Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130035719 | COMPOSITE PLUG FOR ARTERIOTOMY CLOSURE AND METHOD OF USE - A composite plug for arteriotomy closure, a method of manufacturing a composite plug for arteriotomy closure, and a method for the use of a composite plug for arteriotomy closure may include an elongate core member, and one or more layers disposed at least in part about the core member, where the composite plug has been partially compacted in a radial direction. The composite plug may include an outer member at least partially surrounding the core member. | 02-07-2013 |
20130041366 | Vacuum Device for Sealing an Anatomical Opening - A device for accessing a hollow organ comprises an elongated body sized for insertion into an entrance passage to the hollow organ, the elongated body including an outer sealing surface engaging an inner surface of the entrance passage and a working channel extending therethrough from a proximal port which, when the elongated body is in the operative position is proximal to a proximal opening of the entrance passage, to a distal port which, when the elongated body is in the operative position, extends distally past a distal opening of the entrance passage into the hollow organ and a plurality of suction holes formed through an outer wall of the elongated body, disposed around a circumference of a portion of the elongated body which, when the elongated body is in the operative position, is located within the entrance passage in combination with a vacuum channel formed in the elongated body for transferring a negative pressure to the suction holes to increase a sealing force applied by tissue of the entrance passage to the outer surface of the elongated body. | 02-14-2013 |
20130046146 | Device and Method for Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - A lower esophageal sphincter tightening device for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease which includes an insertion device, an energy source, and an energy transmitting device. The insertion device, by insertion through a body opening, positions the energy transmitting device in the proximity of the lower esophageal sphincter. The energy source generates and transmits energy via the insertion device to the energy transmitting device which directs the transmitted energy onto the lower esophageal sphincter which is comprised largely of collagen. The energy source transmits energy at a level sufficient to cause heating of the sphincter's collagen resulting in a shrinkage of the collagen and a tightening of the sphincter. | 02-21-2013 |
20130053727 | Transbronchial Needle Aspiration Device - Transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) device. In one embodiment, the device comprises a handle and a flexible catheter, the handle having a bore, the proximal end of the catheter being fixed within the handle bore. A protective tubular hub having a flared distal end is press-fit coaxially within the distal end of the catheter, the distal end of the catheter being sealed around the distal end of the hub so as to define a distal opening. A hollow needle having a sharp tip at its distal end is disposed within the catheter, the needle tip being sized for insertion through the distal opening of the catheter. The distal end of a flexible wire is coupled to the proximal end of the needle, the proximal end of the wire extending through the handle bore and coupled to a button slide accessible through a slot in the handle. The button slide is movable between a distal position in which the needle tip extends through the distal opening of the catheter and a proximal position in which the needle tip is disposed within the hub. When in either its distal position or its proximal position, a pawl on the button slide releasably engages a corresponding notch on the handle to lock the button slide in place. | 02-28-2013 |
20130053756 | Anti-Obesity Diverter Structure - The anti-obesity diverter structure includes a laminate structure having papilla-supplied and pylorus-supplied surfaces. The laminate structure is sized to fit longitudinally within a duodenum such that a transverse clearance is provided between the papilla-supplied surface and papilla of Vater. The laminate structure is secured within the duodenum to define papilla-supplied and pylorus-supplied lumens therein. The papilla-supplied lumen receives the digestive fluid from the papilla of Vater, and provides a conduit for the digestive fluid therein. The pylorus-supplied lumen receives the chyme from the pylorus and provides a conduit for the chyme therein. The laminate structure is impervious or semi-permeable to the chyme and digestive fluid. | 02-28-2013 |
20130060322 | EXPANDABLE FRAMEWORK WITH OVERLAPPING CONNECTORS - A stent may comprise a plurality of serpentine bands and connectors. A first connector may overlap a second connector when the stent is unexpanded. The first connector may also overlap the second connector in an unexpanded state when the stent is subject to compressive forces in the local area of the connectors, such as when the connectors are located on the inside of a curve. The second connector may be shaped according to a rotation of the first connector about the centroid of the cell between the first connector and the second connector. | 03-07-2013 |
20130066330 | STEERABLE STONE BASKET - A medical device includes a sheath defining a lumen, a first elongate member, and a second elongate member. The first and second elongate members are movably disposed within the lumen. The medical device further includes a basket comprising a plurality of legs and a mesh portion. A proximal end of each leg of the plurality of legs is connected to the first elongate member, and a proximal end of the mesh portion is connected to the second elongate member. | 03-14-2013 |
20130072904 | MICROMACHINED MEDICAL DEVICES - Medical devices that include micromachined hypotubes or that have themselves been micromachined can provide advantages in flexibility, strength and other desirable properties. Examples of such medical devices may include catheters such as guide catheters and balloon catheters. Such devices may also include dual shaft medical devices in which an outer shaft is reversibly lockable onto an inner shaft. | 03-21-2013 |
20130072905 | CATHETER WITH COMPOSITE STIFFENER - A catheter comprising an elongate tubular member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a passageway defining a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends. The elongate tubular member comprises a relatively stiff proximal section and a relatively flexible distal section. The proximal section includes an inner tubular liner, a first stiffener comprising a metal alloy, and a second stiffener comprising a non-metal alloy. The first and second stiffeners are coaxially wound exterior to the proximal inner liner. The distal section includes a distal inner tubular liner and the second stiffener coaxially wound exterior to the distal inner liner. The first stiffener terminates before reaching the distal section. | 03-21-2013 |
20130072906 | CATHETER HAVING IMPROVED BONDING REGION - A method of making a catheter having a flexible outer tube and a lubricious inner tube bonded to the flexible outer tube. The catheter is formed of a distal outer tube formed of a first, flexible material, an inner tube having a lubricious inside wall surface formed of a second, lubricious material, and an outer tube wall surface compatible with heat bonding the inner tube outside wall surface to the outer tube wall surfaces. A preferred flexible material is polyether block amide (PEBA) and a preferred lubricious material is polyethylene. | 03-21-2013 |
20130072962 | REMOVABLE INTRAVASCULAR DEVICES AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME - An intravascular device, which may be a filter, that may include a plurality of elongate members, each or several of the elongate members may have one or more inwardly facing edges disposed at and near the part of the intravascular device configured to contact the vessel wall for cutting through the intima or other encapsulating tissue, each of the elongate member may also include an anchoring member or other desired components. | 03-21-2013 |
20130079642 | ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEMS WITH BIAS CIRCUITRY AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING - A medical imaging system includes an imaging device for inserting into a lumen of a catheter. The imaging device includes an ultrasound transducer and bias circuitry electrically coupled to the transducer for biasing the transducer. At least one communication line is coupled to both the ultrasound transducer and the bias circuitry and extends to a proximal end of the catheter. The at least one communication line transmits a transducer drive signal to the transducer and a charge signal to the bias circuitry. At least one inductive coupler is in communication with the at least one communication line. The transducer drive signal and the charge signal are both AC signals. The transducer drive signal has a transducer-drive-signal frequency and the charge signal has a charge-signal frequency that is different than the transducer-drive-signal frequency. | 03-28-2013 |
20130079767 | EMBOLIZATION - A particle includes a ferromagnetic material, a radiopaque material, and/or an MRI-visible material. | 03-28-2013 |
20130079891 | TISSUE MODIFICATION - A tissue modification apparatus includes a first and a second guide, a first and a second set of mounts, and a first and a second actuator. The first guide defines a first axis, and the second guide defines a second axis intersecting the first axis. The mounts of the first set of mounts are movable relative to one another along the first axis, and the mounts of the second set of mounts are movable relative to one another along the second axis. The first actuator and the second actuator are each settable to a stress load, with the first actuator and the second actuator movable, respectively, along the first axis and the second axis to transmit each respective stress load to a piece of tissue mechanically coupled to the first and second set of mounts. | 03-28-2013 |
20130084315 | CONTROLLING RESORPTION OF BIORESORBABLE MEDICAL IMPLANT MATERIAL - The resorption of a medical implant can be controlled with the use of particles embedded in a resorbable bulk material forming the implant or portion thereof. The implant can be removed from a body of a mammal by natural biological mechanisms after use. The resorption of the implant can involve swelling and/or hydrolyzing of the particles within the implant upon contact with a body fluid such that porosity and flow of fluid within the bulk material of the implant is increased. Resorption of the implant may also involve the use of particles with magnetic properties embedded within the implant such that an applied magnetic field causes the particles to vibrate within the bulk material thereby increasing the porosity and thus the flow of fluid, hence facilitating resorption of the implant. The resorption rate of the implant can be controlled by modulating swelling, hydrolysis, or movement of the embedded particles. | 04-04-2013 |
