50th week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 49 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20120316562 | VARIABLE-ANGLE MODULAR SYNTHESIS PLATE AND TOOL FOR THE APPLICATION OF THE PLATE - The present invention regards a synthesis plate ( | 2012-12-13 |
20120316563 | BI-CRUCIATE KNEE SYSTEM - An instrument set and related method for preparing a proximal tibia during a bi-cruciate retaining procedure are disclosed. The instrument set can include a tibial resection block, a cut guide, and a locking arm. The tibial resection block can be configured to be fixed to an anterior portion of the proximal tibia. The tibial resection block can define a slot that extends in a medial-lateral direction when the tibial resection block is fixed to the proximal tibia. The cut guide can have a body, a medial arm, and a lateral arm. A medial cut slot can be defined between the body and the medial arm. A lateral cut slot can be defined between the body and the lateral arm. The cut guide can further comprise a tongue extending therefrom. The tongue can be configured to be received by and slidably translate along the slot of the tibial resection block. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316564 | DRILL GUIDES FOR CONFIRMING ALIGNMENT OF PATIENT-SPECIFIC ALIGNMENT GUIDES - An orthopedic device includes a drill guide configured to be mounted on a patient-specific alignment guide for intraoperatively confirming alignment of the patient-specific alignment guide relative to a bone. The patient-specific alignment guide includes first and second referencing holes. The drill guide includes a main body with a first coupling member and a second coupling member. The first and second coupling members are configured to be received within the first and second referencing holes, respectively. The first and second coupling members each include corresponding first and second drill openings configured to align with the first and second referencing holes, respectively. The drill openings each guide a drilling tool toward the bone to drill corresponding holes in the bone. The main body also includes an alignment confirmation feature configured for confirming alignment of the patient-specific alignment guide relative to the bone before drilling holes in the bone. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316565 | TOOLS FOR PERFORMING LESS INVASIVE ORTHOPEDIC JOINT PROCEDURES - A tool set for preparing a joint, inserting an implant or removing an implant from a joint in an open or less invasive procedure generally comprises a set of nested tools, pin guides, jigs, and/or immobilization elements. The nested tool set comprises at least one pin and at least one cannulated tool. The cannula can comprise tangs that project from the distal end of the cannula. The tangs can be offset such that drilling removes different amounts of bone relative to drilling through a centered drill guide. The cannulated tool kit can comprise at least one tool guide/cannula, drill bits/reamer, syringe, and/or inserter. At least one cannula is positioned over and around the pin position into the joint. The channel of the cannula guides the other tools into the joint. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316566 | Biologic Vertebral Reconstruction - A device and method for biologic vertebral reconstruction utilizes a biologically active jacket inserted into a cavity formed in a vertebra to be reconstructed. An artificial bone material is inserted into the biologically active jacket and allowed to set. The structure and method described herein provide for effective biologic vertebral reconstruction. The use of a biological material and artificial bone enables the host bone to replace the artificial bone over a period of time. Additionally, the structure of the biologically active jacket minimizes any impact into the spinal canal and the paravertebral spaces. Moreover, because of its biomechanical characteristics, which approximate the host bone, there is relative protection of the neighboring vertebral against fracture. Still further, the materials of the biologically active jacket may be impregnated with various substances to achieve various advantageous tasks. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316567 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR JOINT REPLACEMENT - Systems and methods for joint replacement are provided. The systems and methods include a surgical orientation device, a reference sensor device, and at least one orthopedic fixture. The surgical orientation device, reference sensor device, and orthopedic fixtures can be used to locate the orientation of an axis in the body, to adjust an orientation of a cutting plane or planes along a bony surface, or otherwise to assist in an orthopedic procedure(s). | 2012-12-13 |
20120316568 | SYSTEM FOR DISTRACTING OPPOSING VERTEBRAL BODIES OF A SPINE - A system and method is provided for distracting opposite surfaces from the interior of a bone, such as a vertebral body. A working channel cannula provides a working channel through which an inserter and an injection cannula can simultaneously pass. The inserter transports a plurality of wafers into the interior of the bone to form a load-bearing stack bearing against the opposite surfaces. The injection cannula is used to inject a fluent material into and/or around the stack. In certain embodiments, the fluent material is a load-bearing or hardenable material, such as bone cement. In other embodiments, the fluent material can be a BMP, HAP, or other osteo-inductive, osteo-conductive, or pharmaceutical compositions. A syringe containing the fluent material is engaged to the injection cannula and is operable to inject the fluent material into the vertebral body under controlled pressure. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316569 | INSTRUMENT FOR POSITIONING A CUP COMPONENT OF AN ORTHOPAEDIC JOINT PROSTHESIS - An instrument for positioning a cup component of an orthopaedic joint prosthesis includes a shaft, a housing attached to the distal end of the shaft, at least two flange portions carried on the shaft on which the cup component can be fixed, and a unitary spring element disposed about the shaft axis and disposed between the at least two flange portions and the axis of the shaft. The housing includes a base plate and extends from the shaft transversely relative to the shaft axis. The at least two flange portions can move relative to the base plate in a direction transverse to the shaft axis between an in-use position, where at least a portion of each of the at least two flange portions contacts the inner surface of the cup component, and a retracted position where the at least a portion of each of the at least two flange portions is moved towards the shaft axis so as to allow the cup component to be released from the instrument. The spring element biases each of the at least two flange portions towards the in-use position. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316570 | BONE TISSUE IMPLANT COMPRISING STRONTIUM IONS - The present invention is based on that local administration of strontium ions in bone tissue has been found to improve the bone formation and bone mass upon implantation of a bone tissue implant in said bone tissue. In particular, the invention relates to a bone tissue implant having an implant surface covered by an oxide layer comprising strontium ions and a method for the manufacture thereof. A blasting powder comprising strontium ions, a method for locally increasing bone formation, and the use of strontium ions or a salt thereof for manufacturing a pharmaceutical composition for locally increasing bone formation are also provided by the present invention. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316571 | SUBCHONDRAL TREATMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS IN JOINTS - Devices, instruments and associated methods for the subchondral treatment of osteoarthritis in hip and shoulder joints are provided. In addition, a method for treating joint pain is provided. The method comprises: identifying a subchondral defect in a subchondral region of a bone of the joint; selecting a subchondral access path to a location near the subchondral defect; and treating the subchondral defect, via the subchondral access, in a manner that restores normal force distribution and joint function while preserving the articular surface of the bone, wherein the joint is a hip or shoulder. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316572 | TRANSCERVICAL EXCISION AND REMOVAL OF TISSUE - A hysterectomy method may include: severing a patient's uterus from the patient's cervix; then coring the cervix; and then morcellating the severed uterus using a morcellator inserted through the cored cervix. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316573 | POSITIVE CONTROL OF ROBOTIC SURGICAL INSTRUMENT END EFFECTOR - A method of controlling an operation of a robotically-controlled surgical instrument can include receiving a first input signal at a controller indicative of a user's readiness to actuate the surgical instrument to perform a surgical procedure, outputting an output signal from the controller to provide feedback to the user in response to the received first input signal, receiving a second input signal at the controller confirming the user's readiness to actuate the surgical instrument, outputting an actuation signal from the controller in response to receiving the second input signal, and actuating the surgical instrument to perform the surgical procedure based on the actuation signal. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316574 | Medical Instrument - A medical instrument comprises an elongated shaft having a distal end, a proximal end and at least one bent portion between the distal end and the proximal end, a working part arranged at the distal end of the shaft, a handle arranged at the proximal end of the shaft, the working part being connected to the handle through an elongated element extending through the shaft and having a distal end connected to the working part and a proximal end connected to the handle. The shaft is rotatable relative to the handle about a longitudinal axis of the shaft. The working part and the elongated element are rotationally fixed relative to the handle and the shaft is rotatable relative to the working part and to the elongated element. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316575 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF DEPLOYING AN ELONGATE UNIT IN A BODY CAVITY - A system and method are disclosed for deploying an elongated unit in a body cavity, for introducing an interchangeable tool to a slender shaft having a distal end. The system comprising: an elongated unit comprising a longitudinal axis and a distal portion arranged to protrude through a first port into the body cavity. At least one maneuvering unit connected to the elongated unit for maneuvering the distal portion of the elongated unit in a 3D coordinate system to a determined depth and orientation in the body cavity. The at least one maneuvering unit is arranged to selectively deploy the distal portion of the elongated unit at the determined depth and orientation at a distance with respect to the distal end of the slender shaft and selectively align the longitudinal axis thereof with a longitudinal axis of the slender shaft. The elongated unit and/or the slender shaft is arranged advanceable relative each other, such that once the distal portion of the elongated unit is deployed the distal portion of the elongated unit reaches and/or captures the distal end of the slender shaft. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316576 | DERMATOME SWIVEL DOUBLE ACTING VALVE - A dermatome having a handle and an attachment including a valve, where the valve may include a first bobbin at least partially defining a first flow path and a second flow path, a second bobbin at least partially defining a first flow path, an inlet port at least partially defined by the second bobbin and an outlet port at least partially defined by the first bobbin. The ports of the valve may open in response to an application of a mechanical act to the attachment and the ports may close in response to the absence or removal of the mechanical act. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316577 | ANCHOR TIP ORIENTATION DEVICE AND METHOD - A surgical device for inserting an anchor, including a handle having an actuator, an outer barrel shaft extending from the handle to a distal end and having a channel therethrough, and an outer barrel tip the distal end thereof having an elastomeric septum, a drive pin within the channel, and an implantable anchor removably coupled to the drive pin. The outer barrel shaft is coupled to an actuator for movement between a first extended position wherein the outer barrel shaft tip substantially cover the anchor, and a second retracted position where the outer barrel shaft tip do not cover the anchor. When the shaft is in the first position, the elastomeric septum of the outer barrel tip circumferentially surrounds and engages the anchor to thereby stabilize the anchor prior to deployment, and when the shaft is in the second position, the elastomeric septum does not engage the anchor. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316578 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ATTACHING A PROSTHESIS WITH A BODY LUMEN OR HOLLOW ORGAN - Systems and methods introduce and deploy prosthesis into a blood vessel or hollow body organ by intra-vascular access. The prosthesis is secured in place by fasteners which are implanted by an applier that is also deployed by intra-vascular access. The applier is configured to permit controlled, selective release of the fastener in a step that is independent of the step of implantation. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316579 | ARTICULATING SUTURING DEVICE AND METHOD - Devices, systems, and methods for suturing of body lumens allow the suturing of vascular puncture sites located at the distal end of a percutaneous tissue tract. An elongated articulated foot of the device can be inserted through the penetration and actuated so that the foot extends along the lumenal axis. The foot can carry suturing attachment cuffs with one end of the cuff adapted to receive a needle, while the other end receives suture. A portion of the foot and/or lumen of the shaft can receive a portion of the suture and can include friction reducing structure that aid with movement of the sutured during removal of the cuffs from within the penetration. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316580 | OFFSET JAW SUTURING DEVICE, SYSTEM, AND METHODS - Improved medical suturing devices, systems, and methods for maintaining a position and orientation of a suture needle at a fixed location relative to a suturing device. An exemplary device include a clamp having opposing grasping surfaces for grasping the needle at a first location, and a needle contacting surface for contacting the needle at a second location, the second location a distance axially away from the first location so as to inhibit unintended movement of the needle relative to the device, which may include rotation of the needle about the first location and rotation of the needle about its axis. In many embodiments, the device includes a first and second clamp and a mechanism for alternating grasping of the needle between the first and second clamp. The device may also be incorporated into a single-clamp needle grasping device. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316581 | SPOOL CONFIGURED TO RETAIN SUTURE FOR A SUTURE SYSTEM - A suture system spool is configured to retain suture having a suture diameter and tension the suture between a distal and proximal end portions of a suturing tool. The spool includes a monolithically formed disc defining a central opening that provides the disc with an inside diameter. The disc includes a base and a flap joined with the base at the inside diameter, and the flap extends from the inside diameter to an outer periphery of the disc to define a cavity between the flap and the base. The flap is spaced away from the base at a location between the inside diameter and the outer periphery of the disc by a factor of at least two times the suture diameter, and the flap is spaced away from the base at the outer periphery of the disc by a distance that is approximately equal to the suture diameter. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316582 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING A KNOT TO A SUTURE - A knot placement device allows a physician to apply a knot for securing two or more suture ends extending from an incision in a vessel or organ of a patient relative to each other in order to seal an opening in the vessel or organ. The knot placement device has a handle and an elongate shaft and a push rod slidably inserted in said shaft. A knot is disposed in the distal end of the shaft. An actuator on the handle may be depressed to distally advance said push rod relative to said shaft and thereby distally advance said knot. The knot may include a knot body having an inner cavity and a plug sized to fit securely within the inner cavity. In use, the plug may be inserted into the inner cavity of the knot body to fixedly hold two or more suture ends between the knot body and the plug. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316583 | METHOD OF LAPAROSCOPIC HERNIA REPAIR USING SURGICAL MESH - A surgical mesh for repair of incisional and or ventral hernia with a fixation fin extending from one of the surfaces of the mesh usually along the midline of the surface. The closure of the hernia defect edges involves suturing to the fin to avoid the possibility of damage to internal organs during laparoscopic suturing. An alternate embodiment involves a flexible rod mounted in a tubular structure on the mesh axis. The tubular structure includes a central opening with an attached thread that permits removal of the flexible rod, which spreads the mesh open to facilitate fixation of the mesh onto the abdominal wall surface. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316584 | Medical Device and Delivery System for Modification of Left Atrial Appendage and Methods Thereof - Devices, methods and systems are provided for occluding an opening within the tissue of a body, such as a left atrial appendage. In one embodiment, a delivery system for use in occluding an opening in the tissue of a body includes an actuation assembly operatively coupled to a medical device including an anchor portion and an occluder portion. The actuation assembly is configured to move the anchor portion between a deployed state and retracted state while the occluder portion maintains a deployed state. With this arrangement, the deployed occluder portion can be visualized via imaging at a preferred position prior to deploying the anchor portion of the medical device. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316585 | CATHETER WITH ENHANCED PUSHABILITY - Apparatus for enhancing pushability and minimizing kinking of a balloon catheter is provided, wherein a catheter comprises inner and outer tubes, and a balloon that is proximally affixed to the outer tube and distally affixed to the inner tube. The catheter of the present invention further comprises a tubular member imposed on the inner tube which is configured to form a reversible mechanical linkage between inner tube and outer tube while an axially compressive load is applied to the catheter tip. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316586 | MECHANICAL PUMP FOR REMOVAL OF FRAGMENTED MATTER AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND USE - Material transport catheters and methods for their use rely on rotation of an impeller within a catheter body and a clearing element for preventing buildup of materials at the opening of the catheter body. The impeller preferably comprises an inner tube or shaft having a helical rotor fainted over an outer surface thereof. The clearing element may comprise a free end of a structure near the distal end of the catheter body for disrupting clot, wherein the free end of the structure extends into the distal opening of the catheter body to break up materials as the impeller is rotated. Alternatively, the clearing element may comprise a cutting member disposed at the distal opening of the catheter body. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316587 | EAR PIPE - An ear pipe used as an alternative medicine practice to remove excess ear wax, debris, and other undesirable contaminants from the ear canal. The ear pipe includes a generally hollow body, wherein the hollow body includes a bowl, a midsection, and a proximal end. The ear pipe may be used by bringing a unit of ear pipe fuel to a smoldering state within the bowl, holding the ear pipe with a user's hand, and inserting the proximal end of the pipe into a user's ear to allow warm air/smoke to enter the ear canal and create temperatures high enough to cause the excess ear wax, debris, and other undesirable contaminants to drain from the ear canal. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316588 | MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY DEVICE AND MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY DEVICE ARRANGEMENT - The invention concerns a medical technology device for treatment of the human or animal body, comprising at least one electrical plug connector which is adapted to be connected to a complementary counterpart plug connector of a further medical technology device and which in an active position is arranged projecting upwardly at the top side of the device. To provide a medical technology device which can be used both as an individual device and also in conjunction with a second device as a device arrangement and which in that respect satisfies existing safety and aesthetic demands, it is provided in accordance with the invention that the plug connector is adapted to be movable from the active position into a passive position, wherein in the passive position the plug connector is removed from the top side of the device and the top side is closed in substantially fluid-tight relationship. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316589 | Balloon catheter with raised elements and visual marker - A balloon catheter has an elongate catheter shaft and an inflatable balloon. A marking indicia extends along the axial length or a portion of the axial length of the shaft. A raised element is formed by or disposed on the inflatable balloon and is aligned with the marking indicia. Methods of treating a portion of a bodily passage using a balloon catheter having a raised element on the inflatable balloon are also described. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316590 | INSTRUMENT AND SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL CUTTING AND EVOKED POTENTIAL MONITORING - A surgical cutting instrument for use with a drive motor, and related system and method, is described. The surgical cutting instrument includes an elongated drive member, a cutting tip secured to the drive member, a non-conductive coupling body adapted for connection to a motor assembly, a housing maintaining the coupling body, a fluid coupling assembly and an electrical connector for connection to a stimulating energy source. The electrical connector is in electrical communication with the cutting tip via an electrical pathway. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316591 | ARTHROSCOPIC SHAVER HANDPIECE WITH MODULAR ATTACHMENTS - An apparatus, system and method are presented by which certain surgical procedures normally done by powered surgical handpieces may be accomplished by powered arthroscopic handpieces, thus obviating the need to use powered surgical handpieces. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316592 | LANCING DEVICE WITH INDEPENDENT DRIVE CORE - A medical lancing device including an independent drive core mechanism incorporating all or a substantial portion of the functional components of the lancing device, whereby the independent drive core mechanism can be incorporated into multiple different external housing configurations for more efficient design and manufacture. Axial adjustment of the position of the independent drive core mechanism within the housing provides lancing penetration depth control. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316593 | RETRACTION DEVICE FOR LAPAROSCOPY - Disclosed herein is a retraction device for laparoscopy in which a trocar needle including latching grooves formed at the side of the lower end thereof is inserted into a trocar tube, both ends of which are opened, to form a laparoscopic platform, the laparoscopic platform pierces an abdominal wall and the trocar needle is pushed into an abdominal cavity so that the latching grooves are exposed to the outside of the trocar tube, sutures connected to tissue retractors retracting tissues are hung on the latching grooves, and then the trocar needle of the laparoscopic platform is drawn upwards so that the latching grooves are inserted back into the trocar tube to fix the tissue retractors to the laparoscopic platform. The retraction device for laparoscopy prevents the tissues from being unnecessarily damaged due to retraction and facilitates convenient retraction of the tissues without the help of assistant's two hands. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316594 | APPARATUS FOR CLOSING AN OPENING, SUCH AS A TROCAR OPENING, IN A PATIENT'S BODY - A device for closing an opening formed in a patient's body without the use of sutures. The device includes a patch formed of a flexible that can be positioned between an open position and an at least partially closed position. The body has a plurality of sharp protrusions formed along the first face for securely attaching the flexible body to a target structure within the patient's body in which the opening is formed such that the flexible body extends across and closes the opening. The device further includes an instrument for delivering the patch to an inner face of a structure in which the opening is formed. The instrument has a first member that mates with the patch for securely, yet releasably, attaching the patch to the instrument to allow delivery of the patch. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316595 | BLADELESS OPTICAL OBTURATOR - A surgical access device comprising a tissue separating obturator suitable for connection with a cannula is disclosed. The obturator includes an elongate shaft having a transparent distal tip. The elongate shaft extends along a longitudinal axis and defines a lumen. The transparent distal tip has a tapered configuration and includes an inner surface and an outer surface adapted for penetrating tissue. The lumen is sized and configured to receive an optical instrument such as a laparoscope. The surgical access device further includes a scope lock at the proximal end of the shaft portion. The lock includes a multi-fingered collet coaxial with the lumen. The inner diameter of the collet is smaller than an outer diameter of the optical instrument and the fingers of the collet provide frictional engagement with the outer diameter of the optical instrument that is inserted into the lumen of the obturator. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316596 | BLUNT TIP OBTURATOR - A surgical access device comprises an elongate shaft with a bladeless tip at the distal end. The bladeless tip has an outer surface with a proximal portion, a distal portion, and an intermediate portion. In a cross section in the proximal portion, the outer surface defines a circle. In a cross section in the intermediate portion, the outer surface defines a shape having a length greater than a width. The outer surface has first and second opposing surface portions of the shape that are generally aligned with the length. In a cross section in the distal portion, the outer surface defines a circle. In progressive proximal cross sections in the distal portion, the circle expands. In progressive proximal cross sections in the intermediate portion, a ratio of the width of the shape to the length of the shape increases and the first and second opposing surface portions are more arcuate. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316597 | Device For Occluding A Lumen - One embodiment according to the present invention includes an occlusion device in which the support structure or frame expands circumferentially within the lumen to secure an expansile plug or embolic material. Once in place, the expansile plug or embolic material expands, thereby occluding the target lumen. Another embodiment according to the present invention includes a radially expandable support structure having a closed portion for capturing subsequently delivered embolic material, such as embolic coils. For example, the structure may have a closed portion at its distal end or at its middle (forming an hourglass shape). Additionally, the closed portion may be formed from the support structure itself or from a discrete, second layer that is attached within the support structure. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316598 | Multiple Layer Filamentary Devices for Treatment of Vascular Defects - Braid-balls suitable for aneurysm occlusion and/or parent vessel occlusion/sacrifice (e.g., in treating neurovascular defects) are disclosed. Especially for aneurysm treatment, but also for either one of the aforementioned treatments, the form of the ball is very important. In particular, the density of the device is paramount in applications where braid itself is intended to moderate or stop blood flow—allowing thrombosis within a volume formed by the ball. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316599 | THROMBUS REMOVAL SYSTEMS AND DEVICES AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Thrombus removal systems and devices and methods of using the same. In an exemplary embodiment of a thrombus removal system of the present disclosure, the thrombus removal system comprises an umbrella catheter comprising an umbrella catheter tube and an umbrella positioned at least partially within the umbrella catheter tube when in a compressed configuration and positioned external to the umbrella catheter tube when in a deployed configuration, and a balloon catheter configured to fit around at least part of the umbrella catheter, the balloon catheter comprising a balloon catheter tube and a balloon coupled thereto, the balloon capable of inflation within a lumen of a mammalian vessel to substantially or completely occlude the lumen of the mammalian vessel, wherein the thrombus removal system is configured to disrupt and/or dissolve and remove at least a portion of a thrombus positioned within the lumen of the mammalian vessel. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316600 | THROMBUS MANAGEMENT WITHIN NEUROVASCULATURE - Systems, methods, and devices for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke that provide immediate blood flow restoration to a vessel occluded by a clot and, after reestablishing blood flow, address the clot itself. Immediate blood flow restoration advantageously can facilitate natural lysis of the clot and also can reduce or obviate the concern for distal embolization due to fragmentation of the clot. Several embodiments of the invention provide for progressive, or modular, treatment based upon the nature of the clot. For example, the progressive treatment can comprise a three-step progressive treatment process that includes immediate restoration of blood flow, in-situ clot management, and/or clot removal depending on the particular circumstances of the treatment. The in-situ clot management can include, for example, lysis and maceration. The progressive, or modular, treatment can be provided by a system or kit of one or more treatment devices. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316601 | Lever Latch Assemblies for Vessel Sealer and Divider - A surgical instrument includes a housing and an end effector spaced from the housing and transitionable between first and second conditions. A drive bar is coupled to the end effector and extends into the housing. The drive bar is translatable between first and second positions for transitioning the end effector between the first and second conditions. A handle assembly is moveable between initial and actuateds position for translating the drive bar between the first and second positions. One or more linkages couple the drive bar, the handle assembly, and the housing to one another by at least first, second and third pivots. At least one of the pivots is fixed and at least one of the pivots is floating. The second pivot is movable relative to the first and third pivots between an unlatched position and an over-center latched position for latching the end effector in the second condition. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316602 | Catching Mechanisms for Tubular Septal Occluder - A septal occluder, such as one made from a polymer tube, can have portions on either side of a patent foramen ovale (PFO) or other septal defect. The portions on either side can be held in place with a catching mechanism that can take one of many forms. The tube can be made of bioresorbable materials. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316603 | TISSUE FASTENING DEVICES AND PROCESSES THAT PROMOTE TISSUE ADHESION - The invention in certain aspects relates to a surgical fastener for fastening tissue segments having tissue surfaces. The fastener includes a first fastener member having a base and a piercing element connected to the base for piercing the tissue segments to be fastened, a second fastener member having an opening for receiving and retaining the piercing element of the first fastener member such that the tissue segments to be fastened are retained between the first and second fastening members, and means for promoting adhesion between the tissue surfaces. The invention also relates to related methods and devices for promoting adhesion of tissue segments and preventing fastener migration, especially in an endoscopic procedure for the treatment of GERD. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316604 | Protective Covering Teether - A protective covering teether comprising a portable protective cover and teether that slips over a surface to provide a safe, hygienic, and enjoyable surface for infants and babies to teeth, gum, and chew, in which the cover and teether keep the surface dry and clean, in which the cover and teether protect the surface from destruction and frequent cleaning due to mildew and mold growth, and in which the covering contains bumps, ridges, and nubs that are interesting to the infant and baby and orally soothing. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316605 | Taper Lock For A Polyaxial Spinal Rod Screw Assembly - A collet for a spinal rod bone screw assembly is configured to provide an interference fit with the top or head of a polyaxial bone screw in order to aid in locking orientation of a polyaxial bone screw head relative to the polyaxial bone screw. An increase in spherical coverage created by the configuration of the collet increases the amount of surface contact with the polyaxial bone screw head. This allows for more controlled, uniform and secure orientation of the polyaxial head with respect to the bone screw during lock-up. A resilient, tapered base of the collet has a plurality of slots that allow the end of the collet to splay outwardly over and upon the head of the bone screw to create a snap or frictional interference fit between the collet and the polyaxial bone screw head when a spinal rod is fixed in the polyaxial bone screw head. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316606 | DEVICE FOR ENHANCED MECHANICAL STABILIZATION - The invention relates to a device that provides enhanced mechanical stabilization, as well as methods for its use. In various embodiments, the device is configured in a manner similar to a conventional screw, but with mechanical elements that afford greater fixation and stability and that lessen the likelihood that the device loosens after insertion into a substrate and/or falls out of the substrate entirely or releases its interaction with the substrate. Moreover, the device may have better pullout strength as compared with conventional screws and screw-type devices used in a range of applications. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316607 | Bone Screw - A bone screw is provided having first and second threaded portions of different diameter separated by a middle portion that is unthreaded so that the bone screw may be inserted into a pair of adjacent bone fragments and used to compress the fragments together by driving the screw into a hole drilled in the fragments. An installation tool is also disclosed for threadably engaging one end of the bone screw and is used to initially drive the screw into the bone hole. Therafter, a screwdriver may be inserted through the tool and into engagement with a recess in the bone screw and may be used to drive the screw fully into the bone and to separate the bone screw from the installation tool. A method of installation is further provided. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316608 | FLEXIBLE GUIDE WIRE - The present invention relates generally to flexible guide wires, and, more particularly, to a flexible guide wire that can be attached to a surgical site and pulled taut to provide a guide for the introduction of instruments and implants to the surgical site, but cannot be pushed towards the surgical site without the wire bending so that there is no advancement of the tip of the flexible guide wire further into the surgical site or bony structure. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316609 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT FOR SECURING A SPINAL ROD - A surgical instrument for assembling a spinal rod to a plurality of anchoring members includes first and second levers that are pivotally, and optionally removably, connected for rotation about a pivot axis. The first lever has a hollow guide tube forming a first handle section and a first distal end section, with a first longitudinal bore extending therethrough. The second lever has a second handle section, a second distal end section, and an intervening second intermediate section that interconnects the two in offset fashion. The second distal end section has a second longitudinal bore. The longitudinal bores accept bone anchor heads. Pivoting of the levers relative to each other about the pivot axis causes the bone anchors to move toward or away from each other. The first and second bores may be configured to mate with bone screw assemblies having extended tabs. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316610 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CUSTOMIZING STIMULATION USING IMPLANTABLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS - An implantable paddle lead includes at least one lead body with a proximal end and a distal end. Terminals are disposed at the proximal end of the lead body. A paddle body is coupled to the distal end of the lead body. The paddle body has a length, a width, a first surface, and an opposing second surface. Electrodes are disposed on the first surface of the paddle body. At least one region of the paddle body has a higher pliability than remaining portions of the paddle body. The at least one region of higher pliability extends along the second surface of the paddle body. The paddle body is configured and arranged to preferentially bend along the at least one region of higher pliability. Conductors are disposed along the paddle lead. Each conductor electrically couples at least one of the electrodes to at least one of the terminals. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316611 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE DETECTION AND CONTROL OF REPOLARIZATION ALTERNANS - A method and apparatus are disclosed for preventing heart rhythm disturbances by optimally recording cardiac electrical activity, optimally measuring beat-to-beat variability in the morphology of electrocardiographic waveforms, and using the measured beat-to-beat variability to control the delivery of therapy to the heart. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316612 | Methods and Devices for Adapting Charge Initiation for an Implantable Defibrillator - Adaptive methods for initiating charging of the high power capacitors of an implantable medical device for therapy delivery after the patient experiences a non-sustained arrhythmia, and devices that perform such methods. The adaptive methods and devices adjust persistence criteria used to analyze an arrhythmia prior to initiating a charging sequence to deliver therapy. Some embodiments apply a specific sequence of X-out-of-Y criteria, persistence criteria, and last event criteria before starting charging for therapy delivery. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316613 | Antitachycardia Pacing Pulse from a Subcutaneous Defibrillator - Devices and methods for single therapy pulse (STP) therapy for tachyarrythmia are disclosed. The STP therapy can be delivered from a far-field position to allow a “global” capture approach to pacing. Due to the global capture in STP, a series of pulses, which is indicative of conventional anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP) delivered by transvenous systems, becomes unnecessary. One to four pulses at most are needed for STP, and after delivery of the one to four pulses, therapy delivery can be interrupted to determine whether the previously delivered therapy has been successful. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316614 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR QUESTION-BASED PROGRAMMING OF CARDIAC RHYTHM MANAGEMENT DEVICES - A cardiac rhythm management (CRM) system includes a programming device that identifies the device type of an implantable medical device, selects a predetermined questioning sequence based on the device type, and interacts with a user through a user interface screen by conducting a question-and-answer session according to the predetermined questioning sequence. After displaying a question and receiving an answer to the question, the programming device sets one or more programmable parameter values and/or displays a follow-up question in response to the answer. The programming device also allows the user to enter one or more programmable parameter values directly during or after the question-and-answer session. The implantable medical device is programmed to operate in one or more operational modes based on at least the answers received from the user during the question-and-answer session and the parameter values entered by the user, if any. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316615 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING IMPROVED LEADS FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEMS - A method for manufacturing a lead includes forming an elongated multi-lumen conductor guide defining a central stylet lumen and a plurality of conductor lumens arranged around the stylet lumen. The multi-lumen conductor guide is twisted to form at least one helical section where the plurality of conductor lumens each forms a helical pathway around the stylet lumen. Each of the helical pathways of the at least one helical section has a pitch that is no less than 0.04 turns per centimeter. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316616 | IMPLANTABLE SYSTEM WITH INPUTS - A stimulation system can have a first sensor to generate a first reading and a second sensor to generate a second reading. An analysis module of a programmer such as a patient programmer, which programs a stimulation signal to be delivered to a patient, conducts an evaluation of the patient based on the first and second readings. Evaluations may include determinations such as range of motion determinations, posture determinations, physical task-specific brain activity determinations, cognitive task-specific brain activity determinations, and brain activity-specific movement determinations. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316617 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING RELATIVE POSITIONING BETWEEN NEUROSTIMULATION LEADS - A method and neurostimulation control system for operating two leads disposed adjacent tissue of a patient are provided. A plurality of cross-lead electrical parameters are measured to generate a measured electrical profile of the electrode leads. A plurality of cross-lead electrical parameters are estimated to generate a first reference electrical profile for the electrode leads in a first known staggered configuration. The first reference electrical profile is spatially shifted to generate a second reference electrical profile for the electrode leads in a second known staggered configuration. The measured electrical profile is compared to the first and second reference electrical profiles, and a longitudinal stagger between the electrode leads is quantified based on the comparison. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316618 | Cochlear Implant Power System and Methodology - A cochlear implant system has an implantable portion that includes a stimulator module for producing for the auditory system of a user an electrical stimulation signal representative of an acoustic signal. The implantable portion further includes a battery for supplying power to the stimulator module, a receiver module for receiving an electrical power signal across the skin of a user, and a recharge module that uses the electrical power signal to recharge the battery. The recharge module recharges the battery at less than the maximum recharge rate. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316619 | PROGRAMMING INTERFACE FOR STIMULATION THERAPY - The disclosure is directed to programming implantable stimulators to deliver stimulation energy via one or more implantable leads having complex electrode array geometries. The disclosure also contemplates guided programming to select electrode combinations and parameter values to support efficacy. The techniques may be applied to a programming interface associated with a clinician programmer, a patient programmer, or both. A user interface permits a user to view electrodes from different perspectives relative to the lead. For example, the user interface provides a side view of a lead and a cross-sectional view of the lead. The user interface may include an axial control medium to select and/or view electrodes at different axial positions along the length of a lead, and a rotational control medium to select and/or view electrodes at different angular positions around a circumference of the lead. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316620 | METHOD OF POWER AND DATA TRANSFER IN IMPLANTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES - A system for transferring data and power between electronic devices implanted in a patient is described. The system comprises a first unit and a second unit that in use are both implanted in the patient and a cable connecting the first unit and the second unit. The first unit comprises a current supply unit that supplies a selected current output to the second unit via the cable and a processor configured to anticipate an action to be performed by the second unit and to select the current output dependent on the anticipated action. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316621 | Method and Apparatus to Manage Lead-Related Conditions for Fault Tolerance Enhancements - The disclosure describes methods and devices for providing early indicators of a lead-related condition in a medical electrical lead. Among other things, the methods and devices will detect, obtain, or provide indicators of static or intermittent disruptions in a conductive pathway of the lead based on changes in conductive continuity properties of a medical electrical lead. The conductive behaviors and properties will be managed to facilitate signal stability and fidelity. In some embodiments, the methods and devices may include functions to enable one or more of monitoring a lead's conductive pathway, detecting static and transient behaviors of the conductive pathway, stabilizing the monitored pathway, reconfiguring the pathway, and providing lead-related condition data to an associated implantable medical device. The early indicators may be generated in a real-time, continuous manner to provide early detection and notification of lead degradation. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316622 | IMPLANTABLE MICROSTIMULATORS WITH PROGRAMMABLE MULTIELECTRODE CONFIGURATION AND USES THEREOF - Miniature implantable stimulators (i.e., microstimulators) with programmably configurable electrodes allow, among other things, steering of the electric fields created. In addition, the microstimulators are capable of producing unidirectionally propagating action potentials (UPAPs). | 2012-12-13 |
