47th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights part 46 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20090287107 | Analysis of eeg signals to detect hypoglycaemia - Features indicative of hypoglycaemia in EEG signals are detected by: —dividing EEG signals into a sequence of time segments, —for each time segment determining whether a pattern of EEG signals is present which is indicative of hypoglycaemia and, where a pattern of EEG signals indicative of hypoglycaemia is determined to be present in a time segment, recording this as an event, —integrating the number of events recorded during a selected number of preceding time segments which together constitute a selected time period, optionally in a time weighted manner, and—determining that the EEG signals are indicative that hypoglycaemia is present based on said integration when the said integrated number of events exceeds a preset threshold number and/or when there exists a threshold level of matching between a curve of said integration over time and a previously established ideal model of said curve indicative of hypoglycaemia. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287108 | SYSTEM FOR STUDY AND TREATMENT OF BEHAVIOR DYSREGULATION - A method for changing appearance of EEG or a relationship of brain wave patterns while achieving behavioral changes, the method including individualized assessing of dysregulated patterns of brain function using topographic quantitative electroencephalogram (LORETA [low resolution brain electromagnetic tomography] qEEG) or regular EEG recollection, modifying or priming neuroplasticity with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) or with magnetic or electromagnetic fields to modify cortical excitability of neurons in dysregulated areas, and self-regulating LORETA patterns with neurofeedback to change an appearance of EEG or a relationship of brain wave patterns while achieving behavioral changes. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287109 | Circulatory monitoring systems and methods - Systems and methods are described for obtaining and acting upon information indicative of circulatory health and related phenomena in human beings or other subjects. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287110 | Circulatory monitoring systems and methods - Systems and methods are described for obtaining and acting upon information indicative of circulatory health and related phenomena in human beings or other subjects. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287111 | ENDOSCOPE COLLECTION VESSEL - A device for use with an endoscope is disclosed. The device includes a body that defines a vessel for collecting fluid that may escape through the port and/or valve of the endoscope. The body includes a bottom and a side wall. The bottom and the side wall form a portion of a cradle surrounding the port of the endoscope. The bottom includes a portion configured to mate with the endoscope adjacent the port. The side wall is configured to partially wrap around the port of the endoscope. Further, the body of the device may be shaped to cover at least the neck portion of the port and may include an aperture. The aperture allows access to the port and facilitates attachment of the valve. Absorbent material may be used in the collection vessel to absorb the fluid. The device may also include a wire anchor for attaching a guide wire. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287112 | BIOPSY FORCEPS WITH HOLD OPEN JAW FEATURE - Biopsy forceps having a handle located at the proximal end and an end jaw assembly located at the distal end are disclosed. The handle and jaw assembly are connected by a flexible catheter tube. The handle includes a body portion and an actuator portion that controls the jaw assembly. The actuator is axially displaced relative to the handle body to open and close the pair of opposed jaws of the jaw assembly. The jaw assembly consists of a housing composed of a first and second portion, which holds the pair of opposed jaws and a distal actuator. The distal actuator is controlled by the handle actuator and in turn controls the jaws positioning. A locking mechanism is attached to the handle actuator and can be pushed into place to lock the jaws in an open position. To close the jaws, the locking mechanism can be pushed to its unlocked position and the actuator slid to its back position. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287113 | REUSABLE BIOPSY FORCEPS - Reusable biopsy forceps having a handle located at the proximal end and an end jaw assembly located at the distal end. The handle and jaw assembly are connected by a flexible catheter tube. The handle includes a handle body, fluid inlet assembly, and catheter tube coupling. The jaw assembly consists of a housing composed of a first and second portion, which holds a pair of opposed jaws and a distal actuator. The distal actuator is connected to the handle by an operating cable located inside the catheter tube. Movement of the handle controls the opening and closing of the jaws. The handle also contains a flush port that connects to the inner tube member of the catheter tube to sterilize the interior of the catheter tube and the end jaw assembly. Catheter tube and/or end jaw assembly are also removable at coupling points in order to replace them as they wear out. The reusable biopsy forceps may contain a tooth locking mechanism. The tooth locking mechanism is attached to the arms of the biopsy forceps handle in order to aid the physician in taking tissue samples. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287114 | BIOPSY DEVICE - Aspects of the present invention are generally directed to a biopsy device configured to engage target tissue within a patient and to remove a sample of the target tissue from the patient. The biopsy device comprises an elongate catheter configured to be inserted into a patient. A coring component is disposed at the distal end of the catheter to sample the target tissue. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287115 | BUTTERFLY NEEDLE ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF - A butterfly needle assembly and method of use having a compressible member for uses such as drawing blood and infusing intravenous fluids or medication. The butterfly needle assembly also includes an intravenous needle, a body to which the compressible member is attached, a fastener for maintaining a desired position of the needle during use, an attachment mechanism and a fluid conduit in fluid communication with the intravenous needle and attachment mechanism. In use, the needle is inserted into a patient's vein. The compressible member is compressed to position the needle as desired, and the fastener is employed to secure the butterfly needle assembly to the patient in a way that maintains compression on the compressible member. The butterfly needle assembly may be further secured to the patient by an adhesive disposed on the bottom surface of the compressible member. The attachment mechanism may be attached to a container for blood collection. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287116 | LANCING DEVICE - The invention relates to a lancing system for collecting samples of a body liquid having a receptacle for accommodating a lancet supply strip with a plurality of lancets, arranged transversely to the lengthwise direction of the lancet supply strip, a feed mechanism for transporting a lancet supply strip, placed in the receptacle, to move the lancets of the lancet supply strip one after the other to a puncturing position, and a lancing drive for causing a lancet, which occupies a puncturing position, to perform a puncturing movement. The lancing system is characterized by a bending mechanism for bending a section of the lancet supply strip in lengthwise direction of the lancet supply strip and for thereby separating a lancet tip of a lancet from the lancet supply strip for a puncturing action. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287117 | PUNCTURING DEVICE - The invention relates to a piercing device for creating a puncture wound for collecting a sample of body fluid, comprising a rubber elastic pressure part to be pressed onto a body part from which a sample of body fluid is to be removed, and a piercing drive mechanism by means of which a piercing element inserted into the piercing device can be driven in a piercing movement. According to the invention, an electrical deformation sensor is provided for detecting an elastic deformation of the pressure part by means of an electrical and/or magnetic measurement. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287118 | FUNCTIONAL DISCOGRAPHY CATHETER - Catheter devices for diagnosing and treating discogenic pain are provided. The catheter devices comprise a tubular body configured for insertion into an intervertebral disc and a pressure measuring device disposed along the length of the tubular body, the pressure measuring device configured to measure the pressure within the intervertebral disc. The catheter devices are capable of measuring the pressure within an intervertebral disc of a subject while the subject is moving. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287119 | BREAST VOLUME MEASUREMENT DEVICE AND SYSTEM - A measuring device for measuring the volume of a breast of a woman. The measuring device includes a plurality of arc-shaped elements coupled together to allow each of the plurality of arc-shaped elements to pivot to different angular positions relative to the other of the plurality of arc-shaped elements. The plurality of arc-shaped elements are pivotable relative to each other between a closed position where the plurality of arc-shaped elements are generally aligned at a common angular position, and an open position where the plurality of arc-shaped elements are generally spaced from each other at different angular positions to at least partially define a portion of a spheroid having a predetermined volume. The plurality of arc-shaped elements in the open position are configured to be positioned against the breast to receive the breast for determining a volume of the breast relative to the predetermined volume. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287120 | Circulatory monitoring systems and methods - Systems and methods are described for obtaining and acting upon information indicative of circulatory health and related phenomena in human beings or other subjects. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287121 | LUMEN PASSABILITY CHECKING DEVICE AND METHODS OF DISSOLVING AND MANUFACTURING THE DEVICE - A lumen passability checking device includes: a soluble unit made of a material that dissolves in a body and forming a structure of a capsule shape; and an insoluble unit made of a material that does not dissolve in the body and forming a thin film that covers the surface of the soluble unit excluding an opening. The shape of the insoluble unit is maintained by the soluble unit, and the insoluble unit collapses when the soluble unit dissolves and collapses. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287122 | LIMB PROTECTION SYSTEM - A limb protection device and a method for applying the limb protection device to a user. The device comprises: an enclosure for enclosing the limb section; and at least one flexible cuff integral with and away from which the enclosure extends, the cuff defining an opening into the device and having a tapered profile arranged to allow, in use, the selection of an appropriately sized opening into the device, whereby the appropriately sized opening in the cuff is selected to stretch around and compress against that part of the user's limb extending therethrough in use, to prevent the ingress of matter into or egress of matter out of the device immediately at the device opening. The device may protect a section of a user's limb. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287123 | HAND ORTHOSIS - A hand orthosis assembly comprising a substantially rigid splint member having an inner wrist portion configured to receive a person's inner wrist and an arcuate palm portion extending from the wrist portion to receive the person's cupped hand. The arcuate palm portion may defining a cavity adapted to releasably retain a tool or recreational device, or an interchangeable insert releasably retained within the cavity, for generally gripping a tool or recreational device for functional use. The assembly may additionally include two or more protrusions extending from an outer perimeter of the arcuate portion for maintaining the persons' fingers in generally correct alignment. The assembly may also include a hook portion extending from the arcuate palm portion, having an assisting member extending therefrom for handling objects. The assisting member may be magnetic or affixed to magnetic material. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287124 | PAIN-ALLEVIATING ORTHOPAEDIC APPLIANCE - An orthopaedic appliance includes a body, a protrusion extending inwardly from the body, positioned on the body to apply pressure on a proximal portion of the soleus muscle, and means for applying pressure to the protrusion. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287125 | LEG SUPPORT - A leg support adapted to be secured to a leg includes an elongate strut having first and second segments, and a flexible middle segment located therebetween. The strut is arranged for securing to a posterior side of a leg and is centrally located along a medial-lateral plane of a leg. A resilient element is removably secured to a first surface of the strut, and extends across the middle strut segment. The middle strut segment and the resilient device are arranged to correspond to a knee of a leg and bend therewith such that the resilient device urges the strut into a generally upright configuration. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287126 | ELECTRICALLY STIMULATING ORTHOTIC DEVICE AND SEGMENTED LINER - According to various embodiments of the invention, an orthotic device comprises an upper support member adapted to be secured to a thigh; a lower support member adapted to be secured to a lower leg; a means of connecting the upper support member to the lower support member; a conformable, discrete liner segment attached to the upper or lower support member configured to provide a conforming interface with the thigh or lower leg; a first electrode disposed on the liner segment configured to contact the leg; a second electrode configured to contact the leg; and an electrostimulation unit in electrical contact with the first and second electrodes and configured to provide an electrophysical modality to the leg. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287127 | CIRCUMFERENTIAL WALKER - An orthopedic device in the form of a circumferential walker includes a first member (posterior shell) and a second member (dorsal shell) corresponding to the first member. An outsole or plantar shell portion is attached to, or formed on or with the posterior shell. An expansion joint is positioned in the posterior shell or dorsal shell to expand to accommodate larger sized lower legs. The dorsal and posterior shells may include flexible or resilient edge portions to reduce pressure points and to further accommodate users having larger sized lower legs. The dorsal shell also includes a flexible or resilient connecting portion to accommodate users having larger ankles and feet and to reduce or eliminate the formation of a pressure point along the dorsal shell. Quick-connecting buckle assemblies can be provided to allow a user to quickly don and doff the orthopedic device. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287128 | ORTHOPEDIC DEVICES UTILIZING ROTARY TENSIONING - An orthopedic device has at least one flexible or rigid frame member contoured to generally correspond to an anatomical limb. The device also includes a tightening system having a dial tensioning device and at least one cable and/or strap connected to the dial tensioning device. The dial tensioning device has a rotary ratchet permitting incremental adjustment of the cable and/or strap. Adjustment of the dial tensioner in a first direction secures the frame member to the limb. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287129 | METHOD OF TREATING A WOUND UTILIZING SUCTION - A therapeutic device for promoting the healing of a wound in a mammal is disclosed. An exemplary device comprises a permeable structure having a plurality of depressions formed in a surface thereof. In use, the surface having the depressions is disposed adjacent a surface of the wound. A method of treating a wound comprises the steps of providing a permeable structure comprising a plurality of randomly disposed fibers and having i) a plurality of wound surface contact elements disposed between end portions of the structure, and ii) a plurality of voids defined by the contact elements; and applying the permeable structure to at least one surface of the wound. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287130 | WOUND DRESSING - A wound dressing comprising a layer in the form of a strip and comprising gel-forming fibers, the strip having longitudinal lines of stitches formed from a thread and transverse lines of stitches formed from a thread. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287131 | WOUND CARE PRODUCT MADE FROM BULKED FILAMENT TOW - A wound care product is a nonwoven fabric made of filaments bulked from a tow and fixed into a 3-dimensional structure. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287132 | WOUND DRESSING ADHESIVE COMPRESSION DEVICE - An apparatus for promoting the healing of a wound includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive disposed around a periphery of the wound, and a membrane layer in positioned over the wound with a lower surface in contact with the pressure-sensitive adhesive to form a substantially fluid-tight seal to define reservoir over the wound in which a negative pressure may be maintained. In fluid communication with the reservoir is a vacuum source suitable for providing an appropriate negative pressure to the reservoir to stimulate healing of the wound. A resilient member is placed over an upper surface of the membrane layer, and a compression member is configured to apply a compressive force to the resilient member. The resilient member distributes the compressive force to the membrane layer to reinforce the fluid tight-seal. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287133 | Disposable or Reclosable Wound or Skin Condition Dressing and Treatment System - A reclosable wound or skin condition dressing and treatment system having a generally annular base portion having a circumference and lower and upper sides and defining an open volume within the circumference, the lower side carrying an adhesive that adheres to the skin and the upper side defining a release surface, a covering portion having a lower side that adhesively releasably engages with the release surface of the base portion, the covering portion fully covering the open volume of the base portion, to cover a wound or skin condition located in the open volume, and a pad coupled to the lower side of the covering portion and located within the open volume of the base portion. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287134 | Arrangement for extracorporeal circulation of blood - Arrangement for extracorporeal circulation of blood having a generally uniform flow diameter where the risk for stagnation of blood is avoided or reduced. The arrangement comprises a generally circular cylindrical means for temporary expanding the flow diameter, a means for flow expansion ( | 2009-11-19 |
