46th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights part 47 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20090281542 | ELONGATED MEMBERS WITH EXPANSION CHAMBERS FOR TREATING BONY MEMEBERS - The present application is directed to devices with expandable lengths for treating bony members. The device may include an elongated member with two sections that are movable relative to each other. An expansion chamber may be positioned between the first and second sections. A pump may move fluid from a reservoir and through a conduit into the expansion chamber. The expansion chamber expands upon receiving the fluid to cause the first and second sections to move apart and increase the length of the elongated member. The device may include multiple expansion chambers along the length, and the elongated member may include multiple sections. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281543 | FORMABLE BONE PLATE, CLAMPING APPARATUS, OSTEOTOMY SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RECONSTRUCTING A BONE - A system and method are provided that use a formable bone plate and a clamping apparatus for small bone reconstruction. The formable bone plate includes a plate body having a plurality of nodes separated by internodes. Each node includes a hole formed therein for receiving a screw, wire, tack, or other fixation device screwed or placed into a bone. A clamp engages an engagement section of the node to facilitate bending of at least one of the internodes to contour the plate to the bone in-situ or ex-situ and when at least partly screwed to or not screwed to the bone. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281544 | INSTRUMENT FOR GUIDING RESECTION OF A GREATER TUBERCLE - An instrument for use in resecting a portion of a greater tubercle of a humerus in shoulder arthroplasty is provided. The instrument includes a guide support that has a first end coupled to a long bone. The guide support extends laterally and over the greater tubercle. The instrument also includes a cutting guide movably coupled to the guide support. The cutting guide including curved frame for abutting the humerus. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281545 | Method and Apparatus for Arthroscopic Assisted Arthroplasty of the Hip Joint - Devices, systems and methods for performing arthroscopic evaluations and procedures in and near the hip joint are provided. An arthroscopic assisted arthroplasty system is useful in the treatment of arthritic hip conditions, conserving healthy tissue, and limiting iatrogenic injury associated with traditional surgical exposures. A guide wire system employing retrograde and antegrade reamers along the femoral neck is useful in anatomic placement of instrumentation without formal hip dislocation. Fluoroscopy and computer assisted navigation enhance the system, methods, and apparatus. Acetabular and femoral collapsible prosthetic forms are useful in arthroscopic assisted placement. The devices, systems, and methods are effective to assist an operating surgeon in the addressing mild to moderate arthritic conditions of the femoral head and acetabulum where tissue conservation and surgical exposure morbidities should be limited. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281546 | MODULAR CAPTURE WITH MAGNETIC ATTACHMENT - A detachable cutting tool capture for a cutting block provides a guide surface to convert an open surface block into a slotted block for plying a surgical cutting tool along the surfaces of the guide during a surgical procedure such as a bone resection with a blade. A magnetized catch provides a convenient device for securing the capture and the block together. A triangular cam on the detachable capture in conjunction with a “v” groove in a magnetized lever of the catch permits a pin of the catch to be selectively retracted from or extended into an aperture of the block when the lever is rotated so that when the pin extends, it serves to secure the combined apparatus for cutting. Mating surfaces of the block and capture provide additional structure for supporting the capture with the block to secure them from relative movement. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281547 | SEPARATION DEVICE | 2009-11-12 |
20090281548 | DEVICE FOR FILLING BONE CAVITIES WITH FLUID CEMENT, ACETABULAR CAVITIES IN PARTICULAR - A device for filling bone cavities with fluid cement, in particular, acetabular cavities, includes a transfer channel for transferring a fluid cement with a first opening which is associated to a dispenser instrument for dispensing the fluid cement and a second opening through which the fluid cement exits, and that is associated with an applicator element of the fluid to a bone cavity. The applicator element has a useful dispensing surface that is larger than the transfer channel and includes a substantially plate-like body whose main opposite surfaces define a first side for connecting to the transfer channel and a second side for the application of the fluid cement. The second side has a containing border of the fluid cement which is positionable in contact against the edge of the bone cavity and which has a perimeter turned-up edge of the plate-like body which extends crosswise from the body. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281549 | BONE CEMENT MIXING AND DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - In at least one embodiment of the present invention, a device for mixing and dispensing a bone cement mixture is provided. The device comprises a housing having a chamber configured to contain a first and second bone cement. A plunger including a plunger rod having a piston at a first end and a plunger handle at a second end is configured to actuate within the chamber. A mixing element is disposed adjacent the piston and is configured to rotate within the chamber to mix the first and second bone cement components to form the bone cement mixture. The plunger is configured to rotate the mixing element to mix the bone cement mixture. The plunger is also configured to advance through the chamber. As the plunger is advanced through the chamber, the piston is configured to receive the mixing element and dispense the bone cement mixture from the device. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281550 | INSERTION INSTRUMENT FOR JOINT SOCKETS OF PROSTHESES - An insertion instrument comprising an elongate shaft, a suction head provided at the front end thereof for connection to a joint socket, a suction device with a piston guided in the shaft, a suction line opening out at the suction head, and an actuating element which is guided along a guiding track on the shaft. The guiding track can be helically shaped and have a locking arrangement, preferably in the form of a recess, for the actuating element in a suction position. Due to the helical shape of the guiding track, the actuating element executes a rotational and longitudinal movement during its displacement. The longitudinal movement produces a negative pressure in the suction line ensuring maintenance of the pressure, while the rotating movement causes rotation of the actuating element such that it reaches its locking position at the end of the guiding track, providing simplified handling of the instrument. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281551 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR INSERTION OF INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANTS AND DEVICES THEREFOR - Surgical device and methods for using same for distraction of adjacent vertebrae and insertion of an intervertebral implant material thereinbetween are disclosed. In a method, a leading end of the surgical device having major and minor dimensions is inserted between adjacent vertebrae with the minor dimension aligned in the rostral-caudal direction, and then the leading end is rotated to a second orientation to align the major dimension with the rostral-caudal direction. The surgical device includes slots permitting expansion thereof to allow an implant to be disposed from the leading end into the intervertebral space. In another form, the a first member of a surgical device is initially inserted in an orientation, and second member is moved relative to the first member to expand the first member for distracting the vertebrae, the implant then being disposed from the leading end into the intervertebral space. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281552 | Apparatus for selecting an intraocular lens and a method of selecting the intraocular lens - An intraocular lens selection apparatus and an intraocular lens selection method for selecting an intraocular lens to be implanted into an examinee's eye. The apparatus has an input unit which inputs corneal wavefront aberration of the eye, a memory which stores wavefront aberrations of a plurality of intraocular lens models, an unit which sets, as a target value, desired post-operative residual wavefront aberration of the eye after the lens is implanted, an unit which calculates, as an estimated value, post-operative residual wavefront aberration of the eye to be obtained when each lens model is implanted, based on the inputted corneal wavefront aberration and the stored wavefront aberration of each lens model, and specifies one of the lens models which renders the estimated value close to the set target value, a monitor, and a display control unit which controls the monitor to display information of the specified lens model. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281553 | Devices and Methods for Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders - An implantation device for releasably holding implantable microstimulators can be used to guide one or more microstimulators to any site within the gastrointestinal tract for implantation. The device can further releasably hold one or more ligation clips for securing the one or more microstimulators in place within the implantation site(s) and/or for closing an incision in which a microstimulator is implanted. The device can be employed using open, laparoscopic, and endoscopic techniques. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281554 | VARIABLE COMPRESSION SURGICAL FASTENER APPARATUS - A surgical fastener applying apparatus includes an anvil section and a cartridge section, where the cartridge section and the anvil section are movable from an unclamped position to a clamped position to clamp tissue therebetween. The cartridge section has a plurality of retention slots. A plurality of first surgical fasteners and a plurality of second surgical fasteners are disposed within a corresponding retention slot. The plurality of first surgical fasteners has a first backspan with a first configuration and the plurality of second surgical fasteners has a second backspan with a second configuration. The first configuration is different from the second configuration. In addition, when the first configuration applies a first compressive force to tissue upon formation of the plurality of first surgical fasteners and the second configuration applies a second compressive force to tissue upon formation of the plurality of second surgical fasteners, the second compressive force is different from the first compressive force. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281555 | Method For Repairing A Meniscal Tear - A device for implanting a suture. The device includes an elongated shaft that extends from the main body and has a distal end that includes a pointed tissue piercing tip. A first suture support is mounted to the distal end. The first suture support has a first opening and is movable between a retracted position where the first suture support does not extend from the distal end and an extended position where the first suture support does extend from the distal end. A first suture capturing device is mounted to the distal end and is aligned with the first suture support. The first suture capturing device is movable between a retracted position in which it does not extend from the distal end and an extended position in which it does extend from the distal end. The first suture capturing device extends within the first opening of the first suture support when in the extended position. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281556 | DEVICES, TOOLS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING MINIMALLY INVASIVE ABDOMINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES - Methods, systems, devices and assemblies are provided for treating a patient by: making an incision or puncture though the patient's skin over the abdominal cavity; establishing an initial tract through an opening formed by the incision or puncture; advancing an instrument through the tract; contacting a distal end portion of the instrument against an inner surface of the abdominal cavity; driving at least one stitching needle through the inner surface of the abdominal cavity, continuing the driving until the at least one stitching needle exits the inner surface of the abdominal cavity, anchoring a suture carried by each of the at least one stitching needle to a suture anchor at an exit location, respectively; and applying tension to each of the sutures. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281557 | TISSUE ANCHOR FOR SECURING TISSUE LAYERS - Tissue anchors comprise a woven filament braid body having an elongated tubular configuration and a foreshortened configuration where proximal and distal ends of the body expand radially into double-walled flange structures while leaving a cylindrical saddle region therebetween. The tissue anchors are deployed through penetrations between adjacent tissue layers, where the flanges engage the outer surfaces of the tissue layers and the saddle region resides within the tissue penetrations. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281558 | SURGICAL MESHES WITH RADIOPAQUE COATINGS - According to an aspect of the present invention, implantable medical articles are provided, which comprise a surgical mesh that is at least partially covered with a coating that comprises a radiopaque material such as a metal or a metallic compound. The radiopaque material is present in the coating in an amount such that the coated portions of the mesh are visible using radiographic imaging techniques. Other aspects of the invention pertain to methods of making and using such medical articles. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281559 | ANASTOMOSIS PATCH - An apparatus, system, and method for covering an anastomosis are disclosed. The apparatus includes a resilient flexible patch having a diameter that is greater than the diameter of an anastomosis. A opening is formed in the patch. The opening has a diameter that is less than the diameter of the anastomosis. The system further includes a joining element to attach the patch to tissue adjacent to the anastomosis. At least one hole is formed around the perimeter of the patch. The at least one hole is to receive the joining element therethrough. The method includes inserting a resilient flexible patch having a diameter that is greater than the diameter of an anastomosis through a working channel of an endoscope, locating the patch adjacent to the anastomosis, and attaching the patch to tissue adjacent to the anastomosis using a joining element. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281560 | Method for anastomosis surgery using zip-ties - A double or triple zip-tied anastomosis surgery method is provided. The method includes circumferentially fastening a first and a second zip-ties around a tubular organ or a connecting region between two tubular organs, with the first and second zip-ties beside each other with a space therebetween; dissecting the tubular organ or the connecting region at the space between the first and second zip-ties, forming a first tubular portion with a first zip-tied end and a second tubular portion with a second zip-tied end; resecting a target segment from the second tubular portion, and centrally fastened the resected end; then rejoining the first and the second tubular portions together using a circular stapler, with staples encircling the first zip-tied end and the centrally fastened resected end; and cutting and removing tissues and zip-tie encircled by the staples to recreate a tubular pathway, with a smooth interface between the two tubular portions. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281561 | LAPAROSCOPIC SCISSORS - A laparoscopic scissor instrument can include a scissor assembly pivotally coupled to an elongate shaft. The scissor assembly can be formed of scissor blades having pivot posts thereon. The pivot posts can engage apertures on the elongate shaft, thus eliminating the need for a through-pinned pivot connection of the scissor blades. The scissor blades can also include actuation posts thereon. An actuation mechanism can include a slot to engage the actuation posts and open or close the blades of the scissor assembly. The scissor assemblies described herein can have a relatively low operational height such that they do not extend beyond a diameter of the elongate shaft during opening and closing of the scissor assembly. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281562 | LANCET - Lancet, in particular for a patient's skin puncturing device for collecting a blood sample for diagnostic purposes, is comprised of the body ( | 2009-11-12 |
20090281563 | DEVICES, TOOLS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING MINIMALLY INVASIVE ABDOMINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES - Methods, systems, devices and assemblies are provided for treating a patient by: making an incision or puncture though the patient's skin over the abdominal cavity; establishing an initial tract through an opening formed by the incision or puncture; advancing an instrument through the tract; contacting a distal end portion of the instrument against an inner surface of the abdominal cavity; driving at least one stitching needle through the inner surface of the abdominal cavity; continuing the driving until the at least one stitching needle exits the inner surface of the abdominal cavity; anchoring a suture carried by each of the at least one stitching needle to a suture anchor at an exit location, respectively; and applying tension to each of the sutures. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281564 | Pre-Clot Vessel Dilator - A pre-clot dilator is described that may be used to dilate hardened regions of an occluded region. The pre-clot is provided with one or more struts that extend along a surface of a balloon. Each strut has a proximal fixed end and a distal free end. The distal free end extends past the distal end of the shaft. The distal free end is designed with a penetrating tip that is capable of boring through a proximal portion of the occlusion. Expansion of the balloon allows the strut to pivot about the proximal fixed end of the strut, thereby producing a force sufficient to push out the occlusion towards the vessel wall. The balloon may be deflated so that the strut can collapse over the balloon to create a low profile which enables distal advancement deeper into the occlusion. The procedure is repeated until the occlusion is separated. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281565 | RADIAL ARTERY COMPRESSION DEVICE - A radial artery compression device configured to be releasably secured by a strap or band to the underside of a wrist of a patient and to provide adjustable and consistent compression pressure in the area of a radial artery access site to achieve hemostasis either during or after a medical procedure such as a percutaneous coronary procedure. The radial artery compression device includes a body configured to engage and secure a knob while allowing the knob to rotate with respect to the body. Rotation of the knob can cause a threaded shaft to move. The threaded shaft mechanically couples the knob to a disk-shaped compression pad. The compression pad can include one or more notches adapted to at least partially surround a sheath and/or a catheter inserted into the radial artery at the access site. The compression pad can also include a step on the surface to provide a desired amount of contour to a portion of a device within the radial artery during a procedure. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281566 | BODILY SEALANTS AND METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR IMAGE-GUIDED DELIVERY OF SAME - Generally, systems, methods, and apparatus related to the use of a dynamic imaging modality in an image guided intervention are disclosed herein. More specifically, the use of such modalities in sealing a bodily opening, such as those that may be formed during an invasive medical procedure are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a method includes viewing a representation of an instrument within a body of a patient, adjusting a position of the instrument based on the viewing such that a portion of the instrument is at a location within the body of the patient, and delivering a sealant via the instrument to the location within the body of the patient. The sealant is configured to seal an opening in the body part. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281567 | OCCLUSION ELEMENT FOR UNWANTED OPENINGS IN THE HEART - An occlusion element ( | 2009-11-12 |
20090281568 | Devices and Methods for Adjustable, Knotless Tissue Approximation - Devices and methods for tissue approximation and distribution of tissue stresses and tension resulting therefrom. The devices comprise a shank having one or more structures thereon, an anchor button fixedly attached to one end of the shank with the opposite end of the shank being suitable for penetration of tissues or other structures. To secure the device, the shank engages with a locking button having a locking mechanism thereon. The locking button is engaged with the shank, preferably after a tissue approximation, so that the locking button can be advanced along the shank towards the anchor button compressing the approximated tissues between the anchor button and the locking button. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281569 | Gliding Stitch for Closing Wounds Under Tension - A gliding stitch technique provides efficient and effective means to close a wound under tension. The gliding stitch is especially useful in treating wounds found within thick skin such as a scalp or back wound. The disclosed suture method may be used upon humans and other mammals. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281570 | System and Method for Treating Cervical Vertebrae - Systems, methods and computer readable mediums encoded with computer instructions for treating cervical vertebrae are provided. Certain cervical vertebrae treatment devices include a head support configured to support a patient's head, and a motion component operably connected to the head support, wherein the motion component is configured to provide movement of the head support about at least three axes. Certain devices also include a control system operably connected to the motion component and configured to control operation of the motion component. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281571 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM - A spinal stabilization system includes an implant and instrumentation for stabilizing the spine. In one embodiment, the system includes a plate having a side rail and a channel extending adjacent the side rail. A pedicle screw assembly is positioned in the channel in releasable engagement with the side rail. The pedicle screw assembly includes a polyaxial screw seated in a lower housing having a lower locking flange. An upper housing having an upper locking flange secures the plate to the lower housing. The side rail of the plate is releasably engaged between the upper locking flange and the lower locking flange. The upper and lower housings include on-board locking mechanisms for fixing components in the screw assembly. The screw assembly and plate are inserted and oriented by remote manipulation. Minimally invasive techniques for inserting the implant are performed with the instrumentation, and cause minimal disturbance to surrounding tissue. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281572 | DYNAMIC INTERVERTEBRAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM - A vertebral dynamic stabilization system is used to fix the positional relationship of adjacent vertebrae of the spine. The vertebrae stabilization system includes at least two pedicle screws, with an interconnecting rod disposed therebetween, the pedicle screws each having a threaded shaft to be screwed into a vertebra segment, and a screw head adapted to securely receive the interconnecting rod. The system allows some compression and extension of the vertebrae relative to each other, while still maintaining the overall positional relationship within an appropriate range. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281573 | ROD-SHAPED IMPLANT, IN PARTICULAR FOR THE DYNAMIC STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - A rod-shaped implant for the dynamic stabilization of the spine includes at least a portion having a flexible first material forming a matrix in which a flexible structure having at least one fiber made of a second material is embedded. The rod-shaped implant can be compressed and extended along the longitudinal axis of the rod-shaped implant while it provides a high torsional stiffness. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281574 | Dynamic stabilization assembly with frusto-conical connection - A dynamic fixation medical implant for attachment to at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having first and second rigid sections, at least one section having a convex or frusto-conical surface held in spaced relation with the other section by an elastic spacer. The spacer may be an over-mold that connects the first and second rigid sections. Some embodiments include an inner, tougher spacer and a separate over-molded spacer. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281575 | Tethering Devices and Methods to Treat a Spinal Deformity - The present application is directed to tethering systems that provide a corrective force to one or more vertebral members. The tethering systems may include an elongated member with first and second sections. The sections are displaceable relative to each other to increase a length of the elongated member. The first section may be attached to a first vertebral member, and a second section may be attached to a second vertebral member. At least one tether may be attached to the elongated member. The tether may include a length to be attached to the first and second sections, and to a third vertebral member that is positioned between and laterally offset from the first and second vertebral members. The length of the elongated member may increase thus causing the tether to apply a corrective force to the third vertebral member. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281576 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM - A spinal stabilization system includes an implant and instrumentation for stabilizing the spine. In one embodiment, the system includes a plate having a side rail and a channel extending adjacent the side rail. A pedicle screw assembly is positioned in the channel in releasable engagement with the side rail. The pedicle screw assembly includes a polyaxial screw seated in a lower housing having a lower locking flange. An upper housing having an upper locking flange secures the plate to the lower housing. The side rail of the plate is releasably engaged between the upper locking flange and the lower locking flange. The upper and lower housings include on-board locking mechanisms for fixing components in the screw assembly. The screw assembly and plate are inserted and oriented by remote manipulation. Minimally invasive techniques for inserting the implant are performed with the instrumentation, and cause minimal disturbance to surrounding tissue. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281577 | BONE PLATE WITH REDUCTION AIDS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - Aspects of the present disclosure include a bone plate and/or a bone plate system. The bone plate includes an elongate body, which body includes a distal portion and a proximal portion. The proximal portion includes at least one projection extending there from, which projection is configured for contacting a bone portion, e.g., a fractured bone portion, so as to aid in the reduction thereof. In some variations, the proximal portion includes a plurality of projections, e.g., reduction aids. Methods of using such a bone plate having reduction aids by itself, or in conjunction with a second bone plate, for the reduction, restoration and treatment of a bone fracture are also provided. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281578 | Proximal humeral fracture reduction and fixation device - An apparatus and method for reducing and fixing fractures, for example, a proximal humeral fracture. A jacking device releasably attached to a locking plate presses against an inferior aspect of the head to rotate the head into anatomic alignment. Suture material stitched into the soft tissue superior to the head pulls the superior end of the head and guides and steers the head. The suture material passes through suture holes in the superior end of the plate. The jacking device positions and holds the head in an anatomic neck/shaft angle, thereby allowing the head to be fixed to the locking plate. In one such embodiment, a swivel bushing in the plate receives the jacking device and allows the angle of the device to be adjusted as desired. To aid in the fluoroscopic visualization during surgery, a radiolucent retractor is used to avoid blocking the surgeon's view. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281579 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM - A spinal stabilization system includes an implant and instrumentation for stabilizing the spine. In one embodiment, the system includes a plate having a side rail and a channel extending adjacent the side rail. A pedicle screw assembly is positioned in the channel in releasable engagement with the side rail. The pedicle screw assembly includes a polyaxial screw seated in a lower housing having a lower locking flange. An upper housing having an upper locking flange secures the plate to the lower housing. The side rail of the plate is releasably engaged between the upper locking flange and the lower locking flange. The upper and lower housings include on-board locking mechanisms for fixing components in the screw assembly. The screw assembly and plate are inserted and oriented by remote manipulation. Minimally invasive techniques for inserting the implant are performed with the instrumentation, and cause minimal disturbance to surrounding tissue. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281580 | BONE SCREW - The cavity of a screw body presents a portion with an enlarged cross-section forming a chamber, positioned such that it is set back from the proximal surface of said head, over a sufficient distance so that first slots and first expandable portions which define these first slots constitute a gripping element to drive the screw in rotation. The expansion rod comprises a proximal head equipped with gripping element to drive it in rotation, intended to be found in the chamber in the non-expanded position of the screw head: The cavity has a first portion with a limited cross-section located at the expandable portions, this limited cross-section portion being intended to cooperate with the head to achieve expansion of the expandable portions while also defining a passageway having a cross-section sufficient to allow access, from the outside of the screw, to the gripping means comprised by the expansion rod. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281581 | Method and device for securing sutures to bones - A method, system and device for securing a repair, such as a rotator cuff repair and includes an anchor placed within a hole formed in bone and a cannulated screw inserted into the hole after the anchor has been inserted to effectuate a firm and secure connection of tissue to bone, particularly when the quality of the bone does not permit optimal fixation. The method, system and device allows superior tissue fixation to bone with the ease of knotless suture anchor application. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281582 | INSTRUMENT FOR THE REDUCTION OF A ROD INTO POSITION IN A PEDICLE SCREW - Instruments for reducing spinal stabilization rods into position in pedicle screws or other bone anchors placed on a spine. In some embodiments, instruments are provided which include inner and outer extensions adapted for engaging, respectively, pedicle screws and rods. Handles of the instrument can engage a parallel action compressor which actuate the extensions. The handles may be offset from the extensions by a distance in a direction along a longitudinal axis of the extensions, in a direction perpendicular thereto, or a combination thereof. Instruments of some embodiments can include locking, or ratchet, mechanisms extending between the handles. A biasing member may bias the handles apart from each other and assist in engaging the locking or ratchet mechanism. Surgical instrument kits including rod reduction instruments are provided by some embodiments. According to some embodiments, methods for reducing spinal stabilization rods into their desired positions are also provided. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281583 | FEMORAL TROCHLEA PROSTHESES - Various embodiments of femoral trochlea prostheses useable in a knee joint. The knee joint includes a patella and a distal femur with a femoral trochlea, or patello-femoral groove. In one embodiment, a femoral trochlea prosthesis includes a distal tail. In another embodiment, a femoral trochlea prosthesis includes a wing or extension portion. In yet another embodiment, a set of femoral trochlea prostheses includes a plurality of prostheses having differing thicknesses. In still another embodiment, a femoral trochlea prosthesis includes a porous medium on various portions of the prosthesis. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281584 | IMPLANTABLE SENSOR ARRANGEMENT - An implantable medical sensor arrangement has a sensor body configured for implantation in a subject, to which at least one sensor head is connected through at least one connective wire. The sensor head(s) and at least a portion of the connective wire(s) are tightly packed and enclosed by a protective sensor shell. This sensor shell is composed of a dissolvable material that will dissolve or can be triggered to dissolve following introduction of the sensor arrangement into a subject. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281585 | OTC Automatic External Defibrillator With Quick Install Battery - An automatic external defibrillator is shipped from the manufacturer with the battery installed in the battery compartment of the AED. During shipment a removable tab is located between a battery terminal and an electrical contact inside the battery compartment. Upon receipt of the AED the user pulls the tab to remove it from the battery compartment. This completes the circuit between the AED and its battery and the AED begins a self-test. A packaging panel covers the controls of the AED to prevent actuation of controls during the self-test. The packaging panel includes instructions for setup of the AED including indication of a control to actuate during or at the conclusion of the self-test. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281586 | IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR EMU FILTERED FEEDTHRU - Disclosed herein is an implantable pulse generator. The implantable pulse generator may include a header, a can and a feedthru. The header may include a lead connector block electrically coupled to a first conductor. The can may be coupled to the header and include a wall and an electronic component electrically coupled to a second conductor and housed within the wall. The feedthru may be mounted in the wall and include a header side with a first electrically conductive tab and a can side with a second electrically conductive tab electrically coupled to the first tab. The first tab is electrically coupled to the first conductor and the second tab is electrically coupled to the second conductor. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281587 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING HIDDEN ATRIAL EVENTS FOR USE WITH AUTOMATIC MODE SWITCHING WITHIN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Techniques are provided for detecting atrial events that might be hidden due to the operation of a post-ventricular atrial blanking (PVAB) interval or other atrial channel blanking interval. In one example, candidate atrial events are identified within signals occurring during the PVAB interval. Then, a determination is made as to whether the candidate atrial event is a true atrial event based on a comparison of characteristics of the candidate atrial event with characteristics of prior known atrial events within the patient. By comparing the characteristics of the “hidden” event with the characteristics of prior known atrial events within the patient, a quick and accurate determination can be made whether the event should be counted as a P-wave. In this manner, hidden atrial arrhythmias can be detected and mode switch oscillations can be reduced or eliminated. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281588 | DETERMINING ATRIAL TIME PERIODS IN CONJUNCTION WITH REAL-TIME TESTING - Time periods such as PVAB and PVARP are defined based on data acquired during real-time tests. For example, data may be collected during a real-time test that determines a sensing threshold or during a real-time test that determines a capture threshold. Time period information may then be derived based on correlations between the timing of far-field events and/or retrograde conduction derived from the acquired data and the timing of sensed or paced ventricular events. In some cases, the derived time period information may be used to provide timing recommendations for initial programming of an implantable device. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281589 | Methods and Devices for Implementing Time of Day Pacing Adjustments - Methods and systems are directed to delivering cardiac pacing therapy to a patient. A pacing therapy associated with one or more pacing parameters is delivered. Alternate cardiac pacing therapies associated with one or more alternate pacing parameters are transitioned to, based on a sleep/wake cycle of the patient. Interactions between the pacing parameters of the pacing therapy and the alternate pacing parameters are resolved. Resolving pacing parameters may be based on analysis of lower rate limits and/or lower rate hysteresis, for example. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281590 | Method and Apparatus to Ensure Consistent Left Ventricular Pacing - A method of operating a cardiac therapy system to deliver cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) pacing that includes pacing both ventricles or pacing only the left ventricle is described. Delivery of the CRT pacing to one or both ventricles is scheduled for a cardiac cycle. If an intrinsic depolarization of a ventricle is detected during a pacing delay of the ventricle, then the scheduled CRT pacing to the ventricle is inhibited for the cycle. The intrinsic interval of the ventricle, such as the intrinsic atrioventricular interval concluded by the intrinsic depolarization, is measured. During a subsequent cardiac cycle, the pacing delay of the ventricle is decreased to be less than or equal to the measured intrinsic interval. Capture of the ventricle is verified after pacing is delivered during the subsequent cardiac cycle. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281591 | SMART DELAY FOR INTERMITTENT STRESS THERAPY - A pacing system delivers cardiac protection pacing to protect the heart from injuries. The pacing system receives a set of inputs and calculates parameters for delivering optimized cardiac protection pacing tailored for different stress levels. The system automatically adjusts heart rate to optimize cardiac protection pacing in a closed-loop system. In one embodiment, a method for delivering pacing pulses for cardiac protection is provided. Intrinsic atrioventricular (AV) intervals are sensed. The intrinsic AV interval and a predetermined equation relating the AV interval to an optimal AV delay are used to provide a maximum positive rate of left ventricular pressure change during systole. An AV delay is calculated using a predetermined percentage of the optimal AV delay to deliver ventricular pacing pulses to provide a desired level of stress for cardiac protective pacing therapy (CPPT) to provide a cardiac conditioning therapy to improve autonomic balance. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281592 | SHAFT-MOUNTED RF FILTERING ELEMENTS FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE LEAD TO REDUCE LEAD HEATING DURING MRI - Filtering components are provided for reducing heating within pacing/sensing leads of a pacemaker or other implantable medical device that occurs due to induced loop currents during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures. In one example, an inductive winding is provided around a non-conducting central portion of a shaft that interconnects a tip electrode of the lead to an inner coil conductor of the lead. By mounting the inductive winding to the shaft, inductive signal filtering can be readily provided so as to reduce tip heating, without requiring the incorporation of a lengthy, bulky inductor along the length of the lead. Capacitive elements may also be incorporated within the shaft to provide for LC filtering. In another example, the non-conducting central portion of the shaft is omitted. Instead, the conducting shaft end portions are interconnected by a stiff inductive winding, which functions as an air coil. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281593 | Electrical Treatment Of Bronchial Constriction - Devices, systems and methods for treating bronchial constriction related to asthma, anaphylaxis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease wherein the treatment includes stimulating selected nerve fibers responsible for smooth muscle dilation at a selected region within a patient's neck, thereby reducing the magnitude of constriction of bronchial smooth muscle. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281594 | Peripheral Nerve Field Stimulation Control - Peripheral nerve field stimulation (PNFS) may be controlled based on detected physiological effects of the PNFS, which may be an efferent response to the PNFS. In some examples, a closed-loop therapy system may include a sensing module that senses a physiological parameter of the patient, which may be indicative of the patient's response to the PNFS. Based on a signal generated by the sensing module, the PNFS may be activated, deactivated or modified. Example physiological parameters of the patient include heart rate, respiratory rate, electrodermal activity, muscle activity, blood flow rate, sweat gland activity, pilomotor reflex, or thermal activity of the patient's body. In some examples, a patient pain state may be detected based on a signal generated by the sensing module, and therapy may be controlled based on the detection of the pain state. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281595 | PROGRAMMING TECHNIQUES FOR PERIPHERAL NERVE FIELD STIMULATION - Peripheral nerve field stimulation (PNFS) delivered by a medical device to a patient may be programmed by specifying one or more characteristics of a stimulation field generated by the IMD to provide the PNFS. The characteristics of the stimulation field may include, for example, a direction of stimulation within the field, a breadth of the stimulation field, a focus of stimulation within the stimulation field, a depth of the stimulation field relative to a reference point, such as the epidermis of the patient, or a nerve fiber diameter selection. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281596 | PROGRAMMING TECHNIQUES FOR PERIPHERAL NERVE FIELD STIMULATION - A therapy program for peripheral nerve field stimulation (PNFS) may be selected based on user input indicating a desired therapeutic effect for a user-specified region in which a patient feels pain. In other examples, PNFS may be programmed based on input from a user selecting at least one region from among a plurality of regions in which the patient experiences pain. In addition, the PNFS may be programmed based on user input defining an aspect of PNFS for the selected region, such as a relative intensity of PNFS delivered to at least two selected regions, a balance of PNFS between at least two regions, a desired shift in PNFS from a first region to a second region, or an extent to which a first stimulation field within a first region overlaps with a second stimulation field in a second region. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281597 | TRANSCEIVER FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING SWITCHABLE SERIES-TO-PARALLEL TANK CIRCUIT - An improved transceiver circuit particularly useful in an inductively coupled wireless communication system such as an implantable medical device system is disclosed. The improved transceiver circuit is switchable to assume a serial L-C configuration in the transmit mode and a parallel L-C configuration in the receive mode, but does not require high voltage switches. A low-drive transmitter and a high-input-impedance receiver are used, which reduces power consumption in receive mode, while still maintaining good transmitter performance. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281598 | CONDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR REMOTE MEDICAL DEVICE PROGRAMMING - A remote programming method is provided for safe and secure programming of a medical device at a remote location. A centralized programming instrument for use by a clinician or third party is provided with a network communication connection with a remote external medical device, such as a home programmer or monitor. The external medical device is located in the vicinity of a patient having an implantable medical device (IMD) and is in bi-directional telemetric communication with the IMD to allow instructions received from the centralized programming instrument to be transferred to the IMD. The remote programming method used for transferring information between the central programming instrument and an IMD includes measures to promote safe and secure remote programming of the IMD, which measures may include authorization requirements, programming condition requirements, implementation of programmed data requirements, and maintenance of a remote programming log. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281599 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF RAPID, COMFORTABLE PARAMETER SWITCHING IN SPINAL CORD STIMULATION - A system and method for rapidly switching stimulation parameters of a Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) system increases the number of stimulation parameter sets that may be tested during a fitting procedure, or alternatively, reduces the time required for the fitting procedure. The switching method comprises selecting a new stimulation parameter set, and setting the initial stimulation levels to levels at or just below an estimated perception threshold of the patient. The estimated perception level is based on previous stimulation results. The stimulation level is then increased to determine a minimum stimulation level for effective stimulation, and/or an optimal stimulation level, and/or a maximum stimulation level, based on patient perception. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281600 | IMPLANTABLE BIOMEDICAL DEVICE INCLUDING AN ELECTRICAL ENERGY GENERATOR - Disclosed is an implantable biomedical device that incorporates an electrical energy generator. The electrical energy generator harvests kinetic energy from voluntary motor activity of a human or animal and converts the kinetic energy to usable electrical energy which is used to power the biomedical device. In certain embodiments, the electrical energy generator includes a housing, an electrical conductor, an electromagnetically active mass, springs connecting the mass to the housing, and electrically circuitry to generate a usable source of electrical power for the biomedical device. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281601 | EXTERNAL PRESENTATION OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION PARAMETERS - The invention is directed to a trial stimulation system and, more particularly, an indicator device within the trial stimulation system that measures and indicates energy amplitude levels for electrical stimulation therapy delivered to a patient. Specifically, the indicator device simultaneously indicates energy amplitude levels, such as electrical voltage, current, power, and electrical charge, as well as the polarity for each electrode in real-time without affecting the therapy delivered to the patient. For example, the indicator device may activate a number of lights in an array of lights in proportion to the measured energy amplitude level for each electrode and may activate a green LED or a red LED when a corresponding electrodes acts as a source or sink, respectively. In this manner, the indicator device allows a clinician to visualize the electrical fields produced by each electrode and, therefore, may assist stimulation steering, trouble shooting, and lead placement. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281602 | Static electric therapy apparatus - A static electric therapy apparatus is disclosed which does not leave a user discomfort. The static electric therapy apparatus comprises an electric potential generator connected to an alternating power supply, and an output terminal which provides a human body with electric potential by touching the human body, which output terminal is connected to the electric potential generator; and the static electric therapy apparatus is characterized in that it further comprises a ground wire connected to the output terminal; a direct-current power supply applying negative voltage to the output terminal, which is connected to the output terminal in series; and a transfer switch which switches the case where the output terminal is connected to the potential generator and the case where the output terminal is connected to the ground wire, the switch being connected to the output terminal. Also, the static electric therapy apparatus comprises an electric potential generator connected to an alternating power supply, and an output terminal which provides a human body with electric potential by touching the human body, which output terminal is connected to the electric potential generator, and the static electric therapy apparatus is characterized in that it farther comprises a voltage reducer which gradually decreases the voltage applied to the output terminal when finishing the use of the static electric therapy apparatus. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281603 | IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR EMI FILTERED FEEDTHRU - Disclosed herein is an implantable pulse generator. The implantable pulse generator may include a header, a can and a feedthru. The header may include a lead connector block electrically coupled to a first conductor. The can may be coupled to the header and include a wall and an electronic component electrically coupled to a second conductor and housed within the wall. The feedthru may be mounted in the wall and include a header side with a first electrically conductive tab and a can side with a second electrically conductive tab electrically coupled to the first tab. The first tab is electrically coupled to the first conductor and the second tab is electrically coupled to the second conductor. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281604 | CONTROLLING A PHOTO-BIOLOGICAL EFFECT WITH LIGHT - A device for generating at least blue light comprises a control circuit ( | 2009-11-12 |
20090281605 | ENGAGEMENT TOOL FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - Systems for adjusting a position of an implanted medical device within a patient include an engagement tool configured to couple to the implanted medical device. The engagement tool adjusts the position of the medical device when coupled to the implanted medical device. Methods of adjusting a position of an implanted medical device within a patient include locating the implanted medical device, coupling an engagement tool to the medical device, and adjusting a position of the engagement tool to adjust the position of the medical device. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281606 | STEROID ELUTING PACING TIP ELECTRODE - An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) including a set of leads having electrodes disposed therein. The electrodes may include a weld electrode connected to an internal wire of the lead and the ICD and a tip electrode. The tip electrode may have a set of grooves or cut out regions in its outer surface to provide edge effects for currents applied through the tip electrode. The grooves or cut out regions may form gaps in the surface of the tip electrode exposing a medical compound that is housed within the tip electrode. The medical compound may elute through the gaps. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281607 | LEAD ASSEMBLY AND RELATED METHODS - Defibrillator lead designs and methods for manufacturing a lead having attachment between a fibrosis-limiting material covering, a shocking coil electrode, and an implantable lead body are disclosed herein. An electrode coil fitting is disposed within the shocking coil electrode. In an option, the fibrosis limiting material extends past the ends of the electrode coil, and is wrapped between the coil electrode and the electrode coil member. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281608 | MEDICAL LEAD COIL CONDUCTOR WITH SPACER ELEMENT - Medical electrical leads equipped with spacer elements and configured for use during medical procedures such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are disclosed. An illustrative medical electrical lead includes a proximal connector, an insulated lead body including at least one electrode, a helically coiled conductor wire, and a helically coiled spacer element interstitially disposed between adjacent turns of the conductor wire. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281609 | TWO-STEP HEART VALVE IMPLANTATION - A two-part implantable heart valve and procedure are disclosed that allow expansion and positioning of a first part of the implantable heart valve having a temporary or transient valvular structure. A second part of the implantable heart valve is deployed within the first part and attaches thereto. The valvular structure of the second part then acts to function as the heart valve replacement. A tool or system is provided for determining an adequate percutaneous heart valve size for a given stenotic valve. A balloon can be inflated inside the stenotic valve to a desired pressure. When this pressure is reached an angiographic image is taken and the balloon diameter is measured at a waist area created by contact between the balloon and the stenotic valve. The diameter represents the minimum percutaneous heart valve diameter to be implanted. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281610 | DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH LOW LONGITUDINAL COMPRESSIBILITY - An improved delivery system for an implantable medical device includes a retention sheath having a proximal end, a distal end, and an inner lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The implantable medical device is disposed within the inner lumen of the retention sheath, which restrains the implantable medical device. A plurality of substantially incompressible rings are disposed within the inner lumen of the retention sheath in a stacked co-axial configuration that extends from the proximal end of the retention sheath in a pre-deployment position to a proximal end of the implantable medical device. Each ring in the plurality of separate rings abuts at least a portion of an adjacent ring. The plurality of separate rings is configured to prevent the implantable medical device from moving toward a proximal end of the retention sheath when the retention sheath is moved from the pre-deployment position to a deployment position. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281611 | SLIDING RESTRAINT STENT DELIVERY SYSTEMS - Medical device and methods for delivery or implantation of prostheses within hollow body organs and vessels or other luminal anatomy are disclosed. The subject technologies may be used in the treatment of atherosclerosis in stenting procedures. For such purposes, a self-expanding stent may be deployed in connection with an angioplasty procedure with a sliding restraint based delivery system adapted for simplified use. In the system, the sliding restraint is sized, in coordination with a fixed sleeve accepting a core wire to actuate the restraint to effect an anchoring function with the sleeve so that the stent is not inadvertently advanced during deployment. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281612 | BALLOON CATHETER STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH RIDGES - A balloon catheter and stent delivery system for medical treatment of a patient includes a balloon having a pattern of ridges in an initial deflated state. The ridges may cooperate with structural elements of a stent crimped onto the balloon, to increase and enhance longitudinal retention of the stent while the catheter system is advanced or withdrawn. Upon inflation, the balloon recovers to an inflated shape having a cylindrical working portion. The balloon catheter thus provides for uniform expansion of the stent when the balloon is inflated. The present invention also tends to protect the leading or distal end of the stent during advancement, and tends to protect the leading or distal end of the stent during advancement, and tends to protect the proximal end of the stent during any withdrawal of the catheter system. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281613 | Endoprostheses - An endoprosthesis includes a body defining a flow passage therethrough. The body is capable of maintaining patency in a blood vessel and includes iron or an alloy thereof. The body has a nano-structured surface comprising iron oxide in which the individual nano-structures have a height to thickness aspect ratio of at least 5:1. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281614 | Sinus patches for replacing defective sinuses at the aortic root - Sinus patches for replacing defective sinuses at the aortic sinus include a flat, flexible, domed piece of wall material which, except for possibly having pleats, has a three-dimensional dome shape, which is determined by the wall material itself. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281615 | STENT WITH TABS AND HOLES FOR DRUG DELIVERY - A stent can include a tubular body, a plurality of circumferential serpentine bands, a plurality of connectors extending between immediately adjacent serpentine bands, and a plurality of tabs. The plurality of tabs include peak tabs and trough tabs. Each peak tab and each trough tab have a first end and a second end wherein only the first end is engaged to a serpentine band, each peak tab extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis from a peak on a serpentine band toward a peak on an immediately distal serpentine band. Each trough tab extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis from a trough on a serpentine band toward a trough on an immediately proximal serpentine band. Each serpentine band defines a plurality of holes and each tab defines a plurality of holes. The holes are constructed and arranged to contain a therapeutic agent | 2009-11-12 |
20090281616 | VASCULAR PROSTHESIS - A vascular endoprosthesis ( | 2009-11-12 |
20090281617 | Sleeves for Positioning a Stent on a Delivery Balloon Catheter System - The present invention provides one or more sleeves for positioning a stent on a stent delivery system, such as a balloon catheter. The sleeve wraps around the catheter. One or two sleeves are positioned adjacent to one or both ends of the stent without overlapping with the stent. One end of the sleeve may be attached to the catheter or the balloon. The outer diameter of the end of the sleeve adjacent to the stent may be no greater than the outer diameter of the unexpanded stent. As a result, the profile of the stent delivery system is not increased by the sleeves of the present invention. If the stent dislodges during delivery to the target site, the stent can come to rest on the wall of the sleeve. Because the sleeves are positioned adjacent to the stent without overlapping with the stent, the stent is able to expand without being restrained by the sleeves. In addition, except for the stent, no other component of the stent delivery system, including the sleeves, comes into contact with the vessel wall when the balloon is expanded. This minimizes damages caused by the stent delivery system to the vessel. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281618 | Prosthetic Heart Valve Devices and Methods of Valve Replacement - A stented valve of two or more leaflets made of pericardium or other material having a relatively thin profile at the annulus. The leaflet surfaces are attached via chords to a stent frame, where the chords are positioned to mimic the native valve anatomy and functionality. In particular, the valves of one exemplary embodiment of the invention are sized to replace a mitral valve and therefore the chords are arranged to prevent prolapse of the leaflets into the atrium. The stented valve has a relatively short height at its annulus due to the positioning of the chords. In addition, the stented valve is capable of being crimped to a small enough size that it can be delivered to the implantation site via transcatheter delivery systems and methods. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281619 | Low Profile Delivery System for Transcatheter Heart Valve - A heart valve delivery apparatus includes a valve carrying member. A prosthetic valve is crimped onto the valve carrying member at a location that is distal or proximal to the balloon member, thereby providing a smaller profile delivery apparatus. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281620 | NON-INVASIVE POWER ADJUSTABLE INTRAOCULAR LENS - An improved multifocal design for an ocular implant is provided. This ocular implant includes an intraocular lens (IOL) and a number of haptics. The IOL passes optical energy. A microstructure within the IOL places the IOL under tension. The microstructure is operable to be broken in a controlled manner to release tension in the IOL and reshape the IOL. This may be done at any time post operatively and in conjunction with wavefront aberrometry to provide improved results. The haptics mechanically couple to the IOL in order to position and secure the IOL within the eye. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281621 | Punctal anchor for lacrimal stent, introducer tool and method - A device and method for performing stenting and intubation of the nasolacrimal system to treat for stenosis or obstruction includes a semi-rigid tubular guide sleeve through which a flexible tubular stent, having an oversized length, is inserted from a punctal opening into the nasal cavity. The guide sleeve is removed and a resilient, radially expandable punctal anchor is placed through the punctal opening, to contact the stent and hold it in place. An introducer device having a hollow tubular core and a coaxially mounted, axially translatable outer sheath is provided to facilitate placement of the anchor. The anchor is stretched over the distal end of the core and the stent threaded into the central lumen of the core. Once the anchor is in place, the sheath is translated to push the anchor off the distal end. Excess stent at its proximal end is then trimmed off. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281622 | Nasal fluid relief plug - A nasal plug for preventing excessive fluid discharge from a nasal passage includes a plug element fabricated from an absorbent material. The plug element has a size and configuration adapted and constructed to fit into a human nasal passage. A shaft portion extends from the plug element. The shaft portion is formed as an extension of the plug element and is fabricated from the same material as the plug element. A flexible sheathing is provided on the shaft portion. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281623 | CUSTOMIZATION OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A custom implantable medical device (IMD) may be formed based on an image of a structure of a patient, such as the head of the patient. The custom implantable medical device may include a custom member that at least partially encapsulates a module of the IMD, or may include a custom housing that encloses a module of the IMD. The custom member or custom housing may be constructed to conform to a shape determined based on the image. The image of the head of the patient may include an image of a skull of the patient, an image of a scalp of the patient, or an image of vascular or neurological structures in the head of the patient. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281624 | SYNTHETIC BIOCOMPATIBLE MATERIAL HAVING AN IMPROVED OXIDATION RESISTANCE, PROCESS FOR PREPARING THE SAME AND PROSTHETIC ARTICLES OBTAINED THEREFROM - Biocompatible material, in particular prosthetic material with improved resistance to oxidation, comprising UHMWPE and one or more antioxidants selected from the group consisting of lipoic acid, its analogs and derivatives, Vitamin C, coenzyme Q10, glutathione. It is also disclosed a process to prepare such material. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281625 | EXPANDABLE INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT - An expandable intervertebral implant includes a bone graft implant dimensioned for insertion within an intervertebral space defined between adjacent vertebrae, able to vertically elevate and expand a plurality of ribs into the surrounding bone. The expandable intervertebral implant has a tubular outer body portion having a cylindrical axial bore with a triangular or elliptical cross-section and a plurality of ribs disposed on its outer body dimensioned to fit snugly within the space and an expansion cylinder with a triangular or elliptical cross-section slidably mounted within the axial bore of the tubular outer body. The tubular outer body portion of the expandable intervertebral implant permits the expansion and retraction of the ribs into or out of the surrounding bone as the expansion cylinder rotates. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281626 | IMPLANT DEVICE AND METHOD FOR INTERSPINOUS DISTRACTION - Improved implant devices and methods for interspinous distraction distribute the load of interspinous distraction so that the entire load is not bearing on the interspinous surfaces. The implant device has a narrow midsection and two wider, flange-shaped outer sections. The wider, flange-shaped outer sections can be tightened to bear against the thicker bony portions of the spinous processes to support some of the load. Optionally, the wider, flange-shaped outer sections can be configured with pins that will penetrate and engage the thicker bony portions of the spinous processes, which will increase the load bearing potential of the wider, flange-shaped outer sections. Additionally, the wider, flange-shaped outer sections and the pins will help to stabilize the joint. The joint stabilization may help to prevent further dislocation of the vertebra that occurs with spondylolisthesis. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281627 | Filling material for filling a vertebral body cavity, intervertebral prosthetic disc nucleus and vertebroplasty prosthesis comprising such a material - The invention concerns in particular an invertebral prosthetic disc nucleus ( | 2009-11-12 |
