| 06th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights part 55 |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20090036875 | CARDIAC TISSUE THERAPY - A method and apparatus for treating tissue of a heart of a patient includes delivering a carrier to an epicardial surface of the heart. The carrier has a therapeutic agent selected for treating cardiac tissue. The agent is releasable from the carrier over a period of time following placement of the carrier at the epicardial surface of the heart. The carrier is contained within a delivery tool at a first geometry and changes to a second geometry following delivery of the carrier from the tool. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036876 | Gel Cap Loading Tool - A medical device, gel-cap loading tool. The loading tool facilitates the insertion of a component of a medical device, such as the esophageal flange of a voice prosthesis, within a dissolvable gel cap. The gel cap is disposed in a cavity with the component collapsed therein. A gel cap is disposed in the cavity and is axially aligned with the medical device. An engaging member engages with at least one of the gel cap and the medical device to cause relative movement between the gel cap and the medical device which causes the component to be inserted into the gel cap. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036877 | SPRING DETACH JOINT FOR DELIVERING A DETACHABLE IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - Methods and systems for delivering an implantable device to a target site, using a detachable link. The system can include an embolic coil mated to a delivery wire via a detachable link comprising first and second engaging members. When the detachable link is delivered through a catheter, the first and second engaging members are configured to self-detach. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036878 | Eye Surgical Unit and Eye Surgical Instrument - An eye surgical unit, comprising a connecting module to align, upon coupling of the connecting module to a connecting module of an eye surgical instrument, an end of a light guide which is included in the connecting module of the eye surgical instrument with respect to the connecting module of the eye surgical unit. During coupling, the connecting modules of the eye surgical unit and the eye surgical instrument mutually cooperate. The mutual cooperation of the connecting modules is realized through a multiple-thread screw connection of which corresponding screw connection elements, upon coupling of the connecting modules through mutual rotation of the connecting modules, mutually engage substantially simultaneously. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036879 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FINE-TUNING REFRACTIVE SURGERY - Systems and methods for fine-tuning refractive shapes for vision treatment are provided. Techniques encompass determining a variable index of refraction for a cornea of the eye, and determining the refractive treatment shape for the eye based on the variable index of refraction. Techniques also encompass determining a variable radius of curvature of an anterior surface of a cornea of the eye, and determining the refractive treatment shape for the eye based on the variable radius of curvature. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036880 | Device and Method for Changing a Lens Implanted Into an Eye - The invention relates to a device for altering an optical and/or mechanical property of a lens that is implanted in an eye, the device including a laser device, which has a laser beam source that provides a pulsed laser beam and an optical unit, which impinges on the implanted lens with the pulsed laser beam. The device also includes a control device, which controls the laser device such that the optical and/or mechanical property of the lens is altered on the basis of non-linear interaction between the laser beam and the lens material. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036881 | Polyp removal jaws and method of use - Apparatus configured for the removal of polyps are provided and include a first jaw member including first and second elongated members, the first and second elongated members having proximal and distal ends and defining a channel therebetween; and a second jaw member having proximal and distal ends and defining a tissue contacting surface, the proximal end of the second jaw member being pivotably coupled between the proximal ends of the first and second elongated members, wherein the distal end of the second jaw member is in a spaced apart relationship with the first jaw member when in a first position, and the distal end of the second jaw member extends into the channel defined between the distal ends of first and second elongated members when in a second position. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036882 | Circumferential electrode array for tissue ablation - An electrode array supports multiple electrodes and energizes them so that adjacent electrodes do not have the same polarity. In one embodiment, the electrodes are held about a circumference outside and surrounding a tumor and opposed electrodes are energized in a round robin fashion to promote current flow through the center of the tumor from a variety of angles. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036883 | Electrosurgical systems and printed circuit boards for use therewith - An electrosurgical system for treating tissue is disclosed. The system includes an electrosurgical generator, a printed circuit board, a generator ground and a patient ground. The printed circuit board is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the electrosurgical generator and includes a plurality of conductive layers. The generator ground includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is electro-mechanically connected to a conductive layer of the printed circuit board and the second portion is electro-mechanically connected to another conductive layer of the printed circuit board. The patient ground includes a portion that is at least partially interposed between the first portion of the generator ground and the second portion of the generator ground. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036884 | System and method for return electrode monitoring - A system for determining probability of tissue damage is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of return electrodes adhered to a patient and adapted to couple to an electrosurgical generator configured to generate an electrosurgical current. The system also includes a current monitor and a switching component connected in series with each of the plurality of the return electrodes. The current monitor being configured to measure the electrosurgical current passing therethrough. The system further includes a processor coupled to each of the current monitors and the switching components. The processor is configured to determine the balance of a current load among the plurality of the return electrodes and configured to control each of the switching components to adjust the current passing through each of the return electrodes to balance the current load. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036885 | System and method for return electrode monitoring - A system for determining probability of tissue damage is disclosed. The system includes an electrosurgical generator adapted to generate an electrosurgical current and a plurality of return electrodes adhered to a patient and adapted to couple to the electrosurgical generator. Each of the return electrodes includes an impedance sensor attached thereto. The system also includes a current monitor connected in series with each of the plurality of the return electrodes to measure the electrosurgical current passing therethrough and a processor coupled to each of the current monitors. The processor is configured to calculate a cooling factor and a heating factor for each of the plurality of the return electrodes. The processor further configured to determine probability of tissue damage for each of the plurality of the return electrodes as a function of the cooling factor and the heating factor. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036886 | CLEANING DEVICE AND METHODS - A method for providing therapy to tissue at a treatment site is performed by ablating tissue at the treatment site with an ablation device. Next, a cleaning device is attached to an instrument. The cleaning device attached to the instrument is used to remove ablated tissue at the treatment site. The cleaning device may also be used to remove debris from the treatment site prior to ablation or other therapeutic or diagnostic procedure. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036887 | Electrosurgical Instrument - The invention relates to an electrosurgical instrument for cutting and/or coagulating a tissue to be treated, comprising at least one cutting electrode for conducting a high-frequency (“HF”) current through the tissue for carrying out a cutting process and comprising power supply devices for supplying the HF current at least to the cutting electrode. The design of the electrosurgical instrument is improved so that the cutting process can be carried out with an increased reliability while prolonging the serviceable life of the cutting electrode at the same time. To this end, the cutting electrode is mounted on the electrosurgical instrument in a manner that enables it to rotate about a rotation axis and comprises at least one cutting area which is provided in the form of a helical curve or similar three-dimensional curve running around the rotation axis and which is arranged in such a manner that when the cutting electrode rotates about the rotation axis it is active over its length in sections on the tissue when a section falls below a defined minimum distance from the tissue and/or is located within a defined window area. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036888 | Ambulatory spinal unloading method and apparatus - An ambulatory spinal unloading method and apparatus are implemented to achieve a desired minimum level of residual cushioning in response to a biasing force applied to the associated apparatus tensioning and/or compression mechanism(s). The ambulatory spinal unloading apparatus may further include a treatment system to provide desired levels of nerve and/or muscle stimulation in addition to hot and/or cold elements to provide further therapeutic effects as desired or necessary. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036889 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TREATMENT OF SLEEP APNEA - A method and apparatus for treatment of sleep apnea employs bone screws implanted into a patient's anterior maxillary bone above and posterior to the cuspids, and posterior mandibular bone below and between any of the posterior teeth. Elastics are stretched between the maxillary and mandibular bone screws to exert forces to bias the mandible forward with respect to the maxilla. An aligner can be placed between the patient's upper and lower to help maintain proper positioning of the mandible. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036890 | FIXATOR APPARATUS WITH RADIOTRANSPARENT APERTURES FOR ORTHOPAEDIC APPLICATIONS - An orthopaedic fixator apparatus with a first ring segment and a second ring segment for fixing a first and second bone element, a first post extending from the first ring segment towards the second ring segment, a second post extending from the second ring segment towards the first ring, a plurality of adjustable-length struts extending from the first ring segment and first post to the second ring segment and second post, wherein the lengths of the adjustable-length struts define the orientation of the first ring segment relative to the second ring segment, and wherein the apparatus provides a substantial central region free of x-ray obstruction. An additional embodiment enables convenient adjustment of the vertical compliance of the fixator by selectively disengaging one or more disengageable locking pins in one or more vertically oriented struts. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036891 | ORTHOPAEDIC FIXATION CLAMP AND METHOD - An orthopaedic fixation clamp for use in an external fixation system and its method of use are presented. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036892 | ADJUSTABLE LENGTH STRUT APPARATUS FOR ORTHOPAEDIC APPLICATIONS - An adjustable-length orthopaedic strut apparatus having minimal x-ray absorption, the capability to produce small length adjustments with minimal axial backlash, and a body devoid of exposed threads, the apparatus having an outer telescoping strut element, an inner telescoping strut element, a threaded drive element rotationally mounted inside the outer telescoping strut element and engaging threads inside the inner telescoping strut element, and an input gear-train arranged to produce fine adjustment of the strut length by generating rotation of the threaded drive element that can be smaller than the input gear rotation. A preferred embodiment also includes compliant preload structures for reducing axial backlash between all moving elements, and one or more locking pins which can be selectively disengaged to adjust the compressive stiffness of the adjustable length strut. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036893 | FIXATION AND ALIGNMENT DEVICE AND METHOD USED IN ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY - Surgical anchoring systems and methods are employed for the correction of bone deformities. The anchoring system and its associated instrument may be suitable for surgical repair of hallux valgus, tarsometatarsal sprains, ankle ligament reconstruction, spring ligament repair, knee ligament reinforcement, acromioclavicular sprains, coracoclavicular sprains, elbow ligament repair, wrist and hand ligamentous stabilization or similar conditions. The anchoring system may include a fixation system for anchoring two or more sections of bone or other body parts and a system for aligning of one section relative to another section. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036894 | METHOD OF TREATING A NEUROLOGICAL CONDITION THROUGH CORRECTION AND STABILIZATION OF THE CLIVO-AXIAL ANGLE - A method for treating a neurological condition such as autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder or other neurological condition that may be caused by biomechanical stresses imparted to the brainstem is performed by surgically correcting the clivo-axial angle of the patient and stabilizing the cranio-cervical junction after surgery. The surgery will relieve mechanical stresses imparted to the spinal cord and brainstem as a result of an abnormal clivo-axial angle, and is preferably performed by effecting a fusion of a first portion of a bone forming material based member to a human cranium, and effecting fusion of a second portion of the bone forming material based member to a least one portion of a human cervical spine. Fusion of the bone forming material based structural member to the human cranium may be promoted through the use of plate member that is shaped to define a graft accommodation space between the plate member and the cranium. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036895 | Spinal distractor, compressor, and rod engaging system and method - Apparatus and methods for distracting or compressing distance between a first and second boney structure and for engaging a connecting element. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036896 | ENDO-DISTRACTOR - The invention relates to a device for the distraction of bones or bone segments. The device comprises an anchoring screw having a longitudinal axis, a screw tip, a screw end for rotatably driving the anchoring screw, a threaded shank which adjoins the screw tip and has a screw thread, and a screw shank adjoining the screw end; and a distraction sleeve axially displaceable on the screw shank including a rear end, a front end, a through-bore extending coaxially therebetween, an external thread adjoining the front end, and a coupler portion formed in the rear end for receiving a driving tool. The anchoring screw comprises a collar positioned between the threaded shank and the screw shank that radially projects at least from the screw shank and which serves as an axial stop for the front end of the distraction sleeve when the distraction sleeve is positioned over the screw shank. The through-bore has a boring section with an enlarged cross-section which adjoins the rear end provided with a lateral surface and a seal ring coaxially arranged between the lateral surface and the screw shank. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036897 | ANCHOR DRIVER WITH ASSURED SEATING - A surgical instrument for securing an anchor in a target area of the skull of a patient, wherein the anchor has a shaped surface, a top and a base. In one embodiment, the surgical instrument includes a driver having a first end, an opposite, second end, and a body portion defined therebetween forming a bore therein along a longitudinal axis, where the bore is configured to allow the anchor to be received therein, a first inner surface formed inside the bore proximate to the first end, wherein the first inner surface is formed with a shape that is complimentary to the shaped surface of the anchor, and a second inner surface formed inside the bore and between the first inner surface and the second end, wherein the second inner surface is formed with a shape that is different from that of the first inner surface. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036898 | Instrument For Inserting Intraocular Lens - An intraocular lens insertion device for inserting an intraocular lens capable of securely and safely pushing out the lens by a simple structure. An intraocular lens insertion device ( | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036899 | Combination wire electrode and tube electrode polypectomy device - A device for removing polyps is provided and includes a tubular member having proximal and distal ends. The distal end of the tubular member includes a first electrode extending thereacross. The first electrode defines at least one opening therein. The polyp removal device further includes a snare portion operably extending from within the distal end of the tubular member and through at least one opening defined in the first electrode. The tubular member is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy between the first electrode and the snare portion. The polyp removal device further includes a handle portion operatively extending from within the proximal end of the tubular member. The snare portion may include a second electrode. The snare portion and the first electrode are configured to grasp and seal a polyp therebetween. The first and second electrodes may be independently activated. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036900 | SURGERY METHODS USING A ROBOTIC INSTRUMENT SYSTEM - Various methods for performing various surgical procedures using a robotic instrument system are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises advancing a guide instrument into a patient's body and to the vicinity of a treatment area. The guide instrument may be a robotically controlled catheter which is controlled by a robotic catheter system. The guide instrument comprises an elongate flexible body having a proximal end and a distal end, and an end effector coupled to the distal end. The end effector may comprise various devices for assisting and performing the surgical procedure. For example, the end effector may be a clip applier, a laser fiber, a cryo fiber, or a needle and grasper. An image capture device may also be coupled to the distal end to assist in positioning and operating the guide instrument. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036901 | MEDICAL MANIPULATOR SYSTEM - A medical manipulator system includes a medical manipulator, an operating unit for inputting operation commands, motors for driving a working unit, a controller for driving the motors based on operation commands supplied from the operating unit, and an LED that displays an operational state. The controller carries out controls for distinguishing between an operational mode in which the operation command is validated and the motors are driven, and a stopped mode in which the motors are halted regardless of whether the operation command is present or not. An illumination state of the LED is switched dependent on whether the system is in the operational mode or the stopped mode. The LED is disposed in the center of an upper surface of a bridge, which interconnects a grip handle and an actuator block. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036902 | INTERACTIVE USER INTERFACES FOR ROBOTIC MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGICAL SYSTEMS - In one embodiment of the invention, a method for a minimally invasive surgical system is disclosed. The method includes capturing and displaying camera images of a surgical site on at least one display device at a surgeon console; switching out of a following mode and into a masters-as-mice (MaM) mode; overlaying a graphical user interface (GUI) including an interactive graphical object onto the camera images; and rendering a pointer within the camera images for user interactive control. In the following mode, the input devices of the surgeon console may couple motion into surgical instruments. In the MaM mode, the input devices interact with the GUI and interactive graphical objects. The pointer is manipulated in three dimensions by input devices having at least three degrees of freedom. Interactive graphical objects are related to physical objects in the surgical site or a function thereof and are manipulatable by the input devices. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036903 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING FASTENERS DURING VALVE REPLACEMENT - A fastener delivery tool includes a belt including pairs of features for releasably engaging tines of respective fasteners in a relaxed state defining a loop. The tool includes a loading chamber for receiving a fastener from the belt, a retaining member for limiting movement of the fastener within the loading chamber, an ejection track communicating with the loading chamber, a handle including an actuator, and a tongue and pusher member coupled to the actuator. Activation of the actuator advances the tongue to transform the fastener from the relaxed state to a U-shaped constrained state, and advances the pusher member to direct the fastener from the loading chamber down the ejection track. The tool may include a trigger for ejecting the fastener completely from the ejection track. The fastener may be used to secure a prosthetic heart valve or components thereof into surrounding tissue, e.g., within a tissue annulus. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036904 | Anastomosis Instrument and Method for Performing Same - A surgical instrument for anastomosis of first and second blood vessels includes a housing having distal and proximal ends and an actuator disposed therebetween. The actuator includes a handle and a link assembly, the link assembly being movable through a firing stroke in response to movement of the handle. The instrument also includes a disposable loading unit releasably attached to the distal end of the housing in mechanical cooperation with the actuator. The disposable loading unit supports a plurality of surgical fasteners, which deform upon movement of the actuator and the link assembly through the firing stroke. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036905 | METHOD OF TISSUE FIXATION USING CINCH STITCHING - A system and method for tissue to bone repair employing cinch stitching combined with at least one knotless fixation device. A suture strand is passed through soft tissue to form a cinch stitch and is then secured in a hole in a bone by the knotless fixation device. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036906 | SUTURING DEVICE WITH SPLIT ARM AND METHOD OF SUTURING TISSUE - A device for suturing an opening in a tissue, having an elongated shaft, at least two arms movable to a deployed positioning which the arms are non-perpendicular to the shaft, the arms having needle receiving portions; and needles advanceable longitudinally along the shaft toward the needle receiving portions, the needles exiting through side walls of the shaft at a location proximal to the arms. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036907 | Bioresorbable knit - Bioresorbable three-dimensional prosthetic knits include a first porous face and a second porous face, the first face and the second face each containing yarns made of materials which undergo slow bioresorption and being opposite and separated from one another by the thickness of the knit and being connected to one another by a spacer. The spacer includes yarns made of materials which undergo slow bioresorption and yarns made of material which undergoes rapid bioresorption. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036908 | Biologic Barrier for Implants That Pass Through Mucosal or Cutaneous Tissue - Apparatus is described for creating a direct mechanical connection between skeletal bone and a prosthetic device located outside of the body. The apparatus provides a means for creating an effective biologic seal to prevent the transmission of microbiologic particles into the body. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036909 | Femoral component holder - A holder for a femoral component. The holder includes a clamp adapted to engage an intercondylar feature of the femoral component and one of medial or lateral surfaces of the femoral component. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036910 | Devices and Methods for Treatment of Obesity - Implantable devices, instruments, kits and methods for treatment of obesity. One or more devices can be implanted adjacent to or in contact with the stomach to occupy a space to prevent the stomach from expanding into that space as food is taken into the stomach. Alternatively, one or more devices may be implanted and expanded to displace at least a portion of the wall of the stomach to decrease the internal volume of the stomach that is available to receive food. Devices may be anchored to one or more internal structures at one or more locations without piercing through the wall of the stomach. Devices can be implanted using minimally invasive methods, such as percutaneous or laparoscopic methods. Delivery instruments are also provided. An intra-gastric sizing device is provided to facilitate implantation of an extra-gastric device in some method embodiments. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036911 | Ultrasonic surgical instrument with modulator - A surgical instrument includes a transducer configured to produce vibrations along a longitudinal axis at a predetermined frequency. An end effector is adapted to couple to the transducer and extends along the longitudinal axis. The end effector includes a body having a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is movable relative to the longitudinal axis by the vibrations produced by the transducer. A drive module is coupled to the transducer to generate a modulated drive signal. The distal end of the end effector is movable in response to the vibrations produced by the transducer in response to the modulated drive signal. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036912 | Ultrasonic surgical instruments - A surgical instrument. The surgical instrument may comprise a transducer and an end effector. The transducer may be configured to provide vibrations along a longitudinal axis at a predetermined frequency and may comprise a piezoelectric stack positioned along the longitudinal axis. The transducer also may comprise a first metallic end mass positioned along the longitudinal axis adjacent a first end of the piezoelectric stack and a second metallic end mass positioned along the longitudinal axis adjacent a second end of the piezoelectric stack. The length of the transducer may be greater than or equal to of one wavelength and less than ½ of one wavelength. The end effector may be coupled to the transducer and may extend along the longitudinal axis. The length of the transducer and the end effector may be a multiple of ½ of one wavelength. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036913 | Surgical instruments - A surgical device. The surgical device may comprise a transducer, an end effector, a generator and a control circuit. The transducer may be configured to provide vibrations. The end effector may be coupled to the transducer and may extend from the transducer along the longitudinal axis. The generator may provide an electrical signal to the transducer. Also, the control circuit may modify a current amplitude of the electrical signal in response to a change in a vibration frequency of the end effector. Accordingly to various embodiments, the control circuit may detect a first contribution to a vibration frequency of the end effector, the first contribution originating from tissue in contact with the end effector. Also, according to various embodiments, the control circuit may indicate a change in a vibration frequency of the end effector. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036914 | TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED ULTRASONIC SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - A surgical instrument includes a transducer configured to produce vibrations at a predetermined frequency. An ultrasonic blade extends along a longitudinal axis and is coupled to the transducer. A controller receives a feedback signal from the ultrasonic blade. A lumen is adapted to couple to a pump. The lumen conducts a fluid therethrough based on the feedback signal. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036915 | LANCET DEVICE - The lancet device includes a housing and a lancet having a puncturing element. The lancet is disposed within the housing and is adapted for axial movement between an initial or pre-actuated position wherein the puncturing element is retained within the housing, and a puncturing position wherein the puncturing element extends through a forward opening in the housing. The lancet device includes a drive spring disposed within the housing for biasing the lancet toward the puncturing position, and a retraction or return spring for returning the lancet to a position within the housing where the puncturing element is disposed within the housing. The retraction spring thereafter maintains engagement with the lancet to assist in preventing the puncturing element from again projecting outward from the forward opening in the housing. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036916 | LANCET DEVICE - A lancet device includes a puncture needle that receives a biasing force applied by a coil spring and is projected toward the tip side, and is retracted by the biasing force applied by a return spring. In the lancet device a colliding part and the a collision receiving part are made to collide when the puncture needle is projected, and an abutting stopping member elastically deforms. The colliding part is a part of the lancet holder that holds a puncture needle. The collision receiving part is a part of the abutting stopping member. The contact part of the abutting stopping member moves in the direction of the colliding part and comes into contact with the colliding part by the elastic deformation of this abutting stopping member, and the force that retracts the lancet holder is weakened. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036917 | TOOLS AND METHOD FOR IMPLANTING A SUBCUTANEOUS DEVICE - Several tools and simplified implant methods utilizing minimal surgical intrusion into a subject are disclosed for the proper inserting, advancement and positioning of a subcutaneous implantable medical device (IMD). A kit disclosed herein includes a poker for penetrating the skin and generating a small incision, a tissue spreader for increasing the incision width and an introducer and cannula for the proper insertion of the ILR subcutaneously. Diverse IMDs can be implanted using the kit, tools and methods included in the disclosure, including implantable pulse generators (IPGs), implantable loop recorders (ILRs) for collecting and transmitting cardiac activity signals and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) for delivering high voltage cardiac therapy via electrodes spaced from the myocardium. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036918 | Method and Apparatus for the Containment of a Surgical Site - An apparatus for the containment of a surgical site includes an enclosure, with at least one port, securely coupled to the surgical site and a source of pressurized fluid in fluid communication with the enclosure via the at least one port providing pressurized fluid to the surgical site. The pressurized fluid establishes a hemostatic equilibrium within the enclosure by reducing blood egress through injuries in blood vessels at the surgical site thereby preventing bleeding at the surgical site. A method for the containment of a surgical site includes securely coupling an enclosure to a surgical site; fluidly coupling a source of pressurized fluid to the enclosure; and continuously providing pressurized fluid to the enclosure from the source of pressurized fluid and draining fluid from the enclosure. The pressurized fluid establishes a hemostatic equilibrium within the enclosure. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036919 | CLOSURE DEVICE - A medical closure device ( | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036920 | CLOSURE DEVICE - A medical closure device ( | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036921 | Controlled Viscosity Tissue Adhesive - Disclosed are methods and compositions for closing and sealing a wound, laceration, incision, or other percutaneous opening using an adhesive. In one preferred embodiment, the sides of the percutaneous opening are brought together in apposition and the adhesive is applied topically over the apposed opening and the skin adjacent thereto. Adhesives used in the methods of the preferred embodiments exhibit sufficient viscosity to substantially prevent flow of the adhesive into the percutaneous opening. Adhesives may also be used in surgical applications, as a covering for a trauma to the outer surface of the skin, or as a secondary means of closure in combination with other means of closure, including staples and sutures. In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive is a adhesive comprising cyanoacrylate monomer, cyanoacrylate polymer, and a plasticizer. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036922 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CLOSING A TISSUE OPENING - The present invention is directed to tissue closure devices for closing a tissue opening, including one or more closure components, each closure component having a first member and a second member, each of the first and second members having a first surface that adheres to a tissue surface proximate to the tissue opening, each of the first and second members having a second surface substantially orthogonal to the first surface, and each of the first and second members having a transitional region between the first surface and the second surface which is contoured to evert an edge of the tissue opening upon the drawing together of the first and second members. The present invention is also directed to systems and kits, dressing systems, and methods for tissue repair and closure. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036923 | Systems and methods for accommodating anatomical characteristics in the treatment of septal defects - Systems and methods for treating internal tissue defects, such as septal defects, with implantable devices are provided. An exemplary clip-based device includes a tubular body having at least a deflectable anchors coupled thereto. The anchors can be coupled on opposite ends of the tubular body and configured to deflect between an undeployed configuration and a deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration, each anchor extends outwardly away from the tubular body in a position configured to abut a tissue surface. The anchors are preferably configured to maintain a tissue wall therebetween and at least partially close any opening in the tissue wall. Also provided are delivery devices for delivering the implantable closure device and methods for using the various devices. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036924 | INTERVERTEBRAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM - An intervertebral stabilization system for at least three vertebrae comprising
| 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036925 | Device, Kit and Method For Intervertebral Stabilization - An intervertebral stabilizing device adapted to stabilize two or more vertebral bodies one another. The device comprises two fastening elements adapted to be associated to two vertebral bodies being contiguous to each other and a junction element operatively connecting the two fastening elements. The fastening elements and the junction element gradually distribute the stresses both on the peduncles and the spinous bones of the adjacent vertebrae, so as to gradually and continuously stress the column length, thus avoiding sudden changes in load and stiffness in the borderline zones. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036926 | METHOD FOR STABILIZING A FACET JOINT - The present invention relates to methods and spinal implant devices for stabilizing a facet joint. In one embodiment, the method includes forming a hole through a facet joint and respective overlapping superior and inferior articular processes of adjacent vertebra which, respectively, include superior articular process and inferior articular process openings. A spinal implant device, such as elongated member, is inserted lengthwise into the hole. The first end portion of the elongated member defines a closed end and the second end portion defines an open end permitting entry into an interior of the member. The interior of the elongated member is filled with a desired material to expand the first and second end portions of the member beyond respective superior articular process and inferior articular process openings of the hole to greater than a desired size of the superior articular process and inferior articular process openings to stabilize the facet joint. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036927 | Method and apparatus for spinal facet fusion - A spinal facet fusion implant comprising:
| 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036928 | DUAL ROD CROSS CONNECTORS AND INSERTER TOOLS - An implantable spinal cross connector is provided for connecting one or more spinal fixation devices, and more preferably for connecting two spinal fixation rods that are implanted within a patient's spinal system. In general, an exemplary cross connector in accordance with the present invention includes an elongate body with at least one rod-receiving recess formed therein, and a locking mechanism that is adapted to couple to the elongate body and that is effective to lock a spinal fixation rod within the rod-receiving recess(es). The present invention also provides an inserter tool to facilitate implanting a spinal implant or device, such as a spinal cross connector. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036929 | Offset connector for a spinal stabilization rod - An offset connector implantable into a patient and connectable between a vertebral anchor a spinal stabilization rod is provided. The offset connector for connecting a spinal stabilization rod to a bone anchor system is laterally displaced relative to the rod and movable with respect to the bone anchor system until positioned and locked in place. The offset connector includes a stem configured for attachment to the bone anchor system and a rod-receiving portion connected to the stem. The rod-receiving portion is configured to receive at least a portion of the spinal stabilization rod at a location displaced from the bone anchor system. A fastener mechanism configured to secure the spinal stabilization rod to the rod-receiving portion is also provided. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036930 | Bone fixing device - A bone fixing device ( | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036931 | FOOT SURGERY BONE PLATE, AND SYSTEM COMPRISING BONE PLATE AND INSERTION AID - A foot surgery bone plate for osteosynthesis and/or fixation of foot-bone segments, with a plate-shaped bearing portion which has at least one through-opening extending from a top face of the bone plate to a bottom face of the bone plate and provided for a bone screw, which bearing portion is designed for external fixation on a first bone segment. An intramedullary portion is provided which has at least one through-opening extending from the top face of the bone plate to the bottom face of the bone plate and provided for a bone screw, which intramedullary portion is designed for introduction into a second bone segment. A system is provided comprising a bone plate and an insertion aid. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036932 | Fixation kit for medical or surgical use - The invention relates to a fixation kit ( | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036933 | System and method for vertebral body plating - A spinal plating system for vertebral fixation includes a plate, a compression screw, multiple fixation members and polyaxially adjustable locking rings. The plate is shaped to conform to the curvature of the spine and the surfaces of the vertebral bodies. The compression screw fits through an insert, and together they are guided by the plate as the screw is driven into one of the vertebrae, producing compression between the adjacent vertebrae. A retaining lip on the plate prevents backout of the compression screw. The polyaxial locking rings can be polyaxially pivoted to attain a desired orientation, and are lockable to the plate to maintain the orientation. The fixation members fit through openings in the polyaxial locking rings and the plate to fix the plate to the vertebrae. Locking the polyaxial locking rings fixes the position of the fixation members relative to the plate, and prevents backout of the fixation members. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036934 | BONE ANCHORING DEVICE - A bone anchoring device includes a bone anchoring element having a shaft for anchoring in the bone and a head; and a receiving part for coupling a rod to the bone anchoring element. The receiving part includes a first portion with a first end and a second end and a U-shaped recess for receiving the rod, the recess extending from the first end in the direction of the second end thereby forming two free legs and a second portion at the side of the second end opposite to the first end for accommodating the head, the second portion having a free end and being flexible so as to allow introduction and clamping of the head. The bone anchoring device also includes a locking ring embracing the second portion. The head is locked by means of exerting pressure with the rod onto the locking ring resulting in compression of the second portion of the receiving part and wherein the locking ring is mounted to the receiving part from the free end of the second portion. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036935 | Polyaxial bone screw with helically wound capture connection - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head and a closed retainer ring. The external capture structure surface and retainer ring internal bore surface are both threaded for rotatable attachment within a cavity of the head. The head has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The head channel communicates with the cavity and further with a restrictive opening that allows for loading the capture structure into the head but prevents passage of the closed retainer ring out of the head. The retainer ring has an external substantially spherical surface that mates with an internal surface of the head, providing a ball joint, enabling the head to be disposed at an angle relative to the shank body. The threaded capture structure or the closed retainer structure includes a tool engagement formation and gripping surfaces for non-slip engagement by a tool for driving the shank body into bone. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036936 | TRANSLAMINAR APPROACH TO MINIMALLY INVASIVE LIGAMENT DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURE - Provided herein is a method for treating spinal stenosis comprising percutaneously accessing the epidural space from a first side of the spine. The first side of the spine is located on one side of the medial plane with respect to the spinal cord. A tissue removal tool is then advanced through the first side of the epidural space into the other side of the epidural space, where the other side of the epidural space is located on the other side of the medial plane of the spinal cord. Once the tissue removal tool is located on the second side of the medial plane, stenosis can be reduced using the tissue removal tool. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036937 | Method and Apparatus for the Treatement of the Intervertebral Disc Annulus - The present invention provides methods and devices for treating the annulus of an intervertebral disc. The methods and devices can employ an expandable treatment device which is deployed at least partially in the subannular space. Fixation devices and methods are also disclosed, which help to secure the treatment device in place. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036938 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR EXTERNAL COUNTERPULSATION THERAPY - An improved system for delivering external counterpulsation therapy is described. The system employs muscle stimulation transducers such as cutaneous electrodes in order to stimulate skeletal muscle and/or vascular smooth muscle in synchronization with the cardiac cycle in a manner that increases the fluid pressure within veins and/or arteries during cardiac diastole. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036939 | INDUCTIVE ELEMENT FOR INTRAVASCULAR IMPLANTABLE DEVICES - An inductive element adapted for use in implantable intravascular devices (IIDs) having an elongate form factor with a cross-section. The inductive element includes a core that has an outer surface contour that corresponds to the form factor. A set of elongate, or oblong, windings are situated lengthwise along the major length dimension of the inductive element. The windings are also situated to direct a magnetic field along a radial direction in relation to the elongate form factor. In one embodiment the form factor is generally cylindrical and the cross-section is generally round. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036940 | HYPERTENSION DIAGNOSIS AND THERAPY USING PRESSURE SENSOR - An example relates to a method for sensing a pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) and providing a sensed PAP signal, detecting an abnormal blood pressure (BP) condition using information from the sensed PAP signal, delivering a pacing energy to a heart, and automatically altering at least one pacing characteristic in response to the detected abnormal BP condition. The detecting an abnormal BP condition can include detecting various forms of hypertension or hypotension. The automatically altering the at least one pacing characteristic can include automatically altering at least one of a pacing rate, a pacing waveform, an atriventricular (AV) delay, an interventricular (VV) delay, a pacing mode, or a pacing site. The method can also include delivering vagal nerve stimulation and automatically altering the vagal nerve stimulation in response to the detected abnormal BP condition. The detecting the abnormal BP condition can also include using a sensed auxiliary physiological parameter. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036941 | CARDIAC RESYNCHRONIZATION THERAPY FOR PATIENTS WITH RIGHT BUNDLE BRANCH BLOCK - An implantable medical device and associated method deliver cardiac resynchronization therapy in a patient having right bundle branch block by measuring an interval between a right atrial depolarization and a first heart sound and selecting a right atrial-ventricular (AV) pacing interval in response to the measured interval. Pacing pulses are delivered to the right ventricle of a patient's heart at the selected right AV pacing interval to synchronize the right ventricle with an intrinsic left ventricle depolarization. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036942 | Method and system for identifying and displaying groups of cardiac arrhythmic episodes - A medical device system that receives cardiac data representing a plurality of stored arrhythmic episodes, and analyzing the cardiac data to identify and display a subset of stored arrhythmic episodes as a function of user-specified episode criteria. The medical device system presents a query window on an interactive display in order to receive user-specified episode criteria via one or more input fields. The medical device displays only those episodes matching the episode criteria such as arrhythmia type, zone of detection, date of occurrence and average heart rate in beats per minute (BPM). | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036943 | MULTIPLE BATTERY CONFIGURATIONS IN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Implantable medical device power circuits are disclosed. Multiple batteries may be provided, along with a number of switches, enabling a plurality of battery and power circuit configurations to be defined. Configurations of the power circuit may be changed in response to changes in battery status as the batteries are used and/or near end-of-life. Configurations of the power circuit may also be performed in response to changes in device operation. Methods associated with operating such circuits and implantable medical devices are also disclosed. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036944 | ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE SHIELDING IN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - EMI shields for use in implantable medical devices that include inner and outer metal layers separated by a dielectric layer. When assembled as medical devices, the outer metal layer of an illustrative EMI shield is placed into electrical contact with a conductive inner surface of an associated canister for an implantable medical device. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036945 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ACHIEVING A PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSE BY PUDENDAL NERVE STIMULATION AND BLOCKADE - Methods and apparatus are therefore provided herein for stimulating a desired physiological effect. The methods and apparatus can be used to control micturition, defecation and/or ejaculation. The methods and apparatus also can be used to control pain in the lower pelvic region, for example and without limitation, interstitial cystitis. The methods and apparatus also can be used to increase sexual sensation. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036946 | PELVIC DISORDER TREATMENTS - In a method, at least one electrode is implanted in a pelvic muscle of a patient and a control unit is provided. An electrical waveform is applied to the pelvic muscle through the at least one electrode using the control unit. A condition of the patient is treated in response to the application of the electrical waveform. The condition of the patient is fecal incontinence, interstitial cystitis, chronic pelvic pain or urine retention. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036947 | Transvenous Phrenic Nerve Stimulation System - A lead system and method of use for treating breathing disorders by the transvenous stimulation of the phrenic nerve. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036948 | RENAL NERVE STIMULATION METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF PATIENTS - A method and apparatus for treatment of heart failure, hypertension and renal failure by stimulating the renal nerve. The goal of therapy is to reduce sympathetic activity of the renal nerve. Therapy is accomplished by at least partially blocking the nerve with drug infusion or electrostimulation. Apparatus can be permanently implanted or catheter based. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036949 | STIMULATION EXTENSION WITH INPUT CAPABILITIES - A stimulation extension useful in deep brain stimulation treatment includes a body portion having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end receives a stimulation signal from a generator. A lead interface is disposed at the distal end to send the stimulation signal to a brain stimulation lead. The stimulation extension also includes a sensor interface disposed at the distal end to receive an input signal from a sensor that is detached from the stimulation lead and send the input signal to the generator. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036950 | TRAINED AND ADAPTIVE RESPONSE IN A NEUROSTIMULATOR - A method sensing at least two physiological parameters and, for each of the at least two physiological parameters, generating a first series of signals representative of the physiological parameter sensed over a first time period, storing each of said first series of signals as a time sequence data stream, and determining when a physiological event has occurred in a patient. The method further comprises analyzing each of said time sequence data streams for a predetermined time interval preceding the occurrence of a physiological event to determine at least one marker as a predictor of the event, and again sensing the physiological parameters. Furthermore, the method comprises generating a second series of signals representative of the physiological parameter sensed, analyzing each of the second series of signals to determine whether the marker is present, and stimulating a cranial nerve when the marker is present in the second series of signals. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036951 | SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS FOR SELECTING THERAPY PARAMETER SETS - Techniques for controlling delivery of a therapy to a patient by a medical device, such as an implantable medical device (IMD), involve a sensitivity analysis of a performance metric. The performance metric may relate to efficacy or side effects of the therapy. For example, the performance metric may comprise a sleep quality metric, an activity level metric, a movement disorder metric for patients with Parkinson's disease, or the like. The sensitivity analysis identifies values of therapy parameters that defines a substantially maximum or minimum value of the performance metric. The identified therapy parameters are a baseline therapy parameter set, and a medical device may control delivery of the therapy based on the baseline therapy parameter set. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036952 | INDUCTION DRIVEN LIGHT MODULE AND USE THEREOF - The present invention relates to an induction driven light module. In particular, the present invention is directed to an induction driven LED or LD module for photodynamic therapy, entertainment or decoration. The present invention also relates to a method for treating cancer, tumor or other ailments. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036953 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TREATMENT OF ORGANIC TISSUE - An optic includes a first end, a fluorescent material, and a second end. The first end is adapted to transmit a first band of electromagnetic radiation to the fluorescent material. The fluorescent material is adapted to absorb the first band of electromagnetic radiation and emit a second band of electromagnetic radiation. The second end is adapted to contact the biological tissue and deliver the second band of electromagnetic radiation to treat the biological tissue. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036954 | INSTRUMENT FOR TREATING SCALP AFFECTIONS - An instrument ( | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036955 | Method, System and Apparatus For Guaranteeing Laser Shut-Down Time - Systems, methods and apparatuses for guaranteeing a shut-down time for a laser in a laser surgical unit are presented. More particularly, embodiments of such methods, systems and apparatuses may provide shut-down logic which comprises a timer which may be triggered by a signal received from an event. At the expiration of the timer a signal may be output which is configured to disable the output of the laser. Specifically, in one embodiment, software may be used to configure a shut-down time and a set of events to be utilized to start the timer. Upon firing of the laser the timer will be enabled. During the operation of the laser then, if one of the set of events occurs the timer will be triggered such that at the end of the shut-down time the output of the laser will be disabled. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036956 | LASER TREATMENT SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - The invention disclosed herein related to laser systems, arrangements, and related methods for irradiating a selected biotissue with continuous or pulsed laser radiation having wavelengths selected from the group of 0.6 to 1.06 microns, 1.34 to 1.70 microns, 1.8 to 2.2 microns, and 2.4 to 3.1 microns. The laser radiation wavelengths may be varied continuously or discretely. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036957 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVED PHOTON IRRADIATION THERAPY AND TREATMENT OF PAIN - A treatment device includes a plurality of photon emitter arrays directed toward treatment points on a patient's body. The treatment points are at mirror image locations and the emitters are energized in a push-pull on-off fashion. The device is automatic, such that once a patient is inserted, an operator only need to press a single button to perform treatment. The treatment device includes, for example, fixed adjustable emitter arrays and motion control emitter arrays. A controller activates the emitter arrays according to a treatment program. The treatment program may be varied depending on patient needs and/or prescription, including length of treatment, intensity, modulation, etc. The treatment device is preferably applied to foot pain resulting from diabetic neuropathy, but may be applied to other body parts and/or ailments. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036958 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR TREATING TISSUE - The invention provides a system and method for achieving the cosmetically beneficial effects of shrinking collagen tissue in the dermis or other areas of tissue in an effective, non-invasive manner using an array of electrodes. Systems described herein allow for improved treatment of tissue. Additional variations of the system include array of electrodes configured to minimize the energy required to produce the desired effect. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036959 | DEVICE FOR APPLYING A PULSATING PRESSURE TO A LOCAL REGION OF THE BODY AND THE APPLICATIONS THEREOF - The present invention generally relates to a device for applying a pulsating pressure to a local region of the body and applications thereof. The device may be used to increase the blood flow in a local region of the body, and in preferred embodiments provides a device for regulating the core body temperature of a patient. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036960 | Icey Wrap - ICEY WRAP can be used primarily during many outdoor activities in hot climates to help keep cool. Ice is used as the primary cooling medium. As ice melts in the internal compartment, water is absorbed by polymer crystals in the lower chamber of the wrap, is needed to continue keeping the wrap cool. Ice is more accessible, quicker to use and can be transported in any size ice chest during outside activities. Ice is also readily available at convenience stores, fast food restaurants and other establishments where outdoor activities take place. Adding ice to the ICEY WRAP is more sanitary than putting an entire traditional neck cool into an ice chest or water container that may have other items inside. Current forms of neck ties need to be periodically soaked in cold water for 10-20 minutes or placed in a refrigerator for up to 10 to 20 minutes to keep them cold. Most outdoor activities do not allow for quick access to a refrigerator and the longer delay of cooling can hinder one's activity. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036961 | MEDICAL USE ELECTRICAL LEAD INCLUDING A RADIO OPAGUE MARKER - A medical use electrical lead | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036962 | Simultaneous Intracochlear Stimulation - A method, system and computer product for simultaneously activating at least two electrodes in a multichannel electrode array is presented. The method includes calculating pulse amplitudes of the electrodes in the multichannel array by taking into account parameters of spatial channel interaction reflecting geometric overlapping of electrical fields from each electrode. Calculating is based, at least in part, on place-independent impulse responses characterized by a first exponential decay constant α at a first side of the electrode and a second exponential decay constant β at a second side of the electrode, such that the first exponential decay constant α is the same for each electrode in the array, and the second exponential decay constant β is the same for each electrode in the array. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036963 | Probe electrode pad and probe electrode pad storage box - The present invention is directed to a unique, user-friendly, disposable electrode to be used on metallic probes which are used in electromedical devices, such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulators (TENS) and microcurrent electrical therapy (MET) devices and other electrical simulators for applying electricity through the skin to the human or animal body. Additionally, the present invention describes a box for the storage and retrieval of the probe. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036964 | Expandable Prostheses for Treating Atherosclerotic Lesions Including Vulnerable Plaques - The invention provides expandable tubular prostheses that are designed for the treatment of atherosclerotic lesions, such as vulnerable plaques, and that are characterized by no foreshortening, optimal radial force and accuracy of deployment. In the treatment of vulnerable plaque, the device may be expanded in a blood vessel so that its central section at least partially contacts a vulnerable plaque lesion and/or the blood vessel wall in close proximity to the vulnerable plaque lesion. The invention also provides more general methods of treating atherosclerosis and promoting endothelialization using the prostheses of the invention. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036965 | CONJUNCTIVE STENT THERAPY - A conjunctive method of treating coronary artery disease includes a primary treatment where a stent is placed in a coronary artery of a patient at a site of an occlusion. The conjunctive method comprises placing a therapeutic agent at an epicardial surface of a heart of the patient and at the site of the occlusion. The therapeutic agent is selected for abating restenosis at the site. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036966 | Device Delivery System With Two Stage Withdrawal - A medical device delivery system provides for a two-stage withdrawal of a deflated balloon portion of a catheter and the remains of a ruptured sheath. The deflated balloon portion is withdrawn from within an expanded medical device a predetermined distance before the remains of the ruptured sheath begins being removed from between the expanded device and a vessel wall. Initiating removal of the deflated balloon portion before the sheath reduces a total amount of drag that is exerted against a self-expanding medical device that has been deployed in a vessel. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036967 | Medical Device Delivery System - A medical device delivery system comprises an inner tube, a medical device disposed about a portion of the distal region of the inner tube, a medical device sheath disposed about the medical device, a medical device sheath retraction device extending proximally from the medical device sheath and an outer sheath disposed about a portion of the medical device sheath retraction device. The distal end of the outer sheath terminates at least one medical device length proximal of the medical device. The medical device sheath is movable relative to the outer sheath and relative to the inner tube. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036968 | DEVICE FOR MAINTAINING PATENT PARANASAL SINUS OSTIA - A device for maintaining a patent paranasal sinus ostium includes a tubular element having a proximal end, a distal end, and a center region between the proximal end and distal end. The tubular element has an insertion state and a deployment state. The tubular element is locatable in the sinus ostium when in the insertion state and expandable from the insertion state to the deployment state when located in the sinus ostium. In the deployment state, the center region confronts the sinus ostium with an outward radial force. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036969 | Thin-walled vascular graft - There is provided a thin-walled self-sealing vascular graft with a first tubular structure formed from ePTFE and having a wall thickness of 0.2 mm or less, and a resealable polymer layer, such as a styrene copolymer, located on one surface of said first tubular structure. A second tubular structure may also be present, so that the resealable polymer layer is disposed between said first and second tubular structure. The second tubular structure is preferably formed from a textile layer but can also be ePTFE. A method of forming such a self-sealing graft is also provided comprising the steps of wrapping unsintered ePTFE tape helically onto a mandrel such that adjacent turns of the ePTFE tape overlap; sintering the layers of tape by heating above the crystalline melting point of ePTFE to form a sintered tubular structure, and applying a resealable polymer layer to one surface of said first tubular structure. The graft can be used for replacing a defective portion of the vasculature in a patient in need thereof. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036970 | CONTROLLED FRACTURE CONNECTIONS FOR STENT - The invention provides for intra-luminal stents, especially stent having controlled fracture connection, as well as, methods of making and using the same. In one embodiment, a stent for implantation into a vessel has a plurality of annular segments collectively forming tubular shape, characterized by at least first and second adjacent annular segments each defined by a plurality of struts and at least one joint interconnecting respective struts of the first and second segments on a non-permanent basis. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036971 | PTFE LAYERS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING - Single, continuous PTFE layers having lateral zones of varied characteristics are described. Some of the lateral zone embodiments may include PTFE material having little or no nodal and fibril microstructure. Methods of manufacturing PTFE layers allow for controllable permeability and porosity of the layers, in addition to other characteristics. The characteristics may vary from one lateral zone of a PTFE layer to a second lateral zone of a PTFE layer. In some embodiments, the PTFE layers may act as a barrier layer in an endovascular graft or other medical device. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036972 | Stent With Flexible Sections In High Strain Regions - A stent for treating a bodily lumen with a flexible section in a high strain region is disclosed. A flexible section may be selectively positioned to reduce an amount of strain in the high strain region when subjected to the applied stress during use to inhibit or prevent fracturing in the high strain region. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036973 | PTFE LAYERS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING - Thin PTFE layers are described having little or no node and fibril microstructure and methods of manufacturing PTFE layers are disclosed that allow for controllable permeability and porosity of the layers. In some embodiments, the PTFE layers may act as a barrier layer in an endovascular graft or other medical device. | 2009-02-05 |
| 20090036974 | EXPANDABLE STENT AND METHOD FOR DELIVERY OF SAME - An expandable stent having a proximal end and a distal end in communication with one another, and a tubular wall disposed between the proximal end and the distal end. The tubular wall has a longitudinal axis and a porous surface defined by a plurality of intersecting members comprising a series of longitudinal struts disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stent. Each longitudinal strut in the series comprises flexure members for substantially complementary extension and compression of a diametrically opposed pair of the longitudinal struts upon flexure of the stent. The flexure members may comprise first and second curved sections which are of a different size. At least one of the curved sections may comprise an arc of greater than about 180°. | 2009-02-05 |
