49th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights part 63 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20090299379 | MYRINGOTOMY INSTRUMENT - An instrument for performing myringotomy operations consists of a device for incising, suctioning and grasping a tympanostomy tube (ISGTT) attached to a gripping handle. The ISGTT consists of a gripper and a pushing and suctioning member (PS) surrounded by an external tube. Peripheral fingers of the gripper press against the surface of the tubular segment of the tympanostomy tube for grasping. An incising blade disposed within the lumen of the PS is movable coaxially with the bore of the tympanostomy tube. Blade positioning selector located at the proximal end of the ISGTT provides for drawing and withdrawing the incising blade through the bore of the gripped tympanostomy tube. A lever pivotally attached to the griping handle is used to control grasping and releasing of the tympanostomy tube when properly placed. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299380 | IMPLANTATION OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - In general, the invention is directed to strategies pertaining to implantation of an implantable medical device between a scalp and a skull of the patient. The invention pertains to collection of data such as data pertaining to the skull of the patient, the scalp of the patient, the vascular structure or neurological structures in the head of the patient, and the like. The data may be in the form of images, such as images generated by X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging, CT-scan and fluoroscopy. A surgeon can use the collected data to determine, for example, whether the patient is a candidate for a cranial implantation, whether the patient's skull and scalp can support the implantation, what configuration of device should be implanted, where the device should be implanted, and how the surgical incisions should be made. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299381 | Surgical instrument for invagination and fundoplication - An endoscopic surgical instrument for deploying a two part fastener having a male fastener part and a female fastener part, includes a tube having a proximal end and a distal end. An end effector is coupled to said distal end of said tube and is configured to hold the male fastener part and the female fastener part in opposed relation. An actuator is coupled to said proximal end of said tube and is configured to actuate the end effector. A shearing device may be positioned proximate the end effector to shear off a tip of the male fastener part after the male and female fastener parts are moved into locking relation. In addition, the surgical instrument may include a male fastener part having a shaft with a plurality of detent positions. Further, the male fastener part may include a base and a shaft pivotally connected to the base. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299382 | SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLY - Surgical clip appliers are provided and includes a channel assembly extending distally from a housing; a clip carrier disposed within said channel assembly and defining a channel and a plurality of windows therein; a plurality of clips slidably disposed within said channel of said clip carrier; a wedge plate reciprocally disposed within said channel assembly, said wedge plate being operatively connected to said handles and including a plurality of apertures formed along a length thereof; and a clip follower slidably disposed within said channel of said clip carrier and disposed proximally of said plurality of clips, said clip follower being configured and adapted for selective engagement with said windows of said clip carrier and said apertures of said wedge plate. The clip follower is configured and adapted to urge said plurality of clips, in a distal direction relative to said clip carrier, upon reciprocal movement of said wedge plate. The clip applier may be adapted to different size clips by the method of replacing modular components. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299383 | DEVICE AND METHODS FOR NON-SURGICAL CLIPPING OF ANEURYSMS - The present invention relates to a device for the non-surgical clipping of aneurysms. The invention also includes methods of use to treat aneurysms, including intracranial aneurysms. The aneurysm is clipped by positioning a wire comprising a shape memory alloy, pre-set to a mutually twisted conformation, on opposite sides of the neck of the aneurysm and causing the wires to twist around each other. Thus, the aneurysm neck is substantially closed. The resulting thrombosis in the aneurysm further excludes the aneurysm from blood flow and pressure. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299384 | SUCCESSIVE CLIPPING DEVICE AND MANIPULATING HANDLE - A successive clipping device comprises: a manipulating wire connected to a rearmost one of a plurality of clips and pulling out a clip string formed of the plurality of clips; and a manipulating portion connected to a proximal end side of a sheath, which, regarding a foremost clip sinking in the sheath, moves the sheath and the manipulating wire relatively by a first movement amount required for allowing the foremost clip to protrude from a forward end of the sheath so as to place the foremost clip in a usable state, and which, regarding a subsequent clip, moves the sheath and the manipulating wire relatively by a second movement amount that is smaller than the first movement amount and required for allowing the subsequent clip to protrude from the forward end of the sheath so as to place the subsequent clip in a usable state. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299385 | SURGICAL FASTENING DEVICE - Various embodiments are directed to a surgical device comprising an end effector. The end effector may comprise a first jaw member defining a first groove and a second jaw member defining a second groove. The first jaw member and the second jaw member may be selectively pivotable between an open position and a closed position. Also, the first groove and the second groove align to form a combined helical groove when the first jaw member and the second jaw member are in the closed position. In addition, the first jaw member may define a wire opening aligned with the first groove. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299386 | Soft Tissue Rivet and Method of Use - A method and apparatus for reattaching soft tissue to a selected boney structure using a rivet. Generally, a rivet having first portion and a second portion is provided to fully secure a soft tissue in the boney structure. The first portion of the rivet retains the soft tissue via a suture which is threaded through the first portion. The second portion of the rivet has at least one expanding member which engages the boney structure upon contact with the first portion of the rivet. Thus, the soft tissue is fully secured to the boney structure, ensuring proper healing. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299387 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FLUIDLY ISOLATING A PORTION OF A BODY LUMEN WALL FROM FLOW THROUGH THE BODY LUMEN - An apparatus for fluidly isolating a portion of a blood vessel wall from bloodflow at an anastomosis site within a blood vessel is described. An insertion catheter has longitudinally spaced proximal and distal catheter ends and an operative lumen extending therebetween, and is configured for insertion into the blood vessel at an insertion location spaced apart from the anastomosis site. An isolation device is attached to the distal catheter end, and includes a concave working surface bounded by an isolation rim and a bloodflow surface opposite the working surface. The isolation rim is configured to contact at least a portion of the blood vessel longitudinally aligned with, and radially spaced from, the anastomosis site. The bloodflow surface is in contact with bloodflow past the anastomosis site within the blood vessel when the isolation device engages the blood vessel wall. A retention means is attached to the isolation device and in fluid communication with the operative lumen. The retention means is configured to exert force on the blood vessel wall to at least partially engage the blood vessel wall with the isolation device. A method of fluidly isolating a portion of a blood vessel wall from bloodflow at an anastomosis site within a blood vessel is also provided. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299388 | Reinforcement Device | 2009-12-03 |
20090299389 | FLANGELESS PROSTHESIS FOR ANASTOMOSIS - A prosthetic device is provided that is used in end-to-side, end-to-end, and side-to-side anastomosis without clamping and sutureless, or with expeditious clamping and sutureless, wide, single or multiple, at the same time, without the risk of kinking, where the graft is inserted in at least one of the intraluminal portions of the prosthesis tubular member. The tubular member is flangeless and comprises double holes or small external handles in its extension where wires pass to fix the prosthesis to the organ walls and/or the grafts to prosthesis. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299390 | MULTISTRAND COIL FOR INTERVENTIONAL THERAPY - The embolic coil includes a microcoil and an elongated wire electrically connected to the microcoil for accelerating embolization of an aneurysm into which the embolic coil is placed. The microcoil is formed of a first metallic material having a first reduction potential, and the elongated wire is formed of a second metallic material having a second reduction potential lower than the first reduction potential of the first metallic material. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299391 | ECCENTRIC ABRADING AND CUTTING HEAD FOR HIGH-SPEED ROTATIONAL ATHERECTOMY DEVICES - The invention provides a rotational atherectomy device having, in various embodiments, a flexible, elongated, rotatable drive shaft with at least one flexible or inflexible eccentric enlarged abrading and cutting head attached thereto which comprises an abrasive surface. When placed against stenotic tissue and rotated at high speed, the eccentric nature of the abrading and cutting head moves along an orbital path, opening the lesion to a diameter larger than the resting diameter of the enlarged abrading and cutting head. Preferably the abrading and cutting head has a center of mass spaced radially from the rotational axis of the drive shaft, facilitating the ability of the device to travel along an orbital path. The abrading and cutting head comprises proximal and/or distal radiused surfaces that facilitate cutting difficult stenosis material while minimizing trauma to the vessel. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299392 | ECCENTRIC ABRADING ELEMENT FOR HIGH-SPEED ROTATIONAL ATHERECTOMY DEVICES - The invention provides a rotational atherectomy device having, in various embodiments, a flexible, elongated, rotatable drive shaft with at least one asymmetric and at least partially spherical abrading element attached thereto, which comprises an abrasive surface. The abrading element comprises more mass above the drive shaft than below and comprises a flattened side or transverse surface which creates hard cutting edges and spaces the center of mass radially from the rotational axis of the drive shaft. Thus the center of mass is moved vertically and transversely by the structure of the abrading element, conferring geometric and mass eccentricity upon the element. When placed against stenotic tissue and rotated at high speed, the eccentric nature of the abrading element moves along an orbital path, opening the lesion to a diameter larger than the resting diameter of the abrading element. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299393 | RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USE THEREOF - The devices and methods described herein relate to improved structures for removing obstructions from body lumens. Such devices have applicability in through-out the body, including clearing of blockages within the vasculature, by addressing the frictional resistance on the obstruction prior to attempting to translate and/or mobilize the obstruction within the body lumen | 2009-12-03 |
