23rd week of 2011 patent applcation highlights part 57 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20110137300 | Treatment pattern monitor - The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for determining the applicability of a treatment pattern for manipulation of a cornea of an eye using a laser. The concept of the present invention is based on the determination of an actual volumetric profile based on a set of input data and a theoretical volumetric profile which is created independently based on only the basic optical parameters. On the basis of a comparison of the determined volumetric profiles it is determined whether the actual volumetric profile is within predetermined tolerances. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137301 | EXCIMER LASER UNIT AND RELATIVE CONTROL METHOD FOR PERFORMING CORNEA ABLATION TO REDUCE PRESBYOPIA - An excimer laser unit and a method of controlling the unit to perform cornea ablation to reduce presbyopia, wherein the excimer laser unit is controlled to form on the cornea a photoablative pattern inducing a fourth-order ocular aberration, in particular a positive spherical aberration. An aberrometric map of the eye is first acquired indicating the visual defects of the eye, which include second-order visual defects such as hypermetropia, astigmatism, and myopia, and higher-order visual defects such as spherical aberration; if the detected spherical aberration is negative, it is reduced by numerically increasing its absolute value to obtain an overcorrect photoablative inducing positive spherical aberration; conversely, if the detected spherical aberration is positive, its sign is changed and its absolute value increased numerically to obtain an overcorrect photoablative pattern inducing positive spherical aberration; and the photoablative pattern so generated is supplied to the excimer laser unit for implementation on the cornea. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137302 | Optical Pattern Generator Using a Single Rotating Component - An optical pattern uses a single rotating component. The rotating component includes a number of deflection sectors. Each sector deflects an incident optical beam by a substantially constant angular amount although this amount may vary from one sector to the next. The rotating component may be combined with an imaging lens group that produces, for example, image points, spots, or lines displaced along a line locus. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137303 | SELF-CONTAINED HANDPIECE AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL TISSUE SURFACE TREATMENT - A handpiece for treatment of the surface of a target tissue with at least one light beam is provided, the handpiece including a housing, at least one light source for generating at least one light beam, an opening for allowing the emission of the at least one light beam out of the housing and towards the target surface, a mechanism for controlled displacement of the at least one light source to move the at least one light beam across the target surface; and a controller for controlling the mechanism. A method is provided for treating a tissue surface with a light beam that includes directing a light beam towards the tissue surface, focusing the light beam at the tissue surface so that the focal point is positioned proximate the surface of the tissue so that the diameter of the light beam is smaller at the surface of the tissue than below the surface. The light beam is moved to create a pattern on the tissue, and it is moved in response to manual movement of the handpiece to overcome unwanted movements and provide a desired spot pattern on the tissue surface. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137304 | CRYOTHERAPY DEVICE FOR TREATMENT OR PREVENTION OF LAMINITIS IN EQUINE - An apparatus for providing cryotherapy to an equine hoof for treatment or prevention of laminitis includes a housing configured to receive a hoof of the equine having laminitis such that at least a lower portion of the hoof is enclosed by the housing. The housing has a chamber within, in communication with a source of cooling fluid. The housing may be supported in a boot. A heat transfer surface of the housing delivers cooling to a sole area of the equine hoof, thereby treating or preventing laminitis, for example, without directly contacting the hoof with fluid. Tubing for flow of cooling fluid to and from the chamber extends upwardly along each of the legs of the equine being treated to prevent crimping or entanglement of the tubing due to movement of the equine. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137305 | THERMAL NEUROABLATOR - Thermal neuroablator (FIG. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137306 | Removable Ink for Surgical Instrument - The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for preventing reuse of a surgical instrument. The single-use surgical instrument includes a housing, an electrical connector and a treatment component. Indicia may be printed on the housing, the electrical connector and/or the treatment component. A removable ink is applied to any portion of the surgical instrument in the form of indicia that is readable by a scanning device. The removable ink includes a protein-based composition that is reactivateable with a sterilization solution having an enzyme-based composition such that upon sterilization, the removable ink reacts with the sterilizing solution and becomes unreadable by the scanning device. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137307 | IONTOPHORETIC APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MARKING OF THE SKIN - Embodiments provide apparatus and methods for producing markings in the skin. One embodiment provides an apparatus for marking the skin comprising a housing and reservoir for storing a skin colorant. An electrode is positioned within the housing so as to be electrically coupled to the colorant in the reservoir and is configured to be coupled to a current source and return electrode. A colorant applicator having at least one fluid pathway is coupled to a housing distal end. The applicator proximal end is positioned such that the fluid pathway is coupled with the reservoir. The applicator distal end applies colorant to the skin surface through the fluid pathway as the applicator is moved across the skin. The electrode delivers current from the current source to the skin to transport charged pigment elements of the colorant into the skin using an electromotive driving force to produce a marking in the skin. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137308 | ELECTROSURGERY IRRIGATION PRIMER SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods are provided for priming or purging an electrosurgical fluid irrigation system. The electrosurgical system can include a high frequency power supply, a fluid delivery system, a handheld device having one or more electrodes, and one or more connectors for connecting the handheld device to the fluid delivery system and the RF generator. The electrosurgical system may be configured to deliver RF current and irrigation fluid until a threshold current level is detected, which is indicative of a continuous flow of fluid at the electrode and purging completion. The systems and methods of purging an electrosurgical system may further include dynamically controlling an RF output and fluid delivery system in accordance with varied parameters of detected threshold current levels. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137309 | STEERABLE STYLET - A steerable stylet assembly ( | 2011-06-09 |
20110137310 | RF ABLATION PROBES WITH TINE VALVES - A tissue ablation probe is provided. The tissue ablation probe comprises an elongated shaft, at least one electrode tine carried by the elongated shaft, at least one tine exit from which the electrode tine(s) can be deployed from the elongated shaft and retracted within the elongated shaft, and a sheath covering the electrode tine exit(s). The sheath may, e.g., line an exterior surface of the elongated shaft or an interior surface of the elongated shaft. The sheath has at least one tine valve (e.g., a slit) positioned over the electrode tine exit(s) and configured to open when the electrode tine is deployed and to close when the electrode tine(s) is retracted. In one embodiment, the tine valve(s) is configured to open in response to pressure exerted during deployment of the electrode tine(s). In another embodiment, the tine valve(s) is configured to hinder the entry of biological material within the elongated shaft. In one embodiment, the sheath is pliable, such that the tine valve(s) can more easily hinder the entry of the biological material. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137311 | VACUUM COAGULATION PROBES - An embodiment of the invention includes a surgical device for coagulating soft tissue such as atrial tissue in the treatment of atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and atrial tachycardia; tendon or ligament shrinkage; or articular cartilage removal. The surgical device integrates a suction mechanism with the coagulation mechanism improving the lesion creation capabilities of the device. The surgical device comprises an elongate member having an insulative covering attached about conductive elements capable of coagulating soft tissue when radiofrequency or direct current energy is transmitted to the conductive elements. Openings through the insulative covering expose regions of the conductive elements and are coupled to lumens in the elongate member which are routed to a vacuum source. Suction causes the soft tissue to actively engage the opening thus the integrated, exposed conductive elements to facilitate the coagulation process and ensure the lesions created are consistent, continuous, and transmural. The embodiments of the invention can also incorporate cooling mechanisms associated with the conductive elements and coupled to a fluid source to passively transport fluid along the contacted soft tissue surface to cool thus pushing the maximum temperature deeper into tissue. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137312 | INTERMARROW NAIL TO BE INSERTED INTO A FRACTURED LONG BONE - The invention concerns an intramedullary nail to be inserted into a fractured long bone, for example a femur, comprising: a rod ( | 2011-06-09 |
