| Ethicon, Inc. Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20160114112 | Distance Indicators for Medicinal Spray Devices - The present invention is directed to a spray applicator for spraying a tissue treatment medicant onto a tissue that has a container containing the medicant and is positioned at a proximal end of the spray applicator; a spray tip positioned at a distal end of the spray applicator; a cannula connecting the container with the spray tip; an actuatable dispensing mechanism at a proximal end of the applicator to express the medicant from the container through the cannula and through the spray tip toward the tissue; an optional pressurized gas source discharging a gas through the cannula in the vicinity of the spray tip or inside the spray tip; and a distance indicator that provides indicia of the distance between the spray tip and the tissue but does not prevent positioning the spray tip closer to the tissue than a defined distance for the distance indicator. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160081686 | Method and Means to Attach Anchor Suture onto Mesh Implants - Novel stay suture devices and stay suture combinations with meshes are disclosed. The stay suture devices have a clip and a suture. The clip has leg members that are mounted to a hernia mesh implant such that the leg members are locked in a closed configuration. Also disclosed are novel methods of mounting stay sutures to a surgical mesh implant and repairing a body wall defect such as a hernia defect. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160074626 | System and Method for Targeted Delivery of Therapeutic Agents to Tissue - Novel systems for and methods of delivering therapeutic agents to target tissues are disclosed. The method of delivering a therapeutic agent to a target tissue involves identifying a target tissue via an imaging modality and then using a guidewire capable of anchoring in tissue to advance a cannula to the target tissue. The guidewire and novel cannula configurations enable rapid and repeated treatments of the target tissue without the need for subsequent imaging. The cannula is coupled to a source of ultrasound, radiation, radiofrequency energy, or chemotherapeutic agents which can then be delivered to from the cannula the target tissue. The system and method can be used to treat tumors that are small or surgically inoperable. In addition, the system can be used to treat lymphatic tissue that may contain metastases from the tumors. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20150367039 | Two-Step Batch Process For Coating Surgical Needles - A novel two-step process for batch coating surgical needles with cross-linked silicone coatings is disclosed. The surgical needles are cured using a two-step process. The coatings on the needles are partially cured in the first step and mechanically separated. The coatings on the needles are then fully cured in the second step. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150351752 | Suture with Trim Formed Tip - The present invention discloses methods for producing a surgical suture having a reduced cross-sectional area portion from monofilaments fibers of various polymeric and metallic materials. Also disclosed are novel sutures having novel tips. Novel suture tipping apparatuses are also disclosed. The monofilament is subjected to the application of thermal treatment coupled with application of mechanical shaping of the fiber element to produce a deformed cross sectional portion of the suture body. The deformed suture body region is subsequently subjected to a trimming operation within a punching/stamping die. The reduced section of the suture body region and is severed to form a suture having a reduced-cross sectional area end portion. Preferably, each reduced region is severed approximately in the center of the trimmed reduced cross sectional area portion to form a suture having both ends of a reduced cross-sectional area. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150266221 | Absorbable Poly (p-dioxanone-co-glycolide) Monofilament Fibers Pocessing Mid-Term Strength Retention Post-Implantation - Novel absorbable monofilament sutures and fibers having unique and improved properties are disclosed including mid-term strength retention post-implantation. Also disclosed is a novel method of manufacturing absorbable monofilament sutures and fibers. The sutures and fibers are extruded from poly(p-dioxanone-co-glycolide) copolymers. | 09-24-2015 |
| 20150250463 | Methods and Devices for Forming Biomedical Coatings Using Variable Mixing Ratios of Multi-Part Compositions - The present invention relates devices capable of continuous and simultaneous expression of components of a multi-part biomedical composition with variable mixing ratios. The device has at least two syringes that contain the inter-reactive components of the multi-part biomedical composition. At least the barrel of the first syringe has a first retention compartment having a cross-sectional area dimension that is larger than the cross-sectional area of a second retention compartment. The first piston has a cross-sectional dimension that matches the inside cross-sectional dimension of the small dimensioned retention compartment, while a ring-shaped gasket is located within the large dimensioned retention compartment and has an outside cross-sectional dimension that matches an interior dimension of the large dimension retention compartment. | 09-10-2015 |
| 20150173882 | Temporary Aids for Deployment and Fixation of Tissue Repair Implants - Novel deployment devices for use as adjuncts with tissue repair implants. The devices are removeably mounted to mesh tissue repair implant devices to manipulate the devices into position and provide for secure fixation about the periphery of such mesh implant devices by providing guide structures such as grooves for directing and positioning a surgical tacking instrument. | 06-25-2015 |
| 20150159011 | Absorbable Bimodal Polymeric Blend Compositions, Processing Methods, and Medical Devices - Novel absorbable polymeric blends having bimodal molecular weight distribution are disclosed. The bimodal blends have a first component that is a polylactide polymer or a copolymer of lactide and glycolide having a bimodal molecular weight distribution, and a second component that is a poly(p-dioxanone) polymer of unimodal or bimodal molecular weight distribution. Alternately, the bimodal blends have a first component that is a polylactide polymer or a copolymer of lactide and glycolide having a unimodal molecular weight distribution, and a second component that is a poly(p-dioxanone) polymer of bimodal molecular weight distribution. The novel polymeric bimodal molecular weight blends provide medical devices having improved dimensional stability. Also disclosed are novel absorbable medical devices made from these novel bimodal polymer blends, as well as novel methods of manufacture. | 06-11-2015 |
| 20150148496 | Absorbable Polymeric Blend Compositions with Precisely Controllable Absorption Rates, Processing Methods, and Dimensionally Stable Medical Devices Therefrom - Novel absorbable polymeric blends are disclosed. The blends have a first absorbable polymer type that is a polylactide polymer or a copolymer of lactide and glycolide and a second absorbable polymer type that is poly(p-dioxanone), wherein the first absorbable polymer type or the second absorbable polymer type or the first absorbable polymer type and the second absorbable polymer type additionally comprise a first polymeric component and a second polymeric component. The first polymeric component has a higher weight average molecular weight than the second polymeric component and at least one of said components is at least partially end-capped by a carboxylic acid. The novel polymeric blends are useful for manufacturing medical devices having dimensional stability, having engineered degradation and breaking strength retention in vivo. Also disclosed are novel absorbable medical devices made from these novel polymer blends, as well as novel methods of manufacture. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150142023 | RECESSED SURGICAL FASTENING DEVICES - Novel recessed surgical fastening devices are disclosed. The fastening devices have a compressible member and a fastening element disposed at least partially within the compressible member. The fastening element has at least one tissue engagement member that is extensible through the compressible member to engage tissue when a force is applied to the fastening device. | 05-21-2015 |
| 20150122681 | MULTI-COMPONENT PACKAGES FOR MEDICAL DEVICES - A package for a medical device includes a tray having elements that receive a medical device. The tray has proximal retainer posts for limiting proximal movement of the medical device relative to the tray. The package includes a retainer lid secured to the tray for covering the top surface of the tray at the distal end of the tray, and a retainer sleeve that is wrapped around the top and bottom surfaces of the tray and secured to the tray by the retainer lid. The proximal end of the retainer sleeve includes a top panel that covers the top surface of the tray at the proximal end of the tray. The top panel of the retainer sleeve has a free edge that is adapted to flex away from the top surface of said tray so that the medical device can be grasped. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150119935 | Absorbable Poly (p-dioxanone-co-glycolide) Monofilament Fibers Possessing Mid-Term Strength Retention Post-Implantation - Novel absorbable monofilament sutures and fibers having unique and improved properties are disclosed including mid-term strength retention post-implantation. Also disclosed is a novel method of manufacturing absorbable monofilament sutures and fibers. The sutures and fibers are extruded from poly(p-dioxanone-co-glycolide) copolymers. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150115014 | THERAPY DELIVERY DEVICE FOR ANASTOMOTIC JOINING OF TISSUE - The present invention relates to circular anastomosis stapler kits that deliver a therapeutic agent followed by stapling of tissue. Each device has a stapling head with a shaft extending from said stapling head and a removable anvil and an interchangeable delivery head for delivering a therapeutic agent into the tissue. The present invention also relates to methods for using the kits and devices therein. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150073564 | Tubular Porous Foam Scaffolds with Gradient Pores for Tissue Engineering - Novel bioabsorbable polymeric porous tubes for tissue engineering nerve growth are disclosed. The tubes are made from a bioabsorbable polymeric foam material and have a gradient of pore sizes across the wall thickness of the tubes such that cell growth occurs into the wall of the tubes from the inner surface, while cell growth or entry is not permitted through the outer wall into the tubular wall. The wall is permeable inwardly and outwardly to fluids. A novel method of manufacturing porous nerve tubes is also disclosed. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150050673 | Fibrinogen Assay - The present invention is directed to a method of detecting intact fibrinogen, comprising the steps of: a) providing a sample containing at least some fibrinogen optionally converted at least in part to fibrin, and optionally containing thrombin; b) solubilizing the sample in a solubilizing solution that inhibits thrombin activity; c) after optional SDS-PAGE transferring/applying a portion of said sample to a protein-binding membrane; d) reacting the fibrinogen with a primary monoclonal antibody capable of binding to fibrinopeptide A moiety; and e) detecting the quantity of intact fibrinogen in the sample by quantifying the amount of the bound primary monoclonal antibody. | 02-19-2015 |
| 20140329769 | Oxidized Regenerated Cellulose Hemostatic Powders and Methods of Making - The present invention is directed to hemostatic material containing compacted ORC powder comprising particles having an average aspect ratio from about 1 to about 18, wherein said compacted ORC powder have preferably been processed in a compaction device, such as a ball milled ORC powder. The present invention further relates to methods of making the hemostatic material and a method of treating a wound by applying the hemostatic powder onto and/or into the wound of a patient. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140305443 | MAGNETIC IMPLANTS AND METHODS FOR TREATING AN OROPHARYNGEAL CONDITION - Magnetic devices and implantation methods are provided for use in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. The devices include a sheet-like element having ferromagnetic qualities. The device may also include a permanent magnet attached to the sheet-like element by magnetic forces. The devices are implanted in soft tissue surrounding the airway and in tissue space beneath the pharyngeal wall to exert forces on and/or change the shape of the soft tissue. The magnetic devices may also include a bladder containing a magnetorheological fluid that stiffens soft tissue when exposed to a magnetic field. | 10-16-2014 |
| 20140290470 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING BRAIDED BARBED SUTURES - A system for making braided barbed sutures includes a filament winding assembly, a barbed insert including an elongated core and barbs extending outwardly from the elongated core, and a barbed insert dispenser opening defining a passageway for orienting the barbed insert as the barbed insert is dispensed into the filament winding assembly. The barbed insert dispenser opening allows longitudinal movement of the barbed insert relative to the barbed insert dispenser opening while simultaneously preventing twisting movement of the barbed insert relative to the barbed insert dispenser opening. | 10-02-2014 |
| 20140277576 | Randomly Uniform Three Dimensional Tissue Scaffold of Absorbable and Non-Absorbable Materials - An implantable structure, method for making the structure and method for using the structure, where the structure includes a combination of non-absorbable and absorbable components, and the implantable structure has a randomly uniform array of materials. The resulting implantable structure provides improved tissue ingrowth and flexibility after implantation and after absorption of the absorbable materials. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140277575 | Randomly Uniform Three Dimensional Tissue Scaffold of Absorbable and Non-Absorbable Materials - An implantable structure, method for making the structure and method for using the structure, where the structure includes a combination of non-absorbable and absorbable components, and the implantable structure has a randomly uniform array of materials. The resulting implantable structure provides improved tissue ingrowth and flexibility after implantation and after absorption of the absorbable materials. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140277440 | TISSUE EXPANDER IMPLANT WITH SELF-SEALING SAFETY PATCH - Disclosed is a self-sealing patch for use with a tissue expander implant. The self-sealing patch serves as protection for the tissue expander against a hypodermic needle inadvertently missing a fluid injection port thereof by sealing a puncture through the patch. The patch includes a first sheet having a first sheet perimeter, a second sheet having a second sheet perimeter attached to the first sheet perimeter to form a pocket between the first sheet and the second sheet. Material is disposed within the pocket, where the material is hydrophobic material having a viscosity high enough that the material is prevented from flowing outside the pocket when either the first or second sheet is punctured with a hypodermic needle but low enough that the material flows to close a track made by a hypodermic needle puncturing the first or second sheet. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276907 | LAPROSCOPIC INSTRUMENT DEPTH STOP - Disclosed is an infinitely adjustable depth stop for a laparoscopic instrument having a shaft, the depth stop including a first component having a first annular space adapted to allow the shaft to be fitted therethrough. The first annular space has a reducible diameter and an interference surface against which the shaft may be fitted. Upon reduction of the reducible diameter, the interference surface frictionally engages the shaft to arrest relative movement of the depth stop along the shaft. The frictional engagement may be along a curve, a spiral curve, or an area. Means are also provided to reopen the reducible diameter to release the depth stop. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140275467 | Polylactone Polymers Prepared from Monol and Diol Polymerization Initiators Processing Two or More Carboxylic Acid Groups - The present invention is directed to a novel polymerization process for making novel absorbable, linear polylactone polymers prepared using novel polymerization initiators to achieve rates of mechanical property loss or of absorption of articles made from the polymers that are at least about 1.2 times faster than the rates of mechanical property loss of polymers made by similar processes utilizing conventional initiators. The novel polymerization initiators include monols or diols possessing at least one primary alcohol group and two or more carboxylic acid groups. The invention also is directed to absorbable polylactone polymers prepared by processes of the present invention and to medical devices made from such polymers. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140263215 | Laser Systems for Drilling Holes in Medical Devices - Novel laser drilling systems are disclosed. The laser drilling systems are useful for drilling bore holes in medical devices, especially blind bore holes in surgical needles. The laser systems use a low power fiber seed laser to produce a high quality laser beam that is modulated and amplified, and which has precise characteristics to produce precision drilled holes. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261452 | Modular Tissue Securement Systems - A system and method are disclosed for the securement of tissue and in particular for placement of a tongue base suspension fiber for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. The system incorporates disposable connectors with releasable needles to facilitate the placement of fibers with minimal increase in suture site dilation or trauma. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140257242 | ALL IN ONE ANTIMICROBIAL DRESSING FOR CATHETER COVERAGE - We have disclosed dressing devices that combine the functions of coverage of a catheter insertion site, fluid handling capacity for the puncture site of a catheter, and fixation of the catheter. More specifically, we have disclosed dressing devices comprising a base, a pad, and a dressing film, and the devices possess antimicrobial properties. We further disclose a method of making the disclosed dressing devices, a kit comprising the disclosed dressing devices and a catheter fastener means, a method of installing the dressing devices on a patient's skin over an indwelling catheter, and a method of replacing the disclosed dressing devices. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140251343 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - Methods and devices comprised of a collapsible insert member and shaping member for treating obstructive sleep apnea are described. The insert member is placed in the tongue or other tissue forming the airway of the patient and has a lumen to accommodate the shaping member. The shaping member is inserted into the insert member by the patient just prior to sleep and removed upon waking. A variety of shaping members are available to treat patients on an individual basis, i.e., to match their particular anatomic condition that is causing their apnea or snoring. The shaping member can be made from nitinol, stainless steel, or any other known biocompatible implant material capable of providing a change in the tissue response to stress. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140249361 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NERVE STIMULATION - A system and method for stimulating a target such as a nerve, wherein the system includes a first waveform generator adapted to generate a first waveform having a frequency capable of stimulating a predetermined target of the mammal, a second waveform generator adapted to generate a carrier waveform having a frequency capable of passing through tissue of the mammal, a modulation device electrically coupled to the first and second waveform generators and adapted to modulate the first and carrier waveforms to create a modulated waveform, and an electrode electrically coupled to the modulation device and positioned substantially adjacent to skin of the mammal, and adapted to apply the modulated waveform thereto. | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140222071 | LOCALLY REVERSIBLE BARBED SUTURES - A wound closure device includes a flexible filament having a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends. A plurality of barbs project outwardly from the flexible filament. Each barb has a base connected with the flexible filament, a blunt tip spaced from the base, a leading edge extending between the base and the blunt tip and facing toward the first end of the flexible filament, and a trailing edge extending between the base and the tip and facing toward the second end of the flexible filament. The trailing edge of the barb and the longitudinal axis of the flexible filament define an angle of at least 68° that opens toward the second end of the flexible filament. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140207186 | Sealant Delivery Device for Anastomotic Stapler - The present invention relates to surgical instruments and a method for applying an adhesive or sealant to an anastomosis site immediately prior and/or during anastomotic surgical stapling. The present invention further relates to surgical instruments, devices, and methods for applying sealant to a target tissue of a surgical site being anastomotically joined so as to prevent leakage. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140205636 | Fibrin Sealant Compositions with Chemical Crosslinking - The invention relates to tissue adhesives or sealants, more specifically to fibrinogen based sealants reinforced with particulate material and chemically cross-linked. More particularly, the present invention is directed to tissue sealant, adhesive, hemostat, or scaffolding material containing thrombin, fibrinogen, a biocompatible particulate material having amine functionality, and a biocompatible polymer containing aldehyde groups. The present invention is also directed to methods for the use of such materials. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140187726 | Segmented, Semicrystalline Poly(Lactide-co-epsilon-Caprolactone) Absorbable Copolymers - Novel semi-crystalline, segmented copolymers of lactide and epsilon-caprolactone exhibiting long term absorption characteristics are disclosed. The novel polymer compositions are useful for long term absorbable meshes, surgical sutures, especially monofilament sutures, and other medical devices. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140163677 | VALVE ASSEMBLIES FOR IMPLANTABLE PROSTHESES AND TISSUE EXPANDERS - An expandable implant includes an implant shell having an opening and a valve assembly closing the opening. The valve assembly has a first elastic patch, and a second elastic patch juxtaposed with the first elastic patch. A major face of the first elastic patch opposes a major face of the second elastic patch, and the opposing major faces have a bonded area in which the opposing faces are joined together and an unbonded area in which the opposing faces are not joined together and are free to move away from one another. A plug is disposed between the opposing major faces. A first opening extends through the first elastic patch and a second opening extends through the second elastic patch. The first and second openings are offset from one another and the unbonded area defines an elongated channel extending between the first and second openings. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140156001 | VALVE ASSEMBLIES FOR EXPANDABLE IMPLANTS AND TISSUE EXPANDERS - A valve assembly for an implant has an inner shell, a self-sealing material disposed within the inner shell, and an insertion pathway extending through the self-sealing material. At least one gap is formed in the self-sealing material that intersects with the insertion pathway to define a proximal pathway section and a distal pathway section. A filling tube is passed through the valve assembly for filling the outer shell of the implant with a fluid. After the implant is filled, the filling tube is removed. As the filling tube is removed, if the self-sealing material within the distal section of the pathway is unable to self-seal before the fluid reaches its proximal end, the fluid is diverted into the gap. The time that elapses before the gap is completely filled by the fluid provides sufficient time for the self-sealing material within the proximal section of the pathway to self-seal. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140134220 | High-Glass Transition Temperature Absorbable Microspheres - Absorbable microspheres comprising a copolymer formed from greater than 80 to about 99 mole percent D,L-lactide, L(−)-lactide, D(+)-lactide, or meso-lactide and combinations thereof, and about 1 to less than 20 mole percent of a different second monomer selected from the group consisting of p-dioxanone and trimethylene carbonate and combinations thereof, said microspheres having a particle size ranging from about 5 to 2000 microns. Also described herein are formulations comprising such absorbable microspheres. | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140128912 | Tungsten-Rhenium Alloys for Curved Surgical Needle Applications - Curved surgical needles made from tungsten rhenium alloys are disclosed. The curved surgical needles have body flats. The needles have improved resistance to cracking. | 05-08-2014 |
| 20140128891 | Surgical Implant - A surgical implant ( | 05-08-2014 |
| 20140093549 | Surgical Barriers Having Adhesion Inhibiting Properties - An adhesion inhibiting surgical barrier. The surgical barrier includes a wound-facing polymeric coating comprising an enteric polymer; and at least one flexible substrate, the at least one flexible substrate having at least one exterior surface, wherein the polymeric coating is applied to the at least one flexible substrate to substantially cover the at least one exterior surface thereof. A method of inhibiting the formation of adhesions in a patient who has undergone a surgical procedure and a method of repairing a gastric or duodenal perforation are also described herein. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140088644 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR APPROXIMATING TISSUE - A wound closure device including a first tissue anchor with a first suture filament fixedly coupled thereto at a proximal end and extending along a length to a free distal end, and a second tissue anchor with a second suture filament fixedly coupled thereto at a proximal end and extending along a length to a free distal end. The first suture filament is configured to form a slip knot at its proximal end substantially adjacent the first tissue anchor, and the second suture is configured to form a slip knot at its proximal end substantially adjacent the second tissue anchor. The length of the first suture filament passes through the slip knot of the second suture and the length of the second suture filament passes through the slip knot of the first suture filament. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140088622 | Negative Pressure Intestinal Anastomosis Protection Devices - A device is disclosed that provides for the protection of intestinal anastomosis sites and other body sites from bodily fluids and contaminants. Additionally, the device provides the ability to create negative pressure at the site of the obstruction to ensure that contaminants flow from the visceral compartment into the inner lumen of the bowel. Further, the device provides the sectional forces through natural constrictions of the intestinal muscles through peristaltic action. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140088619 | TEMPORARY AIDS FOR DEPLOYMENT AND FIXATION OF TISSUE REPAIR IMPLANTS - Novel deployment devices for use as adjuncts with tissue repair implants. The devices are removeably mounted to mesh tissue repair implant devices to manipulate the devices into position and provide for secure fixation about the periphery of such mesh implant devices by providing guide structures such as grooves for directing and positioning a surgical tacking instrument. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140081321 | BARBED SUTURES HAVING CONTOURED BARBS THAT FACILITATE PASSAGE THROUGH TISSUE AND INCREASE HOLDING STRENGTH - A wound closure device includes a filamentary element having a proximal end and a distal end, and a plurality of barbs extending outwardly from the filamentary element. Each barb has a base connected with the filamentary element, a tip spaced from the base, and an outer edge that extends between the base and the tip. The outer edge includes a first section having a concave surface that extends between the base and a transition point of the barb and a second section having a convex surface that extends between the transition point of the barb and the tip of the barb. The outer edge transforms from the concave surface of the first section to the convex curve of the second section at the transition point of the barb. The tip of the barb has a convexly curved surface facing the distal end of the filamentary element. The unique dual radius shape of the outer edge of the barbs and the tips of the barbs minimizes resistance when the filamentary element is pulled in a first direction through tissue and maximizes resistance to movement when the filamentary element is pulled in an opposite, second direction through tissue for holding the wound closure device stationary. | 03-20-2014 |
| 20140074129 | SURGICAL IMPLANT - A surgical implant has a mesh-like base structure ( | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140073705 | BIOABSORBABLE POLYMERIC COMPOSITIONS, PROCESSING METHODS, AND MEDICAL DEVICES THEREFROM - Novel bioabsorbable polymeric blends are disclosed. The blends have a first component that is a polylactide polymers or a copolymer of lactide and glycolide and a second component that is poly(p-dioxanone) polymer. The novel polymeric blends provide medical devices having dimensional stability. Also disclosed are novel bioabsorbable medical devices made from these novel polymer blends, as well as novel methods of manufacture. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140017348 | Hemostatic Preparation Containing an Extract of Golden Moss - The present invention relates generally to agents and devices for promoting hemostasis and, more particularly, to an extract of a plant-based “Traditional Chinese Medicinal” product and devices incorporating such agents for the delivery thereof to bleeding wounds. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140005471 | SURGICAL IMPLANT FOR TREATING PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE CONDITIONS | 01-02-2014 |
| 20130330827 | In Vitro Methodology for Predicting in Vivo Absorption Time of Bioabsorbable Polymeric Implants and Devices - A novel in vitro methodology for predicting the in vivo behavior, such as absorption time or mechanical strength retention, of biodegradable polymeric implants and medical devices. The present invention provides a novel in vitro methodology, hydrolysis profiling, for studying the degradation of absorbable polymers. Accuracy and reproducibility have been established for selected test conditions. Data from this in vitro method are correlated to in vivo absorption data, allowing for the prediction of accurate in vivo behaviors, such as absorption times. | 12-12-2013 |
| 20130324789 | IMPLANT INSERTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USE - An implant insertion system includes an implant, such as a surgical mesh, having at least one insertion tip secured to the implant. Each insertion tip has a tapered distal end, a proximal end, a base extending proximally from the tapered distal end, and a central lumen formed in the base having an opening facing the proximal end of the insertion tip. The system includes an insertion device having an outer shaft and a latching assembly provided at a distal end of the outer shaft that is insertable into the opening of the central lumen for selectively locking the insertion tip to the latching assembly. The latching assembly has an outer dimension that is changeable from expanded state for locking the insertion tip to the latching assembly to a non-expanded state for unlocking the insertion tip from the latching assembly. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130317527 | SINGLE PLANE TISSUE REPAIR PATCH HAVING A LOCATING STRUCTURE - A novel single plane tissue repair patch is disclosed. The patch has a base member with an opening therethrough, and a closure member associated with the opening. Mounted to the periphery of the bottom side of the base member is a locating structure. The mesh may be used in open surgical procedures for hernia repairs and other repairs of body wall defects. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130315963 | Mechanically Strong Absorbable Polymeric Blend Compositions of Precisely Controllable Absorption Rates, Processing Methods, And Products Therefrom - Novel absorbable polymer blends are disclosed. The blends are useful for manufacturing medical devices having engineered degradation and breaking strength retention in vivo. The blends consist of a first absorbable polymeric component and a second absorbable polymeric component. The weight average molecular weight of the first polymeric component is higher than the weight average molecular weight of the second polymeric component. At least at least one of said components is at least partially end-capped by a carboxylic acid group. Further aspects are medical devices made therefrom. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130304091 | APPLICATOR INSTRUMENTS HAVING DISTAL END CAPS FOR FACILITATING THE ACCURATE PLACEMENT OF SURGICAL FASTENERS DURING OPEN REPAIR PROCEDURES - An applicator instrument for dispensing surgical fasteners includes a housing, a firing system disposed in the housing, an actuator coupled with the housing for actuating the firing system, an elongated shaft extending from the housing, the elongated shaft having an outer diameter, and a cap secured to the distal end of the elongated shaft, whereby the cap has a lower distal edge that extends laterally beyond the outer diameter of the elongated shaft. The lower distal edge of the cap has a length that is greater than the outer diameter of the elongated shaft. The cap has a distal end face that slopes upwardly and proximally from the lower distal edge, and the cap has a surgical fastener delivery window formed in the distal end face for dispensing surgical fasteners. The delivery window has a lower end that is spaced from the lower distal edge. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130303845 | APPLICATOR INSTRUMENTS WITH IMAGING SYSTEMS FOR DISPENSING SURGICAL FASTENERS DURING OPEN REPAIR PROCEDURES - An applicator instrument for dispensing surgical fasteners includes a housing, a firing system disposed in the housing and moveable in distal and proximal directions along a first axis, a handle extending upwardly from the housing along a second axis that defines an acute angle with the first axis, and a trigger mounted on the handle. The applicator instrument includes a non-linear elongated shaft extending from the housing that has a distal section that is extends upwardly toward a top of said applicator instrument. A distal end cap is secured to the distal end of the elongated shaft. The applicator has an imaging system including an imaging device for detecting images at the distal end of said applicator instrument, and a light source for illuminating a field of view for the imaging device at the distal end of the applicator instrument. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130264226 | PACKAGED ANTIMICROBIAL MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING IMPROVED SHELF LIFE AND METHOD OF PREPARING SAME - A packaged antimicrobial suture. The packaged antimicrobial suture includes an inner package having a source of antimicrobial agent, the source of antimicrobial agent comprising a plurality of patches, each patch having a pair of antimicrobial material reservoirs; at least one suture positioned within the inner package, the at least one suture comprising one or more surfaces; and an outer package having an inner surface, the outer package having the inner package positioned within; wherein the at least one suture, the inner package and the inner surface of the outer package are subjected to time, temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to transfer an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent from the antimicrobial agent source to the at least one suture and the inner package, thereby substantially inhibiting bacterial colonization on the at least one suture and the inner package. A method of making a packaged antimicrobial suture having is also provided. | 10-10-2013 |
