Medtronic Xomed, Inc. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160106960 | INFLATION DEVICE FOR BALLOON SINUS DILATION - An inflation device useful for inflating a balloon provided with a surgical instrument, such as a balloon sinus dilation instrument. The inflation device includes a syringe, a connector, and mechanical pressure indicator. The syringe includes a plunger slidably disposed within a barrel. The connector is configured to fluidly connect an outlet of the syringe with a surgical instrument balloon in establishing a closed inflation system between the syringe and an interior of the balloon. The pressure indicator is associated with the syringe and is configured to transition from a non-alert state to an alert state when a pressure of the inflation system has reached a predetermined level. In some embodiments, the inflation device is characterized by the absence of a pressure gauge. | 04-21-2016 |
20160038279 | NASAL VALVE TREATMENT METHOD & APPARATUS - A method and apparatus for treating a nasal valve condition including surgically forming an access path to create a pocket on a side of the patient's nose. The pocket is positioned between a soft tissue layer and opposing surfaces of upper and lower cartilages of the nose. The pocket spans a junction between the upper and lower cartilages. An implant is placed through the access path into the pocket with a length oriented to span the junction. A delivery system for placement of the implant includes a surgical tool for forming the access path and for delivering the implant into the access path. | 02-11-2016 |
20160022301 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DISTAL BEARING ASSEMBLY - A surgical cutting instrument comprises an outer tubular member having a proximal section, an intermediate section and a central lumen. An inner tubular member is rotatably received within the central lumen and includes a distal end forming a cutting member extending distally beyond, and exposed relative to, the distal section of the outer tubular member. A bearing assembly is coupled to the outer tubular member and the inner tubular member. | 01-28-2016 |
20150374962 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FINDING THE CENTER AND READING THE SETTING OF AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A centering tool and a combined centering-indicator tool for finding the magnetic center and indicating the setting of an implantable adjustable valve. The centering and combined centering-indicator tools include a magnetic capsule movable within a cavity to a target located on the tool when the magnetic capsule is centered over magnet of an adjustable valve. | 12-31-2015 |
20150320329 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MONITORING A NERVE - A nerve monitoring system facilitates monitoring an integrity of a nerve. | 11-12-2015 |
20150272608 | POWERED SURGICAL HANDPIECE HAVING A SURGICAL TOOL WITH AN RFID TAG - A powered surgical handpiece includes a housing comprising a motor, and a surgical tool removably coupled to the housing and configured to be driven by the motor. The surgical tool includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. The handpiece includes an antenna for wirelessly transmitting RF energy, and a coupler that is electrically isolated from the antenna and the RFID tag and that is configured to guide the transmitted RF energy to the RFID tag. | 10-01-2015 |
20150173825 | DEBRIDEMENT DEVICE HAVING A SPLIT SHAFT WITH BIOPOLAR ELECTRODES - A device includes an inner shaft rotatable within an outer shaft for cutting tissue. Additionally, the device can deliver energy including bipolar radiofrequency energy for sealing tissue which may be concurrent with delivery of fluid to a targeted tissue site. An inner shaft can be formed of two portions separated by an insulating layer. The portions define electrodes for delivery of energy. | 06-25-2015 |
20150157237 | NERVE MONITORING DURING ELECTROSURGERY - A signal processing module includes an input module electronically coupled to a sensing probe of a nerve integrity monitoring system. The probe senses electrical signals from a patient during operation of an electrosurgical unit. The input module receives an input signal from the probe. An EMG detection module is coupled to the input module and is adapted to detect conditions in the input signal. The conditions are classified as a function of a level of electromyographic activity. An output module, coupled to the EMG detection module, provides an indication of electromyographic activity in the input signal based on the detected conditions. | 06-11-2015 |
20150119357 | CHITOSAN STENTING PASTE - Nasal or sinus site may be treated with a ready-to-use paste having a high concentration of a water-soluble chitosan, an osmolality reducing agent in a phosphate-containing solution. The paste forms at room temperature, has a pH of at least 4 and the osmolality reducing agent does not crosslink with the water-soluble chitosan. The paste provides stenting and adheres to the nasal or sinus site and has a residence time of at least 1 day. | 04-30-2015 |
20150045787 | ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICE AND METHOD - An electrosurgical device including an inner catheter, an outer catheter, a balloon, and a plurality of tubular electrodes. The inner catheter extends along a longitudinal axis. The outer catheter includes a first section and a second section each disposed around the inner catheter. The balloon is disposed around the inner catheter and extends between the first and second sections of the outer catheter. The balloon is a tubular member having an outside surface. The plurality of tubular electrodes extends along the longitudinal axis adjacent to the outside surface of the balloon. | 02-12-2015 |
20140324050 | Dynamic Locking Device - A surgical instrument including a tool, a handpiece, and a locking member. The handpiece includes both a coupling member configured to cooperate with the tool, and a driver for rotating the tool. The locking member is movable from an unlocked position to a locked position in response to centrifugal force generated during rotation of the locking member. The locking member is configured to secure the tool to the handpiece when in the locked position. | 10-30-2014 |
20140324012 | Medical Device And Its Construction - A tube can include an elongated cannulated member that has an external wall. The tube can be navigated during a selected procedure. The tube can be shaped to selected configurations. | 10-30-2014 |
20140275914 | COMPLIANT ELECTRODE FOR EMG ENDOTRACHEAL TUBE - An apparatus for monitoring EMG signals of a patient's laryngeal muscles includes an endotracheal tube having a first cuff and a second cuff. Conductive ink electrodes are formed on an exterior surface of the first cuff. The conductive ink electrodes are configured to receive the EMG signals from the laryngeal muscles when the endotracheal tube is placed in a trachea of the patient. At least one conductor is coupled to the conductive ink electrodes and is configured to carry the EMG signals received by the conductive ink electrodes to a processing apparatus. | 09-18-2014 |
