40th week of 2008 patent applcation highlights part 74 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20080243154 | Surgical Instrument of the Ablation of Diseased Veins, Particularly Saphenous Veins - The invention relates to a surgical instrument for the ablation of diseased veins, particularly saphenous veins. The surgical instrument includes a stripping member or olive-shaped member, a traction probe, and a return thread, which can be used to move the olive in opposite directions. In addition, the anterior part of the olive, according to the direction of movement of same during the application of the operating method, is equipped with an axial cavity which is open at the front end of the anterior part, so as to define a circular stripping lip. The stripping olive includes an essentially-cylindrical anterior part and a posterior part having a circular cross-section, which are defined by a circular recess. The circular front end of the posterior part has a diameter greater than that of the anterior part. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243155 | Stepped microkeratome blade holder - A blade holder | 2008-10-02 |
20080243156 | Ophthalmic surgical instrument & surgical methods - Surgical instruments and their methods of use enable a surgeon to form a precut lamellar disk that is removed by the same through a single incision along the perimeter of the cornea. This may be done using one this one instrument. Another instrument enables the surgeon to scrap off adhering parts. One more instrument enables the surgeon to hold a folded cornea donor disk to avoid inverting the disk upon unfolding. Yet another instrument enables the surgeon to “iron out” wrinkles in the implanted donor cornea. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243157 | Applicator For Water-Jet Surgery - Customary applicators for water-jet surgery comprise a handle, a pressure conduit to supply a working fluid from a pressure source and a nozzle at the end of the pressure conduit to generate a fluid jet with specified properties. It is now proposed to provide a set of molded parts that differ from one another in size and/or shape, that can be detachably, individually connected to the handle to form guide devices to guide the elastically deformable pressure conduit from the handle to the nozzle along a course predetermined by the relevant molded part. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243158 | Scalpel Blade Holder - A scalpel blade holder including a handle, a blunt probe, and a blade. A method of using the scalpel blade holder including inserting the blunt probe into a small incision, and advancing the scalpel blade holder to create the incision. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243159 | LANCET DEVICE WITH COMBINED TRIGGER AND COCKING MECHANISM AND METHOD - Lancet device including a skin engaging end that includes a lancet opening through which a lancet needle may extend, a movably mounted holding member configured to receive a lancet, and a combined triggering and cocking system structured and arranged to move the holding member to a retracted position during a cocking phase and to cause the holding member to move to an extended position during a triggering phase. A method of puncturing a surface of skin using the lancet device includes disposing the skin engaging end against a user's skin and manually activating the combined triggering and cocking system. This Abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243160 | Ultrasonic Dissector - An ultrasonic surgical instrument for dissection and coagulation of tissue is provided. The surgical instrument includes a vibration coupler supported within a housing and operably connected to an ultrasonic generator. An angled blade member is connected to the distal end of the vibration coupler to conduct high frequency vibration from the ultrasonic generator to the blade member. A clamp member is positioned adjacent to the blade member and is movable from a first position to a second approximated position. The clamp member and angled blade member combine to enhance contact between the tissue and the blade member during operation of the instrument to improve the performance of the instrument. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243161 | Disposable lancet with re-cocking prevention means - A lancet includes a proximal mounting platform; a shuttle biasing spring extending distally from the mounting platform; a shuttle having distally protruding needle, the shuttle being mounted on the shuttle biasing spring; a housing first section having a tubular first section side wall engagingly fitted to the mounting platform and fitted in telescopic relation to a tubular second section side wall of a housing second section which has a distal needle passing opening; a shuttle cocking mechanism including a shuttle shoulder having a shoulder distal face, two spaced apart and resilient shuttle engaging arms extending distally from the mounting platform and tilted toward each other and having inwardly protruding grip fingers positioned to fit over the shoulder distal face and thus engage the shuttle shoulder, and having outwardly ramped distal arm tips obstructing and deflecting re-entry of the shuttle between the engaging arms. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243162 | TROCAR - A trocar is provided with an inner needle unit including an optical observing device and a puncture-assisting device that is provided on an outer peripheral face of the inner needle unit and assists puncture of the inner needle unit into a body cavity, where the puncture-assisting device includes at least one of an ultrasonic energy applying device and an electric energy applying device. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243163 | Perforating Trocar - The invention concerns the field of surgical instruments. The inventive trocar ( | 2008-10-02 |
20080243164 | Tissue Moving Surgical Device - Devices and methods for moving tissue and/or moving the devices relative to the tissue during a surgical procedure are disclosed. The devices and methods disclosed herein can be used in conventional, open surgical procedures, they are particularly useful in minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures. In one aspect, the movement or tissue and/or the device is effected by moving a fabric associated with the device and in contact with tissue. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243165 | INTRODUCER ASSEMBLY AND METHOD THEREFOR - An introducer assembly includes a sheath having a sheath proximal end and distal end, and a passage therethrough. The introducer assembly further includes a handle assembly disposed at an angle of about 10-30 degrees relative to the sheath axis. In addition, the introducer assembly includes a dilator having a grip portion, such as a recessed grip portion. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243166 | Pouch-Equipped Intragastric Balloon - An expandable intragastric balloon comprising a first flexible pouch ( | 2008-10-02 |
20080243167 | Intragastric Balloon With Improved Forming Means and Increased Mechanical Strength - An expandable intragastric balloon implantable in the stomach for the treatment of obesity, comprising an outer casing ( | 2008-10-02 |
20080243168 | System and method for embolic protection - A balloon catheter system distinguishing a proximal balloon catheter system and a distal balloon catheter is provided. The proximal balloon catheter system has a first and a second catheter. These two catheters are positioned side-by-side over at least part of the longitudinal area of their outer surfaces, and they are detachably connected to each other. A first inflatable member is attached to the first catheter near the distal end of the first catheter. The distal balloon catheter distinguishes a catheter part with a distal end and a proximal end, and an exchange rod attached near the proximal end of the catheter part. The catheter part has a second inflatable member encircling the outer surface of the catheter part. The balloon catheter system can be used for example in methods of isolating a segment of a vessel, generating reversal fluid flow and creating an in-vivo shunt with a balloon catheter. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243169 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ESTABLISHING VASCULAR ACCESS - Systems, kits, and methods for establishing vascular access are described. A system typically includes a radially expandable sleeve, a dilator, and a guidewire. The methods comprise positioning the guidewire through an initial tissue tract, passing the radially expandable sleeve over the guidewire through the tissue tract to a target blood vessel, and thereafter passing the dilator over the guidewire and through the radially expandable sleeve to effect radial expansion of the sleeve. Use of the sleeve reduces the risk of injuring tissue surrounding the tissue tract by lessening the axial forces imparted to the tissue. Kits comprise at least the radially expandable sleeve together with instructions for use. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243170 | EMBOLIC CAPTURING DEVICES AND METHODS - Disclosed is an emboli capturing device having a first support hoop at a distal portion of a first elongate member, and a support member that is coupled to the first support hoop. The support member can comprise a second elongate member. In some cases, the second elongate member can be coupled to the first support hoop. In other cases, the support member can comprise a second elongate member and a support strut. The support strut can be coupled to both the first support hoop and the second elongate member. Movement of the support member relative to the first elongate member can translate the first support hoop between collapsed and expanded configurations. Once in a desired configuration, the support members can also provide support to maintain the first support hoop in the desired configuration. Also disclosed is a combination emboli capturing and perfusion device. The combination device can have a perfusion member in combination with an emboli capturing device. The perfusion member can facilitate the introduction of fluids around a lesion in a vessel of a patient, for example if the lesion is creating a partial or total occlusion of the vessel. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243171 | EMBOLI PROTECTION DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS OF USE - An embolic protection system for treating a lesion in a blood vessel is provided. The embolic protection system includes a guide catheter, an evacuation sheath, a guidewire, and an infusion catheter. The guide catheter has a guidewire lumen. The evacuation sheath has an evacuation lumen and a sealing surface and is configured to move within the lumen of the guide catheter. The guidewire is configured to move within the lumen of the guide catheter and the evacuation lumen. The infusion catheter has an infusion lumen, at least one infusion port, and a guidewire lumen configured to accept the guidewire, the infusion catheter guidewire lumen being shorter than the guide catheter guidewire lumen. Furthermore, the infusion catheter is configured to move within the lumen of the guide catheter and the evacuation lumen over the guidewire. The system may further comprise a dilation catheter having a dilation balloon and a guidewire lumen. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243172 | Garment With Affixed Tourniquet - The invention provides an article of clothing having a tourniquet affixed to the clothing at one end of the tourniquet, the tourniquet comprising a band comprised of an elastic and flexible material, the band having a width and a length, a first end and a second end, and a first face and second face, where at least a portion of the first face comprises hook-type fastener means, and where the second face comprises loop-type fastener means. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243173 | Bi-Directional Tourniquet - A tourniquet comprising a band comprised of an elastic and flexible material, the band having a width and a length, a first end and a second end, and a first face and second face, where at least a portion of the first face comprises hook-type fastener means located within a third of the band at the first end, within a third of the band at the second end, and within a middle third of the band, and where the second face comprises loop-type fastener means spanning the length of the second face. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243174 | Finger mounting for surgical instruments particularly useful in open and endoscopic surgery - A finger mounting for a surgical instrument includes a sleeve dimensioned to be received on the outer end of a finger of a user. The sleeve has an open proximal end for application to the outer end of the user's finger, an open distal end for exposing the outer tip of the user's finger when mounted thereon, and an inner diameter which decreases from the proximal end to the distal end for facilitating the application of the sleeve to the user's finger. The sleeve is formed of an elastic material and with a longitudinal split along its length to permit its diameter to be increased in order to accommodate fingers of different thicknesses. The longitudinal split is defined by two opposed edges having interengaging ribs and recesses of a length in the circumferential direction to accommodate a wide range of finger thicknesses without pinching The sleeve is also integrally formed at one side with a socket for receiving a surgical instrument, such as retractor or probe having a shank received within the socket, or a pair of forceps having one arm received in the socket. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243175 | Surgical Gripping Tool Having Dual-Linkage, Force Multiplying Coupler and Shaped to Grip Multiple Size Rods - A surgical gripping tool includes a dual-linkage, force multiplying coupling that increases the force applied to surgical rods for a given force applied to the tool handles. In some embodiments, recesses in the tool that grip surgical rods have complex surfaces comprising multiple radii, allowing the tool to securely grip surgical rods of different diameters. The recess radii may be undersized relative to the associated rod size. In one embodiment, the coupling multiplies an applied force by a factor of over 20. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243176 | GUIDE TUBE SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for guiding, supporting, and/or housing instruments. One exemplary system includes a guide tube having a manipulation section and mated with rails carrying instrument control members. Moving the rails with respect to the guide tube, or another point of reference, can control movement of the manipulation section. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243177 | Surgical instrument usable as a grasper and/or probe - A finger-mountable surgical instrument usable as a tweezers or as a probe, includes a sleeve dimensioned to be received on the outer end of a finger of a user; an elongated arm having a proximal end fixed to the sleeve and a distal end projecting forwardly of the sleeve and defining a fixed jaw; a pivotal jaw pivotally mounted to the distal end of the elongated arm to open and closed positions; an actuator arm movably mounted with respect to the sleeve and coupled to the pivotal jaw such that moving the actuator arm in one direction moves the pivotal jaw to a closed position with respect to the fixed jaw, and moving the actuator arm in another direction moves the pivotal jaw to an open position with respect to the fixed jaw; and a locking arm carried by the sleeve and manually movable to a locking position for locking the pivotal jaw in its closed position with respect to the fixed jaw. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243178 | Surgical instrument particularly useful as tweezers for grasping and holding objects of different thicknesses - A surgical instrument useful as a tweezers for grasping and holding objects of different thicknesses includes: an elongated arm having a distal end defining a fixed jaw; a pivotal jaw having a distal end movable towards and away from the fixed jaw to a fully open position, a fully closed position, and at least one intermediate position, with respect to the fixed jaw; and a locking member carried by the pivotal jaw and manually movable into engagement with a locking surface carried by the elongated arm, when the pivotal jaw is in its fully-closed position or in any intermediate position with respect to the fixed, to lock the pivotal jaw in the fully-closed or intermediate position with respect to the fixed jaw. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243179 | GROOMING DEVICE FOR EYEBROWS - Presented herein is a grooming device for the removal of hair and for eyebrow care and maintenance, said device comprising a pair of tweezers and a brush head disposed on said tweezers. Some embodiments of the grooming device of the present invention further comprise a protective storage case comprising a receiving member and a cover member that has a mirror disposed thereon. Some embodiments of the grooming device of the present invention further comprise a light assembly disposed on the tweezers. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243180 | SURGERY FIXATION FORCEPS - A pair of surgery fixation forceps which includes a pair of tweezers having an upper end, a blade holder including a U-shaped base and a rod portion, the rod portion being formed with two grooves, the U-shaped base having two arms, an adjusting screw for securing the blade holder to the tweezers; and a cutting blade having an elongated slot which includes a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion which is narrower than the first engaging portion, the two opposite sides of the second engaging portion being fitted into the grooves of the rod portion of the blade holder, the first engaging portion being configured to be snugly fitted with the rod portion of the blade holder thereby enabling the cutting blade to be secured to the blade holder, the cutting blade having two ears at two upper corners thereof and a knife edge therebetween. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243181 | Touch-Switched Luminous Plastic Tweezers - Luminous tweezers are described having two tweezer branches ( | 2008-10-02 |