20090299394 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR CUTTING TISSUE - A method of removing material from a blood flow lumen generally includes providing a device having a cutting element and an opening, advancing the device through the blood flow lumen to a site where material is to be removed, forcing the opening toward a wall of the site where material is to be removed, and moving the cutting element and the opening so that material in the blood flow lumen is cut by the cutting element and directed into the opening for removal as the cutting element and opening are moved through the blood flow lumen. In some embodiments, the device may be deflected or bent to force the opening toward a wall to remove material. The cutting element may be rotatable and may have an axis that is movable, that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device, or both. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299395 | ULTRASONIC VIBRATION APPARATUS - An ultrasonic vibration apparatus includes a vibrator, wherein the vibrator includes at least two vibration elements to generate ultrasonic vibration when a driving voltage is applied to the vibration elements, at least three electrode portions wherein the vibration elements and the electrode portions is alternately arranged side by side in a vibrating direction, at least the three electrode portions includes at least two first electrode portions and at least one second electrode portion alternately arranged in the vibrating direction, the vibrator integrally vibrates ultrasonically in the vibrating direction when the driving voltage is applied to the first electrode portions and the second electrode portion, and a bridging portion coupling and electrically connecting two first electrode portions of at least the two first electrode portions with each other, and the ultrasonic vibration apparatus further includes an anti-vibration portion to suppress vibration of the bridging portion in any other direction except the vibrating direction. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299396 | Lancet - A lancet including a needle; a body for holding the needle; and a cap for shielding at least the tip of the needle; the body and/or the cap being moulded, wherein the body and the cap are bonded together during moulding, and wherein, at the interface between the body and the cap, the bonding force per area unit is less than within both the body and the cap. Also a lancet including: a needle; a body for holding the needle; and a cap for shielding at least the tip of the needle, wherein the body has a first engagement formation and the cap has a second engagement formation, wherein the engagement formations are formed such that, once the cap has been removed from the remainder of the lancet, the engagement formations can be made to engage with each other so that the cap is carried by the body. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299397 | Single Use Lancing Device - A lancing device comprises a housing, a trigger button, a drive spring and a protective cap. The housing forms an aperture and an opening opposite thereof. A lancet partially extends through the aperture. The trigger button is located near the opening. At least a portion of the trigger button is external to the housing. The drive spring is attached to and connects the lancet and the trigger button. The drive spring moves the lancet from the cocked position to the puncture position. The protective cap is removeably attached to the lancet opposite the drive spring and engages the housing when the cap is removeably attached to the lancet. The cap prevents the drive spring from moving the lancet to the puncture position prior to removing the cap from the lancet. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299398 | Lancet Assembly and Pricking Device - There is provided the pricking device that allows it to load the unspent lancet assembly into the injector, and that inhibits loading of the unspent lancet assembly into the injector. The pricking device has the notched portion formed on the edge of the opening end of the lancet holder, and the plate spring component is provided on the inner wall of the housing of the injector. One end of the plate spring component is secured to the injector housing, whereas the other end of plate spring component is free end, and the tip end portion of the free end being provided with the hook-shaped portion. In the spent lancet assembly, the notched portion engages with the hook-shaped portion so that the loading becomes impossible. In the unspent lancet assembly in which the lancet body is secured to the lancet holder such that the protrusion of the lancet body is located rearward with respect to the notched portion, the protrusion serves to expand the free end outwardly so that the notched portion does not engage with the hook-shaped portion. As a result, the unspent lancet assembly can be inserted into the injector. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299399 | Medical Punch - A medical punch having a hollow shaft, a punching tool that is mounted on the distal end of the hollow shaft and consists of a rigid cutting edge and a cutting edge that can slide with respect to the rigid cutting edge, and a handle mounted on the proximal end of the hollow shaft, where the displaceable cutting edge and the handle are operatively connected with one another by a push/pull device that is displaceably mounted in the hollow shaft and configured as a push/pull rod. To produce a medical punch that is of simple construction and can be thoroughly cleaned, it is proposed with the invention that the push/pull rod should be configured as a hollow shaft which can be inserted into the hollow shaft and extracted from the hollow shaft by the proximal end of the hollow shaft. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299400 | Safety stylet - A stylet for insertion within a cannula interior of a needle is disclosed. The stylet includes a solid elongated shaft having a proximal end adapted for engagement with a needle hub, and a distal end having a surface modified profile. The surface modified profile increases the penetration force required to penetrate human skin. The ratio of the penetration force of a stylet having an unmodified distal end to the stylet having a surface modified profile is at least 1:1.4, or greater. The surface modified profile may be a roughened surface, a buffed surface and/or a blunted surface. The surface modified profile may include a yieldable material disposed over at least a portion of the distal end. A needle assembly having a stylet having a surface modified profile is also disclosed. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299401 | INFLATABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - Inflatable medical devices and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. The inflatable medical devices can be medical balloons. The balloons can be configured to have a through-lumen or no through-lumen and a wide variety of geometries. The device can have a high-strength, non-compliant, fiber-reinforced, multi-layered wall. The inflatable medical device can be used for angioplasty, kyphoplasty, percutaneous aortic valve replacement, or other procedures described herein. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299402 | INSTRUMENT FOR DILATING BLOOD CHANNEL AND INSTRUMENT FOR TREATING AORTIC DISSECTION - A bloodstream dilating device | 2009-12-03 |