20130085495 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR FOCUSED BIPOLAR TISSUE ABLATION USING AN INSULATED SHAFT - A tissue ablation probe is provided. The probe comprises a proximal electrode element, which includes a proximal electrode stem and a deployable proximal electrode array, and a distal electrode element, which includes a distal electrode stem and a deployable distal electrode array. The probe is configured, such that a majority of electrical energy conveyed between the proximal and distal electrode elements is conveyed between distal termini of the electrode arrays, whereas a relatively small amount of the electrical energy is conveyed between the electrode stems. One or more of the electrodes on the arrays may be optionally insulated to further enhance the electrical characteristics of the arrays. | 04-04-2013 |
20130090529 | STEERABLE DEVICE AND SYSTEM - A system includes a steerable device, such as a sheath or shaft, having proximal and distal ends. The steerable device includes an elongated body having a proximal section, a steering section, and a distal tip. Control wires are routed through the body and connected at or near the distal end of the steerable device. The system further includes a control unit to which the proximal end of the steerable device is functionally connected. In one embodiment, the control unit includes an actuator connected to one control wire and a biasing force generating device connected to a second control wire. The steering section is controllably manipulated by the control unit to facilitate steering of the distal tip of the steerable device as the steerable device is advanced through tortuous passageways of a patient's body. | 04-11-2013 |
20130090563 | INTRAVASCULAR TEMPERATURE MONITORING SYSTEM - A system for monitoring one or more temperatures at a vessel wall of a vessel of a patient includes an optical fiber, an optical read-out mechanism, and a therapeutic device. The optical fiber may be deployed along an extent of the vessel and may include one or more fiber Bragg grating (FBG) temperature sensors disposed at one or more corresponding sensor locations along a length of the optical fiber. The optical read-out mechanism may be optically coupled to the optical fiber, and it may be configured to transmit light into the optical fiber and detect light reflected from the one or more FBG temperature sensors. The detected light reflected from the one or more FBG temperature sensors may encode local temperatures at each of the one or more corresponding sensor locations. The therapeutic device may be configured for performing a therapeutic procedure to or through the vessel wall. | 04-11-2013 |
20130090578 | DEVICE AND METHODS FOR RENAL NERVE MODULATION - Systems for nerve modulation are disclosed. An example system may include a first elongate element having a distal end and a proximal end and having at least one transducer disposed adjacent the distal end. The transducer may be an ultrasound transducer. Activation of the transducer may radiate acoustic energy from in two directions simultaneously. | 04-11-2013 |
20130090624 | RECAPTURE SHEATH - In some embodiments, a recapturing sheath comprises an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. The shaft defines a lumen therein. The distal end comprises a flare and a slit. A first portion of said flare overlaps a second portion of said flare. | 04-11-2013 |
20130090631 | MEDICAL DEVICE DELIVERY APPARATUS - The disclosure pertains to apparatus for intravascular delivery of medical devices past a juncture which requires an abrupt change of direction and methods of use therefor. The apparatus employs a directing element which deflects the medical device from an initial path to a second path. In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises more than one directing element and may be capable of redirecting by deflection more than one medical device. | 04-11-2013 |
20130090647 | ABLATION CATHETER WITH INSULATED TIP - An ablation catheter configured to be navigated through a vessel to ablate tissue, the ablation catheter comprising an elongate catheter shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. An electrode is positioned near the distal end of the elongate shaft, and is configured to transmit radio-frequency energy into a vessel wall. An electrically insulative tip at the distal end of the catheter keeps the electrode away from the blood vessel wall. | 04-11-2013 |
20130090649 | DEVICE AND METHODS FOR RENAL NERVE MODULATION - Systems for nerve modulation are disclosed. An example system may include a first elongate element having a distal end and a proximal end and having at least one inflatable balloon and one nerve modulation element disposed adjacent the distal end. Expansion of the inflatable balloon may partially occlude a vessel and positions the nerve modulation element within the vessel. | 04-11-2013 |
20130090650 | RENAL NERVE ABLATION COOLING DEVICE AND TECHNIQUE - A catheter is disclosed including an elongated shaft having a distal end and a proximal end, where the catheter includes a thermal element at the distal end thereof. The thermal element may be used in an ablation procedure or other procedure to heat a tissue adjacent a vessel. The configuration of the distal end of the elongated shaft at or near the distal tip may encourage the cooling of or transferring of heat from the vessel wall. The configurations may include protrusions extending from and indentations extending into the shaft, which may manipulate the flow of fluid through a vessel in which the catheter has been inserted. Alternatively or additionally, a cap or thin insulative layer may be placed at or near the distal tip of the catheter shaft to cool the wall of the vessel. | 04-11-2013 |
20130090651 | OFF-WALL ELECTRODE DEVICE AND METHODS FOR NERVE MODULATION - Systems for nerve modulation through the wall of a blood vessel are disclosed. An example system for nerve modulation may include an elongate member extending along a central elongate axis and having a proximal end and a distal end. The elongate member may have a radially expandable member disposed proximate the distal end. A tubular sheath may be cooperatively engaged with the expandable member such that the expandable member is collapsed when in the sheath and can expand when moved distally relative to and past a distal end of the sheath. The expandable member may include a plurality of electrodes and a plurality of spacer struts. Each spacer strut may be configured such that when the self-expanding member is in an expanded state the spacer strut extends out radially further than the electrodes from the central elongate axis. | 04-11-2013 |
20130090652 | MEDICAL DEVICES INCLUDING ABLATION ELECTRODES - Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may be a renal nerve modulation catheter. The catheter may include an elongate catheter shaft. The catheter shaft may have a plurality of cuts formed therein define a plurality of electrode assemblies. The electrode assemblies may each include a main strut, one or more branched spacer struts extending from the main strut, and an electrode extending from the main strut and positioned radially inward from the spacer struts. | 04-11-2013 |
20130090653 | Method for Ablating Tissue to Facilitate Implantation and Apparatus and Kit for Use Therewith - A method for treating a mammalian body having tissue comprising creating a cavity in the tissue formed by an internal surface of the tissue. The internal surface is ablated. An implant-forming material is introduced into the cavity to create an implant in the tissue. The ablation of the internal surface inhibits migration of the implant. An apparatus and kit for use with the method are provided. | 04-11-2013 |
20130090729 | PROFILE REDUCTION SEAL - The disclosure pertains to profile reduction seals associated with heart valve replacements which may reduce or eliminate paravalvular regurgitation and methods of fabricating such seals. The generally cylindrical multilayer seals of the disclosure include a crown-like end and reinforcing elements which facilitate compression of the seal and associated device by minimizing bunching of the seal as it enters a delivery system. | 04-11-2013 |
20130092079 | Coated Medical Device and Method for Manufacturing the Same - The medical device of the invention comprises a surface comprising at least one outermost portion and a plurality of depressions. The depressions occupy at least about 80% of the surface area of the surface. The depressions contain a coating material that preferably comprises a biologically active material and/or polymer, and the outermost portion is substantially free of any coating material. The invention is also directed to a method for manufacturing a medical device. The method comprises applying a coating material to the surface of the medical device by using at least one roller. | 04-18-2013 |
20130096372 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATING TO ASSOCIATING A MEDICAL IMPLANT WITH A DELIVERY DEVICE - The present invention provides devices and methods for associating an implantable sling with a delivery device for delivering the sling to an anatomical location in a patient. | 04-18-2013 |
20130096535 | ADJUSTABLE STIFFNESS CATHETER - Medical devices such as catheters can include structure or provision that permit a physician or other health care professional to adjust the stiffness of at least a portion of the medical device. In some instances, the medical device may be adjusted prior to inserting the medical device into a patient. In some cases, the medical device may be adjusted while in use within the patient. | 04-18-2013 |
20130096550 | ABLATIVE CATHETER WITH ELECTRODE COOLING AND RELATED METHODS OF USE - Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include an ablative catheter system including an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending there between. An end-effector may be disposed at the distal end of the elongate member. The end-effector may include an expandable frame. A membrane may be supported on the frame. The membrane may be configured to partially occlude fluid flow upon frame expansion. One or more electrodes may be placed on the end-effector. The system may also include a control member that is configured to shift the end-effector between a collapsed state and the frame expansion state. | 04-18-2013 |
20130096553 | DEFLECTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may be a deflectable medical device that includes a catheter shaft having a distal end. An ablation electrode may be disposed at the distal end. A deflection mechanism may be coupled to the catheter shaft. The deflection mechanism may include a deflection body and a pull wire coupled to the deflection body. The deflection body may have a longitudinally-extending furrow formed therein. A flex member may be disposed adjacent to the deflection mechanism. | 04-18-2013 |
20130096554 | SLOTTED TUBE MULTIPLE ELECTRODE FRAME AND OFF-WALL SPACER CAGE - A method of making a spacer cage is disclosed. The method may include providing a tube having an outer diameter, a first second, a second section and a middle section having a first end connected to the first section and a second end connected to the second section, cutting the middle section to form strut elements of the spacer cage and cutting a plurality of longitudinal slits in the first and second sections to allow radial expansion of the first and second sections, expanding the tube using a mandrel, heat setting the tube while on the mandrel, and subsequent the heat setting, removing the first and second sections from the tube. | 04-18-2013 |
