| Entries |
| Document | Title | Date |
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| 20080200860 | SYSTEM FOR TREATING OCULAR DISORDERS AND METHODS THEREOF - Systems and methods for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. One system has an implant and a delivery device. The implant has inlet and outlet portions, a lumen extending therebetween and communicating with inlet and outlet ports. The implant is sized so that in use aqueous humor flows from an anterior chamber of an eye through the implant and into a uveal scleral outflow path of the eye. The delivery device is configured to advance the implant from within the anterior chamber, with the outlet portion leading the inlet portion, to a location where the outlet and inlet ports respectively communicate with the uveal scleral outflow path and the anterior chamber. One method involves advancing an implant from within the anterior chamber, and draining fluid from therein such that fluid flows into an implant inlet port and out through an implant outlet port and into the uveal scleral outflow path. | 08-21-2008 |
| 20080214982 | FLUID MANAGEMENT FLOW IMPLANTS OF IMPROVED OCCLUSION RESISTANCE - This invention relates to achieving or improving uniform distribution of fluid flow in medical devices such as when combined with antibiotics impregnated in a catheter and/or with a drug-eluting catheter to further inhibit the catheter from becoming occluded by debris in the CSF or by bacterial biofilm formation or tissue proliferation in the catheter. | 09-04-2008 |
| 20080249457 | IMPLANTABLE DRAINAGE DEVICE WITH PLANAR DUAL CURVED PORTION - In a first embodiment, implantable drainage devices with a curvilinear portion are provided, such as stents or drainage catheters formed as a tubular member having a curvilinear portion comprising one or more pairs of adjacent bends curved in opposite directions. The drainage devices house a drainage lumen that may extend through the curvilinear portion, which may be dimensioned to retain the drainage device within a body vessel and provide a desired fluid conductance through a tortuous portion of the drainage lumen within the curvilinear portion. The curvilinear portion may include two or more planar bends facing in opposite directions. The drainage device is preferably a biliary stent or drainage catheter constructed of thermoplastic material resilient enough to permit the bends of the curvilinear portion to straighten in response to placement of a guidewire through the drainage lumen, and to permit a portion of the tubular member to again form the plurality of bends when the guidewire is removed from the drainage lumen. In a second embodiment, methods of implanting the drainage devices within a body vessel, such as a biliary duct, are provided. For example, the drainage device may be a biliary stent implanted within the Papilla of Vater (e.g, within a biliary or pancreatic duct) without traversing the Sphincter of Oddi. | 10-09-2008 |
| 20080249458 | Intraventricular Shunt and Methods of Use Therefor - Methods and apparatus for treating hydrocephalus caused by obstructions in the ventricular system and subarachnoid space of the brain. Embodiments include medical devices and methods for use within the subarachnoid space of the central nervous system to gain access to and treat an obstruction within the ventricles of the brain or a subarachnoid hemorrhage. The obstruction may be aspirated by an aspiration catheter for use in the subarachnoid space. A subarachnoid delivery catheter may then be used to deliver an intraventricular shunt to the opening in the obstruction via the subarachnoid space. A distal end of the delivery catheter is navigated across the obstruction to deploy the intraventricular shunt therein. The intraventricular shunt so positioned reopens the pathway between the ventricles and permits the return of normal cerebrospinal fluid flow there through. | 10-09-2008 |
| 20080262406 | SECUREMENT DEVICE FOR SHUNT CATHETER AND IMPLANTATION METHOD THEREFOR - The invention relates to implantable systems for securing shunt catheters. The implantable system and device functions to maintain shunt patency and thus, shunt catheter malfunction due to obstruction is prevented | 10-23-2008 |
| 20080269662 | CONDUIT DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR IMPLANTING A CONDUIT DEVICE IN A TISSUE WALL - Various embodiments of the present invention provide a conduit device including an attaching device configured for defining a helical pathway through a tissue wall and complementary ring in cooperation for securing the device within an aperture defined in the tissue wall. Some embodiments of the present invention further provide a system for implanting a conduit device in a tissue wall. More specifically, some embodiments provide a system including a coring device for defining an aperture in a tissue by removing and retaining a tissue core and securely implanting a conduit device therein so as to provide fluid communication between a first and second surface of the tissue wall via the conduit device. | 10-30-2008 |
| 20080294084 | Method and device for temporary emergency vessel anastomoses - A device and method for achieving hemostasis and leakage control in vascular structures and other body ducts or vessels in an emergency room or trauma situation. The device has at least one shunt that contains an obturator on an end of the shunt. The shunt is inserted into a damaged vessel or lumen for sealing the leak or hemorrhage. Two shunts that both contain obturators on one of their ends can be inserted into two different vessels or lumens when the vessel or lumen has been severed. The obturators allow for the improved ease of insertion into the vessel or lumen. The two shunts are then releasably attached to restore fluid communication through the vessel or lumen. The shunt is placed temporarily within the patient and then removed when definitive repair can be achieved by a qualified physician. | 11-27-2008 |
| 20080306428 | Lacrimal Drainage Device and Method - A lacrimal bypass drainage device ( | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080306429 | UVEOSCLERAL DRAINAGE DEVICE - An ophthalmic shunt implantable in an eye has an elongate body and a conduit for conducting aqueous humor from an anterior chamber of the eye to the suprachoroidal space of the eye. The elongate body has a forward end, a spaced back end, and an insertion head that extends from the forward end. The insertion head defines a shearing edge suitable for cutting eye tissue engage thereby. The elongate body can define at least one slot that is configured for operative receipt of a surgical tool such as an obturator. In another aspect, at least a portion of the conduit can be configured for operative receipt of a surgical tool such as an obturator. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20090024071 | U-Shaped Disc Shunt and Delivery Device - The intervertebral disc contains no blood vessels. Nutrients and waste are diffused mainly through adjacent vertebral bodies. As we age, calcified layers form between the disc and vertebral bodies, blocking diffusion. The disc begins to starve and flatten. The weight shifts abnormally from disc to the facet joints causing strain and back pain. Under anaerobic conditions, lactic acid is produced causing acidic irritation and unspecific pain. A U-shaped disc shunt ( | 01-22-2009 |
| 20090030363 | LINEARLY EXPANDABLE URETERAL STENT - A method includes placing a ureteral stent on an insertion tool. The ureteral stent includes an elongate member having a distal end coupled to a distal retention member. The elongate member includes a solid spring wire having a plurality of coils defining a lumen. A first portion of the insertion tool is disposed within the lumen, and the distal retention member, which has a nominally curved shape, is disposed about a second portion of the insertion tool such that the distal retention member is substantially linear. The insertion tool is inserted into the body of the patient and the ureteral stent is moved along the insertion tool such that at least a portion of the distal retention member is disposed within the kidney and at least a portion of the elongate member is disposed within the ureter of the patient. The insertion tool is removed from the body. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090036817 | IMPLANTABLE FLOW CONNECTOR - An implantable flow connector for fluidically coupling a source tissue-enclosed body space with a destination element, comprising: a conduit having a lumen terminating at an orifice at a first end of the conduit implantable in the source body space through an opening formed in a tissue wall of the source body space, and a second end of the conduit implantable in the destination element through an opening in a surface of the destination element; and a circumferential flange, radially extending from the conduit proximate the conduit first end, configured to be implanted in the source body space adjacent an opening in the tissue wall of the source body space such that the conduit extends through the opening, the flange comprising one or more circumferentially adjacent sections at least one of which has a rigidity that decreases in a radially-increasing direction. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090036818 | Shunt and Method Treatment of Glaucoma - This invention provides a shunt for implantation between the anterior chamber of the eye and the epithelial-lined space through the frontal sinus bone of a patient for the treatment of glaucoma. The shunt includes a tube having a length sufficient to span the distance between the anterior chamber of the eye and the epithelial-lined space of the patient, the tube having an open anterior chamber end and a closed epithelial-lined space end, and a seal device associated with the tube between the anterior chamber and epithelial-lined space ends, for sealing a hole in the frontal sinus bone, and for anchoring the tube against movement from the frontal sinus bone. The shunt also includes a fluid pressure openable valve in the tube, located at or near the epithelial-lined space sinus end, allowing for controlled flow of aqueous humor through the tube when implanted. The invention also extends to a method of treating glaucoma in a patient by surgically implanting the shunt between the anterior chamber of the eye and the frontal sinus. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090036819 | DRUG ELUTING OCULAR IMPLANT WITH ANCHOR AND METHODS THEREOF - Ocular implants, delivery devices and methods for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. One method involves inserting an implant on one side of an eye. The implant has an anchor on a distal end portion and an outlet opening that is disposed proximal of the anchor. The implant is advanced across the eye to the other side of the eye. The anchor is inserted into eye tissue on the other side of the eye. A therapeutic agent is eluted using the implant. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090043242 | INSTRUMENTS AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING CORNEAL IMPLANT VIA EXTRA-AND INTRA-CAMERAL ROUTES - A method of implanting a transcorneal shunt into a cornea, the shunt having a head and a foot, each having a hole therein, the method including the operations of engaging an insertion tool with a foot hole of the shunt; making an entry incision in the cornea; inserting the shunt, while still engaged with the insertion tool, through the entry incision; making an implant incision in the cornea; inserting the head of the shunt through the implant incision to position and seat the shunt; and releasing the shunt from the insertion tool. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090062717 | GASTROINTESTINAL IMPLANT AND METHODS FOR USE - Methods and devices for modifying the location at which bodily fluids interact with nutrients in a gastrointestinal tract having a conduit having a first end and a second end, the first end configured to divert bodily fluids from an entrance within a gastrointestinal tract to a location downstream from the entrance, and means for attaching the second end to the entrance. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090076436 | OCULAR IMPLANTS WITH DEPLOYABLE STRUCTURE - An implant has a tubular member with an inlet configured to receive fluid from an anterior chamber of an eye, an outlet configured to deliver fluid from the inlet to a physiological outflow pathway of the eye, and a lumen therebetween configured for substantially free flow of the fluid and which generally defines a flow axis. At the outlet of the tubular member is a distal deployable portion that has a compacted position and an expanded position. The deployable portion is configured to expand in the physiological outflow pathway of the eye and moves transversely when transitioning between the compacted and expanded positions about a pivot axis which is substantially perpendicular to the flow axis. | 03-19-2009 |
| 20090088677 | EAR TUBES - The invention provides a flexible ear tube ( | 04-02-2009 |
| 20090088678 | TRANSLUMENAL PERITONEAL ACCESS AND CATHETER THEREFOR - A working cannula is advanced through the urethra into the bladder. Gas is infused through the cannula into the bladder, pressurizing the bladder. A fenestrating shunt catheter is then advanced through the urethra into the bladder and against the wall of the bladder, fenestrating it. A distal segment of the shunt catheter is then advanced through the wall into the peritoneal space, while a more proximal segment of the shunt catheter remains in the bladder. Shunt holes are formed in both the distal segment and more proximal segment so that gas from the pressurized bladder flows through the shunt holes into the peritoneal space, insufflating the peritoneal space. | 04-02-2009 |
| 20090124955 | Device for delivery of antifibrotic agents & method - An ophthalmological device comprises an implant member carrying an antifibrotic agent that is released slowly over a prolonged period when inserted into a wound in an eye produced by surgery. The member is placed in the vicinity of a wound created during the surgery to inhibit inflammatory cell proliferation, thereby preventing the growth of fibrous tissue after the eye surgery. | 05-14-2009 |
| 20090124956 | Polyester compositions, methods of manufacturing said compositions, and articles made therefrom - Crosslinked polymer compositions have backbones with first and second divalent saturated aliphatic moieties, a divalent saturated aliphatic secondary alcohol moiety, and a trivalent saturated aliphatic moiety. Hydrolytically labile ester bonds joined together these moieties. These polyesters may be polycondensation reaction products of a diol, a triol and a diacid. A molar ratio of the first divalent saturated aliphatic moiety, the divalent saturated aliphatic secondary alcohol moiety, and the trivalent saturated aliphatic moiety to the second divalent saturated aliphatic moiety is in the range of about 0.85 to about 1.5. Preferably, these polyesters are non-cytotoxic, biocompatible, bioabsorbable, or exhibit shape memory behavior with at least one transition temperature of greater than about 30° C. and less than about 100° C. and most preferably exhibit each of these qualities. The compositions may be adapted for a wide variety of uses, including medical applications. | 05-14-2009 |
| 20090131848 | METHOD FOR IMPLANTING A TRANSCORNEAL IMPLANT THROUGH A PARACENTESIS T-INCISION, AND TRANSCORNEAL IMPLANT SO IMPLANTED - A method for implanting a transcorneal implant having a cap, a foot, and a body connecting the cap and the foot, the body having a lesser circumference than either the cap or the foot, the method including the operations: creating a first corneal incision to create a tunnel, such that the a far end of the first incision enters the anterior chamber; creating a second corneal incision opening a roof of the tunnel to an end point past the far end of the first incision and creating flaps; guiding the implant to the end point, so that the foot of the implant is under the flaps; rotating the implant until the foot is entirely within the anterior chamber; and rotating the implant back to a neutral position, such that a portion of the foot is beneath a floor of the tunnel. | 05-21-2009 |
| 20090137942 | Device For Implantation of Retrograde Ventriculo-Sinus Shunt - A shunt system for implantation of retrograde ventriculo-sinus shunts to establish a water tight connection that drains excess cerebrospinal fluid from hydrocephalic brain ventricles and delivers it, against the direction of blood flow, in a dural sinus comprising a valveless shunting catheter and a styforator. Retrograde ventriculo-sinus shunts mimic natural drainage of cerebrospinal fluid; they utilize natural forces to regulate the intraventricular pressure and to maintain it more than the sinus pressure, to prevent regurgitation of blood in the shunting catheter as a result of changes in posture or intra-thoracic pressure, to maintain a steady flow of cerebrospinal fluid to the venous circulation at a rate equal to and dependent upon the rate of it's formation, to discourage stagnation and clotting of blood at the venous end of the connection and to prevent siphonage in the erect posture. | 05-28-2009 |
| 20090143712 | SELF-TREPHINING IMPLANT AND METHODS THEREOF FOR TREATMENT OF OCULAR DISORDERS - Implants and methods for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. One implant has a tubular member, with inlet and outlet ends, and a cutting member connected thereto. The tubular member is configured to extend through eye tissue such that the inlet and outlet ends reside respectively in an anterior chamber and a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye. Desirably, the cutting member is configured to make an incision in the eye tissue for receiving at least a portion of the tubular member. One method involves introducing an implant, with proximal and distal ends, into the anterior chamber and penetrating eye tissue using an implant distal portion. The implant is advanced from the anterior chamber into the penetrated eye tissue to locate the distal and proximal ends respectively in the physiologic outflow pathway and the anterior chamber. Aqueous humor is conducted between the proximal and distal ends. | 06-04-2009 |
| 20090177138 | Shunt Device for Glaucoma Treatment - An improved indwelling shunt device for use in treating glaucoma is provided, comprising a flexible plate for placement on the eye, a tube for draining aqueous fluid from the anterior chamber of the eye, said tube having a proximal end and a distal end; and an adjustment element in moveable communication with the proximal region of said tube, adapted to allow modification of the length of the tube extending therefrom. An improved device for engaging the superior and lateral rectus muscles is also provided, comprising a handle; a first hook sized and shaped to engage a rectus muscle; and a second hook sized and shaped to engage a rectus muscle, wherein said second hook is moveable with respect to said first hook. | 07-09-2009 |
| 20090198172 | INTERVENTIONAL SHEATH WITH RETENTION FEATURES - A device for use in accessing and treating an artery comprises a sheath having a distal end adapted to be introduced into the artery, a proximal end, and a lumen extending between the distal and proximal ends. A retention feature is on the sheath, wherein the retention feature engages the wall of the artery to retain the sheath within the artery after the sheath has been introduced into the artery. | 08-06-2009 |
| 20090204053 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR OPENING FLUID PASSAGEWAYS - Devices and procedures for assisting drainage of aqueous humor from the eye are provided. In accordance with some embodiments, an implant sized to fit within the Schlemm's Canal is provided. The implant has a plurality of penetrating members having an unextended position in which the penetrating members lie generally close to the longitudinal axis of the implant and an extended position in which the penetrating members are extended outward. In use, the implant is advanced around at least a substantial portion of the Schlemm's Canal with the penetrating members in the first unextended position. After the implant is positioned within the Schlemm's Canal, the penetrating members are caused to move from the first unextended position to the second extended position, wherein the penetrating members penetrate the wall of the Schlemm's Canal. This creates fluid passageways in the wall of the Schlemm's Canal. The implant can also serve to keep the Schlemm's Canal open. A delivery device is also provided for implanting an implant into the Schlemm's Canal. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090234267 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR EASY ACCESS TO VASCULAR GRAFT CANNULATION SITES - The present invention relates to a polymeric venous implant wherein at least a portion of the graft is made from a UV fluorescing polymer which allows the user to see the graft during access use. This allows the graft to be injected much easier by the ability of the technician to find the graft or a stick site on the graft. | 09-17-2009 |
| 20090264808 | Biliary/Pancreatic Shunt Device and Method for Treatment of Metabolic and Other Diseases - Provided is a shunt device that promotes stimulation of secretion of intestinal L-cells and other enteroendocrine cell types. Enteroendocrine secretion is stimulated directly or indirectly by shunting bile and/or pancreatic secretion to segments of the gut more distal than would normally occur The shunt device may be a flexible catheter that is impervious to such secretions, with a proximal end draining the pancreatic/bile duct, and a distal end residing distally within the lumen of the small or large intestine. The shunt may be inserted with minimally invasive techniques, such as by endoscopy. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090326431 | TUBULAR VASCULAR TRANSPLANT - A tubular vascular transplant ( | 12-31-2009 |
| 20100004580 | SHUNT DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TREATING OCULAR DISORDERS - Shunt devices and a method for continuously decompressing elevated intraocular pressure in eyes affected by glaucoma by diverting excess aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye into Schlemm's canal where post-operative patency can be maintained with an indwelling shunt device which surgically connects the canal with the anterior chamber. The shunt devices provide uni- or bi-directional flow of aqueous humor into Schlemm's canal. | 01-07-2010 |
| 20100010414 | METHOD OF DELIVERING AN IMPLANT FOR TREATING AN OCULAR DISORDER - Surgical methods and related medical devices for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. Some methods relate to delivering an implant within an eye, and involve providing an elongate guide device, such as, a flexible guide member or a guide wire. A distal end of the guide device can be advanced into an anterior chamber of an eye, or through at least a portion of a site of resistance along a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye, or from an anterior chamber of the eye to a location proximate a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye. The implant is advanced along the guide device toward the guide device distal end, and is positioned to conduct aqueous humor between the anterior chamber and the physiologic outflow pathway. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100030126 | MONOCANALICULONASAL AND/OR MONOCANALICULAR INTUBATION ASSEMBLY, MAINLY FOR NASOLACHRYMAL IMPERFORATION - Monocanaliculonasal and/or monocanalicular intubation assembly mainly intended for nasolachrymal imperforation, comprising a mandrel ( | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100030127 | DUCT STENT FOR CARRYING MINIATURE RADIOACTIVE PARTICLE SOURCES - A duct stent being capable of carrying the subminiature radioactive particle source is mainly used for the inside radiation therapy of metaphase or terminal pancreatic cancer and bile duct cancer, and has drainage function. The duct stent consists of a tubular drainage tube ( | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100042039 | CEREBROSPINAL FLUID SHUNT HAVING LONG TERM ANTI-OCCLUSION AGENT DELIVERY - A shunt for at least partial implantation into a patient that includes an elongated conduit having at least one lumen therethrough and a second lumen concentric about the first lumen along at least part of the first lumen, that includes a proximal end for receipt of bodily fluids for flow through the shunt and a distal end for discharge of the bodily fluids from the shunt, and a long term source of at least one occlusion resistant agent, wherein said at least a portion of the at least one occlusion resistant agent can permeate through at least a portion of the elongated conduit. The invention also includes kits and systems. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100056977 | Trans-corneal shunt and method - A method for relieving pressure within the eye in the treatment of glaucoma comprising inserting an extremely thin flat trans-corneal drainage shunt, having no detrimental cap or footplate, within a self-sealing incision made by a keratome knife within the cornea at the limbus, the drainage shunt having extremely small pores formed therein for the controlled transport of aqueous fluid from an anterior portion of the eye to the tear film on the surface of the eye while deterring bacteria from entering the eye, and fixing the position of the trans-corneal shunt in position within the cornea by means of a suture. The shunt can be tapered for preventing an unacceptable degree of intrusion of the shunt into the anterior portion of the eye. The trailing edge portion of the shunt is wide relative to other portions of the shunt, thereby facilitating grasping of the shunt when desired. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100069819 | Minimally invasive gastrointestinal bypass - A solution is provided for modifying the location at which bodily fluids interact with nutrients in a gastrointestinal tract having a conduit with a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to divert bodily fluids from an entrance within a gastrointestinal tract to a location downstream from the entrance. The solution also provides for a means for attaching the second end to the entrance. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100069820 | DEVICE, SYSTEM, KIT, AND METHOD FOR EPICARDIAL ACCESS - Described are equipment, a system, a kit and a method for the performance of a minimally-intensive body access, such as cardiac access. Epicardial Access Surgery (EAS) is disclosed. EAS does not need general anesthesia or extracorporeal circulation nor does it need a chest opening, which is very advantageous for various aspects. For instance an operation of a coronary artery bypass is created by creating a direct path of flow from one body artery into a coronary artery with the aid of catheter-based minimally-invasive EAS based bypass surgery. In addition, various medical devices are used, such as a special partially flexible needle, a special partially covered stent, and a special partially flexible port. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100076365 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ACCESSING THE WALL OF A VASCULAR STRUCTURE OR OTHER BODY LUMEN WHILE SIMULTANEOUSLY PROVIDING ZONE ISOLATION AND FLUID BYPASS CAPABILITY - Apparatus and method for accessing the wall of a body lumen while simultaneously providing zone isolation and fluid bypass capability, the apparatus comprising:
| 03-25-2010 |
| 20100087774 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH ANCHORING MECHANISM AND MULTIPLE OUTLETS - Devices and methods for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. One ocular implant, has a substantially straight, rigid, elongate body. The body has a self-trephinating distal portion that narrows toward a distal end, and at least one inlet that communicates with at least one inner lumen that communicates with a plurality of outlets. The lumen has a sufficient length to extend from an anterior chamber of an eye to a physiologic outflow pathway. An anchor member extends from the implant. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100106073 | METHOD OF MONITORING INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE AND TREATING AN OCULAR DISORDER - The invention discloses a trabecular stent and methods for treating glaucoma. The stent may incorporate an intraocular pressure sensor comprising a compressible element that is implanted inside an anterior chamber of an eye, wherein at least one external dimension of the element correlates with intraocular pressure. In some embodiments, the sensor may be coupled to the stent. Also disclosed are methods of delivery of the stent and the sensor to the eye. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100114006 | GLAUCOMA DRAINAGE SHUNTS AND METHODS OF USE - A method of treating glaucoma in an eye utilizing an implanted shunt having an elastomeric plate and a non-valved elastomeric drainage tube. The plate is positioned over a sclera of the eye with an outflow end of the elastomeric drainage tube open to an outer surface of the plate. An inflow end of the drainage tube tunnels through the sclera and cornea to the anterior chamber of the eye. The drainage tube collapses upon initial insertion within an incision in the selera and cornea, or at a kink on the outside of the incision, but has sufficient resiliency to restore its patency over time. The effect is a flow restrictor that regulates outflow from the eye until a scar tissue bleb forms around the plate of the slunt. The plate desirably has a peripheral ridge and a large number of fenestrations, and a longer suturing tab extending from one side of the plate to enhance visibility and accessibility when suturing the shunt to the selera. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100121247 | Dialysis Graft with Thromboses Prevention Arrangement - A dialysis graft includes an artery connection section having one end connected to an artery; and a vein connection section having both ends connected to two sections of a vein respectively. Diameter of either end of the vein connection section is equal to that of the corresponding section of the vein. The other end of the artery connection section is integrally formed with the vein connection section and communicates therewith. An enlargement for preventing stenosis and thromboses is formed at the connection of the artery connection section and the vein connection section. The artery connection section is inclined at an acute angle with respect to the vein connection section at the connection and the enlargement is formed at the obtuse angle side of the connection. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100121248 | APPARATUS FOR REDUCING PRESSURE IN AN ORGAN - Methods, system and apparatus for relieving pressure in an organ such as, but not limited to, the eye are disclosed. The method includes implanting a bioabsorbable channel into the selected area of the organ using a delivery apparatus. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100121249 | METHODS FOR REDUCING PRESSURE IN AN ORGAN - Methods, system and apparatus for relieving pressure in an organ such as, but not limited to, the eye are disclosed. The method includes implanting a bioabsorbable channel into the selected area of the organ using a delivery apparatus. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100125237 | IMPLANT FOR USE IN SURGERY FOR GLAUCOMA AND A METHOD - An implant for use in surgery for glaucoma of an eye having an oval plastic piece to which a tube is attached. The oval is wrapped as a taco enclosing the tube. The oval is placed via an incision in the conjunctiva to allow the device to be placed under the lateral or the medial rectus muscle. The tube is disposed in a sceral flap in the eye. A surgical method using the device is disclosed. | 05-20-2010 |
| 20100152641 | INTERNAL SHUNT AND METHOD FOR TREATING GLAUCOMA - A surgical technique and device wherein an indwelling tube is placed in the eye of a patient having glaucoma. The tube diverts aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to the suprachoroidal space from which it is removed by blood flowing in the choroidal and uveal tissues. This decreases the intraocular pressure. | 06-17-2010 |
| 20100160847 | SYSTEMS, APPARATUSES, AND METHODS FOR CARDIOVASCULAR CONDUITS AND CONNECTORS - A cardiovascular conduit system may comprise a connector. The connector may comprise a proximal end adapted to attach to a cardiovascular organ. The proximal end may comprise a first plurality of expandable members, and each member in the first plurality of expandable members may be deployable from a delivery position to a deployed position. The first plurality of expandable members may be dimensioned to deploy inside the cardiovascular organ to secure the connector to the cardiovascular organ. The connector may comprise a distal end adapted to attach to a conduit and an opening extending through the connector. Connectors for cardiovascular conduit systems may also include expandable stents. Connectors may be rotateably secured to a conduit, and the conduit may be reinforced. Methods for forming and using cardiovascular conduit systems are also disclosed. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100160848 | Ureteral Stent - In some embodiments, a ureteral stent includes an elongate member having a first portion and a second portion, which is coupled to the first portion. The first portion of the elongate member is configured to be disposed within a kidney of a patient. The second portion of the elongate member, which has a sidewall that defines a lumen, is configured to deliver fluid from a first location of the sidewall of the second portion to a second location of the sidewall of the second portion via capillary action. The second portion of the elongate member is configured to be disposed within at least one of a bladder and a ureter of the patient. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100168644 | Glaucoma Treatment Device and Method - A device for treating glaucoma in an eye is described. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100179468 | Side-by-side lacrimal intubation threader and method - A device to facilitate insertion or threading of a flexible silicone intubation stent into the lacrimal drainage system of a patient. The device has an oblong hollow semi-rigid probe having the flexible stent releasably secured to its blunted distal end. The probe and stent are oriented in a side-by-side configuration and inserted endwise through the punctal opening, down through the nasolacrimal duct and into the nasal cavity. The flexible stent is detached from the distal end of the probe, and the probe withdrawn, leaving the stent in place. The flexible stent can be temporarily secured to the distal end of the probe through a number of means. One preferred way is to friction fit a resilient distal aperture of the stent upon the distal end of the probe and occlude the probe's distal opening. The stent is detached by injecting a pressurized fluid through the channel of the probe thereby forcing the distal end of the stent to pop off. The proximal extremity of the stent is secured in the patient by an integrated or separate punctal anchor. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100185137 | DEVICE FOR TREATMENT OF WATERING OF THE EYE - The present invention relates to a device ( | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100191167 | GASTROINTESTINAL IMPLANT AND METHODS FOR USE - Methods and devices for modifying the location at which bodily fluids interact with nutrients in a gastrointestinal tract. The methods and devices utilize a conduit configured to divert bodily fluids from an entrance within a gastrointestinal tract to a location downstream from the entrance. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100222732 | ANTI-CLOGGING VENTRICULAR CATHETER FOR CEREBROSPINAL FLUID DRAINAGE - A novel ventricular catheter designed to reduce CSF shunt obstruction is disclosed comprising a tip using a membrane without any opening and capable of filtering the CSF. When the CSF flows through the membrane, neither tissue (choroid plexus, blood cells, tumor cells, suctioned ependymal tissue) nor proteins can break through the membrane, making this ventricular catheter capable of preventing obstruction from tissue invasion but also preventing clogging from protein precipitation, coagulation or flocculation along the downstream shunt system. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100222733 | Glaucoma Treatment Method - An ocular implant adapted to reside at least partially in a portion of Schlemm's canal of an eye. In some embodiments the implant has a body extending in a curved volume whose longitudinal axis forms an arc of a circle, and a plurality of open areas and strut areas formed in the body, the open areas extending over more than 50% of a surface defining the curved volume, the strut areas surrounding the open areas, the body having a diameter of between 0.005 inches and 0.04 inches. The invention also provides a method of treating glaucoma including the steps of supporting tissue forming Schlemm's canal in an eye with an implant extending at least partially in the canal along an axial length within the canal; and contacting with the implant less than 50% of the tissue forming the canal along the axial length. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100234789 | SELF ADJUSTING VENOUS EQUALIZING GRAFT - A self adjusting venous equalizing graft (SAVE graft) which provides a self regulating stenosis is provided herein. The SAVE graft responds to increases or decreases in blood pressure which allows a higher pressure at the graft's arterial end and a lower pressure at the graft's venous end. This is ideal in that it mimics the natural pressure of a patient's circulatory system. A dialysis machine may draw blood at the arterial end, dialyze the blood, and return the blood to the patient at the graft's venous end. The lower pressure at the venous end prevents damage to the patient's vein. The SAVE graft may comprise a deformable stenosis control diaphragm or a venous controlled pressure nozzle which may expand or contract in response to blood pressure to self regulate the stenosis provided by the SAVE graft. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100234790 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH THERAPEUTIC AGENTS AND METHODS THEREOF - Implants and methods for treating ocular disorders are provided. One method involves introducing an implant into an anterior chamber of an eye such that at least a distal end of the implant is temporarily in the anterior chamber. The implant is implanted into eye tissue adjacent the anterior chamber. A therapeutic agent is eluted from the implant into at least one of the anterior chamber, a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye, and a space adjacent a choroid of the eye. The therapeutic agent can be an antiproliferative agent, an anti-inflammatory drug, or a compound for treating glaucoma or ocular hypertension. The therapeutic agent can be contained within the implant or coated on the implant. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100234791 | DUAL DRAINAGE PATHWAY SHUNT DEVICE - A shunt is provided for the flow of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye to Schlemm's canal and to other anatomical spaces of the eye. The shunt comprises at least one lumen and optionally has at least one anchor extending from a proximal portion of the shunt to assist in placement and anchoring of the device in the correct anatomic position. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100234792 | Systems, devices, and methods including infection-fighting and monitoring shunts - Systems, devices, methods, and compositions are described for providing an actively controllable shunt configured to, for example, monitor, treat, or prevent an infection. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100234793 | Systems, devices and methods including infection-fighting and monitoring shunts - Systems, devices, methods, and compositions are described for providing an actively controllable shunt configured to, for example, monitor, treat, or prevent an infection. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100241046 | APPARATUS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR TREATMENT OF OCULAR DISORDERS - Apparatus and methods for relieving and treating glaucoma and other ocular disorders are disclosed. The apparatus includes a thin flexible membrane and preferably a tubular member. In another aspect of the invention, a surgical device for repairing ocular tissue includes a flexible membrane of a polymeric material comprising polyisobutylene. In the preferred embodiment, the polymeric material of the membrane is porous. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100241047 | System, Methods and Apparatus for Cerebral Protection - A device, system and method for perfusing an oxygenated medium in the cerebral vasculature. In the case of bihemispheric brain perfusion, it includes positioning pressure cuffs on upper extremities; providing a catheter having a multi-region configuration with a balloon; inserting the catheter into a subclavian or femoral vein; advancing the catheter such that the balloon is positioned substantially in the superior vena cava junction substantially proximal to the take-off of the left innominate vein. During a perfusion mode, the cuffs and balloon are inflated causing an increase in cerebral blood flow, retrogradely; and oxygenated blood which may be cooled is pumped from a femoral artery into the catheter for a suitable period. During a non-perfusion mode the cuffs and balloon are deflated. The catheter has at least two regions, namely, guide wire and fluid delivery regions. Optionally, a separate balloon inflation region may be provided. In the case of unilateral (single hemisphere) brain perfusion, it includes providing a catheter having a multi-region configuration with a balloon, inserting the catheter into a subclavian, jugular or femoral vein, advancing the catheter such that the balloon is positioned in the internal jugular vein on the side ipsilateral to the side of the brain requiring perfusion. In this unilateral scenario where the balloon is inflated in the ipsilateral internal jugular vein, no pressure cuffs are needed and only the balloon is inflated and deflated during the perfusion and non-perfusion modes respectively. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100241048 | Systems, devices, and methods including infection-fighting and monitoring shunts - Systems, devices, methods, and compositions are described for providing an actively controllable shunt configured to, for example, monitor, treat, or prevent an infection. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100268149 | ANTIMICROBIAL GAS IMPREGNATING DEVICES AND METHODS - A nitric oxide gas-releasing conduit configured for surgical implantation through a patient's tympanic membrane. The nitric oxide gas-releasing conduit comprises a gas-permeable cured resin material configured for releasably sequestering therein gas. The gas-permeable cured resin material is charged with nitric oxide gas. The nitric oxide gas-releasing conduit may be optionally coated with an antimicrobial gas-releasing composition. The gas-releasing coating composition may be configured to release nitric oxide. | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100286585 | Shunt Delivery of Curcumin - A method for reducing or preventing a human brain disorder relating to the presence of a pathogenic substance in cerebrospinal fluid by selecting a human for treatment as a patient and placing a proximal end of a first catheter, having at least a first lumen, in a first sub-dural location within the brain of the patient to establish open communication between the first lumen and cerebrospinal fluid of the patient. For an extended period of time, a curcumin agent selected from at least one of curcumin, a curcumin hybrid and a curcumin analog is delivered to the cerebrospinal fluid to interact with the pathogenic substance to attenuate its effect on the brain. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100286586 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SITE SPECIFIC THERAPY - A system, including catheter apparatus, and related method for performing site specific therapy. The catheter apparatus can include one or more semipermeable microcatheters for use in performing site specific microdialysis. The system and method are particularly suited for use in addressing cerebral edema by affecting the osmolar relationship between fluids making up the brain tissue. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100292629 | Systems, devices, and methods including infection-fighting and monitoring shunts - Systems, devices, methods, and compositions are described for providing an actively controllable shunt configured to, for example, monitor, treat, or prevent an infection. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100318015 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR ACHIEVING MAGNETIC GASTRIC BYPASS - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for the treatment of obesity. A magnetic device is provided that enables the creation of a Roux limb without the use of staples or sutures. Additionally, a magnetic device is described for extending the length of the Roux limb such that tension in the stomach and/or the intestines is prevented. Further, a system and method are described for achieving the reversible restriction of gastric capacity and bypass of the duodenum without the use of sutures or staples. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100318016 | Methods and Compositions for Enhancing Vascular Access - Disclosed is an implantable material comprising a biocompatible matrix and cells which, when provided to a vascular access structure, can promote functionality generally. For example, implantable material of the present invention can enhance maturation of an arteriovenous native fistula as well as prolong the fistula in a mature, functional state suitable for dialysis. Additionally, the present invention can promote formation of a functional arteriovenous graft suitable for dialysis as well as promote formation of a functional peripheral bypass graft. Implantable material can be configured as a flexible planar form or a flowable composition with shape-retaining properties suitable for implantation at, adjacent or in the vicinity of an anastomoses or arteriovenous graft. According to the methods disclosed herein, the implantable material is provided to an exterior surface of a blood vessel. Certain embodiments of the flexible planar form define a slot. The materials and methods of the present invention comprise cells, preferably endothelial cells or cells having an endothelial-like phenotype. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100331756 | Methods and Apparatus for Anchoring within the Gastrointestinal Tract - The present invention relates to an anchor configured for minimally-invasive implantation and sized to remain securely positioned within at least a portion of the gastrointestinal tract of an animal. The anchor includes a radial spring formed from an elongated resilient member shaped into an annular wave pattern about a central axis. The anchor defines a central lumen and provides an outward radial force, while allowing for substantial flexure about its perimeter. The anchor is generally removable, but can include fasteners, such as barbs, to further secure it to the surrounding anatomy. In some embodiments, the anchor includes a connector coupling a fixed portion to a removable portion. Further, the anchor can be used to secure a medical device within the body, such as a flexible sleeve within the intestine. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20110004146 | Systems and Methods for Treating of Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes - The present invention provides systems and methods for treating and controlling obesity and/or type II diabetes. In one aspect of the invention, a device comprises a hollow sleeve sized and shaped for positioning within a duodenum of the patient, an anchor coupled to the proximal end of the sleeve and being sized and shaped to inhibit distal migration of the sleeve and a plurality of elastomeric objects coupled to the distal end of the sleeve and being sized and shaped to inhibit proximal migration of the sleeve through a pylorus of the patient. The bypass device can be placed and removed endoscopically through the patient's esophagus in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure and it is “self-anchoring” and does not require invasive tissue fixation within the patient's GI tract, thereby reducing collateral tissue damage and minimizing its impact on the digestive process. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20110009801 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF OBESITY - A device for isolating tissue in the digestive tract including a biocompatible portion having a surface sized to cover the tissue to be isolated and also includes a plurality of micro-anchors attached to the biocompatible portion and extending from the surface, the micro-anchors sized to penetrate the mucosa of the tissue. A method for isolating tissue in the digestive tract in which an isolation element is delivered to a desired location in the digestive system; the isolation element having fixed thereto a plurality of micro-anchors. The method also includes attaching the isolation element to tissue at the desired location by causing the micro-anchors to penetrate the mucosa of the tissue. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110009802 | Surgical Methods, Devices, and Kits - Methods, devices, and kits for creating bloodstream access in patients are provided. A patient's vessel is accessed surgically and blood flow is stopped. A short incision is made through the wall of one side of the vessel where the blood flow was stopped. A puncturing instrument is pushed through the incision across the lumen and through the vessel wall at a site opposite the incision. After the puncturing instrument is removed, a vessel wall traversing device which can be shaped like a blunt-ended nail with a hollow shank and a head of a larger diameter than the shank is inserted in the puncture hole blunt end first such that the shank traverses the puncture hole with the blunt end being positioned exterior to the outer surface of the vessel and the head of the device abutting inner surface of the vessel at the puncture hole. The portion of the shank that projects outwards from the vessel wall is connected to one end of a flexible cannula, and the other end of the cannula is passed through the surrounding tissue such that the end of the cannula opposite the vessel wall traversing device protrudes through the skin of the patient. A portion of the cannula protruding from the patient is clamped off, the incision is closed, and blood flow is restored to the vessel. Blood within the vessel is than accessible via the portion of the cannula protruding from the patient. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110021968 | PANCREATIC EXOCRINE SECRETION DIVERSION APPARATUS AND METHOD - A method and apparatus for treating a patient's health condition by diverting pancreatic exocrine secretions include a flow diverter of material compatible with chronic residence within a small intestine of the patient. The flow diverter has a cover end and a discharge end. The flow diverter is sized to be placed within the small intestine with the discharge end placed distally from said cover end and with said flow diverter further sized so permit passage of chyme through the small intestine and past the flow diverter. The cover end is sized to cover a discharge papilla of the pancreatic duct. The diverter is adapted to divert at least a portion of pancreatic exocrine secretion from the papilla to the distal discharge end. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110021969 | PROSTHETIC DEVICE FOR CREATING A VASCULAR BYPASS, WITHOUT CLAMPING, FROM A BLOOD VESSEL - Prosthetic device for creating a vascular bypass from an arterial vessel, in particular from the aorta, which can have substantial collateral branches, characterized in that the device includes one or more prosthetic tubes of which one of the ends is joined to a flexible fixing collar with an outer face and an inner face which is configured to be applied to the outer wall of the arterial vessel. The collar has one or more orifices arranged in a central or orifice zone, and which communicate with the prosthetic tube or tubes. The collar has a connection zone arranged around the orifice zone at a distance from the edge of the orifice or orifices, and which is configured to be fixed to the outer wall of an arterial vessel. The inner face of this connection zone having at least one feature for creating an annular sealing zone around the orifice zone. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110028883 | GLAUCOMA TREATMENT DEVICE - Methods and devices are adapted for implanting into the eye. An incision is formed in the cornea of the eye and a shunt is inserted through the incision into the anterior chamber of the eye. The shunt includes a fluid passageway. The shunt is passed along a pathway from the anterior chamber through the scleral spur of the eye into the suprachoroidal space and positioned in a first position such that a first portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the anterior chamber and a second portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the suprachoroidal space to provide a fluid passageway between the suprachoroidal space and the anterior chamber. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110028884 | OCULAR PRESSURE REGULATION - Disclosed are devices and methods of treating an ocular disorder including forming a self-sealing incision in a cornea into an anterior chamber of an eye; introducing through the incision a fluid drainage tube having a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal, internal lumen extending through the fluid drainage tube, wherein at least the proximal end passes through the anterior chamber; and implanting the distal end of the fluid drainage tube in fluid communication with the suprachoroidal space such that the proximal end of the fluid drainage tube remains in fluid communication with the anterior chamber. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110040230 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - A solution is provided for modifying the location at which bodily fluids interact with nutrients in a gastrointestinal tract having a conduit with a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to divert bodily fluids from an entrance within a gastrointestinal tract to a location downstream from the entrance. The solution also provides for a means for attaching the second end to the entrance. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110040231 | TEMPORARY OSTOMY APPLIANCE - A temporary ostomy appliance is disclosed, including a catheter for extending through the abdominal wall into the intestine. The catheter may be a transcecal catheter for extending through the cecal valve into the ileum. A portion of a catheter that extends through the cecal valve is made collapsible when the catheter is empty. The collapsed portion expands to permit passage of effluent. A balloon carried on the catheter is preformed with a shape and size in order to permit inflation without elastic stretching of the balloon wall material. A filament is provided for permitting a portion of the catheter to be fastened to internal body tissue by surgical sutures or staples. In order to release the fastening without further surgery, the filament is withdrawn by pulling on a proximal portion outside the body. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110040232 | DUODENAL LINER DEVICE - Disclosed are tethered duodenal liner devices as well as methods of transcutaneously deploying and removing the tethered duodenal liner devices. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110046536 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE TREATMENT OF GLAUCOMA - The invention relates to a method and device for the treatment of glaucoma, though insertion of an implant into the lumen of the Schlemm's canal to realize proper drainage of the aqueous humor, which implant is brought into its position in the Schlemm's canal by means of a catheter having a distal and a proximate portion and provided with a number of pores through which a gaseous or fluid medium which comes from a pressure source can emerge during insertion of the catheter carrying the implant into the Schlemm's canal, and while the catheter is being inserted into the Schlemm's canal the gaseous or fluid medium is released under pressure thereby expanding the Schlemm's canal and the implant and upon releasing the implant at its determined location, the catheter can be withdrawn from the Schlemm's canal. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110046537 | Systems and Methods for Treatment of Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes - The present invention provides systems and methods for treating and controlling obesity and/or type II diabetes. In one aspect of the invention, a device comprises a hollow sleeve sized and shaped for positioning within a duodenum of the patient, an anchor coupled to the proximal end of the sleeve and being sized and shaped to inhibit distal migration of the sleeve and a plurality of elastomeric objects coupled to the distal end of the sleeve and being sized and shaped to inhibit proximal migration of the sleeve through a pylorus of the patient. The bypass device can be placed and removed endoscopically through the patient's esophagus in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure and it is “self-anchoring” and does not require invasive tissue fixation within the patient's GI tract, thereby reducing collateral tissue damage and minimizing its impact on the digestive process. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110054381 | BILIARY SHUNTS, DELIVERY SYSTEMS, AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - The application discloses devices, delivery tools, systems, and methods for treating biliary disease. Device comprise, for example, a component configured for deployment between a gallbladder and location within a gastrointestinal tract of a patient which has a proximal end and a distal end with a lumen extending therethrough. A method of deploying the device can be achieved by, for example, creating a duct or fistula between a gallbladder lumen and a portion of a gastrointestinal tract; and providing for drainage from the gallbladder to the gastrointestinal tract. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110060264 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR VASCULAR ACCESS - Vascular access systems for performing hemodialysis are disclosed. The vascular access system contemplates a catheter section adapted for insertion into a vein and a graft section adapted for attachment to an artery. The catheter section may have metal or polymer wall reinforcements that allow the use of thin-walled, small outer diameter conduits for the vascular access system. One or more of the adhered, embedded or bonded conduit reinforcement structures may be removable without significant damage to the conduit sections to facilitate attachment of the sections, or to a connector between the sections. Various self-sealing materials are provided for use in the vascular access system, as well as temporary access sites and flow control/sensor systems. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110071454 | Power Generator For Glaucoma Drainage Device - A glaucoma drainage device has a tube shunting the anterior chamber to a drainage location. A power generator has a rotor coupled to a micro-generator. The power generator is configured to generate energy from aqueous flowing through the tube. The force required to drive the rotor can be controlled to control the flow of aqueous through the tube. Alternatively, energy generated by the power generator is stored in a power source that powers an active valve, a pressure sensor, or telemetry. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110071455 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SUTURELESSLY CONNECTING A CONDUIT TO A HOLLOW ORGAN - An implantable connector for suturelessly connecting a conduit to a hollow organ, the implantable connector comprising: | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110082407 | Combination Therapies for the Treatment of Obesity - Described are pharmaceutical compositions comprising topiramate, phentermine, and metformin, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of treating a patient suffering from obesity or needing to lose weight, comprising the step of co-administering to said patient a therapeutically effective amount of topiramate, phentermine, and metformin. In certain embodiments, an aforementioned method is practiced in conjunction or tandem with a medical procedure or the use of a medical device or both. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110087146 | STOMACH BYPASS FOR THE TREATMENT OF OBESITY - The present application provides devices and methods for inducing weight loss. In particular, the present application provides devices which are secured in the stomach or external to the stomach to reduce digestion and/or absorption of food in accordance with the methods of the invention | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110087147 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TREATMENT OF ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE - Methods and devices are disclosed that enable safe, rapid and relatively short and straight access to the cerebral arteries for the introduction of interventional devices to treat acute ischemic stroke. In addition, the disclosed methods and devices provide means to securely close the access site to the cerebral arteries to avoid the potentially devastating consequences of a transcervical hematoma. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110087148 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH STIFFNESS QUALITIES, METHODS OF IMPLANTATION AND SYSTEM - Described herein are devices and methods for treating eye conditions. Described is an ocular implant including an elongate member having an internal lumen forming a flow pathway, at least one inflow port communicating with the flow pathway, and at least one outflow port communicating with the flow pathway. The elongate member is adapted to be positioned in the eye such that at least one inflow port communicates with the anterior chamber, at least one outflow port communicates with the suprachoroidal space to provide a fluid pathway between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal space when the elongate member is implanted in the eye. The elongate member has a wall material imparting a stiffness to the elongate member. The stiffness is selected such that after implantation the elongate member deforms eye tissue surrounding the suprachoroidal space forming a tented volume. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110087149 | OCULAR PRESSURE REGULATION - Disclosed are devices and methods of treating an ocular disorder including forming a self-sealing incision in a cornea into an anterior chamber of an eye; introducing through the incision a fluid drainage tube having a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal, internal lumen extending through the fluid drainage tube, wherein at least the proximal end passes through the anterior chamber; and implanting the distal end of the fluid drainage tube in fluid communication with the suprachoroidal space such that the proximal end of the fluid drainage tube remains in fluid communication with the anterior chamber. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110087150 | OCULAR PRESSURE REGULATION - Disclosed are devices and methods of treating an ocular disorder including forming a self-sealing incision in a cornea into an anterior chamber of an eye; introducing through the incision a fluid drainage tube having a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal, internal lumen extending through the fluid drainage tube, wherein at least the proximal end passes through the anterior chamber; and implanting the distal end of the fluid drainage tube in fluid communication with the suprachoroidal space such that the proximal end of the fluid drainage tube remains in fluid communication with the anterior chamber. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110087151 | OCULAR PRESSURE REGULATION - Disclosed are devices and methods of treating an ocular disorder including forming a self-sealing incision in a cornea into an anterior chamber of an eye; introducing through the incision a fluid drainage tube having a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal, internal lumen extending through the fluid drainage tube, wherein at least the proximal end passes through the anterior chamber; and implanting the distal end of the fluid drainage tube in fluid communication with the suprachoroidal space such that the proximal end of the fluid drainage tube remains in fluid communication with the anterior chamber. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110092877 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ESTABLISHING AN ARTIFICIAL ARTERIO-VENOUS FISTULA - A shunt rivet for implantation in the aorta and inferior vena cava to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and a method of treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110092878 | OCULAR IMPLANT DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHODS THEREOF - Systems and methods for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. One system has a delivery instrument, with a non-linear axis, configured to be inserted into an anterior chamber of an eye and moved to a location proximate a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye. The delivery instrument carries an implant that has a distal end sized for insertion into tissue such that aqueous humor drains from the anterior chamber to the physiologic outflow pathway. One method involves inserting a non-linear portion of a delivery device into the anterior chamber to position an implant within the eye. Another method involves using a delivery device with a curved distal portion to implant an implant at a location communicating with the physiologic outflow pathway. The delivery can be through a corneal incision and the implant can comprise a drug. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110098627 | C-Shaped Cross Section Tubular Ophthalmic Implant for Reduction of Intraocular Pressure in Glaucomatous Eyes and Method of Use - An implant may be used for implantation into tissue of a body. The implant includes an elongated conduit and a loop. The elongated conduit has an interior passageway for conducting fluid. The loop has an interior circumference with a fluid conducting channel formed therein. The channel is interconnected with the interior passageway for delivery of fluid between the channel and the interior passageway. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110098628 | Internal and external disc shunts alleviate back pain - The intervertebral disc is avascular. Nutrients and waste are diffused through adjacent vertebral bodies into the disc. As we age, calcified layers form between the disc and vertebral bodies, blocking diffusion of nutrients, oxygen and pH buffer in blood. Under anaerobic conditions, lactic acid is produced, irritating nerve endings and causing nonspecific pain. In addition, the disc begins to starve and flatten. The weight shifts abnormally from disc to the facet joints causing strain and back pain. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110098629 | GLAUCOMA TREATMENT DEVICE - Methods and devices are adapted for implanting into the eye. An incision is formed in the cornea of the eye and a shunt is inserted through the incision into the anterior chamber of the eye. The shunt includes a fluid passageway. The shunt is passed along a pathway from the anterior chamber through the scleral spur of the eye into the suprachoroidal space and positioned in a first position such that a first portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the anterior chamber and a second portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the suprachoroidal space to provide a fluid passageway between the suprachoroidal space and the anterior chamber. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110105985 | Treatment For Metabolic Disorders By Diverting Bile To the Circulatory System - The present invention generally provides for a method for diverting a portion of the bilopancreatic secretions of a patient to the circulatory system. The method involves placing a proximal end catheter adjacent the sphincter of oddi and diverting bilopancreatic secretions into the catheter. The method further involves placing a distal end of the catheter within the lumen of the circulatory system of a patient. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110105986 | UVEOSCLERAL DRAINAGE DEVICE - An ophthalmic shunt implantable in an eye having an elongate body and a branched conduit for conducting aqueous humor from an anterior chamber of the eye to the suprachoroidal space of the eye and the subconjunctival space, and a plate extending from an upper surface of the elongate body. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110105987 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TREATING AN OCULAR DISORDER - Surgical methods and related medical devices for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. Some methods relate to delivering an implant within an eye, and involve providing an elongate guide device, such as, a flexible guide member or a guide wire. A distal end of the guide device can be advanced into an anterior chamber of an eye, or through at least a portion of a site of resistance along a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye, or from an anterior chamber of the eye to a location proximate a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye. The implant is advanced along the guide device toward the guide device distal end, and is positioned to conduct aqueous humor between the anterior chamber and the physiologic outflow pathway. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110105988 | Treating back pain by re-establishing the exchange of nutrient & waste - The intervertebral disc is avascular. With aging, endplates become occluded by calcified layers, and diffusion of nutrients and oxygen into the disc diminishes. The disc degenerates, and pain ensues. Conduits are delivered and deployed into the intervertebral disc to re-establish the exchange of nutrients and waste between the disc and bodily circulation to stop or reverse disc degeneration and relieve pain. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110105989 | In vivo punctal anchoring method for lacrimal stents - A device and method for performing stenting and intubation of the nasolacrimal system to treat for stenosis or obstruction includes a semi-rigid tubular guide sleeve through which a flexible tubular stent, having an oversized length, is inserted from a punctal opening into the nasal cavity. The guide sleeve is removed and a resilient, radially expandable punctal anchor is placed through the punctal opening, to contact the stent and hold it in place. An introducer device having a hollow tubular core and a coaxially mounted, axially translatable outer sheath is provided to facilitate placement of the anchor. The anchor is stretched over the distal end of the core and the stent threaded into the central lumen of the core. Once the anchor is in place, the sheath is translated to push the anchor off the distal end. Excess stent at its proximal end is then trimmed off. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110105990 | ZONAL DRUG DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHOD - Disclosed herein are ocular implants for treating an eye and methods of implantation including an elongate member having a proximal end with at least one inflow port, a distal end with at least one outflow port, and a longitudinal, internal lumen extending through the elongate member. The distal end of the elongate member is in fluid communication with the suprachoroidal space such that the proximal end of the elongate member remains in fluid communication with the anterior chamber when the elongate member is implanted in the eye. At least one polymeric film surrounds at least a portion of the elongate member, the film comprising a first drug delivery zone embedded with a first drug, wherein the first drug diffuses from the polymeric film over time into the eye at a first anatomical location. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110118649 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE TREATMENT OF GLAUCOMA - The invention relates to a method and a device for treatment of glaucoma, wherein by means of an elongated catheter provided with a distal portion and a proximal portion, a tube-shaped implant is inserted and released in a Schlemm's canal with two opposite openings exposed by an incision and a folded up scleral flap. In a first phase, the distal portion inserted into the Schlemm's canal through the first opening, while a fluid or gaseous medium is injected at the same time, and exited through the second opening, which is, in circumferential direction, oppositely located. The implant detachably disposed at the protruding distal portion and, in a second phase, inserted, in circumferential direction, into the expanded Schlemm's canal up to the first opening. Subsequently, the distal portion, which protrudes from the first opening, is detached from the implant and, together with the catheter, removed. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110137226 | ANTI-OBESITY DIVERTER STRUCTURE - The anti-obesity diverter structure includes a laminate structure having papilla-supplied and pylorus-supplied surfaces. The laminate structure is sized to fit longitudinally within a duodenum such that a transverse clearance is provided between the papilla-supplied surface and papilla of Vater. The laminate structure is secured within the duodenum to define papilla-supplied and pylorus-supplied lumens therein. The papilla-supplied lumen receives the digestive fluid from the papilla of Vater, and provides a conduit for the digestive fluid therein. The pylorus-supplied lumen receives the chyme from the pylorus and provides a conduit for the chyme therein. The laminate structure is impervious or semi-permeable to the chyme and digestive fluid. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110137227 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR DELIVERING OR DELAYING LIPIDS WITHIN A DUODENUM - Devices are described that are adapted and configured for use within the duodenum of a mammal. One aspect of the device includes a spine having a proximal end and a distal end; an atraumatic feature positioned on at least one of the proximal end and the distal end of the spine; and a flow reduction element positioned along the spine and having a variable porosity along its length. In another aspect, there is a flow reduction device adapted and configured for use within the duodenum of a mammal having a spine having a length, a proximal end and a distal end; a first atraumatic feature positioned adjacent to the spine proximal end; a second atraumatic feature positioned adjacent to the spine distal end wherein the length of the spine is selected so that when the first atraumatic feature is in the stomach the second atraumatic feature is in the fourth portion of the duodenum; and a flow reduction element having a proximal end, a distal end, an interior portion, an exterior portion and a variable porosity between the proximal end and the distal end. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of the components of the device may be formed from or coated with a lipid-philic material. There is also provided a method for adjusting the passage of ingesta through the duodenum of a mammal. The method includes placing the distal end of a flow reduction device in the duodenum of a mammal; placing the proximal end of the flow reduction device in a stomach of the mammal; expanding within the duodenum of the mammal a variable porosity flow reduction element supported by the flow reduction device; and directing at least a portion of the flow of ingesta through the duodenum through the proximal end of the variable porosity flow reduction element and into an interior portion of the variable porosity flow reduction element. | 06-09-2011 |
| 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 |
