37th week of 2008 patent applcation highlights part 55 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20080221608 | EXPANDABLE BLADE DEVICE FOR STABILIZING COMPRESSION FRACTURES - The present invention relates generally to medical devices and medical methods, in particular, devices and methods useful for stabilizing compression fractures of the spine. In one embodiment, the present invention is a device comprising a housing having a lumen; a plunger having a proximal portion and a distal portion, where the plunger is disposed within the lumen and is movable relative to the housing; a plurality of blades, where the blades can expand radially from the axis of the housing; and a manipulator functionally connected to the plunger, wherein the manipulator is operable to: move the plunger relative to the housing; expand the blades radially from the axis of the housing; and move the blades about the axis of the plunger. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221609 | Vein filter - A vessel filter comprising a first region and a second region wherein the filter is movable between a collapsed position for delivery to the vessel and an expanded position for placement within the vessel. A first region has a filter portion having a converging region to direct particles toward the center of the filter and the second region is flared in the expanded position to have a transverse dimension increasing toward a second end portion opposite the first end portion. The second region includes a vessel engaging portion at the second end portion. The first region includes a plurality of spaced apart elongated struts with adjacent struts being joined and a spacer extending radially with respect to a longitudinal axis of the filter. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221610 | Small diameter deployment system with improved headpiece - A medical apparatus for placing an embolic coil at a preselected position within a vessel comprising a coil assembly having an embolic coil attached to a cylindrical headpiece having at least one bending point formed by a circumferential groove and a deployment catheter having a distal section for retaining the coil assembly such that, when the deployment catheter is pressurized with a fluid the distal section of the catheter expands radially to release the coil assembly at the preselected position. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221611 | EMBOLIC PROTECTION DEVICE HAVING EXPANDABLE TRAP - An embolic protection device for use in medical, veterinary, non-medical or industrial applications where removal of an obstruction from a small diameter vessel or vessel-like structure could produce particles, which, if allowed to remain in the vessel, could cause undesirable complications and results. One embodiment comprises a catheter for insertion into a vessel and a trap operably connected to the catheter and to a rotatable member. Rotating the rotatable member relative to the catheter actuates the trap. One embodiment comprises a rotatable member that actuates a flexible strut between an arcuately expanded position and a helically twisted position, and a membrane operably connected to the flexible strut. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221612 | Internal tourniquet system - An internal tourniquet system may comprise as many as eight tourniquets strategically positioned, two per extremity, so as to optimize the inversely proportional relationship between the force applied to the tourniquet and the blood flow from the laceration on the extremity farther from the body than the positioned tourniquet. Each garment is equipped with internal channels to position the tourniquets and each garment is equipped with removable covering flaps for ease of access to the tightening and securing mechanism on the tourniquets. Each garment may also be supplied with a lever or bar and a storage location on the garment in order to apply more torque if necessary to the tourniquet banded site. And each garment may also be supplied with such flaps that are able to secure the lever or bar in position, once to blood flow has ceased to an acceptable level. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221613 | Oculopression Device - An oculopression device ( | 2008-09-11 |
20080221614 | Method for Closing an Arteriotomy - A method for closing an arteriotomy includes providing a guiding system and a closure system. The guiding system advanced through a sheath extending through the arteriotomy and into the blood vessel lumen. The guiding system includes a pair of stabilization wire guides, each guide including a retention foot disposed at a distal portion thereof. The retention feet are deployed within the lumen. With the entire sheath outside of the vessel, the closure device is then further advanced along the guiding system, or the sheath is pulled proximally over the closure device, thereby stretching or tearing a distal portion of the sheath. The closure system includes a closure device, such as a stapler including a staple that is actuated to close the arteriotomy. The retention feet are undeployed and the guiding system is removed from the body. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221615 | LOCATOR AND CLOSURE DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - The present invention is directed to a method for sealing a puncture in a wall of a lumen of a body comprising the steps of deploying a deployment member of a sealing device through an elastic membrane adjacent the wall of the lumen and the puncture, wherein the sealing device includes a sealing element; positioning the sealing element adjacent the wall of the lumen; retracting the deployment member relative to the sealing element to stretch the membrane away from the wall of the lumen; retracting the deployment member relative to the sealing element to allow the elastic nature of the membrane to force the sealing element against the puncture; and retracting the device from the puncture. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221616 | INTEGRATED VASCULAR DEVICE WITH PUNCTURE SITE CLOSURE COMPONENT AND SEALANT AND METHODS OF USE - Apparatus and methods are provided for use in sealing a vascular puncture site. The invention comprises an integrated vascular device having a sheath with a closure component and puncture sealant. The closure component is disposed on and advanceable over the exterior of the sheath and may comprise any of a variety of apparatus suited for closing a vascular puncture. Once the closure component has been actuated to close the puncture, sealant is introduced to seal the puncture. The sheath and closure component are then removed from the patient. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221617 | BARBED TISSUE CONNECTOR - A barbed bodily tissue connector for insertion into tissue comprises an elongated body having a substantially polygonal periphery in cross-section including at least three sides. Each side meets an adjacent side at an edge of the elongated body. A plurality of barbs project from the edges of the body. The barbs are configured such that they are yieldable in a direction toward the body and resist retraction from tissue in an opposite direction. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221618 | CO-EXTRUDED TISSUE GRASPING MONOFILAMENT - A co-extruded tissue grasping monofilament and a method for making the same. The monofilament includes a core made of a first material and extending along a length of said monofilament, and a plurality of tissue grasping elements extending outwardly from the core at least along a predetermined portion of the length of the monofilament. The plurality of tissue grasping elements are made of a second, different material having a greater stiffness than the first material. The method for making the monofilament is by co-extrusion. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221619 | Surgical suture anchors and deployment device - A suture anchor is provided which includes a hollow member having an outer surface defining an enclosure therein, the member having a longitudinal axis and a slot through a portion of the outer surface in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis, the slot providing an opening into the enclosure. The suture anchor further includes a one-way valve positioned within the enclosure at the slot to allow entry of a suture through the slot into the enclosure and to prevent the exit of the suture from the enclosure. A device is provided for deploying the suture anchor. The deployment device includes an elongate hollow member having a suture anchor release zone positioned at the distal end thereof, a launch bar having at least a portion thereof positioned in the release zone, wherein the launch bar is movable within the release zone between a resting position and a launching position and is operatively connected to an actuation member positioned proximally to the elongate member. The hollow elongate member defines a housing for receiving a plurality of suture anchors in tandem along the longitudinal axis of the hollow member, wherein each of the suture anchors is configured for release from the release zone when such suture anchor is positioned within the release zone upon movement of the launch bar from the resting position to the launching position. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221620 | Flexible spine components - An improved flexible component used for dynamic stabilization of spinal segments for the treatment of vertebrae deformities and injuries and for the replacement of a complete or segment of the body of a vertebra in the spine is described. The flexible component is comprised of a solid, suitable implant material with a longitudinal bore the entire length and an appropriately formed slot which extends spirally around the shaft either continuously or segmentally. The flexible component may be encapsulated, fully or partially, in a suitable implant grade elastomeric resilient material. When used for a dynamic stabilization device, the component is attached to the vertebral bodies by pedicle screws know to those in the art. When used as a vertebral replacement device, attached to the component's opposite ends are members for attachment to the adjacent vertebra that allow for height and angular adjustment. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221621 | TENSION FIXATION SYSTEM - The present invention provides an apparatus and method for fixation of a bone anchor to a structural member used for spinal fixation, whereby spinal deformity can be corrected and mechanical stability of the spine is provided so that load is carried fully or partially through the structural member. This invention provides fixation of a bone anchor to a structural member through tensile loading of a component of the fixation mechanism. This invention is widely adaptable to a variety of bone anchors and structural members. This invention allows reduction of spine deformity resulting from varied spinal disease through the fixation mechanism alone without the need for added reduction instrumentation systems. This invention equally provides a fixation mechanism for fixation of a bone anchor to the structural member of a spine fixation system in the absence of deformity. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221622 | Facet Joint Replacement - A facet joint replacement system includes an inferior implant with an inferior articular surface, and a superior implant with a superior articular surface. The inferior implant may comprise an inferior strut, and a polyaxially adjustable, lockable mechanism which couples the inferior articular surface with a first end of the inferior strut. A second end of the inferior strut may be secured to a polyaxially adjustable, lockable fixation assembly securable in a vertebra. The first end of the inferior strut may be post-shaped, and the second end ring-shaped, and vice versa. The superior implant may be secured to a polyaxially adjustable lockable fixation assembly securable in a vertebra. Inferior and superior implants may be implanted individually, paired on one lateral vertebral side, bi-laterally, and/or in multiple vertebral levels. A crosslink may be secured to one implant and extend across a vertebral sagittal plane to a second implant. A clip may align the articular surfaces during implantation. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221623 | Systems and Methods for the Medical Treatment of Structural Tissue - The present invention is directed generally to a biomedical system(s) and method(s). More specifically, some embodiments may include system(s) and method(s) used in medical treatment(s). Various embodiments may include medical system(s) and method(s) that may use an anchoring mechanism and screw (bolt, etc.) arrangement that increases the strength of attachment. Some embodiments may further include, for example, an anchoring mechanism that expands upon insertion of a screw (bolt, etc.) into an opening. Some embodiments may include, for example, a system(s) and method(s) for improvement of structural tissue (e.g., bone, cartilage) fixation and safety. Further, some embodiments may also include, for example, an anchoring mechanism and screw (bolt, etc.) system that may be utilized in orthopedic procedures. Still some embodiments may further include system(s) and method(s) providing improved screw fixation and enhanced stabilization in structural tissue or fracture repair. Various embodiments may include multiple anchor mechanisms and anchor mechanism holding means. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221624 | Systems and Methods for the Medical Treatment of Structural Tissue - The present invention is directed generally to a biomedical system(s) and method(s). More specifically, some embodiments may include system(s) and method(s) used in medical treatment(s). Various embodiments may include medical system(s) and method(s) that may use an anchoring mechanism and screw (bolt, etc.) arrangement that increases the strength of attachment. Some embodiments may further include, for example, an anchoring mechanism that expands upon insertion of a screw (bolt, etc.) into an opening. Some embodiments may include, for example, a system(s) and method(s) for improvement of structural tissue (e.g., bone, cartilage) fixation and safety. Further, some embodiments may also include, for example, an anchoring mechanism and screw (bolt, etc.) system that may be utilized in orthopedic procedures. Still some embodiments may further include system(s) and method(s) providing improved screw fixation and enhanced stabilization in structural tissue or fracture repair. Various embodiments may include multiple anchor mechanisms and anchor mechanism holding means. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221625 | Medical Clamp, in Particular Spinal Clamp, Device for Providing a Reference Position and Method for Determining a Reference Position - A medical clamp, in particular a spinal clamp, includes two clamp limbs connected to a grip part. The grip part executes a clamping movement of the clamp limbs and the clamp limbs are connected to the grip part in a releasable manner. The clamp permits particularly safe, minimally invasive percutaneous interventions, especially in the area of the spinal column. A device for using a medical clamp for providing a reference position for a positioning system for percutaneous interventions and a method for determining a reference position for a positioning system for percutaneous interventions, are also provided. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221626 | Force limiting persuader-reducer - An apparatus and method for advancement of a spinal rod in a spinal implant, wherein the apparatus includes a body and a handle attached to the body. A shaft is slidably attached to the body, the shaft is coupled to the handle and has a first end adapted to engage the spinal rod. At least one retractor blade is attached to the body and the spinal implant. The operation of the handle results in the shaft persuading the spinal rod in the spinal implant. The force exerted by the shaft on the spinal rod is limited to a pre-selected force. The apparatus can also be operated in a non-limiting mode when a reduction retractor blade is used. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221627 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT FOR MOVING VERTEBRAE - A surgical instrument extendable through a cannula for moving a first bone portion relative to a second bone portion includes a first portion having a longitudinal axis engageable with a first member connected with to the first bone portion. A second portion is engageable with a second member connected with the second bone portion. The second portion is movable relative to the first portion from a first position toward a second position to move the first and second bone portions away from each other. An actuator connected with the second portion moves the second portion relative to the first portion in a direction extending transverse to the longitudinal axis. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221628 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SPINE REPAIR - Surgical methods of repairing defects and deficiencies in the spine are disclosed. The methods involve delivering a single part in-situ polymerizing fluid to (i) close a weakened segment or fissure in the annulus fibrosus, (ii) strengthen the annulus, (iii) replace or augment the disc nucleus, or (iv) localize a disc prosthesis. The methods may include placing a delivery conduit adjacent to the repair site and providing a liquid tissue adhesive to bond to and repair a disc defect or deficiency | 2008-09-11 |
20080221629 | Lamination of Lithium Battery Elements for Implantable Medical Devices - A method includes the step of providing a sheet of lithium and a sheet of substrate material. The method further includes the step of pressing the sheet of lithium and the sheet of substrate material together in a die, the die having at least one surface that includes a plurality of force concentrating features configured to create regions of relatively higher pressure and regions of relatively lower pressure in at least one of the sheet of lithium and the sheet of substrate material. In another embodiment, a method includes the steps of providing a sheet of lithium material and a substrate material, and applying force to the sheet of lithium and the sheet of substrate material to form a plurality of protrusions on at least one of the sheet of lithium and the sheet of substrate material. The method includes the further step of pressing at least a portion of the sheet of lithium to the substrate material with sufficient force to at least partially deform the protrusions. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221630 | TREATING CANCER USING ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS IN COMBINATION WITH PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY - A light generating circuit is implanted in a subject's body and aimed at a target region such as a tumor. A photosensitizer is introduced into the target region, and an AC electric field is induced in the region. The field causes the light generating circuit to generate light, which activates the photosensitizer; and at certain field strengths and frequencies, the field itself has a beneficial effect. The beneficial effects of the field and the activated photosensitizer are thereby obtained simultaneously. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221631 | External Defibrillators,Transcutaneous Electrodes for Same, and Methods of Use - An external defibrillator is provided including (a) a pair of disposable electrodes configured to be adhered to the skin of a patient, each electrode including an electrically conductive layer comprising a metal that is polarized during a defibrillating pulse, and (b) a control unit configured to deliver a defibrillating pulse to the patient through the electrodes. The waveform is configured to substantially depolarize the metal, and may be, for example, a biphasic waveform. Method of defibrillation and defibrillation electrodes are also provided. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221632 | Apparatus and Method of Arrhythmia Detection in a Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter/Defibrillator - In a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter/defibrillator, cardiac arrhythmias are detected to determine necessary therapeutic action. Cardiac signal information is sensed from far field electrodes implanted in a patient. The sensed cardiac signal information is then amplified and filtered. Parameters such as rate, QRS pulse width, cardiac QRS slew rate, amplitude and stability measures of these parameters from the filtered cardiac signal information are measured, processed and integrated to determine if the cardioverter/defibrillator needs to initiate therapeutic action. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221633 | LONG-TERM MONITORING FOR DISCRIMINATION OF DIFFERENT HEART RHYTHMS - A method and a system for detection of an arrhythmia and discrimination between different types of arrhythmia to determine whether to administer an electric shock to the heart, the method comprising monitoring the electrical activity of a beating heart, selecting a number of heart beat intervals that will comprise an analysis segment; determining an instantaneous heart rate for each of the heart beat intervals with the segment; calculating the mean instantaneous heart rate for the segment; determining the variability of the instantaneous heart rates compared to a mean; using a linear combination of the mean and the non-linear value for comparison with a predetermined threshold to discriminate the type of arrhythmia to automatically decide if intervention is indicated. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221634 | Fibrillation/Tachycardia Monitoring and Preventive System and Methodology - A cardiac assist device senses conditions of a heart and controls the generation of various electrical stimuli in response to sense conditions of the heart. The cardiac assist device generates a electrical pulse so as to defibrillate a fibrillated heart when the cardiac assist device determines from the sensed conditions a state of fibrillation. The cardiac assist device generates a chaos control electrical signal so as to bring a pre-fibrillated heart condition back into a normal beating condition when the cardiac assist device determines from the sensed conditions a pre-state of fibrillation. Lastly, the cardiac assist device generates an electrical enhancement signal that causes a threshold of pacing cells in the heart to be exceeded in response to a subthreshold stimulus when the cardiac assist device determines from the sensed conditions a subthreshold pacing signal. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221635 | IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC RHYTHM MANAGEMENT SYSTEM HAVING MULTIPLE THERAPY MODALITIES - A cardiac rhythm management system for providing a plurality of therapy modalities. For example, the system may include a cardiac resynchronization therapy module for providing cardiac resynchronization therapy and a pacemaker module for providing bradycardia therapy, as well as a selector module coupled to the cardiac resynchronization therapy module and the bradycardia module. The selector module may select an operating mode from among a plurality of operating modes including the cardiac resynchronization therapy module and the pacemaker module. Various manual and automatic methods may be used to select the operating mode. In addition, a reversion management system may be included to assist the cardiac rhythm management system to recover in case of a disruption to the system. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221636 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CLOSED-LOOP INTERMITTENT CARDIAC STRESS AUGMENTATION PACING - A cardiac pacing system controls the progression of a cardiac disorder such as heart failure by delivering cardiac pacing to create or augment regional stress in the heart. The cardiac pacing is delivered intermittently, such as on a periodic basis, according to a cardiac stress augmentation pacing sequence that includes alternating pacing and non-pacing periods. One or more physiological signals are monitored for closed-loop control of the cardiac pacing using baseline characteristics of the cardiac disorder, acute cardiac stress created by the cardiac pacing, and/or risk associated with the cardiac pacing. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221637 | IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR HAVING CURRENT STEERING MEANS - An implantable pulse generator includes a current steering capability that allows a clinician or patient to quickly determine a desired electrode stimulation pattern, including which electrodes of a group of electrodes within an electrode array should receive a stimulation current, including the amplitude, width and pulse repetition rate of such current. Movement of the selected group of electrodes is facilitated through the use of remotely generated directional signals, generated by a pointing device, such as a joystick. As movement of the selected group of electrodes occurs, current redistribution amongst the various electrode contacts takes place. The redistribution of stimulus amplitudes utilizes re-normalization of amplitudes so that the perceptual level remains fairly constant. This prevents the resulting paresthesia from falling below the perceptual threshold or above the comfort threshold. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221638 | MRI Compatible Implantable Medical Devices and Methods - An implantable medical device configured to be compatible with the environment inside an MRI machine. The implantable medical device includes a housing constructed of an electrically conductive material and pulse generation circuitry within the housing for generating electrical voltage pulses. The implantable medical device further includes a first conductor that is configured to transmit the electrical voltage pulses from the pulse generation circuitry to a patient's cardiac tissue and a second conductor that is configured to provide an electrically conductive path from the patient's cardiac tissue back to the pulse generation circuitry. The implantable medical device further includes a selectively interruptible electrically conductive path connecting the pulse generation circuitry with the housing. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221639 | Pain Relief Device - The Pain relief device used to relieve pain and promote faster healing in the bodies of humans and animals safely. A positive electrode touches the skin at the site of an injury and a negative electrode completely shielded with insulation is place on the skin at a spaced distance form the positive electrode. A low voltage direct current power source supplies a positive voltage to the positive electrode and a negative voltage to the negative electrode. Electrical stimulation occurs harmlessly, because the shielded negatively charged electrode or insulated pad, being an insulated sheet of aluminum foil produces an electric field in the body that is strong enough to cause a current to flow into the body at the site of the positive electrode. However, no current can flow at the site of the negative electrode because it is insulated and therefore no burns to the skin. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221640 | Multi-electrode stimulation to elicit electrically-evoked compound action potential - A multichannel neurostimulation device spatially spreads the excitation pattern in the target neural tissue by either: (1) rapid sequential stimulation of a small group of electrodes, or (2) simultaneously stimulating a small group of electrodes. Such multi-electrode stimulation stimulates a greater number of neurons in a synchronous manner, thereby increasing the amplitude of the extra-cellular voltage fluctuation and facilitating its recording. The electrical stimuli are applied simultaneously (or sequentially at a rapid rate) on selected small groups of electrodes while monitoring the evoked compound action potential (ECAP) on a nearby electrode. The presence of an observable ECAP not only validates operation of the implant device at a time when the patient may be unconscious or otherwise unable to provide subjective feedback, but also provides a way for the magnitude of the observed ECAP to be recorded as a function of the amplitude of the applied stimulus. From this data, a safe, efficacious and comfortable threshold level can be obtained which may be used thereafter as the initial setting of the stimulation parameters of the neurostimulation device, or to guide the setting of the stimulation parameters of the neurostimulation device. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221641 | Implantable Device with Removable Magnet - An implantable device includes a receiving coil assembly including a magnet holding structure for containing an internal holding magnet which is reorientable in responsive alignment to an external magnetic field. The magnet holding structure is adapted for allowing removal and subsequent reinsertion of the internal holding magnet. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221642 | Treatment of Consumption Disorders with Biostimulation - Nerves that carry taste sensations to the brain are stimulated in order to diminish (or, depending on the application, augment) the pleasure ordinarily associated with consumption behavior to be modified. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221643 | System and method for correction of inhomogeneous fields - A method for determining a location of an object in a three-dimensional localization field created by a localization system includes the following steps: providing a catheter having known spacing between electrodes; providing a lookup table of data correlating locations of an object within the localization field with measurements made by the localization system; placing the catheter into the localization field; using the localization system to determine the location of the electrodes based on the lookup table; calculating an observed distance between electrodes; comparing the observed distance to the known electrode spacing; and adjusting the lookup table to more accurately measure the spacing of the electrodes. A Kernel function, such as the derivative of a Gaussian function, may be used to update the lookup table. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221644 | Remote monitoring and control of implantable devices - A treatment system includes a regulator implanted within a patient, a computing device storing at least one patient database associated with the patient in whom the regulator is implanted, and a data transfer device. The data transfer device provides bidirectional communication (e.g., voice communication) and a data exchange (e.g., a treatment history, a patient database, and operational instructions) between the regulator and the computing device. A programmer can obtain patient reports and/or default treatment values from the computing device based on the data exchange. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221645 | Neurotrophic Electrode Neural Interface Employing Quantum Dots - A device for interfacing neurons includes a substrate that defines at least one via passing therethrough. The via is configured to allow at least one neurite to grow therethrough. A light generating unit is disposed adjacent to the substrate and is configured to generate light of a predetermined frequency when an action potential from the neurite is sensed. A light sensor that is spaced apart from the substrate is configured to assert a neural signal corresponding to the action potential when the light generating unit generates light of the predetermined frequency. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221646 | Intranasal Red Light Probe For Treating Alzheimer's Disease - A method of treating Alzheimer's Disease in which intranasal red light devices are used to shine red light upon the brain structures. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221647 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY - A system and method for monitoring photodynamic therapy of a target tissue, where the target tissue contains a photosensitizing substance, include a first light source configured to deliver light to the target tissue, the first light source having a wavelength capable of exciting the photosensitizing substance. An ultrasonic transducer receives photoacoustic signals generated due to optical absorption of light energy by the target tissue, and a control unit in communication with the ultrasonic transducer reconstructs photoacoustic tomographic images from the received photoacoustic signals to provide an indication of optical energy deposition due to the photosensitizing substance in the target tissue. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221648 | COMBINED PHOTOCOAGULATION AND PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY - A method for treating a lesion of an animal, the animal having at least one vessel that carries blood to the lesion, comprising locating the vessel, administering a composition comprising a photodynamic agent, applying energy to the vessel to photocoagulate the vessel and thereby reduce the rate at which the treatment composition exits said lesion and applying energy to said lesion, of a type and an amount sufficient to excite the photodynamic agent, causing the lesion to undergo photodynamic therapy. Preferably, a dye that is both a fluorescent dye and a radiation absorbing dye, such as indocyanine green dye, is added to the treatment composition to allow (a) confirmation of the presence of the treatment composition b the lesion to be detected by fluorescent angiography and (b) the rate of blow flow to be reduced in the blood vessel feeding the lesion using dye enhanced photocoagulation. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221649 | Method of sequentially treating tissue - A treatment for deep tissue using long effective pulse durations is described. Fatty tissue can be treated by delivering a beam of radiation to a subcutaneous fat region disposed relative to a dermal interface in a target region of skin. Radiation is delivered to a first region of tissue as by exposure to pulses of the beam of radiation in a stacked fashion. Between successive exposures of the first region of tissue, other regions of tissue are exposed to the beam of radiation. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221650 | Microwave applicator with adjustable heating length - A microwave applicator for applying microwave radiation to body tissue includes a microwave antenna formed by extending the center conductor of a coaxial cable beyond the end of the outer coaxial conductor and providing a conductive outer tip coupled to the center conductor with a space between the end of the outer conductor and the conductive tip. The length of the expected heating area caused by microwave energy applied to the antenna can be adjusted by positioning a conductive sleeve along the length of the antenna from one end of the antenna to cover a portion of the antenna, the length of the heating area being determined substantially by the length of the uncovered portion of the antenna. Treatment can include positioning one or more applicators into body tissue, adjusting the conductive sleeve with respect to the antenna to adjust the length of the heating area for each of the one or more applicators, and applying microwave energy to the applicators. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221651 | Medical procedure - The use of an intravascular cooling element to induce hypothermia in connection with a medical procedure. According to a first aspect of the present, invention, a coronary bypass procedure is conducted in which a patient's blood is oxygenated with the patient's lungs and in which blood is circulated using the patient's heart or using an intracorporeal pump. The procedure preferably comprises: (a) positioning a heat transfer element in a blood vessel of a patient; (b) cooling the body of the patient to less than 35° C., more preferably 32±2° C., using the heat transfer element; and (c) forming a fluid communicating graft between an arterial blood supply and the coronary artery. The body of the patient is preferably heated to about 37° C. using the heat transfer element subsequent to the step of forming the fluid communicating graft. According to a further aspect of the invention, a hypothermic medical procedure is provided while a patient is in a conscious or semiconscious state, comprising (a) administering a beta-blocking drug to the patient; (b) delivering a heat transfer element to a blood vessel of the patient; and (c) cooling a region of the patient or the body of the patient to less than 35° C. using the heat transfer element. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221652 | Red Light Implants for Treating Degenerative Disc Disease - Red light-emitting implants for treating degenerative disc disease. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221653 | FLEXIBLE CIRCUIT ELECTRODE ARRAY - A flexible circuit electrode array comprising:
| 2008-09-11 |
20080221654 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING A DETACHABLE IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for delivering implantable devices, such as, for example detachable embolic coils. The systems can include an embolic coil mated to a pusher wire via a detachable link comprising first and second engaging members and an expandable member or a sleeve. The expandable member or sleeve can reduce relative movement between the engaging members to inhibit premature detachment and/or jamming of the detachable link as the embolic coil is delivered through a catheter. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221655 | Bifurcated Balloon and Stent | 2008-09-11 |
20080221656 | Endovascular deployment device - An endovascular delivery device ( | 2008-09-11 |