20120316623 | PHOTOTHERAPY DEVICE - Disclosed is a phototherapy device which can irradiate an affected part, which is to be irradiated with light, with light selectively and intensively and can prevent eyes to undergo the direct irradiation with intense light emitted from a light source. Specifically disclosed is a phototherapy device comprising: a light guide member which has a contact surface that contacts with an affected part and an opposed surface that faces the contact surface and which serves as a light guide path; and a first light source which can emit light having the main wavelength that depends on the wavelength range of infrared ray to the light guide path. In the phototherapy device, a material constituting the light guide member has a refractive index identical to or higher than the refractive index of a biological tissue. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316624 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR BILATERAL CALORIC VESTIBULAR STIMULATION - An in-ear stimulation device for administering caloric stimulation to the ear canal of a subject includes (a) first and second earpieces configured to be insertable into the ear canals of the subject; (b) at least first and second thermoelectric devices thermally coupled to respective ones of the first and second earpieces; (c) a first heat sink thermally coupled to the first thermoelectric device opposite the first earpiece and a second heat sink thermally coupled to the second thermoelectric device opposite the second earpiece; and (d) a controller comprising a waveform generator in communication with the first and second thermoelectric devices, the waveform generator configured to generate a first control signal to control a first caloric output to the first thermoelectric device and a second control signal to control a second caloric output to the second caloric device. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316625 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CALORIC VESTIBULAR STIMULATION HAVING AN IMPEDANCE MONITOR AND/OR TEMPERATURE SENSOR - An in-ear stimulation device for administering caloric stimulation to the ear canal of a subject includes (a) first and second earpieces configured to be insertable into the ear canals of the subject; (b) at least first and second thermoelectric devices thermally coupled to respective ones of the first and second earpieces; (c) a first heat sink thermally coupled to the first thermoelectric device opposite the first earpiece and a second heat sink thermally coupled to the second thermoelectric device opposite the second earpiece; and (d) a controller comprising a waveform generator in communication with the first and second thermoelectric devices, the waveform generator configured to generate a first control signal to control a first caloric output to the first thermoelectric device and a second control signal to control a second caloric output to the second caloric device. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316626 | THERAPEUTICE DEVICE - A therapeutic device for providing cold or heat therapy is provided. The device includes solid spherical materials and a medium that may include an alcohol mixture. An impermeable enclosure contains the spherical materials and the medium to form the therapeutic device. The therapeutic device applies cold or heat therapy and is pliable to conform to curved contours of the body. The therapeutic device also has a weight which provides pressure to, and desired contact with, the injured area. Certain embodiments further include an accessory for holding the device in contact or otherwise close proximity to a body region being treated. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316627 | ELECTRODE LEAD INCLUDING A DEPLOYABLE TISSUE ANCHOR - An electrode lead comprises a tubular lead body, an electrode supported by the lead body, a rotatable member, a deployable member and a deployment mechanism. The rotatable member is contained within a distal end of the tubular lead body. The deployable member is attached to the rotatable member and comprises a tissue anchor. The deployment mechanism is configured to drive the deployable member along a central axis and out the distal end of the tubular lead body responsive to rotation of the rotatable member about the central axis. In one embodiment, the deployable member does not rotate about the central axis with the rotation of the rotatable member. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316628 | STRAIN RELIEVED LEAD ROUTING IN BURR HOLE PLUG FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION - A method of performing a medical procedure comprises introducing a medical device through a cranial burr hole into the brain tissue, mounting a plug base around a cranial burr hole, securing the medical device within the aperture of the plug base, seating a proximal end of the medical device within a first groove of the plug base, such that the proximal end exits the aperture of the plug base through the first groove, looping the proximal end from the first groove to a second groove in the plug base, seating the proximal end within the second groove, such that the proximal end extends across the aperture of the plug base from the second groove, and seating the proximal end within a third groove of the plug base, such that the proximal end exits the plug base aperture through the third groove. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316629 | MITIGATION OF PRESSURE ULCERS USING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - A method is provided for treating pressure ulcers by transmitting an electrical stimulus sufficient to effect contraction of a loaded muscle, wherein the method comprises the steps of providing an electrical transmission for effecting contraction of the loaded muscle, transmitting sufficient electrical stimulation to the muscle to contract it for a predetermined short period of time, and ceasing transmission of the stimulus to the muscle for a predetermined longer period of muscle relaxation, whereby the predetermined period of relaxation is sufficient to minimize muscle fatigue and cause sustained reoxygenation. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316630 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTUATING A LASTING CHANGE IN A NEURAL-FUNCTION OF A PATIENT - The following disclosure describes several methods and apparatus for intracranial electrical stimulation to treat or otherwise effectuate a change in neural-functions of a patient. The methods in accordance with the invention can be used to treat brain damage (e.g., stroke, trauma, etc.), brain disease (e.g., Alzheimer's, Pick's, Parkinson's, etc.), and/or brain disorders (e.g., epilepsy, depression, etc.). The methods in accordance with the invention can also be used to enhance neural-function of normal, healthy brains (e.g., learning, memory, etc.), or to control sensory functions (e.g., pain). | 2012-12-13 |
