy is reflected by the reflective region onto the tissue of the subject. Other embodiments are also described. | 11-17-2011 |
20110282249 | REFLECTANCE-FACILITATED ULTRASOUND TREATMENT - Apparatus is provided that includes an ultrasound ablation system, which includes a reflection-facilitation element, configured to be placed at an extramyocardial site of a subject, and to provide an extramyocardial reflective region. The system further includes an ultrasound tool, which comprises at least one ultrasound transducer configured to be positioned within a heart chamber of the subject, and to ablate myocardial tissue by applying ultrasound energy to the myocardial tissue such that at least a portion of the transmitted energy is reflected by the reflective region onto the myocardial tissue. Other embodiments are also described. | 11-17-2011 |
20110282361 | Delivery tool for implantation of spool assembly coupled to a helical anchor - Apparatus is provided, including a tissue-adjusting member configured to be coupled to tissue of a patient, a rotatable structure that is configured to adjust a tension of the tissue-adjusting member, a tissue anchor coupled to the tissue-adjusting member and configured to screw into the tissue of the patient, and a delivery tool reversibly coupleable to the rotatable structure. The delivery tool comprises a first actuating element configured to rotate the tissue anchor so as to facilitate screwing of the tissue anchor into the tissue of the patient while not facilitating rotation of the rotatable structure, and a second actuating element configured to rotate the rotatable structure while not facilitating rotation of the tissue anchor. Other applications are also described. | 11-17-2011 |
20110287386 | IMPLANTS, TOOLS, AND METHODS FOR SINUS LIFT AND LATERAL RIDGE AUGMENTATION - Apparatus is provided that includes a dental implant having a proximal implant end and a lateral external surface. The implant is shaped so as to define a lumen therethrough having a lateral opening through the lateral external surface. The apparatus further includes an applicator, which is removably coupled to the proximal implant end. The applicator includes a delivery tube having a distal tube end that is removably coupled to the implant such that the delivery tube is in fluid communication with the lumen via the lateral opening. Other embodiments are also described. | 11-24-2011 |
20110301628 | TECHNIQUES FOR USE WITH A NAIL PENETRATION DEVICE - Apparatus and methods are described for cutting a hole in a nail of a subject. The apparatus includes an element having a nail-contacting cutting surface for contacting the subject's nail. A control unit is configured to generate a hole in the subject's nail by moving the nail-contacting surface in a back-and-forth motion, while the nail-contacting surface is in contact with the subject's nail. Other applications are also described. | 12-08-2011 |
20110301670 | TIBIAL NERVE STIMULATION - Apparatus and methods are described, including identifying a subject as suffering from polyneuropathy. In response to the identifying, electrodes are placed within 1 mm of a tibial nerve of the subject, the electrodes being disposed on a housing that is at least partially flexible. The electrodes are driven to treat the polyneuropathy by driving a current into the tibial nerve. Other embodiments are also described. | 12-08-2011 |
20110318707 | DENTAL IMPLANT HAVING A RECESSED SURFACE FOR SEALING - Apparatus is provided that includes a dental implant having a central longitudinal axis, a lateral external surface, and a distal implant portion that extends from a distal implant end along up to 50% of a longitudinal length of the implant. The implant being shaped so as to define a lumen therethrough having (a) at least one distal opening through a distal external surface of the distal implant portion, and (b) a lateral opening open to the lateral external surface. The implant is also shaped so as to define a recessed surface that (a) is recessed from the lateral external surface, (b) is outside of the lumen, and (c) completely surrounds the lateral opening. Other embodiments are also described. | 12-29-2011 |
20120015329 | DENTAL NAVIGATION TECHNIQUES - Apparatus and methods are described, including at least one tool configured to be placed inside a subject's mouth. A first optically-visible marker is coupled to the tool. A second optically-visible marker is coupled to a structure inside the subject's mouth. A plurality of optical cameras are coupled to the tool, and are placed inside the subject's mouth by the tool being placed inside the subject's mouth. The cameras acquire respective images of the inside of the subject's mouth, in which the second optically-visible marker is identifiable. A plurality of optical cameras that are disposed outside the subject's mouth acquire respective images of the tool, while the tool is inside the subject's mouth, in which images the first optically-visible marker is identifiable. Other embodiments are also described. | 01-19-2012 |