20130096588 | ATHERECTOMY POSITIONING DEVICE - Techniques are described for treating an occlusion in a patient. In one example, a system comprises an atherectomy device configured to remove an occlusion from a body lumen and a positioning device that positions the atherectomy device adjacent to the occlusion. The positioning device comprises a tubular body having first and second ends and defining a lumen therebetween, at least two fins engaged to the tubular body, wherein in a deployed state, the fins extend radially outward from the tubular body, and wherein in an undeployed state, the at least two fins wrap about one another and about the tubular body, a guide wire extending through the lumen, and first and second stopper members, each of the first and second stopper members engaged to the guide wire, wherein the first stopper member and the second stopper member substantially prevent movement of the tubular body along the guide wire. | 04-18-2013 |
20130096604 | INTEGRATED CROSSING BALLOON CATHETER - An integrated crossing balloon catheter. The catheter includes a hub assembly secured to the proximal end of the catheter shaft, an inflatable balloon secured to the distal end of the catheter shaft, and a stiffening tube positioned over the inflatable balloon and a distal end portion of the catheter shaft. The stiffening tube is configured to be advanced through a vasculature with the catheter shaft as a unit. The stiffening tube is translatable along the catheter shaft from a first position in which the inflatable balloon is within the stiffening tube to a second position in which the inflatable balloon is exposed from the stiffening tube. | 04-18-2013 |
20130103019 | Cryosurgical Fluid Supply - Improved systems, devices, and methods for delivering cryogenic cooling fluid to cryosurgical probes such as cryosurgical endovascular balloon catheters take advantage of the transients during the initiation and termination of cryogenic fluid flow to moderate the treatment temperatures of tissues engaged by the probe. A flow limiting element along a cryogenic fluid path intermittently interrupts the flow of cooling fluid, often cycling both the fluid flow and treatment temperature. This can maintain the tissue treatment temperature within a predetermined range which is above the treatment temperature provided by a steady flow of cryogenic fluid. In another aspect, room temperature single-use cooling fluid cartridges are filled with a sufficient quantity of cryosurgical fluid to effect a desired endovascular cryosurgical treatment. | 04-25-2013 |
20130103075 | EMBOLIC DEBRIS DEFLECTOR - The disclosure pertains to debris diverters for use within the aorta and methods of diverting or redirecting emboli and other debris away from the carotid arteries to prevent cerebral embolization. The disclosure includes aortic diverters positionable in the ascending aorta in order to divert embolic material of all sizes away from the carotid arteries, thereby washing emboli downstream into the thoracic and peripheral vasculature. The debris diverters of the disclosure are adapted to be placed in the ascending and transverse aorta via the left subclavian artery in order to divert embolic material away from the carotid arteries and methods of use therefor. | 04-25-2013 |
20130116618 | CATHETER INCLUDING A BARE METAL HYPOTUBE - Catheter and methods for designing, making, and using catheters are disclosed. An example catheter is a balloon catheter. The balloon catheter may include a proximal shaft. The proximal shaft may be a bare metal hypotube having a skew value of −1.0 to −2.5. A midshaft may be attached to the proximal shaft. A distal shaft may be attached to the midshaft. A balloon may be coupled to the distal shaft. An inflation lumen may be defined that extends from the proximal shaft, through the midshaft, and into the distal shaft. The inflation lumen may be in fluid communication with the balloon. | 05-09-2013 |
20130116687 | OSTIAL RENAL NERVE ABLATION - A catheter including an elongated shaft having a distal end and a proximal end, where the catheter includes a thermal element at the distal end thereof. The thermal element may be used in an ablation procedure or other procedure to heat a tissue adjacent a vessel. In some instances, the thermal element may be positioned in a first vessel and may operate to heat tissue adjacent a second vessel or adjacent an ostium between the first vessel and the second vessel. Further, the catheter may include an expandable portion on which the thermal element may be connected or positioned. The expandable portion(s) may comprise a basket or cage, a balloon, a memory shape and formable portion, and/or other mechanical expanders. | 05-09-2013 |
20130116701 | GUIDE EXTENSION CATHETER - Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include a guide extension catheter. The guide extension catheter may include a proximal tubular member having a lumen defined therein. A distal tubular member may be attached to the proximal tubular member. The proximal tubular member may have an outer diameter. The distal tubular member may have an inner diameter. The inner diameter of the distal tubular member may be greater than the outer diameter of the proximal tubular member. A stiffening member may be slidably disposed within the proximal tubular member. | 05-09-2013 |
20130116702 | Flexible Vacuum Grabber for Holding Lesions - A grabbing device includes a transparent flexible cup that can be placed adjacent to a selected region of an inner surface of a body cavity. The flexible cup is visually put in place by the surgeon, and a vacuum is applied to draw a selected amount of tissue into the flexible cup, so that it may, e.g., be excised. The device may also retrieve the tissue excised from the body cavity. | 05-09-2013 |
20130116715 | MEDICAL CUTTING DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE - A cutting device for repairing a heart valve may include a delivery catheter, a cutting unit including an elongate shaft and a plurality of cutting wires, and a plurality of centralizing wires configured to center the cutting unit within a treatment site. A method of repairing a heart valve may include withdrawing a cutting unit through a treatment site while maintaining a plurality centralizing wires in an expanded centering configuration. | 05-09-2013 |
20130116724 | HANDLE ASSEMBLY FOR A LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE OCCLUSION DEVICE - The disclosure pertains to a handle assembly for a left atrial appendage occlusion device delivery system and methods of use therefor. The handle assembly includes a leadscrew mechanism for smooth, low backlash control of a delivery catheter for the left atrial appendage occlusion device and manipulation segments which allow one hand operation of the handle assembly. | 05-09-2013 |
20130116778 | Replacement Heart Valve Leaflet Stitching Method and Device - A replacement heart valve and stitching method for reducing the unexpanded profile of the replacement heart valve are herein provided. The method includes whip stitching a plurality of leaflets together with a first whip stitch pattern a second whip stitch pattern which overlaps the first whip stitch pattern and is wound in an opposite direction. The method further involves securing the valve leaflets to one another via a running stitch. | 05-09-2013 |
20130118502 | OCCLUSION OF FALLOPIAN TUBES IN A VERTEBRATE SUBJECT - According to one claim of the invention, a method for occluding a fallopian tube in a vertebrate subject is described, which comprises comprising transcervically delivering a solid blocking material into the fallopian tube. In various embodiments, a fluid sealing material is delivered along with the solid blocking material. Other claims of the invention pertain to articles of manufacture, delivery devices and kits for use in occluding the fallopian tubes of a vertebrate subject. | 05-16-2013 |
20130118949 | DUAL STERILIZATION CONTAINMENT VESSEL - The disclosure pertains to a vessel for holding replacement heart valves and associated positioning and installation apparatus which is configured and adapted to contain a biocidal sterilization fluid during and following exposure of a delivery system for the replacement heart valve to sterilization by ionizing radiation and methods of use therefor. The vessel includes a shield which limits exposure of biologically derived material therein to radiation. The vessel also provides a storage and shipping container for the replacement heart valve in which the biologically derived material is maintained in a sterile fluid environment. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123625 | INTEGRATED ULTRASOUND ABLATION AND IMAGING DEVICE AND RELATED METHODS - Intravascular nerve modulation systems and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example system may include an elongate shaft having a proximal end region and a distal end region and a central longitudinal axis. An ablation transducer may be disposed at the distal end region. The system may also include a rotational drive configured to rotate the ablation transducer about the central longitudinal axis. A control and power system may be operably connected to the ablation transducer and the rotational drive. In some instances, the ablation transducer may be a combined ablation and imaging transducer. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123634 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROMOTING FLOW OF AN ACOUSTICALLY-FAVORABLE MEDIUM OVER A TRANSDUCER OF AN ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEM - A catheter assembly includes an imaging core insertable into a lumen of a sheath of a catheter. The imaging core includes a rotatable driveshaft and a transducer that is coupled to the driveshaft and that rotates with the driveshaft. One or more inlet ports and one or more outlet ports are defined in a distal portion of the sheath. A flow-inducing element is coupled to the driveshaft and rotates with the driveshaft. The flow-inducing element draws fluid into the lumen through the inlet port(s) from the environment external to the sheath and pushes the drawn fluid out of the lumen through the outlet port(s). One of the one or more inlet ports or the one or more outlet ports is disposed proximal to the flow-inducing element and the transducer, and the other of the inlet port(s) or the outlet port(s) is disposed distal to the flow-inducing element and the transducer. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123670 | DEVICE AND METHODS FOR RENAL NERVE MODULATION - Systems for nerve modulation are disclosed. An example system may include a first elongate element having a distal end and a proximal end and having at least one nerve modulation element disposed adjacent the distal end. The nerve modulation element may be an ultrasound transducer. Activation of the nerve modulation element may ablate multiple regions of a target area. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123696 | HIGH PRESSURE BALLOON - Composite fiber reinforced balloons for medical devices are prepared by applying a web of fibers to the exterior of a preformed underlayer balloon, encasing the web with a matrix material to form an assembly, and inserting the assembly into a preformed outer layer balloon to form the composite balloon. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123714 | VESSEL PROTECTION MEMBRANE - A medical device assembly may include an elongated guidewire, an elongated flexible tubular membrane disposed about the guidewire, and a percutaneous medical device, wherein the membrane is configured to permit the percutaneous medical device to pass through the lumen. A method of advancing a medical device through a vessel may include advancing an elongated flexible tubular membrane through the vessel to a treatment site, inserting the medical device into the membrane, and advancing the medical device through the membrane while maintaining the membrane in an axially stationary position relative to the vessel. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123757 | DIRECT CONNECT FLUSH SYSTEM - A medical device may include a handle housing having a side wall defining an interior space and proximal and distal apertures extending through the side wall, an elongated outer sheath, an elongated inner member, a proximal flush port disposed within the interior space and in fluid communication with the elongated inner member, and a distal flush port disposed within the interior space and in fluid communication with the elongated outer sheath. A control knob may be rotated to move the distal flush port within the interior space. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123770 | ABLATION CATHETER WITH CRYOTHERMAL BALLOON - A catheter for thermal modulation of renal nerves via thermal ablation, the catheter including a catheter shaft including a distal end, a proximal end, and two lumens—a first lumen and a second lumen—extending therethrough. A thermal heating element is located proximate the distal end of the catheter shaft. In addition, a phase-change cooling mechanism is configured to extract heat away from the thermal heating element. The phase-change cooling mechanism involves vaporization of a liquid refrigerant circulated to the distal end of the catheter shaft through the first lumen into a gas and exhausting the gas to the proximal end of the catheter shaft through the second lumen. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123778 | DEVICE AND METHODS FOR RENAL NERVE MODULATION MONITORING - Systems and methods for monitoring and performing tissue modulation are disclosed. An example system may include an elongate shaft having a distal end region and a proximal end and having at least one modulation element and one sensing electrode disposed adjacent to the distal end region. The sensing electrode may be used to determine and monitor changes in tissue adjacent to the modulation element. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123795 | BOND BETWEEN COMPONENTS OF A MEDICAL DEVICE - An elongated member and a method of manufacturing an elongated member may include first, second, and third elongated rod mandrels. The first, second, and third elongated rod mandrels may be fixed together at predetermined proximal and distal locations and at a ball tip. The first, second, and third rod mandrels may be disposed within a tubular coupling element and fixed to the tubular coupling element at the ball tip. The tubular coupling element may be placed into abutment with and fixed to the distal end of an elongated shaft. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123796 | MEDICAL DEVICE WITH KEYED LOCKING STRUCTURES - Medical device delivery systems and methods for making and using medical device delivery systems are disclosed. An example medical device delivery system may include an outer sheath. An inner catheter may be disposed within the outer sheath. An implant may be releasably coupled to the inner catheter. The implant may be configured to shift between a first elongated configuration and a second expanded configuration. A push-pull rod for shifting the implant between the first configuration and the second configuration may be coupled to the inner catheter. A locking assembly may be disposed about the push-pull rod. At least a portion of an outer surface of the push-pull rod may have a non-circular cross-sectional shape. The locking assembly may have an interior passageway with a non-circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the non-circular cross-sectional shape of the push-pull rod. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123832 | MEDICAL DEVICES - Medical systems and methods including balloons having nanotubes are disclosed. In some embodiments, a medical system includes an elongated shaft, and an expandable balloon carried by the shaft and including nanotubes. The medical system is capable of cooling the balloon to less than about 37° C. In some embodiments, a method includes providing a medical device having an elongated shaft, and an expandable balloon carried by the elongated shaft and including nanotubes; and cooling the balloon to less than about 37° C. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123835 | EMBOLIC PROTECTION DEVICE AND METHOD - An embolic protection device adapted for placement in a left subclavian artery, a right subclavian artery and to cover a left and a right carotid artery, the device having a reduced state and an expanded state, the device comprising an expandable support structure, the expandable support structure comprising a frame, the frame further comprising a porous material, the frame defining the circumference of the porous material in the expanded state. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123898 | MEDICAL DEVICE WITH ONE OR MORE SHEATHING TRANSITION MEMBERS - Medical device delivery systems and methods for making and using medical device delivery systems are disclosed. An example medical device delivery system may include an outer sheath. An inner catheter may be disposed within the outer sheath. The inner catheter may have a distal end. An implant may be releasably coupled to the inner catheter. The implant may be configured to shift between a first configuration where the implant is sheathed within the outer sheath and a second configuration where the implant is unsheathed. A sheathing transition member may be coupled to the inner catheter. The sheathing transition member may be configured to ease shifting of the implant from the second configuration to the first configuration. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123912 | MEDICAL DEVICE WITH NOSECONE AND NOSECONE TUBE EXTENSION - Medical device delivery systems and methods for making and using medical device delivery systems are disclosed. An example medical device delivery system may include an outer sheath. An inner catheter may be disposed within the outer sheath. The inner catheter may have a distal end. A tube extension may be coupled to the distal end of the inner catheter and may extend distally therefrom. The tube extension may include a crush resistance support member. | 05-16-2013 |
20130129793 | MEDICAL DEVICES HAVING IMPROVED PERFORMANCE - In accordance with various aspects of the invention, implantable and insertable medical devices are provided, which contain one or more polymeric regions. In one aspect, the polymeric regions comprise (a) a block copolymer that comprises a polyaromatic block and a polyalkene block admixed with (b) a sulfonated high Tg polymer. In another aspect, the polymeric regions comprise a block copolymer that comprises (a) a sulfonated polymer block and (b) fluorinated polymer block. | 05-23-2013 |
20130131445 | TISSUE AND STONE REMOVAL DEVICE AND RELATED METHODS OF USE - Embodiments of a medical device and related methods of use are provided for extracting tissue. The device may include an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end. Two or more channels may extend through the elongate member from the proximal end to the distal end, and a morcellating device may be included in one of the channels. In addition, one of the channels may be configured as a return channel for extracting the morcellated tissue. | 05-23-2013 |
20130131667 | DEFLECTABLE RENAL NERVE ABLATION CATHETER - Medical devices including catheters for renal nerve ablation and/or modulation as well as methods for making and using such devices are disclosed. An example catheter may, have a proximal region and a distal region. The catheter may be configured to shift between a first straightened configuration and a second deflected configuration. The catheter may also include an ablation member coupled to the distal region and a handle coupled to the proximal region. The handle may include an actuation member for shifting the catheter between the first configuration and the second configuration. A lock may be coupled to the handle that maintains the catheter in either the first configuration or the second configuration. | 05-23-2013 |
20130131714 | EMBOLIC PROTECTION DEVICE AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - An embolic protection device, the device expandable from a first low profile configuration to a second expanded configuration, the device adapted for implantation body lumen, the device comprising an expandable support structure comprising radially expandable tubular first and second end portions and a laterally expandable central portion extending between the first and second end portions. | 05-23-2013 |
20130131718 | EXPANDABLE DEVICE SHEATH FOR VASCULAR CLOSURE PLUG DEPLOYMENT - The present disclosure relates generally to methods and devices for closing and/or sealing an opening in a vessel wall and/or an adjacent tissue tract. In some cases, the device includes a sheath having a distal end that can expand radially as needed. In some cases, the distal portion of the sheath is weakened so that it may tear in a predetermined manner. In some cases, the distal portion of the sheath is weakened so that it may deform plastically in a predetermined manner. In some cases, the distal portion of the sheath or the entire sheath may be folded so that it unfolds in a predetermined manner. In general, each of these sheaths may have a relatively small introduction profile, may have a distal portion that can expand to a larger diameter than the introduction profile during use, and can be collapsed again to a smaller profile for removal. | 05-23-2013 |
20130134272 | ATTACHMENT CLAMP - Various apparatuses to attach a first medical device to a second medical device are described that allow the physician to grasp only a single device while the other device remains securely attached to the one being grasped. The apparatuses, once they are attached to the first medical device, are designed to be easily and quickly attached and detached to a second medical device, normally only requiring the use of one hand. Furthermore, the apparatuses oftentimes include a base that can easily couple and decouple from the portion that is attached to the second medical device so that if the need arises to separately use the second medical device, it can be decoupled from the first medical device without completely removing the apparatus from the second medical device. | 05-30-2013 |