| 20110144559 | MEDICAL DRAINAGE DEVICES WITH CARBON-BASED STRUCTURES FOR INHIBITING GROWTH OF FIBROBLASTS - Drainage devices for draining a fluid from a patient during treatment of a medical condition body are disclosed. The drainage devices comprise a body defining at least one conduit through the body from a distal end of the body to a proximal end of the body. The body comprises at least one carbon-based structure configured to inhibit growth of fibroblasts in the conduit when the fluid flows through the conduit. Example embodiments of the drainage device may include an ophthalmic shunt, a hydrocephalus shunt, an artificial mesh, an arteriovenous shunt, a thoracic catheter, and a central venous access device. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110144560 | Incisionless Gastric Bypass Method And Devices - A system and method for endoscopically forming an anastomosis between two naturally adjacent points in the digestive tract. The system and method utilizes elongate magnetic devices that, when connected across a tissue boundary, necrose tissue until an anastomosis forms and the devices are passed naturally. Despite the elongate shape of the devices, the resulting anastomosis is substantially round. As such, round anastomoses can be formed having increased diameters merely by increasing the lengths of the devices, obviating the need for wider endoscopes. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110166494 | PROSTHESIS COMPRISING KNITTED MATERIAL LAYERS AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING BY ULTRASONIC WELDING - The present invention relates to a prosthesis comprising at least two pieces of knitted fabric and to the method of manufacturing it using a sonotrode to perform ultrasonic welding. The prosthesis comprises at least one first piece of knitted fabric and at least one second piece of knitted fabric, which are welded together by means of a plurality of welds situated in a joining region in which at least a portion of the said first and second pieces of knitted fabric are superposed, the said first and second pieces of knitted fabric each comprising a group of yarns extending respectively in first and second directions A and B, characterized in that the said directions A and B are substantially aligned with one another in the said joining region, and each said weld in the joining region is of elongate shape with its longitudinal axis being aligned with the said directions A and B. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110172584 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR BARIATRIC THERAPY - The present invention provides bariatric therapy systems. One system includes a gastrointestinal implant device and a delivery mechanism therefor. The device can include a sleeve for placement into a small intestine and to minimize absorption of nutrients by its walls. An anchoring mechanism coupled to a proximal end of the sleeve and designed to be secured within the stomach can be provided. A passageway extending through the anchoring mechanism and the sleeve can also be provided, along which food can be directed from the stomach to the small intestine. The delivery mechanism can include a housing for accommodating the device, and a deploying balloon situated within the housing and which can be actuated to direct the sleeve of the device from within the housing to the site of implantation. Methods for providing bariatric therapy are also provided by the present invention. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110172585 | ANTI-OBESITY DUAL STENT - The anti-obesity dual stent includes a tubular outer structure within which is located a coaxial tubular inner structure. The outer structure is sized to fit within a duodenum in substantially coaxial relation therewith. The outer and inner structures communicate with the pylorus and papilla of Vater to provide conduits for the chyme and digestive fluid. Alternatively, the anti-obesity dual stent may include a tubular papilla-supplied structure which has a lateral orientation relative to a tubular pylorus-supplied structure. The papilla-supplied and pylorus-supplied structures each are sized to fit longitudinally within the duodenum. The pylorus-supplied and papilla-supplied structures communicate with the pylorus and papilla of Vater to provide conduits for the chyme and digestive fluid. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110184329 | Composite Arterial-Venous Shunt System - A novel composite arterial-venous (AV) shunt system is disclosed that resolves many known and persistent clinical problems associated with traditional synthetic AV shunts. The system comprises fluid-dynamically optimized non-porous anastomotic connectors with a non-porous self-sealing tubular shunt, and resolves clinical problems of leakage, infection, clotting due to turbulence, and cellular in-growth that can lead to stenosis. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184330 | INACTIVATION OF SMOOTH MUSCLE TISSUE - Treatment and procedures for treating bodily conduits involves deactivating, killing, or otherwise treating smooth muscle tissue of the conduit. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110208109 | AUTORETROPERFUSION DEVICES AND SYSTEMS - Devices, systems, and methods for providing retroperfusion to at least one ischemic tissue in a minimally invasive manner are disclosed. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein enable an anastomosis to be formed between a vein and an artery without the use of sutures and through a non-invasive procedure. In addition, various disclosed embodiments provide a cannula device comprising a Y-configuration for bifurcating arterial flow between an anastomosis and the underlying artery. The devices, systems and methods herein can further provide simultaneous autoretroperfusion therapy to more than one area of an ischemic tissue. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110213292 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - A solution is provided for modifying the location at which bodily fluids interact with nutrients in a gastrointestinal tract having a conduit with a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to divert bodily fluids from an entrance within a gastrointestinal tract to a location downstream from the entrance. The solution also provides for a means for attaching the second end to the entrance. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110218476 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR GASTRIC BYPASS SURGERY - A medical treatment device includes an elongate member having an internal volume, a proximal end, and a distal end, the internal volume extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The medical treatment device further includes a first coupler and a second coupler, the first coupler and the second coupler coupled to the internal volume of the elongate member; a first joining member and a second joining member, the first joining member coupled to the first coupler and the second joining member coupled to the second coupler. The first joining member is configured to attach to a first biological matter location, and the second joining member is configured to attach to a second biological matter location, the second location being distal to the first location. The second coupler is configured for manipulation to align relative the first coupler such that the second biological matter location relocates adjacent the first biological matter location. The first joining member and the second joining member are configured to join the first biological matter location to the second biological matter location. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110224595 | SYSTEM FOR REGULATING INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE - The present invention relates to a method and system to regulate pressure in an object, and is especially suitable for regulating intracranial pressure in people suffering from hydrocephalus. The system includes the measurement of physical parameters other than the pressure to be regulated, especially the present position of the object, such as the inclination. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110224596 | Tissue Penetrating Catheters Having Integral Imaging Transducers and Their Methods of Use - A catheter device that is useable to penetrate from a blood vessel in which the catheter device is positioned to a target location comprises a flexible catheter advanceable into the first blood vessel, a tissue penetrator lumen adapted to receive an operative tissue penetrator which is usable to penetrate from the blood vessel to the target location when properly aimed. Further said catheter including an imaging transducer fixedly mounted on or within the catheter body to provide an imaging signal from which an image of the target location can be obtained. The catheter device may include an imageable marker on the catheter to form on the image obtainable from the imaging signal a penetrator path indication that indicates the path that will be followed by the tissue penetrator when the tissue penetrator exits from the catheter. Alternatively, or addition thereto, the imaging transducer may comprise a plurality of imaging elements which are located so that the penetrator path indication can be obtained. A method of utilizing such a catheter device to bypass an arterial obstruction is also disclosed. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110224597 | IMPLANT FOR INSERTING INTO THE SCHLEMM'S CANAL OF AN EYE - An implant for inserting into an exposed Schlemm's canal is proposed. The implant insertable into the lumen of Schlemm's canal includes an elongated tube which includes an axially extending continuous connecting part having several openings or recesses distanced from each other by web shaped ring members and connecting to the interior of the tube with and with arc shaped surfaces, such that in inserted condition the webs are bearing in supporting manner against the inner wall of the lumen of Schlemm's canal. The openings/recesses form a direct and permanently open connection between the trabecular tissue and the small channels of the channel system for natural trabecular drainage of the aqueous humor. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110245752 | METHODS OF TREATMENT USING A BARIATRIC SLEEVE - Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the stomach and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device to the stomach and a flexible sleeve to limit absorption of nutrients in the duodenum. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110257580 | INTESTINAL SLEEVE - A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the duodenum and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for attaching the device to the duodenum and an unsupported flexible sleeve. The anchor can include a stent and/or a wave anchor and is collapsible for catheter-based delivery and removal. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110270148 | PERCUTANEOUS COLLATERAL BYPASS - A bypass provided by a bypass conduit disposed in a vessel which is collateral to an occluded vessel. The bypass conduit comprises a helical wire body having a plurality of connectors connecting adjacent turns of the helical body. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270149 | IMPLANTABLE ARTERIO-VENOUS SHUNT DEVICES AND METHODS FOR THEIR USE - A long-term implantable arterio-venous shunt device or creation of a fistula is provided that can be used as a therapeutic method for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The shunt device is implanted between an artery and a vein, preferably between a peripheral artery and the inferior vena cava. The shunt device and method of creating a fistula increases cardiac output and decreases the systemic vascular resistance and allows a blood flow rate through the shunt device of at least 5 ml/min after the implantation. Based on the effects of the method and device to the respiratory, cardiac and circulatory system, the method and device are beneficial as a therapy to patients with problems or conditions related to these systems. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110275975 | ANTI-THROMBOGENIC VENOUS SHUNT METHOD - A venous shunt method adapted to shunt cerebral spinal fluid in a patient. A fluid control device having a fluid passage is adapted to be placed allowing cerebral spinal fluid to flow through the fluid passage. A catheter having a lumen, the catheter being in fluid communication with the fluid control device. At least a portion of at least one of the catheter and the fluid control device being subjected to an anti-thrombogenic treatment. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110282263 | Subdural Drainage Catheter with Flow Restoration Mechanism - A subdural drainage system includes (a) a subdural drainage device having an opening formed therethrough, said subdural drainage device having an upper portion, a body portion, and a lower portion; (b) a housing having an upper portion and lower portion, with said housing connected to said subdural drainage device; said housing movable between (i) a first configuration and (ii) a second configuration; and (c) a stylet positioned inside said housing, said stylet having an upper portion and a lower portion and configured such that said stylet is moved between (i) a withdrawn position with said stylet withdrawn from a portion of said subdural evacuation port device, and (ii) an extended position with said stylet extending through said subdural drainage device such that blockages are disrupted in the subdural drainage device when said housing is moved between said first and second housing configurations; and (e) an external drain opening formed on either said subdural drainage device or said housing. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110295178 | Intestinal Brake Inducing Intraluminal Therapeutic Substance Eluting Devices and Methods - Methods and devices create an intestinal braking effect, are non-invasive or minimally invasive, and may be reversible. These methods and devices may be accomplished via stabilized implantable systems and ingestible pills. In one aspect, a method of inducing satiety includes implanting an implant within a lumen of a gastrointestinal tract and retaining a portion of chyme that flows by the implant within a body of the implant. The method further involves re-releasing the retained chyme from the implant into the gastrointestinal tract at a predetermined rate slower than a rate caused by natural peristalsis. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295179 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR REGULATING THE ACTIVATION OF GHRELIN HORMONES WITHIN A STOMACH - Methods and devices regulate the activation of ghrelin hormones within a stomach in order to treat weight disorders, to promote learning and memory functions, to treat stress-induced depression, and to control sleep duration. In one embodiment, a method for regulating activation of ghrelin hormones within a stomach comprises a means for isolating non-activated ghrelin hormones from food content and dietary lipids within the stomach. These means for isolating may take any number of forms and may comprise one or more of a surgical procedure, an implanted device, or an ingestible substance. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295180 | INTESTINAL BRAKE INDUCING INTRALUMINAL THERAPEUTIC SUBSTANCE ELUTING DEVICES AND METHODS - Methods and devices create an intestinal braking effect, are non-invasive or minimally invasive, and may be reversible. These methods and devices are accomplished via stabilized implantable systems, and ingestible pills. In one embodiment, the implantable system comprises a device delivering a therapeutic substance to a target location within the gastrointestinal tract of a patient in order to initiate an intestinal braking effect which would promote sensations of satiety and stimulate excess weight loss for the patient. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295181 | IMPLANTABLE AND REMOVABLE CUSTOMIZABLE BODY CONDUIT - An apparatus and method are provided to treat a stenosis. A delivery device is provided that has an elongate tubular member coupled therewith. The elongate tubular member has an outside surface that is configured to prevent adherence of in vivo matter. The tubular member has a proximal end and a distal end and is reinforced along its length to maintain open lumen under a transverse load. The tubular member is placed in the vasculature such that the distal end of the elongate tubular member is disposed distal of a stenosis. The proximal end of the elongate tubular member is disposed inside the vessel, preferably at a location proximal of the stenosis. Thereafter, after a therapeutic period, the elongate tubular member is removed intact. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110301523 | GASTROINTESTINAL ANCHOR COMPLIANCE - A collapsible gastrointestinal anchor can be characterized in various embodiments by a radial force of about 0.1 Newtons (N) or greater at a compressed diameter of 25 millimeters (mm); by an average spring rate of about 13 Newtons/meter (N/m) or greater in a range of motion between a relaxed diameter and a compressive elastic deformation diameter; or by a radial force over the range of motion of about 0.1 N or greater. Typically, the anchor can be adapted to be retained within a subject's intestine, more typically in the duodenum, or particularly in the duodenal bulb just distal to the pylorus. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110306914 | ENDOSCOPIC DELIVERY DEVICE - An endoscopic or laparoscopic conduit delivery device ( | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110306915 | Glaucoma Treatment Device - Methods and devices are adapted for implanting into the eye. An incision is formed in the cornea of the eye and a shunt is inserted through the incision into the anterior chamber of the eye. The shunt includes a fluid passageway. The shunt is passed along a pathway from the anterior chamber through the scleral spur of the eye into the suprachoroidal space and positioned in a first position such that a first portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the anterior chamber and a second portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the suprachoroidal space to provide a fluid passageway between the suprachoroidal space and the anterior chamber. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110313340 | UNOBSTRUCTING MICRODEVICES FOR SELF-CLEARING IMPLANTABLE CATHETERS - A self-clearing actuator configured to be positioned in a pore providing fluid communication into a central lumen of a ventricular catheter body is described. The actuator extends into a central bore via a cantilever beam having a first end emanating at the central bore and a second end terminating at the actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to reciprocate within the central bore between a first position extending downward at an angle into the central bore and a second position substantially at or above the external surface of the catheter. The cantilever beam is stressed, e.g. via a composite compress layer, such that it is preloaded to nominally curve downward to extend the actuator into the second position. The actuator is preferably a magnet responsive to magnetic field such that the magnetic field drives the actuator toward the first position. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110319806 | Ocular Implants Deployed in Schlemm's Canal of the Eye - An ocular implant is provided that is adapted to reside at least partially in a portion of Schlemm's canal of an eye. The implant includes an implant body having plurality of filars extending along a longitudinal axis of the implant. The implant is configured to move between a radially collapsed state and a radially expanded state. In some embodiments, the implant is configured to assume the radially expanded state when no external forces are acting thereon. Methods of delivering and using the ocular implant are also provided. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20120004589 | DELIVERING A CONDUIT INTO A HEART WALL TO PLACE A CORONARY VESSEL IN COMMUNICATION WITH A HEART CHAMBER AND REMOVING TISSUE FROM THE VESSEL OR HEART WALL TO FACILITATE SUCH COMMUNICATION - Devices and methods for delivering conduits into the wall of a patient's heart to communicate a coronary vessel with a heart chamber. The devices are passed through the coronary vessel and the heart wall to place the conduit and establish a blood flow path between the vessel and the heart chamber. Additional devices and methods are provided for removing tissue from a coronary vessel or the heart wall to establish a flow path between the coronary vessel in communication with the heart chamber. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120010555 | Cannula Implant Device for Use in Salivary Gland Ducts - A cannula for placement within a salivary gland duct having a first end adjacent an oral cavity and a second end adjacent a salivary gland is provided. The cannula includes an elongate body having a lumen and a first and a second plate offset from a proximal end of the elongate body. The first plate is located on one side of the elongate body and the second plate is correspondingly located on the other side of the elongate body and adjacent the first plate. The first plate has a first hole that is operable to suture the first plate to a location adjacent the first end of the salivary duct adjacent the oral cavity, whereby upon placement of the cannula within the salivary gland duct, saliva flows through the elongate body's lumen from the salivary gland to the oral cavity. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120016286 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH STIFFNESS QUALITIES, METHODS OF IMPLANTATION AND SYSTEM - Described herein are devices and methods for treating eye conditions. Described is an ocular implant including an elongate member having an internal lumen forming a flow pathway, at least one inflow port communicating with the flow pathway, and at least one outflow port communicating with the flow pathway. The elongate member is adapted to be positioned in the eye such that at least one inflow port communicates with the anterior chamber, at least one outflow port communicates with the suprachoroidal space to provide a fluid pathway between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal space when the elongate member is implanted in the eye. The elongate member has a wall material imparting a stiffness to the elongate member. The stiffness is selected such that after implantation the elongate member deforms eye tissue surrounding the suprachoroidal space forming a tented volume. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120016287 | SATIATION DEVICES AND METHODS - A device for inducing weight loss in a patient includes a tubular prosthesis self-expandable from a collapsed position in which the prosthesis has a first diameter to an expanded position in which the prosthesis has a second, larger, diameter. In a method for inducing weight loss, the prosthesis is placed in the collapsed position and inserted into a stomach of a patient. The prosthesis is allowed to self-expand from the collapsed position to the expanded position and into contact with the walls of the stomach, where it induces feelings of satiety and/or inhibits modulation of satiety-controlling factors such as Ghrelin. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120022424 | DEVICE FOR PLACING CIRCUMFERENTIAL IMPLANT IN SCHLEMM'S CANAL - A device is provided to enable placing an implant within the full circumference of Schlemm's canal of an eye. The device comprises a flexible elongated solid element with a proximal end and a distal tip that transmits light such as one or more strands of a fiber optic. The device is characterized by selected mechanical characteristics to allow advancement within Schlemm's canal. The fiber optic element transmits light from a proximal connector to the distal tip to provide a lighted tip that may be viewed transclerally when the device is advanced along Schlemm's canal. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120022425 | Alleviate back pain with lactic acid inhibitors - The intervertebral disc is avascular. Nutrients and waste are diffused through adjacent vertebral bodies into the disc. As we age, calcified layers form between the disc and vertebral bodies, blocking diffusion of nutrients, oxygen and pH buffer in blood. Under anaerobic conditions, lactic acid is produced, irritating nerve endings and causing nonspecific pain. In addition, the disc begins to starve and flatten. The weight shifts abnormally from disc to the facet joints causing strain and back pain. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120022426 | System and method for embolic protection - A balloon catheter system distinguishing a proximal balloon catheter system and a distal balloon catheter is provided. The proximal balloon catheter system has a first and a second catheter. These two catheters are positioned side-by-side over at least part of the longitudinal area of their outer surfaces, and they are detachably connected to each other. A first inflatable member is attached to the first catheter near the distal end of the first catheter. The distal balloon catheter distinguishes a catheter part with a distal end and a proximal end, and an exchange rod attached near the proximal end of the catheter part. The catheter part has a second inflatable member encircling the outer surface of the catheter part. The balloon catheter system can be used for example in methods of isolating a segment of a vessel, generating reversal fluid flow and creating an in-vivo shunt with a balloon catheter. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120022427 | METHOD FOR INCREASING BLOOD FLOW IN OR ABOUT A CARDIAC OR OTHER VASCULAR OR PROSTHETIC STRUCTURE TO PREVENT THROMBOSIS - A method is provided for increasing blood flow in or about a cardiac structure to prevent thrombosis. One step of the method includes providing an implantable sprayer having an elongated tubular body with proximal and distal end portions. The distal end portion includes at least one opening and an anchoring mechanism. The distal end portion of the implantable sprayer is inserted into a cardiac chamber that includes the cardiac structure. The anchoring mechanism is then deployed so that the distal end portion of the implantable sprayer is secured in or about the cardiac structure. Next, the proximal end portion is anastomosed with an artery so that blood flows through the elongated tubular body of the implantable sprayer and is sprayed out of the at least one opening to continuously circulate blood in or about the cardiac structure. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120022428 | BYPASS VASCULAR GRAFT - A vascular connector configured to bypass an occluded vessel comprises a primary graft stem and a venous outflow stem. In general, the primary graft stem accepts a blood flow from an occluded vessel to bypass the occlusion. The venous outflow stem may extend from a wall of the primary graft stem and divert a portion of the blood flow to a native vein or other vessel of the vascular system. This configuration is beneficial in ensuring adequate blood flow at the vascular connector to inhibit the formation of clots and to extend the patency of the vascular connector. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120022429 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH STIFFNESS QUALITIES, METHODS OF IMPLANTATION AND SYSTEM - Described herein are devices and methods for treating eye conditions. Described is an ocular implant including an elongate member having an internal lumen forming a flow pathway, at least one inflow port communicating with the flow pathway, and at least one outflow port communicating with the flow pathway. The elongate member is adapted to be positioned in the eye such that at least one inflow port communicates with the anterior chamber, at least one outflow port communicates with the suprachoroidal space to provide a fluid pathway between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal space when the elongate member is implanted in the eye. The elongate member has a wall material imparting a stiffness to the elongate member. The stiffness is selected such that after implantation the elongate member deforms eye tissue surrounding the suprachoroidal space forming a tented volume. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120022430 | SATIATION DEVICES AND METHODS - A device for inducing weight loss in a patient includes a tubular prosthesis self-expandable from a collapsed position in which the prosthesis has a first diameter to an expanded position in which the prosthesis has a second, larger, diameter. In a method for inducing weight loss, the prosthesis is placed in the collapsed position and inserted into a stomach of a patient. The prosthesis is allowed to self-expand from the collapsed position to the expanded position and into contact with the walls of the stomach, where it induces feelings of satiety and/or inhibits modulation of satiety-controlling factors such as Ghrelin. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120029411 | CARPAL TUNNEL DRAINAGE - A procedure for treating carpal tunnel syndrome can involve aspirating one or more of the flexor tendons running through the carpal tunnel to reduce swelling, and hence reduce the cross-sectional area of those flexor tendons. As a result, the median nerve also running through the carpal tunnel is less constricted, and the CTS symptoms associated with such constriction can be relieved. Such relief can be enhanced by delivery of one or more therapeutic substances to the area to provide additional or supplemental symptom treatment. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029412 | INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL DISC SHUNT ALLEVIATE BACK PAIN - The intervertebral disc is avascular. Nutrients and waste are diffused through adjacent vertebral bodies into the disc. As we age, calcified layers form between the disc and vertebral bodies, blocking diffusion of nutrients, oxygen and pH buffer in blood. Under anaerobic conditions, lactic acid is produced, irritating nerve endings and causing nonspecific pain. In addition, the disc begins to starve and flatten. The weight shifts abnormally from disc to the facet joints causing strain and back pain. Shunt coils are formed and spiraled over the distal shaft of a twistable needle, then deployed into the nucleus of a degenerated disc by a sliding sleeve. The coils serve as an internal shunt, drawing nutrients, oxygen and buffering solute from the superior and inferior diffusion zones to neutralize lactic acid in the mid layer of the degenerated disc. The coils also serve as a bulking agent within the repaired disc to sustain compression and reduce facet loading and segmental instability. The end strands of the shunt coils can also extend from the disc to draw blood plasma from muscle or bodily circulation to expedite neutralization of lactic acid and rebuild disc matrix for pain relief and disc regeneration. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029413 | GASTROINTESTINAL IMPLANT WITH DRAWSTRING - A gastrointestinal implant device includes a flexible, floppy sleeve, open at both ends, that extends into the duodenum. The device further includes a collapsible anchor coupled to the proximal portion of the sleeve. The device further includes a drawstring that is threaded through a proximal end of the anchor, and barbs that extend from the exterior surface of the anchor. The collapsible anchor can be a wave anchor. The drawstring can be used to collapse at least a proximal portion of the implant device. This is useful in removing or repositioning the implant device. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120035524 | EXPANDABLE OCULAR DEVICES - Disclosed herein are systems, devices and methods for treating an ocular disorder in an eye. The ocular device includes a proximal end, a distal end, and an internal lumen forming a flow pathway extending from the proximal end to the distal end; at least one inflow region that communicates with the flow pathway; and an expandable portion having a plurality of interconnected struts forming multiple openings in the device communicating with the flow pathway. The expandable portion has a first cross-sectional shape suitable for insertion into the eye that is generally cylindrical and a second cross-sectional shape that is larger than the first cross-sectional shape. The system also includes a delivery device for inserting the ocular device into an eye including a sheath configured to surround at least a portion of the ocular device; an applier configured to insert into the internal lumen of the ocular device; and an actuator. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035525 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH FLUID OUTFLOW PATHWAYS HAVING MICROPOROUS MEMBRANES - Disclosed are devices, methods and systems for treatment of eye disease such as glaucoma. Implants are described herein that enhance aqueous flow through the normal outflow system of the eye with minimal to no complications. The implant can include reversibly deformable portions that have a plurality of openings layered, covered or otherwise spanned by an elastomeric film or membrane having micropores. The micropores allow for fluid flow out of the implant while inhibit cellular infiltration and blockage of the openings. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120065570 | Disc shunt delivery with stepped needle - A solid stepped needle delivers a disc shunt bridging between muscle and a degenerated disc, drawing blood plasma from muscle into the degenerated disc to alleviate back pain and regenerate the disc. The device further includes pull lines attached to the ends of the disc shunt for withdrawing and repositioning the stepped needle during shunt delivery. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120065571 | EXPANDABLE PYLORIC ANCHORS AND METHODS FOR SECURING INTESTINAL BYPASS SLEEVES - A gastrointestinal device for implanting within a patient's gastrointestinal tract includes first and second expandable anchoring rings configured to be disposed on either side of a patient's pylorus. The first expandable anchoring ring has a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein in the expanded configuration the first expandable anchoring ring has a diameter larger than a maximum opening diameter of the pylorus. The second expandable anchoring ring also has a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein in the expanded configuration the second expandable anchoring ring has a diameter larger than a maximum opening diameter of the pylorus. An intestinal bypass sleeve couples the first expandable anchoring ring and the second expandable anchoring ring, so as to allow a distance between the anchoring rings to exceed a width of the pylorus. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120071809 | OCULAR IMPLANT SYSTEMS - Implants and methods for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. One implant has a tubular member, with inlet and outlet ends, and a cutting member connected thereto. The tubular member is configured to extend through eye tissue such that the inlet and outlet ends reside respectively in an anterior chamber and a physiologic outflow pathway of the eye. Desirably, the cutting member is configured to make an incision in the eye tissue for receiving at least a portion of the tubular member. One method involves introducing an implant, with proximal and distal ends, into the anterior chamber and penetrating eye tissue using an implant distal portion. The implant is advanced from the anterior chamber into the penetrated eye tissue to locate the distal and proximal ends respectively in the physiologic outflow pathway and the anterior chamber. Aqueous humor is conducted between the proximal and distal ends. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120078158 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH ANCHORING MECHANISM AND MULTIPLE OUTLETS - Devices and methods for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. One ocular implant, has a substantially straight, rigid, elongate body. The body has a self-trephinating distal portion that narrows toward a distal end, and at least one inlet that communicates with at least one inner lumen that communicates with a plurality of outlets. The lumen has a sufficient length to extend from an anterior chamber of an eye to a physiologic outflow pathway. An anchor member extends from the implant. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120089071 | IMPLANT DEVICE, TOOL, AND METHODS RELATING TO TREATMENT OF PARANASAL SINUSES - An implant device is configured to be implanted in a fistula to fluidly connect the lacrimal apparatus and a paranasal sinus. A surgical tool has an implant the implant device mounted on a carrier. Various methods involve a fistula between the lacrimal apparatus and a paranasal sinus. A kit includes an entry device for use to form a fistula and an implant tool for use to implant an implant device following formation of a fistula. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120095383 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AN ADVANCED MEDICAL DEVICE - The present invention relates to a biologically active medical device, which includes a matrix seeded with progenitor cells, and then covered by ciliated tissue. The matrix is capable of enabling cellular migration. The ciliated tissue is ependymal cells that express at least one of tight junctional complexes, zonula adherens, and gap junctions. The progenitor cells include subpendymal progenitor cells. In some cases the progenitor cells include stem cells, and the ciliated tissue includes at least one of Choroid cells, tanacytes, and circumventricular organs. In some embodiments, the medical device is oriented into a tubular structure in order to form a cerebrospinal shunt. Additional cells and structures may be imbedded within the matrix, such as glia, endothelial cells, stem cells, and blood vessels. The medical device may also be incorporated into a bioreactor including a flexible inner tube defining an anthropomorphically shaped lumen. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120101423 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ESTABLISHING AN ARTIFICIAL ARTERIO-VENOUS FISTULA - A shunt rivet for implementation in the aorta and inferior vena cava to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and a method of treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120109040 | COMBINED TREATMENT FOR CATARACT AND GLAUCOMA TREATMENT - A method is provided for treatment of cataract in combination with a glaucoma procedure while maintaining the intraocular pressure by permitting aqueous to flow out of an anterior chamber of the eye through a surgically stented pathway. A trabecular stent is adapted for implantation within the trabecular meshwork of an eye such that intraocular liquid flows controllably from the anterior chamber of the eye to Schlemm's canal, bypassing the trabecular meshwork. Depending upon the specific treatment contemplated, pharmaceuticals may be utilized in conjunction with the trabecular stent enabling post-cataract healing processes. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120116284 | Treatment of the chronic renal disease by two-stage transplantations of a patient's kidney - The invention proposes a novel method of treatment of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The method includes two stage transplantations of a patient's kidney: first, one of kidneys of the patient with CKD is transplanted into a young healthy animal recipient (preferably a pig), whereas a kidney of a living person or cadaver or an animal recipient is temporarily transplanted into the body of the patient. Homeostatic factors of the animal recipient will cause the transplanted kidney recovery. In the second stage, the recovered kidney is autotransplantated back to the patient. Up to this time both the animal recipient and the patient are treated by immunosuppressive drugs. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120116285 | DEVICES FOR TREATING OBESITY AND METHODS OF USING THOSE DEVICES - Described here are devices for treating obesity. The devices are situated in the stomach and duodenum and maintain separation of the chyme stream leaving the stomach from the stream containing bile and pancreatic fluids exiting the Ampulla of Vater until well down into the small intestine. The devices, however, permit other digestive fluids to enter the chyme stream and hormones to enter the blood stream. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120116286 | INTESTINAL SLEEVES AND ASSOCIATED DEPLOYMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An intestinal implant includes a proximal anchor self-expandable from a radially compressed position to a radially expandable position for engagement with a wall of the intestinal lumen and a flexible sleeve coupled to the anchor. The sleeve is implanted with the anchor downstream from the pylorus and the sleeve extending further downstream through the intestinal lumen. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120123315 | INTRAOCULAR SHUNTS - The present invention generally relates to different types of intraocular shunts. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120123316 | INTRAOCULAR SHUNTS FOR PLACEMENT IN THE INTRA-TENON'S SPACE - The present invention generally relates to intraocular shunts, and in particular, to intraocular shunts configured to form a drainage pathway between the anterior chamber and the intra-Tenon's space. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120123317 | METHODS FOR IMPLANATION OF GLAUCOMA SHUNTS - The present invention generally relates to the reduction of intraocular pressure, and in particular, to improved methods for implanting an intraocular shunt in the eye to treat glaucoma. The methods provide for implantation of an intraocular shunt while minimizing the risk of severe eye trauma due to the interaction between the deployment device and the surrounding eye tissue. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120130300 | Therapeutic Methods Using Controlled Delivery Devices Having Zero Order Kinetics - An injectable or implantable medical device having orifice(s) on the surface that release an active agent with zero-order release kinetics is described herein. The device is a hollow matrix of any size or shape, which can be made from both metal and non-metal surfaces. The device comprises of a reservoir capable of releasing at least one therapeutic, diagnostic, or prophylactic agent via the orifices to the desired anatomical site. The developed device, due to its composite structure, has the ability to combine several release mechanisms, leading to zero-order release kinetics for most of the time. The composition provides zero-order kinetics, in part, because the diffusion rate of the drug from the device is slow which enables sink conditions. Hence, no back transfer or build up of drug occurs at anytime. Polymers are not required for controlled release. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120136294 | Apparatus and Method for Treating Eustachian Tube Dysfunction - A method and apparatus for treating Eustachian tube dysfunction. The apparatus may include a tube with an aperture extending through the tube and a retention mechanism for retaining the tube in the Eustachian tube. The method may include endoscopically inserting the tube through the nasopharynx and into the Eustachian tube. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120143117 | LACRIMAL DRAINAGE MANOMETER AND METHOD OF USE - A lacrimal drainage manometer includes a syringe, a pressure sensor operably coupled to the syringe, a flow sensor operably coupled to the syringe, and a user feedback unit. The syringe includes a syringe body and a piston. The syringe body defines a fluid cavity in fluid communication with a cannula, which is configured for insertion into at least a portion of a lacrimal drainage system. The piston is for dispensing a fluid from the fluid cavity through the cannula. The user feedback unit is in electrical communication with each of the pressure sensor and the flow sensor. The user feedback unit is operably coupled to the syringe and configured to provide user feedback based on data from the pressure sensor and/or the flow sensor. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120150092 | GUIDED PERCUTANEOUS BYPASS - The invention includes methods and apparatus to deploy a blood vessel conduit via a catheter-based, percutaneous approach. In particular, a prosthetic blood conduit can be introduced around or through an arterial obstruction without requiring open bypass surgery. The technology includes coupling devices for docking the tips of two catheters, one situated inside a blood vessel, the other situated outside the blood vessel wall. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120150093 | SYNOVIAL SHUNTS - Shunt for joint repair, creates a passageway between interior and exterior of a joint capsule, the shunt comprising a body of biocompatible material, which is substantially hollow; a proximal and distal aperture flanking said shunt body; at least a first and second extension of shunt body, first extension is located proximal to proximal aperture and second extension is located proximal to distal aperture, first and second extensions fasten or adjoin said shunt body, such that said shunt is substantially immobilized at a location of placement of said shunt; proximal aperture of shunt body is positioned proximal to an interior of joint capsule and shunt body spans at least a distance equal to that of synovial membrane, joint capsule or a combination thereof and distal aperture is located substantially outside of at least synovial membrane; the ratio between shunt body diameter and shunt body length is greater than 0.5. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120150094 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR USE IN ENDOSCOPIC ORGAN PROCEDURES - Methods and devices for use in tissue approximation and fixation are described herein. The present invention provides, in part, methods and devices for acquiring tissue folds in a circumferential configuration within a hollow body organ, e.g., a stomach, positioning the tissue folds for affixing within a fixation zone of the stomach, preferably to create a pouch or partition below the esophagus, and fastening the tissue folds such that a tissue ring, or stomas, forms excluding the pouch from the greater stomach cavity. The present invention further provides for a liner or bypass conduit which is affixed at a proximal end either to the tissue ring or through some other fastening mechanism. The distal end of the conduit is left either unanchored or anchored within the intestinal tract. This bypass conduit also includes a fluid bypass conduit which allows the stomach and a portion of the intestinal tract to communicate. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120150095 | ANTIMICROBIAL MATERIAL AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - This invention provides a modified catheter/indwelling device biomaterial that provides both immediate, and long-term microbiocidal effects on otherwise antibiotic-resistant strains of microorganisms. The material, which exhibits good mechanical performance characteristics for medical devices, is composed of a hydrophobic polyurethane (PU), a hydrophilic polyethylene vinyl acetate (PEVA) as an option, a soluble silver salt and a sparsely-soluble silver salt. The hydrophobic polyurethane provides the good physical properties, the PEVA the hydrophilicity necessary to allow some water ingress into the catheter, the soluble silver salt for an immediate burst effect, and the sparsely-soluble silver salt for sustained-release over many months postimplantation. Alternatively, the sparsely soluble silver salt can be silver iodate and is combined with silver sulfadiazine. Chlorhexidine can also be included in the material. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120150096 | IMPLANTABLE OR INSERTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES FOR CONTROLLED DRUG DELIVERY - Implantable or insertable medical devices are provided, which comprises: (a) a biocompatible polymer; and (b) at least one therapeutic agent selected from an anti-inflammatory agent, an analgesic agent, an anesthetic agent, and an antispasmodic agent. The medical devices are adapted for implantation or insertion at a site associated with pain or discomfort upon implantation or insertion. In many embodiments, the therapeutic will be selected from at least one of (i) ketorolac and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof (e.g., ketorolac tromethamine) and (ii) 4-diethylamino-2-butynylphenylcyclohexyl glycolate and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof (e.g., oxybutynin chloride). Also provided are uses for the implantable or insertable medical devices, which uses comprise reducing pain or discomfort accompanying the implantation or insertion of such devices. Further uses may comprise reducing microbial buildup along the device. Methods for manufacturing implantable or insertable medical devices are also provided. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120165720 | INTRAOCULAR SHUNTS - The present invention generally relates to different types of intraocular shunts. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120165721 | SYSTEMS FOR DEPLOYING INTRAOCULAR SHUNTS - The present invention generally relates to systems for deploying intraocular shunts without the use of an optical apparatus that contacts an eye, such as a goniolens. In certain embodiments, systems of the invention include a locking mechanism, and a device configured to hold and deploy an intraocular shunt, in which a distal portion of the device is movable within a proximal portion of the device and the distal portion of the device is configured to mate with the locking mechanism to prevent movement of the distal portion when the locking mechanism is engaged. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120165722 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING A SHUNT IN THE SUPRACHOROIDAL SPACE - The invention generally relates to devices and methods for implanting a shunt in the suprachoroidal space of an eye. In certain aspects, devices of the invention include a housing, a deployment mechanism at least partially disposed within the housing, and a flexible hollow shaft coupled to the deployment mechanism, in which the shaft holds an intraocular shunt, and is configured to self-guide the shunt along a scleral spur of an eye as the shunt is deployed from the shaft. Such a device may be inserted into an eye and used to deploy a shunt within the eye such that a proximal portion of the shunt receives fluid from an anterior chamber of an eye and a distal portion of the shunt directs the fluid to the suprachoroidal space. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120172782 | METHODS FOR BILIARY DIVERSION - Methods are provided for biliary diversion. In one embodiment, a tubular member can be implanted within a patient by positioning a proximal end of the tubular member in the patient's gall bladder, positioning a distal end of the tubular member in the patient's intestine, and positioning a length of the tubular member extending between the proximal and ends thereof within the patient's stomach. Bile can therefore be allowed to pass from the gall bladder into the tubular member's proximal end, flow through the tubular member, and exit through the tubular member's distal end to enter the patient's gastrointestinal tract at the intestine. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120179086 | ANCHORS WITH OPEN HEADS - An implant ( | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120179087 | Glaucoma Treatment Method - An ocular implant adapted to reside at least partially in a portion of Schlemm's canal of an eye. In some embodiments the implant has a body extending in a curved volume whose longitudinal axis forms an arc of a circle, and a plurality of open areas and strut areas formed in the body, the open areas extending over more than 50% of a surface defining the curved volume, the strut areas surrounding the open areas, the body having a diameter of between 0.005 inches and 0.04 inches. The invention also provides a method of treating glaucoma including the steps of supporting tissue forming Schlemm's canal in an eye with an implant extending at least partially in the canal along an axial length within the canal; and contacting with the implant less than 50% of the tissue forming the canal along the axial length. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120197175 | METHODS, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS FOR RELIEVING PRESSURE IN AN ORGAN - The invention generally relates to shunts in which at least a portion of the body includes a drug. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120197176 | INTRAOCULAR IMPLANTS AND METHODS AND KITS THEREFOR - Devices, methods and kits are described for reducing intraocular pressure. The devices include a support that is implantable within Schlemm's canal and maintains the patency of the canal without substantially interfering with transmural fluid flow across the canal. The devices utilize the natural drainage process of the eye and can be implanted with minimal trauma to the eye. Kits include a support and an introducer for implanting the support within Schlemm's canal. Methods include implanting a support within Schlemm's canal, wherein the support is capable of maintaining the patency of the canal without substantial interference with transmural fluid flow across the canal. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120203160 | IMPLANTS FOR REDUCING INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE - The present invention provides ocular implants adapted to reside in Schlemm's canal for reducing intraocular pressure of an eye and methods for using the same. In some embodiments the ocular implants comprise a thin rod adapted and configured to extend in a curved volume in Schlemm's canal. The thin rod comprises a plurality of wave-shaped segments such that a sufficient number and amount of wave-shaped segments extend to the inner wall of the trabecular meshwork and to the outer wall of Schlemm's canal thereby keeping Schlemm's canal open. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120209164 | Methods of replacing a gastrointestinal bypass sleeve for therapy adjustment - Methods are disclosed for replaceable attachment of an endoluminal gastrointestinal device, such as an artificial stoma device, a gastrointestinal bypass sleeve device or an attachment cuff, within a patient's digestive tract for treatment of obesity. | 08-16-2012 |
| 20120215152 | BARIATRIC SLEEVE - Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the stomach and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device to the stomach and a flexible sleeve. When implanted within the intestine, the sleeve can limit the absorption of nutrients, delay the mixing of chyme with digestive enzymes, altering hormonal triggers, providing negative feedback, and combinations thereof. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal. | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120215153 | TUBE DEVICE FOR INSERTION INTO LACRIMAL PASSAGE - A tube device for insertion into a lacrimal passage, optimized according to the structure of a lacrimal passage and capable of being operated without impairing the functional effect of a lacrimal passage endoscope. A tube device for insertion into a lacrimal passage comprises a pair of tubes to be placed in the lacrimal passage. Openings are formed at both ends of the pair of tubes. A reinforcement body is disposed and held in the vicinity of each opening at a position located at a predetermined distance from the opening. | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120220917 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH HYDROGEL EXPANSION CAPABILITIES - An ocular implant includes an elongate member having an internal lumen forming a flow pathway that provides a fluid pathway between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal space of the eye. The implant includes a hydrogel member attached to the elongate member, wherein the hydrogel member is adapted to expand upon implantation of the elongate member in the eye. An attachment attaches the hydrogel member to the elongate member. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120232458 | IMPLANTABLE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOVING SPECIFIC IMPURITIES FROM FLUIDS SUCH AS BLOOD - Systems and methods utilize semipermeable nanotubes in conjunction with application of controlled electrical potentials across semipermeable nanotube walls allow selective transport of charged impurities (e.g., charged impurities, ions, etc.) from a fluid into these nanotubes. Impurities collected in these nanotubes can then be removed from the fluid, (e.g., blood) as a waste stream. A collection of semipermeable nanotubes each carrying a waste stream can be aggregated and merged into a ureter for excretion thereby providing an artificial kidney system. Sensors that detect/measure various impurities may be included in the system to feed information to a microprocessor to inform on concentrations of impurities, and thereby control electrical potentials applied to the system. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120232459 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ENDOLUMENAL GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - The present invention provides devices and methods for attachment of an endolumenal gastrointestinal device, such as an artificial stoma device, a gastrointestinal bypass sleeve or other therapeutic or diagnostic device, within a patient's digestive tract. In one application of the invention, an endolumenal bypass sleeve is removably attached in the vicinity of the gastroesophageal junction to treat obesity and/or its comorbidities, such as diabetes. The bypass sleeve may be at least partially deployed by eversion. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120238936 | System, devices, and methods for real-time monitoring of cerebrospinal fluid for markers of progressive conditions - Systems, devices, methods, and compositions are described for providing real-time monitoring of cerebrospinal fluid for markers of progressive conditions. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120245504 | DEVICES AND METHODS TO DELIVER, RETAIN AND REMOVE A SEPARATING DEVICE IN AN INTUSSUSCEPTED HOLLOW ORGAN - The present invention is an improved separating device for providing the malabsorptive component of a minimally invasive weight reduction system. This device may be a sleeve, liner, or tubular sheath that alters absorption of compositions through walls of hollow organs (stomach, intestines). The improvement involves better long-term retention through the ability of the device to engage with the interserosal fibrotic tissue formed in an intussusception. The separating device may be a distal extension of a retaining member that is directly engaged with and retained by intussuscepted tissue. Intussusception shrinks a hollow organ to provide a volume reducing restrictive component of a weight reduction system. Securing the separating device to an intussusception avoids retention problems of reference art devices as interserosal fibrosis helps secure the device. Also provided are an apparatus for retaining the device, a device and method for delivering the separating device, and a method for removing it. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120245505 | INTRACAMERAL DEVICES FOR SUSTAINED DELIVERY - Described herein are intracameral drug and/or therapeutic bioactive agent delivery devices comprising a substantially cylindrical structure for at least partial placement into the anterior chamber of an eye The intracameral delivery devices have a sustained release material associated with at least a portion of the device and at least one drug and/or therapeutic bioactive agent associated with said sustained release material. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120259263 | APPARATUS AND METHODS TO CREATE AND MAINTAIN AN INTRA-ATRIAL PRESSURE RELIEF OPENING - The present disclosure relates to a method and a device for treating heart failure by normalizing elevated blood pressure in the left and right atria of a heart of a mammal The present disclosure includes methods for creating and maintaining an opening in the atrial septum. Tools for making an opening and enlarging the opening are also disclosed. Use of the techniques and tools described herein prolongs the patency of an intra-atrial pressure relief opening. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120271217 | SATIATION DEVICES AND METHODS - A device for inducing weight loss in a patient includes a tubular prosthesis self-expandable from a collapsed position in which the prosthesis has a first diameter to an expanded position in which the prosthesis has a second, larger, diameter. In a method for inducing weight loss, the prosthesis is placed in the collapsed position and inserted into a stomach of a patient. The prosthesis is allowed to self-expand from the collapsed position to the expanded position and into contact with the walls of the stomach, where it induces feelings of satiety and/or inhibits modulation of satiety-controlling factors such as Ghrelin. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120277656 | Natural Orifice Bariatric Procedure and Apparatus for Use Therewith - A method of performing a bariatric procedure through a natural body orifice is disclosed. The method comprises the step of providing a surgical instrument, comprising a handle portion, an elongated portion extending distally from the handle portion, and an end effector disposed adjacent a distal end of the elongated portion. The method also comprises the steps of inserting the surgical instrument through a natural body orifice of a patient such that the end effector is adjacent a portion of the patient's stomach, and using the surgical instrument to perform a surgical task. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120296254 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR INTRAGASTRIC SUPPORT OF FUNCTIONAL OR PROSTHETIC GASTROINTESTINAL DEVICES - Disclosed herein are systems and methods for attaching or maintaining the position of a therapeutic or diagnostic device in a body lumen, such as the GI tract without necessarily requiring any penetrating attachments through any body walls. The system can include at least two elements: a proximal orientation element and a distal support element. The proximal orientation element can be configured to reside at least partially within the esophageal lumen and the distal support element can be configured to reside in the stomach, such as along the greater curve of the stomach. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120296255 | DEVICE FOR PUNCTURING BODY AND INTRODUCING CATHETER - A device for puncturing body and introducing catheter includes a puncture needle, a guide wire, a peelable catheter sheath, and a puncture protector. The peelable catheter sheath includes an outer sheath and an inner sheath inserted into the outer sheath and having an expansible performance. The inner sheath has a hollow internal cavity, and the guide wire can pass through the hollow internal cavity. The puncture protector includes an inner core, a nut and a spring. The inner core has an inner core head, an inner core tail, and an inner core lumen. The nut has a nut lumen. The inner core is surrounded by the spring, one end of which abuts against the nut, and the other end of which is fastened to the inner core. The inner core tail lies within the nut lumen. The guide wire matches with the inner core lumen. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120296256 | ENDOVASCULAR CEREBROSPINAL FLUID SHUNT - An implantable shunt device for draining cerebrospinal fluid from a patient's subarachnoid space. The device includes a shunt having opposed first and second ends. A one-way valve is located at the first end of the shunt. A helical tip is disposed at the second end. The helical tip is constructed to penetrate a sinus wall of the patient. Upon implantation, a hollow passageway extends between the helical tip and one-way valve such that fluid can be drained through the helical tip and out through the valve. The endovascular cerebrospinal fluid shunt of the present invention can be placed into a patient percutaneously via a catheter inserted into the venous system of the body through a needle hole, without the need for open surgery and the skin incisions required with current shunt devices. The device also allows for more physiologic drainage of cerebrospinal fluid since the device is shunting cerebrospinal fluid into the same cerebral venous system that occurs naturally in normal people. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120302935 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR FORMING A FISTULA - Described here are devices, systems and methods for forming a fistula between two blood vessels. Generally, the systems may comprise a first catheter which may comprise a fistula-forming element. The fistula-forming element may comprise one or more electrodes, mechanical cutting elements, laser sources, or combinations thereof, and may be used to assist in fistula formation. In some instances, a system may comprise a second catheter, which may comprise a fistula-forming element. One or more of the catheters may comprise one or more markers, magnetic alignment elements, and/or one shape-changing elements. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120302936 | EXTERNAL ANCHORING CONFIGURATIONS FOR MODULAR GASTROINTESTINAL PROSTHESES - Components may be used separately or in combination to create anchoring systems for intra-luminal implants for the treatment of metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. Various systems include an external component adapted for deployment around a portion of the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., the duodenum) and an internal component adapted for implantation within the gastrointestinal tract. Various systems use anchoring means that are based on mechanical interference, elasticity, spring force, shape memory transformation, magnetic attraction, repulsion and/or levitation. Various embodiments rely on longitudinal anchoring of the implants with minimal force against tissue. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120310136 | SELECTIVE ULTRAFILTRATION MEMBRANES FOR RENAL REPLACEMENT THERAPIES - A system and method provide improved ultrafiltration of charged/uncharged solutes in a fluid, especially a body fluid. The improvement is achieved through imposed electric field and/or surface charge patterning to a permeable membrane. In many of the embodiments, at least one selected material is used as an additive on a permeate side of the permeable membrane to reduce the sieving coefficient of the membrane with regard to a solute present in the fluid. | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120310137 | EYE SHUNT WITH POROUS STRUCTURE - Disclosed are devices and methods for treatment of eye disease such as glaucoma. An implant is placed in the eye wherein the implant provides a fluid pathway for the flow or drainage of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to the supraciliary or the suprachoroidal space, or to any space in the eye where drainage to that location will lower the intraocular pressure. The implant may include an elongate compressible structure and may be implanted in the eye using a delivery system that folds and or compresses the implant to provide a smaller cross-sectional area to allow a more minimally-invasive procedure. The compressibility of the implant is provided by a porous structure that may be collapsed by compression and delivered through a tube-shaped introducer. | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120323159 | Ocular Implants for Delivery Into the Eye - An ocular implant adapted to reside at least partially in a portion of Schlemm's canal of an eye. The implant includes a spine extending along a longitudinal axis of the implant, a plurality of curved supports extending from the spine, each support comprising a first end extending from a first location on a first side of the spine and a second end extending from a second location on a second side of the spine, the second location being proximal to the first location, so that each support forms a portion of a helix, the spine and supports defining a volume having a maximum width perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between 0.005 inches and 0.04 inches, the ocular implant being configured to bend preferentially in a preferential bending plane. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20130006163 | SHEATH - The present application includes a sheath that is suitable for use in a variety of medical procedures. In one or more implementations, the sheath includes a shunt member, and a curvable portion. The curvable portion may be configured in various orientations to facilitate an intervention, such as a hemodialysis intervention, or the like, by an operator. The curvable portion may be configured to bend between a substantially straight configuration and a curved configuration. In implementations, the sheath may be configured to have detachable and/or interchangeable components (e.g., shunt member, curvable portion, etc.). | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130006164 | FLUID DRAINAGE DEVICE, DELIVERY DEVICE, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS OF USE AND MANUFACTURE - The disclosure provides an intraocular implant for allowing fluid flow from the anterior chamber of an eye, the implant comprising a tube having an inlet end, an outlet end, and a tube passage, wherein the inlet end is adapted to extend into the anterior chamber of the eye, and wherein the outlet end is adapted to be implanted adjacent scleral tissue of the eye. The implant may be adapted to drain aqueous humor into a suprachoroidal space or a juxta-uveal space. The disclosure also provides associated delivery devices, methods of use, and methods of manufacture. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130006165 | Methods and Apparatus for Treating Glaucoma - An ocular implant for treating glaucoma is provided, which may include any number of features. More particularly, the present invention relates to implants that facilitate the transfer of fluid from within one area of the eye to another area of the eye. One feature of the implant is that it includes a proximal inlet portion and a distal inlet portion adapted to be inserted into the anterior chamber of the eye, and an intermediate portion adapted to be inserted into Schlemm's canal. Another feature of the implant is that it can be biased to assume a predetermined shape to aid in placement within the eye. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130012862 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ANCHORING WITHIN THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT - The present invention relates to an anchor configured for minimally-invasive implantation and sized to remain securely positioned within at least a portion of the gastrointestinal tract of an animal. The anchor includes a radial spring formed from an elongated resilient member shaped into an annular wave pattern about a central axis. The anchor defines a central lumen and provides an outward radial force, while allowing for substantial flexure about its perimeter. The anchor is generally removable, but can include fasteners, such as barbs, to further secure it to the surrounding anatomy. In some embodiments, the anchor includes a connector coupling a fixed portion to a removable portion. Further, the anchor can be used to secure a medical device within the body, such as a flexible sleeve within the intestine. | 01-10-2013 |
| 20130018295 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH ANCHORING MECHANISM AND MULTIPLE OUTLETS - Devices and methods for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. One ocular implant, has a substantially straight, rigid, elongate body. The body has a self-trephinating distal portion that narrows toward a distal end, and at least one inlet that communicates with at least one inner lumen that communicates with a plurality of outlets. The lumen has a sufficient length to extend from an anterior chamber of an eye to a physiologic outflow pathway. An anchor member extends from the implant. | 01-17-2013 |
| 20130018296 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH THERAPEUTIC AGENT AND METHODS THEREOF - An ocular disorder treatment implant includes an anchor and a therapeutic agent. The implant has a body with first and second end portions. The implant is configured to transport fluid from the anterior chamber of an eye to a physiological outflow pathway of the eye. The body has at least one inlet opening at the first end portion and at least one outlet opening at the second end portion such that the inlet and outlet openings are in fluid communication and define an axis therebetween. The anchor extends substantially perpendicularly to a part of the axis between the openings, and at least one outlet opening is configured to be positioned in the physiological outflow pathway. One implant has two outlet openings, and the anchor is disposed closer to one of the outlet openings. | 01-17-2013 |
| 20130023813 | Drug Delivery Device and Method - Many people need vascular access for procedures such as hemodialysis. It is desirable that this access remain open or patent for the entire duration of the course of treatments. A drug delivery device and methods of using the device are introduced that delivery drug to venous anastomosis of a synthetic vascular access shunt. In some embodiments this device serves as the shunt connecting the target artery and vein to create the vascular access shunt. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130030349 | Side-by-side lacrimal intubation threader device - A device for inserting a flexible silicone intubation stent into the lacrimal drainage system of a patient. The device has an oblong hollow semi-rigid probe having the flexible stent releasably secured to its blunted distal end. The probe and stent are oriented in a side-by-side configuration for endwise insertion into the punctum. The stent can be temporarily secured to the distal end of the probe by engaging the probe's distal opening. The stent can be detached by injecting a pressurized fluid through the channel of the probe thereby forcing the distal end of the stent to pop off. The proximal extremity of the stent is secured in the patient by an integrated or separate punctal anchor. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130030350 | Devices and Methods for Anchoring an Endoluminal Sleeve in the GI Tract - An endoluminal sleeve device for internally lining a section of the GI tract, comprises a sleeve configured for deployment inside a duodenum, the sleeve having walls of a flexible material defining a sleeve lumen, a proximal end defining a proximal lumen opening, and a distal end defining a distal lumen opening, an anchoring component having a slender transport configuration and a bulky deployed configuration, wherein the anchoring component is locatable at a distance from the proximal sleeve end and connected thereto by an elongated tether. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130035628 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TREATMENT OF ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE - Described are methods and systems for transcervical access of the cerebral arterial vasculature and treatment of cerebral occlusions, including ischemic stroke. The methods and devices may include methods and devices which may provide aspiration and passive flow reversal, those which protect the cerebral penumbra during the procedure to minimize injury to brain, as well as distal catheters and devices to remove an occlusion. The methods and devices that provide passive flow reversal may also offer to the user a degree of flow control. Devices and methods which provide a way to securely close the access site in the carotid artery to avoid the potentially devastating consequences of a transcervical hematoma are also described. | 02-07-2013 |
| 20130041305 | ARTERIAL SHUNT - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed toward an arterial shunts for use during vascular surgery. Some embodiments are useful during an endarterectomy, and may be configured for use with specific arteries (e.g., carotid). Additional embodiments may be configured with a filter to prevent clots or plaque from traveling through the shunt, and with a flow meter to provide indication of how much or how little blood is actually passing through the shunt. | 02-14-2013 |
| 20130041306 | Therapeutic method for treatment of hypertension - A long-term implantable arterio-venous shunt device or creation of a fistula is provided that can be used as a therapeutic method for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The shunt device is implanted between an artery and a vein, preferably between a peripheral artery and the inferior vena cava. The shunt device and method of creating a fistula increases cardiac output and decreases the systemic vascular resistance and allows a blood flow rate through the shunt device of at least 5 ml/min after the implantation. Based on the effects of the method and device to the respiratory, cardiac and circulatory system, the method and device are beneficial as a therapy to patients with problems or conditions related to these systems. | 02-14-2013 |
| 20130053755 | BIO-COMPATIBLE CATHETER - A bio-compatible lumen bearing device such as a catheter formed of a polymeric material having a titanium surface bonded to the underlying exposed catheter surface. The titanium surface is employed in patients to improve bio-compatibility and enhance lubricity during insertion and removal. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130053756 | Anti-Obesity Diverter Structure - The anti-obesity diverter structure includes a laminate structure having papilla-supplied and pylorus-supplied surfaces. The laminate structure is sized to fit longitudinally within a duodenum such that a transverse clearance is provided between the papilla-supplied surface and papilla of Vater. The laminate structure is secured within the duodenum to define papilla-supplied and pylorus-supplied lumens therein. The papilla-supplied lumen receives the digestive fluid from the papilla of Vater, and provides a conduit for the digestive fluid therein. The pylorus-supplied lumen receives the chyme from the pylorus and provides a conduit for the chyme therein. The laminate structure is impervious or semi-permeable to the chyme and digestive fluid. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130072848 | Threaded lacrimal drainage tube method - A threaded lacrimal bypass drainage device uses a threaded cannula or tube for greater axial friction and adjustability. The tube has a keyed flange for engagement by a keyed screwdriver-type tool having a trocar coaxially engaging the tube and providing a distal cutting blade. A removable, coaxial, biocompatible washer discourages tissue overgrowth of the tube immediately after emplacement. One or more radial drainage holes formed near the distal end of the tube overcome axial blockages. Adjustments to the axial position of the tube can be readily made during successive office visits by the patient. | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130079699 | Method of draining autologous bodily fluid into intraosseus space - A method for draining autologeous biological fluid includes positioning a catheter to receive the autologeous biological fluid from a selected site in a mammalian body with the end of the catheter adapted to receive such fluid. An output end of the catheter is positioned into the intraosseus space. The fluid is transmitted through the catheter to intraosseus space thereby draining the selected site from the autologous biological fluid. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130079700 | COMPOSITE PROSTHETIC SHUNT DEVICE - In accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a composite prosthetic device is described. Generally, the device comprises at least one layer of ePTFE, at least one thermoplastic elastomeric component, and a frame. In certain aspects, the thermoplastic elastomeric component penetrates the microstructure of the at least one layer of ePTFE, providing a means for varying the porosity of the ePTFE. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130079701 | Methods and Apparatus for Delivering Ocular Implants Into the Eye - A method of deploying an ocular implant into Schlemm's canal of a human eye including the following steps: inserting a distal tip of a delivery tool within an anterior chamber of the eye through trabecular meshwork of the eye into Schlemm's canal of the eye; and advancing an ocular implant through a curved portion and a distal opening of the delivery tool to place a body portion of the ocular implant in Schlemm's canal and an inlet portion of the ocular implant in the anterior chamber. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130090590 | Methods and Apparatus for Treating Obesity and Diabetes - Provided herein are methods and shunt devices for treating diabetes and obesity. Methods and shunt devices promote stimulation of secretion of intestinal L-cells and other enteroendocrine cell types. Enteroendocrine secretion is stimulated directly or indirectly by shunting bile and/or pancreatic secretion to segments of the gut more distal than would normally occur. The shunt device may be a flexible catheter that is impervious to such secretions, with a proximal end draining the pancreatic/bile duct, and a distal end residing distally within the lumen of the small or large intestine. The shunt may be inserted with minimally invasive techniques, such as by endoscopy or laparoscopy. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130096482 | ALTERNATE GEOMETRY STYLET FOR VENTRICULAR SHUNT CATHETER PLACEMENT - A stylet having a non-round cross-sectional shape which is specifically adapted to reduce the adhesion or “stickiness” of contact between the stylet and the interior surface of the lumen of an elastomeric catheter through which it extends. The stylet may be “pre-loaded” into the catheter. | 04-18-2013 |
| 20130102949 | GLAUCOMA DRAINAGE SHUNTS AND METHODS OF USE - A method of treating glaucoma in an eye utilizing an implanted shunt having an elastomeric plate and a non-valved elastomeric drainage tube. The plate is positioned over a sclera of the eye with an outflow end of the elastomeric drainage tube open to an outer surface of the plate. An inflow end of the drainage tube tunnels through the sclera and cornea to the anterior chamber of the eye. The drainage tube collapses upon initial insertion within an incision in the sclera and cornea, or at a kink on the outside of the incision, but has sufficient resiliency to restore its patency over time. The effect is a flow restrictor that regulates outflow from the eye until a scar tissue bleb forms around the plate of the shunt. The plate desirably has a peripheral ridge and a large number of fenestrations, and a longer suturing tab extending from one side of the plate to enhance visibility and accessibility when suturing the shunt to the sclera. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130102950 | Graft-Catheter Vascular Access System - A vascular access device, for implantation at least partially below the skin of a patient to provide an arteriovenous fistula, includes a graft portion coupled to a catheter portion. The graft portion is sutured to an opening in an artery while the catheter portion is inserted into a vein so that its end lies within the vein downstream from the point of entry into the vein. The device may be comprised of ePTFE with an outer polyurethane coating or the graft portion may comprise ePTFE with an outer polyurethane coating and the catheter portion may comprise polyurethane. There may also be an inner polyurethane coating. Alternatively, the device may be comprised entirely of polyurethane. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130110029 | IMPLANTABLE FLOW CONNECTOR | 05-02-2013 |
| 20130116614 | Methods and Apparatus for Providing an Arteriovenous Fistula - Methods and apparatus for creating an artificial arteriovenous fistula between an artery and an adjacent vein are disclosed. Methods include utilizing a hollow spiral shunt that defines a fluid passageway between a proximal port and a distal port thereof. The spiral shunt is loaded within a delivery device that is transversely advanced through a wall of the artery. A piercing end of the spiral shunt is than exposed and the delivery device is rotated to pierce an opposing wall of the artery and a wall of the adjacent vein with the spiral shunt piercing end. Rotation of the delivery device corkscrews the spiral shunt through the walls of the artery and the vein in order to position the spiral shunt to fluidly connect the artery and vein. Once so positioned, the spiral shunt is released to be deployed between the artery and vein lumens thereby forming an artificial arteriovenous fistula therebetween. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130131575 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS INCLUDING INFECTION-FIGHTING AND MONITORING SHUNTS - Systems, devices, methods, and compositions are described for providing an actively controllable shunt configured to, for example, monitor, treat, or prevent an infection. | 05-23-2013 |