20120022639 | GUIDE WIRES WITH COMMISSURAL ANCHORS TO ADVANCE A PROSTHETIC VALVE - Apparatus is provided, including one or more valve support guide members configured to be delivered to one or more commissures of a native atrioventricular valve of a patient, one or more valve support anchors configured to be anchored to the one or more commissures of the native valve, a prosthetic valve support advanceable toward the native valve along the one or more valve support guide members and anchored to the native valve at least the one or more commissures, and a prosthetic valve configured to be coupled to the valve support. Other applications are also described. | 01-26-2012 |
20120022640 | TECHNIQUES FOR PERCUTANEOUS MITRAL VALVE REPLACEMENT AND SEALING - Apparatus and methods are described, including one or more valve support guide members that are delivered to one or more commissures of a native atrioventricular valve of a patient. A prosthetic valve support is advanced toward the native valve along the one or more valve support guide members and placed at the native valve. A prosthetic valve is coupled to the valve support. One or more sealing elements facilitate sealing of an interface between the prosthetic valve support and the native valve. Other applications are also described. | 01-26-2012 |
20120035645 | DYNAMIC AND STATIC BLOOD FILTERS - Apparatus and methods are described for preventing stroke. The apparatus includes a housing, and a blood rotation device coupled to the housing. The blood rotation device facilitates the preventing of the stroke by rotating blood flowing through an artery of a subject, without the device storing energy during systole of the subject that is subsequently released by the device during diastole of the subject. Other embodiments are also described. | 02-09-2012 |
20120035711 | ENHANCING PERFUSION BY CONTRACTION - Apparatus and methods are described including a mechanical support element that is placed inside a first vein of a subject. At least one electrode disposed on the mechanical support element is placed inside the first vein, in a vicinity of a site upstream of a bifurcation with a second vein of the subject. A control unit enhances downstream blood flow from the first vein by driving the at least one electrode to divert blood downstream into the second vein by constricting the first vein at the upstream site, by driving the at least one electrode to apply a current to the vicinity of the site. The mechanical support element prevents the first vein from collapsing by providing mechanical support to the vein. Other embodiments are also described. | 02-09-2012 |
20120041514 | RETINAL PROSTHESIS - An external device ( | 02-16-2012 |
20120077140 | PERIOSTEAL MESHER - Apparatus is provided for use with a gingival periosteum lining a bone. The apparatus comprises a periosteal mesher, which comprises a mesher surface, and a plurality of cutting elements distributed over the mesher surface, which are configured to cut the gingival periosteum to increase flexibility thereof. Other embodiments are also described. | 03-29-2012 |
20120083855 | GI AND PANCREATIC DEVICE FOR TREATING OBESITY AND DIABETES - A method is provided, including placing first and second electrodes at respective first and second sites of a duodenum of a subject, and activating the electrodes to increase a blood insulin level of the subject. Other embodiments are also described. | 04-05-2012 |
20120094254 | IMPLANTS, TOOLS, AND METHODS FOR SINUS LIFT AND LATERAL RIDGE AUGMENTATION - Apparatus is provided that includes a dental implant having a lateral external surface. The implant is shaped so as to define a lumen therethrough having a lateral opening through the lateral external surface. The apparatus further includes a retaining element, and a delivery tube having a distal tube end. The retaining element is configured to assume (a) a first position in which the retaining element removably couples the distal tube end to the implant such that the delivery tube is in fluid communication with the lumen via the lateral opening, and (b) a second position in which the retaining element does not couple the distal tube end to the implant. Other embodiments are also described. | 04-19-2012 |
20120095554 | COMPRESSED HAPTICS - An injectable intraocular implant including an optics portion and a resilient, flexible haptics portion mounted coaxially with the optics portion and a method for inserting the implant into the eye. | 04-19-2012 |
20120123498 | SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT SYSTEM - An apparatus is provided for treating obstructive sleep apnea. The apparatus has an external device containing a breathing sensor to sense activity associated with breathing of a subject, and also containing a control unit, coupled to the breathing sensor, for generating a signal in response to anatomical activity associated with breathing. The apparatus also has a sublingual implant, containing a receiver, electrodes and circuitry, which wirelessly receives a signal from the external device and applies current to a sublingual muscle site in response to the signal, in a plurality of successive periods of inspiration, even in the absence of a detection of apnea by the external device. | 05-17-2012 |