20130137977 | HYBRID MICRO GUIDE CATHETER - A hybrid microguide catheter and method for making and using the same. The catheter may include a first tubular member and a second tubular member. The tubular members may be arranged so that the second tubular member extends distally beyond the first tubular member. Alternatively, the catheter may include a tubular body having a first opening and a second opening. The first opening may be positioned along the tubular body a distance from the second opening. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138133 | RAPID EXCHANGE DILATION CATHETER FOR NON-VASCULAR APPLICATIONS - Described is a method for treating a bronchial tissue. A guide wire is inserted through a bronchial passage to a desired location relative to a target portion of tissue to be treated. A catheter is slid along the guide wire with the guide wire received in a first lumen of the catheter until the guide wire exits a proximal port of the first lumen. A stiffening member is inserted into a second lumen of the catheter. A fluid is injected through the second lumen to a distal port of the catheter, so that the fluid is supplied to the bronchial tissue. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138138 | Occlusion Device - An occlusion device (e.g., for treatment of the left atrial appendage) includes a framework and a biocompatible covering disposed over at least a part of the framework. The framework may include a proximal portion, a middle portion, and a distal portion, wherein: the proximal portion includes a first hub that has a fixed first diameter; the middle portion has a second diameter and includes a plurality of beams extending from the first hub to a distal portion, wherein each of the plurality of beams is connected to an adjacent beam by a first circumferentially extending column of strut pairs; and the distal portion has a third diameter. In one or more embodiments, the framework includes improved circumferential strength and minimizes foreshortening. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138140 | LOW PROFILE IVC FILTER - Intravascular filtering devices for placement within a blood vessel are disclosed. An intravascular filter in accordance with the present invention may include a plurality of elongated filter legs biased to radially expand from a collapsed position to a conical-shaped position when deployed in a blood vessel. Each of the filter legs may include a hook region configured to engage the vessel wall. The filter legs may vary in length and/or cross-sectional diameter. In certain embodiments, the dimensions and/or orientation of the hook regions can be configured to allow the filter device to be collapsed into a relatively small introducer catheter or sheath. | 05-30-2013 |
20130144117 | INTEGRATED LOCKING DEVICE WITH PASSIVE SEALING - Endoscope assemblies, biopsy caps, and methods for making and using the same. An example endoscope assembly may include an endoscope having a channel formed therein and a port that provides access to the channel. A cap may be coupled to the port. The cap may include a base having a securing member for securing the cap to the port, an outer shell, a locking member coupled to the outer shell, an inner seal member, and a central opening that extends to the channel. The inner seal member may include a plurality of flaps. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144119 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BILIARY ACCESS AND STONE RETRIEVAL - Endoscopes, endoscopic instruments, and methods for making and using the same. An illustrative endoscopic instrument includes a catheter that can extend through the working channel of an endoscope. The catheter may include an end effector passing region. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144276 | MEDICAL DEVICE HANDLE - A medical device handle may include an elongated handle housing, a rotatable collar disposed about the handle housing, a rotatable control knob disposed about the collar, and a slidable door disposed about the collar. The door may be rotatably locked to the collar to prevent relative rotation between the door and the collar. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144287 | LARGE AREA THERMAL ABLATION - A large area thermal ablation apparatus for use with an endoscope includes a housing and at least one electrode. The housing is removably attachable to a distal terminating end of the endoscope. The housing includes an outer surface and a cross-sectional area that is at least as large as a cross-sectional area of the distal terminating end of the endoscope. The electrode is supported by the outer surface of the housing. The electrode is capable of delivering energy to a tissue region inside a body to ablate the tissue region. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144294 | SLIDABLE SHEATHS FOR TISSUE REMOVAL DEVICES - A tissue removal device and method of using the device to remove tissue from a patient is provided. The tissue removal device comprises a tissue removal probe and a sheath slideable relative to the probe. The probe has a tissue removal element, and the sheath has a portion that exposes the tissue removal element. The sheath distal end may be pre-shaped to bend when slid distal to the probe. The probe may have a window through which the tissue removal element is exposed. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144328 | EXPANDING DISTAL SHEATH WITH COMBINED EMBOLIC PROTECTION - A medical device may include an elongate shaft having a distal end portion and a balloon disposed at least partially within the distal end portion. The distal end portion may be configured to selectively expand from a collapsed delivery configuration to a distally-opening expanded filtering configuration. A method of deploying a medical device may include obtaining an elongate shaft having a distal end portion and a balloon disposed at least partially within the distal end portion, advancing the elongate shaft through a vessel to a treatment site, disposing at least a portion of the balloon within the treatment site with the distal end of the elongate shaft positioned adjacent the treatment site, at least partially inflating the balloon, thereby expanding the distal end portion, and deflating the balloon and subsequently performing a procedure with the distal end of the elongate shaft positioned within the vessel adjacent to the treatment site. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144372 | INTEGRATED STENT RETRIEVAL LOOP ADAPTED FOR SNARE REMOVAL AND/OR OPTIMIZED PURSE STRINGING - The present invention includes a braided stent and method of making the same. The braided stent has an integral retrieval and/or repositioning member. The stent includes a first open end, a second open end and a tubular body therebetween. The retrieval and/or repositioning member extends from and is interbraided into the braided tubular body. The retrieval and/or repositioning member includes an elongated portion extending from the first open end and a second section interlooping circumferentially about the first open end such that force exerted on the elongated portion causes radially contraction of the stent end and stent body. | 06-06-2013 |
20130150789 | IMMOBILIZING OBJECTS IN THE BODY - Stabilizing an object in the body of a patient involves the injection of a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) material or other flowable material into the body of the patient so that the material contacts the object. The LCST material or other flowable material then forms a gel in the body such that the object is contained at least partially within the gel and thereby stabilized by the gel such that the object can then be easily fragmented within the body and/or retrieved from the body. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150880 | SUBINTIMAL RECANALIZATION WITH BIO-ABSORBABLE STENT - A recanalization catheter assembly and method for establishing a subintimal pathway around an occlusion in a blood vessel. The recanalization catheter assembly an inflatable balloon structure including a distal anchoring portion configured to expand within a true lumen portion of the blood vessel distal of the occlusion to anchor the recanalization catheter from unintentional movement during expansion of a stent in the subintimal pathway. The expandable stent, such as a bioabsorbable stent, may be configured to promote native tissue regrowth around the stent to create a superficial intimal layer along the subintimal pathway. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150950 | Stent | 06-13-2013 |
20130150951 | Shape Memory Polymeric Stent - An implantable, radially distensible stent includes a plurality of helically wound elongate members. The members include an overlapping portion having a longitudinal extent, opposed and convexly rounded sides defining a width of the members and opposed luminal and exterior surfaces. The members include shape memory polymer. The side of one elongate member slidingly overlaps the side of an adjacent elongate member to form a self-supporting wall structure of a stent. The stent wall is self-supporting without other support structure incorporated into or abutting the elongate members. Further, the shape memory polymer may include a biodegradable or bioabsorbable elements. | 06-13-2013 |
20130154779 | ROTARY TRANSFORMER - Described herein are rotary transformers for coupling signals between components that rotate relative to one another. In an exemplary embodiment, a rotary transformer comprises a rotary shaft, a first magnetic core on the rotary shaft, and a first winding wound around the first magnetic core. The rotary transformer farther comprises a hollow second magnetic core, and a second winding wound along the inner wall of the second magnetic core. During operation, the first winding on the rotary shaft rotates within the second winding with the magnetic cores magnetically coupling signals between the two windings. Also, the first and second windings are closely spaced to provide capacitive coupling between the windings that extends the frequency response of the transformer. In one embodiment, the windings comprises substantially flat conductors wound in the shape of the windings. In another embodiment, each of the windings comprises circular loops connected by jogs. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158347 | Devices and Methods for the Treatment of Endometriosis - A tissue treatment device comprises an insertion section sized and shaped for insertion into the body via a trocar and a diagnostic element coupled to the insertion section, the diagnostic element illuminating tissue with light of a wavelength selected to facilitate identification of target tissue in combination with an ultrasound element coupled to the insertion section for delivering to a portion of tissue illuminated by the diagnostic element ultrasound energy. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158519 | CATHETER WITH FORMED GUIDE WIRE RAMP - A rapid exchange catheter comprises a guide wire lumen including a substantially sealed portion in which a lumen wall extends around an entire periphery thereof and a channel portion including a channel opening the lumen to an exterior of the catheter, wherein a width of the channel is less than a maximum width of the channel portion. A guide wire ramp extends into the channel portion, with the ramp extending further into the lumen of the channel portion as a distal end of the ramp is approached. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158533 | CRYO-APPLICATOR CROSS-SECTION CONFIGURATION - A configuration for a cryo-catheter which optimizes both the catheter's outer diameter and the size of the catheter's internal refrigerant flow path is described. Specifically, the inner dimensions of the cryo-catheter are configured to accommodate a pre-selected flow of refrigerant into the catheter's distal tip, and a return flow of refrigerant from the distal tip. The return flow is established in the void spaces between a refrigerant supply line and the inner wall of the catheter body. The available void space varies along the catheter length and depends on the presence/absence of various catheter accessories (i.e. pull wires, pressure tubes, etc.) which typically only extend through a portion of the catheter length. The disclosed configuration ensures that the cryo-catheter does not operate in a refrigerant limited condition, maintains the refrigerant as a liquid in the supply tube, and maintains the return line pressure at about 1 atmosphere. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158540 | METHOD OF TREATING TISSUE WITH RADIO FREQUENCY VASCULAR ELECTRODE ARRAY - A method of treating a patient is provided. The method comprises delivering an electrically conductive material within a vascular network, wherein the electrically conductive material embolizes in a region of the vascular network to form a vascular electrode array that assumes a geometry of the embolized region of the vascular network. The method may optionally comprise delivering a containment agent within the vascular network proximal to the delivered electrically conductive material to stabilize the vascular electrode array. The method further comprises applying electrical energy (e.g., radio frequency (RF) energy) to the vascular electrode array to therapeutically conduct electrical energy into a region of the targeted tissue adjacent the embolized region of the vascular network. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158562 | MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING LINEAR TO ROTATION CONTROL - A medical instrument converts linear movement of a shaft at a proximal end of the instrument to a rotational movement of an end effector of the instrument. According to one embodiment, the medical instrument includes an end effector formed of a snare loop connected to a shaft that is located within a sleeve. Once the sleeve is located near a desired location within a patient, the snare loop may be rotationally positioned with linear movement of the shaft by the operator. The shaft is formed with a threaded portion that matches threads formed in a torque transmitter element fixed within the sleeve. Linear movement of the shaft through the torque transmitter element causes the shaft to rotate. The medical instrument may also include a pivot connector for reducing torque build-up of the shaft and/or a clutch assembly for restricting controlled rotation of the snare loop to only one direction. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158566 | ROTATIONAL MECHANISM FOR ENDOSCOPIC DEVICES - A medical device includes a flexible member extending from a handle at a proximal end to a distal end sized and shaped for insertion to a target position in a living body and having a first channel extending longitudinally therethrough in combination with an elongated rotation tube positioned in the first channel and being rotatable relative to the flexible member and a rotation drive device at a distal end of the rotation tube, a proximal end of the rotation drive device being permanently attached to the rotation tube, a distal end of the rotation drive device having a first protrusion extending distally therefrom and a drive element having a substantially cylindrical shape with a groove on an inner wall thereof mating with the first protrusion of the rotation drive device, the drive element configured to transmit rotational movement of the rotation tube to an end effector connected to a distal end thereof to rotate the rotation tube relative to the flexible member. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158653 | MEDICAL DEVICE DELIVERY SYSTEMS - Medical device delivery systems and methods for making and using medical device delivery systems are disclosed. An example medical device delivery system may include an outer sheath. An inner catheter may be disposed within the outer sheath. The inner catheter may have a distal end. A tube extension may be coupled to the distal end of the inner catheter and may extend distally therefrom. The tube extension may be configured to shift between a first elongated configuration and a second shortened configuration. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158654 | HEART VALVE REPLACEMENT CATHETER - The disclosure pertains to catheter-based delivery system for intravascular heart valve replacement and methods of use thereof. In addition to the replacement heart valve and associated positioning and installation components, the delivery catheter of the system includes a deployable filter element, an actuator for the deployable filter element, and a fluid expandable balloon located proximate the distal end of the delivery catheter. The delivery catheter may be capable of carrying out a valvuloplasty and/or a determination of a distance within a patient. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158655 | MEDICAL DEVICE HANDLE - A medical device handle may include an elongated handle housing, a rotatable collar disposed about the handle housing, a rotatable control knob disposed about the collar, and a slidable door disposed about the collar. The door may be rotatably locked to the collar to prevent relative rotation between the door and the collar. The door may slidable from a closed position to a first open position, and slidable from the first open position to a second open position. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158656 | APPARATUS FOR ENDOVASCULARLY REPLACING A HEART VALVE - An apparatus for endovascular replacement of a heart valve may include first and second members which are releasably attached to each other such that the second member participates in engaging the first member with a locking element which cooperates with the first member to lock an expandable anchor of the replacement heart valve in a deployed configuration. Prior to locking and removal of the second member, the locking element may be prevented from engaging the first member by a portion of the second member. Following locking, the second member may be removed. | 06-20-2013 |
20130164348 | MEDICAL DEVICES FOR DELIVERY OF THERAPEUTIC AGENTS - The present invention is generally directed to medical devices, and more specifically to medical devices that are at least partially insertable or implantable into the body of a patient. The medical devices generally comprise (a) a therapeutic agent, more typically, a high-molecular-weight therapeutic agent, and (b) at least one polymeric layer, which typically acts to control the release of the therapeutic agent from the medical device. Also disclosed herein are methods of making such medical devices. | 06-27-2013 |
20130165759 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING MEDICAL ABLATION SYSTEMS HAVING MAPPING CATHETERS WITH IMPROVED ANCHORING ABILITY - A mapping catheter includes an elongated body for inserting into patient vasculature. A distal end of the elongated body includes a distal portion that includes a plurality of electrodes, a proximal portion disposed proximal to the distal portion, and a reduced-dimension portion disposed between the proximal and distal portions. The distal end is formed, at least in part, from a memory shape material that bends into a preformed shape upon release from a confined space. The preformed shape includes a first loop formed, at least in part, by the distal portion. The first loop is transverse to a longitudinal axis of the proximal portion. The reduced-dimension portion is configured and arranged to bend such that the reduced-dimension section advances distally through the first loop when the first loop is held in a fixed position and a force is applied distally along the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion. | 06-27-2013 |
20130165870 | MICROCATHETER INTRODUCER SHEATH - The present invention includes an introducer sheath. The sheath may comprise a first proximal elongated section having a first outer diameter and a first inner diameter, and a main body elongated section having a second inner diameter and a second outer diameter, wherein the second outer diameter is larger than the first outer diameter. The sheath may further include a distal section having an outer wall that tapers from the second outer diameter of the main body elongated section to a smaller distal outer diameter. | 06-27-2013 |
20130165950 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO ACHIEVE RECIPROCATING ROTATIONAL MOTION OF THE DISTAL MEMBER OF A DEVICE BY APPLYING TRANSLATIONAL FORCES - A medical device includes an elongate body extending from a proximal portion which, in an operative configuration, remains outside a living body, to a distal end which, in the operative configuration, extends through a body to a position adjacent to a target portion of tissue to be treated and a spool rotatably coupled to the distal portion of the elongate body, the spool including a distal portion coupled to an end effector of the device along with a flexible member extending from the proximal portion of the elongate body, a first portion of the flexible member being wound about the spool in a first direction and a second portion of the flexible member wound about the spool in a second direction opposite the first direction, ends of the first and second portions extending to the proximal portion of the elongate body. | 06-27-2013 |