| 20130150770 | METHODS FOR PLACING A SHUNT INTO THE INTRA-SCLERAL SPACE - The present invention generally relates to intraocular shunts, and in particular, to intraocular shunts configured to form a drainage pathway between the anterior chamber and the intra-scleral space. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130150771 | System and Method For Powering Ocular Implants - A system for treating an ocular condition of a patient includes an electrically powered ocular implant sized for placement within an eye and includes a transmitter sized to be carried on or adjacent the head of the patient for disposal adjacent the eye. The transmitter includes a transmission antenna that emits an electromagnetic flux field sufficient to energize the ocular implant and includes a flux shunt disposed within the electromagnetic flux field. The transmission antenna may be disposed between the flux shunt and the implant. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130150772 | BY-PASS SHUNT TO REDUCE FLOW OUTPUT OF CIRCULATORY ASSIST DEVICE - A by-pass shunt for use with a bodily fluid pump. The by-pass shunt includes an inflow conduit, an outflow conduit, and an intermediate conduit fluidically coupling the inflow and outflow conduits. A flow restrictor is operably coupled to a portion of the intermediate conduit and is configured to reduce a fluid flow from the outflow conduit, through the intermediate conduit, and into the inflow conduit. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130158462 | Delivering Ocular Implants Into the Eye - A method of deploying an ocular implant into Schlemm's canal of an eye. The method includes the steps of inserting a distal end of a cannula through a cornea of the eye and into an anterior chamber of the eye, the cannula having a distal opening extending from the distal end and through a side wall; placing the distal opening of the cannula into fluid communication with Schlemm's canal; advancing the ocular implant distally through the cannula with a delivery tool engaged with the ocular implant, a proximal portion of the ocular implant engaging the delivery tool proximal to a distal portion of the delivery tool; and disengaging the ocular implant and the delivery tool when the proximal portion of the ocular implant reaches the cannula distal opening. The invention also includes a system for practicing the method. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130158463 | SYSTEMS AND METHOD FOR BYPASSING AN ANASTOMOSIS SITE - A system for bypassing an anastomosis site in a hollow organ is provided. The system includes a sleeve configured for spanning the anastomosis site at an internal surface of the hollow organ and a band configured for attachment to an external surface of the hollow organ and limiting migration of the sleeve beyond the anastomosis site. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130158464 | SELF CLEANING SHUNT - A self cleaning inlet head for use on a shunt. The head has a tube with openings disposed in predetermined positions in its wall, and a cleaning element installed inside the tube. The cleaning element may comprise a central shaft with a number of bristles protruding therefrom, preferably in locations substantially identical to the positions of the openings in the wall of the tube. Mutual vibratory motion between the cleaning element and the tube causes at least some of the bristles to enter the openings, thereby keeping them clear, and preventing tissue growth into them. The vibratory motion may be generated by the action of an external field on a responsive part of the cleaning element, such as an external magnetic field operating on a magnetic or magnetized part of the cleaning element or the bristles. Alternatively, the external field may be an ultrasound field operating on the bristles. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130165840 | FLUID COMMUNICATION DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF - A fluid communication device is configured to provide fluid flow between first and second chambers separated by tissue. The fluid communication device includes a member configured for insertion through and engagement of the tissue. The member includes a first opening near a first end of the member for fluidic communication with the first chamber and a second opening near a second end of the member for fluidic communication with the second chamber, the fluid member including a fluid passage that provides fluidic communication between the first and second chambers. The fluid communication device is configured to be positioned with the eye to provide fluid communication between an anterior chamber of the eye and Schlemm's canal. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130165841 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF OBESITY AND TYPE 2 DIABETES - The present invention provides systems and methods for treating and controlling obesity and/or type II diabetes. In one aspect of the invention, an internal bypass device includes gastric and duodenal anchors coupled to each other and positioned on either side of the pylorus and a hollow sleeve designed to extend from the pylorus through at least a proximal portion of a patient's small intestine. The gastric and duodenal anchors are movable between collapsed configurations for advancement through the esophagus and an expanded configuration for inhibiting movement of the anchors through the pyloric sphincter. Thus, the bypass device can be placed and removed endoscopically through the patient's esophagus in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure and it is “self-anchoring” and does not require invasive tissue fixation within the patient's GI tract, thereby reducing collateral tissue damage and minimizing its impact on the digestive process. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130172804 | Glaucoma Treatment Method - An ocular implant adapted to reside at least partially in a portion of Schlemm's canal of an eye. In some embodiments the implant has a body extending in a curved volume whose longitudinal axis forms an arc of a circle, and a plurality of open areas and strut areas formed in the body, the open areas extending over more than 50% of a surface defining the curved volume, the strut areas surrounding the open areas, the body having a diameter of between 0.005 inches and 0.04 inches. The invention also provides a method of treating glaucoma including the steps of supporting tissue forming Schlemm's canal in an eye with an implant extending at least partially in the canal along an axial length within the canal; and contacting with the implant less than 50% of the tissue forming the canal along the axial length. | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130178782 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR DELIVERING OR DELAYING LIPIDS WITHIN A DUODENUM - Devices and methods described include a flow reduction device adapted and configured for use within the duodenum of a mammal having a spine, a first atraumatic feature, a second atraumatic feature, and a flow reduction element having a proximal end, a distal end, an interior portion, an exterior portion and a variable porosity between the proximal end and the distal end. One aspect of the device includes a spine having a proximal end and a distal end, an atraumatic feature positioned on at least one of the proximal end and the distal end of the spine, and a flow reduction element positioned along the spine and having a variable porosity along its length. | 07-11-2013 |
| 20130184631 | Method, Surgical Kit and Device for Treating Glaucoma - A surgical kit includes at least one instrument and at least one implant device. The instrument has a needle body used to form a surgical passage through ocular tissue. The device includes a flexible tube that defines a duct for diverting aqueous humor with an outer surface having a maximal cross-sectional dimension that is less than the maximal cross-sectional dimension of the needle body. The device incorporates sealing means including at least one element that define a maximal cross-sectional dimension that is greater that the maximal cross-sectional dimension of the needle body and that are operably disposed within the surgical passage and form a seal between the surrounding ocular tissue and the element(s) as well as fixate the device in the surgical passage. The kit (and devices thereof) can be used as part of a surgical method to divert aqueous humor to a space formed in ocular tissue. | 07-18-2013 |
| 20130190675 | Methods and Devices for Treating Alzheimer's Disease - A method and apparatus of treating Alzheimer's disease in an individual. In one embodiment, the method includes bypassing a portion of the gastrointestinal tract of the individual. In another embodiment, the method includes modifying insulin levels or insulin resistance in the brain of an individual with Alzheimer's disease or predisposed to Alzheimer's disease. In still yet another embodiment, the bypass causes the individual's serum levels of GLP-1 protein to increase. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130190676 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR FLUID FLOW THROUGH BODY PASSAGES - A device includes a first end portion, a second end portion, an intermediate portion between the first end portion and the second end portion, and a graft material coupled to at least the intermediate portion. The first end portion has a first end diameter. The second end portion has a second end diameter larger than the first end diameter. The intermediate portion tapers between the first end portion and the second end portion. A method of diverting fluid flow from a first passage to a second passage comprising deploying the device in a third passage between the first passage and the second passage, expanding the first end portion against sidewalls of the first passage, and expanding the second end portion against sidewalls of the second passage. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130197421 | PANCREATICOBILIARY DIVERSION DEVICE - Apparatus ( | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130204175 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATING HEART FAILURE - The present teachings provide a device and method of making and using thereof. Specifically, one aspect of the present teachings provides a device comprising a shunt having a distal end and a proximal end and the shunt positionable across the septum of a heart. Certain embodiments of the present teachings also include a distal anchoring portion connecting to the distal end of the shunt portion and a proximal anchoring portion connecting to the proximal end of the shunt portion. Another aspect of the present teachings provide methods of using thereof to modify the pressure difference in a heart chamber. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20130231602 | C-Shaped Cross Section Tubular Ophthalmic Implant for Reduction of Intraocular Pressure in Glaucomatous Eyes and Method of Use - An implant may be used for implantation into tissue of a body. The implant includes an elongated conduit and a loop. The elongated conduit has an interior passageway for conducting fluid. The loop has an interior circumference with a fluid conducting channel formed therein. The channel is interconnected with the interior passageway for delivery of fluid between the channel and the interior passageway. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130231603 | Ocular Implants and Methods for Delivering Ocular Implants Into the Eye - An ocular implant is provided. In some embodiments, the ocular implant includes a body that is curved about a longitudinal central axis and a distal body portion that defines a longitudinal channel including a channel opening. The implant is sized and configured such that the ocular implant assumes an orientation in which the channel opening is adjacent a major side of Schlemm's canal when the ocular implant is disposed in Schlemm's canal. Methods for delivering ocular implants into Schlemm's canal are also provided. Some methods include covering openings in the ocular implant, advancing the implant into Schlemm's canal while at least some of the openings are covered, and uncovering the openings while the distal portion of the implant is disposed in Schlemm's canal. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130245532 | OCULAR IMPLANT SYSTEM - The invention relates generally to medical devices and methods for reducing the intraocular pressure in an animal eye and, more particularly, to stent type devices for permitting aqueous outflow from the eye's anterior chamber and associated methods thereof for the treatment of glaucoma. Some aspects provide a self-trephining glaucoma stent and methods thereof which advantageously allow for a “one-step” procedure in which the incision and placement of the stent are accomplished by a single device and operation. This desirably allows for a faster, safer, and less expensive surgical procedure. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130245533 | TRANSJUGULAR INTRAHEPATIC PORTOSYSTEMIC SHUNT DEVICE - An apparatus method for establishing a Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt between the portal vein from a hepatic vein. The apparatus comprises an elongated hollow outer guide; an outer handle having an inner lumen and a first luer lock, the outer handle attached at a proximal end of the outer guide, the outer guide in flow communication with the inner lumen and the first luer lock; an elongated hollow inner needle; and a hub having a second luer lock, the hub attached at a proximal end of the inner needle, the inner needle in flow communication with the second luer lock. The inner needle is slidingly received into the outer guide through the inner lumen. The inner needle rotates within the outer guide by manipulation of the hub; and a distal tip of the inner needle is deployed out of and beyond a distal tip of the outer guide. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130253402 | OCULAR DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Described here are systems and methods for accessing Schlemm's canal and for delivering an ocular device or fluid composition therein. The ocular devices may maintain the patency of Schlemm's canal without substantially interfering with transmural fluid flow across the canal. The fluid composition may be a viscoelastic fluid that is delivered into the canal to facilitate drainage of aqueous humor by disrupting the canal and surrounding trabeculocanalicular tissues. Tools for disrupting these tissues and minimally invasive methods for treating medical conditions associated with elevated intraocular pressure, including glaucoma, are also described. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130253403 | OCULAR DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Described here are systems and methods for accessing Schlemm's canal and for delivering an ocular device or fluid composition therein. The ocular devices may maintain the patency of Schlemm's canal without substantially interfering with transmural fluid flow across the canal. The fluid composition may be a viscoelastic fluid that is delivered into the canal to facilitate drainage of aqueous humor by disrupting the canal and surrounding trabeculocanalicular tissues. Tools for disrupting these tissues and minimally invasive methods for treating medical conditions associated with elevated intraocular pressure, including glaucoma, are also described. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130253404 | OCULAR IMPLANT SYSTEMS - Intraocular stents and applicators are disclosed for treating glaucoma. The stents are configured to extend between the anterior chamber of the eye and Schlemm's canal for enhancing outflow of aqueous from the anterior chamber so as to reduce intraocular pressure. The stents can have features for anchoring the stent into Schlemm's canal as well as preventing the walls of Schlemm's canal from closing the outlet of the stents. The applicators can be steerable so as to make implantation easier. Additionally, the applicators can be configured to hold a plurality of stents so that multiple stents can be implanted through one incision without removing the applicator from the incision between serial implantations. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130253405 | OCULAR IMPLANT SYSTEMS - Intraocular stents and applicators are disclosed for treating glaucoma. The stents are configured to extend between the anterior chamber of the eye and Schlemm's canal for enhancing outflow of aqueous from the anterior chamber so as to reduce intraocular pressure. The stents can have features for anchoring the stent into Schlemm's canal as well as preventing the walls of Schlemm's canal from closing the outlet of the stents. The applicators can be steerable so as to make implantation easier. Additionally, the applicators can be configured to hold a plurality of stents so that multiple stents can be implanted through one incision without removing the applicator from the incision between serial implantations. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130253406 | METHODS FOR DEPLOYING INTRAOCULAR SHUNTS - The present invention generally relates to methods for deploying intraocular shunts without the use of an optical apparatus that contacts an eye, such as a goniolens. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention involve inserting into an eye a deployment device configured to hold an intraocular shunt, determining that a distal portion of the device is properly positioned within the eye without use of an optical apparatus that contacts the eye, and deploying the shunt from the device. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130253407 | Internal Shunt And Method For Treating Glaucoma - A surgical technique and device wherein an indwelling tube is placed in the eye of a patient having glaucoma. The tube diverts aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to the suprachoroidal space from which it is removed by blood flowing in the choroidal and uveal tissues. This decreases the intraocular pressure. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130253408 | Anti-Obesity Diverter Structure - The anti-obesity diverter structure includes a laminate structure having papilla-supplied and pylorus-supplied surfaces. The laminate structure is sized to fit longitudinally within a duodenum such that a transverse clearance is provided between the papilla-supplied surface and papilla of Vater. The laminate structure is secured within the duodenum to define papilla-supplied and pylorus-supplied lumens therein. The papilla-supplied lumen receives the digestive fluid from the papilla of Vater, and provides a conduit for the digestive fluid therein. The pylorus-supplied lumen receives the chyme from the pylorus and provides a conduit for the chyme therein. The laminate structure is impervious or semi-permeable to the chyme and digestive fluid. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130267885 | APPARATUS AND METHODS TO CREATE AND MAINTAIN AN INTRA-ATRIAL PRESSURE RELIEF OPENING - The present disclosure relates to a method and a device for treating heart failure by normalizing elevated blood pressure in the left and right atria of a heart of a mammal. The present disclosure includes methods for creating and maintaining an opening in the atrial septum. Tools for making an opening and enlarging the opening are also disclosed. Use of the techniques and tools described herein prolongs the patency of an intra-atrial pressure relief opening. | 10-10-2013 |
| 20130267886 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING OBESITY AND TYPE 2 DIABETES - The present invention provides systems and methods for treating and controlling obesity and/or type II diabetes. In one aspect of the invention, a bypass device includes gastric and duodenal anchors coupled to each other and positioned on either side of the pylorus and a hollow sleeve designed to extend from the pylorus through at least a proximal portion of a patient's small intestine. The gastric and duodenal anchors are movable between collapsed configurations for advancement through the esophagus and an expanded configuration for inhibiting movement of the anchors through the pyloric sphincter. Thus, the bypass device can be placed and removed endoscopically through the patient's esophagus in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure and it is “self-anchoring” and does not require invasive tissue fixation within the patient's GI tract, thereby reducing collateral tissue damage and minimizing its impact on the digestive process. | 10-10-2013 |
| 20130274646 | DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR IMPLANTABLE FLOW CONNECTOR - A delivery system for delivering an implant to a first space within a body of a patient including an elongate delivery member having a proximal portion, a distal portion, a lumen and a receiving area, the receiving area dimensioned for receipt of the implant. A deforming member is movable with respect to the delivery member from a first position to a second position to apply a force to the implant to deform the implant positioned in the receiving area of the delivery member. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130274647 | IMPLANT DEVICE, TOOL, AND METHODS RELATING TO TREATMENT OF PARANASAL SINUSES - An implant device is configured to be implanted in a fistula to fluidly connect the lacrimal apparatus and a paranasal sinus. A surgical tool has an implant the implant device mounted on a carrier. Various methods involve a fistula between the lacrimal apparatus and a paranasal sinus. A kit includes an entry device for use to form a fistula and an implant tool for use to implant an implant device following formation of a fistula. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130281907 | Ocular Implants for Delivery into an Anterior Chamber of the Eye - An ocular implant adapted to be disposed within Schlemm's canal of a human eye with a body extending along a curved longitudinal central axis in a curvature plane, a first strut on one side of the implant and a second strut on an opposite side of the implant, the circumferential extent of the first strut with respect to the plane of curvature being greater than the circumferential extent of the second strut with respect to the plane of curvature. The invention also includes methods of using the implant. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130281908 | Delivery System for Ocular Implant - A delivery system is disclosed which can be used to deliver an ocular implant into a target location within the eye via an ab interno procedure. In some embodiments, the implant can provide fluid communication between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal or supraciliary space while in an implanted state. The delivery system can include a proximal handle component and a distal delivery component. In addition, the proximal handle component can include an actuator to control the release of the implant from the delivery component into the target location in the eye. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130281909 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING OBESITY AND TYPE 2 DIABETES - The present invention provides systems and methods for treating wounds in patients who lack the innate ability to regulate glucose (e.g., diabetic patients). In one aspect of the invention, a method includes positioning an internal bypass device within the duodenum to inhibit contact between chyme passing therethrough and an internal wall of the duodenum and maintaining the internal bypass device within the duodenum for a sufficient period of time to decrease insulin resistance and reduce a blood glucose level in the patient. The internal bypass device increases peripheral blood flow and elevates an immune system response to accelerate healing of the wound. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130289466 | STOMACH-SPANNING GASTRIC IMPLANTS - A variety of passive intragastric implant devices for obesity treatment are disclosed. Such passive implants do not autonomously change shape, but instead react within the stomach to induce satiety. The implants may take up volume within the stomach, thus reducing the digestive capacity. Additionally, the implants may contact areas within the stomach, such as the cardia surrounding the esophageal sphincter, to stimulate satiety-inducing nerves. Also, a number of implants slow gastric emptying by blocking or otherwise impeding flow through the pyloric sphincter. Other implants delay digestion by providing a duodenal sleeve. A number of implants combine two or more of these satiety-inducing features. Methods of implant are disclosed including compressing the implants within a delivery tube and transorally advancing the implants through the esophagus to be deployed within the stomach. Removal of the implants occurs in the reverse. | 10-31-2013 |
| 20130289467 | DRUG ELUTING OCULAR IMPLANT - Disclosed herein are drug delivery devices and methods for the treatment of ocular disorders requiring targeted and controlled administration of a drug to an interior portion of the eye for reduction or prevention of symptoms of the disorder. The devices are capable of controlled release of one or more drugs and may also include structures which allow for treatment of increased intraocular pressure by permitting aqueous humor to flow out of the anterior chamber of the eye through the device. | 10-31-2013 |
| 20130303967 | METERS FOR IN-VIVO MONITORING - Systems and methods for use in monitoring treatment of pressure-related conditions, such as hydrocephalus, include an implantable vessel, and a meter including one or more microfluidic channels connected to the vessel. The microfluidic channels may be configured to detect at least one of pressure and fluid flow rate through the vessel and to be read out remotely by a wirelessly coupled external device. The meter may include a passive resonant (LC) circuit. A dynamic flap may be included in the microfluidic channel that may act as part of the LC circuit. An external device may also be configured to inductively couple remotely to the LC circuit, with-out physical connections to the implantable vessel or pressure meter, and to display a pressure acting on the pressure meter and/or a fluid flow through the meter. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130303968 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TREATMENT OF NON-VENTILATING MIDDLE EAR BY PROVIDING A GAS PATHWAY THROUGH THE NASOPHARYNX - Methods and devices for providing a gas pathway between the nasopharynx and the Eustachian tube are provided. One device may include a lumen with a valve. A portion of the valve may be tethered to adjacent muscle. Another portion of the valve may be tethered to adjacent cartilage. When the muscle contracts the valve may open through movement of the tethers, and provide a gas pathway between the nasopharynx and the Eustachian tube. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130317410 | CATHETER CURVATURE BRACES AND METHODS OF USING SAME - A catheter curvature brace, catheter assembly and method for managing fluid in a patient, the brace being attachable to a distal portion of a shaft of a catheter and having an elongated frame with a distal end and a proximal end. The frame is formed with at least one curve in a relaxed curved configuration. At least two coupling elements are connected to the frame, each coupling element configured to engage an outer surface of the catheter. At least the frame is formed of an elastic, biocompatible material capable of being straightened by a force and then returning to the relaxed curved configuration after the force is removed, thereby bending the catheter to substantially conform to the relaxed curved configuration. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130317411 | Device for Treatment of Glaucoma - This invention relates to a device for treatment of glaucoma comprising of a circular patch with a plurality of holes wherein the patch is made of biocompatible material. The patch is optionally provided with a projected lip. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130324902 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - Devices and methods for gastrointestinal bypass are described. A gastrointestinal bypass device includes a gastrointestinal cuff and a gastrointestinal sleeve. The cuff may be configured to be attached in the esophagus, and may be sufficiently flexible to expand and collapse to conform with the inside of the esophagus to allow the esophagus to function substantially normally. The sleeve is configured to be coupled to the cuff, and may be made of a material that is floppy or flaccid but does not substantially expand radially. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130324903 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - Devices and methods for gastrointestinal bypass are described. A gastrointestinal bypass device includes a gastrointestinal cuff and a gastrointestinal sleeve. The cuff may be configured to be attached in the esophagus, and may be sufficiently flexible to expand and collapse to conform with the inside of the esophagus to allow the esophagus to function substantially normally. The sleeve is configured to be coupled to the cuff, and may be made of a material that is floppy or flaccid but does not substantially expand radially. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130324904 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - Devices and methods for gastrointestinal bypass are described. A gastrointestinal bypass device includes a gastrointestinal cuff and a gastrointestinal sleeve. The cuff may be configured to be attached in the esophagus, and may be sufficiently flexible to expand and collapse to conform with the inside of the esophagus to allow the esophagus to function substantially normally. The sleeve is configured to be coupled to the cuff, and may be made of a material that is floppy or flaccid but does not substantially expand radially. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130324905 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - Devices and methods for gastrointestinal bypass are described. A gastrointestinal bypass device includes a gastrointestinal cuff and a gastrointestinal sleeve. The cuff may be configured to be attached in the esophagus, and may be sufficiently flexible to expand and collapse to conform with the inside of the esophagus to allow the esophagus to function substantially normally. The sleeve is configured to be coupled to the cuff, and may be made of a material that is floppy or flaccid but does not substantially expand radially. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130324906 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - Devices and methods for gastrointestinal bypass are described. A gastrointestinal bypass device includes a gastrointestinal cuff and a gastrointestinal sleeve. The cuff may be configured to be attached in the esophagus, and may be sufficiently flexible to expand and collapse to conform with the inside of the esophagus to allow the esophagus to function substantially normally. The sleeve is configured to be coupled to the cuff, and may be made of a material that is floppy or flaccid but does not substantially expand radially. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130324907 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - Devices and methods for gastrointestinal bypass are described. A gastrointestinal bypass device includes a gastrointestinal cuff and a gastrointestinal sleeve. The cuff may be configured to be attached in the esophagus, and may be sufficiently flexible to expand and collapse to conform with the inside of the esophagus to allow the esophagus to function substantially normally. The sleeve is configured to be coupled to the cuff, and may be made of a material that is floppy or flaccid but does not substantially expand radially. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130331759 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - Devices and methods for gastrointestinal bypass are described. A gastrointestinal bypass device includes a gastrointestinal cuff and a gastrointestinal sleeve. The cuff may be configured to be attached in the esophagus, and may be sufficiently flexible to expand and collapse to conform with the inside of the esophagus to allow the esophagus to function substantially normally. The sleeve is configured to be coupled to the cuff, and may be made of a material that is floppy or flaccid but does not substantially expand radially. | 12-12-2013 |
| 20130331760 | IMPLANT FOR THE TREATMENT OF GLAUCOMA - The invention refers to a tube configured as an implant for insertion at least at one location into the exposed Schlemm's canal of an eye and which, for example, has been mechanically dilated. The elongated tube insertable into the Schlemm's canal includes a plurality openings that are arranged at the tube in axial direction distanced from each other by ring parts and that are in communication with the trabecular tissue the interior space of the tube and the aqueous humor veins of the episcleral vein system and further includes openings oriented in axial direction at a circular arc shaped segment corresponding to the cross section profile of the tube. To realize the natural trabecular aqueous humor drainage, the tube are inserted into the Schlemm's canal that either the openings in the segment are in communication with the aqueous humor veins or that segment with the openings are associated with the trabecular tissue. | 12-12-2013 |
| 20130331761 | Methods and Apparatus for Treating Glaucoma - An ocular implant for treating glaucoma is provided, which may include any number of features. More particularly, the present invention relates to implants that facilitate the transfer of fluid from within one area of the eye to another area of the eye. One feature of the implant is that it includes a proximal inlet portion and a distal inlet portion adapted to be inserted into the anterior chamber of the eye, and an intermediate portion adapted to be inserted into Schlemm's canal. Another feature of the implant is that it can be biased to assume a predetermined shape to aid in placement within the eye. | 12-12-2013 |
| 20130338563 | Methods and Apparatus for Delivering Ocular Implants Into the Eye - A method of deploying an ocular implant into Schlemm's canal of a human eye including the following steps: inserting a distal tip of a delivery tool within an anterior chamber of the eye through trabecular meshwork of the eye into Schlemm's canal of the eye; and advancing an ocular implant through a curved portion and a distal opening of the delivery tool to place a body portion of the ocular implant in Schlemm's canal and an inlet portion of the ocular implant in the anterior chamber. | 12-19-2013 |
| 20140005586 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR REPAIR OF VASCULAR DEFECTS | 01-02-2014 |
| 20140012177 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH THERAPEUTIC AGENTS AND METHODS THEREOF - Implants and methods for treating ocular disorders are provided. One method involves introducing an implant into an anterior chamber of an eye. The implant is implanted into eye tissue adjacent the anterior chamber such that a proximal end of the implant resides in the anterior chamber following implantation. A therapeutic agent is eluted from the implant into the eye. Desirably, the release of the therapeutic agent from the implant is controlled. The controlled release of the therapeutic agent can be at a chosen rate and/or for a selected duration which can be episodic or periodic. The therapeutic agent can be an antiproliferative agent, an anti-inflammatory drug, or a compound for treating glaucoma or ocular hypertension. | 01-09-2014 |
| 20140012178 | Systems and Methods for Bariatric Therapy - The present invention provides bariatric therapy systems. One system includes a gastrointestinal implant device and a delivery mechanism therefor. The device can include a sleeve for placement into a small intestine and to minimize absorption of nutrients by its walls. An anchoring mechanism coupled to a proximal end of the sleeve and designed to be secured within the stomach can be provided. A passageway extending through the anchoring mechanism and the sleeve can also be provided, along which food can be directed from the stomach to the small intestine. The delivery mechanism can include a housing for accommodating the device, and a deploying balloon situated within the housing and which can be actuated to direct the sleeve of the device from within the housing to the site of implantation. Methods for providing bariatric therapy are also provided by the present invention. | 01-09-2014 |
| 20140012179 | PROSTHESIS FOR CONNECTING AN ANATOMICAL DUCT - According to the invention, the tubular prosthesis for connecting an anatomical duct includes at least two individual tubular elements and a sealed mechanical element for connecting said separate elements to each other. | 01-09-2014 |
| 20140018719 | Transpyloric Anchoring - A gastrointestinal implant device comprises a planar proximal element configured to reside in a stomach to resist distal migration, a distal element configured to reside in an intestine to resist proximal migration and one or more tethers coupling the planar proximal element to the distal element. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140018720 | SHUNT PLACEMENT THROUGH THE SCLERA - The present invention generally relates to intraocular shunts, and in particular, to intraocular shunts configured to form a drainage pathway between the anterior chamber and the intra-Tenon's space. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140018721 | Arteriovenous Graft for Hemodialysis with Puncture-Resistant Posterior and Side Walls - An arteriovenous dialysis access graft configured to be implanted in a subject includes: at least one flexible conduit having first and second end portions, wherein the first end portion is configured to connect to an artery of the subject and the second end portion is configured to connect to a vein of the subject such that blood flows through the at least one conduit; and at least one cannulation chamber positioned between the first end portion and the second end portion of the at least one conduit. The chamber includes: an elongated housing having an inlet and an outlet, a posterior wall, a pair of sidewalls, and an open anterior portion defining a cannulation port; and a self-sealing material extending across the cannulation port. The posterior wall and the sidewalls of the housing are formed of a substantially rigid material. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140024991 | Devices for Bariatric Therapy - The present invention provides bariatric therapy systems. One system includes a gastrointestinal implant device and a delivery mechanism therefor. The device can include a sleeve for placement into a small intestine and to minimize absorption of nutrients by its walls. An anchoring mechanism coupled to a proximal end of the sleeve and designed to be secured within the stomach can be provided. A passageway extending through the anchoring mechanism and the sleeve can also be provided, along which food can be directed from the stomach to the small intestine. The delivery mechanism can include a housing for accommodating the device, and a deploying balloon situated within the housing and which can be actuated to direct the sleeve of the device from within the housing to the site of implantation. Methods for providing bariatric therapy are also provided by the present invention. | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140024992 | Cylindrical Structure Having Lumen to Be Implanted Into Human Body - A cylindrical structure having a lumen to be implanted into a human body. The cylindrical structure has a coating layer formed on at least one part of an inner surface of either or both ends of the cylindrical structure, wherein the coating layer includes a polymer for drug release control and a bioactive material. | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140024993 | BILE DUCT TUBE AND METHOD OF PLACING THEREOF - A bile duct tube has a first portion which has a first end portion of the bile duct tube and is formed to have a diameter that allows insertion into a bile duct, a second portion which has a second end portion of the bile duct tube and is formed to have a diameter that allows insertion into an intestinal tract, and a first expansion member placed at the first portion. The first expansion member expands in a radial direction of the bile duct tube when a gas or liquid is injected into a void inside the first expansion member. | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140031737 | EXPANDABLE OCULAR DEVICES - Disclosed herein are systems, devices and methods for treating an ocular disorder in an eye. The ocular device includes a proximal end, a distal end, and an internal lumen forming a flow pathway extending from the proximal end to the distal end; at least one inflow region that communicates with the flow pathway; and an expandable portion having a plurality of interconnected struts forming multiple openings in the device communicating with the flow pathway. The expandable portion has a first cross-sectional shape suitable for insertion into the eye that is generally cylindrical and a second cross-sectional shape that is larger than the first cross-sectional shape. The system also includes a delivery device for inserting the ocular device into an eye including a sheath configured to surround at least a portion of the ocular device; an applier configured to insert into the internal lumen of the ocular device; and an actuator. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140031738 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF OBESITY AND TYPE 2 DIABETES - The present invention provides systems and methods for treating and controlling obesity and/or type II diabetes. In one aspect of the invention, a device comprises a hollow sleeve sized and shaped for positioning within a duodenum of the patient, an anchor coupled to the proximal end of the sleeve and being sized and shaped to inhibit distal migration of the sleeve and a plurality of elastomeric objects coupled to the distal end of the sleeve and being sized and shaped to inhibit proximal migration of the sleeve through a pylorus of the patient. The bypass device can be placed and removed endoscopically through the patient's esophagus in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure and it is “self-anchoring” and does not require invasive tissue fixation within the patient's GI tract, thereby reducing collateral tissue damage and minimizing its impact on the digestive process. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140066830 | CEREBROSPINAL FLUID PURIFICATION SYSTEM - The present invention provides methods and systems for conditioning cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by removing target compounds from CSF. The systems provide for a multilumen flow path and exchange of a majority volume portion of CSF in the CSF space. The removal and/or delivery of specific compounds can be tailored to the pathology of the specific disease. The removal is targeted and specific, for example, through the use of specific size-exclusion thresholds, antibodies against specific toxins, and other chromatographic techniques, as well as delivery and/or removal of targeted therapeutic agents. | 03-06-2014 |