20120136369 | STRUCTURES FOR OCCLUDING THE UTERINE ARTERY - Apparatus and methods are described including at least one rigid structure configured to be inserted into a subject's fornix such that distal end of the rigid structure is at a site anterior to a perivascular adipose layer of at least one of the subject's left and right broad ligaments. At least one uterine artery compression device is placed posterior to the broad ligaments and compresses at least one of the subject's left and right uterine arteries by pressing the at least one broad ligament against the rigid structure. Other applications are also described. | 05-31-2012 |
20120136456 | CERAMIC FOAM ARTIFICIAL BONE - A sterile artificial bone product is provided. The sterile artificial bone product comprises a sintered porous ceramic foam material having a density of 0.3 to 1.5 g/cc, and a porosity of 40 to 95%, pores of the material having a pore diameter distribution of 10-500 microns. Additionally, a bioactive compound is coupled to the ceramic foam material. Other embodiments are also described. | 05-31-2012 |
20120158081 | PACEMAKER WITH NO PRODUCTION - Apparatus and methods are provided for use with a heart of a subject, including a set of one or more electrodes. A control unit paces the heart by driving a first electric current via the electrode set into tissue of the subject, in accordance with a first set of parameters. The control unit stimulates nitric oxide production by a portion of the heart by driving a second electric current via the electrode set into the portion of the heart, in accordance with a second set of parameters. Other embodiments are also described. | 06-21-2012 |
20120164603 | DENTAL IMPLEMENT HAVING LUMEN AND DISTAL THREADING - Apparatus is provided that includes a dental implement, which is shaped so as to define a lumen therethrough, a distal end of which lumen opens through at least one distal opening on a distal end of the dental implement; and a lateral external surface, at least a portion of which is shaped so as to define a screw thread that extends until the distal end of the dental implement. Other embodiments are also described. | 06-28-2012 |
20120259410 | Retinal Prosthesis Techniques - Apparatus for use with an external non-visible light source is provided. The apparatus comprises an intraocular device configured for implantation in a human eye, and comprising an energy receiver. The energy receiver is configured to receive light emitted from the external non-visible light source, and extract energy from the emitted light for powering the intraocular device. The intraocular device is configured to regulate a parameter of operation of the intraocular device based on a modulation of the light emitted by the external non-visible light source and received by the energy receiver. Other embodiments are also described. | 10-11-2012 |
20120290043 | IMPLANTED ENERGY SOURCE - Apparatus and methods are described for use with (a) a muscle of a body of a subject and (b) an implanted functional device. An electrode is electrically coupled to the muscle. A compressible housing is compressed due to the movement of the muscle. An energy assembly includes a flywheel and an energy converter. The energy assembly (a) stores energy extracted from the movement of the muscle, by rotating the flywheel, (b) causes the muscle to undergo movement by driving a current into the muscle, via the electrode, using the stored energy, and (c) powers the implanted functional device using the stored energy. A chamber, in fluid communication with the housing, receives, from the compressible housing, fluid that is expelled from the compressible housing due to the compression of the compressible housing. Other applications are also described. | 11-15-2012 |
20130012891 | SKIN-TREATMENT AND DRUG-DELIVERY DEVICES - Apparatus for use with skin of a subject is provided, including a mount, a first zone of which is adhesively adherable to the skin. A second zone is not adhesively adherable to the skin. The mount is disposable in one shape and in another shape, at least one of the shapes being an unconstrained shape, the mount being deformable from the one shape to the other shape in response to application of a deforming force to the mount. When the mount moves toward the unconstrained shape, the movement is sudden regardless of a speed of application of the deforming force prior to the sudden movement. A treatment unit is provided, coupled to the mount, positioned with respect to the mount such that the treatment unit is moved into a position to apply a treatment to the subject by the mount moving toward the unconstrained shape. Other applications are also described. | 01-10-2013 |
20130030545 | SINUS STENT - Paranasal sinus apparatus is provided, including a hole-forming member configured to form a hole through a bone wall of a paranasal sinus of a subject. An implant is provided, having a proximal end and a distal end, and which is shaped to define a lumen. The implant is couplable to the hole-forming member, and is securable to the wall and extendable through the hole, such that the proximal end is disposed external to the paranasal sinus and the distal end is disposed within the paranasal sinus. The implant includes a biodegradable material. Other applications are also described. | 01-31-2013 |
