24th week of 2011 patent applcation highlights part 62 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20110144624 | SLEEVE APPLICATOR TOOL - Described herein is an applicator tool for sleeving an elongated device, the tool including a hollow, continuous base section, at least two arm members extending laterally from the base section, the arm members and the base section defining an axial passage extending therethrough, and an elastomeric sleeve positioned over a portion of an outer peripheral surface of the arm members and axially aligned with the axial passage, wherein each arm member is radially flexible such that the axial passage can be radially compressed or expanded, and wherein the axial passage allows for a movable positioning of the elongated device. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144625 | Composite Braided Guidewire - This is a composite guidewire for use with a catheter for accessing a targeted site in a lumen system of a patient's body. The guidewire core or guidewire section may be of a stainless steel or a high elasticity metal alloy, preferably a Ni—Ti alloy, also preferably having specified physical parameters. The composite guidewire assembly is especially useful for accessing peripheral or soft tissue targets. The invention includes multi-section guidewire assemblies having super-elastic alloy or stainless steel ribbon braided reinforcements along a least a portion of the core. A variation of the inventive guidewire includes a braid and a tie layer (and one or more lubricious polymers on the tie layer exterior) to enhance the guidewire's suitability for use within catheters and within the interior of vascular lumen. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144626 | MEDICAL FLUID COMMUNICATION COUPLINGS - A medical coupling system is disclosed for coupling medical apparatus in fluid communication, the system comprising a plurality of groups of couplings, each member ( | 2011-06-16 |
20110144627 | Multi-spot laser probe - A multi-spot/multi-fiber laser probe is provided that includes a first adapter; a GRIN lens within the first adapter, the GRIN lens configured to receive a laser beam from a laser source at a proximal end of the GRIN lens and to relay the received laser beam towards a distal end of the GRIN lens; and a multi-fiber array having a proximal end configured to receive the relayed laser light. In addition, a multi-spot/single-fiber laser probe is provided that includes a cannula; an optical fiber positioned within the cannula; a diffractive beam splitter within the cannula; and a GRIN lens within the cannula and arranged between a distal end of the optical fiber and the diffractive beam splitter, wherein the diffractive beam splitter is configured to split a focused laser beam from the GRIN lens into multiple diffracted laser beams. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144628 | SYSTEM FOR REFRACTIVE OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SURGERY - A system for refractive ophthalmological surgery, in particular LASIK, has—in addition to the ablation laser and, where appropriate, further optical guidance means ( | 2011-06-16 |
20110144629 | Method for Complementing Conventional Vision Correction with Laser Correction of the Cornea - A system and method for reshaping the cornea of an eye with a laser that also incorporates a subsequent compensation for residual vision aberrations. A diagnostic unit obtains a pre-op prescription for the eye and predicts an induced refractive shift resulting from laser treatment. Based on this data, a preview lens is selected or manufactured to evaluate the tolerance of a patient to a predicted post-op vision. Then, a laser unit is used to alter the cornea of the eye (i.e. laser treatment) to increase the depth-of-field of the eye. Subsequently, after the laser treatment has been completed, conventional vision correction is provided by spectacles, intraocular lenses or contact lenses. This conventional correction will then compensate for any remaining pre-op aberrations, as well as any residual aberrations in the patient's post-op vision that may have been induced during the laser treatment. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144630 | Fiber optic device with controlled reuse - A fiber optic device includes an optical fiber passing through a handpiece that defines an internal passageway with an apertured endwall at a distal end of the passageway. A portion of the optical fiber is disposed within the passageway, and a stop member, such as a rigid sheath, within the passageway is attached to the optical fiber. An indexing member releasably engages the rigid sheath to maintain the rigid sheath at a predetermined position within the passageway. The rigid sheath preferably contains a series of index positions for incrementally adjusting the position of the sheath within the passageway. The rigid sheath is slidably mounted in the passageway and is configured to interfere with the endwall when the rigid sheath is released for movement within the internal cavity to its final position within the passageway. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144631 | SUBDERMAL CRYOGENIC REMODELING OF MUSCLES, NERVES, CONNECTIVE TISSUE, AND/OR ADIPOSE TISSUE (FAT) - Devices, systems, and methods treat cosmetic defects, and often apply cooling with at least one tissue-penetrating probe inserted through of the skin of a patient. The cooling may remodel one or more target tissue so as to effect a desired change in a composition of the target tissue and/or a change in its behavior. Exemplary embodiments of the cooling treatments will interfere with the nerve/muscle contractile function chain so as to mitigate wrinkles of the skin. Related treatments may be used therapeutically for treatment of back and other muscle spasms, chronic pain, and the like. Some embodiments may remodel subcutaneous adipose tissue so as to alter a shape or appearance of the skin surface. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144632 | Flooded Liquefaction Hand Piece Engine - In various embodiments, an ophthalmic handpiece may include a handpiece body with a pulse chamber and flooded engine compartment configured to receive fluid from a surgical console through a fluid inlet port. Heated pulses from the pulse chamber and cooler fluid from the flooded engine compartment may flow through a tip into the eye. In some embodiments, the tip may be a dual lumen tip that keeps the flows from the pulse chamber and flooded engine compartment separate until they exit the tip. In some embodiments, a tip, coupled to a merging chamber where the flows may merge prior to the tip, may be a single lumen tip that directs the heated pulses and irrigation fluid simultaneously to a lens to liquefy the lens for removal from the eye. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144633 | PRE-FORMED CURVED ABLATION CATHETER - A medical device includes an insertion tube, having a longitudinal axis and having a distal end adapted for insertion through a body passage into a cavity within a body of a patient. An electrode is located on the distal end of the insertion tube and is configured to contact tissue in the cavity. A resilient member is contained within the distal end of the insertion tube and is configured, when unconstrained, to cause the distal end to bend away from the longitudinal axis in a curved shape and to straighten toward the longitudinal axis when subjected to a force. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144634 | Method and Apparatus for Diagnosing and Treating Neural Dysfunction - A method and apparatus for diagnosing and treating neural dysfunction is disclosed. This device has the capability of delivering the therapeutic electrical energy to more than one treatment electrode simultaneously. In another exemplary embodiment, this device can perform EMG testing both before and after the therapeutic energy has been delivered, to assess whether the target nerve was successfully treated. In another embodiment, the device has the capability to record and store sensory stimulation thresholds both before and after treatment is described, which allows the clinician to accurately determine whether the target nerve has been desensitized. Energy control may achieved by simultaneously comparing the tip temperature of each treatment electrode to a set temperature selected by the operator, and regulating the therapeutic energy output to maintain the set temperature. In another embodiment, EMG, stimulation thresholds, and graphs of temperature versus time can be conveniently displayed on a two-dimensional graphics display. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144635 | System and Method for Tissue Sealing - An electrosurgical system includes an energy source adapted to supply energy to tissue. The energy source includes a microprocessor configured to execute a tissue treatment algorithm configured to control the supply of electrosurgical energy to tissue and process a configuration file including at least one parameter of the tissue treatment algorithm. The at least one parameter is adjustable to effect a tissue seal result. The microprocessor generates a target impedance trajectory based on at least one parameter of the tissue treatment algorithm and is further configured to drive tissue impedance along the target impedance trajectory by adjusting the supply of energy to tissue to substantially match tissue impedance to a corresponding target impedance value. The system also includes an electrosurgical instrument including at least one active electrode adapted to apply electrosurgical energy to tissue. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144636 | UNIVERSAL SURGICAL FUNCTION CONTROL SYSTEM - A control system includes a selector by which a user can select any of a number of surgical devices or similar devices for use and a processor system responsive to user actuation of a foot control or other central control by controlling the selected device. Each device has an associated intelligent adapter that communicates information relating to device with which the adapter is associated. The processor system uses the information communicated by the adapter to properly interface the associated device with the control system and its central control. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144637 | Vein Occlusion Devices and Methods for Catheter-Based Ablation - Medical devices and methods for deriving an indication of occlusion of a blood vessel from one or more physiologic sensor are disclosed. The physiological parameters contemplated for implementation in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure may include pressure, flow, force, temperature, or tension. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144638 | Localized Shockwave-Induced Tissue Disruption - A high-intensity pulsed-electrical-field (HIPEF) apparatus removes ocular tissue from a localized portion of an eye by delivering one or more focused shockwaves to that tissue. In one embodiment, for example, the apparatus generates one or more electrical pulses, delivers the one or more focused shockwaves to ocular tissue by applying the generated electrical pulses to a HIPEF probe, and then removes the ocular tissue disrupted by the one or more focused shockwaves via aspiration. To mitigate risk of damage to adjacent ocular tissue, the apparatus delivers the one or more focused shockwaves with energy substantially limited to the tissue being removed. The HIPEF apparatus is, therefore, especially advantageous in the context of cataract surgery where cataract tissue need be broken apart and removed without damaging adjacent tissue associated with the lens capsule required to implant an intraocular lens. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144639 | CATHETER WITH HELICAL ELECTRODE - An invasive probe includes an insertion tube containing a lumen for providing an irrigation fluid and comprising a distal portion having a plurality of perforations therethrough providing fluid communication between the lumen and an outer surface of the insertion tube. At least one helical electrode is fitted over the distal portion of the insertion tube. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144640 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS INCLUDING MEMS DEVICES - Surgical instruments are disclosed that are couplable to or have an end effector or a disposable loading unit with an end effector, and at least one micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) device operatively connected to the surgical instrument for at least one of sensing a condition, measuring a parameter and controlling the condition and/or parameter. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144641 | High-Intensity Pulsed Electric Field Vitrectomy Apparatus - A high-intensity pulsed electric field (HIPEF) vitrectomy apparatus is disclosed. An exemplary apparatus includes a HIPEF probe comprising at least one electrode disposed at a distal end of the HIPEF probe, such that the distal end is configured for insertion into an eye. Various embodiments include a probe shaft assembled from a modular end segment and one or more additional modular shaft segments, each of the modular end segment and one or more modular shaft segments in turn comprising at least two longitudinal channels adapted to accommodate an electrode unit. In some of these probe shafts, each of the modular end segment and one or more modular shaft segments has a central longitudinal channel, and the probe shaft further comprises an aspiration tube disposed within the central longitudinal channel. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144642 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COAGULATING AND/OR CONSTRICTING HOLLOW ANATOMICAL STRUCTURES - An energy delivering probe is used for thermally coagulating and/or constricting hollow anatomical structures (HAS) including, but not limited to, blood vessels such as perforator veins. The probe includes a shaft and at least two electrodes where at least one of the electrodes has a generally spherical or toroidal geometry. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144643 | DEVICE FOR EXTERNALLY FIXING BONE FRACTURES | 2011-06-16 |
20110144644 | RESORPTIVE INTRAMEDULLARY IMPLANT BETWEEN TWO BONES OR TWO BONE FRAGMENTS - The invention relates to a resorptive intramedullary implant between two bones or two bone fragments. The implant includes a single-piece body ( | 2011-06-16 |
20110144645 | Fracture Fixation Device, Tools and Methods - A bone fixation device is provided with an elongate body having a longitudinal axis and having a flexible state and a rigid state, a plurality of grippers disposed at longitudinally spaced locations of the elongated body, a curved rigid hub connected to the elongated body, and an actuator operably connected to the grippers to deploy the grippers from a first shape to an expanded second shape. Methods of repairing a fracture of a bone are also disclosed. One such method comprising inserting a bone fixation device into an intramedullary space of the bone to place at least a portion of an elongate body of the fixation device in a flexible state on one side of the fracture and at least a portion of a curved rigid hub on another side of the fracture, and operating an actuator to deploy a plurality of grippers of the fixation device to engage an inner surface of the intramedullary space to anchor the fixation device to the bone. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144646 | BONE FIXATION DEVICE - A bone fixation device ( | 2011-06-16 |
20110144647 | DRILL GUIDE SYSTEM - A drill guide includes a first bone plate that extends along a first middle plane, and a second bone plate that extends along a second middle plane. The drill guide further includes a first articulation and a second articulation that is connected to the first articulation. The first and second articulations are arranged between the first and the second bone plate. Each of the first and second articulations is releasably lockable. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144648 | OSTEOCHONDRAL PLUG GRAFT TRIMMING DEVICE AND METHOD - A device for trimming an osteochondral plug graft to an implantable configuration, includes a blade assembly terminating in a configured leading cutting blade and a plug graft housing comprising a substantially longitudinal holding sleeve having a bore and oriented complementarily to the longitudinal structure of the blade assembly to receive the longitudinal structure within the sleeve bore with the assembly cutting blade in close tolerance along an inner bore surface of the longitudinal housing structure. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144649 | Disposable Flex Reamer - A single use intramedullary reamer comprised of a reamer head assembly and a reamer shaft. The reamer head assembly further comprising a series of reamer blades that reside in a series of surface slots that are helically oriented around the cylindrical body. The series of reamer blades are bonded with the cylindrical body through induction bonding. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144650 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RECONSTRUCTING A LIGAMENT - A system for installation of a graft ligament support block is provided. The system includes an installation tool having a holder including a shaft having a handle at a proximal end and a distal end configured for selectively engaging the graft ligament support block. The installation tool further includes a drill guide including an outrigger having a bore formed on its distal end for selectively receiving a drill sleeve and a proximal end configured to selectively engage the holder. Also provided is a kit for use in reconstructing a ligament. The kit includes an installation tool including a holder and a drill guide, a drill sleeve, a guidewire, one or more drills, one or more graft ligament support blocks and one or more transverse fixation pins. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144651 | INSTRUMENT FOR PREPARING AN IMPLANT SUPPORT SURFACE AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - An instrument for preparing a surface of a joint is provided. The glenoid surface is adapted for receiving a prosthetic component having a feature closely conforming to the surface. The prosthetic component provides a bearing surface for a head portion of a long bone. The instrument includes a guide having a first feature and a second feature and a tool. The tool is used for cooperation with the first feature for preparing the surface. The first feature is adapted to at least partially control the position of the tool as it prepares the surface. The second feature is adapted to assist in positioning of the guide with respect to the joint. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144652 | System, instrumentation and method for spinal fixation using minimally invasive surgical techiques - A pedicle screw tower having a guide chute, open at both ends, affixed to the exterior of the main body of the tower. The guide chute extends the length of the tower and is curved inwardly at its bottom such that the exit direction is at approximately 90 degrees to and facing the central axis of tower. A guide cable is passed into and through the guide chute such that it is directed across the tower to an adjacent tower. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144653 | Injector Tip For An Injector Device As Well As Injector Device For Introducing An Intraocular Lens Into An Eye As Well As Method For Transporting An Intraocular Lens In An Injector Tip - The invention relates to an injector tip for an injector device for introducing an intraocular lens into an eye, which has a continuous guide channel for the intraocular lens. The guide channel in cross-section has at least in sections along a rear second half a contour development with at least two outwardly curved top curves, to which each two outwardly curved lateral curves adjoin, which are connected by an outwardly curved bottom curve. The invention also relates to an injector tip, in which the shaped wall of the guide channel is formed such that lateral edges of the intraocular lens rest on a top side at the front end of the injector tip. Furthermore, the invention also relates to an injector device with an injector tip as well as a method for transporting an intraocular lens in an injector tip. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144654 | System and Method for Storing, Shipping and Injecting Ocular Devices - A shipping system for a medical device, such as implantable lens for an eye, is provided that may be reconfigured from a shipping mode into an injection mode without manually handling the contained lens or other device. Upon manufacture, a lens may be placed within the system assembly in the shipping configuration. While in the shipping configuration, the lens is kept in its desired shape and within a selected environment. Upon arrival at the destination, the user may attach a nozzle assembly for injecting the device into a body. The process of changing from the shipping to the injection mode deforms the device into a shape suitable for injection. A new assembly for a medical device utilizing the shipping systems is also disclosed. The insertion assembly includes a body for containing the medical device, a plunger casing, a finger-engaging flange, and a resilient ring member all of which are formed as a single piece assembly. Additionally a nozzle assembly may be integrally formed with the insertion assembly or formed as a separate body that is attachable to the insertion assembly. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144655 | BURR HOLE CAPS AND METHODS OF USE - In one embodiment, an apparatus comprises: a base structure adapted to be inserted within the burr hole; a lead securing member for securing the lead, the lead securing member comprising a first arm structure and a second arm structure, at least one spring loaded structure adapted to exert a force to bring the first arm structure and the second arm structure together; and a positioning tool having a distal end adapted to be inserted within the lead securing member. When the positioning tool is positioned within the lead securing member, the distal end holds the first and second arm structures a sufficient distance apart to receive a lead between the first and second arm structures; wherein the positioning tool comprises a control structure at a proximal end that, when engaged, causes the distal end of the positioning tool to be released from between the first and second arm structures. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144656 | ROBOTICALLY CONTROLLED MEDICAL INSTRUMENT - A medical instrument assembly comprises an elongated shaft, a tool carried by the distal end of the elongated shaft for performing a medical procedure on a patient, a plurality of controllably bendable sections spaced along the elongated shaft and disposed proximal to the tool, a plurality of actuation elements extending within the elongated shaft for respectively actuating the controllably bendable sections, and an instrument coupler mounted to the proximal end of the elongated shaft, with the instrument coupler configured for coupling an electromechanical drive to the actuation elements. A robotic medical system comprises the previously described medical instrument assembly, a user interface configured for generating at least one command, a drive unit coupled to the plurality of actuating elements of the medical instrument assembly, and an electric controller configured, in response to the command(s), for directing the drive unit to moves the actuating elements to actuate the controllably bendable sections. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144657 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING THE LIKELIHOOD OF ENDOCARDIAL BAROTRAUMA IN TISSUE DURING ABLATION - A method and system for determining a likelihood of barotrauma occurring in tissue during the formation of a lesion therein is provided. The system includes an electronic control unit (ECU). The ECU is configured to acquire at least one value of at least one component of a complex impedance between an electrode and the tissue. The ECU is further configured to calculate an index responsive to the at least one value of the at least one complex impedance component. The index is indicative of a likelihood of barotrauma occurring in the tissue. The method comprises acquiring at least one value of at least one component of a complex impedance between an electrode and the tissue. The method further comprises calculating an index responsive to the at least one value of the at least one complex impedance component. The calculating index is indicative of a likelihood of barotrauma occurring in the tissue. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144658 | CATHETER SIMULATION AND ASSISTANCE SYSTEM - A workstation configured for operating and simulating a robotic catheter system and interventional procedure is provided. The workstation includes a user interface configured to receive a user input and a control system operatively coupled to the user interface for remotely and independently controlling at least two percutaneous intervention devices. The workstation includes a data storage subsystem to store a vascular image data and a simulation subsystem. The control system controls the at least two percutaneous intervention devices based upon the user input received by the user interface to allow the user to perform a real catheterization procedure. The simulation subsystem generates a display as a function of the vascular image data and causes the display of a simulated percutaneous intervention device within the vascular image data as a function of the user input allowing the user to perform a simulated catheterization procedure. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144659 | N DEGREES-OF-FREEDOM (DOF) LAPAROSCOPE MANEUVERABLE SYSTEM - A laparoscope including a cylindrical device of multiple degrees of freedom which can be inserted through a small surgical incision. This is accomplished by means of a series of coaxial members nested within the aforementioned cylinder, each can rotate independently and actuate a desired motion at the distal end. The laparoscope has multiple consecutive arm sections, each includes several coaxial input shafts adapted to be rotated around an input axis of rotation by multiple sources of torque. In addition, several constant velocity couplers connect the arm sections and are equipped with coaxial input transmission means, coaxial second transmission means and coaxial output transmission means to transfer the input torque to coaxial output shafts and facilitate the independent rotation and motion of the device distal end within the patient's body. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144660 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THE LIGATION OF TISSUE - A novel catheter-based system that ligates the left atrial appendage (LAA) on the outside of the heart, preferably using a combination of catheters and/or instruments, e.g., a guide catheter inserted into the interior of the left atrial appendage that may assist in locating the left atrial appendage and/or assist in the optimal placement of a ligature or constricting element on the outside of the appendage, and a ligating catheter and/or instrument outside the heart in the pericardial space to set the ligature or constricting element at the neck of the left atrial appendage. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144661 | TISSUE CLOSURE DEVICES, DEVICE AND SYSTEMS FOR DELIVERY, KITS AND METHODS THEREFOR - The present invention relates to tissue closure devices, devices and systems for delivery, kits and methods therefor. The tissue closure devices can achieve tissue closure in lieu of compression and can be configured to be quickly deployable by an introducer or from outside the body. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144662 | CLIP DEVICES AND SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DEPLOYMENT - The present embodiments provide clip devices, along with systems and methods for delivering and deploying the clip devices. An exemplary clip device comprises inner and outer segments, and further has a delivery configuration, a tissue receiving configuration and a deployed configuration. A distal region of the outer segment is movable with respect to a distal region of the inner segment, thereby creating a spacing between the inner and outer segments for surrounding tissue in the tissue receiving configuration. The inner and outer segments may be biased to return to the deployed configuration, and may comprise generally identical shapes in the deployed configuration wherein the outer segment is proportionally larger than the inner segment. In one embodiment, the inner and outer segments each comprise “V” shapes in the unbiased state. Various delivery systems and methods are provided for delivering and deploying the clip devices disclosed. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144663 | Blood Vessel Closure Clip and Delivery Device - A clip for closing a puncture hole in a blood vessel comprises a ring having a resiliently expandable circumference and a plurality of barbed prongs extending at least approximately in the same direction from one edge of the ring. A device for deploying such a clip is also described. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144664 | CLIP APPLIER AND METHODS OF USE - An apparatus for delivering a closure element into an opening formed in a blood vessel or other body lumen and methods for manufacturing and using same. The apparatus is configured to retain the closure element such that the closure element is disposed substantially within the apparatus. The apparatus also can engage, and position the closure element substantially adjacent to, the blood vessel wall adjacent to the opening. During deployment of the closure element, the apparatus expands the closure element beyond a natural cross-section of the closure element such that the closure element, when deployed, is configured to engage a significant amount of the blood vessel wall and/or tissue. Engaging the blood vessel wall and/or tissue, the closure element is further configured to return to the natural cross-section, thereby drawing the engaged blood vessel wall and/or tissue substantially closed and/or sealed, such that hemostasis within the opening is enhanced. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144665 | SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER - Surgical clip appliers are provided and include a housing; at least one handle pivotably connected to the housing; a channel assembly extending distally from the housing; a clip carrier disposed within the channel assembly and defining a channel and a plurality of windows therein; and a plurality of clips slidably disposed within the channel of the clip carrier. The surgical clip appliers further include a drive channel reciprocally disposed within at least one of the housing and the channel assembly; a wedge plate reciprocally disposed within the channel assembly; a pusher bar reciprocally positioned within the housing and the channel assembly; and a motion multiplier system having a plurality of linkage members configured to distally move the pusher bar by an incremental amount upon an initial actuation of the handles, and configured to proximally move the pusher bar and the wedge plate subsequent to the initial actuation of the handles. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144666 | SURGICAL APPARATUS - A surgical apparatus, including an instrument, a shaft part with a jaw opening at its distal end and a thread carrier guided by the shaft part displaceable from a retracted position, in which it exposes the jaw opening, and an advanced position, in which it crosses the jaw opening. A thread supported by the thread carrier can be guided through or around human or animal tissue to form a suture or ligature. The thread has a bulge at its end made of the material of the thread so that when the bulge is pushed through a passage opening of the jaw part it elastically deforms and is retained when the thread carrier is retracted. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144667 | HERNIA PATCH - A hernia patch supporting tissue in-growth conforms to a tissue wall upon surgical installation and fixation within a patient. The hernia patch can include a base and positioning straps. The base is formed of two layers that are affixed to each other around the perimeter of the patch, for example by stitching. A stabilizing washer is provided between the two layers, and the stitch is provided peripherally around the stabilizing washer, keeping the washer free-floating between the layers. The base, positioning straps, and stabilizing washer are formed of a structure that does not separate the layers of the implant or form a space in the form of a pocket, and promotes more uniform and confluent tissue incorporation or in-growth after implantation. The hernia patch may further include a hydrolysable bioabsorbable cross-linked coating of a fatty acid based material, such as an omega-3 fatty acid based material. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144668 | CLOSURE DEVICE - A clip for engaging tissue includes a generally annular-shaped body defining a plane and disposed about a central axis extending normal to the plane. The body includes alternating inner and outer curved regions, defining a zigzag pattern about a periphery of the clip. The body is biased towards a planar configuration lying in the plane and deflectable towards a transverse configuration extending out of the plane. Tines extend from the inner curved regions, the tines being oriented towards the central axis in the planar configuration, and parallel to the central axis in the transverse configuration. The tines include primary tines and secondary tines that are shorter than the primary tines. The primary tines may be disposed on opposing inner curved regions and oriented towards one another. The primary tines are configured such that they are offset from the axes of symmetry of the curved regions from which they extend and are connected to the curved regions by curved or linear regions or are connected directly to the curved regions. The primary tines may overlap the body and may be of different lengths. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144669 | ANEURYSM COVER DEVICE FOR EMBOLIC DELIVERY AND RETENTION - An implant for treating brain aneurysms, especially terminal aneurysms, comprises a neck cover and elongate shaft removably secured to an embolic delivery catheter. As such, the shaft aids in directing and placing the cover at the aneurysm neck, protecting the delivery catheter from adhesion with the embolic material, and securing the cover in place with connection or adhesion of the shaft to the embolic material delivered through the catheter. The implant can be anchored at the aneurysm either by interface and/or adhesion of the shaft or shaft and cover with the resident embolic materials. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144670 | FLOW CONTROL METHOD AND DEVICE - An arterio-venous graft ( | 2011-06-16 |