20140263778 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF BONE PROCESSING - A system and method of processing bone is disclosed. A tissue separator is utilized to separate tissue comprising at least one of muscle, periosteum and connective tissue from bone in a safe, sterile and efficient manner. In one aspect, the particle reducer can include an impeller positioned with respect to a cutting surface on a drum. At least one of the impeller and the drum is rotated by a power source such that harvested tissue frictionally engages the cutting surface. In another aspect, a source of pressurized fluid can be directed at tissue to separate bone from non-bone tissue. | 09-18-2014 |
20140261793 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FINDING THE CENTER AND READING THE SETTING OF AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A centering tool and a combined centering-indicator tool for finding the magnetic center and indicating the setting of an implantable adjustable valve. The centering and combined centering-indicator tools include a magnetic capsule movable within a cavity to a target located on the tool when the magnetic capsule is centered over magnet of an adjustable valve. | 09-18-2014 |
20140243792 | BIOMATERIAL DELIVERY DEVICE - A biomaterial delivery device includes an elongated handheld powder storage conduit with proximal and distal ends and a bore having a central axis. The proximal end is closed by a movable powder dispensing actuator, and the distal end is closed by an openable sealing nib moveable from its closed to its open position by force upon the actuator. The distal end has a distally-projecting powder discharge chute that spaces the nib away from a surgical site. When the device is held upright over a surgical site with the nib opened, powder passing the nib is deflected at a first oblique direction with respect to the central axis and into or onto the powder discharge chute, and powder striking the chute is deflected at a rotationally distinct second oblique direction orientation with respect to the central axis and into or onto the surgical site. | 08-28-2014 |
20140243791 | BIOMATERIAL DELIVERY DEVICE - A biomaterial delivery device includes an elongated handheld powder storage conduit with proximal and distal ends and a bore having a central axis. The proximal end is closed by a movable powder dispensing actuator, and the distal end is closed by an openable sealing nib moveable from its closed to its open position by force upon the actuator whether or not the distal end is in contact with a surface. The conduit contains finely-divided loosely-filled powdered sterile biomaterial and a plurality of powder-contacting clump-disrupting projections arrayed inside and along the length of the conduit between the actuator and the nib. The projections are movable in the direction of the central axis by force upon the actuator, and the device when held upright with the nib opened provides a path along which powder may fall past the projections to be gravitationally dispensed in non-atomized form. | 08-28-2014 |
20140213968 | INFLATION DEVICE FOR BALLOON SINUS DILATION - An inflation device useful for inflating a balloon provided with a surgical instrument, such as a balloon sinus dilation instrument. The inflation device includes a syringe, a connector, and mechanical pressure indicator. The syringe includes a plunger slidably disposed within a barrel. The connector is configured to fluidly connect an outlet of the syringe with a surgical instrument balloon in establishing a closed inflation system between the syringe and an interior of the balloon. The pressure indicator is associated with the syringe and is configured to transition from a non-alert state to an alert state when a pressure of the inflation system has reached a predetermined level. In some embodiments, the inflation device is characterized by the absence of a pressure gauge. | 07-31-2014 |
20140180328 | SINUS DILATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A sinus dilation instrument useful with a navigation system and including a handle, a rigid probe, a balloon, and an identifier device. The probe extends from the handle, forms a curved segment, and carries the balloon. The identifier device is programmed to generate a signal indicative of an instrument identification assigned to the instrument, and is a frontal, maxillary or sphenoid sinus instrument. The signal is formatted to be recognized by an IGS. Once connected, the IGS recognizes the instrument and can retrieve information indicative of a spatial location of the balloon, for example via an instrument tracking device. A surgeon can “plug and play” the sinus dilation instrument with the IGS to perform a procedure. | 06-26-2014 |
20140155720 | ENDOTRACHEAL TUBE APPARATUS - An apparatus for monitoring EMG signals of a patient's laryngeal muscles includes an endotracheal tube having an exterior surface and a first location configured to be positioned at the patient's vocal folds. A first electrode is formed on the exterior surface of the endotracheal tube substantially below the first location to receive EMG signals primarily from below the vocal folds. A second electrode is formed on the exterior surface of the endotracheal tube substantially above the first location to receive EMG signals primarily from above the vocal folds. The first and second electrodes are configured to receive the EMG signals from the laryngeal muscles when the endotracheal tube is placed in a trachea of the patient. | 06-05-2014 |
20140148672 | ENDOBRONCHIAL TUBE APPARATUS - Concepts presented herein include an apparatus for monitoring EMG signals of a patient's laryngeal muscles. The apparatus includes an endobronchial tube having an exterior surface and two lumens for providing ventilation. Conductive ink electrodes are formed on the exterior surface of the endobronchial tube. The conductive ink electrodes are configured to receive the EMG signals from the laryngeal muscles when the endotracheal tube is placed in a trachea of the patient. At least one conductor is coupled to the conductive ink electrodes and is configured to carry the EMG signals received by the conductive ink electrodes to a processing apparatus. | 05-29-2014 |
20140107688 | POWERED SURGICAL TISSUE CUTTING INSTRUMENT HAVING AN IRRIGATION SYSTEM - A surgical tissue cutting instrument comprises a tubular outer member, an inner member rotatably disposed within the outer member and having a cutting element, a handpiece, and an irrigation system. The irrigation system includes an irrigation channel composed of a first irrigation passage within the handpiece and a second irrigation passage within the thickness of the annular wall of the outer member, and a sleeve disposed over a front end of the handpiece and over the outer member adjacent an outlet opening of the second irrigation passage. The sleeve allows communication through the outlet opening of the second irrigation passage and an inlet port of the first passage. The inlet port is connectible with a source of irrigation fluid. | 04-17-2014 |