20090287135 | Catheter - The present invention provides a catheter for extraction that can efficiently extract blood flowing in coronary sinus from coronary artery through coronary vein and has the same operability as catheters used in conventional PCI. The present invention also provides a catheter for extracorporeal circulation that can lessen an introduction number of devices for blood access as little as possible and reduce further the burden to a patient, in addition to the same operability as the catheters used in the conventional PCI. The catheter for extraction is equipped with blood extracting lumen in an inside and equipped with a hub at a proximal end portion, and when a minimum sectional area to a circumferential direction of the blood extracting lumen is referred to as S1 and immersion side length is referred to as L1, an equivalent diameter D1 satisfies the formula defined by D1=(4×S1)/L1 and the equivalent diameter D1 is at 1.80 mm. The catheter for extracorporeal circulation also has blood extracting lumen extending from the distal end to the proximal end and blood return lumen extending from the proximal end of the catheter to a fixed length distal end. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287136 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FLUID DRAINAGE OF THE EYE - An implantable drain for the anterior chamber of the eye for venting fluid therefrom to relieve pressure. The device features a serpentine draining conduit having an aggregate length much longer than a liner conduit. The conduit is engaged within the sclera in a pocket formed under a scleral flap. The conduits may be interchanged with a shunt or other component communicating into the anterior chamber. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287137 | MUCOSAL ABLATION - An interventional device uses light to diagnose and treat tissue regions near the surface. A high intensity ultraviolet light is used. The interventional device includes a housing adapted for placement inside a body and a flash lamp placed inside the housing. The flash lamp is capable of generating high intensity ultraviolet light. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287138 | LASER ASSISTED THERAPEUTIC AGENT DELIVERY INTO A TARGETED TISSUE - The present invention involves selectively breaking down or altering a blocking tissue by irradiating the blocking tissue with a laser irradiation. Breaking down the blocking tissue allows the delivery of therapeutic agents through the blocking tissue to a target tissue. An area of the blocking tissue is selected for treatment. The selected area is irradiated with a laser to induce an alteration or breakdown of the blocking tissue. Areas not irradiated are not affected. Once the selected area of the blocking tissue is treated, a therapeutic agent can be delivered to the selected area and passed through the altered or broken down blocking tissue to the target tissue. The blocking tissue will then undergo a healing response after a period of time. The present invention may be used to treat the retina or subretinal space of a patient's eye through the blocking tissue of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE). | 2009-11-19 |
20090287139 | IRRITATION-REDUCING OCULAR IONTOPHORESIS DEVICE - The invention provides an ocular iontophoresis device for delivering medication, the device comprising a medication reservoir suitable for being positioned on the eye, at least one medication in solution in the reservoir, an active electrode disposed in the reservoir, and a passive electrode, the device including at least one medication dissolved in non-saline water, the said solution having a pH lying in the range 6.5 to 8.5, the medication having a pKa lying in the range about 5.5 to about 9.5 and includes an active principle which is associated with an additive, such as a dendrimer, a polymer, a nanoparticle, a microsphere, a liposome, or an emulsion, and having an ionic form of valency greater than or equal to 1. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287140 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION AND INFUSION INTRODUCER ASSEMBLY - An electrical stimulation and infusion introducer assembly is provided for connection to an electrical electrode/electrode. The electrode extends through the lumen of an introducer needle of the introducer assembly. The introducer assembly includes a side port for introduction of liquids through the introducer needle without having to remove the electrode. The side port communicates with the central passageway of the introducer assembly, and the central passageway in turn communicates with the lumen of the needle. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287141 | Device and method for delivering therapeutic agents to an area of the body - A device, system and method deliver an agent to a soft mass, such as an area of the body, and more specifically the brain. One aspect includes creation of one or more channels, tunnels or grooves in tissue using a relatively small diameter, minimally-invasive stylet and then removing the stylet prior to infusion. The stylet-created channels become paths of increased hydraulic conductivity, through which the infusate will tend to flow and produce a predictable infusion pattern. Infusate will be carried into these channels with relatively low resistance, and then infuse outward from these channels into the surrounding tissue. By carefully positioning these channels, one can control and modify the preferred paths and duration of distribution. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287142 | ULTRASONIC TREATMENT APPARATUS - There is provided an ultrasonic treatment apparatus, which may treat a part of the body to be treated without use of a medical agent. The ultrasonic treatment apparatus comprises a treatment vessel ( | 2009-11-19 |
20090287143 | Small Gauge Mechanical Tissue Cutter/Aspirator Probe For Glaucoma Surgery - A small gauge mechanical tissue cutter/aspirator probe useful for removing the trabecular meshwork of a human eye has a generally cylindrical outer cannula, an inner cannula that reciprocates in the outer cannula, a port located near or at the distal end of the outer cannula on a side or tip of the outer cannula, and a guide with a distal surface located on the distal end of the outer cannula. A distance between the distal surface of the guide and the port is approximately equal to the distance between the back wall of Schlemm's canal and the trabecular meshwork. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287144 | PEDIATRIC MEDICINE DOSAGE CUP, TRAY, AND FABRICATION METHOD - A cup having a rim and candy coating disposed about the rim. The coating has a flavored layer applied to the rim as a liquid having an acid component, sugar, and flavoring, and a sugar crystal layer applied to the flavored layer before it hardens. The cup may include a projection extending radially into the cup's interior. The projection includes a support surface for supporting a portion of a like cup inserted into the cup's interior and determining a depth of insertion of the like cup into the cup. The cup may include a plurality of spaced apart spacer projections extending radially into the interior of the cup, abutting the sidewall of the like cup inserted into the cup's interior, and thereby spacing the coating of the cup from the sidewall of the like cup. A method of and device for manufacturing the cup are also provided. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287145 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSMS - Methods and devices with two individual tubes for treating abdominal aortic aneurysm that bypass the aneurysm and are placed from the upper aorta to the iliac arteries. A separate upper cuff may also be provided, to secure the tubes above the aneurysm. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287146 | STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - A balloon dilation catheter comprising: a tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end and an inflatable balloon disposed at the distal end of the tubular member. The tubular member comprises a first lumen disposed in communication with an interior of the inflatable balloon and a second lumen for receiving a guidewire substantially along the entire length of the tubular member. The second lumen has a first opening at the proximal end of the tubular member and a second opening at the distal end of the tubular member. A first slit is disposed longitudinally from the first opening along substantially the entire length of the tubular member to permit separation of the guidewire with respect to the second lumen. The subject balloon dilation catheter provides improved rapid exchange advantages of either the catheter or the guidewire used in a catheterization technique. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287147 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING PERCUTANEOUS ACCESS AND MEDICAMENT TO A TARGET SURGICAL SITE - A method of forming and enlarging a percutaneous penetration is provided. The method includes the step of providing a radially expandable dilation assembly having a needle assembly removably inserted in a axial lumen thereof. The radially expandable dilation assembly includes a radially expandable sleeve body defining a lumen and an introducer seal disposed across the lumen and defining an opening formed therein. The method further includes the steps of penetrating the radially expandable dilation assembly and needle assembly through tissue to a target surgical site, withdrawing the needle assembly from the radially expandable dilation assembly, and inserting an expansion assembly through the opening formed in the introducer seal and into the axial lumen of the radially expandable dilation assembly. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287148 | Joined Inflation Portions for Bifurcation Catheter - An example multi-lumen member forming dual inflation portions of a catheter assembly for treating bifurcated vessels includes a main tube defining a main lumen and a main inflation portion. The member includes a side tube defining a side lumen and a side inflation portion, the side tube extending along at least a first length of the main tube. The member also includes a portion extending along the first length of the main tube and coupling the main tube to the side tube to form a dual lumen configuration. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287149 | NEEDLESHIELD ASSEMBLY & METHODS OF USE - A needleshield assembly including an extensible frame, an actuator, a needle and a dispensing device attachment member is disclosed. The extensible frame is capable of moving from a collapsed position to an extended position upon pressure applied to the actuator. In the extended position, the extensible frame both protects the distal end of a needle and renders the needle immobile. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287150 | Universal Rechargeable Limited Reuse Assembly For Ophthalmic Hand Piece - The present invention is a universal limited reuse assembly for an ophthalmic hand piece having a power source for providing power to a tip segment, a controller for controlling the operation of the tip segment, a motor with a shaft, a mechanical linkage interface located on an end of the shaft, an interface for connecting the limited reuse assembly to the tip segment, and a housing at least partially enclosing the power source, the controller, and the motor. The limited reuse assembly is connectable to and removable from two or more types of tip segments. Each of the two or more types of tip segments is configured to perform a different procedure. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287151 | BRONCHOTRACHEAL ACCESS VALVE FOR A BRONCHOASPIRATION APPARATUS - A bronchotracheal access valve for a bronchoaspiration apparatus. The valve is characterized in that the rotation of a second member in a given direction with respect to a first member moves the valve from a configuration in which a conduit communicates hydraulically with a sleeve, to a configuration in which the conduit communicates hydraulically with a flush conduit via a duct and a channel to flush an end portion of a catheter. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287152 | Burette - A burette ( | 2009-11-19 |
20090287153 | Device and Method for Insertion of a Cannula of an Infusion Device - A device for inserting a subcutaneous infusion device into skin of a patient. The device can include a housing, a needle hub including a needle, a sleeve, and a spring engaging the needle hub. The device can also include a cap coupled to the housing, and a retention member configured to maintain the device in a ship state prior to decoupling of the cap from the housing. In one example, the retention member can include a boss coupled to the cap and configured to engage the infusion device to maintain the infusion device in the ship state prior to decoupling of the cap from the housing. In another example, the retention member can include a tab formed by the sleeve, the tab engaging a bead on an internal surface of the cap when the sleeve moves relative to the housing while the device is in the ship state. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287154 | RADIALLY COMPRESSIBLE BLOOD CONTROL VALVE - An apparatus to control blood flow through an intravenous catheter in accordance with the present invention may include an intravenous catheter adapter and a blood control valve. The blood control valve may be retained within a hollow interior region of the intravenous catheter adapter, and may include a resilient outer shell and an inner valve portion extending inwardly therefrom. The inner valve portion may include a slit configured to open, coin-purse style, upon radially compressing the resilient outer shell. In some embodiments, a compression feature may be integrated into the intravenous catheter adapter to radially compress the resilient outer shell. A Luer device, for example, may be inserted into the intravenous catheter adapter to translate the blood control valve to a position substantially corresponding to the compression feature, thereby actuating the compression feature to open the slit. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287155 | FIXATION APPARATUS FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE - A fixation apparatus for attaching a medical device to a patient includes an attachment feature attached to the medical device and configured to cooperate with one or more surgical staples to facilitate stapling of the medical device to the patient. The attachment feature includes a staple receiving portion including two ends, each of which has a staple retaining end disposed adjacent thereto. The staple receiving portion is configured to receive surgical staples, and the staple retaining ends are configured to inhibit the staple receiving portion from dislodging from the surgical staples. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287156 | Fixture for Mounting a Gastrostomy Tube on a Base, and Gastrostomy Button - Fixture for mounting a gastrostomy tube ( | 2009-11-19 |
20090287157 | FISTULA CATHETER AND FISTULA CATHETER SET - A fistula catheter with a simple structure and with which it is possible to suppress irritation of the wall of the alimentary canal, and a fistula catheter set. A fistula catheter ‘A’ which is fitted in fistulae formed in a patient's abdominal wall and stomach wall consists of an external retention part which is disposed on the abdominal wall surface side of the fistula, and a tubular part. The tubular part is arranged such that the base end part thereof links with the external retention part, and the tip end part thereof extends from the fistulae into the stomach. The tubular part is formed as a flexible helix. Furthermore, the tip end part of the tubular part projects to the inner periphery of the helix. In addition, the angle between the central axis ‘a’ of the external retention part and the central axis ‘b’ of the helical tubular part is set to be smaller than a right angle. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287158 | Attachment for a Syringe or Cartridge - The invention relates to an attachment for a syringe or cartridge having a cannula, wherein the attachment comprises a sealing element, which is molded onto the cannula. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287159 | Safety Needle with Positive Flush - A safety needle device and method of supplying fluid to a vascular access port is described. The device may include a base member, a handle member, and a compressible member positioned between the handle member and a compression plate. The compressible member is coupled to a proximal end of a needle. Following the delivery of fluid to a vascular access port, the needle is removed by moving the handle member away from the base member, which collapses the compressible member, flushing fluid into the vascular access port to substantially replace a volume of the needle. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287160 | INJECTION NOZZLE CAP - The disclosed subject matter relates to an injection nozzle cap capable of being fittedly inserted in a space between an injection nozzle of a syringe having a cylindrical, female luer-lock fitting and the female luer-lock fitting. The injection nozzle cap can include a base portion and a cylindrical leg portion extending downwardly of the base portion. The cylindrical leg portion may include, on an outer wall thereof, a substantially annular, bulged portion and/or a ring. There can also be provided nozzle caps for pre-filled syringes, which can be securely and automatically capped at high speed on syringes having female luer-lock fittings without occurrence of their falling-off, for example, during filling of a drug solution. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287161 | METERED, MULTIPLE DOSE/ALIQUOT SYRINGE - A metered multiple aliquot/dose syringe includes a barrel having an open end and a opposing spaced apart port adapted to receive a needle. A piston is provided and slidably disposed within the barrel through the barrel open end and a push rod is connected to the piston for sliding the pistol within the barrel. Structure interconnected to the barrel and the push rod is provided for enabling stepwise movement of the push rod and the piston within the barrel and concomitant tactile and sound indicator of push rod and piston movement. A syringe within the scope of our present invention permits injection of accurate doses due to the physical stops or dosage administered indicators (i.e. elements | 2009-11-19 |
