41st week of 2008 patent applcation highlights part 48 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20080249505 | METHOD FOR MOUNTING AN INFUSION SET WITH USER-CONTROLLED 360-DEGREE ROTARY MOTION HUB TO AN INFUSION SITE - A method for mounting an infusion set to an infusion site includes adhering an infuser base of the insertion set to an infusion site on a user's skin and inserting a cannula cartridge of the infusion set into an opening of the infuser base such that a cannula of the cannula cartridge is subcutaneously inserted into the infusion site. Subsequently, the method includes removeably attaching a hub of the infusion set to a barb of the infuser base such that a hub needle of the hub pierces a self-sealing septum of the cannula cartridge, thereby creating a fluid pathway from the hub needle to the cannula. In the method, the attachment of the hub to the barb is such that user-controlled three-hundred and sixty (360°) rotatable motion between the hub and the barb is provided. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249506 | Methods of treating diverticula - A method for treating a diverticulum includes the step of examining a diverticulum by inserting an endoscope into a body cavity. The method further includes the step of applying a material to the diverticulum with the endoscope. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249507 | Emergency Electrode on Medical Tube - A food administering apparatus including a feeding tube, having a distal outlet and proximal inlet, adapted for insertion of the distal outlet into the stomach of an adult patient while the proximal inlet is outside the patient, the tube being suitable for administering food or medicine from a proximal port to the distal outlet and at least one electrode mounted on the tube. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249508 | Connector for Medical Use - A connector for medical use includes an adapter equipped at its center with a needle extending into a chamber and optionally terminating in a part of a terminal end of the chamber. The terminal end has a cross section suitable for receiving, by friction, a luer type male connector. The needle a terminal part including an orifice or orifices, which is encased in a cavity of an elastic seal having, in the thickness of its free end, a slit or equivalent. The elastic seal has a free end at a tangent to that of the chamber and is provided with a ring encircling its terminal part at least as far as the zone opposite the orifice or orifices of the needle. Along part of the length of the terminal end of the chamber, the outer surface of the elastic seal and/or the inner surface or thickness of the ring has at least one recess for promoting the expulsion of the material constituting the seal, at the time of passage of the needle. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249509 | Stabilized elongate implantable vascular access device - A vascular access port is described that is elongate in form. A distal end is coupled to a tube which leads into a body lumen. A proximal end has a head thereon with a septum which can be repeatedly penetrated by a needle and reseal, for repeated administration of medications or other compositions through the port and into the body of the patient. A wing is attached to the body that has two positions including a streamlined first position for implantation and a wider second position for stabilization of the port after implantation. A stay is preferably also provided to abut the wing when in the second position to keep the wing in the second position when fully deployed. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249510 | MEMBRANE-BASED FLUID CONTROL IN MICROFLUIDIC DEVICES - A microfluidic device may include a substrate that defines a flow-control cavity and first and second channels in fluid communication with the flow-control cavity. A compliant membrane for regulating fluid flow through the flow-control cavity may surround at least a portion of the flow-control cavity. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249511 | In Situ Blood Vessel and Aneurysm Treatment - Treatment of aneurysmal blood vessels with local delivery of therapeutic agents thereby reduces or lessens the severity of an aneurysm, and, where used in conjunction with the placement of an excluding device, provides for more rapid recovery of the blood vessel from any disturbance occurring during placement of the excluding device. Therapeutic agents are placed in the aneurysmal site in a time-release carrier medium, such that the therapeutic agent is released into the aneurysmal site over a period of time without the need to provide systemic introduction of the therapeutic agent. The carrier may be introduced through the patient's dermis, such as with the use of a laparoscope, or intravascularly, through the use of a catheter. The carrier may be in a solid matrix, viscous liquid or liquid form. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249512 | Surgical visual feedback and eye fixation method and apparatus - A fixation apparatus is provided that limits rotation of the ocular globe of an eye, to facilitate alignment of an instrument with the axis of astigmatism of the eye. The apparatus includes fixation target means ( | 2008-10-09 |
20080249513 | Apparatus for Treatment of Material, in Particular for Refractive Surgery - A device and a computer program for material processing, in particular refractive eye surgery, operate with a pulsed femtosecond laser and the individual focal points are positioned in such a way that the spacings of neighbouring focal points for the most part vary, in order to avoid a regular grating structure avoiding undesired diffraction phenomena. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249514 | Method and Apparatus for Multi-Step Correction of Ophthalmic Refractive Errors - A technique of refractive eye correction employs multiple steps to correct refractive errors in the eye. In the first step, gross decentrations of the refractive error are corrected, allowing the subsequent steps to be relatively symmetric in their treatment profile. Then, the eye's refractive error is again measured, and a subsequent treatment is applied for the remaining error. The overall treatment is thus completed in two or more steps. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249515 | Interventional Devices and Methods For Laser Ablation - Laser catheter systems include catheters, mandrels, guidewires, and fiber optics configured to reduce or remove occlusions in a lumen or vessel of a patient. Rotation or translation of a mandrel, a guidewire, or a catheter can induce relative rotational or translational movement between the mandrel or guidewire and the catheter body, and can cause the distal end of the catheter body to rotate or traverse off of a central axis, such as a central longitudinal axis of a proximal or unbent portion of the catheter body, so as to cause ablation energy from the optical fibers to move in an arc or path. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249516 | Device for creating openings in pressurized vessels with deformable walls - The catheter ( | 2008-10-09 |
20080249517 | Light Coupling Adapter Device For Photodynamic Or Photothermal Therapy Or Photodynamic Diagnosis, Corresponding System And Method - A system configured for photodynamic or photothermal therapy and photodynamic diagnosis of a tissue is | 2008-10-09 |
20080249518 | Ablation Devices with Sensor Structures - A cardiac ablation device, including a steerable catheter ( | 2008-10-09 |