20120316631 | CUSTOMIZABLE MEDICAL ELECTRODE - A medical electrode includes a conductive member having a top and a bottom side and a plurality of cutouts establishing a pattern of islands interconnected by conductive member bridges. A plurality of island electrodes are provided with each island electrode disposed on a corresponding island. A conductive adhesive is disposed on the conductive member bottom side for adhering the medical electrode to a patient's skin. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316632 | Retrievable covered stent for bifurcation aneurysms - A retrievable covered stent has a self-expandable covered stent on the distal end and is particularly useful for occluding the neck of an aneurysm located in the vicinity of bifurcations or trifurcations of vessels. The said retrievable covered stent comprises a proximal retrieving structure and a proximal self-expandable supporting stent for supporting and retaining a smaller self-expandable covered stent on the distal end which is used to seal the neck of a bifurcation aneurysm. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316633 | Durable Stent Drug Eluting Coating - In embodiments, medical devices, such stents, can deliver a therapeutic agent to body tissue of a patient. The medical device includes a porous therapeutic layer that is substantially free of a polymer matrix which can withstand expansion or contraction of the medical device, with minimal delamination. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316634 | ENDOVASCULAR FLOW DIRECTION INDICATOR - An endovascular tool is provided, which includes a longitudinal delivery shaft and a fin coupled to the delivery shaft. The fin is configured to assume a compressed state for endoluminal delivery, and an expanded state for endoluminal deployment, in which state the fin is configured to pivot around an axis of rotation. Other embodiments are also described. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316635 | Methods for Crimping a Polymeric Stent Onto a Delivery Balloon - A medical device-includes a polymer stent crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The stent is crimped to the balloon by a process that includes heating the stent to a temperature below the polymer's glass transition temperature to improve stent retention without adversely affecting the mechanical characteristics of the stent when later deployed to support a body lumen. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316636 | LOCK/FLOATING MARKER BAND ON PUSHER WIRE FOR SELF-EXPANDING STENTS OR MEDICAL DEVICES - An apparatus for deploying and retrieving a self-expanding intravascular stent includes an intravascular delivery wire and floating marker band movably retained over the intravascular stent delivery wire and releasably mounting the self-expanding intravascular stent. The floating marker band is movably retained to a fixed marker band, and a distance between the fixed marker band and the floating marker band is variable and self-adjusting. One or more struts of the self-expanding intravascular stent are releasably constrained between a catheter wall and one or more sides of the floating marker band. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316637 | ENDOPROSTHESIS DELIVERY SYSTEM - The present disclosure relates to catheters for delivering medical devices to a human patient's vasculature. A catheter comprises a sock which covers the medical device at the end of the catheter, and an introducer sheath which is reduced in diameter. This reduced diameter introducer sheath minimizes the crossing of the catheter. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316638 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR TREATING CEREBROVASCULAR PATHOLOGIES AND DELIVERY SYSTEM THEREFOR - In one embodiment, a delivery system for a medical device includes a flexible sheath defining a lumen having a distal end and a flexible shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion. A retention element and a pushing element, spaced proximally from the retention element, are disposed on the distal portion. The flexible shaft, retention element, and pushing element are disposable within the lumen. The flexible shaft is movable distally through the lumen between a stowed position and a deployed position and is movable proximally through the lumen between the deployed position and a partially deployed position with the retention element proximate to the distal end of the lumen. The retention element is configured to form with the medical device an interference fit with the flexible sheath when the flexible shaft is urged proximally from the retention position to engage the medical device with the flexible sheath. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316639 | SYSTEMS AND DELIVERY HANDLES FOR DELIVERING PROSTHETIC HEART VALVES DISPOSED ON VALVE HOLDERS - A system delivering a prosthetic heart valve includes a delivery handle, a heart valve, and a valve holder. The delivery handle includes a rod, a button, and a valve holder attachment interface, where the button is configured to move between a first position and a second position along an axial length of the rod, and the valve holder attachment interface is mechanically coupled to the button and configured to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The heart valve includes a prosthetic valve. The valve holder is connected to a proximal end of the heart valve and includes a boss, a holder ring, and a handle attachment interface. The holder ring includes the heart valve mounted thereto and is coupled to the boss, and the handle attachment interface is formed on the boss and is configured to receive and mate with the valve holder attachment interface. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316640 | Device And Method For Improving Function Of Heart Valve - A device for improving the function of a heart valve comprises a first loop-shaped support, which is configured to abut a first side of the heart valve, and a first flange unit being connected to said first loop-shaped support. The flange unit is configured to be arranged against said annulus when said first loop-shaped support is abutting said heart valve. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316641 | Device and Method for Reducing Cardiac Valve Regurgitation - A catheter ( | 2012-12-13 |
20120316642 | INVASIVE CARDIAC VALVE - An invasive cardiac valve comprises a tubular stent ( | 2012-12-13 |
20120316643 | Device and Method For Improving Function Of Heart Valve - A device for improving the function of a heart valve comprises a first loop-shaped support, which is configured to abut a first side of the heart valve, and a first flange unit being connected to said first loop-shaped support. The flange unit is configured to be arranged against said annulus when said first loop-shaped support is abutting said heart valve. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316644 | INTRAOCULAR LENS IMPLANT FIXATION - An intraocular lens fixation device including a deformable, medically inert clip that affixes a haptic of an intraocular lens to a patient's iris. A method of affixing an intraocular lens, having haptics, within a patient's eye includes piercing the iris in at least two locations that closely flank a portion of one of the haptics, inserting an arm of a biologically inert deformable clip through each of the piercings in the iris until a distal end of each arm is located on opposing sides of the haptic, and applying a force to each of the arms to deploy the clip by causing the distal ends of the arms to approach each other and substantially surround and constrain both a section of the iris that is between the arms and a portion of the haptic. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316645 | RESILIENT MEDICALLY INFLATABLE INTERPOSITIONAL ARTHROPLASTY DEVICE - This disclosure is directed to a resilient interpositional arthroplasty implant for application into joints to pad cartilage defects, cushion joints, and replace or restore the articular surface, which may preserve joint integrity, reduce pain and improve function. The implant may endure variable joint compressive and shear forces and cyclic loads. The implant may repair, reconstruct, and regenerate joint anatomy, and thereby improve upon joint replacement alternatives. Rather than using periosteal harvesting for cell containment in joint resurfacing, the walls of this invention may capture, distribute and hold living cells until aggregation and hyaline cartilage regrowth occurs. The implant may be deployed into debrided joint spaces, molding and conforming to surrounding structures with sufficient stability to avoid extrusion or dislocation. Appendages of the implant may repair or reconstruct tendons or ligaments, and an interior of the implant that is inflatable may accommodate motions which mimic or approximate normal joint motion. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316646 | COLLAGEN COATED ARTICLE - The invention provides a biocompatible article having a surface comprising collagen fibrils attached to said surface via one or more linker molecules, wherein each of said collagen fibrils is attached to at least one of said one or more linker molecules at a proximal end of the fibril, and wherein each of said collagen fibril has a proximal portion extending from said proximal end to a point P along said fibril, wherein, for a majority of said fibrils, each fibril at said point P is oriented so as to form an angle α | 2012-12-13 |
20120316647 | DEVICE FOR EXPANDABLE SPINAL LAMINOPLASTY - The invention relates to devices, implants, systems, techniques and methods for addressing certain conditions of the spine, including devices, implants, systems and methods for performing spinal laminoplasty or other expansion of the spinal canal. The devices of the invention are expandable in situ, providing greater versatility for surgeons performing various procedures where expansion of the spinal canal is desired. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316648 | INTERVERTEBRAL DISC REINFORCEMENT SYSTEMS - An implant system for reinforcing an intervertebral disc and opposing endplate is provided wherein a flexible blocking member for blocking a defect is coupled to a first endplate anchor. An opposing endplate reinforcement member is coupled to a second endplate anchor and implanted in the opposing endplate. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316649 | CERVICAL SPACER - An anterior cervical column support having a hollow frame having a top load bearing surface and a bottom load bearing surface may be inserted between a first spinal vertebra and a second spinal vertebra. The top load bearing surface and the bottom load bearing surface may each include an opening allowing access to the interior of the frame. A front surface may extend between the top load bearing surface and the bottom load bearing surface, and a rear surface may extend between the top load bearing surface and the bottom load bearing surface. An anterior front plate is attached to the front surface of the support device. The interior front plate may be arranged along a plane (P), and an axis (A) between the top load bearing surface and the bottom load bearing surface may be at a non-zero angle relative to the plane (P) | 2012-12-13 |