20090281628 | APPARATUS FOR RESTORATION OF THE SPINE AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - The subject disclosure are directed to systems, apparatuses, devices and methods for vertebral and spinal correction. In some embodiments, an expansible implant is provided which may be inserted between two vertebrae, for instance, for maintenance and/or restoration of the distance/space between vertebrae. The implant may include first and second opposed plates that are intended to move away from one another, and which engage portions of vertebrae via a recess provided for on a bearing surface of the plates. The implant may additionally include at least first and second opposed end members, where at least one of the end members includes an aperture configured for receiving at least a portion of a retaining element adapted for retaining the implant in an expanded configuration once the implant is expanded. Methods of treatment and methods of use of such implants for the alleviation of back pain (for example) are also provided herein. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281629 | Intervertebral disc prosthesis - The invention concerns an intervertebral disc prosthesis ( | 2009-11-12 |
20090281630 | SHOULDER PROSTHESIS AND SET OF INSTRUMENTS FOR THE IMPLANTATION THEREOF - This shoulder prosthesis, comprising a glenoid element ( | 2009-11-12 |
20090281631 | ULNAR HEAD PROSTHESIS SYSTEM - An ulnar prosthesis assembly comprising a head formed with a curved surface extending between opposed ends and a stem. One of the ends of the head has an attachment bore defined therein. The attachment bore generally has a first diameter and includes an attachment groove thereabout with a second diameter greater than the first diameter to define at least one attachment shoulder. The stem has a stem body extending between a proximal end configured for implantation in a target bone and a distal end configured to be received in the attachment bore. The distal end has a locking flange extending radially therefrom. The locking flange defines a locking shoulder having a diameter greater than the first diameter such that upon receipt in the attachment bore, the locking shoulder engages the attachment shoulder. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281632 | ULNAR HEAD PROSTHESIS SYSTEM - An ulnar prosthesis assembly comprising a head formed with a curved surface extending between opposed ends and a stem. One of the ends of the head has an attachment bore defined therein. The attachment bore generally has a first diameter and includes an attachment groove thereabout with a second diameter greater than the first diameter to define at least one attachment shoulder. The stem has a stem body extending between a proximal end configured for implantation in a target bone and a distal end configured to be received in the attachment bore. The distal end has a locking flange extending radially therefrom. The locking flange defines a locking shoulder having a diameter greater than the first diameter such that upon receipt in the attachment bore, the locking shoulder engages the attachment shoulder. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281633 | POROUS CERAMIC MATERIAL AND METHOD OF PRODUCING THE SAME - Provision of a porous ceramic material which rapidly induces bone tissue formation and has practical strength. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281634 | GUT PROSTHETIC - A prosthetic device for the intestine is disclosed that bypasses an enterocutaneous fistula so that the intestinal tract can properly function without bowel contents leaking onto the skin. The prosthetic device includes means to securely connect and seal it to the intestine, means to push bowel contents through it, and means to prevent the backflow of bowel contents through the digestive tract. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281635 | ANTIMICROBIAL MEDICAL DEVICES - According to an aspect of the present invention, medical devices are provided whose surfaces are partially covered with a coating that further comprises silver nanoparticles. Other aspects of the invention pertain to methods of making and using such medical devices. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281636 | WALKING ASSIST DEVICE - Provided is a walking assist device including a load transmit portion, a ground contacting portion capable of using a commercially available shoe, and a leg link disposed therebetween. The ground contacting portion is composed of a footboard for supporting the shoe thereon. The footboard is provided with a connection member connected to the leg link and a front holding member and a rear holding member for stably holding a front vamp portion and a rear vamp portion, respectively, of the shoe in an anteroposterior direction. When a pressure sensor for detecting a stepping force from a user is provided in the footboard, the front holding member is located ahead of the pressure sensor. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281637 | VACUUM ATTACHMENT SYSTEM - A vacuum socket system pertaining to the field of prosthetics wherein an enhanced suspension mechanism is provided by incorporating a vacuum source, circuitry, and a power source. A virtually air-tight seal between residual limb and prosthesis allows a vacuum fit to be generated via a vacuum source. The vacuum source is in constant interaction with circuitry and software for a means of vacuum pressure control, data recordation, and other means. A sound dampening method is employed to lessen both the sound and vibration generated from the vacuum source. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281638 | PROSTHETIC FOOT - Prosthetic foot, of the type with energy recovery, comprising at least one spring blade ( | 2009-11-12 |
20090281639 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROCESS CONTROL CONFIGURATION CHANGES - A method and system for process control configuration changes are described. In one embodiment, a method for switching from a first control algorithm to a second control algorithm in a continuous process control system is described. The method, in the one embodiment, includes executing the first control algorithm, determining to switch from the first control algorithm to the second control algorithm, and executing the second control algorithm. For at least a first execution of the second control algorithm, at least one state variable used in the second control algorithm is adjusted. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281640 | BASEPOINT ESTIMATOR - A method of estimating a basepoint includes receiving a plurality of goals, wherein each goal has a desired value, receiving a plurality of sensor feedback signals from a controlled system, and receiving a plurality of predicted output values of the controlled system from a mathematical model. A desired change for a plurality of basepoint values is estimated in response to the goals, the feedback, and the predicted output values. An actual change in basepoint values is calculated in response to a plurality of limits and the desired change for the plurality of basepoint values. The desired change is modified as necessary to hold the limits. The actual change in basepoint values is combined with last pass values of the plurality of basepoint values to produce an updated basepoint estimate. | 2009-11-12 |
20090281641 | MULTIVARIABLE CONTROL SYSTEM - A method for controlling a multivariable system according to one non-limiting embodiment includes receiving a plurality of limits, receiving a first quantity of goals each having a desired value, and receiving sensor feedback. The method further includes estimating a basepoint in response to the first quantity of goals, the plurality of limits, and the sensor feedback, wherein the basepoint includes a set of values corresponding to an equilibrium point at which a predetermined amount of enabled limits are met and a second quantity of goals are fulfilled according to a goal prioritization scheme. Predicted values from a mathematical model are compared to the sensor feedback, and the estimated basepoint is selectively adjusted in response to a difference between the predicted values and the sensor feedback in order to reduce the difference. | 2009-11-12 |