20140069841 | Modular Instrument Tray - A modular instrument kit configured to receive a plurality of instrument trays therein. At least one of the trays includes a planar base, a rear wall orientated at an angle relative to the base, a flange, and an instrument support configured to support a plurality of surgical instruments. The at least one tray is configured to be seated on a generally planar surface in a free-standing position to support the plurality of surgical instruments such that tips of the instruments extend upward so as to be readily viewable in an operating room. The at least one tray is configured to be hung from a generally vertical surface with the rear wall generally flush against a first surface of the generally vertical surface and the flange in contact with a second surface of the generally vertical surface that is opposite to the first surface. | 03-13-2014 |
20140046329 | HIGH SPEED SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT - A surgical cutting instrument including an outer tube having a bearing sleeve disposed within a lumen thereof, along with an inner wire assembly extending through the outer tube and the bearing sleeve. A cutting tip is connected to the inner wire assembly distal the outer tube. Conversely, a coupling chuck is connected to a proximal section of the inner wire assembly, with a housing maintaining the outer tube and the coupling chuck. When mounted to a motor, the inner wire assembly is rotated to effectuate a surgical cutting procedure at the cutting tip, with the bearing sleeve supporting the inner wire assembly relative to the outer tube during rotation. | 02-13-2014 |
20140012130 | Flexible Circuit Sheet - A surgical instrument is disclosed having an elongated body portion having a proximal end and a distal end. The body portion is formed from a plastically deformable material such that the body portion can be bent between the proximal and distal ends from a first configuration to a second bent configuration and maintains the bent configuration. A flexible circuit having at least a pair of lead wires disposed around the body portion. The pair of lead wires are configured to conform to the bent configuration of the body portion such that they do not break during bending of the body portion. A tracking device adapted to cooperate with a navigation system to track the distal end of the instrument is coupled to the flexible circuit. | 01-09-2014 |
20130345646 | FLUID FLOW CONTROL DEVICES, ROTORS AND MAGNETS WITH INCREASED RESISTANCE TO INADVERTENT SETTING CHANGE AND IMPROVED ACCESSORY TOOL COUPLING - Implantable physiological shunt systems and related fluid flow control devices and accessories for use therewith. Devices, systems and methods relating to implantable medical fluid flow control devices, rotors and magnets with increased resistance to inadvertent setting changes. Devices, systems and methods relating implantable medical fluid flow control devices, rotors and magnets which provide improved magnetic coupling to fluid flow control device accessories such as adjustment tools. | 12-26-2013 |
20130338749 | NERVE ELECTRODE - A nerve electrode cuff includes an electrode and a cuff body. | 12-19-2013 |
20130317355 | Navigating A Surgical Instrument - An instrument tracking device for cooperating with an instrument during a surgical procedure where the instrument has an elongated body extending along a first longitudinal axis and including a working member at a distal tip includes a body having a distal end and a proximal end. An opening can be formed through the body along a second longitudinal axis. The opening can define a passthrough in the body from the distal end to the proximal end. A first tracking coil can be disposed in the body and can define a first tracking coil axis that is substantially coaxial with the second longitudinal axis of the body. A connection mechanism cooperates between the elongated housing and the body that secures the body to the elongated housing of the instrument upon passing at least a portion of the elongated housing through the passthrough of the body in an assembled position. | 11-28-2013 |
20130289439 | STIMULATION PROBE FOR ROBOTIC AND LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY - A stimulation probe includes a proximal end connector and a flexible wire coupled to the end connector. A handle is coupled to the wire and a needle extends from the handle and terminates at a conductive tip. | 10-31-2013 |
20130245704 | SURGICAL SYSTEM INCLUDING POWERED ROTARY-TYPE HANDPIECE - A surgical system which may include a controller, a data entry device, a powered surgical handpiece and a surgical tool adapted to couple to the surgical handpiece. The surgical handpiece can include motor direction control and feedback, safety stop features, stimulation and nerve integrity monitoring, a tool connector assembly configured to retain a variety of surgical tools and optional navigation and/or electric ratcheting features. | 09-19-2013 |
20130244974 | SURGICAL HYDROGEL - A composition suitable for use in wound healing, particularly for reducing post-surgical adhesions, containing cross-linked derivatives of chitosan and dextran polymers. A hydrogel forms when solutions of the polymers are combined. | 09-19-2013 |
20130213410 | PHARYNGEAL WALL TREATMENT - A patient's pharyngeal wall is treated by inserting an expander member into the airway and positioning an active portion of the expander member in opposition to portions of the pharyngeal wall to be treated. The expander member is activated to urge the wall portions outwardly to an outwardly displaced position. The expander member is then deactivated while leaving the wall portions in the outwardly placed position and the expander member is removed from said airway. A further aspect of the treatment includes stabilization of at least a portion of the pharyngeal wall after compression of portions of the wall. | 08-22-2013 |
20130197552 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DISTAL BEARING ASSEMBLY - A surgical cutting instrument comprises an outer tubular member having a proximal section, an intermediate section and a central lumen. An inner tubular member is rotatably received within the central lumen and includes a distal end forming a cutting member extending distally beyond, and exposed relative to, the distal section of the outer tubular member. A bearing assembly is coupled to the outer tubular member and the inner tubular member. | 08-01-2013 |
20130197525 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REMOVING MATERIAL FROM AN INTERVERTEBRAL DISC SPACE AND PREPARING END PLATES - Instrument and method for removing material from an intervertebral disc. The instrument includes outer and inner tubular members. The outer tubular member defines a passage and a cutting window. The inner tubular member is coaxially disposed within the passage, and defines a central lumen and a cutting tip. The cutting tip forms an open mouth having a plurality of teeth. Upon assembly, the cutting tip is exposed within the cutting window combining to define a shaving head. A manual decorticating implement is coupled to the outer tubular member and defining a scraping surface. A powered handpiece is coupled to the inner tubular member, and the shaving head is inserted into an intervertebral disc and positioned such that the cutting tip contacts targeted material (e.g., nucleus, annulus and/or end plate). The handpiece is activated to rotate the cutting tip relative to the cutting window. Contacted material is sheared between an edge of the cutting window and the teeth of the cutting tip. The manual decorticating implement is used to remove intervertebral disc material from an end plate. | 08-01-2013 |
