32nd week of 2009 patent applcation highlights part 47 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20090198166 | Ankle Foot Orthosis - Disclosed is an ankle foot orthotic device for assisting a user during gait. The device comprises: a foot support having a shape and size configured to the plantar aspect of a user foot, the foot support having a forward portion and a rearward portion and a heel plate coupled to an upper surface of the rearward portion. The device further comprises: an upper rod having a longitudinal axis and a lower end connected to an offset and a lower rod having: a longitudinal axis; a lower end connected to the heel plate; and an upward end connected to the offset. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198167 | Fiber-microsphere bioresorbable composite scaffold for wound healing - A fiber-microsphere composite scaffold including a first layer of material selected from one of a layer of bioresorbable microspheres and a layer of bioresorbable fibers; and a second layer of material selected from the other of the layer of bioresorbable microspheres and the layer of bioresorbable fibers. A fiber-microsphere composite scaffold reduced pressure tissue treatment apparatus is also included as well as methods for making fiber-microsphere composite scaffolds. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198168 | CELL SELECTION APPARATUS - A cell sorting apparatus includes an extracorporeal circulation system | 2009-08-06 |
20090198169 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR IRRADIATING BLOOD - A device for irradiating blood is provided, the device including a chamber having an elongate configuration defining a hollow interior, the chamber formed of reflective material, a tubular cassette sized and shaped to be received in the interior of the chamber, the tubular cassette having an inside diameter sized and shaped to receive a reflective core having an elongate configuration with an exterior diameter smaller than the interior diameter of the cassette to provide a space for receiving and holding blood stationary, and an array of light-emitting members arranged on the chamber for emitting light of at least one wavelength into the interior of the chamber for irradiating and treating the blood inside the cassette. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198170 | MULTI-PASS DIALYSIS - A system for dialysis is disclosed. The system uses renal failure therapy fluid, such as dialysis fluid, several times before it is discarded. In a home hemodialysis application, the patient's blood is passed through the dialyzer several times, that is, multiple passes through the dialyzer, until the dialysis fluid is saturated or near saturation, with waste products from the patient's blood. In peritoneal dialysis, the dialysate is used at least twice within the patient's peritoneal cavity, i.e., multiple passes, before it is discarded. This has the effect minimizing the amount of dialysate a patient must handle and dispose of in the dialysis process. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198171 | DEVICE FOR USE IN AN ARRANGEMENT FOR MONITORING AN ACCESS TO A PATIENT, AND METHOD FOR MONITORING A PATIENT ACCESS, IN A PARTICULAR VASCULAR ACCESS IN EXTRACORPOREAL BLOOD TREATMENT - The present invention relates to a device for monitoring a patient access, in particular a vascular access in extracorporeal blood treatment. The device is used to establish a substantially parallel connection between the arterial and venous tubes, or the arterial and venous puncture needles. If the venous needle slips out of the vascular access, the arterial cannula is forcibly withdrawn. This incident is reliably detected by the known protection systems which monitor the pressure in the arterial tube and/or an air intake. In addition, the present invention relates to an extracorporeal blood treatment device and to a method for monitoring a patient access, wherein the venous and arterial tubes or the puncture needles are connected to each other. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198172 | INTERVENTIONAL SHEATH WITH RETENTION FEATURES - A device for use in accessing and treating an artery comprises a sheath having a distal end adapted to be introduced into the artery, a proximal end, and a lumen extending between the distal and proximal ends. A retention feature is on the sheath, wherein the retention feature engages the wall of the artery to retain the sheath within the artery after the sheath has been introduced into the artery. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198173 | Light Emitting Device for use in Therapeutic and/or Cosmetic Treatment - An ambulatory device for use in therapeutic and/or cosmetic treatment has a localised light source such as an LED (e.g. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198174 | SYSTEM FOR MONITORING AND CONTROLLING PERITONEAL DIALYSIS - A peritoneal dialysis system includes a cycler operable with a disposable cassette, the cassette connected to a patient line, the cassette capable of fluid communication with a catheter having access to a patient's peritoneal cavity, the cycler configured to: (i) convey dialysis fluid to the peritoneal cavity through the patient line and the catheter during a patient fill phase; (ii) allow the dialysis fluid to dwell within the peritoneal cavity during a patient dwell phase; (iii) convey dialysis fluid away from the peritoneal cavity through the patient line and the catheter during a patient drain phase; and (iv) sense, at first and second sensing locations of the disposable cassette via first and second pressure sensors, an intraperitoneal pressure through the catheter to optimize an amount of fluid conveyed during the patient fill phase, so that the peritoneal cavity is not overpressurized during the patient dwell phase. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198175 | Analyte Monitoring Device and Methods of Use - An analyte monitor includes a sensor, a sensor control unit, and a display unit. The sensor has, for example, a substrate, a recessed channel formed in the substrate, and conductive material disposed in the recessed channel to form a working electrode. The sensor control unit typically has a housing adapted for placement on skin and is adapted to receive a portion of an electrochemical sensor. The sensor control unit also includes two or more conductive contacts disposed on the housing and configured for coupling to two or more contact pads on the sensor. A transmitter is disposed in the housing and coupled to the plurality of conductive contacts for transmitting data obtained using the sensor. The display unit has a receiver for receiving data transmitted by the transmitter of the sensor control unit and a display coupled to the receiver for displaying an indication of a level of an analyte. The analyte monitor may also be part of a drug delivery system to alter the level of the analyte based on the data obtained using the sensor. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198176 | Medication Delivery Device - The medication delivery device is designed to receive a replaceable medication container ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198177 | Surgical delivery system for medical sealant - Certain embodiments include a surgical delivery system for a medical sealant including a packaging system with a detachable a sterile surface for mixing the sealant as needed for application. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198178 | Ostial Stenting System - A method and apparatus provide techniques for stenting ostial legions and other restenosis in vessels through a stenting apparatus that includes both a guidewire and a separate marker wire. In some examples, the marker wire is threaded through a tubular body of the stenting apparatus and in other examples, the marker wire may be threaded externally through the tubular body. In both such examples, the marker wire may be aligned with a radiopaque marker of the apparatus to guide marker wire positioning. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198179 | DELIVERY DEVICES AND METHODS - Described here are delivery devices for delivering one or more implants to the body, and methods of using. The delivery devices may deliver implants to a variety of locations within the body, for a number of different uses. In some variations, the delivery devices have a cannula with one or more curved sections. In some variations, a pusher may be used to release one or more implants from the cannula. In some variations, one or more of the released implants may be a self-expanding device. Methods of delivering implants to one or more sinus cavities are also described here. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198180 | Tissue Separating Catheter Assembly and Method - A tissue-separating catheter assembly comprises a rotatable shaft, having a distal shaft portion, and a tissue separator device extending along the shaft. The tissue separator device has a distal separator part at the distal shaft portion movable between a retracted state, towards the distal shaft portion, and an outwardly extending, operational state, away from the distal shaft portion. A pivot joint may be used to pivotally connect the distal separator end to the distal shaft portion. The distal shaft portion may comprise a distally-facing transition surface at a proximal end of the distal shaft portion. First and second energizable tissue separator elements may be used at the transition surface and the tip of the device, respectively. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198181 | INTRAVENOUS NEEDLE INSERTION OR CANNULATION | 2009-08-06 |