20130035759 | TECHNIQUES FOR PERCUTANEOUS MITRAL VALVE REPLACEMENT AND SEALING - Apparatus is described for use with a native heart valve of a subject, the apparatus including (1) a prosthetic valve support, comprising an upstream support portion, the upstream support portion having (a) a compressed configuration and an uncompressed configuration in which the upstream support portion has an inner perimeter that defines an opening; and (2) a prosthetic valve, advanceable into the opening defined by the upstream support portion, and intracorporeally couplable to the upstream support portion by being expanded within the opening defined by the upstream support portion, the apparatus being configured such that, when the prosthetic valve is expanded within the opening defined by the upstream support portion, the expansion of the prosthetic valve is restricted by the inner perimeter of the upstream support portion, without causing the prosthetic valve support to apply a radially-expansive force to the native annulus. Other embodiments are also described. | 02-07-2013 |
20130066393 | TIBIAL NERVE STIMULATION - A method is provided, including identifying a subject as suffering from pain in a first limb of the subject. In response to the identifying, treatment of the pain in the first limb is facilitated by implanting electrodes in a limb of the subject that is contralateral to the first limb. Other embodiments are also described. | 03-14-2013 |
20130103028 | REFLECTANCE-FACILITATED ULTRASOUND TREATMENT AND MONITORING - Apparatus comprising an ultrasound ablation system ( | 04-25-2013 |
20130123569 | BLOOD FLOW CONTROL ELEMENT - Apparatus for treating obstructive blood flow disorders, is provided, including ( | 05-16-2013 |
20130123880 | DETECTOR-BASED AORTIC STIMULATION - Apparatus is provided, including (1) an external device, configured for placement outside of a body of a subject and to sense a factor of the subject, and to generate a signal in response to the sensed factor, and (2) an implant, which comprises a wireless receiver for receiving the signal, and at least one electrode, the implant configured to drive the electrode to apply current to an aortic and/or vagal site of the subject in response to the signal. | 05-16-2013 |
20130137998 | TECHNIQUES FOR PREDICTION AND MONITORING OF CLINICAL EPISODES - Apparatus and methods are provided for measuring a heartbeat of a fetus in a pregnant subject. A motion-related parameter of the pregnant subject is sensed without contacting or viewing the subject or clothes the subject is wearing. The fetal heartbeat is derived from the motion-related parameter, and an output is generated in response thereto. Other applications are also described. | 05-30-2013 |
20130144178 | TECHNIQUES FOR PREDICTION AND MONITORING OF CLINICAL EPISODES - Apparatus and methods are provided including sensing at least one parameter of a subject while the subject sleeps. The parameter is analyzed, and a condition of the subject is determined at least in part responsively to the analysis. The subject is alerted to the condition only after the subject awakes. Other applications are also described. | 06-06-2013 |
20130149669 | IMPLANT SYSTEMS WITH SWIVEL JOINTS FOR SINUS LIFT AND BONE AUGMENTATION - Apparatus is provided that includes a dental implant having a distal implant portion that extends from a distal implant end along up to 50% of a longitudinal length of the implant, the implant shaped so as to define a lumen through the implant, which lumen has at least one distal opening through a distal external surface of the distal implant portion. The apparatus further includes a swivel joint having first and second joint portions defining first and second joint ports, respectively, the swivel joint arranged so as to define a fluid path from the second joint port to the first joint port via the second and first joint portions, which are arranged to be rotatable with respect to one another such that the fluid path is preserved during rotation. The fluid path through the swivel joint is in fluid communication with the lumen via the first joint port. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150857 | CORTICAL DRILLING - A method is provided that includes advancing a drill having a distal end through an occlusal cortex into trabecular bone of an alveolar ridge, and ceasing the advancing of the drill when the distal end of the drill reaches an occlusal surface of a superior cortex of the alveolar ridge. Other embodiments are also described. | 06-13-2013 |
20130172981 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONTROL OF BLOOD PRESSURE - Apparatus and methods are described including an implantable device having first and second longitudinal ends, the device having a length of less than 80 mm when the device is unconstrained. The device includes struts arranged such that, when the device is unconstrained, along a continuous portion of the device having a length that is at least 5 mm, a maximum inter-strut distance defined by any set of two adjacent struts is more than 1.5 times as great as a maximum inter-strut distance defined by any set of two adjacent struts within longitudinal portions of the device within 3 mm of the longitudinal ends of the device. Other applications are also described. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172992 | TECHNIQUES FOR PERCUTANEOUS MITRAL VALVE REPLACEMENT AND SEALING - Apparatus and methods are described including a prosthetic valve support ( | 07-04-2013 |