20130197522 | ROTARY CUTTING TOOL WITH IMPROVED CUTTING AND REDUCED CLOGGING ON SOFT TISSUE AND THIN BONE - A surgical cutting instrument including two coaxially arranged tubular members. The first tubular member has a cutting tip and is co-axially disposed within the second tubular member, which in turn has a cutting window to expose the cutting tip to tissue and bone through the cutting window. Movement of the tubular members with respect to each other debrides soft tissue and thin bone presented to the cutting window. The second (outer) tubular member has one or more features which contribute to reduced clogging of the cutting tip as a whole. | 08-01-2013 |
20130178937 | NASAL VALVE TREATMENT METHOD & APPARATUS - A method and apparatus for treating a nasal valve condition including surgically forming an access path to create a pocket on a side of the patient's nose. The pocket is positioned between a soft tissue layer and opposing surfaces of upper and lower cartilages of the nose. The pocket spans a junction between the upper and lower cartilages. An implant is placed through the access path into the pocket with a length oriented to span the junction. A delivery system for placement of the implant includes a surgical tool for forming the access path and for delivering the implant into the access path. | 07-11-2013 |
20130172714 | CLAMP FOR SECURING A TERMINAL END OF A WIRE TO A SURFACE ELECTRODE - A clamp for securing a terminal end of a wire to a surface electrode formed on a cylindrical tube includes a first semicylindrical element. A second semicylindrical element is configured to be attached to the first semicylindrical element to form a tubular clamp structure that is adapted to be clamped around the cylindrical tube. The tubular clamp structure includes an interior surface configured to securely hold a terminal end of a wire against a surface electrode formed on the cylindrical tube. | 07-04-2013 |
20130137954 | Flexible Circuit Sheet - A flexible circuit assembly can include a base layer, a plurality of circuit traces and an insulative layer. The plurality of circuit traces can each be coupled to a pair of circuit pads, and the circuit traces can be formed on an upper side of the base layer. The insulative layer can be formed over the circuit traces to isolate the circuit traces from an external environment. The base layer, plurality of circuit traces and insulative layer can form a flexible circuit sheet. The base layer and the insulative layer can include material properties and a thickness configured to facilitate the flexible circuit sheet being flexible such that the flexible circuit sheet is adapted to conform to a non-planar surface of the medical device. | 05-30-2013 |
20130110161 | SPRAY DELIVERY SYSTEM | 05-02-2013 |
20130110158 | MULTI-ORIFICE SPRAY HEAD | 05-02-2013 |
20130110157 | MULTI-SECTIONED CANNULA WITH AT LEAST ONE LUMEN | 05-02-2013 |
20130105018 | TURBULENCE-INDUCING MIXING DEVICE | 05-02-2013 |
20130096482 | ALTERNATE GEOMETRY STYLET FOR VENTRICULAR SHUNT CATHETER PLACEMENT - A stylet having a non-round cross-sectional shape which is specifically adapted to reduce the adhesion or “stickiness” of contact between the stylet and the interior surface of the lumen of an elastomeric catheter through which it extends. The stylet may be “pre-loaded” into the catheter. | 04-18-2013 |
20130090641 | INTERFACE MODULE ALLOWING DELIVERY OF TISSUE STIMULATION AND ELECTROSURGERY THROUGH A COMMON SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - Concepts presented herein relate to an interface module that can be electrically coupled to an electrical stimulation generator, a radio frequency generator and an instrument. A selection module is coupled to the interface module and operates in a first mode to deliver electrical stimulation signals from the electrical stimulation generator to the instrument and in a second mode to deliver radio frequency signals from the radio frequency generator to the instrument. | 04-11-2013 |
20130079805 | POWERED SURGICAL TISSUE CUTTING INSTRUMENT HAVING AN IRRIGATION SYSTEM - A surgical tissue cutting instrument comprises a tubular outer member, an inner member rotatably disposed within the outer member and having a cutting element, a handpiece, and an irrigation system. The irrigation system includes an irrigation channel composed of a first irrigation passage within the handpiece and a second irrigation passage within the thickness of the annular wall of the outer member, and a sleeve disposed over a front end of the handpiece and over the outer member adjacent an outlet opening of the second irrigation passage. The sleeve allows communication through the outlet opening of the second irrigation passage and an inlet port of the first passage. The inlet port is connectible with a source of irrigation fluid. | 03-28-2013 |
20130079300 | METHOD OF PROVIDING HEMOSTASIS USING FLEXIBLE BIORESORBABLE FOAM - A method of providing hemostasis of bleeding tissue. A flexible bioresorbable foam is formed that consists essentially of carboxymethylcellulose. The flexible bioresorbable foam is crosslinked. Chain scission is performed on the crosslinked flexible bioresorbable foam to provide the flexible bioresorbable foam with a selected in-vivo residence time of between about 3 days and about 14 days. Hemostasis is caused by applying the flexible bioresorbable foam to bleeding tissue. The flexible bioresorbable foam is resorbed in-vivo. The selected in-vivo residence time is a time between the flexible bioresorbable foam being applied to the tissue and the flexible bioresorbable foam having been substantially completely absorbed into the tissue. | 03-28-2013 |
20130066253 | ADJUSTMENT FOR HYDROCEPHALUS SHUNT VALVE - An implantable medical device is disclosed that includes a valve seat and a valve member movable with respect to the valve seat. An adjustment circuit assembly includes a resistive element that is coupled to the valve member and operable to position the valve member relative to the valve seat so as to alter the pressure setting in response to a current applied to the resistive element. | 03-14-2013 |
20130045112 | ROLLER POSITIONING SYSTEM - A tube-positioning system for loading tubing into a peristaltic pump includes a shell configured to slidably fit onto, and be releasably secured relative to, an exterior housing of a peristaltic pump. A pair of guides protrude from an upper portion of opposite side walls of the shell with each guide configured to releasably mount a first tube segment to extend between the guides. | 02-21-2013 |
20130012973 | MICRO-RESECTING AND EVOKED POTENTIAL MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD - Surgical micro-resecting and evoked potential monitoring system and method. The system includes a micro-resecting instrument, handpiece, and evoked potential monitor. The instrument includes an outer tube forming a cutting window at which a cutting tip of an inner member is located. A hub assembly rotatably maintains the inner and outer members. An electrically non-conductive material covers a region of the outer tube, and wiring is connected to an exposed surface of the outer tube. The instrument defines a probe surface proximate the cutting window as part of an electrical pathway with the wiring. The hub assembly is powered by the handpiece, and the wiring is connected to the evoked potential monitor. Evoked potential monitoring is performed at the probe surface via stimulation energy delivered along the electrical pathway, and tissue/bone resection occurs with rotation of the cutting tip. | 01-10-2013 |
