47th week of 2008 patent applcation highlights part 56 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20080287949 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SECURING A BONE SCREW TO AN INTRAMEDULLARY NAIL - An intramedullary nail configured for use in a bone, the nail including at least one bore configured to receive a bone screw. The bore includes at least one member configured to engage the threads of the screw to prevent axial motion of the screw within the bore after application. The member may be integrally formed in the bore or may be a separate member added to the bore. The member may have a variety of cross sectional shapes, such as a rectangular shape, circular shape or a triangular shape. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287950 | Intramedullary, Longitudinal Implant - A device for implantation in an intramedullary space of a bone via a curved insertion path, the device comprises a curved proximal portion extending along an arc substantially similar to an arc of the curved insertion path, the proximal portion including a coupling arrangement at a proximal end thereof adapted to couple to a tool for one of intramedullary implantation and explanation and a flexible distal portion extending from a distal end of the proximal portion, the distal portion extending substantially straight in an unstressed state and having flexibility sufficient to permit being along the arc of the insertion path substantially without permanent deformation. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287951 | SEGMENTED INTRAMEDULLARY STRUCTURE - An implantable intramedullary fixation structure adapted to be received in the intramedullary canal of a long bone is disclosed comprising a plurality of elongated segments. Each segment has a first end and a complementarily-shaped second end such that the first end of a segment cooperatively engages the second end of an adjacent segment. The segments define a guide aperture so as to be receivable over a guide for positioning in the intramedullary canal. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287952 | Medical Device - An attachment for a surgical instrument, comprising: a drive input hub for connecting, in use, to a power source; a drive output hub for connecting, in use, to a surgical instrument; and a body connecting the drive input hub to the drive output hub, the body comprising means for transferring drive from the input hub to the output hub, wherein the body, the drive input hub and the drive output hub are at least in part not coaxial. A method for surgically preparing a bone using such an attachment. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287953 | Custom-Fit Implantable Surgical Guide and Associated Milling Tool, Method for the Production and Use Thereof - The invention relates to a custom-fit implantable surgical guide ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080287954 | PATIENT-SPECIFIC SURGICAL GUIDANCE TOOL AND METHOD OF USE - Presented is a preoperatively designed guidance tool for intraoperative use during bone or joint surgery wherein the guidance tool is specific to the anatomy of the patient being treated. The guidance tool comprises a body portion, a mating surface provided on the body portion for positioning the guidance tool on a corresponding registration surface of a patient's anatomy. The guidance tool further comprises at least one guide mechanism provided on the body portion for guiding a medical instrument at one or more preoperatively defined trajectories relative to a patient's anatomy. In the event of misalignment, the at least one guide mechanism is adjustable to alter the one or more preoperatively defined trajectories if necessary during intraoperative use. Also presented is a preoperative process for designing the guidance tool. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287955 | Distractor for use in spinal surgery and method of use thereof - Apparatus and a method of inserting spinal implants is disclosed in which an intervertebral space is first distracted, a hollow sleeve having teeth at one end is then driven into the vertebrae adjacent that disc space. A drill is then passed through the hollow sleeve removing disc and bone in preparation for receiving the spinal implant which is then inserted through the sleeve. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287956 | INSTRUMENTS FOR IMPLANTING IMPLANTABLE PROSTHESES - An instrument including a grip portion, a first substantially rigid extension arm projecting outwardly from the grip portion along a first longitudinal axis, and a second substantially rigid extension arm projecting outwardly from the grip portion along a second longitudinal axis. The first has a straight portion adjacent the grip portion that lies substantially within a first plane, and a distal portion extending from the straight portion to a first distal end along a length of which the first extension arm extends upward relative to the first plane and rotates about its first longitudinal axis. The second has a second straight portion adjacent the grip portion that lies substantially within the first plane, and a second distal portion extending from the straight portion to a second distal end along a length of which the second extension arms extends downward relative to the first plane and rotates about its longitudinal axis. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287957 | INSERTION BLADE ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USE - A spinal implant insertion device is hereby provided. The device includes an insertion blade assembly having a set of opposed insertion blades wherein the assembly is adapted to slide from a retracted position to an extended position relative to an elongate shaft. In the extended position, a blades are adapted to be positioned above and below a portion of a spinal implant so as to shield the portion of the implant during delivery to an intervertebral space. The insertion blades assembly can also be modular so as to utilize a wide range of distinct insertion blades. Additionally, a method for delivering a spinal implant to an intervertebral space is herein provided. Like above, the method utilizes an insertion blade assembly adapted to slide along a shaft of a spinal implant insertion device. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287958 | Flexible intramedullary rod - An elongated rod for insertion into a bowed canal of a bone such as a femoral medulla of a femur bone, wherein the canal is bowed in one plane. The rod has a longitudinal axis disposed on a first plane and one or more cutouts formed in at least a portion of a length of the rod and on opposite sides of the first plane. The rod is flexible along a second plane which is co-planar with the bowed canal plane and which is disposed on the longitudinal axis and perpendicular to the first plane. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287959 | MEASUREMENT AND TRIALING SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR ORTHOPEDIC DEVICE COMPONENT SELECTION - The present invention provides tools and methods designed to aid in the placement of artificial facet joints at virtually all spinal levels. One aspect of the present invention is a measurement tool for installing an artificial cephalad facet joint, the tool including a trial marker having a portion configured to be placed in a hole; and a trial body comprising a bore therethrough for slidaby receiving a portion of the trial marker. In some embodiments, the trial body further comprises an arm extending generally radially outward from the bore and configured to contact an opposing spinal prosthesis component. The trial body may further comprise a lower portion configured to be placed in the hole. The trial marker and the trial body are configured to cooperate to indicate a relative positioning between them. This measurement tool assists in the selection and/or configuration of an artificial cephalad facet joint for implantation in a patient. Another aspect is a method of using a spinal prosthesis component selection tool comprising accessing a target anatomy, creating a hole within a portion of the target anatomy, inserting a marker rod of a component selection tool in the hole, slidably adjusting a trial stem body along the marker rod until the trial body contacts an opposing spinal prosthesis component, determining the relative position between the trial body and marker rod, and selecting a component for implantation into the target anatomy based on the determined relative position. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287960 | Umbilical cord clamp and cutter - An umbilical cord clamping and cutting device assembled within opposing shields for minimizing the spray of blood during severing of the umbilical cord. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287961 | ELONGATED MEDICAL MEMBER AND PROCEDURE METHOD USING ELONGATED MEDICAL MEMBER - An elongated medical member of the invention includes: an insertion portion having a long length which is provided with a lumen through which an operation treatment instrument for carrying out a predetermined medical action can be penetrated; a guide portion for guiding the insertion portion, which is extended from a distal end of the insertion portion; and a holding portion for holding the operation treatment instrument, which is provided to the guide portion. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287962 | DETERMINING A JOINT ORIENTATION FOR AN IMPLANTATION - A method for determining an orientation of an artificial joint, in particular for planning an implantation of at least one artificial joint in a human or animal body, wherein a first part of the artificial joint and a second part of the artificial joint are designed to be able to form an artificial joint connection with each other, wherein the first part is provided for implantation in a first body structure of the human or animal body, and the second part is provided for implantation in a second body structure of the human or animal body, in order to replace an anatomical joint which connects or connected the first body structure to the second body structure, wherein the method comprises the following steps:
| 2008-11-20 |
20080287963 | METHODS AND APPARATUS TO SHAPE FLEXIBLE ENTRY GUIDES FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY - In one embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for performing surgical procedures is disclosed including a flexible entry guide tube, and a first steering device. The flexible entry guide tube has one or more lumens extending along its length from a proximal end to substantially at or near a distal end. At least one of the one or more lumens is an instrument lumen with open ends to receive a flexible shaft of a surgical tool to perform surgery near the distal end of the flexible entry guide tube. The first steering device is insertable into the instrument lumen to shape the flexible entry guide tube as it is inserted through an opening in a body and along a path towards a surgical site. The apparatus may further include a flexible locking device to couple to the flexible entry guide tube and selectively rigidize the flexible entry guide tube to hold its shape. The flexible entry guide tube may be steered by remote control with one or more actuators. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287964 | Epilation device - Techniques for implementing an epilation device are described, including a body including a first half and a second half, the first half having a first arm and the second half comprises a second arm, an axle having a third arm disposed at an end of the axle and a fourth arm disposed at another end of the axle, the axle being coupled to a first set of teeth, and a trigger coupled to a spring, the trigger being substantially housed within the body and being partially exposed through an aperture in the body, the trigger further including a second set of teeth configured to engage the first set of teeth. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287965 | RADIOPAQUE BAND LIGATOR - The technology described herein relates to a system for capturing tissue with one or more ligating bands comprising radiopaque material that are removably disposed on a ligating barrel and methods of marking a bodily tissue for treatment using the ligating systems comprising one or more ligating bands comprising radiopaque materials. Also disclosed are methods of non-invasively evaluating the rate of amelioration of a bodily organ comprising capturing the tissue with one or more ligating bands comprising radiopaque materials, observing the location of the bands, and correlating the location of the one or more ligating bands and the rate of amelioration of the bodily organ. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287966 | 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. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287967 | Device and Methods for Suturing Tissue - Systems for suturing a tissue layer having two sides with a suture be releasably retaining at least a portion of the suture in a stationary position on one side of the tissue layer. The portion of the suture is retrieved through the tissue layer from the opposite side whereby the suture is drawn from one side to the opposite side. Systems for suturing the wall of a tubular graft having two sides is also provided using a suture by releasably retaining at least a portion of the suture on one side of the wall. the portion of the length of suture is retrieved through the wall of the graft to the opposite side of the wall. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287968 | IMPLANTS AND METHODS FOR PELVIC FLOOR REPAIR - A pelvic floor implant including a central body portion having an anterior edge having a centrally located recess therein, a posterior edge having a centrally located tab, and first and second lateral side edges. First and second strap-like extension portions extend outwardly to first and second distal ends from first and second end regions of the posterior edge of the central body portion. The first and second strap-like extension portions extending outwardly at an angle so as to form a substantially “Y” shaped implant in combination with the central body portion. First and second pockets are located at the first and second distal ends of the first and second strap-like extensions respectively, each having a closed end substantially adjacent to the distal end of the strap-like extension, and having an open end proximal thereto and opening toward the central body portion. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287969 | Gastric band with supply tube check valve - A balloon-type gastric band includes a balloon shaped and dimensioned to circumscribe the stomach at a predetermined location. The balloon includes a longitudinally extending body. A supply tube is secured to the balloon for fluid communication with an internal cavity of the balloon, wherein the supply tube includes a valve controlling the flow of fluid to and from the balloon. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287970 | REPAIR OF DEFECT IN INGUINAL CANAL AND OTHER MUSCULAR STRUCTURES - A space in a muscle wall such as the inguinal canal is dilated to break up fibrotic bands by divulsion. While the space is dilated a dynamic plug is advanced into it, with the plug expanding and contracting with the space. Shields may be placed against opposite sides of the wall surrounding the space. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287971 | NEEDLE INSTRUMENTS AND IMPLANTABLE SLING ASSEMBLY; KITS COMPRISING THESE COMPONENTS; AND METHODS FOR USE - Insertion instruments for implanting various types of biocompatible slings and sling assemblies for repair, reconstruction and repositioning of internal anatomical structures are provided. In general, the insertion instruments have an a curved needle portion mounted at a distal end of a handle, wherein the handle has opposing side surfaces that are convexly raised with respect to adjacent grip surfaces, and each of the opposing side surfaces is provided with a recess having a generally thumb-like configuration positioned toward the center of the handle from the distal end of the handle. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287972 | SYSTEMS FOR ANASTOMOSING AN EVERTED VESSEL WITH ANOTHER VESSEL - Compression plate apparatus enables vessels to be joined together in various anastomosis configurations. The compression plates are guided to each other in a parallel orientation by guides. The compression plate apparatus may be utilized with an intraluminally directed anvil apparatus or an externally positioned anvil apparatus. One of the compression plates assists in the eversion of the anastomosis fenestra contour. One of the compression plates enables a graft vessel to be pre-everted so that the anastomosis fenestra contours are everted. The apparatus provides a structure that enables the vessels to be joined without being penetrated. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287973 | VARIABLE PARIETAL/VISCERAL PLEURAL COUPLING - A variable parietal/visceral pleural coupling may be utilized to create an air-tight seal in the pleural space between the parietal and visceral pleura. This coupling may be utilized to create a seal for other implantable devices. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287974 | Gastric band with contrasting supply tube - A balloon-type gastric band includes a balloon shaped and dimensioned to circumscribe a stomach at a predetermined location. A supply tube is secured to the balloon for fluid communication with an internal cavity of the balloon, wherein the supply tube includes both at least one colored section and at least one clear section for respectively contrasting the supply tube from surrounding tissue when placed within a patient and facilitating identification of leaks within the supply tube. In accordance with an alternate embodiment the supply tube is colored while remaining translucent. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287975 | Tissue contrasting gastric band - A balloon-type gastric band that includes a balloon and a belt secured to the balloon. The balloon includes a mechanism for contrasting the balloon from surrounding tissue when placed within a patient. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287976 | Gastric band with engagement member - A gastric band includes a gastric band body having a first end and second end. The first end and the second end are provided with a respective first latching member and a second latching member. The first end includes a tip and an engagement member proximal the first latching member such that the engagement member is on a side of the first latching member opposite the tip. The engagement member enhances one's ability to grasp the first end of the gastric band body during application and removal. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287977 | Gear driven knife drive mechanism - A surgical apparatus includes a handle assembly, an elongated body portion defining a first longitudinal axis, a tool assembly pivotally supported on the distal end of the elongated body portion to form a pivot axis, and a flexible drive assembly that includes a flexible drive member extending from a position proximal of the pivot axis to a position distal of the pivot axis. The drive member has a distal end which is movable in relation to the tool assembly and a gear drive assembly to enable movement of the distal end of the flexible drive member. The flexible drive assembly includes a flexible knife drive beam that advances or retracts via a primary drive gear meshing with the flexible knife drive beam to effect movement of the flexible knife drive beam. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287978 | MEDICAL MAPPING DEVICE - A medical tattooing device is disclosed. A needle and attached needle cap have a drive spring seated against them in a pre-loaded position so that the needle and needle cap need only be released to send the needle forward and create the tattoo. Anchoring tabs temporarily anchor the needle and needle cap. A push button is used to break the tabs and release the needle. One end of the device has a seal ink reservoir. Before applying the tattoo, a tab on the reservoir is broken off to open the reservoir to passage of the needle and flow of ink. The device is placed on the skin, the button pushed to break the tabs, and the needle passes through the reservoir to apply the tattoo. A rebound spring opposing the drive spring retracts the needle the desired amount. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287979 | Device for Piercing and Positioning of Body Jewellery Having a Bent Bar - The invention concerns a device for piercing and positioning a piece of body jewelry with a bent bar in a skin portion. The device comprises an inner boundary surface which defines a cavity for holding a bent bar, the bar being movable out of the cavity to the surroundings through an opening defined by the boundary surface. The device also has a cam which is formed in the boundary surface and along which the bar is movable for such guiding of the bar that, during each incremental step of pressing-out, the bar has a cross-section exiting the opening, seen perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bar, which cross-section somewhere along a distance between the opening and an exit hole intended for piercing is perpendicular to an aiming line for piercing. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287980 | Divisible Cartridge for Piercing and Positioning a Body Jewellery - A cartridge for piercing in a body part for positioning a piece of body jewelry comprises a bar and a locking mechanism. The cartridge comprises two sections which are articulated to each other along a pivot and which are movable between a closed state and an open state by being pivoted on said pivot, and a locking member for locking the sections in their closed state. In their closed state, the sections define a space for receiving said piece of body jewelry, an opening and a guiding surface. The bar of the piece of body jewelry is arranged to be pushed out of the opening while the bar is being guided by said opening and while the locking means of the piece of body jewelry is being guided by said guiding surface. In their open state, the sections allow the piece of body jewelry to be released from the cartridge after completed positioning. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287981 | DILATION INTRODUCER AND METHODS FOR ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY - A method is provided for a minimally invasive procedure utilizing the telescoping dilation introducer to insert a bone fixation device into a patient's spine for posterior spine fusion. The dilation introducer has a locked assembled configuration for placement of the dilation introducer against a patient's bone tissue to be treated, and an unlocked, collapsed configuration for dilating the patient's soft tissue down to the bone tissue to be treated to a desired degree of dilation to permit minimally invasive surgical procedures on the patient's bone tissue to be treated. Dilator tubes are successively released and advanced to progressively expand the patient's soft tissue down to the bone tissue to be treated. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287982 | Catheters for electrolytically detachable embolic devices - Disclosed herein are catheters for electrolytically detachable vaso-occlusive devices. Also disclosed are vaso-occlusive assemblies comprising these catheters and methods of using these catheters and assemblies. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287983 | Tissue securing and sealing apparatus and related methods of use - Embodiments of the invention may be directed to apparatuses for securing and sealing tissue and related methods of use. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287984 | Medical balloons and methods of making the same - Medical balloons are provided that have enhanced properties, such as thinner walls, enhanced tensile strength, and/or electrical conductivity. Methods are also disclosed. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287985 | Disposable surgical instrument having a locking device - The present invention discloses a surgical instrument having a locking device which locks the instrument in a closed position while bearing a load. The surgical instrument, which may function as forceps, or a tanaculum, is constructed of a disposable material in order to provide a single use medical instrument. By constructing the invention of a disposable material, the unique shape of the disclosed embodiment allows movement of the arms in order to allow tip penetration along the path of least resistance while also minimizing tissue damage and bleeding. The locking device described may further be used on other instruments. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287986 | Closure device - The present invention is for an arterial closure device which can be used to implement and augment the closure of a femoral artery or other related, adjacent or similar members of the vasculature and to reduce compression times associated therewith. A resorbable tubular plug is introduced through a delivery sheath subsequent to a procedure in which the delivery sheath is first utilized. The resorbable tubular plug is inserted through the delivery sheath and the distal tip of the resorbable tubular plug is positioned a short distance into the artery, whereby a suitable entry can be indicated by blood flow through and from the resorbable tubular plug. The delivery sheath is withdrawn to expose the resorbable tubular plug to the tissue track and to the arteriotomy and manual compression is applied to the wound site to foster and promote hemostasis. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287987 | Dispensing system for tissue sealants - The present invention discloses a medical device comprising a dispenser adapted to dispense a tissue sealant or one or more precursor compounds, the dispenser being operably coupled to a surgical stapler, which in turn is configured to deliver one or more surgical staples or fasteners in an area of bodily tissue approximation surface. Furthermore, the medical device comprises a dispenser adapted to dispense a tissue sealant or one or more precursor compounds thereof, the dispenser being operably coupled to a surgical cutter. Additionally or alternatively the medical; device can include a microactuation mechanism, whereby the dispenser dispenses the tissue sealant or one or more precursor compounds at a surgical cutting site or in a proximity thereof. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287988 | Tissue aperture securing and sealing apparatuses and related methods of use - Embodiments of the invention may be directed to apparatuses for securing and sealing apertures in tissue and related methods of use. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287989 | Tissue holding implants - Tissue holding implants which enable two or more layers of tissue to be held in approximation for an extended period. One and two-piece implants are described, made from materials that are biocompatible, and may also be biodegradable. Some embodiments include a portion which is deformed to capture the tissues to be held, and others are made from a super-elastic or shape memory material and hold the tissues in approximation when the implant is reverted to a known preformed shape. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287990 | Elongated Surgical Repair Product Based on Uhmwpe Filaments - The invention relates to an elongated surgical repair product comprising an elongated member of core-sheath structure, wherein the core contains a plurality of high-strength ultra-high molar mass polyethylene (UHMWPE) filaments, and wherein the elongated member has a UHMWPE sheath that is substantially non-porous. This product combines high tensile strength, good flexibility and favourable knotting characteristics. The invention also relates to a process of making said elongated surgical repair product, comprising a step wherein an elongated precursor member containing a plurality of UHMWPE filaments is subjected to a heat treatment while keeping the filaments under tension. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287991 | ENDOBUTTON CONTINUOUS LOOP FOR BONE TENDON WITH DOUBLE LOOP KNOT - A method of securing a tissue graft within a bone passage includes providing a graft fixation member comprising a closed double-loop having a pair of differently sized loop sections and capturing both sections of the closed-loop within the fixation member. The longer loop section is passed through an opening in the tissue graft then is passed through the smaller loop and thrown | 2008-11-20 |
20080287992 | Surgical method for suturing soft tissue to a bone, in particular the rotator cuff to the humerus - The aim of this method is to improve the efficiency and ease of implanting a means for suturing a soft tissue to a bone, while allowing it to be carried out by arthroscopy in particular. In accordance with the method according to the invention:
| 2008-11-20 |
20080287993 | Pacifying Apparatus - A pacifier comprises a nipple and a supporting surface, the nipple being attached to and protruding from a first side of the nipple supporting surface, characterized in that pacifier is arranged to releasably interlock with at least one like pacifier. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287994 | Pedicle Screw and Rod System - A pedicle screw and rod system that has particular application for spinal fusion surgery. The system includes pedicle screws having ball-shaped heads that are threaded through pedicles of adjacent vertebra into the vertebral body. The system also includes two cannulated posts having a head portion with a planar portion and an opening for accepting the head of the pedicle screw in a secure and multi-axial engagement. The system further includes a tube portion that is coupled to the head portion and extends above the patient's skin. The system also includes a lordotic slotted rod that is slid down the tube portions to be positioned on top of the head portions of the posts so that the planar portions are locked within the slot. Bolts are then slid down the tube portions and are threaded to a threaded portion on the planar portion. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287995 | Compressor Distractor Tool - A combined compressor and distractor tool is provided that includes a mechanism capable of switching the mode of operation of the tool from a compression tool to a distraction tool. The tool includes engagement tips and handles at opposed ends of the tool that are pivotally connected to a central shaft. A saddle is slidably mounted on the shaft between and pivotally connected to the handles. When the saddle is engaged with the shaft in a before center position, squeezing the handles results the movement of the shaft forwardly to operate the engagement tips as a distractor. However, when the saddle is engaged with the shaft in a past, or over center position, squeezing the handles results the movement of the shaft rearwardly to operate the engagement tips as a compressor. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287996 | Method and device for treating scoliosis - This invention relates to a spinal facet cap for treating scoliosis, the facet cap comprising a shim portion for inserting into a facet joint of a spine, and an alignment portion for maintaining alignment of the shim portion within the facet joint. The invention also provides a method for treating scoliosis, comprising implanting at least one spinal facet cap into at least one facet joint of a subject in need thereof. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287997 | Interspinous spacer - An implantable spacer for placement between adjacent spinous processes in a spinal motion segment is provided. The spacer includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and passageway. A first arm and a second arm are connected to the body. Each arm has a pair of extensions and a saddle defining a U-shaped configuration for seating a spinous process therein. Each arm has a proximal caming surface and is capable of rotation with respect to the body. An actuator assembly is disposed inside the passageway and connected to the body. When advanced, a threaded shaft of the actuator assembly contacts the caming surfaces of arms to rotate them from an undeployed configuration to a deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration, the distracted adjacent spinous processes are seated in the U-shaped portion of the arms. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287998 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW - A fastening system for bone screws used in spinal fixation systems for reshaping the spine of a patient. The bone screw has threads on one end for anchoring in the spine. The other end has a spherical head with a multi sided recess formed therein for engagement with an appropriate driving tool. The system includes a stabilizing rod, a saddle member, a cap member and a set screw with at least one bone screw having a outer diameter that exceeds the diameter of a cavity formed in the saddle, wherein placement of the bone screw is made possible by matching the threads of the set screw to the threads of the bone screw. The head of the bone screw providing proper positioning of the stabilization rod within the patient. | 2008-11-20 |