20130190866 | ANNULOPLASTY RING WITH INTRA-RING ANCHORING - A method includes positioning an anchor deployment manipulator at least partially within a lumen of a sleeve of an annuloplasty ring, the sleeve having a lateral wall shaped to define the lumen, and the lumen extending longitudinally along a length of the sleeve. A portion of the sleeve that contains a distal end of the deployment manipulator is placed into an atrium in a vicinity of an annulus of an atrioventricular valve. An anchor is deployed from the distal end of the deployment manipulator through the lateral wall of the sleeve into cardiac tissue, while the distal end of the deployment manipulator is positioned such that a central longitudinal axis of the deployment manipulator through the distal end of the deployment manipulator forms an angle of between 45 and 90 degrees with the lateral wall of the sleeve at a point at which the anchor penetrates the lateral wall. | 07-25-2013 |
20130204292 | PRESSURE-ENHANCED BLOOD FLOW TREATMENT - Apparatus and methods are provided, including a sensor, configured to sense a cardiac cycle of a patient and to generate a signal in response thereto. A pressure mechanism is coupled to a site of an artery of the patient, and, in response to the signal, enhances blood flow of the patient in a downstream direction by compressing the artery. A valve is implanted upstream of the site, and inhibits blood flow in an upstream direction due to operation of the pressure mechanism. Other applications are also described. | 08-08-2013 |
20130261693 | SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT SYSTEM - Apparatus is provided for treating obstructive sleep apnea, including an external device ( | 10-03-2013 |
20130304102 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR STIMULATING STRETCH RECEPTORS IN THE VASCULATURE - Stimulation of a stretch receptor response to the cardiac cycle is enhanced by constraining a region of a blood vessel wall upstream and/or downstream of a baroreceptor. The constraint may be external or internal and will typically be effected using a circumferential restraint placed over or within the blood vessel. | 11-14-2013 |
20130331791 | EXTERNAL DRUG PUMP - Apparatus is described for administering a substance to a subject. A vial contains the substance and a stopper is disposed within the vial and is slidably coupled to the vial. A first threaded element is (a) rotatable with respect to the vial and (b) substantially immobile proximally with respect to the vial during rotation of the first threaded element. A second threaded element is threadedly coupled to the first threaded element. At least a distal end of the second threaded element is substantially non-rotatable with respect to the vial, and the distal end of the second threaded element defines a coupling portion that couples the second threaded element to the stopper. The first threaded element, by rotating, linearly advances the stopper and at least the distal end of the second threaded element toward a distal end of the vial. Other embodiments are also described. | 12-12-2013 |
20130338545 | ULTRASOUND SKIN TREATMENT - Apparatus ( | 12-19-2013 |
20140012099 | PREDICTION AND MONITORING OF CLINICAL EPISODES - Apparatus and methods are provided including sensing at least one parameter of a subject while the subject sleeps. The parameter is analyzed, and a condition of the subject is determined at least in part responsively to the analysis. The subject is alerted to the condition only after the subject awakes. Other applications are also described. | 01-09-2014 |
20140058294 | TISSUE TREATMENT AND MONITORING BY APPLICATION OF ENERGY - Apparatus is provided, which includes at least one ultrasound transducer. The ultrasound transducer is configured to be positioned within a lumen of a subject and to ablate tissue surrounding a wall of the lumen without ablating the wall of the lumen, by focusing ultrasound energy on a focal zone that is outside of the wall of the lumen. A transluminal delivery tool is configured to position the ultrasound transducer in the lumen, and a control unit is configured to drive the ultrasound transducer. Other embodiments are also described. | 02-27-2014 |
20140094903 | IMPLANTATION OF REPAIR CHORDS IN THE HEART - Apparatus is provided, including first and second longitudinal members coupled at respective first portions thereof to tissue surrounding the ventricle. The first portion of at least the first longitudinal member is coupled to a tissue anchor, and respective second portions of the first and second longitudinal members are coupled to respective first and second leaflets of a cardiac valve. The longitudinal members are arranged with respect to the tissue anchor and the portion of tissue surrounding the ventricle in a manner which facilitates adjustment of a degree of tension of the first and second longitudinal members to draw the first and second leaflets together. A longitudinal-member-coupling device is coupled to the first and second longitudinal members, and is advanceable toward a ventricular surface of the first and second leaflets, and responsively to draw together the first and second longitudinal members. Other applications are also described. | 04-03-2014 |