20090299403 | IVC FILTER WITH TRANSLATING HOOKS - A filter with translating hooks is described. The filter can include strut members having first and second struts connected by a connecting portion. A translating hook is disposed adjacent the connecting portion of the strut members, the hook including a first elongate member attached at one end to the first strut and a second elongate member attached at one end to a second strut, the opposite ends of the elongate members connected together to define a tip. The translating hooks are configured to bend toward a central axis of the filter when the filter is in a collapsed configuration for delivery to a blood vessel and recovery from a blood vessel, and away from the central axis of the filter when the filter is in an expanded configuration within a blood vessel such that the hooks engage a vessel wall. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299404 | VENA CAVA FILTER FORMED FROM A SHEET - A filter formed from a sheet is described herein. In one aspect of the invention, a filter is formed from a sheet of material and, following removal of portions of the sheet, the filter is folded into a shape for insertion into a blood vessel. In another aspect of the invention, features for a filter are formed from a sheet of material and incorporated into the filter. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299405 | Nosebleed treatment apparatus and associated method - The nosebleed treatment apparatus features a pair of pliable mirror image nose pads comprising a first nose pad and a second nose pad. A gel pack is disposed within each nose pad. Each gel pack has a first side spaced apart from a second side. The first side is adjacent to an inner surface of the medial pad section. The second side is disposed within the lateral pad section. A smooth shouldered reinforcement member is disposed atop each nose pad. A U-shaped oblong tensing member connects the first nose pad to the second nose pad at each reinforcement member. The apparatus can be placed in a freezer or cooler for extended cool retention within the gel packs when removed. Upon removal, the apparatus is placed on a bleeding nose and remains until removed, so that a patient need not hold it in place. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299406 | MULTIFUNCTION SURGICAL DEVICE - A surgical device is disclosed along with methods of using the same. The surgical device may comprise an outer sheath and a collar assembly. The collar assembly may be coupled to the outer sheath and may comprise a first arm coupled to the outer sheath at a first hinge; a second arm coupled to the first arm at a second hinge; and a collar coupled to the second arm. The collar assembly may be movable from an un-deployed position where the first arm and the second arm extend the collar distally from the outer sheath to a deployed position where the collar is aligned with the first channel of the outer sheath. Also, the first arm, the second arm, and the collar may be positioned substantially within a cross-sectional area of a distal end of the outer sheath when the collar assembly is in the un-deployed position. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299407 | Methods For Using Looped Tissue-Grasping Devices - A method for repairing friable tissue having a defect therein includes providing a looped barbed suture having a plurality of barbs extending outwardly therefrom along at least a portion of a length thereof, and having first and second ends, first and second end portions and a middle portion therebetween. The first and second ends are fixedly coupled to a single needle, and the plurality of barbs extends outwardly away from the needle. The steps further include placing the looped barbed suture around an outer surface of the friable tissue in a spaced apart configuration and so as to extend across the defect, passing the needle through the friable tissue and around the middle portion of the looped barbed suture one or more times at the middle portion, and removing the needle from the looped barbed suture. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299408 | Surgical thread and surgical implant with the same - A surgical thread ( | 2009-12-03 |
20090299409 | ENDOSCOPIC SUTURING TENSION CONTROLLING AND INDICATION DEVICES - Various exemplary methods and devices are provided for tensioning sutures. The methods and devices are particularly useful in surgical suturing applications in which it is desirable to maintain tension on a suture being delivered. In various embodiments, the device is incorporated into the handle of a suture device configured to deliver a suture to a surgical site. Other embodiments comprise a device that is separate from, but may be used in connection with, a suture device configured to deliver a suture to a surgical site. A suture locking device is also provided which enables the surgeon to ascertain when a desired amount of tension has been applied to a suture prior to affixing knotting tying elements thereto. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299410 | Sterling silver and/or metal gel and/or liquid centered teether - The present invention is an infant teether or teething device with a hollow metal exterior, which may be comprised of, but shall not be limited to, sterling silver, aluminum or any other rust-resistant metal material and which may have a handle or portion of the exterior of the teether being composed of either metal covered by rubber, plastic, or a similar material or a handle composed solely of rubber, plastic, or a similar material to prevent the handle from becoming too cold. Inside the teether will be a liquid or gel that has the ability to remain cold for a prolonged time period following refrigeration or freezing. Said liquid or gel center may be comprised of, but shall not be limited to, water, food grade propalyne glycol, any other food grade, freezer-friendly gel or similar non-toxic material. The interior liquid or gel shall be enclosed in a sealed bag, expandable plastic material or other enclosed container capable of being frozen while holding a liquid and/or gel in order to prevent leakage. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299411 | System and Method for Replacement of Spinal Motion Segment - A system for flexibly stabilizing a vertebral motion segment of the facet joint by connecting a first vertebra and a second vertebra is disclosed. The system includes an elongate connection element with end portions interconnected by a flexible coupling member. The system includes first and second attachment portions for connecting the connection element to the vertebrae. A first resilient member is positioned between the first end portion and the first attachment portion, and a second resilient member is positioned between the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion. The system is designed such that the second resilient member is compressed when the first and second attachment portions move towards each other, and the first resilient member is compressed when the first and second attachment portions extend away from each other and a part of the first and second attachment portions extend towards each other on opposing walls of the elongate connection element. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299412 | PERCUTANEOUS FACET JOINT FUSION SYSTEM AND METHOD - Apparatus and methods for percutaneously fusing or stabilizing a bony surface. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299413 | TRANSVERSE ROD CONNECTORS WITH OSTEOCONDUCTIVE MATERIAL - The present application is directed to transverse connectors that connect first and second vertebral rods that extend along the spine. In one embodiment, the transverse connector includes an elongated base with a first receiver at a first section of the base to receive the first vertebral rod, and a second receiver at a second section of the base to receive the second vertebral rod. Osteoconductive material is positioned on at least the first receiver. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299414 | Polyaxial bone screw with uploaded threaded shank and method of assembly and use - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body integral with an upper capture structure and a head having an inner cavity for receiving the capture structure. The capture structure is threaded and the head includes a threaded opening for rotatable assembly with the capture structure and eventual locking frictional engagement between the capture structure and the head. The head has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The head channel communicates with the cavity and further with the threaded opening that allows for loading the capture structure into the head but prevents pushing or pulling of the capture structure out of the head. The capture structure and the head provide a ball joint, enabling the head to be disposed at an angle relative to the shank body. The capture structure includes a tool engagement formation and gripping surfaces for non-slip engagement by a tool for driving the shank body into bone. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299415 | PEDICULAR PERCUTANEOUS MINIMALLY INVASIVE SCREW - A pedicular percutaneous minimally invasive screw for use in connection with progressive cannulae which allows screws to be installed in a patient without necessarily cutting or destroying ligaments and muscles, the progressive cannulae going from larger to smaller diameters until the point where a perforation is made, through which the pedicular percutaneous screw enters, guided by a fine filament which precisely positions the screw in the location desired. Adjacent screws are connected via a connection bar that unites the two screws and fixes the bones of a patient's column, wherein the connecting bar is attached to the screw by a compression screw, which is threaded on the body itself. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299416 | Aiming Device - An aiming device for insertion of a Kirschner-wire to treat a target bone, comprises an aiming block permitting placement of a Kirschner-wire against the target bone and a forceps connected to the aiming block, the forceps being configured to clamp to the target bone. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299417 | DELIVERY DEVICE, SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING NANOSECOND PULSED ELECTRIC FIELDS - A medical instrument for delivering electrotherapy to tissue that includes an outer support member having a ground plate at a distal end of the outer support member, and a protrusive element having a tip that extends beyond the ground plate. A portion of the protrusive element proximate the ground plate can act as an electrical insulator and a portion of the protrusive element proximate the distal end of the protrusive element can include a first electrode. The protrusive element can be designed to penetrate into tissue below a tissue surface while a tissue contacting surface of the ground plate rests against the tissue surface. Also disclosed are systems incorporating the medical instrument and methods of electrotherapy to subsurface tissue using the medical instrument. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299418 | CONCURRENT BILATERAL SPG MODULATION - Apparatus ( | 2009-12-03 |
20090299419 | Blood flow stimulation bandage - Flexible, form fitting, uniquely shaped, body part bandages incorporate flexible carbon fibre blood flow stimulation planar emitters to provide therapeutic blood flow stimulation. Emitters are electrically powered and radiate pulsed electro magnetic energy at an ideal wavelength—typically in the 0.8 micron to 15 micron range—and frequency—typically in the 0.5 Mhz to 5 MHz range or 20 Hz to 200 Hz range—to stimulate circulation in sub dermal tissue. The carbon fibre emitters provide the means to maximize and control surface coverage and through their planar design also provide very uniform energy emissions over the entire applied surface area. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299420 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CRYOTHERAPY AND PACING PRECONDITIONING - A method and apparatus are described for delivering myocardial pacing and cryotherapy in conjunction with a coronary revascularization procedure using one catheter/stent system. In one embodiment, a balloon-stent delivery platform incorporates pacing electrode(s) on or near the distal tip for myocardial pacing. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299421 | EVALUATION OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE SENSING INTEGRITY BASED ON EVOKED SIGNALS - The disclosure describes techniques for evaluating sensing integrity of an implantable medical device (IMD) based on sensing of evoked signals. Sensing integrity may provide an indication of reliability of implantable leads associated with an IMD. The sensed signals may be signals that are evoked by tissue in response to delivery of electrical stimulation. The techniques may involve evaluation of sensing integrity based on sensing of evoked cardiac potentials generated in response to cardiac stimulation, such as pacing pulses. Signals evoked in response to electrical stimulation may be measured and trended to permit analysis of evoked signals over time. Lead integrity may be inferred from sensing integrity. By analyzing evoked signals, sensing integrity may be evaluated without sensing intrinsic events. Evaluation of sensing integrity can facilitate analysis in the presence of pacing, including pacing delivered by IMDs that pace substantially continuously, such as IMDs configured to support cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). | 2009-12-03 |
