47th week of 2011 patent applcation highlights part 52 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20110288541 | METHOD OF PERCUTANEOUS LOCALIZED OR FOCAL TREATMENT OF PROSTATE LESIONS USING RADIO FREQUENCY - The present invention is related to a method of realizing percutaneous (transperineal) ablation of prostate tumor regions, using a radio frequency based coiled device. A bipolar electrode assembly comprising an outer helical electrode and an inner electrode arranged concentric with the outer helical electrode, wherein prior to applying radio frequency energy, at least the outer helical electrode is inserted percutaneously into the prostate. An image of the prostate and of the outer helical electrode as inserted is acquired, such that the outer helical electrode is visualized on the image. A graphical representation of a target position of the bipolar electrode assembly is superposed on the image. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288542 | ELECTROSURGICAL SYSTEM - An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator ( | 2011-11-24 |
20110288543 | HIGH FREQUENCY ALTERNATING CURRENT MEDICAL DEVICE WITH SELF-LIMITING CONDUCTIVE MATERIAL AND METHOD - A high frequency alternating current medical device and method of using such is disclosed. High frequency alternating current medical device comprises a power source, an electric field generator, a self-limiting conductive material electrical component, at least one probe or needle-type projection, and at least two conductive segments located on probe or needle-type projection. At least two conductive segments are electrically connected to electric field generator so that an electric field is created between conductive segments, which induces an electrical current, which generates heat, and causes a certain desired precise cell injury. Self-limiting conductive material electrical component allows such precise cell injury because it limits electrical current through target tissue. Invention may be used in medical, dental, or veterinary applications. Exemplary embodiments include cosmetic applications, treatment of wrinkles, remodeling of subcutaneous tissue, treatment of muscle spasms, and others. Medical device can be small, hand-held, and easily manipulated to perform surgery. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288544 | MEDICAL DEVICE FOR TISSUE ABLATION - A medical device for ablating tissues within a heart chamber comprising a first guiding member intended to be introduced in the hollow structure surrounding the left atrium of the patient and a second ablating member comprising an ablation electrode mounted at the distal end or tip of catheter. Both, the head of the guiding member and the tip of the ablating member are magnetised and can enter into magnetic coupling when their distal ends are brought in close contact. Once the magnetic coupling is achieved, the tip of the first member is guided by moving the guiding member. Preferably, the guiding member includes sensors enabling to monitor physiological parameters during the intervention. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288545 | Method and Device for Ablation of Cancer and Resistance to New Cancer Growth - Methods and devices designed to eliminate and/or ablate cancer or other abnormal growths of cells or tissues or eliminate and/or ablate cells or tissue with abnormal functions. In particular, using sub-microsecond electric pulses to treat cancer cells by, inter alia, inducing programmed cell death or other type of cell death. These methods and devices are expected to greatly improve the prevention, treatment and management of cancer by increasing the effectiveness of cancer treatments and development of resistance to new cancer growth. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288546 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND METHOD - A surgical instrument includes a jaw assembly having a first jaw that includes a support structure with an opening, an electrically insulative material disposed on the support structure, and an operative element for applying energy to tissue, wherein the electrically insulative material extends through the opening of the support structure to thereby secure the electrically insulative material to the support structure. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288547 | Electrosurgical Plenum - An electrosurgical probe having a plenum which prevents contact of the active electrode with tissue, while simultaneously allowing a fluid/interfacing agents to contact the active electrode. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288548 | COOLING ELEMENT FOR ELECTROSURGERY - A cooling member for a cautery surgical instrument such as a surgical forceps including a pair of elongate arms joined at an end so as to provide for resilient compressible movement of the arms between a normally open position and a squeezed closed position. The cooling member provides for conduction of heat away from an electrode tip and includes a first portion having a first diameter and a second portion spaced away from the first portion that transitions from the first diameter to at least one smaller diameter section. A socket is disposed within each arm of the forceps. The socket includes a longitudinal blind hole that is sized so as to releasably receive the smaller diameter section of the second portion, and a catch for engaging a portion of the arm. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288549 | EXTERNAL FIXATION SYSTEM - An orthopedic fixation ring for an external fixator has a ring or a ring-segment extending around a center axis. The ring comprises a first surface running perpendicular to the center axis, a second surface which is parallel to the first surface, and a plurality of spaced apart through openings running parallel to the center axis and extending through the fixation plate. The fixation plate has at least a third surface which is parallel to the first surface spaced outwardly thereof with respect to the center axis. A further set of through openings extends from the first surface to the third surface. A fourth surface may be provided which is axially displaced from the second surface with respect to the center axis. The ring preferably is circular or part-circular and is molded from carbon fiber reinforced PEEK. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288550 | DEVICES, IMPLEMENTS AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF A MULTI-AXIS JOINT - A system, devices and methods for performing an osteotomy on a bone of a multi-axis joint are provided. A cutting guide system is provided for performing one or more cuts to the bone, using the articular surfaces of the articulating bones as a reference. If desired, a prosthesis can be used to emulate the osteotomy and substitute for a damaged articular surface of a bone of a multiaxis joint. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288551 | Maxillo-Mandibular Fixation Apparatus And Method - The present disclosure provides for an apparatus and method for supporting a maxillo-mandibular fixation by securing the maxillary teeth and mandibular teeth together in a faster and less harmful manner, includes a floss-wire component for circumdental wiring a tooth initially by flossing the interproximal space of a tooth therewith and thereafter causing circumdental wiring of a tooth when the floss-wire component is pulled, the floss-wire component having a distal portion composed of a floss-like material and a proximal portion composed of a wire-like material, a clip having an anchoring point and grasping point, the clip interacts with the floss-wire component, thereby causing the clip and the floss-wire to secure tightly to a tooth, and a bar positioned between the buccal surface of one or more teeth and one or more clips, the bar having a plurality of indices to increase the stabilization of one or more clips. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288552 | MILLING APPARATUS FOR IMPLANTING A JOINT PROSTHESIS - A novel and improved elbow prosthesis and method of implanting same including a novel aggregate prosthesis having a retaining system in conjunction with a set plate. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288553 | METHOD AND DEVICES FOR TREATING SPINAL STENOSIS - Systems and methods for treating spinal stenosis include endoscopic access devices and bone removal devices used to perform a foraminotomy or other bone removal procedures. Some of the bone removal devices include expandable members which may be used to control the forced exerted and/or position of the bone removal mechanism, and to protect neurovascular structures and other soft tissue structures from the bone removal mechanism. Other bone removal devices include a trephine with a viewing window and a guide wire lumen used to position the trephine at a target tissue site using an anchored wire. The viewing window may be used to monitor structures or tissues adjacent to the target tissue site. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288554 | Disposable Cylindrical Cutter - A single use bone cutter comprised of two concentric cylinders and a series of insert blades or cutter disc is described. The cutter blades or cutter disc is preferably positioned at the distal end of the cutter. The bone cutter also comprises a guide rod that aids in the line of sight when using the cutter device. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288555 | Spherical osteotomy device and Method - A spherical osteotomy device for the efficient surgical sectioning of bone includes a part spherical body and a shank. The part spherical body includes an outer surface, an inner surface, a cutting end between the outer surface and the inner surface, an axis extending from the outer surface through the inner surface, and an origin on the axis. The inner surface has a substantially constant radius extending from the origin. The shank extends outwardly from the outer surface of the body and is substantially aligned with the axis. Other embodiments of an osteotomy device are described. Also provided is a method of using the osteotomy device for performing spherical osteotomies. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288556 | Apparatus for Sizing a Facet Joint - Systems and method in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention can include an implant for positioning within a cervical facet joint for distracting the cervical spine, thereby increasing the area of the canals and openings through which the spinal cord and nerves must pass, and decreasing pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. The implant can be inserted laterally or posteriorly. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288557 | Intraocular Lens Insertion Device - There is provided an intraocular lens insertion device capable of appropriately regulating the motion of a rear supporting portion during a process of moving an intraocular lens, and reducing the possibility of reoperation being required after the intraocular lens is inserted into an eye. An intraocular lens insertion device | 2011-11-24 |
20110288558 | DEPLOYMENT HANDLE FOR AN INTRODUCER - A handle for an implant deployment device converts rotational movement into longitudinal movement in order to provide controlled release of one or more trigger wires. The handle also allows the trigger wire to be withdrawn into the device so that it does not need to be separately removed. A preferred handle includes a rotatable portion ( | 2011-11-24 |
20110288559 | System and Method for the Simultaneous Automated Bilateral Delivery of Pressure Equalization Tubes - Systems and methods for treating a patient having a head with a first ear and a second ear, function by aligning a first device with a tympanic membrane of the first ear; inputting a command to an input device operatively coupled to the first device to generate a signal; and actuating the first device in response to the signal so as to drive a penetrator of the device through the tympanic membrane. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288560 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TELESURGERY - A system for telesurgery having a plurality of operative end units respectively linked to remote master end units. All the master and operative end units of the system consist of a common module having a base plate to which a slender shaft is slidingly attached. A slender shaft is further rotatable about its axis as well as about a center point disposed above the distal surface of the base plate. Surgical effectors, cameras and/or LEDs can be attached to the distal end of slender shafts of operative end units which is distally disposed relative to the base plate of its respective operative end unit. Operating handles for manipulating and/or activating the respective slender shaft or attached surgical effectors, are attached to the proximal end and/or to the distal end of slender shafts of master end units. Linking a master end unit to its respective operative end unit is accomplished by mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic and or electric transmission, such that a slender shaft of an operative end units simultaneously move in the same movement in which the slender shaft of the respective master end unit is moved. An operator is able to manipulate a slender shaft within the lumen enclosing the surgical site within a patient's body by sliding, inclining and/or rotating the slender shaft of a remote master end unit as in a common endoscopic procedure. The operator is further able to manipulate and/or activate a surgical effector either as in an endoscopic or in an open surgery by means of the operating handles of a remote master end unit. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288561 | WIRELESS COMMUNICATION IN A ROBOTIC SURGICAL SYSTEM - In one embodiment, an insertion axis of a robotic manipulator is provided, the insertion axis including a base link operably coupled to a distal end of a manipulator arm, and a carriage link movably coupled to the base link along a lengthwise axis, the carriage link including a remote printed circuit assembly and transceiver for wirelessly communicating with a main printed circuit assembly external to the insertion axis. A robotic surgical system including such an insertion axis and a method for wireless communication in the system are also provided. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288562 | TOOLS AND METHODS FOR HARVESTING FOLLICULAR UNITS - Tools and methods are provided for removing biological units from a body surface utilizing a removal tool. The tool is of a concentric tube configuration comprising first and second elongated bodies, in which the second elongated body can be retracted into the first elongated body. The tool may incorporate retention members and mechanisms configured to impede movement of the biological unit in the direction of a distal end of the tool and to improve retention of the biological unit in the tool. Distal fluid or gas delivery may supplement a vacuum in a luminal space to help extract biological units from surrounding tissue. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288563 | CLOSURE DEVICES AND METHODS - A vessel closure device is provided that may include a guide member, one or more needle guides disposed at least partially within the guide member, and an angle adjustment member movably attached to the guide member. The needle guides may be configured to move between a first position wherein the needle guides are substantially straightened at least partially within the guide member and a second position wherein the needle guides at least partially extend radially and distally away from the guide member. The angle adjustment member may be configured to move between a first position and a second position wherein the angle adjustment member can selectively deflect the needle guides radially toward the guide member when the needle guides are in the second position. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288564 | ENDOSCOPIC SUTURING MACHINE - An endoscopic suturing machine, having a housing with a housing upper part for receiving drives for the stitch-forming tools, a housing shaft adjoining the housing upper part for a receiving device for transmitting the motions generated by the drives to the stitch-forming tools, which have at least one needle bar guided in the housing shaft with a thread-carrying needle and a shuttle cooperating with same for forming stitches. The shuttle is received by a shuttle bar. The needle bar ( | 2011-11-24 |
20110288565 | TISSUE FIXATION - Methods and apparatuses are provided for tissue fixation. In some aspects, an apparatus includes: a carrier member having a first part, a second part, and a junction therebetween; first attachment members protruding at a first angle from the first part toward the junction, where the first attachment members are configured to engage a first portion of connective tissue for attaching the first part to the first portion; and second attachment members protruding from the second part, where the second attachment members are configured to engage a second portion of connective tissue for attaching the second part to the second portion. When the first part is attached to the first portion and the second part is attached to the second portion, the first portion and the second portion are limited in being pulled apart from one another during physiological use of the connective tissue. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288566 | TISSUE STABILIZATION SYSTEM - Methods and systems are provided for tissue stabilization. Some aspects include a carrier member having a length, width, and thickness, wherein the length and width are each at least two times greater than the thickness; attachment members extending from the carrier member and that engage connective tissue; and stabilizing members, each of which can couple a respective attachment member to the carrier member and is substantially positionally fixed relative to the carrier member. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288567 | IMPLANTABLE PROSTHESIS - An implantable prosthesis is provided for repairing an anatomical defect, such as a tissue or muscle defect, that promotes tissue of muscle ingrowth into the prosthesis and subsequently strengthens the area of the defect. The prosthesis is easy to manipulate and may be designed to minimize the incidence of postoperative adhesions between a portion of the prosthesis and surrounding tissue or organs. The prosthesis may include one or more layers of biologically compatible material that is suitable for repairing a defect. The prosthesis may include a support assembly to facilitate manipulation and deployment of the prosthesis. The support assembly may include a stiffening member that is surrounded by material that separates the stiffening member from the layer of material. The stiffening member may be located in a sleeve of material, such as mesh fabric. The stiffening member may be formed from a resorbable material. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288568 | IMPLANTABLE PROSTHESIS - An implantable prosthesis for repairing a tissue or muscle wall defect. The prosthesis includes a perforated sheet of a biologically compatible material to cover the tissue or muscle wall defect. The perforated sheet has a plurality of perforations extending through the sheet. The perforations may be distributed across the perforated sheet in a non-grid arrangement. The perforations may be non-uniformly distributed across the perforated sheet in groups of perforations arranged in a plurality of concentric circular patterns. Each perforation may be separated from an adjacent perforation by a web of material having a length between adjacent perforations that is a predetermined multiple of the diameter of the perforations. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288569 | NERVE REGENERATION-INDUCING TUBE - The present invention provides a nerve regeneration-inducing tube in which collagen having excellent adhesive property, cell growth property and differentiation inducing property to nerve cells is used as a scaffold for the nerve regeneration. The nerve regeneration-inducing tube is characterized in using the collagen which is made the concentration of sodium chloride contained therein not more than 2.0% by weight or, preferably, 0.1 to 1.5% by weight in a dry state. Purification of collagen is carried out by means of an isoelectric precipitation where the pH is 6.0 or higher and is lower than 10.0. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288570 | ANASTOMOSIS DEVICE - An anastomosis device for avoiding stretching of a catheter body during an extending healing period while reducing scrap costs. The anastomosis device includes a catheter body defining a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, wherein a device body portion is operably attached at the proximal end portion. The device body portion includes a funnel shaped aperture connecting the device body portion to the proximal end portion. The device body portion provides access into the catheter body so as to allow for placement of a tension cable or flexible core tubing within the catheter body following inspection and verification of an overmold between the device body portion and catheter body. Placement of the tension cable or flexible core tubing subsequent to overmolding reduces scrap costs while eliminating stretching of the catheter body. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288571 | Surgical clip and surgical method for treating an aneurysm - The present invention relates to a surgical clip comprising a first arm and a second arm, the first and second arms having first and second clamping surfaces facing each other, and the first and second arms being mounted for movement relative to each other, and further comprising a distance retaining device for keeping the first and second arms permanently spaced from each other. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288572 | RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - The devices and methods described herein relate to improved structures for removing obstructions from body lumens. Such devices have applicability in through-out the body, including clearing of blockages within the vasculature, by addressing the frictional resistance on the obstruction prior to attempting to translate and/or mobilize the obstruction within the body lumen | 2011-11-24 |
20110288573 | ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED MOTORIZED SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT - A surgical cutting and fastening instrument. The instrument comprises an end effector that has a shaft coupled thereto that is coupled to a robotic system. A tool mounting portion includes an electric, DC motor connected to a drive train in the shaft for powering the drive train. A power pack that comprises at least one charge-accumulating device connected to the DC motor for powering the DC motor is provided. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288574 | MEDICAL DEVICE INSERTERS AND PROCESSES OF INSERTING AND USING MEDICAL DEVICES - An apparatus for insertion of a medical device in the skin of a subject is provided, as well as methods of inserting medical devices. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288575 | WIRELESS TATTOO APPLICATOR SYSTEM - A wireless tattoo applicator system includes a wireless tattoo applicator having a frame, a wireless receiver mechanically coupled to the frame, at least one coil mechanically coupled to the frame, an armature pivotally coupled to the frame adjacent the at least one coil, a spring mounted to the frame and applying a force to the armature in a first direction, a needle assembly mechanically coupled to the armature and free to move in a reciprocating manner, a battery power supply mechanically coupled to the frame and selectively electrically couplable to the at least one coil and operable, when coupled to the at least one coil, to energize the at least one coil to create a magnetic field causing the armature to be pulled in a second direction opposite the first direction, and a control circuit communicatively coupled to the receiver and operable to couple and decouple the battery power supply from the at least one coil at a selectable frequency. A wireless tattoo applicator controller remote from the wireless tattoo applicator includes first and second antennas, an antenna selector switch communicatively coupled to the first antenna and the second antenna and operable to activate the first antenna, the second antenna, or both, a wireless transmitter communicatively coupled to the antenna selector switch, and a processor communicatively coupled to the antenna selector switch and the wireless transmitter and operable to cause the wireless transmitter to broadcast a tattoo operating instruction to the wireless tattoo applicator. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288576 | Hoffy Bougie Gastric Tube - A flexible bougie tube having a proximal end that has an opening for receiving a fluid and a distal end that is sealed for insertion into a patient having LSG a bariatric weight loss surgical procedure. The tube has a channel which extends from the opening in the proximal end to the distal end that is sealed, and at least one perforation or opening which communicates with the channel proximate the distal end of the flexible tube that is sealed to allow fluid received by the opening at the proximal end of the tube to pass thru the flexible tube. The bougie tube performs three functions of Ensuring patency of the esophagus and that the integrity of the entire stomach remains attached to the esophagus; Serving as a guide for the amount of the stomach that can be removed; and Testing the suture line integrity while remaining is place. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288577 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR JOINING ADJACENT TISSUE - Apparatuses and methods are disclosed for reducing the size of openings within a heart valve or other opening in the wall of a body lumen by implanting an elastically expanded member around the opening and then permitting the expandable member to contract. The expandable member may encircle a portion of an inflatable member, the distal end of which is inserted through the opening along with the expandable member. The inflatable member is inflated to expand the expandable member and then drawn proximally form the opening to drive projections formed on the expandable member into the valve or wall. The inflatable member is then withdrawn, allowing the expandable member to elastically contract. The inflatable member may have first and second stages, where the second stage is distal of the first stage and has a larger inflated diameter. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288578 | SELF-CENTERING CATHETER AND METHOD OF USING SAME - A self-centering central access catheter includes a multi-lumen catheter body, a first port associated with a first lumen, and a second port associated with a second lumen. The first and second ports are disposed proximate a distal end of the multi-lumen catheter. A diametrically expansible member is circumferentially coupled to a multi-lumen catheter body and positioned intermediate the first port and the second port. The diametrically expansible member comprises a first portion that is immovably fixed to the multi-lumen catheter body and a second portion that is movably coupled to the multi-lumen catheter body. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288579 | MANIPULATOR - Provided is a manipulator including a first forceps piece and a second forceps piece, which are connected by a pivotal axle and have a gripping part opened or closed on a leading end side thereof. The manipulator includes a manipulation member that is connected to a base end side of the pair of forceps pieces, and moves forward or backward in an axial direction to open or close the gripping part, a first buffer part that has a first spring constant, and undergoes elastic deformation to change a grasping force generated at the gripping part on the basis of the first spring constant and a pulling amount of the manipulation member, and a stopper that regulates the elastic deformation of the first buffer part. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288580 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VESSEL ACCESS CLOSURE - Embodiments are described for closing vascular access ports, such as arteriotomies, which involve placement and deployment of an expandable device configured to prevent blood flow across a subject arteriotomy while also keeping disturbance of intravascular flow to a minimum. Suitable prostheses may comprise one or more frames constructed from lengths of flexible materials, such as shape memory alloys or polymers. Such frames may be coupled to sheetlike or tube-like structures configured to spread loads, minimize thrombosis which may be related to intravascular flow, and maintain hemostasis. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288581 | DEVICES AND METHODS USEFUL FOR SEALING BODILY OPENINGS - Among other things, there are disclosed apparatuses and methods for medically sealing an opening in a vessel or wall. For example, in medical applications, a delivery tube is provided for insertion through a sheath into a vessel (e.g. a blood vessel). A dome-shaped seal fixed to a filament, an absorbent and/or compressible buffer, and a locking member are provided in the delivery tube. The delivery tube is configured so that it can be inserted into the vessel through a sheath. Tension is maintained on the filament to hold the seal against the tube or sheath. The sheath is pulled out, which pulls out the tube at the same time, leaving the seal over the opening in the vessel wall. The locking member compresses the buffer against the outside of the vessel and with the filament holds the seal in place against the inside of a vessel. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288582 | NEEDLE FOR SUTURING INSTRUMENT - An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An apparatus for tissue suturing comprising a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis; a pusher assembly comprising a cartridge holder having a needle rotation drive capable of releasably engaging the cartridge and rotating the suturing needle about the axis; and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle rotation drive to rotate the needle rotation drive. A method for suturing tissue comprising placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span separated tissue segments; activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the separated tissue segments; and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the separated tissue segments forming a stitch. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288583 | SELF-RETAINING SUTURES WITH BI-DIRECTIONAL RETAINERS OR UNI-DIRECTIONAL RETAINERS - Provided herein are sutures for use in a procedure applied to tissue, and methods for forming such sutures. Some sutures include bi-directional retainers, each of which can be deployed in two directions, but once deployed in one direction, resist motion in the opposite direction. Other sutures include uni-directional retainers that are conical in shape, and include tissue engaging protrusions that extend from edges and/or angled walls of the conical retainers. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288584 | TISSUE REPAIR DEVICE - A tissue repair device includes a closed knotless loop of multifilament flexible material, and a fixation member having a structure that defines a cavity that receives at least a part of the closed loop. The tissue repair device may include a flexible member traversing the loop. The loop may include a portion in which ends of the multifilament flexible material are thermally fused together. The multifilament flexible material may be braided or twisted. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288585 | HYGIENIC PACIFIER | 2011-11-24 |
20110288586 | Closed-Loop Automated Chiropractic Adjustment Device - A chiropractic evaluation, diagnostic and adjusting system includes a surface having including an elongated slot therein, a number of actuators, each including a rod and a position sensor, and a drive for translating the adjustment actuators along the length the slot. A control system determines a curvature of a spine of a patient by controlled extension and retraction of each rod into and out-of contact with the spine of the patient via the slot during translation of the adjustment actuators along the length of the slot. The control system compares the determined curvature of the spine of the patient to a predetermined spine curvature and controls the drive and each of one or more of the actuators to apply a series of corrective stroke pulses to an area of the patient's spine requiring adjustment via the rod of the actuator. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288587 | ANTERIOR LUMBAR PLATE AND METHOD - A plate of biocompatible material is provided having curvature in two planes such that it conforms to the curvature of the L5 vertebral body and to the patient's lordotic curve. Holes are provided receiving screws for anchorage in the vertebral body and sacrum. A flange or foot portion on the plate provides a wider base end area for support in the L5-S1 interspace. The foot portion is also arranged for appropriate entry angle of screws into the sacrum such as to improve anchorage in the sacrum. Anti-backout and low profile features are incorporated. The anterior lumbar plate is situated to maintain the anterior interbody bone graft in compression by resisting tensile forces during extension. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288588 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FACET FIXATION AND FUSION - A spinal fixation and fusion assembly includes a bone anchoring member, a cylindrical rod and a cap. The bone anchoring member comprises an elongated body that is made entirely of bone type material. The elongated body includes a main shaft, a conical shaped distal end, a flared out proximal end, and a through-opening extending along an axis from the proximal end to the distal end. The cylindrical rod is shaped and dimensioned to be received within the through-opening and is made entirely of metal. The cap is made entirely of metal and is attached to a proximal end of the cylindrical rod. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288589 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR LOCKING A BAND - Fastening mechanisms for releasably locking a tether are provided. The mechanisms find application with orthopedic internal-fixation implants and make the implants more reliable and their implantation less invasive. A method for releasably locking a tether comprises advancing the tether through a tether aperture in a clamp body. The tether enters the tether aperture in a first plane and exits in a second plane generally transverse to the first plane. Positioning a fastener element in a fastener aperture in the clamp body captures the tether between the clamp body and the fastener element thereby releasably locking the tether in position relative to the clamp body. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288590 | IMPLANTABLE VERTEBRAL FRAME SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS FOR SPINAL REPAIR - The invention relates generally to systems and methods for securing adjacent vertebrae in a fixed spacial relationship. In one embodiment, the system includes at least one interbody repair implant, at least one implantable vertebral frame and at least one retention member. In this embodiment, the interbody repair implant is sized to fit in an intervertebral space. The at least one implantable vertebral frame is configured to span between the adjacent vertebrae. The frame is also configured to attach to each of the adjacent vertebra to postoperatively maintain a desired spatial relationship between the vertebrae. The frame has at least one internal aperture there-through for providing visual access to at least a portion of the interbody repair implant, both intra-operatively and post-operatively. Methods of fusing two or more adjacent vertebral bodies in a portion of a spinal column are also disclosed. One such method includes the steps of inserting an interbody repair implant into a intervertebral space, securing an implantable vertebral fixation frame to the adjacent vertebral bodies over the implant, installing a retention member to the frame to cover at least a portion of the aperture, and moving a locking portion of the retention member from an unlocked position to a locked position. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288591 | MINIMAL PROFILE ANTERIOR BRACKET FOR SPINAL FIXATION - A spinal fixation device for securing to a spine includes a body having one or more longitudinal members extending between a pair of wedge members. Each wedge member defines one or more openings therethrough for the reception of a bone screw. The wedge members are disposed on opposite ends of the one or more longitudinal members. One of the wedge members is positionable within a first intervertebral space and the other wedge member is positionable within a second intervertebral space. The one or more longitudinal members define a length that spans one or more vertebrae. The one or more longitudinal members are positionable within the one or more vertebrae when the wedge members are positioned within the respective first and second intervertebral spaces to maintain the body in a minimal profile orientation relative to the spine. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288592 | Side Opening Bone Fastener System - A bone fastener assembly and a method of stabilizing a bone using such an assembly are presented. The bone assembly includes a bone fastener and a connecting member for holding a stabilizing member, such as a rod or plate, wherein the connecting member has a side-opening for accepting the rod therein. Optionally the bone fastener system also permits the bone fastener to pivot relative to a longitudinal axis of the assembly, and is provided with an armature that allows the connecting member to be offset from the longitudinal axis of the bone fastener and for the connecting member to swivel about the longitudinal axis of the assembly. By allowing the rod to be inserted into the connecting member via this side-opening the bone fastener provides a system that is particularly useful for minimally invasive surgeries. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288593 | Method for Stabilizing a Motion Segment of the Spine of a Patient - A dynamic stabilization device includes end caps that define a bore for receiving a corresponding bone screw therethrough. A spacer is engaged between each end cap and a cable passes through each of the components and is placed in tension to couple the spacer between the two end caps. The spacer is formed of a material that allows some flexible movement after implantation. An alternative stabilization device includes a spacer over-molded about two bushings defining the bores. According to a method of use, a stabilization device is passed along guide wires through a small incision. Once the device is in contact with the vertebrae, the bone screws are advanced along the guide wires and driven into the bone. One fastener bore may include a camming surface that causes distraction of the vertebrae as the bone screw is threaded into the vertebral bone. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288594 | Method and Apparatus for Performing Spinal Fusion Surgery - Implants, instruments, and methods for performing surgical procedures on the spine, including one or more of creating an operative corridor to the spine, delivering implants to the spine, fusing one or more segments of the spine, and fixing one or more segments of the spine. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288595 | BONE FIXATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USE - A bone fixation system that may be configured to move at least one of a first bone segment and a second bone segment relative to the other, is disclosed. The system may include a first lever and a second lever pivotally coupled to the first lever. The first lever may include a first handle, a first jaw extending from the first handle, and an aperture extending through the first jaw. The aperture may be configured to receive a fixation element to thereby fixedly couple the first lever to a bone plate. The second lever may include a second handle, a second jaw extending from the second handle, and an aperture extending through the second jaw. The aperture may be configured to receive a temporary fixation element to operatively couple the second lever to the second bone segment. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288596 | Support and Mounting for Surgical Objects - The invention relates to a support ( | 2011-11-24 |
20110288597 | Radiolucent Screwdriver for Orthopedic Surgery - A method of performing a surgical procedure includes providing an implant inserter comprising radiolucent materials; engaging a surgical implant with the radiolucent implant inserter; inserting the surgical implant in a body with the radiolucent implant inserter; and taking X-ray photography of the surgical implant with the radiolucent implant inserter operatively connected thereto, wherein the radiolucent implant inserter is at least partially within the body during the taking of the X-ray photography. The implant inserter may comprise a body portion comprising the radiolucent materials; and a tip portion operatively connected to the tip portion. The tip portion may comprise radiolucent materials. The tip portion may comprise steel. The radiolucent materials may comprise any of plastic carbon fibers, and thin aluminum. The implant inserter may comprise a torque capacity of at least 6 Nm. The implant inserter may comprise a screwdriver. The method may further comprise disposing the implant inserter after use. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288598 | LOCKING SCREW DEVICE - Locking screw system includes screw and female threaded receiver that provide for and lock through interference fitting, which may be from major-major and/or minor-minor diameter interference. The system may be embodied as an orthopedic implant or implant component. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288599 | Bone Anchors - A bone anchor assembly includes a bone anchor, a receiver member for receiving a spinal fixation element to be coupled to the bone anchor, and a closure mechanism to fix the spinal fixation element with respect to the receiver member. The bone anchor includes a distal shaft having a distal threaded section and a proximal threaded section. The distal threaded section has a first pitch and a first number of thread starts and the proximal threaded section has a second pitch less than the first pitch and a second number of thread starts greater than the first number of thread starts. The distal threaded section and the proximal threaded section have a constant lead. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288600 | TARGETING AN ORTHOPAEDIC IMPLANT LANDMARK - A system for targeting landmarks on devices such as surgical implants is disclosed. The system can include a field generator for generating one or more magnetic fields, an orthopaedic implant located within the magnetic fields, the implant having at least one landmark, a removable probe with a first magnetic sensor, a landmark identifier and a processor. The landmark identifier can contain a second sensor, or, alternatively, the field generator. The processor can utilize sensor data and, if desirable, field generator and other information, to generate and display the position and orientation of the sensor(s) in preferably six degrees of freedom, and thereby, to generate and display the position and orientation of the landmark(s). The system allows for blind targeting of one or more landmarks. The landmark identifier, field generator and/or drill motor may be disposed in an autoclavable housing. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288601 | ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION DEVICE - The electrical nerve stimulation unit in accordance with the present invention generally includes a housing, an input panel, a display panel, a controller, a first channel output, a second channel output, and a power system. While the device is generally described in terms of use as a TENS unit, it must be noted that other nerve stimulation applications for the device are envisioned as well. The myriad of intelligent and proactive programmable software functions and features of the present invention are executed on the controller's microprocessor. For instance, open lead monitoring, soft recovery implementation, compliance monitoring, and enhanced power management are all controlled and monitored through the interfacing of the processor with the various devices and hardware on the unit's hardware platform. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288602 | Method and Device for Enhanced Blood Flow - A non-invasive method and device for promoting a localized change in a flow of blood through a blood vessel in a limb segment of a body by a series of electrically stimulated contractions of muscle tissue in the limb segment, the method including the steps of: (a) providing a device including: (i) first, second and third electrodes, each adapted to operatively contact the limb segment; (ii) a signal generator, operatively connected to the electrodes, adapted to produce a series of electrical impulses to the limb segment via the electrodes, and (iii) a control unit adapted to control the signal generator to produce the series of electrical impulses; (b) positioning the electrodes on the limb segment, wherein the first electrode is positioned on a lower end of the lower leg, the second electrode is positioned on the lower leg, and the third electrode is positioned on an upper end of the lower leg, whereby the first and third electrodes are disposed on opposite ends of the lower leg, and the second electrode and one of the first and third electrodes are disposed on a same end of the lower leg; (c) effecting a sequence of muscular contractions of the lower leg, by operations including: (i) applying a first electrical impulse between the electrodes on the same end of the lower leg to induce a first muscular contraction of a first portion of the tissue; and (ii) applying at least a second electrical impulse between the first and third electrodes to induce a longitudinal muscular contraction of a second portion of the muscular tissue; and (d) repeating operations (i) and (ii), to repeatedly induce the contractions, to effect the increased flow of blood. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288603 | POST-SHOCK RECOVERY MONITORING FOR TACHYARRHYTHMIA DISCRIMINATION - A cardiac rhythm management device is configured to discriminate between ventricular and supraventricular tachycardias (referred to as SVT/VT discrimination) by utilizing a morphology criterion in which the morphology of electrogram waveforms during ventricular beats are analyzed to determine if the beats are normally conducted. After the delivery of a cardioversion/defibrillation shock, however, the intraventricular conduction system is left in a modified state which alters the subsequently generated electrogram signal. Use of the morphology criterion for to SVT/VT discrimination is discontinued after delivery of such a shock and resumed after a predetermined minimum number of normally conducted ventricular beats has been detected. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288604 | WEARABLE THERAPEUTIC DEVICE - A wearable therapeutic device that includes a garment configured to contain an external defibrillator. The garment is configured to house at least one of an alarm module and a monitor and to house a first therapy electrode and a second therapy electrode. The garment is also configured to releasably receive a receptacle that contains a conductive fluid proximate to at least one of the first therapy electrode and the second therapy electrode, and to electrically couple the receptacle with the garment. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288605 | WEARABLE AMBULATORY MEDICAL DEVICE WITH MULTIPLE SENSING ELECTRODES - An ambulatory medical device including a plurality of electrodes configured to be disposed at spaced apart positions about a patient's body, an electrode signal acquisition circuit, and a monitoring circuit. The acquisition circuit has a plurality of inputs each electrically coupled to a respective electrode of the plurality of electrodes and is configured to sense a respective signal provided by a plurality of different pairings of the plurality of electrodes. The monitoring circuit is electrically coupled to an output of the acquisition circuit and is configured to analyze the respective signal provided by each of the plurality of different pairings and to instruct the acquisition circuit to select at least one of the plurality of different to pairings to monitor based on at least one of the quality of the respective signal, a phase difference between the respective signal and that of other pairings, a position of electrodes relative to the patient's body, and other criteria. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288606 | External Defibrillator - An external defibrillator having a battery; a capacitor electrically communicable with the battery; at least two electrodes electrically communicable with the capacitor and with the skin of a patient; a controller configured to charge the capacitor from the battery and to discharge the capacitor through the electrodes; and a support supporting the battery, capacitor, electrodes and controller in a deployment configuration, the defibrillator having a maximum weight per unit area in the deployment configuration of 0.1 lb/in | 2011-11-24 |
20110288607 | SKIN RESPONSE MONITORING FOR NEURAL AND CARDIAC THERAPIES - An exemplary method includes emitting radiation subcutaneously; sensing at least some of the emitted radiation as reflected cutaneously; detecting an abnormal physiologic condition; and, based at least in part on the sensing, adjusting a stimulation therapy to treat the detected abnormal condition. In such a method, the abnormal condition may be an abnormal cardiac condition, an abnormal neural condition or other condition. Various other methods, devices, systems, etc., are also disclosed. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288608 | Electronic Device or Electric Component - An electronic device, comprising a housing, a functional unit disposed in the housing, a terminal lead electrically connecting the functional unit to the outside of the housing, and a sealed feedthrough in the housing, the feedthrough surrounding the terminal lead and insulating it with respect to the housing, wherein the feedthrough is produced from a liquid crystal polymer. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288609 | THERAPEUTIC DIAPHRAGM STIMULATION DEVICE AND METHOD - A device and method for treating a variety of conditions, disorders or diseases with diaphragm/phrenic nerve stimulation is provided. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288610 | MOBILE DEVICE FOR TRANSCRANIAL AUTO-STIMULATION AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AND REGULATING THE DEVICE - Mobile device for transcranial auto-stimulation and method for controlling and regulating the device. The invention relates to a mobile device for transcranial auto-stimulation, controlled according to need, of circumscribed brain structures and brain systems, and to a method for controlling and regulating the device The device relates in particular to a device for transcranial electric current stimulation, comprising the following components:—electrodes with fastening means for exactly positioning on the skin of the head and electrical connecting lines and—a transportable, miniaturized stimulation generator comprising a current generator, a controller, a user interface, an electrical energy storage device and a monitoring and safety module with a separate electrical energy storage device. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288611 | BRACING AND ELECTROSTIMULATION FOR ARTHRITIS - A system for treating arthritis includes at least one joint stabilizing assembly for providing relief from arthritis. At least one signal transmission element engagement member is operatively connected to the joint stabilizing assembly for connecting a signal transmission element. At least one signal transmission element is supported by the at least one signal transmission element engagement member. An electrostimulation unit, electrically connected to the signal transmission element produces a signal for improving the overall function of an arthritic joint. The electrostimulation unit used in conjunction with the joint stabilizing assembly for greater than 150 hours provides a synergistic effect, which results in optimized joint treatment versus using either the joint stabilizing assembly or electrostimulation unit alone. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288612 | Video Processing Methods for Improving Visual Acuity and/or Perceived Image Resolution - A method and apparatus for improving visual acuity when providing a visual image from a “high” resolution input device to a “low” resolution output device. The described invention is of particular use when the output device is an array of electrodes as part of a retinal prosthesis used to restore vision to a visually-impaired patient. In that various limitations may, within the foreseeable future, limit the density of such an electrode array (and thus the resolution of the output image), the present invention teaches techniques to assign processed pixel subsets of a higher resolution image to a single electrode. By varying the pixel subsets, e.g., by jittering, and/or altering the processing criteria, the perceived visual acuity may be further improved. Alternatively and additionally, such processing may be further extended to drive neighboring electrodes in combination to thus stimulate virtual electrode sites and thus further enhance visual acuity. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288613 | MULTI-ELECTRODE CHANNEL CONFIGURATIONS - An apparatus and method for determining stimulation channels for a stimulating device is provided. This method and apparatus may involve computing a set of weights for the plurality of stimulation channels of the stimulating hearing prosthesis. These weights may be determined by determining a transimpedance matrix for the stimulating hearing prosthesis where a diagonal of the transimpedance matrix is determined by extrapolation. A transadmittance matrix may then be computed for this transimpedance matrix. An error may then be computed base on positive off-diagonal terms of the transadmittance matrix. The apparatus and method may determine the weights for the stimulation channels by determining an adjustment to the diagonal of the transimpedance matrix that results in a computed error that does not exceed a specified criterion level. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288614 | INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTION IN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable medical device for implantation in a recipient's body, the implantable medical device including first and second elongate leads electrically connected to first and second device components of the implantable medical device, respectively. The implantable medical device further includes a conductor connector electrically connecting a distal end of the first lead to a distal end of the second lead, and an impervious encasement insulating the conductor connector. The impervious encasement includes a sleeve circumferentially surrounding and spaced from the conductor connector and an insulative material filling the space between the conductor connector and the sleeve. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288615 | Implantable Therapeutic Systems Including Neurostimulation Circuits, Devices, Systems and Methods - A neurostimulation array comprising a first implantable neurostimulator storing a first identification code in a non-volatile memory and responding to communications including said first identification code, a second implantable neurostimulator storing a second identification code in a non-volatile memory and responding to communications including said second identification code, and a polymer connector attached to said first implantable neurostimulator and said second implantable neurostimulator, thereby forming a neurostimulation array. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288616 | ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION DEVICE - The electrical nerve stimulation unit in accordance with the present invention generally includes a housing, an input panel, a display panel, a controller, a first channel output, a second channel output, and a power system. While the device is generally described in terms of use as a TENS unit, it must be noted that other nerve stimulation applications for the device are envisioned as well. The myriad of intelligent and proactive programmable software functions and features of the present invention are executed on the controller's microprocessor. For instance, open lead monitoring, soft recovery implementation, compliance monitoring, and enhanced power management are all controlled and monitored through the interfacing of the processor with the various devices and hardware on the unit's hardware platform. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288617 | IRRADIATION APPARATUS AND TREATMENT - Infections of body tissues, particularly of the eye or of wounds, are treated by brief low-intensity irradiation with ultraviolet radiation in the UVC band. A suitable treatment device contains a light-emitting diode producing UVC radiation at a wavelength of about 265 nm, at a power output of 5 mW, directed on to a zone of tissue about 4 mm in diameter. An optical aiming system indicates the zone of tissue to be irradiated. Irradiation for periods as brief as 1 second has been found effective, which equates to a dose of 4 mJ/cm | 2011-11-24 |
20110288618 | NEUROSTIMULATION LEAD ANCHORS - In accordance with the present inventions, anchoring devices for a lead (e.g., a neurostimulation lead) placed on solid tissue (e.g., fascia) and methods of anchoring the lead relative to the tissue are provided. Such methods may include inserting the lead into an epidural space and coupling the lead to a neurostimulation. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288619 | SYSTEM FOR PERMANENT ELECTRODE PLACEMENT UTILIZING MICROELECTRODE RECORDING METHODS - A lead stimulation/recording system is provided, which is a combination of a permanent DBS stimulating lead and a recording microelectrode. The DBS lead has a lumen extending from the proximal to the distal end of the lead, the lumen having an opening on each end of the lead. The microelectrode is configured and dimensioned to be insertable into the DBS lead from either the distal or proximal opening of the DBS lead, thereby permitting the microelectrode to be placed before, concurrently with, or after placement of the DBS lead. In addition, the system may be used with known microelectrode recording systems and methods of inserting the electrodes, such as the five-at-a-time method, the dual-microdrive method, or the single microdrive method. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288620 | IMPLANTABLE LEAD WITH COPLANAR CONTACT COUPLING - An implantable lead for a medical device with a coplanar coupling for connecting a conductor to a contact reduces conductor bending moments to improve lead reliability. The implantable lead comprises a lead body having a proximal end and a distal end, at least one conductor, at least one contact carried on the proximal end, at least one contact carried on the distal end, and at least one coupling. The lead body has an exterior surface. The conductor is contained in the lead body and extends from the lead proximal end to the distal end. The conductor is also electrically insulated. The contact carried on the proximal end is electrically connected to the conductor. The coupling has a conductor coupling and a contact coupling. The conductor coupling is placed over the conductor and attached to the conductor. The contact coupling exits the lead body and has a weld to connect the contact coupling to the contact. The contact coupling is configured to exit the conductor lumen and mate with the contact while retaining the conductor coplanar to the lead body. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288621 | PROSTHETIC VALVE WITH EXTERNAL SUPPORT FRAME - Prosthetic valves, methods of making medical devices, and methods of treatment are provided. The prosthetic valves of the invention have a valve portion moveable between first and second positions, and a spacing member that has a thickness and protects a portion of the valve portion from contact with a wall of a vessel in which the prosthetic valve is implanted, and/or another structural component of the prosthetic valve, such as a support frame. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288622 | EXPANDABLE ENDOPROSTHESES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR TREATING A BIFURCATED LUMEN - An endoprosthesis for treating a bifurcated lumen. The distal end of the endoprosthesis can include at least two wings and at least two troughs so the endoprosthesis can adequately scaffold the ostium of a bifurcated lumen by at least partially straddling the carina of the lumen bifurcation. The distal end of the endoprosthesis can also be configured to have increased expandability to help allow conformity to the anatomy of a bifurcated lumen. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288623 | MEDICAL DEVICE - Novel devices and methods for implanting medical stents are provided. A novel apparatus, which may be in a first compressed position, may be inserted into the artery, such as by being positioned over a catheter. The apparatus may be expanded to a second position. In one embodiment, the apparatus is configured to expand away in two substantially opposing directions along a second axis away from the longitudinal axis. The second axis may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The apparatus may include markers that are detectable to determine the orientation of the catheter or the apparatus and/or assist in the determination of the type or size of stent to utilize. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288624 | VARIABLE DIAMETER TRIGGER WIRE - A self-expanding medical device delivery system includes a plurality of trigger wires. The trigger wires retain a self-expanding medical device by forming a bend about structural members located on the proximal portion of the medical device. The proximal portions of the trigger wires have a greater diameter than the distal portions of the trigger wires to provide increased bending strength. An operator releases the self-expanding medical device by withdrawing the trigger wires in the distal direction. In some embodiments, a small portion at the proximal end of the trigger wire has a smaller diameter than the rest of the proximal portion. In other embodiments, the proximal and distal portions of the trigger wire each have a greater diameter than the center of the trigger wire. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288625 | Vessel Support Device and Methods for Supporting a Vessel - The present invention is directed to a vessel support member having opposing ends adapted to move in a circumferential plane, the support member configured for deployment in a substantially radial direction to support a substantial portion of the circumference of a vessel, the support member adapted to change between a first configuration and at least a second configuration, such that when in the first configuration, the support member is substantially linear or substantially planar, and as the support member is deployed and changes to at least the second configuration, one opposing end moves in a radial direction relative to the other opposing end, such that when in the second configuration the support member is substantially non-linear or substantially prismatic with a curved portion or region. Also provided is a method of supporting, and a kit for providing support to, a human or animal vessel, and a deployment means for deploying a support member. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288626 | Catheter system for introducing an expandable heart valve stent into the body of a patient, insertion system with a catheter system and medical device for treatment of a heart valve defect - The invention relates to catheter system for introducing an expandable heart valve stent ( | 2011-11-24 |