20140128865 | CONTROLLED RENAL ARTERY ABLATION - Apparatus for facilitating ablation of nerve tissue of a subject is provided, comprising (1) an ablation unit, configured to be percutaneously advanced to a site adjacent to a first portion of the nerve tissue; (2) at least one electrode unit, coupled to the ablation unit, and configured to be percutaneously advanced to a site adjacent to a second portion of the nerve tissue, and to initiate unidirectional action potentials in the nerve tissue, such that the unidirectional action potentials propagate toward the first portion of the nerve tissue; and (3) a control unit, configured: (a) to drive the ablation unit to ablate, at least in part, the first portion of the nerve tissue of the subject, and (b) to drive the at least one electrode unit to initiate the unidirectional action potentials by applying an excitatory current to the second portion of the nerve tissue. | 05-08-2014 |
20140147809 | DENTAL IMPLANTS, TOOLS, AND METHODS - Apparatus is provided that includes a dental implant having a lateral external surface. The implant is shaped so as to define a lumen therethrough having a lateral opening through the lateral external surface. The apparatus further includes a retaining element, and a delivery tube having a distal tube end. The retaining element is configured to assume (a) a first position in which the retaining element removably couples the distal tube end to the implant such that the delivery tube is in fluid communication with the lumen via the lateral opening, and (b) a second position in which the retaining element does not couple the distal tube end to the implant. Other embodiments are also described. | 05-29-2014 |
20140148898 | MITRAL VALVE TREATMENT TECHNIQUES - A method is provided for treating mitral valve regurgitation, including inserting a band around between 90 and 270 degrees of a mitral valve of a heart, including around at least a portion of a posterior cusp of the valve, in a space defined by (a) a ventricular wall, (b) a ventricular surface of the posterior cusp in a vicinity of an annulus of the valve, and (c) a plurality of chordae tendineae of one or more types of chordae tendineae selected from the group consisting of: second-order chordae tendineae and third-order chordae tendineae. The method also includes applying pressure to the posterior cusp by inflating the band. | 05-29-2014 |
20140171490 | Method and Device for Ophthalmic Administration of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients - Disclosed is the use of a mist of a pharmaceutical composition for ophthalmic delivery of a protein or peptide active pharmaceutical ingredient, a related method of treatment and a device useful in implementing the use and method. Disclosed is also the use of a mist for ophthalmic delivery of a pharmaceutical composition including a highly irritating penetration enhancer and an ophthalmically acceptable carrier, a related method of treatment and a device useful in implementing the use and method. Disclosed is also a device for ophthalmic administration configured to direct a mist of a pharmaceutical composition to the eye only when the eye is open. Disclosed is also a self-sterlizing device for ophthalmic administration. Disclosed is also a device and a method for increasing the bioavailability of an ophthalmically administered API in a pharmaceutical composition. | 06-19-2014 |
20140174223 | ANTI-ROTATION FEATURE FOR INFUSION PUMP CARTRIDGE - Apparatus is described for administering a substance to a subject. A vial contains the substance and a stopper is disposed within the vial and is slidably coupled to the vial. A first threaded element is (a) rotatable with respect to the vial and (b) substantially immobile proximally with respect to the vial during rotation of the first threaded element. A second threaded element is threadedly coupled to the first threaded element. At least a distal end of the second threaded element is substantially non-rotatable with respect to the vial, and the distal end of the second threaded element defines a coupling portion that couples the second threaded element to the stopper. The first threaded element, by rotating, linearly advances the stopper and at least the distal end of the second threaded element toward a distal end of the vial. Other embodiments are also described. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180391 | WIRELESS ENDOVASCULAR STENT-BASED ELECTRODES - Apparatus and methods are provided for use with a blood vessel of a subject, including a stent ( | 06-26-2014 |
20140180407 | ACCOMMODATIVE INTRAOCULAR LENS - An accommodating intraocular lens implant includes an anterior floating lens unit, a posterior lens unit, an anterior lens link, a posterior lens link, and an anterior rim link, which comprises an anterior rim jointed element. An anterior rim complex is disposed such that the anterior floating lens unit is movable toward and away from the anterior rim complex, in an anterior-posterior direction. A lever is connected (a) at a first longitudinal site along the lever, to the anterior floating lens unit by the anterior lens link, (b) at a second longitudinal site along the lever, to the anterior rim complex by the anterior rim link, and (c) at a third longitudinal site along the lever, to the posterior lens unit by the posterior lens link. The second site is longitudinally between the first and the third sites along the lever, such that the second site serves as a fulcrum for the lever. | 06-26-2014 |