20110137313 | SHORT PIN FOR TAKING CARE OF EPIPHYSIS FRACTURES - A short nail for treatment of an epiphyseal fracture close to a joint in a long bone includes a two part nail supporting body comprising a main body having a transverse through-bore and releasably attached to a stub body. The stub body has an end that has a diaphyseal slant. The stub body and the lateral slant form part of a diaphyseal anchor which is attachable to the main body via the stub body and which has a flat connecting web that has an oblique orientation and ending laterally in a plane with the diaphyseal slant. A connecting device rigidly and releasably connects the main body and the stub body together. An anchoring device fixes the flat web in flat abutment against the diaphysis. A fixation pin is insertable into the transverse through-bore in a crossed arrangement with, and at a fixed angle to, the supporting body in the state of treatment of the fracture. The fixation pin includes a mechanism to protect against axial movement of the pin. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137314 | PERIPROSTHETIC BONE PLATES - The present disclosure relates to bone plates that are configured for use with bones having periprosthetic fractures. For example, in the event that a proximal femur is fractured in an area that is adjacent to a prosthetic component, such as a femoral stem used in a hip replacement, the periprosthetic bone plates of the present invention may be used. In one exemplary embodiment, the periprosthetic bone plates include a periprosthetic zone having a plurality of central apertures and a plurality of outer apertures that are offset from the central apertures. The periprosthetic zone may further include a plurality of indentations, each indentation extending longitudinally between adjacent outer apertures to narrow a width of the bone plate. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137315 | CUTTING INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF USE FOR PREPARING AN OSTEOCHONDRAL PLUG FOR IMPLANTATION - A cutting instrument and method of use for preparing an osteochondral plug for implantation into a bone defect site. The instrument includes a dual function cutting block, a base holder, a rod mechanism and a trimming mechanism. The cutting block has a bore sized to receive the plug, at least one trimming channel and a transverse paring slot. The cutting block functions to hold the plug within the bore to allow for length and cross-sectional sizing. The base holder is constructed to fix the cutting block in a first orientation that allows the rod mechanism to position the plug within the cutting block for accurate length sizing. The base holder is also constructed to fix the cutting block in a second orientation which aligns the cutting block with the trimming mechanism so that an angled blade may engage the trimming channel and cut at least two sides of the plug. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137316 | Total Knee Arthroplasty Method - A total knee arthroplasty (TKA) set that includes a universal cutting jig for shaping the distal femur is disclosed, along with corresponding TKA methods. The universal cutting jig may be used to create a shaped femur that can receive multiple and different TKA implant designs. A universal high flexion knee system adapted for left-right use is also disclosed. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137317 | Methods and Apparatus For Treating Vertebral Fractures - Methods and apparatus for treating bones, including, in one or more embodiments, methods and apparatus for treatment of vertebral fractures that include an inflation device for cavity creation and an inflation and containment device for maintaining vertebral height and cement containment. Methods for treating a bone comprising: creating a cavity in the bone; inflating a containment jacket in the cavity; inflating a balloon within the containment jacket so that the balloon occupies a first portion of the containment jacket; introducing a first filler material into a second portion of the containment jacket, wherein the second portion of the containment jacket is not occupied by the balloon; removing the balloon from the containment jacket; and introducing a second filler material into the first portion of the containment jacket. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137318 | INJECTABLE THERMOPLASTIC POLYMERS FOR BIOLOGICAL TISSUE REPAIR - A method for filling a bone defect in a subject in need thereof is disclosed. The method includes heating a bone cement composition at a first temperature where the bone cement composition is fluidic, and delivering an effective amount of the fluidic bone cement composition at a second temperature to the bone defect thereby filling the bone defect and allowing the fluidic bone cement composition to solidify, the second temperature being sufficiently high for maintaining the bone cement composition fluidic without causing thermal necrosis. Also disclosed are systems for carrying out the method. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137319 | Systems and Methods for Reducing Fractured Bone Using a Fracture Reduction Cannula With a Side Discharge Port - An elongated shaft is sized and configured to establish an access path to bone having an interior volume occupied, at least in part, by cancellous bone. The elongated shaft includes a generally closed distal end portion and a side opening spaced from the closed distal end. A first tool is sized and configured to be selectively inserted into the shaft and selectively removed from the shaft. The tool includes a region that, when the first tool is inserted into the shaft, is capable of being aligned with and advanced through the side opening to project outside the side opening and contact cancellous bone. A second tool is sized and configured, upon removal of the first tool from the shaft, to introduce into the shaft a bone filling material for discharge through the side opening into the cancellous bone contacted by the first tool. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137320 | FASTENER HAVING TORQUE OPTIMIZED HEAD - Disclosed is a medical fastener that can be mounted to a bone of a patient. The medical fastener can include a head portion comprising a recess having a first portion, a second tapered portion extending from the first portion, and a third cylindrical portion extending from the second tapered portion. A threaded body portion can extend from the head portion. The first portion and the second portion can have a Torx geometry or star-shaped configuration. Also disclosed is a driver usable to mount the medical fastener to the bone. The driver can include a tip that is complementary to the recess and an end that enables the driver to mount to a drill or other device that can rotate the driver. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137321 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR LOADING OF AN IOL INJECTOR - An IOL injector body including an injector body segment defining a portion of a lumen, and a first loading chamber component coupled to the injector body segments and a second loading chamber component hingedly coupled to the first loading chamber component. The second loading chamber component is capable of rotating about an axis that is parallel to the lumen. An IOL vial including a vial base and an injector guide rotatably mounted in said base, whereby an injector can be inserted along the injector guide and rotated such that a folded IOL can be obtained in the injector. A method of loading an IOL injector with an IOL the method that comprises inserting the IOL injector body into a vial and rotating the IOL injector body relative to the vial to obtain the IOL in the IOL injector body. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137322 | Cooperative Minimally Invasive Telesurgical System - Improved robotic surgical systems, devices, and methods include selectably associatable master/slave pairs, often having more manipulator arms than will be moved simultaneously by the two hands of a surgeon. Four manipulator arms can support an image capture device, a left hand tissue manipulation tool, a right hand tissue manipulation tool, and a fourth surgical instrument, particularly for stabilizing, retracting, tool change, or other functions benefiting from intermittent movement. The four or more arms may sequentially be controlled by left and right master input control devices. The fourth arm may be used to support another image capture device, and control of some or all of the arms may be transferred back-and-forth between the operator and an assistant. Two or more robotic systems each having master controls and slave manipulators may be coupled to enable cooperative surgery between two or more operators. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137323 | SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER - A surgical clip applier is provided including a housing; at least one handle pivotably connected to the housing; a channel assembly extending distally from the housing; a plurality of clips loaded in the clip carrier; a drive channel translatably supported in the housing and the channel assembly, the drive channel being translated upon actuation of the at least one handle; and a counter mechanism supported in the housing, the counter mechanism including indicia visible through the housing, wherein the indicia corresponds to a quantity of clips loaded in the clip applier, wherein the indicia decrements upon each firing of the clip applier resulting in a reduction in the quantity of clips remaining of the plurality of clips. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137324 | SURGICAL CLIP AND APPLIER DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - A surgical clip is provided for ligating or transecting tissue, such as vessels, other tubular ducts, and the like and a surgical clip applier device for delivering and applying the surgical clip to the tissue. The surgical clip can include a spine and opposed arms extending from the spine where the aims can define a clamping length. In a resting state, the clip can be biased to a closed position such that the ends of each opposed arm are disposed in proximity to each other. With such biasing, when applied to a tissue, such as with a surgical clip applier, the clip can exert a positive clamping pressure to the tissue along the clamping length to seal the tissue and limit passage of fluids, such as blood, from the tissue. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137325 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING A BYPASS PROCEDURE IN A DIGESTIVE SYSTEM - Surgical instrumentation and methods for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system incorporate laparoscopic techniques to minimize surgical trauma to the patient. The instrumentation includes, an outer guide member dimensioned for insertion and passage through an esophagus of a patient and defining an opening therein extending at least along a portion of the length of the outer guide member, an elongate anvil delivery member at least partially disposed within the opening of the outer guide member and being adapted for longitudinal movement within the outer guide member between an initial position and an actuated position and an anvil operatively engageable with the delivery member. The anvil includes an anvil rod defining a longitudinal axis and an anvil head connected to the anvil rod. The anvil head is at least partially disposed within the opening of the outer guide member when in the initial position of the delivery member and is fully exposed from the distal end of the outer guide member upon movement of the delivery member to the actuated position. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137326 | Single Catheter Mitral Valve Repair Device and Method for Use - A single catheter mitral valve repair device for stabilizing a tissue portion and selectively applying a tissue fastener thereto. The single catheter mitral valve repair device of the present invention includes an extendable engagement tip having at least one vacuum port formed thereon, at least one deployable fastener in communication with the engagement tip, and at least one actuator member in communication with the port. The deployable fastener is capable of controllably engaging and fastening a tissue segment located proximal to the engagement tip. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137327 | SUBCUTANEOUS WAIST BAND AND METHODS RELATED THERETO - A subcutaneously placed abdominal band for waistline reduction and methods related thereto, wherein an abdominal band is subcutaneously wrapped around a person's waistline underneath the subcutaneous fat and adjacent to a facia and a muscle, the abdominal band being tightened and secured to the body by an adjustment mechanism actuatable remote from the person's body thereby tightening the person's abdominal wall and reducing the person's waistline. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137328 | Nerve Repair with a Hydrogel and Optional Adhesive - The subject invention provides materials and methods for effective nerve repair. In a preferred embodiment, the subject invention provides nerve repair methods comprising the use of a fibrin glue and a polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogel to coapt severed nerve stumps or nerve grafts. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137329 | NERVE REGENERATION EMPLOYING KERATIN BIOMATERIALS - A keratin hydrogel matrix serves as an effective acellular scaffold for axonal regeneration and facilitates functional nerve recovery. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137330 | SURGICAL INTERVENTION DEVICE COMPRISING AN INSTRUMENT LIKELY TO DEFORM - The disclosure relates to a surgical intervention device, including a surgical instrument capable of passing through human or animal tissue and a system comprising so-called “passive” components capable of measuring deformation or a local strain of the instrument and/or so-called “active” components capable of imposing a local strain on the instrument, the system comprising at least two series of passive components arranged at the surface of the instrument so as to establish a biunivocal relation between the position of the instrument or the position of the distal end of the instrument and all the data originating from the series, and, where required, at least two series of active components arranged at the surface of the instrument. The disclosure also relates to a process for determining the position of the distal end of a surgical instrument capable of passing through human or animal tissue. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137331 | Perfusion device - A vascular filter device ( | 2011-06-09 |
20110137332 | Devices and methods for treating vascular malformations - A device for treating vascular malformations includes a primary coil and secondary windings. The primary coil provides resilience and structural integrity while the secondary windings fill interstitial spaces in the primary coil to isolate the vascular malformation. The device may have increased density along a central portion to isolate the malformation. In another aspect, the device may have a central opening through which embolic materials may be delivered. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137333 | EMBOLIC PROTECTION DEVICE - The disclosure describes an embolic filter and a support structure therefor. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137334 | Electroactively Deployed Filter Device - A medical device for capturing emboli from a blood vessel. An example medical device may include an elongated guide member. The elongated guide member may include a proximal end, a distal end, a first conductive lead, and a second conductive lead. The medical device may also include a power source connected to the first conductive lead and the second conductive lead. The medical device may also have a filter having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is coupled to the first and second conductive leads. The activation of the power source may transition the filter from a first compressed shape to a second expanded shape. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137335 | Percutaneous Retrievable Vascular Filter - Retrievable vena cava filters for the temporary or permanent prevention of Pulmonary embolism (PE) are disclosed. A filter in accordance with the present invention has a tube-within-tube structure with overlapping semi-spheres. The semi-spheres comprise a plurality of expandable legs. The first tube may have a plurality of slots allowing for deployment of a first or second sets of expandable legs on the second tube. The free end of each leg in the first set of expandable legs may be oriented in a direction the same as or opposite to the free end of each leg in the second set. The filter may also be formed from a single tube. In certain embodiments, the filter of the present invention can be retrieved from either end. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137336 | SKIN PROTECTING TOURNIQUET APPARATUS - An embodiment is a tourniquet including a constricting band with an angled constriction tightening point to substantially prevent skin from being caught in the constriction action. The angled constriction tightening point may further enable the tourniquet to substantially securely couple to web gear, for example to pouch attachment ladder system (PALS) webbing of modular lightweight load-carrying equipment (MOLLE) systems. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137337 | Instrument for Minimally Invasive Surgery - The invention relates to an instrument, preferably for minimally invasive surgery, comprising a frame ( | 2011-06-09 |
