13th week of 2011 patent applcation highlights part 48 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20110077623 | IMPLANTABLE BIO-MEDICAL UNIT WITH ELECTRO-MECHANICAL FUNCTION - A bio-medical unit includes a power harvesting module, a communication module, a processing module, and a micro electro-mechanical functional module. The power harvesting module converts a power source signal into a supply voltage that powers the other modules. The communication module converts inbound wireless communication signal into an inbound symbol stream and converts an outbound symbol stream into an outbound wireless communication signal. The processing module converts the inbound symbol stream into inbound data; generates a command message based on the inbound data; and converts an electro-mechanical response into the outbound symbol stream. The micro electro-mechanical functional module performs an electro-mechanical function within a hosting body in accordance with the command message and, when requested per the command message, generates the electro-mechanical response based on the performing the electro-mechanical function. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077624 | METHODS FOR ENHANCING ACCOMMODATION OF A NATURAL LENS OF AN EYE - The accommodative properties of the natural lens of an eye, which tend to degrade with age, can be enhanced, restored, or otherwise improved using the in situ treatment techniques and methodologies provided here. One exemplary method of enhancing accommodative properties of the natural lens of an eye involves an initial step of specifying treatment areas of the natural lens. These treatment areas correspond to regions of the capsular bag or regions of the crystalline lens. The method continues by increasing stiffness of the treatment areas while all or portions of the natural lens remains in situ. This results in stiffened areas of the natural lens that enhance transfer of ciliary muscle forces to a center region of the crystalline lens. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077625 | OPHTHALMIC APPARATUS AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME - An ophthalmic apparatus including an observation system configured for displaying a moving image of a patient's eye, an optical system for directing an illumination beam into the patient's eye and for directing an observation beam from the patient's eye into the observation system, a control system configured for controlling the optical system, and a control stick for inputting control signals into the control system including an auxiliary control element being provided on the control stick for inputting auxiliary control signals into the control system, wherein the control system is configured for controlling a display mode of displaying the moving image of the observation system according to the auxiliary control signals. The invention further relates to a method of operating said ophthalmic apparatus. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077626 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE GLAUCOMA SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND METHOD - Apparatuses and methods for the treatment of glaucoma are provided. The instrument uses either cauterization, a laser to ablate, sonic or ultrasonic energy to emulsify, or mechanical cutting of a portion of the trabecular meshwork. The instrument may also be provided with irrigation, aspiration, and a footplate. The footplate is used to enter Schlemm's canal, serves as a guide, and also protects Schlemm's canal. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077627 | System and method for Microablation of tissue - The present invention generally relates to the field of laser treatment of tissue, and particularly, to a system and method for creating microablated channels in skin. The present invention is more particularly directed to treating subsurface tissue through the created channels. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077628 | MEDICAL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - An instrument and method for tissue thermotherapy including an inductive heating means to generate a vapor phase media that is used for interstitial, intraluminal, intracavity or topical tissue treatment. In one method, the vapor phase media is propagated from a probe outlet to provide a controlled vapor-to-liquid phase change in an interface with tissue to thereby apply ablative thermal energy delivery. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077629 | TREATMENT METHOD FOR LIVING TISSUE USING ENERGY - A treatment method for a living tissue using energy includes a first step of outputting high-frequency energy to grasped living tissues to destroy cell membranes of the grasped living tissues, allowing proteins to flow out of cells and joining the living tissues to each other, and a second step of, after the first step, outputting heat energy to the grasped living tissues to dehydrate the grasped living tissues. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077630 | TREATMENT METHOD FOR LIVING TISSUE USING ENERGY - A treatment method for a living tissue using energy includes a first step of outputting energy to a grasped living tissue and raising a temperature of cells of the grasped living tissue, a second step of, after the first step, outputting high-frequency energy to the grasped living tissue and destroying cell membranes of the grasped living tissue to discharge proteins in the cells to the outside of the cells, and a third step of, after the second step, outputting heat energy to the living tissue and welding the proteins to each other while dehydrating the grasped living tissue. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077631 | Electrosurgical Generator User Interface - An electrosurgical generator is disclosed. The generator includes an output stage configured to generate a waveform, a first input configured to adjust a cut setting representative of a cutting effect of the waveform, and a second input configured to adjust a hemostasis setting representative of a hemostasis effect of the waveform. The generator also includes a controller configured to receive cut and hemostasis settings and to adjust one of a duty cycle, a crest factor and a power level of the waveform to achieve a combined cutting and hemostasis effect based on the cut and hemostasis settings. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077632 | Feedpoint Optimization for Microwave Ablation Dipole Antenna With Integrated Tip - A microwave ablation system includes a generator operable to output energy and an antenna coupled to the generator via a coaxial cable. The antenna delivers energy to tissue and includes a proximal radiating section and a distal radiating section. The antenna also includes a feedpoint section defined by the portion of the distal radiating section that underlaps the proximal radiating section. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077633 | Electrosurgical Devices, Directional Reflector Assemblies Coupleable Thereto, and Electrosurgical Systems Including Same - A directional reflector assembly includes a tubular shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and adapted to operably engage an electrosurgical ablation probe, and a conical aperture having a proximal open apex joined to a distal end of the tubular shaft, and a distal open base, wherein an interior volume of the tubular shaft is open to the conical aperture. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077634 | Microwave Surface Ablation Using Conical Probe - An electromagnetic surgical ablation probe having a conical hood reflector and method of manufacture thereof is disclosed. The disclosed probe includes a shaft assembly that has a coaxial feedline core having an inner conductor and an outer conductor separated by an insulating layer. A tubular catheter is disposed coaxially around the feedline and is configured to deliver coolant, such as saline or deionized water, to a coolant chamber at a distal end formed within the conical reflector. A radiating section disposed within the conical reflector may have a conical, cylindrical, or other suitable shape. A membrane disposed across a distal opening of the conical reflector seals coolant within the coolant chamber, and may conform to tissue contours during use. A resilient aperture may be included at the periphery of the conical hood. The shaft assembly may include an angled section, an adjustable section, and, additionally or alternatively, a malleable section. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077635 | Fluid Cooled Choke Dielectric and Coaxial Cable Dielectric - The microwave antenna assembly includes a feedline electrically connected to an elongated shaft by a choke electrical connector. The feedline includes an inner conductor, an outer conductor, an elongated shaft and a choke electrical connector. The inner conductor is disposed in coaxial arrangement with the inner conductor and forms a dielectric supply lumen therebetween. The elongated shaft at least partially surrounding the feedline and form a dielectric return lumen therebetween. The choke electrical connector surrounds at least a portion of the feedline and electrically connects the feedline outer conductor to the elongated shaft. A low-loss dielectric fluid is supplied between the inner conductor and the outer conductor of the feedline and forms a dielectric barrier therebetween. The low-loss dielectric fluid also forms a dielectric barrier between the outer conductor of the feedline and the elongated shaft and the choke electrical connector forms a plurality of apertures extending therethrough, the apertures forming at least a portion of the dielectric return lumen. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077636 | Management of Voltage Standing Wave Ratio at Skin Surface During Microwave Ablation - A dielectric spacer for use during microwave ablation of tissue is disclosed. The dielectric spacer includes a housing having a predetermined thickness and a skin-contacting bottom surface. The housing is configured to be filled with a dielectric material having a predetermined dielectric permittivity. The housing is further configured to be placed on the tissue in proximity with at least one microwave antenna assembly, wherein the thickness and the dielectric permittivity are configured to shift a maximum voltage standing wave ratio of the at least one microwave antenna assembly. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077637 | Flow Rate Monitor for Fluid Cooled Microwave Ablation Probe - A microwave ablation system includes an antenna assembly configured to deliver microwave energy from a power source to tissue and a coolant source operably coupled to the power source and configured to selectively provide fluid to the antenna assembly via a fluid path. The system also includes a controller operably coupled to the power source and a sensor operably coupled to the fluid path and the controller. The sensor is configured to detect fluid flow through the fluid path and the controller is configured to control the energy source based on the detected fluid flow. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077638 | Flow Rate Monitor For Fluid Cooled Microwave Ablation Probe - A microwave ablation system includes an antenna assembly configured to deliver microwave energy from a power source to tissue and a coolant source operably coupled to the power source and configured to selectively provide fluid to the antenna assembly via a fluid path. The system also includes a controller operably coupled to the power source and a sensor operably coupled to the fluid path and the controller. The sensor is configured to detect fluid flow through the fluid path and the controller is configured to control the energy source based on the detected fluid flow. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077639 | Flow Rate Monitor for Fluid Cooled Microwave Ablation Probe - A microwave ablation system includes a generator operable to output energy and an ablation probe coupled to the generator that delivers the energy to a tissue region. The ablation system also includes a controller operable to control the generator and at least one sensor coupled to the ablation probe and the controller that detects an operating parameter of the ablation probe. The controller performs a system check by ramping up an energy output of the generator from a low energy level to a high energy level and monitors an output from the sensor at predetermined intervals of time during the system check to determine an abnormal state. The controller controls the generator to cease the energy output when the controller determines an abnormal state. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077640 | LIQUID DELIVERY APPARATUS FOR TISSUE ABLATION - An apparatus for use in a tissue ablation procedure includes a base, a fluid delivery tube coupled to the base, a first lever rotatably coupled to the base, the first lever having a first end biased to press against a portion of the fluid delivery tube to thereby close a lumen within the fluid delivery tube, and a second end, and a securing mechanism for securing the base relative to an ablation device. An ablation system includes an ablation device having an electrode, a fluid delivery tube coupled to the ablation device, and a control for simultaneously activating the electrode and opening the fluid delivery tube. A method of performing tissue ablation includes operating a control to activate an electrode, thereby delivering ablation energy to target tissue, wherein the step of operating the control also causes fluid to be delivered to the target tissue. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077641 | Return Electrode Temperature Prediction - The present disclosure relates to an electrosurgical generator for supplying electrosurgical energy to tissue and methods thereof. The electrosurgical generator includes sensor circuitry, a processing device, and a controller. The type of return electrode pad may be determined automatically. The sensor circuitry is configured to determine one or more characteristics of a patient and/or measure tissue temperature at a return electrode pad site. The processing device is configured to determine a maximum temperature of tissue and calculate real-time predicted temperature at the return electrode pad site. The controller is configured to regulate output of the electrosurgical generator based on one or more characteristics of a patient and the determined maximum temperature. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077642 | PLASMA APPLICATORS FOR PLASMA-SURGICAL METHODS - Electrosurgical instruments that transmit electrical energy from an electrosurgical generator via an electrode and a current path of ionized gas into biological tissue. In order to obtained a defined, low treatment depth in the target tissue, the electrosurgical instrument contains a resistive element with a predetermined impedance between the distal end of the connection line and the electrode, installed in such a way that treatment current is limited after ionizing of the gas. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077643 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ELECTROSURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MOVABLE SUCTION SHEATH - An electrosurgical instrument having active and return electrodes with a movable suction sheath for variable fluid and debris removal during surgical procedures is disclosed. The suction apparatus has an outer sheath that is external to a shaft to provide a lumen. The sheath assembly is axially movable relative to the fluid aspiration element between first and second positions for treating the target site and fluid and debris removal, respectively. The first position positions the distal end of the shaft axially distal to a leading edge of the sheath assembly. The second position positions the distal leading edge of the sheath assembly axially adjacent to the end of the shaft. The fluid aspiration element comprises an inner lumen extending through the shaft, and at least one port extending radially through the shaft. The port is in communication with the inner lumen. A vacuum provides suction through the port and inner lumen. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077644 | MEDICAL PROBE WITH TRANSLATABLE CO-ACCESS CANNULA - The tissue ablation device includes a tissue ablation probe having an elongated probe shaft and electrodes carried by the distal end of the probe shaft. The device further comprises a cannula with a central lumen extending along a longitudinal axis for removably receiving the probe shaft. The cannula further comprises concentric inner and outer tubes extending along the longitudinal axis, wherein the outer is tube is translatable relative to the inner tube. The inner and outer tubes further comprise inner and outer apertures, respectively, that are aligned by translating the outer tube. When the inner and outer apertures are aligned, electrodes are deployed through the inner and outer apertures. One method includes introducing a cannula and a tissue ablation probe to a tissue site and operating the tissue ablation probe and the cannula to deploy the electrodes and ablate tissue. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077645 | Electrosurgical Pencil with Synchronous Evacuation Function - An electrosurgical pencil with synchronous evacuation function includes a pencil body defined with a first containing space and a second containing space therethrough. The first containing space is adapted to contain an electropencil. The second containing space is adapted to be an evacuation passage. A first front end of the electropencil is mounted with a replaceable electrode. A first rear of the electropencil is adapted to connect to an electric wire connected to a current generator. A second front end of the second containing space is integrally formed a tubular body having an opening. A second rear end of the second containing space is mounted with a connector. The connector is connected to a suction instrument with a negative pressure via a soft tube. When the end portion of the electrode operates, the opening of the evacuating passage draws smoke and blood at the same time. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077646 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ELECTROSURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MOVABLE FLUID DELIVERY SHEATH - An electrosurgical instrument with a movable fluid delivery sheath assembly for variable fluid supply during surgical procedures is disclosed. The instrument comprises at least one active electrode and at least one return electrode, positioned on the instrument distal end. The sheath assembly has an outer sheath that is external to the instrument shaft, to provide a lumen. The sheath assembly lumen is axially movable between first and second positions relative to a fluid delivery element, for varying target site treatment and fluid delivery. In the first position the shaft distal end is axially distal to a leading edge of the sheath assembly. In the second position the sheath assembly distal leading edge is positioned axially adjacent or distal to the end of the shaft. The fluid delivery element comprises an inner lumen extending through at least a portion of the shaft, and at least one port extending radially through the shaft. The port is in communication with the inner lumen. A fluid supply source provides fluid through the port, sheath lumen and inner lumen. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077647 | Energized Needles for Wound Sealing - A bipolar electrosurgical instrument has a first and a second set of needle like structures. Each set of needle like structures is functional for puncturing the skin of a patient on opposing sides of a wound or cut. Each needle comprises a body and a pointed portion at a distal end. The distal end is structured to form a sealing surface with an opposing needle on a needle of the other set. The sealing surfaces are adapted to connect to an electrical energy source such that the sealing surfaces are capable of conducting bipolar energy therebetween. The first and second set of needle like structures are movable from a first position where the needles are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position where the first and second sets of needles members are closer to one another. A mechanical force applied to or within a housing is utilized to move the needles sets from the first position to the second position. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077648 | Switch Assembly for Electrosurgical Instrument - An electrosurgical forceps includes a housing having a shaft affixed thereto, the shaft including jaw members at a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes a switch assembly that includes a supporting member, a flexible membrane circuit having snap dome switch contacts operably fixed thereto, and ergonomically-contoured keytops. The switch assembly provides at least one monopolar activation switch, and a bipolar activation switch. The forceps also include a drive mechanism which causes the jaw members to move relative to one another for manipulating tissue. A monopolar safety switch is incorporated into the switch assembly which cooperates with the drive mechanism to inhibit the monopolar activation switch when the jaw members are in an open position. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077649 | Vessel Sealing Jaw With Offset Sealing Surface - A forceps includes a housing having a shaft attached thereto and an end effector assembly disposed at a distal end thereof. The shaft has a longitudinal axis defined therethrough. The end effector assembly includes a pair of jaw members disposed in opposing relation relative to one another. Each jaw member has an opposing sealing surface and at least one of the jaw members is moveable relative to the other about a pivot from a first position to a second position for grasping tissue therebetween. The pivot is positioned offset from the longitudinal axis defined through the shaft. When the jaw members are disposed in the second position, a plane is formed between the opposing sealing surfaces, the plane offset from the longitudinal axis. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077650 | MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHOD | 2011-03-31 |
20110077651 | EXPANDABLE INTRAMEDULLARY ROD - An expandable rod is provided that is sized for insertion into a patient's bone. A method for using the expandable rod to prepare the patient's bone to receive an orthopedic implant is also provided. The expandable rod is adjustable between a first, contracted state and a second, expanded state, the expansion member expanding radially outwardly from the contracted state to the expanded state. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077652 | INTRAMEDULLARY ANCHORING STEM FOR AN ORTHOPAEDIC IMPLANT HEAD - An intramedullary anchoring stem ( | 2011-03-31 |
20110077653 | Method for using retractable stylet and cannula combination to form an opening in bone - In one preferred aspect, a method is provided for forming an opening in bone for the sequential dilation of tissue. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077654 | Spinal Disc Prosthesis Apparatus and Placement Method - A spinal disc prosthesis and method of placing a spinal disc prosthesis between adjacent vertebrae are provided. The inventive spinal disc prosthesis can comprise one or more solid, compressible prosthesis elements that are formed prior to the method of placing the prosthesis, or one or more solid prosthesis elements that are formed in situ. The inventive method of placing a spinal disc prosthesis between adjacent vertebrae of a patient is based on a posterior approach. The invention also includes a spinal disc prosthesis insertion apparatus and specially constructed surgical instruments for use in carrying out the method. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077655 | Vertebral Body Spool Device - A mandrel is inserted into the tissue to be distracted and a filament is repeatedly wrapped around the mandrel to make a spool. As the mandrel turns, the filament coils around the mandrel to create of spool of increasing diameter. This spool can be used as a distractor, tamp, or implant. A spool implant can be cemented to further stabilize the device in situ, such as a vertebral body. The filament deposition upon the mandrel is controlled by rotation and the volume creation is incremental. This makes the spool ideal for creating highly controlled distraction forces or insertion of bulking material. In some embodiments, fibers having a low glass transition temperature are used. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077656 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR TREATING A STRUCTURAL BONE AND JOINT DEFORMITY - The various embodiments disclosed herein relate to implantable devices for the treatment of a structural bone and deformity. More specifically, the various embodiments include systems, devices, and methods for implantation of a flexible or tension band for treating such a deformity, including hallux valgus. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077657 | DRILL-AIMING METHOD AND APPARATUS - Apparatus and methods are provided for aligning a bone-penetration device with a nail-hole at a distal end of an implantable nail. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077658 | Bone Preparation Reference Guide - A reference guide comprising an attachment portion configured to abut with and attach to an anatomical feature such as a bone. The reference guide further comprises a reference indicator that may be formed integrally with, or selectively secureable to, the attachment portion and that indicates a reference point with respect to the attachment portion. The reference guide may be used to identify a target location during a surgical procedure even in the absence of traditional landmarks. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077659 | APPARATUS AND METHOD TO DELIVER A MICROCHIP - Provided are methods and apparatus including an injector system adapted for injecting a microchip comprising: an inserter comprising a rod or tube having a proximal and distal end and having a point at the distal end that defines a skin-piercing side of the inserter; a means for engaging the microchip near the distal end of the inserter, but removed in the proximal direction from the distal tip of the inserter, which means prevents rotation of an engaged microchip in two or three axes of rotation; and means for releasing the microchip from the inserter once the inserter has been inserted into a perforatable substrate. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077660 | FOLDABLE, IMPLANTABLE ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY AND TOOL FOR IMPLANTING SAME - An electrode array assembly with a frame that is foldable or bendable on which electrodes are disposed. The frame includes laterally spaced apart bridges. Tabs extend laterally outwardly from the bridges Electrodes are disposed on the tabs. Beams, also part of the frame, extend between the laterally adjacent bridges. The frame can be folded around the beams so as to cause the laterally spaced bridges to at least partially overlap. When the beams are so bent, the electrode carrying tabs extend beyond the bent beams. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077661 | MEANS TO SECURELY FIXATE PACING LEADS AND/OR SENSORS IN VESSELS - According to embodiments of the present invention, a cardiac lead system adapted for fixation to a vessel including an expandable fixation mechanism adapted to engage an inner surface of the vessel and a lead member comprising an anchor structure at distal end, the anchor structure configured to removably engage with fixation mechanism. Such anchor structure may be helical, and may removably engage fixation mechanism upon rotation or an application of torque, and may be extendable and/or retractable. Fixation mechanism may be polymer coated weave and/or mesh to trap anchor structure. Lead member and/or fixation mechanism may include electrodes and/or sensors, and lead member may include L-shape, S-shape, spiral, and/or sinusoidal shape for positioning of electrodes and/or sensors or for facilitated engagement of anchor structure. A guide wire attached to fixation mechanism during deployment may, prior to detachment, serve to guide lead member to a target site at fixation mechanism. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077662 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS - An implantation device for releasably holding implantable microstimulators can be used to guide one or more microstimulators to any site within the gastrointestinal tract for implantation. The device can further releasably hold one or more ligation clips for securing the one or more microstimulators in place within the implantation site(s) and/or for closing an incision in which a microstimulator is implanted. The device can be employed using open, laparoscopic, and endoscopic techniques. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077663 | Magnetoelectric Surgical Tools for Minimally Invasive Surgery - A magnetoelectric element of a surgical tool positioned in the body of a subject is controllably bent or elongated under the influence of an applied magnetic field. A piezoelectric layer in the magnetoelectric element provides output that can be used to determine the actual amount of bending or elongation of the magnetoelectric element, and this actual amount is compared to a theoretical amount of bending or elongation which would result from the applied magnetic field. Any differences between the actual and theoretical amounts provide feedback to the surgeon for performing the surgical procedure. Preferably, tactile feedback is provided to the surgeon. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077664 | DEVICE FOR PROCESSING DERMAL TISSUE - A device for processing harvested dermal tissue includes a body having a cutting head portion and a handle portion extending from the cutting head portion. The cutting head portion defines a chamber. A cutting assembly is disposed in the chamber and includes a plurality of blades and a flexible spacer member disposed on the axle such that the blades rotate as the axle rotates. Each of the plurality of blades is separated from an adjacent blade by a spacer disposed on the axle. A grill assembly is coupled to the body and includes a grill and a grill cap. The grill has a plurality of spaced apart slots sized and configured to receive the blades and maintain the blades in a position with respect to the body. The grill cap is sized and configured to couple the grill to the cutting head portion of the body. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077665 | EPILATOR HAVING A MASSAGE ROLLER - The invention relates to an epilator ( | 2011-03-31 |
20110077666 | LIGATING BAND DISPENSER DEVICE - A ligating band dispenser device and method for deploying ligating bands are disclosed. The device may comprise a ligating band support structure, at least one ligating band mounted around the outer surface of the ligating band support structure, a ligating band deployment structure, the ligating band deployment structure having an engagement structure for engaging and deploying the ligating bands, and a displacement mechanism adapted to displace one or the other of the ligating band deployment structure or ligating band support structure in an axial direction distally and proximally relative to the other structure. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077667 | SUTURE BASED TISSUE REPAIR - The present invention provides an apparatus for suture-based tissue repair, preferably for the annulus of a spinal disc, that includes a suture loop preferably pre-tied with a sliding knot, a clasp-type component that captures the ends of the suture loop, and an optional plug member that fills the tissue defect. Also disclosed is a method that places the suture loop in a full-thickness stitch encircling the tissue defect, secures the ends of the suture loop to the clasp, and cinches the suture loop to approximate the tissue without the need to tie knots. Also disclosed is a suture passer that enables a suture strand or loop to be passed through the tissue wall, captured, and retrieved. The suture passer may optionally incorporate a clasp in such an arrangement that enables a suture loop passed through the tissue wall to be captured directly by the clasp. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077668 | DEVICES FOR APPROXIMATING TISSUE AND RELATED METHODS OF USE - Devices for approximating multiple tissue edges internal to a body are disclosed. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077669 | Laparoscopic Anastomosis Tools And Technique - An anastomosis normally closed clip comprising a first side including at least one first suture guide, the first suture guide being disposed on a top of the clip, the first end portion and the first suture guide defining a first suture space open toward the top of the clip, the first side further including a first carrier slot on the bottom of the clip; and a second side which is the mirror image of the first side. An introducer device is used to open the clip and introduce it into a patient over two organ segments to be sutured together and allow the clip to close. The suture spaces allow for continuous suturing of the organ segments. The introducer device is used to remove the clip from the patient after the suture procedure. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077670 | ARTICULATING SUTURING DEVICE AND METHOD - Devices, systems, and methods for suturing of body lumens allow the suturing of vascular puncture sites located at the distal end of a percutaneous tissue tract. An elongated articulated foot is inserted through a penetration and actuated extend the foot carrying suturing attachment cuffs. Needles are advanced from the shaft through the vessel wall outside of the penetration and into engagement with the needle cuffs after the foot has been drawn proximally up against the endothelial surface of the blood vessel. The cuffs lockingly engage the needles and can be withdrawn along the needle paths and through the tissue tract to form a loop of suture across the puncture. The articulating foot may be realigned with the shaft and withdrawn proximally through the tissue tract without dilating the tissue tract. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077671 | SUTURE MANAGEMENT - Various exemplary methods and devices are provided for tensioning suture. The methods and devices are particularly useful in surgical suturing applications in which it is desirable to maintain tension on suture being delivered, yet to allow the tension to be released as desired without retracting the suture. Thus, when tension is released, a length of suture extended from the device can remain extended without any tension being applied thereto. Tension is only applied to any additional length of suture that is extended from the device. The tension applied to the suture is proportional to the length of the suture extended from the device until the tension is released and reset. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077672 | Devices For Installing Stasis Reducing Means In Body Tissue - Devices for insertion into an atrial appendage of stasis reducing components such as mesh members, chemical bonding agents or expandable anchors are disclosed. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077673 | ROTATIONAL ATHERECTOMY DEVICE WITH FRICTIONAL CLUTCH HAVING MAGNETIC NORMAL FORCE - An atherectomy device is disclosed, with a clutch between the motor and the drive shaft. The clutch includes two plates that rely on frictional to transmit torque from one plate to the other. The clutch has an attractive magnetic normal force that holds the plates together. For relatively low torques, as is the case during normal use, a static frictional torque holds the plates together, and the plates spin together without slipping. For relatively high torques, as occurs when the distal end of the drive shaft encounters an obstacle and stops abruptly, the high torque exceeds the maximum possible static frictional torque, and the plates slip. When slipping, the plates transmit a kinetic frictional torque that is low enough to avoid damage to the patient or to the atherectomy device. In some cases, the torque levels associated with a stoppage of the drive shaft distal end are chosen to mimic those of a known atherectomy device, in which a gas-driven turbine is clutchlessly attached to the drive shaft. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077674 | TISSUE CUTTER WITH DIFFERENTIAL HARDNESS - Disclosed is a tubular cutting element for axial reciprocal movement within an outer tubular sleeve. The cutting element has an elongate tubular body, having a proximal end, a distal end and a cutting tip. The tubular body is formed in a drawing operation and the cutting tip is formed in a milling operation. The tubular body may have a Rockwell C hardness of no more than about 40, and the cutting tip may have a Rockwell C hardness of at least about 50. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077675 | PAIN MANAGEMENT BIO-MEDICAL UNIT - A bio-medical unit includes a power harvesting module, a processing module, and a pain management functional module. The power harvesting module converts an electromagnetic signal into a supply voltage, wherein the bio-medical unit is operable within a host body. The processing module determines an acupuncture point of the host body and a treatment duration. The processing module then generates a control signal based on the acupuncture point and the treatment duration. The pain management functional module receives the control signal and actuates a needling of the acupuncture point in accordance with the control signal. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077676 | Prostate Treatment Stent - A method of dissecting urethra obstructing tissue. The method includes capturing urethra obstructing tissue between portions of an implant and applying pressure on the tissue caught between the portions of the implant, for longer than 1 hour, until the tissue dies or falls off. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077677 | STIFFENED BALLOON APPARATUS WITH INCREASED FLEXIBILITY - The present invention pertains to a stiffened balloon which can be used in angioplasty, endovascular, and valvuloplasty procedures or as a delivery balloon to deliver a stent or a stent-graft. Longitudinally discontinuous stiffening members connected to the expandable balloon stiffen the balloon but allow it to be navigated through curved passages. Projections on the stiffening members may engage, incise, crush, fracture, or pierce occlusions or retain a stent or stent-graft. Radio-opaque portions may be referenced to determine orientation. Longitudinally continuous stiffening members bearing projections and connected to the balloon perform in a similar manner. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077678 | Coil Design for Improved Rotational Performance - A coil for transmitting torque comprises a wire having a longitudinal axis and first and second longitudinal edges extending along the longitudinal axis, wherein the first longitudinal edge is formed with a first pattern and the second longitudinal edge is formed with a second pattern complementary to the first pattern, the first and second patterns being configured to interlock with one another when the wire is wound into a helical shape. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077679 | EMBOLIZATION DEVICE - A medical device ( | 2011-03-31 |
20110077680 | LARGE MOUTH SNARE DEVICE - An apparatus and method for removing an object from a vessel are disclosed. The apparatus includes an expandable catheter, an expandable funnel, and a snare device configured to snare an object within the vessel. A distal end of the expandable catheter may be manipulable such that retraction of the expandable catheter allows the expandable funnel device to expand. Once the snare device has been manipulated to capture the object, the snare device and object may then be retracted into the funnel device, which may then protect the surrounding structures from being damaged by the object. In some embodiments, the expended funnel device, snare device, and object may be retracted into the expandable catheter in order to further protect the surrounding structures from damage. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077681 | INSERTION DEVICE AND INSERTION METHOD OF COIL - An insertion device of a coil includes a delivery wire driving unit, a secondary catheter driving unit, and a control circuit. A platinum coil for coil embolization is attached to the tip of a delivery wire. The delivery wire driving unit is provided in the proximity of the entrance of a Y connector such that the delivery wire is advanced and moved back. The secondary catheter driving unit is provided in the proximity of the entrance of a Y connector such that the secondary catheter is advanced and moved back. The control circuit controls the delivery wire driving unit so as to insert the delivery wire by a predetermined insertion force. If the delivery wire cannot be inserted, the control circuit controls the secondary catheter driving unit such that the secondary catheter is advanced after being moved back, and then controls the delivery wire driving unit so as to insert the delivery wire. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077682 | Hemorrhage Control Devices and Methods - The present invention is directed to a composition comprising a plurality of small, liquid-expandable articles and their use to induce hemostasis when applied to bleeding wounds. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077683 | PUNCTURE CLOSURE APPARATUSES, SEALING PLUGS, AND RELATED METHODS - A puncture closure device is disclosed. Particularly, a puncture closure device may include an anchor support including a coupling feature and an anchor connected to the anchor support. Further, the puncture closure device may include a movable compression element configured to compress a sealing plug generally between the compression element and the anchor. Such a puncture closure device may be positioned at least partially within an insertion sheath to form a puncture closure assembly. A method of compressing a sealing plug and a method of sealing a puncture are disclosed. In addition, in one embodiment, a sealing plug may comprise a first, a second, and an intermediate end region, wherein the intermediate region has a density less than the first and second end regions. In another embodiment, a sealing plug may include a bore formed therethrough and a plurality of slits formed into an exterior surface of the sealing plug. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077684 | NUCLEUS REPLACEMENT BASED ON INJECTABLE PVA GELS - The invention relates to novel polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) gels which gelate in situ and are suitable for nucleus (gel bodies of the intervertebral disks) replacement, and to a process and to an apparatus for administration thereof, to the use thereof and to a vessel which comprises an inventive PVA gel. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077685 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE FACET FUSION - Apparatus and methods for facet fusion include an insertion tool and a guide tool coupled to one another. The insertion tool has a proximal end portion and an opposite distal end portion. The distal end portion of the insertion tool is configured to retain an interbody implant, such as, for example, an inter-facet implant configured for placement between a superior facet and inferior facet of a facet joint. The proximal end portion of the insertion tool includes a handle. The guide tool includes an elongated body with a passage extending between and opening at its distal and proximal ends. A linking member extends between and adjustably connects the guide tool to the insertion tool so that the passage of the guide tool is alignable with the interbody implant retained on the insertion tool while the insertion tool and guide tool are in substantially orthogonal relation to one another. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077686 | INTERSPINOUS PROCESS IMPLANT HAVING A COMPLIANT SPACER - Medical devices for the treatment of spinal conditions are described herein. The medical device of this invention includes a spacer that is disposed between adjacent spinous processes and has a layer of a soft or compliant material. The layer is preferably thicker along those portions of the spacer directly contacting the adjacent spinous processes and is preferably thinner or non-existent adjacent to the anterior portion of the support member. This preferred asymmetry of the compliant layer allows the spacer to be seated between spinous processes as anteriorly as possible. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077687 | Systems, Methods And Devices For Correcting Spinal Deformities - Provided herein are systems, devices and methods for the correction of spinal deformities with the use one or more implantable rods configured to apply a corrective force to the spine. Methods of minimally invasive implantation of a corrective system are provided, such as where the corrective system is attached only to the spinous process of one or more vertebral bodies. Various corrective systems as well as components thereof are also provided, such as those that allow limited movement with respect to the spinal column. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077688 | ANCHORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CORRECTING SPINAL DEFORMITIES - Spinal anchoring methods and devices are provided that are effective to correct spinal deformities while allowing some flexibility to the spinal. In particular, the methods and devices allow a spinal fixation element to mate to several adjacent vertebrae to maintain the vertebrae at a fixed distance relative to one another, yet to allow the orientation of each vertebrae relative to the fixation element to adjust as the orientation of the patient's spine changes. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077689 | Methods and Devices for Manipulating a Vertebra - Methods and devices are provided for manipulating a vertebra. In one embodiment, a surgical device can include a frame configured to couple two or more surgical instruments attached to one or more vertebrae. Coupling the two or more surgical instruments together, the frame and/or at least one of the surgical instruments can be manipulated to move at least one of the surgical instruments, thereby effecting movement at least one of the vertebra or vertebrae to which the surgical instruments coupled to the frame are attached. In this way, the surgical device can be used to facilitate rotation of a vertebra relative to another vertebra to correct the angular relationship of the vertebrae. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077690 | ROD HOLDER AND MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY SYSTEM USING THE SAME - A rod holder configured to operate in a two-stage loading manner allows a rod to be easily received. A minimally invasive system for spinal surgical operation allows a rod to be more accurately and stably received to a pedicle screw inserted into a vertebra by using the rod holder, a rod guide and a rod guide holder. The rod holder may control a rod with three stages: a first loading stage for moving back and fixing a loading unit to fixedly grip the rod; a second loading stage for rotatably gripping the rod; and a rod mounting stage for separating the rod from the rod holder. The spine surgery system includes a pair of rod guides connected to upper ends of a pair of pedicle screws to form a moving path of the rod; a rod holder; and a rod guide holder for defining an insertion path. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077691 | MULTI-AXIAL BONE PLATE SYSTEM - An orthopedic bone plate system having a bone plate for placement adjacent one or more vertebral bodies. The system further includes a locking element including a compression member and a fixation member wherein the compression member includes an aperture and at least one deformable portion. A bone fastener is also included in the present system which includes a bone engaging portion and a stem portion. The stem is capable of being slidably received within the aperture of the compression member while the locking member is capable of being received within an aperture of the bone plate. As the compression member is brought into proximity of a vertebral body along the longitudinal axis of the bone fastener, an increasing force is exerted against the fixation member and translated to the bone plate. The resultant force translated back to the fixation member to the compression member which causes the deformable portion of the compression member to clamp the bone fastener relative to the bone plate. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077692 | Dynamic spinal stabilization assemblies, tool set and method - A hinged bone screw and tool set is used for implanting such bone screws in a human spine, followed by the implantation of a longitudinal connecting member into the bone screws. The hinged bone screw includes a shank with an upper portion and a receiver with integral arms forming a U-shaped channel. A lower curved seat partially defining the U-shaped channel cooperates with an upper portion of the bone screw shank for hinged movement of the shank with respect to the receiver. The tool set includes an insertion tool, a bone screw driver, a reduction tool and a closure starter. The insertion tool includes a bone screw attachment structure and a laterally opening channel. The insertion tool further includes a threaded portion for cooperation with the reduction tool to provide synchronized placement of a closure structure in the bone screw receiver while reducing and capturing a longitudinal connecting member within the receiver. Further alternative bone screws are hinged, polyaxial or fixed and include lordosing or kyphosing lateral surfaces. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077693 | TOOL AND COMPONENT EGAGING MECHANISM - A component with an engaging mechanism is disclosed. The component comprises a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is configured to cooperate with a tool. The proximal end comprises an outer portion configured for cooperating with the tool and an inner portion configured for cooperating with the tool, wherein the inner portion comprises an engaging element configured for cooperating with a distal portion of the tool so that the engaging element provides a temporary engagement between the component and the distal portion of the tool. A system for engaging a component with a tool also is disclosed. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077694 | BONE ANCHORING DEVICE - A bone anchoring device includes an anchoring element having a shaft and a head; a receiving part for receiving the head and a rod, the receiving part being formed in one piece and having a top end and a bottom end, a bore extending from the top end to the bottom end, an inner wall defined by the bore, a substantially U-shaped channel adjacent to the top end for receiving the rod and a seat adjacent to the bottom end for accommodating the head; a pressure element; and a spring element having a spring force. The anchoring element is inserted from the top end and is pivotable with respect to the receiving part. The pressure element is movable in the bore so as to be able to fix the anchoring element at an angle with respect to the receiving part by exerting pressure onto the head. The spring element acts between the pressure element and the receiving part and allows the pressure element to be introduced from the top end but withstands against removal of the pressure element through the top end. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077695 | SURGICAL POSITIONERS - Surgical positioners may include platforms, surgical item positioners and/or surgical references as well as methods for using stabilizer platforms, surgical item positioners and/or surgical references. Stabilizer platforms may include low profile platforms rigidly mounted to portions of an individual's anatomy. Various items may be secured and/or stabilized by the stabilizer platform, including support platforms as well as surgical references. Support platforms may stabilize and assist surgeons in using, navigating, aligning and positioning surgical items. Surgical references may include modular fiducial systems that may be secured to stabilizer platforms, support platforms, surgical items and/or directly to portions of an individual's anatomy. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077696 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR THE AMELIORATION OF RECESSES - The invention describes a device ( | 2011-03-31 |
20110077697 | NEURON SYSTEM WITH BIO-MEDICAL UNITS - An in vivo neuron system includes a plurality of bio-medical units, each of which includes a power harvesting module, an electrical signal detection module, and a communication module. The power harvesting module generates a supply voltage from a wireless signal, where the supply voltage powers the other modules. The electrical signal detection module detects an electrical signal associated with a neuron to produce a detected electrical signal. The communication module communicates a representation of the detected electrical signal. Of the bio-medical units, at least one detects an input electrical signal to the neuron and at least another one detects the electrical signal of an axon of the neuron. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077698 | METHOD AND CIRCUITRY FOR MEASUREMENT OF STIMULATION CURRENT - A method and device for measuring and controlling stimulation current, for example in an implantable device, are disclosed. A series capacitor (C | 2011-03-31 |