20080221657 | Delivery system and method for vascular prosthesis - A delivery system for an implantable vascular prosthesis is provided for a vascular prosthesis including at least first and second helical sections having alternating directions of rotation that are coupled to one another at apices. The delivery system includes an elongate body, a plurality of retainers and an outer sheath. The plurality of retainers are configured to temporarily retain a plurality of inner wound apices of the vascular prosthesis. The outer sheath is configured to retain the vascular prosthesis in a contracted state on the elongate body. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221658 | Vascular prosthesis and methods of use - An implantable vascular prosthesis is provided for use in a wide range of applications wherein at least first and second helical sections having alternating directions of rotation are coupled to one another. The prosthesis is configured to conform to a vessel wall without substantially remodeling the vessel, and permits accurate deployment in a vessel without shifting or foreshortening. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221659 | Endoscopic delivery device - An endoscopic or laparoscopic conduit delivery device ( | 2008-09-11 |
20080221660 | Platelet Gel for Treatment of Aneurysms - Methods for ameliorating stent graft migration and endoleak using treatment site-specific platelet gel compositions in combination with stent grafts are disclosed. Also disclosed are platelet gel compositions directly to treatment sites before, during or after stent graft implantation. Additional embodiments include medical devices having platelet gel coatings and/or platelet gel delivery devices useful for treating aneurysms. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221661 | Stent design with struts of various angles and stiffness - The present invention is directed to stent that has a plurality of axially spaced serpentine bands. Each serpentine band comprises a plurality of struts, wherein adjacent struts are connected to each other forming a plurality of peaks and valleys. The plurality of struts comprise a plurality of adjacent pairs of struts, wherein each adjacent pair of struts comprises a first strut and a second strut and wherein the first and second struts have a first end, a second end and a length and a plurality of interconnecting struts axially connect the serpentine bands. The stent further includes a plurality of connector nodes, wherein a plurality of first and second struts that are associated with a connector node have a greater stiffness than a plurality of struts that are not associated with a connector node. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221662 | Endoluminal Prosthesis - An endoluminal prosthesis, comprising a tubular body, said tubular body developing along a longitudinal axis, said tubular body comprising a plurality of serpentines, which develop along a substantially circumpherential direction, each of said serpentines comprising arm portions of a preset width transversal to their main longitudinal extension, and bend portions joining two subsequent arms, at least one bridge, having a main longitudinal extension, connecting two adjacent serpentines, wherein the bends facing an adjacent serpentine are circumpherentially staggered relative to the opposite bends of the adjoining serpentine, both when the prosthesis is collapsed and when the prosthesis is expanded or partially expanded, wherein the at least one bridge connecting adjacent serpentines extends substantially straight, and wherein the at least one bridge has a width transversal to its main longitudinal direction of a greater value than the arm width. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221663 | Vascular prosthesis and methods of use - An implantable vascular prosthesis is provided for use in a wide range of applications wherein at least first and second helical sections having alternating directions of rotation are coupled to one another. The prosthesis is configured to conform to a vessel wall without substantially remodeling the vessel, and permits accurate deployment in a vessel without shifting or foreshortening. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221664 | Tapered helical stent and method for manufacturing the stent - A tapered helical implantation device for peripheral arteries and other body lumina of locally varying diameter, including struts connected by loops and shaped in a helical winding. The helical winding defines turns and, when expanded, has a first end with a first expanded circumference and a second end with a second expanded circumference greater than the first expanded circumference to form a stent tapering outward from the first end towards the second end. Bridges connect adjacent ones of the turns. The struts, the loops, and the bridges define a series of pores aligned along the helix, the pores having a substantially uniform pore size. The pores has a substantially similar area. The pore size limits a size of a particle that can pass therethrough. In particular, the pore size limits a size of a spherical particle that can pass therethrough. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221665 | Vascular prosthesis and methods of use - An implantable vascular prosthesis is provided for use in a wide range of applications wherein at least first and second helical sections having alternating directions of rotation are coupled to one another. The prosthesis is configured to conform to a vessel wall without substantially remodeling the vessel, and permits accurate deployment in a vessel without shifting or foreshortening. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221666 | STENT SYSTEMS - Medical devices and methods for delivery or implantation of prostheses within hollow body organs and vessels or other luminal anatomy are disclosed. The subject technologies can be used in the treatment of atherosclerosis in stenting procedures or be used in variety of other procedures. The systems can employ a self expanding stent restrained by one or more members released by an electrolytically erodable latch. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221667 | Spiral stent assembly - A stent assembly includes a spiral shaped elongate member having a first end and a second end. The elongate member includes a plurality of loops spaced apart from each other. A first contact is attached to and near the first end of the elongate member, and a second contact is attached to and near the second end of the elongate member. The first and second contacts are coupled to a power generator, thereby allowing for a current to be passed from the first contact to the second contact. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221668 | EXPANDABLE SUPPORTIVE BRANCHED ENDOLUMINAL GRAFTS - A method of manufacturing an endoluminal graft which is both expandable and supportive is provided in a form suitable for use in a branched body vessel location. The graft expands between a first diameter and a second, larger diameter. The support component is an expandable stent endoprosthesis. A liner is applied to the endoprosthesis in the form of a compliant wall material that is porous and biocompatible in order to allow normal cellular invasion upon implantation, without stenosis, when the expandable and supportive graft is at its second diameter. The supportive endoluminal graft is preferably provided as a plurality of components that are deployed separately at the branching body vessel location, one of which has a longitudinal seam defining leg portions within which the other components fit in a telescoping manner. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221669 | Endovenous Stent and Venous Neovalvular Endobioprosthesis - Endovenous stent for restoring the function of an incompetent venous valve having slackened cusps. The stent includes two parallel struts; two terminal elastic elements, connecting the struts at their extremities and compressing them apart, and make them, once the stent implanted into the vein to be cured, to dilate the intercommissural diameter of the valve to be cured, taking up the slackening of the incompetent cusps; and such endovenous stent, further dressed with a venous valvulated segment reversed inside-out, in which the cusps perform their valvular function by moving themselves from inside out, so constituting a venous neovalvular endobioprosthesis for curing an incompetent vein by implantation into it, in case of damage or aplasia of the venous valve. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221670 | RADIOPAQUE POLYMERIC STENT - The invention relates to an implantable radiopaque stent adapted to be disposed in a body lumen. In one aspect of the invention, at least one radiopaque filament is arranged for permanent attachment to a hollow tubular structure. The filament is desirably arranged in a linear direction traverse to a longitudinal length of the structure, the structure having a tubular wall that defines an inner surface and an outer surface and opposing first open end and second open end. The radiopaque filament improves external imaging of the tubular structure on fluoroscope or x-ray imaging equipment. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221671 | BRAIDED ENDOLUMINAL DEVICE HAVING TAPERED FILAMENTS - A stent comprising a plurality of continuous filaments braided together, at least one filament comprising a tapered filament having at least one first region having a first, relatively-larger cross-sectional area and at least one second region having a second, relatively-smaller cross-sectional area. The stent itself may have a tapered diameter, such as from one end to the other. A method for treating a lumen with the stent is also claimed | 2008-09-11 |