| 20140066831 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH STIFFNESS QUALITIES, METHODS OF IMPLANTATION AND SYSTEM - Described herein are devices and methods for treating eye conditions. Described is an ocular implant including an elongate member having an internal lumen forming a flow pathway, at least one inflow port communicating with the flow pathway, and at least one outflow port communicating with the flow pathway. The elongate member is adapted to be positioned in the eye such that at least one inflow port communicates with the anterior chamber, at least one outflow port communicates with the suprachoroidal space to provide a fluid pathway between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal space when the elongate member is implanted in the eye. The elongate member has a wall material imparting a stiffness to the elongate member. The stiffness is selected such that after implantation the elongate member deforms eye tissue surrounding the suprachoroidal space forming a tented volume. | 03-06-2014 |
| 20140081194 | UVEOSCLERAL SHUNT AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING SAME - Devices and methods for treating intraocular pressure are disclosed. The devices include shunts for draining aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to the uveoscleral outflow pathway, including the supraciliary space and the suprachoroidal space. The shunts are preferably implanted by ab interno procedures. | 03-20-2014 |
| 20140081195 | EXPANDING OCULAR IMPLANT DEVICES AND METHODS - Disclosed herein are devices and methods related to implants for treating one or more physiological conditions of the eye. Some embodiments disclosed herein include an expandable ocular implant for implanting in an eye. The expandable implant can include an implant having an elongate tubular body and an expandable sheath securely adapted to a part of the implant. Some embodiments of the expandable sheath can have at least one expandable feature that can assist the expandable sheath in forming a compact and an expanded configuration. | 03-20-2014 |
| 20140094733 | Tympanic Membrane Pressure Equalization Tube - The invention is a tympanic membrane pressure equalization tube. The tube has a distal end and a proximal end and a tube lumen. A medial flange is located at the distal end of the tube and has 2 or more retention elements and a space between each retention element. A lateral flange is located at the proximal end of the tube. The outside diameter of the medial flange is greater than the outside diameter of the lateral flange and the diameter of the medial flange is between about 2.0 and 5.0 mm and the diameter of the lateral flange is between about 1.75 mm and 4.0 mm. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140094734 | SATIATION DEVICES AND METHODS - A satiation device is described which includes a sheath or liner extending from the proximal or middle stomach to the distal antrum. Food ingested by the patient passes through the sheath or liner, thereby minimizing contact between the ingested food and the stomach. It is believed that over time, reduced contact between food and the stomach will result in decreased Ghrelin production by the patient and a consequent decrease in appetite. In some embodiments, the satiation device may also include a proximal pouch and/or a distal bypass tube. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140100511 | NOVEL PRESSURE EQUALIZATION TUBE - A pressure equalization tube assembly for insertion through a membrane of an ear is provided. The pressure equalization tube assembly includes a tube having an interior wall surface extending between a first end and a second end. The interior wall surface defines a lumen extending between the first and second ends. A first part extends from the first end of the tube and a second part extends from the second end of the tube. The first and second parts may be wire portions, coil portions, and/or superelastic flanges that are moveable between a collapsed state and an expanded state. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140100512 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ANCHORING WITHIN THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT - The present invention relates to an anchor configured for minimally-invasive implantation and sized to remain securely positioned within at least a portion of the gastrointestinal tract of an animal. The anchor includes a radial spring formed from an elongated resilient member shaped into an annular wave pattern about a central axis. The anchor defines a central lumen and provides an outward radial force, while allowing for substantial flexure about its perimeter. The anchor is generally removable, but can include fasteners, such as barbs, to further secure it to the surrounding anatomy. In some embodiments, the anchor includes a connector coupling a fixed portion to a removable portion. Further, the anchor can be used to secure a medical device within the body, such as a flexible sleeve within the intestine. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140107556 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH SHAPE CHANGE CAPABILITIES - Disclosed are devices, methods and systems for treatment of eye disease such as glaucoma. Implants are described herein that enhance aqueous flow through the normal outflow system of the eye with minimal to no complications. The implant can be reversibly deformed to a first shape, such as a generally linear shape conducive to insertion. Upon insertion, the implant can deform to a second shape, such as a generally non-linear shape conducive to retention within the eye. The shape also improves fluid flow from the anterior chamber and prevents or reduces clogging. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140114226 | Biocompatible Glaucoma Drainage Device - A biocompatible glaucoma drainage device, comprising a non-porous element, a porous element, an anchoring assembly disposed around the non-porous element, wherein the anchoring assembly comprises a plurality of barbs extending outwardly therefrom. | 04-24-2014 |
| 20140114227 | LYMPHEDEMA MEDICAL DEVICE - Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include a medical device for moving lymphatic fluid. The medical device may include an implantable body having an inlet end region and an outlet end region. The inlet end region may include one or more inlet opening. The outlet end region may include one or more outlet openings. A pump member may be positioned between the inlet end region and the outlet end region. The pump member may be configured to draw lymphatic fluid into the implantable body through the inlet end region and transfer lymphatic fluid out from the implantable body through the outlet end region. | 04-24-2014 |
| 20140114228 | METHODS AND DEVICES TO CURB APPETITE AND/OR TO REDUCE FOOD INTAKE - The present invention relates to devices and methods of operating the devices that contribute to curbing appetite and/or reducing food intake. In some embodiments, the methods and devices of the present invention include as intestinal/duodenal insert comprising an elongated member with at least one flow reduction element that can cause the stimulation of one or more biological signals of satiety. Some embodiments of the inserted device are anchored at the duodenal site by an anchoring member residing in the stomach, other embodiments of the device are stabilized at a targeted site by appropriate dimensions of length as well as one or more angled portions of the device that correspond to angled portions of the targeted site in the dodenum. Embodiments of the device exert effects by virtue of physical presence, as well as by more active forms of intervention, including release of bioactive materials and electrical stimulation of neurons. | 04-24-2014 |
| 20140114229 | OCULAR IMPLANTS FOR DELIVERY INTO THE EYE - An ocular implant adapted to reside at least partially in a portion of Schlemm's canal of an eye. The implant includes a spine extending along a longitudinal axis of the implant, a plurality of curved supports extending from the spine, each support comprising a first end extending from a first location on a first side of the spine and a second end extending from a second location on a second side of the spine, the second location being proximal to the first location, so that each support forms a portion of a helix, the spine and supports defining a volume having a maximum width perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between 0.005 inches and 0.04 inches, the ocular implant being configured to bend preferentially in a preferential bending plane. | 04-24-2014 |
| 20140114230 | BARIATRIC DEVICE AND METHOD - A bariatric device and method of causing at least partial satiety in a patient, includes positioning a body in a recipient, the body having a wall defining a lumen, the wall configured to generally conform to the shape and size of at least the abdominal portion of the esophagus and the proximal cardiac portion of the stomach. Force is exerted with the wall on the proximal cardiac portion of the stomach in the absence of food thereby activating receptors located in the proximal cardiac portion of the stomach, thereby influencing a neurohormonal feedback mechanism of the patient to cause at least partial satiety by augmenting fullness caused by food and simulating fullness in the absence of food. | 04-24-2014 |
| 20140121582 | TRANSESOPHAGEAL GASTRIC REDUCTION METHOD AND DEVICE FOR PRACTICING SAME - A system and method forms a gastric reduction pouch within a stomach associated with an esophagus. The method includes the steps of delivering, down the esophagus, a substantially planar annular member into the stomach, drawing stomach wall tissue to a juxtaposed relation with the annular member; and securing, to the annular member, the stomach wall tissue juxtaposed to the annular member. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140121583 | Bartholin Gland Drainage Catheter and Methods of Using the Same - A Bartholin gland drainage catheter, a method of using the drainage catheter, and a kit containing a drainage catheter are disclosed. The drainage catheter comprises a shaft having an external diameter, a proximal end and a distal end and a drainage lumen extending between the respective ends. The distal end of the shaft comprises a retention mechanism, such as a Malecot, having a plurality of expandable wings which anchor the catheter within the Bartholin gland. The wings are selectively moveable from a first radially expanded position to a second radially compressed insertion position. The proximal end of the catheter shaft comprises an anchoring element having an external diameter that is greater than the external diameter of the shaft which remains outside of the patient's labial tissue. The catheter is inserted into the gland with the Malecot retained in a compressed configuration, and then subsequently allowed to expand within the gland, thus securing the catheter in place to facilitate drainage and healing of a cystic gland. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140121584 | Delivering Ocular Implants Into the Eye - A method of deploying an ocular implant into Schlemm's canal of an eye. The method includes the steps of inserting a distal end of a cannula through a cornea of the eye and into an anterior chamber of the eye, the cannula having a distal opening extending from the distal end and through a side wall; placing the distal opening of the cannula into fluid communication with Schlemm's canal; advancing the ocular implant distally through the cannula with a delivery tool engaged with the ocular implant, a proximal portion of the ocular implant engaging the delivery tool proximal to a distal portion of the delivery tool; and disengaging the ocular implant and the delivery tool when the proximal portion of the ocular implant reaches the cannula distal opening. The invention also includes a system for practicing the method. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140148751 | PERIPHERAL ARTERIALIZATION DEVICES AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Peripheral arterialization devices and methods of using the same. In an exemplary embodiment of a catheter for facilitating venous arterialization of the present disclosure, the catheter comprises an elongated body extending from a proximal end to a distal end and having a lumen defined therethrough along a longitudinal length of the elongated body, the elongated body configured to attach to a graft at or near the proximal end of the elongated body and further configured to permit fluid to flow through the graft, through the lumen, and out of one or more apertures defined within the elongated body at or near the distal end to facilitate venous arterialization upon at least partial implantation of the catheter into a vein of a patient. | 05-29-2014 |
| 20140155803 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH FLUID OUTFLOW PATHWAYS HAVING MICROPOROUS MEMBRANES - Disclosed are devices, methods and systems for treatment of eye disease such as glaucoma. Implants are described herein that enhance aqueous flow through the normal outflow system of the eye with minimal to no complications. The implant can include reversibly deformable portions that have a plurality of openings layered, covered or otherwise spanned by an elastomeric film or membrane having micropores. The micropores allow for fluid flow out of the implant while inhibit cellular infiltration and blockage of the openings. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140155804 | SURGICAL DEVICES AND KITS - Methods, devices, and kits for creating bloodstream access utilizing a vessel wall traversing device shaped like a blunt-ended nail with a hollow shank and a head of a larger diameter than the shank. The device is inserted in a vessel wall with the shank traversing an opening in the vessel with the blunt end being positioned exterior to the outer surface of the vessel and the head of the device abutting the inner surface of the vessel at the opening. The portion of the shank that projects outwards from the vessel wall is connected to one end of a flexible cannula such that the other end of the cannula can be used to access blood within the vessel. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140155805 | Delivery System for Ocular Implant - A delivery system is disclosed which can be used to deliver an ocular implant into a target location within the eye via an ab interno procedure. In some embodiments, the implant can provide fluid communication between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal or supraciliary space while in an implanted state. The delivery system can include a proximal handle component and a distal delivery component. In addition, the proximal handle component can include an actuator to control the release of the implant from the delivery component into the target location in the eye. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140171852 | TROCAR AND TROCAR-NEEDLE INTEGRATED SYSTEM FOR GLAUCOMA DRAINAGE SURGERY - A trocar comprising a hollow barrel having an open side extending along the hollow barrel, the hollow barrel terminating at a first end with a pointed tip for incision of the trocar through tissue and having a needle connecting part. The open side may extend through the needle connecting part. The needle connecting part may be a collar. The trocar is used in combination with a needle. A method of use of the trocar is disclosed. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140180188 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR BARIATRIC THERAPY - The present invention provides bariatric therapy systems. One system includes a gastrointestinal implant device and a delivery mechanism therefor. The device can include a sleeve for placement into a small intestine and to minimize absorption of nutrients by its walls. An anchoring mechanism coupled to a proximal end of the sleeve and designed to be secured within the stomach can be provided. A passageway extending through the anchoring mechanism and the sleeve can also be provided, along which food can be directed from the stomach to the small intestine. The delivery mechanism can include a housing for accommodating the device, and a deploying balloon situated within the housing and which can be actuated to direct the sleeve of the device from within the housing to the site of implantation. Methods for providing bariatric therapy are also provided by the present invention. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140180189 | INTRAOCULAR SHUNT PLACEMENT - Methods are provided for using an intraocular shunt deployment device to deploy an intraocular shunt from the device and into an eye. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140180190 | IMPLANTABLE AND REMOVABLE CUSTOMIZABLE BODY CONDUIT - An apparatus and method are provided to treat a stenosis. A delivery device is provided that has an elongate tubular member coupled therewith. The elongate tubular member has an outside surface that is configured to prevent adherence of in vivo matter. The tubular member has a proximal end and a distal end and is reinforced along its length to maintain open lumen under a transverse load. The tubular member is placed in the vasculature such that the distal end of the elongate tubular member is disposed distal of a stenosis. The proximal end of the elongate tubular member is disposed inside the vessel, preferably at a location proximal of the stenosis. Thereafter, after a therapeutic period, the elongate tubular member is removed intact. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140180191 | IMPLANTABLE FLOW CONNECTOR - An implantable flow connector for fluidically coupling a source tissue-enclosed body space with a destination element, comprising: a conduit having a lumen terminating at an orifice at a first end of the conduit implantable in the source body space through an opening formed in a tissue wall of the source body space, and a second end of the conduit implantable in the destination element through an opening in a surface of the destination element; and a circumferential flange, radially extending from the conduit proximate the conduit first end, configured to be implanted in the source body space adjacent an opening in the tissue wall of the source body space such that the conduit extends through the opening, the flange comprising one or more circumferentially adjacent sections at least one of which has a rigidity that decreases in a radially-increasing direction. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140180192 | Device for Anchoring an Endoluminal Sleeve in the GI Tract - Endoluminal sleeve device ( | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140188028 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR PERIPHERAL ARTERIOVENOUS FISTULA CREATION - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for the formation of an arteriovenous fistula in the limb of the patient. Embodiments include an apparatus for the creation, modification and maintenance of a fistula, including the modification of an existing dialysis fistula; and a method of supplying oxygenated blood to the venous circulation of a patient. A kit of anastomotic implants is described which supports a broad base of patient anatomies and fistula locations. The devices, systems and methods can be used to treat patients with one or more numerous ailments including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, hypertension, hypotension, respiratory failure, pulmonary arterial hypertension, lung fibrosis and adult respiratory distress syndrome. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140188029 | SYSTEMS AND METHOD FOR BYPASSING AN ANASTOMOSIS SITE - A system for bypassing an anastomosis site in a hollow organ is provided. The system includes a sleeve configured for spanning the anastomosis site at an internal surface of the hollow organ and a band configured for attachment to an external surface of the hollow organ and limiting migration of the sleeve beyond the anastomosis site. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140188030 | Ocular Pressure Regulation - Disclosed are devices and methods of treating an ocular disorder including forming a self-sealing incision in a cornea into an anterior chamber of an eye; introducing through the incision a fluid drainage tube having a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal, internal lumen extending through the fluid drainage tube, wherein at least the proximal end passes through the anterior chamber; and implanting the distal end of the fluid drainage tube in fluid communication with the suprachoroidal space such that the proximal end of the fluid drainage tube remains in fluid communication with the anterior chamber. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140188031 | VASCULAR ACCESS DEVICES, METHODS, AND KITS - Methods, devices, and kits for creating bloodstream access in patients are provided which include or use a vessel wall traversing device which can be shaped like a blunt-ended nail with a hollow shank and a head of a larger diameter than the shank is inserted in the puncture hole blunt end first such that the shank traverses the puncture hole with the blunt end being positioned exterior to the outer surface of the vessel and the head of the device abutting the inner surface of the vessel at the puncture hole. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140194805 | Anti-Obesity Devices - Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the pyloric portion of the gastrointestinal system and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device in the pyloric portion and a flexible sleeve that extents into the duodenum. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140194806 | EXTERNAL ANCHORING CONFIGURATIONS FOR MODULAR GASTROINTESTINAL PROSTHESES - Components may be used separately or in combination to create anchoring systems for intra-luminal implants for the treatment of metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. Various systems include an external component adapted for deployment around a portion of the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., the duodenum) and an internal component adapted for implantation within the gastrointestinal tract. Various systems use anchoring means that are based on mechanical interference, elasticity, spring force, shape memory transformation, magnetic attraction, repulsion and/or levitation. Various embodiments rely on longitudinal anchoring of the implants with minimal force against tissue. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140200501 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SUTURELESSLY CONNECTING A CONDUIT TO A HOLLOW ORGAN - An implantable connector for suturelessly connecting a conduit to a hollow organ, the implantable connector comprising: a hollow expandable stent, wherein the hollow expandable stent comprises an internal skeleton and a blood-retaining membrane covering the internal skeleton, and wherein the hollow expandable stent is constructed so that it is capable of assuming (i) a diametrically-reduced state for insertion into an opening formed in the side wall of the hollow organ in order to create a first interference fit therewith, and (ii) a diametrically-expanded state for expanding against the side wall of the hollow organ in order to create a second, enhanced interference fit therewith. | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140200502 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AFFECTING INTESTINAL MICROBIAL FLORA - Described is a system for affecting intestinal microbial flora. The system includes an intestinal sleeve that is implanted in a patient and bypasses a section of the intestine; and probiotics, prebiotics or pharmacologic therapy used in combination with the intestinal sleeve. Also described are related methods. | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140207043 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SHUNTING FLUID - Systems and methods are provided herein that generally involve shunting fluid, e.g., shunting cerebrospinal fluid in the treatment of hydrocephalus. Self-cleaning catheters are provided which include split tips configured such that pulsatile flow of fluid in a cavity in which the catheter is inserted can cause the tips to strike one another and thereby clear obstructions. Catheters with built-in flow indicators are also provided. Exemplary flow indicators include projections that extend radially inward from the interior surface of the catheter and which include imageable portions (e.g., portions which are visible under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)). Movement of the flow indicators caused by fluid flowing through the catheter can be detected using MRI, thereby providing a reliable indication as to whether the catheter is partially or completely blocked. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140207044 | MINIMALLY-ADVANCING LUMINAL CATHETER - The present invention relates to an implantable catheter ( | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140213958 | SCHLEMM'S CANAL DEVICES AND METHOD FOR IMPROVING FLUID FLOW - This disclosure relates generally to methods and devices for an ocular implant which can be positioned in the Schlemm's canal of a patient's eye for improving fluid flow, such as aqueous fluid, through the eye. The ocular implant can have a variety of shapes and sizes which can allow the ocular implant to be implanted in the Schlemm's canal for applying a force, including a predetermined force, along a part of the Schlemm's canal. The force applied by the ocular implant can change the shape of the Schlemm's canal which can increase the flow volume within and through the Schlemm's canal. | 07-31-2014 |
| 20140221899 | INTRAGASTRIC IMPLANT DEVICES - An intragastric anchor implant device is provided with a substantially rigid member having proximal and distal ends and atraumatic tips or features disposed near the proximal and distal ends. The atraumatic features prevent damage to the tissues of the stomach and the gastrointestinal track and may help to anchor the device in the stomach, while the substantially rigid member resists bending so as to engage a tissue of the stomach or the gastrointestinal tract to prevent passage through the stomach. The anchor implant device is coupled with a therapeutic device, typically a sleeve, such as an intestinal bypass sleeve. Ideally, the device includes a sliding seal to direct a flow of food particles from the stomach through the sleeve, so as to be useful in treating a disorder, including obesity and diabetes. Methods of deploying the anchor implant devices are also disclosed. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140221900 | GASTRIC BYPASS DEVICES AND PROCEDURES - Methods and devices for treating obesity are provided, and more particularly, methods and devices for performing gastric bypasses are disclosed. In one exemplary embodiment a gastric bypass procedure is provided that includes forming a gastro-entero anastomosis between a stomach and an intestine and forming an entero-entero anastomosis between a portion of the intestine distal to the gastro-entero anastomosis and a portion of the intestine proximal to the gastro-entero anastomosis. A surrogate path is formed between the esophagus and the gastro-entero anastomosis to at least partially direct fluid from the esophagus to the intestine by way of the gastro-entero anastomosis, thereby bypassing the stomach. A variety of devices that are particularly useful in gastric bypass procedures are also disclosed. The devices include anastomotic devices that can be coupled to or integrally formed with a shunt. The devices can include a plurality of tubular bodies that are configured to have an adjustable length. Still further, methods for repairing an abdominal aortic aneurysm and leaking heart valve are also disclosed. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140236064 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR FORMING AN ANASTOMOSIS - Devices and methods for deploying an anastomotic stent between portions of the gastro-intestinal (GI) tract are disclosed. The anastomotic stents are configured to atraumatically engage the tissue walls and to permit the flow of fluid, partially digested food, and food. The stents can be deployed using endoscopic catheter devices, laparoscopic tools, and combinations of both endoscopic tools and laparoscopic tools. Examples of anastomoses include anastomoses between the stomach and a portion of the intestines such as the jejunum. Anastomoses can also be formed between two closed ends of the intestines, such as two closed ends of the colon formed during a colon resection procedure. Anastomoses can also be formed between a fundal pouch formed during a gastric bypass procedure and the jejunum. Laparoscopic tools are disclosed to deploy a stent by selectively removing a radial restraint on a self expanding stent with the restraint removed through the laparoscopic access points. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140236065 | INTRAOCULAR SHUNT DEPLOYMENT DEVICE - An intraocular shunt deployment device can release an intraocular shunt into an eye using a deployment mechanism that coordinates action between a pusher component, a shaft component, and a housing of the device. The deployment mechanism causes axial movement of the components in response to a rotational input force. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140243729 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REDUCING INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE OF AN EYE - A method and shunt device for treating glaucoma includes positioning a first end portion of a tube body into the retrobulbar space of an eye. The method also includes positioning a second end portion of the tube body into the anterior chamber of the eye. The tube body provides fluid passage for aqueous humor such that the aqueous humor flows from the first end portion into the retrobulbar space. A surgical kit for reducing the intraocular pressure in the eye includes the shunt device, an introducer, and a stylet. The introducer has a distal end for positioning in the retrobulbar space and a proximal end for positioning exterior of the eye. The introducer has a radius of curvature adapted to circumvent the eye for insertion into the retrobulbar space. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140243730 | INTRAOCULAR SHUNT IMPLANTATION METHODS AND DEVICES - The present invention generally relates to devices and methods of implanting an intraocular shunt into an eye. In certain aspects, methods of the invention involve creating an opening in the sclera, and positioning a shunt in the anterior chamber of the eye such that the shunt terminates via the opening in the intra-scleral space, thereby facilitating fluid flow through both the opening and the intra-scleral space. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140249463 | OCULAR IMPLANT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method of treating glaucoma in a human eye by inserting a distal exit port of a cannula at least partially into Schlemm's canal of the eye; delivering a dye through the cannula into Schlemm's canal; identifying obstructions within Schlemm's canal; and delivering an ocular implant through the cannula into Schlemm's canal. | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140249464 | ANTI-REFLUX OR ANTI-OBESITY PROSTHESIS - A prosthesis ( | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140257164 | TISSUE INGROWTH INTESTINAL BYPASS SLEEVE AND METHOD OF DEPLOYMENT - A device and method for deploying an intestinal sleeve is disclosed. The intestinal sleeve has an impermeable layer and a tissue ingrowth layer. The intestinal sleeve is temporarily anchored to the wall of a patient's duodenum and the wall tissue grows into the tissue ingrowth layer anchoring the intestinal sleeve within the patient's duodenum. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140257165 | DEVICE FOR PREVENTION OF SHUNT STENOSIS - A method and a kit for the prevention of venous stenosis associated with the use of hemodialysis AV shunts. The kit may use a bifurcated needle for providing access to the shunt or blood vessel. One of the arms is used for returning the blood to the subject after dialysis treatment, while the other arm is used for inserting a device for cleaning the vein, the device being either an autonomous crawling device, or a passive tethered device moved down the vein by the blood flow. The autonomous crawling device may be a series of sequentially inflatable chambers, the stenosis being cleared by pressure from the outer walls of the chambers when inflated and moved. The passive device may be an element having a flexible disc-like structure, whose flexible peripheral edge slides along the inner walls of the blood vessel, compressing or clearing the material attached thereto. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140276328 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TREATMENT OF ETHMOID SINUSITIS - Fluid communication may be improved for an ethmoid sinus by installing a port or wick in the wall of the ethmoid sinus to provide a fluid passageway across the wall of the ethmoid sinus. Fluid communication for an ethmoid sinus may also be improved by inflating a balloon in a retrobullar space, remodeling the posterior wall of the ethmoid bulla to expand the transition area in the retrobullar space. In addition, a wall defining the retrobullar space may be pierced to provide a passageway for fluid communication. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276329 | TRANS-SCLERA PORTAL FOR DELIVERY OF THERAPEUTIC AGENTS - A portal through the sclera for delivery of an effective amount of therapeutic agent to the back of the eye. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276330 | HIGH POROSITY CELLULOSIC SPONGE - The present invention provides compositions, devices, and methods for affecting, among other things, weight loss and/or weight control, by sequestering nutrients or other compounds such as toxins from absorption in the digestive tract. The compositions, devices, and methods employ one or more members made of a compressible, absorbent matrix material. In various embodiments, the matrix material is suitable for routine use. The compressible absorbent matrix material has a size, shape and/or geometry configured for efficient packing into a small space, and/or configured to absorb and substantially retain digested material in the stomach. The devices and compositions may further comprise one or more hydrogel(s), soluble or insoluble fibers, waxes, and/or gums to provide the desired mechanical properties and/or absorptive or shielding properties. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276331 | AORTIC CANNULA WITH DE-AIR FUNCTION - An aortic cannula comprises a main body portion and a distal end portion. A lumen extends through the main body portion and the distal end portion to allow fluid communication between the main body portion and the distal end portion. The distal end portion has an inner wall and an outer wall. There is a passageway disposed between the inner wall and the outer wall of the distal end portion. The passageway has an inlet and an outlet, and the passageway is fluid communication with a surrounding environment. There may be a stop ring disposed about the distal end portion between the inlet of the passageway and outlet of the passageway. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276332 | GLAUCOMA STENT AND METHODS THEREOF FOR GLAUCOMA TREATMENT - The invention relates generally to medical devices and methods for reducing the intraocular pressure in an animal eye and, more particularly, to stent type devices for permitting aqueous outflow from the eye's anterior chamber and associated methods thereof for the treatment of glaucoma. Some aspects provide a self-trephining glaucoma stent and methods thereof which advantageously allow for a “one-step” procedure in which the incision and placement of the stent are accomplished by a single device and operation. This desirably allows for a faster, safer, and less expensive surgical procedure. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276333 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - A gastrointestinal bypass device for directing food and liquids from an esophagus and/or a proximal portion of a stomach into an intestines is described. The device comprises a receiver, a sleeve, and a device coupling. The receiver may be configured to be positioned in the esophagus and/or the stomach. A proximal portion of the receiver may be configured to open and close to at least partially conform to an inside of the esophagus and/or a proximal portion of the stomach. The receiver may be configured to receive food and liquids from the esophagus and/or a proximal portion of the stomach into a lumen of the receiver. The sleeve may be coupled to a distal portion of the receiver. The sleeve may be configured to be positioned in the stomach and the intestines. The sleeve may have a lumen in communication with the lumen of the receiver. The sleeve may be configured to direct the food and the liquids from the receiver into the intestines. The device coupling may be coupled to the distal portion of the receiver and/or a proximal portion of the sleeve. The device coupling may be configured to be coupled to one or more tissue anchors. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276334 | FLUID DRAIN TUBE WITH CONNECTOR - A device for signaling the imminent removal of a tube from an opening in a patient's skin. The device includes a tube attachment mechanism that is configured to be temporarily secured to a tube, a tether having a proximal end and a distal end, and a patient attachment mechanism attached to the distal end of the tether. The proximal end of the tether is secured to the tube attachment mechanism. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276335 | FISTULA FORMULATION DEVICES AND METHODS THEREFOR - Described here are devices, systems, and methods for forming a fistula between two blood vessels. Generally, the systems may comprise a first catheter and a second catheter, which may comprise one or more fistula-forming elements. The first and second catheters may comprise one or more magnetic elements, which may be used to assist in bringing the first and catheters in closer proximity to facilitate fistula formation. In some variations, the magnetic elements may have magnetization patterns such that the flux generated by the magnetic elements is locally concentrated. In some instances, the system may comprise a magnetic control device, which may comprise a magnet, and may be used to increase or create an attractive force between the first and second catheters. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276336 | Intragastric Device for Treating Obesity - A gastrointestinal device for treating obesity includes a three-dimensional porous structure configurable between a compressed pre-deployment configuration to facilitate delivery and an expanded post-deployment configuration. The porous structure includes a first opening at its proximal end and a larger second opening at its distal end. The porous structure also includes a sleeve coupled to its distal end. Optionally, the device further includes a suture at the proximal end of the wire mesh structure to facilitate retrieval and an anti-migration component positioned at the junction of the porous structure with the sleeve. The porous structure is deployed in a patient's stomach such that the anti-migration component sits proximal to the patient's pylorus and prevents migration of the entirety of the device into and through the pylorus. The sleeve extends through the pylorus, into the duodenum and ends in the duodenum or jejunum. Food enters the device from the first opening at the proximal end of the porous structure, passes through the porous structure and sleeve, and exits at the distal end of the sleeve. The device treats obesity by providing a relatively immovable volume occupying structure in the stomach and a bypass for food past the pylorus and proximal portion of the small intestine. Optionally, the device further acts to slow the passage of food through the digestive tract. Patients with the device experience satiety more quickly and have a prolonged sensation of satiety. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276337 | Implantable Devices with Delivery Systems and Methods for Blocking Digestive Neurohormonal Pathways in Mammals - Described herein are implantable devices, delivery systems and surgical methods for creating a barrier that may be deployed into a digestive system organ to block the biochemical and/or neurohormonal systems thereby providing therapeutic benefit ideally treating diabetes mellitus and obesity. The device for creating a barrier in the digestive system organ may include a wall or conduit whether impermeable or porous at varying degrees. Method of surgical delivery for the device described herein may be conducted through open, laparoscopic, minimally invasive, or endoscopic means. The device may be temporarily secured on a novel delivery system enabling the methods described. The device may be secured to the digestive organ allowing natural biomechanical motion (peristaltic motion) of the digestive system without untoward effects. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276338 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GASTRIC RESTRICTION AND MALABSORPTION - The present disclosure relates generally to prosthetic devices for use in restricting food and caloric intake into the stomach and of absorption of the food components in the stomach and small intestine. The system includes an elongated bariatric sleeve having a normally superior or upper proximal end and a normally inferior or lower distal end. An elongated lumen support member is positioned within the first lumen in contacting relation with the first membrane for maintaining the first lumen in an open position. A proximal anchor ring with a central aperture and a catheter channel is connected to the proximal end of the sleeve to the collar member. The anchor is inflatable or expandable memory material for anchoring the sleeve in superior relation to a pyloric valve of the patient's stomach. An anchor weight is connected to the distal end of the first flexible tube. The device further includes a tether or a delivery catheter connected to a gastric port to aide in minimizing movement of the device and the device for delivery of nutritional and pharmaceutical compositions through the gastric opening and into the second lumen where they may be absorbed by the proximal duodenum and jejunum of the small intestine. The system can also include an intragastric displacement balloon. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140288479 | OCCLUSION RESISTANT CATHETER AND METHOD OF USE - An implantable occlusion and tissue ingrowth resistant fluid interface is provided with a housing, an orifice and a catheter port. The housing is formed from at least one biocompatible material and is configured without sharp edges or corners. The housing at least partially defines an internal housing cavity. The orifice member at least partially defines an orifice between the internal housing cavity and an exterior of the housing. The orifice has an elongated transverse cross-section configured with a length that is at least four times its maximum width. The catheter port is located on the housing and is configured to couple with a catheter such that the internal housing cavity is in fluid communication with a lumen of the catheter when the catheter is coupled to the catheter port. Embodiments having a moving cylinder, a rotor, and non-chemical surface modifications, as well as methods of use are also disclosed. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140288480 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR INCREASING FLOW THROUGH THE LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE - Methods and devices for increasing flow in the left atrial appendage (LAA) include a conduit directing blood flow from a pulmonary artery into the LAA and/or a conduit drawing blood from the LAA by a Bernoulli effect. In one embodiment, a method comprises implanting a conduit in a pulmonary vein, expanding an inlet portion such that the conduit becomes anchored within the vein and directs blood through an outlet portion of the conduit into or toward the left atrial appendage. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140296767 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO INCREASE THE OVERALL DIAMETER OF VEINS AND ARTERIES - A system and method for increasing the speed of blood and the wall shear stress in a peripheral artery or peripheral vein to a sufficient level and for a sufficient period of time to result in a persistent increase in the overall diameter and lumen diameter of the artery or vein is provided. The method includes systems and methods to effect the movement of blood at the desired rate and in the desired direction. The movement of blood is monitored and adjusted, as necessary, to maintain the desired blood speed and wall shear stress in the peripheral artery or vein in order to optimize the rate and extent of persistent diameter increase of the peripheral artery or peripheral vein. | 10-02-2014 |
| 20140296768 | REMOVAL AND REPOSITIONING DEVICES - A gastrointestinal implant device includes a flexible, floppy sleeve, open at both ends, that extends into the duodenum. The device further includes a collapsible anchor coupled to the proximal portion of the sleeve. The device further includes a drawstring that is threaded through a proximal end of the anchor, and barbs that extend from the exterior surface of the anchor. The collapsible anchor can be a wave anchor. The drawstring can be used to collapse at least a proximal portion of the implant device. This is useful in removing or repositioning the implant device. | 10-02-2014 |
| 20140303543 | INTESTINAL SLEEVE - A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the duodenum and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for attaching the device to the duodenum and an unsupported flexible sleeve. The anchor can include a stent and/or a wave anchor and is collapsible for catheter-based delivery and removal. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140309576 | GASTROINTESTINAL PROSTHESES HAVING PARTIAL BYPASS CONFIGURATIONS - A system of components may be used separately or in combination to create partial bypass of food, stomach and intestinal secretions and digestive enzymes. The systems are designed to be modular so as to allow the physicians to quickly replace certain elements to tailor the amount of material bypassed, the restriction applied to food passage, and the origin and destination of bypass according to the patient's individualized clinical needs. | 10-16-2014 |
| 20140323944 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DELIVERING OCULAR IMPLANTS INTO THE EYE - A method of deploying an ocular implant into Schlemm's canal of a human eye including the following steps: inserting a distal tip of a delivery tool within an anterior chamber of the eye through trabecular meshwork of the eye into Schlemm's canal of the eye; and advancing an ocular implant through a curved portion and a distal opening of the delivery tool to place a body portion of the ocular implant in Schlemm's canal and an inlet portion of the ocular implant in the anterior chamber. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140323945 | Device for Treatment of Glaucoma and Prevention of Sub-Scleral Fibrosis and Blockage - A device for treatment of glaucoma and prevention of sub-scleral fibrosis and blockage. This invention relates to a device for treatment of glaucoma comprising of a circular patch ( | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140330194 | DRUG DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHOD - Many people need vascular access for procedures such as hemodialysis. It is desirable that this access remain open or patent for the entire duration of the course of treatments. A drug delivery device and methods of using the device are introduced that delivery drug to venous anastomosis of a synthetic vascular access shunt. In some embodiments this device serves as the shunt connecting the target artery and vein to create the vascular access shunt. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140343475 | FLUID INFUSION METHODS FOR OCULAR DISORDER TREATMENT - Methods of treating ocular disorders are disclosed, such as a method that includes inserting an implant in eye tissue, using a delivery instrument, such that an inlet portion of the implant is in an anterior chamber of an eye and an outlet portion of the implant is in a physiological outflow pathway; removing the delivery instrument from the eye without removing the implant; and conducting fluid comprising a therapeutic substance through the implant and into the physiological outflow pathway. Another method includes inserting an instrument into a physiologic outflow pathway through which aqueous humor drains from an anterior chamber of an eye; separating first and second walls of tissues which comprise the physiologic outflow pathway by injecting a fluid comprising a drug from the instrument while the instrument remains in the physiologic outflow pathway; and withdrawing the instrument following the injection with said fluid remaining within the eye such that the drug has a therapeutic effect on the eye. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140343476 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH INTRAOCULAR FLUID PRESSURE REGULATION - An ocular implant comprising a shunt and a fluid absorbing conduit for reducing intraocular pressure, and optionally comprising a biodegradable ring. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140358062 | Intraluminal Sleeve with Stimulation Electrode - An intraluminal sleeve system is provided, which generally includes an intraluminal sleeve capable of dispensing an active agent to a patient, for example, a metabolic agent or satiety inducing agent. The intraluminal sleeve may be structured to contain the active agent and permit controlled release of the active agent to the patient while the intraluminal sleeve is positioned within the patient's intestine. Methods for treating obesity are also provided which include positioning an intraluminal sleeve in a patient's intestine, the intraluminal sleeve being capable of dispensing an active agent to the patient. In one embodiment, the active agent may be contained in a reservoir and dispensed to a portion of the patient's body. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140358063 | Anchors with Biodegradable Constraints - An implant includes a collapsible anchor to be deployed within a lumen and a protrusion coupled to the anchor. The protrusion, in a constrained state, extends a distance from an exterior surface of the anchor and, in an unconstrained state, extends further from the exterior surface of the anchor. Also included is a biodegradable constraint, such as a biodegradable tube or suture, configured to maintain the protrusion in the constrained state until the constraint releases. The implant may include additional biodegradable constraints, each constraint configured to maintain the protrusion in a different constrained state and to degrade over a different predetermined period after the implant has been deployed within the lumen. The protrusion may include a bi-directional barb or an open loop. The protrusion may be configured to penetrate a wall of the lumen and to allow tissue to grow about the protrusion. The implant may also include an unsupported, thin-walled sleeve coupled to the anchor and configured to extend into the lumen upon deployment of the collapsible anchor. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140358064 | ARTERIOVENOUS FISTULA - A covered radially-expansible stent, capable of being advanced along a bodily lumen, and capable of performing as an arteriovenous shunt, and with a covering that stops short of one end of the stent at a line that slants to the longitudinal axis of the stent at an angle intermediate between 0° and 90°. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140358065 | METHODS FOR TOPOSCOPIC SLEEVE DELIVERY - Disclosed herein are elongate flexible medical devices which are capable of axial elongation through the mechanism of eversion or toposcopic expansion. In general, this may be accomplished by providing a flexible tubular device having a proximal end and a distal end. Retraction of the distal end in a proximal direction through the tubular body inverts the tube upon itself, causing an axial shortening of the overall length of the device. The original length of the device can be restored by coupling a pressurized media to the proximal end of the sleeve. If the distal end of the sleeve is temporarily restricted or closed, the pressurized media causes the distal end of the sleeve to travel distally until the full length of the sleeve has been restored. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140364789 | Flow Promoting Ocular Implant Device And Methods - Disclosed are devices and methods for treatment of eye disease such as glaucoma. Implants are described herein that create a flow field, such as between the anterior chamber and either the supraciliary space or suprachoroidal space. In addition, the implant can be treated with one or more treatments, including plasma treatments, for creating a variety of surface features and characteristics. Some of the surface features and characteristics can assist in controlling tissue responses to the implanted implant, including promoting or preventing tissue proliferation. | 12-11-2014 |
| 20140364790 | LACRIMAL DUCT TUBE - A lacrimal duct tube ( | 12-11-2014 |
| 20140364791 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE TREATMENT OF GLAUCOMA - The invention relates to a method and a device for treatment of glaucoma, wherein by means of an elongated catheter provided with a distal portion and a proximal portion, a tube-shaped implant is inserted and released in a Schlemm's canal with two opposite openings exposed by an incision and a folded up scleral flap. In a first phase, the distal portion inserted into the Schlemm's canal through the first opening, while a fluid or gaseous medium is injected at the same time, and exited through the second opening, which is, in circumferential direction, oppositely located. The implant detachably disposed at the protruding distal portion and, in a second phase, inserted, in circumferential direction, into the expanded Schlemm's canal up to the first opening. Subsequently, the distal portion, which protrudes from the first opening, is detached from the implant and, together with the catheter, removed. | 12-11-2014 |
| 20140364792 | GASTRO-ESOPHAGEAL IMPLANTS - A satiation device is described which includes a sheath or liner extending from the proximal or middle stomach to the distal antrum. Food ingested by the patient passes through the sheath or liner, thereby minimizing contact between the ingested food and the stomach. It is believed that over time, reduced contact between food and the stomach will result in decreased Ghrelin production by the patient and a consequent decrease in appetite. In some embodiments, the satiation device may also include a proximal pouch and/or a distal bypass tube. | 12-11-2014 |
| 20140371651 | Inserter for Tubular Medical Implant Devices - An inserter is provided for inserting a tubular medical implant device into tissue. The inserter includes a rigid rod extending along a longitudinal axis. The rod has a distal portion that defines an open slot. The open slot extends diametrically through the rod along the longitudinal axis to a base. The open slot is configured to receive and release the tubular medical implant device. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140371652 | DIGESTIVE TRACT DEVICE - A digestive tract device is configured to reduce the burden on a living body associated with the adjustment of the length of a tubular portion retained inside the living body and simplify a retention operation after introducing the digestive tract device into the living body. The digestive tract device includes a tubular portion provided with a main body having a through hole extending in the longitudinal direction and a tip opening continuous with the through hole and a folded-back portion formed by folding back the main body in the longitudinal direction, a holding unit which holds the folded-back portion in a folded-back state with the tip opening open, and a retention unit which is provided on the base end side of the tubular portion and retains the tubular portion inside a living body. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140378884 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR ANCHORING IN THE STOMACH AND THE DUODENUM - A suprapyloric anchor assembly includes an antral cap having at least three stabilizing members configured to reside in an antrum and engage tissue circumscribing a pyloric valve. A duodenal member is configured to reside at least partially in a duodenal bulb, and one or more tethers connect the antral cap to the duodenal member. The tether(s) is/are configured to allow passage of stomach contents through the pyloric valve. Optionally, one or more gastric balloon(s) may attached to the suprapyloric anchor and be inflated with the gastric cavity. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20140378885 | INTESTINAL DEVICES AND METHODS FOR FACILITATING WEIGHT LOSS - Intestinal devices and methods for facilitating weight loss. In at least one embodiment of a method of patient treatment of the present disclosure, the method comprises the step of positioning a device, that is configured to reduce or limit localized intestinal distension, around a portion of an intestine of a patient. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20140378886 | Glaucoma Treatment Device - Methods and devices are adapted for implanting into the eye. An incision is formed in the cornea of the eye and a shunt is inserted through the incision into the anterior chamber of the eye. The shunt includes a fluid passageway. The shunt is passed along a pathway from the anterior chamber through the scleral spur of the eye into the suprachoroidal space and positioned in a first position such that a first portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the anterior chamber and a second portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the suprachoroidal space to provide a fluid passageway between the suprachoroidal space and the anterior chamber. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20150011925 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR TEMPORARY EMERGENCY VESSEL ANASTOMOSES - A device and method for achieving hemostasis and leakage control in vascular structures and other body ducts or vessels in an emergency room or trauma situation. The device has at least one shunt that contains an obturator on an end of the shunt. The shunt is inserted into a damaged vessel or lumen for sealing the leak or hemorrhage. Two shunts that both contain obturators on one of their ends can be inserted into two different vessels or lumens when the vessel or lumen has been severed. The obturators allow for the improved ease of insertion into the vessel or lumen. The two shunts are then releasably attached to restore fluid communication through the vessel or lumen. The shunt is placed temporarily within the patient and then removed when definitive repair can be achieved by a qualified physician. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150011926 | INTRAOCULAR DEVICES - Glaucoma can be treated by implanting an intraocular shunt into the eye. Such procedures can employ various deployment devices, shunts, and implantation techniques. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150018745 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS - Devices and methods for gastrointestinal bypass are described. A gastrointestinal bypass device includes a gastrointestinal cuff and a gastrointestinal sleeve. The cuff may be configured to be attached in the esophagus, and may be sufficiently flexible to expand and collapse to conform with the inside of the esophagus to allow the esophagus to function substantially normally. The sleeve is configured to be coupled to the cuff, and may be made of a material that is floppy or flaccid but does not substantially expand radially. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150018746 | DEVICE FOR USE IN GLAUCOMA SURGERY - The invention relates to a device for use in glaucoma surgery intended for implantation in the eye. The device comprises a flat head region ( | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150025437 | VASCULAR ACCESS SYSTEM WITH CONNECTOR - A connector for fluidly coupling proximal and distal tubular segments of a fluid conduit is provided. In one embodiment, a system is provided for providing continuous flow of blood between two locations in a patient's cardiovascular system. A first blood conduit is provided that has a distal portion and a proximal portion. The distal portion is adapted to be inserted into a blood vessel at an insertion site and to be advanced therethrough to a location spaced apart from the insertion site. The system is provided with a connector that has a distal portion adapted to be engaged with the proximal portion of the first blood conduit and a tubular body extending proximally of the distal portion. The tubular body is adapted to be inserted into and/or attached to an end of a second blood conduit, such as a vascular graft or the like. | 01-22-2015 |
| 20150038893 | SYSTEM FOR DELIVERING MULTIPLE OCULAR IMPLANTS - Systems and methods for delivering multiple ocular implants to reduce intraocular pressure are disclosed. The ocular implants can be implanted at multiple sites within a single human eye without requiring removal of the delivery apparatus from the eye. A system for delivering multiple ocular implants can include at least two implants preloaded within a delivery device and configured to be implanted within the eye, a metering device configured to transfer energy to the implants for delivery at selected locations within the eye, wherein the metering device is configured to meter a variable amount of energy for each implant delivery event in the eye. The system can further include an injector mechanism configured to serially engage and drive each of the implants. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150045714 | INTRASCLERAL SHUNT PLACEMENT - Glaucoma can be treated by implanting an intraocular shunt into an eye. The eye has an anterior chamber and sclera. A shunt can be placed into the eye to establish fluid communication between the anterior chamber of the eye and a space between layers of the sclera. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150045715 | SYSTEMS AND METHOD FOR BYPASSING AN ANASTOMOSIS SITE - A system for bypassing an anastomosis site in a hollow organ is provided. The system includes a sleeve configured for spanning the anastomosis site at an internal surface of the hollow organ and a band configured for attachment to an external surface of the hollow organ and limiting migration of the sleeve beyond the anastomosis site. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150051532 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A FLUID CARRYING CONDUIT OF A VASCULAR ACCESS SYSTEM - Systems and methods for a blood conduit for fluidly coupling a first vascular segment to a second vascular segment are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a system for fluidly coupling proximal and distal tubular segments of a fluid conduit in a cardiovascular system is provided. The system may include a first engagement feature disposed on a distal end of the proximal tubular segment. The system also may include a second engagement feature disposed on a proximal end of the distal tubular segment. The first engagement feature may be configured to mate with the second engagement feature. In this manner, continuous flow may be provided between the proximal and distal tubular segments of the fluid conduit. In another embodiment, the proximal and distal tubular segments of the fluid conduit may collectively form a single unitary lumen without a connection device interposed between the segments. | 02-19-2015 |
| 20150057590 | DISSOLVABLE ON-COMMAND IMPLANT - The purpose of the “Dissolvable on-command Implant” is to act as a pressure equalizer tube in the eardrum, which has the unique characteristic that the tube can be dissolved with a specially formulated drop solution on-command. This tube can have various shapes and sizes, although the tube is usually a cylindrical tube with a hollow center, which maintains a ventilatory port for the middle ear space. With this design, the ear tube promotes drainage of middle ear fluid, lets air enter the middle ear, and allows for instillation of antibiotic drops. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150057591 | METHODS FOR INTRAOCULAR SHUNT PLACEMENT - Intraocular pressure can be reduced by insertion of an intraocular shunt in the eye such that it forms a drainage pathway between the anterior chamber and a region of lower pressure. A hollow shaft can be advanced through the anterior chamber with the hollow shaft (a) having a beveled tip at a distal end of the hollow shaft and (b) holding an intraocular shunt with a proximal end of the shunt within the hollow shaft. The sclera can be penetrated with the hollow shaft. A beveled surface of the beveled tip can be oriented such that the beveled surface faces toward the Tenon's capsule when the beveled tip passes out of the sclera. After the beveled tip passes out of the sclera, at least a portion of the shunt can be advanced from the hollow shaft. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150065938 | ENDOSCOPIC TRANSORAL DUODENAL SLEEVE APPLIER - A duodenal sleeve assembly comprises a sleeve, an expandable sealing member, a tether, and an expandable anchor. The sleeve is secured to the sealing member. The tether couples the anchor with the sealing member. A deployment instrument comprises a shaft assembly, a first retention member, and a second retention member. The first retention member selectively secures the sealing member to the shaft assembly. The second retention member selectively secures the anchor to the shaft assembly. When the first retention member is released, the sealing member expands outwardly to seal the proximal end of the sleeve against the mucosa of the patient's duodenum. When the second retention member is released, the anchor expands outwardly within the stomach to anchor the sleeve assembly relative to the stomach. The tether traverses the pylorus. The sleeve isolates chyme from enzymes in the duodenum; and the mucosa of the duodenum from nutrients in the chyme. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150065939 | CONFORMING ANCHOR FOR DUODENAL BARRIER - An apparatus comprises a sleeve, a seal, and an anchor assembly. The sleeve is flexible and non-permeable and is configured to fit in a duodenum. The seal is positioned at the proximal end of the sleeve and is configured to seal the proximal end of the sleeve against the stomach mucosa, the pylorus, or the duodenum mucosa. The anchor assembly comprises a pair of atraumatic anchor ends and a resilient member positioned between the anchor ends. At least a portion of the resilient member extends along at least a portion of the length of the sleeve. The resilient member is configured to bias the anchor ends generally toward each other, to thereby substantially anchor the sleeve in the duodenum. The sleeve is configured to prevent chyme from contacting the mucosa of the duodenum; and to prevent enzymes excreted in the duodenum from mixing with chyme in the duodenum. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150065940 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING AN OCULAR IMPLANT TO THE SUPRACHOROIDAL SPACE WITHIN AN EYE - Delivery devices, systems and methods are provided for inserting an implant into an eye. The delivery or inserter devices or systems can be used to dispose or implant an ocular stent or implant, such as a shunt, in communication with the suprachoroidal space, uveal scleral outflow pathway, uveoscleral outflow path or supraciliary space of the eye. The implant can drain fluid from an anterior chamber of the eye to a physiologic outflow path of the eye, such as, the suprachoroidal space, uveal scleral outflow pathway, uveoscleral outflow path or supraciliary space. Alternatively, or in addition, the implant can elute a drug or therapeutic agent. The delivery or inserter devices or systems can be used in conjunction with other ocular surgery, for example, but not limited to, cataract surgery through a preformed corneal incision, or independently with the inserter configured to make a corneal incision. The implant can be preloaded with or within the inserter to advantageously provide a sterile package for use by the surgeon, doctor or operator. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150065941 | IMPLANTATION TOOLS, TOOL ASSEMBLIES, KITS AND METHODS - An implant device to provide an artificial fluid path in fluid communication with the lacrimal apparatus is implanted through a fistula opening into the lacrimal apparatus using a working member disposed through the implant device and a break-away sheath. Implantation kits and tool assemblies including the working member, implant device and break-away sheath facilitate implantation of the implant device. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150073328 | OCULAR DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Described here are systems and methods for accessing Schlemm's canal and for delivering an ocular device or fluid composition therein. The ocular devices may maintain the patency of Schlemm's canal without substantially interfering with transmural fluid flow across the canal. The fluid composition may be a viscoelastic fluid that is delivered into the canal to facilitate drainage of aqueous humor by disrupting the canal and surrounding trabeculocanalicular tissues. Tools for disrupting these tissues and minimally invasive methods for treating medical conditions associated with elevated intraocular pressure, including glaucoma, are also described. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150080783 | Delivery System and Method of Use for the Eye - A method and delivery system are disclosed for creating an aqueous flow pathway in the trabecular meshwork, juxtacanalicular trabecular meshwork and Schlemm's canal of an eye for reducing elevated intraocular pressure. Pulsed laser radiation is delivered from the distal end of a fiber-optic probe sufficient to cause photoablation of selected portions of the trabecular meshwork, the juxtacanalicular trabecular meshwork and an inner wall of Schlemm's canal in the target site. The fiber-optic probe may be advanced so as to create an aperture in the inner wall of Schlemm's canal in which fluid from the anterior chamber of the eye flows. The method and delivery system may further be used on any tissue types in the body. | 03-19-2015 |
| 20150088048 | INTRAGASTIC IMPLANT DEVICES - An intragastric implant comprises an anchor and a therapeutic device or a diagnostic device. The anchor is adapted to extend between the fundus and the pyloric valve of a stomach, to be retained without attachment to the stomach wall, and to anchor the device within the stomach with a relatively stable position and orientation. The therapeutic or diagnostic device is adapted to extend from the esophagus or stomach to the intestines or stomach. The therapeutic or diagnostic device, when extending into the esophagus, will be slidably received through the gastroesophageal junction and, when extending into the intestines, will be slidably received in the pyloric valve. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150094641 | ANTIPROLIFERATIVE SURFACE MODIFICATIONS AND METHODS OF USE - This invention is in the field of medicinal intervention. The present invention relates to a device constructed from metals, polymers or other materials that are amenable to precise surface modifications and coupling with erodible agents methods for its use, wherein (1) the erodible agents, which contain active ingredients (medications), provide for acute control of cellular proliferation and (2) a pattered surface having milli, micron, and/or nano-sized micro-patterning characteristics imparts anti-proliferative properties over the long-term. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150094642 | SINUS WALL IMPLANT - An apparatus comprises an absorbent body, a non-permeable feature, and a port feature. The absorbent body comprises a wicking feature. The non-permeable feature is coupled with the absorbent body. The non-permeable feature and at least a portion of the absorbent body are configured to fit in an opening in a paranasal sinus wall. The port feature extends through the absorbent body. The port feature defines a lumen. The wicking feature extends outwardly relative to the port lumen. During installation of the apparatus, the non-permeable feature is positioned in an opening in the paranasal sinus wall. The absorbent body is oriented such that the wicking feature is in contact with mucosal tissue in a sinus cavity defined by the paranasal sinus wall. A proximal portion of the absorbent body is positioned outside the paranasal sinus wall. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150100010 | GLAUCOMA DRAINAGE SHUNTS AND METHODS USE - A method of treating glaucoma in an eye utilizing an implanted shunt having an elastomeric plate and a non-valved elastomeric drainage tube. The plate is positioned over a sclera of the eye with an outflow end of the elastomeric drainage tube open to an outer surface of the plate. An inflow end of the drainage tube tunnels through the sclera and cornea to the anterior chamber of the eye. The drainage tube collapses upon initial insertion within an incision in the sclera and cornea, or at a kink on the outside of the incision, but has sufficient resiliency to restore its patency over time. The effect is a flow restrictor that regulates outflow from the eye until a scar tissue bleb forms around the plate of the shunt. The plate desirably has a peripheral ridge and a large number of fenestrations, and a longer suturing tab extending from one side of the plate to enhance visibility and accessibility when suturing the shunt to the sclera. | 04-09-2015 |
| 20150112240 | DAILYSIS DEVICE - According to one embodiment, a dialysis device is made available that can be implanted at least partially into the body of a patient and comprises a blood chamber, through which the patient's blood can flow, a dialysis chamber for receiving a dialysate, and a hydraulic pump device for compressing the two chambers alternately by means of a hydraulic fluid, wherein both chambers are each equipped with two valves for controlling the inflow and outflow of blood and dialysate, respectively, and wherein both chambers are connected to each other in an area designed as a membrane, | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150112241 | Methods of Treatment Using a Bariatric Sleeve - Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the stomach and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device to the stomach and a flexible sleeve to limit absorption of nutrients in the duodenum. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150112242 | SHEATH - The present application includes a sheath that is suitable for use in a variety of medical procedures. In one or more implementations, the sheath includes a shunt member, and a curvable portion. The curvable portion may be configured in various orientations to facilitate an intervention, such as a hemodialysis intervention, or the like, by an operator. The curvable portion may be configured to bend between a substantially straight configuration and a curved configuration. In implementations, the sheath may be configured to have detachable and/or interchangeable components (e.g., shunt member, curvable portion, etc.). | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150119786 | Method of Device Attachment to a Biological Surface - A device and means of attaching an implantable drainage lumen, catheter, or other device to an internal bodily surface, such as the peritoneum, is generally indicated by a biocompatible material or mesh fabric connected to a lumen, catheter, or other mechanical or electrical device whereby the biocompatible material or mesh may be surgically affixed to a tissue or organ by means of sutures, tacks, screws, tissue infusion or adhesion or other means in order to secure an internal drainage, or mechanical/electrical system or component for the prevention of migration or non-optimal CSF reabsorption after installation. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150119787 | DELIVERING OCULAR IMPLANTS INTO THE EYE - A method of deploying an ocular implant into Schlemm's canal of an eye. The method includes the steps of inserting a distal end of a cannula through a cornea of the eye and into an anterior chamber of the eye, the cannula having a distal opening extending from the distal end and through a side wall; placing the distal opening of the cannula into fluid communication with Schlemm's canal; advancing the ocular implant distally through the cannula with a delivery tool engaged with the ocular implant, a proximal portion of the ocular implant engaging the delivery tool proximal to a distal portion of the delivery tool; and disengaging the ocular implant and the delivery tool when the proximal portion of the ocular implant reaches the cannula distal opening. The invention also includes a system for practicing the method. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150126919 | MEDICAL TREATMENT DEVICE - A medical treatment device for treating glaucoma includes a spherical portion formed in a partially spherical shape configured to align with the curve of an eyeball; and at least one puncture portion protruding from a concave side of the spherical portion. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150126920 | METHODS FOR FLUID FLOW THROUGH BODY PASSAGES - A device includes a first end portion, a second end portion, an intermediate portion between the first end portion and the second end portion, and a graft material coupled to at least the intermediate portion. The first end portion has a first end diameter. The second end portion has a second end diameter larger than the first end diameter. The intermediate portion tapers between the first end portion and the second end portion. A method of diverting fluid flow from a first passage to a second passage comprising deploying the device in a third passage between the first passage and the second passage, expanding the first end portion against sidewalls of the first passage, and expanding the second end portion against sidewalls of the second passage. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150133845 | DEVICES FOR FLUID FLOW THROUGH BODY PASSAGES - A device includes a first end portion, a second end portion, an intermediate portion between the first end portion and the second end portion, and a graft material coupled to at least the intermediate portion. The first end portion has a first end diameter. The second end portion has a second end diameter larger than the first end diameter. The intermediate portion tapers between the first end portion and the second end portion. A method of diverting fluid flow from a first passage to a second passage comprising deploying the device in a third passage between the first passage and the second passage, expanding the first end portion against sidewalls of the first passage, and expanding the second end portion against sidewalls of the second passage. | 05-14-2015 |
