29th week of 2013 patent applcation highlights part 48 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20130184727 | VESSEL SUPPORT DEVICE AND METHOD OF VESSEL HARVESTING - Embodiments of the invention provide a vessel support system and a method of vessel harvesting. The system can include a cutting device, a catheter adapted to be inserted into a section of the vessel in order to support the vessel as the cutting device is advanced over the vessel, and a cannula adapted to be coupled to the vessel and adapted to receive the catheter as the catheter is inserted into the section of the vessel. The method can include orienting a cutting device coaxially with the cannula and the catheter and advancing the cutting device over the cannula, the catheter, and the section of the vessel in order to core out the section of the vessel and a portion of the surrounding tissue. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184728 | Ultrasound Neuromodulation for Diagnosis and Other-Modality Preplanning - Disclosed are methods and systems for non-invasive neuromodulation using ultrasound for diagnosis to evaluate the feasibility of and preplan neuromodulation treatment using other modalities. The neuromodulation can produce acute or long-term effects. The latter occur through Long-Term Depression (LTD) and Long-Term Potentiation (LTP) via training Included is control of direction of the energy emission, intensity, frequency, pulse duration, pulse pattern, mechanical perturbation, and phase/intensity relationships to targeting and accomplishing up regulation and/or down regulation. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184729 | ULTRASONIC THERAPEUTIC APPARATUS - There is provided an ultrasonic therapeutic apparatus, which is capable of shortening a surgery time even in a case of resecting and stopping bleeding of a plurality of sites. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184730 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING SURGICAL PROCEDURES WITH A REUSABLE INSTRUMENT MODULE - A surgical instrument is provided including an outer housing shell defining a cavity, the outer housing shell defining an upper outer housing half and a lower outer housing half, wherein the upper outer housing half defines a longitudinal axis and an instrument module selectively insertable into the cavity of the outer housing shell. The instrument module includes an inner housing shell, at least one motor disposed within the inner housing shell, a control board being in electrical communication with the at least one motor and an energy source being in electrical communication with the at least one motor and the control board. The instrument module is inserted into the cavity of the outer housing shell in such a manner that the operative axis of the at least one motor is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the upper outer housing half. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184731 | SURGICAL MILLING CUTTER - A surgical milling cutter includes a milling cutter bracket, a locking device and a bottom electric motor connected successively. The milling cutter bracket includes a fixing seat with a through hole. A finger guide apparatus with an L-type first bracket at the top end thereof is provided on the upper part of the fixing seat. The end of the L-type first bracket's short side is provided with a downward projection. The lowest point of the projection is lower than that of the milling cutter's cylindrical head when the milling cutter is working normally. The surgical milling cutter utilizes the projection to prevent the possibility of an object contacting with the cylindrical head, thus avoiding an object being cut unevenly. Meanwhile, the L-type bracket can be driven by the finger guide apparatus to rotate so as to change the running direction of the milling cutter, thus facilitating surgical procedures. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184732 | TISSUE HARVESTING APPARATUS - A tissue harvesting apparatus is provided which can reliably prevent a worker from being stabbed with a needle tip of a needle tube at the time of disposal. When disposing a used tissue harvesting apparatus used for harvesting of a living body tissue, a sheath member with a puncture pipe body (a puncture needle) inserted and arranged in the inside thereof is wound in the form of a loop around an operating rod and locked in a locking groove. Then, a needle tip of the puncture pipe body protruding from a leading end of the sheath member is housed and fixedly supported in a needle housing hole formed in an end face of a second flange portion on the base end side of the operating rod. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184733 | DEVICE FOR THE REPEATED PIERCING OF AN ORGANIC TISSUE, AN APPLICATION MODULE AND A METHOD THEREOF - A device for repeated piercing of an organic tissue and method thereof are disclosed. The device may comprise an arrangement of application tools each of which is connected to an operating mechanism and has a distal tool end which is formed for at least one application tool with a penetration device, whereby by way of the operating mechanism the tools can be displaced relative to each other between an initial position and a penetration position. During the relative movement, the effect direction of an application force provided by at least one application tool is counter to the effect direction of the application force provided by the other application tool. A mechanical actuation device, which is connected to the operating mechanism, is suitable for repeatedly effecting the relative displacement of the at least one application tool between the initial position and the penetration with an operating frequency. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184734 | CATHETER HAVING TAPERED GUIDE SURFACE - A catheter assembly includes a catheter body having a catheter lumen. A manifold assembly is coupled with a proximal catheter portion. A manifold lumen extends through the manifold assembly, and the manifold lumen includes an assembly cavity extending around the proximal catheter portion. A fluid jet loop is coupled with a high pressure tube at a distal catheter portion. The catheter assembly further includes a tapered loop guide surface. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184735 | CAROTID SHEATH WITH ENTRY AND TRACKING RAPID EXCHANGE DILATORS AND METHOD OF USE - Dilators and sheaths for use in minimally invasive vascular therapy are disclosed. In some embodiments, the dilators include a slot that accesses a guidewire lumen within the dilator. These slots facilitate rapid exchange of one dilator for another. In another embodiment, a dilator is sufficiently stiff to facilitate entry, but also designed to facilitate placement of the dilator along a tortuous path. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184736 | Bumped Dilator Tip - The disclosure provides a dilator with a tip that has a bump, a sheath, an assembly comprising the dilator and the sheath, and methods of use, where the bump on the tip is configured to reduce or minimize damage to the sheath, and to prevent trauma to a subject during insertion or removal. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184737 | METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND USE OF ENDOLUMINAL DEVICES - A seamless, self-expanding implantable device having a low profile is disclosed along with methods of making and using the same. The implantable device includes a frame cut out of a single piece of material that is formed into a three-dimensional shape. The implantable device may comprise an embolic filter, stent, or other implantable structure. The present invention also allows complicated frame structures to be easily formed from planar sheets of starting material, such as through laser cutting, stamping, photo-etching, or other cutting techniques. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184738 | RETRIEVAL SNARE DEVICE AND METHOD - The present invention relates generally to devices and methods for retrieving or manipulating objects within a lumen. More specifically, embodiments of the invention relate to devices and methods for retrieving or manipulating medical devices from a body lumen. One embodiment of the present invention provides a novel and improved retrieval snare and method of fabricating and using the same. The snare includes a snare wire, having a distal end and a proximal end, for use in the human anatomy, such as but not limited to blood vessels, pulmonary airways, reproductive anatomy, gastrointestinal anatomy, and organs such as the kidneys or lungs. The device enables a user to capture a foreign object located within the human anatomy, grasp said object in a controlled manner, and retrieve and remove said object from the human anatomy. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184739 | CLOT ENGAGEMENT AND REMOVAL SYSTEMS - A device for the removal of clot obstructing the flow of blood through an arterial vessel comprises an elongate member, a clot engaging element and a capture basket. The elongate member extends in use from a point adjacent a target treatment site interior of the patient to a point exterior of the patient. The capture basket comprises a frame and a net, and has an expanded and a collapsed configuration. The clot engaging element comprises a plurality of struts having an expanded and a collapsed configuration. The plurality of struts form a first section and a second section, the first section tapering outward and distally from the elongate member and connected to the second section. The second section comprises a plurality of cells defined by a plurality of struts and arranged around at least a portion of the circumference of an axis substantially parallel to that of the elongate member. The clot engaging element and the capture basket are restrained in the collapsed configuration for delivery to the target site. The clot engaging element is located adjacent the distal end of the elongate member and proximal of the capture basket. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184740 | LONG-TERM RETRIEVABLE MEDICAL FILTER - A medical filter has more than one pair of struts extending along an undulating path between a first and second end, which cooperate to define a first and second filter element having a plurality of cells, connected by a central portion with longitudinal strut sections. The struts extend between the first and second ends, and the struts tend to resiliently expand in radially outward directions from a compressed initial shape to an expanded deployed shape. In the expanded shape, the undulating path is defined by (i) a first portion of each pair of ribs extends substantially adjacent to each other for a distance from the first end, (ii) a second portion of each pair of ribs extends substantially adjacent to each other for a distance from the second end; and (iii) an intermediate portion of each one of a pair of ribs extends to curve away from each other. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184741 | RETRIEVAL SNARE DEVICE AND METHOD - The present invention relates generally to devices and methods for retrieving or manipulating objects within a lumen. More specifically, embodiments of the invention relate to devices and methods for retrieving or manipulating medical devices from a body lumen. One embodiment of the present invention provides a novel and improved retrieval snare and method of fabricating and using the same. The snare includes a snare wire, having a distal end and a proximal end, for use in the human anatomy, such as but not limited to blood vessels, pulmonary airways, reproductive anatomy, gastrointestinal anatomy, and organs such as the kidneys or lungs. The device enables a user to capture a foreign object located within the human anatomy, grasp said object in a controlled manner, and retrieve and remove said object from the human anatomy. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184742 | AORTIC ARCH FILTRATION SYSTEM FOR CAROTID ARTERY PROTECTION - Filtration systems with integrated filter element(s) forming portions of the wall of the filtration catheter are disclosed. The filtration catheters disclosed herein are designed to be used alone or in conjunction with another filter device to provide embolic protection of both carotid arteries. Occlusive element such as balloon is placed on the exterior of the filtration catheter to redirect blood flow in the vessels during the filtration process as well as to help anchor the filtration catheter inside the vessel. The integrated filter element(s) does not require collapsing thus significantly reduces the complexity of the filtration system retrieval process and the chances of releasing emboli back into the blood stream. The compact design of the filtration systems makes them particularly suitable for embolic protection during endovascular procedures on or close to the heart. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184743 | ELECTRICAL CONTACT FOR OCCLUSIVE DEVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM - A delivery wire assembly for delivery of an occlusive device to a location in a patient's vasculature includes a delivery wire conduit having a proximal tubular portion coupled to a distal coil portion, the respective tubular and coil portions defining a conduit lumen. A core wire is disposed in the conduit lumen and having a distal end coupled to an occlusive device, wherein an elongate electrical contact body at least partially seated in the conduit lumen and coupled to a proximal end of the core wire, the electrical contact body and the proximal tubular portion forming a junction. A coil collar is disposed around the electrical contact body near the junction | 2013-07-18 |
20130184744 | SPIRAL SHAPED FILTER - In one embodiment, a filter includes a first spiral support member having a first end and a second end; a second spiral support member positioned adjacent the first spiral support member to form a loop between the first end and the second end; a material covering a portion of the first and the second spiral support members; and a structure attached to the loop. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184745 | DUAL MODE REMOTE ISCHEMIC PRECONDITIONING DEVICES AND METHODS - A dual mode automatic device for delivery of remote ischemic preconditioning treatment includes a cuff and a controller configured to deliver a first regular treatment protocol or a second extended treatment protocol. Switching to an extended treatment protocol may be done by an operator for selected groups of patients such as elderly or patients with diabetes. Automatic determination of the best mode is also disclosed. Optimal delivery of remote ischemic preconditioning treatment in this individualized patient-specific manner provides strong ischemic protection to a greater number of patients. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184746 | INFLATION-DEFLATION DEVICE FOR TOURNIQUET - An inflation-deflation device for tourniquet comprising: a barrel ( | 2013-07-18 |
20130184747 | KNOTLESS SUTURE ANCHOR AND DRIVER - A suture anchor comprises a tubular body having an axial bore therethrough and having one or more purchase enhancements on an exterior surface of the body adapted to enhance purchase of the body within a bone hole, such as threads. A lateral port passes through the body from the bore to the exterior surface. A length of suture for attaching soft tissue to bone passes down along the exterior surface over the one or more purchase enhancements, over a distal end of the body, up into the bore through and then back out of the bore and up along the exterior surface over the one or more purchase enhancements. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184748 | KNOTLESS SUTURE ANCHOR - A suture anchor comprises a tubular body having an axial bore therethrough and having one or more purchase enhancements on an exterior surface of the body adapted to enhance purchase of the body within a bone hole, such as threads. A lateral port passes through the body from the bore to the exterior surface and is formed of a slot entering the body from its proximal end. A length of suture for attaching soft tissue to bone passes down along the exterior surface over the one or more purchase enhancements, over a distal end of the body, up into the bore through and then back out of the bore and up along the exterior surface over the one or more purchase enhancements. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184749 | CERVICAL PLATE ASSEMBLY - An implantable cervical plate assembly includes a cervical plate, one or more bone fasteners and a driver tool. The cervical plate comprises an elongated asymmetric body having one or more through-openings extending from the front surface to the back surface of the elongated asymmetric body. The one or more bone fasteners are configured to be inserted through the one or more through-openings, respectively. The bone fasteners comprise a threaded main body and a head that includes one or more flexible structures configured to be flexed and inserted into a groove and then unflex and remain captured within the groove. The driver tool includes an elongated shaft, a handle and a bone fastener-engaging. The bone fastener-engaging component comprises one or more structures that complement and engage at least one of grooves and lobes of the bone fastener opening. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184750 | BONE ANCHOR SYSTEMS - Embodiments of the invention relate generally to tissue anchors and methods of delivering same to the intervertebral disc or other sites within the body. In some embodiments, the anchors provide pull-out resistance, stability and/or maximize contact with tissue involving a minimum amount of penetration. In some embodiments, delivery methods are minimally invasive and include linear, lateral, and off-angle implantation or driving of anchors along, against or within tissue surfaces. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184751 | SPINOUS PROCESS IMPLANT WITH PLATE MOVEABLE BY GEAR NUT - A spinal implant with two plates that are connected together by a post, with the plates configured to be positioned on outer lateral sides of spinous processes with the post extending through the interspinous space. The second of the two plates includes a bore that receives the post, and that plate is movable along the length of the post, and selectively lockable in position. A gear nut is threadable on a distal section of the post and includes external gear teeth that are used to drive the gear nut so as to move the second plate toward the first plate. When the plates are in their desired locations, the second plate is locked in position. The gear nut may or may not then be removed. The use of the gear nut facilitates one or more of assembly, insertion, and affixation of the spinal implant. Related methods are also disclosed. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184752 | SPINOUS PROCESS FUSION DEVICE - A spinous process device has a first plate and a second plate that are connected by an arm. The first and second plates have contact surfaces that face each other, so a spinous process can be clamped between the contact surfaces. The second plate is adjustable, so the angle and distance of the second plate relative to the first plate can be varied and set as desired. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184753 | SYSTEM FOR GRIPPING SPINOUS PROCESSES, AND USES THEREOF - A system for gripping spinous processes, includes a first plate ( | 2013-07-18 |