20110077699 | MEDICAL LEADS WITH SEGMENTED ELECTRODES AND METHODS OF FABRICATION THEREOF - In one embodiment, a method of fabrication of a stimulation lead comprising a plurality of segmented electrodes for stimulation of tissue of a patient, the method comprises: providing a substrate comprising (i) a substantially cylindrical body and (ii) a plurality of projections extending radially from the cylindrical body; coating the substrate with first conductive material; patterning the first conductive material on the cylindrical body into a plurality of traces, the plurality of traces extending along the cylindrical body and electrically contacting conductive material about the plurality of projections; providing an insulative layer over the traces; coating the insulative layer over the traces with second conductive material; patterning the second conductive material to form at least a plurality of electrode surfaces including a plurality of segmented electrodes, the segmented electrodes being in electrical contact with conductive material on projections of the plurality of projections; and electrically coupling the plurality of traces to conductive wires of a lead body. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077700 | ARTIFICIAL BODY PART INCLUDING BIO-MEDICAL UNITS - An artificial body part system includes an artificial body part and a bio-medical unit. The artificial body part includes a bio-medical mounting mechanism. The bio-medical unit is mechanically associated with the artificial body part based on the bio-medical mounting mechanism. The bio-medical unit includes a power harvesting module, a wireless communication module, and a functional module. The power harvesting module is operable to generate a supply voltage from a wireless source. The wireless communication module is operable to wirelessly communicate inbound data and outbound data. The functional module is operable to perform at least one function regarding the artificial body part, wherein the functional module performs the at least one function in response to the inbound data or to generate the outbound data. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077701 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TISSUE PROTECTION AGAINST ISCHEMIA USING REMOTE CONDITIONING - A stimulation system delivers stimulation to protect an ischemic region of a body from tissue damage caused by ischemia. The stimulation is delivered to one or more stimulation sites remote from the ischemic region to elicit a physiological effect that protects the ischemic region from the tissue damage caused by ischemia. In one embodiment, the stimulation system delivers cardioprotective stimulation to one or more stimulation sites remote from the heart to protect the heart from injuries associated with cardiac ischemic events. In another embodiment, the stimulation system delivers remote conditioning stimulation to one or more stimulation sites in or on the heart to protect a non-cardiac region from injuries associated with non-cardiac ischemic events. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077702 | Means and Methods for Influencing Electrical Activity of Cells - The invention provides means and methods for providing a cell with a spontaneous electrical activity and means and methods for increasing the depolarization rate of a cell having a spontaneous electrical activity. Means and methods are provided comprising: | 2011-03-31 |
20110077703 | PACE DISCRIMINATION OF TACHYCARDIA USING ATRIAL-VENTRICULAR PACING - A cardiac medical device and associated method control delivery of dual chamber burst pacing pulses in response to detecting tachycardia. In one embodiment, a single chamber pacing pulse is delivered in response to detecting a tachycardia. Dual chamber pacing pulses are delivered subsequent to the single chamber pacing pulse. An intrinsic depolarization is sensed subsequent to delivering the dual chamber pacing pulses. The tachycardia episode is classified in response to the sensed intrinsic depolarization. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077704 | PACE DISCRIMINATION OF TACHYCARDIA USING ATRIAL-VENTRICULAR PACING - A cardiac medical device and associated method control delivery of dual chamber burst pacing pulses in response to detecting tachycardia. A number of cardiac cycles occurring in a first cardiac chamber are identified subsequent to the dual chamber pacing pulses. The number of sensed intrinsic events occurring in a second cardiac chamber during the first chamber cardiac cycles is determined as a number of second chamber events. The tachycardia episode is classified in response to the number of second chamber events. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077705 | PACE DISCRIMINATION OF TACHYCARDIA USING ATRIAL-VENTRICULAR PACING - A cardiac medical device and associated method control delivery of dual chamber burst pacing pulses in response to detecting tachycardia. In one embodiment, a single chamber pacing pulse is delivered in response to detecting a tachycardia. Dual chamber pacing pulses are delivered subsequent to the single chamber pacing pulse. An intrinsic depolarization is sensed subsequent to delivering the dual chamber pacing pulses. The tachycardia episode is classified in response to the sensed intrinsic depolarization. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077706 | AUTOMATIC SELECTION OF PARAMETERS OF AN EXPOSURE MODE OF AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable medical device (IMD) automatically determines at least a portion of the parameters and, in some instances all of the parameters, of an exposure operating mode based on stored information regarding sensed physiological events or therapy provided over a predetermined period of time. The IMD may configure itself to operate in accordance with the automatically determined parameters of the exposure operating mode in response to detecting a disruptive energy field. Alternatively, the IMD may provide the automatically determined parameters of the exposure operating mode to a physician as suggested or recommended parameters for the exposure operating mode. In other instances, the automatically determined parameters may be compared to parameters received manually via telemetry and, if differences exist or occur, a physician or patient may be notified and/or the manual parameters may be overridden by the automatically determined parameters. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077707 | DUAL-USE SENSOR FOR RATE RESPONSIVE PACING AND HEART SOUND MONITORING - An implantable medical device includes a dual-use sensor such as a single accelerometer that senses an acceleration signal. A sensor processing circuit processes the acceleration signal to produce an activity level signal and a heart sound signal. The implantable medical device provides for rate responsive pacing in which at least one pacing parameter, such as the pacing interval, is dynamically adjusted based on the physical activity level. The implantable medical device also uses the heart sounds for pacing control purposes or transmits a heart sound signal to an external system for pacing control and/or diagnostic purposes. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077708 | MRI Compatible Leadless Cardiac Pacemaker - An implantable battery powered leadless pacemaker or biostimulator is provided that may include any of a number of features. One feature of the biostimulator is that it safely operates under a wide range of MRI conditions. One feature of the biostimulator is that it has a total volume small enough to avoid excessive image artifacts during a MRI procedure. Another feature of the biostimulator is that it has reduced path lengths between electrodes to minimize tissue heating at the site of the biostimulator. Yet another feature of the biostimulator is that a current loop area within the biostimulator is small enough to reduce an induced current and voltage in the biostimulator during MRI procedures. Methods associated with use of the biostimulator are also covered. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077709 | MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING RESISTANCE WELDED CONNECTIONS - A medical device is electrically connected to a biological tissue for transmission of an electrical signal between the medical device and the biological tissue. The medical device includes a housing assembly and a control circuit assembly that controls the electrical signal. The control circuit assembly is enclosed within the housing assembly, and the control circuit assembly includes an electrically conductive terminal. The device further includes an electrical component at least partially enclosed within the housing assembly. The electrical component has a connecting member that electrically connects the electrical component to the control circuit assembly. The connecting member is resistance welded and bonded directly to the electrically conductive terminal of the control circuit assembly. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077710 | Methods and Systems for Representing Different Spectral Components of an Audio Signal Presented to a Cochlear Implant Patient - An exemplary method of representing different spectral components of an audio signal presented to a cochlear implant patient includes identifying one or more spectral peaks of an audio signal presented to a cochlear implant patient, applying electrical stimulation representative of the one or more spectral peaks to at least one stimulation site within the cochlear implant patient using a partial multipolar stimulation configuration, and applying electrical stimulation representative of one or more other spectral components of the audio signal to at least one other stimulation site within the cochlear implant patient using a monopolar stimulation configuration. Corresponding methods and systems are also disclosed. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077711 | Simultaneous Stimulation for Low Power Consumption - A stimulation system including a stimulator having a multi-channel electrode array utilizing a monopolar electrode configuration. A processor is operatively coupled to the stimulator. The processor is configured to determine a channel interaction (CI) sequence using simultaneous, sign-correlated pulses and channel interaction compensation. The CI sequence has a CI pulse rate and a CI mean pulse amplitude, and produces resulting potentials that are substantially equal to desired potentials at given positions relative to the multi-channel array. The CI sequence may include temporal gaps between pulses, wherein the processor may be configured to increase the CI pulse rate, such that the temporal gap between pulses is decreased. Furthermore, the processor may be configured to reduce the pulse amplitude of the CI sequence while increasing pulse phase duration, such that charge per pulse remains substantially unchanged and the temporal gap between pulses is decreased. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077712 | SOUND PROCESSING METHOD AND SYSTEM - Coding of received audio signals and the resulting application of electrical stimuli applied to electrodes used in a cochlear implant system are disclosed together with a method of fitting this new coding strategy. One of the aims is to place specific stimulation representing pitch by applying near threshold electrical stimuli with limited and focussed excitation fields. A range of stimulation rates and a minimal range of current levels above threshold are used for creation of a dynamic loudness percept for a cochlear implant recipient. Another aim is to disclose a coding scheme based on a model of physiological measures (i.e. refractoriness, adaptation, spread of activation field, spatiotemporal acoustical cochlear activation patterns and spontaneous activity) to estimate the proportions of available excitable auditory neurons close to the electrodes available for stimulation. The spectral bands formed from the pre-processing of incoming audio signals are weighted by these proportions of excitability to control place, timing, rate and current level of electrical stimuli applied to the electrodes available in the array. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077713 | BIO-MEDICAL UNIT NETWORK COMMUNICATION AND APPLICATIONS THEREOF - A bio-medical unit network includes a plurality of bio-medical units, where at least some of the bio-medical units are for implanting within a body. At least one of the bio-medical units coordinates, on behalf of the plurality of bio-medical units, a communication convention with a communication device external to the body. A bio-medical unit includes a power harvesting module, a communication module, and a functional module. The power harvesting module is operable to generate a supply voltage from a wireless power source. The communication module is powered via the supply voltage and is operable to communicate data and/or control information. The functional module is powered by the supply voltage and is operable to perform a bio-medical function. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077714 | BIO-MEDICAL UNIT WITH POWER HARVESTING MODULE AND RF COMMUNICATION - A bio-medical unit includes a power harvesting module and an RF communication module. The power harvesting module generates a power supply voltage from the electromagnetic signal. The RF communication module interprets a predetermined pattern of the transmitting of the electromagnetic signal to determine null intervals; receives a downstream RF communication signal during at least one of the null intervals; converts the downstream RF communication signal into downstream information; converts upstream information into an upstream RF communication signal; and/or transmits the upstream RF communication signal during one or more of the null intervals. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077715 | COMMUNICATION DEVICE FOR COMMUNICATING WITH A BIO-MEDICAL UNIT - A bio-medical communication system includes a bio-medical unit and a communication device. The bio-medical unit is implantable in and/or affixable to a host body and includes a power harvesting module, a communication module, and a functional module. The communication device is operable to: set-up a communication with the bio-medical unit; wirelessly communicate the at least one of upstream data signal and downstream data signal with the bio-medical unit; convert the upstream data signal into an upstream wide area network (WAN) signal and/or a downstream WAN signal into the downstream data signal; and transmit or receive at least one of the upstream and downstream WAN signals. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077716 | Bio-Medical Unit with Adjustable Antenna Radiation Pattern - A bio-medical unit for implanting into a host body includes a power harvesting module, a communication module, an antenna assembly, and a processing module. The power harvesting module is operable to generate a supply voltage from an electromagnetic signal. The antenna assembly has an adjustable radiation pattern. The processing module is powered by the supply voltage and is operable to receive, via the communication module, a command regarding a bio-medical function. When the bio-medical function includes a radio frequency transmission, the processing module determines a desired radiation pattern for the antenna assembly. The processing module then determines an operating frequency based on the desired radiation pattern, wherein, for the radio frequency transmission, the antenna assembly has the desired radiation pattern. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077717 | STEERING STIMULATION CURRENT BY EMPLOYING STEERING CURRENT - Stimulation current is steered further outward and/or inward from a plane of the stimulating electrodes by using one or more steering currents. The steering current may be used to occupy space in the tissue where stimulation is not desired and to force the stimulation current to pass through target tissue. The steering current may be present in various locations such as in tissue that is immediately adjacent the plane of the electrodes to force the stimulation current away from the immediately adjacent area and deeper into surrounding target tissue. The steering current may be present in tissue that is beyond the target tissue to confine the outward reach of the stimulation current to that target tissue. The stimulation current may be produced by one power source while the steering current may be produced by one or more other power sources, each of the power sources being unreferenced to each other. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077718 | ELECTROMAGNETIC POWER BOOSTER FOR BIO-MEDICAL UNITS - An on-body power booster module includes an electromagnetic power harvesting unit, a continuous wave generator, and a transmitter module. The electromagnetic power harvesting unit is operably coupled to convert magnetic field energy into a voltage. The continuous wave generator is powered by the voltage and is operably coupled to generate a continuous wave signal. The transmitter module is powered by the voltage and is operably coupled to wirelessly transmit the continuous wave signal as wireless power to an implanted bio-medical unit. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077719 | ELECTROMAGNETIC POWER BIO-MEDICAL UNIT - A bio-medical unit includes a power harvesting module, a processing module, memory, and one or more functional modules. The power harvesting module is operable to receive magnetic field energy and convert the magnetic field energy into a supply voltage. The power harvesting module powers the processing module, memory, and the one or more functional modules via the supply voltage. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077720 | BATTERY RECHARGE MANAGEMENT FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable medical device having an implantable power source such as a rechargeable lithium ion battery. The implantable medical device includes a recharge module that regulates the recharging process of the implantable power source using closed-loop feedback control. The recharge module includes a recharge regulator, a recharge measurement device monitoring at least one recharge parameter, and a recharge regulation control unit for regulating the recharge energy delivered to the power source in response to the recharge measurement device. The recharge module adjusts the energy provided to the power source to ensure that the power source is being recharged under safe levels. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077721 | IMPLANTABLE MICROSTIMULATORS AND METHODS FOR UNIDIRECTIONAL PROPAGATION OF ACTION POTENTIALS - Miniature implantable stimulators (i.e., microstimulators) are capable of producing unidirectionally propagating action potentials (UPAPs). The methods and configurations described may, for instance, arrest action potentials traveling in one direction, arrest action potentials of small diameters nerve fibers, arrest action potentials of large diameter nerve fibers. These methods and systems may limit side effects of bidirectional and/or less targeted stimulation. | 2011-03-31 |
20110077722 | NEUROSTIMULATOR - Methods and devices of stimulating nerves are disclosed. In one embodiment adapted for stimulating excitable tissue, the invention includes drive circuitry ( | 2011-03-31 |