20130012972 | METHOD OF ENDOSCOPICALLY REMOVING TISSUE - A method of endoscopically removing tissue including providing a surgical cutting instrument including a first elongated member having a cutting tip, a second tubular member forming a cutting window, and a handpiece. The first elongated member is co-axially disposed within the second tubular member such that the cutting tip is exposed at the cutting window and combines to define a cutting implement. The first and second members are coupled to the handpiece. The method includes grasping the handpiece, deploying the instrument such that the cutting implement is adjacent a target site with the cutting window positioned at a first spatial orientation relative to the handpiece, rotating the cutting window relative to the handpiece such that the cutting window is positioned at a second spatial orientation, and moving the first elongated member relative to the second tubular member such that the cutting tip removes tissue from the target site. | 01-10-2013 |
20120316590 | INSTRUMENT AND SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL CUTTING AND EVOKED POTENTIAL MONITORING - A surgical cutting instrument for use with a drive motor, and related system and method, is described. The surgical cutting instrument includes an elongated drive member, a cutting tip secured to the drive member, a non-conductive coupling body adapted for connection to a motor assembly, a housing maintaining the coupling body, a fluid coupling assembly and an electrical connector for connection to a stimulating energy source. The electrical connector is in electrical communication with the cutting tip via an electrical pathway. | 12-13-2012 |
20120310139 | ADJUSTABLE VALVE SETTING WITH MOTOR CONTROL - An implantable medical device is disclosed that includes a valve body and a valve rotor adjustable with respect to the valve body. A tool can be utilized to determine and control a position of the valve rotor with respect to the valve body. The tool can include a valve body position reader, a valve rotor position reader and a valve rotor position controller to determine a valve setting for the device and adjust the valve setting as desired. | 12-06-2012 |
20120274253 | ELECTRIC RATCHET FOR A POWERED SCREWDRIVER - A powered screwdriver system includes an electric ratchet. In accordance with one aspect, the powered screwdriver system includes a driver housing and includes a motor disposed within the housing. A working end provides a rotational output and is mechanically coupled to the rotor. A power source provides power to the motor. A controller receives signals representative of a motor condition and, based on the received signals, controls the motor in a manner providing the electric ratchet. | 11-01-2012 |
20120265175 | MALLEABLE INSTRUMENT FOR LAPAROSCOPIC PROCEDURES - A laparoscopoic tool includes a handle assembly, a tool implement, an outer tube defining an inner lumen and a wire assembly positioned within the lumen of the outer tube and coupled to the handle assembly and the tool implement. The outer tube and the wire assembly are configured to be shaped to form at least one bend region. | 10-18-2012 |
20120253125 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR BIOFILM REMOVAL, INCLUDING A BIOFILM REMOVAL ENDOSCOPE FOR USE THEREWITH - Systems and methods of removing bacterial biofilm from a target site using a biofilm removal endoscope. The endoscope has an insertion portion including an imaging channel terminating at a viewing window and an irrigation channel terminating at a nozzle. The imaging and irrigation channels are permanently affixed relative to one another. The insertion portion is inserted into the patient, with a working end thereof being disposed proximate the target site. The target site is imaged and a flow of fluid is dispensed via the nozzle to mechanically remove bacterial biofilm from the target site. | 10-04-2012 |
20120197178 | READING AND ADJUSTING TOOL FOR HYDROCEPHALUS SHUNT VALVE - A reading and adjustment tool for use with a valve having a pressure or flow setting adjustable to a plurality of pressure or flow settings is disclosed. The tool includes a signal generator and an excitation coil coupled to the signal generator. The signal generator includes an adjustment interface configured to generate an adjustment signal to adjust the pressure or flow setting and a reading interface to generate a reading signal to read the pressure or flow setting of the valve. At least one excitation coil is connected to the signal generator and configured to generate an oscillating electromagnetic field based on one of the adjustment signal and reading signal. A sense coil can include two portions positioned on either side of the at least one excitation coil to determine the pressure or flow setting of the valve. | 08-02-2012 |
20120197177 | ADJUSTMENT FOR HYDROCEPHALUS SHUNT VALVE - An implantable medical device is disclosed that includes a valve seat and a valve member movable with respect to the valve seat. An adjustment circuit assembly includes a resistive element that is coupled to the valve member and operable to position the valve member relative to the valve seat so as to alter the pressure setting in response to a current applied to the resistive element. | 08-02-2012 |
20120101513 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REMOVING MATERIAL FROM AN INTERVERTEBRAL DISC SPACE AND PREPARING END PLATES - Instrument and method for removing material from an intervertebral disc. The instrument includes outer and inner tubular members. The outer tubular member defines a passage and a cutting window. The inner tubular member is coaxially disposed within the passage, and defines a central lumen and a cutting tip. The cutting tip forms an open mouth having a plurality of teeth. Upon assembly, the cutting tip is exposed within the cutting window combining to define a shaving head. A manual decorticating implement is coupled to the outer tubular member and defining a scraping surface. A powered handpiece is coupled to the inner tubular member, and the shaving head is inserted into an intervertebral disc and positioned such that the cutting tip contacts targeted material (e.g., nucleus, annulus and/or end plate). The handpiece is activated to rotate the cutting tip relative to the cutting window. Contacted material is sheared between an edge of the cutting window and the teeth of the cutting tip. The manual decorticating implement is used to remove intervertebral disc material from an end plate. | 04-26-2012 |
20120078277 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL REMOVAL OF BRAIN TUMORS - A method for treating a brain tumor includes providing a surgical instrument having an inner member and an outer member. The outer member has a distal region forming a cutting window. The inner member is rotatably received within the outer member, and has a cutting tip that is exposed at the window. The cutting tip and the distal region of the outer member combine to define a cutting implement. An opening is created through the patient's skull to provide access to a brain tumor target site. The cutting implement is delivered through the opening to the target site. The cutting tip is placed into contact with the tumor and operated to cut the tumor. The target site is selectively aspirated to remove cut tumor tissue. | 03-29-2012 |