20130184754 | Telescoping Interspinous Fixation Device and Methods of Use - The present invention provides spinous process implants and associated methods. In one aspect of the invention, the implant includes at least one extension with a first part and a second part where at least one arm is coupled to each of the first part and the second part. The first part and the second part are movable from a compact to a distracted state. In another aspect, the present invention provides a second extension that is slidingly coupled to the first and second arms. The second extension further comprises a third part and a fourth part that move with the first and second part. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184755 | STABILIZATION DEVICE FOR STABILIZING BONES OF A VERTEBRA AND ROD CONNECTOR USED THEREFOR - A stabilization device for stabilizing bones of a vertebra includes a first rod, a second rod, a rod connector connecting the first rod and the second rod, the rod connector comprising a receiving portion for receiving the first rod and a fixation element for fixing the first rod in the receiving portion, wherein in the receiving portion a rod contacting surface is provided and wherein the contour of this rod contacting surface has deviations from the contour of the surface of the first rod. The rod connector allows to connect a flexible rod, for example made of an elastomer material, with a rigid rod, made for example of a metal. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184756 | DISC DISTRACTION DEVICE - A disc distraction device comprising a first pedicle screw having a mounting end and a head end, a second pedicle screw having a mounting end and a head end, a rigid interconnection member coupled proximate the head end of both the first and second pedicle screws, and a spring member coupled to the first and second pedicle screws closer to the mounting ends of the pedicle screws than the rigid interconnection member. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184757 | SEMI-CONSTRAINED ANCHORING SYSTEM - Systems, devices, and associated methods for correcting spinal column deformities that help minimize a number of attachment anchors utilized for correction, facilitate use of straight or contoured rods, and/or help promote a more natural, physiologic motion of the spinal column. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184758 | Spinal Fixation Method and Apparatus - A spinal stabilization system having a pedicle screw which includes (i) a shaft with external threads and a head segment on one end of the shaft; (ii) a first drive socket positioned in the head segment; (iii) a second drive socket on a shaft end opposite the first drive socket; and (iv) wherein the shaft end opposite the first drive socket has a lesser diameter than the shaft end at the head segment. The system further includes an intervertebral stabilization structure having an elongated body with rotating ring segments attached to each end of the elongated body. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184759 | Minimally Invasive Method And Apparatus For Stabilizing The Spinal Column - Implant for stabilizing a spinal column including a pedicle screw, an elongated member, and a retainer for a stabilizing rod. The elongated member can be polyaxially movably connected to the pedicle screw, and have external threads over a longitudinal periphery thereof. The retainer can be one piece, or can include an upper retainer portion and a lower retainer portion. The retainer, or the upper and lower retainer portions, can each have an opening therethrough to receive a stabilization rod to fix one implant to another. In one aspect, the upper retainer portion is internally threaded to engage external threads of the elongated member, the upper retainer portion threadably translating longitudinally along the elongated member by rotation of the elongated member about a longitudinal axis thereof. The upper retainer portion translates toward the lower retainer portion to secure and retain the rod therebetween. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184760 | SIDE LOADING CORONAL SPINNING LATERAL CONNECTOR AND METHOD - A spinal stabilization apparatus and method according to which a fastener is engaged with a bone structure of a spinal system. The fastener is connected to a rod by moving the rod sideways toward the fastener in a coronal plane, and the direction of extension of at least a portion of the rod in the coronal plane may be selectively adjusted in predetermined angular increments through 360 degrees. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184761 | BONE ANCHORING NAIL - A bone anchoring nail is provided having a threadless shaft with a free end, a head opposite to the free end, the head having a substantially U-shaped recess for accommodation of a rod or a rod-shaped element, a longitudinal bore extending through the shaft and opening towards any one of the head and the free end and a plurality of openings extending through the wall of the shaft and being in communication with the bore. The bone anchoring nail allows quick insertion and reliable fixation enhanced by the in-growth of blood vessels. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184762 | Systems for Spinal Stabilization - Systems, devices and methods related to spinal stabilization are provided. A system can comprise a plurality of cross-links. Each of the cross-links can include a central rod holder that extends substantially along a mid-line of the spine and a pair of extension members extending from the central rod holder. The extension members can be secured to a vertebral body via a fixation device, such as a spinal screw or a hook member having serrations and/or side-cuts. One or more rod members can be extended across the central rod holders of the cross-links, thereby forming a stable spinal stabilization system providing bilateral stress distribution across different levels of the spine. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184763 | ROD REDUCER, COMPRESSOR, DISTRACTOR SYSTEM - A compressor/distractor system for operating on a spine is disclosed. The system includes two rod reducers which each advance a spinal rod into the shoulder portion of a pedicle screw. Each rod reducer includes an inner member, an outer member, and a pair of gripping members. Each outer member receives and advances the spinal rod into the pedicle screw. The outer member also includes a through slot which receives the proximal end of each of the pair of gripping members which may limit the longitudinal translation of the outer member with respect to the inner member. The compressor/distractor system may include a compressor/distractor device which has a compressing, a distracting, and a neutral configuration. A method for using the minimally invasive rod reducers with the compressor/distractor system to secure at least two pedicle screws in desired positions on a spinal rod is also disclosed. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184764 | PATIENT-SPECIFIC HIGH TIBIA OSTEOTOMY - A surgical method for tibia osteotomy includes attaching a patient-specific alignment guide to a corresponding surface of a tibia of a patient for whom the alignment guide is customized during a pre-operative planning stage and making a partial bone cut in the tibia through a planar slot of the alignment guide. The planar slot is oriented at a patient-specific angle relative to an anatomic axis of the patient and the angle is customized during the pre-operative planning stage. The method includes opening the bone cut to form an opening wedge, and inserting a patient-specific implantable wedge into the opening wedge. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184765 | MULTI-AXIAL BONE PLATE FIXATION - A bone repair kit, comprising:
| 2013-07-18 |