20120316650 | IMPLANTS HAVING THREE DISTINCT SURFACES - An interbody spinal implant having at least three distinct surfaces including (1) at least one integration surface having a roughened surface topography including macro features, micro features, and nano features, without sharp teeth that risk damage to bone structures; (2) at least one graft contact surface having a coarse surface topography including micro features and nano features; and (3) at least one soft tissue surface having a substantially smooth surface including nano features. Also disclosed are processes of fabricating the different surface topographies, which may include separate macro processing, micro processing, and nano processing steps. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316651 | COMPOSITE IMPLANTS HAVING INTEGRATION SURFACES COMPOSED OF A REGULAR REPEATING PATTERN - A composite interbody spinal implant including a body having a top surface, a bottom surface, opposing lateral sides, and opposing anterior and posterior portions; a first integration plate affixed to the top surface of the body; and an optional second integration plate affixed to the bottom surface of the body. At least a portion of the first integration plate, optional second integration plate, or both has a roughened surface topography including macro features, micro features, and nano features, without sharp teeth that risk damage to bone structures, adapted to grip bone through friction, inhibit migration of the implant, and promote bone growth. Also disclosed are processes of fabricating a roughened surface topography, which may include separate and sequential macro processing, micro processing, and nano processing steps. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316652 | Self-Distracting Cage - Various spinal implants and methods for stabilizing the spine are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a spinal implant is provided having an expandable container with an interior volume that is selectively expandable between a compressed condition and an expanded condition. The expandable container is coupled to a superior endplate member having a bone-contacting surface and an engagement surface effective to mate with a superior surface of the expandable container, and an inferior endplate member having a bone-contacting surface and an engagement surface effective to mate with an inferior surface of the expandable container. In addition, at least one inlet port is formed in the expandable container and is effective to communicate a fluid to at least one cavity disposed within the interior volume of the expandable container. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316653 | SPINAL IMPLANT HAVING A TRANSVERSE APERTURE - An interbody spinal implant including a body having a top surface, a bottom surface, opposing lateral sides, opposing anterior and posterior portions, and optionally a substantially hollow center. The implant includes at least one transverse aperture on one or more of the posterior portion, the anterior portion, and at least one of the opposing lateral sides, and if the substantially hollow center is present, one or more of the transverse apertures may be in communication with the hollow center. The transverse aperture may comprise a notch. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316654 | System and Method for Installing an Annular Repair Rivet Through a Vertebral Body Port - A method for repairing a defect in the annulus of an intervertebral disc uses a port through a vertebra adjacent the disc for passage of a rivet insertion tool to place a first part of a two-part annulus repair rivet against an internal surface of the annulus adjacent the defect. A separate rivet insertion tool places a second part of the annulus repair rivet on an external surface of the annulus adjacent the defect. The first and second parts are secured together, repairing the defect. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316655 | PROPHYLACTIC BACTERICIDAL IMPLANT - A medical implant system is described for inhibiting infection associated with a joint prosthesis implant. An inventive system includes an implant body made of a biocompatible material which has a metal component disposed on an external surface of the implant body. A current is allowed to flow to the metal component, stimulating release of metal ions toxic to microbes, such as bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and viruses. One detailed system is completely surgically implantable in the patient such that no part of the system is external to the patient while the system is in use. In addition, externally controlled devices are provided which allow for modulation of implanted components. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316656 | BALLOON EXPANDABLE STENT - An apparatus is provided that includes an elongate member having a distal end portion, a proximal end portion, and a medial portion that is disposed between the distal end portion and the proximal end portion. The medial portion is configured to be disposed in a ureter of a patient. The apparatus further includes an expandable member that is coupled to the elongate member. The expandable member has an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The expandable member is further configured to be inserted into the ureter of the patient and configured to contact the ureter to help retain the elongate member in place within the patient. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316657 | RELEASABLE ATTACHMENT SYSTEM FOR A PROSTHETIC LIMB - A releasable attachment system is provided for use with a bone anchored post and related external prosthesis such as a prosthetic limb or the like, wherein the attachment system includes a safety release mechanism designed to release or break away when encountering an excess mechanical load. The bone anchored mounting post is implanted for direct affixation to patient bone, and carries or is connected to a fixator structure protruding through soft skin tissue and the like at the end or stump of an amputated limb for mechanical connection to the external prosthesis. The safety release mechanism accommodates substantially normal patient movement throughout a corresponding range of substantially normal mechanical loads, but releases in the presence of an excess load to prevent undesirable fracture failures. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316658 | WEB BASED REMOTE MONITORING AND CONTROL SYSTEM - An Internet-based remote monitoring and control system for monitoring and controlling automated facilities comprising of one or more automation means and one or more communication means located at the facilities, a service means, wherein the service means interfaces with a protocol adaptation means, interaction means having at least one interface presentation means and one or more input/output means. The system establishes an Internet-based first connection between an automation means and the service means where the connection is facilitated by a communication means that acts as a transparent proxy. The system transfers ‘automation means monitoring and controlling data’ to and from the protocol adaptation means through the first connection which further enables a second connection between itself and an interaction means, and translates and transfers ‘automation means monitoring and controlling data’ to and from the interaction means which is monitored and controlled by a user. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316659 | Coaching Strategies in Fantasy Sports - The present invention allows fantasy sports team owners to have more of an impact on the performance of their fantasy sports team. Fantasy owners set “coaching strategies” for their individual teams that give different bonuses/penalties depending on which strategy or counter-strategy is selected. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316660 | AUTOMATICALLY SELECTING THEMATICALLY REPRESENTATIVE MUSIC - A method for automatically selecting thematically representative music is disclosed. A processor is used for using a theme-related keyword to search a keyword-indexed video repository to retrieve videos associated with the theme-related keyword; analyzing the retrieved videos to select videos with music; and extracting music tracks and features from the selected videos. The method further includes selecting representative music related to the theme from the extracted music tracks using the extracted features; and storing the selected representative music in a processor accessible memory. | 2012-12-13 |
20120316661 | MEDIA DEVICE, APPLICATION, AND CONTENT MANAGEMENT USING SENSORY INPUT - Techniques for media device, application, and content management using sensory input are described, including receiving input from one or more sensors coupled to a data-capable strapband, processing the input to determine a pattern, referencing a pattern library using the pattern, generating a control signal to a media application, the control signal being determined based on whether the pattern matches another pattern in the pattern library, and selecting a media file configured to be presented, the media file being selected using the control signal. | 2012-12-13 |