20080221672 | Mitral Valve System - Valve prostheses are disclosed that are adapted for secure and aligned placement relative to a heart annulus. The valve prostheses may be placed in a non-invasive manner, e.g., via trans-catheter techniques. The valve prosthesis may include a resilient ring, a plurality of leaflet membranes mounted with respect to the resilient ring, and a plurality of positioning elements movably mounted with respect to the flexible ring. Each of the positioning elements defines respective proximal, intermediate, and distal tissue engaging regions cooperatively configured and dimensioned to simultaneously engage separate corresponding areas of the tissue of an anatomical structure, including respective first, second, and third elongate tissue-piercing elements. The proximal, distal, and intermediate tissue-engaging regions are cooperatively configured and dimensioned to simultaneously engage separate corresponding areas of the tissue of an anatomical structure so as to stabilize a position of the valve prosthesis with respect to the anatomical structure, including wherein for purposes of so simultaneously engaging the separate corresponding areas of tissue, at least one of the first, second, and third elongate tissue-piercing elements is pointed at least partially opposite the direction of blood flow, and at least another thereof is pointed at least partially along the direction of blood flow. The valve prosthesis may also include a skirt mounted with respect to the resilient ring for sealing a periphery of the valve prosthesis against a reverse flow of blood around the valve prosthesis. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221673 | MEDICAL IMPLANT WITH REINFORCEMENT MECHANISM - An improved medical implant for treating mitral regurgitation is provided. The medical implant comprises proximal and distal anchors connected by a bridge. The medical implant is configured to be delivered into a coronary sinus using a minimially invasive procedure. The bridge is preferably made of a shape memory material which is biased to contract after the implant is delivered. The medical implant further comprises a reinforcement mechanism configured to limit stresses and strains along the length of the bridge. In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement mechanism is fixed to a plurality of attachment points along the bridge, thereby preventing excessive elongation between any two attachment points. A resorbable material is preferably disposed within gaps along the length of the bridge to temporarily maintain the bridge in an elongated condition. After the proximal and distal anchors are secured in the coronary sinus, the resorbable material gradually resorbs, thereby creating tension in the bridge which applies a force along the mitral valve annulus. The reinforcement mechanism ensures that stresses and strains and distributed evenly while the bridge is in tension. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221674 | HIGH PERFORMANCE CORNEAL INLAY - A corneal inlay protects ocular structures from harmful wavelengths of light while maintaining acceptable color cosmetics, color perception, overall light transmission, photopic vision, scotopic vision, color vision, and/or cirdadian rhythms. The corneal inlay can also include a pinhole effect to increase depth of focus. In some embodiments, the corneal inlay can also correct refractive errors including, but not limited to, higher order aberration, lower order aberration, myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and/or presbyopia. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221675 | Dual Function UV-Absorbers for Ophthalmic Lens Materials - Disclosed are UV absorbers that contain a labile functional group capable of initiating free radical polymerization. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221676 | Accommodating Intraocular Lens and Methods of Use - The present invention relates to a first intraocular lens ( | 2008-09-11 |
20080221677 | Artificial eye socket system and method - An artificial eye socket for use in the mounting of artificial eye is disclosed. The artificial eye socket is of substantially unitary construction and made from a flexible material such as rubber. The artificial eye socket comprises an outer base surface; an inner base surface; a substantially contiguous outer sclera surface which extends from the outer base surface to an iris knife edge to and from an iris opening in said socket; and a substantially contiguous inner cavity surface which extends from said inner base surface to said iris knife edge to form said iris opening in said socket and a cavity within said socket. An artificial eye may be inserted into said cavity and secured in a substantially fixed position by the inner base surface and the cavity surface. Methods for manufacturing and mounting the artificial eye socket and cleaning the surface of the artificial eye are also disclosed. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221678 | Collapse-Resistant Breast Implant With Partial Internal Shells - A surgically-implantable breast prosthesis comprises a first shell enclosing a lumen; a second shell enclosing a lumen, and one or more fitted partial shells situated between the exterior of the second shell and the interior of the first shell. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221679 | Collapse-Resistant Breast Implant With Stiffened Walls - A surgically-implantable breast prosthesis comprises an enclosing shell having an exterior surface and enclosing a lumen, the exterior surface defining an edge portion separating front and rear portions of the enclosing shell, wherein the lumen enclosed by the shell is able to accommodate a fluid, and the front rear portions of the enclosing shell are reinforced, thickened or stiffened on a central or front and rear surface spaced from the edge portion. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221680 | OPTIMIZED ARTICULAR GEOMETRY - Various embodiments of orthopaedic implants which optimize the articular geometries of the implants. An exemplary implant may include a plurality of protrusions which provide an articulating surface and which create paths for fluid movement relative to the implant. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221681 | Methods for Improving Fatigue Performance of Implants With Osteointegrating Coatings - A method which may be used for introducing a residual compressive stress into a body portion of an implantable device configured for implantation in a patient. The body portion may include an outer surface. The method also may include texturing the outer surface of the implantable device to increase a roughness of the outer surface. The outer surface may be coated with an osteointegrating material to increase osteointegration. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221682 | Instant face-lifter - The Instant Face-Lifter is an intra-scalp beautifying device that stretches the face's skin creating a younger appearance with minimum scarring. It consists of an oval-shaped device made of solid medical grade silicone, typically measuring 5 12/16″ long×4 12/16″ wide, with sloping edges and an ever increasing thickness in the direction from border to center, starting at a negligible thickness at the borders and increasing to a varying maximum thickness (i.e. ½″, ¾″, 1″, 1½″, etc.) at its center as to be able to provide the user the desired amount of skin-stretching effect. The upper design of the invention follows a curve which parallels the shape of the skull so that it remains unnoticed from the outside. The invention is slided in the space between the scalp and the galea aponeurotica through a 3″ to 4″ incision on the parietal area using local anesthesia. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221683 | ORTHOPAEDIC IMPLANTS HAVING SELF-LUBRICATED ARTICULATING SURFACES DESIGNED TO REDUCE WEAR, CORROSION, AND ION LEACHING - Mechanical devices such as prosthetic knees, hips, shoulders, fingers, elbows, wrists, ankles, fingers and spinal elements when implanted in the body and used as articulating elements are subjected to wear and corrosion. These prosthetic implants are usually fabricated in modular form from combinations of metallic materials such as stainless steels, Co—Cr—Mo alloys, and Ti—Al—V alloys; plastics such as ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE); and ceramics such as alumina and zirconia. As the articulating surfaces of these materials wear and corrode, products including plastic wear debris, metallic wear particles, and metallic ions will be released into the body, transported to and absorbed by bone, blood, the lymphatic tissue, and other organ systems. The polyethylene wear particles have been shown to produce long term bone loss and loosening of the implant. And, even very low concentrations of metallic wear particles and metallic ions are suspect in causing adverse toxic, inflammatory, and immunologic tissue reactions. This invention provides prosthetic implants having articulating surfaces that exhibit a reduced rate of release of wear debris and metal ions into the body and a method of producing such prosthetic implants. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221684 | Devices, systems, and methods to fixate tissue within the regions of body, such as the pharyngeal conduit - Devices, systems and methods develop static and/or kinetic and/or pressure forces to fixate or brace tissue in targeted pharyngeal structures and individual anatomic components within the pharyngeal conduit. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221685 | Systems and methods for posterior dynamic stabilization of the spine - Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer having an undeployed configuration and a deployed configuration, wherein the spacer has axial and radial dimensions for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae. The systems include one or more spacers and a mechanical actuation means for delivering and deploying the spacer. The methods involve the implantation of one or more spacers within the interspinous space. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221686 | DEVICES USED TO TREAT DISC HERNIATION AND ATTACHMENT MECHANISMS THEREFORE - A method for retaining an intra-discal material within an annulus fibrosis having a posterior annulus, an inside surface, and an opening is described. The opening has a lateral and a vertical dimension. A retention device that includes a shape memory alloy is inserted through the opening in the annulus fibrosis. The length dimension of the device is longer than the lateral dimension of the opening and the width dimension of the device is longer than the vertical dimension of the opening in the annulus fibrosis. The retention device is positioned against the posterior annulus to rest against annulus fibrosis tissues adjacent the opening on the inside surface of the annulus fibrosis such that both a portion of the length dimension and a portion of the width dimension rests against annulus fibrosis tissues adjacent the opening. The retention device prevents the escape of intra-discal material through the opening. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221687 | DEPLOYABLE SEGMENTED TLIF DEVICE - A segmented intervertebral body fusion support includes a plurality of segments, the segments including an initial segment, a final segment and at least one intermediate segment. The intermediate segment has a generally trapezoidal configuration and the initial and final segments include tapered side walls providing triangular gaps between adjacent segments. A draw wire is fixed to the first segment and passes through the remaining segments. By pulling the draw wire relative to the segments, the segments are drawn together in a generally arcuate configuration. The draw wire includes an enlargement that passes through the final segment and engages a plurality of fingers on the final segment, which prevents the draw wire from retracting, maintaining the arcuate configuration. The segmented device can be inserted through a laparoscopic device into the intervertebral space and can be subsequently drawn into the arcuate configuration to establish the desired intervertebral spacing. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221688 | Method of Maintaining Fatigue Performance In A Bone-Engaging Implant - This disclosure is directed to a method capable of maintaining the fatigue performance of a bone-engaging implant after surface texturing through the imparting of a residual compressive stress. A residual compressive stress is imparted via peening or another process. The peened surface is then roughened to improve mechanical adhesion for bone fixation via grit blasting or another process. The depth of penetration of the roughened texture is less than the depth of the residual compressive stress. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221689 | ARTIFICIAL DISC WITH UNIQUE ARTICULATING GEOMETRY AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - An apparatus and method is provided relating to artificial discs. An artificial disc is provided that facilitates simultaneous and independent articulation of flexion/extension, lateral bending, anterior/posterior translation, and axial rotation. The artificial disc provides these four simultaneous and independent articulations by independently addressing each type of articulation in the design of the artificial disc. In one example, an artificial disc is comprised of a bearing disposed between first and second end plates. The bearing is movable relative to each end plate, independent of the other end plate. The end plates are affixed to adjacent vertebrae. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221690 | ARTIFICIAL DISC WITH POST AND MODULAR COLLAR - An apparatus and method is provided relating to artificial discs. An artificial disc is provided that facilitates simultaneous and independent articulation of flexion/extension, lateral bending, anterior/posterior translation, and axial rotation. The artificial disc provides these four simultaneous and independent articulations by independently addressing each type of articulation in the design of the artificial disc. In one example, an artificial disc is comprised of a bearing disposed between first and second end plates. The bearing is movable relative to each end plate, independent of the other end plate. The end plates are affixed to adjacent vertebrae. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221691 | SURGICAL IMPLANT SECURED BY PEGS AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - An apparatus and method is provided relating to artificial discs. An artificial disc is provided that facilitates simultaneous and independent articulation of flexion/extension, lateral bending, anterior/posterior translation, and axial rotation. The artificial disc provides these four simultaneous and independent articulations by independently addressing each type of articulation in the design of the artificial disc. In one example, an artificial disc is comprised of a bearing disposed between first and second end plates. The bearing is movable relative to each end plate, independent of the other end plate. The end plates are affixed to adjacent vertebrae. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221692 | INTERSPINOUS PROCESS IMPLANTS AND METHODS OF USE - Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes extending from vertebrae of a targeted motion segment. The implant can be positioned between the adjacent spinous processes and once positioned, the implant can be arranged in a second configuration. When arranged in a second configuration, the distraction guide can act as a second wing. The first wing and the second wing can limit or block movement of the implant along a longitudinal axis of the implant. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221693 | INTERVERTEBRAL PROSTHESIS - An intervertebral prosthesis is disclosed for utilisation as an intervertebral disc replacement in the skeleton of the human body. The intervertebral prosthesis includes a first prosthesis plate, on which is formed a first coupling element, e.g., in the form of a spherical cap, and a second prosthesis plate, in which, for example, a hollow spherical shell is formed, into which, in the coupled state, the spherical cap engages. To create a physiologically favourable intervertebral disc replacement, the rotational movement of both prosthesis plates with respect to each other around an axis perpendicular to the prosthesis plates is significantly limited, for example to 3 degrees. The limitation of the rotational movement is produced by means of a movement restriction means in the form of mechanical blocks on the coupling elements. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221694 | Pivotable Interbody Spacer System and Method - A spinal spacer system includes a handle member, an extension member including a first and a second end, wherein the first end of the extension member is coupled to the handle member. Additionally, a coupling device configured to selectively couple a spacer to the second end of the extension member is disposed on the extension member including an angular fixation member configured to fix the spacer in an angular position relative to the handle member. The spinal spacer system also includes an actuator configured to selectively actuate the coupling device and the angular fixation member. The spacer of the present exemplary spinal spacer system includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a rotatably coupleable engagement member disposed on the proximal end of the spacer. According to one exemplary embodiment, the coupling device includes a single protruding member extending from the second end of the extension member. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221695 | Spinal interbody spacer device - There is described an instrument set for use in spinal surgery that includes as elements a spinal body spacer, a placement tool, and an extraction tool. The spacer may be constructed with a body having a first wall and a second wall connected by a top face, a bottom face, and a lateral support. Further, the spinal body spacer has a threaded opening and keyways connected to the threaded opening positioned in a face. The spinal body spacer may also include a superior surface and an inferior surface with a plurality of antimigration furrows positioned on each of the superior surface and the inferior surface. The spacer may have an outer face positioned around the opening and the placement tool may also have a contact face such that the contact face comes into contact with the outer face when the placement tool is fully connected with the spacer. The placement tool has a threaded tip for connecting with the threaded opening of the spacer. The extraction tool has a tip configured to pass through the opening of the spacer, and the tool has tabs positioned on the tip such that the tabs pass through the keyways of the spacer. The extraction tool is configured such that it passes through the aperture, rotates, and then can be used to exert a pulling force on the spacer. The tip of the extraction tool may be a substantially blunt tip, a substantially pointed tip, or even a tip with a hollow area. The spacer may have at least one block disposed on an interior surface such that the block contacts the tabs of the extraction tool thereby restricting rotation of the extraction tool relative to the spacer. The spacer may have a backing plate, and the backing plate may itself include projections disposed in the matrix of the spacer. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221696 | INTERVERTEBRAL PROSTHETIC DISC - A prosthetic disc for insertion between adjacent vertebrae includes upper and lower plates, a core disposed between the plates, and at least one projection extending from at least one of the upper and lower curved surfaces of the core into at least one recess of one of the inner surfaces of the plates. The recess is oversize with respect to the projection to allow sliding movement of the plate over the core while retaining the core between the plates during such sliding movement. The projection(s) may include a rod extending through an axial hole in the core, multiple surface features of the core, or the like. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221697 | Hemi-implant for first metatarsophalangeal joint - An improved implant for use primarily within the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The implant includes an elliptical, concave, joint surface positioned on a stem and is designed to be placed into a prepared proximal face of the phalanx. The implant is sized according to the patient and may be provided in a number of standard incremental sizes. The improvements relate primarily to the structure, size, and position of the stem that extends into the phalanx to support the implant. The stem is off-set from a center axis of the elliptical joint surface. This off-center placement allows for a longer stem. Single deep indentations on each side of the stem facilitate retention within the bone. A size selection tool is provided to facilitate the selection and placement of an appropriately sized implant. The tool further provides a template for positioning and placing the stem in the phalanx. A method for sizing and selecting the appropriate implant, and positioning and fixing the implant as a partial joint replacement, especially for the first metatarsophalangeal joint, is also described. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221698 | Semi-Constrained 1st Carpometacarpal Implant Arthroplasty - A first carpometacarpal joint implant. One embodiment of the invention includes proximal and distal components. The proximal component includes a fixation portion for attachment to one or more elements of a patient's distal carpal row, a ball-type joint portion cantilevered off the fixation portion, and a skid having a concave surface opposite the ball-type joint for engaging a patient's scaphoid bone. The distal component has a fixation portion for attachment to a patient's thumb metacarpal, and a socket-type joint portion that cooperates with the ball-type joint portion of the proximal component. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221699 | Method and apparatus for removing an acetabular bearing - A system for replacing a portion of a hip joint can include a cup having an outer surface and an inner surface. A bearing can include an outer bearing surface and an inner articulating surface. The outer bearing surface can be positioned adjacent to the cup. A ring can be selectively disposed between the cup and the bearing. The ring can define an annular body having a slit formed therein. A removal tool can define a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end can define a ring engaging surface and a bearing engaging surface. The ring engaging surface can be adapted to engage the ring at the slit such that the ring expands radially from a locked position away from engagement with the bearing to an unlocked position. The bearing engaging surface can be adapted to engage the bearing and urge the bearing away from the cup. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221700 | Implant - The invention relates to a cap-shaped implant for implanting on a prepared stump of a femoral head. The implant is in the form of a ball section ( | 2008-09-11 |
20080221701 | Osteostimulative settable bone graft putty - A settable osteostimulative bone graft putty composition having a bioactive glass particulate component composed of a long-term and a short-term component; the long-term component having particle sizes greater than 90 micrometers and the short-term component having particle sizes less than 90 micrometers; the long-term component comprising about 60% to 90% of the bioactive glass osteostimulative particulate component dry weight and the short-term component comprising about 40% to 10%; a binder component having a calcium sulfate component and a calcium silicate component; the calcium sulfate component comprising about 35% to 50% of the binder component dry weight and the calcium silicate component comprising about 65% to 50%; the bioactive glass osteostimulative particulate component being about 20% to 60% of the total putty dry weight composition and the binder being about 80% to 40%; the bioactive glass particulate component and the binder component mixable in water to form the putty. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221702 | Methods and devices for intragastrointestinal prostheses - An intragastric and/or intragastrointestinal device may include a prosthesis, which may reside within the gastrointestinal tract lumen. The device may include a restrictive element that constricts or restricts the gastrointestinal tract lumen, limiting the amount of food and/or fluid an individual consumes. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221703 | LOADING A DEVICE FOR A PULMONARY IMPLANT - Devices for loading a collapsible implant onto a delivery catheter. In one aspect, a loading device comprises an outer tubular structure and an inner tubular structure. The outer tubular structure comprises a narrowing passage configured to receive a catheter at one end and a collapsible implant at another end. The inner tubular structure is configured to move slidably and co-axially within the outer tubular structure. The inner tubular structure comprises a carrier pin configured to move within the narrowing passage as the inner tubular structure slides into the outer tubular structure. The sliding of the inner tubular structure into the outer tubular structure causes an implant mounted on the carrier pin to collapse as the implant moves through the narrowing passage and into the distal end of a catheter. In an optional aspect, the outer tubular structure further comprises a grasper to stabilize the catheter for receipt of the collapsible implant, and the internal diameter of the inner tubular structure varies to cause the grasper to first contract and stabilize the catheter, and then expand and release the catheter, as the grasper moves into the inner tubular structure. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221704 | Three (3) distinct improvements (different fields of use) to the prior art or invention entitled instant face-lifter - There are three distinct improvements on the Instant Face-Lifter -the prior art-: Field of Use “A”, an intra-scalp round or oval-shaped device made of a biocompatible material, typically measuring | 2008-09-11 |
20080221705 | VACUUM ASSISTED PROSTHETIC SLEEVE AND SOCKET - A prosthetic sleeve and socket system, the sleeve including a flap or skirt concentrically arranged about the sleeve and configured to form a sealed chamber between the sleeve and socket when the sleeve is inserted into the socket. An air permeable material is interposed between the skirt and the sleeve to maintain a continuous interconnected air layer therebetween. An expulsion valve is provided to allow air contained within the sealed chamber to be forced out of the chamber ahead of the sleeve when it is inserted into the socket. A powered vacuum pump is also provided for producing and maintaining a partial vacuum in the sealed chamber for keeping the socket and sleeve joined. The system allows for a substantial reduction in size of known sockets and permits, in some instances, the disposal of bulky suspension straps currently in use to force the socket against a residual limb. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221706 | VACUUM ASSISTED PROSTHETIC SLEEVE AND SOCKET UTILIZING A DOUBLE MEMBRANE LINER - A prosthetic sleeve and socket system, the sleeve including dual flaps or skirts concentrically arranged about the sleeve and configured to form a sealed chamber between the sleeve and socket when the sleeve is inserted into the socket. An air permeable material is interposed between one of the skirts and the sleeve to maintain a continuous interconnected air layer therebetween. An expulsion valve is provided to allow air contained within the sealed chamber to be forced out of the chamber ahead of the sleeve when it is inserted into the socket, and a powered vacuum pump maintains the vacuum thereafter, if needed. The system allows for a substantial reduction in size of known sockets and permits, in some instances, the disposal of bulky suspension straps currently in use to force the socket against a residual limb. | 2008-09-11 |
20080221707 | CONTROL AND MONITOR SIGNAL TRANSMISSION SYSTEM - A master station has a master-station transmission circuit that extracts a serial monitor signal so as to convert a control data signal into monitor data by changing a duty ratio of negative and positive voltage-level periods, converting the control signal into a serial pulsing voltage signal, transmitting a monitor data signal that is superimposed on the serial pulsing voltage signal, and detecting the presence or absence of a signal of a current that flows during the negative and positive voltage-level periods. A plurality of slave stations respectively have a slave-station transmission circuit that identifies a duty ratio of the positive and negative voltage-level periods relative to each serial pulsing voltage signal, that extracts a control data signal so as to output the data to a controllable unit of the slave station. | 2008-09-11 |