20090287162 | Drive mechanisms suitable for use in drug delivery devices - The present disclosure is directed to a dose setting mechanism that may be used with a drug delivery device. The dose setting mechanism may include an inner body having a helical thread along an outer cylindrical surface of the inner body, and a drive sleeve for driving a piston rod in an axial direction, the drive sleeve positioned within at least a portion of the inner body. The dose setting mechanism may further include a dose dial sleeve rotatably engaged with the helical thread of the inner body and a dial grip connected to the dose dial sleeve and releasably connected to the drive sleeve. Further when a dose is set, the dial grip is rotated so that both the dose dial sleeve and the drive sleeve rotate with respect to the inner body. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287163 | ACCESS ASSEMBLY - An access assembly is provided. The access assembly includes an access member defining a central longitudinal axis and having a longitudinal opening therethrough for reception and passage of surgical instrument, the access member dimensioned for positioning within tissue to provide access to underlying tissue, and first and second seal members mounted to the access member in juxtaposed relation, the first seal member defining an opening therethrough, the second seal member defining an elongated arcuate passage, wherein the first and second seal members are adapted for rotational movement about the central longitudinal axis whereby the opening of the first seal member is axially alignable with the elongated arcuate passage of the second seal member to permit reception and passage of the surgical instrument in substantial sealed relation therewith, the first and second seal members further adapted for relative rotational movement whereby the first seal member is capable of rotating relative to the second seal member during manipulation and traversal of the surgical instrument through the elongated arcuate passage of the second seal member to maintain the substantial sealed relation about the instrument. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287164 | MODULAR HEMOSTATIC VALVE - A modular hemostatic valve includes a splittable valve body. The splittable body defines a passageway. A sealing element is positioned in the passageway. The sealing element is configured to facilitate the passage of a first medical device, and the splittable valve body is configured to engage a second medical device. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287165 | Cannulated Device with Atraumatic Tip for Delivering Local Depot to a Joint Space and Methods of Use Thereof - Devices for delivery of a pharmaceutical depot is provided. Exemplary device may comprise a cannula defining a working channel between a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end comprises an atraumatic tip. The atraumatic tip may comprise a rounded tip or a soft tip. The cannulated delivery device may include a docking member proximally adjacent to the distal end of the lumen. Methods of using such devices to deliver pharmaceutical depot into a joint space are also provided. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287166 | INTEGRATED DEVICE FOR ISCHEMIC TREATMENT - A system and method in accordance with the present invention provides a infusion catheter that is flexible, has such a smooth traction and a low profile to minimize break up of the obstruction when crossing it, can access distal vasculature quickly, is easy to use and readily to be implemented in the conventional PCI. Another object is to provide a method that can be performed within a short period of time and employs the catheter described herein to infuse a therapeutic agent distally to the obstruction before it is removed as a means of reducing reperfusion injury, protecting distal vasculature and microcirculation, preserving myocytes, reducing infarct size and ischemic damages in the heart, brain, lung, liver, kidney and limb. Another object is to provide complementary feature options to the infusion catheter and the aspiration catheter to improve the speed and quality of the vessel clearance. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287167 | Y-PORT DEVICE ELIMINATING ABBERANT CURRENTS - A y-port device including a valve positioned proximally to the fluid channel thereby eliminating aberrant currents and dead space within the y-port device. The valve is a septum and penetrable by a probe. The valve is positioned such that the external end may be cleaned and/or sanitized prior to penetration by a probe and the internal end abuts the fluid channel of the device such that dead space is eliminated between the flow path and the internal end of the valve. The y-port device ensures that an entire infused bolus is flushed from the interior of the y-port and into the desired vascular system. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287168 | METHOD OF DELIVERING A SKIN BENEFIT - A method of providing a skin benefit to the skin including the use of a skin care active and a portable moist heat delivery system comprising: a water vapor generating portion comprising a water vapor source and a heat source; and a water vapor-air regulating portion located at a skin-facing side of the water vapor generating portion, the water vapor-air regulating portion comprising a water vapor-air mixing layer, a water vapor-air distribution layer, a latent heat delivery surface, and optionally a skin contact layer, where the water vapor generating portion and the water vapor-air regulating portion are in fluid communication is disclosed. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287169 | Rectangular metered dispenser with feed-containing piston drive mechanism - A metered dispenser includes a housing including a reciprocal piston drive stem including an inlet opening at a first end thereof, a floating piston at a second end, and a passage between the first and second ends. An inlet valve is provided adjacent the first end for permitting entry of liquid product into the passage. A biased cocking mechanism is reciprocally disposed substantially within the housing. A biased loading mechanism is movable in a second generally opposite direction by the cocking mechanism, and is engageable with the piston drive stem to move the drive stem in the second direction. When the cocking mechanism is moved from an initial rest position toward the second direction, a series of operations allow the loading mechanism to project the drive stem in the first direction to dispense a metered dose of liquid product through a discharge orifice provided adjacent the second end. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287170 | URINE COLLECTION SYSTEM - The present invention provides a system for collecting urine, including a housing defining an interior cavity and a trough extending along a substantial length of an exterior surface thereof; a peristaltic pumping mechanism coupled to the housing; a collection receptacle positionable within the trough of the housing, the collection receptacle defining an opening for receiving urine; an optical sensor proximate the trough to detect a position of the collection receptacle, the sensor being operable to activate the peristaltic pumping mechanism; a reservoir in fluid communication with the collection receptacle; and a conduit providing a fluid path between the collection receptacle and the reservoir, the conduit being coupled to the peristaltic pumping mechanism to facilitate fluid flow from the collection receptacle to the reservoir. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287171 | ABSORBENT ARTICLE - An absorbent article in which a plurality of absorbent components is layered, and the absorbent component on top is peeled off after use. The article is configured to inhibit twisting or wrinkling during use. In the absorbent article, the upper absorbent component is layered on the skin-facing surface of the bottom absorbent component and peelably bonded by the temporal adhesive member. The bottom absorbent component has higher flexural rigidity than the upper absorbent component, and the compression recovery rate of the bottom absorbent component is also set so as to be higher than that of the upper absorbent component. It is thereby possible to prevent the bottom absorbent component from twisting and wrinkling when the upper absorbent component is placed against the discharge area, and after the upper absorbent component is peeled off, the volume of the bottom absorbent component is restored, and comfort during contact thereof with the discharge area is improved. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287172 | ABSORBENT ARTICLE WITH LEAKAGE WARNING SYSTEMS AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF - The present invention includes an absorbent article, more specifically, an absorbent article including a leakage warning system. The leakage warning system is located along the outer perimeter of the absorbent article. Fluids activate the leakage warning system. Thus, when fluids reach the outer perimeter of the absorbent article, the leakage warning system is activated. Once activated, the leakage warning system provides a warning signal that fluids have reached the edge of the absorbent article. In one embodiment, the leakage warning system is a liquid-activated band. Once activated, the band provides a temperature-change sensation to the user to signal that the fluids have reached the edge of the absorbent article and thus warns a user of possible leakage before it actually occurs. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287173 | Article Featuring An Interior Graphic - An article defines an interior article surface and an exterior article surface and includes an outercover defining an interior outercover surface, and an exterior outercover surface opposite the interior outercover surface. The article also includes at least one active graphic disposed on the interior article surface. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287174 | ABSORBENT CORE - Absorbent core for disposable absorbent articles, particularly for the absorption of menses or blood, including an absorbent polymer and a cationic polysaccharide. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287175 | DRAPEABLE ABSORBENT ARTICLE - An absorbent article including a cover layer, a barrier layer and an absorbent system arranged between the cover layer and the barrier layer, the absorbent article being drapeable and possessing the absorbency attributes required of a sanitary napkin. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287176 | ABSORBENT PRODUCT COMPRISING A CATIONIC MODIFIED STARCH - Absorbent products for feminine protection, for example sanitary pads, pantiliners or tampons, comprising a cationic modified starch. The starch is modified by a cationizing agent comprising an ammonium group, wherein the degree of substitution of the cationizing agent is from about 0.070 to less than 0.50. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287177 | ABSORBENT PRODUCT - In an absorbent product in which an absorbent sheet member having an opening and a back sheet are overlapped, a rear pocket is formed between a rear absorbent core of the absorbent sheet member and the back sheet, and side pockets are formed on both sides of the opening. By contracting elastic members bonded to a core covering sheet on the both sides of the opening, the core covering sheet of the absorbent sheet member and the back sheet largely stand up in each side pocket, and the rear absorbent core is raised upward. Thus, it is possible to keep the distance large in a thickness direction between the absorbent sheet member and the back sheet in the vicinity of the opening and to fit a portion around the opening of the absorbent sheet member to a wearer. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287178 | Interosmolar fluid removal - There are many medical situations that require removal of fluid from a patient. There are many ways to remove the fluid but many of these situations have not been solved. Herein, inventions are disclosed that generate osmotic pressure that can be used to remove these fluids very effectively, a technique which requires no harsh suction or pumping. One embodiment involves implanting a reservoir that has a semipermeable membrane sidewall. The reservoir contains trapped osmotic solutes that can not pass out through the membrane. But fluid from the patient can flow in. The osmotic pressure from the trapped solutes in the reservoir draws fluid from the patient across the semipermeable membrane and into the device. In some versions, the membrane can be changed as desired during the lifetime of the device by pulling the membrane out through the implanted device and putting a new one back in. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287179 | Devices, systems, and methods for reshaping a heart valve annulus, including the use of magnetic tools - Implants or systems of implants and methods apply a selected force vector or a selected combination of force vectors within or across the left atrium, which allow mitral valve leaflets to better coapt. The implants or systems of implants and methods make possible rapid deployment, facile endovascular delivery, and full intra-atrial retrievability. The implants or systems of implants and methods also make use of strong fluoroscopic landmarks. The implants or systems of implants and methods make use of an adjustable implant and a fixed length implant. The implants or systems of implants and methods may also utilize a bridge stop to secure the implant, and the methods of implantation employ various tools. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287180 | DISPOSABLE PUMP RESERVOIR AND RELATED METHODS - A device comprises a reusable and a disposable comprising at least one first chamber holding a flow material and a second chamber holding a gas. The disposable is removable from the reusable and maintains sterility when removed from the reusable. Flow metering device provide safety and allow for variably stroke frequency thereby modulating flow rate. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287181 | CATHETER/FILAMENT STYLE DEVICE AND METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF WOUNDS BENEATH THE SURFACE OF THE SKIN - A reduced pressure treatment system includes a filament delivery conduit having a distal end positioned at a subcutaneous tissue site of a patient and a proximal end positioned extracorporeal to the patient. A continuous filament is positioned in the filament delivery conduit such that one end of the continuous filament extends from the proximal end of the filament delivery conduit and another end of the continuous filament extends from the distal end of the filament delivery conduit. The continuous filament forms a filament mass adjacent the tissue site. A reduced pressure delivery conduit is adapted to fluidly communicate with a reduced pressure source and the filaments mass to deliver a reduced pressure to the tissue site through the filament mass. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287182 | EXPANDABLE ILIAC SHEATH AND METHOD OF USE - Disclosed is an expandable transluminal sheath, for introduction into the body while in a first, small cross-sectional area configuration, and subsequent expansion of at least a part of the distal end of the sheath to a second, enlarged cross-sectional configuration. The sheath is configured for use in the vascular system and has utility in the introduction and removal of implant delivery catheters. The access route is through the femoral arteries and the iliac arteries into the aorta. The distal end of the sheath is maintained in the first, low cross-sectional configuration during advancement to the arteries into the aorta. The distal end of the sheath is subsequently expanded using a radial dilatation device, which is removed prior to the introduction of implant delivery catheters. In an exemplary application, the sheath includes a supported proximal end, a supported distal end, and a collapsible center section. Certain configurations of the sheath are capable of being inserted in a first, small cross-sectional configuration, being expanded diametrically to a second, larger cross-sectional configuration, and then being reduced to a diametrically small size for removal. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287183 | EXPANDABLE TRANSAPICAL SHEATH AND METHOD OF USE - Disclosed is an expandable transluminal sheath, for introduction into the body while in a first, small cross-sectional area configuration, and subsequent expansion of at least a part of the distal end of the sheath to a second, enlarged cross-sectional configuration. The sheath is configured for use in the vascular system and has utility in the introduction and removal of implant delivery catheters. The access route is through the ventricular myocardium, more specifically at the left ventricular apex, into the aortic root. The distal end of the sheath is maintained in the first, low cross-sectional configuration during advancement to the arteries into the aorta. The distal end of the sheath is subsequently expanded using a radial dilatation device, which is removed prior to the introduction of implant delivery catheters. In an exemplary application, the sheath includes a supported proximal end, a supported distal end, and a collapsible center section. Certain configurations of the sheath are capable of being inserted in a first, small cross-sectional configuration, being expanded diametrically to a second, larger cross-sectional configuration, and then being reduced to a diametrically small size for removal. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287184 | Autoflush Syringe Method - A two-chambered, sequentially injectable syringe is disclosed. The syringe has two concentric barrels, substantially cylindrical in shape. The outer barrel has an open end adapted for receiving an inner barrel/first piston. The inner barrel/first piston contains a flushing liquid. The syringe has a second piston slidably movable in the inner barrel and a latching mechanism that can alternate between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In the locked configuration, the latching mechanism prevents the second piston from substantially all longitudinal movement relative to the inner barrel. In the unlocked configuration, the latching mechanism permits longitudinal motion of the second piston within the inner barrel. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287185 | Cardiac Targeted Delivery of Cells - A method of delivering cardiac stem cell and treating damaged cardiac tissue is provided. The method involves isolation of subject's cardiac circulation from the subject's systemic circulation and perfusing a solution comprising stem cells into the cardiac circuit. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287186 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVING CATHETER HOLE ARRAY EFFICIENCY - A peripheral catheter having a catheter tip diffuser for reducing an exit velocity of an infusant within the catheter. Pluralities of diffusion side holes are provided on the tip portion of the catheter. Some examples further include pluralities of annularly arranged, staggered diffusion holes provided on the tip portion of an intravenous catheter to streamline infusant issued from the diffusion holes. An inner surface of each diffusion hole is further angled relative to the inner surface of the catheter lumen such that an infusant within the lumen exits the catheter though the diffusion holes at an angle less than 90°. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287187 | DEFLECTABLE GUIDE - Described herein are devices and methods for guide catheters having one or more regions of increased flexibility. A flexibility region comprises one tubular segment of the guide catheter with a non-linear longitudinal seam between two non-concentric layers of material having different durometers. A non-linear seam, such as a zig-zag or sinusoidal configuration, permits controlled compression of lower durometer material between portions of higher durometer material. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287188 | STEERING SYSTEM WITH LOCKING MECHANISM - A steerable device, such as a steerable catheter, may include a control handle and an insertion shaft extending outwardly therefrom. In use, the insertion shaft is navigated to an area of interest for examination and/or treatment thereof. The steerable device may include a steering system that controls the deflection angle of the distal end of the insertion shaft in two or more non-planar directions for navigating the insertion shaft to the area of interest. The steering system may also include a locking mechanism for arresting or partially arresting the movement of the distal end of the insertion shaft in a first direction independent of arresting or partially arresting the movement of the distal end in a second non-planar direction. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287189 | OPTIMAL RADIOPAQUE CATHETER - A vascular catheter embedded with a radiopaque material providing a distinct, non-physiological pattern that may be easily detected on a radiograph. The radiopaque material may be embedded within the wall of the catheter in an open wound, helical formation. Detection of the catheter by x-ray is increased due to the non-physiological radiograph pattern and due to the increased presence of the radiopaque material. The non-physiological formation increases the radiopacity of the catheter, yet requires less radiopaque material than traditional radiopaque catheters. The non-physiological formation and decreased amount of radiopaque material provides for a more detectible and less rigid catheter that is resistant to kinks and occlusions. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287190 | TISSUE TRANSFER METHOD AND APPARATUS - A system in accordance with embodiments of the present invention includes a cannula interconnected to a collection vessel by a flexible conduit. The collection vessel can comprise an impermeable or permeable collection vessel. The collection vessel is contained within a collection container, and can feature a tapered end. An air inlet may be provided in the flexible conduit and/or in a collection canister lid. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287191 | Circulatory monitoring systems and methods - Systems and methods are described for obtaining and acting upon information indicative of circulatory health and related phenomena in human beings or other subjects. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287192 | MEDICAL DIAGNOSTIC INSTRUMENT HAVING PORTABLE ILLUMINATOR - A portable medical diagnostic instrument includes an instrument head and a handle portion having an open-ended receiving cavity. A compact illuminator defined by a housing retaining a miniature light source and a power supply is releasably fitted within the open-ended receiving cavity of the handle portion wherein the light source of the illuminator is optically coupled with the instrument on assembly therewith. The handle portion can be integral with the instrument or releasably attached. The handle portion according to at least one version is made from a plastic or other suitable material, permitting disposability and/or single patient use. In one version, the handle portion is flexibly deformable, at least partially, to facilitate release of the portable illuminator. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287193 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR STONE REMOVAL - A stone removal system comprises a sweeping structure and a dilating structure. The sweeping structure is deployed on a kidney side of a urinary stone in the ureter. Should the sweeping structure be unable to remove the kidney stone, the dilating structure is placed on the bladder side of the kidney stone and used to dilate the lumen of the ureter. The dilated lumen allows the sweeping structure to more easily remove the kidney stone. Should the kidney stone still resist removal, a lithotripsy device may be introduced through the ureter and energy directed through openings in the dilation structure to fragment the stone. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287194 | DEVICE FOR IRRADIATING AN INTERNAL BODY SURFACE - The invention provides a device and method for illuminating a body surface. A light source is optically coupled to the proximal end of a light guide and a light scatterer is optically coupled to the distal end of the light guide. The device includes a deployment mechanism that is configured to bring the light scatterer from a small caliber configuration in which the light scatterer is delivered to the body surface to a large caliber configuration in which the light scatterer irradiates the body surface. The invention may be used, for example, irradiate the periadventitial surface of an aneurysmal blood vessel. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287195 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DELIVERING LOW POWER OPTICAL TREATMENTS - An apparatus is disclosed that uses at least one low power optical radiation source in a suitable head which can be held over a treatment area for a substantial period of time or can be moved over the treatment area a number of times during each treatment. The apparatus, a hand held light emitting applicator (LEA) or light emitting skin applicator (LESA), can be in the form of a brush or roller adapted to be moved over the patient's skin surface as radiation is applied to the skin. The skin-contacting surface of the LEA or LESA can have protuberances such as projections or bristles that can massage the skin and deliver radiation. In addition, an apparatus which delivers optical radiation to a treatment area is disclosed that contains a retrofit housing adapted to be joined to a skin-contacting device. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287196 | LASER ENERGY DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SOFT TISSUE REMOVAL - A laser energy soft tissue aspiration device comprises a cannula defining an aspiration lumen and having one or more aspiration inlet ports at a distal end. A laser energy transmission guide delivers laser energy from the proximal end of the cannula to the distal end which can be inserted to a tissue removal site within a patient. Reciprocating longitudinal motion of the cannula along with suction provided within the lumen can cause soft tissue to be suctioned into the lumen for removal. Laser energy contained within the lumen and directed by an optical delivery system can ablate soft tissue pulled within the lumen. The optical delivery system can further protect the terminal point of the laser energy transmission guide, from which, the laser energy can be delivered. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287197 | SIDE-FIRING LASER FIBER WITH INTERNAL BENT FIBER AND RELATED METHODS - A method and an apparatus according to an embodiment includes a distal end portion of an optical fiber disposed inside a lumen defined along a curved path within a capillary. The distal end surface of the optical fiber can be substantially flush with a portion of an outside surface of the capillary that defines a transmissive portion. The distal end portion of the optical fiber and the curved path can be collectively configured to direct laser energy through the transmissive portion in a lateral or side-fired direction that is offset from a longitudinal axis or centerline of the capillary. In some embodiments, more than one optical fiber can be disposed along the curved path. In other embodiments, more than one curved path can be defined within the capillary such that a distal end portion of an optical fiber can be disposed along each of the curved paths. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287198 | DIELECTRIC COATINGS FOR TOTAL-INTERNAL-REFLECTION SURFACE OF LASER FIBER AND RELATED METHODS - A method and an apparatus according to an embodiment includes a distal end portion of an optical fiber core having a multilayer dielectric coating. For side-firing optical fibers, the coating can be disposed on an angled surface at the core distal end to produce total internal reflection of laser energy at the angled surface. The coating can also be disposed on an outer surface of the distal end portion of the core. The coating and the angled surface can be collectively configured to redirect laser energy in a lateral or side-fired direction. For end-firing optical fibers, the coating can be disposed on an outer surface of the distal end portion of the core. The coating and a perpendicular surface at the core distal end can be collectively configured to direct laser energy in a direction substantially parallel to the distal end portion of the optical fiber. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287199 | SIDE-FIRING LASER FIBER WITH PROTECTIVE TIP AND RELATED METHODS - A method and an apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention includes a reflector disposed within a capillary for use in side-firing optical fibers. An outer member or cap can be used to protect the capillary when being inserted through a catheter or endoscope. The endoscope is then at least partially inserted into a patient's body to provide laser-based medical treatment. In some embodiments, a multilayer dielectric coating can be disposed on an angled surface of the reflector. In other embodiments, a multilayer dielectric coating can be positioned between a distal end surface of the reflector and an inner side of a distal end portion of the capillary. The coated reflector can be configured to increase laser energy redirected from a first portion of an optical path to a second portion of the optical path that is non-parallel to the first portion. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287200 | SIDE-FIRING LASER FIBER WITH GLASS FUSED REFLECTOR AND CAPILLARY AND RELATED METHODS - A method and an apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention includes a reflector and an optical fiber end portion disposed within a capillary for use in side-firing optical fibers. The reflector surface can be coated with a multilayer dielectric coating to increase the amount of side-fired laser energy. An outer member or cap can be used to protect the capillary when being inserted through a catheter or endoscope. The endoscope is then at least partially inserted into a patient's body to provide laser-based medical treatment. Multiple grooves can be defined on an outer surface of the optical fiber buffer layer to increase the surface area and improve the mechanical strength of the coupling between the optical fiber and the capillary. In some embodiments, the outer member or cap can also be coupled to the grooved surface portion of the optical fiber buffer layer. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287201 | THERMOCOUPLE-CONTROLLED CATETHER COOLING SYSTEM - The present invention provides a medical system, including a catheter defining an injection lumen, a chamber in fluid communication with the injection lumen, and an exhaust lumen in fluid communication with the chamber; a first temperature sensor positioned in the exhaust lumen proximal to the chamber; a second temperature sensor positioned in the chamber; and a console in electrical communication with the first and second temperature sensors, the controller modifying coolant flow through the medical device based at least in part upon a signal received from the first and second temperature sensor. The system may further include a thermally-conductive element circumscribing a substantial portion of the exhaust lumen proximal to the chamber, where the first temperature sensor is mounted to the thermally-conductive element, and the thermally-conductive element may include at least one of a braid, coil, and band. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287202 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CRYOGENICALLY ABLATING TISSUE AND ADJUSTING CRYOGENIC ABLATION REGIONS - Apparatus and methods for performing cryogenic ablation of tissue and adjusting the size and/or location of a cryogenic cooling region. A cooling assembly may include tubes for dispensing and exhausting a coolant or refrigerant. One or both of the tubes may be moved, e.g., slidably adjusted, in order to adjust the location or size of a cryogenic ablation region. The cooling assembly may be integrated into cryogenic ablation devices including a cryogenic balloon device that includes an inner inflatable balloon and another balloon that is at least partially wrapped around the inner balloon and carries refrigerant for performing cryo-ablation. Electrodes permit electrical mapping of tissue before or after cryo-ablation to verify success of the procedure. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287203 | Apparatus and Methods for Retracting an Ablation Balloon - Apparatus and methods for retracting a balloon back into a delivery sheath following a medical procedure using the balloon. A handle on the device includes a balloon folding mechanism coupled to a proximal end of a guide wire shaft so that actuating the balloon folding mechanism causes rotation of the guide wire shaft within a catheter body. A distal end of the balloon is attached to a distal end of the guide wire shaft, which extends beyond the distal end of the catheter body, and a proximal end of the balloon is attached to the distal end of the catheter body so that actuating the folding mechanism causes the balloon to wrap around the guide wire shaft. The folding mechanism may also be configured for elongating the balloon. Rotating, or rotating and elongating, the deflated balloon results in a balloon with a smaller profile that may easily be retracted into a delivery sheath. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287204 | System And Method For The Treatment Of Heart Tissue - A device is disclosed for locating and treating an infarct scar in a heart. The device includes a catheter, a collapsible heater and energizing means connected to the collapsible heater for energizing the collapsible heater to raise the temperature of the infarct scar to a temperature sufficient to reduce the surface area of the infarct scar. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287205 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PREVENTING TISSUE POPPING CAUSED BY BUBBLE EXPANSION DURING TISSUE ABLATION - A system for controllably delivering ablation energy to tissue includes an ablation device operable to supply ablation energy to body tissue causing bubbles to form in the tissue, an ultrasound transducer configured to detect energy spontaneously emitted by collapsing or shrinking bubbles that are resonating in the tissue, and a control element operably coupled to the ablation device and the ultrasound transducer element, the control element being configured to adjust the ablation energy supplied to the tissue in response to the energy detected by the ultrasound transducer to prevent tissue popping caused by bubble expansion. | 2009-11-19 |
20090287206 | ELECTRODE FOR RADIOFREQUENCY TISSUE ABLATION - The present invention relates to an electrode for an electrosurgical unit for the use in ablating and necrosing a living tissue by RF electric energy. The present invention provides an electrode for an electrosurgical unit, including: a hollow electrode formed in an elongated hollow tube shape, a non-insulating region of a predetermined length being formed on one side of which, an insulating region being formed on an outer surface of which other than the non-insulating region; a saline solution circulation structure that supplies pressurized saline solution for cooling a living tissue which is in contact with the hollow electrode from the outside of the living tissue to the inside of the hollow electrode, and discharges the pressurized saline solution from the inside of the hollow electrode to the outside of the living tissue; and one or more saline solution discharge holes formed in the non-insulating region of the hollow electrode to discharge some of the circulating pressurized saline solution to the living tissue which is in contact with the hollow electrode. | 2009-11-19 |