35th week of 2008 patent applcation highlights part 65 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20080208233 | DISPOSABLE VITRECTOMY HANDPIECE - Electric vitrectomy handpieces are provided. The handpiece includes a motor, a clutch mechanism, an oscillating drive mechanism, a cutting tip and a handle. The motor is attached to the clutch, and the clutch is attached to the oscillating drive mechanism. When the motor is operational, the clutch expands to engage the oscillating drive mechanism and the oscillating drive mechanism converts the rotational motion of the clutch to the reciprocating motion of the cutting tip. When the motor is at rest, the clutch retracts to allow aspiration. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208234 | Apparatus for Cutting Up Biological Sample Material - An apparatus for cutting up biological sample material, including a sample container, a rotary drive device separate from the sample container, and a shaft rotatably arranged in the sample container, wherein the shaft has a laterally projecting cutting device in the region of a working end and has a coupling piece in the region of a coupling end, said coupling piece being accessible from outside and being designed for coupling engagement with a coupling counterpart of the rotary drive device, wherein the shaft ( | 2008-08-28 |
20080208235 | Tattoo Machine Tip | 2008-08-28 |
20080208236 | DERMAL MARKING FOR USE WITH A MEDICAL DEVICE - A dermal marking and a method of identifying the characteristics of an implanted medical device using the dermal marking. The method involves providing an implantable medical device, implanting a medical device in a patient, providing at least one dermal marking that contains information disclosing at least one characteristic of the implanted medical device, applying the at least one dermal marking to the skin of the patient, perceiving the dermal marking on the patient's skin, and identifying at least one characteristic of the implantable medical device based on the dermal marking. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208237 | Ear piercing device with disposable components - An ear piercing device in one embodiment includes a butt shaped housing, a movable jaw carrier including a spring biased grip member projecting from the housing, and a leg projecting upward from a front end, a spring biased trigger, a spring biased slide bar lockingly engaged with the trigger, a first jaw releasably secured to a front end of the housing, a second jaw releasably secured to the leg, and a sterile needle mounted in a front opening of the housing. Positioning the jaws at both sides of the ear, pressing the grip member to cause the jaws to clamp the ear, and pressing down the trigger will unlock the slide bar to strike the needle so that the needle forcefully moves forward along the opening and the first jaw to insert through the ear into the second jaw. Thereafter, the jaws are adapted to dispose. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208238 | Reducing Needle/Multi-Sided Needle - A reducing needle for use by an acupuncturist may include a handle member for the reducing needle to be handled, and the reducing needle may include a central bore to allow material to be withdrawn from the patient. The reducing needle may include a lower aperture to connect to the central bore, and the reducing needle may include an upper aperture to connect with the central bore. An acupuncture needle for use by an acupuncturist may include a handle to allow the acupuncturist to hold the acupuncture needle, and a needle portion connected to the handle may have a least two linear surfaces. The needle portion may include at least three linear surfaces, and the needle portion may include at least four linear surfaces. The needle portion may include at least six linear surfaces. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208239 | Method for treating obesity using an implantable weight loss device - The present invention provides methods of treating overweight or obese patients with an inflatable weight control device that is implanted in the patient's digestive tract. A first method comprises the steps of providing the weight control device which includes an inflatable body having a first bulb, a second bulb, an intermediate portion, and an internal passageway extending from the first bulb through the intermediate portion and to the second bulb. The inflatable body includes a valve assembly that is grasped by the endoscope during insertion of the weight control device in the patient's pylorus. Next, the endoscope is used to position the weight control device within the pylorus such that the intermediate portion resides within the pyloric valve and the first bulb resides within the pyloric antrum. The weight control device is then inflated with the endoscope such that the first bulb engages an inner surface of the pyloric antrum to form an outlet obstruction within the pyloric antrum. This obstruction causes chyme to accumulate proximate the first bulb prior to entering the internal passageway where it is then transported through the body and discharged from the second bulb into the patient's duodenum. The accumulation of chyme in pyloric antrum and the stomach causes the patient to feel full and stop eating. Thus, the treatment method provides a gastric outlet obstruction that slows the passage of chyme into the duodenum and as a result, the patient feels full and stops eating after consuming relatively small portions. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208240 | Implantable Device For Obesity Prevention - A device for controlling the expansion of a hollow internal organ, comprising an inflatable balloon, which is inserted in an uninflated state into the desired position close to the organ using minimally invasive procedures. After insertion, the balloon is inflated to its required size and shape. The invention is useful for restricting the expansion of the stomach during meals, thus inducing a feeling of satiety and preventing over-eating. Inflation may be performed through a catheter connected to a readily accessible inflation port. In the case of the gastric embodiment, the balloon may be positioned pro-peritoneally, such that the procedure is surgically simple. One or more sensors located close to the organ to be controlled, may monitor a physiological effect relating to the organ, and the output of the sensor used to control the level of inflation of the balloon in order to correct the condition being monitored. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208241 | Multi-method and multi-apparatus for treating obesity - A multi-method and multi-apparatus for treating obesity. The multi-method includes a method for estimating a volume of an intragastric balloon appropriate for an individual patient, a method for using an enterocutaneous fistula to inspect an intragastric balloon without sedation and endoscopic complications associated with an upper endoscopy, and a method for decreasing ability of the stomach of an individual patient to distend or expand after a meal increasing satiety and helping the individual patient to comply with a weight loss diet. The multi-apparatus includes an intragastric balloon for inflating without installation of a pressurized gas or liquid, an intragastric balloon for minimizing trauma of the intragastric balloon on the gastric mucosa, and an intragastric balloon for administering therapeutic medications. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208242 | Method for treating naturally obstructed paranasal sinuses - A set of sinus balloon catheters are provided for treating a patient's naturally obstructed paranasal sinus system, including dilating prepared openings, and natural ostia and ducts and excising sinus cavities. These include a balloon catheter with a bend placing a distal segment at 90 degrees to a proximal segment and a balloon catheter which is substantially straight. The catheters have sufficient stiffness and column strength that the balloon carrying distal segment of the catheter can be pushed into the prepared opening, natural ostium or duct, or sinus to be excised. The catheters have appropriate inflated working diameters and appropriate outer diameters with the balloon deflated that will enable the catheter to be pushed into the respective prepared opening, natural ostium or duct, or sinus cavity to be excised. The methods use the balloon catheters to dilate prepared openings to selected parts of the sinus system, to dilate natural ostia and ducts of the sinus system, and/or to dilate sinus cavities to remove them. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208243 | Method for treating obstructed paranasal ethmoid sinuses - A set of sinus balloon catheters are provided for treating a patient's paranasal ethmoid sinus system, including dilating prepared openings, and natural ostia and ducts and excising sinus cavities. These include a balloon catheter with a bend placing a distal segment at 90 degrees to a proximal segment and a balloon catheter which is substantially straight. The catheters have sufficient stiffness and column strength that the balloon carrying distal segment of the catheter can be pushed into the prepared opening, natural ostium or duct, or sinus to be excised. The catheters have appropriate inflated working diameters and appropriate outer diameters with the balloon deflated that will enable the catheter to be pushed into the respective prepared opening, natural ostium or duct, or sinus cavity to be excised. The methods use the balloon catheters to dilate prepared openings to selected parts of the sinus system, to dilate natural ostia and ducts of the sinus system, and/or to dilate sinus cavities to remove them. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208244 | VARIABLE THICKNESS EMBOLIC FILTERING DEVICES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A strut assembly to be used in conjunction with an embolic filtering device has varying strut thicknesses, with the thickness selected based at least in part on the flexing characteristics of the particular portion of the strut assembly. The strut assembly is formed with patterns having flexing portions and stable portions, with the flexing portions contributing to the flexibility of the strut assembly during delivery and recovery in the patient's vasculature. The stable portions remain relatively unflexed and stiff when being delivered or recovered from the patient's vasculature. The stable portions provide strength and increased radiopacity to the strut assembly which is needed when the strut assembly is deployed in the body vessel. The flexing portions act much like a mechanical hinges in providing the needed flexibility to resiliently bend when being delivered through tortuous anatomy of the patient. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208245 | EMBOLIC PROTECTION DEVICE INCLUDING A Z-STENT WAIST BAND - An embolic protection device for capturing emboli in a body vessel having a frame and a z-stent waist band. The frame includes a plurality of struts configured to open radially to define an expanded state of the device for capturing emboli and to fold along the longitudinal axis to define a collapsed state of the device for deployment and retrieval. The waist band has an open and a closed state and is attached to within the frame between a proximal and distal end. The waist band is formed of a plurality of members attached at a joint to an adjacent member such that the members lie substantially parallel in the closed state and form a “Z” pattern in the open state. A filter portion is attached to the waist band and configured to capture emboli in the expanded state. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208246 | MODULAR ELECTROSURGICAL ADAPTORS AND MULTI FUNCTION ACTIVE SHAFTS FOR USE IN ELECTROSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - Forceps include a body, a surgical device, and a pair of handles. The surgical device is removably disposed within the body. The handles are pivotally attached to the handle body for articulating jaws on the surgical device, or grasping the forceps. The forceps accept monopolar, bipolar, or both monopolar and bipolar surgical devices. Wires are disposed within the surgical device for performing various types of electro-surgery. Additional wires are provided within the surgical device for providing the user with the ability to monitor various aspects of the surgical procedure. Spring contacts touch rings surrounding the surgical device for maintaining electrical contact with the surgical device while allowing the surgical device to rotate within the body. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208247 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM WITH FIXATION MEMBER - A fixation device for a subcutaneous implantable medical device includes a deformable tip portion that reduces in width when coupled with a fixation tool such that implantation of the implantable medical device through tissue is facilitated. Upon release from the fixation tool, the fixation device returns to its initial shape and stably secures the position of the implantable medical device. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208248 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM WITH FIXATION MEMBER - A fixation device for a subcutaneous implantable medical device includes a deformable tip portion that reduces in width when coupled with a fixation tool such that implantation of the implantable medical device through tissue is facilitated. Upon release from the fixation tool, the fixation device returns to its initial shape and stably secures the position of the implantable medical device. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208249 | VERTEBRAL FACET JOINT DRILL AND METHOD OF USE - Devices and methods for creating holes in the articular process of the vertebra are provided. One embodiment of the invention comprises a drill head comprising a frame, punch arm with punch tip and opposing plate. Methods of using the resulting holes to anchor or stabilize facet joint prosthesis, and also altering the spacing and motion at the facet joints of the vertebral column, are provided. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208250 | Disposable chemiluminescent infrared therapy device - A therapeutic device has a first chamber that retains an oxalic ester solution, and a second chamber that retains a hydrogen peroxide and fluorescer solution. The therapeutic device is activated by causing the oxalic ester solution to mix with the hydrogen peroxide and fluorescer solution, which produces chemiluminescent light for treating a wound. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208251 | Device for attaching, relocating and reinforcing tissue and methods of using same - A device for attaching, relocating or reinforcing tissue includes a first tissue anchoring portion having a support plate and a plurality of barbs extending from the support plate for engaging tissue at a first location, a second tissue anchoring portion having a support plate and a plurality of barbs extending from the support plate for engaging tissue at a second location which is different from the first location, and a connection element, such as a suture or a mesh structure, interposed between and interconnecting the first tissue anchoring portion and the second tissue anchoring portion. The support plate of at least one of the first tissue anchoring portion and the second tissue anchoring portion may have longitudinally axially formed therethrough a bore for receiving the connecting element so that the surgeon may pull on the end of the connecting element to adjust the distance between the first tissue anchoring portion and the second tissue anchoring portion. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208252 | BUNION REPAIR USING SUTURE-BUTTON CONSTRUCT - A method for bunion repair using a suture-button construct. The suture-button construct includes a first button, a second button, a first suture strand, a pull-through suture strand and a needle. The first and second buttons have apertures to facilitate the suture strands to pass through the buttons. The first suture strand is double looped through the first and second buttons and the pull-through suture strand is looped through one of the apertures of the first button. The pull-through suture strand also loops through an eyelet of the needle and thus, is operatively associated with the needle. A suture anchor-button construct can also be used for bunion repair. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208253 | SELF-PUNCHING SWIVEL ANCHOR AND METHOD FOR KNOTLESS FIXATION OF TISSUE - A method and device for knotless fixation of tissue. A swivel anchor having a rotatable implant is used to capture suture for surgical tissue repair without requiring suture knots. The implant may be provided with a conical metal tip which is self-punching and avoids the need for pre-drilling a hole in bone. The implant includes a closed aperture to allow free sliding of a suture strand. The swivel anchor is secured in a hole in bone by advancing a fixation device, such as a cannulated interference screw, over the body of the implant. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208254 | Sucking and Chewing Article for Babies or Small Children - The invention relates to a suction or chewing article for babies or small children comprising at least one mouthpiece made of a substantially elastomer material containing at least one elastomer component. According to said invention, the elastomer material contains at least one type of liquid crystal pigment (LC-pigment). | 2008-08-28 |
20080208255 | Devices For Introduction Into A Body Via A Substantially Straight Conduit To Form A Predefined Curved Configuration, And Methods Employing Same - A device for introduction into a body in a straight configuration and assuming within the body a predefined curved configuration, includes an elongated element formed from a number of segments interconnected so as to form effective hinges therebetween. When the elongated element is confined to a straight state, the effective hinges transfer compressive forces from each segment to the next so that the elongated element can be pushed to advance it through a conduit. When the elongated element is not confined to a straight state, the effective hinges allow deflection of each segment relative to adjacent segments until abutment surfaces of the segments come into abutment, thereby defining a fully flexed state of the elongated element with a predefined curved configuration. The device can be produced with a wide range of two-dimensional and three-dimensional curved forms, and has both medical and non-medical applications. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208256 | PEDICLE BASED SPINAL STABILIZATION WITH ADJACENT VERTEBRAL BODY SUPPORT - A fasterner and rod fusion device with extensions to support an adjacent vertebral body is provided. The extensions are connected to the fasterner and rod fusion device. The extensions include flexibly connected rods, bands, spacers, or the like to resist extension and/or flexion of the vertebral body(ies) adjacent a fusion site. Alternatively, the extensions may be coupled to a cross link between multiple rods. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208257 | Angularly Stable Device for Mutually Fixing a Longitudinal Carrier with A Bone Fixation Element | 2008-08-28 |