20130172737 | ABSORBABLE SPONGE WITH CONTRASTING AGENT - An absorbable sponge containing a contrasting agent (e.g, radiopaque agent) that can be introduced to a biopsy tract or other puncture wound site is provided. The contrasting agent permits identification of the site by fluoroscopy or other imaging techniques. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172742 | ABLATION PROBE WITH ULTRASONIC IMAGING CAPABILITY - Devices and systems for ultrasonically imaging anatomical structures and performing ablation therapy within the body are disclosed. A combined ablation and ultrasound imaging probe includes an ablation electrode tip including an ablation electrode configured for delivering ablation energy, and a number of ultrasonic imaging sensors configured for imaging the tissue surrounding the probe. The ultrasonic imaging sensors are supported within the interior of the tip via a tip insert, and deliver ultrasonic waves through acoustic openings formed through the tip. The tip insert separates an interior lumen within the tip into a proximal fluid chamber and a distal fluid chamber. During an ablation procedure, the ultrasonic imaging sensors can be tasked to generate a number of ultrasonic images that can be displayed on a user interface. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172855 | BILIARY ACCESS CATHETER SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR ACCESSING THE BILIARY TREE - Medical devices and methods are disclosed. An example method for accessing a body lumen may include providing a catheter system. The catheter system may include a catheter shaft having a lumen defined therein and an outer wall surface having a channel formed therein. A first guidewire may be disposed in the channel and a second guidewire may be disposed in the lumen. The method may also include advancing the catheter system through a body lumen to a location where the body lumen splits into a first section and a second section, advancing the first guidewire into the first section, and advancing the second guidewire into the second section, and advancing the catheter shaft along the second guidewire and into the second section. Advancing the catheter shaft along the second guidewire and into the second section may remove at least a portion of the first guidewire from the channel. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172872 | DEVICE AND METHODS FOR NERVE MODULATION USING A NOVEL ABLATION CATHETER WITH POLYMERIC ABLATIVE ELEMENTS - The disclosure pertains to an intravascular catheter for nerve modulation, comprising an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end, a balloon having a lumen and a balloon wall, the balloon wall comprising RF permeable sections and non-electrically conductive sections, an electrode disposed within the balloon and extending distally to the furthest distal RF permeable section. The RF permeable sections may comprise a plurality of RF permeable windows, each window having a greater circumferential dimension than an axial dimension. The intravascular system is suited for modulation of renal nerves. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172877 | BALLOON EXPANDABLE MULTI-ELECTRODE RF ABLATION CATHETER - An intravascular catheter for nerve modulation through the wall of a blood vessel, comprising an shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and a central axis, a balloon disposed on the shaft and having a proximal end, a distal end, an interior surface, and exterior surface, a lumen defined by the interior surface, a plurality of electrodes disposed on the balloon, and a plurality of elastomeric members disposed between the plurality of electrodes and the balloon and extending between the proximal end of the balloon and the distal end of the balloon. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172878 | DEVICE AND METHODS FOR RENAL NERVE MODULATION MONITORING - Systems and methods for monitoring and performing tissue modulation are disclosed. An example system may include an elongate shaft having a distal end region and a proximal end and having at least two nerve modulation elements disposed adjacent to the distal end region. The nerve modulation elements may be used to determine and monitor changes in tissue adjacent to the modulation element and to effect tissue changes. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172879 | RENAL NERVE MODULATION MEDICAL DEVICES - Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include a renal nerve modulation device. The renal nerve modulation device may include an elongate shaft having proximal region and a distal region. An ablation member may be coupled to the distal region. The distal region may have a distal inner diameter. The proximal region may have a proximal inner diameter that is smaller than the distal inner diameter. A ribbon may be disposed within the distal region of the shaft. The ribbon may have a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the ribbon may extend into the proximal region of the shaft. The distal end of the ribbon may be disposed adjacent to or otherwise coupled to the ablation member. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172880 | RENAL NERVE MODULATION DEVICES AND METHODS FOR RENAL NERVE MODULATION - Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example method may include a method for renal nerve modulation. The method may include providing a steerable medical device, advancing the steerable medical device through a vein to a position adjacent to the kidney, advancing the steerable medical device through a vessel wall of the vein and into body tissue positioned adjacent to a renal artery, and steering the steerable medical device around at least a portion of the renal artery. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172881 | OFF-WALL ELECTRODE DEVICE AND METHODS FOR NERVE MODULATION - Medical devices and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example medical device may include an ablative catheter for nerve modulation through a wall of a blood vessel. The catheter may include a catheter sheath having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending from the proximal to the distal end. An elongate member may extend along a central elongate axis within the lumen of the catheter sheath. The elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end. An expandable ablative member may be coupled to the distal end of the elongate member having an insulative section connected to a bare electrode section. The ablative member may be configured to switch between a collapsed position and an expanded position. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172882 | CONTROL OF ARTERIAL SMOOTH MUSCLE TONE - An apparatus for locally controlling smooth muscle tone includes a first electrode for insertion into an artery; a barrier for preventing the first electrode from contacting an arterial wall; a second electrode; a power supply; and a controller for coupling the power supply to the electrodes. The controller is configured to cause the electrode to maintain a waveform for controlling polarization of smooth muscle tone. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172886 | VASCULAR SEALING DEVICE AND METHOD USING CLOT ENHANCING BALLOON AND ELECTRIC FIELD GENERATION - An apparatus and method for closing an opening in a blood vessel wall is disclosed. The apparatus includes at least one member which is extended through a tissue tract formed through the epidermis and subcutaneous layer of skin and through the opening in the blood vessel. The member includes a proximal end and a distal end with the distal end being positionable proximate to the opening in the blood vessel wall. A positive electrode is positioned next to the distal end with a negative electrode being positioned next to the proximal end When the electrodes are energized an electric field is created therebetween, blood cells are attracted to the positive electrode, and a thrombus is formed at the opening in the blood vessel wall. The member may include a balloon at the distal end to temporarily occlude blood flow from the blood vessel to the tissue tract to facilitate formation of the thrombus. In addition, the shape of the balloon may be tailored to facilitate the formation of the thrombus including, but not limited to, the creation of pockets and self-supporting balloons | 07-04-2013 |
20130172909 | LINEAR ROTATION MECHANISM FOR HEMOSTASIS CLIP DEVICE AND OTHER DEVICES - A medical device includes a handle, a flexible member extending from a proximal end connected to the handle to a distal end, a rotation mechanism connected to the distal end of the flexible member, an end effector coupled to a distal portion of the rotation mechanism and a push member extending through the handle and flexible member and connecting to the rotation mechanism, the rotation mechanism being configured and dimensioned to convert axial movement of the push member into rotation of the end effector. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172919 | RADIALLY ADJUSTABLE TISSUE REMOVAL DEVICE - A tissue removal kit or assembly comprises a cannula and a tissue removal probe axially slidable within the cannula. The tissue removal probe comprises an elongated member a distal end configured to curve when distally deployed from the cannula. The tissue removal probe further comprises a drive shaft rotatably disposed within the member, and a rotatable tissue removal element (e.g., an abrasive burr) disposed on the drive shaft adjacent the member distal end. The curved member distal end may associate the tissue removal element, which has its own axis of rotation, with a radius of revolution about the longitudinal axis of the member. The member is laterally flexible and resilient, so that the radius of revolution can be adjusted. In this manner, the tissue removal element can remove tissue around an adjustable arc. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172983 | Stent with Anti-Migration Features - A stent has a first end region, a middle region, and a second end region, each region including a plurality of strut columns. The stent includes at least one barb. Each barb in an expanded state is at an angle relative to the outer surface of the stent. | 07-04-2013 |
20130178884 | ABLATION DEVICES WITH SENSORS STRUCTURES - A cardiac ablation device, including a steerable catheter ( | 07-11-2013 |
20130178948 | Intraluminal Stent - An intraluminal stent made of a zig-zag or sinusoidal member defining a successive series of struts connected by apex sections and formed into a series of axially displaced hoop members wherein at least one of the hoop members has at least 5 one strut connected to a strut of an adjacent hoop. The connected struts may be connected by spot welding, continuous welding, or suturing, for example, or by a bridging member connected to each strut, and may be spaced along the length of the stent in a pattern to form a connective spine. The number of zigs of the zig-zag member in each hoop member may be varied, as can the zig length. A plurality of 10 connective spines may also be included. | 07-11-2013 |
20130184549 | PRESHAPED ABLATION CATHETER FOR ABLATING PULMONARY VEIN OSTIA WITHIN THE HEART - Catheters and methods are provided for performing medical procedures, such as tissue ablation, adjacent the ostia of anatomical vessels, such as pulmonary veins. The catheter comprises an elongated flexible integrated catheter body having proximal and distal shaft portions and at least one operative element carried by the distal shaft portion. The distal shaft portion has a proximal section configured to be internally actuated (e.g., using a steering mechanism or pre-shaping the proximal section) to form a simple curve with an apex that can be inserted into the vessel ostium, an intermediate section pre-shaped to form a curve that bends opposite the simple curve, and a distal section configured to be placed into a non-radial relationship (tangential or oblique) with the vessel ostium when the apex of the simple curve is inserted into the vessel ostium. By this arrangement, the operative element is configured to be placed firmly in contact with tissue at a predefined radial location relative to the vessel ostium when the apex of the simple curve is inserted into the vessel ostium. | 07-18-2013 |
