04th week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 53 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20120022553 | Side Looking Minimally Invasive Surgery Instrument Assembly - Two surgical instruments are inserted through a guide tube. The surgical instruments exit at an intermediate position of the guide tube and are oriented to be substantially parallel to the guide tube's longitudinal axis as they exit. A stereoscopic image capture component is on the guide tube between the intermediate position and the guide tube's distal end. The image capture component's field of view is generally perpendicular to the guide tube's longitudinal axis. The surgical instruments and the guide tube are telemanipulatively controlled. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022554 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - The invention relates to a surgical instrument ( | 2012-01-26 |
20120022555 | BODY GROOMING DEVICE COMPRISING AN ATOMIZER UNIT - The present invention is concerned with a body grooming device such as a hair removal device or a massaging device that comprises a drive, an application material supply for supplying an application material at an application material supply outlet, and an atomizer unit for atomizing the application material, which atomizer unit comprises a brush-like element having at least a bristle-like protrusion, said brush-like element being coupled to the drive so that the brush-like element is driven during an operation mode of the body grooming device such that the bristle-like protrusion repeatedly contacts the application material supply outlet of the application material supply. The special atomizer unit arrangement is simple, can be made in a cost efficient manner and is also effectively atomizing an application material, e.g. water, soap, lotion, gel etc. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022556 | BODY GROOMING DEVICE - The present invention is concerned with a body grooming device that comprises a head section that comprises a drivable body grooming unit, a hand piece section that comprises a drive, and an attachment section detachably arranged between the head section and the hand piece section. The attachment section comprises a power transmission unit arranged for transmitting power from the hand piece section to the head section in an operation mode of the body grooming device. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022557 | MULTIPLE ANCHOR DELIVERY TOOL - An anchor deployment tool includes a flexible outer tube, within which is positioned a flexible inner shaft, and a rotating deployment element coupled to a distal end of the shaft. The tool is configured to provide an anchor storage area, which initially stores a plurality of tissue anchors, such that the inner shaft passes through channels of the anchors along entire longitudinal lengths of the anchors, and the anchors are within the outer tube. The rotating deployment element is configured to directly engage the anchors in the anchor storage area one at a time, advance each of the anchors while engaged in a distal direction, and deploy each of the anchors through the distal tube end and into tissue of a subject. Other embodiments are also described. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022558 | TISSUE LIGATION DEVICES AND METHODS - Devices and methods for ligating structures where the loop of the ligation element can be temporarily pre-tightened without locking the loop. This pre-tightening without locking allows the loop of the ligation element to be loosened and repositioned, if necessary, before locking the loop around the anatomical structure. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022559 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PLACEMENT OF AN INTRA-ABDOMINAL OR INTRA-THORACIC APPLIANCE THROUGH A NATURAL BODY ORIFICE - Natural orifice transenteric surgical methods and devices for placing a semi-circumferential appliance around a hollow bodily organ such as the stomach. In one alternative embodiment, such an appliance is placed in order to reduce the inner volume of the stomach. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022560 | ENDOSCOPIC SUTURING DEVICE WITH SUTURE MANAGEMENT - An endoscopic tissue suturing device may include a suturing head configured to capture tissue at a tissue capture region. A needle can move through the region to place stitches in the tissue. A control handle includes an actuator coupled to the needle. The control handle supports a suture spool about an axis of rotation. The axis of the spool may be parallel to the direction of movement of the actuator. The spool surface may be tapered at an angle relative to the axis of rotation. A spool end wall may be configured to urge the spool in an axial direction. The handle may provide external access to a portion of the suture. A cover may be provided to cover the spool. The cover may be rotatably supported on the handle independent of the spool. Suture material may be wound onto the spool by rotating the cover. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022561 | APPARATUS FOR TREATING GERD - The present invention relates to a reflux disease treatment apparatus, comprising two or more movement restriction device segments adapted to form an implantable movement restriction device with an elongated shape that maintains cardia in the correct position. The movement restriction device has proximal and a distal end, wherein the distal end is adapted to stabilize and hold the proximal end. The invention further comprises a control device for controlling the stimulation device to stimulate the cardia sphincter. The distal end can be further adapted to treat obesity, for example by stretching the wall of the stomach or filling out a volume of the stomach. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022562 | DEVICE TO DETECT INTERNAL BLEEDING - A vascular closure device, comprising an anchor member; a compressible plug; a locking mechanism; and a sensor probe, the sensor probe including a first electrically conductive member having a proximal end and a distal end and a second electrically conductive member having a proximal end and a distal end, the first electrically conductive member being electrically insulated from the second electrically conductive member from the proximal end to the distal end. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022563 | ANGIOPLASTY BALLOON WITH CONCEAL WIRES - A balloon catheter having wires situated between an outer layer and a surface of a balloon is described. Each wire may be confined within an interior space of a pocket or encapsulated within a sheath. The pocket includes the outer layer and the balloon surface. The outer layer and balloon surface are unattached to allow the wire to slidably fit between therewithin. The pocket is selectively bonded to the balloon. The sheath includes a preformed shape that completely circumscribes the wire along the longitudinal and radial directions of the wire. The confined and encapsulated feature of the wires enable the wires to be atraumatic and remain spaced apart during treatment of calcification of a lesion. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022564 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ARCHED ROOF CUTTERS - Disclosed herein are tissue-removal devices and methods for treating spinal diseases using such devices. The tissue-removal devices may comprise a cable and/or extendable elements with a retracted and a deployed configuration. The cable and/or extendable elements may be distally supported and restrained by a support element such that the support element may be pushed transversely away when the extendable element is distally extended into its deployed configuration. An annular cutting element may be provided about the distal end of the extendable element or the support element. Various configurations of the extendable and support elements are described herein, as well as methods of using tissue-removal devices with extendable and support elements coupled by an annular cutting element for treating spinal diseases. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022565 | COLLAPSIBLE LANCING DEVICE - Disclosed herein are embodiments of lancing devices for use with a lancet having a lancet body and a sharp tip covered by a removable cap. One lancing device comprises a housing having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, a drawer received within the housing at the first end and movable between an open position and a closed position, the drawer having a drawer face and a drawer body, the drawer body configured to receive the lancet, and a decapping arm disposed within the housing and connected to the housing via a pivot at the second end of the housing, the decapping arm movable about the pivot between a storage position and a decapping position. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022566 | Lancet Device - A lancet device generally includes a housing having opposing lateral sides extending between a forward end and a rearward end, and a shield coaxially and movably associated with the housing. The housing includes a plurality of longitudinal ribs extending along a portion of at least one of the opposing lateral sides. The plurality of longitudinal ribs form a finger grip on at least one of, and typically both of the opposing lateral sides. The shield is generally movable from a first position in which the shield extends outwardly from the forward end of the housing to a second position in which the shield is at least partially moved within the housing, based on axial pressure applied by the user against the finger grip formed by the longitudinal ribs. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022567 | Blood Lancet Device Including Adjustment of the Pricking Depth - The invention relates to a blood lancet apparatus ( | 2012-01-26 |