20080208258 | Methods and instruments for endoscopic interbody surgical techniques - This invention relates to methods and instruments for performing a surgical procedure in a disc space between adjacent vertebrae. A cannula is inserted to create a working channel through the skin and tissue of a patient using a transformational approach to the disc space. A viewing element is used to visualize working end of the cannula and the disc space. A facetectomy is performed through the working channel to access the disc space. The disc space is prepared with various instruments, such as distractors, shims, chisels and distractor-cutters that extend through the working channel. At least implant is inserted into the disc space. The procedure allows bi-lateral support of the adjacent vertebrae with the at least one implant inserted via a unitary, minimally invasive approach to disc space. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208259 | LOCKING FIXATION SYSTEM AND LAG TOOL - The present application relates to a locking bone fixation device having tabs to engage the threads of an orthopedic fixation element. A tool and method for inducing compression across a fracture plane is also disclosed. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208260 | SPINE TREATMENT DEVICES AND METHODS - A modular implant system and method is provided for the dynamic stabilization of a spine segment and that can be implanted in a posterior approach. The implant system can include first and second support bodies configured for fixation to outward or lateral surfaces of first and second vertebrae, respectively. The implant system can also comprise a resilient portion. The method can comprise fixating first and second support bodies to first and second vertebrae respectively. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208261 | METHOD OF USING AN INTRAMEDULLARY IMPLANT FOR FRACTURE FIXATION - An intramedullary implant, useful particularly for the fixation of fractures of the radius, the implant comprising a first and second end, both ends configured for entry into the intramedullary canal through an entry point on the bone, such as the fracture site, and configured for positioning within the intramedullary canal of the fractured bone, the first end positioned in the intramedullary space of a first bone fragment and the second end positioned in the intramedullary space of a second bone fragment on the opposite side of the fracture. The first end is positioned by displacing the implant in a first direction and the second end is positioned by displacing the implant in a second direction, substantially opposite to the first direction. The implant further comprises a tip configured to abut an end surface of the second fragment to provide axial support to second fragment. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208262 | Spine plate with bone screw relief area - A spine plate defines a body having a posterior surface or side and an anterior surface or side. The body also has a pair of bone screw bores for each vertebra to which the spine plate will be attached. The bone screw bores extend between the posterior side and the anterior side. A relief area is provided between each pair of bone screw bores in the anterior surface of the body. The relief area opens to both bone screw bores to allow displacement of the bone screw when entering the respective bone screw bore. The relief area also opens to both bone screw bores to permit an instrument to be received therein to remove a bone screw from one of the bone screw bores. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208263 | Spine plate with configured bone screw bores - A single to multi-level spine plate has configured bone screw bores that cooperate with bone screws to retain a bone screw in a determinative position. In one form, the determinative position is a self-capture position wherein the bone screw is retained without the aid of any additional bone screw retention device. In another form, the determinative position is a limited angulation orientation of a bone screw relative to the spine plate. This limited angulation may be different for end plate bone screw bores than for middle plate bone screw bores. The bone screw bores may be configured to prohibit angulation once set. In another form, the determinative position is the reception of a cooperating bone screw at a centroid of the bone screw bore when installed. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208264 | Securing mechanism with dual expandable ends - The present invention relates generally to medical/dental devices for fixing bone fractures, anchoring of bones, or anchoring of prosthetics to bones. The device generally relates to molly bolts, expandable screws, or devices/screws with expansion or locking mechanisms. More particularly, the present invention concerns an implant assembly which includes a tubular body portion that can be positively secured within a bore in a bone or prosthetic by expander mechanism at both ends of the tubular body portion. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208265 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERCUTANEOUS PALATE REMODELING - Methods and devices are disclosed for manipulating the palatal tissue. An implant is positioned within at least a portion of the soft palate and may be secured to other surrounding, less mobile structures such as the hard palate or the mucosa overlying the hard palate. The implant may be manipulated to displace at least a portion of the soft palate in an anterior or lateral direction, or to alter the tissue tension or compliance of the soft palate. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208266 | System and Method for Treating Nausea and Vomiting by Vagus Nerve Stimulation - A system and method for treating nausea and vomiting are provided, including one or more electrodes ( | 2008-08-28 |
20080208267 | IMPLANTABLE BIFURCATED NEUROSTIMULATOR ADAPTERS - An adapter for coupling a pair of implantable neurostimulator lead extension plugs to a connector port of a neurostimulator device includes a connector coupled to a first end of an elongate body and a flexible bifurcation member coupled to a second end of the elongate body, wherein the bifurcation member includes a first branch, to which a first housing, having first and second ports, is coupled, and a second branch, to which a second housing, having first and second ports, is coupled. Openings of the first and second ports of each housing provide for side-by-side insertion of first and second connector terminals of one of the lead extension plugs. Contacts within each port provide for electrical coupling with corresponding contacts of the connector terminals of the plug, and are coupled to corresponding contacts of the adapter connector via conductors extending within the elongate body between the corresponding housing and connector. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208268 | Means for Functional Restoration of a Damaged Nervous System - The present invention relates generally to a method and device of partial or complete functional restoration of the damaged nervous system by bridging a cavity in the central or peripheral nervous tissue and, more particularly to a system and method for repairing the nerve signal transduction by bridging of the cavity with microelectrode elements more particular microelectrodes for stimulation and microelectrodes for recording. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208269 | IMPLANTABLE TISSUE PERFUSION SENSING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A medical device system for sensing cardiac events that includes a plurality of electrodes sensing cardiac signals utilized to identify a cardiac event, a plurality of light sources capable of emitting light at a plurality of wavelengths, and a detector to detect the emitted light. A processor determines a plurality of light measurements in response to the emitted light detected by the detector, determines changes in perfusion in response to first changes in the plurality of light measurements in a direction indicative of a decrease in blood oxygenation and second changes in a direction indicative of a decrease in blood volume, and adjusts delivery of therapy by the device in response to the determined loss of perfusion. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208270 | HIGH VOLTAGE CAPACITOR ROUTE WITH INTEGRATED FAILURE POINT - An implantable medical device may have a circuit failure mode. The disclosed circuit may have an integrated failure point designed to fail prior to those portions of the circuit. The integrated failure point may include a narrowed portion of a high voltage lead and a grounded lead having a narrow gap separating the grounded lead from the narrowed portion of the high voltage lead. During a high stress fault condition the narrowed portion of the high voltage lead acts as a fuse, forming a vaporized cloud of metal, which shorts current in the high voltage lead across the narrow gap to the grounded lead, thus protecting the remaining portion of the circuit from the high stress condition. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208271 | High Frequency Stimulation for Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation - The invention relates to methods and devices for treating and/or preventing atrial fibrillation. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method of treating and/or preventing atrial fibrillation including applying an oscillating electrical stimulus to a tissue of a patient, the oscillating electrical stimulus sufficient to block transmission of electrical signals through the tissue. In an embodiment, the invention includes an implantable medical device including a stimulator configured to generate an oscillating electrical stimulus at a frequency and amplitude sufficient to block transmission of electrical signals through a tissue, a stimulation electrode in communication with the stimulator, the stimulation electrode configured to deliver the oscillating electrical stimulus to the tissue, and control circuitry in communication with the stimulator, the control circuitry configured to selectively deliver the oscillating electrical stimulus to treat and/or prevent atrial fibrillation. Other embodiments are also described herein. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208272 | Dual Battery Arrangement for an Automatic External Defibrillator - A defibrillator, equipped with a battery power source, is described which is arranged to operate in any one of both a first mode and a second mode, the battery power source comprising at least two voltage sources. The voltage sources are arranged to be connected in parallel to each other when the defibrillator is operating in a first mode, and in series with each other when the defibrillator is operating in a second mode. The invention can be implemented by a battery pack for a defibrillator. This arrangement allows both voltage sources to be drawn down at the same rate which lengthens the overall life of the batteries. A more efficient use of battery power is thereby obtained. The invention ultimately extends the projected life of the batteries and when applied to an automatic external defibrillator increases the shelf life of the defibrillator. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208273 | Pulse Detection Using Patient Physiological Signals - The presence of a cardiac pulse in a patient is determined by evaluating physiological signals in the patient. In one embodiment, a medical device evaluates optical characteristics of light transmitted into a patient to ascertain physiological signals, such as pulsatile changes in general blood volume proximate a light detector module. Using these features, the medical device determines whether a cardiac pulse is present in the patient. The medical device may also be configured to report whether the patient is in a VF, VT, asystole, or PEA condition, in addition to being in a pulseless condition, and prompt different therapies, such as chest compressions, rescue breathing, defibrillation, and PEA-specific electrotherapy, depending on the analysis of the physiological signals. Auto-capture of a cardiac pulse using pacing stimuli is further provided. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208274 | Method for treating myocardial infarction - A method for treating patients after a myocardial infarction which includes pacing therapy is disclosed. A cardiac rhythm management device is configured to deliver pre-excitation pacing to one or more sites in proximity to an infarcted region of the ventricular myocardium. Such pacing acts to minimize the remodeling process to which the heart is especially vulnerable immediately after a myocardial infarction. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208275 | DYNAMIC TECHNIQUE FOR FITTING HEART PACERS TO INDIVIDUALS - A method includes mounting pressure sensors in a heart-enclosing device; transmitting the data produced by the sensors during actual operation of the heart-enclosing device worn by a specific individual; receiving the sensor signals for subsequent analysis by a computer; creating a stress map based on the sensor-based data; and creating a virtual heart pacer (model) for optimal support and comfort based on the stress map. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208276 | Induced Current Measurement Systems And Methods - In an embodiment, the invention includes a measurement system for measuring induced currents within an implantable medical device undergoing magnetic resonance imaging. The measurement system can include a resistor connected in series with a conductive loop and electronic circuitry configured to generate a signal representative of a voltage differential across the resistor. In some embodiments, the measurement system includes a fiber optic cable configured to transmit the signal away from the area subject to magnetic resonance imaging. In some embodiments, the measurement system includes a transmitter to wirelessly transmit the signal away from the area subject to magnetic resonance imaging. In an embodiment, the invention can include an implantable medical device including a measurement system for measuring induced currents. In an embodiment, the invention can include a method of measuring an induced current in an implantable medical device undergoing magnetic resonance imaging. Other embodiments are described herein. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208277 | INTERNAL HERMETIC LEAD CONNECTOR FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - An implantable active medical device is disclosed and includes a hermetically sealed housing defining a sealed housing interior, the hermetically sealed housing having a first surface and an opposing second surface. A power source and electronics are in electrical communication and disposed within the sealed housing interior. A lead connector projects through the sealed housing interior from the first surface to the second surface. The lead connector has a first open end, a second open end, an outer surface, and an inner surface defining a lead aperture. The lead connector includes one or more electrically conducting contact rings spaced apart by electrically insulating rings. The one or more electrically conducting contact rings are in electrical communication with the electronics. The lead connector provides a hermetic seal between the lead connector outer surface and the lead connector inner surface. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208278 | METHODS OF MANUFACTURING A HERMETIC LEAD CONNECTOR - A method of manufacturing a hermetic lead connector includes fixing an electrically insulating ring between an electrically conducting contact ring and an electrically conducting spacer ring to form a hermetic ring subassembly, and fixing a plurality of the hermetic ring subassemblies in axial alignment to form a hermetic lead connector. The hermetic lead connector includes an open end, an outer surface, and an inner surface defining a lead aperture. The hermetic lead connector provides a hermetic seal between the outer surface and the inner surface. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208279 | INTERNAL HERMETIC LEAD CONNECTOR FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - An implantable active medical device is disclosed and includes a hermetically sealed housing defining a sealed housing interior, a power source and electronics in electrical communication and disposed within the sealed housing interior, and a lead connector projecting into the sealed housing interior. The lead connector includes a closed end, an open end, an outer surface, and an inner surface defining a lead aperture. The lead connector includes one or more electrically conducting contact rings spaced apart by electrically insulating rings. The one or more electrically conducting contact rings are in electrical communication with the electronics and the lead connector provides a hermetic seal between the lead connector outer surface and the lead connector inner surface. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208280 | Equine Airway Disorders - Airway disorders in a horse are relieved by electrical stimulation of the airway tissue. Particular disorders and techniques include electrical stimulation to relieve laryngeal hemiplegia. A pacemaker processor generates an electrical treatment signal to be applied to upper airway tissue of the horse for treating the upper airway disorder. One or more stimulation electrodes interfaces with the upper airway tissue for delivering the treatment signal to the upper airway tissue. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208281 | Device and method for biasing and stimulating respiration - A device and method is provided for biasing lung volume by electrically stimulating tissue associated with the diaphragm or phrenic nerve at a low level. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208282 | Device and method for the treatment of breathing disorders and cardiac disorders - The present invention is related to an implantable medical device for treating breathing disorders and cardiac disorders by delivering stimulation energy to the phrenic nerve, hypoglossal nerves and cardiac muscle tissues. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208283 | Neural Interface System - The neural interface system of the preferred embodiments includes an electrode array having a plurality of electrode sites and a carrier that supports the electrode array. The electrode array is coupled to the carrier such that the electrode sites are arranged both circumferentially around the carrier and axially along the carrier. A group of the electrode sites may be simultaneously activated to create an activation pattern. The system of the preferred embodiment is preferably designed for deep brain stimulation, and, more specifically, for deep brain stimulation with fine electrode site positioning, selectivity, tunability, and precise activation patterning. The system of the preferred embodiments, however, may be alternatively used in any suitable environment (such as the spinal cord, peripheral nerve, muscle, or any other suitable anatomical location) and for any suitable reason. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208284 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NEUROMODULATION USING PRE-RECORDED WAVEFORMS - Methods for neuromodulation using waveform signals. In certain embodiments, an input waveform is obtained from a signal source site in a source subject and an output waveform is applied to a target site in a target subject. The source subject is a human or animal and the signal source site is in the nervous system, including the brain. The source subject and target subject are the same subjects or different subjects. The output waveform is identical to the input waveform or derived from the input waveform. In some embodiments, the output waveform is modified in response to physiologic feedback. Also provided are systems for neuromodulation using waveform signals. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208285 | Methods for Treating Neurological Disorders, Including Neuropsychiatric and Neuropsychological, Disorders, and Associated Systems - Methods for treating neurological disorders, including neuropsychiatric and neuropsychological disorders, and associated systems are disclosed. One such method includes identifying one or more neural populations, including a cortical target neural population, associated with a neurological condition. The method can further include comparing a patient-specific measure of a characteristic parameter for a selected one of the neural populations with a target measure for the same parameter. If the patient-specific measure differs from the target measure by at least a target amount, the method can include selecting an electrical signal polarity, frequency, or both polarity and frequency based at least in part on the difference between the patient-specific measure and the target measure. The method can further include applying electrical signals to the target neural population at the selected signal polarity, frequency, or both polarity and frequency to reduce the difference between the patient-specific measure and the target measure. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208286 | BAROREFLEX ACTIVATION FOR PAIN CONTROL, SEDATION AND SLEEP - Systems and methods provide baroreflex activation to treat or reduce pain and/or to cause or enhance sedation or sleep. Methods involve activating the baroreflex system to provide pain reduction, sedation, improved sleep or some combination thereof. Systems include at least one baroreflex activation device, at least one sensor for sensing physiological activity of the patient, and a processor coupled with the baroreflex activation device(s) and the sensor(s) for processing sensed data received from the sensor and for activating the baroreflex activation device. In some embodiments, the system is fully implantable within a patient, such as in an intravascular, extravascular or intramural location. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208287 | Electrical stimulation device and method for the treatment of neurological disorders - An electrical stimulation system and method for the treatment of neurological disorders is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the electrical stimulation system includes channels of electrodes positioned in electrical contact with tissue of a neuromuscular target body region of a patient to provide pattered neuromuscular stimulation to the patient's musculature. In addition, at least one electrode from a channel is positioned in electrical contact with a tissue of the motor control region of the brain. A series of patterned electrical pulses are then applied to the patient through the channels to provide peripheral neuromuscular stimulation, and a direct current is applied transcranially to the brain. Various exemplary embodiments of the invention are disclosed. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208288 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING MOVEMENT DISORDERS - Movement timing stimulator systems and methods that aid in the relief of the symptoms of neurological movement disorders are provided. In one embodiment, a method of improving a patient's gait is provided. The method includes producing a plurality of stimulation prompts at a plurality of stimulation points using multiple stimulation channels. The plurality of stimulation points is located symmetrically on each leg. The method further includes applying the plurality of stimulation prompts in a timed periodic fashion across the plurality of stimulation points and activating a return electrode whenever one of the multiple stimulation channels on an associated leg is active. The plurality of stimulation prompts are not synchronized with the patient's gait. Each of the multiple stimulation channels is associated with a stimulation electrode at one of the plurality of stimulation points. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208289 | FEEDTHROUGH FOR ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS | 2008-08-28 |
20080208290 | BI-DIRECTIONAL CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An ISG that includes a housing, a connector block having a first surface and a second surface, a lumen extending through the connector block from the first surface to the second surface, wherein the lumen is configured to receive at least one lead, wherein said lead comprises at least one electrode connector, a plurality of contacts housed within the lumen, electronic circuitry that is operably coupled to the ISG, wherein the plurality of contacts are operably coupled to the electronic circuitry, a computer readable medium containing instructions for carrying out a process to determine at least one piece of information regarding a lead that is received within the lumen, the process includes the steps of measuring at least one characteristic of at least one of the plurality of contacts, and determining which of two ranges the measured characteristic fits, wherein the two ranges of characteristics correspond to an electrode connector being electrically connected with the at least one of the plurality of contacts, and an electrode connector not being electrically connected with the at least one of the plurality of contacts. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208291 | FREQUENCY SHIFT KEYING (FSK) MAGNETIC TELEMETRY FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A telemetry receive unit for use in an implantable medical device or system can include a coil unit, a single-bit analog to digital converter (ADC), a finite impulse response filter (FIR) coupled to the single-bit ADC, and an accumulator coupled to one or more filter taps of the FIR filter. The accumulator, in operation, can produce one or more data recognition signals corresponding to sampled bits at least temporarily stored at the FIR filter. In several examples, the data recognition signals discriminate between frequency modulated signals that are received at the coil unit, including frequency shift keying (FSK) modulated signals. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208292 | Method and apparatus for communication between a handheld programmer and an implantable medical device - Systems and methods for telemetric communication between a handheld programmer and an implantable medical device are disclosed. A preferred embodiment comprises a user-friendly, color, touch-sensitive screen that allows the user to visually observe and control the handheld's operation. The handheld further comprises an internal and/or external analytical means to provide robust analytical capabilities. Some embodiments of a system disclosed herein can be configured as a component of an Advanced Patient Management System that helps better monitor, predict and manage chronic diseases. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208293 | VOLTAGE CONVERTER FOR IMPLANTABLE MICROSTIMULATOR USING RF-POWERING COIL - A combination, voltage converter circuit for use within an implantable device, such as a microstimulator, uses a coil, instead of capacitors, to provide a voltage step up and step down conversion functions. The output voltage is controlled, or adjusted, through duty-cycle modulation. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, applicable to implantable devices having an existing RF coil through which primary or charging power is provided, the existing RF coil is used in a time-multiplexing scheme to provide both the receipt of the RF signal and the voltage conversion function. This minimizes the number of components needed within the device, and thus allows the device to be packaged in a smaller housing or frees up additional space within an existing housing for other circuit components. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the voltage up/down converter circuit is controlled by a pulse width modulation (PWM) low power control circuit. Such operation allows high efficiencies over a wide range of output voltages and current loads. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208294 | DISINFECTION, DESTRUCTION OF NEOPLASTIC GROWTH, AND STERILIZATION BY DIFFERENTIAL ABSORPTION OF ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY - Neoplastic tissue, viral and bacterial infections, and other physiological disorders and conditions are treated by irradiation of the host with electromagnetic radiation at a wavelength that is differentially absorbed by the offending tissue or cells. Radiation with differential absorption is also used in the sterilization of articles and packing made from synthetic polymers and for the treatment of food stuffs. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208295 | Phototherapy Treatment and Device to Improve the Appearance of Nails and skin - A method and apparatus for using phototherapy to beneficially improve the appearance of nails and skin. Light can be applied to nails and skin that is primarily germicidal to inactivate organisms that cause infections; applied as primarily cleansing light in which case it primarily improves the appearance of the nails and skin; or applied as a combination of the two, namely germicidal and cleansing light, in which case it is termed cleansing light. By applying the light for a set time and intensity to nails can be improved in appearance, whether or not an infection is present. By applying the light to skin with or without the presence of other compounds, skin appearance can be approved. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208296 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TREATING CELLULITE BY COMBINING EXERCISE WITH THE APPLICATION OF LIGHT ENERGY - Exercise by a person coupled with illuminating cellulite-containing tissue of a person with light produced by a semi-conductor light source reduces cellulite in such tissue. Methods and systems for reducing cellulite may employ light from a light source comprising a semi-conductor material coupled with exercise equipment. Clothing may be provided that incorporates the light source. Clothing may alternatively have increased transmissiveness in areas adjacent to cellulite-containing tissue. A light activating composition may increase the effectiveness of cellulite reduction. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208297 | Optical Therapy Devices, Systems, Kits and Methods for Providing Therapy to a body Cavity - An optical therapy device is disclosed. The optical therapy device provides therapeutic light therapy to a body cavity. The device includes a housing adapted to be hand held, a UV light source positioned in or on the housing, and an insertion member having a distal end configured to be inserted into the body cavity to illuminate tissue in the body cavity with light from the light source. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208298 | THERAPEUTIC UPPER BODY WRAP - A therapeutic upper body wrap has a flexible, aroma-permeable cover having upper and lower layers joined at their outer edges to form an interior space to contain particulate matter which may include thermal reservoir and aromatherapy materials. The interior space is divided into a series of subspaces in the form of parallel, tube-shaped containers to prevent shifting of the materials. A central opening is provided penetrating the upper and layers of the cover. The opening permits a user to place the wrap over his head and onto his shoulders. The openings are substantially circular, designed to fit snugly about a user's neck. A slit is provided extending from the outer edge of the wrap to the opening for easy placement about the neck. A fastener, such as a hook and loop, button, zipper or tie string is used to close the slit. The wrap is heated or cooled before use. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208299 | THERMO-THERAPEUTIC CUSHION - A microwaveable thermo-therapeutic cushion for placing on a body is disclosed. The thermo-therapeutic cushion comprises a flexible closed shell partially filled with a plurality of legume seeds. The plurality of legume seeds are operative to store heat upon being subjected to microwaves from a microwave oven and slowly release it to the body through the shell. The legume seeds may be lentils. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208300 | Ionically conductive neural bridge - Neural bridge devices for providing ionic communication across damaged or separated portions of a neuron, or between a neuron and an electronic device, are disclosed. The neural bridge devices can include an ionically conductive polymer that may functionally replace the biological conduction of action potentials along an axon, to restore sensory or motor nerve function, and may enhance neuronal healing. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208301 | IMPLANTABLE NEUROSTIMULATOR ADAPTERS - An adapter for coupling a plug of an implantable neurostimulator lead extension to a connector port of a neurostimulator device includes an elongate body, a connector including at least four contacts coupled to a first end of the elongate body, and a housing including at least two ports coupled to a second end of the elongate body. The adapter connector contacts provide for electrical coupling within the device port, and the adapter housing ports are arranged to receive side-by-side connector terminals of the lead extension plug. Housing contacts within each port provide for electrical coupling with corresponding contacts of the connector terminals of the lead extension plug and are coupled to corresponding contacts of the adapter connector via conductors extending within the elongate body between the housing and the connector. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208302 | IMPLANTABLE NEUROSTIMULATOR ADAPTERS - An adapter for coupling a pair of implantable neurostimulator lead extensions to a connector port of a neurostimulator device includes an elongate body, a connector including eight contacts coupled to a first end of the elongate body, and a housing, which includes two pairs of ports, coupled to a second end of the elongate body. A first pair of ports has openings located on a first face of the housing, and a second pair of ports has openings located on a second face of the housing, wherein the first face is opposite the second face. The adapter connector contacts provide for electrical coupling within the device port, and openings of each of the pairs of adapter housing ports are arranged to receive insertion of side-by-side connector terminals of a plug of each lead extension for electrical coupling within the ports. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208303 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM WITH FIXATION MEMBER - A fixation device for a subcutaneous implantable medical device includes a deformable tip portion that reduces in width when coupled with a fixation tool such that implantation of the implantable medical device through tissue is facilitated. Upon release from the fixation tool, the fixation device returns to its initial shape and stably secures the position of the implantable medical device. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208304 | METHODS FOR RESTORING AND MODULATING NEURAL ACTIVITY - A method of reviving and maintaining a severed nerve tissue or a bundle of nerves of a body comprising the steps of: providing a housing for conducting and modulating neural response having a first end, a second end and a cavity, wherein the cavity is interposed between the first end and second end and the first end of said housing has a plurality of openings and the second end of the housing has a plurality of openings; providing at least one conductor in communication with at least one of the first end of the housing and the second end of the housing, wherein each of the conductors are adapted to attach to at least one first nerve ending; and transporting fluids between the first nerve ending and the second nerve ending. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208305 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TREATING PULMONARY CONDITIONS - A method for treating a pulmonary condition in a subject includes one step of providing an implantable electrode assembly. The implantable electrode assembly includes a flexible member, at least one electrode operably secured to the flexible member, and an attachment mechanism for securing the at least one electrode to the flexible member. The implantable electrode assembly is implanted at a target site including an intraluminal location innervated by at least one nerve of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The implantable electrode assembly is positioned at the target site such that the flexible member conforms to a portion of the inner surface of the target site, and the at least one electrode is positioned substantially adjacent the at least one nerve. Next, electric current is delivered to the at least one electrode to effect a change in the ANS of the subject. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208306 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL LEAD WITH REVERSIBLE FIXATION MECHANISM - An implantable medical lead is provided, which includes an elongated lead body having a distal end portion and a pull cable lumen. A pull extends within the pull cable lumen and is fixedly coupled to the distal end portion. The pull cable is configured to be moved axially relative to the elongated lead body to form a fixation loop. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208307 | Treatment of Vascular Bifurcations - Apparatus for treatment of a vascular bifurcation, where a first blood vessel ( | 2008-08-28 |