| 20130251774 | BROAD-SPECTRUM ANTIMICROBIAL COMPOSITIONS BASED ON COMBINATIONS OF TAUROLIDINE AND PROTAMINE AND MEDICAL DEVICES CONTAINING SUCH COMPOSITIONS - Novel antimicrobial compositions and coatings are disclosed. The antimicrobial compositions consist of mixtures of taurolidine and protamine, including protamine salts. The antimicrobial compositions are particularly useful in coatings for implantable medical devices. The antimicrobial compositions are effective against a broad spectrum of microbes. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130245681 | DEVICES FOR DISPENSING SURGICAL FASTENERS INTO TISSUE WHILE SIMULTANEOUSLY GENERATING EXTERNAL MARKS THAT MIRROR THE NUMBER AND LOCATION OF THE DISPENSED SURGICAL FASTENERS - A device dispenses surgical fasteners inside a body and generates marks outside the body indicating where the surgical fasteners have been dispensed inside the body. The device includes a first member having a surgical fastener dispenser opening, and a second member coupled with the first member, the second member having a distal end that opposes the surgical fastener dispenser opening. The device includes a marking assembly secured to the distal end of the second member. The marking assembly is moveable away from and toward the surgical fastener dispenser opening. The marking assembly is adapted for generating marks on an external surface that mirror the location of each surgical fastener dispensed from the surgical fastener dispenser opening. The device may include a clamp for compressing tissue between the marking assembly and the surgical fastener dispenser. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130245642 | CLAMPING DEVICES FOR DISPENSING SURGICAL FASTENERS INTO SOFT MEDIA - A clamping device for dispensing surgical fasteners includes a lower arm having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the proximal and distal ends, and an upper arm pivotally connected with the lower arm. An actuator is coupled with the upper and lower arms for moving the distal ends of the arms toward one another for closing the clamping device. A surgical fastener dispenser is secured to the distal end of the lower arm. The dispenser includes a cartridge body having a top surface with a surgical fastener dispenser opening. A pad is pivotally connected to the distal end of the upper arm. When the clamping device is closed, a bottom surface of the pad applies a clamping force upon the top surface of the cartridge body for dispensing one of the surgical fasteners at an angle that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130225538 | BIOABSORBABLE POLYMER COMPOSITIONS EXHIBITING ENHANCED CRYSTALLIZATION AND HYDROLYSIS RATES - A bimodal bioabsorbable polymer composition. The composition includes a first amount of a bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a first molecular weight distribution; a second amount of said bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a second molecular weight distribution having a weight average molecular weight between about 10,000 to about 50,000 Daltons, the weight average molecular weight ratio of said first molecular weight distribution to said second molecular weight distribution is at least about two to one; wherein a substantially homogeneous blend of said first and second amounts of said bioabsorbable polymer is formed in a ratio of between about 50/50 to about 95/5 weight/weight percent. Also disclosed are a medical device, a method of making a medical device and a method of melt blowing a semi-crystalline polymer blend. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130218200 | TISSUE APPROXIMATION DEVICE - A tissue approximation device comprising two elongate arms, an attachment means to secure the elongate arms to each other, adhesive pads on at least a portion of the elongate arms to anchor the tissue approximation device to the skin, and a locking means to lock the elongate arms in place relative to each other. | 08-22-2013 |
| 20130218177 | SURGICAL FASTENERS HAVING ARTICULATING JOINTS AND DEFLECTABLE TIPS - A surgical fastener for securing a prosthetic device to tissue includes a first leg having a proximal end, a distal end, a first insertion tip at the distal end, and a first articulating joint that separates said first leg into a proximal segment and a distal segment that is deflectable relative to the proximal segment, and a second leg including a proximal end, a distal end, a second insertion tip at the distal end, and a second articulating joint that separates said second leg into a proximal segment and a distal segment that is deflectable relative to the proximal segment. A bridge connects the proximal ends of the first and second legs for forming a closed end of the surgical fastener. After implantation in tissue, the insertion tips are deflectable away from vessels and nerves to minimize injury to the vessels and nerves, and to minimize patient discomfort and pain. | 08-22-2013 |
| 20130210310 | BIOABSORBABLE POLYMER COMPOSITIONS EXHIBITING ENHANCED CRYSTALLIZATION AND HYDROLYSIS RATES - A bimodal bioabsorbable polymer composition. The composition includes a first amount of a bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a first molecular weight distribution; a second amount of said bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a second molecular weight distribution having a weight average molecular weight between about 10,000 to about 50,000 Daltons, the weight average molecular weight ratio of said first molecular weight distribution to said second molecular weight distribution is at least about two to one; wherein a substantially homogeneous blend of said first and second amounts of said bioabsorbable polymer is formed in a ratio of between about 50/50 to about 95/5 weight/weight percent. Also disclosed are a medical device, a method of making a medical device and a method of melt blowing a semi-crystalline polymer blend. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130209664 | SURGICAL NEEDLE COATINGS AND METHODS - The present invention provides improved medical devices for use in surgical procedures and methods for manufacturing improved medical devices. In some embodiments, the improved medical devices can include improved surgical needles that are capable of being repeatedly passed through tissue using minimal force. More particularly, the improved surgical needles can be manufactured with two or more different coatings that provide the surgical needles with both durability and lubricity for ease of repeated and successive passes through tissue. Improved methods for manufacturing the surgical needles and for providing and applying coatings to the surgical needles are also provided. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130202779 | MEDICAL DEVICES HAVING DURABLE AND LUBRICIOUS POLYMERIC COATING - A medical device having a contact surface exposed repeatedly to bodily tissue is disclosed. The contact surface is coated with a silicone polymer and one or more non-silicone hydrophobic polymers. The preferred medical device is a surgical needle, and the preferred coating is a polydimethylsiloxane and polypropylene wax hydrocarbon mixture. The incorporation of the non-silicone hydrophobic polymer increases the durability of the coating on the device without sacrificing lubricity. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20130197111 | ANTIMICROBIAL POLYMER COMPOSITIONS AND THE USE THEREOF - An antimicrobial composition comprising an ionic complex of an anionic polyester with an antimicrobial metal, wherein the anionic polyester has an ion exchange capacity from about 0.19 meq/g to about 1.0 meq/g. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130196052 | ANTIMICROBIAL/ANTIBACTERIAL MEDICAL DEVICES COATED WITH TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINES - An antimicrobial composition for coating a medical device. The antimicrobial composition includes a polymeric film forming material and an antimicrobial agent comprising a material selected from the group of extract of | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130193009 | METHOD OF PREPARING A PACKAGED ANTIMICROBIAL MEDICAL DEVICE - A method of making a packaged antimicrobial suture comprising the steps of providing a containment compartment that is substantially free of an antimicrobial agent; positioning a suture within the containment compartment, said suture comprising one or more surfaces having an antimicrobial agent disposed thereon, said antimicrobial agent being selected from the group consisting of halogenated hydroxyl ethers, acyloxydiphenyl ethers, and combinations thereof; placing the containment compartment having the suture in an outer package; and subjecting the outer package, the containment compartment and the suture to time, temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to transfer an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent from the suture to the containment compartment, while retaining an effective amount of said antimicrobial agent on the suture, thereby substantially inhibiting bacterial colonization on the suture and the containment compartment. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130193008 | PACKAGED ANTIMICROBIAL MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHOD OF PREPARING SAME - A method of making a packaged antimicrobial suture. The method includes the steps of providing a containment compartment molded from a polymeric resin comprising a polymeric material and an antimicrobial agent, positioning a suture within the containment compartment, the suture comprising one or more surfaces; covering the containment compartment having the suture in an outer package cover having an inner surface, and subjecting the outer package, the containment compartment and the suture to time, temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to vapor transfer an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent from the containment compartment to the suture, while retaining an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent on the containment compartment, thereby substantially inhibiting bacterial colonization on the suture and the containment compartment. A packaged antimicrobial suture is also provided. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130190785 | METHODS OF REPAIRING A HERNIA USING A HERNIA SUPPORT DEVICE - A method of repairing a hernia using a hernia mesh support device includes providing a hernia mesh support device, reducing a hernia within a patient's abdomen, inserting the hernia mesh support device into the abdomen and positioning the device in alignment with the hernia, ensuring that no abdominal organs are present between the device and the abdominal wall, whereby the step of ensuring that no abdominal organ is between the device and the abdominal wall includes the step of digitally sweeping the space between the abdominal wall and the device, removing a protective cover, and pulling on a pull strap joined to an inner ring to place the device tightly against the abdominal wall and to anchor barbed pins and hollow needles into the abdominal wall. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130189422 | SURGICAL NEEDLE COATINGS AND METHODS - The present invention provides improved medical devices for use in surgical procedures and methods for manufacturing improved medical devices. In some embodiments, the improved medical devices can include improved surgical needles that are capable of being repeatedly passed through tissue using minimal force. More particularly, the improved surgical needles can be manufactured with two or more different coatings that provide the surgical needles with both durability and lubricity for ease of repeated and successive passes through tissue. Improved methods for manufacturing the surgical needles and for providing and applying coatings to the surgical needles are also provided. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130186412 | IMPLANT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - A system, method and kit for treating obstructive sleep apnea. The system includes a first implant adapted for implantation in an inframandibular region and having at least one aperture therethrough, and a ribbon-like element having first and second ends and a substantially uniform, non-circular cross section along its length. The ribbon-like element is adapted for implantation in a tongue with the first and second ends extending through the at least one aperture in the first implant for coupling the ribbon-like element with the first implant. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130172927 | ADHESIVE STRUCTURE WITH TISSUE PIERCING PROTRUSIONS ON ITS SURFACE - An implant having an adhesive structure comprising a planar surface having two sides and rectangular cuboid-based protrusions having pyramidal tips extending from at least one of said sides, optionally having a porous basic supporting structure, and methods of making and using such implants. | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130158677 | IMPLANTABLE REPAIR DEVICE - An implantable prosthesis for repairing or reinforcing a tissue or muscle wall defect including a first composite structure including at least one layer of a non-absorbable material, wherein the first composite structure has a central portion sized and shaped to cover at least a portion of the tissue or muscle wall defect, and has an outer periphery. The prosthesis further includes a second structure having a reinforced central region and an outer peripheral edge, a reinforcing element positioned between the first and second structures, and having an outer periphery and a stiffness greater than that of the first and second structures, and at least one pulling element coupled to the reinforced central region of the second structure. The second structure is coupled to the first structure substantially only at their respective peripheries. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130156824 | PROTECTIVE WOUND DRESSING DEVICE FOR ORAL AND PHARYNGEAL SPACE - The present invention provides a wound dressing comprising a tessellated water-soluble molding matrix comprised of a polymer selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, gelatin, and mixtures thereof and a 1,1-disubstituted ethylene monomer. The present invention further provides methods of using the wound dressing and kits containing the wound dressing. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130156640 | STERILIZATION SYSTEM AND METHOD AND ORIFICE INLET CONTROL APPARATUS THEREFOR - A chemical vapor sterilization process is enhanced by concentrating a germicide via exploitation of the difference between the vapor pressures of the germicide and its solvent. A diffusion restriction can be placed into the diffusion path to assist this process and the path then opened to provide rapid diffusion of the thus concentrated germicide. The path through the diffusion restriction can be closed to allow the pressure in a sterilization chamber to be lowered prior to receiving the concentrated germicide. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130150992 | X-RAY MICROSCOPY FOR CHARACTERIZING HOLE SHAPE AND DIMENSIONS IN SURGICAL NEEDLES - A novel method of characterizing laser drilled boreholes is disclosed. The method uses x-ray microscopy for dimensional characterization. The x-ray output may be processed to control manufacturing equipment in automated production systems, including laser drilling systems and swaging apparatus. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130131720 | APPLICATORS, DISPENSERS AND METHODS FOR DISPENSING AND APPLYING ADHESIVE MATERIAL - An applicator/dispenser assembly for dispensing and/or applying an adhesive material comprises: a first body portion and a second body portion, at least one of the first and second body portions being movable relative to the other of the first and second body portions; a cavity in at least one of the first and second body portions; and a piercing or breaking member arranged on one of the first and second body portions. Movement of one of the first and second body portions relative to the other of the first and second body portions moves the piercing or breaking member into the cavity. When a container of adhesive material is at least partially disposed within the cavity, movement of one of the first and second body portions relative to the other moves the piercing or breaking member to rupture the container for dispensing and/or applying the adhesive material. | 05-23-2013 |