20120022568 | Instrument for Use in Bone and Method of Use - Instrument for creating voids and channels in bone; and for obtaining samples of bone tissue. The instruments are suitable for reducing fractures in bone and for compacting the bone to create a barrier for leakage upon material injection. The instruments may also be used for bone biopsy and for obtaining samples of bone tissue. Methods for using these instruments are also disclosed. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022569 | DEVICE FOR GRADUAL DILATION AND CURETTAGE - The subject matter discloses an apparatus for gradually dilating the cervix, comprising an elongated body having sidewalls, at least a portion of said elongated body is located in the cervix and an enlargement mechanism located within the elongated body being in communication with the sidewalls, for generating a movement of the sidewalls away from the central axis of the elongated body, The apparatus further comprises a generation unit located outside the elongated body, for maneuvering the enlargement mechanism such that the movement of the sidewalls is generated. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022570 | DILATION APPARATUS AND METHOD - A surgical dilator and method of dilating an incision in a patient is disclosed. The surgical dilator includes a first dilation member having a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end includes an aperture having a first retaining pin positioned therein that is exposed on an outside surface of the proximal end of the first dilation member. A second dilation member is included that has a distal end, a proximal end, and a hollow interior. The distal end is sized to receive the proximal end of the first dilation member. The second dilation member includes a first compression slot sized to receive the retaining pin of the first dilation member. The first and second dilation members are configured to be oriented in an expanded state and a compressed state in which the second dilation member is compressed down onto the first dilation member such that the first dilation member is received in the hollow interior of the second dilation member. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022571 | EXPANDABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS AND METHODS OF USE AND FABRICATION - A system for assessing an intervertebral disc space comprises an elongated catheter with proximal and distal ends and an expandable body attached to the distal end of the elongated catheter. The expandable body includes proximal and distal end portions. The system further comprises a securing mechanism encircling at least one of the proximal or distal end portions of the expandable body to tighten the expandable body against the elongated catheter. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022572 | OCCLUSION DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - A device for protecting cerebral vessels or brain tissue during treatment of a carotid vessel includes a catheter having a distal portion, a proximal portion and a lumen extending therebetween, the catheter including first and second expandable areas provided over the length of the catheter. The device includes a first elongate member insertable longitudinally through the lumen of the catheter, the first elongate member being configured for stretching at least a portion of the catheter and causing one of the first and second expandable areas to transition from an expanded state to a collapsed state. The device further includes a second elongate member insertable longitudinally through the lumen of the catheter, the second elongate member being configured for stretching at least a portion of the catheter and causing the other of the first and second expandable areas to transition from an expanded state to a collapsed state. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022573 | FALSE LUMEN OCCLUDER - An endoluminal device for repairing an aortic dissection and preventing future aortic dissections, the device including a plurality of struts with at least one of the plurality of struts having a mid-strut portion having two or more secondary struts, the device being configured to be secured within a false lumen of the aorta and contain filler material in order to encourage thrombosis within the false lumen. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022574 | Adjustable Surgical Instruments and Methods of Use and Fabrication - A system for assessing an intervertebral disc space comprises an elongated catheter with proximal and distal ends and an expandable body carried at the distal end of the elongated catheter. The expandable body includes a distal cap portion. The system further includes a mandrel extending through the elongated catheter and the expandable body and attached to the distal cap portion. The mandrel is movable within the elongated catheter and the expandable body to reposition the distal cap portion relative to the distal end of the elongated catheter while the expandable body is positioned within the intervertebral disc space. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022575 | LATERALLY EXPANDING SURGICAL DILATOR - A surgical dilator capable of dilating an incision in a patient is disclosed. The surgical dilator includes a main body having a distal end and a proximal end. A locking cap is connected with the proximal end of the main body that is operable to lock the surgical dilator in a closed state for insertion into an incision and to unlock the surgical dilator to an open state after being inserted into the incision. A plurality of blades having a second proximal end is pivotally connected with the distal end of the main body and extends downwardly toward a second distal end. When the surgical dilator is in the closed state the blades taper downwardly and inwardly from the second proximal end toward the second distal end to form an insertion tip and when the surgical dilator is in the open state the blades are operable to laterally expand. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022576 | REVASCULARIZATION DEVICES - Systems, methods, and devices for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke that provide immediate blood flow restoration to a vessel occluded by a clot and, after reestablishing blood flow, address the clot itself. Immediate blood flow restoration advantageously can facilitate natural lysis of the clot and also can reduce or obviate the concern for distal embolization due to fragmentation of the clot. Several embodiments of the invention provide for progressive, or modular, treatment based upon the nature of the clot. For example, the progressive treatment can comprise a three-step progressive treatment process that includes immediate restoration of blood flow, in-situ clot management, and/or clot removal depending on the particular circumstances of the treatment. The in-situ clot management can include, for example, lysis and maceration. The progressive, or modular, treatment can be provided by a system or kit of one or more treatment devices. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022577 | MEDICAL DEVICE WITH SLOTTED MEMORY METAL TUBE - A series of medical instruments can be made with the use of shape memory tube with a transformation temperature that is above or below the ambient temperature. In the first case, the material behaves with the shape memory effect and in the second case the behavior is superelastic. The wall of the tube has been provided with a plurality of slots in specific places, often near or at the distal end of the instrument, and in specific arrangements which allow local variations in diameter, shape, and/or length. These variations can either be caused by the memory effect during temperature change or by superelastic behavior during change of the mechanical influences on the memory metal by the surrounding material. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022578 | FRAME-BASED VENA CAVA FILTER - A filter device for capturing thrombi in a body vessel of a patient is disclosed. The device comprises first and second portions, each comprising a wire formed into a zig-zag configuration. The configuration comprises a series of straight sections and a plurality of bends connected to the straight sections. The straight sections are joined by the bends, defining a first cell size of the first portion and a second cell size of the second portion. The filter device further comprises a filter portion connected to the first and second portions. The filter portion comprises the wire formed into a zig-zag configuration having a series of straight sections and a plurality of bends connected to the straight sections. The straight sections of the filter portion are joined by the bends of the filter portion, defining a filter cell size of the filter portion. The filter portion is configured to be disposed at the arc of the iliac veins at the opening of the inferior vena cava. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022579 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATING VENOUS DISEASES - The present invention relates generally to a medical device and method of use, and more specifically to a method and apparatus with coaxial components used to treat venous diseases. The apparatus according to various embodiments operates as an inferior vena cava filter, a clot puller, a clot shredder, and as a prosthetic venous valve. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022580 | MEDICAL DEVICE REMOVAL SYSTEM - A medical device removal system includes a vessel filter repositioning or removal device to remove and/or reposition a medical device, such as a vessel filter. The system includes a gripper to grip a medical device that is located within a body vessel, and a detector, linked to the gripper, to detect the proximity of the medical device to the gripper. The system may also include an output to indicate a signal from the detector. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022581 | STRETCH RESISTANT THERAPEUTIC DEVICE - A vasoocclusive coil is reinforced with a stretch resistant member to improve safety during retraction of the coil. The stretch resistant member is fixedly attached at one end to the vasoocclusive coil, and the other end of the stretch resistant member is detachably mounted to an elongated pusher member to allow for placement and release of the vasoocclusive coil within the patient's vasculature. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022582 | NASAL DILATOR - A nasal dilator that includes an upper resilient member for dilating the nasal valve and a lower resilient member for dilating the nostrils. The upper resilient member and lower resilient member may be attached to one another by a flexible substrate having a middle portion that is narrower in length than the upper or lower resilient members. The nasal dilator also may have adhesive tabs extending downwardly from the lower portion of the substrate on either side of the nose and towards the nostril entry, for temporary attachment to the side of the nasal vestibule to reduce nostril collapse. The nasal dilator also may include bendable or configurable hooks extending downwardly from the lower portion of the substrate and towards the nostril entrance for insertion into the nostril to reduce nostril collapse. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022583 | Surgical Tool with Crossbar Lever - A crossbar lever of a surgical tool has a bridge portion which extends forward and a transverse portion. The bridge portion is retained between the second and third fingers of the surgeon's hand, and this retention establishes greater control and stability of the surgical tool. The crossbar lever pivots relative to a handgrip of a handle assembly and a shaft assembly extends from the handle assembly. Tissue contacting or manipulating devices such as jaws are located at the forward end of the shaft assembly. The surgical tool is particularly useful in performing minimally invasive surgical procedures. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022584 | Jaw Movement Mechanism and Method for a Surgical Tool - A jaw movement mechanism for surgical tools has improved mechanical efficiency and other advantages. The jaw movement mechanism controls the orientation and position of a movable jaw relative to a fixed jaw through a range of movement of the movable jaw. The jaws maintain a parallel orientation throughout a portion of the range of movement of the movable jaw. The jaws maintain an angular relationship throughout a portion of the range of movement of the movable jaw. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022585 | VASCULAR CLOSURE DEVICE WITH BIODEGRADABLE ANCHOR - This disclosure pertains to controllably bioabsorbable devices, particularly anchors for vascular closure plugs and to methods of use thereof. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022586 | TISSUE CLOSURE DEVICE AND METHOD - A device having a plurality of anchors configured to be driven into a tissue, and a closure element extending between the anchors and configured to urge the anchors from a first configuration in which the anchors are a first distance from each other, toward a second configuration in which the anchors are a second distance from each other, the second distance being less than the first distance, wherein the device is configured to maintain the anchors in the first configuration during a surgical intervention and to subsequently allow the anchors to be moved by the closure element toward the second configuration. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022587 | Systems and Methods for Treating Septal Defects - A system for treating a septal defect having an implantable treatment apparatus and devices for delivering the implantable treatment apparatus and methods for treating a septal defect are provided. The implantable treatment apparatus is preferably implantable through a septal wall or portion thereof The treatment system can include a flexible elongate body member, a delivery device configured to deliver the implantable apparatus, a stabilization device configured to stabilize the body member and a positioning device configured to position the delivery device in a desired location. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022588 | METHOD FOR SECURING SUTURES TO BONES - A method for securing a repair, such as a rotator cuff repair and includes an anchor placed within a hole formed in bone and a cannulated screw inserted into the hole after the anchor has been inserted to effectuate a firm and secure connection of tissue to bone, particularly when the quality of the bone does not permit optimal fixation. The method allows superior tissue fixation to bone with the ease of knotless suture anchor application. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022589 | PACIFIER - A sanitary product includes a substrate having a binder, at least one of a cross-linking agent and a curing agent, and an active ingredient. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022590 | INJECTABLE FLEXIBLE INTERSPINOUS PROCESS DEVICE SYSTEM - An injectable, flexible interspinous process device and a delivery system. The interspinous process device is flexible and can be fillable in situ with a desired amount of biocompatible material. The interspinous process device has a container portion. A support element, such as a self-expanding mesh, is used in conjunction with the container to provide added structural support. The mesh also facilitates deployment of the device when it is properly positioned. A conduit may be coupled to the interspinous process to fill the device. A delivery system is also provided for delivering the flexible interspinous process device to the desired location. The delivery system includes an outer catheter that is disposed over the interspinous process device to maintain it in the undeployed state and thus facilitate delivery of the device to the desired location. An inner removable sleeve and a guidewire may also be used with the delivery system. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022591 | VERTEBRAL FIXING SYSTEM - A vertebral fixing system comprising a connecting part with two longitudinal elements coupled to each other at a first end and having mutually facing recesses for receiving a rod. A portion of a flexible ligature extends through orifices of the two longitudinal elements to define a loop opposite two free ends of the flexible ligature. The two longitudinal elements are engaged at a second end of the connecting part via a locking means. When the two longitudinal elements of the connecting part are locked at the second end of the connecting part, two strands of the flexible ligature are pinched between the rod and a wall of the mutually facing recesses of the two longitudinal elements of the connecting part, preventing the flexible ligature from moving in translation relative to the connecting part. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022592 | BONE FIXING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - A bone fixing system useful for holding bone in position, and a method for installing the same are disclosed. The ends of a conformable ligature are passed around bones, bone grafts, tendons, plates, rods, fasteners, or other anatomical or implanted structures, and the like to form a loop extending from a first portion of a body. The ends of the conformable ligature are passed through the body and extend out a second portion of the body. The ends may be attached to a tensioning tool and a selected tension may be applied. A closure member may engage an engagement portion of the body to create a friction force to hold the conformable ligature in place without significant movement relative to the body. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022593 | SEMI-DYNAMIC FIXATION PLATE SYSTEM - A fixation plate system includes a plate with elongated slots, and first and second anchors for attaching the plate to vertebrae. The first and second anchors have different head configurations that are selected by the surgeon to control how settlement occurs at each fused segment. The head of the first fastener is insertable in any of the slots and resists translation. The head of the second fastener is insertable in any of the slots in free sliding engagement to allow translation of the head in that slot. In one method of use, the surgeon selects a segment where settling needs to be limited, and uses the first fastener to fix the plate near the segment and limit settling at that segment. The first and second fasteners have a built-in spring that assists in securing the fasteners in the plate. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022594 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGICAL TOWER ACCESS DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS - Devices and methods are provided for assisting in spinal stabilization. An access device is provided that includes an outer sleeve, inner sleeve, spring latch and lock nut. The inner sleeve includes compressible grasping elements. The access device can be coupled to a screw head by sliding the outer sleeve relative to the inner sleeve and compressing the grasping elements. The coupled access device and screw can then be delivered to a target location in a patient. After providing two or more access devices, a rod member can be delivered using a rod insertion device. The rod member can serve as a connection between the two screws, and can provide spinal stabilization. An anti-torque device and a persuading device can be used to help ensure that the rod member is placed and secured in a proper location within a patient. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022595 | Sacral-Iliac Stabilization System - The present invention provides a sacral-iliac plate having an iliac portion with a first screw hole for receiving a first fastener to secure the iliac portion to the iliac bone. A sacral portion integrated monolithically with the iliac portion is also provided with a second and third screw holes for receiving second and third fasteners to secure the sacral portion to the sacral bone. The sacral portion also includes a tulip for receiving and securing a spinal rod. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022596 | VERTEBRAL FIXING SYSTEM - Embodiments disclosed herein provide a method of placing a vertebral fixing system on a vertebra. The vertebral fixing system comprises a connecting part with members forming a space into which a rod may be inserted. The members are moveable relative to each other. A portion of a ligature may be passed through the connecting part to form a loop extending from the connecting part. When the rod is inserted in the space between the members, the ligature may be tensioned against the rod. The members of the connecting part may be driven together to hold the ligature in place. An adjustable locking means may be utilized to fix simultaneously in position the connecting part relative to the rod and at least one portion of the ligature relative to the connecting part, so as to prevent relative displacement of the rod and the vertebra in opposite directions. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022597 | Minimally Invasive Surgical System - A multi-stage minimally invasive surgical procedure and associated instruments are disclosed. First, the surgical site is prepared. After preparation, the bone screws or anchors are attached to the bone. Subsequent to insertion of the screws, a rod or connecting member is positioned within the yoke portion of the bone screw. Caps are then placed in a pre-lock position within the yokes. The bone screws may be compressed together or distracted along the rod or connecting member, thereby setting the final spacing of the bones or bone segments. Finally the caps are moved to a final lock position to fix the screws to the rod or connecting member to maintain the bones in position relative to each other. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022598 | SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM - A method for immobilizing a spine. The method includes the steps of implanting at least one low profile screw assembly into a first portion of the spine, implanting at least one bone screw assembly that is not a low profile screw into a second portion of the spine and connecting a rod to both the at least one low profile screw assembly to the at least one bone screw assembly which is not a low profile screw. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022599 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINAL FIXATION GUIDE SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Methods and devices that utilize segmental fixation between several adjacent vertebrae, thus allowing each vertebrae to be adjusted independently, are provided. In general, the device includes a spinal anchoring element that is adapted to seat at least one spinal fixation element, and a closure mechanism that is adapted to mate to the spinal anchoring element to lock the at least one spinal fixation element in a fixed position relative to the spinal anchoring element. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022600 | ANTERIOR TRANSPEDICULAR SCREW-AND-PLATE SYSTEM - An anterior transpedicular bone fixation device ( | 2012-01-26 |
20120022601 | APPARATUS FOR BRACING VERTEBRAE - An apparatus for bracing a plurality of vertebrae of the human spine has at least two pedicle screws, each having an annular head with an opening therewithin and including a slot therewithin. Each slot extends into the corresponding opening and includes internal threaded portions. A securing screw to be screwed in each slot is provided. A relatively stiff threaded rod is also provided and is to be inserted into the opening in the head of each of the pedicle screws and to be secured by the securing screws. Adjusting nuts are screwed on the rod and at least one cooperates with each head. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022602 | Bone Instrumentation Cover or Shield - A bone instrumentation cover or shield has a hollow cap or casing for encapsulating projecting parts of instrumentation installed in a bone, and a fastener portion for securing it to the bone or to parts of the instrumentation. The instrumentation shield or cover is made of medically safe material, in various sizes, and may be a rigid casing or pliable, stretchable, or adaptable with slidable, displaceable or pleated panels to provide a medically safe physical barrier between projecting parts of bone instrumentation constructs and surrounding bone and soft tissues, in order to minimize local irritation or injury and to provide a barrier to ingrowth from bone and/or fibrous tissues. The cap or casing is readily applied over the instrumentation, then cinched, tied or fastened to the instrumentation or adjacent areas. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022603 | SPINAL FACET COMPRESSION SCREW WITH VARIABLE PITCH THREAD ZONES AND BUTTRESS HEAD - A surgical implant comprising a screw element having a screw head, a first thread having a first thread pitch, a second thread having a second thread pitch and an intermediate portion coupling the first and second thread pitches with the first and second thread pitches being different. The implant has a buttressing head associated with the first thread, and it is dimensioned to be larger than a diameter of the first threads to provide external buttressing as the first and second threads compress a first bone and a second bone together. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022604 | METHOD AND INTERNAL APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING FINAL POSITION OF DENTATE SKELETON IN ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY - A skeletal positioning method and apparatus includes a splint having a main body coupled to a skeletal structure of a patient and a positioning guide having a skeletal footplate, a splint footplate, and an arm coupling the skeletal footplate and the splint footplate, the skeletal footplate including at least one aperture formed therein and the splint footplate including a means for releasably coupling the positioning guide to the splint, wherein a relative position and orientation of the skeletal footplate and the splint footplate is pre-determined to align a portion of the skeletal footplate with a pre-defined portion of the skeletal structure of the patient. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022605 | SYSTEM FOR NERVE STIMULATION AND CARDIAC SENSING PRIOR TO AND DURING A MEDICAL PROCEDURE - A system for performing a cardiac medical procedure can included a cardiac medical device, a steerable catheter device, a cardiac stimulator, and a controller. The cardiac stimulator can be configured to adjust beating of a heart by electrically stimulating the heart. The controller can be configured to control electrical stimulation provided by the cardiac stimulator to adjust the beating of the heart to a first condition and to adjust the beating of the heart to a second condition. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022606 | CPR TIME INDICATOR FOR VENTILATIONS FOR A DEFIBRILLATOR DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A system is disclosed wherein patient data, such as an electrocardiogram (“ECG”) signal or a chest impedance measurement signal, collected by a defibrillator device during a resuscitation event is analyzed and processed by a computing device to provide an assessment of CPR administered during the event. The CPR assessment results in one or more CPR figures of merit that relate to temporal characteristics of the CPR relative to the duration of the event. In one embodiment, the CPR figure of merit represents a percentage of the event period during which chest compressions were administered to the patient. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022607 | VENTRICULAR CAPTURE TESTING BY ANALYSIS OF AN ENDOCARDIAL ACCELERATION SIGNAL IN AN ACTIVE IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An active implantable medical device such as a cardiac prosthesis, including ventricular capture testing by analysis of an endocardial acceleration signal. The device isolates in an endocardial acceleration (“EA”) signal an EA component, extracts from it, n representative indicators (PEA_i, LEA_i), and forms a vector EA (X_i) from these indicators. A classifier allows acquiring reference EA signals at a stimulation energy level sufficient to cause a capture, and in spontaneous rhythm in the absence of ventricular pacing and forms a corresponding plurality of first reference EA vectors. The n-dimensional space of the EA vectors is partitioned into two corresponding subspaces. The presence or absence of a capture is discriminated based on the position of the current EA vector (X_i) in one or other of these two sub-spaces. The representative indicators may be: the value of peak to peak amplitude, the width, the moment of occurrence of the peak, the starting time and the ending time of the EA | 2012-01-26 |
20120022608 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING AUTONOMIC BALANCE USING NEURAL STIMULATION - A neural stimulation system senses autonomic activities and applies neural stimulation to sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves to control autonomic balance. The neural stimulation system is capable of delivering neural stimulation pulses for sympathetic excitation, sympathetic inhibition, parasympathetic excitation, and parasympathetic inhibition. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022609 | Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment Devices, Systems and Methods - Devices, systems and methods for nerve stimulation for OSA therapy. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022610 | Devices for Delivering Neuro Electro Adaptive Therapy NEAT - A new class of therapeutic neuro-electro-adaptive devices for delivering cranial electrotherapy (NEAT) to patients for the treatment of various diseases and disorders, including those involving Reward Deficiency Syndrome (RDS), are described, as are various methods for using such devices, for example, to treat RDS behaviors. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022611 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTUATING A LASTING CHANGE IN A NEURAL-FUNCTION OF A PATIENT - The following disclosure describes several methods and apparatus for intracranial electrical stimulation to treat or otherwise effectuate a change in neural-functions of a patient. The methods in accordance with the invention can be used to treat brain damage (e.g., stroke, trauma, etc.), brain disease (e.g., Alzheimer's, Pick's, Parkinson's, etc.), and/or brain disorders (e.g., epilepsy, depression, etc.). The methods in accordance with the invention can also be used to enhance neural-function of normal, healthy brains (e.g., learning, memory, etc.), or to control sensory functions (e.g., pain). | 2012-01-26 |
20120022612 | ELECTROTHERAPY APPARATUS - An apparatus for producing analgesia in a patient through electrical signals applied through electrodes to a patient's body, and methods of treating patients using the apparatus. The apparatus comprises a signal generator arranged to generate a biphasic waveform comprising successive cycles each containing a positive and negative pulse. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022613 | Transcutaneous Modulated Power Link for a Medical Implant - A medical implant system such a Direct Acoustic Cochlear Stimulation and method for generating a transcutanous link between an external module and an internal module. A signal is generated in the external module by modulating an input signal using pulse modulation and then further modulating the pulse modulated signal using digital modulation. In the internal module, the received signal is processed using digital demodulation, the digitally demodulated signal being applied to the input of an amplifier to generate a control signal to control an actuator of the implant. A power component may also be extracted from the received signal in the internal module. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022614 | SHIFTING BETWEEN ELECTRODE COMBINATIONS IN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION DEVICE - The disclosure is directed to techniques for shifting between two electrode combinations. An amplitude of a first electrode combination is incrementally decreased while an amplitude of a second, or subsequent, electrode combination is concurrently incrementally increased. Alternatively, an amplitude of the first electrode combination is maintained at a target amplitude level while the amplitude of the second electrode combination is incrementally increased. The stimulation pulses of the electrode combinations are delivered to the patient interleaved in time. In this manner, the invention provides for a smooth, gradual shift from a first electrode combination to a second electrode combination, allowing the patient to maintain a continual perception of stimulation. The shifting techniques described herein may be used during programming to shift between different electrode combinations to find an efficacious electrode combination. Additionally, the techniques may be used for shifting between different electrode combinations associated with different stimulation programs or program sets. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022615 | SHIFTING BETWEEN ELECTRODE COMBINATIONS IN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION DEVICE - The disclosure is directed to techniques for shifting between two electrode combinations. An amplitude of a first electrode combination is incrementally decreased while an amplitude of a second, or subsequent, electrode combination is concurrently incrementally increased. Alternatively, an amplitude of the first electrode combination is maintained at a target amplitude level while the amplitude of the second electrode combination is incrementally increased. The stimulation pulses of the electrode combinations are delivered to the patient interleaved in time. In this manner, the invention provides for a smooth, gradual shift from a first electrode combination to a second electrode combination, allowing the patient to maintain a continual perception of stimulation. The shifting techniques described herein may be used during programming to shift between different electrode combinations to find an efficacious electrode combination. Additionally, the techniques may be used for shifting between different electrode combinations associated with different stimulation programs or program sets. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022616 | Vestibular Implant System with Internal and External Motion Sensors - A partially implantable vestibular prosthesis system is described which includes an external movement sensor that is attachable to the outer skin surface of a patient's head for generating an external movement signal which represents movement of the patient's head. An external transmitter is in communication with the external movement sensor and provides an electromagnetic transmission of an implant communication signal which includes a signal component based on the external movement signal and an electrical power component that provides electrical power for implanted system components. An internal movement sensor is implantable under the skin of the patient's head for generating an internal movement signal which represents movement of the patient's head. And an implant processor also is implantable under the skin and in communication with the internal movement sensor and the external transmitter for generating an implant stimulation signal based on one of the movement signals to electrically stimulate target neural tissue for vestibular sensation by the patient. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022617 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE LEAD SYSTEM FOR VAGUS NERVE STIMLATION - A system including two neurostimulation leads can be used for stimulating a select region of a nerve within a nerve bundle. For example, two leads can be used to stimulate a select region of the vagus nerve located within a patient's carotid sheath. The first neurostimulation is positioned within the carotid sheath and the second neurostimulation lead is positioned external to the carotid sheath. Each of the first and second neurostimulation leads includes at least one electrode defining an electrode array about the select region of the nerve. The electrode array, and more particularly, the different possible electrode vector combinations provided by the first and second neurostimulation leads facilitate steering of stimulation current density fields as needed or desired between the electrodes to effectively and efficiently treat a particular medical, psychiatric, or neurological disorder. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022618 | High Powered Light Emitting Diode Photobiology Device - A high-powered light emitting diode (LED) photobiology (phototherapy) device is disclosed in the accompanying specification. The contemplated photobiology (phototherapy) device may be used in the treatment of various aesthetic and medical or other conditions. The phototherapy device may include a number of select LEDs for emitting a desired range or ranges of wavelengths of high intensity light for use in treatment. Additionally, the phototherapy treatment includes one or more methods for providing a treatment appropriate to the condition desired to be treated. The phototherapy device provides for a variety of high power light settings, intensity levels, and selectable time intervals for providing treatment. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022619 | SKIN TANNING AND LIGHT THERAPY INCORPORATING LIGHT EMITTING DIODES - The invention relates to a skin tanning chamber, the improvement comprising at least one light emitting diode emitting a UVA light, such as a UVA LED that emits essentially only UVA. Additionally, multiple LEDs of varying types with various characteristic wavelengths are controlled independently to produce an arbitrary light pattern in an arbitrary sequence over time. The chamber can be rigid or flexible. It can be a bed, booth or incorporated into a flexible form, such as a garment or cloth. In one embodiment, the chamber further comprises at least one LED emitting a UVC light, whereby the UVC light sanitizes the chamber surface. Preferably the LED emitting the UVA light is under independent control from the LED emitting UVC light. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022620 | WARMING THERAPY DEVICE INCLUDING HEATED MATTRESS ASSEMBLY - An apparatus and method for performing warming therapy is described. In one exemplary embodiment, the apparatus includes a patient support assembly and at least one heating element coupled to the patient support assembly, formed of a plurality of heating cells. In another exemplary embodiment, the heating element is formed of a plurality of separate heating segments which may be Individually controlled. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the heating element is coupled to at least one oxygen sensor and a control system for controlling the power applied to the heating element based on the oxygen level measured by the oxygen sensor. The heating element may be made of materials which are X-ray transparent, so that a patient disposed on a heated mattress will not need to be moved from the mattress to have effective X-ray diagnostics performed. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022621 | THERMAL DEVICE - A method of delivering safe therapeutic heat to an unconscious or inert subject is described, wherein a disposable device is applied to the user that provides a consistent skin side temperature, wherein said device comprises a thermal source comprising a particulate exothermic composition; and a primary insulative material disposed on a skin side of the thermal source that delivers heat while protecting the subject from burns; wherein said device provides a rate of temperature change of less than about 0.8. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022622 | Systems, Apparatus, Methods and Procedures for the Noninvasive Treatment of Tissue Using Microwave Energy - The present invention is directed to systems, apparatus, methods and procedures for the noninvasive treatment of tissue using microwave energy. In one embodiment of the invention a medical device and associated apparatus and procedures are used to treat dermatological conditions using microwave energy. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022623 | Warming device - A warming device includes a clinical garment having an inside surface supporting a convective apparatus with an inflatable dog-bone shaped section framed by an outline section. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022624 | Electrode Lead for Medical Use, Insulating Tube and Method for Producing the Same - An insulating tube for an electrode lead for medical use, particularly a cardiac pacemaker electrode lead, defibrillator electrode lead, electrode lead for nerve stimulation or the like, including a base material made of at least one material of the group consisting of silicones, polyurethanes, polyimide, PTFE, ETFE, and copolymers made of silicones and polyurethanes. In order to improve the functionality of such an insulating tube during friction of the tube with friction partners, at least in one volume region, which preferably forms the lateral surface of the insulating tube, the tube, in addition to the base material, includes a fibrous and/or particulate filler material having a higher abrasion resistance than the respective base material. A corresponding electrode lead is also provided, and a simple and cost-effective method for producing such an insulating tube and such an electrode lead. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022625 | Electronics Package Suitable for Implantation - The invention is directed to a method of bonding a hermetically sealed electronics package to an electrode or a flexible circuit and the resulting electronics package that is suitable for implantation in living tissue, such as for a retinal or cortical electrode array to enable restoration of sight to certain non-sighted individuals. The hermetically sealed electronics package is directly bonded to the flex circuit or electrode by electroplating a biocompatible material, such as platinum or gold, effectively forming a plated rivet-shaped connection, which bonds the flex circuit to the electronics package. The resulting electronic device is biocompatible and is suitable for long-term implantation in living tissue. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022626 | Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment Devices, Systems and Methods - Devices, systems and methods for nerve stimulation for OSA therapy. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022627 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FRACTIONAL SKIN TREATMENT - An apparatus for cosmetic RF skin treatment where the RF energy supply is isolated from the patient treated, such that in course of treatment no undesired current flows through the subject body. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022628 | Attachment Mechanism for Stent Release - An attachment mechanism for coupling a stent to a delivery system is disclosed. The attachment mechanism is configured to pivot relative to an inner shaft assembly of the delivery system in order to release the stent from the delivery system. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022629 | INFLATION MEDIA FOR IMPLANTS - An inflatable implant is disclosed. The inflatable implant comprises at least one inflation channel for forming an inflatable structure of the inflatable implant; and an inflation media disposed within the at least one inflation channel, wherein the inflation media comprises a mixture of an epoxy resin and a hardener, the mixture is configured to gel at about 37° C. in less than about 2.5 hours after mixing to form a gelled mixture. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022630 | CATHETER SHEATH FOR IMPLANT DELIVERY - There is disclosed herein a tube of material ( | 2012-01-26 |
20120022631 | Control System for a Stent Delivery System - A control system for controlling movement of a stent delivery system, a stent delivery system and a method for controlling movement of a stent delivery system are provided. The control system includes a housing having a chamber formed therein, a first drive at least partially positioned within the housing and operably connected to the first shaft of the delivery system and a second drive at least partially positioned within the housing and operably connected to the second shaft. The control system also includes a pressure controller operably connected to the housing and configured to change the pressure within the chamber. The first drive and the second drives are movable in response to the pressure change within the chamber and movement of the second drive relative to the first drive causes the second shaft to move relative to the first shaft to expand or constrain a stent operably connected thereto. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022632 | Extendable Flushing System - An extendable flushing system, a delivery system including an extendable flushing system and a method of flushing a delivery system are provided. The extendable flushing system includes flexible tubing having an extended configuration and a compressed configuration, a first tubing end and a second tubing end. The extendable flushing system also includes a flush port and a shuttle assembly. The flush port includes a first lumen operably connected to the first tubing end and an opening configured to receive fluid therethrough. The shuttle assembly is operably connected to the second tubing end forming a fluid flow path with the flush port and the shuttle assembly. The shuttle assembly is configured to be fluidly connected to a lumen of an elongate device. The shuttle assembly is movably positionable relative to the flush port and configured to move the flexible tubing between the compressed configuration and the extended configuration. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022633 | RETAINING MECHANISMS FOR PROSTHETIC VALVES - Disclosed herein are representative embodiments of methods, apparatus, and systems used to deliver a prosthetic heart valve to a deficient valve. In one embodiment, for instance, a support structure and an expandable prosthetic valve are advanced through the aortic arch of a patient using a delivery system. The support structure is delivered to a position on or adjacent to the surface of the outflow side of the aortic valve (the support structure defining a support-structure interior). The expandable prosthetic valve is delivered into the aortic valve and into the support-structure interior. The expandable prosthetic heart valve is expanded while the expandable prosthetic heart valve is in the support-structure interior and while the support structure is at the position on or adjacent to the surface of the outflow side of the aortic valve, thereby causing one or more native leaflets of the aortic valve to be frictionally secured between the support structure and the expanded prosthetic heart valve. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022634 | MEDICAL DEVICES WITH AMORPHOUS METALS AND METHODS THEREFOR - Medical devices made at least in part of amorphous metals or alloys are provided. Certain embodiments include filters, stents, guidewires, snares, and coils comprised of amorphous metal. Methods of forming the medical devices, including methods of shape setting amorphous metals or alloys into components of medical devices are also provided. Methods of using amorphous metal medical devices are also provided. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022635 | STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM - A stent delivery system includes: a distal-side tube; a proximal-side tube; a tubular member which contains a stent; a wire which has one end fixed to the tubular member; and an operating section which has a wire winding mechanism and a wire winding amount restriction mechanism for restricting the length of wire which is pulled. The operating section has an operating rotary roller; a winding shaft section and driving gear which are provided coaxially and integrally with the roller; and a driven gear which is intermittently rotated by the driving gear. The driving gear and the driven gear have the stopper function by which rotation of the driving gear is stopped after the driving gear is rotated a predetermined amount. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022636 | METHOD OF DELIVERING ADVANCED ENDOVASCULAR GRAFT - A flexible low profile delivery system for delivery of an expandable intracorporeal device, specifically, an endovascular graft, which has at least one belt circumferentially disposed about the device in a constraining configuration. The belt is released by a release member, such as a release wire, by retracting the wire from looped ends of the belt. Multiple belts can be used and can be released sequentially so as to control the order of release and placement of the endovascular graft. An outer protective sheath may be disposed about the endovascular graft while in a constrained state which must first be refracted or otherwise removed prior to release of the graft from a constrained state. The delivery system can be configured for delivery over a guiding device such as a guidewire. The delivery system can also be configured for delivery of bifurcated intracorporeal devices. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022637 | VASCULAR IMPLANT - A medical implant ( | 2012-01-26 |
20120022638 | BARB FOR ANCHORING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE WITHIN A BODY VESSEL - A barb for anchoring an implantable medical device to a body vessel comprises a thin-walled body portion for engagement with a structural element of an implantable medical device and a penetrating element extending from the body portion. The body portion has a longitudinal axis. The penetrating element includes a tip portion for anchoring into tissue and a base portion between the tip portion and the body portion. In a deployed configuration of the barb, the base portion curves away from the longitudinal axis at a first curvature and the tip portion curves toward the longitudinal axis at a second curvature which is opposite in sign from the first. | 2012-01-26 |
