32nd week of 2010 patent applcation highlights part 54 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20100204711 | MEDICAL RETRIEVAL DEVICE - A medical retrieval device has a multi-prong retrieval assembly. The multi-prong retrieval assembly has a first position, in which the retrieval assembly extends from the distal end of the sheath to form an open ended grasping device, and a second position, in which the retrieval assembly extends from the distal end of the sheath to form a substantially close ended basket-type retrieval device. When the retrieval assembly is used as a basket-type retrieval device, the distal ends of the prongs of the retrieval assembly that form the basket are not connected to each other. Thus, captured objects may be released by the operator, or by applying sufficient force to separate one or more of the prongs. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204712 | NEUROVASCULAR MICROCATHETER DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - The present invention relates to neurovascular thrombectomy devices that include an occlusion microcatheter and fluid-assisted microcatheter fitted within the occlusion microcatheter. Also provided are systems and methods for neurovascular thrombectomy using the devices of the invention. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204713 | MEDICAL ROBOTIC SYSTEM - A medical robotic system ( | 2010-08-12 |
20100204714 | MINIATURE BONE-ATTACHED SURGICAL ROBOT - Disclosed are methods for performing a surgical procedure at a surgical site utilizing a surgical robot. Other embodiments are also disclosed. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204715 | ENDOSCOPIC SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER - An apparatus for application of surgical clips to body tissue has a handle portion with a body extending distally from the handle portion defining a longitudinal axis and a plurality of surgical clips disposed within the body. The apparatus also has a jaw assembly mounted adjacent a distal end portion of the body with the jaw assembly including first and second jaw portions movable between a spaced-apart and an approximated position. The apparatus further has a wedge plate longitudinally movable between the first and the second jaw portions, and a clip pusher configured to individually distally advance a surgical clip to the jaw assembly while the jaw portions are in the spaced apart position with an actuator. The actuator is at least partially disposed within the body and longitudinally movable in response to actuation of the handle portion and has a cam link. The apparatus also has a jaw closure member positioned adjacent the first and second jaw portions to move the jaw portions to the approximated position. The cam link longitudinally moves wedge plate between the first and the second jaw portions. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204716 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR OCCLUSION OF AN ATRIAL APPENDAGE - Some embodiments of the invention provide a system for occluding a left atrial appendage of a patient. Some embodiments of the system can include a ring occluder that can be positioned around the left atrial appendage and a ring applicator to position the ring occluder with respect to the left atrial appendage. One embodiment discloses a method of accessing endocardial surfaces of the heart through the atrial appendage. Additional embodiments of the invention provide a clip occluder that can be positioned around the left atrial appendage. A clip applicator can position the clip occluder with respect to the left atrial appendage. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204717 | Surgical Device for Multiple Clip Application - An example of a surgical clip applier may include a housing with a passage defined therein, the passage having a longitudinal centerline; a plurality of clips held within the passage, each clip lying in a plane angled relative to the longitudinal centerline of the passage; a pusher slot defined in the housing; and a pusher slidable along the pusher slot, wherein distal motion of the pusher urges the distalmost clip in the passage out of the passage in a direction angled relative to the longitudinal centerline of the passage. Another example of a surgical clip applier may include a first jaw having a control slot defined therein; a second jaw having a control slot defined therein; and a control arm extending into the control slot of each jaw; wherein the control arm is movable along the control slots in a first direction to close the jaws and is movable along the control slots in a second direction to open the jaws. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204718 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR JOINING NON-CONJOINED LUMENS - Disclosed are compositions, methods, and kits for joining together non-conjoined lumens in a patient's body including vascular lumens. More particularly, in various aspects, this invention provides compositions, methods, and kits for joining such non-conjoined lumens, including small lumens typically requiring microsurgical technique. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204719 | RESTRICTIVE AND/OR OBSTRUCTIVE IMPLANT FOR INDUCING WEIGHT LOSS - Described herein is a system for inducing weight loss in a patient, which comprises an extragastric space occupier positionable in contact with an exterior surface of a stomach wall to form an inward protrusion of wall into the stomach, and a retention device positionable in contact with the wall to retain the inward protrusion and to thereby capture the extragastric space occupier within the protrusion. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204720 | Device for Fitting a Cutting Blade Holder of a Microsurgical Cutting Instrument, in particular a Cutting Instrument for use in Refractive Eye Treatments, with a Cutting Blade Unit | 2010-08-12 |
20100204721 | ULTRASONIC CUTTING TOOL - The ultrasonic surgical tool has an elongate waveguide ( | 2010-08-12 |
20100204722 | APPARATUS FOR CUTTING OUT AND REMOVING TISSUE CYLINDERS FROM A TISSUE, AND USE THEREOF - The invention relates to an apparatus for cutting out and removing tissue cylinders from a tissue located within a cavity of the body or a joint and/or in or on a wall section thereof. The apparatus includes at least two, especially two cutting devices, each of which has a hollow cylindrical base, a distal opening at a distal end of the base, and a cutting element that surrounds the distal opening. The at least two cutting devices are disposed inside each other and can be rotated relative to one another. The apparatus further includes at least one driving device for rotating the respective base of the at least two cutting devices about the longitudinal axis of the base. The invention also relates to the use of the apparatus. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204723 | Obesity Systems Placed Between the Abdominal Wall and Stomach - Disclosed are methods and apparatus for implantation into the walls of an organ such as the stomach. Deformable or inflatable anchors with a connector between are used to pull the walls of the organ together, or to implant devices in the wall of the organ. Also disclosed are surgical instruments useful in practicing the disclosed methods. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204724 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR REDUCING EMBOLIZATION DURING TREATMENT OF CAROTID ARTERY DISEASE - Methods and apparatus are provided for removing emboli during an angioplasty, stenting or surgical procedure comprising a catheter having an occlusion element, an aspiration lumen, and a blood outlet port in communication with the lumen, a guide wire having a balloon, a venous return sheath with a blood inlet port, and tubing that couples the blood outlet port to the blood inlet port. Apparatus is also provided for occluding the external carotid artery to prevent reversal of flow into the internal carotid artery. The pressure differential between the artery and the vein provides reverse flow through the artery, thereby flushing emboli. A blood filter may optionally be included in-line with the tubing to filter emboli from blood reperfused into the patient. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204725 | GUIDEWIRE STOP - A user-actuatable guidewire stop is disclosed which can be used to stop and/or lock a medical device on a guidewire advanced through a body lumen. The guidewire stop is configured as a coil spring having an inner lumen configured to slideably and rotationally receive the guidewire in an unlocked configuration, and to frictionally engage the guidewire in a locked configuration. The coil spring is composed of turns having at least one protrusion disposed on a turn of the coil spring and adapted for engagement with a corresponding recess disposed on an adjacent turn of the coil spring, wherein the at least one protrusion interlocks with the corresponding recess to maintain the coil spring in the unlocked configuration. The coil spring transitions into the unlocked configuration by disengaging the at least one protrusion from the corresponding recess. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204726 | Apparatus and Method for Estimating Leakage in a Surgical Tourniquet System - Apparatus for estimating a magnitude of leakage from a surgical tourniquet system while pressure in a cuff of the system is regulated near a reference pressure. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204727 | Magnetic Surgical Device to Manipulate Tissue in Laparoscopic Surgeries or via Natural Holes Performed with a Single Trocar - The present invention is related to surgical instruments incorporating the usage of magnets for application in minimally invasive surgery to perform abdominal surgery with a single incision through the navel which is the most widely used, this incision can also be done through some natural hole like the vagina, mouth, etc. Generally, the invention comprises instruments to perform cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), but they are also useful for all type of operation requiring mobilization, traction, counter-traction or also separation of abdominal organs. They can be used in several kinds of surgeries, such as laparoscopy, general, gynecological, and urologic surgery. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204728 | Extraluminal Sealant Applicator and Method - An apparatus for applying sealant to a target tissue of a surgical site is provided. The apparatus includes a handle, conduit and an end effector. The handle has means configured and adapted for operating the end effector and dispensing biological sealant to the surgical site via the end effector. The conduit stores and/or carries sealant towards the end effector. The end effector is configured to clamp around a body organ or tissue and apply and confine biological sealant in a substantially uniform manner thereto. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204729 | Tapered Looped Suture - A suture including a loop having a tapered end is provided. The suture includes an elongate body including a proximal end and a distal end and a loop integrally formed on the distal end of the elongate body. At least a portion of the loop includes a shape memory polymeric material. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204730 | Knotted Suture End Effector - A suture including a knotted end effector is provided. The suture includes a body portion defining a longitudinal axis and an end effector formed from the body portion. The end effector includes first and second extensions which extend outwardly from the longitudinal axis in opposite directions when the end effector is in a permanent configuration. The extensions of the end effector extend substantially along the longitudinal axis when the end effector is in a temporary position. In embodiments, at least a portion of the end effector includes a shape memory material. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204731 | Suture Holding System - A suture holding system including a suture and a block having first, second and third regions for receiving the suture, having proximal and distal ends, is provided. The suture is received in the first and second regions of the block, defining a first suture portion, and is then received in the third region before passing between the block and the first suture portion, defining a second suture portion. In this configuration, pulling on the distal end of the suture selectively locks the suture to block, whereas pulling on the proximal end of the suture allows the suture to advance freely in that direction. Suture holding system may also include a second block, being rotated 180 degrees with respect to the first block. A delivery device for implanting the suture holding system in soft tissue and methods for repairing a tear in soft tissue are also provided. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204732 | INTERSPINOUS SPACER - The present invention relates to an interspinous spacer ( | 2010-08-12 |
20100204733 | TRANSCONNECTOR - A transconnector for use in interconnecting a pair of longitudinal spinal rods in a spinal fixation procedure. The transconnector includes a bridge member and first and second spinal rod engaging members. The bridge member may include first and second members, wherein the first and second members are moveably associated with one another so that the distance between the first and second spinal rod engaging members can be adjusted. The first and second spinal rod engaging members include a rod receiving channel for receiving one of the spinal rods therein. The spinal rod engaging members may be articulating in, for example, the yaw and roll positions or non | 2010-08-12 |
20100204734 | OSTEOSYNTHESIS SYSTEM FOR CONNECTING AT LEAST TWO VERTEBRAE - An osteosynthesis system ( | 2010-08-12 |
20100204735 | Wide Angulation Coupling Members For Bone Fixation System - A coupling assembly is provided with a yoke device that allows an anchor member secured thereto to rotate in a turret-like manner with respect to an elongate member secured by the yoke in addition to allowing the anchor member to pivot away from the central axis of the yoke. A first yoke member holds the elongate member and is rotatably coupled to a second yoke member that holds a bone anchor. A combination of rotation of the second yoke member and pivoting of the anchor member allows the anchor to be positioned in a wide variety of orientations with respect to the yoke device and elongate member. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204736 | DYNAMIC STABILIZATION DEVICE FOR BONES, IN PARTICULAR FOR VERTEBRAE - A dynamic stabilization device for bones, in particular vertebrae, is made with two bone anchoring elements and a rigid rod with a longitudinal axis connecting them. An elastic element is inserted between the two bone anchoring elements. It acts on the bone anchoring elements to exert a force in a direction of the longitudinal axis. Each bone anchoring element has a first section to be anchored in a bone and a second section to be connected to the rod. At least one of the bone anchoring elements is fixedly connected to the rod to prevent translational movement of the rod relative to it. Further, at least one of the bone anchoring elements is a polyaxial bone screw. Also disclosed is a method for stabilizing vertebrae adjacent to a defective intervertebral disc. A dynamic stabilization device is provided. The anchoring elements are attached to two vertebrae on opposite sides of the defective intervertebral disc. Then, the bone anchoring elements are alligned to connect the rod therebetween with the elastic element positioned between the bone anchoring elements. Finally, one of the bone anchoring elements is connected fixedly to the rod to prevent translational movement of the rod relative to it. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204737 | INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT WITH INTEGRATED FIXATION - A system for spinal surgery includes a prosthesis comprising a plurality of bone anchors which engage an intervertebral construct for fusion or motion preservation. The fusion construct comprises a spacer optionally encircled by a jacket. The motion preservation construct may comprise an articulating disc assembly or an elastomeric disc assembly. Any of the constructs may occupy the intervertebral disc space between adjacent vertebrae after removal of an intervertebral disc. The anchors slidingly engage the construct to securely fix the prosthesis to the vertebrae. The anchors and jacket of the fusion construct provide a continuous load path across opposite sides of the prosthesis so as to resist antagonistic motions of the spine. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204738 | CAPLESS MULTIAXIAL SCREW AND SPINAL FIXATION ASSEMBLY AND METHOD - A spinal fixation assembly and capless multi-axial screw system and method are shown. The assembly comprises a receiver having a rotary lock which in one embodiment includes a plurality of channels which urge and lock the elongated member to the screw using a bayonet type connection. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204739 | INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT WITH INTEGRATED FIXATION - A system for spinal surgery includes a prosthesis comprising a plurality of bone anchors which engage an intervertebral construct for fusion or motion preservation. The fusion construct comprises a spacer optionally encircled by a jacket. The motion preservation construct may comprise an articulating disc assembly or an elastomeric disc assembly. Any of the constructs may occupy the intervertebral disc space between adjacent vertebrae after removal of an intervertebral disc. The anchors slidingly engage the construct to securely fix the prosthesis to the vertebrae. The anchors and jacket of the fusion construct provide a continuous load path across opposite sides of the prosthesis so as to resist antagonistic motions of the spine. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204740 | CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY WITH INTERNAL SEALS AND MANUFACTURING METHDO - An implantable medical device connector assembly and method of manufacture include a molded, insulative shell having an inner surface forming a connector bore, a circuit member including a one or more traces extending through the shell; one or more conductive members positioned along the connector bore and electrically coupled to the traces; and sealing members positioned between the conductive members. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204741 | SYSTEMS FOR REGULATION OF BLOOD PRESSURE AND HEART RATE - A method and apparatus for treating a condition associated with impaired blood pressure and/or heart rate in a subject comprising applying an electrical treatment signal, wherein the electrical treatment signal is selected to at least partially block nerve impulses, or in some embodiments, to augment nerve impulses. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204742 | PATIENT CONTROLLED ATRIAL SHOCK THERAPY - An implanted cardiac device detects an atrial arrhythmia and provides periodically updated atrial arrhythmia status as long as the arrhythmia is ongoing. A patient may request an indication of ongoing atrial arrhythmia status from external to the patient using a patient activator. The patient activator may include a magnet for closing a reed switch in the implanted device to provide the request or may provide the request over a telemetry link to the implanted device. The implanted device may provide the requested atrial arrhythmia status and other information in the form of an audible tone produced by the implanted device or as a message telemetered from the implanted device to the patient activator. The patient activator may include a tone detector and display for providing a visual indication of the atrial arrhythmia status indication. The magnet activator may also be employed to request or withhold atrial shock therapy. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204743 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR REDUCING SPURIOUS SIGNALS IN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES CAUSED BY X-RAY RADIATION - An implantable medical device (IMD) includes a detector for detecting the presence of x-ray radiation, where the presence of x-ray radiation is detected in response to the strength of the x-ray radiation exceeding a first threshold. In one embodiment, the IMD includes a processor for adjusting a cardiac stimulation rate IMD in response to determining that the strength of the detected x-ray radiation exceeds a second threshold. The second pre-selected x-ray radiation threshold is greater than the first pre-selected x-ray radiation threshold. In another embodiment, the implantable device includes a detector for detecting the presence of any amount x-ray radiation and a processor for adjusting a stimulation rate provided by the IMD in response to detected x-ray radiation to reduce the chance of over-sampling artifacts or inappropriate therapy delivery. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204744 | Osmometric Heart Monitoring Device and Methods - Embodiments of the invention are related to monitoring devices and methods with osmometric sensors, amongst other things. In an embodiment, the invention includes an implantable heart failure monitoring system including an implantable osmometric sensor configured to generate a signal corresponding to osmotic strength of a bodily fluid, the osmometric sensor comprising a rigid wall member defining an enclosed volume resisting deformation, the rigid wall member comprising a semi-permeable membrane; a signaling element comprising a first pressure sensor; and a second pressure sensor. Other aspects and embodiments are provided herein. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204745 | CROSS-CHANNEL NOISE DETECTOR IN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - An apparatus comprises a primary cardiac signal sensing circuit to sense a first cardiac signal, a secondary cardiac signal sensing to sense a second cardiac signal, and an arrhythmia detection circuit. The primary sensing circuit includes at least first and second implantable electrodes, and the secondary sensing circuit includes a third implantable electrode to deliver high-energy shock therapy. The arrhythmia detection circuit detects tachyarrhythmia using the primary sensing circuit, determines correspondence between events sensed with the primary sensing circuit and events sensed with the secondary sensing circuit, and deems whether a detected rhythm is indicative of noise or is indicative of an arrhythmia according to the determined correspondence. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204746 | PACEMAKER PASSIVE MEASUREMENT TESTING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method for passively testing a cardiac pacemaker in which sensing signal amplitudes and lead impedance values are measured and stored while the pacemaker is functioning in its programmed mode. The amplitude and impedance data may be gotten and stored periodically at regular intervals to generate a historical record for diagnostic purposes. Sensing signal amplitudes may also be measured and stored from a sensing channel which is currently not programmed to be active as long as the pacemaker is physically configured to support the sensing channel. Such data can be useful in evaluating whether a switch in the pacemaker's operating mode is desirable. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204747 | INTRA-ORAL ELECTRONIC THERAPY DEVICES FOR TREATMENT OF SLEEP-BREATHING DISORDERS, BRUXING DISORDERS, AND TMJ DISORDERS, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - The intra-oral electronic therapy device includes a substrate to be positioned in a patient's mouth, a rechargeable battery carried by the substrate, and at least one tissue contact electrode, e.g. a hamular notch contact electrode, extending outwardly from the substrate to contact at least one tissue area in the patient's mouth. A controller is carried by the substrate and cooperates with the rechargeable battery and the at least one tissue contact electrode to provide an electrical stimulation to the at least one tissue area in the patient's mouth. The substrate includes first and second thermoplastic layers sealing therebetween the rechargeable battery and controller. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204748 | IDENTIFYING AREAS OF THE BRAIN BY EXAMINING THE NEURONAL SIGNALS - The present invention relates to a method of identifying a region of the brain by measuring neuronal firing and/or local field potentials by recording discharges from at least one implanted electrode and analyzing the recording of the discharges within the beta frequency band range to determine an area of beta oscillatory activity. Once the region of the brain is identified, this region may be stimulated to disrupt the beta oscillatory activity thereby treating a movement disorder. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204749 | STIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD TREATING A NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER - According to one aspect, a stimulation system is provided for electrically stimulating a predetermined site to treat a neurological condition. The system includes an electrical stimulation lead adapted for implantation into a subcutaneous area in communication with a predetermined site, wherein the site is neuronal tissue that is associated with C2/C3 dermatome area, or stimulating cervical nerve roots and/or stimulating cranial nerves and/or stimulating any area associated with the occipital area. The stimulation lead includes one or more stimulation electrodes adapted to be positioned in the predetermined site. The system also includes a stimulation source that generates the stimulation pulses for transmission to the one or more stimulation electrodes of the stimulation lead to deliver the stimulation pulses to the predetermined site to treat a neurological disorder or condition. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204750 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR UTILIZING AMPLITUDE-MODULATED PULSE-WIDTH MODULATION SIGNALS FOR NEUROSTIMULATION AND TREATMENT OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS USING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - A computing device-controlled system is described for the generation of amplitude-modulated pulse-width modulation (AMPWM) signals for use in treating neurological dysfunction via cranial neurostimulation, where the AMPWM signal is specifically designed to minimize the electrical impedance of the tissues of the head. A low-frequency carrier signal is determined for the AMPWM signal by measuring EEG activity at a reference site or sites, generally corresponding with the location of suspected brain dysfunction. Carrier signal frequency is variably related to critical frequency components of the EEG power spectral density, determined from statistical analysis of amplitudes and variability, and dynamically changed as a function of time to prevent entrainment. The AMPWM signal is presented to a subject via a plurality of neurostimulation delivery modes for therapeutic use. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204751 | Methods for Treating Central Pain Syndrome and Other Pain Related Pathologies - Central pain syndrome (CPS) is a debilitating condition that affects a large number of patients with a primary lesion or dysfunction in the central nervous system. Despite its discovery over a century ago, the pathophysiology underlying the development and maintenance of CPS is poorly understood. The present invention is drawn to novel methods of treating CPS. In certain aspects, the invention is drawn to the novel discovery of the role of the zona incerta (ZI) in CPS and methods of exploiting this novel discovery for the treatment of CPS. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204752 | Negative Pressure and Electrostimulation Therapy Apparatus - A negative wound pressure therapy apparatus includes a wound dressing for defining a reservoir over a wound in which a negative pressure may be maintained by forming a substantially fluid-tight seal around wound tissue. The apparatus also includes a fluid conduit in fluid communication with the reservoir. The fluid conduit defines a fluid flow path for carrying fluids from the reservoir. The apparatus also includes a vacuum source in fluid communication with the fluid conduit. The vacuum source is suitable for providing an appropriate negative pressure to the reservoir to stimulate healing of the wound. The apparatus also includes at least one biomedical electrode mounted with respect to the wound dressing for transmitting electrical energy to stimulate healing of the wound tissue. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204753 | CELL CONSTRUCT, ITS PROCESS OF MANUFACTURE, AS WELL AS A DEVICE, IMPLANT AND PROCESSES FOR THE MECHANICAL STIMULATION OF CELLS IN VITRO AND IN VIVO - A cell construct includes cells in contact with at least one basement membrane and/or at least one stroma, wherein the basement membrane or stroma contains elements for applying mechanical stimulation on the cells. The process of manufacture of the cell construct and its use, as well as a device, an implant and processes for the mechanical stimulation of cells in vitro and in vivo are also described. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204754 | RETINAL PROSTHESIS - Apparatus is provided, including an external device, including a mount, which is placed in front of an eye of a subject. A laser is coupled to the mount and configured to emit toward the eye radiation that is outside of 380-750 nm. A partially-transparent mirror is coupled to the mount. An intraocular device is implanted entirely in the subject's eye, and includes a plurality of stimulating electrodes, and an energy receiver, which receives the radiation from the laser and generates a voltage drop in response thereto. A plurality of photosensors detect photons and generate a signal in response thereto. Driving circuitry is coupled to the energy receiver and to the photosensors, and receives the signals from the photosensors and utilizes the voltage drop to drive the electrodes to apply currents to the retina in response to the signals from the photosensors. Other embodiments are also described. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204755 | Phase Triggered Envelope Sampler - A method of generating electrode stimulation signals for an implanted electrode array is described. An acoustic audio signal is processed to generate band pass signals which each represent an associated band of audio frequencies. For each band pass signal, fine time structure information is extracted to determine a sequence of phase event signals. For each sequence of phase event signals, when the number of phase event signals reaches a channel pitch rate factor, a signal limiting period without signals is introduced to produce a modified sequence of phase event signals. Each modified sequence of phase event signals is weighted with a channel amplitude value in order to generate a set of electrode stimulation signals for the implanted electrode array. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204756 | External Device for Communicating with an Implantable Medical Device Having Data Telemetry and Charging Integrated in a Single Housing - An improved embodiment of an external device for an implantable medical device system is described herein, where the external device has both circuitry for charging the implantable medical device and circuitry for telemetering data to and from the medical implant contained within a single housing. The external device in one embodiment includes orthogonal radiators in which both the radiators are used for data transfer, and in which at least one of the radiators is used for power transfer. Having charging and data telemetry circuitry fully integrated within a single external device conveniences both patient and clinician. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204757 | SYNCHRONIZATION METHODS AND DEVICES IN TELEMETRY SYSTEM - In a medical telemetry system for synchronizing an implantable medical device to a base station of the telemetry system, a communication channel is selected for communication between the implantable medical device and the base station, and the implantable medical device is synchronized to the base station by selecting a synchronizing word associated with the selected channel, wherein at least two different communication channels within the medical telemetry system are associated with different synchronization words. By this procedure, crosstalk is eliminated. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204758 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INTRA-BODY ULTRASOUND COMMUNICATION - An intra-body ultrasonic signal can be converted into a first electrical signal, a local oscillator signal can be generated in an implantable system. The first electrical signal and the local oscillator signal can be mixed in an implantable system, such as to generate a demodulated signal, processed, such as using a filter. The filtered, demodulated signal can be further processed, such as implantably determining a peak amplitude of the first portion of the demodulated signal received from the filter over a time interval, implantably generating a dynamic tracking threshold that starts at an amplitude proportional the first portion of the demodulated signal and exponentially decays over a time interval, and determining a noise floor in the absence of a received intra-body ultrasonic signal and implantably comparing the peak amplitude and the tracking threshold and generate the digital output based on the difference. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204759 | SYSTEMS FOR ENABLING TELEMETRY IN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A system for enabling telemetry in implantable medical devices is provided. One aspect of this disclosure relates to an implantable medical device having radio-frequency telemetry capabilities. The device includes a housing and electronic circuitry contained within the housing. The device also includes an antenna connected to the electronic circuitry, the antenna having a helical portion and a whip portion, the whip portion separate from a feed conductor and adapted to enhance a radiation pattern of the antenna. According to various embodiments, the antenna and circuitry are adapted to facilitate transmission and reception of modulated radio-frequency energy at a specified carrier frequency. At least a portion of the antenna is embedded in a dielectric compartment, according to various embodiments. Other aspects and embodiments are provided herein. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204760 | Personal Steam Room and Sauna - A personal steam room and sauna includes: a reclining surface for the user; a source that produces therapy; and an enclosure adapted to enclose the reclining surface and the user; wherein the enclosure transitions between an open position, where the reclining surface is exposed for access by the user, and a closed position, where the reclining surface and the user are enclosed by the enclosure and the enclosure partially retains the therapy, thereby delivering the therapy to the user. The therapy may be water vapor, steam, heat, or aromatic oil, which may rise through the reclining surface to the user. The enclosure either slides forward and tilts upward, or tilts to the side to allow the user to get in and out of the device. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204761 | Intravenous laser/non-laser light emitting diode implant for destroying blood borne viral infestations and other malign cells, integrated among blood components in a human circulatory system - Intravenous laser and non-laser light-emitting diode (LED) implant having the capacity to be fitted with a plurality of numerous separate nanometers of laser or non-laser light, attached radially in an inwardly-facing, saline-filled inflatable ring where LEDs are ran in sequence on separate contact tracks that are attached to a dual-strand cord, which leads to a component containment compartment housing certain electronic components, remote signal receiver, and a battery. A preferred embodiment includes the inflatable ring of LEDs, surgically inserted into a human vein by-way of catheter, inflated by syringe with a saline solution, to provide irradiation of cancerous cells or viruses incorporated with circulated blood, activated by a hand-held remote control. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204762 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INDICATING TREATMENT SITE LOCATIONS FOR PHOTOTHERAPY TO THE BRAIN - An apparatus and method for indicating treatment site locations for phototherapy to the brain are disclosed. In some embodiments, the apparatus is a headpiece wearable by a patient. The headpiece includes a body adapted to be worn over at least a portion of the patient's scalp and a plurality of position indicators corresponding to a plurality of treatment site locations at the patient's scalp where a light source is to be sequentially positioned such that light from the light source is sequentially applied to irradiate at least a portion of the patient's brain. At least one of the position indicators includes an optically transmissive portion having an area of at least 1 cm | 2010-08-12 |
20100204763 | TEMPERATURE SENSOR ASSEMBLIES FOR ELECTRIC WARMING BLANKETS - An electric warming blanket for warming patients during surgery and other medical procedures includes a flexible heater and a temperature sensor assembly coupled thereto; a first layer of water resistant material coupled to a second layer of water resistant material, about a perimeter of the heater, forms a substantially hermetically sealed space for the heater and the temperature sensor assembly. The blanket may further include a thermal insulation layer disposed between the temperature sensor assembly and the first layer of water resistant material. The temperature sensor assembly may provide input of an average temperature over a portion of a surface area of the heater to a temperature controller, when the heater and sensor assembly are coupled to the controller. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204764 | Method for Treating Hot Flashes Associated with Menopause During Sleep - A method and device for automatically detecting the onset of a hot flash while the subject is sleeping, and of cooling the subject using a cold fluid circulating through a vest or a mattress pad, before sweating and/or chills develop and awaken the subject. A temperature sensor is attached to the subject's skin, and is connected to a computer or microprocessor. The subject dons a vest that is connected to a coolant circulation system. Alternatively, the subject lies on a mattress pad that is connected to a coolant circulation system. During the night, if the subject's skin temperature rises more than a predetermined amount within a time period, or rises above a predetermined threshold temperature, the coolant circulation system is activated for a fixed period of time. The cooled vest or pad helps to draw heat away from the subject's skin and thus reduce the symptoms of the hot flash. After the circulation terminates, the system is reset to monitor the skin temperature once again. The cycle can be repeated any number of times during the night. Instead of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor can also be used. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204765 | Method and Apparatus for Inducing Therapeutic Hypothermia - Methods and apparatus for delivering therapeutic hypothermia to a patient are provided which may include any number of features. One feature is a hypothermia system comprising a fluid source, a heat exchanger assembly, a catheter in fluid communication with the fluid source, and a pump system configured to infuse hypothermic fluid into a patient cavity and extract hypothermic fluid from the patient cavity. The hypothermia system can infuse and extract fluid automatically from the patient cavity. In one embodiment, the patient cavity is a peritoneal cavity. A safe access device to gain access to the patient cavity is also provided. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204766 | IMPLANTABLE INTEGRATED CIRCUIT - Embodiments of the present invention enable robust, reliable control functionality for effectors present on intraluminal, e.g., vascular leads, as well as other types of implantable devices. Embodiments of the invention enable the required functionality for accurate long term control of effectors units, even ones present on multiplex carrier configurations, while provide for low power consumption. Aspects of the invention include implantable integrated circuits that have power extraction; energy storage; communication; and device configuration functional blocks, where these functional blocks are all present in a single integrated circuit on an intraluminal-sized support. Also provided by the invention are effector assemblies that include the integrated circuits, as well as implantable medical devices, e.g., pulse generators that include the same, as well as systems and kits thereof and methods of using the same, e.g., in pacing applications, including cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) applications. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204767 | SMALL CALIBER IMPLANTABLE BIOMETRIC LEADS AND CABLES FOR SAME - Implantable medical leads have reduced diameter while providing for optimized mechanical and electrical properties, by reducing the diameters of the conducting cables used within the leads for sensing and delivery of therapeutic electrical stimulation. In an embodiment, conducting filaments within a cable have oval cross-sectional areas. Suitably orienting the oval filaments increases the contact surface between adjacent filaments, broadly distributing the pressure between filaments and reducing fretting fatigue, while the oval cross-sectional area also increases conductivity. In an embodiment, non-conducting coatings around filaments within a cable, or around groups of filaments organized into cable-layers, reduce fretting fatigue. In an embodiment, the cross-sectional area of filaments decreases as the filaments are positioned at increasing radial distances from the center of the cable. In an embodiment, the relative composition of various filament metals and/or alloys is varied in filaments at different radial distances from the center of the cable. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204768 | Implantable Electrode with Variable Mechanical Modulation Wiring - A cochlear implant electrode is described. A basal electrode lead carries electrical stimulation signals from an implant housing to a cochleostomy opening, and a portion of the electrode lead has a periodically recurring lead shape. An apical electrode array at the cochleostomy end of the electrode lead passes into a cochlea scala and includes electrode contacts for applying the electrical stimulation signals to target neural tissue. A portion of the electrode array has a periodically recurring array shape different from the lead shape. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204769 | PORTABLE APPLICATOR FOR PULSED SIGNAL THERAPY - A portable applicator ( | 2010-08-12 |