20080243182 | Vascular hemostasis device and deployment apparatus - A hemostasis device for percutaneously sealing a puncture in the wall of a blood vessel includes a rigid post, and a foot, a seal and a retaining member mounted on the rigid post. The hemostasis device may be deployed in the puncture so that the foot is positioned within the blood vessel. Tension is applied to the rigid post to hold the foot against the inside surface of the blood vessel. The retaining member is then pushed along the length of the rigid post, advancing the seal to a deployed state against the outside surface of the blood vessel. The puncture in the blood vessel is sandwiched between the foot and the seal in the deployed state. The rigid post, foot, seal and retaining member may all be formed from a resorbable polymeric material. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243183 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR CLOSING THE LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE - Described here are devices, systems and methods for closing the left atrial appendage. Some of the methods described here utilize one or more guide members having alignment members to aid in positioning of a closure device. In general, these methods include advancing a first guide having a first alignment member into the left atrial appendage, advancing a second guide, having a second alignment member, into the pericardial space, aligning the first and second alignment members, advancing a left atrial appendage closure device into the pericardial space and adjacent to the left atrial appendage, and closing the left atrial appendage with the closure device. In these variations, the closure device typically has an elongate body having a proximal end and a distal end, and a closure element at least partially housed within the elongate body. The closure element comprises a loop defining a continuous aperture therethrough. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243184 | CANNULATED SUTURE ANCHOR SYSTEM - A system and associated method for arthroscopic repair is particularly adapted in reattaching a ligament and/or tendon to cortical bone of the shoulder. A suture anchor system includes a suture anchor, preferably, a screw anchor, and an installation tool for installing the suture anchor in tissue. The suture anchor defines a longitudinal axis and has a longitudinal cannulation for reception and passage of a guide wire. The suture anchor has trailing and leading ends, and an anchor head adjacent the trailing end thereof. The anchor head includes at least one eyelet for reception of a suture and an internal bore therein. The installation tool includes a main body and a driver head extending from the main body. The main body includes an outer surface having a longitudinal recess therein to accommodate the suture. The driver head is correspondingly dimensioned to be received within the internal bore of the anchor head of the suture anchor whereby movement of the installation tool about a longitudinal axis, e.g., rotational movement, thereof causes corresponding movement, e.g., rotational, of the suture anchor. The installation tool may also define a longitudinal cannulation for reception and passage of the guide wire. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243185 | SPINAL STABILIZING SYSTEM - A bone stabilizing system includes a collar that has a tubular sidewall with an interior surface and an exterior surface each extending between a first end and an opposing second end, the interior surface at least partially bounding a longitudinal passage extending therethrough. The collar also includes a pair of opposing spaced apart channels transversely extending through the sidewall at the first end thereof and a pair of spaced apart bayonet prongs projecting from the first end of the tubular sidewall. A screw has a threaded portion and a head disposed on an end thereof, the head of the screw being disposed within the longitudinal passage of the collar. A locking cap has a hole extending therethrough and a pair of spaced apart bayonet slots formed thereon, the bayonet slots being configured to receive and engage with the pair of bayonet prongs. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243186 | Spinal stabilization systems and methods of use - Devices and methods are adapted to permit fixation and stabilization of the bony elements of the skeleton. The devices permit adjustment and maintenance of the spatial relationship between neighboring bones. The motion between adjacent skeletal segments may be maintained, limited or completely eliminated. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243187 | Vertebral body fixation apparatus - A cage device is disclosed that includes, in one embodiment, a body and a pair of pedicle tabs attached thereto and potentially for connecting other orthopedic devices, such as anchors, screws, or rods, to the vertebral body replacement and potentially other vertebrae. The body also has a central opening for receiving orthopedic devices and/or osteogenic material. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243188 | PEDICLE SCREW FOR INTERVERTEBRAL SUPPORT ELEMENTS - The pedicle screw ( | 2008-10-02 |
20080243189 | Variable angle spinal screw assembly - A spinal screw assembly providing an adjustable securement of a fixation rod across at least two vertebrae. The assembly includes a pedicle screw having a spherical head portion, a threaded shaft portion and a tool engagement surface in the head portion for use in driving the screw into a vertebrae. The head portion of the screw is positioned in a body member adjacent a curvilinear surface disposed about an aperture in the end of the body member such that the shaft portion of the screw extends therethrough and the curvilinear inner surface abuts and mates with the head portion of the screw so as to define a ball joint therewith. The body member additionally defines a pair of opposed parallel slots therein adapted to receive a portion of the fixation rod and a locking cap bears against the fixation rod to releasably secure the rod within the assembly. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243190 | IN-LINE ROD REDUCTION DEVICE AND METHODS - The present invention provides methods and devices for placing a spinal fixation rod into a rod receiving opening in a spinal anchor and installing a fastener to secure the rod to the spinal anchor. In one embodiment, the system can include a cap having a bore extending therethrough, an elongate drive rod that is adapted to extend through the bore, and a fastener that is disposed on a distal portion of the drive rod. The cap can include a driving element that is adapted to cooperate with a complementary driving element disposed on the rod to form a driving mechanism. Actuation of the driver mechanism can be effective to advance the drive rod through the cap to thereby reduce a spinal rod into a rod receiving opening of the spinal anchor and install the fastener to secure the rod to the spinal anchor. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243191 | Adjustable bone plate fixation system and metho - An improved bone plate system which permits a user to customize the number and location of the fasteners so as to secure to a bone in a desired location. A bone plate system may comprise a frame, a track, an insertion niche, and one or more adjustable fastening plates and tension members. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243192 | Passive Screw Locking Mechanism - Methods and devices are provided for passively locking a bone screw within a bone plate. In particular, the methods and devices allow a bone screw to be locked within a thru-hole in a bone plate without requiring any additional locking steps. In an exemplary embodiment, an annular feature is provided in a thru-hole of a bone plate, or in a bushing that is disposed within a thru-hole of a bone plate, for engaging a bone screw. The annular feature can be configured such that it allows the bone screw to be inserted through the thru-hole at various insertion angles while still being effective to prevent back-out of the bone screw, thereby locking the screw to the plate. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243193 | Low Profile Pedicle Screw Assembly - A pedicle screw and rod assembly is provided which has a low profile in the final position. The pedicle screw includes a screw having a threaded portion and a head portion. A tulip body is positioned on the head portion of the screw. A tulip saddle is coupled to the tulip body and positioned to retain the tulip assembly on the pedicle screw. Wedge members are inserted in between the tulip body and the tulip saddle, causing the saddle to compress and thereby retain a rod within the tulip assembly. Colored wedge members alert a surgeon as to whether the system is in a locked or unlocked state. The top of the tulip assembly is approximately equal in height to, or lower than the rod itself. This provides a low profile pedicle screw and rod assembly since the rod itself will be the uppermost member of the completed assembly. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243194 | ARTICULATING INSTRUMENTATION FOR DYNAMIC SPINAL STABILIZATION - Dynamic stabilization apparatus and methods in the context of a spinal implant configured to constrain intervertebral movement, where the constraint is meant to eliminate unwanted, non-physiologic motions. The system provides dynamic stability to motion in a compromised spinal joint by allowing motion along a centrode of the instant axis of rotation (IAR) that substantially approximates the normal centrode for the respective spinal joint. The system and method is adapted to provide stabilized motion in a spinal joint such that the IAR shifts cephalad during typical flexion ranges beyond a normal resting range of motion, and shifts posteriorly during typical extension ranges beyond the normal resting range of motion. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243195 | MAPPING GUIDELET - The medical lead delivery device more easily and quickly delivers a lead to or through the coronary vein of a patient's heart. The medical lead delivery device includes an elongated body, a controller, a first and second spring, and a sleeve. The elongated body includes a proximal end and a distal end. The controller is disposed at the proximal end and provides enhanced control of the distal tip of the elongated body. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243196 | UNIDIRECTIONAL NEURAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS - An embodiment relates to a method for delivering a unidirectional afferent nerve stimulation treatment. A test neural stimulation is delivered, and a physiologic response to the test neural stimulation is monitored. At least one neural stimulation parameter for the test neural stimulation is adjusted if the test neural stimulation does not elicit a desired physiologic response. If the test neural stimulation does elicit the desired physiologic response, at least one treatment parameter for a unidirectional afferent nerve stimulation is determined using the at least one neural stimulation parameter for the test neural stimulation that provided the desired physiologic response. The unidirectional afferent nerve stimulation is delivered using the at least one treatment parameter. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243197 | Therapeutic applicator system for applying light, sound and/or magnetism - This invention includes embodiments which combined the application or simultaneous application of magnetism, light waves and sound for a therapeutic effect, all through one applicator. The controller may be programmed or configured to provide relative timing of the application of the magnetism, light waves and sound relative to one another and in an intermittent way for a desired therapeutic effect. The applicator may also provide embodiments wherein one or more of magnetism, light waves and sound may be utilized to prepare the recipient to be a better recipient of one or more applications of magnetism, light waves and sound. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243198 | Method for Inhibiting Platelet Interaction with Biomaterial Surfaces - A method for passivating a biomaterial surface includes modifying proteinaceous material disposed at the biomaterial surface. The passivation may be effectuated by exposing the biomaterial surface to therapeutic electrical energy in the presence of blood or plasma. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243199 | Electrical stimulus allergy treatment method - A method of reducing the symptoms of allergy including exposing the patient to the allergenic substance in containers and applying an electrical stimulus device to acupuncture meridian points on the patient's body to clear blockages in the flow of life-energy of the patient. The electrical signal acts as a carrier for the natural frequency of the allergen, exposing the patient to the natural frequency of the allergen, carried by the electrical signal. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243200 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ENHANCING SPECIFICITY OF ARRHYTHMIA DETECTION USING FAR-FIELD SENSING AND INTRACARDIAC SENSING OF CARDIAC ACTIVITY - Improved implantable medical devices (IMDS) and more particularly, a subcutaneous multiple electrode sensing and recording system for acquiring far- and near-field electrocardiographic (ECG) data and waveform tracings. The far-field ECG data and/or waveform tracings is used to confirm or refute sensing and detection performed by the near-field (e.g., epicardial and/or intracardiac) electrodes which collect electrograms (or EGMs). Thus, subcutaneously implanted devices adapted to sense near- and far-field cardiac activity offer improved specificity and sensitivity in arrhythmia sensing and detection. The far-field ECG signals are collected via at least a pair of electrodes that are directly mechanically coupled to the housing for the IMD (and thus spaced from the myocardium) which are filtered and processed and used in addition to the near-field EGM signals collected by lead-based electrodes. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243201 | PACER WITH COMBINED DEFIBRILLATOR TAILORED FOR BRADYCARDIA PATIENTS - A combination pacer/defibrillator is tailored for bradycardia patients. In one example, its shock-delivery specificity exceeds its sensitivity to shockable ventricular tachyarrhythmias. In another example, its specificity exceeds 95%, or 99%, or even 99.5%. Sensitivity is programmed to a high desired sensitivity value, but only if it can be done without decreasing the specificity below the desired specificity threshold value. This can be conceptualized as “avoiding at all costs” delivering false shocks, even at the expense of failing to deliver a shock to a treatable ventricular tachyarrhythmia. Specificity enhancements include, among other things, inhibiting shock delivery when the patient is breathing or not supine, using multiple channels or a high rate VT/VF detection threshold. The present pacer/defibrillator device could potentially save the lives of bradyarrhythmia patients who are not presently clinically indicated for a defibrillator/pacer, but who have an increased risk of sudden cardiac death due to one or more risk factors. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243202 | Estimating acute response to cardiac resynchronization therapy - Systolic timing intervals are measured in response to delivering pacing energy to a pacing site of a patient's heart. An estimate of a patient's acute response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) for the pacing site is determined using the measured systolic timing intervals. The estimate is compared to a threshold. The threshold preferably distinguishes between acute responsiveness and non-responsiveness to CRT for a patient population. An indication of acute responsiveness to CRT for the pacing site may be produced in response to the comparison. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243203 | Intracardiac Polarization Signal Stabilization - Polarization signals, which represent voltages measured at a pacemaker electrode, are not constant and may drift. Polarization signal drift, which often precedes undesirable pace polarization artifacts, is more significant when the pacemaker is inhibited from providing an electrical stimulation to the patient's heart. The present invention provides an implantable system and methods for stabilization of a polarization signal. Electrical pulses may be applied to stabilize a polarization signal. In one implementation of the invention, polarization signal stabilization may be used as part of process to terminate tachycardia. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243204 | VARIATIONAL PARAMETER NEUROSTIMULATION PARADIGM FOR TREATMENT OF NEUROLOGIC DISEASE - The present invention concerns a neural stimulation device, and methods for its use, in which one or more stimulation parameters can be automatically and randomly adjusted such that any particular combination of stimulation parameters is not repeated for a given duration of time, thereby limiting habituation to the neural stimulus. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243205 | DIFFERENTIAL ENTROPY BASED DATA COMPRESSION FOR WAVEFORMS - Waveforms are digitally sampled and compressed for storage in memory. The compression of the data includes generating a truncated entropy encoding map and using the values within the map to obtain good compression. An encoder further sub-selects values to be encoded and values to remain unencoded to provide an overall compression of the data. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243206 | DIFFERENTIAL ENTROPY BASED DATA COMPRESSION FOR WAVEFORMS - Waveforms are digitally sampled and compressed for storage in memory. The compression of the data includes generating a truncated entropy encoding map and using the values within the map to obtain good compression. An encoder further sub-selects values to be encoded and values to remain unencoded to provide an overall compression of the data. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243207 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SMOOTHING SAMPLED DIGITAL SIGNALS - Waveforms are digitally sampled and compressed for storage in memory. The compression of the data includes generating a truncated entropy encoding map and using the values within the map to obtain good compression. An encoder further sub-selects values to be encoded and values to remain unencoded to provide an overall compression of the data. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243208 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ANNOTATING AND COMPRESSING WAVEFORM DATA - Waveforms are digitally sampled and compressed for storage in memory. The compression of the data includes generating a truncated entropy encoding map and using the values within the map to obtain good compression. An encoder further sub-selects values to be encoded and values to remain unencoded to provide an overall compression of the data. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243209 | DIFFERENTIAL ENTROPY BASED ENCODING OF DATA WITH VARIABLE LENGTH PROBABILISTIC CODES - Waveforms are digitally sampled and compressed for storage in memory. The compression of the data includes generating a truncated entropy encoding map and using the values within the map to obtain good compression. An encoder further sub-selects values to be encoded and values to remain unencoded to provide an overall compression of the data. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243210 | BIASED ACOUSTIC SWITCH FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Devices, systems, and methods for selectively activating medical devices are disclosed. A medical device in accordance with an illustrative embodiment includes an energy storage device, an acoustic transducer configured to convert an acoustic signal into an electrical signal, a signal detector configured to generate a trigger signal when the electrical signal exceeds a specific threshold established by a biasing element, a control circuit, and an activation/deactivation switch configured to switch the medical device between an inactive state and an active state in response to the trigger signal. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243211 | USER SELECTABLE MASKING SOUNDS FOR MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS - A medical instrument includes a sound card or an internal capability for generating sounds from a digital music or sound file. The medical instrument is one which generates unwanted noise and is constantly in the presence of a patient or an operator, and may be in a home, a clinic, a laboratory, or other intimate setting. For instance, a patient may be typically connected for hours to a hemodialysis machine that has a noisy pump. A blood-plasma volunteer may be hooked to a noisy blood separation machine for a period of time. A laboratory technician may work in close proximity to a sample preparation machine that constantly gurgles and whirrs. In each instance, a sound card and a speaker can generate previously-recorded masking noises that make that the presence and operation of the machine more tolerable. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243212 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THERMAL NEUROINHIBITION - Disclosed herein, among other things, is system for thermal neuroinhibition. According to an embodiment, the system includes at least one implantable fluid-filled conduit adapted to be placed adjacent to a neural target. The system also includes an implantable housing including a power source, a heat pump deriving power from the source and connected to the conduit, and a controller within the housing. The controller is connected to the heat pump, and is adapted to control the heat pump to effect fluid flow in the conduit to cool the neural target using electromechanical refrigeration to reversibly inhibit neural activity as part of a medical treatment. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243213 | CURATIVE TREATMENT SYSTEM, CURATIVE TREATMENT DEVICE, AND TREATMENT METHOD FOR LIVING TISSUE USING ENERGY - A treatment system that applies energy to a living tissue includes first and second holding members, an operating section, an energy source, and a plurality of energy applying portions that apply energy supplied from the energy source. Each of the first and second holding members has a holding surface to hold the living tissue. The operating section operates a relative movement of at least one of the first and second holding members with respect to the other. The energy source supplies energy to at least one of the first and second holding members. The plurality of energy applying portions are provided on the applying surface of at least one of the first and second holding members, and uniforms density of energy applied to a living tissue held by the first and second holding members. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243214 | HIGH RESOLUTION ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY CATHETER - An electrophysiology medical probes, which may be incorporated into a system and used to perform an electrophysiology procedure, is provided. The medical probe comprises an elongated member (e.g., a flexible elongated member), and a metallic electrode mounted to the distal end of the elongated member. In one embodiment, the metallic electrode is cylindrically shaped and comprises a rigid body. The medical probe further comprises a plurality of microelectrodes (e.g., at least four microelectrodes) embedded within, and electrically insulated from, the metallic electrode, and at least one wire connected to the metallic electrode and the microelectrodes. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243215 | CONTROLLER FOR A MEDICAL LEAD DELIVERY DEVICE - The medical lead delivery device more easily and quickly delivers a lead to or through the coronary vein of a patient's heart. The medical lead delivery device includes an elongated body, a controller, a first and second spring, and a sleeve. The elongated body includes a proximal end and a distal end. The controller is disposed at the proximal end and provides enhanced control of the distal tip of the elongated body. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243216 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERCUTANEOUS DELIVERY OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION TO A TARGET BODY TISSUE - An apparatus includes a percutaneous connection port configured to convey an electrical signal between an electrical device disposed outside of a body and an electrical member disposed within the body. The percutaneous connection port has a distal portion and a proximal portion. The proximal portion includes a surface configured to be accessible from a region of the body. The distal portion includes an anchor configured to be disposed within the body. The anchor has a curved shape about an axis substantially parallel to a skin of the body. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243217 | CARDIAC STIMULATION APPARATUS - Cardiac stimulation apparatus ( | 2008-10-02 |