20090198182 | Member For Catheter's Position Verification Having Color Change Indicator And Catheter Having The Member For Catheter's Position Verification - The present invention provides a member ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198183 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR INJECTING DERMAL FILLERS - An apparatus includes a tubular member and a spherical piston disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member. The tubular member includes a distal end portion and a central portion. The distal end portion is configured to be coupled to a needle. At least the central portion of the tubular member is curved. The spherical piston is movably disposed with the lumen such that the lumen is divided into a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the lumen configured to contain a medicament. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198184 | Percutaneous biomedical devices with regenerative materials interface - A percutaneous biomedical device comprising a body having a lumen extending longitudinally at least partially through the body, an implantable interface region disposed on the body, the implantable interface region having a plurality of radially extending conduits through the body, each of the conduits are in fluid communication with the lumen and in fluid communication with an exit port. The exit ports extrude a skin-interface composition between the subject's skin and the percutaneous biomedical device. Methods for implanting a percutaneous biomedical device includes implanting a percutaneous biomedical device percutaneously in a subject and aligning the exit ports of the implantable interface region between the epidermis and the hypodermis skin layers of the subject. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198185 | HYDRAULICALLY ACTUATED PUMP FOR LONG DURATION MEDICAMENT ADMINISTRATION - Presently disclosed is a hydraulic pump device and its use thereof, especially in a fluid delivery system. In one embodiment, the fluid delivery system is an inexpensive, single-use device for slow dosing medicament applications. The fluid delivery system may employ a spring-compressed bellows crank or other combination of simple mechanisms operating according to the well-known peristaltic principle to force a volume of ultrapure bio-inert hydraulic fluid through an aperture, thereby expanding one chamber of a two chamber hydraulic cylinder. The second, fluid storage chamber, containing the medicament, is emptied through a conventional orifice in response to the expansion of the pump chamber. The medicament may thence flow through any suitable infusion set into a patient removeably attached thereto. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198186 | Dispensing Fluid from an Infusion Pump System - Some embodiments of an infusion pump device may include a drive system that accurately and incrementally dispenses fluid from the pump device in a controlled manner. Particular embodiments of the drive system may include a rotational motor that is coupled to a string member, which is used to adjust a pawl relative to a ratchet body. In such circumstances, the drive system can provide a reliable and compact infusion pump device that accurately dispenses the desired volume of fluid. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198187 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE MEDICAL APPARATUS FOR DISPENSING A BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE COMPOUND AND AN ASSOCIATED MEDICAL PROCEDURE FOR DISPENSING A BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE COMPOUND - A medical apparatus for dispensing a biologically active compound. The medical apparatus includes a sleeve, wherein ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198188 | ADAPTOR FOR AN INTRODUCER VALVE IN A HUMAN OR ANIMAL BODY - An adaptor ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198189 | DEVICE FOR APPLYING A MICRONEEDLE ARRAY | 2009-08-06 |
20090198190 | Mounting Pad, an Adhesive Device Comprising Such Mounting Pad, and Method of Applying Such Devices to a Patient - A Mounting Pad, an Adhesive Device Comprising such Mounting Pad, and Methods of Applying such Devices to a Patient. A mounting pad having an adhesive component having an adhesive surface, said surface being provided with a release layer, said release layer having at least three projecting parts one of which is a tongue projecting along an essentially central axis of the mounting pad. The mounting pad may be used for adhesive devices, preferably injector devices for the subcutaneous introduction of the cannula of the infusion part of an infusion set into the skin of a patient. The method of applying such a device enables a reduction of the risk of damaging or contamination the adhesive surface during automatic or manual removal of the release layer when the infusion set is applied to a patient. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198191 | ADHESIVE PATCH SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to patches for medical devices. In various embodiments, an adhesive patch of a medical device may have selective areas with adhesive material of varying adhesion strengths. In other embodiments, an adhesive patch of a medical device may include adhesive material that may be activated by a catalyst to increase or decrease the adhesion strength of the adhesive material. In further embodiments, a medical device may include a pierceable membrane containing an agent, the pierceable membrane positioned to be pierced by a needle and to cause some of the agent to be carried to the user-patient. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198192 | Syringe with connector, connector for syringe, and syringe - The present invention aims at offering: a syringe connectable to a port in a fixed manner as well as capable of demonstrating high operational performance even in the case of direct connection where a connector is not used; a connector used for the syringe; and a syringe able to attach the connector thereto. For the attainment of the above objectives, the medical syringe of the present invention is a medical syringe including a cylindrical connection supporting member which enhances the holding force of a luer part inserted into a port when the medical syringe is connected to the port. The connection supporting member is set by sliding along the luer or a syringe body in a state of being movable between a first position near a tip of the luer and a second position away from the tip of the luer. The medical syringe is characterized in that, when the connection supporting member is moved to the second position, the tip of the luer part is exposed. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198193 | Drive mechanisms suitable for use in drug delivery devices - A drive mechanism suitable for use in drug delivery devices is disclosed. The drive mechanism may be used with injector-type drug delivery devices, such as those permitting a user to set the delivery dose. The drive mechanism may include a housing, a dose dial sleeve, and a drive sleeve. A clutch is configured to permit rotation of the drive sleeve and the dose dial sleeve with respect to the housing when the dose dial sleeve and drive sleeve are coupled through the clutch. Conversely, when the dose dial sleeve and drive sleeve are in a de-coupled state, rotation of the dose dial sleeve with respect to the housing is permitted and rotation of the drive sleeve with respect to the housing is prevented. In the de-coupled state, axial movement of the drive sleeve transfers force in a longitudinal direction for actuation of a drug delivery device. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198194 | SYRINGE HAVING A RESILIENT PART IN ORDER TO FACILITATE AN INITIAL ASPIRATION - A syringe comprises a barrel with a plunger in slidable and sealing engagement therein, and a needle attached to one end of the barrel. The barrel has an aspiration device in the form of manually-operable resilient portions, which can be operated to cause a pressure differential in the barrel, the pressure differential then being used to perform aspiration. The resilient portions are preferably formed by localised reductions of wall thickness in the external surface of the barrel. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198195 | ADMINISTRATION DEVICE COMPRISING A PLUNGER ROD WITH A RETURN LOCK - An administering apparatus including a casing, a reservoir, a piston accommodated in the reservoir such that it can be shifted in an advancing direction, a piston rod which acts on the piston in the advancing direction and forms a first locking mechanism, a second locking mechanism which cannot be moved counter to the advancing direction, a lock element row formed by successively arranged first locking elements, extending in the advancing direction, and formed by one of the locking mechanisms, and a second lock element formed by the other locking mechanism and engaged with the lock element row, wherein it engages with a lock element gap of the lock element row, wherein the second lock element is moved out of engagement by a movement, against an elasticity force, of the piston rod in the advancing direction, but, when engaged, counteracts a movement of the piston rod counter to the advancing direction with a resistance force greater than the elasticity force to prevent the piston rod from moving counter to the advancing direction. In some embodiments, either or both the first and second locking mechanisms form a securing element at one or both ends with respect to the advancing direction, the securing element counteracting a movement of the piston rod counter to the advancing direction with a locking force greater than the resistance force. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198196 | PHLEBOTOMY NEEDLE ASSEMBLY AND FRANGIBLE COVER - Medical needle assemblies incorporating a needle cover are provided. According to one aspect, the needle cover is integrally formed from a material that: (1) is sufficiently rigid to prevent bending of an underlying cannula, (2) is suitable for allowing a frangible portion thereof to be broken under pre-selected conditions, and/or (3) has a moisture vapor transmission rate sufficient for steam sterilization of a needle tip enclosed by the needle cover. According to another aspect, at least part of a cap portion and a hub portion of the needle cover are translucent. According to yet another aspect, the needle cover is provided with a wing having an enlarged rib suitable for gripping during separation of a cap portion from the remainder of the needle cover. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198197 | THERAPEUTIC SLEEVE FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A therapeutic sleeve is disposable about a therapy delivery element. The sleeve has a first opening, a second opening, and a radially elastic body member disposed between the first and second opening. The body member forms a lumen extending from the first opening to the second opening and is configured to be disposed about the therapy delivery element. The sleeve further includes a therapeutic agent releasable from the body member when implanted in a patient. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198198 | Method of treating skin for cellulite reduction - A method is provided for the reduction of cellulite by means of loofah exfoliation. A rotatable, handheld loofah applicator device, used in combination with the unique application of a specific sequence of natural components, are applied daily, directly to targeted areas of the body where cellulite is located. This method removes cellulite formed on the skin, resulting in weight reduction and smoother, younger looking skin at the targeted areas of application. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198199 | INERT CONTAINER AND DISPENSER - The invention relates to devices and methods for containing and dispensing a medicant, pharmaceutical product or other agent. Various elements of the devices may be constructed of materials that do not have a deleterious impact on the chemical composition, medicinal efficacy or other properties of the agent. In one embodiment, the device includes a vial with a pump sprayer, configured to contain a solution of oxychlorine compounds. The pump sprayer may be fitted with an insert constructed of glass, borosilicate glass, PTFE, PFA, chemically-modified PTFE or another inert material, and the entire assembly may be housed within a barrel and cap. Methods of using the aforementioned device to prevent, treat and/or reduce the risk of an infection on a surface area are also described. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198200 | WOUND DRESSING HAVING UNDERCUT CHANNELS FOR NEGATIVE PRESSURE WOUND THERAPY - A wound dressing defines a channel. The channel includes a body portion having a width and a neck portion having a width less than the width of the body portion. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198201 | Suctioning system, method and kit - A suction head in fluid communication with a pump head provides a sub-ambient working pressure to a medical site, enabling drainage thereof to a waste container and/or enhancing healing at the site. A passive pressure regulator enables the working pressure to be maintained at a desired level independent of the fluid flow through the system. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198202 | Method for providing a piece of a film of a magnetoelastic material with an enchanced bending stiffness, product obtained by the method and sensor - A method for providing a piece of a film of a magnetoelastic material having an initial bending stiffness with an enhanced bending stiffness in a first direction. According to the method, the piece is provided with at least one scored line in the first direction of the piece. Furthermore, the piece is bent along at least one of the at least one scored lines so as to provide the piece with a lasting bend in a direction transverse to the first direction, whereby an enhanced bending stiffness is provided in the first direction of the piece. Also, a product obtained by the method, a sensor and an absorbent structure and an absorbent article including the sensor. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198203 | BODY ADHERING ABSORBENT ARTICLE - A feminine care absorbent article includes an absorbent structure configured for disposition adjacent a female wearer's vaginal region to absorb bodily fluids discharged by the wearer. A shell is provided for supporting the absorbent structure at the vaginal region. The shell has a body-facing surface and a garment-facing surface. The body-facing surface has an adhesive thereon for adhering the shell directly to the wearer's body. The adhesive has a non-uniform adhesive pattern. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198204 | ABSORPTIVE ARTICLE - Provided is an absorptive article having absorption elements capable of following the wearer's body of a user. This absorptive article comprises at least a generally rectangular base absorption element, a top absorption element disposed on one surface of the base absorption element at substantially lateral center of the base absorbent and along the longitudinal direction of the base absorbent, and a fixing part for fixing the base absorption element to the top absorption element so that at least one end of the top absorption element in the longitudinal direction thereof is made to be a free end. A locking part is provided on the base absorption element side contact surface of the top absorption element near the free end. The locking part is locked to the base absorption element at a position where the top absorption element is so moved as to extend along the gluteal cleft of the user. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198205 | Absorbing disposable incontinence diaper - A disposable absorbent incontinence diaper ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198206 | Refastenable Absorbent Article And A Method Of Applying Thereof - Absorbent articles such as disposable diapers, incontinent briefs, diaper holders, training pants and the like, having elastomeric ear panels and a fastening system that provides the user with different options as to how the absorbent article may be fitted to and removed from the wearer. The absorbent articles allow the wearer to choose between conventional and pull-on diaper configurations, or combinations thereof, and properly and comfortably fit a large range of wearer sizes. Further, the absorbent articles can be pulled on and/or off as a pant. This feature is provided by the ear panels which maintain sufficient tension to hold the diaper on the wearer throughout the period of use without harming the wearer's skin, while providing enough stretch to allow the diaper to be pulled up or down over the wearer's hips. The fastening system is refastenable for convenience yet strong enough to maintain the diaper in a fastened configuration without becoming detached if the diaper is pulled on or off the wearer. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198207 | UNDERPANTS TYPE DISPOSABLE DIAPER - [Problem]0 To provide a disposable diaper which can be used both as a tape-fastening type and an underpants type with an excellent fit. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198208 | DOSAGE DISPENSING DEVICE - A dosage dispenser according to the invention is intended to provide a solution for measuring and dilution of liquid medications and issuing marked and ready for use. The dosage dispenser device carries out actions required for the preparation of a required dose of medication, including identifying ampoules, breaking them, filling a syringe, diluting the medication in a solution, marking the syringe, disposing of waste and documenting the process, all at the patient bedside. The dosage dispenser is aimed at reducing the number of errors in the dosage, which is a problem, menacing medical services throughout the world. The problem is made acute by considerable pressure on the medical teams while carrying out many and complex procedures under pressure in a situation of uncertainty and with variable data. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198209 | FLUID MANIFOLD CONTROL DEVICE - A manifold is disclosed which includes a manifold body that defines a main lumen, a primary injection line and a port. A check valve system is also provided which permits flow from the primary injection line to the main lumen while selectively preventing back flow from the main lumen to the primary injection line and, simultaneously, permitting flow from the port to the primary injection line while preventing back flow from the primary injection line to the port. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198210 | DEVICE FOR INTERMITTENTLY OBSTRUCTING A GASTRIC OPENING AND METHOD OF USE - The present invention relates to a device for intermittently obstructing a bodily opening, such as a gastric opening, and includes a proximal member connected to a distal member by a tether. The proximal member includes an apron member surrounding a first occluding member, which is formable from an elongated and narrower configuration to a contracted or expanded but wider configuration. When employed in the stomach, the device of the present invention is arranged transluminally, with the distal member disposed in the duodenum and the proximal member disposed against the pyloric valve, intermittently occluding the pyloric valve and preventing or delaying the flow of gastric contents through the pyloric valve. In certain embodiments, a reservoir may be included for releasing a substance of interest, for example for releasing insulin from a reservoir disposed in the distal member. Sensors, actuators, and data transmission devices may also be included. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198211 | Convenience IV kits and methods of use - A convenience kit which provides a basic configuration for use in measuring, filling and dispensing medication and flush solutions to IV sets and patient catheters through needleless connectors while improving safety and efficacy by requiring fewer post-sterilization makes and breaks compared to conventional filling and dispensing methods. Further, the kit improves flush compliance by facilitating dispensing of flush solutions and decreases likelihood of infections by providing for flushing of patient lines and catheter connecting fittings without line breaks. Convenience of operation is provided by a two-syringe assembly which is operable by a single hand for selective dispensing accomplished from either of the two syringes while obstructing flow from the other syringe. The kit comprises a clip for stabilizing the two syringe assembly. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198212 | Endoscopic injection needle assembly inluding an endoscopic hood - An endoscopic injection needle assembly and method of using the same. According to one embodiment, the assembly includes an endoscope, an injection needle, an endoscopic hood and a suction source. The endoscope is shaped to include a proximal end, a distal end, and a plurality of longitudinal channels. The distal end of the injection needle is positioned within a working channel of the endoscope. The injection needle is sized relative to the working channel to permit fluid to flow around the injection needle in the working channel. The endoscopic hood is mounted on the distal end of the endoscope and extends distally therefrom, the endoscopic hood being in fluid communication with the working channel and having an opening through which fluid may be drawn into the endoscopic hood. The suction source is applied to the proximal end of the working channel to cause fluid to be drawn into the endoscopic hood through the opening and then proximally through the working channel. In addition, suction causes tissue to be drawn into the endoscopic hood. The injection needle may then be operated to penetrate the suctioned tissued. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198213 | METHOD OF OPHTHALMIC SURGERY AND KIT THEREFOR - A method of micro-incision ophthalmic surgery, comprising, in the order mentioned, the steps of: | 2009-08-06 |
20090198214 | Butterfly Needle Devices and Methods Relating Thereto - In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a butterfly needle device is described. The device comprises a needle having a proximal end and a distal tip, a base positioned over the needle, a first wing and a second wing each extending from the base and being configured to move between a generally abducted position and a generally adducted position, a spacer element extending from the first wing, a sleeve positioned over the needle, and a bridge element connecting the sleeve to the base. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198215 | ADHESIVE PATCH SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to patches for medical devices. In various embodiments, an adhesive patch of a medical device may have selective areas with adhesive material of varying adhesion strengths. In other embodiments, an adhesive patch of a medical device may include adhesive material that may be activated by a catalyst to increase or decrease the adhesion strength of the adhesive material. In further embodiments, a medical device may include a pierceable membrane containing an agent, the pierceable membrane positioned to be pierced by a needle and to cause some of the agent to be carried to the user-patient. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198216 | FRONTAL SINUS SPACER - Substance delivering spacer devices may comprise expandable reservoirs that are implantable in paranasal sinuses and other cavities, openings and passageways of the body to maintain patency and to provide sustained local delivery of a therapeutic or diagnostic substance. Delivery apparatus including elongate tubular members as well as shapeable distal portions and atraumatic tips are provided. Also provided are sinus penetrator devices and systems for performing ethmoidotomy procedures or for creating other openings in the walls of paranasal sinuses or other anatomical structures. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198217 | Convenience IV kits and methods of use - Two convenience kits are disclosed. A first convenience kit provides a basic configuration for use in measuring, filling and dispensing medication and flush solutions to IV sets and patient catheters through needleless connectors while improving safety and efficacy by requiring fewer post-sterilization makes and breaks compared to conventional filling and dispensing methods. A second convenience kit which, being a companion to the first convenience kit, provides safety in access to a vial. Methods of use of both kits improve flush compliance by facilitating dispensing of flush solutions and decreases likelihood of infections by providing for flushing of connecting sites while reducing numbers of breaks required for associated medical procedures. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198218 | NEUROSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - A catheter assembly for insertion into the brain. The assembly comprises a first length of tubing made of a first material. A second material surrounds the first length of tubing, the second material being more flexible than the first material and having a hardness of less than 50 Rockwell E. The second material provides damping to the first length of tubing. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198219 | Catheter Assembly - Novel catheter constructions comprising thin covering or wrapping materials such as polymer films. A catheter provided with a guidewire catheter lumen having a thin covering that is easily punctured by a guidewire at virtually any desired point along the catheter length. The thin covering may be integral with the catheter shaft, or may be a separate component that covers only the portion of the catheter shaft immediately adjacent the outer portion of the guidewire lumen, or may be a thin tubular construct that surrounds the entire catheter shaft. Moreover, polymer film can be used in combination with one or more elements to produce novel catheter constructions. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198220 | OSMOTIC PUMP WITH AT LEAST ONE CHARGEABLE MATERIAL - The invention relates to an osmotic pump ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198221 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DIRECTIONAL DELIVERY OF LASER ENERGY - In some embodiments, without limitation, the invention comprises a catheter having an elongated housing with a channel disposed therein. A laser delivery member is movable and at least partially disposed within the channel. A ramp is disposed within the housing at an angle to its central axis and proximate to its distal end. The ramp is adapted to move the distal end of the laser delivery member outwardly from the central axis of the housing. A guidewire biases the distal end of the laser delivery member generally inwardly toward the central axis of the housing. In some embodiments, without limitation, the offset of the central axis of the tip of the laser delivery member from the central axis of the housing is determined by adjusting the extent to which the laser delivery member travels on the ramp, and disposition of the laser delivery member on the guidewire maintains the offset tip substantially parallel to the central axis of the housing. Thus, in accordance with the invention, the distal end of the laser delivery member may be biased in a desired direction or offset, permitting ablation of an area larger than the area of the distal end of the catheter. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198222 | Dermal Scar Treatment Equipment - Provided is a dermal scar treatment equipment. The treatment equipment includes a pad, a plurality of pins, and an insulating layer. The pad electrically connects with a high frequency generator. The pins are protrusively coupled to a front of the pad, are inserted into collagen fibers in the dermis through the epidermis, and propagate a high frequency to the collagen fibers. The insulating layer is coated on an end of each of the pins and isolates the pins from the epidermis for no contact. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198223 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CARDIAC ABLATION USING LASER INDUCED OPTICAL BREAKDOWN - Systems and methods for achieving sub-surface, highly spatially selective cardiac ablation by means of laser induced optical breakdown (LIOB) are disclosed. Damage to non-targeted heart and artery/vein tissue is to be minimized according to the present disclosure. A catheter enters the heart, e.g., via a vein, and catheter location is determined/confirmed. Laser pulses are guided through the optical path within the catheter and, at or near the catheter end, a focusing structure is provided that focuses the laser radiation through the non-targeted vein/heart tissue into the targeted tissue. In the focusing structure, laser induced LIOB occurs and related mechanical effects affect the targeted tissue. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198224 | Integrated Metalized Ceramic Heating Element for Use in a Tissue Cutting and Sealing Device - A tissue cutting and sealing device, having a pair of opposing elements dimensioned to grasp tissue therebetween; and a heating assembly on at least one of the opposing elements, wherein the heating assembly includes: a ceramic body; and a metalized portion extending along a top surface of the ceramic body. The top surface of the ceramic body preferably has a width greater than the metalized portion. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198225 | Electrosurgical system - An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator including at least one source of radio frequency (RF) power, and a plurality of output connections, only one of the output connections at any one time being active in that it is able to receive radio frequency power from the source. The generator includes selection means adapted to change the active output connection, and a controller adapted to control the supply of radio frequency power from the source to the active output connection. The system also includes a plurality of electrosurgical assemblies, each including an electrosurgical instrument and a cable connecting the electrosurgical instrument to one of the output connections. The electrosurgical assemblies each include a handswitch adapted to send a signal to the selection means to change the active output connection. The selection means is such that a signal sent from the handswitch of the active instrument can cause the selection means to change the active output connection to a different output connection, but a signal sent from the handswitch of an instrument other than the active instrument does not immediately cause the selection means to change the active output connection to a different output connection. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198226 | Medical Device Including Member that Deploys in a Spiral-Like Configuration and Method - A medial device including a handle portion, and a deployable member disposed in mechanical cooperation with the handle portion is disclosed. The deployable member includes a distal tip and a bend that is disposed adjacent the distal tip. The deployable member is extendable form the handle portion such that the distal tip extends in a spiral-like configuration in response to extension of the deployable member. The spiral-like configuration includes non-equivalent radii. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198227 | Articulating Ablation Device and Method - An ablation device including a handle portion, a shaft and at least one cable. The shaft extends distally from the handle portion and includes an inner conductor and an outer conductor that substantially surrounds at least a portion of the inner conductor. The cable extends from the handle portion along at least a portion of the shaft. The distal tip of the inner conductor is positionable distally beyond a distal-most end of the outer conductor. In response to movement of the at least one cable relative to the handle portion, the distal tip of the outer conductor is movable form a first position where the distal tip is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis defined by the outer conductor to at least a second position where the distal tip is disposed at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198228 | Bipolar Scissors for Adenoid and Tonsil Removal - A bipolar electrosurgical instrument is disclosed for use in excising tissues. The disclosed bipolar electrosurgical instrument includes a pair of jaws or legs having shearing surfaces, one of which is electrically nonconductive. The disclosed bipolar surgical instrument also includes conductive surfaces on the legs which allow energy flux to flow through tissue on a plane other than that defined by the relative shearing surfaces. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198229 | Hybrid Contact Quality Monitoring Return Electrode - An electrosurgical return electrode is disclosed. The return electrode includes an intermediary layer formed from a dielectric material, the intermediary layer having a top surface and a patient-contacting surface. The return electrode also includes a capacitive return electrode formed from a conductive material disposed on the top surface of the intermediary layer and a resistive monitoring electrode formed from a conductive material disposed on the patient-contact surface of the intermediary layer. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198230 | System and Method for Return Electrode Monitoring - A return electrode monitoring (“REM”) system is disclosed. The REM system includes a return electrode pad having a pair of split electrode pads and a detection circuit coupled to the pair of split electrode pads. The detection circuit and the pair of split electrode pads are adapted to resonate across a predetermined resonance range. The REM system also includes a controller coupled to the detection circuit and configured to provide a sweeping drive signal to the detection circuit across the resonance range. The detection circuit generates a drive signal in response to the sweeping drive signal and the controller determines a complex impedance across the at least one pair of split electrode pads as a function of the drive signal. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198231 | METHODS TO TREAT UNWANTED TISSUE WITH ELECTRIC PULSES - Provided are methods for selecting parameters of an electrical pulse for electroporation to induce apoptosis in a tissue in need of therapeutic removal in a patient. Also provided are methods and apparatuses for treating a disease by inducing apoptosis in a tissue in need of therapeutic removal in a patient. Further provided are computer-readable media having instructions for selecting parameters of an electrical pulse for electroporation to induce apoptosis in a tissue in need of therapeutic removal in a patient. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198232 | ABLATION PROBE WITH FLARED ELECTRODES - An ablation device includes a cannula having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending between the proximal and the distal ends, and a first array of electrodes at least partially disposed within the lumen, the first array of electrodes slidable relative to the cannula, each of the electrodes having a first configuration when inside the lumen, and a second configuration when unconfined outside the lumen, wherein one of the electrodes has a flared deployed profile. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198233 | End Effector Assembly for Electrosurgical Device and Method for Making the Same - An end effector assembly for use with a forceps is provided. The end effector assembly including a pair of opposing jaw members operatively connected to each other about a pivot. Each jaw member includes a structural support member having a seal plate secured thereto. Each of the seal plates defines a slot having a depth and configured to translate a knife blade therethrough. The combined depth of the slot is greater than the height of the knife blade. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198234 | Telescopic strut for an external fixator - A telescopic strut for use with an external fixator includes a tube and a rod, especially a threaded rod being in threaded engagement with the tube. The tube comprises at least one hole for accommodating a ball, the ball having the spherical shape for engagement with the threaded rod. A sleeve is provided on the portion of the tube comprising the hole. The sleeve comprises a non-spherical inner cross-section. The greater diameter of the sleeve has a dimension which is at least the sum of the outer diameter of the threaded rod plus the diameter of an accommodating ball for allowing direct axial movement of the threaded rod against the tube in such a rotational position of the sleeve. The lesser diameter has a dimension to place the ball within the threaded rod for allowing a rotational movement of the threaded rod against the tube. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198235 | Strut joint for an external fixator - A ball joint for use with an external fixator has a sleeve in engagement with a rod of a strut for the external fixator. A ring insert and a blocking element are provided, having a combined circumferential surface being able to be introduced into a hole of a ring of an external fixator. The ring insert and blocking element have complementary wedge surfaces allowing a relative radial displacement therebetween to enlarge the diameter of the combined circumferential surface for blocking the ball joint inside the hole. Additionally the sleeve comprises a spherical hollow ball portion with concentrical inner and outer spherical portions, wherein the outer spherical portion engages a complementary spherical socket of the blocking element and wherein the inner spherical portion is engaged by a ball nut. A connection element extends through the sleeve, blocking element and ring insert, wherein a radial displacement and axial displacement of the ring insert and blocking element are activated by the connection element. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198236 | Clamping pin - A clamping pin is intended to be inserted into and held in an opening of a medical device. The clamping pin comprises a screw having a longitudinal axis, a first clamping element having a surface inclined to the longitudinal axis and provides a first part of a clamping section. A second clamping element has a surface inclined to the longitudinal axis and provides a second part of the clamping section which is complementary to the opening in the medical device. The inclined surfaces of the first and second clamping elements are in contact. A screw extends at least partly through both the first and second clamping elements. The screw engages in one of the clamping elements such that the axial distance between the two clamping elements and the diameter of the clamping section that can come in contact with a surface of the opening in the medical device will be changed upon actuation of the screw. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198237 | METHOD FOR AUGMENTING, REDUCING, AND REPAIRING BONE WITH THERMOPLASTIC MATERIALS - The present invention is directed to an improved nail and an associated method for implanting the nail into a patient's bone. The nail preferably includes a proximal end, a distal end, a plurality of spiral blades (e.g., vanes) and a cannulated bore extending from the proximal end to the distal end so that in use an injectable material such as, for example PCL material, can be injected into the patient's bone through the cannulated bore formed in the nail. The nail also preferably includes a cutout portion at the distal end thereof in order to direct the outflow of injectable material through the cannulated bore. The cutout portion preferably is configured to facilitate the injectable material outflowing past the distal end of the nail and superiorly of the nail when the nail is properly implanted and positioned in situ. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198238 | Bone Preparation Tool Kit and Associated Method - A prosthesis ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198239 | Apparatus and procedure for anterior cervical microdiskectomy - A method is provided to perform an anterior cervical microdiskectomy to remove at least one bone spur on a pair of adjacent vertebrae in a spinal column that includes a posterior longitudinal ligament. Each vertebra contacts a disk positioned therebetween. The disk includes an annulus and a nucleus. The method comprises the steps of removing a portion of the annulus of the disk; removing the nucleus of the disk; removing the vertebral plates with a first burr; removing a portion of the bone spur with a second burr having a spherically shaped abrading head; and, providing a third burr. The third burr comprises an elongate shaft having a distal end and a proximate end; and, a head attached to and extending outwardly from the distal end of the shaft. The head includes a smooth end surface; and, a smooth rounded peripheral edge circumscribing the end surface. The end surface and rounded peripheral edge are shaped and dimensioned to contact rotatably the posterior longitudinal ligament without cutting or puncturing the ligament. The head also includes an abrading surface extending away from the smooth end surface and from the smooth rounded peripheral edge and inwardly toward the shaft. The method also includes the steps of rotating the third burr; contacting the posterior longitudinal ligament with at least a portion of the smooth end surface and the smooth rounded peripheral edge, and, contacting the bone spur with the abrading surface. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198240 | Femoral Tibial Spreader with Tensor Measurement - A femoral tibial spreader ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198241 | SPINE DISTRACTION TOOLS AND METHODS OF USE - An apparatus includes a measurement tool having a size configured to change when the measurement tool is moved between a first configuration and a second configuration. The measurement tool includes a first spacer member and a second spacer member configured to move relative to each other when the tool is moved between the first and second configurations. The measurement tool has a distal actuator having a first actuator surface matingly and movably coupled to the first spacer member, and a second actuator surface matingly and movably coupled to the second spacer member. A proximal actuator is coupled to a proximal end portion of the elongate member and is configured to rotate about an axis substantially parallel to at least a portion of a center line of an elongate member to move the distal actuator. The distal actuator is configured to move the first spacer member relative to the second spacer. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198242 | BONE TREATMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods for treating vertebral compression fractures are discussed. In an embodiment, a method includes mixing bone cement precursors thereby causing a first chemical curing reaction characterized by a first time-viscosity profile, controllably applying energy to the bone cement from an external source to modify the first time-viscosity profile to a second time-viscosity profile, and injecting the cement into bone at a substantially constant viscosity greater than about 1000 Pa·s to greater than about 5000 Pa·s over an extended working time. In another embodiment, a bone cement injector system is provided that includes a first handle component that is detachably coupled to a second sleeve component having a distal end for positioning in bone and a flow channel extending through the first and second components. The system includes first and second thermal energy emitters for delivering energy to bone cement flows in a flow channel portion in the first and second components, respectively. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198243 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR STABILIZING A DAMAGED BONE WITH A BONE CEMENT MIXTURE - In at least one embodiment, a device for introducing a bone cement mixture into a damaged bone of a patient is provided. The device comprises a needle including a proximal portion and a distal portion extending therefrom. An aperture is formed through the distal portion and the distal portion is configured for piercing into the damaged bone. A lumen is formed through the proximal and distal portions and is for advancing the bone cement mixture to the aperture to introduce the bone cement mixture into the damaged bone. The proximal and distal portions are configured for detaching the distal portion from the proximal portion to retain the distal portion within the damaged bone. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198244 | Instrument for Implanting a Wrist Prosthesis - A wrist instrument and methods for identifying a location for implantation of a wrist prosthesis are disclosed in the present application. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198245 | TOOLS AND METHODS FOR INSERTION AND REMOVAL OF MEDICAL IMPLANTS - Medical devices and related methods for the treatment of spinal conditions are described herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a first elongate member that defines a lumen and a second elongate member that is movably disposed within the lumen of the first elongate member. A distal end portion of the first elongate member is configured to be releasably coupled to a spinal implant. A distal end portion of the second elongate member includes a driving member configured to engage an actuation member of the spinal implant when the first elongate member is coupled to the spinal implant. The driving member is configured to rotate the actuation member to move the spinal implant between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The first elongate member configured to secure the spinal implant to the first elongate member. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198246 | Instruments, implants and methods for positioning implants into a spinal disc space - Instruments, implants and methods are provided for positioning spinal implants in a spinal disc space between adjacent vertebrae. The instruments provide a low profile engagement with the implants and facilitate insertion while minimizing tissue retraction and exposure of the tissue and neural elements to the instrumentation in the approach to the disc space. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198247 | INTRAOCULAR LENS IMPLANTATION KIT - Intraocular lens (IOL) implantation kit for assisting in implanting an accommodating intraocular lens (AIOL) assembly in a human eye. The AIOL assembly includes an AIOL having a rigid tubular main body with opposite leading and trailing surfaces, and a haptics system having a leading haptics and a trailing haptics for forced insertion into a pair of generally diametrically opposite segments in a human eye's ciliary sulcus. The IOL implantation kit includes a forceps-like insertor tool for clamping an AIOL heightwise between its leading and trailing surfaces for assisting in anchoring its leading haptics in a distal segment of a human eye's ciliary sulcus. The implantation kit includes a crook-like insertor tool for assisting in fixating an AIOL assembly's trailing haptics generally diametrically opposite its leading haptics. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198248 | Device for disc shunt implantation and peri-shunt injection - A Quincke tipped introducer needle contains two shafts with lumens, one recessed, both connected by a slit for housing a U- or V-shaped disc shunt. The recessed shaft minimizes the penetration size of the introducer needle for insertion into a narrow and nerve laden space adjacent to a degenerated intervertebral disc. The longitudinal slit connecting the two lumens allows passage of the distal portion of the U-shaped disc shunt through the introducer needle, to be delivered into the intervertebral disc. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198249 | Medical retrieval devices - A medical retrieval device includes a retrieval assembly comprising a plurality of filaments knotted together at a distal end of the retrieval assembly. The knotted distal end provides the device with an atraumatic distal tip. Various knotting arrangements can be used at the knotted distal end. The retrieval assembly can be collapsed when restrained and expanded when unrestrained. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198251 | LEAD DELIVERY, FIXATION AND EXTRACTION DEVICES AND METHODS FOR USE WITH INTRAVASCULAR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A lead delivery and fixation device for use with an intravascular implantable device includes a sidecar having a selectively retractable fixation element. A lead is releasably coupled to the sidecar, with an electrode portion exposed for delivering a stimulation therapy. A manipulable catheter is coupled to the fixation element and configured to advance and withdraw a helix portion of the fixation element. The catheter and fixation element are offset from and generally parallel to the lead. The lead is separable from the sidecar in the event that extraction is required. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198252 | GUIDE CATHETERS FOR ACCESSING CARDIAC SITES - A method and apparatus for introducing a cardiac lead to an implantation site that includes a catheter body having an outer wall and a distal leader and having a proximal portion extending from the first proximal end to a second distal end. An inner member is positioned within an outer lumen of the catheter body and is spaced from the outer wall to form a first inner lumen for receiving a guide tool inserted therein and a second lumen for receiving the cardiac lead while the guide tool is positioned within the first inner lumen. A distal end of the inner member forms a first opening at a distal end of the first inner lumen and a second opening at a distal end of the second inner lumen, the first opening and the second opening positioned proximal the distal leader. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198253 | MEDICAL MANIPULATOR AND MEDICAL ROBOT SYSTEM - A manipulator includes a yaw axis and a pitch axis disposed as joints on a distal end of a joint shaft and which are actuatable by motors, a needle variable in orientation by the joints, a coaxial connector disposed at a position closer to a proximal end of the manipulator than the joint shaft, and a coaxial cable providing within the joint shaft at least a portion of an electrical connection between the coaxial connector and the needle. A small board providing an impedance matching circuit, and which includes a coil and a capacitor, is interposed between the coaxial connector and the coaxial cable. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198254 | Methods and Devices for Tissue Reconfiguration - Methods and devices are provided for reconfiguring a tissue within a hollow body organ using an entirely endoscopic approach in order to effectively reduce flow of fluid contents into a second hollow body organ in fluid communication with the first. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198255 | Hemorrhoid ligation apparatus, ligation kit containing the apparatus and method for ligating hemorrhoid - [PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED] A hemorrhoid ligation apparatus that allows the operator to handle with a single hand to ligate a hemorrhoid, under minimized risk of committing improper operation, is to be provided. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198256 | ORGANOPEXY TOOL AND ORGANOPEXY KIT - The present invention provides an organopexy tool ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198257 | ORGANOPEXY TOOL AND ORGANOPEXY KIT - Organopexy tool set (S) is comprised of suturing tool ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198258 | Curved arthroscopic guide - A rigid, curved and hollow guide ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198259 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR FACILITATING ACCESS TO VESSELS - A device and method for facilitating access to a perimeter surface of a body structure is provided. The device includes an elongate flexible member configured to be positioned adjacent the perimeter surface of the body structure, an atraumatic tip positioned at a distal end of the elongate flexible member, and an elongate body. The elongate body has a surface positioned to guide the elongate flexible member and to permit longitudinal movement of the flexible member with respect to the elongate body. The body also has a curved distal portion and a distal end for releasably engaging the atraumatic tip. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198260 | IMPLANTABLE PROSTHESIS - An implantable prosthesis for repairing an anatomical defect, such as a tissue or muscle wall hernia, including an umbilical hernia, and for preventing the occurrence of a hernia at a small opening or weakness in a tissue or muscle wall, such as at a puncture tract opening remaining after completion of a laparoscopic procedure. The prosthesis includes a patch and/or plug having a body portion that is larger than a portion of the opening or weakness so that placement of the body portion against the defect will cover or extend across that portion of the opening or weakness. At least one tether, such as a strap, extends from the patch or plug and may be manipulated by a surgeon to position the patch or plug relative to the repair site and/or to secure the patch or plug relative to the opening or weakness in the tissue or muscle wall. The tether may be configured to extend through the defect and outside a patient's body to allow a surgeon to position and/or manipulate the patch from a location outside the body. An indicator may be provided on the tether as an aid for a surgeon in determining when the patch or plug has been inserted a sufficient distance within the patient. A support member may be arranged in or on the patch or plug to help deploy the patch or plug at the surgical site and/or help inhibit collapse or buckling of the patch or plug. The patch or plug may be configured with a pocket or cavity to facilitate the deployment and/or positioning of the patch or plug over the opening or weakness. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198261 | Gastric Inflation Band with Integrated Infusion Catheter - An inflatable gastric band incorporates a fluid channel within an outer surface of the band and an inflatable bladder on a stomach-facing side of the band. The gastric band attaches to a double lumen catheter, which communicates with a dual infusion port. One lumen communicates with the fluid channel and one port, while the other lumen communicates with the inflatable bladder and a second port. Injection of fluid into one chamber of the infusion port expands inflatable bladder, allowing adjustment to the diameter of the stoma. Injection of drugs or therapeutic agents into the second chamber allows the infusion of drugs or agents directly into the abdominal cavity of a gastric band recipient. The inflatable bladder can be continuous or segmented. A segmented bladder reduces pinching and/or folding of the inner surface of the gastric band during expansion/contraction, thereby lessening stomach pinching and/or irritation. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198262 | DISPOSABLE TONGUE SCRAPER - The present invention relates to a dental implement such as tongue scraper that is disposable and is adapted for prophylactic and/or therapeutic action for the oral cavity. The dental implement may include a tongue scraper, a dental floss, a toothpick, a toothbrush or combinations thereof. The dental implement may include a strip having a longitudinal dimension that is longer than its traverse dimension. The strip may be coated with a coating of a mixture including at least one medicament and a water soluble or erodible carrier. In one embodiment, the coating may be present on at least one of the longitudinal edges, for example, of a tongue scraper, toothpick or a dental floss. In another embodiment, the coating may be present on at least one of the traverse edges, for example, of a tooth pick or the bristles of a toothbrush. In a further embodiment, the coating may be present on a combination of edges. The integrity of the implement, such as a scraper and/or its edge or edges may be reinforced by the coating of substance or agent for sufficient integrity, and the scraper or its edge and/or the coating, for example, are adapted to degrade or break down as the substance or agent are released during use and/or upon contact with water and/or saliva. The dental implement may be exposed for use, and is appropriately stored prior to use. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198263 | DEVICE FOR PERFORMING SURGERY - A scalpel for performing complex surgeries, such as c-sections, is formed of a body that is preferably elongated and shaped and sized to fit ergonomically into the hands of surgeons. The body has surfaces that are joined to each other by smooth transition elements to insure that the body has no points or sharp edges that could cut or scratch the surgeon or the patient. The body is formed with a triangular notch formed of a beak and an extension. A surgical blade, preferably a standard off-the-shelf surgical blade, is imbedded in the body and the only portion of the blade that is accessible is a portion of its cutting edge spanning the notch. The scalpel is used by introducing the beak into a slit in the tissue with the blade portion facing the direction in which the cut is to be made. The body of the scalpel is then grasped firmly and advanced to make the cut. The initial incision can be made with the tip of the beak. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198264 | Method and System for Improving Surgical Blades by the Application of Gas Cluster Ion Beam Technology and Improved Surgical Blades - Methods and systems for the improvement of a crystalline and/or poly-crystalline surgical blade include gas cluster ion beam irradiation of the blades in order to smooth; or to sharpen; or to reduce the brittleness and thus reduce susceptibility of the blade to crack, chip, or fracture; or to render the blades hydrophilic. Crystalline or poly-crystalline surgical blade (silicon for example) having a thin film cutting edge with improved properties. | 2009-08-06 |
20090198265 | PUNCTURE DEVICE AND PUNCTURE NEEDLE CARTRIDGE - A puncture device is constituted such that a plunger ( | 2009-08-06 |
20090198266 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ABDOMINAL SURGERY - A method includes expanding a first balloon distally of a gastro-esophageal junction, and contacting the first balloon to a proximal portion of a stomach. The method can be used for abdominal surgery, such as, for example, bariatic surgery (e.g., gastric bypass surgery), anti-reflux surgery (e.g., fundoplication), and other esophageal-related surgeries (e.g., Heller myotomy, hiatal hernia repair, and paraesophageal hernia repair). | 2009-08-06 |