20100204770 | Stent Delivery System Permitting in Vivo Stent Repositioning - A stent delivery system is disclosed that includes a recapture component for at least partially collapsing an improperly deployed stent in situ to permit repositioning and re-deployment of the stent. The recapture component and the stent may be disconnected in situ to allow for removal of the stent delivery system. In one embodiment, the recapture component is a balloon having loops or hooks around a periphery thereof for receiving at least one removable tether that couples the balloon and stent together. In another embodiment, the recapture component is an expandable tubular component connected to the stent via the removable tether. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204771 | MEDICAL DEVICE HAVING A ROTATABLE SHAFT - The invention provides design, material, manufacturing method, and use alternatives for medical devices. An example medical device includes a first elongated member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending therebetween and a second elongated member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending therebetween. The proximal end of the second elongated member may be disposed adjacent to the distal end of the first elongated member forming an actuatable junction. In some cases, the actuatable junction may be actuatable between a first state and a second state. When in the first state, the first elongated member may be rotatable relative to the second elongated member and, when in the second state, the first elongated member may be fluidly sealed to the second elongated member. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204772 | Filter Assemblies - Disclosed is a filter assembly, comprising: a radially expandable vascular flow-increasing device, and a filter including an expandable proximal opening having an operative connection with the radially expandable vascular flow-increasing device, the proximal opening configured to expand in conjunction with expansion of the device, such that when the opening is in an expanded configuration, the filter is configured to filter debris from a fluid stream in which the filter is disposed. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204773 | DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR INTRAVASCULAR DEVICE WITH NETTING - In a cardiac double stent having an outer netting over an inner scaffolding, a limiting ridge for defining advancement of the outer netting over the inner scaffolding, and locking clips integrated in the outer netting for engaging the scaffolding at the insertion limit, assures definite placement and avoids shifting or movement from retracting of the delivery device. The delivery device further includes restricting ridges limiting advancement of the inner netting to overlie the inner scaffolding a substantially equal portion on the proximate and distal ends of a guide wire such that balloon catheter expands first at the overlying portion outside the inner scaffolding to sealably contact the lumen wall on each side of the scaffolding to prevent contamination. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204774 | STENT DELIVERY CATHETER - Stent delivery catheters adapted to provide both flexibility and strength are disclosed. Such stent delivery catheters may have outer shafts adapted for tensile strength and inner shafts adapted for compressive strength. In some instances, at least one of the outer shaft and/or the inner shaft may include a micromachined portion. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204775 | Tissue Synthetic- Biomaterial Hybrid Medical Devices - A hybrid medical device is described having at least one synthetic biomaterial, and at least one treated biological tissue suitable for implantation attached to the biomaterial wherein the tissue provides a blood contact surface and the biomaterial provides structural support. The tissue and biomaterial are attached using a polymer and the polymer is chemically or mechanically attached to the tissue. The device may further include pharmaceutical compounds for delivery over time and radiopaque compounds for fluoroscopic visualization. In some devices the tissue may be treated to degrade over time or the tissue only partially degrades over time. The biomaterial may be polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In one configuration the device is configured for use as a heart valve. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204776 | System and Method for Providing a Graft in a Vascular Environment - An apparatus is provided that includes a graft for coupling two vascular conduits within a patient. The graft includes: 1) an anchor system that forms an arc at one end of the conduits; and 2) a body element coupled to the anchor system. The anchor system comprises a biodegradable stent. In particular embodiments, portions of the graft are either self-expandable or balloon-expandable. In still other embodiments, anchor system includes NITINOL and the anchor system is substantially self-sealing at one end of the conduits. In one embodiment, the body element comprises polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (EPTFE). In yet other embodiments, the body element includes either a gelatinous or an elastomeric coating disposed on its surface. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204777 | INHIBITORY CELL ADHESION SURFACES - Nanostructured surfaces on selected substrates are described which are highly resistant to cell adhesion. Such surfaces on medical implants inhibit fibroblast adhesion particularly on nanorough titanium deposited on smooth silicone surfaces. The nanostructured deposited metal coatings can also be engineered so that several cell types, including endothelial, osteoblast, and fibroblast cells, show little if any tendency to attach to the coated surface in vivo. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204778 | POLYMER-BASED STENT ASSEMBLY - Methods for preparing a polymer-based stent assembly comprising an inflatable balloon catheter and a polymer-based stent resistant to relaxation-related negative recoil are provided. The methods comprise heating a polymeric cylindrical device which is at a final predetermined shape and diameter to a temperature sufficiently above the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the polymer and for a time sufficient to erase any memory of previous processing of the polymeric cylindrical device and then quenching the polymeric cylindrical device to provide an educated polymeric cylindrical device having a memory of the final predetermined diameter and shape, mounting the educated cylindrical device on an inflatable balloon catheter, reducing the diameter of the educated cylindrical device by heating to a temperature at or slightly above the Tg of the polymer while evenly applying pressure on the exterior surface of the wall of the cylindrical device, and then cooling the cylindrical device below the Tg of the polymer to provide a stent assembly comprising an inflatable balloon catheter and an expandable, educated, polymeric stent snugly and stably disposed thereon. Assemblies comprising an inflatable balloon and a polymer based stent that is substantially resistant to relaxation related recoil mounted snugly on the balloon are also provided. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204779 | STENT AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING A STENT - A stent with a tubular grid structure ( | 2010-08-12 |
20100204780 | FLEXIBLE EXTENDABLE STENT AND METHODS OF SURFACE MODIFICATION THEREFOR - Stent strut and surface geometries are provided for enhancing surface coating applications while providing highly beneficial biomechanical properties. A low-profile, flexible, expandable, elongated, stent assembly is provided and defined by a structure of connected circumferential arrays of webs or bends, the webs or bends and their connections having limited degrees of curvature that help avoid interference during various surface-modifying and surface-enhancing processes. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204781 | PROSTHETIC AORTIC HEART VALVES - A prosthetic aortic valve includes an annular, annulus inflow portion that is designed to reside in or near the patient's native aortic valve annulus, and an annular, aortic outflow portion that is designed to reside in the patient's aorta down-stream from at least a portion of the valsalva sinus. The annulus inflow portion and the aortic outflow portion are connected to one another by a plurality of connecting struts that are confined to regions near the commissures of the patient's native aortic valve. The connecting struts are designed to bulge out into the valsalva sinus to help anchor the prosthetic valve in place. The valve is circumferentially collapsible to a relatively small diameter for less-invasive delivery into the patient. The valve circumferentially expands to a larger operational diameter when deployed at the implant site. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204782 | RADIOPAQUE IMPLANTABLE COLLAGENOUS BIOMATERIAL DEVICE - Disclosed is a medical device ( | 2010-08-12 |