20140188222 | RETINAL PROSTHESIS TECHNIQUES - Apparatus for use with an external non-visible light source is provided. The apparatus comprises an intraocular device configured for implantation in a human eye, and comprising an energy receiver. The energy receiver is configured to receive light emitted from the external non-visible light source, and extract energy from the emitted light for powering the intraocular device. The intraocular device is configured to regulate a parameter of operation of the intraocular device based on a modulation of the light emitted by the external non-visible light source and received by the energy receiver. Other embodiments are also described. | 07-03-2014 |
20140222137 | TOOL FOR ACTUATING AN ADJUSTING MECHANISM - Apparatus is provided, including a tissue-adjusting member selected from the group consisting of: one or more artificial chordae tendineae and at least a portion of an annuloplasty ring structure. The tissue-adjusting member includes an adjusting mechanism that is configured to adjust a tension of the tissue-adjusting member. The adjusting mechanism includes a locking mechanism configured to restrict adjusting of the tissue-adjusting member by the adjusting mechanism. An elongate member is configured to maintain the locking mechanism in an unlocked state during adjusting of the tension of the tissue-adjusting member by the adjusting mechanism, and facilitate locking of the adjusting mechanism by the locking mechanism. A tool is configured to facilitate actuation of the adjusting mechanism to adjust the tension of the tissue-adjusting mechanism. The elongate member and the tool are slidably coupled with respect to each other. Other applications are also described. | 08-07-2014 |
20140243963 | ANNULOPLASTY RING DELIVERY CATHETHERS - Apparatus is provided, including a first catheter having a distal end portion transluminally advanceable to a vicinity of an anatomical site, a second catheter having a distal end portion advanceable through a first lumen and out of the first lumen, and a longitudinal implant, advanceable through the second lumen and out of the second lumen. The first and second catheters are assembled to facilitate sliding of the first and second catheters and of the implant, to configure them to assume a multi-bend formation having first and second bends separating first, second, and third domains. The first domain includes parts of the first and second catheters. The second domain includes the distal end portion of the second catheter, part of the implant, and none of the first catheter. The third domain includes part of the implant and none of the first nor second catheters. Other embodiments are also described. | 08-28-2014 |
20140257475 | PERCUTANEOUS MITRAL VALVE REPLACEMENT AND SEALING - Apparatus is provided for use with a prosthetic valve for implantation at a native valve of a subject, the native valve including at least one native leaflet, the apparatus including (1) a prosthetic valve support, including (a) an upstream support portion, being configured to be placed against an upstream side of the native valve, and having an inner perimeter that defines an opening that is configured to receive the prosthetic valve, and (b) at least one clip (i) comprising at least two clip arms and a clip-controller interface, the clip-controller interface being coupled to at least one of the clip arms, and (ii) being configured to be coupled to a native leaflet of the native valve; and (2) at least one clip controller, reversibly couplable to the clip-controller interface, and configured to facilitate opening and closing of the clip. Other embodiments are also described. | 09-11-2014 |
20140296940 | INDEPENDENTLY-CONTROLLED BIDIRECTIONAL NERVE STIMULATION - Apparatus is configured to drive first action potentials orthodromically in a first direction along a nerve of a subject, and second action potentials orthodromically along the nerve in an opposite direction to the first direction. The apparatus includes: (1) first and second excitation units configured to be placed in a proximity of the nerve of the subject; (2) a blocking unit disposed between the excitation units and placeable in a proximity of the nerve of the subject; and (3) a control unit, configured: (i) to drive the first and second excitation units to apply, respectively, first and second excitatory currents to the nerve of the subject, and (ii) to drive the blocking unit to apply a blocking current to the nerve of the subject that blocks action potentials that propagate from the first and second excitatory units toward the blocking unit. Other embodiments are also described. | 10-02-2014 |