20080249519 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING ENERGY TO BIOLOGICAL TISSUE INCLUDING THE USE OF TUMESCENT TISSUE COMPRESSION - An electrode catheter is introduced into a hollow anatomical structure, such as a vein, and is positioned at a treatment site within the structure. Tumescent fluid is injected into the tissue surrounding the treatment site to produce tumescence of the surrounding tissue which then compresses the vein. The solution may include an anesthetic, and may further include a vasoconstrictive drug that shrinks blood vessels. The tumescent swelling in the surrounding tissue causes the hollow anatomical structure to become compressed, thereby exsanguinating the treatment site. Energy is applied by an electrode catheter in apposition with the vein wall to create a heating effect. The heating effect causes the hollow anatomical structure to become molded and durably assume the compressed dimensions caused by the tumescent technique. The electrode catheter can be moved within the structure so as to apply energy to a large section of the hollow anatomic structure. In a further aspect, the location of the electrodes is determined by impedance monitoring. Also, temperature sensors at the treatment site are averaged to determine the site temperature. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249520 | System and method for providing even heat distribution and cooling return pads - A return pad for use with an electrosurgical system is disclosed. The return pad includes a conductive layer, a contact layer configured to engage a patient's skin and an intermediate layer disposed between the conductive layer and the contact layer. The intermediate layer is adapted to distribute energy. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249521 | System and method for providing even heat distribution and cooling return pads - A return pad for use with an electrosurgical system is disclosed. The return pad includes a conductive layer, a contact layer configured to engage a patient's skin and an intermediate layer disposed between the conductive layer and the contact layer. The intermediate layer is adapted to distribute energy. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249522 | Irrigated Catheter with Improved fluid flow - An irrigated catheter with uniform cooling and/or uniform fluid distribution in longitudinally spaced apart elution holes by varying the diameter of a fluid delivery lumen. A number of elution holes are provided in a tip region of a catheter body, and these elution holes are in fluid communication with the lumen through ducts. The fluid deliver lumen has may provided with a flow constrictor to restrict flow of fluid towards the distal region. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249523 | Controller for flexible tissue ablation procedures - An electrosurgical system including a generator configured to supply radiofrequency (RF) energy is disclosed. The system includes at least two electrodes configured to apply RF energy to tissue and at least one return electrode for returning the RF energy to the generator. The generator may operate in a first operational mode and at least one other operational mode. The system includes a controller configured to control the application of RF energy to each of the two or more electrodes and the return of RF energy to the generator. The controller includes a plurality of switching components configured to selectively switch the flow of the RF energy between the two or more electrodes and between the return electrode and at least one of the two or more electrodes based on the operational mode of the generator. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249524 | System and method for providing even heat distribution and cooling return pads - The present disclosure relates to a return pad for use with an electrosurgical system and includes a contact layer configured to engage patient skin, a conductive layer disposed on the contact layer, and a heating layer operatively associated with at least one of the contact layer and the conductive layer. The heating layer is configured to heat the return pad. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249525 | Radio Frequency Ablation Electrode for Selected Tissue Removal - The present invention relates to a radiofrequency electrode for selective ablation of a body tissue, comprising a first electrode | 2008-10-09 |
20080249526 | Method and apparatus for surgical dissection - An apparatus for dissecting tissue in a substantially uniform plane of dissection includes a housing configured to be advanced under a tissue layer, and control one of a depth of dissection or tissue flap thickness. The housing thermally shields at least a portion of the tissue flap. A roller is coupled to the housing. The roller is configured to smoothly advance housing over tissue. An energy delivery device is coupled to housing. The energy delivery device is configured to be coupled to an energy source. The energy delivery device has a geometry that substantially defines a plane of dissection. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249527 | Electrosurgical instrument reducing current densities at an insulator conductor junction - An electrosurgical instrument having opposing end effectors and a handle for effecting movement of the end effectors relative to one another, includes a pair of electrodes each including an electrically conductive surface (e.g., which can be dimensioned for sealing, clamping and/or cutting), an insulating substrate having a first edge, and an insulating layer positioned in a channel formed by the electrically conductive surface within the first edge between the conductive surface and the first edge of the insulating substrate. The insulating layer has a portion proximal to the electrically conductive surface and a portion distal from the electrically conductive surface and a gradient such that the proximal portion has a lower dielectric strength than the distal portion. A coating on one of the pair of electrodes may be disposed in at least partial non-vertical registration with a coating on the opposing one of the pair of electrodes. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249528 | Rotating Interspinous Device - The invention concerns an implant which consists in a device used between the spinous processes to produce a distraction and a decompression. It consists of two separate parts, one female ( | 2008-10-09 |
20080249529 | Dual incision disc repair device and method - The invention includes a device and method for positioning the device within a disc space of a patient. In one embodiment, a method of positioning an implant within a disc space of a patient includes making a first incision in an annulus of an intervertebral disc, making a second incision in the annulus of the intervertebral disc, clearing a space within the intervertebral disc, moving a first filler portion into the space through the first incision, moving a second filler portion into the space through the first incision and moving the second filler portion out of the space through the second incision. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249530 | BONE TREATMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods for delivering bone cement into a bone can include a handle body defining a flow path, a thermal emitter in the handle body to apply energy to bone cement passing through the flow path, a source of bone cement and an injection cannula. The cannula can be in communication with the flow path such that inserting the cannula into a bone can allow a flow of bone cement therethrough to an opening at a distal end of the cannula. Other systems and methods for delivering bone cement into a bone can include an injector body with a handle portion, and a cannula, a bone cement container, a low pressure drive mechanism configured to effect a flow of bone cement from said container to the injector body and a high pressure drive mechanism configured to effect a flow of bone cement through the injector body into the bone. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249531 | Instruments and methods for minimally invasive insertion of dynamic implants - Instruments and methods for dynamic implant placement into a desired location in the patient include a guide instrument that defines a minimally invasive pathway to an implantation location and an inserter instrument guided by the guide instrument to position the dynamic implant along the pathway to the implantation location. The guide instrument can be referenced to the implantation location by mechanical connection or image guided navigation. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249532 | Securing device to secure fixation devices to bone portions - The present invention discloses a securing device that is used to secure a fixation device to two bone portions to promote healing between the two bone portions. The bone portions commonly include a skull bone portion and a skull bone flap or implant, and the fixation device is commonly a cranial clamp. The securing device provides for securing the fixation device in a uniform, single movement as opposed to currently available products. The securing device has two handles pivotably connected, and a gripping means moveably associated with one handle. As the handles are activated, the gripping means travels proximally along the one handle and grips an elongated section of the fixation device and exerts a tensioning force along the shaft of the elongated section prior to the cutting means cutting the elongated shaft to secure the fixation device in place. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249533 | Medical Device and Method For Controlling Obesity - A method of, and device for, slowing the passage of food through a digestive tract of a patient and thereby treating obesity. The device is an obesity tube comprising (A) an upper ring of a size corresponding to a point under a patient's esophagus and above the patient's diaphragm muscle, and (B) a lower tube having a length and a distal opening. The method comprises stapling the upper ring under the patient's esophagus, above the patient's diaphragm muscle, and placing the lower tube distal to the upper ring. The length of the lower tube depends on whether the tube is to terminate distally in the stomach or terminate past the pylorus, in which case a section can be provided which is thick enough to resist collapsing under pylorus pressure. The lower tube can be entirely or partially non-permeable or semi-permeable. Semi-permeable tubes or sections thereof have walls which permit the passage of gastric hydrochloric acid but not food. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249534 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DISTENDING A GYNECOLOGICAL CAVITY - Method and device for distending a gynecological cavity. According to one embodiment, a mechanical, non-fluid device is used to distend the gynecological cavity. Such devices include, for example, self-expanding members, such as resilient baskets, coils, whisks, prongs, and loops, or mechanically expanded members, such as inflatable balloons, mechanically-expanded cages and loops, and scissor jacks. The device may serve a purpose in addition to distension, such as illumination, imaging, irrigation, drug delivery, resection and cauterization. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249535 | Vaginal Spring Loaded Delineator - A gynecological instrument for delineating the formix of the vagina during laparoscopic surgeries having a spring, which proximal end is affixed to a solid ring and the distal end is affixed to a base. The extension of the base can be inserted into the head of the Valtchev® Uterine Mobilizer and locked in place. The solid ring can be tilted in any direction, and can come closer to the base, allowing automatic adjustment for the angles of the formix of the vagina and the cervical length. An elastic plastic ring is provided, for placing on the solid ring, in order to protect the ring and instrument which is used to open the vagina laparoscopically. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249536 | INTERFACE ASSEMBLY FOR CONTROLLING ORIENTATION OF ROBOTICALLY CONTROLLED MEDICAL INSTRUMENT - Interface assemblies for controlling an orientation of a working instrument of a robotic medical instrument system. A base member is coupled to a distal end of an instrument such as a robotically controllable catheter. A spacer element is retained between the base member and a platform member, which is movable relative to the base member about the spacer element. One or more control elements extending through a base member aperture can be used to control an orientation of the platform member and working instrument. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249537 | Skin Resurfacing Device - A skin resurfacing device for peeling the outermost layer of the skin for renewing the skin surface and repairing skin damage including a housing, a skin sensor, and a skin treater. The skin treater consists of an abrasive tip, a first end, a transparent portion, a first filter, and a second end, all of which are detachable and replaceable. The skin treater is connected to a vacuum source by a tubular hose. The vacuum provides both closeness of contact between the abrasive tip and the user's skin and the suctioning of skin debris peeled off. The skin treater, especially the abrasive tip is made with common material and mass production process so that they are disposable and economic. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249538 | Transoral endoscopic gastroesophageal flap valve restoration device, assembly, system and method - The invention provides a device, assembly, and method for transoral endoscopic restoration of a gastroesophageal flap valve. The invention also provides a self-steering and self-closing tissue fixation device for tissue fixation, and an invaginator device for gripping and maneuvering tissue. The restoration device includes a longitudinal member arranged for transoral placement into a stomach, a tissue shaper carried on the longitudinal member that causes stomach tissue to assume a shape related to a gastroesophageal flap, and a tissue fixation device that maintains the shaped stomach tissue in a shape approximating a gastroesophageal flap. The tissue shaper may include a mold. The device may include the invaginator device for gripping and maneuvering esophageal tissue to aid restoration of the gastroesophageal flap, and may include the tissue fixation device. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249539 | DEVICE FOR PLICATING AND FASTENING GASTRIC TISSUE - A device for creating a plication within a hollow organ. The device has an elongated member with distal and proximal ends. The distal end is for insertion into a body cavity. The elongated member has an end effector at its distal end. The end effector includes an outer cylinder having at least one opening in its cylindrical wall. The end effector also has an inner cylinder having at least one opening in its cylindrical. The inner cylinder is at least partially disposed within the outer cylinder such that the apertures can at least partially overlap. In addition, the cylinders are rotatable with respect to each other. In addition, the device includes a tubular channel running through the elongated member which is in fluid communication with the end effector. The channel has a vacuum source attached at its proximal end. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249540 | METHOD FOR PLICATING AND FASTENING GASTRIC TISSUE - A method for creating a plication within a hollow organ. The method uses an elongated member having an end effector at its distal end. The end effector has an outer cylinder having at least one opening in its cylindrical wall, and an inner cylinder having at least one opening in its cylindrical wall. The inner cylinder is at least partially disposed within the outer cylinder such that the apertures can at least partially overlap. The cylinders are rotatable with respect to each other. The method includes the step of inserting the end effector within an organ of a patient such that it is in contact with tissue. The method also involves applying vacuum through the elongated member so as to dispose tissue within the inner cylinder. The method also involves creating a plication by rotating the cylinders with respect to each other. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249541 | DEVICE FOR PLICATING AND FASTENING GASTRIC TISSUE - A device for maintaining a plication within a hollow organ. The device includes an elongated member having distal and proximal ends. The distal end is for insertion into a body cavity. The elongated member has an end effector at its distal end. The end effector has an outer cylinder having at least one opening, and an inner cylinder having at least one opening. The inner cylinder is at least partially disposed within the outer cylinder and the cylinders are rotatable with respect to each other. The end effector is detachable from the elongated member such that it can remain within the body cavity. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249542 | DEVICE FOR PLICATING AND FASTENING GASTRIC TISSUE - A device for creating a plication within a hollow organ. The device includes an elongated member having distal and proximal ends. The device has an end effector attached to the distal end of the elongated member. The end effector has a substantially hollow housing, a fixed jaw extending distally from the housing, and a retractable jaw located within the housing. The jaw is slidable distally such that the retractable jaw can juxtapose the fixed jaw. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249543 | Ligature Carrier - A ligament carrier and suturing device ( | 2008-10-09 |
20080249544 | Medical Device for Applying Purse String Sutures - A surgical instrument for applying purse string sutures to tissue is provided that includes two circular discs that each have notches within a perimeter of the disc for receiving tissue and through which a suture wire may pass. The device also includes push plates for advancing the suture wires through the notches of the two circular discs and into portions of the tissue. Suture is placed within each push plate and is connected to ends of the suture wires. Suction is applied to the circular discs through a shaft to draw the tissue into the respective notches of the circular discs so that the suture wires may be advanced through the tissue and the sutures can then be pulled through the tissue to create two purse-string sutures. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249545 | SUTURING, CRIMPING AND CUTTING DEVICE - A percutaneous surgical device is provided, which comprises a combination wound suturing and crimping and cutting device. In one exemplary embodiment a crimping and cutting device portion nests within a suturing device portion. The combined device may locate a vessel wound and pass suture through the vessel walls surrounding the wound. Then, the crimping and cutting portion may detach, the suturing portion may be removed, and the crimping and cutting portion may be located to the wound site to apply a fastener (e.g., a ferrule). | 2008-10-09 |