20120031412 | STIFFENING PHARYNGEAL WALL TREATMENT - A pharyngeal airway having a pharyngeal wall of a patient at least partially surrounding and defining the airway is treated by selecting an implant dimensioned so as to be implanted at or beneath a mucosal layer of the pharyngeal wall and extending transverse to said wall. The implant has mechanical characteristics for the implant, at least in combination with a fibrotic tissue response induced by the implant, to stiffen said pharyngeal wall to resist radial collapse. The implant is implanted into the pharyngeal wall transverse to a longitudinal axis of the airway. | 02-09-2012 |
20120004680 | MICRO-RESECTING AND EVOKED POTENTIAL MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD - Surgical micro-resecting and evoked potential monitoring system and method. The system includes a micro-resecting instrument, handpiece, and evoked potential monitor. The instrument includes an outer tube forming a cutting window at which a cutting tip of an inner member is located. A hub assembly rotatably maintains the inner and outer members. An electrically non-conductive material covers a region of the outer tube, and wiring is connected to an exposed surface of the outer tube. The instrument defines a probe surface proximate the cutting window as part of an electrical pathway with the wiring. The hub assembly is powered by the handpiece, and the wiring is connected to the evoked potential monitor. Evoked potential monitoring is performed at the probe surface via stimulation energy delivered along the electrical pathway, and tissue/bone resection occurs with rotation of the cutting tip. | 01-05-2012 |
20110270294 | ROTARY CUTTING TOOL WITH IMPROVED CUTTING AND REDUCED CLOGGING ON SOFT TISSUE AND THIN BONE - A surgical cutting instrument including two coaxially arranged tubular members. The first tubular member has a cutting tip and is co-axially disposed within the second tubular member, which in turn has a cutting window to expose the cutting tip to tissue and bone through the cutting window. Movement of the tubular members with respect to each other debrides soft tissue and thin bone presented to the cutting window. The second (outer) tubular member has one or more features which contribute to reduced clogging of the cutting tip as a whole. | 11-03-2011 |
20110270293 | POWERED SURGICAL TISSUE CUTTING INSTRUMENT HAVING AN IRRIGATION SYSTEM - A surgical tissue cutting instrument having an irrigation system comprises an elongate tubular outer member having a proximal end, a distal end and an opening at the distal end, an elongate inner member rotatably disposed within the outer member and having a proximal end, a distal end and a cutting element at the distal end exposed from the opening, a handpiece mounted to the proximal ends of the outer and inner members, and an irrigation system comprising an irrigation channel composed of a first irrigation passage within the handpiece and a second irrigation passage within the thickness of the annular wall of the outer member, and a sleeve having a rearward end disposed over a front end of the handpiece and a forward end disposed over the outer member adjacent an outlet opening of the second irrigation passage near the distal end of the outer member. The sleeve is disposed over the outer member with a snug fit while allowing communication through the outlet opening of the second irrigation passage, whereby the irrigation channel is enclosed and sealed between an inlet port of the first irrigation passage and the outlet opening of the second passage. The inlet port is connectible with a source of irrigation fluid for flow through the irrigation channel to be discharged from the outlet opening near the distal end of the outer member. | 11-03-2011 |
20110270120 | INTERFACE MODULE FOR USE WITH NERVE MONITORING AND ELECTROSURGERY - Concepts presented herein relate to an interface module that can be electrically coupled to an electrical stimulation generator, a radio frequency generator and an instrument. A selection module is coupled to the interface module and operates in a first mode to deliver electrical stimulation signals from the electrical stimulation generator to the instrument and in a second mode to deliver radio frequency signals from the radio frequency generator to the instrument. | 11-03-2011 |
20110270081 | Navigated Malleable Surgical Instrument - A surgical instrument can include a body, a tracking device, and a handle. The body can include proximal and distal ends, and a flow passage extending therebetween. The body can be formed from a malleable material such that it can be bent between the proximal and distal ends from a first configuration to a second bent configuration and maintain the bent configuration. The tracking device can be positioned adjacent the distal end for tracking a distal tip of the instrument. The handle can be coupled to the proximal end of the body and can include an internal flow passage in fluid communication with the body flow passage. The tracking device can include a pair of lead wires wound around the body to the handle, where the wound wires can conform to the bent configuration of the body such that they do not strain or break during bending of the body. | 11-03-2011 |
20110257631 | ACCELEROMETER BASED LASER LEVELING DEVICE - A laser leveling device is disclosed for use with an external medical drainage system. The laser leveling device includes a housing enclosing an accelerometer and a laser module. At least one level indicator is electrically coupled to the accelerometer to provide an indication of whether the housing is level with respect to gravity. | 10-20-2011 |
20110245647 | ENDOTRACHEAL TUBE APPARATUS - An apparatus for monitoring EMG signals of a patient's laryngeal muscles includes an endotracheal tube having an exterior surface and a first location configured to be positioned at the patient's vocal folds. A first electrode is formed on the exterior surface of the endotracheal tube substantially below the first location. A second electrode is formed on the exterior surface of the endotracheal tube substantially above the first location. The first and second electrodes are configured to receive the EMG signals from the laryngeal muscles when the endotracheal tube is placed in a trachea of the patient. | 10-06-2011 |
20110237687 | ADJUSTING DRUG LOADING IN POLYMERIC MATERIALS - Drug loading of polymeric materials can be adjusted by selection of materials and/or adjusting processing steps in formation of an implantable drug-loaded device. | 09-29-2011 |
20110190884 | NASAL VALVE TREATMENT METHOD & APPARATUS - A method and apparatus for treating a nasal valve condition including surgically forming an access path to create a pocket on a side of the patient's nose. The pocket is positioned between a soft tissue layer and opposing surfaces of upper and lower cartilages of the nose. The pocket spans a junction between the upper and lower cartilages. An implant is placed through the access path into the pocket with a length oriented to span the junction. A delivery system for placement of the implant includes a surgical tool for forming the access path and for delivering the implant into the access path. | 08-04-2011 |