20080287999 | ANTERIOR CERVICAL PLATE WITH INDEPENDENT SPRING-LOADED LOCKING SLIDES FOR EACH SCREW - An anterior cervical plate and method includes a plurality of retaining slots comprising a first and second hole each adapted to permit bone retaining members to pass partially therethrough; and a platform separating the first hole from the second hole. The plate further comprises a pair of locking slides matingly adjacent to one another and adapted to rest on the platform and retain the bone retaining members in the plurality of retaining slots, wherein each the locking slide comprises a deflectable flange; and a lip positioned on an opposite side of the deflectable flange, wherein a first locking slide of the pair of locking slides is positioned in an opposite orientation relative to a second locking slide of the pair of locking slides. The deflectable flange of the first locking slide is aligned adjacent to the deflectable flange of the second locking slide. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288000 | Cervical plate locking mechanism and associated surgical method - The cervical plate locking mechanism of the present invention is elegant in its design and effective in its performance, and utilizes a plate with holes that each incorporate a locking lip structure and locking screws that each incorporate a head portion having petal structures that are outwardly biased prior to insertion via an internally-disposed c-ring or the like. Advantageously, the lead-in torque of each of the locking screws is less than the lead-out torque of each of the locking screws. Thus, reverse threading or backing out is prevented. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288001 | CERVICAL PLATE LOCKING MECHANISM AND ASSOCIATED SURGICAL METHOD - The cervical plate locking mechanism of the present invention is elegant in its design and effective in its performance, and utilizes a plate with holes that each incorporate a locking lip structure and locking screws that each incorporate a head portion having petal structures that are outwardly biased prior to insertion via an internally-disposed c-ring or the like. Advantageously, the lead-in torque of each of the locking screws is less than the lead-out torque of each of the locking screws. Thus, reverse threading or backing out is prevented. Alternatively, the cervical plate locking mechanism of the present invention utilizes a locking plate having petal structures that are inwardly biased prior to insertion of the head portion of the locking screws via an externally-disposed c-ring or the like. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288002 | Spinal Stabilization Systems and Methods - One embodiment provides a bone fastener including a collar, a fastener member, and a pin. The collar can have an upper portion with slot to receive an elongated member and a lower portion with a socket and an opening. The fastener member can have head and shank portions. The socket can receive the head portion and prevent movement of the head portion through the opening when the head portion is out of registration with the opening. The head portion and the socket can be configured to allow angulation of the fastener member within a defined range of motion within a selected plane. The head portion and the socket can define apertures which can be aligned with each other when the head portion is in the socket and which can receive the pin. One embodiment provides a generally spherical head portion with a flat. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288003 | REVERSIBLY EXPANDABLE FIXATION DEVICE - A reversibly expandable vertebral fixation screw and minimally invasive techniques for inserting the screw are provided. The screw incorporates a divided tip and an expansion device that allows for the divided components of the tip of the screw to expanded outward to engage the internal surfaces of the vertebral body. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288004 | TISSUE SUSPENSION DEVICE - The present invention is an apparatus for suspending a soft tissue near a bone opening, which includes a bone anchor, a soft tissue anchor, a spacer, and a depth stop. The device of the present invention allows soft tissues to change positions and be held until sufficient healing has occurred. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288005 | Orthopedic implant rod reduction tool set and method - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288006 | Endoscopic Bone Debridement - The invention described includes an osteoendoscopic cylinder for tamponading bleeding along a longitudinal canal surface of an osteocentral canal of a femoral neck so as to allow endoscopic visualization of a segment of osteonecrotic bone within a femoral head. The osteoendoscopic cylinder is of a dimension adapted to receive an endoscope therein and includes an inner visual surface and an outer bony contact surface. An orientation mark along the inner visual surface is of a size and dimension to ensure a first visualization thereof with the endoscope. The first visualization is of an effect to allow spatial orientation of the endoscope within the femoral head. A side opening proximally situated thereabout a proximal handle end is of a size and dimension adapted to mount a vacuum apparatus comprising of a transparent tube. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288007 | Hygienic-Therapeutic Multiplex Devices - Multiplex hygienic-therapeutic devices are based upon plurality energy members arranged in at least one layered structure. The devices comprise energy members including, for example, electromagnetic, sonic, microwave, magnetic, thermal, electric, electrostatic, mechanical, ionic, and ionizing radiation. The use of multiplex hygienic-therapeutic devices with the hygienic and therapeutical substances whose hygienic-therapeutical properties may be enhanced by radiation of the energy member and/or the energy members of the multiplex hygienic-therapeutic devices is also disclosed. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288008 | Cardiac Stimulation System and Method - A cardiac stimulation assembly includes an energy source coupled to an energy emitter that extends form a delivery member into a region of tissue in the heart. An array of the emitters are adapted to extend from a delivery assembly and into unique locations along the region of tissue, such as by use of extendable, pre-shaped needles. A volume of conductive agent is delivered into the region and enhances stimulation of the region with the energy emitter. The agent may be an injectable preparation of living cells that express production of connexin, e.g. connexin 43, and may be genetically modified to over-express such production. The agent may include a non-living material, such as conductive polymer or metal or combination thereof. The combination of energy emitters and conductive agent enhances stimulation of the region. Delivering the stimulation assembly and conductive agent into the interventricular septum allows for improved biventricular septal pacing. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288009 | SELF-ADJUSTING ECG MORPHOLOGICAL FEATURE CORRELATION THRESHOLD - An apparatus comprising an implantable cardiac signal sensing circuit configured for sensing an intrinsic cardiac signal, a memory to store a template of a morphology of normal atrial-ventricular conduction, and a controller that includes a tachyarrhythmia detection circuit and a correlation circuit. The tachyarrhythmia detection circuit is configured for detecting a rhythm with elevated ventricular rate using the sensed intrinsic cardiac signal. The correlation circuit is configured for iteratively calculating a correlation between the sensed intrinsic cardiac signal and the template, and comparing the calculated correlation to a variable correlation threshold to determine whether the detected rhythm correlates to the template. The apparatus also includes a therapy circuit configured for inhibiting a ventricular tachycardia therapy when the detected rhythm correlates to the template. Other apparatuses and methods are described. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288010 | Subcutaneous diaphragm stimulation device and method for use - A cardiovascular treatment assembly is provided including a cardiac rhythm management device and an electrical stimulation device configured to elicit a diaphragm contraction to thereby treat heart failure. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288011 | Method and Article for Storing an Automatic External Defibrillator for Use Without a Prescription - A method and article for storing an automatic external defibrillator for use without a prescription are described. The hermetically sealed electrode pads of the OTC AED are electrically coupled to the OTC AED base unit where they are constantly accessible to self-test circuitry inside the base unit for periodic, automatic self-test. In one embodiment the self-test is designed to determine whether the conductive gel of the electrode pads has dried out. In another embodiment self-test circuitry also tests the battery while the OTC AED is being stored prior to use. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288012 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CARDIAC RHYTHM MANAGEMENT WITH SYNCHRONIZED PACING PROTECTION PERIOD - A device and method for cardiac rhythm management in which a heart chamber is paced in accordance with a pacing mode that employs sense signals from the opposite chamber. A protection period triggered by the sensing of intrinsic activity in the paced chamber is used to inhibit pacing without otherwise disturbing the pacing algorithm. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288013 | PULMONARY PRESSURE MONITORING - Devices, methods, and systems for determining a systolic pulmonary artery pressure index (PAPi) corresponding to pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) and/or right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) use lead-based electronic sensors detecting right heart valvular events. Suitable sensors include impedance sensors, accelerometers, cardiomechanical electric sensors, and sonomicrometers. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288014 | Strain Reliever for a Lead of an Implantable Heart Stimulator - A strain reliever for a lead of an implantable heart stimulator, the lead including at least one cable having an electric conductor, has a body of electrically conducting material in electric contact with the electric conductor. The body is lockable in a position in electric contact with electric circuitry of the heart stimulator. The body has a fastening arrangement for fastening the proximal end of the cable at the fastening point on the peripheral surface of the body located at a distance from the distal end of the body. A fixing arrangement is provided at the distal end of the body for fixing the cable to extend in the distal direction from a departure point at the body distal end. The cable is intended to extend in a helical path on the peripheral surface of the body between the fastening point and the departure point. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288015 | Diaphragm stimulation device and method for use with cardiovascular or heart patients - A method for treating a patient is provided where a sensed cardiac rhythm is used to adjust electrical stimulation that is used to activate a diaphragm to cause contraction. A cardiac rhythm management device in combination with a diaphragm stimulation device is also provided which includes a cardiac stimulation device configured to provide stimulation to control cardiac rhythm of a subject; and an electrical stimulation device configured to provided electrical stimulation to a subject to activate a diaphragm to increase functional residual capacity of the subject. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288016 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR STIMULATING NEURAL TARGETS - Disclosed herein, among other things, is a method for stimulating neural targets in the vicinity of a human ear. According to an embodiment, a device is clipped on a patient ear lobe, the device including a neural stimulation electrode. A neural stimulation signal is applied to the electrode to transcutaneously stimulate neural targets in the vicinity of the ear lobe, according to an embodiment. A physiological parameter is sensed using a sensor connected to the device. According to an embodiment, the neural stimulation signal is adjusted in response to the sensed parameter. The method is used is a variety of treatment regimens, including anti-hypertensive and cardiac improvement therapy. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288017 | External Baroreflex Activation - Methods and systems for external baroreflex activation of a baroreceptor system of a patient from a stimulator external to the patient. The method and devices, enable baroflex therapy on a temporary basis and/or assess the response of a patient to such baroreflex therapy. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288018 | METHODS OF IMPROVING NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH NEUROCOGNITIVE DISORDERS - The present invention provides methods of improving neuropsychological function in a patient having a neurocognitive disorder by chemical or electrically modulating a target site(s) in the ventral striatum/ventral capsule region. Methods also include modulating the treatment based on a closed-loop feedback system that measures bodily activities associated with the neuropsychological function (i.e. that help to determine whether a neuropsychological function is or can be improved. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288019 | Electrochemical management of pain - The invention features electrochemical methods and devices for the treatment of pain. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288020 | Neuromuscular Stimulation - Apparatus for muscle activation, comprising: at least one electrode ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080288021 | Device For Electrically Stimulating Biological Material - The invention relates to a device for electrically stimulating biological material that can be electrically stimulated. Said device comprises an electrode array which can be implanted so as to be in active contact with the biological material. Said electrode array comprises a two-dimensional arrangement of individual electrodes (Eij) that produce a stimulation field (S | 2008-11-20 |
20080288022 | Hearing System Prostheses - There is disclosed a hearing prosthesis comprising a first housing ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080288023 | Medical treatment using patient states, patient alerts, and hierarchical algorithms - Systems and methods are described for adjusting the operation of implantable stimulation devices used to provide medical treatment. Several hierarchical algorithms are described which operate according to conditional strategies. In one such strategy semi-automatic therapy adjustment occurs by automatically issuing patient alert messages when selected operations are to occur, and using a patient's response to the alert message in order to adjust therapy, as long as this is provided within a selected time limit. Another strategy only implements complex operations when these are indicated by prior operations. The invention serves to reduce the risk of adaptation by the patient and the provision of therapy operations that are either not desired or warranted, in order to decrease the depletion of battery power and/or drug reserves and increase patient benefit. Methods are also described for resolving data conflicts which may occur when adaptively delivery therapy. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288024 | Medical Transceiver Device and Method - A medical transceiver device for radio-based communication with an implantable medical device has circuitry for transmitting radio-frequency signals to, and/or receiving radio-frequency signals from, the implantable medical device, first and second electrically conductive structures, and an antenna feed network operatively interconnected between the circuitry and the first and second conductive structures. Each of the first and second conductive structures is operable as a transmitting and/or receiving antenna for the radio-frequency signals. The first and second conductive structures emit and/or receive radio waves of different polarizations, and the first and second conductive structures are disposed adjacent each other at a single location in space, thereby providing spatial diversity that is independent of the polarization diversity. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288025 | SMART CHARGER ALIGNMENT INDICATOR - Electrical energy is transmitted to charge the implanted medical device, and an electrical parameter (e.g., a steady-state voltage) indicating a rate at which the implanted medical device is charged by the electrical energy is detected. A threshold (e.g., by modifying a stored threshold value) at which the charge strength indicator generates a user-discernible signal is adjusted based on the detected electrical parameter. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288026 | Electro-Mechanical Connector for Thin Medical Monitoring Patch | 2008-11-20 |