20080249546 | ANASTOMOSIS SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A surgical connection apparatus including a plurality of delivery assemblies, a housing assembly, and a drive mechanism. The delivery assemblies each include an outer member, an inner member, and optionally a retention member. The inner member is disposed within the outer member, terminates at a distal tip and forms an internal passage that is open at a window. The delivery assemblies releasably retain a self-closing clip. The housing assembly maintains the delivery assemblies in a generally circular arrangement. The drive mechanism operates to transition the delivery assembly in releasing a self-closing clip from the corresponding delivery assembly. With this construction, a plurality of self-closing clips can be simultaneously deployed in a manner effectuating, for example, an end-to-side anastomosis. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249547 | Tissue clamp - The present invention relates to a tissue clamp, a tool for grasping the clamp and a method of using the clamp for surgical procedures. The clamp has a fixture or fixtures positioned on the proximal end of the arms of the clamp so that a tool can be used by the surgeon to securely grasp the clamp during placement thereof on the vasculature or other tissue of the patient. The fixture can have a plurality of channels so that the user can select the angular orientation of the tool relative to the damp. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249548 | Corneal graft preparation - There is disclosed a method of separating a posterior endothelial layer of a donor cornea having an epithelium, layers of stroma, a Descemet's membrane and an endothelium, after the donor cornea has been harvested from a cadaver. The method comprises the steps of mounting the donor cornea on an artificial anterior chamber provided with a datum point and means for receiving a microkeratome and using the microkeratome to separate the posterior endothelial layer of the donor cornea. The artificial anterior chamber is configured such that the datum point is located at a predetermined height relative to the endothelium when the donor cornea is mounted, and a cutting height of the microkeratome is set to a predetermined height with reference to the datum point. There is also disclosed an artificial anterior chamber and a microkeratome for use with the method. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249549 | SKIN LESION EXCISER AND SKIN-CLOSURE DEVICE THEREFOR - A device for excising tissue and closing a wound that results from excision of the tissue includes structure defining an aperture into which tissue to be excised is exposed. The device also includes a cutting member for excising the tissue, a closure member for closing the wound, and an actuatable drive member associated with the structure. The drive member is actuatable to move the cutting member relative to the aperture for excising the tissue that is exposed in the aperture and for closing the wound with the closure member. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249550 | Miniature disposable safety scalpel - A disposable safety scalpel comprises a handle and a blade carrier, which fit together such that the blade carrier can shift between a retracted position whereby a front portion of the handle covers or otherwise blocks contact with the sharp edge of the blade, and an extended position whereby the sharp edge of the blade protrudes beyond the handle. The handle has a substantially flat base portion that can be held by the forefinger of the surgeon for shifting of the carrier with the thumb between retracted and extended positions. When the carrier and blade are extended, the surgeon can hold only the base of the handle between the thumb and forefinger for cutting during surgery. The shifting between the retracted and deployed positions with only the fingers of one hand can be readily accomplished even in the presence of slippery fluids during surgery. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249551 | MANIPULATOR SYSTEM AND CONTROL APPARATUS - A manipulator has an operation command unit and an exchangeable working unit. The working unit comprises an end effector operable under actions of a control apparatus, and an ID retaining section holding an ID for individualized discrimination of the working unit. The control apparatus includes an ID identification section for identifying the ID and for determining whether the working unit is connected to the operation command unit, an origin point recognition section for recognizing whether the end effector is in a prescribed origin point position or in a non-origin point position, and a warning section which generates a detachment warning when it is determined that the end effector has been detached from the operation command unit, in the event it is determined that the end effector is in a non-origin point position. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249552 | Working tool for medical purposes with rotating blade of adjustable size and a method thereof - The present invention relates to a cost effective working tool useful for lateral resection of biological tissues by means of a flexible blade with an adjustable curve size. Said rod-like tool has a distal end, adapted to be inserted into a body cavity, and a proximal end, located adjacent to a user. The longitudinal axis of said maneuverable blade is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the said tool or shifted in respect to the same. The working tool comprising a bending mechanism, adapted to adjust the bending of said blade to a predetermined measure and a rotating mechanism, adapted to rotate said blade in a lateral, bi-directional movement in respect to the resected tissue such that a side-to-side resection is obtained. A novel method of lateral resecting of biological tissues by the same is also presented. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249553 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND DEVICE FOR TISSUE REMOVAL - A method and device for tissue removal. The device may be used to remove uterine fibroids and other abnormal gynecological tissue. According to one embodiment, the device includes a housing, an outer tube, and an inner tube. The outer tube is fixed to the housing and includes a side window proximate to its distal end. The side window may have sloped proximal and distal ends. The inner tube has a distal end positioned within the outer tube, the distal end being adapted to rotate and, at the same time, to move back and forth past the side window, with the rotational and translational movement of the inner tube being independently controllable. The distal end of the inner tube may have an external bevel. Suction is applied to the proximal end of the inner tube to draw tissue into the side window and to remove resected tissue through the inner tube. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249554 | Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue - These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes an electrically powered drive force generator. A penetrating member is operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves the member along a path out of a housing having a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stops in the tissue site, and withdraws out of the tissue site. An analyte detecting member is positioned to receive fluid from a wound created by the penetrating member. The detection member is configured to determine a concentration of an analyte in the fluid using a sample of less than 1 μL of the fluid. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249555 | Puncturing System - A puncturing system for obtaining a body fluid sample includes a lancet that is accelerated by a puncturing drive for a puncturing motion in the direction of puncturing, whereby the puncturing system comprises an adjustment facility for adjusting the puncturing depth up to which a lancet penetrates into the body of a patient during a puncture. The adjustment facility includes a limit stop element that can be moved transverse to the direction of puncturing and comprises a first side that faces the body of a patient during a puncture and a second side having a limit stop surface against which a limit stop that is connected to the lancet hits during a puncture. The distance from the limit stop surface to the first side of the limit stop element with respect to the lancet changes as the limit step element is moved in a direction transverse to the direction of puncturing. Accordingly, movement of the limit stop element transverse to the direction of puncturing may be used to adjust the distance that the tip of a lancet projects beyond a first side of the limit stop element during a puncture. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249556 | DISSECTION APPARATUS AND DISSECTION METHOD - A dissection apparatus includes a main body portion which extends from a proximal end side to a distal end side, and a dissecting portion which is provided to a distal end of the main body portion and adapted to dissect a blood vessel from a living tissue, the dissecting portion including a flat portion which is to be pressed against the blood vessel. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249557 | Screw for Vascular Occlusion - A vascular occlusion screw ( | 2008-10-09 |