20110144671 | ATHERECTOMY DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD HAVING A BI-DIRECTIONAL DISTAL EXPANDABLE ABLATION ELEMENT - The invention provides a rotational atherectomy system, device and method comprising a bi-directional drive shaft with a flexible ablation element disposed at the distal end of the drive shaft. The flexible ablation element comprises a first retracted position for insertion into vasculature and a second expanded position for ablation, i.e., cutting, sanding and/or grinding. The ablation element comprises more than one flexible finger or blade which allows changing, in certain embodiments, of curvature radius to fit inside a deployment catheter and/or enlarge to the diameter of larger lumens, up to at least 9 mm in diameter. Bi-directional rotation of the expanded ablation element allows cutting in one rotational direction and grinding and/or sanding in the opposite rotational direction. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144672 | METHOD OF USING AN AORTIC DISSECTION SEPTAL CUTTING TOOL - The present invention relates to methods of using medical cutting tools for treating aortic septal dissections. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144673 | MATERIAL REMOVAL DEVICE HAVING IMPROVED MATERIAL CAPTURE EFFICIENCY AND METHODS OF USE - The present invention provides an improved atherectomy catheter having means for directing particles generated by a cutting element into a collection chamber. Methods of directing the cut material from a blood vessel lumen into a collection chamber are also provided. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144674 | DEBRIDEMENT CUTTING HEADS, METHODS, AND SYSTEMS EMPLOYING REDUCED PRESSURE - Apparatuses, systems, and methods involve using reduced pressure to position a portion of tissue in a cutting head and cutting the tissue to debride a tissue site. A cutting head includes a debridement conduit having a distal end and a proximal end. A portion of the debridement conduit adjacent to the distal end comprises a tissue treatment area. The cutting head also includes an opening to the tissue treatment area formed at the distal end of the debridement conduit. The tissue treatment area is adapted to receive the portion of tissue through the opening under reduced pressure. The cutting head also includes a selectively moveable cutting member associated with the debridement conduit at the tissue treatment area. The cutting member is for cutting the portion of tissue from the tissue site while the portion of tissue resides in the debridement conduit. Other methods, systems, and apparatuses are disclosed. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144675 | Systems and Methods for Dynamic Pneumatic Valve Driver - In various embodiments, a pneumatic system valve for a surgical console may be controlled by a controller configured to adjust a valve duty cycle (VDC) of the valve to reduce a difference between the valve's differential pressure and a desired differential pressure. In some embodiments, average differential pressures may be detected and relayed from a pressure sensor, coupled to one or more ports of the valve, to the controller. The controller may compare the measured average differential pressure against the desired average differential pressure (e.g., received from the user). The controller may then determine a modified VDC to reduce a difference between the desired average differential pressure and the measured average differential pressure. In some embodiments, the desired average differential pressure may be determined based on input received from a user of the surgical console. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144676 | Medical Bladed Device And Method For Coating Medical Bladed Device - Provided is a medical bladed device reduced in piercing resistance by coating with a silicone. Also provided is a coating method by which a satisfactory silicone coating is formed on a medical bladed device. A medical bladed device (knife (A)) having a cutting portion ( | 2011-06-16 |
20110144677 | Methods and Systems for Bypassing an Occlusion in a Blood Vessel - Methods and systems for re-entering the true lumen of a vessel after subintimally bypassing an occlusion in a blood vessel. A guidewire is positionable within a subintimal tract in a wall of the blood vessel with a distal end located beyond the occlusion. A hollow lumen of the guidewire includes a retractable blade slidably exposable adjacent a distal end thereof for rotary cutting or scoring the intima layer of the vessel wall to create a transverse cut or line of weakness in the intima. A balloon catheter is subsequently trackable over the guidewire and once inflated tears or otherwise ruptures the transverse cut, thereby creating or enlarging a passageway into the true lumen of the blood vessel beyond the occlusion. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144678 | Endoscopic Scissors Instrument - An endoscopic scissor instrument includes an elongate hollow member and first and second scissor blades each having longitudinally angled distal features. At least one scissor blade is rotatably mounted in a clevis adjacent the distal end of the hollow member. The clevis includes a pivot mechanism and spring bias means, disposed adjacent the pivot mechanism on at least one external side of the first and second scissor blades, for biasing transverse movement of the scissor blades toward one another. The spring bias means of the clevis and the angling of the distal features of the scissor blades serves to generate spring forces acting on the respective cutting edges such that there is an automatic preloading force imparted between the cutting edges of the scissors' blades. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144679 | TROCAR DEVICE - A surgical device is described. The surgical device may comprise a rotatable cutter configured to cut tissue for insertion of a cannula, and a first driver configured to be driven by a motor arrangement and to rotate the cutter. The surgical device may further include, for example, the cannula, at least one of the rotatable cutter and the first driver being disposed in a bore of the cannula. In one embodiment, the rotatable cutter may include an auger having a cutting thread. In another embodiment, the rotatable cutter may include a disk-shaped blade. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144680 | Coring Knife - A coring knife can be used to make a circular incision. The coring knife can include an abutment that can be inserted into heart tissue. The circular incision is made by pressing the circular cutting edge of the coring knife against the abutment. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144681 | TROCAR DEVICE - A surgical device is described. The surgical device may comprise a rotatable cutter configured to cut tissue for insertion of a cannula, and a first driver configured to be driven by a motor arrangement and to rotate the cutter. The surgical device may further include, for example, the cannula, at least one of the rotatable cutter and the first driver being disposed in a bore of the cannula. In one embodiment, the rotatable cutter may include an auger having a cutting thread. In another embodiment, the rotatable cutter may include a disk-shaped blade. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144682 | SAFETY LANCET FOR PREVENTING REUSE - A safety lancet for preventing reuse is provided, including an upper and lower case, moving block, guide, pressing plate, seating recess, and resilient spring. The upper case and a lower cases are coupled together with a space therein and a through-hole at the front to expose a lancet needle. The moving block is movable within the cases. with the lancet needle at the front. The guide is positioned behind the moving block within the cases and includes an anti-reverse ledge to selectively restrict reverse movement for reloading of the moving block. The pressing plate is pivotably mounted to the upper case and includes a stopper on which the moving block is caught, and a pressing projection for pressing the guide. The seating recess is defined in a bottom of the lower case, in which the guide descends and is seated. The resilient spring supports the rear of the moving block. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144683 | Pricking Device for Taking a Blood Sample - The invention relates to a pricking device ( | 2011-06-16 |
20110144684 | LANCING DEVICES HAVING DEPTH ADJUSTMENT ASSEMBLY - Lancing devices are disclosed having a carriage slidably disposed within the housing and a lancet carrier configured to directly receive and hold the lancet. The lancet carrier is engaged within the carriage and movable relative to and independently of the carriage between a forward incision position and a rearward cocked position. A trigger assembly has a user accessible first portion and a second portion attached to the carriage and movable with the carriage along the longitudinal axis. The second portion is configured to maintain the lancet carrier in the rearward cocked position and the first portion is configured to release the lancet carrier from the rearward cocked position. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144685 | CRICOTHYROTOMY DEVICE - A device for ventilating the upper airway of a trauma victim, and in particular to a device for performing a cricothyrotomy, including a inner and an outer catheter along with internal restraint that can expand inside the air way of a patient to anchor the device in place. An external restraint firmly positions the device in place. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144686 | Shape Memory Polymer Foams for Endovascular Therapies - A system for occluding a physical anomaly. One embodiment comprises a shape memory material body wherein the shape memory material body fits within the physical anomaly occluding the physical anomaly. The shape memory material body has a primary shape for occluding the physical anomaly and a secondary shape for being positioned in the physical anomaly. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144687 | Lateral Based Retractor System - An improved system for lateral based minimally invasive surgery is disclosed. More specifically, devices for use in spinal surgical procedures are disclosed that include asymmetric cross-sections which offer a reduced risk of impingement upon nerves and other tissues and the post-operative complications associated with such. Additional features including anchoring means, fiber optic lighting and image sensing means may be provided to improve visibility and surgical navigation during procedures. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144688 | DEVICES AND METHODS USING AN EXPANDABLE BODY WITH INTERNAL RESTRAINT FOR COMPRESSING CANCELLOUS BONE - Devices and methods compress cancellous bone. In one arrangement, the devices and methods make use of an expandable body that includes an internal restraint coupled to the body. The internal restraint directs expansion of the body. In one arrangement, a method for treating bone inserts the device having the internal restraint inside bone and causes directed expansion of the body in cancellous bone. Cancellous bone is compacted by the directed expansion. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144689 | Occlusion Device - An occlusion device includes a tubular expandable body with a frame that has a plurality of interconnected members configured to expand within a body vessel and to collapse for delivery or retrieval of the device. The occlusion device further includes a hydrophilic polyurethane hydrogel layer attached to the interconnected members of the tubular expandable body. The polyurethane hydrogel layer expands upon exposure to an aqueous environment. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144690 | EXPANDABLE TRANSAPICAL SHEATH AND METHOD OF USE - Disclosed is an expandable transluminal sheath, for introduction into the body while in a first, small cross-sectional area configuration, and subsequent expansion of at least a part of the distal end of the sheath to a second, enlarged cross-sectional configuration. The sheath is configured for use in the vascular system and has utility in the introduction and removal of implant delivery catheters. The access route is through the ventricular myocardium, more specifically at the left ventricular apex, into the aortic root. The distal end of the sheath is maintained in the first, low cross-sectional configuration during advancement to the arteries into the aorta. The distal end of the sheath is subsequently expanded using a radial dilatation device, which is removed prior to the introduction of implant delivery catheters. In an exemplary application, the sheath includes a supported proximal end, a supported distal end, and a collapsible center section. Certain configurations of the sheath are capable of being inserted in a first, small cross-sectional configuration, being expanded diametrically to a second, larger cross-sectional configuration, and then being reduced to a diametrically small size for removal. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144691 | SURGICAL STAPLE - A generally U-shaped surgical staple comprises a base | 2011-06-16 |
20110144692 | INTERSPINOUS SPACER ASSEMBLY - An interspinous spacer assembly ( | 2011-06-16 |
20110144693 | Dynamic Spine Stabilizers - Treatment of spinal irregularities, including, in one or more embodiments, dynamic spine stabilizers and systems that can be used to stabilize one or more motion segments in a patient's spine. Spine stabilization systems may comprise a first bone fastener configured to attach the spine stabilization system to a first vertebra. Spine stabilization systems further may comprise a second bone fastener configured to attach the spine stabilization system to a second vertebra. Spine stabilization systems further may comprise a dynamic spine stabilizer configured to connect the first bone fastener and the second bone fastener with at least some relative movement between the first bone fastener and the second bone fastener. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144694 | BONE FIXATION ASSEMBLY - A bone fixation element includes a bone fixation member having a base and a pair of arms elastically spreadable for reversibly clipping on a bone or an implant, and a connector assembly configured to be attached to the base so as to rigidly fix the fixation member to a bone fixation rod. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144695 | SPINAL ROD APPROXIMATOR - Spinal implants, spinal rod approximators for seating a stabilizing rod in a rod-receiving portion of a spinal implant, and methods for using the same are provided. In one embodiment, a spinal rod approximator is provided including an elongate member having a grasping member formed on a distal end thereof, and a rod pusher member slidably mated to or mounted on the elongate member. The grasping member is effective to grasp a portion of a spinal implant, and the pusher member is effective to grasp and engage a stabilizing rod and push the rod into a rod-receiving portion of the spinal implant being grasped by the grasping member. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144696 | ATTACHMENT DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SPINAL IMPLANTS - A system for the treatment of a spine generally comprises an implant and an attachment device for securing the implant to a portion of a patient's bone. A first portion of the attachment device is sized for insertion into a hole in the bone, and a second portion of the attachment device is configured to be received in an opening of the implant. The first portion comprises a biocompatible material defined by a network of interconnected pores configured promote bone growth into the first portion. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144697 | PERCUTANEOUS SPINAL IMPLANTS AND METHODS - A method includes moving a spinal implant such that a central portion of the spinal implant is disposed between adjacent spinous processes, radially extending a proximal portion of the spinal implant on a first side of the adjacent spinous processes such that movement of the proximal portion between the adjacent spinous processes is inhibited, and radially extending a distal portion of the spinal implant on a second side of the adjacent spinous processes opposite the first side such that movement of the distal portion between the adjacent spinous processes is inhibited. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144698 | Mandibular Fixation Plate - A bone fixation implant is provided that includes a bone fixation plate and a plurality of fasteners. The bone fixation plate corresponds generally to stress lines imparted onto the mandible during anatomical function of the mandible. Thus, the bone fixation plate includes a primary leg and an auxiliary leg extending obliquely out from the primary leg. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144699 | Bone Implants with Integrated Line Locks - A bone plate has a plurality of line locks arranged along its length. Each of the line locks has a plurality of passageways designed to receive the ends of a flexible line such that one or both of the ends can be drawn through the line lock along only one direction. The lines may encircle the bone fragments to be set to keep them in place. The line locks enable the lines to be easily tightened and re-tightened as needed. A bone prosthesis has a line lock having a plurality of passageways designed to receive one or both ends of a flexible line such that one or both ends can be drawn through the line along only one direction. The line can then be used to secure the bone prosthesis to one or more bones. The bone prosthesis may be a joint prosthesis or the like. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144700 | RESILIENT BONE PLATE AND SCREW SYSTEM ALLOWING BI-DIRECTIONAL ASSEMBLY - Bone screws and bone plates are provided that offer the surgeon the ability to either assemble the screws to the plate, or the plate to the screws, depending on the surgeon's preference and the patient's circumstances. The bone screws and bone plates of the present invention include a combination of geometric configurations that allow the screws and plates to fit together from different assembly directions. Additionally, the bone screws and bone plates can include material resilience features to allow expansion/contraction during assembly to allow bidirectional attachment to one another. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144701 | METHODS FOR STABILIZATION OF BONE STRUCTURES - Methods, systems, devices and tools for placing bone stabilization components in a patient are provided. The systems and devices have a reduced number of discrete components that allow placement through small incisions and tubes. More particularly, the present invention is directed to screws for use in systems and methods of treating the spine, which eliminate pain and enable spinal motion, which effectively mimics that of a normally functioning spine. Methods are also provided for installation of the screw and other subject systems. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144702 | IMPLANT DEVICE - An implant and sleeve combination for at least partial insertion into a bone and/or cartilage. The implant includes a lower portion and the sleeve includes a cavity designed to at least partially receive the lower portion of the implant. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144703 | Flexible Screw - A flexible compression screw having multiple segments, one or more of which are flexible and one or more segments that also include threads. The flexibility is created through the use of at least one helical slot formed generally in the center segment of the element. Additional flexible segments also have at least one helical slot in either the same helical rotation and pattern or in an opposite rotation and/or different pattern. An elastomeric material can fill the hollow body, extend into the slots and/or encompass the exterior. The flexible screw can have a hollow body, including leading and trailing edge, or can have a partially hollow body. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144704 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ASSISTING THE ALIGNMENT OF LIMBS - The present invention provides a device and method for determining the mechanical axis of a patient's limb. The device comprises a light source including a main light source arranged to project a beam of light onto the limb. The beam is adjusted to describe a plane of interest, to allow assessment of the mechanical axis of the limb. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144705 | System and Method For Detecting Atrial Activity Signal Using A Monobody Lead In A Single Chamber Implantable Cardioverter/Defibrillator - A single-chamber implantable device for detecting a patient's atrial activity using a monobody lead is disclosed. The monobody lead ( | 2011-06-16 |
20110144706 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING FIBRILLATION AND CREATING DEFIBRILLATION WAVEFORMS - Methods and apparatus for treating fibrillation utilize biphasic waveforms. A cardiac stimulator includes a defibrillation circuit that uses a pulse width modulated capacitive discharge to generate various biphasic waveforms, one or more of which may be delivered to the heart to treat the fibrillation. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144707 | EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR WITH CHARGE ADVISORY ALGORITHM - An external defibrillator includes a therapy delivery circuit, a sensor, and a processor. The therapy delivery circuit is configured to be electrically charged and to deliver electrical therapy to a patient. The sensor is configured to sense a physiological condition of the patient and generate data indicative of a probability that therapy will be delivered to the patient. The processor is configured to analyze data generated by the sensor to determine whether there is a threshold level of the probability that the therapy delivery will be delivered to the patient, if the probability is at least at the threshold level, charge the therapy delivery circuit, and determine whether therapy delivery is advisable based on the physiological condition of the patient after determining whether the probability is at least at the threshold level. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144708 | PULSE DETECTION APPARATUS, SOFTWARE, AND METHODS USING PATIENT PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNALS - The presence of a cardiac pulse in a patient is determined by evaluating physiological signals in the patient. In one embodiment, a medical device evaluates two or more different physiological signals, such as phonocardiogram (PCG) signals, electrocardiogram (ECG) signals, patient impedance signals, piezoelectric signals, and accelerometer signals for features indicative of the presence of a cardiac pulse. Using these features, the medical device determines whether a cardiac pulse is present in the patient. The medical device may also be configured to report whether the patient is in a VF, VT, asystole, or PEA condition, in addition to being in a pulseless condition, and prompt different therapies, such as chest compressions, rescue breathing, defibrillation, and PEA-specific electrotherapy, depending on the analysis of the physiological signals. Auto-capture of a cardiac pulse using pacing stimuli is further provided. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144709 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CARDIAC PROTECTION PACING - A pacing system delivers cardiac protection pacing to protect the heart from injuries associated with ischemic events. The pacing system detects an ischemic event and, in response, initiates one or more cardiac protection pacing sequences each including alternative pacing and non-pacing periods. In one embodiment, the pacing system initiates cardiac protection pacing sequences including at least one postconditioning sequence to protect the heart from a detected ischemic event and a plurality prophylactic preconditioning sequences to protect the heart from probable future ischemic events. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144710 | CARDIAC PACING SYSTEM BY SUBSTITUTING NATIVE BIOLOGICAL REGULATORY FUNCTION - The present invention provides a cardiac pacing system based on biological activities, comprising: a) at least one nerve activity sensing means which senses nerve activity of a cardiac sympathetic nerve and/or a vagal nerve, and outputs a plurality of input nerve activity signals; b) a calculating means which receives the input nerve activity signals, calculates a transfer function by computing a Fourier transform of normal nerve activity signals and a normal heart rate signal from normal cardiovascular system, calculates an impulse response by computing an inverse Fourier transform of the transfer function, calculates a plurality of pacing signals for control of a heart rate using a convolution integral between the input nerve activity signals and the impulse response, and outputs the pacing signals; and c) a pacing means which receives the pacing signals, and stimulates the heart based on the pacing signals such that heart rate is regulated. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144711 | Method and System for Hemodynamic Optimization Using Plethysmography - Time delays between a feature of a signal indicative of electrical activity of a patient's heart and a feature of a plethysmograph signal indicative of changes in arterial blood volume are used to arrange the operation of an implantable device, such as a pacemaker. Shorter time delays between the feature of the signal indicative of electrical activity of a patient's heart and the feature of the plethysmograph signal indicative of changes in arterial blood volume are indicative of larger cardiac stroke volumes. The time delay can be used to select a pacing site or combination of pacing sites and/or to select a pacing interval set. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144712 | VENTRICULAR PACING TO AUGMENT ATRIAL NATRIURETIC HORMONE PRODUCTION - Intermittent delivery of ventricular pacing pulses synchronized to occur during an atrial diastole time period can be used to provide atrial stretch therapy and augment the production and release of atrial natriuretic hormone. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144713 | AUTOMATIC ELECTRODE INTEGRITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - This document discusses, among other things, systems and methods for automatic electrode integrity management. Interelectrode impedance is measured for various electrode combinations of an implantable cardiac function management device. The impedance data is processed, such as at an external remote server, to determine whether an electrode is failing or has failed, to select an alternate electrode configuration, to alert a physician or patient, to predict a time-to-failure such as by using population data, or to reprogram electrode configuration or other device parameters of the implantable cardiac function management device. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144714 | BLOOD PRESSURE REGULATING SYSTEM BY SUBSTITUTING NATIVE BIOLOGICAL REGULATORY FUNCTION - A blood pressure regulating system uses a native regulation rule to estimate at least one nerve activity in response to blood pressure changes, comprising at least one blood pressure sensing means which senses blood pressure and outputs a input blood pressure signal, a calculating means which receives the input blood pressure signal, calculates a transfer function by computing a Fourier transform of a normal blood pressure signal and a normal sympathetic nerve activity from normal cardiovascular system, calculates an impulse response by computing an inverse Fourier transform of the transfer function, calculates a sympathetic nerve stimulation signal using a convolution integral between the input blood pressure signal and the impulse response, and outputs the sympathetic nerve stimulation signal, and a stimulating means which receives the sympathetic nerve stimulation signal, and stimulates the sympathetic nerve innervating vascular beds based on the sympathetic nerve stimulation signal such that blood pressure is regulated. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144715 | STIMULATION ELECTRODE SELECTION - Bioelectrical signals may be sensed within a brain of a patient with a plurality of sense electrode combinations. A stimulation electrode combination for delivering stimulation to the patient to manage a patient condition can be selected based on a frequency domain characteristic of the sensed bioelectrical signals. In some examples, a stimulation electrode combination is selected based on a determination of which of the sense electrodes are located closest to a target tissue site, as indicated by the one or more sense electrodes that sensed a bioelectrical brain signal with a relatively highest value of the frequency domain characteristic. In some examples, determining which of the sense electrodes are located closest to the target tissue site may include executing an algorithm using relative values of the frequency domain characteristic. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144716 | Apparatus and Method for Neurocranial Electrostimulation - There is provided method and apparatus for enhancing focality of neurocranial electrostimulation, including: providing a first plurality of electrodes having at least one electrode; providing a second plurality of electrodes having at least two electrodes; locating the first and the second plurality of electrodes on cranium of a subject and supplying electric current of opposite polarities to the first and the second plurality of electrodes. At least one electrode of the first plurality of electrodes is surrounded by at least two electrodes of the second plurality of electrodes. The enhanced focal stimulation may be used to treat ailments or augment cognitive performance. There are also provided methods for treating brain related ailments and performance augmentation. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144717 | Implantable neurostimulation system and methods of using the system for appetite control and pain control - An implantable electronic device includes a geodesic shaped dome housing and means for attaching the dome to a target neurologic structure. The dome includes a radio frequency receiver, an amplifier, and a stimulating electrode. A radio frequency based neurostimulatory system further includes a transmitting coil positioned outside a patient's body for transmitting pulses to the receiver and activating the stimulating electrode within the implantable electronic device. A method of stimulating a patient's neurologic structure includes implanting an electronic device proximate the neurologic structure, positioning a transmitting coil outside the patient's body for controlling the implantable device, initiating radio frequency waves from a pulse generator to the transmitting coil which in turn activates the stimulating electrode. The neurostimulatory system can be used for relief of visceral and somatic pain as well as for controlling appetite in patients. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144718 | COMPOSITION AND METHOD FOR THE TREATMENT OR PREVENTION OF SPINAL DISORDERS - The present invention provides compositions of matter suitable for the prevention of and/or treatment of a spinal disorder and/or spinal pain, e.g., caused by and/or associated with intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and methods of treatment of a spinal disorder and/or spinal pain. For example, the compositions of the present invention comprise a modulator of growth differentiation factor (GDF)-6 signaling sufficient to reduce or prevent or delay IVD degeneration and/or to enhance or induce IVD regeneration. The present invention also provides medical devices comprising said compositions, and methods of treatment making use of said compositions. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144719 | Optically Coupled Cochlear Implant Systems and Methods - An output assembly is sized for placement in the middle and inner ear, such that removal of bone can be decreased. The output assembly may comprise at least one photo detector, a demultiplexer and an electrode array sized to pass through an incision in the eardrum. An input transducer assembly is configured to transmit a multiplexed optical signal to the output assembly. The input assembly can be configured to transmit the multiplexed optical signal through the eardrum, such that tissue removal can be decreased and the device can be placed without removal of bone, for example. The multiplexed optical signal may comprise a pulse width modulated signal so as to decrease the effect of non-linearities of the light source and light detector and provide quality sound to the user. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144720 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTABLE LEADLESS COCHLEAR STIMULATION - Systems and methods are disclosed to enable hearing in the deaf by stimulating sites in the cochlea. The invention uses electrical stimulation in the cochlea, where vibrational energy from a source is received by an implanted device and converted to electrical energy and the converted electrical energy is used by implanted electrodes to stimulate the cochlear nerve. The vibrational energy is generated by a controller-transmitter, which could be located either externally or implanted. The vibrational energy is received by a receiver-stimulator, which contains multiple electrodes to stimulate along selected sites in the cochlea. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144721 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROGRAMMING AN IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR - In one embodiment, a method of programming an IPG comprises providing one or several GUI screens on the programmer device, the GUI screens comprising a master amplitude GUI control for controlling amplitudes for stimsets of a stimulation program and one or several balancing GUI controls for controlling amplitudes of each stimset of the stimulation program; communicating one or several commands from the programmer device to the IPG to change the amplitude of all stimsets of the stimulation program in response to manipulation of the master amplitude GUI control, wherein the amplitude of each stimulation set is automatically calculated by a level selected through the master amplitude GUI control and one or several calibration parameters for the respective stimulation set; and automatically recalculating the one or several calibration parameters for a respective stimulation set in response to manipulation of one of the balancing GUI controls and storing the recalculated calibration parameters. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144722 | MRI-COMPATIBLE IMPLANTABLE LEAD WITH IMPROVED LC RESONANT COMPONENT - An implantable lead is provided that comprises a lead body extending along a longitudinal axis. The lead body includes a distal end and a proximal end and a lumen within the lead body. The lead also includes a header assembly provided at the distal end of the lead body. The header assembly includes a tissue engaging end. The lead also includes an electrode provided on the header assembly. The electrode is configured to deliver stimulating pulses. The lead also includes an electrode conductor provided within the lumen of the lead body and extending from the electrode to the proximal end of the lead body. An LC resonant component is provided in at least one of the lead body and the header assembly. The LC resonant component comprises a capacitor having an elongated shape that extends along the longitudinal axis of the lead body. The capacitor has a core that is located about the longitudinal axis of the lead body. The LC resonant component further comprises an inductor wire wound in multiple turns about an exterior surface of the capacitor to form an inductor. | 2011-06-16 |
20110144723 | LOW LEVEL LIGHT THERAPY FOR ENHANCEMENT OF NEUROLOGIC FUNCTION BY ALTERING AXONAL TRANSPORT RATE - Methods of altering the rate of axonal transport are provided in several embodiments. Some embodiments alter axonal transport in a patient in need of an enhancement of axonal transport to alleviate symptoms of a disease or injury. The methods further include delivering electromagnetic radiation to at least one portion of the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nervous system of a patient sufficient to effect an alteration in axonal transport in the patient. | 2011-06-16 |