| 20130092178 | Surgical wound closure device - A surgical wound closure device including a substrate having a proximal surface and a distal surface; a drape having a proximal surface and a distal surface, and being disposed proximally to said substrate; and an adhesive layer having a proximal surface and a distal surface; said drape being disposed releasably adherently to said distal surface of said adhesive layer. Also provided is a surgical procedure including the steps of providing a surgical wound closure device positioning the proximal surface of said adhesive layer on a patient; separating said substrate from said drape and adhesive layer to expose said distal surface of said drape; making a surgical incision through said drape; performing a surgical procedure; removing said drape from said adhesive layer to expose said distal surface of said adhesive layer; aligning said substrate and said adhesive layer; and adhering said proximal surface of said substrate to said adhesive layer. | 04-18-2013 |
| 20130089511 | ABSORBABLE POLYMER FORMULATIONS - A co-polyester which includes the reaction product of a polycondensation polyester and epsilon-caprolactone, wherein the polycondensation polyester comprises the reaction product of diglycolic acid and/or a derivative thereof and a diol. The co-polyester is injectable and absorbable into animal, such as human, tissue and can be used for facial cosmetic or reconstructive surgery of soft tissue. Another embodiment is directed to a method for preventing adhesion using a co-polyester comprising the reaction product of a polycondensation polyester and epsilon-caprolactone, wherein the polycondensation polyester comprises the reaction product of diglycolic acid and/or a derivative thereof and a diol, and the co-polyester comprises about 40 to 50% by weight of the polycondensation polyester based on the total weight of the co-polyester. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130084381 | STERILIZATION OF POLYMERIC MATERIALS - A method of sterilizing a polymeric material that is sensitive to radiation. The method includes the steps of applying at least one radiosensitizer to the polymeric material and irradiating the polymeric material with a suitable radiation at an effective dose and time to sterilize the polymeric material. Also disclosed is a method of enhancing the ability of a medical device to withstand sterilization by radiation and a bioabsorbable polymeric medical device. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130066369 | BRAIDED BARBED SUTURE - A suture assembly and a method for making the same is provided. The suture assembly includes a plurality of unbarbed filamentary elements intertwined with one another and at least one barbed filamentary element having a longitudinal axis and having plurality of barbs extending outwardly therefrom in a first direction less than 90 degrees from the longitudinal axis. According to exemplary embodiments, the at least one barbed filamentary may be intertwined along its length with the plurality of unbarbed filamentary elements, and the plurality of barbs extending outwardly beyond the unbarbed filamentary elements, or the primary outer periphery of the at least one barbed filamentary element may be contained within the intertwined unbarbed filamentary elements with the plurality of barbs extending through and outwardly from the plurality of unbarbed filamentary elements. | 03-14-2013 |
| 20130029556 | Copolymers of E-Caprolactone and Glycolide for Melt Blown Nonwoven Applications - Copolymers exhibiting the following combinations of properties, including without limitation, ε-caprolactone in an amount ranging from about 12 to about 70 mole percent, glycolide in an amount ranging from about 30 to about 88 mole percent, crystallinity ranging from about 10 to about 50% as measured by WAXD or about 10 to about 50 J/g as measured by DSC, and an inherent viscosity ranging from about 0.5 to about 1.45 dL/g as measured in a 0.1 g/dl solution of HFIP at 25° C.; a method for melt blowing such copolymers and nonwoven constructs produced therefrom are described herein. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20120315316 | Reinforced Absorbable Synthetic Matrix For Hemostatic Applications - The present invention is directed to a reinforced absorbable hemostat comprising at least one hemostatic agent in a single layer of nonwoven synthetic fabric having a mixture of compressed fiber staples of a polyglycolide/polylactide copolymer and a polydioxanone. | 12-13-2012 |
| 20120310281 | SUTURE ANCHOR WITH IMPROVED DRIVE HEAD - A suture anchor is provided including an elongate shank defining a longitudinal axis and having at least one bone-engaging thread formed thereon, and a drive head having a proximal end and a distal end mated to the elongate shank. The drive head has a substantially oval shape and includes at least one suture attachment member formed in a portion of the drive head. The configuration of the drive head is particularly advantages in that it provides a suture anchor having improved physical properties, including a high failure torque and a high stripping strength. | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120302528 | BIOABSORBABLE POLYMER COMPOSITIONS EXHIBITING ENHANCED CRYSTALLIZATION AND HYDROLYSIS RATES - A bimodal bioabsorbable polymer composition. The composition includes a first amount of a bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a first molecular weight distribution; a second amount of said bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a second molecular weight distribution having a weight average molecular weight between about 10,000 to about 50,000 Daltons, the weight average molecular weight ratio of said first molecular weight distribution to said second molecular weight distribution is at least about two to one; wherein a substantially homogeneous blend of said first and second amounts of said bioabsorbable polymer is formed in a ratio of between about 50/50 to about 95/5 weight/weight percent. Also disclosed are a medical device, a method of making a medical device and a method of melt blowing a semi-crystalline polymer blend. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120272817 | AUTOMATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING BRAIDED BARBED SUTURES - A system for making braided barbed sutures includes a filament winding assembly, and a guide assembly including at least one barbed insert dispenser opening defining a passageway . for orienting a barbed insert. The guide assembly is adapted to dispense at least one barbed insert from the dispenser opening into the filament winding assembly for winding a plurality of filaments around the at least One barbed insert for making a braided barbed suture. The passageway of the dispenser opening is adapted to allow longitudinal movement of the barbed insert relative to the passageway while simultaneously preventing twisting movement of the barbed insert relative to the passageway. As the barbed insert is being dispensed, the barbed insert dispenser opening is selectively rotatable for imparting rotation to the barbed insert as the filaments are wound about the barbed insert. The passageway may be an elongated slit having a greater width than height. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120267263 | PACKAGED ANTIMICROBIAL MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING IMPROVED SHELF LIFE AND METHOD OF PREPARING SAME - A method of making a packaged antimicrobial suture having improved shelf life. The method comprising the steps of providing an inner package having a source of antimicrobial agent, providing an adsorbent material effective to adsorb a portion of the antimicrobial agent over time, positioning a suture within the inner package, the suture comprising one or more surfaces, covering the inner package with an outer package having an inner surface and subjecting the suture, the inner package and the inner surface of the outer package to time, temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to vapor transfer an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent from the antimicrobial agent source to the suture and the inner package, thereby substantially inhibiting bacterial colonization on the suture and the inner package, wherein the packaged antimicrobial suture exhibits improved shelf life. A packaged antimicrobial suture and a method of increasing the shelf life of a packaged antimicrobial medical device are also provided. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120227360 | METHOD OF PREPARING AN ANTIMICROBIAL PACKAGED MEDICAL DEVICE - A method for making an antimicrobial suture comprising the steps of positioning an antimicrobial agent source within a package comprising an inner surface, said antimicrobial agent being selected from the group consisting of halogenated hydroxyl ethers, acyloxydiphenyl ethers, and combinations thereof; positioning a medical device within the package; and subjecting the package, the antimicrobial agent source and the medical device to time, temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to vapor transfer an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent from the antimicrobial agent source to the medical device, thereby substantially inhibiting bacterial colonization on the medical device. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120217176 | DISPENSING PACKAGES FOR MEDICAL DEVICES HAVING TWO COMPONENTS THAT ARE MECHANICALLY INTERLOCKED AND METHODS THEREFOR - A package for a flat medical implant includes a flexible outer component, such as Tyvek®, including a first panel and a second panel foldable over said first panel for closing the package, and an inner component, such as paper, mechanically interlocked with the flexible outer component. A flat medical implant is held by the inner component. While the outer and inner components remains mechanically interconnected to one another, the upper ends of the first and second panels of the outer component are peelable away from one another for opening the package and accessing the flat medical implant at an upper end of the package. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120199502 | METHOD OF PREPARING A PACKAGED ANTIMICROBIAL MEDICAL DEVICE - A method of making a packaged antimicrobial suture comprising the steps of providing a containment compartment that is substantially free of an antimicrobial agent; positioning a suture within the containment compartment, said suture comprising one or more surfaces having an antimicrobial agent disposed thereon, said antimicrobial agent being selected from the group consisting of halogenated hydroxyl ethers, acyloxydiphenyl ethers, and combinations thereof; placing the containment compartment having the suture in an outer package; and subjecting the outer package, the containment compartment and the suture to time, temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to transfer an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent from the suture to the containment compartment, while retaining an effective amount of said antimicrobial agent on the suture, thereby substantially inhibiting bacterial colonization on the suture and the containment compartment. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120150179 | BIPOLAR MEDICAL DEVICES FOR EXTRACTING TISSUE AND METHODS THEREFOR - A bipolar medical device for extracting tissue including a handle, and an outer tube projecting from the handle, the outer tube extending along a longitudinal axis and including a proximal end connected with the housing and a distal end spaced from the proximal end. The medical device includes a split tube disposed within the outer tube, the split tube having a distal end including a first cutting element and an opposing second cutting element, a motor coupled with the split tube for selectively rotating the split tube and the first and second cutting elements about the longitudinal axis, and an electrosurgical generator coupled with the split tube, whereby the first cutting element is connectable with a first pole of the electrosurgical generator and the second element is connectable with a second pole of the electrosurgical generator for passing electrical current between the first and second cutting elements. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120145440 | Offset Electrode - An electrode including a non-conductive substrate having a top surface and at least one channel extending therethrough, an electrically conductive trace material positioned adjacent a portion of the top surface of the non-conductive substrate and extending through the channel, and adapted for electrically coupling to a power source, and a second electrically conductive material that is inert or more corrosion resistant than the trace material. The second material is positioned adjacent to and entirely covering a top surface of the trace material. The electrode further includes a conductive hydrogel laterally offset from the trace material, the hydrogel may be positioned adjacent to a portion of a top surface of the second electrically conductive material. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120142259 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GRINDING REFRACTORY METALS AND REFRACTORY METAL ALLOYS - A system for grinding surgical needles made of refractory metal alloys such as tungsten-rhenium alloys includes a rotatable grinding wheel having a grinding surface, a layer of a binding material, such as a nickel binding material layer, overlying the grinding surface, and a plurality of abrasive particles, such as ABN600 abrasive particles, embedded within the binding material layer. The abrasive particles are similarly sized and the binding material layer has a thickness that is about 65% of the size of the similarly sized abrasive particles. The system includes a lubricating device adapted to apply a lubricant to an interface between the grinding surface and distal ends of needle blanks and a rotating element coupled with the rotatable wheel for rotating the grinding surface at about 10,000 surface feet per minute. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120125197 | DECONTAMINATION APPARATUSES AND METHODS - A decontamination apparatus is disclosed. The decontamination apparatus comprises a mist generator configured to generate a mist, a first conduit in fluid communication with the mist generator and configured to receive the mist, a stream movement device configured to move a stream, and a heating device configured to heat the stream moved by the stream movement device. The decontamination apparatus comprises a second conduit in fluid communication with the stream movement device and configured to receive the heated stream. The first conduit comprises a first outlet configured to pass the mist therethrough and the second conduit comprises a second outlet configured to pass the heated stream therethrough. The second outlet is positioned proximate to the first outlet. A portion of the mist evaporates into a vapor for decontamination of an environment when mixed with the heated stream outside of the first outlet, the second outlet, and the decontamination apparatus. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120061262 | PACKAGES FOR MEDICAL DEVICES AND METHODS THEREFOR - A package for a medical device having a handle and an elongated shaft. The package includes a holster for holding the medical device, the holster having a tubular member for receiving the elongated shaft and a handle cover located at a proximal end thereof. The handle cover has a holster opening for accessing the handle to draw the medical device from the holster. The package includes a pouch having a sealed area bounded by a top sealed edge, a bottom sealed edge, a pair of side sealed edges extending between the top and bottom sealed edges, and at least one opening tab spaced from the bottom sealed edge. The medical device and the holster are disposed within the sealed area of the pouch with the elongated shaft of the medical device extending along the bottom sealed edge and the holster opening being located adjacent the at least one opening tab. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20110309073 | OUTER BOXES FOR STORING AND DELIVERING MEDICAL DEVICES USED DURING SURGICAL PROCEDURES AND METHODS THEREFOR - A box for a medical device includes a first panel, a second panel hingedly connected with a lower edge of the first panel, a third panel hingedly connected with a lower edge of the second panel, a first side flap hingedly connected with a first side of the first panel, and a second side flap hingedly connected with a second side of the first panel. The third panel is folded over the second panel and the second panel is folded over the first panel for forming a first storage compartment and a separate second storage compartment. The first and second side flaps are folded over the second panel for closing the sides of the box. The box includes a cover foldable over and interlockable with the first side flap, the second panel, and the second side flap for holding the cover closed and closing the box. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308983 | DISPENSING PACKAGES FOR MEDICAL DEVICES HAVING TWO COMPONENTS THAT ARE MECHANICALLY INTERLOCKED AND METHODS THEREFOR - A package for a flat medical implant includes a flexible outer component, such as Tyvek®, including a first panel and a second panel foldable over said first panel for closing the package, and an inner component, such as paper, mechanically interlocked with the flexible outer component. A flat medical implant is held by the inner component. While the outer and inner components remains mechanically interconnected to one another, the upper ends of the first and second panels of the outer component are peelable away from one another for opening the package and accessing the flat medical implant at an upper end of the package. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308981 | SEALED POUCHES FOR MEDICAL DEVICES HAVING TEXTURED OPENING FLANGES AND METHODS THEREFOR - A sealed foil pouch has a textured opening flange and includes first and second foil sheets having opposing inner surfaces joined together by a seal for defining a sealed area of the pouch located inside the seal and an unsealed area of the pouch located outside the seal. The sealed pouch includes a textured opening flange located adjacent an edge of the pouch for peeling the first and second foil sheets away from one another for breaking the seal and opening the sealed pouch. The textured opening flange is located within the unsealed area of the pouch and includes at least one roughened surface formed on at least one of the first and second sheets. A leg of the seal passes through the textured opening flange. The roughened surface makes it easier to break the leg of the seal for pulling the sheets apart. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110307077 | COMPOSITE ANISOTROPIC TISSUE REINFORCING IMPLANTS HAVING ALIGNMENT MARKERS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING SAME - A composite implant includes an anisotropic surgical mesh having more stretchability along a first axis and less stretchability along a second axis that traverses the first axis, and an alignment marker overlying a first major surface of the anisotropic mesh and extending along the first axis. The implant includes a first absorbable, anti-adhesion film overlying the alignment marker and the first major surface of the anisotropic mesh, and a second absorbable, anti-adhesion film overlying the second major surface of the biocompatible mesh. The alignment marker is disposed between the first and second absorbable films and the first and second absorbable films are laminated to the anisotropic mesh. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110290385 | RAPID THERMAL TREATMENT FOR ENHANCING BENDING STIFFNESS AND YIELD MOMENT OF CURVED NEEDLES - An apparatus for thermally treating a plurality of curved suture needles. The apparatus includes a conveyer for transferring the plurality of curved suture needles from a source of curved suture needles to a receiver, a housing positioned adjacent the conveyer, the housing having a first end, a second end, and an opening running from the first end to the second end, the opening aligned with the conveyer to enable the plurality of curved suture needles to pass therethrough, and a heat source located within the housing for heating the plurality of curved suture needles as the plurality of curved suture needles are transferred by the conveyer from the first end of the housing to the second end of the housing. Also provided is a process for thermally treating a plurality of curved suture needles to enhance the stiffness and yield moment of the curved suture needles. The curved suture needles so treated have a desirable combination of stiffness, strength and ductility. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110276089 | INCISION GUIDE AND WOUND CLOSURE DEVICE AND METHODS THEREFOR - An incision guide and wound closure device includes a surgical mesh having a top surface and a bottom surface, and first and second incision guides affixed to the top surface of the surgical mesh. The bottom surface of the mesh is adhered to tissue using clear or translucent adhesive. The first and second incision guides have opposing alignment surfaces that are adapted to guide a cutting instrument for making an incision through the mesh and into the tissue. The device has a closing element that is moveable along the length of the respective first and second incision guides for drawing the first and second alignment surfaces toward one another for closing the incision opening in the tissue. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110264163 | System and Method for Nerve Stimulation - A system and method for stimulating a nerve, wherein the system includes a first waveform generator adapted to generate a first waveform having a frequency capable of stimulating a predetermined nerve of the mammal, a second waveform generator adapted to generate a carrier waveform having a frequency capable of passing through tissue of the mammal, a modulation device electrically coupled to the first and second waveform generators and adapted to modulate the first and carrier waveforms to create a modulated waveform, and an electrode electrically coupled to the modulation device and positioned substantially adjacent to skin of the mammal, and adapted to apply the modulated waveform thereto. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110238009 | DEVICES FOR INJECTING A SUBSTANCE AND METHODS THEREFOR - A device for administering injections includes a housing having an upper end, a lower end including a bottom surface with an injection needle opening, and an axis extending between the upper and lower ends. The device includes an injection needle disposed within the housing for moving between a retracted position and an extended position. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110215005 | SUTURE PACKAGES PROVIDING UNCONSTRAINED DISPENSING OF SUTURES AND METHODS THEREFOR - A suture package includes a first part or base having an outer surface, an inner surface, and a plurality of openings extending between the outer and inner surfaces, and a second part or lid having an outer surface, an inner surface, and a plurality of posts projecting from the inner surface. The suture package has a closed configuration in which the inner surface of the lid opposes the inner surface of the base with distal ends of the posts engaging the inner surface of the base at locations that are offset from and adjacent the plurality of openings extending through the base. The package includes a hinge interconnecting the lid and the base for opening and closing the suture package. Suture winding posts on a fixture are passable through the base openings for winding at least one suture around the suture winding posts for positioning the at least one suture on the base. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110160854 | BREAST IMPLANTS HAVING DRUG-ELUTING RESERVOIRS AND METHODS THEREFOR - A breast implant includes an implant shell having an outer surface and defining a first fluid reservoir, and a porous membrane overlying the outer surface of the implant shell and defining a second fluid reservoir. The breast implant includes a filling tube having a first conduit in communication with the first reservoir and a second conduit in communication with the second reservoir. The breast implant includes an injection dome coupled with the filling tube and having a first fluid chamber in communication with the first conduit and a second fluid chamber in communication with the second conduit. The injection dome includes an upper end having an injection cover, a lower end including a support base, the first fluid chamber located adjacent the injection cover, the second fluid chamber located adjacent the support base, and a diaphragm dividing the first and second fluid chambers from one another. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110152987 | PLACEMENT DEVICES THAT ENABLE PATIENTS TO ACCURATELY POSITION MEDICAL PATCHES AT TARGET LOCATIONS AND METHODS THEREFOR - A placement device for a medical patch includes an alignment guide having a shaft with a first end having a first anatomical alignment marker and a second end having a second anatomical alignment marker, a swinging gate both pivotally and rotationally coupled with the first end of the shaft for selectively pivoting the gate toward and away from the shaft and rotating the gate between opposite sides of the shaft, whereby the gate has first and second major faces and a first opening extending through the gate between the first and second major faces. The placement device includes a spacer for selectively adjusting spacing between the gate and the first end of the shaft, and a flexible diaphragm having a flexible dome disposed within the first gate opening. At least one magnet is located in the center of the flexible dome for holding the medical patch within the flexible dome. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110144558 | FLUID FILLED IMPLANTS FOR TREATING MEDICAL CONDITIONS - An implant for treating medical disorders includes a first chamber having a flexible outer layer that surrounds a flexible inner layer, a second chamber in communication with the first chamber, and a fluid transfer assembly adapted for transferring fluid between the second chamber and the first chamber for selectively modifying the rigidity of the first chamber. The implant includes at least one restraining element in contact with the flexible outer and inner layers for at least partially restricting volume expansion of the first chamber as the fluid is transferred into the first chamber. The first chamber is adapted to become more rigid as the fluid is transferred into the first chamber and more flexible as the fluid is removed from the first chamber. The first chamber is implantable within the soft tissue of a patient such as a tongue, soft palate, pharyngeal wall, urinary tract, rectum, trachea, or stomach. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110112566 | Surgical Needle Coatings and Methods - The present invention provides improved medical devices for use in surgical procedures and methods for manufacturing improved medical devices. In some embodiments, the improved medical devices can include improved surgical needles that are capable of being repeatedly passed through tissue using minimal force. More particularly, the improved surgical needles can be manufactured with two or more different coatings that provide the surgical needles with both durability and lubricity for ease of repeated and successive passes through tissue. Improved methods for manufacturing the surgical needles and for providing and applying coatings to the surgical needles are also provided. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110112565 | Surgical Needle Coatings and Methods - The present invention provides novel medical devices for use in surgical procedures and methods for manufacturing novel medical devices. In some embodiments, the novel medical devices can include surgical needles that are capable of being repeatedly passed through tissue using minimal force. More particularly, the surgical needles can be manufactured with one or more coatings that provide the surgical needles with both durability and lubricity for ease of repeated and successive passes through tissue. Novel methods for manufacturing the surgical needles and for providing and applying coatings to the surgical needles are also provided. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110111116 | Surgical Needle Coatings and Methods - The present invention provides improved medical devices for use in surgical procedures and methods for manufacturing improved medical devices. In some embodiments, the improved medical devices can include improved surgical needles that are capable of being repeatedly passed through tissue using minimal force. More particularly, the improved surgical needles can be manufactured with two or more different coatings that provide the surgical needles with both durability and lubricity for ease of repeated and successive passes through tissue. Improved methods for manufacturing the surgical needles and for providing and applying coatings to the surgical needles are also provided. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110100378 | FLEXIBLE IMPLANTS HAVING INTERNAL VOLUME SHIFTING CAPABILITIES FOR TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - An implant for treating obstructive sleep apnea includes a first chamber containing an incompressible fluid, a second chamber containing a compressible fluid, and a flexible diaphragm separating the first and second chambers. The incompressible fluid is in communication with the compressible fluid via the flexible diaphragm. The first chamber has a first volume that remains constant in response to an external force applied upon the implant and the second chamber has a second volume that is changeable when the external force is applied upon the implant. The flexible diaphragm is extendible into the second chamber for reducing the second volume of the second chamber and compressing the compressible fluid within the second chamber. The compressible fluid within the second chamber provides less resistance to flexing during initial flexing of the implant and more resistance to flexing during further flexing of the implant. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100377 | TONGUE SUSPENSION SYSTEM WITH HYOID-EXTENDER FOR TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - A system for treating obstructive sleep apnea includes a first element implantable in a tongue and a second element implantable between muscle planes of an inframandibular region. The second element has a first end coupled with the first element and a second end coupled with a hyoid bone for preventing the base of the tongue from collapsing against an opposing pharyngeal wall during sleep. The first and second implantable elements have outer surfaces that are substantially impermeable to tissue in-growth to allow for post-surgical adjustment or removal, if necessary. The first implantable element is elongated and includes a first end, a second end, and a center section located between the first and second ends. The center section is implantable in the tongue, and the first and second ends of the first implantable element are advanceable beneath the tongue for being coupled with the anterior end of the second implantable element. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100376 | FLUID FILLED IMPLANTS FOR TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - An implant for treating obstructive sleep apnea includes a flexible chamber, a fluid reservoir in fluid communication with the flexible chamber, and a fluid transfer assembly in communication with the fluid reservoir and the flexible chamber for transferring fluid therebetween for selectively modifying the rigidity of the flexible chamber. The flexible chamber is implantable within the soft tissue of an oropharyngeal airway of a patient, such as within the tongue, the soft palate, or the pharyngeal wall. The fluid reservoir and the fluid transfer assembly are implantable within the inframandibular region of the patient. The fluid transfer assembly is selectively engageable by the patient for transferring fluid between the two chambers for modifying the rigidity, flexibility, and/or shape of the flexible chamber with minimal or no change to the volume of the implant. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110082485 | CUTTING BLADE FOR MORCELLATOR - A cutting blade for a surgical morcellator has a distal end and a sharpened cutting edge situated at the distal end for transecting tissue to form tissue morsels, the cutting blade being structured to minimize contact between the sharpened edge and a tissue grasping instrument used with the morcellator during a surgical procedure. The cutting blade includes a generally cylindrically-shaped sidewall defining an axial bore for the passage of transected tissue morsels therethrough, the sidewall having an outer surface residing generally in a first cylindrical plane, an inner surface residing generally in a second cylindrical plane, and a sloped surface, the inner surface of the sidewall being disposed radially inwardly of the outer surface of the sidewall, the sloped surface extending transversely between the inner surface and the outer surface in the direction of the distal end of the cutting blade and joining the outer surface at an acute angle to define with the outer surface the sharpened cutting edge, the sharpened cutting edge residing in the first cylindrical plane in which the outer surface of the sidewall generally resides, wherein the sloped surface of the cutting blade sidewall extends radially inwardly beyond the second cylindrical plane in which the inner surface of the cutting blade sidewall generally resides to define a circular protrusion situated radially inwardly of the inner surface for selective engagement with the tissue grasping instrument used with the morcellator during a surgical procedure. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110079627 | APPLICATOR INSTRUMENTS HAVING CURVED AND ARTICULATING SHAFTS FOR DEPLOYING SURGICAL FASTENERS AND METHODS THEREFOR - An applicator instrument for dispensing surgical fasteners includes a housing and a curved shaft. Surgical fasteners are disposed within the curved shaft for being dispensed from the distal end of the curved shaft. An advancer is disposed inside the curved shaft for shifting the surgical fasteners one position closer to the distal end of the curved shaft each time the advancer moves distally. A firing element is disposed inside the curved shaft and is movable between the proximal and distal ends of the curved shaft for dispensing the surgical fasteners from the distal end of the curved shaft. A staging assembly is adapted to receive a leading one of the surgical fasteners from the advancer as the advancer moves distally to shift the leading surgical fastener into substantial alignment with the firing element when the advancer moves proximally. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110076312 | ANTIMICROBIAL/ANTIBACTERIAL MEDICAL DEVICES COATED WITH TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINES - An antimicrobial composition for coating a medical device. The antimicrobial composition includes a polymeric film forming material and an antimicrobial agent comprising a material selected from the group of extract of | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110054522 | BARBED SUTURES HAVING PLEDGET STOPPERS AND METHODS THEREFOR - A surgical suture includes an elongated core having a first leg and a second leg, a first set of barbs projecting from the first leg of the core, and a second set of barbs projecting from the second leg of the core. The suture has a stop projecting from the core that is located between the first and second sets of barbs, and a braid surrounding the elongated core and the stop for strengthening the suture. The suture includes a pledget having first and second openings extending therethrough, with the first leg extending through the first pledget opening, the second leg extending through the second pledget opening, and the stop extending between the first and second pledget openings. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048216 | AUTOMATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING BRAIDED BARBED SUTURES - A system for making braided barbed sutures includes a filament winding assembly, and a guide assembly including at least one barbed insert dispenser opening defining a passageway for orienting a barbed insert. The guide assembly is adapted to dispense at least one barbed insert from the dispenser opening into the filament winding assembly for winding a plurality of filaments around the at least one barbed insert for making a braided barbed suture. The passageway of the dispenser opening is adapted to allow longitudinal movement of the barbed insert relative to the passageway while simultaneously preventing twisting movement of the barbed insert relative to the passageway. As the barbed insert is being dispensed, the barbed insert dispenser opening is selectively rotatable for imparting rotation to the barbed insert as the filaments are wound about the barbed insert. The passageway may be an elongated slit having a greater width than height. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110027378 | PROCESS OF MAKING FLOWABLE HEMOSTATIC COMPOSITIONS AND DEVICES CONTAINING SUCH COMPOSITIONS - The present invention includes both sterilized and unsterilized hemostatic compositions that contain a continuous, biocompatible liquid phase having a solid phase of particles of a biocompatible polymer suitable for use in hemostasis and which is substantially insoluble in the liquid phase, and a discontinuous, biocompatible gaseous phase, each of which is substantially homogenously dispersed throughout the continuous liquid phase, methods for making such compositions, medical devices that contain sterilized hemostatic compositions disposed therein and methods of making such devices. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20100292715 | SURGICAL FASTENERS, APPLICATOR INSTRUMENTS, AND METHODS FOR DEPLOYING SURGICAL FASTENERS - A surgical fastener for securing a prosthetic device to tissue includes a first leg having a distal end, a proximal end, and a first insertion tip at the distal end of the first leg, and a second leg including a distal end, a proximal end, and a second insertion tip at the distal end of the second leg. A bridge connects the proximal ends of the first and second legs for forming a closed end of the surgical fastener. The first insertion tip has a first insertion tool seating surface, and the second insertion tip has a second insertion tool seating surface. The first insertion tool seating surface is closer to the distal end of the first leg than the proximal end of the first leg, and the second insertion tool seating surface is closer to the distal end of the second leg than the proximal end of the second leg. The first and second legs extend along respective longitudinal axes, and the first and second insertion tips are skewed outwardly relative to the respective longitudinal axes. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100292713 | SURGICAL FASTENERS, APPLICATOR INSTRUMENTS, AND METHODS FOR DEPLOYING SURGICAL FASTENERS - A firing system for an applicator instrument adapted to dispense surgical fasteners includes a housing, an elongated shaft extending from the housing, a firing rod disposed within the elongated shaft, a firing rod release engageable with the firing rod for preventing distal movement of the firing rod during at least one stage of a firing cycle, a trigger mounted to the housing, and a firing spring having a first end connected with the firing rod and a second end adapted for being sequentially coupled and decoupled from the trigger during the firing cycle. The firing cycle includes an initial stage in which the trigger is open and decoupled from the energy storing element, and the firing spring is at least partially compressed, and a piloting stage during which the firing rod release is disengaged from the firing rod for enabling distal movement of the firing rod. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100292712 | SURGICAL FASTENERS, APPLICATOR INSTRUMENTS, AND METHODS FOR DEPLOYING SURGICAL FASTENERS - An applicator instrument for dispensing surgical fasteners includes a housing, an elongated shaft extending from the housing, a firing rod disposed inside the elongated shaft and being movable within a first plane between a retracted position and an extended position, an advancer disposed inside the elongated shaft and being moveable within a second plane between a retracted position and an extended position, and a staging assembly located adjacent the distal end of the elongated shaft and being adapted to align surgical fasteners with a distal end of the firing rod. The staging assembly is held below the second plane by the advancer when the advancer is in the extended position and the staging assembly is adapted to move into at least partial alignment with the distal end of the firing rod when the advancer is in the retracted position. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100292710 | SURGICAL FASTENERS, APPLICATOR INSTRUMENTS, AND METHODS FOR DEPLOYING SURGICAL FASTENERS - An applicator instrument for dispensing surgical fasteners includes a housing, an elongated shaft extending from the housing, the elongated shaft having a proximal end coupled with the housing and a distal end remote therefrom, and a firing system for dispensing surgical fasteners from the distal end of the elongated shaft. The firing system includes a firing rod disposed in the elongated shaft, the firing system having a firing cycle with a first stage for advancing the firing rod toward the distal end of the elongated shaft at a first rate of speed and a second stage for advancing the firing rod toward the distal end of the elongated shaft at a second rate of speed that is greater than the first rate of speed. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100280406 | Tissue Collection Device and Methods - A biological tissue collection device is provided having a housing with a fluid-retaining inner chamber adapted to retain a bioimplantable, fluid permeable tissue scaffold. The scaffold is preferably retained in the housing in such a way that the scaffold separates the fluid-retaining inner chamber into a first chamber and a second chamber. The collection device further includes a driver mechanism coupled to the housing and effective to create a force within the housing to displace fluid disposed within the second chamber to the first chamber. As the fluid is displaced, any biological tissue deposited on the tissue scaffold is dispersed within the fluid. Removal of the force enables the fluid to return to the second chamber and thereby deposit the tissue onto the tissue scaffold. In an exemplary embodiment, the tissue is deposited evenly onto the tissue scaffold. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100247499 | hUTC AS THERAPY FOR ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE - Methods for treating Alzheimer's disease, or the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, are provided. Some embodiments are to methods for treatment comprising administering cells obtained from human umbilical cord tissue, or administering pharmaceutical compositions comprising such cells or prepared from such cells, such as cell derivatives. Some embodiments are to methods for treatment comprising hUTC. Pharmaceutical compositions for use in the inventive methods, as well as kits for practicing the methods are also provided. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100239648 | SELF-LOCATING, MULTIPLE APPLICATION, AND MULTIPLE LOCATION MEDICAL PATCH SYSTEMS AND METHODS THEREFOR - A medical patch system has a first medical patch including an outer locating ring secureable to a surface and an inner patch, separable from the outer locating ring, disposed within the outer locating ring. The medical patch system includes a second medical patch adapted for insertion into the central area bounded by the outer locating ring after the inner patch is separated from the outer locating ring. The second medical patch includes a second outer locating ring secureable to the surface, and a second inner patch section, separable from the second outer locating ring, disposed within a second central area bounded by the second outer locating ring. The first and second outer locating rings have adhesive layers for securing the outer locating rings to a surface. The adhesive layers on the respective outer locating rings have different sizes, shapes or patterns to minimize skin irritation. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100234946 | IMPLANT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - A system for treating obstructive sleep apnea includes a body implantable in a soft palate, and a fastening element at a proximal end of the body for connecting the body with a hard palate. In one embodiment, the body is curved and has a convex top surface and a concave bottom surface. The curved body is adapted to support and/or change the shape of the soft palate for minimizing the likelihood of airway obstructions during sleep. The fastening element, secureable to the hard palate, includes at least one barb adapted to engage the hard palate for anchoring the body to the hard palate. In one embodiment, the body has a surface adapted to promote tissue in-growth. The implant body may be made of materials including nitinol, stainless steel, biocompatible polymers, temperature-sensitive materials, and shape memory materials. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100222795 | MEDICAL FIXATION DEVICES WITH IMPROVED TORSIONAL DRIVE HEAD - The present invention provides a fixation device that includes an elongate shank defining a longitudinal axis and having at least one engaging member for applying the fixation device within tissue and securing the fixation device in the tissue once implanted formed thereon, and a drive head having a proximal end, a distal end and a radial cross-sectional geometry, where the drive head is mated to the elongate shank, and includes at least one anti-rotational member integral therewith, Fixation device kits utilizing the fixation device, and methods of fixation in tissue are also provided. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100204411 | ANTIMICROBIAL POLYMER COMPOSITIONS AND THE USE THEREOF - An antimicrobial composition comprising an ionic complex of an anionic polyester with an antimicrobial metal, wherein the anionic polyester has an ion exchange capacity from about 0.19 meq/g to about 1.0 meq/g. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100183582 | HEMOSTATIC COMPOSITIONS CONTAINING STERILE THROMBIN - The present invention includes sterilized hemostatic compositions that contain a continuous, biocompatible liquid phase having a solid phase of particles of a biocompatible polymer suitable for use in hemostasis and that is substantially insoluble in the liquid phase, and sterile thrombin, each of which is substantially homogenously dispersed throughout the continuous liquid phase, and methods for making such compositions. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100166694 | DIAGNOSTIC MARKERS OF WOUND INFECTION - The present invention relates to a method of determining the microbial bioburden in a wound (in particular a diabetic ulcer) in a test subject, the method comprising the step of measuring the level of a cytokine in a wound sample, wherein a cytokine level lower than a reference level indicates a significant microbial bioburden in the wound (or a cytokine level higher than a reference level indicates an insignificant microbial bioburden in the wound). The invention provides methods of diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of wound infection, and devices and kits for use in such methods. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100163435 | PACKAGED ANTIMICROBIAL MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING IMPROVED SHELF LIFE AND METHOD OF PREPARING SAME - A method of making a packaged antimicrobial suture having improved shelf life. The method comprising the steps of providing an inner package having a source of antimicrobial agent, providing an adsorbent material effective to adsorb a portion of the antimicrobial agent over time, positioning a suture within the inner package, the suture comprising one or more surfaces, covering the inner package with an outer package having an inner surface and subjecting the suture, the inner package and the inner surface of the outer package to time, temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to vapor transfer an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent from the antimicrobial agent source to the suture and the inner package, thereby substantially inhibiting bacterial colonization on the suture and the inner package, wherein the packaged antimicrobial suture exhibits improved shelf life. A packaged antimicrobial suture and a method of increasing the shelf life of a packaged antimicrobial medical device are also provided. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100161005 | Optimizing stimulation therapy of an external stimulating device based on firing of action potential in target nerve - A method and system for optimizing stimulation therapy of an external stimulating device. The stimulating signal for stimulation of a target nerve is produced using the external stimulating device. A magnetic field is induced in an implanted transmitting coil disposed proximate the target nerve when the action potential is fired along an axon of the target nerve. In turn, a feedback signal is generated in a receiving coil associated with the external stimulating device based on whether the target nerve fires an action potential. Stimulating signal parameters of the stimulating signal are adjusted based on the feedback signal. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100161001 | Optimizing the stimulus current in a surface based stimulation device - A method and associated stimulation device for ensuring firing of an action potential in an intended physiological target activated by a stimulus pulse generated by an electrode of a non-invasive surface based stimulation device irrespective of skin-to-electrode impedance by: (i) increasing internal impedance of the stimulation device so as to widen a Chronaxie time period thereby ensuring firing of the action potential of the intended physiological target irrespective of the skin-to-electrode impedance; and/or (ii) generating a stimulation waveform that optimizes a non-zero average current (e.g., non-zero slope of the envelope of the stimulation waveform) during preferably substantially the entire current decay of the stimulus pulse. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100160961 | SURGICAL SUTURES HAVING COLLAPSIBLE TISSUE ANCHORING PROTRUSIONS AND METHODS THEREFOR - A surgical suture includes a shaft having a leading end, a trailing end, and an outer surface extending between the leading and trailing ends. The surgical suture includes a plurality of flexible protrusions extending from the shaft, and a lumen extending between the leading and trailing ends of the shaft. The shaft includes a plurality of openings formed in the outer surface thereof that are in communication with the lumen. The shaft includes a first axial opening at the leading end thereof in communication with the lumen and a second axial opening at the trailing end thereof in communication with the lumen. A flowable material may be disposed in the lumen. After the surgical suture is implanted, the flowable material is adapted to pass from the lumen and through the plurality of openings in the outer surface of the shaft for contacting tissue surrounding the suture. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100132719 | IMPLANT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - A system for treating obstructive sleep apnea includes an anchoring element having scar tissue located in an inframandibular region, and a tongue implant having at least one arm extending therefrom, whereby the tongue implant is implantable in a tongue with the at least one arm being connectable with the anchoring element for coupling the tongue implant with the anchoring element. In one embodiment, the anchoring element includes a first implant part such as a flexible layer implantable in the inframandibular region and the scar tissue is formed on, in, and/or around the first implant part. The tongue implant is coupled with the anchoring element and/or the scar tissue through the at least one arm. The length of the at least one arm may be adjusted for shifting the tongue anteriorly. | 06-03-2010 |