20080243218 | MRI AND RF COMPATIBLE LEADS AND RELATED METHODS OF OPERATING AND FABRICATING LEADS - RF/MRI compatible leads include at least one conductor that turns back on itself at least twice in a lengthwise direction, and can turn back on itself at least twice at multiple locations along its length. The at least one electrical lead can be configured so that the lead heats local tissue less than about 10 degrees Celsius (typically about 5 degrees Celsius or less) or does not heat local tissue when a patient is exposed to target RF frequencies at a peak input SAR of at least about 4 W/kg and/or a whole body average SAR of at least about 2 W/kg. Related devices and methods of fabricating leads are also described. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243219 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SYSTEMS FOR LOCATING AN OPTIMAL LOCATION FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION - Systems for locating an optimal site within a brain of a patient for deep brain stimulation include a main cannula having an internal lumen, a guiding cannula having a bent distal end portion configured to pass through the lumen of the main cannula and guide a microelectrode into the brain, a depth adjustment mechanism configured to adjust an insertion depth of the guiding cannula, and a longitudinal angle adjustment device configured to adjust a longitudinal angle of the guiding cannula. The depth adjustment mechanism and longitudinal angle adjustment device adjust a position of the guiding cannula such that the microelectrode locates the optimal site for the deep brain stimulation. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243220 | LEAD ANCHOR FOR IMPLANTABLE STIMULATION DEVICES - Disclosed is a lead anchor comprising a body made of an elastomeric material and defining a first opening and a second opening through which a lead can pass, one or more fasteners disposed within the body, with the ends of the fasteners protruding from the body, wherein the ends are configured and arranged to be clamped down to secure a lead passing through the body. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243221 | BALLOON FOLD DESIGN FOR DEPLOYMENT OF BIFURCATED STENT PETAL ARCHITECTURE - A balloon fold design for efficient expansion of a side branch assembly in a bifurcated stent. The design involves forming a cup allangement by folding the radial end of the side branch balloon structure into the luminal end of the side branch balloon structure and then folding the cup down into an orderly discus arrangement. The folding pattern allows for the side branch balloon structure to inflate in a sweeping rotational manner efficiently pushing the side branch assembly petals out and away from the main body of the stent with a low risk of the balloon becoming entangled or damaged by its contact with the petals. The design also allows for the expansion force to be applied at the appropriate time in the optimally needed direction by initially being oriented in a predominantly circumferential direction which is gradually shifting to a predominantly radial direction. In addition, the fold design reduces the overall volume and profile of the side branch balloon structure. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243222 | HIGH FLEX INTRODUCER ASSEMBLY - An introducer assembly for accessing a target site in the anatomy of a patient includes a sheath having a proximal end and a distal end, and having a lumen extending therethrough. At least a portion of the sheath distal end has a curved configuration. A tapered dilator has a proximal end and a distal end, and is sized to be received in the sheath lumen. The dilator has a length such that at least a distal tip portion of the dilator extends beyond the distal end of the sheath when the dilator is received in the sheath lumen. The dilator may be formed of polyurethane, and has a stiffness not exceeding a stiffness of the sheath curved portion such that the sheath substantially maintains the curved configuration when the dilator is received in the sheath lumen. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243223 | Device for affixing of tubular medical accessory to a body passage - A device for affixing a tubular medical accessory to a wall of a body passage is disclosed. The said device comprises a handle portion, a barrel portion and a working head portion, said barrel portion is fitted with a pushing rod displaceable along the barrel portion upon actuating the handle portion. The working head portion is fitted with a plurality of wings and levers and said wings are preloaded with a plurality of staples. Upon initial displacement of the pushing rod in a distal direction the wings are swiveled towards the medical accessory such that they abut it and stretch it together with the body passage in a radial direction. Upon still further displacement of the pushing rod the levers are swiveled and cause the staples to exit from the wings such that the staples pierce the accessory and the wall of the body passage and affix the accessory to the body passage. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243224 | Intracranial Stent and Method of Use - A stent and stent catheter for intra-cranial use, and a method of treating vascular disease in blood vessels in the brain. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243225 | Stent Removal And Repositioning Device And Associated Method - A stent removal device for removing or repositioning a stent from within a lumen is provided. The stent typically comprises at least one element arranged circumferentially about the stent. The stent removal device includes a tube positioned within the lumen proximate to the stent, wherein the tube is capable of receiving at least a portion of the stent. The stent removal device also includes a pusher positioned within the tube capable of engaging the stent and/or the element. The stent removal device further includes a hook positioned within the tube and including a hook member capable of engaging the element such that force applied to the hook causes the stent to purse string. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243226 | IMPLANTABLE STENTS WITH RADIOPAQUE MARKERS AND METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - Stents implantable within a body vessel include a strut with a receiving surface. The receiving surface has two openings passing through this surface. A radiopaque marker has a first prong received at least in part by one of the openings and a second prong received at least in part by the other opening. Approaches and methods are provided for enhancing engagement of the marker to the strut to prevent unintentional removal or dissociation of the marker from the strut. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243227 | RADIOPAQUE MARKERS FOR IMPLANTABLE STENTS AND METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - Radiopaque markers for use with stents implantable within a body vessel are provided with one or more through-holes. Each through-hole extends through the thickness of the marker to expose a portion of the stent underlying the marker. The marker is welded to the stent through each through-hole. Also provided are stents incorporating a radiopaque marker having one or more through-holes suitable for receiving a weld. Methods are provided for securing a radiopaque marker having one or more through-holes to a stent. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243228 | Implantable medical devices fabricated from block copolymers - Implantable medical devices fabricated from block copolymers are disclosed. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243229 | Intracranial Stent and Method of Use - A stent and stent catheter for intra-cranial use. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243230 | STENT HAVING RADIALLY EXPANDABLE MAIN BODY - A stent made of a material having a low strength and having a main body circumscribing a cylindrical shape and radially expandable from a contracted starting position into a dilated support position, comprising a) a plurality of support segments disposed around the circumference and arrayed on one another in the axial direction each segment being formed by a strut meandering in its coarse structure in its contracted starting position and having alternately opposing meandering curves expandable into the support position made of flexible material; b) a plurality of axial connectors connecting between zenith points of at least a part of the meandering curves in the axial-parallel direction of the support segments; and c) at least one means for stabilizing the strut coarse structure in its contracted starting position against radial expansion and being automatically detachable upon a radial expansion of the stent. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243231 | Medical device with a porous surface for delivery of a therapeutic agent - The present invention is generally directed to implantable medical devices for delivering therapeutic agents to the body tissue of a patient and methods for making such medical devices. In particular, the present invention is directed to implantable medical devices, such as intravascular stents, having a surface that includes a plurality of cavities and a plurality of pores and a composition disposed in the pores and/or cavities, as well as, implantable medical devices, such as intravascular stents, having a surface that has a coating composition disposed on the surface, wherein the coating composition includes a plurality of cavities and a plurality of pores and another coating composition disposed in the pores and/or cavities. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243232 | BIFURCATION STENT AND BALLOON ASSEMBLIES - A bifurcated stent that is positionable adjacent to a branched body vessel. The stent includes a tapered middle portion with a side branch assembly for positioning within the deviating branch of a body vessel. The portion of the stent positioned within the first body vessel and the portion positioned within the main branch vessel have largely different sized diameters. The middle region tapers steeply to bridge this diameter differential. The tapered middle region also angles the side branch assembly which can easily be extended at an angle to the main body of the stent. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243233 | Device and Methods for Treatment of Vascular Bifurcations - A method for treatment of a vascular bifurcation, where a second blood vessel ( | 2008-10-02 |
20080243234 | Magnesium Alloy Stent - A method for treating a vascular condition includes delivering a magnesium alloy stent framework to a target region of a vessel, leaching at least a portion of magnesium from the magnesium alloy stent framework, and forming a plurality of pores within the stent framework of the stent based on the leaching. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243235 | CELLULAR TRANSPLANT STENT - A cellular stent carries living therapeutic cellular material for implantation into a human or animal body and allows either localized or systemic delivery of the therapeutic products, while promoting engraftment, either on a tissue surface or its interior. The cells are contained within wells in the stent that are enclosed by inner and outer membranes that seal the cellular material within the stent until it is to be released. The outer membrane is preferably in the form of a thin, hard plastic sheet having a plurality of score lines, perforations, or other lines or weakening provided therein. The membrane may be embedded in a softer perimetral mount which retains it in position until the seal is to be broken. Rupture of the outer membrane ensures penetration of the cells into the interior of tissue or an organ in which the stent is implanted. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243236 | Method of conditioning a hybrid synthetic tubular structure to yeild a functional human hybrid hemodialysis access graft - A method of yielding a functional human hybrid hemodialysis access graft is provided. The method includes conditioning a hybrid synthetic tubular structure having stem cells and/or endothelial cells on at least one surface to yield the functional human hybrid hemodialysis access graft. Specifically, the method includes placing the hybrid synthetic tubular structure in a system capable of producing three dimensional dynamic conditions for a sufficient time to yield said functional human hybrid hemodialysis access graft. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243237 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF PROMOTING ENDOTHELIALIZATION OF A HYBRID CAROTID BYPASS VASCULAR GRAFT IN A MAMMAL - Hybrid synthetic grafts and embodiments of systems and methods for producing hybrid vascular grafts that can yield implantable grafts that combine synthetic grafts with living cells. Embodiments of systems can include a pressure/flow loop subsystem having an external flow loop system coupled to a specimen holder, where the pressure/flow loop subsystem is capable of adjusting at least two dynamic conditions in the specimen holder or a diameter of a specimen in the specimen holder. Embodiments of methods can promote endothelialization of a hybrid carotid bypass vascular graft by placing the hybrid carotid bypass vascular graft in a system embodiment according to the invention under conditions effective to promote stem cells to form a confluent monolayer on the hybrid vascular graft. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243238 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF PROMOTING ENDOTHELIALIZATION OF A HYBRID LOWER LIMB ARTERY BYPASS VASCULAR GRAFT IN A MAMMAL - Hybrid synthetic grafts and embodiments of systems and methods for producing hybrid vascular grafts that can yield implantable grafts that combine synthetic grafts with living cells. Embodiments of systems can include a pressure/flow loop subsystem having an external flow loop system coupled to a specimen holder, where the pressure/flow loop subsystem is capable of adjusting at least two dynamic conditions in the specimen holder or a diameter of a specimen in the specimen holder. Embodiments of methods can promote endothelialization of a hybrid lower limb artery bypass vascular graft by placing the hybrid lower limb artery bypass vascular graft in a system embodiment according to the invention under conditions effective to promote endothelial cells to form a confluent monolayer on the surface of the hybrid vascular graft. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243239 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF PROMOTING ENDOTHELIALIZATION OF A HYBRID HEMODIALYSIS ACCESS GRAFT OR A HYBRID FEMORAL ARTERY BYPASS GRAFT IN A MAMMAL - Hybrid synthetic grafts and embodiments of systems and methods for producing hybrid vascular grafts that can yield implantable grafts that combine synthetic grafts with living cells. Embodiments of systems can include a pressure/flow loop subsystem having an external flow loop system coupled to a specimen holders where the pressure/flow loop subsystem is capable of adjusting at least two dynamic conditions in the specimen holder or a diameter of a specimen in the specimen holder. Embodiments of methods can promote endothelialization of a hybrid hemodialysis access graft or a hybrid femoral artery bypass graft by placing the hybrid hemodialysis access graft or the hybrid femoral artery bypass graft in a system embodiment according to the invention under conditions effective to promote stem cells to form a confluent monolayer on the hybrid graft. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243240 | Biodegradable Metal Barrier Layer for a Drug-Eluting Stent - An implantable medical device includes a substrate, a drug-impregnated layer deposited over the substrate, and a barrier layer at least partially covering the drug-impregnated layer. The barrier layer may be a biodegradable metal, biodegradable metal oxide, or biodegradable metal alloy, such as, magnesium, a magnesium oxide or a magnesium alloy. The drug-impregnated layer includes a therapeutic substance, such as, antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet, anticoagulant, fibrinolytic, thrombin inhibitor, antimitotic, antiallergic, and antiproliferative substances. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243241 | SHORT TERM SUSTAINED DRUG-DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME - A short-term sustained drug eluting coating for implantable medical devices is disclosed. The coating comprises a biocompatible matrix and at least one pharmacologically or biologically active agent and releases substantially one of all of its payloads within four to six weeks post-implantation. When a combination of pharmacological agents are incorporated in the disclosed sustained drug eluting matrix of a drug/device combination, at least one agent is preferred to substantially release in a short duration. Medical devices benefiting from such a desired sustained drug eluting coating include drug eluting cardiovascular, peripheral, and neurovascular stents, abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) prosthesis, anastomosis shunt, arterial/venous (AV) shunts etc. One embodiment of the invention is a sustained release coating or depot on or in a stent that releases substantially all of it payload for ischemic myocardial injury after a heart attack. The coating may be formed from biocompatible stable and absorbable polymers of natural and synthetic origins. Useful pharmacological agents for inhibiting vascular neointimal growth post-angioplasty that leads to restenosis include macrolide polyenes such as a rapamycin and all its derivatives and analogs; paclitaxel and all derivatives and analogs. Useful agents for other vascular conditions such as vulnerable plaques may comprise anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative agents, and matrix metalloprotease (MMP) inhibitors. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243242 | METHOD FOR PRODUCING A CORROSION-INHIBITING COATING ON AN IMPLANT MADE OF A BIO-CORRODIBLE MAGNESIUM ALLOY AND IMPLANT PRODUCED ACCORDING TO THE METHOD - A method for producing a corrosion-inhibiting coating on an implant made of a biocorrodible magnesium alloy, the method comprising providing the implant; and treating the implant surface using an aqueous or alcoholic conversion solution containing one or more ions selected from the group consisting of K | 2008-10-02 |
20080243243 | Implantable medical articles having pro-healing coatings - Coatings including adhesion factors for the surfaces of implantable medical articles are disclosed. The coatings are used to improve the function of the device by promoting a pro-healing response following implantation. The coatings can modulate endothelialization of the article surface to reduce the risk of adverse tissue responses that may reduce the functionality of the device. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243244 | Metallic Endoprosthesis Compatible with Magnetic Resonance - A metallic endoprosthesis is provided and causes no significant artefacts on images taken by magnetic resonance tomography (MRT), as a result of the combination of the production materials with a special design, which permits an evaluation of the externally adjacent region and the lumen of the endoprosthesis by means of MRT. The endoprosthesis is made from a material with a magnetisability similar to human tissue. The design of the endoprosthesis is such that the members or wires of the endoprosthesis run extensively along the longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis, without forming a closed circuit in a plane which is essentially perpendicular to the endoprosthesis longitudinal axis. Further variations of the endoprosthesis design are possible, which all offer a full compatibility with MR for the endoprosthesis | 2008-10-02 |
20080243245 | Percutaneous Heart Valve Prosthesis - A percutaneous heart valve prosthesis ( | 2008-10-02 |
20080243246 | Replacement prosthetic heart valves and methods of implantation - A replacement prosthetic heart valve for engagement with a structure of a previously implanted prosthetic heart valve. The replacement heart valve includes a stent structure including a generally tubular body portion with an interior area and a series of wire portions arranged in a mesh-like configuration, and at least one stent post engaging structure extending radially outwardly from the body portion for engaging with an outer surface of a stent post of the previously implanted prosthetic heart valve. The stent structure further includes at least two leaflets attached within the interior area of the tubular body portion of the stent structure. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243247 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF ADULT GLAUCOMA - An apparatus and method for reducing intraocular pressure in a patient's eye is provided. A deformable intraocular member having a relaxed state with a relaxed profile having a first width, a first energized state with a first profile having a second width, and a second energized state with a second profile having a third width is provided. The deformable intraocular member relaxed state width is greater than the width of a lens capsule which surrounds a lens of the patient's eye prior to cataract surgery. The second energized state width is greater than the patient's lens capsule width after cataract surgery and smaller than the width in the relaxed state. The deformable intraocular member in the second energized state is configured to urge deformation of the lens capsule to thereby promote opening of a trabecular meshwork and canal of Schlemm of the patient's eye to promote drainage of aqueous humor from an anterior chamber and reduce intraocular pressure in the patient's eye. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243248 | In situ graft preparation for knee ligament reconstruction - Methods of ligament repair are provided. A ligament graft is arranged in a tensioning device and placed adjacent to a heating surface. The heating surface is activated to heat the graft. The graft is tensioned while on the substantially dry heating surface to provide laxity to the graft. The size of the relaxed graft remains the same until the graft is implanted in a bone tunnel as either an anterior or posterior cruciate ligament graft. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243249 | Devices for multipoint emplacement in a body part and methods of use of such devices - Disclosed are methods and devices for accessing body parts using a plurality of access points to facilitate the repair of such body parts. The multipoint access devices and methods of the present invention may facilitate manipulating tools and materials that can be used in the repair of bone and other body parts. In certain embodiments, the multipoint access and repair devices of the present invention may be used for sectioning and repair of a vertebral body or an intervertebral disc. Additionally, methods and devices for emplacing an expandable barrier structure are disclosed. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243250 | Lateral Spinous Process Spacer - Interspinous process implants are disclosed. Also disclosed are systems and kits including such implants, methods of inserting such implants, and methods of alleviating pain or discomfort associated with the spinal column. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243251 | Intervertebral Device Having Expandable Endplates - An intervertebral implant having an endplate that can be slidably expanded following its placement in the intervertebral space. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243252 | Spinal implant system - The present invention provides an intervertebral prosthesis generally defining a first wall, a second wall, sidewalls extending from the first wall to the second wall, and an upper surface and a lower surface. One or more passages may be included providing for an affixation element, to be inserted therethrough. The passages may each include a first portion for receiving a head or tip of an affixation element, and a second portion of a smaller diameter, where a substantial amount of the second portion of the passage located above or below a midline of the prosthesis. One or more openings may also be provided on the spinal prosthesis for coupling the prosthesis to a surgical tool, and the upper and lower surfaces of the prosthesis may include a depression or portion void of any teeth for the insertion of the prosthesis where a distraction tool is situated about the surgical site. | 2008-10-02 |
20080243253 | Intervertebral Disc Prosthesis - The invention relates to an intervertebral disc prosthesis consisting of: an upper plate, a lower plate having an essentially-flat support surface, and an intermediate element comprising a base which is equipped with a rim and which is topped with a spherical cap. The upper plate and the cap define a ball and socket joint therebetween. The base of the intermediate element comes into contact with the support surfaces, while the lower plate is equipped with a guide comprising two edges which maintain the intermediate element therebetween. The rim of the base comes into contact with the edges and said rim is circular in shape and adapted to enable the intermediate element to roll along the length of the edges | 2008-10-02 |