20080288027 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING INGESTION OF MEDICATIONS USING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable medical device, such as a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), is configured to automatically detect ingestion of medications to verify that prescribed medications are taken in a timely manner and at the correct dosage. Briefly, individual pills are provided with miniature radio frequency identification (RFID) devices capable of transmitting RFID tag signals, which identify the medication contained within the pill and its dosage. The implanted device is equipped with an RFID transceiver for receiving tag signals from a pill as it is being ingested. The implanted system decodes the tag to identify the medication and its dosage, then accesses an onboard database to verify that the medication being ingested was in fact prescribed to the patient and to verify that the correct dosage was taken. Warning signals are generated if the wrong medication or the wrong dosage was taken. Therapy may also be automatically adjusted. Non-RF-based ID devices are also described, which instead transmit ID data via biphasic current pulses. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288028 | VARIABLE ANTENNA MATCHING NETWORK FOR AN IMPLANTABLE ANTENNA - An implantable medical device can include an implantable antenna for communication with external devices or other internal devices. Changes in the patient's body position, weight, composition or other factors may change the efficiency of the implantable antenna and hinder communication. The disclosed circuit can calculate a value for a matching network for an implantable telemetry circuit to decrease an impedance difference between the implantable telemetry circuit and the implantable antenna or increase or maximize a communication power transfer value associated with the implantable medical device. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288029 | System And Method For Securely Exchanging Sensitive Information With An Implantable Medical Device - A system and method for securely exchanging sensitive information with an implantable medical device is presented. A crypto key stored on an implantable medical device is retrieved by a programmer via a secure short range interface. Sensitive information is encrypted as sensitive data using the crypto key. The encrypted data is stored on the implantable medical device. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288030 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REGULATING BLOOD VOLUME USING VOLUME RECEPTOR STIMULATION - A system delivers stimulation to volume receptors in the cardiovascular system to induce diuresis in a patient suffering volume overload. The system senses a volume signal indicative of a level of fluid retention in the patient's body and controls the delivery of the stimulation using the volume signal. In various embodiments, the stimulation includes one or more of electrical stimulation, which delivers electrical pulses to the volume receptors, and mechanical stimulation, which physically stretches the volume receptors. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288031 | ACTIVITY SENSING FOR STIMULATOR CONTROL - The disclosure describes a system that measures the distance between one or more electrodes and tissue of a patient, and controls one or more parameters of the stimulation delivered to the tissue by the electrodes based on the measured distance. The system controls the measurement of the distance between the electrodes and the tissue as a function of activity of the patient. The system uses, for example, a piezoelectric transducer to sense activity of the patient, and may determine whether or how frequently to measure the distance between electrodes and tissue based on the sensed physical activity. A piezoelectric transducer may be used both to sense activity and to measure the distance between the electrodes and the tissue. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288032 | Device for UV photo-therapy - Skin disorders such as, for example, atopic dermatitis, dyshidrosis, eczema, lichen planus, psoriasis, and vitiligo, are treated by applying high doses of ultraviolet light to diseased regions of a patient's skin. The dosage exceeds 1 MED as determined for the particular patient and may range from about 1 MED to about 20 MED or higher. The ultraviolet light has a wavelength within the range of about 295 nanometers to about 320 nanometers. High doses of ultraviolet light are preferably restricted to diseased tissue areas. A specialized handpiece provides a beam profile especially suitable for application of controlled doses. A specialized delivery device is useful for UV treatment of tissue within the mouth. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288033 | Heat transfer pad having occlusion-resistant ports - A heat transfer pad includes a bladder and a pad port. The bladder has an outside perimeter, an inner face and an outer face enclosing a bladder interior. The pad port has a tubing segment with a proximal end which extends through the outside perimeter of the bladder into the bladder interior. A port seal is formed by bonding the inner and outer faces of the bladder to the proximal end of the tubing segment at a port bond point distal to the outside perimeter of the bladder in the bladder interior. The proximal end of the tubing segment is maintained unbonded to the inner and outer faces of the bladder between the port seal and the outside perimeter of the bladder, thereby defining a strain relief section of the bladder which resists occlusion of the pad port. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288034 | Convective blanket with discontinuous air flow guides and air flow patterns - A convective blanket has multiple sets of discontinuous bonding strips that bond or attach its upper layer to its lower layer to form a number of air flow guides within the blanket. There is at least one set of substantially parallel discontinuous strips proximate to the air input port of the blanket and another set of substantially parallel discontinuous strips remote from the air input port. For each set of in parallel discontinuous bond strips, the respective distal and proximal ends of each successive strips are aligned with the distal and proximal ends of a corresponding substantially in parallel strip to effect a cross channel so that air flowing along the air flow guide may escape to different sections of the blanket. To output the heated air from the blanket, respective single rows of successively spaced air holes are formed adjacent to and substantially along the length of the discontinuous bond strips that are located proximate to the air input port. For those sets of discontinuous bond strips that are remote from the air input port, there is provided adjacent to and substantially along the length of each of those strips multiple rows of successively spaced holes. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288035 | Stimulation Device for Treating Osteoarthritis - A device for providing therapeutic treatment to a body part such as a joint to promote healing of the body part comprises a signal generator for generating a pulsed electromagnetic field based upon a selected treatment mode, a controller for storing the treatment mode and communicating the treatment mode to the signal generator, a heat source configured to provide thermal therapy to the body part, and monitoring means for monitoring the electromagnetic field generated by the electromagnetic stimulating means. The device may also include telemetry means in communication with the monitoring means for remotely accessing the controller to modify the treatment mode. The device can also be disposable. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288036 | Flexible Circuit Electrode Array with Wire or Film Support - The disclosure relates to a flexible circuit electrode array comprising: a polymer base layer; metal traces deposited on said polymer base layer, including electrodes suitable to stimulate neural tissue; a polymer top layer deposited on said polymer base layer and said metal traces; and at least one support embedded in said array. The disclosure further relates to a flexible circuit electrode array comprising: a polymer base layer; metal traces deposited on said polymer base layer, including electrodes suitable to stimulate neural tissue; a polymer top layer deposited on said polymer base layer and said metal traces; and a folded flexible circuit cable connecting the electrode array with an interconnection pad. The disclosure further relates to a method of making a flexible circuit electrode array comprising: depositing a polymer base layer; depositing metal on said polymer base layer; patterning said metal to form metal traces; depositing a polymer top layer on said polymer base layer and said metal traces; heating said flexible circuit electrode array in a mold to form a three dimensional shape in said flexible circuit electrode array, embedding a support at least in the base layer, top layer or between the base and top layer, and/or folding a flexible circuit cable at least once connecting the electrode array with an interconnection pad the array. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288037 | Flexible Circuit Electrode Array - A flexible circuit electrode array with more than one layer of metal traces comprising: a polymer base layer; more than one layer of metal traces, separated by polymer layers, deposited on said polymer base layer, including electrodes suitable to stimulate neural tissue; and a polymer top layer deposited on said polymer base layer and said metal traces. Polymer materials are useful as electrode array bodies for neural stimulation. They are particularly useful for retinal stimulation to create artificial vision, cochlear stimulation to create artificial hearing, or cortical stimulation many purposes. The pressure applied against the retina, or other neural tissue, by an electrode array is critical. Too little pressure causes increased electrical resistance, along with electric field dispersion. Too much pressure may block blood flow. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288038 | Method for Displaying Catheter Electrode-Tissue Contact in Electro-Anatomic Mapping and Navigation System - An electrode coupling output system associated with an electrode catheter that provides indication to the physician via the navigation system, concerning the electrical coupling of an electrode, such as an ablative or mapping electrode, with a patient. The indication may be provided by changing the color or other display characteristics of the electrode on the navigation system display or by way of providing a waveform indicating the electrode coupling. In this manner, electrode coupling information is provided to a physician in a manner that minimizes physician distraction. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288039 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FIXATING TRANSVENOUSLY IMPLANTED MEDICAL DEVICES - A transvenously implantable medical device (TIMD) includes an electrical lead and a control module. The electrical lead includes one or more electrodes and is adapted for transvenous implantation. The electrical lead is also pre-biased to expand from a collapsed state to an expanded state to mechanically engage an internal wall of a blood vessel. The control module is secured to and in electrical communication with the electrical lead. The control module includes a signal management component and a power component disposed in a housing adapted for implantation into the blood vessel. The control module is adapted for at least one of stimulating and sensing a physiologic response using the one or more electrodes of the electrical lead. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288040 | Implantable Lead with a Stimulating Electrode and a Mapping Electrode that is Electrically Disconnectable - An implantable lead for delivering electrical stimuli to a human heart has a stimulating electrode for transmitting electrical stimuli to the myocardium after implantation, and a mapping electrode for use during implantation. The mapping electrode is configured to deliver electrical stimuli to the heart and to sense intrinsic cardiac activity, for the purpose of finding a suitable fixation position in the myocardium. During the implantation procedure, the mapping electrode is electrically connected to the conductor. The lead is configured to electrically disconnect the mapping electrode from the conductor after a suitable fixation position has been determined. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288041 | Cutting Member for Bifurcation Catheter Assembly - A catheter assembly for deployment in a vessel includes a catheter shaft extending from a proximal end portion to a distal end portion. A balloon is operatively coupled to the distal end portion of the catheter shaft. At least one cutting member is coupled to the catheter assembly. As the balloon is inflated, the cutting member is moved to a position to cut a portion of the vessel. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288042 | Deployment system for an expandable stent - A deployment system and method for an expandable stent are described. The deployment system includes an expandable stent in an unexpanded state and a first tubular sheath having one or more first flaps extending from a distal end thereof. The one or more first flaps overlie one or more first longitudinal portions of the stent. A second tubular sheath may overlie the first tubular sheath. The deployment method includes advancing a deployment system including an expandable stent in an unexpanded state to a treatment site in a body vessel. At the treatment site, one or more second longitudinal portions of the stent are radially expanded to partially deploy the stent, and then one or more first longitudinal portions of the stent are radially expanded to fully deploy the stent. Each of the first and second longitudinal portions preferably extends from a proximal end to a distal end of the stent. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288043 | DELIVERY SYSTEM HAVING A SELF-EXPANDING BRAIDED STENT - An insertion system with a self-expanding braided stent ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080288044 | Composite Stent Graft - A composite prosthesis ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080288045 | Apparatus and method for implantation of a bifurcated endovascular prosthesis - A stent graft for animal or human implantation and method of delivery thereof. The device stent graft employs a first component having an axial passage communicating with the axial cavities of a second leg and longer first leg. A separate leg extension is engageable to the second leg. A first catheter engages the first component for translation to the implantation site and a second catheter engaged with the first is provided with a pre-positioned guide wire inside the second leg which may be employed to easily position a guide wire for engagement of the second leg with the leg extension. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288046 | Method of Attaching Radiopaque Markers to Intraluminal Medical Devices, and Devices Formed Using the Same - A method of attaching radiopaque markers to an intraluminal medical device frame formed from a shape memory metal or alloy thereof, the process conducted during the shape recovery process of said shape memory metal or alloy thereof. | 2008-11-20 |
20080288047 | Stent for Introducing Into Human Body Cavities, in Particular Into Blood Vessels - The invention relates to a stent ( | 2008-11-20 |
20080288048 | STENTS FOR ANGIOPLASTY - This invention is a stent having a substantially tubular body defining a longitudinal axis comprising first and second adjacent annular segments, each segment defining a substantially sinusoidal shape having a plurality of peaks and valleys, the peaks of the first segment extending toward the second segment and being aligned longitudinally with the valleys of the second segment. The stent has a plurality of bridge elements having a U-shaped portion between first and second connector arms, the first connector arm of one bridge element being connected between a first peak and a first valley of the first segment and the second connector arm being connected between a first peak and a first valley of the second segment. | 2008-11-20 |