20130184590 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ORIENTING A MEDICAL IMAGE - The present invention provides systems, methods, and devices for orienting image data derived from body tissue. An imaging assembly is introduced into the body of a patient and rotated about an axis. A tracking beam mechanically associated with the imaging assembly is generated, such that the tracking rotates about the axis in unison with the imaging assembly. An angle that the rotating tracking beam makes between a reference rotational orientation and a reference point is determined. The reference rotational orientation can be associated with a fiducial point within the ultrasound image data, such that the ultrasound image can be oriented based on the determined tracking beam rotation angle. | 07-18-2013 |
20130184703 | RENAL NERVE MODULATION DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING THE SAME - Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include a renal nerve modulation device. The renal nerve modulation device may include an elongate catheter shaft having a distal portion. An ablation member may be coupled to the distal portion. The catheter shaft may have a slotted portion having a plurality of slots formed therein. At least some of the slots formed in the slotted portion may define a plurality of beams in the slotted portion that extend along the slotted portion and that are aligned in a wave pattern. | 07-18-2013 |
20130184809 | Disintegrating stent and method of making same - A temporary stent endoprosthesis that does not require an interventional procedure for removal. The disintegrating stent is preferably made from a bioabsorbable polymer, such as by braiding polymer monofilaments into a tubular mesh shape, and the polymer has fracture initiation sites within it that promotes the disintegration of the stent into small pieces that are harmlessly transported out of the body by the vessel contents. Fracture initiation sites may be created by controlling the heterogenous structure of amorphous and crystalline regions, by introducing internal or surface fracture initiation sites, or use of multiple strands with small section size. | 07-18-2013 |
20130190525 | SYNTHETIC METHODS PERTAINING TO TERT-BUTYL-BENZENE-BASED COMPOUNDS - According to some aspects, the present disclosure pertains to methods of forming dimethyl 5-tert-butylisophthalate which comprise comprising converting 5-tert-butylisophthalic acid into dimethyl 5-tert-butylisophthalate in synthesis procedures that comprises methanol and a dehydrating agent as chemical reagents. In other aspects, the present disclosure pertains to methods of forming 5-tert-butyl-1,3-bis(1-methoxy-1-methylethyl)benzene that comprise deprotonating 5-tert-butyl-1,3-bis(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)benzene with a Brønsted-Lowry superbase and methylating the deprotonated 5-tert-butyl-1,3-bis(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)benzene to form the 5-tert-butyl-1,3-bis(1-methoxy-1-methylethyl)benzene. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190650 | BIOPSY DEVICE - Biopsy devices, as well as related methods and systems, are disclosed. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190700 | RAPID EXCHANGE CATHETERS HAVING A SEALED GUIDEWIRE LUMEN AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - Methods and devices for preventing fluid flow through the relatively short guidewire lumen of a rapid exchange catheter. The guidewire lumen for a rapid exchange catheter is provided with a narrowed or sealed section allowing for passage of a guidewire therethrough while preventing fluid flow while a guidewire is disposed therethrough. The narrowed or sealed section extends for a relatively short length of the guidewire lumen to avoid creating excessive friction between the guidewire and the guidewire lumen. In several embodiments the narrowed or sealed section is placed proximal of the distal end of the guidewire lumen. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190720 | BULKING AGENTS - The invention relates to bulking agents and apparatus and methods for using the disclosed bulking agents. The bulking agents can be used to treat such conditions as urinary and fecal incontinence, gastro-esophageal reflux, aneurismal blockages, and cosmetic deformities. The invention also relates to an injection method that reduces the injection pressure required to place the bulking agents. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190756 | CO-ACCESS BIPOLAR ABLATION PROBE - A method of treating abnormal tissue within a patient includes positioning a delivery cannula within the patient, the delivery cannula having a first electrode disposed on its distal end; introducing an ablation probe through the cannula and out an open distal end thereof, so that a second ablation electrode carried on the ablation probe contacts abnormal tissue within the patient; conveying ablation energy between the first and second ablation electrodes to ablate the abnormal tissue; and introducing a separate medical element, whether a device or a therapeutic agent, through the cannula before or after the ablation process. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190799 | Occluding Device - Techniques are described for occluding the ostium of an appendage. In one example, an implantable medical device for insertion in a left atrial appendage of a patient includes a center hub having a longitudinal axis and a first side and a second side, a plurality of compression springs, each of the plurality of compression springs extending radially from the center hub, and a cover disposed about the compression springs and engaged to center hub on both the first side and the second side. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190865 | VALVE ASSEMBLY WITH A BIOABSORBABLE GASKET AND A REPLACEABLE VALVE IMPLANT - A percutaneous prosthetic heart valve assembly comprising a radially expandable anchor docking member, the anchor docking member having an unexpanded state and an expanded state, in the expanded state, the anchor docking member comprising a mechanism for receiving and engaging an implantable heart valve and a bioabsorbable gasket member disposed about the anchor docking member, the bioabsorbable gasket member comprising a bioabsorbable polymer material, the bioabsorbable gasket member having an unexpanded and an expanded state. | 07-25-2013 |
20130197337 | MULTI-BEND STEERABLE MAPPING CATHETER - An electrophysiology catheter introduced through the groin and inferior vena cava into the right side of the heart comprises an elongate flexible shaft having a steerable distal section and a prolapsing section located proximally of the distal section. The distal section is inserted into the coronary sinus and a back-steering force is applied to the catheter to anchor the distal section therein, after which the catheter is further advanced to prolapse the prolapsing section against the high right atrium. Electrical pathways in both the coronary sinus and the high right atrium are mapped using respective electrode pairs carried on the distal and prolapsing sections of the catheter. | 08-01-2013 |
20130197483 | GUIDE EXTENSION CATHETER - Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include a guide extension catheter. The guide extension catheter may include a push member having a proximal portion with a proximal stiffness, a distal portion with a distal stiffness different from the proximal stiffness, and a transition portion disposed between the proximal portion and the distal portion. The transition portion may provide a smooth transition between the proximal stiffness and the distal stiffness. The push member may have a first outer diameter. A distal tubular member may be attached to the push member. The distal tubular member may have a second outer diameter larger than the first outer diameter. | 08-01-2013 |
20130197507 | MAP AND ABLATE OPEN IRRIGATED HYBRID CATHETER - An embodiment of an open-irrigated catheter system comprises a tip section, a distal insert, and mapping electrodes. The tip section has an exterior wall that defines an open interior region within the tip section. The exterior wall includes mapping electrode openings and irrigation ports. The exterior wall is conductive for delivering radio frequency (RF) energy for an RF ablation procedure. The irrigation ports are in fluid communication with the open interior region to allow fluid to flow from the open interior region through the irrigation ports. The distal insert is positioned within the tip section to separate the open region into a distal fluid reservoir and a proximal fluid reservoir. The mapping electrodes are positioned in the mapping electrode openings in the tip section. | 08-01-2013 |
20130197537 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MANIPULATING BODILY TISSUES - A medical device includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and medial portion disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion. The first end portion defines a first axis. The second end portion defines a second axis. The first axis is disposed at an angle with respect to the second axis. | 08-01-2013 |
20130204077 | SURGICAL SCAFFOLDS - According to an aspect of the present invention, surgical scaffolds for soft tissue repair are provided. The surgical scaffolds comprise a sheet of a material within which through-holes are formed. Further aspects of the invention, among others, pertain to methods of using such surgical scaffolds and to kits containing such surgical scaffolds. | 08-08-2013 |
20130204078 | POROUS SURGICAL FILMS - According to an aspect of the present invention, surgical films for soft tissue repair are provided. The surgical films comprise at least one sheet of a non-filamentous material within which pores are formed. Further aspects of the invention, among others, pertain to methods of using such surgical films and to kits containing such surgical films. | 08-08-2013 |
20130204184 | KERSTPIEK TIP FOR MEDICAL DEVICES - An apparatus may include a medical device including an elongate shaft disposed about a guidewire, and a distal tip including a plurality of rounded protrusions, wherein adjacent protrusions are fixed directly to each other by a discrete, relatively flexible connector. The plurality of protrusions may each decrease in size from a proximalmost protrusion distally to distalmost protrusion. | 08-08-2013 |
20130204185 | FLUID INJECTABLE SINGLE OPERATOR EXCHANGE CATHETERS AND METHODS OF USE - A single operator exchange biliary catheter having a tubular member extending proximally from the proximal guidewire port. The tubular member defines a guidewire lumen extension adapted to permit the guidewire to be retracted from guidewire lumen and re-inserted therein. By retracting the guidewire from the guidewire lumen and into the guidewire lumen extension, fluid may be readily injected via the guidewire lumen without encountering resistance to fluid flow from the guidewire. The guidewire lumen extension also maintains guidewire lumen access such that the guidewire may be easily re-inserted into the guidewire lumen. | 08-08-2013 |
20130204348 | LONGITUDINALLY FLEXIBLE EXPANDABLE STENT - Segmented articulatable stent of open structure comprised of end-connected struts of first and second lengths making up first and second segments with angular interconnects between adjacent first and second segments. | 08-08-2013 |
20130204352 | LONGITUDINALLY FLEXIBLE EXPANDABLE STENT - Segmented articulatable stent of open structure comprised of end-connected struts of first and second lengths making up first and second segments with angular interconnects between adjacent first and second segments. | 08-08-2013 |