20110190883 | NASAL VALVE TREATMENT METHOD & APPARATUS - A method and apparatus for treating a nasal valve condition including surgically forming an access path to create a pocket on a side of the patient's nose. The pocket is positioned between a soft tissue layer and opposing surfaces of upper and lower cartilages of the nose. The pocket spans a junction between the upper and lower cartilages. An implant is placed through the access path into the pocket with a length oriented to span the junction. A delivery system for placement of the implant includes a surgical tool for forming the access path and for delivering the implant into the access path. | 08-04-2011 |
20110190596 | ENDOTRACHEAL TUBE APPARATUS - An apparatus for monitoring EMG signals of a patient's laryngeal muscles includes an endotracheal tube having an exterior surface. Conductive ink electrodes are formed on the exterior surface of the endotracheal tube. The conductive ink electrodes are configured to receive the EMG signals from the laryngeal muscles when the endotracheal tube is placed in a trachea of the patient. At least one conductor is coupled to the conductive ink electrodes and is configured to carry the EMG signals received by the conductive ink electrodes to a processing apparatus. | 08-04-2011 |
20110186058 | NASAL VALVE TREATMENT METHOD & APPARATUS - A method and apparatus for treating a nasal valve condition including surgically forming an access path to create a pocket on a side of the patient's nose. The pocket is positioned between a soft tissue layer and opposing surfaces of upper and lower cartilages of the nose. The pocket spans a junction between the upper and lower cartilages. An implant is placed through the access path into the pocket with a length oriented to span the junction. A delivery system for placement of the implant includes a surgical tool for forming the access path and for delivering the implant into the access path. | 08-04-2011 |
20110166576 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REMOVING MATERIAL FROM AN INTERVERTEBRAL DISC SPACE, SUCH AS IN PERFORMING A NUCLEOTOMY - Instrument and method for removing material from an intervertebral disc. The instrument includes outer and inner tubular members. The outer tubular member defines a passage and a cutting window. The inner tubular member is coaxially disposed within the passage, and defines a central lumen and a cutting tip. The cutting tip forms an open mouth having a plurality of teeth. Upon assembly, the cutting tip is exposed within the cutting window combining to define a shaving head. A powered handpiece is coupled to the inner tubular member, and the shaving head is inserted into an intervertebral disc and positioned such that the cutting tip contacts targeted material (e.g., nucleus, annulus and/or end plate). The handpiece is activated to rotate the cutting tip relative to the cutting window. Contacted material is sheared between an edge of the cutting window and the teeth of the cutting tip. | 07-07-2011 |
20110166503 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF BONE PROCESSING - A system and method of processing bone is disclosed. A tissue separator is utilized to separate tissue comprising at least one of muscle, periosteum and connective tissue from bone in a safe, sterile and efficient manner. In one aspect, the particle reducer can include an impeller positioned with respect to a cutting surface on a drum. At least one of the impeller and the drum is rotated by a power source such that harvested tissue frictionally engages the cutting surface. In another aspect, a source of pressurized fluid can be directed at tissue to separate bone from non-bone tissue. | 07-07-2011 |
20110112460 | ADJUSTABLE VALVE SETTING WITH MOTOR CONTROL - An implantable medical device is disclosed that includes a valve body and a valve rotor adjustable with respect to the valve body. A tool can be utilized to determine and control a position of the valve rotor with respect to the valve body. The tool can include a valve body position reader, a valve rotor position reader and a valve rotor position controller to determine a valve setting for the device and adjust the valve setting as desired. | 05-12-2011 |
20110106089 | HIGH SPEED SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT - A surgical cutting instrument including an outer tube having a bearing sleeve disposed within a lumen thereof, along with an inner wire assembly extending through the outer tube and the bearing sleeve. A cutting tip is connected to the inner wire assembly distal the outer tube. Conversely, a coupling chuck is connected to a proximal section of the inner wire assembly, with a housing maintaining the outer tube and the coupling chuck. When mounted to a motor, the inner wire assembly is rotated to effectuate a surgical cutting procedure at the cutting tip, with the bearing sleeve supporting the inner wire assembly relative to the outer tube during rotation. | 05-05-2011 |
20110070285 | METHOD OF MAKING FLEXIBLE BIORESORBABLE HEMOSTATIC PACKING AND STENT HAVING A PRESELECTABLE IN-VIVO RESIDENCE TIME - The invention provides a method of making flexible bioresorbable foam having hemostatic properties and a preselectable in-vivo residence time. A blend of crosslinked collagen blended and a hyaluronic acid component is prepared. The blend is mixed with water to form a suspension. The blend is freezed and lyophilized at less than about 0° C. Next, the blend is crosslinked. The product is then sterilized and chain scission is performed by bombardment with gamma rays or a beam of electrons. | 03-24-2011 |
20110009699 | METHODS FOR BIOFILM REMOVAL - A method of removing bacterial biofilm from a target site of a human patient. A bacterial biofilm removal system is provided that includes an endoscope, an irrigation duct and an aspiration duct. The endoscope includes a working end. The irrigation duct includes an outlet. The aspiration duct includes an inlet. The endoscope working end, the irrigation duct outlet and the aspiration duct inlet are disposed proximate a target site that includes a layer of bacterial biofilm. The target site is imaged with the endoscope working end. The fluid is dispensed through the irrigation duct outlet toward the target site to mechanically remove at least a portion of the layer of bacterial biofilm. The removed bacterial biofilm and the dispensed fluid are collected with the aspiration duct inlet. | 01-13-2011 |
20100314200 | LUBRICATION AND EXHAUST SYSTEM FOR A POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - A lubrication cartridge includes a cartridge body. A cartridge coupling is located on the cartridge body and defines a first passage and a second passage. A lubricant reservoir is housed in the cartridge body and comprises a pressurized fluid inlet coupled to the first passage and a lubricant outlet coupled to the second passage. A metering insert is located between the lubricant outlet and the second passage and comprises a density that controls lubricant flow between the lubricant reservoir and the second passage. | 12-16-2010 |