20080208308 | High Temperature Oxidation-Reduction Process to Form Porous Structures on a Medical Implant - A system for treating abnormalities of the cardiovascular system includes a stent having a porous therapeutic agent carrying zone comprising oxidation and reduction products of one or more metals in the stent framework. Another embodiment of the invention includes a method of manufacturing a therapeutic agent carrying stent comprising exposing a metallic stent framework to oxidizing and reducting conditions, and forming a therapeutic agent carrying zone on the surface of the stent framework that includes oxidation and reduction products of one or more metals in the stent framework. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208309 | Apparatus and method for implantation of a bifurcated endovascular prosthesis - A bifurcated stent graft for animal or human implantation and method of delivery thereof. The device stent graft employs a first component having an axial passage communicating with the axial cavities of a second leg and longer first leg. A separate leg extension is engageable to the second leg. A first catheter engages the first component for translation to the implantation site and a second catheter engaged with the first is provided with a prepositioned guide wire inside the second leg which may be employed to easily position a guide wire for engagement of the second leg with the leg extension. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208310 | Drug Delivery System - Apparatuses and methods for coating and/or loading a medical device with a therapeutic agent prior to or during the placement of the medical device within the patient's body. In one variation, the medical device is coated and/or loaded with a therapeutic agent while the device is positioned in a delivery apparatus. In another variation, the delivery apparatus comprises a reservoir for retaining a therapeutic agent. The user may release the therapeutic agent from the reservoir prior to or during the placement of the device to coat and/or load the device with the therapeutic agent. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208311 | MULTIPLE INDEPENDENT NESTED STENT STRUCTURES AND METHODS FOR THEIR PREPARATION AND DEPLOYMENT - Blood vessels and other body lumens are stented using stent structures comprising a plurality of radially expansible rings where at least some of the rings comprise axially extending elements which interleave with axially extending elements on adjacent unconnected rings. The ring structures may be open cell structures or closed cell structures, and the axially extending elements will typically be formed as part of the open cell or closed cell structure. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208312 | Stent Graft With Strips to Promote Localized Healing - An endoluminal stent graft includes segments of a healing promoter to promote the “healing in” of the distal and/or proximal neck(s) of the endoluminal stent graft in a vessel, thus reducing the risk of migration and the occurrence of endoleaks that can formed at the side of the neck(s) and the consequent feeding of the aneurysm sac. In some applications, the segments of the healing promoter are located within a proximal anchor region located near the proximal neck opening of the endoluminal stent graft and, optionally, within one or more distal anchor regions located near one or more distal neck openings of the endoluminal stent graft. In other applications, the segments of the healing promoter are located within the proximal anchor region, but not the distal anchor region. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208313 | Drug Coated Stent With Magnesium Topcoat - A method for manufacturing a drug carrying stent includes applying at least a first therapeutic agent to at least an outer portion of a stent framework and applying a first magnesium coating on at least a first portion of the applied first therapeutic agent. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208314 | Prosthesis having a sleeve valve - Disclosed is a pressure sensitive prosthesis that includes a tubular member having a passageway extending therethrough and a sleeve attached about one end of the tubular member. The sleeve functions as a one-way valve to permit fluid flowing through the sleeve lumen in a first, distal direction and under a first pressure, while collapsing in response to fluid flowing in a second direction when the pressure thereof exceeds that of the first direction or pressure. One aspect of the invention includes a first opening and a second opening configured for allowing fluid flow from the passage to the lumen in the first direction. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208315 | Coronary stent having a surface of multi-layer immobilized structures - A stent for coronary vessels, having a surface of multilayer immobilized structures, includes a stent body and a number of polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) layers stacking and being immobilized on the surface of the stent body, in which the PEC layer is formed of a polymer layer and an anticoagulant layer. The coronary stent is capable of effectively improving the hemocompatibility longevity over conventional stent using surface encapsulation of an anticoagulant layer for hemocompatibility improvement. Furthermore, the coronary stent can be use as a drug-eluting coronary stent, thus allowing for the time-releasing of drugs, and further preventing the thickening of vascular smooth muscle cells for causing vascular thrombosis. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208316 | Artificial Vascular Prosthesis - A vascular prosthesis having a tubular structure is provided. The tubular structure is fabricated from at least two layers wherein at least one layer includes a thrombogenic agent. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208317 | Anchoring Device for Stent - Disclosed is a stent supporting device. The support device anchors a stent in a manner such that an anchoring stent is inserted into a branch blood vessel adjacent to an artery in which the stent is disposed, and the anchoring stent is connected to the stent. Accordingly, the support device is safe because it does not use subsidiary members such as screws, which can injure a blood vessel. Further, since the support device allows the stent to have a length corresponding to the size of a treatment site, that is, the stent does not need to be longer than the size of the treatment site, it is easy to install the stent. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208318 | MULTIPLE INDEPENDENT NESTED STENT STRUCTURES AND METHODS FOR THEIR PREPARATION AND DEPLOYMENT - Blood vessels and other body lumens are stented using stent structures comprising a plurality of radially expansible rings where at least some of the rings comprise axially extending elements which interleave with axially extending elements on adjacent unconnected rings. The ring structures may be open cell structures or closed cell structures, and the axially extending elements will typically be formed as part of the open cell or closed cell structure. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208319 | Multi-Segment Modular Stent And Methods For Manufacturing Stents - A modular stent comprises at least one stent module including an intermediate segment consisting of one of either a closed-cell segment or a Z-segment and a pair of end segments connected to respective longitudinal ends of said intermediate segment, each end segment consisting of the other of said closed-cell segment or Z-segment, each closed-cell segment consisting solely of at least one annular closed-cell ring and each Z-segment consisting solely of at least one annular Z-ring. A method of manufacturing a stent form a small diameter tube includes laser-cutting the small diameter tube to define a plurality of longitudinally adjacent Z-rings, providing interconnector portions of said tube integrally joining facing aligned or offset Z-rings, expanding the small diameter tube, and removing predetermined interconnector portions from the expanded tube to provide the predetermined desired arrangement of interconnected closed-cell rings and Z-rings. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208320 | Delivery Apparatus and Methods for Vertebrostenting - The invention relates to a method of delivering and deploying a stent into a curvilinear cavity within a vertebral body or other bony or body structure. The invention also relates to devices that may be used to perform the steps to deliver and deploy a stent. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208321 | POLYMERIC STENT AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - A stent formed of polymeric material, useful for the expansion of a lumen and the delivery of one or more therapeutic agents in situ is disclosed. The stent may be multi-layered, and may change shape at a state transition temperature governed by the materials forming the layers. Methods of use and manufacture are also disclosed. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208322 | OSTIAL STENT PREFORMING APPARATUS, KITS AND METHODS - Apparatus, kits and methods for flaring an end of a stent that can then be placed within the ostium of a vessel are disclosed. Areas in which ostial stents with flared ends could be used may include, e.g., the left main artery, renal arteries, sub-clavian artery, right coronary artery, circumflex artery, et al. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208323 | Bioerodible wraps and uses therefor - A tubular tissue graft device is provided comprising a tubular tissue and a restrictive fiber matrix of a bioerodible polymer about a circumference of the tubular tissue. The matrix may be electrospun onto the tubular tissue. In one embodiment, the tubular tissue is from a vein, such as a saphenous vein, useful as an arterial graft, for example and without limitation, in a coronary artery bypass procedure. Also provided is method of preparing a tubular graft comprising depositing a fiber matrix of a bioerodible polymer about a perimeter of a tubular tissue to produce a tubular tissue graft device. A cardiac bypass method comprising bypassing a coronary artery with a tubular tissue graft device comprising a vein and a restrictive fiber matrix of a bioerodible polymer about a circumference of the vein also is provided. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208324 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OCCLUDING AN ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE - Methods and apparatus for occluding an anatomical structure including a device having at least first and second clamp portions adapted to cooperate to move from an open position adjacent an anatomical structure to a closed position engaging and occluding the anatomical structure. A system for delivery of a fluid to affect occlusion of an anatomical structure is provided, as well as an applicator for deploying occlusion devices having different sizes. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208325 | Medical articles for long term implantation - According to an aspect of the present invention, long term medical articles are provided which include the following: (a) first and second body contacting (e.g., tissue and/or body-fluid contacting) porous polymeric layers; (b) a polymeric barrier layer disposed between the first and second porous polymer layers; and (c) a reinforcement element. According to another aspect of the present invention, tubular medical articles for long term implantation are provided, which comprise: (a) a reinforcement element; (b) a blood contacting porous polymeric layer having a surface energy ranging between 20 and 30 dynes/cm disposed over an inner surface of the reinforcement element; and (c) an additional porous polymeric layer formed over an outer surface of the reinforcement element. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208326 | C3 exoenzyme-coated stents and uses thereof for treating and preventing restenosis - This invention provides a stent for implantation in a blood vessel or other tissue, wherein the stent is coated with or contains C3 exoenzyme, a chimeric version thereof or an inhibitor of RhoA. This invention also provides a method for treating or inhibiting the onset of restenosis in a subject which comprises implanting one of the instant stents in the subject's blood vessel. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208327 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REPLACING A PROSTHETIC VALVE - In one aspect, the present disclosure concerns a percutaneously delivered adapter stent that is deployed within a previously implanted prosthetic valve and serves as an anchor or platform for implanting a percutaneously delivered replacement valve within the previously implanted valve. The adapter stent can be delivered to the implantation site via the patient's vasculature and positioned within the previously implanted valve. The stent can then be deployed to cause the stent to expand and become anchored to the inner surface of the previously implanted valve. Subsequently, the replacement valve can be positioned within the adapter stent and deployed to cause the replacement valve to expand and become anchored to the adapter stent. The adapter stent and the replacement valve can be mounted on the same catheter for delivery to the implantation site. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208328 | Systems and Methods For Placement of Valve Prosthesis System - Valve prosthesis systems and methods/systems for placement of such valve prostheses are provided that facilitate efficient, reliable and minimally invasive delivery modalities. The placement systems and methods permit remote manipulation and positioning of the valve prosthesis such that desirable placement relative to anatomical structures, e.g., the heart annulus, may be achieved. The valve prosthesis includes a resilient ring, a plurality of leaflet membranes mounted with respect to the resilient ring, and a plurality of positioning elements movably mounted with respect to the flexible ring. The delivery system includes a first elongate element that terminates at the valve prosthesis and is manipulable by an operator to remotely rotate the positioning elements relative to the flexible ring. A second elongate element terminates at the valve prosthesis and is manipulable by an operator to remotely advance the valve prosthesis downward into an anatomical annulus. The second elongate element may be manipulated to remotely advance the valve prosthesis into the anatomical annulus to assume a position for supporting post-implantation function of the valve prosthesis in situ. The first elongate element may be further manipulated to remotely rotate the positioning element relative to the flexible ring to cause the positioning element to engage tissue associated with the anatomical annulus and to thereby maintain the post-implantation position of the valve prosthesis in situ. Methods for valve prosthesis deployment are also provided. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208329 | HANDLE MECHANISM TO ADJUST A MEDICAL DEVICE - An apparatus for adjusting the position and orientation of a medical device within a patient's body includes a distal portion, a body portion and a proximal portion. The distal portion has a lumen for receiving at least three control tubes. Each control tube houses a control wire that is attached to the medical device. The body portion is connected to the distal portion by a ball-and-socket joint and configured to receive at least one control wire. The proximal portion is rotatably and slidably attached to the body portion and configured to receive at least one control wire. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208330 | Devices and a Kit for Improving the Function of a Heart Valve - A device for improving the function of a heart valve comprises a first loop-shaped support, which is configured to abut a first side of the heart valve, and a second loop-shaped support, which is configured to abut a second side of the heart valve opposite to said first side, whereby a portion of the valve tissue is trapped between the first and second supports. An outer boundary of the second support is greater than an outer boundary of the first support. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208331 | ANNULOPLASTY RING WITH OFFSET FREE ENDS - An annuloplasty ring having a three-dimensional discontinuous form generally arranged about an axis with two free ends that are axially offset. The ring is particularly suited for repair of the tricuspid valve, and more closely conforms to the annulus shape. The ring is more flexible in bending about radially extending axes than about the central axis. The ring may have an inner structural support covered by a pliable sleeve and/or a fabric tube. The structural support may have a varying cross-section, such as a C-shaped cross-section in a mid-section between two free ends and a rectangular cross-section at the free ends. A deliver template having a mounting ring with about the same shape as the ring facilitates implant, and may be releasably attached to a delivery handle. The deliver template may include a plurality of cutting guides for releasably attaching the annuloplasty ring thereto while presenting maximum outer surface area of the ring. The template may have an outwardly-facing groove to receive and retain the ring. | 2008-08-28 |
20080208332 | Valve Prosthesis Systems and Methods - Valve prostheses are disclosed that are adapted for secure and aligned placement relative to a heart annulus. The valve prostheses may be placed in a non-invasive manner, e.g., via trans-catheter techniques, and may be positioned/repositioned until proper alignment and positioning is achieved. The valve prosthesis may include a resilient ring, a plurality of leaflet membranes mounted with respect to the resilient ring, and a plurality of positioning elements movably mounted with respect to the flexible ring, each of the positioning elements defining a first tissue engaging region and a second tissue engaging region spaced from the first tissue engaging region. The positioning elements are adapted to substantially completely invert by rotating relative to the resilient ring between a first position in which each of the first and second tissue engaging regions is inwardly directed for facilitating positioning of the valve prosthesis within a delivery catheter, and a second position in which each of the first and second tissue engaging regions is outwardly directed for engaging tissue. The valve prosthesis may also include a valve skirt mounted with respect to the resilient ring. | 2008-08-28 |