20130184766 | Securing Fasteners - A polyaxial fastener is secured within an implant with a retaining ring. The ring is assembled onto a circumferential groove formed in the fastener head. The groove and ring are positionable, when the fastener is installed into an implant, at a wide portion of the mating polyaxial aperture in the implant. The ring is compressible into the groove to form a narrowed diameter, which is passable into a narrow diameter of the aperture, near an entrance to the aperture. The ring is released to expand and increase an overall diameter of the head and ring assembly, thereby rending the assembly too wide to pass by the narrow entrance to the aperture, thereby securing the assembly within the implant. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184767 | Spinal Plate And Locking Screw Devices, Methods, And Systems - An embodiment of the invention provides for a system, such as a cervical plate fusion system, that has mechanisms for preventing bone screws from backing out of the plate. The system prevents both counter-rotation of the screw and axial backing out of the screw. Other embodiments are described herein. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184768 | COMPACT ORTHOPEDIC ANTI-ROTATION DEVICE - Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for immobilizing and/or securing bone portions. Particularly, at least one embodiment involves a compact anti-rotation device that can secure adjacent bones and/or bone portions in a manner that prevents or limits relative rotational movement thereof. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184769 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THE FIXATION OR FUSION OF BONE USING COMPRESSIVE IMPLANTS - First and second bone segments separated by a fracture line or joint can be fixated or fused by creating an insertion path through the first bone segment, through the fracture line or joint, and into the second bone segment. An anchor body is introduced through the insertion path. The distal end of the anchor body is anchored in the interior region of the second bone segment. An elongated implant structure is passed over the anchor body to span the fracture line or joint between the bone segments. The proximal end of the anchor body is anchored to an exterior region of the first bone segment to place, in concert with the anchored distal end, the anchor body in compression, to thereby compress and fixate the bone segments relative to the fracture line or joint. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184770 | LOW-PROFILE, UNIPLANAR BONE SCREW - A bone screw that is a low-profile, uniplanar bone screw is provided. The bone screw is for adjusting a position of a rod. The bone screw includes a main body, a rocker and a rod-securing element. The main body has a shaft with a threaded part. The rocker is coupled to and moveable relative to the main body. The rocker is configured to at least partially receive the rod. The rod-securing element is configured to secure the rod between the rocker and the rod-securing element and relative to the main body. The rod-securing element includes a fulcrum serving as an axis of rotation about which the rod rotates. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184771 | ACCESS ASSEMBLY FOR ANTERIOR AND LATERAL SPINAL PROCEDURES - Briefly, the present invention is directed to methods and instrumentation for performing surgery on the spine along its lateral aspect (side) and generally by a lateral, anterior or an anterolateral surgical approach, such that the instruments enter the body from an approach that is other than posterior and make contact with the spine along its lateral aspect. The present invention provides for the entire surgical procedure to be performed through a relatively small incision and may be performed in either the thoracic or lumbar spine. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184772 | CENTRAL CONTROL UNIT OF IMPLANTS - The entire electronics of a control system and of implantable passive and active medical implants connected to or cooperating with the control system are integrated in a central control unit (ZSE) which, by way of detachable cables or by telemetry or radio contact, controls and monitors all of the implants that are present and, if appropriate, implants that are fitted subsequently in the patient ( | 2013-07-18 |
20130184773 | Vagus Nerve Neurostimulator With Multiple Patient-Selectable Modes For Treating Chronic Cardiac Dysfunction - A vagus nerve neurostimulator system with multiple patient-selectable modes for treating chronic cardiac dysfunction is provided. An implantable neurostimulator includes a pulse generator coupled to a therapy lead terminated by a pair of helical electrodes positioned over a cervical vagus nerve. The pulse generator is configured to deliver through the helical electrodes continuously-cycling, intermittent and periodic electrical stimulation that is parametrically defined to bi-directionally propagate through nerve fibers in the cervical vagus nerve. The implantable neurostimulator includes a magnetic switch configured to switch the pulse generator between a plurality of operating modes that are each separately selectable in response to a unique and remotely-applied magnetic signal. An external controller includes patient-actuatable controls configured to enable selection of one of the operating modes of the pulse generator. The external controller includes an electromagnetic transmitter configured to output the magnetic signal uniquely associated with the operating mode as selected with the controls. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184774 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR STEERING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION IN CARDIAC RHYTHM MANAGEMENT - Tools and methods are particularly suited for certain cardiac conditions involving use of a catheter for pacing of the right and left ventricles from a lead in the right ventricle, e.g., to facilitate mechanically and/or electrically synchronous contractions for resynchronization. Certain aspects involve pacing and/or mapping by delivering pulses to a cardiac site useful for improving heart function as measured, e.g., by QRS width, fractionation, late LV activation timing, mechanical synchronicity of free wall and septal wall, effective throughput/pressure, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, a catheter arrangement includes a fixation mechanism to attach the catheter arrangement to heart tissue, individually-addressable electrodes for providing pacing signals to the heart tissue, and an elongated structure that supports the fixation mechanism and the electrodes. The elongated structure is used to direct an end thereof to the target region in the right ventricle, and deliver an electrical pacing signal to different portions within the target region of the heart when the fixation mechanism is operative to attach to heart tissue and also when the fixation mechanism is not attaching the catheter arrangement to heart tissue. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184775 | LONG TERM VAGAL NERVE STIMULATION FOR THERAPEUTIC AND DIAGNOSTIC TREATMENT - A method of nerve stimulation produces therapeutic effects in an organ not directly innervated by the electrically stimulated nerve. The method includes identifying an electrical stimulation reaction threshold of at least one organ directly innervated by a parasympathetic nerve of a subject, identifying a reaction threshold of at least one tissue that is not directly innervated by the parasympathetic nerve of the subject after the parasympathetic nerve is electrically stimulated, and electrically stimulating the parasympathetic nerve with an electrical stimulation signal that is below the identified reaction threshold for the at least one directly innervated organ, but above a reaction threshold for the at least one tissue or organ that is not directly innervated by the parasympathetic nerve of the subject. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184776 | RATE ADAPTIVE CARDIAC PACING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - The invention relates to cardiac rhythm management systems, and more particularly, to rate adaptive cardiac pacing systems and methods. In an embodiment, the invention includes a cardiac rhythm management device. The device can include a pulse generator for generating electrical pulses to be delivered to a heart at a pacing rate, a processor in communication with the pulse generator, and one or more sensors for sensing pulmonary function and cardiac function. The processor can be configured to increase the pacing rate if the pulmonary function is increasing with time and the cardiac function is not decreasing with time, maintain the pacing rate if the pulmonary function is increasing with time and the cardiac function is decreasing with time, and decrease the pacing rate if the respiratory function is decreasing with time. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184777 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ASSESSING AND EXPLOITING CONCURRENT CATHODAL AND ANODAL CAPTURE USING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Techniques are provided for use by an implantable medical device for assessing and controlling concurrent anodal/cathodal capture. In one example, the device delivers bipolar pacing stimulus while sensing a bipolar intracardiac electrogram (IEGM) and while adjusting a magnitude of the pacing stimulus. The device analyzes the bipolar IEGM signals to detect an indication of activation representative of concurrent anodal and cathodal capture. Preferably, the pulse magnitude is set relative to the anodal/cathodal capture threshold based upon clinician programming in response to the needs of the patient. In this manner, concurrent anodal and cathodal capture can be selectively activated or deactivated based on clinician instructions received from a device programmer or other external programming device. Techniques exploiting both bipolar and unipolar IEGM signals to assess and control concurrent anodal/cathodal capture are also described. Techniques for use with quad-pole leads to achieve dual-site or quad-site capture are also set forth. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184778 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR TREATING FEMALE PELVIC NERVE DYSFUNCTION - A method and devices for stimulating visceral pelvic or somatic nerves or their pathways of a female person suffering from a pelvic condition of nerve dysfunction in which non-electrical, external physical stimulation is applied to the clitoral region of the person. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184779 | VOLTAGE LIMITED NEUROSTIMULATION - Methods and systems for delivering voltage limited neurostimulation to a patient. In one aspect, a method includes initiating a flow of electrical current through a first electrode and a second electrode coupled to the patient and increasing the flow of electrical current toward a target value by increasing a voltage across the first electrode and second electrode. Prior to reaching the target value of electrical current, the method includes preventing the voltage across the first electrode and second electrode from increasing beyond a first predetermined limit; and subsequently, maintaining the voltage across the first electrode and second electrode at or within a predetermined range that does not exceed the first predetermined limit. The amplitude of the electrical current continues to increase toward the target value during at least part of a time when the voltage across the first electrode and the second electrode is maintained within the predetermined range. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184780 | DIFFERENTIAL NEUROSTIMULATION THERAPY DRIVEN BY PHYSIOLOGICAL THERAPY - An implantable neurostimulator system adapted to provide therapy for various neurological disorders is capable of varying therapy delivery strategies based on the context, physiological or otherwise, into which the therapy is to be delivered. Responsive and scheduled therapies can be varied depending on various sensor measurements, calculations, inferences, and device states (including elapsed times and times of day) to deliver an appropriate course of therapy under the circumstances. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184781 | Brain Stimulation for Enhancement of Learning, Motivation, and Memory - A system and method for stimulating a brain structure of a patient for treating a condition. A stimulating electrode is inserted into a brain structure of the patient. After inserting the stimulating electrode into a brain structure of the patient, the patient is prompted with a task. When the task is completed by the patient, the stimulating electrode is used to transmit a stimulating signal into the brain structure of the patient. In an alternative implementation, the patient's brain is monitored for the existence of a particular condition. When the condition is detected, the stimulating electrode is used to transmit a stimulating signal into the brain structure of the patient. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184782 | DEVICE FOR ELECTROSTIMULATION - A device for electrostimulation of the eye is provided with a spectacles-like supporting frame ( | 2013-07-18 |
20130184783 | HYBRID BIOORGANIC INTERFACE FOR NEURONAL PHOTOACTIVATION, AND RETINAL PROSTHETIC DEVICE - An interface for neuronal photoactivation includes a semiconducting polymer material, the semiconducting polymer material being excitable by luminous radiation for photovoltaically generating an electric signal. The semiconducting polymer material forms a substrate for neuronal cell adhesion. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184784 | DIRECTIONAL SOUND PROCESSING IN A COCHLEAR IMPLANT - A cochlear implant implementing a directional sound processing system is provided. Specifically, the cochlear implants implementing the present invention comprise a plurality of audio sensors arranged in at least one external component of the cochlear implant to spatially receive ambient sound. At least one audio sensor is located in one of the external components of the cochlear implant, while one other audio sensor is located elsewhere, such as in a component other than the first component. The cochlear implant includes an directional sound processor comprising an array processor and a sound processor to convert the received sounds into a cochlea stimulation instruction signal. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184785 | Automatic On-Off Charger for an Implantable Medical Device - An external charger for an implantable medical device is disclosed which can automatically detect an implant and generate a charging field. The technique uses circuitry typically present in an external charger, such as control circuitry, a Load Shift Keying (LSK) demodulator, and a coupling detector. An algorithm in the control circuitry periodically issues charging fields of short duration in a standby mode. If the coupling detector detects the presence of a conductive material, the algorithm issues a listening window during which a charging field is generated. If an LSK reply signal is received at the LSK demodulator, the external charger can charge the implant in a normal fashion. If a movement signature is detected at the LSK demodulator indicative of a predetermined user movement of the external charger, a charging field is issued for a set timing period, to at least partially charge the IPG battery to restore LSK communications. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184786 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES STORING GRAPHICS PROCESSING DATA - In one example, a device includes a telemetry module configured to retrieve graphics processing data from a device that is not configured to perform a rendering process using the graphics processing data and that is associated with delivering therapy to a therapy target of a patient, and a control unit configured to apply the graphics processing data while performing the rendering process to generate an image of an anatomical feature of the patient, wherein the anatomical feature comprises the therapy target for an implantable medical device, and to cause a display unit of a user interface to display the image, wherein the image of the anatomical feature is specific to the patient. The graphics processing data may include a list of vertices or a transform to be applied to a non-patient-specific anatomical atlas. The data may also include a location of a therapy element of the implantable medical device. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184787 | NEURAL PROSTHESIS - A neural prosthesis includes a centralized device that can provide power, data, and clock signals to one or more individual neural prosthesis subsystems. Each subsystem may include a number of individually addressable, programmable modules that can be dynamically allocated or shared among neural prosthetic networks to achieve complex, coordinated functions or to operate in autonomous groups. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184788 | Implantable Vestibular Prosthesis System with Power Saving Mode Including Soft Start and Soft Power-Down - A novel vestibular implant system is described. An implantable vestibular stimulator provides vestibular stimulation signals to stimulate target neural tissue for vestibular sensation by a patient. One or more motion sensors are controllably powered by the vestibular implant system and develop a motion signal reflecting head motion of an implant patient. The vestibular stimulator includes at least two different operating modes: i. a sensor controlled mode wherein the motion sensor is powered and the vestibular stimulation signal is developed as a dependent function of the motion signal, and ii. a sensor independent mode wherein the motion sensor is unpowered and the vestibular stimulation signals, if any, are developed independently of the motion signal. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184789 | METHOD FOR NEUROMODULATION - The invention relates to a method for neuromodulation, in which an electrode comprising a compressible and expandable grid structure with cells formed from grid webs is arranged within a blood vessel, wherein the grid structure is expanded and, at least in expanded state, is exposed to electrical energy such that surrounding postganglionic parasympathetic nerve fibres of the sphenopalatine ganglion are electrically stimulated by the electrode. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184790 | FIXATION OF IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATORS - Systems and techniques for improving the fixation of implantable pulse generators. In one aspect, a device includes an implantable pulse generator that comprises electrical circuitry configured to generate an electrical pulse and a biocompatible casing that houses the electrical circuitry and on which a collection of electrodes and a collection of fixation elements are mounted. The electrodes are in electrical contact with the electrical circuitry and the fixation elements increase the surface area of the biocompatible casing to reduce the likelihood that the biocompatible casing shifts after implantation. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184791 | APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING HEAT TREATMENT - The present invention relates to an apparatus for performing heat treatment of a bodily cavity in a mammal. The apparatus comprises a catheter intended for insertion into said bodily cavity, an inflatable balloon surrounding a distal end of said catheter in a liquid tight manner which balloon is adapted in use of said apparatus to be inflated and dilated in said bodily cavity, control means operatively connected to said balloon by at least one oscillation lumen and being provided with an oscillation assembly adapted to drive a heat transmitting fluid within said apparatus, and heating means adapted to heat said heat transmitting fluid. Said control means are adapted to control pressure and temperature of said heat transmitting fluid. The heating means have a heat emitting portion and a heat receiving portion which is use of the apparatus are positioned in thermal contact with each other, and which are separable from each other. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184792 | NON-INVASIVE MAGNETIC OR ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION TO TREAT OR PREVENT AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS AND OTHER DISORDERS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for treating or preventing an autism spectrum disorder, a pervasive developmental disorder, or a disorder of psychological development. The methods comprise transmitting impulses of energy non-invasively to selected nerve fibers, particularly those in a vagus nerve. The nerve stimulation may be used as a behavior conditioning tool, by producing euphoria in an autistic individual. Vagus nerve stimulation is also used to modulate circulating serotonin levels in a pregnant woman so as to reduce the risk of having an autistic child; modulate the levels of growth factors within a child; promote balance of neuronal excitation/inhibition; modulate the activity of abnormal resting state neuronal networks; increase respiratory sinus arrhythmia; and avert episodes of motor stereotypies with the aid of forecasting methods. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184793 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM AND ASSOCIATED APPARATUS FOR SECURING AN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION LEAD IN POSITION IN A PERSON'S BRAIN - In one aspect, an apparatus is provided for securing an electrical stimulation lead in position in a person's brain. The apparatus includes a flexible disc comprising a substantially radial slot adapted to secure the lead in position within the brain after implantation. The slot is adapted to elastically expand as the lead is inserted into the slot and is also adapted to elastically contract on the lead to secure the lead in position within the brain after implantation. The apparatus further includes a ring adapted to seat within a burr hole formed in the person's skull. The ring comprises a channel adapted to receive and secure the flexible disc. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184794 | Architectures for an Implantable Stimulator Device Having a Plurality of Electrode Driver Integrated Circuits with Shorted Electrode Outputs - Disclosed is a new architecture for an IPG having a master and slave electrode driver integrated circuits. The electrode outputs on the integrated circuits are wired together. Each integrated circuit can be programmed to provide pulses with different frequencies. Active timing channels in each of the master and slave integrated circuits are programmed to provide the desired pulses, while shadow timing channels in the master and slave are programmed with the timing data from the active timing channels in the other integrated circuit so that each chip knows when the other is providing a pulse, so that each chip can disable its recovery circuitry so as not to defeat those pulses. In the event of pulse overlap at a given electrode, the currents provided by each chip will add at the affected electrode. Compliance voltage generation is dictated by an algorithm to find an optimal compliance voltage even during periods when pulses are overlapping. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184795 | Implantable Neural Interface Device with a Connector having a Slitted Deformable Section - An improved deformable carrier or connector for an implantable neural interface device is described. The neural interface device comprises a carrier supporting at least one electrode array. The carrier comprises a tubular sidewall extending from a proximal carrier portion to a distal carrier portion. At least one deformable segment is provided in the carrier sidewall. The deformable segment is more pliable than the remainder of the carrier sidewall to preferably move in response to forces imparted on the carrier and the electrode array by the shifting forces in body tissue. The deformable segment takes the form of a thinned sidewall segment or a slitted wall segment. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184796 | Elevated Hermetic Feedthrough Insulator Adapted for Side Attachment of Electrical Conductors on the Body Fluid Side of an Active Implantable Medical Device - An elevated feedthrough is attachable to a top or a side of an active implantable medical device. The feedthrough includes a conductive ferrule and a dielectric substrate. The dielectric substrate is defined as comprising a body fluid side and a device side disposed within the conductive ferrule. The dielectric substrate includes a body fluid side elevated portion generally raised above the conductive ferrule. At least one via hole is disposed through the dielectric substrate from the body fluid side to the device side. A conductive fill is disposed within the at least one via hole forming a hermetic seal and electrically conductive between the body fluid side and the device side. A leadwire connection feature is on the body fluid side electrically coupled to the conductive fill and disposed adjacent to the elevated portion of the dielectric substrate. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184797 | CO-FIRED HERMETICALLY SEALED FEEDTHROUGH WITH ALUMINA SUBSTRATEAND PLATINUM FILLED VIA FOR AN ACTIVE IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A co-fired hermetically sealed feedthrough is attachable to an active implantable medical device. The feedthrough comprises an alumina dielectric substrate comprising at least 96 or 99% alumina. A via hole is disposed through the alumina dielectric substrate from a body fluid side to a device side. A substantially closed pore, fritless and substantially pure platinum fill is disposed within the via hole forming a platinum filled via electrically conductive between the body fluid side and the device side. A hermetic seal is between the platinum fill and the alumina dielectric substrate, wherein the hermetic seal comprises a tortuous and mutually conformal interface between the alumina dielectric substrate and the platinum fill. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184798 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DETECTING POSITION AND MIGRATION OF NEUROSTIMULATION LEADS - Apparatus and methods for detecting lead migration through the use of measured artifactual data about the tissue in the vicinity of the lead. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184799 | Implantable Neural Interface Device with a Deformable Carrier - An improved deformable carrier or connector for an implantable neural interface device is described. The neural interface device comprises a carrier supporting at least one electrode array. The carrier comprises a tubular sidewall extending from a proximal carrier portion to a distal carrier portion. At least one deformable segment is provided in the carrier sidewall.. The deformable segment is more pliable than the remainder of the carrier sidewall to preferably move in response to forces imparted on the carrier and the electrode array by the shifting forces in body tissue. The deformable segment takes the form of a thinned sidewall segment or a slitted wall segment. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184800 | FAIL-SAFE IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL ELECTRICAL LEAD - An integrated bipolar implantable medical electrical lead, which may be employed by a cardiac defibrillator, has a single low voltage electrode and a single high voltage electrode and employs a relatively robust and fail-safe configuration of three conductors. Each of the three conductors extends within an individual lumen of a tri-lumen insulative body of the lead. First and second conductors of the three connect, in parallel, the low voltage electrode to a first contact of a connector terminal assembly of the lead, and a third conductor of the three connects the high voltage electrode to a second and a third contact of the connector terminal assembly. A configuration of the third conductor differs from that of the first and second conductors in order to make the third conductor more susceptible to fracture, relative to the first and second conductors, after many years of chronic implant under extreme loading conditions. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184801 | LEAD SHAPED FOR STIMULATION AT THE BASE LEFT VENTRICLE - Disclosed herein are a variety of implantable medical leads for coupling to an implantable pulse generator and targeted stimulation of the lateral and posterior basal left ventricular region of a patient heart. As one example, the lead may include a tubular body including proximal section, an intermediate section and a distal section. The intermediate section biases into a generally S-shaped or sinusoidal-shaped configuration when the intermediate section is in a free or non-restricted state. The proximal section proximally extends from the intermediate section to a proximal end configured to electrically couple to the implantable pulse generator. The distal section biases into a generally straight linear shaped configuration when the distal section is in a free or non-restricted state. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184802 | CURRENT WAVEFORMS FOR ANTI-TACHYCARDIA PACING FOR A SUBCUTANEOUS IMPLANTABLE CARDIOVERTER-DEFIBRILLATOR - A power supply for an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator for subcutaneous positioning between the third rib and the twelfth rib and using a lead system that does not directly contact a patient's heart or reside in the intrathoracic blood vessels and for providing anti-tachycardia pacing energy to the heart, comprising a capacitor subsystem for storing the anti-tachycardia pacing energy for delivery to the patient's heart; and a battery subsystem electrically coupled to the capacitor subsystem for providing the anti-tachycardia pacing energy to the capacitor subsystem. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184803 | SUBMUCOSAL IMPLANTATION OF NEURAL STIMULATORS - A method is provided that includes advancing at least one electrode through mucosa of an oral cavity, along a path that does not enter a greater palatine canal, to within 10 mm of a sphenopalatine fossa. The at least one electrode is left implanted within 10 mm of the sphenopalatine fossa. Optionally, the at least one electrode is advanced into the sphenopalatine fossa via a lateral aspect of the fossa, and left implanted in the sphenopalatine fossa. Other embodiments are also described. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184804 | IMPLANTABLE COMPONENT INTERFACE - An implantable medical device, comprising a first implantable component having a first interface surface and a second implantable component. The second implantable component has a second interface surface comprising one or more integrated protrusions extending therefrom configured to mate with the first interface surface and to provide a desired spacing between the first and second implantable components. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184805 | INTRODUCER SHEATH, PLACEMENT DEVICE FOR BLOOD VESSEL TREATMENT INSTRUMENT, AND METHOD FOR SHORTENING INTRODUCER SHEATH - A placement device for a blood vessel treatment instrument has an introducer sheath functioning as an outer tube, and also has an inner tube. The introducer sheath has a flexible tube-shaped sheath body and a hub into which the base end of the sheath body is inserted. The hub takes-up the base end of the sheath body into the hub by way of take-up shafts while slitting the base end of the sheath body by cutting blades, and thus the length of extension of the sheath body from the hub can be shortened. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184806 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR AORTIC BRANCHED VESSEL REPAIR - An aortic graft assembly includes a tubular component that defines a wall aperture having a proximal end that extends perpendicular to a major longitudinal axis of the tubular aortic component, and a tunnel graft connected to the wall of the tubular aortic component and extending from the wall aperture toward a proximal end of the tubular aortic component. The method for delivery of the aortic graft assembly includes delivering the aortic graft assembly through the wall aperture and into interferring relation with the tunnel graft. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184807 | Articles Including Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Membranes with Serpentine Fibrils and Having a Discontinuous Fluoropolymer Layer Thereon - Articles comprising an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane having serpentine fibrils and having a discontinuous coating of a fluoropolymer thereon are provided. The fluoropolymer may be located at least partially in the pores of the expanded fluoropolymer membrane. In exemplary embodiments, the fluoropolymer is fluorinated ethylene propylene. The application of a tensile force at least partially straightens the serpentine fibrils, thereby elongating the article. The expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane may include a microstructure of substantially only fibrils. The articles can be elongated to a predetermined point at which further elongation is inhibited by a dramatic increase in stiffness. In one embodiment, the articles are used to form a covered stent device that requires little force to distend in the radial direction to a first diameter but is highly resistant to further distension to a second diameter (stop point). A large increase in diameter can advantageously be achieved prior to reaching the stop point. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184808 | ROTATIONAL SPUN MATERIAL COVERED MEDICAL APPLIANCES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE - A medical appliance or prosthesis may comprise one or more layers of rotational spun nanofibers, including rotational spun polymers. The rotational spun material may comprise layers including layers of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Rotational spun nanofiber mats of certain porosities may permit tissue ingrowth into or attachment to the prosthesis. Additionally, one or more cuffs may be configured to allow tissue ingrowth to anchor the prosthesis. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184809 | Disintegrating stent and method of making same - A temporary stent endoprosthesis that does not require an interventional procedure for removal. The disintegrating stent is preferably made from a bioabsorbable polymer, such as by braiding polymer monofilaments into a tubular mesh shape, and the polymer has fracture initiation sites within it that promotes the disintegration of the stent into small pieces that are harmlessly transported out of the body by the vessel contents. Fracture initiation sites may be created by controlling the heterogenous structure of amorphous and crystalline regions, by introducing internal or surface fracture initiation sites, or use of multiple strands with small section size. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184810 | ROTATIONAL SPUN MATERIAL COVERED MEDICAL APPLIANCES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE - A medical appliance or prosthesis may comprise one or more layers of rotational spun nanofibers, including rotational spun polymers. The rotational spun material may comprise layers including layers of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Rotational spun nanofiber mats of certain porosities may permit tissue ingrowth into or attachment to the prosthesis. Additionally, one or more cuffs may be configured to allow tissue ingrowth to anchor the prosthesis. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184811 | Device and Method for Replacing Mitral Valve - A prosthetic mitral valve assembly and method of inserting the same is disclosed. In certain disclosed embodiments, the prosthetic mitral valve assembly has a flared upper end and a tapered portion to fit the contours of the native mitral valve. The prosthetic mitral valve assembly can include a stent or outer support frame with a valve mounted therein. The assembly can be adapted to expand radially outwardly and into contact with the native tissue to create a pressure fit. One embodiment of a method includes positioning the mitral valve assembly below the annulus such that the annulus itself can restrict the assembly from moving in an upward direction towards the left atrium. The mitral valve assembly is also positioned so that the leaflets of the mitral valve hold the assembly to prevent downward movement of the assembly towards the left ventricle. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184812 | PROSTHETIC HEART VALVE INCLUDING STENT STRUCTURE AND TISSUE LEAFLETS, AND RELATED METHODS - A method of making a prosthetic heart valve may include providing an annular stent having a plurality of annularly spaced commissure portions having tips, covering each of the tips with a first fabric cover, covering the first fabric covers and the remainder of the stent with a second fabric cover, covering the second fabric cover with a first tissue membrane, and covering the outside of the first tissue membrane with a second tissue membrane, the second tissue membrane forming leaflet portions that extend inwardly between the commissure portions. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184813 | BODY CAVITY PROSTHESIS - A prosthesis can be configured to be deployed within a body cavity. The prosthesis has an expandable frame, a plurality of proximal anchors, and a plurality of distal anchors, where the various anchors are connected to the frame. Radial expansion of the frame can cause the ends of the proximal anchors and the ends of the distal anchors to draw closer together. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184814 | METHODS OF IMPLANT OF A HEART VALVE WITH A CONVERTIBLE SEWING RING - A sewing ring for prosthetic heart valves that is connected and configured to pivot outward. A biocompatible fabric covering surrounds at least a portion of the sewing ring, and the ring may be exclusively connected to a stent with the fabric. The sewing ring may be generally planar and of uniform thickness, or may be of varying thickness. The fabric may be used to encompass both the stent and the sewing ring, and may be a single piece. A seam may be provided in the fabric as a discrete pivoting line. The sewing ring may be convertible between bi-stable positions. The ring may extend outward in a frusto-conical shape so as to enable inversion between a position facing the inflow end of the valve and a position facing the outflow end of the valve. A method of implantation, and a method of assembly of the heart valve is also provided. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184815 | ACCOMMODATING INTRA-OCULAR LENS SYSTEM - An implantable, compressible, accommodating intra-ocular lens (IOL) coupled to at least one sensor which detects a signal created by the ciliary muscle. A ciliary sulcus ring can house the at least one sensor, and the sensor can include miniaturized electrodes (ciliary muscle probes) for implanting into the ciliary muscle of the subject. A potentiometer/microcomputer can modulate the ciliary muscle signal detected by the sensor(s) into an electrical signal, and a transmitter sends this electrical signal to a micromotor, which causes compression of the IOL via an annular support ring system, causing a change in the IOL shape. The IOL can be part of an IOL complex including a compressible, accommodating IOL, an external lens membrane, and an annular support ring system. The annular support ring system provides a foundation for the micromotor to compress the IOL. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184816 | INTRAOCULAR LENS RINGS - The invention is directed to a lens that comprises an optic and at least two haptic rings, one positioned to rest against the posterior capsule distally outward from the optic zone, the other to rest on the anterior capsule some distance from the equator. The haptic rings of the lens are connected by segments of haptic material that may be arched or straight, and sections of open space to provide for ample circulation of the aqueous humor. The optic is suspended between the two haptic rings such that the distance between the optic and the anterior ring is constant while the distance between the optic and the posterior ring may vary according to the overall capsular dimensions of the eye of the patient. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184817 | Light-Activated Cation Channel and Uses Thereof - The present invention provides compositions and methods for light-activated cation channel proteins and their uses within cell membranes and subcellular regions. The invention provides for proteins, nucleic acids, vectors and methods for genetically targeted expression of light-activated cation channels to specific cells or defined cell populations. In particular the invention provides millisecond-timescale temporal control of cation channels using moderate light intensities in cells, cell lines, transgenic animals, and humans. The invention provides for optically generating electrical spikes in nerve cells and other excitable cells useful for driving neuronal networks, drug screening, and therapy. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184818 | INSTRUMENTS AND METHODS FOR COMPLETE PLANTAR PLATE REPAIRS - Surgical repair systems and techniques for plantar plate repairs. The surgical repair systems and methods reconstruct the plantar plate through a dorsal incision. The surgical repair system embodies a variety of instruments that provide visualization and access to the plantar plate using suture to complete the repair. The repair system may include some or all of the following instruments: a metatarsal head pusher employed in open surgical space, to move the “capital fragment” in a controlled manner; a suture retriever instrument and a suture retriever funnel (sleeve); a suture passer such as a Mini Scorpion DX and accompanying needle, or a variety of shaped Micro Suture Lassos; a measuring guide; and a small joint distractor. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184819 | FLEXIBLE TIBIAL SHEATH - A radially expandable sheath is provided having a substantially closed distal end with at least two sidewalls extending proximally therefrom and defining a central lumen. Each sidewall can have a substantially concave outer surface adapted to seat a graft member, and each side wall is at least partially separated by a longitudinally oriented slot that extends from a proximal end along a substantial length of each sidewall. The slot preferably terminates at a position just proximal to the distal end. The device can also include a sheath expander that is adapted to be disposed in the central lumen of the radially expandable sheath and that is configured to flex the sidewalls to radially expand the sheath so as to fix a graft member within a bone tunnel. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184820 | PARTIAL JOINT RESURFACING IMPLANT, INSTRUMENTATION, AND METHOD - A method of repairing an articular cartilage defect with the partial joint resurfacing implant includes surgically creating an opening in the articular cartilage defect site. The method also includes obtaining a partial resurfacing implant which is implanted into the opening. The partial resurfacing implant includes a top articulating portion, an implant fixation portion, and a locking mechanism. The implant fixation portion including an upper segment coupled to the top articulating portion and a bone interfacing segment configured to facilitate insertion into the articular cartilage defect site. The method further includes the bone interfacing segment being inserted into the opening with the top articulating portion and adjacent articular cartilage being positioned to each other to facilitate motion and load transfer over the defect site. Another method of repairing an articular cartilage defect with a partial joint resurfacing implant and a partial joint resurfacing implant are also disclosed. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184821 | TREATMENT OF LEG ULCERS USING PLACENTA DERIVED COLLAGEN BIOFABRIC - The present invention provides a method of treating a leg ulcer comprising contacting the leg ulcer with a collagen biofabric. The leg ulcer may be a venous, arterial, diabetic or decubitus (pressure) ulcer. The invention further provides kits comprising one or more pieces of collagen biofabric for the treatment of a leg ulcer. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184822 | Fusion Cage With Combined Biological Delivery System - The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for near-simultaneous and integrated delivery of bone graft material during the placement of surgical cages or other medical implants in a patient's spine. The integrated fusion cage and graft delivery device according to various embodiments delivers and disperses biologic material through a fusion cage to a disc space and, without withdrawal from the surgical site, may selectably detach the fusion cage for deposit to the same disc space. The integrated fusion cage and graft delivery device is formed such that a hollow tube and plunger selectively and controllably place bone graft material and a fusion cage in or adjacent to the bone graft receiving area. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184823 | Modular Nucleus Pulposus Prosthesis - A modular nucleus pulposus prosthesis comprising at least two generally mirror image complimentary disc segments combined to form a generally discoid endoprosthetic disc and to associated tools and methods for replacing the intervertebral disc. The complimentary segments are substantially identical including outer circumferential walls roughly equal to a semi-circle aligned along concave-convex inner wall inner walls forming a common border and a generally symmetrical discoid congruent structure which is positioned within the annulus of a spinal disc section. Disc segments may define structures to support, position and secure the segments to one another intradiscally. Surgical tools define structures for inserting and aligning disc members together. Also disclosed is a system and method for replacing the nucleus pulposus using the surgical tools adapted for placement and alignment of the disc. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184824 | INTERSPINOUS IMPLANT WITH OVERLAPPING ARMS - Spinal implants and methods of inserting the implants into an interspinous space and into engagement with spinous processes. The implants may include first and second arms that are separately inserted into the patient. The arms may be attached together within the patient in an overlapping arrangement and pivotally connected at a joint. The arms may be moved about the joint with first ends of each of the arms on a first side of the joint contacting against opposing lateral sides of a first spinous process and second ends of each of the arms on a second side of the joint contacting against opposing lateral sides of a second spinous process. A securing member may contact against the arms and secure the orientation of the arms. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184825 | Spinal Fusion Cage with Removable Planar Elements - The present disclosure relates to an intervertebral fusion cage that is equipped with generally planar elements disposed on at least one of the top, bottom or lateral wall of a fusion cage, such planar elements reversibly covering at least one opening to prevent leakage of fusion promoting material. | 2013-07-18 |
20130184826 | BIOABSORBABLE ENCLOSURES - Provided are bioabsorbable enclosures for use in spinal surgical procedures such as fusion of spinal vertebrae. Also provided are methods for enhancing fusion of spinal vertebrae using bioabsorbable enclosures. | 2013-07-18 |