| 20100108077 | IMPLANT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - A method of treating obstructive sleep apnea includes providing an elongated element having a central buttress area and first and second arms extending from opposite ends of the central buttress area. The method includes implanting the central buttress area in a tongue so that a longitudinal axis of the central buttress area intersects an anterior-posterior axis of the tongue. The first and second arms are advanced through the tongue until the first and second arms engage inframandibular musculature. Tension is applied to the first and second arms for pulling the central buttress area toward the inframandibular musculature for moving a posterior surface of the tongue away from an opposing surface of a pharyngeal wall. The first and second arms are anchored to the inframandibular musculature for maintaining a space between the posterior surface of the tongue and the opposing surface of the pharyngeal wall. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100106246 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR THE INDIRECT DISPLACEMENT OF THE HYOID BONE FOR TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - An implant for treating obstructive sleep apnea includes an elongated body having a central region, a first end, and a second end opposite the first end. The central region of the elongated body engages inframandibular musculature that extends between a mandible and a hyoid bone. The first and second ends of the elongated body are optionally anchored to the mandible. The elongated body is under tension for urging the inframandibular musculature in an inferior direction, which, in turn, pulls the hyoid bone anteriorly for minimizing the likelihood of occurrence of obstructive sleep apnea episodes. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100100128 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PREVENTING MIGRATION OF SUTURES THROUGH TRANSOSSEOUS TUNNELS - An improved method for attaching soft tissue to bone by passing a suture through an opening in the bone, e.g., a transosseous tunnel, and affixing the soft tissue with the suture. The improvement, for preventing the suture from migrating through the bone at the end of the opening, includes placing a eyelet into an end of the bone opening and passing the suture through the eyelet, as well as through the opening in the bone, in order to affix the soft tissue to the bone with the suture. | 04-22-2010 |
| 20100078336 | PACKAGED ANTIMICROBIAL MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHOD OF PREPARING SAME - A method of making a packaged antimicrobial suture. The method includes the steps of providing a containment compartment molded from a polymeric resin comprising a polymeric material and an antimicrobial agent, positioning a suture within the containment compartment, the suture comprising one or more surfaces; covering the containment compartment having the suture in an outer package cover having an inner surface, and subjecting the outer package, the containment compartment and the suture to time, temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to vapor transfer an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent from the containment compartment to the suture, while retaining an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent on the containment compartment, thereby substantially inhibiting bacterial colonization on the suture and the containment compartment. A packaged antimicrobial suture is also provided. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100036194 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DEPLOYMENT OF A SUB-PERICARDIAL SACK - Various methods and devices for deploying a sub-pericardial sack about at least a portion of a heart to alleviate congestive heart failure. A medical device housing the sub-pericardial sack is inserted into the pericardial sack. An inverted umbrella framework is deployed through the medical device and into the pericardial sack to position the sub-pericardial sack adjacent the heart. The umbrella framework is then retracted through the medical device once the cardiac assist device is placed adjacent the heart. A steerable catheter can instead be deployed through the pericardial sack to deploy and position a cardiac assist device, such as a mesh, around the heart. The steerable catheter is covered by a sheath housing the cardiac assist device. Once the sheath is pulled back, the cardiac assist device is deployed and secured adjacent the heart. Filaments or tensions wires are used to tighten the mesh around the heart. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20100030011 | MAGNETIC IMPLANTS FOR TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA AND METHODS THEREFOR - A magnetic implant for treating sleep disorders includes a first anchor, a first magnet coupled to the first anchor, a tongue anchor, a second magnet coupled to the tongue anchor, and a support for aligning the first and second magnets so that a repelling force is generated between the magnets for urging the second magnet away from the first magnet. In one embodiment, the support aligns a magnetic pole of the first magnet with a repelling magnetic pole of the second magnet, guides movement of the first and second magnets relative to one another, and maintains the first magnet at a fixed distance from the first anchor. In one embodiment, the repelling force urges the second magnet toward the first anchor. The first anchor may be connected to bone or soft tissue. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100024830 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR FORMING AN AUXILIARY AIRWAY FOR TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA - An auxiliary airway for treating obstructive sleep apnea is formed by implanting an elongated conduit beneath a pharyngeal wall of a pharynx. The elongated conduit has a proximal end in communication with a first region of the pharynx, a distal end in communication with a second region of the pharynx, and a section extending beneath the pharyngeal wall for bypassing an oropharynx region of the pharynx. The system includes a first opening in the pharyngeal wall in communication with a first opening in the elongated conduit, and a second opening in the pharyngeal wall in communication with a second opening in the elongated conduit. The system has a first anastomotic connector for coupling the first opening in the pharyngeal wall with the first opening in the conduit, and a second anastomotic connector for coupling the second opening in the pharyngeal wall with the second opening in the conduit. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100023055 | COLLAPSIBLE BARBED SUTURES HAVING REDUCED DRAG AND METHODS THEREFOR - A barbed suture includes a flexible thread having a core with a leading end, a trailing end, and a central axis. The barbed suture includes a first flexible flap connected to the core, the first flap extending between the leading and trailing ends of the core, and a second flexible flap connected to the core, the second flap extending between the leading and trailing ends of the core. The flexible flaps and the core have an S-shaped profile when viewed in cross-section. The barbed suture includes first and second slots formed in the respective first and second flaps for dividing the flaps into first and second barbs projecting from the core, whereby each slot extends outwardly from the core and rearwardly toward the trailing end of the core. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100016257 | METHOD OF TREATMENT FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS BY LOCAL INTRA-ARTICULAR INJECTION OF MICROPARTICLES - A method of treatment of osteoarthritis is described, where a therapeutically effective amount of a composition having biodegradable microparticles in an aqueous vehicle is delivered into the intra-articular space of a joint. In one aspect, the microparticle-containing composition is injected into the synovial fluid-containing portion of an affected joint. | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100004595 | BALLOON CATHETER SYSTEMS FOR TREATING UTERINE DISORDERS HAVING FLUID LINE DE-GASSING ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS THEREFOR - A system for treating uterine disorders includes a catheter with a cannula having a proximal end and a distal end, and a degassing system in communication with the distal end of the cannula. The degassing system has a fluid insertion path having a first check valve and a gas filter, and a fluid extraction path that is separate from the fluid insertion path and includes a second check valve. The catheter may include an inflatable balloon secured to the distal end of the cannula with the degassing system in communication with the inflatable balloon. In one embodiment, a heating assembly is disposed inside the inflatable balloon for heating the fluid introduced into the balloon. | 01-07-2010 |
| 20090324445 | STERILIZATION SYSTEM AND METHOD AND ORIFICE INLET CONTROL APPARATUS THEREFOR - A chemical vapor sterilization process is enhanced by concentrating a germicide via exploitation of the difference between the vapor pressures of the germicide and its solvent. A diffusion restriction can be placed into the diffusion path to assist this process and the path then opened to provide rapid diffusion of the thus concentrated germicide. The path through the diffusion restriction can be closed to allow the pressure in a sterilization chamber to be lowered prior to receiving the concentrated germicide. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090318843 | SURGICAL BARRIERS HAVING ADHESION INHIBITING PROPERTIES - An adhesion inhibiting surgical barrier. The surgical barrier includes a wound-facing polymeric coating comprising an enteric polymer; and at least one flexible substrate, the at least one flexible substrate having at least one exterior surface, wherein the polymeric coating is applied to the at least one flexible substrate to substantially cover the at least one exterior surface thereof. A method of inhibiting the formation of adhesions in a patient who has undergone a surgical procedure and a method of repairing a gastric or duodenal perforation are also described herein. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090312791 | COLLAPSIBLE BARBED SUTURES HAVING REDUCED DRAG AND METHODS THEREFOR - A barbed suture includes a flexible thread having a leading end and a trailing end, and a plurality of barbs projecting from the flexible thread. The flexible thread has a plurality of web-like openings formed therein, whereby each of the openings is disposed adjacent one of the barbs. The openings enhance the flexibility of the barbs and provide space for the barbs to collapse inwardly as the leading end of the flexible thread is pulled through a medium such as tissue. When the barbs are collapsed, the diameter of the barbed sections is preferably no greater than the diameter of the non-barbed sections. In one embodiment, a support element interconnects at least one of the barbs and the flexible thread for reinforcing the at least one barb and resisting flexure of the at least one barb toward the leading end of the flexible thread. | 12-17-2009 |
| 20090306710 | DEVICES FOR TENSIONING BARBED SUTURES AND METHODS THEREFOR - A device for tensioning barbed sutures used for securing tissue or prosthetic devices includes a handle, and a shaft having a proximal end connected with the handle and a distal end remote therefrom. The distal end of the shaft includes a pressure applying surface for pressing against the tissue and the prosthetic devices. The tensioning device includes a pair of grooves extending through the shaft from the pressure applying surface at the distal end of the shaft toward the proximal end of the shaft. A barbed suture is tensioned by aligning a first section of the suture in the first groove and a second section of the suture in the second groove. After the first and second suture sections are aligned in the grooves, the proximal ends of the sections may be pulled for applying tension to the suture. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090306588 | BALLOON CATHETER SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING UTERINE DISORDERS - A system for treating uterine disorders includes a balloon catheter having a cannula with a proximal end and a distal end, and an inflatable balloon secured over the distal end of the cannula. The device includes a heating assembly coupled with the distal end of the cannula and disposed inside the inflatable balloon, and an impeller disposed inside the heating assembly. In one embodiment, the heating assembly includes an elongated heating tube having a heating film covering an outer wall thereof, at least one fluid inlet extending though the outer wall and a fluid outlet located at a distal end of the elongated heating tube. The impeller is rotatable for drawing fluid through the at least one fluid inlet and into the elongated heating tube for heating the fluid, and discharging the heated fluid from the fluid outlet for circulating the fluid throughout the inflatable balloon. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090304778 | Diagnostics and Methods for Removal and Detection of Interferents - Described herein are substrates, methods, articles, and kits that are useful for removing interferents from samples for diagnostic purposes. The interferents are removed with phosphocellulose and cation exchange materials. These materials could also be used in vitro to improve the performance of a diagnostic assay or in vivo to remove the interferents. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090301033 | METHOD OF PREPARING A PACKAGED ANTIMICROBIAL MEDICAL DEVICE - A method of making a packaged antimicrobial suture comprising the steps of providing a containment compartment that is substantially free of an antimicrobial agent; positioning a suture within the containment compartment, said suture comprising one or more surfaces having an antimicrobial agent disposed thereon, said antimicrobial agent being selected from the group consisting of halogenated hydroxyl ethers, acyloxydiphenyl ethers, and combinations thereof; placing the containment compartment having the suture in an outer package; and subjecting the outer package, the containment compartment and the suture to time, temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to vapor transfer an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent from the suture to the containment compartment, while retaining an effective amount of said antimicrobial agent on the suture, thereby substantially inhibiting bacterial colonization on the suture and the containment compartment. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090275129 | TISSUE ENGINEERED BLOOD VESSELS - Compositions and methods of using tissue engineered blood vessels to repair and regenerate blood vessels of patients with vascular disease are disclosed. | 11-05-2009 |