20100204783 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR ENHANCING VASCULAR ACCESS - Disclosed is an implantable material comprising a biocompatible matrix and cells which, when provided to a vascular access structure, can promote functionality. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204784 | MEDICAL DEVICES INCLUDING METALLIC FILMS - Medical devices, such as endoprostheses, and methods of making the devices are disclosed. The medical device can include a composite cover formed of a deposited metallic film and one or more polymer layers. The polymer layers contribute to mechanical or biological properties of the endoprosthesis. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204785 | TWO-STAGE COLLAPSIBLE/EXPANDABLE PROSTHETIC HEART VALVES AND ANCHORING SYSTEMS - Prosthetic heart valve apparatus is adapted for delivery into a patient in a circumferentially collapsed condition, followed by circumferential re-expansion at the implant site in the patient. The apparatus includes an annular anchoring structure that can be implanted in the patient first. The apparatus further includes an annular valve support structure, which supports a flexible leaflet structure of the valve. The support and leaflet structures are initially separate from the anchoring structure, but they can be implanted in the patient by interengagement of the support structure with the already-implanted anchoring structure. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204786 | METHOD AND INSERT FOR MODIFYING EYE COLOR - A method and intrastroma insert are adapted to modify eye color. The insertion of opaque material into the stromal space is a means of changing the color and/or design of the stroma and, apparently, the iris. Biocompatible inserts include a slurry of biocompatible material, a fabric including opacified material, and a thin, permeable film material incorporating some opaque materials that may also alter the shape of the cornea to improve aberrational shape. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204787 | Accommodative intraocular lens system - A two-optic accommodative lens system is disclosed. Two coupled lenses are located within the capsular bag to extend depth of focus and/or restore accommodation following extraction of a natural lens. The first lens comprises a spring-like structure attaching an optic to a ring-like support structure. The optic can be a monofocal or multifocal optical element having a positive or negative power. The first lens further comprises features designed to couple the ring-like structure to a second lens. The first lens can be located anteriorly within the capsular bag. The second lens is located posteriorly to the first lens within the capsular bag and can have an opposite or supplementary power to that of the first lens. The second lens can also be a monofocal or multifocal lens and comprises a plurality of haptics which can be used to size the lens system over a range of capsular bag sizes. The second lens further comprises features for coupling the second lens to the ring-like structure of the first lens. The haptics of the second lens are relatively firm, yet still flexible and can be configured to interlock with features of the ring-like structure. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204788 | Single optic accommodative intraocular lens system - A single-optic accommodative lens system comprising two intraocular elements. The two intraocular elements are designed to be located within the capsular bag to extend depth of focus and/or restore accommodation following extraction of a natural lens. A first intraocular element comprises a circumferential capsular ring having interlock features to couple to and control the dynamic vault response of a second intraocular element. This second intraocular element comprises an intraocular lens (IOL) having an optic and a plurality of haptics and is designed to move axially in response to changes in the geometry of the eye capsule and thus provide a range of accommodative power. The IOL further comprises interlock features complementary to the interlock features of the first intraocular element for coupling the IOL to the capsular ring in a manner that provides for controlled movement of the IOL in response to capsular forces. Capsular force can be applied to the IOL from anterior, posterior and/or intermediate sections of the capsule equator, resulting in movement of the IOL and commensurate accommodation. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204789 | Floating Optic Accommodating Intraocular Lens - An accommodating intraocular lens comprising a flexible body, a flexible optic which is moveable anteriorly and posteriorly relative to the lens body, and a weakened portion connecting the optic to the body. The body may have extending centration and fixation loops on its distal ends. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204790 | Exchangeable intraocular lens device and method of use - An exchangeable intraocular lens device having a flexible, high-memory expansile lens fixation platform adapted to receive the haptics of an intraocular lens, and their method of use, are provided. The device is specifically designed to expand completely into the equatorial fornix of the capsular bag and become permanently implanted therein. The design of the present invention addresses the desire of patients to exchange their existing intraocular lens to meet their changing visual needs or to take advantage of improved lens technology, without incurring the significant risks typically associated with exchange of current intraocular lens technology. The exchangeable intraocular lens device provides accurate centration, positioning, and stability of the intraocular lens in the capsular bag. The exchangeable intraocular lens device reduces lens epithelial cell migration and resultant posterior capsule opacification. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204791 | SYSTEM FOR LIFTING AND RESHAPING SOFT TISSUE - A system and method for shaping/reshaping and lifting a soft tissue, comprising a cradling member configured to cradle the soft tissue, an anchoring system comprising one or more anchors for fixing the cradling member to a posture tissue, and adjustable suspension members suspended from the one or more anchors. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204792 | Permanently Adjustable Silicone Implant - A surgically implantable breast prosthesis includes an outer shell defining a first interior volume filled with a liquid filler, and an inflatable inner bladder disposed in the first interior volume and defining a second interior volume. The inflatable inner bladder is selectively fillable with the liquid filler via a valve assembly accessible from an exterior of the outer shell. The valve assembly is substantially non-palpable and includes identifying structure that is discoverable using an external device. The valve assembly includes an injection port that provides access to the inflatable inner bladder such that a size of the inflatable inner bladder is adjustable. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204793 | Ear Molding Device For Correcting Misshaped Ears - A system and method for correcting misshaped ears using a molding device having one or more braces supporting a scaphal mold. The one or more braces and the scaphal mold are adapted to retain the helix and the helical rim of a misshaped ear within a space defined between the one or more braces and the scaphal mold, and to maintain a substantially correct anatomical shape of the helix and the helical rim. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204794 | PROSTHETIC VERTEBRAL BODY - A vertebral prosthesis ( | 2010-08-12 |
20100204795 | FIXATION DEVICE AND METHOD - An implantable orthopedic stability device is disclosed. The device can have a contracted and an expanded configuration. A method of using the device between adjacent facet surfaces for support and/or fixation of either or both of the adjacent vertebrae is also disclosed. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204796 | INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT WITH INTEGRATED FIXATION - A system for spinal surgery includes a prosthesis comprising a plurality of bone anchors which engage an intervertebral construct for fusion or motion preservation. The fusion construct comprises a spacer optionally encircled by a jacket. The motion preservation construct may comprise an articulating disc assembly or an elastomeric disc assembly. Any of the constructs may occupy the intervertebral disc space between adjacent vertebrae after removal of an intervertebral disc. The anchors slidingly engage the construct to securely fix the prosthesis to the vertebrae. The anchors and jacket of the fusion construct provide a continuous load path across opposite sides of the prosthesis so as to resist antagonistic motions of the spine. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204797 | ANULUS LESION REPAIR - Methods for repairing a damaged or weakened intervertebral disc are disclosed. According to one or more embodiments, a method comprises delivering a support member within an intervertebral disc having an anular defect, anchoring an anchor to a vertebral body adjacent the intervertebral disc, connecting the anchor to the support member, and pulling the support member toward the anchor using the connection. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204798 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FUSION CAGE IMPLANTATION - A system and method facilitate insertion of a fusion implant into the intervertebral space of a spine. The fusion implant may have a first bone engaging surface and a second bone engaging surface. An attachment interface on an insertion tool allows the implant to be releasably secured to the insertion tool, so that the insertion tool may be detached from the implant without requiring a threaded coupling. The implant may be positioned in two different orientations with respect to the insertion tool to permit usage of two different techniques to insert the implant into the intervertebral space. A recessed support member in the implant creates gaps between bone facing surfaces and the vertebral bodies such that bone graft material may occupy the gaps. The implant includes embedded radiographic markers which facilitate radiographic detection of the orientation of the implant through the surrounding tissue. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204799 | ENDOPROSTHESIS WITH INTERMEDIATE PART - An endoprosthesis for replacement of a joint includes two slide surfaces having different contours and correspondingly determining movement planes for a bearing formed by an intermediate part. The endoprosthesis includes a clamping bracket to enclose the slide surfaces of the intermediate part that is arranged thereon such that it is free from the movement planes defined by the slide surfaces having different contours. It is thus possible to strengthen endoprostheses which have complex biomechanics having a plurality of degrees of freedom. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204800 | MULTI-POLYMER HYDROGELS - The invention provides a multi-polymer hydrogel article having a first polymeric, water-swellable material and a second polymeric material, organized such that a first region substantially comprises the first polymeric, water-swellable material, a second region adjacent the first region comprises a mixture of the first polymeric, water-swellable material and the second polymeric material, and a third region adjacent the second region substantially comprises the second polymeric material. The article exhibits an increasing concentration gradient of the second polymeric material moving from the first region, through the second region, to the third region. The invention also provides methods for forming a multi-polymer hydrogel article by (a) forming a hydrogel structure using a first polymeric, water-swellable material, (b) creating an aerogel structure having a plurality of open pores by dehydrating the hydrogel structure, (c) contacting the aerogel structure with a second polymeric material to incorporate the second polymeric material into at least a portion of the plurality of open pores to form the multi-polymer hydrogel article, and (d) rehydrating the multi-polymer hydrogel article. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204801 | IMPLANTS FOR THE TREATMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE - A replacement knee implant has a femoral implant and a tibial implant, each of which are inset in a bone surface. The tibial implant is generally elongated with one end rounded and an opposite end conforming to the shape of the tibia, and is made of a metal alloy or a ceramic. The upper surface is dished while the lower surface is planar and can be parallel or sloped relative to the upper surface. The femoral implant for implementation in a femoral condyle is rounded such that, when implemented, the femoral implant is flush at the anterior and posterior sides and protruding away from the femur between the anterior and posterior ends. The femoral implant can have an elongated keel for extending into the femur, and can be made from a highly cross-linked polyethylene. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204802 | MEDICAL DEVICE - The present invention provides an implant ( | 2010-08-12 |
20100204803 | ARTIFICIAL CONTRACTILE STRUCTURE AND APPARATUS COMPRISING SUCH STRUCTURE - An artificial contractile structure generally devised to be used in the medical field to assist the functioning of an organ, includes a support ( | 2010-08-12 |
20100204804 | FOREARM ROTATION MECHANISM AND ORTHESIS WHICH INCLUDES SUCH A MECHANISM - Rotation mechanism for a forearm which includes a moving stay ( | 2010-08-12 |
20100204805 | Pain reducing and eliminating prosthesis socket device - The present invention is a general pain and phantom pain reducing and eliminating prosthesis socket device for an amputee user with an amputated body part. The device has a core socket and a silicon socket cup placed inside the core socket to receive the amputated body part and a wireless transmitter Fob that includes a programmable microprocessor, a wireless radio transmitter IC board, an adjustable potentiometer, a momentary on and off switch, a light emitting diode and a DC power source. The wireless receiver module also includes a wireless processor printed circuit board, a battery and power supply, a thermocouple temperature probe and a heating coil. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204806 | Automation System Having A Programmable Matrix Module - An automation system for controlling a technical process having an electronic processing unit, input/output (I/O) modules for inputting and outputting process signals to operating means of the technical process, such as sensors and actuators, and terminal modules for connecting the operating means to the I/O modules. The automation system also includes a programmable matrix module that can be used by the electronic processing unit to dynamically associate, i.e., connect, one or more I/O modules with one or more terminal modules. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204807 | Crowd optimization of ambient conditions - Methods and apparatus optimize ambient conditions of a physical location based upon input from multiple users (e.g., a “crowd) to avoid dominance by only one or a few users. Representatively, a plurality of input devices are distributed throughout the location and users, at certain times, or upon querying, enter their ambient condition preferences. Then, per the particular locations of the input devices, ambient conditions, such as lighting, temperature, sound, air flow, etc., are adjusted based on the inputs. In this manner, anyone can be in a room, at any time, and have their input considered as part of setting the room conditions. No longer does one or a few parties dominate control and no pre-programmed preferences are required. Controllers, input devices, systems, and computer program products, to name a few, are also contemplated. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204808 | MODEL PREDICTIVE CONTROLLER WITH TUNABLE INTEGRAL COMPONENT TO COMPENSATE FOR MODEL MISMATCH - An MPC controller technique integrates feedback control performance better than methods commonly used today in MPC type controllers, resulting in an MPC controller that performs better than traditional MPC techniques in the presence of process model mismatch. In particular, MPC controller performance is enhanced by adding a tunable integration block to the MPC controller that develops an integral component indicative of the prediction or other control error, and adds this component to the output of an MPC controller algorithm to provide for faster or better control in the presence of model mismatch, which is the ultimate reason for the prediction error in the first place. This technique enables the MPC controller to react more quickly and to provide better set point change and load disturbance performance in the presence of model mismatch, without decreasing the robustness of the MPC controller. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204809 | Method for Operating an Automation System, Corresponding Computer Program and System or Device that Operates According to the Method - A method for operating an automation system, a corresponding computer program for implementing the method and a system or device that operates in accordance with according to the method, wherein a control program comprises a plurality of software modules and subprograms as an automation solution for a technical process. The software modules are invoked by individual subprograms in accordance with a predefined call sequence, wherein a call sequence permanently configured for the software modules in a call vector is stored in a call specification dataset, and where the call specification dataset is available for the subprogram or for each subprogram for the purpose of invoking the software modules in accordance with the call specification dataset. | 2010-08-12 |
20100204810 | PLASMA PROCESSING APPARATUS, AND MAINTENANCE METHOD AND ASSEMBLING METHOD OF THE SAME - A plasma processing apparatus includes a processing chamber that converts a processing gas introduced from a gas supply source into plasma and performs plasma processing on a target object, an exhaust chamber that communicates with the inside of the processing chamber to exhaust a gas converted into plasma from the processing chamber, and a blocking cover that is provided in the exhaust chamber to block communication between the inside of the processing chamber and the inside of the exhaust chamber. | 2010-08-12 |