20140309734 | ACCOMMODATIVE INTRAOCULAR LENS - An accommodating intraocular lens implant includes an anterior floating lens unit, a posterior lens unit, an anterior lens link, and an anterior rim link, which comprises an anterior rim jointed element. An anterior rim complex is disposed such that the anterior floating lens unit is movable toward and away from the anterior rim complex, in an anterior-posterior direction. A lever is connected (a) at a first longitudinal site along the lever, to the anterior floating lens unit by the anterior lens link, and (b) at a second longitudinal site along the lever, to the anterior rim complex by the anterior rim link. The lever, at a third longitudinal site along the lever, is in jointed connection with the posterior lens unit. The second site is longitudinally between the first and the third sites along the lever. | 10-16-2014 |
20140309735 | ACCOMMODATIVE INTRAOCULAR LENS - An accommodating intraocular lens implant includes an anterior floating lens unit, a posterior lens unit, an anterior lens link, and an anterior rim link, which comprises an anterior rim jointed element. An anterior rim complex is disposed such that the anterior floating lens unit is movable toward and away from the anterior rim complex, in an anterior-posterior direction. A lever is connected (a) at a first longitudinal site along the lever, to the anterior floating lens unit by the anterior lens link, and (b) at a second longitudinal site along the lever, to the anterior rim complex by the anterior rim link. The lever, at a third longitudinal site along the lever, is in jointed connection with the posterior lens unit. The second site is longitudinally between the first and the third sites along the lever. | 10-16-2014 |
20140324128 | ELECTROOSMOTIC TISSUE TREATMENT - Apparatus for driving fluid between first and second anatomical sites of a subject is provided, comprising (1) a first electrode, configured to be coupled to the first anatomical site of the subject; (2) a second electrode, configured to be coupled to the second anatomical site of the subject; and (3) a control unit, configured to (i) detect a pressure difference between the first and second anatomical sites, and (ii) in response to the detected pressure difference, drive fluid between the first and second anatomical sites by applying a treatment voltage between the first and second electrodes. Other embodiments are also described. | 10-30-2014 |
20140324164 | TECHNIQUES FOR PERCUTANEOUS MITRAL VALVE REPLACEMENT AND SEALING - Apparatus is provided for use with a native valve of a heart of a subject, the apparatus including (1) an annular upstream support portion, configured to be transluminally placed against an atrial surface of the native valve; (2) a tissue-engaging element that includes a coupling portion configured to be transluminally coupled to tissue in a ventricle of the heart; (3) an elastically-stretchable holding element, configured to secure the upstream support portion against the atrial surface by elastically coupling the coupling portion to the upstream support portion; and (4) a prosthetic valve, configured to be transluminally delivered to the native valve and intracorporeally coupled to the upstream support portion subsequently to the securing of the upstream support portion against the atrial surface. Other embodiments are also described. | 10-30-2014 |
20140343668 | ANNULOPLASTY RING WITH INTRA-RING ANCHORING - Apparatus is provided that includes an annuloplasty system for use on a subject. The system includes an annuloplasty ring, which includes a sleeve having a lumen, and at least one anchor, shaped so as to define a coupling head and a tissue coupling element, which tissue coupling element is shaped so as to define a longitudinal axis, and is configured to penetrate cardiac tissue of the subject in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. The system further includes an anchor deployment manipulator, configured to be removably positioned within the lumen of the sleeve, and, while so positioned, to deploy the tissue coupling element from a distal end of the deployment manipulator through a wall of the sleeve into the cardiac tissue in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tissue coupling element and parallel to a central longitudinal axis through the distal end of the deployment manipulator. | 11-20-2014 |
20150032128 | ULTRASONIC SKIN TREATMENT DEVICE WITH HAIR REMOVAL CAPABILITY - Apparatus ( | 01-29-2015 |
20150039046 | BILATERAL FEEDBACK - Apparatus comprising (1) a breathing sensor, configured to detect a breathing-related factor of a subject; (2) at least a first electrode configured to be placed in a vicinity of a respective first hypoglossal nerve, and to be driven, in response to the detected breathing-related factor, to apply a first electrical current to the first hypoglossal nerve; (3) at least a second electrode configured to be placed in a vicinity of a respective second hypoglossal nerve, and to be driven, in response to the detected breathing-related factor, to apply a second electrical current to the second hypoglossal nerve; and (4) circuitry configured to, in response to a detected symmetry-related factor indicative of a degree of symmetry of the subject, configure at least one current selected from the group consisting of: the first current and the second current. Other embodiments are also described. | 02-05-2015 |