20080249558 | IMPLANT RECOVERY DEVICE - The present invention provides a device for delivering and/or recovering an object, such as a patent foramen ovale (PFO) occluder. According to one embodiment of the invention, a device contains an outer sleeve and an inner sheath. The inner sheath has a proximal portion and a distal portion; the distal portion of the inner sheath is disposed inside the lumen of the outer sleeve. The distal portion of the inner sheath can expand radially to facilitate retrieval of an object. The distal portion of the inner sheath has a larger diametrical configuration than the proximal portion of the inner sheath. The distal portion of the inner sheath may be in the shape of a cone or similar shape. The distal portion of the inner sheath further includes slits that form flaps which collapse inward and overlap each other as the distal portion is in its unexpanded configuration. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249559 | COMPRESSION DEVICE WITH IMPROVED MOISTURE EVAPORATION - A circumferential compression sleeve has bladder openings extending through a bladder, making the sleeve generally breathable and comfortable for the wearer. The device has a static evaporation rate through the device of at least about 20 mg/minute. The device has a convective evaporation resistance of less than about 75. In one example, the device includes a wicking layer for contacting the wearer's skin. The wicking layer wicks moisture from the wearer's skin and generally moves the moisture to portions of the layer in registration with the openings where the moisture is allowed to evaporate therethrough. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249560 | METHOD FOR PLICATING AND FASTENING GASTRIC TISSUE - A method of implanting a device to maintain a plication within a hollow organ. The method uses an elongated member having an end effector at its distal end. The end effector has an outer cylinder having at least one opening, and an inner cylinder having at least one opening. The inner cylinder is at least partially disposed within the outer cylinder and the cylinders are rotatable with respect to each other. The end effector is detachable from the elongated member such that it can remain within the body cavity. The method involves the step of inserting the end effector within the organ of a patient such that it is in contact with tissue. The method also involves the step of applying vacuum through the elongated member so as to dispose tissue within the inner cylinder. The method also involves the step of creating a plication by rotating the cylinders with respect to each other. The method also involves the step of detaching the end effector from the elongated member. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249561 | METHOD FOR PLICATING AND FASTENING GASTRIC TISSUE - A method for creating a plication within a hollow organ. The method uses an elongated member having an end effector attached to its distal end. The end effector has a substantially hollow housing, a fixed jaw extending distally from the housing, and a retractable jaw located within the housing. The method involves the step of inserting the end effector within an organ of a patient such that it is in contact with tissue. The method also involves applying vacuum through the elongated member so as to dispose tissue on the fixed jaw and at least partially within the housing. The method also involves creating a plication by sliding the retractable jaw so that it juxtaposes the fixed jaw. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249562 | SEPTAL CLOSURE DEVICE WITH CENTERING MECHANISM - In one aspect, the present invention provides a device for occluding an aperture in a body, for example, a patent foramen ovale (PFO), including a first side adapted to be disposed on one side of the septum and a second side adapted to be disposed on the opposite side of the septum. The device has an elongated, low-profile delivery configuration and a shortened, radially expanded deployment configuration. The first and second sides are adapted to occlude the aperture upon deployment of the device at its intended delivery location. The device also includes a radially expandable center portion. In some embodiments, the center portion includes a plurality of ribs provided by slits in device. The ribs expand radially when the device is deployed. The expandable center portion facilitates the positioning of the device in the aperture. The device can be secured in the deployed configuration using a catch system. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249563 | Method and apparatus for tissue fastening - Methods and apparatus directed to tissue capture, presentation and retention using a surgical apparatus. One or more tissue capture arms can include surface features that engage captured tissue and provide omni-directional support during capture and retention of the tissue. The tissue clamping arm can include improved centering features for positioning captured tissue relative to a penetrator that is advance into the capture tissue. Through improved tissue handling and tissue retention relative to the penetrator, captured tissue can be consistently pierced regardless of external forces and techniques. The tissue clamping arm can include gripping members arranged along an interface surface to improve tissue grip and presentation. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249564 | Absorbable Surgical Fasteners - The present disclosure provides absorbable surgical fasteners. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249565 | Endovascular Flexible Stapling Device - The present invention concerns a flexible stapling device ( | 2008-10-09 |
20080249566 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR REDUCING GASTRIC VOLUME - The present invention involves new interventional methods and devices for reducing gastric volume, and thereby treating obesity. The procedures are generally performed laparoscopically and may generally be described as laparoscopic plication gastroplasty (LPG) in which, after obtaining abdominal access, spaced apart sites on a gastric wall are engaged and approximated to create one or more tissue folds that are then secured to produce one or more plications projecting into the gastrointestinal space. The serosal tissue may optionally be treated during the procedure to promote the formation of a strong serosa-to-serosa bond that ensures the long-term stability of the tissue plication. These procedures are preferably carried out entirely extragastrically (i.e. without penetrating through the gastrointestinal wall), thereby minimizing the risks of serious complications. Methods for reversing the procedure are also disclosed. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249567 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - A surgical instrument having an anchor and a plug is capable of anchoring a suture. The suture anchor has an anchor body having a top surface, a bottom surface distal to the top surface, a transverse bore and a well, the well having an outer surface, an inner surface, and an inner bottom surface. The plug has a post, a head, and a bottom face. The anchor body and the anchor plus form a suture anchor. The suture anchor may be used during surgical procedures and can be used in the re-tensioning of a suture. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249568 | Crossbar Spinal Prosthesis Having a Modular Design and Systems for Treating Spinal Pathologies - An adaptable spinal facet joint prosthesis, including a pedicle fixation element; a laminar fixation element; and a facet joint bearing surface having a location adaptable with respect at least one of the pedicle fixation element and the laminar fixation element. The invention also includes a method of implanting an adaptable spinal facet joint prosthesis including the steps of determining a desired position for a facet joint bearing surface; and attaching a prosthesis comprising a facet joint bearing surface to a pedicle portion of a vertebra and a lamina portion of a vertebra to place the facet joint bearing surface in the desired position. The invention also provides a facet joint prosthesis implant tool including a tool guide adapted to guide a vertebra cutting tool; and first and second fixation hole alignment elements extending from the saw guide. The invention also provides systems for treating spinal pathologies that include intervertebral discs in combination with spinal and facet joint prostheses. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249569 | Implant Face Plates - A faceplate for at least partially covering a plurality of anchor member apertures in an implantable member includes a main body sized to at least partially overlap the plurality of anchor member apertures of the implantable member and configured to inhibit anchor member back-out from the plurality of anchor member apertures. A locking tab may be associated with the main body, the locking tab being formed to at least partially elastically deform to engage the implantable member and secure the main body in place. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249570 | Adjustable multi-axial spinal coupling assemblies - Coupling assemblies and systems and methods are provided with an anchor member movably coupled with a receiver member extending along a receiver axis. A seat member is movable in the receiver member to assume any one of a plurality of orientations corresponding to an orientation of a connecting element extending through the receiver member transversely to the receiver axis. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249571 | REPLACEMENT FACET JOINT AND METHOD - Prostheses and methods for repair of a cervical fact joint. The articulating surfaces of the natural facets of the facet joint are removed only a sufficient amount to allow the insertion of flat or slightly curvilinear portions of protheses therebetween in an overlapping relationship. The portions are so inserted and the prostheses mounted by attachment to adjacent vertebrae. Also, a single natural facet may be similarly repaired with a single prosthesis. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249572 | Bone Plate - A bone plate ( | 2008-10-09 |
20080249573 | Bone Connection Device - An implantable orthopedic device having a load-bearing element, such as a bone plate, with at least one opening for a fixation element and one insert which can be inserted in an inclined opening in a receptacle in the bore. This insert has an external form that is at least partially complementary to the internal form of the receptacle and a central through-bore for receiving the body of the fixation element such as a bone screw. The insert also provides a locking system for holding the insert in the receptacle, in which the insert exhibits at least one locking mechanism with which conformal locking with the load-bearing element may be achieved. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249574 | Bone Screw System - A set of screws sized and configured for fixing a Jones fracture in a fifth metatarsal bone of a patient by preserving a bone thread path. Each screw has a low profile head on a trailing end, a thread portion on a leading portion, and a smooth shank portion between the head portion and the thread portion. A first screw has a thread major diameter of between about 4.4-4.6 mm, a second screw a thread major diameter of between about 5.4-5.6 mm, and a third screw a thread major diameter of between about 6.4-6.6 mm. The thread portion of all the screws in the set has a set of identical thread profile characteristics comprising a pitch, a leading edge angle, a trailing edge angle, a leading edge radius, a trailing edge radius, and a land. Each screw size is provided in various preferred lengths. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249575 | Anchor Member Locking Features - An implantable medical device may include an implant member having an aperture extending therethrough. An anchor member may be configured to extend through the aperture. A locking ring may be supplied to inhibit back-out of the anchor member. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249576 | Pedicle Screw System Configured to Receive a Straight or Curved Rod - A fastener and a bone fixation assembly for the internal fixation of vertebral bodies such as a pedicle screw is provided which allows a detachable tulip to be provisionally locked to a pedicle screw in a first position, while securely locking the tulip assembly to the pedicle screw when in a second position. According to one exemplary embodiment, the tulip assembly includes a tulip body, a coupling saddle, and an expansion ring serving as a fastener. The fastener secures the tulip body to the pedicle screw, while the coupling saddle provides a means to provisionally lock the tulip body at an angle relative to the pedicle screw via an interference fit. Incline planes on the walls of the tulip body provide means to rotationally lock a rod within the tulip assembly, and fully lock the tulip assembly to at an angle relative to the pedicle screw. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249577 | DOME SHAPED IMPLANT AND INSERTER - An implant for resurfacing a joint and a driver for the implant. The inserter attaches to the head of the implant. The inserter is designed to facilitate the handling and insertion of an implant at a surgical site. The inserter is provided with a plurality of arms that securely engage a plurality of indents on the edge or periphery of the implant. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249578 | Fastener for securing two separate workpieces - A locking or fastener system for joining or attaching a first workpiece spaced apart from a second workpiece. A threaded opening is provided in the first workpiece for receiving a screw/collar combination. The screw has a threaded end and a head end. The screw head is rotatingly attached within a cavity within the collar. External threads on the wall of the collar cooperate with the threads in the opening in the first workpiece. When the collar is secured to the first workpiece, the screw may be rotated to engage the second workpiece. By using a wrench having an outer body with extending blades and an inner rod having a screw face, the collar and screw may be tightened to join two spaced-apart workpieces. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249579 | Variable flank bone screw - A bone screw comprising a threaded shank having a longitudinal axis and including a first helical threading extending along a first length of the threaded shank portion and a second helical threading extending from a location proximately adjacent the first helical threading and along a second length of the threaded shank portion. The first helical threading defines a first volume between adjacent thread turns along the first length, and the second helical threading defines a second volume between adjacent thread turns along the second length, with the first volume being different from the second volume. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249580 | Methods and Instruments of Reducing a Fracture - An instrument for reduction of a bone fracture is disclosed. The instrument includes an orthopaedic surgical implant ( | 2008-10-09 |