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. | 2012-01-26 |
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. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022641 | Valve Holder - Methods and apparatus for holding and maneuvering a valve during preparation and attachment to patient, providing increased visibility of the prosthetic valve and the sewing ring to prevent suture entanglement. A handle attachment is spaced from the valve for improved visibility of the sewing ring and the outlet end of the valve during attachment. Commissure posts are bent inward at the tips while preventing crashing of the commissure posts into each other causing damage. A release force needed to remove the holder and unthread the holder sutures is reduced. The holder and related methods can provide a kink free holder suture path to reduce suture entanglement and prevent damage to the implanted valve during holder removal by reducing the release force needed to remove the holder sutures by up to 30%. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022642 | Methods and Apparatus for Endovascularly Replacing a Patient's Heart Valve - The present invention provides methods and apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. The apparatus includes a replacement valve and an anchor having an expandable braid. In some embodiments, the expandable braid is fabricated from a single strand of wire. In some embodiments, the expandable braid comprises at least one turn feature. The anchor and the valve preferably are configured for endovascular delivery and deployment. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022643 | Set of Annuloplasty Devices with Varying Anterior-Posterior Ratios and Related Methods - Described is a set of at least two annuloplasty devices having a particular size that corresponds to an inter-trigonal or inter-commissural distance of a heart valve annulus, wherein the at least two annuloplasty devices have different anterior-posterior ratios. Also, described is a kit for annuloplasty repair of a heart valve annulus including a plurality of annuloplasty devices each comprising one of a plurality of different sizes, wherein the different sizes each correspond to a different inter-trigonal or inter-commissural distance of a heart valve annulus, and for each of the plurality of different sizes there are at least two devices each having the same size but having different anterior-posterior ratios. Additionally, a method of choosing an annuloplasty device for implantation in a valve annulus is described. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022644 | PARTIALLY-ADJUSTABLE ANNULOPLASTY STRUCTURE - Apparatus and methods are described including an annuloplasty structure configured for implantation along an annulus of an atrioventricular valve of a heart of a subject. The structure includes a coiled element comprising at least one first portion thereof which is flexible and longitudinally compressible, and at least one second portion thereof in series with the first portion, the second portion being flexible and less longitudinally compressible than the first portion. Other applications are also described. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022645 | CONTROLLING IMPLANTED BLOOD PUMPS - A blood pump controller includes a microcontroller and a communication interface. The microcontroller is configured to communicate with various types of blood pump communication modules. The microcontroller is further configured to determine, based on communication with a particular type of blood pump communication module, the particular type of blood pump communication module communicated with. The microcontroller is further configured to select, based on the determination of the particular type of blood pump communication module, control logic used to control the particular type of blood pump communication module. The microcontroller is further configured to generate, based on the selected control logic, commands for controlling the blood pump communication module. The communication interface is configured to connect the microcontroller to the particular type of blood pump communication module. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022646 | PROSTHETIC DEVICE AND METHOD OF USING IN BREAST AUGMENTATION AND/OR BREAST RECONSTRUCTION - A method of using a biocompatible surgical knitted, silk scaffold device in a breast augmentation or in s breast reconstruction cosmetic or surgical procedure such as single-stage or two-stage breast reconstruction. In an aspect of the invention, the silk scaffold employs a knit pattern that substantially prevents unraveling and preserves the stability of the mesh or scaffold device, especially when the mesh or scaffold device is cut. An example scaffold device employs a knitted mesh including at least two yarns laid in a knit direction and engaging each other to define a plurality of nodes. The at least two yarns include a first yarn and a second yarn extending between and forming loops about two nodes. The second yarn has a higher tension at the two nodes than the first yarn. The second yarn substantially prevents the first yarn from moving at the two nodes and substantially prevents the knitted mesh from unraveling at the nodes. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022647 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE INCLUDING SURFACE GEOMETRY HAVING REDUCED BIOFILM FORMATION CHARACTERISTICS - An implantable medical device configured to be implanted in a recipient. The implantable medical device includes an implantable assembly, wherein the exterior geometry of the implantable assembly is adapted to inhibit formation of a biofilm thereon after implantation in the recipient. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022648 | ZIRCONIUM DIOXIDE BASED PROSTHESES - A process for the manufacture of a zirconium oxide prosthesis, the zirconium oxide being stabilized, which process includes the following steps: a) compacting a zirconium oxide powder at a pressure of at least 45 MPa to an object of a desired form, b) impacting an etchable medium into the surface, c) optionally working the object to a final shape, d) sintering the body at a temperature of above 1170° C. to transfer zirconium oxide into a tetragonal crystalline structure, and e) etching the etchable medium using hydrofluoric acid to remove the medium and impart a micromechanical retention surface. A prosthesis prepared by this process is also disclosed. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022649 | DISC-SHAPED ORTHOPEDIC DEVICES - Methods and apparatuses for treatment of various joint conditions include a device inserted into a joint space. During delivery, the profile of the device is constrained in at least one dimension to minimize invasive impact on tissue and/or bone. The device may be restrained for implantation by a thread or a rigid elongate member. After insertion, the device may expand at the implantation site. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022650 | METHOD FOR PREPARING BIOMEDICAL SURFACES - A method for selectively dissolving the beta (β) phase of a titanium alloy out of the surface of the alloy, thereby leaving behind a nano-scale porous surface having enhanced bonding properties with either a biological tissue, such as bone, or an adhesive material, such as a polymer or ceramic by immersing the alloy in an ionic aqueous solution containing high levels of hydrogen peroxide and then exposing the alloy to an electrochemical voltage process resulting in the selective dissolution of the beta phase to form a nano-topographic metallic surface. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022651 | DIRECT LATERAL SPINE SYSTEM INSTRUMENTS, IMPLANTS AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - Apparatus, systems, and methods for spine surgery employ a guide wire temporarily anchored to a contralateral side of an intervertebral disc. The guide wire establishes a reliable pathway for passage and actuation of cannulated instruments or implants through a small working channel leading to an ipsilateral side of the disc. The guide wire may be disconnected and removed from the disc after use. | 2012-01-26 |
20120022652 | SPINE DISC REPLACEMENT WITH COMPLIANT ARTICULATING CORE - An intervertebral implant can include a pair of endplates between which is coupled a bag that is filled or is fillable with small beads or particles having smooth exterior geometries. The bead sack implant allows for articulation about various centers of rotation without a predefined neutral position. | 2012-01-26 |