20100298763 | SURGICAL MICRO-BURRING INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF PERFORMING SINUS SURGERY - A surgical micro-burring instrument including an outer tubular member coaxially maintaining an inner tubular member. The outer tubular member defines a proximal section, a distal section, and a central lumen extending from the proximal section to the distal section. The distal section forms a pocket and an elevator tip. The pocket has a bottom wall and an opposed upper opening. The elevator tip extends distal the pocket. The inner tubular member forms a bur received within the pocket. Upon final assembly, at least a portion of the bur is exposed relative to the outer tubular member via the upper opening of the pocket. The elevator tip is configured to facilitate lifting of soft tissue, such as mucosa, while positioning the bur, via the pocket, in an appropriate location for cutting contacted harder tissue, such as turbinate bone or septal bone/cartilage. | 11-25-2010 |
20100241191 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ASSISTING DEGLUTITION - Methods and systems for artificially stimulating user deglutition without substantial aspiration are provided. Methods and systems include artificially stimulating user deglutition according to various specialized programs, including passive user secretion maintenance programs, active feeding programs, proprioceptive feedback programs, and others. | 09-23-2010 |
20100234724 | Navigating A Surgical Instrument - An instrument tracking device for cooperating with an instrument during a surgical procedure where the instrument has an elongated body extending along a first longitudinal axis and including a working member at a distal tip includes a body having a distal end and a proximal end. An opening can be formed through the body along a second longitudinal axis. The opening can define a passthrough in the body from the distal end to the proximal end. A first tracking coil can be disposed in the body and can define a first tracking coil axis that is substantially coaxial with the second longitudinal axis of the body. A connection mechanism cooperates between the elongated housing and the body that secures the body to the elongated housing of the instrument upon passing at least a portion of the elongated housing through the passthrough of the body in an assembled position. | 09-16-2010 |
20100229876 | Pharyngeal wall treatment - A patient's pharyngeal wall is treated by inserting an expander member into the airway and positioning an active portion of the expander member in opposition to portions of the pharyngeal wall to be treated. The expander member is activated to urge the wall portions outwardly to an outwardly displaced position. The expander member is then deactivated while leaving the wall portions in the outwardly placed position and the expander member is removed from said airway. A further aspect of the treatment includes stabilization of at least a portion of the pharyngeal wall after compression of portions of the wall. | 09-16-2010 |
20100198219 | INSTRUMENT AND SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL CUTTING AND EVOKED POTENTIAL MONITORING - A surgical cutting instrument for use with a drive motor, and related system and method, is described. The surgical cutting instrument includes an elongated drive member, a cutting tip secured to the drive member, a non-conductive coupling body adapted for connection to a motor assembly, a housing maintaining the coupling body, a fluid coupling assembly and an electrical connector for connection to a stimulating energy source. The electrical connector is in electrical communication with the cutting tip via an electrical pathway. | 08-05-2010 |
20100198099 | NERVE MONITORING DURING ELECTROSURGERY - A signal processing module includes an input module electronically coupled to a sensing probe of a nerve integrity monitoring system. The probe senses electrical signals from a patient during operation of an electrosurgical unit. The input module receives an input signal from the probe. An EMG detection module is coupled to the input module and is adapted to detect conditions in the input signal. The conditions are classified as a function of a level of electromyographic activity. An output module, coupled to the EMG detection module, provides an indication of electromyographic activity in the input signal based on the detected conditions. | 08-05-2010 |
20100191266 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL REMOVAL OF BRAIN TUMORS - A method for treating a brain tumor includes providing a surgical instrument having an inner member and an outer member. The outer member has a distal region forming a cutting window. The inner member is rotatably received within the outer member, and has a cutting tip that is exposed at the window. The cutting tip and the distal region of the outer member combine to define a cutting implement. An opening is created through the patient's skull to provide access to a brain tumor target site. The cutting implement is delivered through the opening to the target site. The cutting tip is placed into contact with the tumor and operated to cut the tumor. The target site is selectively aspirated to remove cut tumor tissue. | 07-29-2010 |
20100137794 | Pharyngeal wall treatment - A patient's pharyngeal wall is treated by inserting an expander member into the airway and positioning an active portion of the expander member in opposition to portions of the pharyngeal wall to be treated. The expander member is activated to urge the wall portions outwardly to an outwardly displaced position. The expander member is then deactivated while leaving the wall portions in the outwardly placed position and the expander member is removed from said airway. A further aspect of the treatment includes stabilization of at least a portion of the pharyngeal wall after compression of portions of the wall. | 06-03-2010 |
20090326540 | Chuck for Reciprocating Surgical Instrument - Devices are described relating to the retaining of surgical tools within the chuck of a reciprocating surgical instrument, such as a reciprocating saw. A securing chuck is disclosed for securing a surgical tool to a reciprocating surgical instrument that comprises a shaft and a securing member. The shaft defines an axis and has a cylindrical bore extending along the axis. The bore is shaped to receive a substantially rounded tool shank. A pair of transverse slots extends into the shaft along a plane passing through the axis for receiving a substantially flattened tool shank. The transverse slots intersect with the cylindrical bore. The securing member is carried by the shaft and is radially movable relative to the bore both inwardly and outwardly to secure the surgical tool in the chuck. | 12-31-2009 |
20090240272 | Control For A Powered Surgical Instrument - A surgical instrument is provided for cutting bone and other tissue. The instrument includes a housing. A plurality of sensors are located in the housing in a spaced apart orientation from each other. A collar is moveably mounted to the housing into a plurality of different collar orientations on the housing. A lever comprising an actuator is moveably coupled to the collar and, with the collar located in any one of the plurality of different collar orientations, the lever is operable to move the actuator relative to one of the plurality of sensors in order to vary a signal produced by that sensor. | 09-24-2009 |