20080249581 | PAIN FREE DEFIBRILLATION THRESHOLD ESTIMATION - This document discusses, among other things, a system and method for painlessly calculating an estimated defibrillation threshold, such as by using an implantable medical device and a controller. The estimated defibrillation threshold can be calculated using a delivered first energy to a first thoracic location, an electric field detected at a second thoracic location, and an electric field detected between a third thoracic location and a fourth thoracic location. The estimated defibrillation threshold represents an energy that, when delivered at the first thoracic location, can create an electric field strength in a target region of the heart that meets or exceeds a target electric field strength. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249582 | SELF-ADJUSTING OPTIMAL WAVEFORMS - An exemplary method includes detecting fibrillation, measuring impedance of a defibrillation circuit that includes myocardial tissue, determining one or more defibrillation shock parameters based at least in part on the impedance, delivering a defibrillation shock using the one or more defibrillation shock parameters and, if the shock was unsuccessful, adjusting a membrane time constant and determining one or more new defibrillation shock parameters based at least in part on the adjusted membrane time constant. Various other exemplary methods are disclosed as well as various exemplary devices, systems, etc. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249583 | THERAPY CONTROL BASED ON THE RATE OF CHANGE OF INTRACARDIAC IMPEDANCE - A system comprising a medical device that includes an impedance measurement circuit adapted to be coupled to implantable electrodes to obtain an intracardiac impedance signal between electrodes, a therapy circuit operable to deliver a therapy to a subject, and a controller circuit coupled to the impedance measurement circuit and the therapy circuit. The controller circuit determines a time rate of change of the intracardiac impedance signal and adjusts at least one parameter related to therapy in a manner that alters the rate of change. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249584 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CARDIOSYMPATHETIC INHIBITION - Described herein are methods and devices that utilize electrical neural stimulation for inhibiting cardiosympathetic activity in order to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death. In one embodiment, one or more stimulating electrodes are disposed near the left stellate ganglion. An implantable pulse generator delivers neural stimulation to the electrodes in a manner that inhibits activity of the ganglionic tissue. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249585 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHOD FOR LV CORONARY SINUS LEAD IMPLANT SITE OPTIMIZATION - A device is connected to electrode leads which performs intracardiac impedance measurements, conducts a transient pacing protocol, analyses the impedance measurements, and generates an LV lead position quality factor. The transient pacing protocol includes a repeated change (“transitions”) between ventricular intrinsic rhythm and biventricular paced rhythm and may also include a variation of the atrioventricular delay (AVD) and/or the interventricular delay (VVD). The quality factor expresses the degree to which hemodynamic properties have improved due to BiV stimulation for the current LV lead position compared to intrinsic ventricular rhythm. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249586 | CARDIOPULMONARY FUNCTIONAL STATUS ASSESSMENT VIA METABOLIC RESPONSE DETECTION BY IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC DEVICE - An implantable cardiac device is configured and programmed to assess a patient's cardiopulmonary function by evaluating the patient's minute ventilation response. Such evaluation may be performed by computing a minute ventilation response slope, defined as the ratio of an incremental change in minute ventilation to an incremental change in measured activity level. The minute ventilation response slope may then be compared with a normal range to assess the patient's functional status. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249587 | MICROCURRENT STIMULUS APPARATUS - Disclosed therein are a coupling boss and a method for fabricating a coupling boss, that a collar part is formed through a collar drawing process using a metal plate material, and then, a body part of the coupling boss is firmly combined to a substrate plate through processes of deep drawing, tapping, cleansing, plating and iron coining in order, thereby maximizing competitive power in price, miniaturizing the coupling boss in size, and maximizing tensile strength, compression strength, and surface roughness. In this instance, a more stable material thickness can be kept by performing a collar drawing process or a curling process when a screw part of the coupling boss is formed. The processes of: forming a collar part ( | 2008-10-09 |
20080249588 | Electrode Array - The present invention is an electrode array for neural stimulation. In particular, the present invention provides electrode shapes and electrode coating advantageous in maximizing the charge dissipation without harming neural tissue. Neurotophic factors are used to further improve electrode performance. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249589 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OBTAINING AND REGISTERING AN ELECTRICAL COCHLEAR RESPONSE ("ECR") - This invention relates to a method and apparatus for obtaining and registering the Electrical Cochlear Response (“ECR”). Particularly, the ECR refers to the electrical activity of the auditory nerve and the intracochlear residual tissue located in the neighborhood of an intracochlear stimulation electrode, when an external sound is presented to a Cochlear Implant user, human or animal. Applicants recognize that an ECR can be thought of as a far-field electrical potential registered on the scalp of an implanted patient. Applicants, through their method and apparatus, can extract that potential from the patient's spontaneous electroencephalographic activity (EEG) and measure it by using an averaging algorithm. The Electrical Cochlear Response can be applied for adaptation, calibration, performance evaluation and failure detection of the Cochlear Implant of the implanted patient. Also Applicants' method can be applied to estimate the audiometric thresholds of the Cochlear Implant even without the implanted patient's knowledge. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249590 | GENERATING AND COMMUNICATING WEB CONTENT FROM WITHIN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Methods, systems, and computer program products for generating and communicating web content from within an implantable medical device are provided. A method includes collecting data from a memory and/or subsystem of an implantable medical device. Upon collecting the data, the data is converted into web content having a web readable format that is readily consumable for display via a web interface thereby providing a web server from within the implantable medical device. The structure of an output file may be populated with the data converted into the web content. The method may further include transmitting the output file from the implantable medical device to a computing apparatus. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249591 | CONTROLLERS FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - Controllers for implantable medical devices, and associated methods are disclosed. A device in accordance with one embodiment includes a hand-held housing, an image display device carried by the housing, and an input device carried by the housing. In particular embodiments, one portion of the housing can be rotatable relative to the other, or at a fixed, non-zero angle relative to the other, with the image display device and the input device carried by one portion and a wireless communication device carried by the other portion. A controller can be operatively coupled to the image display device to control the orientation of an image (e.g., whether the image is upright or inverted), presented at the display device in response to a signal received from the input device. The image can include a user-selectable icon, e.g., for controlling parameters associated with delivering therapeutic electromagnetic signals to a patient. Inverting the image can give both a patient and a practitioner improved access to the device. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249592 | Resiliently conformable applicator structure - A fluid filled applicator conformed to position a source of electromagnetic radiation adjacent a portion of human anatomy to interpose a fluid of known characteristics between the source and the adjacent tissue includes in its first form a generally resilient envelope rendered conformable to the body surface to which it is applied by adjusting the internal pressure therein. In an alternative form the fluid is confined to a selected depth of a vertical container and the limb or body part is then immersed therein while contained in a flexible sheath. The source may then be applied to any selected exterior portion of the container. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249593 | Negative/positive pressure, thermal energy therapy device - A negative/positive pressure, thermal energy therapy device is described in this application. The present invention uses a conventional negative pressure, thermal energy device and/or an alternative embodiment thereof and adds a significant modification. The modification is that positive pressure, not just ambient pressure, is at least occasionally applied to the patient's body contained in the negative pressure, thermal energy device. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249594 | DEVICE FOR APPLYING A TRANSCUTANEOUS STIMULUS OR FOR TRANSCUTANEOUS MEASURING OF A PARAMETER - The invention relates to an apparatus for transcutaneous application of a stimulus or for transcutaneous measurement of a parameter on or from the skin surface of a vertebrate, in particular a human. The invention provides, in order to make the nerve stimulation in particular efficient, ergonomically favourable and easily manipulable for the patient, that the apparatus is designed so that it can be accommodated completely in the pinna (external ear) of the vertebrate. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249595 | Electrophysiology Catheter With Improved Tip Electrode - An EP catheter includes a tip electrode having a core primarily comprised of copper with an outer layer of a biocompatible metal disposed thereon exhibits appropriate electrical and thermal conduction characteristics while being cost-effective to produce. Alternatively, an inner layer of a biocompatible metal is disposed on the inside of the primarily copper core. Such a tip electrode may also be provided with irrigation lumens. Such a tip electrode could be manufactured from sheets of metal that upon extrusion would comprise the outer layer, core and optional inner layer respectively. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249596 | MYOCARDIAL LEAD WITH FIXATION MECHANISM - The present invention is a myocardial lead attachment system for securing a distal end of a cardiac lead within a myocardium of a patient's heart and anchoring against an epicardium of the patient's heart. The system includes an anchor configured to advance in a first orientation and anchor against an epicardial surface in a second orientation and a tether having a proximal end and a distal end. The anchor is coupled to the distal end of the tether. The system includes a cardiac lead having a lead body, a lumen extending through the lead body, a conductive member, a proximal end, a distal end, and an electrode configured for stimulating the myocardium located at the distal end. The lead body and the lumen are configured such that the lead body can be threaded over the proximal end of the tether and slideably advanced over the tether toward the anchor during implantation. The system includes a fixation mechanism at the distal end of the cardiac lead. The fixation mechanism is adapted to collapse to a first configuration during implantation and deploy to a second configuration after implantation. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249597 | THIN FILM TISSUE REPAIR MATRIX - A tissue repair matrix has an intricate pattern of loops, struts and bridges and is made of a super elastic alloy. The repair matrix includes hooks which improve the ingrowth when implanted and amorphic circles which provide rounded surfaces to the outer edges which made the repair matrix a-traumatic when implanted. When the repair matrix is cooled the molecular phase becomes martensitic which allows the tissue repair matrix to be compressed for easier insertion into a patient. When the tissue repair matrix is heated, the molecular phase changes to austenitic which causes the tissue repair matrix to expand to a size suitable for medical procedure. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249598 | COVERED STENTS WITH DEGRADABLE BARBS - The present invention is directed at a removable stent for providing reinforcement to a selected region of a selected body lumen including a resilient cylindrical layer, including at least one bioresorbable extrusion exterior from the resilient cylindrical layer for resisting migration of the removable stent when the removable stent is positioned in the selected region of the selected body lumen. The present invention also includes a temporary implantable endoprosthesis which includes a tubular, radially compressible and axially flexible structure, including at least one bioresorbable extrusion exterior from the resilient cylindrical layer for resisting migration of the removable stent when the removable stent is positioned in the selected region of the selected body lumen. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249599 | Stent With Therapeutic Agent Delivery Structures in Low Strain Regions - A system for treating abnormalities of the cardiovascular system includes a stent having a plurality of therapeutic agent-carrying regions and non therapeutic agent-carrying regions. The therapeutic agent-carrying regions are located within low strain regions of the stent and the non therapeutic agent-carrying regions are located within high strain regions of the stent. Another embodiment of the invention includes a method of manufacturing a therapeutic agent-carrying stent comprising forming a stent framework and applying a formulation containing one or more therapeutic agents to the stent framework while preventing the therapeutic agents from contacting the high strain regions of the stent framework. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249600 | STENTS WITH DRUG RESERVOIR LAYER AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME - A method of making drug eluting stents comprises forming ceramic surface coatings of two or more levels of porosity on a stent body. The less porous coating is more conducive to endothelial cell growth, while the more porous coating is better suited for storing and releasing drugs. The surface coatings of different porosities can be produced by coating stent body surface of differing roughness with coatings made by sol-gel method. Differing roughness of the stent body surface can be produced by selective etching of the stent body surface. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249601 | Stent/Graft Assembly - A stent/graft assembly includes a tubular graft connected in substantially end-to-end relationship with a generally tubular stent. Free ends of the stent and graft extend in opposite directions from the end-to-end connection during a pre-deployment orientation of the assembly. However, the graft is inverted during deployment so that free ends of the graft and the stent extend in substantially the same direction from the end-to-end connection in a post-deployment orientation. Thus, at least a portion of the stent is disposed within at least a portion of the graft in a post-deployment orientation of the assembly. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249602 | Artificial Blood Vessel Stent - The present invention discloses an artificial blood vessel stent, which can minimize the diameter of a stent insertion device because the diameter (profile) thereof is uniform and small over the entire length upon being loaded, and accordingly can be easily placed in a branched portion of a blood vessel using a puncture method. The artificial blood vessel stent comprises: (I) an artificial blood vessel body | 2008-10-09 |
20080249603 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MEDICAL PROCEDURES WITHIN A SPINE - Devices and methods for performing a procedure within a spine are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method includes expanding an expandable member to move a tissue portion and form a cavity within an interior of a bone-related structure. At least a portion of the cavity is filled with a filler material while simultaneously withdrawing a medium from the expandable member at a predefined ratio such that the tissue portion substantially maintains its moved position. In some embodiments, the predefined ratio is 1:1. In another embodiment, a method includes expanding an expandable member to move a tissue portion and form a cavity within an interior of an intervertebral disc. At least a portion of the cavity is filled with a filler material while substantially maintaining the moved position of the tissue portion. | 2008-10-09 |
20080249604 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MEDICAL PROCEDURES WITHIN A SPINE - Devices and methods for performing a procedure within a spine are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method includes inserting an expandable member into an interior of a bone-related structure. The expandable member defines a first and second lumen. A medium is delivered through the first lumen and into the interior of the expandable member while within the interior of the bone-related structure. A filler material is delivered through the second lumen and into a cavity within the interior of the bone-related structure while the expandable member is disposed therein. An apparatus can include an expandable member that defines a first lumen in fluid communication with an interior volume of the expandable member, and a second lumen in fluid communication with an opening of the expandable member. The second lumen is configured to communicate a filler material through the opening and into an interior cavity of a bone-related structure. | 2008-10-09 |