20110288627 | Stent graft with integral side arm - A fenestrated stent graft with a tubular side arm extending there from in which the side arm can be turned inside out to extend into the stent graft during deployment of the stent graft and extended out during deployment. Also disclosed is a deployment device for such a side arm stent graft which has a deployment catheter and a side arm guide, the side arm guide is releasably fastened at a proximal end to the branch tube and is able to be moved independently of the deployment catheter such that the branch tube can be extended from the tubular body of the stent graft while it is fastened onto the side arm guide. The side arm guide can be formed from a side arm catheter and a side arm guide wire carried in the side arm catheter. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288628 | COMPOSITE PROSTHESIS WITH EXTERNAL POLYMERIC SUPPORT STRUCTURE AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A prosthesis including a support structure for enhancing kink and/or crush resistance. The support structure is connected to an outer surface of the prosthesis and includes at least two components, one of which has a lower melting point than the other. The component with the lower melting point is used to connect the support structure to the outer surface of the prosthesis. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288629 | REPOSITIONABLE ENDOLUMINAL SUPPORT STRUCTURE AND ITS APPLICATIONS - An endoluminal support structure includes strut members interconnected by pivot joints to form a series of linked scissor mechanisms. The structure can be remotely actuated to compress or expand its shape by adjusting the scissor joints within a range of motion. In particular, the support structure can be repositioned within the body lumen or retrieved from the lumen. The support structure can be employed to introduce and support a prosthetic valve within a body lumen. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288630 | ENDOPROSTHESIS CONTAINING MULTI-PHASE FERROUS STELL - An endoprosthesis fabricated from multi-phase ferrous steel. Endoprostheses can include a variety of devices such as staples, orthodontic wires, heart valves, filter devices, and stents, many of which devices are diametrically expandable devices. Multi-phase ferrous steels include dual phase steels and transformation induced plasticity steels (TRIP steels). | 2011-11-24 |
20110288631 | Preventing Vascular Stenosis of Cardiovascular Stent - A novel cardiovascular stent for preventing vascular stenosis is disclosed. The basic components of the cardiovascular stent of the present invention include V-shape rib unit, multi-link unit and connective ring unit. In addition, each ring rib part is formed by a plurality of double V-shape rib units that are connected together via the bridging portions of the multi-link units. Also, each connective part comprises a plurality of connective ring units. The integrally formed stent of the present invention is formed with the ring rib parts that are connected together by the connective parts. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288632 | REPOSITIONABLE ENDOLUMINAL SUPPORT STRUCTURE AND ITS APPLICATIONS - An endo luminal support structure ( | 2011-11-24 |
20110288633 | STENT WITH DUAL SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A intraluminal stent comprises a reticulated tube having an un-deployed diameter and expandable to an enlarged diameter. The tube includes a structural beam extending between first and second ends. The structural beam changes from a first geometry to a second geometry when the tube changes from the un-deployed diameter to the enlarged diameter. The structural beam includes first and second longitudinal elements each extending at least partially between the first and second ends and with a spacing between the first and second elements. Each of said first and second elements changes from the first geometry to the second geometry when the tube changes from the un-deployed diameter to the enlarged diameter for the spacing to remain substantially unchanged as the tube changes from the un-deployed diameter to the enlarged diameter. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288634 | Valve Prosthetic Fixation Techniques Using Sandwiching - A prosthesis is provided for implantation at a native semilunar valve of a native valve complex. The prosthesis includes a distal fixation member, configured to be positioned in a downstream artery, and shaped so as to define exactly three proximal engagement arms that are configured to be positioned at least partially within respective ones of semilunar sinuses, and, in combination, to apply, to tissue that defines the semilunar sinuses, a first axial force directed toward a ventricle. The prosthesis further includes a proximal fixation member coupled to the distal fixation member, the proximal fixation member configured to be positioned at least partially on a ventricular side of the native semilunar valve, and to apply, to the ventricular side of the native valve complex, a second axial force directed toward the downstream artery, such that application of the first and second forces couples the prosthesis to the native valve complex. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288635 | ADJUSTABLE ARTIFICIAL CHORDEAE TENDINEAE WITH SUTURE LOOPS - Apparatus is provided, including an artificial-chordeae-tendineae-adjustment mechanism and at least one primary artificial chordea tendinea coupled at a distal portion thereof to the artificial-chordeae-tendineae-adjustment mechanism. A degree of tension of the at least one primary artificial chordea tendinea is adjustable by the artificial-chordeae-tendineae-adjustment mechanism. One or more loops are coupled at a proximal portion of the at least one primary artificial chordea tendinea. The one or more loops are configured to facilitate suturing of the one or more loops to respective portions of a leaflet of an atrioventricular valve of a patient. Other applications are also described. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288636 | SUPPORT DEVICE FOR VALVE PROSTHESES AND CORRESPONDING KIT - A support device for implanting stentless valve prostheses, such as biological heart valves, includes a hub and a plurality of support portions for supporting the stentless valve prosthesis. The hub defines a manipulation axis for the device and is flexibly connected to the support portions to allow displacing the manipulation axis for the device between the support portions. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288637 | Percutaneous Mitral Annular Stitch to Decrease Mitral Regurgitation - This invention relates to methods and devices for treatment of regurgitation by connecting the anterior and posterior mitral annulus with a plurality of stitches or anchors called “mitral annulus bands”, instead of anchoring via the coronary sinus. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288638 | Accommodating Intraocular Lenses - Accommodating intraocular lenses containing a flowable media and their methods of accommodation. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288639 | Inflatable prostheses and methods of making same - An inflatable tissue expander, suitable for implantation in a breast, is provided. The tissue expander includes a puncturable, self-sealing anterior portion forming a fillable cavity, and posterior portion that is puncture resistant. The anterior portion includes a silicone-based elastomer material having a mesh embedded therein. The posterior portion includes a first composite guard and a second composite guard, each composite guard including an arrangement of puncture resistant members and a flexible substrate having a first side on which the puncture resistant members are disposed in a spaced apart fashion. | 2011-11-24 |
20110288640 | Systems, methods and apparatus for fabricating an orthopedic implant - Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which in some aspects a custom orthopedic implant is designed, fabricated and sterilized for immediate surgical use to treat a patient's injury. In some aspects, the orthopedic implant is designed using patient and injury specific scan data, fabricated using a five axis milling machine, and sterilized with a sterilization system. In other aspects, the fabricated orthopedic implant is transferred into the sterilization system with a transport system. In some aspects, methods to design, fabricate and sterilize a custom orthopedic implant are presented. In other aspects, patient and injury specific scan data is used to design and plan the placement of a custom orthopedic implant to treat the injury, and the custom orthopedic implant is then fabricated and sterilized to be used in surgery. | 2011-11-24 |