| 20090264040 | Copolymers of Epsilon-Caprolactone and Glycolide for Melt Blown Nonwoven Applications - Copolymers exhibiting the following combinations of properties, including without limitation, ε-caprolactone in an amount ranging from about 12 to about 70 mole percent, glycolide in an amount ranging from about 30 to about 88 mole percent, crystallinity ranging from about 10 to about 50% as measured by WAXD or about 10 to about 50 J/g as measured by DSC, and an inherent viscosity ranging from about 0.5 to about 1.45 dL/g as measured in a 0.1 g/dl solution of HFIP at 25° C.; a method for melt blowing such copolymers and nonwoven constructs produced therefrom are described herein. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090263499 | AREA DECONTAMINATION VIA LOW-LEVEL CONCENTRATION OF GERMICIDAL AGENT - Provided is a method of decontaminating an area, and related device. The method comprises releasing a germicidal agent into the area from a germicidal source, controlling the germicidal agent concentration in the area to a predetermined concentration that does not exceed a Permissible Exposure Limit, and contacting microorganisms in the area with the germicidal agent to decontaminate the area. The device comprises a releasing mechanism configured to release a germicidal agent from a germicidal source at a predetermined concentration into the area such that the predetermined concentration of germicidal agent in the area does not exceed a Permissible Exposure Limit. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090248056 | APPLICATOR INSTRUMENTS FOR CONTROLLING BLEEDING AT SURGICAL SITES AND METHODS THEREFOR - An instrument for controlling bleeding includes an outer shaft having a central lumen extending between proximal and distal ends thereof, and an inner shaft disposed within the central lumen of the outer shaft, the inner shaft having a central lumen extending between proximal and distal ends thereof. The instrument has an inflatable balloon with a proximal end secured to the outer shaft and a distal end that is inverted and secured to the inner shaft. In one embodiment, the balloon has a spherical shape when the outer and inner shafts are in a first position and a toroidal shape when the outer and inner shafts are in a second position. The instrument includes an actuator for discharging a flowable material from the central lumen. In one embodiment, the instrument includes a stylet having barb-like features to attach a hemostat to the distal end of the instrument. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090203995 | DOUBLE BALLOON ISOLATION CATHETERS AND METHODS THEREFOR - A system for examining a colon includes a catheter, such as a rectal catheter, having a proximal end, a distal end, and a central lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the catheter, and a flexible tube coupled with the catheter. The system includes a first balloon located adjacent a distal end of the flexible tube, and a second balloon extending around the catheter and being located between the distal and proximal ends of the catheter, whereby the distance between the first and second balloons is adjustable by sliding the flexible tube through the central lumen of the catheter. The first and second balloons are inflatable for isolating a section of a colon, and a gas or contrast may be introduced into the isolated colon section for conducting the examination. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090157149 | DERMATOME STIMULATION DEVICES AND METHODS - A nerve stimulation device includes a first waveform generator adapted to generate a first waveform having a first frequency capable of stimulating nerves within a dermatome, a second waveform generator adapted to generate a first carrier waveform having a second frequency capable of passing through tissue of a mammal, and a third waveform generator adapted to generate a second carrier waveform having a third frequency different than the second frequency and being capable of passing through the tissue of the mammal. The device includes a modulator electrically coupled to the first, second and third waveform generators and adapted to modulate the first waveform, the first carrier waveform, and the second carrier waveform to generate a modulated signal package capable of stimulating the nerves at different depths within the dermatome. The device also has an electrode electrically coupled to the modulator for applying the modulated waveform to the dermatomic region. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090157116 | RAPID THERMAL TREATMENT FOR ENHANCING BENDING STIFFNESS AND YIELD MOMENT OF CURVED NEEDLES - An apparatus for thermally treating a plurality of curved suture needles. The apparatus includes a conveyer for transferring the plurality of curved suture needles from a source of curved suture needles to a receiver, a housing positioned adjacent the conveyer, the housing having a first end, a second end, and an opening running from the first end to the second end, the opening aligned with the conveyer to enable the plurality of curved suture needles to pass therethrough, and a heat source located within the housing for heating the plurality of curved suture needles as the plurality of curved suture needles are transferred by the conveyer from the first end of the housing to the second end of the housing. Also provided is a process for thermally treating a plurality of curved suture needles to enhance the stiffness and yield moment of the curved suture needles. The curved suture needles so treated have a desirable combination of stiffness, strength and ductility. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090152766 | METHODS OF MAKING COMPOSITE PROSTHETIC DEVICES HAVING IMPROVED BOND STRENGTH - A method of making a composite prosthetic device, such as a hernia repair device, includes providing a support layer, juxtaposing a layer of an absorbable material with the support layer, and disposing an absorbable adhesive between the support layer and the layer of an absorbable material. The method includes heating the layers for melting the absorbable adhesive so as to bond the support layer with the layer of the absorbable material. Before the heating step, the moisture content of at least one of the layers is increased for improving thermal conductivity between the layers so as to enhance the strength of the bonds formed between the layers. The moisture content may be increased by exposing at least one of the layers to an environment having elevated relative humidity. In one embodiment, the support layer is polypropylene mesh, the layer of the absorbable material is oxidized regenerated cellulose, and the absorbable adhesive is polydioxanone. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090132018 | Nerve Stimulation Patches And Methods For Stimulating Selected Nerves - A selective nerve stimulation patch includes a substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface, integrated components overlying the top surface of the substrate and being electrically interconnected with one another for generating at least one nerve stimulating signal, electrodes integrated into the substrate and exposed at the bottom surface thereof for applying the at least one nerve stimulating signal to a target nerve, a waterproof, breathable cover overlying the substrate and the integrated components, and a support flange surrounding the substrate and coupling the cover and the substrate together. The support flange has a top surface that slopes downwardly toward an outer perimeter thereof, and at least a portion of the cover conforms to the sloping top surface of the support flange. In one embodiment, the patch generates a high frequency waveform with properties such as amplitude, frequency and the like chosen so as to overcome tissue impedance and the stimulation threshold of the target nerve. The modulated waveform is the waveform obtained by modulating the carrier waveform by a pulse envelope. | 05-21-2009 |
| 20090130184 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR PREVENTING OR REDUCING POSTOPERATIVE ILEUS AND GASTRIC STASIS - Disclosed are compositions and methods for preventing or reducing postoperative ileus and gastric stasis. Such compositions comprise a combination of an oxidized regenerated cellulose component and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which functions as an inhibitor of cyclooxygenase enzyme (Cox) activity. Such methods comprise administering an effective amount of the composition directly to the serosal surfaces of the gastrointestinal and other visceral organs. | 05-21-2009 |
| 20090118241 | BIOABSORBABLE POLYMER COMPOSITIONS EXHIBITING ENHANCED CRYSTALLIZATION AND HYDROLYSIS RATES - A bimodal bioabsorbable polymer composition. The composition includes a first amount of a bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a first molecular weight distribution; a second amount of said bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a second molecular weight distribution having a weight average molecular weight between about 10,000 to about 50,000 Daltons, the weight average molecular weight ratio of said first molecular weight distribution to said second molecular weight distribution is at least about two to one; wherein a substantially homogeneous blend of said first and second amounts of said bioabsorbable polymer is formed in a ratio of between about 50/50 to about 95/5 weight/weight percent. Also disclosed are a medical device, a method of making a medical device and a method of melt blowing a semi-crystalline polymer blend. | 05-07-2009 |
| 20090111895 | ENHANCED DIALDEHYDE DISINFECTANT AND STERILIZATION FORMULATIONS - High-level disinfectant formulations and sporicidal formulations suitable for use as chemical disinfection and sterilization mediums comprising a dialdehyde, a carboxylate salt in amount of from about 3 weight percent to about 20 weight percent, and the balance water. The formulations are useful for disinfecting and sterilizing medical instruments and medical equipment. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090104276 | ABSORBABLE COPOLYESTERS OF POLY(ETHOXYETHYLENE DIGLYCOLATE) AND GLYCOLIDE - A semi-crystalline, absorbable copolyester composition comprising the reaction product of a polycondensation polyester and at least one lactone, wherein the polycondensation polyester comprises the reaction product of diglycolic acid and/or a derivative thereof and diethylene glycol; and the copolyester comprises about 30 to 60% by weight of the polycondensation polyester based on the total weight of the copolyester. Also medical devices such as absorbable sutures comprising such copolyesters and absorbable microspheres comprising such copolyesters and methods of making of such absorbable microspheres. Additionally, a method of melt blowing an absorbable copolyester composition and a nonwoven construct are disclosed. | 04-23-2009 |
| 20090093858 | IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATORS AND METHODS FOR SELECTIVE NERVE STIMULATION - An Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) includes a surgically implantable housing, a battery, a first waveform generator, a second waveform generator, a modulator, and electrodes. The IPG produces a pulse envelope, a carrier waveform, and a modulated waveform. The pulse envelope is a low frequency waveform with specific pulse width, amplitude and shape to selectively stimulate a target nerve or body part. The carrier waveform is a high frequency waveform with properties such as amplitude, frequency and the like chosen so as to overcome tissue impedance and the stimulation threshold of the target nerve. The modulated waveform is the waveform obtained by modulating the carrier waveform by the pulse envelope. | 04-09-2009 |
| 20090092648 | ANTIMICROBIAL POLYMER COMPOSITIONS AND THE USE THEREOF - An antimicrobial composition. The antimicrobial composition includes a complex of an anionic polyester with a monomeric amidoamine a complex of an anionic polyester with a monomeric amidoamine or an organic cation, wherein the monomeric amidoamine comprises: | 04-09-2009 |
| 20090082792 | Hernia mesh support device - A hernia mesh support device includes an outer ring, an inner ring and a plurality of ring support members extending between and interconnected to the outer ring and inner ring. On a first axial side of the outer ring and inner ring is situated a layer of mesh material. On a second axial side of the outer ring and inner ring is situated an anti-adhesion barrier. A plurality of barbed pins or hollow needles extend from the first axial side of the outer ring. A removable protective cover covers the plurality of barbed pins or hollow needles. | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090082791 | Self-anchoring tissue lifting device, method of manufacturing same and method of facial reconstructive surgery using same - A self-anchoring tissue lifting device for use with facial cosmetic reconstructive surgery includes an implant and a removable foil cover disposed on the implant. The implant includes an elongated mesh strip having a distal end on which is situated a tissue anchoring fleece material. Opposite lateral edges of the mesh material are preferably laser cut during the manufacturing process of the implant to provide a plurality of tissue engaging prickles along the longitudinal length of the implant. For treating the mid face and jowl, a stab incision is made within the hairline of the temple region of the patient and the device is applied from the temporal area to the peak of the ipsilateral cheek to capture the malar fat pad to correct midface abnormalities or the ptotic tissue causing the jowl. | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090082754 | Cannula implantation instrument - A cannula implantation instrument for use with the delivery of guide wire based implants includes a handle having an open slot for receiving a guide wire and a cavity for receiving an implant pre-mounted on the guide wire, a cannula having an open slot for also receiving a guide wire and a sharpened tip for introducing the cannula and guide wire simultaneously into the vas deferens of a patient, and a guide wire on which an intra vas implant is pre-mounted. The instrument further includes a safety clip on the handle that secures the guide wire and/or implant to the handle until released by a physician. The cannula implantation instrument may be ergonomically formed to provide comfort and ease while being handled by the physician. | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090078270 | Removable implant and implantation tool for male contraception - A male contraception implant for insertion into the vas deferens of a patient includes a tubular member having an internal bore for receiving a guide wire, a bulbous head portion for anchoring the implant and to facilitate its removal in a contraception reversal procedure, a flexible neck portion attached to the enlarged head portion, and a main body portion having three widened segments for occluding the vas deferens. An implantation tool includes an elastic C-shaped slotted ring for holding an externalized portion of the vas deferens during the delivery of the implant. | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090043298 | ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR VASCULAR ANASTOMOSIS - A method for implementing vascular anastomosis in the attachment of a graft vessel to a target vessel such as a coronary artery, and subsequently creating a passageway between the vessels in order to establish fluid flow communication therebetween. Further is to the provision of novel devices which are utilized in implementing the steps of attaching a graft vessel to a target vessel such as a coronary artery through vascular anastomosis, and thereafter creating a fluid flow passageway therebetween. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090024119 | SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR ATRIAL FIBRILLATION USING RADIOFREQUENCY TECHNOLOGY - Ablation systems and methods for treating atrial fibrillation utilizing RF energy are provided. The system generally includes a first conductive member having a shape which defines a desired lesion pattern or a portion of a desired lesion pattern, and a second conductive member effective to transmit ablative radiation to the first conductive member. The first conductive member is adapted to be positioned on a first tissue surface, and the second conductive member is adapted to be positioned on a second, opposed tissue surface. In use, ablative radiation is transmitted from the second conductive member through the tissue to the first conductive member to form a lesion having the desired lesion pattern. | 01-22-2009 |
| 20080269451 | Antimicrobial Polymers - The present invention is concerned with providing antimicrobial compounds and processes for the production thereof. More particularly, the present invention provides antimicrobial polymeric materials comprising a polymer linked to a positively charged moiety via a carboxyl group. The present invention also provides processes for the production of such antimicrobial compounds and uses therefor. | 10-30-2008 |
| 20080208251 | Device for attaching, relocating and reinforcing tissue and methods of using same - A device for attaching, relocating or reinforcing tissue includes a first tissue anchoring portion having a support plate and a plurality of barbs extending from the support plate for engaging tissue at a first location, a second tissue anchoring portion having a support plate and a plurality of barbs extending from the support plate for engaging tissue at a second location which is different from the first location, and a connection element, such as a suture or a mesh structure, interposed between and interconnecting the first tissue anchoring portion and the second tissue anchoring portion. The support plate of at least one of the first tissue anchoring portion and the second tissue anchoring portion may have longitudinally axially formed therethrough a bore for receiving the connecting element so that the surgeon may pull on the end of the connecting element to adjust the distance between the first tissue anchoring portion and the second tissue anchoring portion. | 08-28-2008 |
| 20080202254 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR EVALUATING PEEL ADHESION - An apparatus for evaluating the peel adhesion of a test specimen to a substrate. The apparatus includes a base plate having a surface for receiving the substrate; a substrate clamping plate for securing the substrate to the substrate receiving surface of the base plate; a test specimen clamping mechanism, the test specimen clamping mechanism having a first end for securing a first end of the test specimen thereto and a second end; and a pivotable linkage, the pivotable linkage having a first end for connecting to the second end of the test specimen clamping mechanism and a second end pivotably mounted to an adaptor, the adaptor in communication with a source of tensile force, wherein the source of tensile force is applied through or via the adaptor to draw the pivotable linkage and test specimen clamping mechanism away from the base plate and peel the test specimen away from the substrate. Also disclosed is a method for evaluating the peel adhesion of a test specimen to a substrate. | 08-28-2008 |