| 20150133846 | BIO-COMPATIBLE CATHETER - A bio-compatible lumen bearing device such as a catheter formed of a polymeric material having a titanium surface bonded to the underlying exposed catheter surface. The titanium surface is employed in patients to improve bio-compatibility and enhance lubricity during insertion and removal. | 05-14-2015 |
| 20150141898 | MEDICAL SYSTEM FOR ENDOVASCULAR TEMPERATURE CONTROL OF BLOOD, AND MEDICAL CATHETER - A medical system for endovascular temperature control of blood and for recanalization of a blood vessel, the medical system having a catheter, a radially compressible treatment device, in particular a recanalization device, which, in the compressed state, is arranged to be longitudinally movable in the catheter and, by being released from the catheter, is radially expandable for the recanalization of the blood vessel, and a temperature control element for controlling the temperature of blood, wherein the treatment device, in particular the recanalization device, can be positioned distally with respect to the temperature control element in such a way that, during use, blood which is temperature-controlled by the temperature control element flows to the recanalization site in the blood vessel. | 05-21-2015 |
| 20150141899 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ESTABLISHING AN ARTIFICIAL ARTERIO-VENOUS FISTULA - A shunt rivet for implantation between a first body space and a second body space in a patient, such as to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. | 05-21-2015 |
| 20150148729 | Methods, Systems and Devices for Treating Glaucoma - A system is provided including an elongate needle body and an aqueous humor drainage device. The drainage device includes an elongated flexible tube that is operatively coupled to a proximal end of the needle body. Methods for the implantation of the aqueous humor drainage device in the eye are provided. A system including an elongate needle body and drainage device is also provided for draining other body cavities. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150290035 | SHUNT PLACEMENT THROUGH THE SCLERA - An intraocular shunt can be placed into a human eye using a hollow shaft having a distal tip with a bevel. The hollow shaft can be advanced through the anterior chamber while the hollow shaft holds the intraocular shunt. The sclera can be penetrated with the beveled distal tip until all of the bevel is positioned distal to a distal wall of the sclera. The shunt can be advanced at least partially from the hollow shaft into a drainage space of lower pressure than the anterior chamber. The hollow shaft can be withdrawn from the eye, leaving the shunt extending from the anterior chamber completely through the sclera to the drainage space. | 10-15-2015 |
| 20150290206 | Use of TRPV4 Antagonists to Ameliorate Hydrocephalus and Related Materials and Methods - The present invention provides uses of TRPV4 antagonists in the treatment or prevention of hydrocephalus symptoms, also known as hydrocephaly, including hydrocephalus as a result of any structural defect, any metabolic defect, any injury (direct force to the head, indirect force to the head, shock waves, pressure changes, etc.), any insult (microbial, chemical, toxins, allergic reactions or other inflammatory process, or other pathology, eg. cancer, benign tumor, etc.). Related materials and methods are also provided herein. | 10-15-2015 |
| 20150313758 | C-SHAPED CROSS SECTION TUBULAR OPHTHALMIC IMPLANT FOR REDUCTION OF INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE IN GLAUCOMATOUS EYES AND METHOD OF USE - An implant may be used for implantation into tissue of a body. The implant includes an elongated conduit and a loop. The elongated conduit has an interior passageway for conducting fluid. The loop has an interior circumference with a fluid conducting channel formed therein. The channel is interconnected with the interior passageway for delivery of fluid between the channel and the interior passageway. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150328029 | GASTRIC TUBES HAVING TETHERED PLUGS AND METHODS OF USE - A gastric tube for use in a bariatric procedure includes an elongate tube and a cannulated plug coupled to the elongate tube. The elongate tube has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The elongate tube defines a lumen along a length thereof. The proximal end portion defines an opening in communication with the lumen. The elongate tube includes a blunt tip and an outer surface. The blunt tip is formed on the distal end portion. The outer surface defines a side opening in communication with the lumen. The cannulated plug includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is configured for connection to a vacuum source. The distal end is configured for removable receipt in the opening of the proximal end portion of the elongate tube to control a flow of one of aspiration and irrigation through the lumen. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150335486 | Method, Surgical Kit and Device for Treating Glaucoma - A surgical kit includes at least one instrument and at least one implant device. The instrument has a needle body used to form a surgical passage through ocular tissue. The device includes a flexible tube that defines a duct for diverting aqueous humor with an outer surface having a maximal cross-sectional dimension that is less than the maximal cross-sectional dimension of the needle body. The device incorporates a seal that defines a maximal cross-sectional dimension that is greater that the maximal cross-sectional dimension of the needle body and is operably disposed within the surgical passage and forms a seal between the surrounding ocular tissue. The kit (and devices thereof) can be used as part of a surgical method to divert aqueous humor to a space formed in ocular tissue. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150335487 | Glaucoma Treatment Device - Methods and devices are adapted for implanting into the eye. An incision is formed in the cornea of the eye and a shunt is inserted through the incision into the anterior chamber of the eye. The shunt includes a fluid passageway. The shunt is passed along a pathway from the anterior chamber through the scleral spur of the eye into the suprachoroidal space and positioned in a first position such that a first portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the anterior chamber and a second portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the suprachoroidal space to provide a fluid passageway between the suprachoroidal space and the anterior chamber. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150342772 | GASTRO-ESOPHAGEAL IMPLANTS - A satiation device is described which includes a sheath or liner extending from the proximal or middle stomach to the distal antrum. Food ingested by the patient passes through the sheath or liner, thereby minimizing contact between the ingested food and the stomach. It is believed that over time, reduced contact between food and the stomach will result in decreased Ghrelin production by the patient and a consequent decrease in appetite. In some embodiments, the satiation device may also include a proximal pouch and/or a distal bypass tube. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150351962 | LACRIMAL DUCT TUBE - A lacrimal duct tube including: a pair of tubular members each of which has an terminal end opening at one end; and a central member that connects other ends of the tubular members, at least one of the tubular members includes: a cylindrical part extended from the terminal end opening to the central member side and has an opening for bar-like operative instrument at an end portion at the central member side; and an arc-shaped part that is extended from the end portion of the cylindrical part at the central member side further to the central member side and has an almost arc-shaped wall portion on a cross section orthogonal to a longitudinal side of the tubular member, and the almost arc-shaped wall portion is formed at the arc-shaped part continuously over a length of ⅓ or more and 9/10 or less of an entire length of the tubular member. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150352273 | DEVICE FOR FORMING FISTULA BETWEEN BLOOD VESSELS, AND METHOD - A device for forming a fistula between blood vessels includes a tubular body having a central lumen, a flange attached to the tubular body and projecting outwardly from an outer body surface, and one or more vanes projecting inwardly into the lumen so as to induce helical flow in blood passed through the lumen between first and second vessels joined via the fistula. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150366693 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF MORBID OBESITY - Apparatus and methods are described for treatment of morbid obesity using minimally invasive techniques. The apparatus includes a system of components that may be used separately or in combination for effectively reducing stomach volume, bypassing a portion of the stomach and/or small intestines, reducing nutrient absorption in the stomach and/or small intestines and/or depositing minimally or undigested food farther than normal into the intestines, thereby stimulating intestinal responses. The components described include an artificial stoma device, a gastric sleeve device, an intestinal sleeve device, a combined gastrointestinal sleeve device and permanent and detachable attachment systems. Also described are devices for delivering and deploying the components of the system. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150366707 | SMALL MOLECULE TRANSPORT DEVICE FOR DRUG DELIVERY OR WASTE REMOVAL - A medical device having a permeable bag connected by a non-permeable cannula to a discharge sac is described along with a manufacturing process and surgical implantation method. The permeable portions of the device have pores that are sized to be permeable to a predetermined class of small molecules, such as oxygen, nitrous oxide, or other therapeutic agents. Once absorbed inside the device, the small molecules are then passively transported, by a concentration gradient of the small molecules, to the discharge sac to be disbursed. A metal tube or other strip can be included in the cannula to assist a surgeon in orienting the device within the body. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150366710 | OCULAR IMPLANTS FOR DELIVERY INTO THE EYE - An ocular implant adapted to reside at least partially in a portion of Schlemm's canal of an eye. The implant includes a spine extending along a longitudinal axis of the implant, a plurality of curved supports extending from the spine, each support comprising a first end extending from a first location on a first side of the spine and a second end extending from a second location on a second side of the spine, the second location being proximal to the first location, so that each support forms a portion of a helix, the spine and supports defining a volume having a maximum width perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between 0.005 inches and 0.04 inches, the ocular implant being configured to bend preferentially in a preferential bending plane. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150374524 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF OBESITY - A device for isolating tissue in the digestive tract including a biocompatible portion having a surface sized to cover the tissue to be isolated and also includes a plurality of micro-anchors attached to the biocompatible portion and extending from the surface, the micro-anchors sized to penetrate the mucosa of the tissue. A method for isolating tissue in the digestive tract in which an isolation element is delivered to a desired location in the digestive system; the isolation element having fixed thereto a plurality of micro-anchors. The method also includes attaching the isolation element to tissue at the desired location by causing the micro-anchors to penetrate the mucosa of the tissue. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150374545 | INTRAOCULAR SHUNT PLACEMENT - Methods are provided for using an intraocular shunt deployment device to deploy an intraocular shunt from the device and into an eye. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160001050 | URETERAL STENT AND METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ITS DEPLOYMENT - A ureteral stent includes a shaft having a soft tip and deployable anchor at its distal end and a coiled pigtail at its proximal end. The stent is delivered by a wire assembly which includes an inner wire and a sheath. The inner wire extends through a lumen within the stent shaft and is used to deploy the anchor structure. The wire then separates from the stent so that it may be removed for full stent deployment. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160015421 | EUS GUIDED ACCESS DEVICE - A system for endoscopic ultrasound guided drainage includes an access sheath extending longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end and including an access lumen extending therethrough from the proximal end to the distal end; a stylet slidably received within the access lumen, the stylet extending longitudinally from a proximal end to distal end and including a channel extending therethrough, the channel configured to receive a fluid therethrough; and a dilating sheath extending longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end and including a dilating lumen extending therethrough. The dilating lumen is sized and shaped to slidably receive the access sheath. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160022460 | Endolumenal Esophageal Restriction Device - Generally described herein are apparatus, systems and methods related to a novel esophageal device implantable in the patient's body and designed to replicate the restrictive and satiety mechanism associated with gastric banding systems known in the art. The device can be a compliant and tubular-shaped and fixated within the gastro-esophageal lumen using tissue anchors. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160022461 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF OBESITY AND TYPE 2 DIABETES - The present invention provides systems and methods for treating and controlling obesity and/or type II diabetes. In one aspect of the invention, a device comprises a hollow sleeve sized and shaped for positioning within a duodenum of the patient, an anchor coupled to the proximal end of the sleeve and being sized and shaped to inhibit distal migration of the sleeve and a plurality of elastomeric objects coupled to the distal end of the sleeve and being sized and shaped to inhibit proximal migration of the sleeve through a pylorus of the patient. The bypass device can be placed and removed endoscopically through the patient's esophagus in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure and it is “self-anchoring” and does not require invasive tissue fixation within the patient's GI tract, thereby reducing collateral tissue damage and minimizing its impact on the digestive process. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160022463 | DIGESTIVE TRACT DEVICE - A digestive tract device that can reduce an indwelling-induced burden on the living body includes: a tubular portion that includes a through hole; a holding portion that is provided on a proximal end side of the tubular portion, and holds the tubular portion in the living body; and support portions and which are provided in the holding portion, and are in contact with a plurality of sites of the digestive organ of the living body, and support the holding portion in such a way that the holding portion can move in at least one direction of a circumferential direction and a longitudinal direction of the tubular portion. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160022497 | DRUG-RELEASING DEVICE USABLE IN MUCOSAL BODY CAVITIES - A tympanostomy tube containing a polymeric material and a drug is described. The polymeric material may comprise a non-resorbable polymer and a water-soluble polymer. The drug may be released when the device is contacted by an aqueous liquid such as middle ear exudate during otitis media. The implant may contain sufficient drug to treat multiple episodes of otitis media or to catch subsequent episodes in their early stages as a prophylactic. The device may be hydrophilic and further may contain a surfactant. The implant may be porous. The implant may have enhanced surface area at places exposed to middle ear liquid and may have enlarged mass so as to contain an increased total amount of drug. Intentional reorientation of the patient's head may aid in moving drug-containing liquid around the middle ear cavity. Similar implants can be used in other mucosal cavities. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160022970 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATING HEART FAILURE - A device for implanting into an atrial septum of a patient. In some embodiments, the device has a core region to be disposed in an opening in the atrial septum; a distal retention region adapted to engage tissue on a left atrial side of the septal wall; a proximal retention region adapted to engage tissue on a right atrial side of the septal wall; and a retrieval region comprising a plurality of retrieval members, each retrieval member comprising a connector at a proximal end, the connector being adapted to connect to a delivery system. The device has a delivery configuration and a deployed configuration, the core region, distal retention region and proximal retention region each having a smaller diameter in the delivery configuration than in the deployed configuration, the retrieval member connectors being disposed proximal to and radially outward from the opening in the deployed configuration. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160030221 | INTERNAL COVERING MEMBRANE OF DUODENUM - A duodenum internal covering membrane is disclosed. The covering membrane is made of a biocompatible material and mainly comprises an elastic ampulla and a tubular part, wherein the ampulla is positioned in the duodenal bulb, the tubular part can extend to the jejunum, the ampulla contains a wavy or V-shaped or trapezoidal or city wall-shaped elastic ring which is continuously encircled, the elastic ring is made of a memory or non-memory biocompatible material, peaks, valleys and bent angles of the elastic ring are single-circle coil springs with outward anchor hooks, the single-circle coil springs on the lower edge are penetrated and wound with recovery threads, the upper edge of the ampulla is a wavy or V-shaped or trapezoidal or city wall-shaped elastic membrane, the elastic ring and the ampulla comply with the motion of the duodenum and the bulb as a whole, and the ampulla and the tubular part can be closed up or folded into the shape of a ball or cylinder or capsule or spindle. The single-circle coil springs have strong elasticity, weak sharp injuries and good fixation for the recovery threads attached thereon, thereby being conductive to anatomical structure and basic physiological functions of the duodenum. The covering membrane within the duodenum of the present invention can be prepared into a medical device for preventing and treating obesity and diabetes. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160030242 | Miniature Glaucoma Shunt - A glaucoma shunt ( | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160045299 | SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR ADJUSTABLE GASTRIC BYPASS - An apparatus for gastric bypass is disclosed. The apparatus for gastric bypass includes a primary passage having an input and an output. The apparatus also includes a bypass conduit, coupled to the primary passage, having an input and an output, wherein the passage input is interspersed with the conduit input. The apparatus further has a primary regulator coupled to the primary passage and adjustable to control a primary flow profile from the input to the output of the primary passage. The apparatus also has a bypass regulator coupled to the bypass conduit and adjustable to control a bypass flow profile from the input to the output of the bypass conduit. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160045363 | IMPLANTS WITH CONTROLLED DRUG DELIVERY FEATURES AND METHODS OF USING SAME - Disclosed herein are drug delivery devices and methods for the treatment of ocular disorders requiring targeted and controlled administration of a drug to an interior portion of the eye for reduction or prevention of symptoms of the disorder. The devices are capable of controlled release of one or more, drugs and may also Include structures which allow for treatment permitting aqueous humor to flow out of the anterior chamber of the eye through the device. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160051800 | VASCULAR CONDUIT DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR IMPLANTING - The present invention provides a vascular conduit device including a deformable flange and complementary securing ring in cooperation for securing the device within an aperture defined in a tissue wall. The present invention further provides a system for implanting such a vascular conduit device in a tissue wall. More specifically, the present invention provides a system including a coring device for defining an aperture in a tissue wall (such as a ventricle and/or a blood vessel) and securely implanting a vascular conduit device therein so as to provide fluid communication between a first and second surface of the tissue wall via the vascular conduit device. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160051801 | Devices and Systems for Access and Navigation of Cerebrospinal Fluid Space - The present disclosure relates to accessing, removing, exchanging and recirculating cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Devices, systems and methods disclosed herein are used to safely and efficiently navigate the space at and around the brain and spinal cord where the CSF flows through the body, also known as the CSF space. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160058544 | Bariatric Sleeve - Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the stomach and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device to the stomach and a flexible sleeve. When implanted within the intestine, the sleeve can limit the absorption of nutrients, delay the mixing of chyme with digestive enzymes, altering hormonal triggers, providing negative feedback, and combinations thereof. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160058591 | Gastrointestinal Device with Associated Commensal Microbes - A gastrointestinal device and methods of manufacturing said gastrointestinal device are described and include a flexible tubular structure including an inner surface and an outer surface, a plurality of at least one type of commensal microbe associated with at least a portion of at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface, and a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end and the distal end forming a flow conduit through the flexible tubular structure; and at least one anchor structure including one or more gastric wall-engaging components configured to engage a wall of the gastrointestinal tract of the subject. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160058592 | Gastrointestinal Device with Associated Commensal Microbes - A gastrointestinal device and methods of manufacturing said gastrointestinal device are described and include a flexible tubular structure including a layered wall, the flexible tubular structure including a plurality of at least one type of commensal microbe encased in the layered wall, the layered wall configured to allow an interaction between the plurality of the at least one type of commensal microbe and an ingested product within the flexible tubular structure, and a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end and the distal end forming a flow conduit through the flexible tubular structure; and at least one anchor structure including one or more gastric wall-engaging components configured to engage a wall of the gastrointestinal tract of the subject. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160058593 | Gastrointestinal Device With Associated Microbe-Promoting Agents - A gastrointestinal device and methods of manufacturing said gastrointestinal device are described and include a flexible tubular structure including a layered wall, the flexible tubular structure including at least one microbe-promoting agent encased in the layered wall, the microbe-promoting agent configured to promote at least one of attraction, colonization, and growth of at least one type of commensal microbe, and a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end and the distal end forming a flow conduit through the flexible tubular structure; and at least one anchor structure including one or more gastric wall-engaging components configured to engage a wall of the gastrointestinal tract of the subject. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160067092 | INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE SENSING SYSTEM FOR POSTERIOR SEGMENT DRAINAGE - A method of implanting a treatment device into an eye of a patient comprises inserting a drainage device including a flow system, an inlet tube, and an outlet tube into a subconjunctival space. The inlet tube includes a proximal end coupled to the flow system in the subconjunctival space. The method includes passing a distal end of the inlet tube through a pars plana into a posterior segment of the eye. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160081692 | INFERIOR VENA CAVA (IVC) SHUNT, DOUBLE-BALLOON CATHETER FOR OCCLUSION AS A SURGICAL TOOL - A double-balloon inferior vena cava (NC) shunt for use in controlling blood loss and simultaneously maintaining venous return is disclosed. The NC shunt comprises a first balloon-catheter unit and second balloon-catheter unit that are slidably coupled to one another to form an adjustable shunt. The first and second balloons in the shunt are independently inflatable. The double-balloon shunt is readily adjustable to fit the dimensions of the injured region. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160089257 | INTESTINAL SLEEVE - A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the duodenum and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for attaching the device to the duodenum and an unsupported flexible sleeve. The anchor can include a stent and/or a wave anchor and is collapsible for catheter-based delivery and removal. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160089520 | METHOD OF USING A CATHETER ASSEMBLY - A method of using a catheter assembly for inserting in a fluid filled space in a body includes providing a main body having a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion is positioned within the fluid filled space. The second end portion is adjusted to extend outwardly from the fluid filled space when the first end portion is positioned within the fluid filled space. A catheter tip is connected to the second end portion of the main body. The catheter tip includes a housing having a cavity defined therein and a rotating element positioned within the fluid filled space. The rotating element is rotated within the cavity of the housing to impart movement of the first end portion of the main body within the fluid filled space. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160095732 | INTESTINAL BARRIER SLEEVE WITH EXPANDABLE ANCHOR SECTION - An intestinal barrier sleeve and corresponding treatments using the sleeve are provided herein. The sleeve generally includes an expanding section coupled to a tubular section at an interface there between. The expanding section is expandable from at least a first collapsed position to at least one expanded position, where the expanding section has a conical shape that when expanded retains the sleeve in the subject gastrointestinal tract. The expanding section may further include a plurality of petal-like elements extending radially from the narrow end of the conical shape and the petal-like elements may be interconnected with a webbing to form the conical shape. | 04-07-2016 |
| 20160096008 | IMPLANTABLE FLOW CONNECTOR - A system for coupling a first space within a body of a patient with a second space within the body of the patient including a flow connector insertable into the first and second spaces within the body and having a conduit having a wall forming a lumen therein and first and second orifices. A first retention member is engageable with a first portion of the first space within the body and has a first opening, and the flow connector is positioned within the first opening. A second retention member is engageable with the second space within the body, the second retention member has a second opening and the flow connector is positioned within the second opening. The second retention member interlocks with the first retention member. | 04-07-2016 |
| 20160100971 | GASTRIC BYPASS SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method for treating obesity including a first instrument containing a first magnet therein, the first instrument insertable into a stomach of a patient and the first magnet deployable into the stomach of the patient and having a first space. A second instrument contains a second magnet therein, the second instrument insertable into a bowel of a patient and the second magnet deployable into the bowel of the patient and having a second space. A stent is insertable into the first and second spaces to maintain an opening formed between the stomach and bowel. | 04-14-2016 |
| 20160100983 | OCULAR SYSTEM WITH ANCHORING IMPLANT AND THERAPEUTIC AGENT - Ocular implants, delivery devices and methods for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. One method involves inserting an implant on one side of an eye. The implant has an anchor on a distal end portion and an outlet opening that is disposed proximal of the anchor. The implant is advanced across the eye to the other side of the eye. The anchor is inserted into eye tissue on the other side of the eye. A therapeutic agent is eluted using the implant. | 04-14-2016 |
| 20160106565 | PANCREATICOBILIARY DIVERSION DEVICE - Apparatus ( | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160113800 | LONG HOOD RETRIEVAL DEVICE - An endoscope hood device for moving a gastrointestinal implant device within a natural lumen of a gastrointestinal tract. The endoscope hood device comprises an atraumatic flared retrieval hood configured to attach to and fit over a distal end of an endoscope. The atraumatic flared retrieval hood comprises a length configured to cover a plurality of protrusions on a surface of the gastrointestinal implant device, the plurality of protrusions comprising both proximal facing protrusions and distal facing protrusions of the gastrointestinal implant device. The atraumatic flared retrieval hood comprises a diameter configured to fit within a human esophagus without damage to the esophagus, and comprises a material of a bend radius configured to move slidably against the esophagus without damage to the esophagus. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160129177 | VASCULAR ACCESS SYSTEM WITH CONNECTOR - A connector for fluidly coupling proximal and distal tubular segments of a fluid conduit is provided. In one embodiment, the connector can include a connector body having an outer surface defining a first outer perimeter and an inner surface defining a lumen. The connector can also include a connecting device having an open configuration and a plurality of closed configurations. The connecting device can include first and second members configured to engage each other to secure the fluid conduit to the connector. The connecting device can also include a plurality of closed configurations for securing fluid conduits of different sizes. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160135976 | Methods Of Treatment Using A Bariatric Sleeve - Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the stomach and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device to the stomach and a flexible sleeve to limit absorption of nutrients in the duodenum. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160135977 | CONFORMING ANCHOR FOR DUODENAL BARRIER - An apparatus comprises a sleeve, a seal, and an anchor assembly. The sleeve is flexible and non-permeable and is configured to fit in a duodenum. The seal is positioned at the proximal end of the sleeve and is configured to seal the proximal end of the sleeve against the stomach mucosa, the pylorus, or the duodenum mucosa. The anchor assembly comprises a pair of atraumatic anchor ends and a resilient member positioned between the anchor ends. At least a portion of the resilient member extends along at least a portion of the length of the sleeve. The resilient member is configured to bias the anchor ends generally toward each other, to thereby substantially anchor the sleeve in the duodenum. The sleeve is configured to prevent chyme from contacting the mucosa of the duodenum; and to prevent enzymes excreted in the duodenum from mixing with chyme in the duodenum. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160135992 | DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR OCULAR IMPLANT - A delivery system is disclosed which can be used to deliver an ocular implant into a target location within the eye via an ab interno procedure. In some embodiments, the implant can provide fluid communication between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal or supraciliary space while in an implanted state. The delivery system can include a proximal handle component and a distal delivery component. In addition, the proximal handle component can include an actuator to control the release of the implant from the delivery component into the target location in the eye. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160135993 | INTRASCLERAL SHUNT PLACEMENT - Glaucoma can be treated by implanting an intraocular shunt into an eye. The eye has an anterior chamber and sclera. A shunt can be placed into the eye to establish fluid communication from the anterior chamber of the eye through the sclera. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160151204 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING MULTIPLE OCULAR IMPLANTS | 06-02-2016 |
| 20160158052 | Medical Device and Application Thereof - A duodenal internal covering membrane is disclosed herein. The covering membrane is made of a biocompatible biodegradable or non-biodegradable material and/or hydrophobic material and mainly comprises an elastic ampulla and a tubular portion. The ampulla contains biocompatible bionic microarray adhesive piece capable of realizing strong adhesion through a force exerting direction without pricking into an intestinal tissue and capable of being easily detached and recovered. The adhesive piece has good stability, strong adaptability to material and appearance, good self-cleaning property, no injuries and pollution to the intestinal tissue and can be adhered and detached repeatedly. The adhesive piece can realize mutual support with other parts in the functions. When contents in the intestinal duct move, because there is no traction force which is nearly perpendicular, the internal covering membrane cannot be detached. When the duodenal bulb expands, as the internal covering membrane has no opposite traction force which is nearly perpendicular, the internal covering membrane cannot be detached either. When recovery is performed, the detachment and recovery can be easily realized by force exerting which is nearly perpendicular. The duodenal internal covering membrane can be prepared into a medical device for preventing and treating obesity and diabetes without injuring the intestinal tissue. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160175151 | OCULAR IMPLANT WITH THERAPEUTIC AGENTS AND METHODS THEREOF | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160193008 | STEREOTACTIC GUIDE ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS OF USING SAME | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160193063 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160193065 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR GASTROINTESTINAL BYPASS | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160199626 | DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR IMPLANTABLE FLOW CONNECTOR | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160199627 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TREATING HYDROCEPHALUS | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160250055 | IMPLATABLE DEVICES HAVING A RADIALLY EXPANDABLE BARRIER AND RELATED METHODS OF USE | 09-01-2016 |
| 20160250071 | METHODS FOR INTRAOCULAR SHUNT PLACEMENT | 09-01-2016 |
| 20160250072 | OCULAR IMPLANTS FOR DELIVERY INTO AN ANTERIOR CHAMBER OF THE EYE | 09-01-2016 |
| 20160374856 | Glaucoma Device Delivery System and Trans-Conjunctival Method of Delivery - A method for treating glaucoma with an implantable glaucoma device includes inserting a hollow elongated needle into the eye between the cornea and iris and into the anterior chamber of the eye to form a needle tract in the eye, introducing a distal end of a guidewire through the needle and into the anterior chamber, introducing a snare through a corneal incision into the anterior chamber. The snare has a sheath and a hook or loop inside the sheath and extendible therefrom. The method includes capturing a segment of the guidewire proximate the distal end of the guidewire with the snare within the anterior chamber, removing the needle from over the guidewire outside of the eye, coupling a glaucoma drainage device to a proximal end of the guidewire that extends outside of the eye, and pulling on the captured guidewire segment with the snare to pull the glaucoma drainage device into the needle tract and into the anterior chamber of the eye until the glaucoma device is located in an implanted position in the eye. The method can also possibly involve removing the snare from the eye, cutting a distal end of the glaucoma device (possibly within the anterior chamber), and removing the cut distal end of the glaucoma drainage device from the eye. An improved glaucoma drainage device and other deployment systems and methods are also described and claimed. | 12-29-2016 |
| 20180021159 | GASTRIC CALIBRATION TUBE | 01-25-2018 |
| 20180021170 | IMPLANTS WITH CONTROLLED DRUG DELIVERY FEATURES AND METHODS OF USING SAME | 01-25-2018 |
| 20190143011 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ESTABLISHING AN ARTIFICIAL ARTERIO-VENOUS FISTULA | 05-16-2019 |
| 20220133953 | IMPLANT COMPRISING COATING LAYER FOR OPHTHALMOPATHY - An implant for eye disease for controlling intraocular pressure, the implant including a coating layer formed on the outside of an implant substrate. Specifically, the present invention relates to an implant that may suppress a foreign body reaction from occurring around the implant, because the implant includes a coating layer, which is formed on the outside of an implant substrate and is a cured product of a polymer of a composition containing an acrylate-based monomer and a (meth)acryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine monomer. | 05-05-2022 |
