| 19th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights part 52 |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20090118707 | Method for Using a Guidewire Straightener - A guidewire straightener assembly ( | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118708 | Apparatus and method for sterile docking of male medical line connectors - A docking station for male medical line connectors, including a base housing securable to a stationary surface and having a plurality of docking bays, each of which is dimensioned and contoured for respectively receiving and temporarily retaining ampules containing sterilization fluid. Each of the ampules has a chamber therein containing the sterilization fluid and an access mouth exteriorly exposed when the ampule is secured in one of the bays, and each mouth has a female medical line connection dimensioned and contoured for temporarily receiving and securing a male medical line connector thereto with the tubular tip of the male connector immersed in sterilization fluid during the period of time that the infusion tubing is disconnected from the patient. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118709 | Tissue Excision Tool, Kits and Methods of Using the Same - An invention is disclosed that describes devices, kits and methods for providing percutaneous access to a surgical site. Suitable devices comprise a hollow body having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end comprises one or more apertures; a first pivot member disposed within the hollow body; and a tissue excision member mounted in rotatable communication with the pivot member, wherein at least a portion of the tissue excision member is exposed through the one or more side apertures, and wherein the tissue excision member moves in a longitudinal direction around the pivot member in relation to the hollow body. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118710 | Non-invasive analysis and controlled dosage transdermal active patch - A programmable transdermal patch non-invasively delivers pharmaceuticals or other bio-active agents through the skin of a living body. The patch contains one or more agent storage pads and one or more active drivers that apply an electric current to the skin or produce ultrasound to drive the agent into the skin. A digital data processor controls the drivers to match administration of the agents to the needs of the body. The patch may contain a sensor, coupled to the data processor, for monitoring the concentration of a substance in the body in order to vary dosage of a therapeutic agent. A radio contained in the patch enables control by medical personnel from a remote location and/or transmission of sensor data to the remote location. The pads, drivers, sensor, data processor, radio and a battery are all contained within a unitary patch and need no physical connection to external devices. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118711 | REDUCED-NOISE IMPLANTABLE INFUSION DEVICE - A drive mechanism for delivery of infusion medium in an implantable medical device includes an inlet for receiving the infusion medium and a piston channel for communication of infusion medium received by the inlet. The piston channel has a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end is closer to the inlet than the distal end. The drive mechanism further includes a coil surrounding the piston channel and a piston located within the piston channel and moveable axially within the piston channel to drive infusion medium out of the distal end of the piston channel. The mechanism also includes an armature operably coupled to the piston and disposed adjacent the coil. The armature has first and second opposing major surfaces and a plurality of vents extending through the armature from the first major surface to the second major surface. The plurality of vents cumulatively occupy between about 20% and about 40% of the total surface area of the first major surface. Electromagnetic interaction between the armature and the coil cause the piston move in the channel. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118712 | Flexible transoral endoscopic gastroesophageal flap valve restoration device and method - A transoral gastroesophageal flap valve restoration device has sufficient flexibility and dimension to be passed through the mouth, throat, and esophagus of a patient into the patient's stomach. The device includes a first member and a second member hingedly coupled to the first member. The first and second members are configured to flex in a direction to follow the esophageal path into the stomach and to be substantially rigid when forming the restored gastroesophageal flap valve. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118713 | Tissue cleaning apparatus - A portable tissue cleaning apparatus comprising a housing with a base member and side walls mounted to the base member and a top cover having a motor contained within a housing. A manually operable switch assembly is mounted on the housing and is operable to control operation of the motor. A connector connects the motor to a rotatable basket assembly having a cylindrical container. A perforated basket is mounted in the cylindrical container and a cover mounted on the cylindrical container to provide a sealed fluid containment chamber. The perforated basket is cylindrical and has an impeller mounted on its bottom to direct fluid in a predetermined path when the same is rotated, and a divider comprising a tube with external slots formed therein and fin members mounted in the slots with the fin members extending outward towards an inner wall surface of the cylindrical perforated container to divide the perforated basket into sections. The motor rotatably drives the cylindrical container and perforated basket in sequential clockwise and counter clockwise directions a predetermined number of revolutions to clean tissue held therein. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118714 | Surgical console information display system and method - A surgical console is disclosed, comprising a processing module operable to direct operations of and receive inputs from devices operably coupled to the processing module, at least one memory device operably coupled to the processing module, wherein the at least one memory device is operable to store multimedia content, and a user interface, wherein the user interface is operable to display representations of surgical console functions and to display selected portions of the multimedia content during a non-surgery mode. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118715 | Ophthalmic Surgical Device - An ophthalmic surgical device is disclosed that combines laser energy for treatment of vision or ocular defect and illumination energy for visualization of a treatment site during surgery in a single common waveguide fiber, thereby enabling reduction of a diameter of a probe or canula of the device, whereby a smaller incision may be utilized to reduce trauma to the eye. The device may further include additional features, such as a conduit for supply of material or removal of material from the treatment site. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118716 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SCANNING A PULSED LASER BEAM - System and method of photoaltering a region of a material using a pulsed laser beam. The method includes randomly scanning the pulsed laser beam in the region, and creating a separation between a first layer of the material and a second layer of the material at the region. The system includes a laser producing a pulsed laser beam, a controller transmitting a signal, and a scanner coupled to the controller. The scanner randomly scans the pulsed laser beam in the region in response to the signal. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118717 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF INTERFACING A SURGICAL LASER WITH AN EYE - A system for interfacing a surgical laser with an eye includes a first sensing element to couple to an output surface of the laser, an interface lens having second sensing element coupled to a first surface of the interface lens, and a detector coupled to the first sensing element. A second surface of the interface lens contacts the eye. The detector determines when the first sensing element contacts the second sensing element. A method for aligning the laser with the eye includes coupling the laser to the patient interface, sensing an electrical change indicating a position of the output surface with the interface lens, comparing the electrical change with a predetermined value to produce a correction, and re-positioning the laser with the correction. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118718 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCISING MATERIAL - Systems and methods of incising a portion of a material include creating a sub-surface separation in a region of the material, and incising a periphery of the region with a pulsed laser beam to produce an edge of the portion. The edge includes a periodically varying shape to secure the portion to the material when the portion is reintegrated. The system includes a laser producing the pulsed laser beam, a scanner operable in response to a control signal, and a controller coupled to the scanner. The controller produces the control signal. In response to the control signal, the scanner creates a sub-surface separation in the region with the pulsed laser beam and incises the periphery of the region with the pulsed laser beam to produce the edge with the periodically varying shape. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118719 | METHODS FOR TREATING EYE CONDITIONS - Architectures and techniques for treating conditions of the eye, such as presbyopia, utilize sources of treatment energy, such as electromagnetic energy emitting devices, to implement non-corneal manipulations. According to these devices and methods, the sources of treatment energy are activated to direct energy onto parts of the eye, such as the conjunctiva and sclera, to treat presbyopia. The treatments can affect at least one property of the eye and enhance an accommodation of the eye. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118720 | Dermatological Apparatus and Method - A dermatological laser apparatus in accordance with the present invention may comprise a plurality of laser light sources, a corresponding plurality of optical delivery pathways, and a focusing system. The dermatological laser apparatus may also comprise a control system for controlling the operation of the plurality of laser light sources to generate a broad range of therapeutic treatment patterns on or within a layer of skin. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118721 | Near Infrared Microbial Elimination Laser System (NIMELS) - Methods, systems, and apparatus for Near Infrared Microbial Elimination laser Systems (NIMELS) are disclosed that can apply near infrared radiant energy of certain wavelengths and dosimetries capable of impairing biological contaminants, for example fungus, without intolerable risks and/or adverse effects to biological moieties other than a targeted biological contaminant. Lasers including diode lasers may be used as one or more light sources. A delivery assembly can be used to deliver the optical radiation produced by the source(s) produced to an application region that can include patient tissue. A flat top lens can be included to produce a flat top beam distribution. Exemplary embodiments utilize laser light in a near infrared range of 850 nm-900 nm and/or 905 nm-945 nm at suitable NIMELS dosimetries. For certain applications, laser light in two spectral ranges including 870 nm and 930 nm, respectively, can be utilized. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118722 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COOLING SUBCUTANEOUS LIPID-RICH CELLS OR TISSUE - A system for reducing subcutaneous lipid-rich cells or tissue of a subject is disclosed. The system may include a fluid supply, a probe in fluid communication with the fluid supply, and a coolant circulated between the fluid supply and the probe. The probe may be configured to be inserted into the subject to be at least proximate to the subcutaneous lipid rich cells. The coolant may be at a temperature such that the subcutaneous lipid-rich cells or tissue proximate to the inserted probe are cooled. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118723 | COOLANT INJECTION TUBE - A medical device includes a steering element defining a passage for a guide wire. A fluid injection tube defining a proximal and a distal end is also included, wherein a portion of the fluid injection tube is contoured about a portion of the steering element. A plurality of injection ports may be disposed in the portion of the fluid injection tube contoured about the steering element. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118724 | Method and Apparatus for Positioning a Medical Instrument - Presented are methods and apparatus for delivering a surgical instrument to a treatment site within the body of a subject, enabling accurate placement of surgical tools in areas not directly visible to a surgeon during a surgical procedure, while reducing or eliminating need for real-time imaging modalities to guide placement of those surgical tools. A treatment tool is guided to a treatment site by placing a guiding element at a reference site within a body of a subject, the reference site having a known spatial relationship to the treatment site, and utilizing a positioning tool to guide a treatment tool to a locus so positioned with respect to that guiding element that the spatial relationship between that guiding element and that locus is substantially similar to the spatial relationship known to exist between the reference site and the treatment site, thereby positioning the treatment tool substantially at the treatment site. Methods and apparatus for focusing energy at a treatment site, methods and apparatus for treatment of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia, and methods and apparatus for performing a saturation biopsy of an organ are also presented. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118725 | HEMOSTATIC TISSUE TUNNEL GENERATOR FOR INSERTING TREATMENT APPARATUS INTO TISSUE OF A PATIENT - A catheter for insertion into and treatment of tissue in a patient comprises a radio frequency (RF) electrode having an elongated body that conducts electrical RF energy to a conductive tip. An insulating sleeve surrounds the elongated body. In a first mode of operation, the conductive tip is exposed outside the insulating sleeve and the RF electrode delivers RF energy that erodes the tissue of the patient and creates a tunnel through which the catheter can advance into the tissue of the patient. In a second mode of operation, the insulating sleeve and/or the RF electrode is retracted and a second treatment apparatus treats the tissue. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118726 | Systems and Methods for Transeptal Cardiac Procedures, Including Tissue Sealing Members Associated Methods - Systems and methods for transeptal cardiac procedures are disclosed. A patient treatment device in accordance with a particular embodiment includes a catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, a working portion toward the distal end, and an electrical energy path coupleable to a source of electrical energy. The device can further include a tissue penetrating member carried by the catheter and an electrode device carried by the working portion of the catheter and movable along the tissue penetrating member. The electrode device can include a collapsible stranded conductive material coupled to the electrical signal path and being changeable between a deployed position and a stowed position. The conductive material can be elongated along a deployment axis when in the stowed position, and can be contracted along the deployment axis and expanded transverse to the deployment axis when in the deployed position. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118727 | ABLATION DEVICES AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Devices and methods for ablating a selected tissue volume, such as for ablating tumor, are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the ablation devices include a low-conductivity, tissue-piercing tip, an adjustment mechanism for selectively adjusting the length of an exposed portion of the electrode, for producing ablation volumes of desired geometry. In other embodiment, the methods allow the adjustment of the length of the exposed electrode portion be carried out by moving an insulative sleeve along the electrode. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118728 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TISSUE ABLATION - A tissue ablation device comprises first and second electrodes of opposite polarities, the first electrode being mounted to a first elongated member for movement relative to the second electrode for separation therefrom by a desired distance. A method of ablating a tissue comprises inserting first and second electrodes to desired initial positions relative to a tissue mass to be ablated and applying electrical energy to the first and second electrodes to ablate a first portion of tissue between the first and second electrodes in combination with the step of applying electrical energy to desired second positions separated from the desired initial positions by a distance selected to transfer electrical energy around the first portion of tissue through a second portion of tissue to be ablated, the second portion of tissue surrounding the first portion of tissue. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118729 | HEMOSTATIC SPARK EROSION TISSUE TUNNEL GENERATOR WITH INTEGRAL TREATMENT PROVIDING VARIABLE VOLUMETRIC NECROTIZATION OF TISSUE - A catheter for insertion into and treatment of tissue in a patient comprises a radio frequency (RF) electrode having an elongated body that conducts electrical RF energy to a conductive tip. An insulating sleeve surrounding the elongated body prevents leakage of RF energy from the elongated body when the catheter is being inserted into the tissue of the patient. In a first mode of operation, the conductive tip is exposed outside the insulating sleeve and the RF electrode delivers first RF energy capable of producing sparks that erode the tissue of the patient and create a tunnel through which the catheter can advance into the tissue of the patient. In a second mode of operation, the insulating sleeve is retracted to expose a portion of the RF electrode. Second RF energy is delivered to the volume of tissue around the catheter to necrotize the tissue by heating without producing sparks. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118730 | Combined Dissecting, Cauterizing, and Stapling Device - A medical device for simultaneously cutting tissue with a heating element, cauterizing the tissue with sealing elements, and stapling the tissue together. The heating elements comprise bipolar RF electrodes. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118731 | BIPOLAR ELECTROSURGICAL PROBE HAVING INSULATED OVERLAPPING CONDUCTIVE ELEMENTS - A bipolar electrosurgical probe includes electrodes separated by an insulation member. One end of an electrode is inserted into an aperture of the other electrode. An insulation material is disposed between e.g., injected into, a space between a bottom surface of one electrode and a top surface of another electrode so that at least a portion of the insulation member is disposed between overlapping ends of the electrodes. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118732 | Electrode arrangement for a surgical instrument for electrothermal coagulation in tissue - There is provided a surgical instrument for electrothermal coagulation of tissue, which includes a front cylinder at the distal end of the instrument having a distal tip, an elongate carrier, and two spaced cylindrical or strip-shaped electrodes at or on the carrier which are connectable to an HF-ac voltage source. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118733 | ORTHOPEDIC DEVICE - An orthopedic device for fixating bone parts includes a set of one or more bone fixation pins for engaging a bone piece, an elongated fixator body having an internally threaded bore extending longitudinally therethrough, a pair of opposed longitudinally extending slots in the fixator body, and a pin-holder received within the fixator body and configured to removably hold the set of one or more bone fixation pins. The pin-holder is longitudinally movable within the fixator body for controlling the position of the set of bone fixation pins within the fixator body. The fixator body also can be configured to removably hold a second set of one or more bone fixation pins at a location fixed along the fixator body. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118734 | Implantation System for Tissue Repair - A prosthesis delivery and implantation system for tissue repair is disclosed. The implantation system includes provisions for manually applying a prosthesis to a treatment area. This system may be applied to heal any imperfections in various different types of tissue. The system also provides provisions for independently inserting two end portions of the prosthesis into tissue. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118735 | BONE MILL INCLUDING A BASE AND A MILL HEAD SEPARATE FROM THE BASE, THE MILL HEAD INCLUDING A MOVEABLE CATCH TRAY - A bone mill including a base and a mill head that is removably attached to the base. A cutting disc is rotatably disposed in the mill head. When the mill head is attached to base, the cutting disc is rotated by a motor internal to the base. A plunger mounted to the mill head urges the bone against the cutting disc. The cutting disc and an impingement plate internal to the mill head shear the bone into chips. The chips are discharged from an opening in the mill head into a catch tray removably attached to the mill head. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118736 | Apparatus and Method for Aligning a Guide Pin for Joint Re-Surfacing - A drill guide for aligning a guide pin. In an embodiment, the drill guide comprises a base having a concave inner surface, an outer surface, and a central axis perpendicular to the inner surface. In addition, the drill guide comprises a drilling template extending axially from the outer surface of the base along the central axis. The drilling template includes a plurality of through-bores. Further, the drill guide comprises a first curved member extending along a central longitudinal axis from a fixed end integral with the base to a free end distal the base, and a second curved member extending along a central longitudinal axis from a fixed end integral with the base to a free end distal the base. The first curved member and the second curved member are angularly spaced about 180° apart relative to the central axis and include an elongate locking slot. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118737 | COUNTER ANGLE FOR IMPLANTOLOGY OR SURGERY COMPRISING REMOVABLE SUB-ASSEMBLIES AND IN PARTICULAR AN INTERMEDIATE POSITIONING SUPPORT FOR THE HEAD CARTRIDGE - The invention relates to a contra-angle for implantology or surgery with a head for holding and rotating an instrument about its longitudinal axis, and a handpiece containing, in a non-limiting manner, a connection providing the connection with an external motor drive, and a reducing assembly with an output gear. The contra-angle is formed of removable subassemblies, and principally of a subassembly called the intermediate support, including an input gear meshing with the output gear of the reducing assembly and an end gear mounted on the same rotating shaft and inside a hollow cylindrical body. The intermediate support is mounted so as to slide freely along an axis inside a central part of a head body and enabling positioning in the head and rotational driving of a removable head cartridge, when all the subassemblies are mounted together to form the contra-angle. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118738 | NEEDLESS APPLICATOR SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR APPLICATION OF MEDICAMENT TO THE BACK OF AN EYE - The present invention includes a method of intraocular delivery by needless injection of a medicament through the sclera of an eye and into a back of the eye as well as instruments for such delivery. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118739 | Method and Device for Manipulation of an Intraocular Lens - A method for charging a deformable intraocular lens into a receptacle through a slit or opening in the receptacle periphery, the lens in un-deformed state comprising a) a roughly disc shaped optic part configured to act as a lens when inserted into an eye and b) at least two elongated haptic legs, each leg having an inner end attached to the optic part, an outer end being free and intermediate points in between the inner end and the free end, each leg being curved in unstressed state and being flexible to at least a less curved configuration under stress. The method comprises the steps of i) stretching the legs to align the legs along a substantially straight line, ii) aligning or maintaining the substantially straight line over and substantially parallel with the slit or opening of the receptacle, and iii) transferring at least the two legs through the slit or opening into the receptacle. A device for stretching the haptics of a lens comprises i) at least two haptic guiding surfaces arranged for each of the at least two haptic legs, the guiding surfaces having less curvature than the legs in un-stressed state, ii) a seat for the lens arranged with respect to the guiding surfaces so as to allow, when a lens is positioned in the seat, contact between a first point on the leg and its guiding structure and iii) a lens guiding arrangement allowing the lens to be moved along a path bringing at least a second point on the leg into contact with, or closer to, its guiding structure or a transfer opening allowing passage of the lens with the haptics, having said less curvature, to a receptacle. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118740 | IMPLANTABLE DEVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM HANDLE AND METHOD OF USE - The present invention, in an exemplary embodiment, provides a delivery system and novel handle configuration for the delivery system that facilitates repeatable placement of implantable devices. In particular, in optical embodiments, the handle allows for the reversible coupling of scopes directly to the handle to enhance physician control during placement. The delivery system also allows for one-handed manipulation as finger action can be used to engage and disengage the scope as well as actuate the extent of implantable device deployment. Exemplary delivery systems are flexible, durable and/or assure proper installation of one or more implantable devices in a single procedure. Moreover, the preferred embodiments of the delivery system provides for the reloading of the delivery device with additional implantable devices for additional interventional procedures, resulting in a substantially reusable delivery device. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118742 | System and Method for Navigated Drill Guide - A system for tracking a navigated instrument. The system can include a first elongated instrument and a second elongated instrument. The first elongated instrument can have a first proximal end and a first distal end. The first elongated instrument can be adapted to be positioned relative to an anatomy. The second elongated instrument can move adjacent to the first elongated instrument. The second elongated instrument can have a second proximal end and a second distal end. The system can also include at least one tracking device coupled to the second elongated instrument. When the second elongated instrument is in a first position, the at least one tracking device tracks the first distal end of the first elongated instrument, and when the second elongated instrument is in a second position, the at least one tracking device tracks the second distal end of the second elongated instrument. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118743 | Instrument For Guiding Stage Apparatus And Method For Using Same - This documents describes among other things a normalizing stage apparatus, tools and methods. One example includes a base that defines a trajectory. A first stage is moveably coupled to the base and the first stage moves along the trajectory. A second stage is moveably coupled to the first stage and moves an instrument coupled thereto with respect to the base and the first stage. Before movement of the instrument, the first and second stages are in first positions desired (e.g. predetermined) distances from a target area in the body. Another example includes the first stage and a guide tube stop coupled with the first stage. A guide tube is coupled with the guide tube stop and extends through a guide tube stop lumen. The guide tubes outer perimeter is dimensioned and configured to snugly couple with the surface defining the guide tube stop lumen. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118744 | HEART VALVE REPAIR - The invention relates to a system for repairing a heart valve comprising a catheter, said catheter comprising an engagement member, the engagement member having at its distal end a hook capable of engaging with the surface of a prolapsed heart valve leaflet; and a fastener capable of deploying a fastening means to said leaflet. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118745 | PATENT FORAMEN OVALE CLOSURE APPARATUS AND METHOD - An apparatus for closure of a patent foramen ovale of a patient comprises a frame member defining respective first, second and third frame segments, and a growth and/or clot promoting material positioned on at least one of the segments. The frame member is alignable in a generally elongated first position for deployment via a delivery catheter, and is elastically movable therefrom to a compressed second position when the frame member is deployed across the foramen ovale. The frame segments are structured and arranged such that upon deployment of the apparatus across the foramen ovale, the first frame segment is disposed distal of the atrial septum, the second frame segment is disposed intermediate the atrial septum and the tissue flap, and the third frame segment is disposed proximal of the tissue flap. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118746 | INTRAOCULAR CLIP - An intraocular clip including first and second hook members extending generally coplanarly in opposite directions from a spine, the spine being formed with an attachment member attachable to ocular structure. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118747 | NOVEL SURGICAL FASTENER - The present disclosure provides a surgical fastener for use in surgery. The surgical fastener may be made of a shape memory polymer which alters its shape in vivo to assist in securing tissue or devices, such as meshes used in hernia repair, to tissue. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118748 | Impermanent biocompatible fastener - A biocompatible fastener particularly well-suited for use in fundoplication procedures. In a preferred embodiment, the fastener is designed to break within the span of approximately three to six months after implantation and comprises a male portion and a female portion. The male portion includes a first base member, the first base member being generally flat and oval. A pair of male members are mounted on the bottom surface of the first base member, each male member comprising a cylindrical post extending downwardly from the bottom surface of the first base member and a conical head disposed at the bottom end of the post. The female portion includes a second base member, the second base member being generally flat and oval. A pair of sleeves are mounted on the top surface of the second base member and extend upwardly therefrom. Each sleeve defines a bore adapted to receive a head from a corresponding male member and has an inner flange formed thereon. The flange extends radially into the bore and is engageable with the head once the head has been inserted therepast so as to inhibit withdrawal of the head from the bore. Except for an outer coating on each of the two heads, the fastener is made entirely of a non-bioabsorbable material or a bioabsorbable material having a relatively slow degradation rate. By contrast, the outer coating is made of a bioabsorbable material having a relatively fast degradation rate. The thickness of the outer coating is appropriately selected so that degradation of the outer coating permits each head to be withdrawn past its flange after a desired period of time. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118749 | Pyloric Devices and Methods - A gastrointestinal device is provided. The device includes a band sized and configured for residing in or around a pyloric sphincter region of the subject. The band is functional in maintaining the pyloric sphincter at a fixed opening size. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118750 | Chisel System for Osteochondral Implants and A Surgical Procedure Involving Same - A chisel system for harvesting an implantable graft from an area of a human having a cartilage overlying a condyle, according to which a module is provided that has one end connected to a handle. A cutting surface is formed at the other end of the module that cuts through the cartilage and condyle. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118751 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ALERTING GENERATOR FUNCTIONS IN AN ULTRASONIC SURGICAL SYSTEM - The present invention provides a system for surgery which includes an ultrasonic hand piece having a end-effector, a console having a digital signal processor (DSP) for controlling the hand piece, and a memory disposed in the end-effector. The generator console sends a drive current to drive the hand piece which imparts ultrasonic longitudinal movement to the blade. As the generator console reads the memory, the hand piece is authenticated for use with the generator console if a copyrighted data string is present in the memory. In a particular embodiment, the data string is an encrypted code, where the hand piece is authenticated for use with the console by decoding a corresponding encryption algorithm resident in the generator console and providing a responding data pattern. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118752 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR EXPRESSION OF BODILY FLUIDS FROM AN INCISION - Systems and methods for the expression of bodily fluid from an incision in the skin include devices which bear against the skin in a manner to retain the fluid adjacent the incision site and urge the fluid inwardly toward the incision. Systems utilize a constricting member, a bi-stable expression member, or a pressing member. The present invention further encompasses combinations of the foregoing expression systems with each other, as well as with other expression devices known in the art. Moreover, the invention includes the combination of the expression systems with incising, sampling and/or testing systems, particularly in a single, integrated device. The present invention also contemplates the associated methods for expressing bodily fluid from an incision, including in combination with methods for incising, sampling and/or testing of the bodily fluid. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118753 | ROTARY-ACTUATED MEDICAL PUNCTURING DEVICE - The medical puncturing device includes an actuator, a shield, and a skin puncturing assembly. The actuator and shield are movable relative to one another. The skin puncturing assembly includes a carrier and a skin puncturing element. A distal end of the skin puncturing element is adapted for puncturing the skin of a patient. The carrier is movable from a retracted position wherein the distal end of the skin puncturing element is disposed within the shield to a puncturing position wherein the distal end of the skin puncturing element is exposed to puncture the skin of a patient. The carrier is maintained in the retracted position by interference engagement between the carrier and shield. A drive spring is provided to move the carrier from the retracted to puncturing positions. A retraction spring is provided to return the carrier to a position wherein the shield encompasses the skin puncturing element. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118754 | PATIENT'S SKIN PUNCTURING DEVICE - The device comprises a body ( | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118755 | Surgical Obturator - To enable puncture of a body wall with a greater degree of sensitivity with a surgical obturator for puncturing the body wall having a knife, the cutting edge of which extends outwards from a tip of the obturator in the direction of various sides and backwards in relation to the tip, and which is orientated throughout its entire length parallel to the puncturing direction, so that the cutting edge points in the puncturing direction, it is proposed that the cutting edge be of helical line-shaped configuration. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118756 | INTRA-GASTRIC BALLOON PROVIDED WITH A GEL-CONTAINING VALVE, KIT AND USE THEREOF - The invention relates to an intra-gastric balloon designed to be implanted inside the stomach of a patient for the purpose of reducing the volume of the stomach by way of treatment for obesity, said intra-gastric balloon ( | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118757 | PYLORIC VALVE OBSTRUCTING DEVICES AND METHODS - Methods, devices and systems facilitate intermittent and/or partial obstruction of a pyloric valve. Devices generally include a support portion for preventing the device from passing through the pyloric valve and a tissue engagement portion for contacting tissue adjacent the pyloric valve to obstruct the valve. Some embodiments also include a positioning member extending from the tissue engagement portion for helping position the device for obstructing the valve. A retaining member may optionally be included on the distal end of the positioning member for further maintaining a position of the device in the stomach. Some embodiments are deliverable into the stomach through the esophagus, either by swallowing or through a delivery tube or catheter. Some embodiments are fully reversible. Some embodiments self-expand within the stomach, while others are inflated or otherwise expanded. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118758 | PYLORIC VALVE OBSTRUCTING DEVICES AND METHODS - Methods, devices and systems facilitate intermittent and/or partial obstruction of a pyloric valve. Devices generally include a support portion for preventing the device from passing through the pyloric valve and a tissue engagement portion for contacting tissue adjacent the pyloric valve to obstruct the valve. Some embodiments also include a positioning member extending from the tissue engagement portion for helping position the device for obstructing the valve. A retaining member may optionally be included on the distal end of the positioning member for further maintaining a position of the device in the stomach. Some embodiments are deliverable into the stomach through the esophagus, either by swallowing or through a delivery tube or catheter. Some embodiments are fully reversible. Some embodiments self-expand within the stomach, while others are inflated or otherwise expanded. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118759 | Catheter Having an Improved Torque Transmitting Shaft - The present invention relates generally to a catheter having a torque transmitting shaft which retains adequate flexibility. The catheter includes an elongate shaft having an outer surface. In a preferred embodiment, a raised pattern is disposed on the outer surface. Preferably, the raised pattern improves the transmission of torque along the elongate shaft by including a series of bearing points which contact other bearing points along the shaft when torqued. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118760 | Vascular filter retrieval device - A vascular filter retrieval device comprising a catheter and a loop for engaging a filter is described. The loop is extendable from a proximal end of the catheter and comprises a resilient wire. The wire may be a metal alloy such as an ELGILOY® alloy. The loop is typically radiopaque and may have a platinum or palladium wire coiled around at least a part thereof. Also described is a method of retrieving a vascular filter from a patient using the device. The catheter is introduced into the vena cava of a patient adjacent the filter. The loop is advanced so that it extends from the proximal end of the catheter and surrounds the filter. The loop is then engaged with a hook on the filter and the device and filter removed from the patient. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118761 | ANEURYSM OCCLUSION DEVICE CONTAINING BIOACTIVE AND BIOCOMPATIBLE COPOLYMER SHELL AND A LIQUID EMBOLIC AGENT - An endovascular device for occluding a vascular aneurysm is disclosed. The device includes a polymeric shell member that, in one embodiment, may be constructed from a bioactive and biocompatible polyurethane-diol-glycosaminoglycan copolymer, and a liquid embolic agent. The copolymer is sufficiently flexible and strong for endovascular delivery into a vascular aneurysm and for use as a polymeric shell for receiving the liquid embolic agent. Upon activation inside of the polymeric shell within the aneurysm, the liquid embolic agent solidifies enabling biological isolation of the aneurysm and improved patient outcomes. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118762 | Disposable cartridge for use in a gastric volume reduction procedure - A cartridge containing a fastener, wherein the cartridge releasably connected to a fastener deploying device. The cartridge has a housing which houses at least one tissue penetrating member. The penetrating member at least partially houses a fastener. The fastener has at least two rigid anchors connected together by a flaccid member. The cartridge further includes a means for removably attaching the cartridge to a deployment device. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118763 | Infant soother slip sleeve - Infant soothers for providing stimulation to an infant are disclosed herein. According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided an infant soother for placement over at least a portion of a tube. The infant soother includes a slip sleeve having a body with a first end, a second open end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the slip sleeve has an outside surface that includes a teething surface. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118764 | ANTERIOR PARTIAL TRANSPEDICULAR STABILIZATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CERVICAL SPINE - Techniques for anterior partial transpedicular stabilization for cervical spine are disclosed. In one exemplary embodiment, techniques may be realized as a vertebral stabilizing assembly comprising a first vertebral screw having a shaft with a threaded portion and an engaging portion, a second vertebral screw having a shaft with a threaded portion and an engaging portion, and a beveled connecting member configured to be coupled to the first vertebral screw and the second vertebral screw. The threaded portion of the first vertebral screw may be configured for threading engagement with a vertebral body of a first vertebra along a first plane, and the threaded portion of the second vertebral screw may be configured for threading engagement with a vertebral body of the first vertebra along a second plane. The first vertebral screw may cross the second vertebral screw but the first vertebral screw may not intersect the second vertebral screw. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118765 | Expandable Corpectomy Device - An adjustable length corpectomy device is provided with a means for providing bidirectional length adjustment and a means for selectively fixing the length of the implant. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118766 | Intervertebral Stabilization Devices - Posterior spinal stabilization devices that engage vertebral structures of at least two verterbrae and increase the stability between the two vertebrae. In some embodiments the stabilization devices engage laminae of at least two vertebrae. The devices can be adapted, however, to engage at least one of a variety of vertebral structures (e.g., spinous process, lamina, transverse process, etc.) of a plurality of vertebrae to decrease vertebral motion between at least two vertebrae. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118767 | Flexible Member with Variable Flexibility for Providing Dynamic Stability to a Spine - The present invention relates to spinal support devices and, more specifically, to a flexible member having variable flexibility for use with a dynamic stabilization system or implant to provide dynamic stability to a person's spine. The flexible member generally includes a first material having a first portion including a first material having a first elasticity and a second portion including a second material having a second elasticity greater than the first to provide the flexible member with a variable flexibility. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118768 | Elbow Fracture Fixation System - A system for the internal fixation of a fractured bone of an elbow joint of a patient includes at least one bone plate, each bone plate having a plurality of holes and generally configured to fit an anatomical surface of the fractured bone. The at least one plate is adapted to be customized to the shape of a patient's bone. The system also includes a plurality of fasteners including at least one locking fastener for attaching the bone plate to the bone. At least one of the holes is a threaded hole. Guides for plate benders, drills, and/or K-wires can be pre-assembled to the threaded holes, and the locking fastener can lock into any of the threaded holes after the guides are removed. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118769 | Fracture Fixation Plate for the Proximal Radius - A system for the internal fixation of a fractured bone of an elbow joint of a patient includes at least one bone plate, each bone plate having a plurality of holes and generally configured to fit an anatomical surface of the fractured bone. The at least one plate is adapted to be customized to the shape of a patient's bone. The system also includes a plurality of fasteners including at least one locking fastener for attaching the bone plate to the bone. At least one of the holes is a threaded hole. Guides for plate benders, drills, and/or K-wires can be pre-assembled to the threaded holes, and the locking fastener can lock into any of the threaded holes after the guides are removed. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118770 | Fracture Fixation Plate for the Olecranon of the Proximal Ulna - A system for the internal fixation of a fractured bone of an elbow joint of a patient includes at least one bone plate, each bone plate having a plurality of holes and generally configured to fit an anatomical surface of the fractured bone. The at least one plate is adapted to be customized to the shape of a patient's bone. The system also includes a plurality of fasteners including at least one locking fastener for attaching the bone plate to the bone. At least one of the holes is a threaded hole. Guides for plate benders, drills, and/or K-wires can be pre-assembled to the threaded holes, and the locking fastener can lock into any of the threaded holes after the guides are removed. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118771 | CURVED ASSEMBLY FOR REATTACHMENT OF FRAGMENTED BONE SEGMENTS - The present invention is comprised generally of a curved assembly for use in reattaching bone segments created by fracture or for mating bone fragments in other reconstructive procedures. The present invention further comprises a curved drill to create the hole into which the curved screw is attached. Preferably, the curved screw and drill of the present invention are designed such that they can be used singularly or in combination with a bone plate to support bone fragments and prevent them from moving with respect to the plate. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118772 | POLYAXIAL BONE ANCHOR WITH INCREASED ANGULATION - Embodiments of a bone anchoring systems are disclosed. In one such embodiment, there is disclosed a bone anchoring system, comprising a bone anchor having a distal end portion adapted to engage a bone and a proximal end portion, a head coupled to the proximal end portion wherein the head is adapted to rotate with respect to the bone anchor, and a locking element coupled to the head and adapted to rotate with respect to the head to create additional rotation with respect to the bone anchor. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118773 | MINIMAL THICKNESS BONE PLATE LOCKING MECHANISM - A locking fastener for use with a bone plate. The fastener has threads on its shank to engage bone and threads on its head to engage the internal threads of the bone plate. The threads in the head may have a constant major diameter and a tapered minor diameter that creates a radial interference fit. The threads in the head may also have a variable pitch that creates an axial interference fit. The head may have a low profile to reduce soft tissue irritation. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118774 | Sternal Closure Device with Ratchet Closure Mechanism - A sternal closure device includes an insertion member, a receiving member and a lock assembly. The insertion member includes a first series of laterally disposed teeth-like projections along a first side of the insertion member and the lock assembly includes a spring that is configured to engage the first series of laterally disposed teeth-like projections of the insertion member. The lock assembly is removably secured to a first side of the receiving member. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118775 | Sternal Clamp - A sternal closure clamp for securing and retaining longitudinally divided halves of a sternum, the clamp having a pair of body members each having a pair of engagement members, a pair of guide beam members affixed to a first of the body members and extending through a second of the body members, the guide beam members having an I-beam cross-sectional configuration, and a threaded rod member retained by the first body member and passing through the second body member, whereby rotation of the rod member in a first direction increases the distance between the body members and rotation in a second direction decreases the distance between the body members. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118776 | Tissue anchors - Tissue anchors comprise a head and a fastening structure attached to the head. In one example, the fastening structure can include a helical structure disposed about an axis with a first end portion attached to the head and a second end portion including a distal end of the helical structure. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118777 | EFFERENT AND AFFERENT SPLANCHNIC NERVE STIMULATION - Methods and devices providing for bilateral stimulation of left and right splanchnic nerves. Some embodiments of the method increase satiety, reduce appetite, affect gastric motility, and/or reduce food intake, resulting in weight loss. Some methods provided take advantage of anatomy, physiology, and natural body time periods to change stimulation locations and patterns to prevent the body from ignoring the administered stimulation signals in order to continue to induce weight loss over long time periods. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118778 | SET SCREW-LESS PACEMAKER HEADER WITH LEAD LOCK SYSTEM - A header for an implantable medical device such as a pacemaker which contains an advantageous molded design with encapsulated wires and conductive features. The header including a specifically formed lead lock member in which a plurality of collets residing in bores in the molded housing are used to retain and lock implantable leads in place without the use of set screws. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118779 | Modular System For A Wireless Implantable Device - A modular platform for wireless implantable devices. The platform enables different functional units which either measure or affect a parameter of the patient's body to be interchanged. The modularity of the platform also enables the functional unit to be remote from the remainder of the implantable device. Finally, the modularity of the platform enables different types of power sources to supply power to the wireless implantable device. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118780 | Method and apparatus for conformal electrodes for autonomic neuromodulation for the treatment of obesity and other conditions - The present invention teaches a method and apparatus for user control and operation of physiological modulation, including neural and gastrointestinal modulation, for the purposes of treating several disorders, including obesity, metabolic disease, and other conditions. This includes programming of neuromodulatory signal for the modulation of autonomic neural and neuromuscular modulators, used to modulate tissues, including the afferent neurons of the sympathetic nervous system to induce satiety and efferent neurons to modulate metabolism. The apparatus and methods include a conformal neuromodulator array which facilitates minimally invasive placement of neuromodulators in communication with target tissues. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118781 | THERAPY-SELECTION METHODS FOR IMPLANTABLE HEART MONITORS - An implantable heart-monitoring device comprising one or more leads for sensing electrical signals of a patient's heart a therapy circuit for delivering pharmaceuticals to the patient; and a monitoring circuit coupled to the one or more leads and to the therapy circuit, the monitoring circuit for monitoring heart activity of the patient through one or more of the leads, the monitoring circuit operable to: determine a minimum interval from a set of two or more intervals based on sensed heart activity, determine a range parameter based on a difference between a first subset and second subset of the intervals, determine a dispersion parameter quantifying dispersion of a subset of the intervals, and to determine an assessment value for the set of intervals, based on the minimum interval, the range parameter, the dispersion index. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118782 | Complementary Configured Catheter Set for Intracardiac Recording and/or Pacing - A catheter kit can include a pair of catheters, having different and complimentary electrode configurations each configured to provide access to different intraluminal electrophysiological monitoring and/or pacing sites during a procedure. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118783 | Monitoring Right Ventricular Hemodynamic Function During Pacing Optimization - Method and systems related to monitoring right ventricular function during pacing by a cardiac rhythm management device are described. One or more pacing parameters are selected to provide cardiac resynchronization therapy. For example, the one or more pacing parameters may be selected to provide an optimal or improved therapy. The heart is paced using the selected pacing parameters. While pacing with the selected parameters, pressure is sensed via a pressure sensor disposed the pulmonary artery. The sensed pressure is analyzed to determine right ventricular function achieved during the pacing using the selected pacing parameters. A signal, such as an alert signal or control signal, is generated based on the right ventricular function achieved during the pacing. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118784 | PRE-MOLDED HEADER WITH UNIVERSAL TIP-TO-TIP FEEDTHRU ADAPTOR - In fabricating a header assembly of an implantable medical device, one end of a bore contact wire attached to a connector block is keyed with one guiding channel at an upper region of a feedthru adapter and through the adapter to its undersurface. An opposite end is bent into conformance with an orientation channel on the adaptor undersurface. A tip end of a feedthru wire connected to electronic circuitry of the medical device and projecting out of a casing mounting surface is bent for alignment with the orientation channel so end portions of the feedthru wire and bore contact wire are in end to end engagement, then welded together. A plastic header is molded to encapsulate the adapter, connector block, and bore contact wire and, when solidified, has an undersurface for engagement on the casing and an elongated receptacle aligned with a connector block bore to receive the lead. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118785 | METHOD OF IMPROVING SLEEP DISORDERED BREATHING - A diaphragm pacing stimulatory method and a system to implement the method are provided to improve respiratory function and the quality of sleep in patients whose sleep is compromised by poor respiration. The diaphragm pacing method includes adaptations that make it particularly compatible with the onset of sleep and sustaining sleep. Embodiments of the method are operated independently of breathing effort the patient may make during sleep. Patients for whom the invention is appropriate include those with a neuromuscular disease, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). System elements include an external electrical stimulator coupled to one or more implanted electrodes that stimulate diaphragm contraction. The system and method provide for a pacing of the diaphragm, improved breathing, and improved sleep. Features of improved sleep include longer sleep time, an increased amount of REM sleep, and fewer episodes of wakefulness and restlessness. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118786 | AUTOMATED FITTING SYSTEM FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION - Methods, systems, and external programmers provide therapy to a patient having a dysfunction. In one aspect, stimulation energy is conveyed from a neurostimulator to electrodes located within a tissue region of the patient, thereby changing the status of the dysfunction. A physiological end-function of the patient indicative of the changed status of the dysfunction is measured, and stimulation parameters are programmed into the neurostimulator based on the measured physiological end-function. In another aspect, electrodes are placed adjacent to a tissue region of the patient, and stimulation energy is conveyed from the electrodes to the tissue region in accordance with the stimulation parameters, thereby changing the status of the dysfunction. A physiological end-function of the patient indicative of the changed status of the dysfunction is measured, and the stimulation parameters are adjusted based on the measured physiological end-function. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118787 | Closed-loop feedback for steering stimulation energy within tissue - Methods, systems, and external programmers provide therapy to a patient having a dysfunction. In one aspect, electrical energy is conveyed between electrodes to create a stimulation region in tissue adjacent the electrodes. Physiological information from the patient is acquired and analyzed, and a locus of the stimulation region is electronically displaced relative to the tissue based on the analysis of the acquired physiological information. In another aspect, electrical energy is delivered to tissue of the patient in accordance with one or more stimulation parameters. A cognitive brain signals is sensed and analyzed, and the stimulation parameter(s) are modified based on the analysis of the cognitive brain signal. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118788 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EFFECTUATING A LASTING CHANGE IN A NEURAL-FUNCTION OF A PATIENT - The present disclosure suggests methods of selecting a stimulation site for stimulating a patient's brain or methods of effectuating a neural-function of a patient associated with an impaired body function. In one exemplary implementation, such a neural function may be effectuated by selecting a stimulation site, positioning at least a first electrode at the stimulation site, and applying an electrical potential to pass a current through the first electrode. If one aspect, this stimulation site may be selected by a) identifying a second body function that is a corollary to the impaired body function, and b) determining a corollary location of the patient's brain that is associated with the second body function and is ipsilateral to the impaired body function. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118789 | Electrode System for Transcutaneous Nerve and/or Muscle Stimulation - An electrode system for transcutaneous nerve and/or muscle stimulation that includes a pair of stimulating electrodes and a stimulation current generator for generating a nerve and/or muscle stimulation current between the stimulating electrodes. The system also includes a current-injecting electrode arranged in proximity to one of the stimulating electrodes, and an injection-current generator located in the area of the current-injecting electrode. The current-injecting electrode and the corresponding injection-current generator reduce, or even eliminate, undesirable sensations resulting from an excitation of subcutaneous receptors by the stimulation current. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118790 | Measurement and stimulation of muscle tissue - An apparatus ( | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118791 | Systems and Methods for Immobilizing with Change of Impedance - An electronic disabling device includes first and second electrodes positionable to establish first and second spaced apart contact points on a target having a high impedance air gap existing between at least one of the electrodes and the target. The power supply generates a first high voltage, short duration output across the first and second electrodes during a first time interval to ionize air within the air gap to thereby reduce the high impedance across the air gap to a lower impedance to enable current flow across the air gap at a lower voltage level. The power supply next generates a second lower voltage, longer duration output across the first and second electrodes during a second time interval to maintain the current flow across the first and second electrodes and between the first and second contact points on the target to enable the current flow through the target to cause involuntary muscle contractions to thereby immobilize the target. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118792 | Video Processing Unit for a Visual Prosthetic Apparatus - A video processing unit configured to convert a video image to stimulation patterns for stimulating neural tissue in a subject's eye and comprising a power button, wherein the video processing unit is configured to be powered on after a first time interval upon activation of a power button, wherein the video processing unit is configured to be powered off after a second time interval upon activation of a power button. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118793 | Video Processing Unit for a Visual Prosthetic Apparatus - A video processing unit configured to convert a video image to stimulation patterns for stimulating neural tissue in a subject's eye, the video processing unit comprising a video processor for converting a video image to a digital video stream; a memory for storing the digital video stream; and a video preprocessor data interface for forming stimulation patterns based on the stored digital video stream. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118794 | Video Processing Unit for a Visual Prosthetic Apparatus - A visual prosthesis apparatus comprising: a video capture device for capturing a video image; a video processing unit associated with the video capture device, the video processing unit configured to convert the video image to stimulation patterns; and a retinal stimulation system configured to stimulate neural tissue in a subject's eye based on the stimulation patterns, wherein the video processing unit is configured to be powered on after a first time interval upon activation of a power button, wherein the video processing unit is configured to be powered off after a second time interval upon activation of a power button. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118795 | MULTI-ELECTRODE COCHLEAR IMPLANT SYSTEM WITH DISTRIBUTED ELECTRONICS - An implantable tissue-stimulating device comprising a carrier member having a plurality of electrodes mounted thereon, and at least one signal transmitting wire extending through at least a portion of the carrier member and adapted to transmit signals through the carrier member to and/or from the electrodes. The number of wires within the carrier member is less than the number of electrodes mounted thereon. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118796 | EXTERNAL CONTROLLER FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM WITH COUPLEABLE EXTERNAL CHARGING COIL ASSEMBLY - An improved integrated external controller/charger system useable with an implantable medical device is disclosed. The system comprises two main components: an external controller and an external charging coil assembly that is coupleable thereto. When the external charging coil assembly is coupled to the external controller, the system can be used to both send and receive data telemetry to and from the implantable medical device, and to send power to the device. Specifically, the external controller controls data telemetry by energizing at least one coil within the external controller, and the external controller controls power transmission by energizing a charging coil in the external charging coil assembly, which is otherwise devoid of its own control, power, and user interface. The result is a cheaper, simpler, more compact, and more convenient data telemetry and charging solution for the patient having a medical implant. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118797 | MONITORING, ANALYSIS, AND REGULATION OF EATING HABITS - Gastric apparatus ( | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118798 | ISOLATATION CONNECTOR FOR AN INTRAVASCULAR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Devices and methods providing for a isolation connector for a generally cylindrical or frustro-cylindrical housing of an implantable intravascular medical device are described herein. The isolation connector has a generally annular exterior surface, a proximal end, and a distal end. The isolation connector includes a housing interface portion at the proximal end which is secured to a first end of the housing. The proximal end of the housing interface portion is constructed to be obverse to the first end of the housing and presents a perimeter of substantially similar size and shape to the perimeter of the first end of the housing. The isolation connector further includes a first insulator portion disposed adjacent to a distal end of the housing interface portion. The isolation connector may further include a feed-through channel constructed to traverse the proximal and distal ends of the isolation connector and is defined through the housing interface portion and the first insulator portion. In an optional embodiment, an electrical conductor is disposed within the feed-through channel to electrically coupled at least one component disposed within the housing to at least one component disposed beyond the insulator portion. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118799 | Irradiator with devices for preventing harmful radiation - An apparatus for irradiating the human body or parts of the human body with ultraviolet radiation. The apparatus comprises an arrangement, which allows irradiation of the human body with ultraviolet irradiation in a recumbent, standing, sitting or crouching position, one or more arrangement(s) of radiation sources emitting ultraviolet radiation directed onto a human body in the intended position; devices for positioning the human body to be irradiated in a UV radiation-receiving relationship to the radiation sources; one or more devices for safeguarding the spectral distribution of ultraviolet radiation emitted by UV radiation sources; and devices for electrical or electronic control of the one or more arrangement(s) of radiation sources emitting ultraviolet radiation in the direction of the human body as a function of the data obtained in the one or more above device(s). | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118800 | IMPLANTABLE OPTICAL STIMULATORS - Various systems and methods are implemented for in vivo use in a living animal. One such method involves stimulating target cells having light-responsive proteins and includes providing an elongated light-delivery structure in a narrow passageway in the animal, the elongated light-delivery structure having separately-activatable light sources located along the length of the elongated light-delivery structure. The method also includes activating less than all the light sources to deliver light to light-responsive proteins adjacent to the activated light sources along the length of the elongated light-delivery structure, thereby stimulating target cells in vivo. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118801 | Discharge lamp having spectral power distribution shift and methods of making the same - Disclosed are discharge lamps for use in tanning applications and methods of making the same. The lamps include, among other elements, an elongated vitreous tube which has an outer periphery and axially opposed first and second ends that define an axial length for the tube. A coating is applied on the interior of the tube for emitting ultraviolet radiation in tanning wavelengths when a voltage to the lamp. The coating is specifically formulated so that the ultraviolet radiation emitted from the lamp in a range of about 320 nm to about 340 nm is less than or equal to about 10 percent of the ultraviolet radiation emitted from the lamp in a range of about 280 nm to about 400 nm. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118802 | Hyperthermia Treatment Systems and Methods - Systems and methods are disclosed to control the temperature of an RF hyperthermia system with minimum overshoot and to improve safety by, among other things, detecting a defective temperature sensor. Temperature overshoot may be minimized by compensating for the short-term temperature difference between the area being treated and the applicator delivering the RF energy. The RF energy may heat the tissue and then the tissue may transfer heat to the applicator sensor. The system may also adapt to various applicator sizes and shapes by modifying control loop coefficients based on initial probe response. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118803 | 3D Microwave System and Methods - A therapeutic microwave system comprises a support unit having two or more separable segments; a microwave power assembly positioned between two separated segments of the support unit and including two or more microwave power supply devices; position adjustment componentry; and a central processing unit. The system may further include a temperature sensor for monitoring a treated subject's exhaled air temperature in real time and adjusting microwave irradiation accordingly, and a cooling device for controlling the patient's brain temperature during treatment. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118804 | METHOD OF MOUNTING MINIMALLY INVASIVE PLUG ELECTRODES WITHIN CRANIUM OF PATIENT - A method of performing a medical procedure on a patient comprises forming a burr hole through the cranium of the patient, mounting a permanently integrated plug electrode within the burr hole, and electrically coupling the plug electrode to an electronics device. Another method of performing a medical procedure on a patient comprises forming a burr hole through the cranium of the patient, mounting an electrode within the burr hole, such that the electrode does not extend within the brain of the patient, and electrically coupling the electrode to an electronics device. A hybrid plug/electrode comprises a plug body configured for being anchored within a burr hole formed within a cranium of a patient, at least one electrode disposed on a distal-facing surface of the plug body, and at least one electrode lead affixed within the plug body in electrical communication with the at least one electrode. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118805 | Return Electrode for a Flexible Circuit Electrode Array - In a visual prosthesis electrodes stimulate retinal tissue to induce the perception of light to a user implanted with the prosthesis. The prosthesis must have a return, or common, electrode to make a complete circuit with the retinal tissue. To avoid stimulating tissue with the return electrode, it is advantageous if the electrode is large. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118806 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL SYSTEM OF ELECTRODE LEADS - The electrode lead system of a preferred embodiment includes a series of first electrical subsystems; a guiding element that positions the series of first electrical subsystems in a three dimensional arrangement within body tissue; a second electrical subsystem; and at least one connector that couples the first electrical subsystems to the second electrical subsystem. The electrode lead system of another preferred embodiment includes a series of electrode arrays; a guide tube that facilitates implantation of electrode arrays within body tissue and temporarily contains the series of electrode arrays; and a guiding element that provides a bias on the series of electrode arrays such that (a) when contained by the guide tube, the first electrical subsystems maintain a substantially singular path within body tissue, and (b) when not contained by the guide tube, the first electrical subsystems diverge along more than one path into a three dimensional arrangement within body tissue. | 2009-05-07 |
| 20090118807 | Strain Relief System For Spinal Cord Stimulation Lead - An anchor for spinal electrical stimulation leads having a first, extended portion adapted to be inserted through the spine and into the spinal column, and a second, shorter portion adapted to be sutured to the fascia on the outside of the spine. The extended portion assists with positioning of the electrode tip onto the spinal cord on provides strain relief for the electrode. The anchor further comprises an inner tube disposed inside of the housing along an intermediate portion between the extended portion and the shorted portion. When the outside portion of the tubular housing is sutured to the fascia of a patient, the inner tube is compressed against the electrical lead, thereby locking it in place and preventing migration over time. | 2009-05-07 |
