| 32nd week of 2013 patent applcation highlights part 54 |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20130204232 | Unknown - The invention relates to a medical device, comprising a hose-, tube- or hollow needle-shaped body, comprising a first layer ( | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204233 | DRUG DELIVERY DEVICE WITH COMPRESSIBLE DRUG RESERVOIR - A drug delivery device ( | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204234 | SYSTEMS FOR THE REDUCTION OF LEAKAGE AROUND MEDICAL DEVICES AT A TREATMENT SITE - A flow reduction system is provided which includes any suitable system installable through and within the vasculature, configured to reduce flow of blood and other bodily fluids, and includes one or more components configured to fill spaces or “gutters” around and/or between medical devices installed in the vasculature. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204235 | OPTIMIZATION OF LASER THERAPY - Systems and processes for the optimization of laser treatment of an eye are disclosed. The process can include receiving a set of parameters of a laser treatment (e.g., an aerial beam size, contact lens, pulse duration, and the desired clinical grade), determining an estimated size of a lesion to be generated by the laser treatment beam, receiving a lesion pattern density (e.g., full grid, mild grid, or other), and determining a recommended pattern of laser treatment beam spots. The recommended pattern of laser treatment beam spots may include a recommended number of laser treatment spots and a spacing between the spots. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204236 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR LASER OCULAR SURGERY - A method of laser ocular surgery for treating glaucoma is disclosed. The method can include imaging a treatment eye to obtain an image of the treatment eye and aligning a laser on a region of the treatment eye based on the image of the treatment eye. The method can also include firing a plurality of laser pulses from the laser to ablate tissue in the region of the treatment site, wherein the tissue ablation creates micro-perforations in the region of the treatment site to incite an inflammatory reaction. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204237 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPHTHALMIC SURFACE BASED ON OBJECTIVE QUALITY ESTIMATION - Systems and methods for measuring a topography of an optical tissue surface of an eye are provided by combining a measured elevation of the surface with a priori information of the surface to provide an estimate of mean and covariance of post-measurement orthogonal polynomial sequence amplitudes associated with the surface, determining a variance of elevation of the surface from the estimate, and constructing the topography from the estimate of mean and covariance of post-measurement amplitudes based on a comparison of the variance of elevation of the surface with a pre-determined threshold. The a priori information includes an estimate of mean and covariance of pre-measurement orthogonal polynomial sequence amplitudes associated with the surface. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204238 | COMBINATION THERAPY - The present methods, systems, and kits permit the induction of multimodal injury to a subject's skin. This approach maximizes the responsiveness of the treated area to treatments for producing hair follicles; exciting, activating, and dispersing existing hair-producing structures; and bringing about other physiological changes that correspond to increased hair growth and/or the growth of more robust hairs. In contrast with conventional methodologies, the present methods and systems provide heretofore unattainable advantages through use of a multi-pronged approach of de novo hair follicle production, in combination with reorganization of existing structures to produce new follicular units, as well as pharmaceutical enhancement of both processes, and other gainful techniques. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204239 | SKIN TREATMENT SYSTEM - A method of operating a flashlamp ( | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204240 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR RADIOMETRICALLY MEASURING TEMPERATURE DURING TISSUE ABLATION - The present invention provides systems and methods for radiometrically measuring temperature during ablation. An interface module includes a processor; a first input/output (I/O) port configured to receive digital radiometer and thermocouple signals from an integrated catheter tip (ICT) that includes a radiometer; a second I/O port configured to receive ablative energy from an electrosurgical generator; a temperature display; a patient relay in communication with the first and second I/O ports and the processor; and a computer-readable medium storing radiometer and thermocouple operation parameters and instructions for causing the processor to: calculate a temperature adjacent to the ICT based on the radiometer and thermocouple signals and the operation parameters, causing the temperature display to display the calculated temperature, and closing the patient relay so as to pass ablative energy received on the second I/O port to the first I/O port. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204241 | DUAL THERMAL ABLATION DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - The invention is a multi-functional ablation device that encompasses the use of both heat energy and cryogenic energy as integrated into one medical device. In one embodiment, the medical device integrates a heat source such as RF or HIFU in combination with a source of cryogenic energy such that the multi-functional ablation device is a dual thermal ablation device capable of utilizing either energy source alone or in combination. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204242 | ULTRASOUND TRANSCEIVER AND CONTROL OF A THERMAL DAMAGE PROCESS - An ultrasonic transceiver apparatus for intracorporeal use, comprises an undamped ultrasonic transceiver for placing in a confined intracorporeal space, the transceiver vibrating at an instantaneous frequency and being excited to cause vibration at said instantaneous frequency to produce an ultrasonic ablation beam for ablating surrounding tissues and being further excited to cause vibration by primary echo signals returning from surrounding tissues—from separate excitations during quiet periods between the ablation—to monitor ablation progress. A signal processor isolates the primary echo signals from ringing, secondary echoes and extraneous noise also received from the transceiver and uses presence or absence of the characteristic frequency, or of a body characteristic frequency such as pulse or breathing, as an isolation criterion. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204243 | HANDHELD ELECTROSURGICAL GENERATOR - A handheld electrosurgical generator including a pen, internal controller, signal generator, and RF amplifier. The pen electro-mechanically connects to an electrosurgical needle. The controller is embedded within the pen to control the RF output at the electrosurgical needle tip. An electrosurgical system incorporates the handheld electrosurgical generator along with at least one of a data processing unit and a data entry point in communication with the controller of the handheld electrosurgical generator. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204244 | PLASMA TREATMENT EQUIPMENT - A plasma treatment equipment includes: a plasma starting and stabilizing unit (A) having an insulating material such as a dielectric material having an elongated hole connecting to a plasma ejection portion, a triggering and discharge-stabilizing electrode, and an intense electric field electrode mounted thereon; and a plasma generating unit (B) including the insulating material having the elongated hole and a plasma generating electrode configured to perform main plasma generation at the time of operation, wherein the triggering and discharge-stabilizing electrode, the intense electric field electrode, and the plasma generating electrode are provided in such a manner that all the electrodes are not exposed and covered with the dielectric material for the entire space of one or more of the elongated hole which allows passage of gas from the upstream, starting of the plasma and generation of the plasma, and ejection of the plasma jet. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204245 | Surface Modification of Surgical Instruments for Selective Manipulation of Biological Tissues - Surgical instruments having at least one surface modified through formation of polyelectrolyte films and/or nanoparticle deposition thereon to increase adhesion between the surgical instrument and a patient's inner limiting membrane while reducing trauma during surgery are provided. The instrument includes a proximate end operable to be grasped by a surgeon and a distal tip operable to interface with a selected tissue, the distal tip comprising: i. first surface operable to receive at least one electrolyte film; ii. at least one layer of a polyelectrolyte film substantially coating the first surface, the polyelectrolyte film having at least one functional group displaying a charge. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204246 | HAND PIECE WITH ADJUSTABLE UTILITY CONDUIT - An electrosurgical instrument that reduces the amount of fatigue experienced by a physician performing electrosurgery includes a hand piece with a utility conduit connected to the hand piece at a central portion of the hand piece. The utility conduit can include an electrical cable and a smoke/fluid evacuation hose. The hand piece can include a channel system that receives a portion of the utility conduit therein and allows a physician to adjust the location on the hand piece at which the utility conduit exits the hand piece. Adjusting the location on the hand piece at which the utility conduit exits the hand piece can reduce the resistance to the movement of the electrosurgical instrument created by the weight of the utility conduit, which leads to less fatigue in a physician's hand during electrosurgery. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204247 | Ergonomic Handle for Surgical Instrument - A surgical instrument handle includes adaptations for improved ergonomics, such as broad, rounded hand-contacting surfaces and physiologic range of motion for instrument actuation. The handle may be mostly enclosed by the hand in use, and may be stabilized by the palm, ring finger, and little finger. One example includes a ratchet mechanism and release button. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204248 | EXTERNAL FIXATOR SYSTEM - An external fixation frame for correcting a bone deformity includes a first fixation ring and a second fixation ring. A posterior adjustable length strut couples a posterior portion of the first fixation ring to a posterior portion of the second fixation ring and has universal joint. Medial and lateral adjustable length struts couples medial and lateral portions of the first fixation ring to medial and lateral portions of the second fixation ring respectively, each of the medial and lateral adjustable length struts including a constrained hinge joint. The fixation frame also includes a half ring hingedly coupled to the second fixation ring, and an anterior adjustable length strut coupling an anterior portion of the first fixation ring to the half ring. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204249 | INTERNAL ASYMMETRICALLY DESIGNED 8-SHAPED STEEL PLATE FOR TEMPORARY HEMIEPIPHYSIODESIS AND APPLICATION THEREOF - An internal asymmetrically designed 8-shaped steel plate ( | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204250 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING A BONE FRACTURE - Apparatus for treating a bone fracture, the apparatus comprising:
| 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204251 | NAIL LOCKING SYSTEMS - A system for fixing a fracture near a joint of a bone comprises (a) an intramedullary device including a longitudinal body and a head, the longitudinal body extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the head being attached to the proximal end of the longitudinal body; and (b) a plate implantable into a head portion of the bone to provide support to a joint zone, the plate engageable with the intramedullary device. The plate is substantially U-shaped and includes a midsection and a pair of arms extending from the midsection, the pair of arms forming a space therebetween, the space sized and shaped to accommodate the head of the intramedullary device. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204252 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING A FEMORAL RESECTION BLOCK - Systems and methods for providing deeper knee flexion capabilities. In some instances, such systems and methods include a resection block for resectioning a popliteal surface of a femur. In some cases, the resection block is configured to be seated on a distal portion of a femur. Additionally, some implementations of the resection block define a first slot that is sized and shaped to receive a cutting device. In some implementations, the first slot is defined in the resection block such that the first slot substantially aligns with a first portion of a popliteal surface of the femur when the resection block is seated on the distal portion of the femur. Other implementations are also discussed. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204253 | SURGICAL IMPLEMENT AND METHOD FOR MANIPULATING A BONE - A surgical bone holding implement for manipulating a bone, comprising a handle and an elongated shaft including a bone engaging tip. The handle is positionable with respect to the elongated shaft between first and second positions, for mounting a drill member on the proximal end of the elongated shaft in one position, and for manipulating the bone by means of the handle in a second position. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204254 | Limited Use Acetabular Reamer - A limited use acetabular reamer can be used to perform selected procedures. The limited use reamer can be formed of low cost materials and be assembled in a limited number of steps. For example, a cutting portion can be formed or a metal and a body portion can be formed of a polymer. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204255 | Saw Blade Stability and Collet System Mechanism - A surgical system for cutting tissue of a patient includes an outer housing and a reciprocating assembly structurally configured to carry a cutting tool in a reciprocating motion. An actuator knob is manually accessible to the user and may be fixed axially to the outer housing. The reciprocating assembly may reciprocate relative to the actuator knob. The actuator knob may be configured for rotational movement between a lock position and an unlock position. The system may also include a locking mechanism configured to retain a cutting tool within the reciprocating assembly. The locking mechanism may be responsive to movement of the actuator knob to maintain the tool within the output shaft when the actuator knob is in the lock position and permit removal of the tool when the actuator knob is in the unlock position. Surgical cutting tools, such as blades include thickness enhancing features. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204256 | Deflectable Finger Connection Feature on Surgical Saw Blade - A surgical cutting blade for cutting bone material when the blade is coupled to a hand-held surgical saw includes a distal portion comprising a plurality of cutting teeth, a shank portion adjacent the distal portion, and a proximal portion adjacent the shank portion. The proximal portion may include a longitudinally extending slot having a proximal opening. The slot may be shaped to receive a portion of the surgical saw through the proximal opening. The proximal portion may have a plurality of deflectable fingers respectively separated from a plurality of main body portions by respective gaps. The plurality of deflectable fingers may extend adjacent the longitudinally extending slot, and may deflect into the gaps to increase and decrease a width of a portion of the slot. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204257 | SURGICAL CUTTING BLOCK - A surgical cutting block according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a block body including a top surface having a first thickness that extends between a first surface and an opposing second surface of the block body and a capture disposed at the top surface. The capture includes a second thickness that is less than the first thickness of the top surface. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204258 | UNICONDYLAR KNEE REPLACEMENT - A kit of parts for use in unicondylar knee replacement of a patient having a femur and a tibia comprises a drill guide and an intramedullary rod, the intramedullary rod being sized to fit within the intramedullary canal of the femur of the patient. The drill guide is arranged so as to engage a distal end of the intramedullary rod to that which engages the patient's intramedullary canal, and is formed with a foot portion sized to fit between the patient's femur and tibia before any bone is removed from the femur or tibia. The drill guide provides a guide for drilling of at least one hole in the femur. A further kit of parts for use in unicondylar knee replacement of a patient having a femur and a tibia comprises a femoral component for implantation in the femur, the femoral component having a bearing surface having a radius of curvature, and a guide spoon. The guide spoon has a bowl-shaped portion with an internal radius of curvature the same as that of the bearing surface, and a handle portion extending from the bowl-shaped portion. Methods of performing unicondylar knee replacement are also described. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204259 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENTATION SET AND SURGICAL TECHNIQUE - A method for preparing bone to receive a prosthetic implant, according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, positioning a bone preparation guide assembly on a bone, reaming the bone through a first cut opening of the bone preparation guide assembly, dividing the first cut opening into at least two distinct slots and making cuts in the bone through the at least two distinct slots. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204260 | CONE LOCK QUICK CONNECT MECHANISM - An apparatus includes a cut guide including a locking area, an alignment guide, and a connect mechanism to connect the cut guide to the alignment guide, wherein the connect mechanism includes a cone lock connect mechanism configured to engage with the cut guide locking area. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204261 | CERAMIC CUTTING TEMPLATE - The invention relates to a cutting template, to a cutting block, preferably a cutting template, and to a cutting block for use in medical technology. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204262 | SURGICAL PROCESS FOR ANTERIOR HIP REPLACEMENT - Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method of performing an anterior approach hip replacement using a retractor assembly. The method may include: providing a retractor assembly including a first vertical post, a plurality of accessory arms mounted to the first post, a second vertical post, and a femur distractor mounted to the second post; exposing a surgical site including the femoral neck and acetabulum using a plurality of retractors secured to the accessory arms; cutting the femoral neck to remove the femoral head; preparing the acetabulum for insertion of an acetabular cup; preparing the femur for insertion of a femoral implant by lifting the femur using a femur hook and the femur distractor; and closing the surgical site. In various alternative embodiments, the retractors may include a lesser trochanteric retractor coming from a direct medial approach and a greater trochanteric retractor coming from a lateral, posterior, proximal approach. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204263 | Systems and Methods For Delivering Bone Cement to A Bone Anchor - A method of stabilizing a first vertebra and a second vertebra includes implanting a first bone anchor into the first vertebra, implanting a second bone anchor into the second vertebra, connecting a first anchor connection instrument to the first anchor, connecting a second anchor connection instrument the second anchor, positioning a cement delivery tube into a passage provided through the first anchor, delivering bone cement from a bone cement delivery system coupled to the bone cement delivery tube through the passage in the first anchor to the first vertebra, removing the cement delivery tube from the first anchor connection instrument and the first anchor, connecting the cement delivery tube to second anchor connecting instrument connected to the second anchor, delivering bone cement through a passage in the second anchor to the second vertebra, connecting a spinal connection element to the first anchor and the second anchor. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204264 | Pneumatic Surgical Instrument and Corresponding Methods for Implanting Orthopedic Implants in Bone - Various embodiments of components, devices, systems and methods are provided for a pneumatic surgical instrument having a probe or an impactor disposed at a distal end thereof and configured to make contact with a selected portion of an orthopedic implant or device and drive the implant into a hole or void formed in a patient's bone. The instrument is configured to generate a shock wave, which is then transferred to the distal end of the probe or impactor, and thence into the orthopedic implant, thereby causing the implant to be driven into contact with portions of the void or hole. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204265 | ENGAGEABLE SLAPHAMMER TOOL AND INSTRUMENTATION - A slap hammer tool and associated instrumentation to engage with the slap hammer tool are disclosed herein. In some examples, a slap hammer tool including an end adapted for engagement with a quick release connector of an instrument is provided. The instrument can be adapted to receive the distal end of the slap hammer for engagement, the engagement being provided through rotation of the slap hammer relative to the instrument. Once the slap hammer and instrument are engageably coupled, the slap hammer can be used to provide force and accompanying motion away from the instrument in the direction of the slap hammer instrument. Force can be provided by the slap hammer tool to a coupled instrument, for example, to move or extract the coupled instrument from placement on a surgical area. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204266 | Method And Apparatus For Aligning Bone Screw Holes - A method for estimating at least one of a fastener-hole depth and a fastener length prior to forming a hole in a bone can include selecting a position on a proximal side of a proximal cortical bone layer for forming the hole, transmitting a transmitted wave into the bone from the selected position, and receiving a reflected wave at the selected position after the transmitted wave has been reflected by a distal cortical bone layer. The method can further include determining a distance from the selected position to the distal cortical bone layer based on times at which the transmitted wave is transmitted and the reflected wave is received, and estimating the at least one of the fastener-hole depth and the fastener length based on the distance to the distal cortical bone layer. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204267 | ADJUSTABLE KNEE TIBIAL TRIAL INSERT - An adjustable tibial trial insert includes an upper plate having an upper articular surface and a lower plate. A height-adjustment mechanism of the insert is coupled to and positioned generally between the upper plate and the lower plate and is configured to move between a closed position where the upper and lower plates are adjacent each other and an opened position where the upper and lower plates are spaced-apart from each other in order to adjust a height or thickness of the insert. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204268 | BONE FRACTURE REDUCTION DEVICE AND METHODS USING SAME - A device and method for treating bone fractures/lesions using an inflatable body is provided. The inflatable body includes a balloon having a substantially flat horizontal surface for quick easy insertion into bone beneath the fracture so as to align misaligned fragments of the fracture and/or to collapsed bone. The body has a shape and size to compress at least a portion of the cancellous bone to form a cavity in the cancellous bone and/or to restore the original position of the outer cortical bone, if fractured or collapsed. The inflatable body has a stylet attached to it's distal end so that once the inflatable body is deflated it can be twisted about the stylet to have a smaller profile so as to be easily withdrawn from the bone. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204269 | Intraocular Lens Injector with Vibration - An intraocular lens injector, comprising an injector body having a lumen wall defining a lumen, a plunger configured and arranged to move an IOL through the lumen, and a vibration source configured and arrange to vibrate at least one of the injector body and the plunger. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204270 | INSERTION ASSEMBLY FOR AN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS OF USE - An insertion assembly for assisting implantation of at least one lead into a patient includes an insertion needle and a sheath. The sheath removably couples with the insertion needle while the insertion needle is being advanced into the patient. When the sheath is coupled to the insertion needle, the sheath is disposed over at least a portion of an outer surface of the insertion needle. The sheath is radially expandable from a non-expanded state to an expanded state that is rigid enough to retract surrounding patient tissue when inserted into the patient. When the sheath is in an expanded state, first and second diameters of the sheath at opposing ends of the sheath are each large enough to concurrently receive at least one of a paddle lead or at least two percutaneous leads. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204271 | Systems and Methods for Controlling a Robotic Surgical System - A method comprises generating a command to move a surgical robotic manipulator to a predetermined safety configuration and locking the robotic manipulator in the safety configuration in response to receiving the command. The method further comprises detecting if a mock instrument has been mounted on the robotic manipulator when the robotic manipulator is in the safety configuration. If the mock instrument is detected, an override command is generated to unlock the robotic manipulator from the safety configuration. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204272 | METHOD FOR ROBOTIC ARTHROPLASTY USING NAVIGATION - A method for robotic knee surgery on a femur and tibia of a knee joint. A navigation system tracks positions of the femur and tibia during the surgery as the femur and tibia move during the surgery. Information relating to the tracked positions of the femur and tibia is communicated from the navigation system to the robotic system. This information is used to guide movement of a cutting tool of the robotic system relative to the femur and tibia so that material from the femur and tibia can be removed by the cutting tool without the use of physical resection guides. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204273 | MICROBLISTER SKIN GRAFTING - The present invention generally relates to devices for harvesting a skin graft(s). The present invention provides a blister raising device integrated with a member for cutting the blister. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204274 | Epilatory Device - The present invention relates to new epilatory device and its application to hair removal, said device comprising a flat elongate body having an adhesive paste medium applied to a first side of the body, characterised in that the device further includes a grab member having at least one aperture therein, arranged so that a users finger can be inserted into the aperture during use to aid removal of the device from a users body part, together with epilated hair. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204275 | METHODS, DEVICES AND APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING A VASCULAR ANASTOMOSIS - Methods, devices, apparatus, assemblies, and kits for performing a vascular anastomosis are disclosed. A device for a vascular anastomosis includes tissue engaging portions that can move between at least two configurations. In some embodiments, the tissue engaging portions move without the aid of moving parts, while in other embodiments the tissue engaging portions extend from one or more movable wings. The tissue engaging portions may be separated by a first distance when in a pre-deployment configuration and by a second distance when in a deployed configuration. A method includes engaging a plurality of tissue engaging members of a coupling device against first end tissue. After selectively engaging the tissue engaging members and first end tissue, the first end tissue is stretched by at least moving the tissue engaging members. The stretched first end tissue is coupled to the second end tissue by mating the coupling device to a mating anastomosis device. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204276 | Soft Tissue Repair Device And Associated Methods - A fibrous tissue repair device includes first and second tubular anchors having corresponding longitudinal passages. The tissue repair device includes corresponding first and second inserters. Each inserter has a shaft with a distal portion received in the longitudinal passage of the corresponding tubular anchor. A flexible strand couples the first and second anchors. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204277 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL SURGICAL IMPLANT - Three-dimensional surgical implants include a grip-type knit mesh folded into a three-dimensional structure. Spiked naps provided on the mesh grip pores on the mesh to hold the implant in the three-dimensional structure. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204278 | SYSTEMS FOR REMOVAL OF ATHEROSCLEROTIC PLAQUE OR THROMBUS AT A TREATMENT SITE - A system for removing plaque or thrombus from the vasculature and/or deployed medical devices is described. An embodiment can include a plaque reduction brush comprising at least one support adapted to allow the brush to be endoluminally deliverable via a delivery device to a treatment site; and a plurality of bristles extending from the at least one support and being arranged in a predetermined pattern along the at least one support, each of the plurality of bristles having a length, wherein one or more of the plurality of bristles has a bending portion along the length that is more easily bent than another portion of the length thereof, said bending portion facilitating bending of the one or more of the plurality of bristles between a compressed delivery configuration and an expanded use configuration. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204279 | CATHETER DESIGN FOR USE IN TREATING PLEURAL DISEASES - A catheter for use in treating pleura diseases, such as pleural effusions and pneumothorax, includes a tip portion that is configured to irritate the pleura when the catheter is inserted in the pleural cavity, thereby initiating mechanical pleurodesis. The tip portion has a substantially rough configuration and may include one or more protrusions that contact the pleura when the catheter is in use, thereby irritating the layers. This irritation causes the creation of fibrous adhesions between the parietal and visceral layers that close off the pleural cavity and prevent further fluid and/or air accumulations that occur as a result of pleural diseases. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204280 | Rotational Atherectomy Device with Fluid Inflatable Support Elements and Distal Protection Capability - A rotational atherectomy device for abrading a stenotic lesion from a vessel of a patient comprises a flexible drive shaft which extends towards a distal end of the device, a distal fluid inflatable support element located at a distal end of the drive shaft and an abrasive element mounted to the drive shaft proximal to and spaced away from the distal fluid inflatable support element. Both the abrasive element and the distal fluid inflatable support element are rotatable together with the drive shaft. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204281 | TOTAL OCCLUSION GUIDEWIRE DEVICE - A guidewire comprising a spreader or at least one centering device which may be used to open occluded vessels or other biological passages, especially chronic total occlusions. The guidewire may be used to either open the lumen or to center a boring device within the lumen, so that the chronic total occlusion can be crossed, and an interventional procedure can then be performed. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204282 | METHOD FOR EXTRACTING TUBULAR STRUCTURES - A method for extracting a tubular structure from tissue using a device including a handle having an actuator, an elongate body with a first end coupled to and extending from the handle, and an operational head disposed at a second end of the elongate body. The operational head is longitudinally movable between a neutral position and an actuated position. The method includes inserting the elongate body into the tubular structure; placing the operational head into the actuated position; engaging the tubular structure with the operational head when in the actuated position; and pulling the tubular structure from the tissue by moving the operational head. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204283 | Nucleus Chopper and Splitter - A surgical instrument which both incises and splits the nucleus of a lens has a pair of 5 spring steel segments slidably received in a metallic tube. Each segment terminates in a tip. As the spring steel segments are drawn into the tube the tips come together to form a cutting edge useful for incising the lens. When the segments are extended from the tube the tips separate, forcing the incision open until the lens is split. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204284 | Surgical Knife Safety Handle - A surgical knife safety device having a handle, a blade connected to the handle, and a guard carried by the handle for sliding movement between a retracted position in which the blade is exposed for use, and an extended position for covering the sharp cutting edge of the blade. In the retracted position, an enlarged guard radius is provided at the distal end of the handle to allow improved handle control and blade orientation. The enlarged guard radius is positioned to allow the user to firmly grip a large distal handle portion which is preferably molded as a single piece with the blade holder, preventing unwanted blade or handle movement due to guard mechanism tolerances. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204285 | Cutting Tips for Ultrasonic Surgical System - A tool is configured to cut a tissue body. The tool includes a first section configured to be coupled to a transducer assembly, and a second section coupled to the first section. The first section at least partially includes a first material. The second section at least partially includes a second material that is different from the first material and denser than the first material. The second includes a cutting member that is configured to vibrate at a predetermined frequency so as to cut a tissue body an operative portion. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204286 | LAPAROSCOPIC INSTRUMENT AND TROCAR SYSTEMS AND RELATED SURGICAL METHOD - Laparoscopic instruments and trocars are provided for performing laparoscopic procedures entirely through the umbilicus. A generally C-shaped trocar provides increased work space between the hands of the surgeon as well as S-shaped laparoscopic instruments placed through the trocar when laparoscopic instrument-trocar units are placed through the umbilicus. In order to facilitate retraction of intra-abdominal structures during a laparoscopic procedure, an angulated needle and thread with either one-or two sharp ends is provided. Alternatively, an inflatable unit having at least one generally C-shaped trocar incorporated within the unit's walls can be placed through the umbilicus following a single incision. Generally S-shaped laparoscopic instruments may be placed through the generally C-shaped trocars to facilitate access to intra-abdominal structures. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204287 | SURGICAL ACCESS ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USING SAME - A surgical access assembly is described that includes an outer sheath and a selectively removable obturator. The outer sheath is defined by an open distal end and an open proximal end and includes a hollow body portion therebetween. The obturator is defined by a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end further comprises a tapered distal tip member. The obturator is configured to be received within the outer sheath such that the tapered distal tip member protrudes from the open distal end of the outer sheath when the obturator is in an introducing configuration. The outer sheath further includes a gripping member, wherein the gripping member includes at least one retaining notch formed on an outer surface thereof. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204288 | MODIFIABLE OCCLUSION DEVICE - An occlusive device suitable for endovascular treatment of an aneurysm in a region of a parent vessel in a patient, including a structure having a pre-established pore features and having dimensions suitable for insertion into vasculature of the patient to reach the region of the aneurysm in the parent vessel. The device further includes a frangible material associated with the pore features which initially provides a substantial barrier to flow through the frangible material and is capable of at least one of localized rupturing and localized eroding, in the presence of a pressure differential arising at an ostium of a perforator vessel communicating with the parent vessel, within an acute time period to minimize ischemia downstream of the perforator vessel. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204289 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR OCCLUDING VASCULAR ABNORMALITIES - Medical devices are provided that include at least one layer that defines a proximal end, a distal end, and an expanded volume portion between the proximal and distal ends. The expanded volume portion defines a longitudinal axis extending between the proximal and distal ends. A first end feature including a reversible connection for attachment to a pusher member may be attached to the proximal end. The first end feature may define a first axis between its opposing ends. Similarly, a second end feature defining a second axis between its opposing ends may be located at the distal end. In the contracted state (e.g., when constrained within a delivery catheter), the first axis and the second axis may be aligned with the longitudinal axis, and in the expanded state (e.g., when deployed), the first axis and/or the second axis may be angled with respect to the longitudinal axis. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204290 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ENCLOSING AN ANATOMICAL OPENING - Implantable therapeutic devices and methods for endovascular placement of devices at a target site, such an opening at a neck of an aneurysm, are disclosed. Selected embodiments of the present technology have closures ( | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204291 | TOTAL OCCLUSION GUIDEWIRE DEVICE - A guidewire comprising a spreader or at least one centering device which may be used to open occluded vessels or other biological passages, especially chronic total occlusions. The guidewire may be used to either open the lumen or to center a boring device within the lumen, so that the chronic total occlusion can be crossed, and an interventional procedure can then be performed. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204292 | PRESSURE-ENHANCED BLOOD FLOW TREATMENT - Apparatus and methods are provided, including a sensor, configured to sense a cardiac cycle of a patient and to generate a signal in response thereto. A pressure mechanism is coupled to a site of an artery of the patient, and, in response to the signal, enhances blood flow of the patient in a downstream direction by compressing the artery. A valve is implanted upstream of the site, and inhibits blood flow in an upstream direction due to operation of the pressure mechanism. Other applications are also described. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204293 | ACUPRESSURE APPLIANCE - An acupressure appliance includes: (a) a pair of curved rod-like pressure units each including a solid or hollow structure in an entire or partial manner, each including a convex-curved segment of a chevron shape curved continuously in an axial direction, each formed in a longitudinal shape in the axial direction and formed in a shape having a curved upper side projected upward in cross section in a lateral direction perpendicular to the axial direction, the pair of curved rod-like pressure units spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction; and (b) a connector connecting the pair of curved rod-like pressure units in the lateral direction. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204294 | WOUND CLAMP - A wound closure device includes first and second opposing members which open and close in a clam-shell configuration, skin penetrating needles and a pressure bar for applying pressure to close the wound when the device is closed, and releasable locking means for biasing or maintaining the device in a closed position. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204295 | SURFACE TEXTURE CONFIGURATION FOR SELF-RETAINING SUTURES AND METHODS FOR FORMING SAME - A tissue retaining device includes a flexible suture thread having a surface microtexture and/or nanotexture. The surface microtexture and/or nanotexture filament is directional in that the resulting suture thread has a lower resistance to moving through tissue in the direction of intended deployment than in the reverse direction. A variety of alternative asymmetric textural elements and/or distributions of textural elements are disclosed. Methods for manufacturing the surface microtexture and/or nanotexture are also described. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204296 | Absorbable Suture Device - A suture device including one or more sutures and one or more suture retention members, each suture retention member anchoring a portion of a fiber of the one or more sutures. The suture device may be adapted to hold together and approximate skin edges. The suture may be situated both within the skin and subcutaneous tissue. The suture device may be anchored to the undersurface of one or more of the skin and the subcutaneous layer. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204297 | RELEASABLE SUTURE CLAMP AND SUTURE ANCHOR ASSEMBLY INCLUDING SAME - A suture anchor assembly includes a length of suture having an anchor attached to an end thereof. A releasable suture clamp is disposed in a clamped configuration about the suture. The releasable suture clamp includes a plurality of independent stackable components rotatable about a common axis, which is transverse to opposing faces of the stackable components. Each of the stackable components has a first opening passing through the opposing faces, spaced from the common axis, and sized for receiving the suture therethrough. The releasable suture clamp has an unclamped configuration in which the first openings are aligned relative to an alignment axis and the clamped configuration in which the first openings are misaligned relative to the alignment axis, wherein the alignment axis is parallel to the common axis. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204298 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ATTACHING TISSUE TO BONE, INCLUDING THE PROVISION AND USE OF A NOVEL KNOTLESS SUTURE ANCHOR SYSTEM - Apparatus for securing a first object to a second object, the apparatus comprising:
| 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204299 | FIXING DEVICE FOR SUTURE THREADS TO BE INSERTED INTO A BONE TISSUE - A fixing device for suture threads to be inserted into a bone tissue comprises: a first portion ( | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204300 | SINGLE-LOCK ANTERIOR CERVICAL PLATE - Anatomically contoured anterior cervical plates with bone ingrowth surfaces, providing for intersegmental compressive preloading, and a rigid and locked interface to all of the bone screws, with those engaging the vertebrae deployed in highly convergent pairs. The bone screws have a tapered self-tapping leading end, an increasing root diameter with a generally constant outer diameter with a thread that is narrow and sharp throughout and an enlarged head portion capable of an interference fit to the receiving holes of the plate. Instrumentation consists of plate holders, a compression apparatus and a pilot hole forming device that interlocks with the plate. Methods for spinal compression and bone hole preparation are provided. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204301 | SPINAL STABILIZATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A spinal stabilization system may include a pair of structural members coupled to at least a portion of a human vertebra with connectors. Connectors may couple structural members to spinous processes. Some embodiments of a spinal stabilization system may include fasteners that couple structural members to vertebrae. In some embodiments, a spinal stabilization system, provides three points of fixation for a single vertebral level. A fastener may fixate a facet joint between adjacent vertebrae and couple a stabilization structural member to a vertebra. Connectors may couple the structural members to the spinous processes of the vertebrae. Use of a spinal stabilization system may improve the stability of a weakened or damaged portion of a spine. When used in conjunction with an implant or other device, the spinal stabilization system may immobilize vertebrae and allow for fusion of the implant or other device with vertebrae. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204302 | SPINAL IMPLANT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A provisional spinal rod comprises a body. A first arm extends between a first end and a second end connected to the body. The first arm is configured for attachment to a first vertebra. A second arm extends between a first end and a second end connected to the body. The second arm is configured for attachment to a second vertebra disposed in an orientation relative to the first vertebra. The second arm is rotatable about the body and relative to the first arm. A locking mechanism is coupled to the body. An insert is disposed between the locking mechanism and the second arm. The arms are relatively rotatable and selectively lockable with the locking mechanism and the insert in the orientation in a template configuration for an implant rod. Methods of use are disclosed. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204303 | HOLDING DEVICE HAVING A LONGILINEAL ELEMENT ADAPTED FOR MAINTAINING A PREDETERMINED INTERVERTEBRAL SPACING - The subject matter of the present invention relates to a maintaining device suitable for maintaining a predetermined intervertebral spacing, comprising a) a slender component, which is preferably substantially flat, of predetermined main width having a first end and a second end capable of being placed around the spinous processes, b) a rigid support comprising two side parts mounted between front and rear parts, and c) a blocking component mounted so as to slide on the side parts. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204304 | BONE PLATE FOR ELASTIC OSTEOSYNTHESIS - Embodiments provide a method and device for plate osteosynthesis of a bone fracture that allows angle-stable fixation of the bone fracture, while permitting elastic axial motion at the fracture site in a controlled, symmetric manner to stimulate fracture healing. Embodiments pertain to a bone plate having an outer surface and a bone-facing surface. The bone plate incorporating internal sliding elements containing a threaded receiving hole for bone screws that have a correspondingly threaded screw head. The sliding elements undergo controlled displacement parallel to the longitudinal axis of the plate but are substantially constrained against displacement perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the plate. The bone screws with threaded heads may be rigidly fixed to the threaded receiving holes in the sliding elements without compressing the bone plate onto the bone surface. Sliding elements are elastically suspended inside the bone plate and undergo dynamic motion. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204305 | Volar Fixation System - A volar fixation system includes a plate intended to be positioned against the volar side of the radial bone. The plate includes threaded holes for receiving fasteners which lock relative to the plate. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204306 | BONE PLATE SCREW-BLOCKING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A bone plate screw-blocking system and method that comprises a plate with at least two bone screw receiving holes, blocking elements, bone screws, and a tool capable of simultaneously actuating at least two blocking elements. The plate includes an upper surface and a lower surface with bone screw receiving holes that extend through both surfaces of the plate. The bone screws couple the plate to the bone via the bone screw receiving holes. The blocking elements are movably positioned proximate each bone screw receiving hole. In an initial unblocked position, the blocking elements do not cover the bone screw receiving holes. Upon movement into final blocked positions, the blocking elements cover at least a portion of the bone screw receiving holes and preferably extend over at least a portion of the bone screw during use. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204307 | Distal Radius Fracture Fixation Plate with Integrated and Adjustable Volar Ulnar Facet Support - A volar distal radius plate includes a shaft and a head. The head includes a radial side that seats below the volar rim, and an ulnar side with two extending tabs that provide a buttress support to ulnar fragments from the volar rim. The tabs are contoured to be atraumatic to the overlying soft tissue. The tabs can be readily re-orientated to better approximate the volar rim and provide close support to the volar fragments. Each tab includes a single hole specifically sized to closely receive a K-wire in a fixed angle orientation, and which permits the K-wire to apply a bending load to a tab in situ to bend the tab about a lower recess between the tab and the remainder of the head. Therefore, the plate does not require a dedicated bender. The tabs can also accommodate sutures. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204308 | UNIPLANAR BONE ANCHOR SYSTEM - The present teachings provide one or more surgical implements for repairing damaged tissue, such as in the case of a spinal fixation procedure. A uniplanar bone anchor system for a fixation procedure is provided. The system can include a bone fastener including a head with a bearing surface and a shaft adapted to engage an anatomy. The system can also include a saddle, which can include a first bore formed about a longitudinal axis that receives the bone fastener and a coupling bore defined transverse to the longitudinal axis. The system can also include a coupling system, which can have a second bearing surface. The coupling system can be received through the coupling bore such that the second bearing surface of the coupling system can contact the bearing surface to permit the bone fastener to move in only one plane. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204309 | SELF-TAPPING BIOCOMPATIBLE INTERFERENCE BONE SCREW - A biocompatible interference screw for soft tissue or bone-to-bone fixation comprises a screw body extending from a screw head to a distal tip of the screw. The screw body has an outer surface, and comprises polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) material. Advantageously, the body outer surface has a textured surface finish for substantially improving pull-out strength of the interference screw. The textured surface finish is textured, in preferred embodiments, with a minimum of approximately 16 micro inches of surface roughness. The screw head comprises a tapered square keyhole for receiving a distal end of a driver instrument. The screw comprises a series of threads, which have a relatively smooth profile, in order to prevent graft tissue laceration as the screw is being inserted. The distal tip of the screw body comprises a narrow tip, and a distal end of the screw body is angled inwardly toward the narrow distal tip. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204310 | PECTUS BAR STABILIZER - A pectus bar stabilizer assembly and method includes a first base part separable from a second base part. The first and second base parts combine to define a channel therebetween. A pectus bar is received by the channel and a retainer assembly retains the pectus bar in the channel. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204311 | IMPLANTS AND METHODS FOR TREATING CARDIAC ARRHYTHMIAS - Devices and methods are described for treating maladies such as atrial fibrillation. The devices and methods, in some implementations, include implant comprising a ribbon or other structure formed into one or more rings. The ribbon can provide mechanical pressure against an adjacent tissue, e.g., the tissue of a vessel, so as to help at least partially inhibit the propagation of electrical signals along the vessel. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204312 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING PACING INDUCED DYSSYNCHRONY TO REDUCE ISCHEMIC INJURY USING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Techniques are provided for use by an implantable medical device for optimizing the amount of ventricular dyssynchrony induced within a patient during protective pacing. In one example, the device analyzes intracardiac electrogram signals to detect an ischemic event within the heart. The device then delivers pacing stimulus in accordance with adjustable pacing parameters to induce ventricular dyssynchrony within the heart and adjusts the pacing parameters within a range of permissible values to achieve a preferred degree of ventricular dyssynchrony within the patient, so long as there is no significant reduction in left ventricular pumping functionality. Preferably, the pacing parameters are adjusted to maximize or otherwise optimize the degree of dyssynchrony induced within the patient. If a significant reduction in LV pumping functionality is detected, the dyssynchrony-inducing pacing is preferably suspended to avoid any deterioration in the condition of the heart. Techniques for detecting early onset of ischemia are also disclosed. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204313 | SYSTEM TO DIAGNOSE THE FUNCTION OF INTRINSIC SPHINCTERS - A system treats at least one of the urethral and anal sphincters. A muscle contraction device is located on at least one of the urethral and anal sphincters. A controller is connected to the muscle contraction device and operative to transmit control signals to the muscle contraction device located on at least one of the urethral and anal sphincters to contract the muscle during an inspiratory phase of respiration. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204314 | Sleep Apnea Control Device - Disclosed herein are various methods, systems, an apparatuses for determining appropriate situations to treat conditions such as sleep apnea. At appropriate times, treatment can be applied such as through electrical stimulation to a person (e.g., an electrical stimulation of a person's genioglossus muscle in response to detecting that the person is undergoing an obstructive sleep apnea precursor event). In exemplary embodiments, a sensor such as a microphone and/or motion sensor can be used to provide a processor with data to facilitate a determination by the processor as to whether an electrical stimulus should be applied. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204315 | SYSTEMS FOR AND METHODS OF TRANSCRANIAL DIRECT CURRENT ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - A system according to the present invention provides a portable, non-invasive device adapted to deliver electrical stimulation to a brain, such as to treat tinnitus. Such system is preferably a head-worn system configured to provide transcranial direct current electrical stimulation (tDCS) to a patient, where a therapy based at least partially thereon may be self-administered by the patient. tDCS is a non-invasive method of brain stimulation to treat tinnitus, or other neurological indications, that may provide significant relief. Methods according to the present invention include preferably brief sessions of anodal tDCS to assist in determining adequate electrode location and stimulus intensity by producing transient decreases in tinnitus intensity. Methods may also or alternatively include a number of sessions of cathodal tDCS at a confirmed electrode location and stimulus intensity to provide sustained tinnitus relief. Methods may also or alternatively include a number of maintenance sessions to prolong the sustained relief. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204316 | APPARATUS FOR THE TREATMENT OF BRAIN AFFECTIONS AND METHOD IMPLEMENTING THEREOF - The present invention relates to an apparatus for the treatment of a brain affection, which comprises at least one implantable generator ( | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204317 | IMPLANTABLE DEVICE OF THE NEURAL INTERFACE TYPE AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - The main object of the invention is an implantable device of the neural interface type for processing signals, including:
| 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204318 | Thin Film for a Lead for Brain Applications - A thin film for a lead for brain applications includes at least one section comprising a high conductive metal and a low conductive metal, whereby the low conductive metal is a biocompatible metal and has a lower electrical conductivity than the high conductive metal and whereby the high conductive metal is at least partially encapsulated by the low conductive metal. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a thin film for a lead for brain applications and a deep brain stimulation system. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204319 | ARBITRARY WAVEFORM GENERATOR & NEURAL STIMULATION APPLICATION WITH SCALABLE WAVEFORM FEATURE AND CHARGE BALANCING - A method, device and/or system for generating arbitrary waveforms of a desired shape that can be used for generating a stimulation pulse for medical purposes such as for spinal cord stimulation therapy, including the option of using such arbitrary waveforms for charge balancing purposes. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204320 | SELECTIVE HIGH FREQUENCY SPINAL CORD MODULATION FOR INHIBITING PAIN WITH REDUCED SIDE EFFECTS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal chord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side affects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204321 | SELECTIVE HIGH FREQUENCY SPINAL CORD MODULATION FOR INHIBITING PAIN WITH REDUCED SIDE EFFECTS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal chord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side affects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204322 | SELECTIVE HIGH FREQUENCY SPINAL CORD MODULATION FOR INHIBITING PAIN WITH REDUCED SIDE EFFECTS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal chord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side affects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204323 | SELECTIVE HIGH FREQUENCY SPINAL CORD MODULATION FOR INHIBITING PAIN, INCLUDING CEPHALIC AND/OR TOTAL BODY PAIN WITH REDUCED SIDE EFFECTS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region from an epidural, cervical location to address at least one of high back pain, mid-back pain, low back pain, and leg pain without creating paresthesia in the patient. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204324 | SELECTIVE HIGH FREQUENCY SPINAL CORD MODULATION FOR INHIBITING PAIN, INCLUDING CEPHALIC AND/OR TOTAL BODY PAIN WITH REDUCED SIDE EFFECTS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region from an epidural, cervical location to address at least one of high back pain, mid-back pain, low back pain, and leg pain without creating paresthesia in the patient. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204325 | CONFIGURING A HEARING PROSTHESIS WITH A REDUCED QUANTITY OF PARAMETERS - A method for determining a first set of one or more parameters for configuring a system, the method including evaluating a behavior of the system over a predetermined selection of parameter values for a second set of parameters, and deriving a first set of one or more parameters to configure the system based on the evaluated behavior of the system, wherein the number of parameters in the first set is less than the number of parameters in the second set. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204326 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR MINIMIZING AN EFFECT OF CHANNEL INTERACTION IN A COCHLEAR IMPLANT SYSTEM - An exemplary method of minimizing an effect of channel interaction among a plurality of channels in a multi-channel cochlear implant system includes empirically generating an electrical spread matrix that is specific to a patient and representative of a channel interaction among a plurality of channels defined by a plurality patient of electrodes of a multi-channel cochlear implant system associated with the patient, generating a model electrical spread matrix that approximates the empirically generated electrical spread matrix and that has a band inverse matrix, and using the band inverse matrix to determine a set of stimulation current levels to be applied by way of a corresponding set of electrodes included in the plurality of electrodes in order to produce desired stimulation current levels at a plurality of stimulation sites within the cochlea in the presence of the channel interaction. Corresponding methods and systems are also disclosed. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204327 | REMOTE CONTROL DATA MANAGEMENT - A remote control device communicatively coupled to an implanted stimulation device displays representations of modifications to stimulation settings of the implanted stimulation device according to setting change instructions input by a user, without the instructed change being implemented at the implanted stimulation device. The remote control includes an input component(s) for input of patient condition information correlated to settings of the implanted stimulation device. The implanted stimulation device cycles through stimulation programs without the remote control device indicating the changes and while the remote control device receives input of patient condition information. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204328 | CONTROL OF NEURAL MODULATION THERAPY USING CERVICAL IMPEDANCE - An implantable apparatus can comprise an electrical test energy delivery circuit configured to provide an electrical test signal to a cervical location in a patient body. A detector circuit can use the electrical test signal to detect cervical impedance and generate a cervical impedance signal representing fluctuations in the detected cervical impedance. The implantable apparatus can comprise a therapy delivery circuit, such as configured to provide electrical neural modulation therapy using a neural modulation timing parameter, and a processor circuit that can be coupled to the electrical test energy delivery circuit, the detector circuit, and the therapy delivery circuit. The processor circuit can be configured to determine a pulsatile signal or pulse pressure signal, such as using the cervical impedance signal, identify a characteristic of the pulsatile signal or pulse pressure signal, and control a neural modulation therapy using the timing parameter and the identified pulse pressure signal characteristic. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204329 | TREATING SPINAL CORD INJURIES VIA LASER THERAPY - Aspects for treating spinal cord injuries are disclosed. In a particular aspect, a method includes identifying a neurological level of a spinal cord injury, and activating neurons via laser therapy in which a laser beam is applied to an area proximate to the neurological level. In another aspect, a computer-readable storage medium includes computer-readable instructions for performing various acts. Such acts comprise ascertaining a neurological level of a spinal cord injury, and receiving data corresponding to a severity of the spinal cord injury. The acts further comprise outputting a laser calibration according to the neurological level and the severity. A medical device apparatus is also provided, which includes various computer executable components. The computer executable components include an assessment component configured to receive parameters corresponding to a spinal cord injury, and a calibration component configured to ascertain a laser calibration according to the at least one parameter. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204330 | TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETIC STIMULATION FOR ALTERING SUSCEPTIBILITY OF TISSUE TO PHARMACEUTICALS AND RADIATION - Described herein are methods for modulating the susceptibility of one or more target or tissue regions, and particularly one or more brain regions, to a therapeutic agent such as a drug, immune agent, compound, radiation, etc. In particular, the methods and systems described herein may include magnetic stimulation (including transcranial magnetic stimulation) of target or non-target regions to modulate the susceptibility of the one or more target or tissue regions to a therapeutic agent. | 2013-08-08 |
| 20130204331 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR NON-INVASIVE ANATOMICAL AND SYSTEMIC COOLING AND NEUROPROTECTION - The present invention provides a method and device for non-invasive anatomical and systemic cooling, fluid removal and/or energy removal. The present invention provides for removal of fluid and cooling of various bodily fluid-containing spaces or surfaces, such as mucus-containing spaces or surfaces via delivery of a dry fluid not including a coolant into or upon the mucus-containing space or surface. Exposure of mucus to the dry fluid yields evaporation of body fluid, removal of energy, cooling of the anatomical feature, and systemic cooling. Therefore, therapeutic hypothermia may be achieved for neuroprotection of various organs after ischemic insult, like the brain after cardiac arrest. Similarly, excess fluid removal is achievable for treatment of cardiogenic shock or other conditions that cause significant fluid build-up, especially in cases of compromised renal function. Additionally, the invention may be used to reduce fever, and other conditions where removal of heat, energy and/or water are beneficial. | 2013-08-08 |