20110137338 | Hemostatic Device and Its Methods of Use - A hemostatic device is provided for sealing a puncture of a vessel. The hemostatic device includes a locator device and an injection tube coupled to the locator device. The locator device includes a device valve that is actuatable to selectively restrict access to a portion of the locator device. The hemostatic device is advanced into the vessel until a first fluid is channeled through the locator device. The device valve is actuated to selectively restrict the first fluid from being channeled through the locator device. A second fluid is injected through the injection tube to facilitate sealing a puncture of the vessel. The hemostatic device is withdrawn from the vessel. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137339 | DUAL-ENDED APPLICATOR DISPENSING TWO FLUIDS - An applicator for dispensing two separate tissue adhesives includes a generally elongate body having two distinct interior regions, each containing one of the two tissue adhesives. Hinged levers associated with each region selectively force the expulsion of the adhesive from the end portions of the applicator in response to application of force by the operator. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137340 | SURGICAL STAPLE - In certain exemplary embodiments, a generally U-shaped surgical staple is provided having a base and a pair of legs extending substantially perpendicularly from opposite ends of the base respectively. The legs in use of the staple are bent through approximately 90° relative to the base. To effect a greater compression of the stapled tissue, the legs can include a penetrative portion adjacent the tip and a compressive structure which, due to its increased height relative to that of the penetrative portion, spreads the compressive forces of the staple further along the length of the incision being closed. The compressive portion also provides a depth stop to avoid the tip penetrating too deeply into the tissue in which it is deployed. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137341 | ACROMIOCLAVICULAR JOINT FIXATION TECHNIQUE - A reconstruction system and method for fixation of bone to bone, or soft tissue to bone. The reconstruction system comprises two fixation devices (for example, two buttons) joined by a continuous loop of flexible material. Each button is provided with at least one opening that allows the passage of the flexible material. The button may be formed, for example, of metal, PEEK or PLLA. The flexible material may be FiberWire® suture. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137342 | Button Anchor System for Moving Tissue - A system of non-reactive components for moving or for moving and stretching plastic tissue that exerts a relatively constant dynamic force over a variety of distances and geometries, that is easily adjustable, and is self-adjusting. This system includes a “button anchor system” for moving tissue, particularly including deep fascia and muscle layers of the abdominal or thoracic cavity wall, in surgical, post surgical, and post traumatic reconstruction where the wound margins are beyond a distance that permits normal re-approximation. Button anchor assemblies allow re-approximation of severely retracted abdominal wall and full thickness thoracic wounds where a closure force is required to be applied to the sub-dermal layers. Systems of this invention allow for such a force to be applied and externally controlled during treatment. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137343 | PORTABLE SPINAL DISC DECOMPRESSION DEVICE - A portable spinal disc decompression device includes a collapsible base unit, a traction mechanism, a series of patient support members, and a controller. The base unit includes upper and lower base members. The traction mechanism includes first and second pluralities of linear bearings slidably connected to the upper and lower base members (respectively), and a linear actuator attached to the base unit. The patient support members are connected to the base unit and include a cervical support member, a thoracic support carriage, a pelvic support carriage, and first and second leg support members. The patient support members include a plurality of locking mechanisms that allow selective linear movement of the thoracic and pelvic support carriages. The controller is in electrical communication with the linear actuator and provides a signal to the linear actuator to cause a force to be applied to the thoracic and/or pelvic support carriages. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137344 | BONE PLATE WITH CAPTIVE CLIPS - A fixation system includes a plate comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, a central longitudinal axis, at least one fixation hole extending between the top and bottom surfaces and comprising an undercut therein, and at least one passage intersecting one of the undercuts. At least one resilient clip is disposed in at least a portion of the undercut, with the at least one clip having a pair of generally parallel sides and an end tab. At least one fastener is provided and comprises a head and a threaded shaft, with the head comprising a perimetral groove extending around at least a portion thereof and an instrument receiving portion. The at least one clip is configured and dimensioned to seat in the undercut with the end tab extending within the passage, and the at least one fastener is configured and dimensioned to be received in the at least one fixation hole and securable therein when the at least one clip abuts the perimetral groove of the head. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137345 | Posterior lumbar fusion - There is disclosed an interspinous attachment system for providing support between adjacent spinal levels. In an embodiment, an interspinous attachment system provides support between adjacent spinal levels and includes a crosslink, a first crosslink connector and a second crosslink connector each selectively attachable to spinal fixation rods, and an interspinous attachment device having a crosslink attachment portion and a spinous process attachment portion. In another embodiment, there is provided a method of attaching a crosslink to a pair of spinal fixation rods. The method includes tightening a set screw in a housing of each of the crosslink connectors to engage a crosslink, rotate the crosslink connectors with the set screw tightening, and engage the rods with the cross link through the rotation, wherein the tightening the set screw fixedly connects the ends of the crosslink and the rods together. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137346 | POSTERIOR DYNAMIC STABILIZATION SYSTEM - A dynamic stabilization system for mounting to a first vertebra and a second vertebra of a spine. The dynamic stabilization system preferably includes a first fixation element and a second fixation element mounted to the first and second vertebrae respectively. An elongated fixation element includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is mounted to the first fixation element and the second portion is mounted to the second fixation element. A dampening element is mounted between the first and second portions. The dampening element includes a plurality of segments and a plurality of bridging elements connecting the plurality of segments to permit movement of the first portion relative to the second portion. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137347 | NON-FUSION SCOLIOSIS EXPANDABLE SPINAL ROD - A growing rod for mounting between attachment mechanisms that are secured to anatomical structures of a patient having scoliosis. The growing rod includes a base rod having an attachment end, an extendable rod that is translatable relative to the base rod along a longitudinal axis and a housing enclosing at least a portion of the extendable rod therein. A magnet is rotatably mounted within the housing and is enclosed by a top magnet cover and a bottom magnet cover. The magnet includes a first pole and a second pole. A gear reduction mechanism is associated with the magnet and the extendable rod. The gear reduction mechanism reduces an output rotation to the extendable rod relative to an input rotation from the magnet. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137348 | Dynamic stabilization connecting member with molded connection - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having at least one transition portion and cooperating outer sleeve, both the transition portion and sleeve being disposed between the two bone anchors. The transition portion includes a rigid length or rod having apertures therein and a molded plastic length that extends through the apertures, thus attaching the plastic length to the rigid length. The sleeve surrounds the transition portion and extends between the pair of bone anchors, the sleeve being compressible in a longitudinal direction between the bone anchors. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137349 | HORIZONTAL-TRANSVERTEBRAL CURVILINEAR NAIL-SCREWS WITH INTER-LOCKING RIGID OR JOINTED FLEXIBLE RODS FOR SPINAL FUSION - A horizontal-transvertebral curvilinear nail-screw (HTCN) including a body portion having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is opposed to the second end; and a head at the first end of the body portion, wherein the body portion has a predetermined curvilinear shape and includes a pointed tip at the second end of the body portion, and a method of surgically implanting universal horizontal-transvertebral curvilinear nail-screws (HTCN) into a plurality of adjacent vertebrae. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137350 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE BONE ANCHOR EXTENSIONS - Methods and devices are provided for facilitating delivery and implanting of a bone anchor into bone. In one exemplary embodiment, a bone anchor extension is provided for coupling to a bone anchor to facilitate delivery and implanting of the bone anchor in bone. The bone anchor extension can have a generally elongate configuration that allows it to extend from a skin incision in a patient to a site proximate a patient's spine, and it can include a lumen extending therethrough between proximal and distal ends thereof. A distal end of the bone anchor extension can be adapted to engage a bone anchor, such as a bone screw. Various techniques are provided for locking the distal end of the bone anchor extension into engagement with a bone anchor. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137351 | BONE FIXATION WITH A BONE PLATE ATTACHED TO A FASTENER ASSEMBLY - System, including methods, apparatus, and kits, for bone fixation with a bone plate attached to a fastener assembly including a first fastener disposed in threaded engagement with the bone plate and a second fastener disposed in threaded engagement with the first fastener. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137352 | BONE SCREW - A bone screw includes a tubular body including a wall having a bone thread in at least a portion of an outer portion of the wall, an open first end and a second end. A plurality of cutting teeth is provided at the open first end, and a head is provided at the second end. An insert in the tubular body is configured to guide a wire therethrough. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137353 | SEGMENTAL ORTHOPEDIC DEVICE FOR SPINAL ELONGATION AND FOR TREATMENT OF SCOLIOSIS - An orthopaedic device to realign bone segments comprises first and second attachment members and a strut or spacer member. The first attachment member is attached to a first rib bone or first transverse process or first lamina of a vertebra. The second attachment member is attached to a second rib bone or second transverse process or second lamina of a vertebra. The strut is positioned between the first and second attachment members. The strut is fixedly or releasably connected to the first and second attachment members to couple the first attachment member to the second attachment member. The strut provides distraction between the first and second rib bones or transverse processes to realign the rib bones. The attachment members comprise a clamp and screw combination. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137354 | BONE SCREW - A bone screw includes a tubular body including a wall having a bone thread in at least a portion of an outer portion of the wall, an open first end and an open second end. A plurality of cutting teeth is provided at the open first end. An engagement structure is provided at the second end for engagement with a screwing-in tool. The wall in the vicinity of the plurality of cutting teeth is thicker in a radial direction than the wall adjacent to the plurality of cutting teeth. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137355 | Systematic Displacement Bone Screw - The present invention is a systematic displacement bone screw having minor and major thread diameters that are constant instead of tapered. The crests at the tip of the screw are narrower than the crests near the screw head resulting in a smaller distance between the thread flanks, which displaces and/or compresses more bone matter. Because the major diameter remains constant, the diameter of the hole made by inserting the screw is consistent over the length of the screw allowing the screw to be adjusted without loosening. The systematic displacement screw with varying crest thicknesses also avoids the need to use a larger diameter screw in place of a removed screw during a repair procedure. Rather than increasing the size of the hole, the systematic displacement screw can be used for the both the original screw and the replacement screw. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137356 | BONE COMPRESSION DEVICE AND METHODS - Embodiments of the invention provide a bone compression device for fixing first and second bone fragments together. The device includes an elongated fastener threadedly receivable within an anchor and a lock movably positioned within the anchor bore to lock the fastener and anchor against relative rotation. The lock may include an externally threaded locking screw threadedly receivable within the anchor coaxial with the fastener shank. The locking screw can be advanced within the anchor bore to lock the position of the fastener shank portion within the anchor bore. Embodiments of the device may be inserted within first and second bores formed in two bone fragments and tightened to compress the two bone fragments together. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137357 | SURGICAL METHOD FOR IMPLANTING A PERMANENT PERCUTANEOUS ELECTRICAL CONNECTION DEVICE - The invention relates to a surgical method for positioning a permanent percutaneous electrical connection device in a receiving bone site of a patient, the patient being a human being or an animal, and the device comprising, on the one hand, a plate-implant integrating at least one fixed electrical connection port and, on the other hand, a percutaneous electrical connection abutment designed to be coupled to the electrical connection port, the method comprising the following successive steps:
| 2011-06-09 |
20110137358 | Derotation Apparatus For Treating Spinal Irregularities - Treatment of spinal irregularities, including, in one or more embodiments, derotation apparatus and systems that can be used to reduce the rotation of vertebral bodies. Derotation apparatus that may comprise a tube assembly comprising an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve disposed over the inner sleeve. The inner sleeve may have a distal end for attachment to an implant. The tube assembly may further comprise a handle assembly. The tube assembly may further comprise a ball joint assembly disposed between the tube assembly and the handle assembly. The ball joint assembly may comprise a ball joint configured for attachment to a coupling rod. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137359 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE WITH AUTOMATIC TACHYCARDIA DETECTION AND CONTROL IN MRI ENVIRONMENTS - An implantable medical device (IMD) includes a lead having one or more sensing electrodes and one or more therapy delivery electrodes, and a sensor configured to detect the presence of static and time-varying scan fields in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) environment. A controller, in electrical communication with the lead and the sensor, is configured to process signals related to tachycardia events sensed via the one or more sensing electrodes and to deliver pacing and shock therapy signals via the one or more therapy delivery electrodes. The controller compares the sensed static and time-varying scan fields to static and time-varying scan field thresholds. The controller controls delivery of anti-tachycardia pacing and shock therapy signals as a function of the detected tachycardia events, the comparison of the sensed static scan field to the static scan field threshold, and the comparison of the time-varying scan fields to the time-varying scan field thresholds. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137360 | CONCURRENT THERAPY DETECTION IN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - Various method embodiments detect a concurrent therapy, where the concurrent therapy includes a plurality of therapy pulses. Detecting the concurrent therapy includes detecting at least one electrical pulse, extracting at least one characteristic from the at least one electrical pulse, comparing the at least one characteristic of the detected pulse to at least one characteristic of therapy pulses, and detecting that the concurrent therapy is being applied if the at least one characteristic of the detected pulse favorably compares to the at least one characteristic of the therapy pulses. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137361 | Medical Device with Status Indication - A system and method provides a status indicator to a battery pack of a medical device. The battery pack includes a power supply capable of being connected to the medical device. The battery pack also includes an indicator to automatically indicate a status of at least a portion of at least one of the battery pack and the medical device. For example, the indicator can indicate a status of the power supply. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137362 | Activation of cardiac alpha receptors by spinal cord stimulation produces cardioprotection against ischemia, arrhythmias, and heart failure - The present invention relates in general to methodologies for the treatment quenching preconditioning and communication between the peripheral cardiac nervous system and an electrical stimulus. In particular, the present invention utilizes spinal cord stimulation to alter and/or affect the peripheral cardiac nervous system and thereby protect cardiac function. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137363 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INITIATING AND DELIVERING CARDIAC PROTECTION PACING - A pacing system delivers cardiac protection pacing to protect the heart from injuries associated with ischemic events. The pacing system detects an ischemic event and, in response, initiates one or more cardiac protection pacing sequences each including alternative pacing and non-pacing periods. In one embodiment, the pacing system initiates a cardiac protection pacing sequence in response to the detection of the onset of an ischemic event, such that a pacing concurrent conditioning therapy is applied during the detected ischemic event. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137364 | MULTI-SITE PACING FOR ATRIAL TACHYARRHYTHMIAS - Tachyarrhythmia is treated by applying anti-tachycardia pacing through at least one multi-site electrode set located on, in or around the heart. The electrode set is arranged and located such that an electrical activation pattern having a wave-front between substantially flat and concave is generated through a reentrant circuit associated with the tachyarrhythmia. The electrode set may be one of a plurality of predefined, multi-site electrode sets located on, in or around the atria. Alternatively, the electrode set may be formed using at least two selectable electrodes located on, in or around the atria | 2011-06-09 |
20110137365 | TECHNIQUES FOR REDUCING PAIN ASSOCIATED WITH NERVE STIMULATION - Apparatus is provided including an electrode device and a control unit. The electrode device is configured to be coupled to a site of a subject selected from the group consisting of: a vagus nerve, an epicardial fat pad, a pulmonary vein, a carotid artery, a carotid sinus, a coronary sinus, a vena cava vein, a right ventricle, a right atrium, and a jugular vein. The control unit is configured to drive the electrode device to apply to the site a current in at least first and second bursts, the first burst including a plurality of pulses, and the second burst including at least one pulse, and set (a) a pulse repetition interval (PRI) of the first burst to be on average at least 20 ms, (b) an interburst interval between initiation of the first burst and initiation of the second burst to be less than 10 seconds, (c) an interburst gap between a conclusion of the first burst and the initiation of the second burst to have a duration greater than the average PRI, and (d) a burst duration of the first burst to be less than a percentage of the interburst interval between, the percentage being less than 67%. Other embodiments are also described. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137366 | CARDIAC RHYTHM MANAGEMENT SYSTEM SELECTING BETWEEN MULTIPLE SAME-CHAMBER ELECTRODES FOR DELIVERING CARDIAC THERAPY - A cardiac rhythm management system selects one of multiple electrodes associated with a particular heart chamber based on a relative timing between detection of a depolarization fiducial point at the multiple electrodes, or based on a delay between detection of a depolarization fiducial point at the multiple electrodes and detection of a reference depolarization fiducial point at another electrode associated with the same or a different heart chamber. Subsequent contraction-evoking stimulation therapy is delivered from the selected electrode. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137367 | EVALUATING A PATIENT CONDITION USING AUTONOMIC BALANCE INFORMATION IN IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC DEVICES - Systems and methods for evaluating a patient condition using autonomic balance information involve providing an implantable cardiac device that acquires a cardiac waveform from a patient. One or more characteristics associated with autonomic balance of the patient are detected and used to evaluate a patient condition, such as sleep onset, sleep stage, cardiac vulnerability over a predetermined duration, and sleep disordered breathing. Patient activity levels may be sensed and used to evaluate the patient's condition, such as for determining a level of systemic stress. Characteristics associated with the autonomic balance include calculating an LF/HF ratio waveform and/or determining one or more morphological features of the LF/HF ratio waveform. Coordination with a patient-external device may facilitate transmission of information about one or more of the cardiac waveform, the one or more characteristics associated with the autonomic balance, and a marked cardiac waveform. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137368 | EXPERT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A medical device programmer and a method of operation in which a first data value is received and used in the execution of one or more algorithms. One or more suggested pulse generator settings are calculated from the one or more algorithms based on the first data value, and the one or more suggested pulse generator settings are displayed on an interactive display screen of the medical device programmer. In one embodiment, the first data value is a duration interval of a QRS complex. From the duration interval, suggestions are made as to one or more ventricular chambers in which to provide pacing pulses. Additionally, pacing intervals for an AV delay are suggested based on measured P-R intervals, or pacing intervals for an LV offset are suggested based on a measured duration interval of a V-V-interval between a right ventricular event and a left ventricular event. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137369 | OPTIMAL PACING CONFIGURATION VIA VENTRICULAR CONDUCTION DELAYS - An exemplary method for optimizing pacing configuration includes providing distances between electrodes of a series of three or more ventricular electrodes associated with a ventricle; selecting a ventricular electrode from the series; delivering energy to the ventricle via the selected ventricular electrode, the energy sufficient to cause an evoked response; acquiring signals of cardiac electrical activity associated with the evoked response via non-selected ventricular electrodes of the series; based on signals of cardiac electrical activity acquired via the non-selected ventricular electrodes and the distances, determining conduction velocities; based on the conduction velocities, deciding if the selected ventricular electrode is an optimal electrode for delivery of a cardiac pacing therapy; and, if the selected ventricular electrode comprises an optimal electrode for delivery of the cardiac pacing therapy, calling for delivery of the cardiac pacing therapy using the selected ventricular electrode. Various other methods, devices, systems, etc., are also disclosed. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137370 | THORACIC AORTA AND VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION - Apparatus and methods are provided, including an electrode that is placed in contact with an artery of a subject. A control unit drives the electrode to perform a function with respect to the artery, the function selected from the group consisting of: driving a current into the artery, and sensing an electrical parameter of the artery. A transmitter is placed in a vein of the subject that is in a vicinity of the artery, the transmitter being wiredly connected to the control unit. The control unit is configured to drive the electrode by wirelessly transmitting a signal via the transmitter. Other embodiments are also described. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137371 | SELECTING THERAPY CYCLE PARAMETERS BASED ON MONITORED BRAIN SIGNAL - Bioelectrical brain signals may be monitored at one more regions of the brain of a patient by a medical device. The monitored bioelectrical signals may be used to select one or more therapy cycle parameters, e.g., on cycle duration and/or off cycle duration, for therapy delivered to treat a patient disorder. In one example, the off cycle duration of a therapy may be selected based on the washout period determined from sensed brain signals of the patient following delivery of therapy during an on cycle. In another example, the on cycle duration and/or off cycle duration of a therapy may be selected to maintain the value of one or more characteristics of a brain signal (e.g., cortical activity) of patient within a threshold range of a target value defined for the characteristic that is associated with effective treatment of the patient disorder. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137372 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR USING SENSORS WITH A DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION SYSTEM - A system and method for applying stimulation to a target stimulation site within a patient, while avoiding undesirable eye movement side effects of the stimulation, are provided. The method includes determining whether eye movement, sensed by internal or external electrodes, is a side effect of a conveyed electrical stimulus. If the eye movement is a side effect, the electrical current distribution of the stimulus is modified in order to steer a locus of the electrical stimulus from one tissue region of the patient to another different tissue region of the patient, thereby mitigating the eye movement side effects. For example, the locus of the electrical stimulus may be steered away from the oculomotor nerve. Eye movement side effects of DBS treatment may include apraxia of lid opening, downward movement and adduction of only one eyeball, and/or continuous deviation of both eyeballs. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137373 | DEVICE FOR THE DESYNCHRONIZATION OF NEURONAL BRAIN ACTIVITY - A device for desynchronizing neuronal brain activity involving a neuron population firing in a synchronized manner at a pathological frequency. The device includes an electrode configured to generate stimuli that stimulate the neuron population; and a control unit configured to control the electrode to generate the stimuli in sequence, wherein the stimuli succeed each other with a predetermined frequency f. The predetermined frequency f is substantially equal to g×n/m, where g is the pathological frequency, and n and m are integers. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137374 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ELECTRODE IMPLANTATION - Systems and methods provide baroreflex activation to treat or reduce pain and/or to cause or enhance sedation or sleep. Methods involve activating the baroreflex system to provide pain reduction, sedation, improved sleep or some combination thereof. Systems include at least one baroreflex activation device, at least one sensor for sensing physiological activity of the patient, and a processor coupled with the baroreflex activation device(s) and the sensor(s) for processing sensed data received from the sensor and for activating the baroreflex activation device. In some embodiments, the system is fully implantable within a patient, such as in an intravascular, extravascular or intramural location. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137375 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTION OF INVERSION AND EVERSION OF THE FOOT USING A MULTI-CHAMBER INSOLE - A system includes at least three sensors, an electrode array, a muscle stimulator, and a microprocessor. The sensors are configured to be arranged substantially in a common plane and associated with a foot of a body. Additionally, each of the sensors are configured to produce a signal associated with an orientation of the foot. The electrode array is coupled to a lower limb of the body and configured to stimulate at least one muscle of the lower limb. The muscle stimulator is coupled to the electrode array and configured to output a muscle stimulation signal to the electrode array. The microprocessor is coupled to the sensors and configured to calculate an orientation of the foot based on the signals produced by the sensors. Additionally, the microprocessor is configured to control the muscle stimulation output via the muscle stimulator based on the calculated orientation of the foot. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137376 | MULTI-COIL WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR AN IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - An implantable medical device comprising first and second coils each comprising one or more circular windings defining a diameter. Each of the first and second coils have a length, wherein the diameter of the one or more windings of the first coil are greater than the length of the first coil, and wherein the diameter of the one or more windings of the second coil are smaller than the length of the second coil, and wherein at least one of the one or more windings of the first coil is substantially orthogonal to at least one of the windings of the second coil. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137377 | COCHLEAR IMPLANT EXTERNAL COMPONENT HAVING A MOVABLE ANTENNA - An external component of a cochlear implant system. The external component includes a support configured to house one or more electronic components and to be mounted to an outer ear of a recipient, and an external antenna configured to provide one or more of power and data signals from the electronic components to an implantable component of the cochlear implant system, wherein the external antenna is mounted to the support such that the external antenna moveable relative to at least a portion of the support. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137378 | Telemetry System for Use With Microstimulator - An implantable microstimulator configured to be implanted beneath a patient's skin for tissue stimulation employs a bi-directional RF telemetry link for allowing data-containing signals to be sent to and from the implantable microstimulator from at least two external devices. Further, a separate electromagnetic inductive telemetry link allows data containing signals to be sent to the implantable microstimulator from at least one of the two external devices. The RF bidirectional telemetry link allows the microstimulator to inform the patient or clinician regarding the status of the microstimulator device, including the charge level of a power source, and stimulation parameter states. The microstimulator has a cylindrical hermetically sealed case having a length no greater than about 27 mm and a diameter no greater than about 3.3 mm. A reference electrode is located on one end of the case and an active electrode is located on the other end of the case. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137379 | TELEMETRY NOISE REDUCTION - A device includes a housing and electronics disposed in the housing. A telemetry antenna is disposed in the housing and is operably coupled to the electronics. A shielding coil is disposed between the housing and the telemetry antenna. The shielding coil has a first end and a second end. The second end is electrically terminated in circuitry of the electronics. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137380 | FLEXIBLE ANTENNA MODULE FOR WIRELESS ENERGY TRANSMISSION - This invention provides a flexible antenna module for wireless energy transmission, which uses an antenna size controlling device to adjust the antenna's size to conform a living body's outer portion wearing the flexible annular antenna. An antenna energy transmission control module is provided to adjust the power for driving the flexible annular antenna according to the deformation of the flexible annular antenna. This invention can adjust both the antenna size to fit the individual and the power for driving the antenna. The individual can use the present antenna module under a comfortable, safe and reliable circumstance. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137381 | Treatment of neurological disorders via electrical stimulation, and methods related thereto - Disclosed are medical devices for the prevention and/or treatment of neurological disorders via electrical stimulation, and methods related thereto. The devices may also be utilized to detect disorders before the prevention or treatment of a neurological disorder. These devices are minimally or non-invasive. The present medical devices comprise various components, which include electrodes and control electronics. The electrodes are targeting electrodes constructed from ring type structures or virtually connected disc type arrays. The electrodes are located entirely outside the skull. The present medical devices also comprise one or more subsystems, a control system, a battery unit, and wires connecting the one or more subsystems. These devices may also be used for acute seizure control. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137382 | METHOD FOR FABRICATION OF A NEUROSTIMULATON LEAD INCLUDING MULTIPLE MICRO-CABLES - In one embodiment, a method of fabricating a stimulation lead for stimulation of tissue of a patient, the method comprises: providing a plurality of cables, wherein each of the cables comprises a plurality of wires twisted about a core support and disposed within an outer sheath, wherein each of the plurality of wires comprises a coating of insulative material to electrically isolate each wire from each other wire within the respective cable, each of the plurality of wires being disposed in a single layer circumferentially about a central axis of the respective cable; wrapping the plurality of cables about a central core in a helical manner to form a cable assembly. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137383 | IMPLANTABLE LEADS PERMITTING FUNCTIONAL STATUS MONITORING - An implantable lead assembly includes a lead body extending from a proximal end to a distal end having an intermediate portion therebetween, where the lead body includes an insulating layer. A conductor is disposed within the insulating layer and the insulating layer surrounds the conductor. An electrode is coupled to the lead body, and the electrode is in electrical communication with the conductor. At least one conductive sleeve is disposed within the insulating layer. The at least one conductive sleeve surrounds the conductor and is electrically isolated from the electrode. The at least one conductive sleeve has a first impedance value in a first condition. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137384 | Far Infrared Waist Belt - A far infrared waist belt of which the belt body has multiple woven zones connected one after another, each formed of multiple weft threads woven with spandex warp yarns and non-stretchable warp yarns and far infrared radiating warp threads containing a negatively ionized nanometered far infrared radiating substance and far infrared radiating warp stitch thread containing a negatively ionized nanometered far infrared radiating substance in a crossed manner to provide a high structural strength and to radiate far infrared rays for stimulating the user's blood circulation. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137385 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR RELIEVING ANGINA SYMPTOMS USING LIGHT - An implantable medical device includes a light emitting circuit incorporated into an intravascular stent. The light emitting circuit emits a light to an ischemic region. The light has characteristics suitable for reliving the angina symptoms associated with ischemia. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137386 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR INVASIVE SKIN TREATMENT - A system and method for simultaneously heating a plurality of discrete skin volumes to a coagulation temperature. The system comprises an applicator containing an electrode having a plurality of spaced apart protruding conducting elements configured to contact the skin surface at a plurality of discrete locations. A controller applies a voltage to the electrode so as to simultaneously heat a plurality of skin volumes to a coagulation temperature when the applicator is applied to the skin surface. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137387 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONNECTING A HOSE TO A WARMING BLANKET - A nozzle is provided for connecting an air hose to an air inlet. In one embodiment, the nozzle includes a tapered region and a plurality of vents. In another embodiment, the nozzle includes a projection configured to facilitate insertion of the nozzle into an air inlet. Warming assemblies comprising heated air blowers and warming blankets connected by the air hose and varying nozzle embodiments are also provided. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137388 | Heating support for patients - A heating support ( | 2011-06-09 |
20110137389 | FIBROUS ELECTRODE MATERIAL - A biomimetic electrode material including a fibrous matrix including a conductive polymer and an ion conducting polymeric material is described. The biomimetic electrode material may be used in a number of body-implantable applications including cardiac and neuro-stimulation applications. The biomimetic electrode material can be formed using electrospinning and other related processes. The biomimetic electrode may facilitate efficient charge transport from ionically conductive tissue to the electronically conductive electrode, and may induce surrounding tissue to attach or interface directly to the implanted device, increasing the biocompatibility of the device. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137390 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROTECTING IMPLANTED MEDICAL DEVICES FROM INTERFERING RADIATED FIELDS - An implantable medical system includes an implantable medical device (IMD) and at least one lead coupled to the IMD at a proximal end to anatomic tissue of a patient at a distal end. According to various embodiments, a piezoelectric transformer permits the transmission of intended signals, such as physiologic signals or therapy signals, while preventing an interfering signal from being transmitted toward the circuitry for generating therapy or causing heating of the anatomical tissue. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137391 | FOLDABLE COIL FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable component of a medical device including an implantable coil including a conductor disposed in a carrier including first and second fold lines, wherein the carrier has at least one structural variation along each of the fold lines such that a substantially straight edge is formed along each of the fold lines when the coil is biased into a folded configuration, and an electronics module electrically connected to the coil and configured to inductively communicate, via the coil, with an external component of the device. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137392 | MECHANISM FOR, AND METHOD OF, ATTACHING A LEAD CONDUCTOR CABLE TO A LEAD ELECTRODE - A cardio electrotherapy lead is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the lead includes a tubular body, a conductor cable and an electrode. The conductor cable longitudinally extends through the tubular body and includes a distal end. The electrode is located on the tubular body and includes an attachment mechanism mechanically coupling the lead distal end to the electrode. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137393 | STIFFINER HAVING AN ENLARGED BOMBOUS DISTAL END REGION AND CORRESPONDING COCHLEAR IMPLANT STIMULATING ASSEMBLY - A cochlear implant comprising an elongate implantable stimulating assembly configured to be implanted in a recipient's cochlea, the stimulating assembly having a carrier member with a lumen longitudinally extending therethrough; and an elongate stylet configured to be removably inserted into the lumen, the stylet having an elongate body region and a distal end region comprising a bombous tip having a cross-sectional diameter that is approximately the same as the diameter of the lumen. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137394 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PENETRATING ADJACENT TISSUE LAYERS - Penetration and dilation of passages from a first body lumen to a second body lumen are achieved while providing tension anchoring of the luminal walls to inhibit the leakage of body fluids. In one embodiment, one or more T-bar anchors may be used to provide the tensioning of the body lumen walls. In a second embodiment, a plurality of hooked or everted wires may be provided on a catheter which is used to penetrate and dilate a passage between the luminal walls. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137395 | CATHETER SYSTEM - A catheter system, comprising a catheter having a distal end and a proximal end; a functional section situated close to the distal end of the catheter; an inner shaft having a guidewire lumen; an outer tubing, such that the outer tubing completely or partially surrounds the functional section; a guidewire outlet having a distal portion and a proximal portion, such that the guidewire outlet passes through the inner shaft and the outer tubing; a guidewire, such that the guidewire is situated on the distal end of the catheter inside the guidewire lumen and is guided out of the catheter through the guidewire outlet, such that the guidewire outlet is attached close to the distal end of the catheter and proximally of the functional section; a cutting device for severing the outer tubing in retraction of same is attached to the distal portion of the guidewire outlet. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137396 | STENT DEVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH INWARDLY TAPERING STENT BED - A stent device delivery system and method of making. The stent device delivery system includes a stent device, an outer sheath overlaying the stent device in a radially compact, delivery configuration of the stent device, and an inner catheter extending axially and radially within a lumen of the stent device. The inner catheter provides a stent bed upon which the stent device is located so that a radially inner surface of the stent device engages a radially outer surface of the stent bed. The stent bed may define an inwardly tapering profile, narrowing in radius from a distal portion of the stent device to a proximal portion of the stent device. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137397 | PROSTHETIC VALVE FOR REPLACING MITRAL VALVE - Embodiments of prosthetic valves for implantation within a native mitral valve are provided. A preferred embodiment of a prosthetic valve includes a radially compressible main body and a one-way valve portion. The prosthetic valve further comprises at least one ventricular anchor coupled to the main body and disposed outside of the main body. A space is provided between an outer surface of the main body and the ventricular anchor for receiving a native mitral valve leaflet. The prosthetic valve preferably includes an atrial sealing member adapted for placement above the annulus of the mitral valve. Methods and devices for delivering and implanting the prosthetic valve are also described. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137398 | METHOD OF LOADING A MEDICAL DEVICE INTO A DELIVERY SYSTEM - A method of loading a medical device into a delivery system includes providing a two-stage shape memory alloy at a temperature at which at least a portion of the alloy includes austenite. A stress which is sufficient to form R-phase from at least a portion of the austenite is applied to the medical device at the temperature. A delivery configuration of the medical device is obtained, and the medical device is loaded into a restraining member. Preferably, the delivery configuration of the medical device includes stress-induced R-phase. | 2011-06-09 |
20110137399 | Microvalve Protection Device and Method of Use for Protection Against Embolization Agent Reflux - An apparatus is provided that is useful in an embolization procedure and enables substantially unrestricted forward flow of blood in a vessel and reduces or stops reflux (regurgitation or backward flow) of embolization agents which are introduced into the blood. A method of using the apparatus is also provided. | 2011-06-09 |