20090299422 | ELECTROGRAM STORAGE FOR SUSPECTED NON-PHYSIOLOGICAL EPISODES - Techniques for storing electrograms (EGMS) that are associated with sensed episodes or events that may be non-physiological and, instead, associated with a sensing integrity condition are described. In some examples, a device or system identifies suspected non-physiological NSTs, and stores an EGM for the suspected non-physiological NSTs within an episode log. In some examples, a device or system determines whether to store an EGM for a suspected non-physiological episode or event based on whether an impedance integrity criterion has been satisfied. For example, a device or system may store an EGM for a detected short interval if the impedance integrity criterion has been met. In some examples, a device or system determines whether to buffer EGM data based on whether an impedance integrity criterion or other sensing integrity criterion has been met. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299423 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING INTER-ATRIAL CONDUCTION DELAYS USING MULTI-POLE LEFT VENTRICULAR PACING/SENSING LEADS - Techniques are provided for use by a pacemaker or other implantable medical device for estimating optimal atrio-ventricular pacing delays within a patient. The inter-atrial conduction delays (IACDs) are determined based, at least in part, on atrial far-field (AFF) signals sensed using a multi-pole left ventricular (LV) lead, such as an LV lead implanted via the coronary sinus (CS) with a plurality of electrodes. In one example, for intrinsic atrial events, the IACD is equal to the interval from the beginning of a P-wave detected via a right atrial lead and the end (or peak) of an AFF event detected via a left atrial ring electrode of a CS/LV lead. For paced atrial events, the IACD is instead equal to the interval from the A-pulse to the end (or peak) of the AFF event detected via the CS/LV lead. AV/PV pacing delays are then calculated based on the IACD adjusted by an offset. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299424 | Methods and systems for treating heart instability - Systems and methods define an index of risk for cardiac disease by detecting cellular derangements that may lead to cardiomyopathy, heart rhythm disorders or ischemic heart disease. The markers include fluctuations or abnormal rate-behavior of electrical, mechanical or other measurable biosignals. The invention operates in modes that can be applied to prevent atrial fibrillation or the risk for ventricular arrhythmias. Alternative embodiments are applied to tissue outside the heart such as skeletal muscle, smooth muscle, the central nervous system, the respiratory system, the urogenital system and the gastrointestinal system. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299425 | Atrial Tachyarrhythmia Detection Using Selected Atrial Intervals - Methods and systems are directed to detecting atrial tachyarrhythmia. A plurality of A-A intervals is detected. The detected A-A intervals are selected and used to detect atrial tachyarrhythmia. Selecting A-A intervals may be based on determining that A-A intervals are qualified. Qualified A-A intervals may be determined if a duration of the particular A-A interval falls outside a predetermined duration range, for example. Qualified A-A intervals may also be determined based on events occurring between consecutively sensed atrial events of the particular A-A interval, and whether the duration of the particular A-A interval falls within the predetermined duration range, for example. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299426 | Synchronized Ventricular Pacing to Promote Atrial Sensing - Methods and systems are described that involve synchronized ventricular pacing that promotes sensing of atrial events. The atrioventricular pacing delay is modified based on characteristics of previously sensed atrial events. The modified AV delay is implemented relative to a first atrial event. A second AV delay is implemented relative to a second atrial event if the second atrial event is sensed during the modified AV delay. A ventricular pacing pulse is delivered following the second AV delay. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299427 | CORONARY VEIN DIMENSIONAL SENSOR AND FIXATION APPARATUS - A system and method for estimating a hemodynamic performance parameter value of a patient's heart. The system includes a pulse generator and a medical electrical lead implanted partially within a coronary vein of the heart. The lead includes at least one sensor located within the coronary vein configured to generate a signal indicative of at least one dimensional parameter of the coronary vein. Changes in the dimensional parameter during one or more cardiac cycles are measured. The hemodynamic performance parameter is estimated based on the change in the dimensional parameter of the coronary vein. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299428 | DETERMINATION OF HEMODYNAMIC INTOLERANCE OF VENTRICULAR PACING - In some examples, this disclosure describes techniques for assessing hemodynamic intolerance of ventricular pacing. A method comprises sensing a parameter indicative of autonomic tone during a first period in which a medical device delivers ventricular pacing to a patient, sensing the parameter indicative of autonomic tone during a second period in which the medical device does not deliver ventricular pacing to the patient, and assessing a level of change in autonomic tone in the patient induced by ventricular pacing based on values of the sensed parameter during the first and second periods. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299429 | SENSING INTEGRITY DETERMINATION BASED ON CARDIOVASCULAR PRESSURE - Electrical noise may be discriminated from sensed heart signals based on cardiovascular pressure. A plurality of detected cardiovascular pressure values are respectively associated with a plurality of detected tachyarrhythmia events. In some examples, a variance in the cardiovascular pressure, e.g., above a threshold range, may indicate that the detected tachyarrhythmia events are at least partially attributable to electrical noise. In some examples, stimulation therapy to a heart of a patient may be controlled based on the detection of a tachyarrhythmia episode and a variability in the cardiovascular pressure values that are associated with the tachyarrhythmia episode. In other examples, a sensing integrity indication may be generated upon determining that a tachyarrhythmia episode was associated with a variable cardiovascular pressure. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299430 | Method and device for stabilising disordered breathing - A device and method for improving the stability of a ventilation pattern of a patient ( | 2009-12-03 |
20090299431 | High Voltage Confirmation System Utilizing Impedance Data - Systems and methods for providing high voltage confirmation are disclosed. In various embodiments, impedance data can be used as a basis for determining the operation of a high voltage confirmation system. In some embodiments, measurements of impedance associated with the high voltage lead(s) can provide indication as to the condition of the lead(s). In some embodiments, faulty leads can yield impedance values that exceed a known threshold value. In some embodiments, such threshold value can be determined from a laboratory study of the leads under conditions that are similar to the operating conditions of implantable cardiac devices. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299432 | IMPEDANCE VARIABILITY ANALYSIS TO IDENTIFY LEAD-RELATED CONDITIONS - In general, the disclosure relates to techniques for calculating mean impedance values and impedance variability values to detect a possible condition with a lead or device-lead pathway or connection. In one example, a device may be configured to determine an impedance value for an electrical path based on a plurality of measured impedance values for the electrical path, wherein the electrical path comprises a plurality of electrodes, and to determine an impedance variability value based on at least one of the plurality of measured impedance values. The device may be further configured to determine a threshold value based on the determined impedance value and the impedance variability value, compare a newly measured impedance value for the electrical path to the threshold value, and indicate a possible condition of the electrical path based on the comparison. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299433 | PACING SYSTEM ANALYZER HAVING THREE SENSING AND PACING CHANNELS - A pacing system analyzer (PSA) having three or more individually controllable sensing and pacing channels provides for testing and measurement during an operation for implanting a pacemaker having three or more sensing and pacing channels. The PSA allows control and adjustment of pacing parameters including cross-channel pacing parameters relating activities between any two of the three or more channels, such as atrioventricular and interventricular pacing delays. The PSA is also capable of, among other things, displaying real-time cardiac signals, measuring amplitude and slew rate of cardiac depolarizations, and measuring lead impedance for each of the sensing and pacing channels, as well as measuring time intervals between cardiac depolarizations in two different sensing and pacing channels. In one embodiment, the PSA includes individually controllable atrial, right ventricular (RV), and left ventricular (LV) sensing and pacing channels. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299434 | Endoscopic System For Attaching a Device to a Stomach - A device, system and method for diagnosing and treating gastric disorders is provided. A functional device resides within the patient's stomach and is secured to the stomach wall by an attachment device. The functional device may be a sensor for sensing various parameters of the stomach or stomach environment, or may be a therapeutic delivery device. The functional device in one embodiment provides a device, system and method for gastric electrical stimulation where stimulating electrodes are secured to the wall of the stomach by the attachment device or otherwise. A preferred device includes: at least one stimulating electrode in electrical contact with the stomach wall; an electronics unit containing the electronic circuitry of the device; and an attachment mechanism for attaching the device to the stomach wall. The functional devices may be programmed to respond to sensed information or signals. An endoscopic delivery system delivers the functional device through the esophagus and into the stomach where it is attached the stomach wall. The endoscopic instruments attach or remove the attachment devices and functional devices from the stomach and may be used to assist in determining the optimal attachment location. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299435 | Systems and Methods for Enhancing or Affecting Neural Stimulation Efficiency and/or Efficacy - Systems and methods for enhancing or affecting neural stimulation efficiency and/or efficacy are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system and/or method may apply electromagnetic stimulation to a patient's nervous system over a first time domain according to a first set of stimulation parameters, and over a second time domain according to a second set of stimulation parameters. The first and second time domains may be sequential, simultaneous, or nested. Stimulation parameters may vary in accordance with one or more types of duty cycle, amplitude, pulse repetition frequency, pulse width, spatiotemporal, and/or polarity variations. Stimulation may be applied at subthreshold, threshold, and/or suprathreshold levels in one or more periodic, aperiodic (e.g., chaotic), and/or pseudo-random manners. In some embodiments stimulation may comprise a burst pattern having an interburst frequency corresponding to an intrinsic brainwave frequency, and regular and/or varying intraburst stimulation parameters. Stimulation signals providing reduced power consumption with at least adequate symptomatic relief may be applied prior to moderate or significant power source depletion. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299436 | MITIGATION OF PRESSURE ULCERS USING ELECTRICAL STIMULATION - There is provided a method for mitigating or preventing formation of pressure ulcers in a patient by transmitting an electrical stimulus to a skin portion of a patient sufficient to effect contraction of a muscle, wherein the method includes a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation. The method includes over a period of at least about one hour, continuously switching between the first mode of operation and the second mode of operation. For each instance of the first mode of operation, the first mode of operation lasts a respective predetermined stimulus time duration, and a respective operative electrical stimulus, sufficient to effect contraction of a muscle, is transmitted to the skin portion, thereby effecting contraction of the muscle, during the entire, or substantially the entire, respective predetermined stimulus time duration. For each instance of the second mode of operation, the second mode of operation lasts a respective predetermined relaxation time duration, and the muscle is relaxed during the entire, or substantially the entire, respective predetermined relaxation time duration. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299437 | Conductive Coating of Implants with Inductive Link - An implantable device includes an implanted coil for receiving a transcutaneous coil signal from an external transmitting coil. A coil housing contains the coil and has a non-conductive surface. A conductive coating covers at least a portion of the housing surface and forms a non-shielding pattern that minimizes interaction with the coil signal. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299438 | INDICATION OF COUPLING BETWEEN MEDICAL DEVICES - Techniques for providing an indication of coupling between medical devices are disclosed. For example, when a programming device and a telemetry module are coupled, the telemetry module provides a first indication, and the programming device provides a second indication substantially similar to the first indication. The indications may be, for example, colors, and different indications may signify communication with different implantable medical devices, programming different therapies, or use of different applications of the programming device. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299439 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND TOOL FOR SURGICAL PROCEDURES - A surgical tool is disclosed that is capable of communicating wirelessly with either a neural integrity monitoring system or a surgical navigation system. The surgical tool includes electronic circuitry operable to provide a neural stimulation signal to a surgical instrument connected with the tool. If a predetermined response is received by the neural integrity monitoring system, it is capable of automatically stopping rotation of the surgical instrument. Further, if a predetermined safe threshold is breached or about to be breached, the surgical navigation system is operable to automatically stop rotation of the surgical instrument. In addition, the surgical tool is provided with audio and visual feedback of the neurological status of the patient. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299440 | Method and apparatus for improving safety during exposure to a monochromatic light source - A method and apparatus are disclosed for improving bodily safety during exposure to a monochromatic light source by diverging the monochromatic light, such as with a highly durable diffuser. At a first position of the distal end of the monochromatic light source the energy density of an exit beam from said distal end is substantially equal to the energy density of the monochromatic light required for desired applications and at a second position of the distal end the energy density of the light emitted therefrom is significantly less than the energy density of the monochromatic light. Accordingly, a laser unit suitable for aesthetic treatment, medical treatment or industrial treatment is converted into an eye safe laser unit. Eye safety is further enhanced by measuring the radiance of the divergent monochromatic light and issuing a warning as a result of a mishap if the radiance of the divergent monochromatic light is greater than a predetermined safe value, and if desired, generating a visible flash prior to the emission of a pulse of monochromatic light to induce an eye of a bystander to blink or to change its field of view in order to avoid staring at the monochromatic light. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299441 | Near Infrared Microbial Elimination Laser Systems (NIMEL) - Methods, systems, and apparatus for Near Infrared Microbial Elimination Laser Systems (NIMELS) including use with medical devices are disclosed. The medical devices can be situated in vivo. Suitable medical devices include catheters, stents, artificial joints, and the like. NIMELS methods, systems, and apparatus can apply near infrared radiant energy of certain wavelengths and dosimetries capable of impairing biological contaminants without intolerable risks and/or adverse effects to biological moieties other than a targeted biological contaminant associated with traditional approaches described in the art (e.g., loss of viability, or thermolysis). Lasers including diode lasers may be used for one or more light sources. A delivery assembly can be used to deliver the optical radiation produced by the source(s) produced to an application region that can include patient tissue. Exemplary embodiments utilize light in a range of 850 nm-900 nm and/or 905 nm-945 nm at suitable NIMELS dosimetries. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299442 | Warming Blankets, Covers, and Apparatus, and Methods of Fabricating and Using the Same - Embodiments of the invention can provide warming blankets, covers, and apparatus, and methods of fabricating and using the same. In at least one embodiment, a warming blanket can be provided. The warming blanket can include a body; and one or more pockets mounted to the body, wherein each of the one or more pockets is adapted to hold a respective removable warming element. Associated methods of fabrication and use are also described. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299443 | GUIDE CATHETER HAVING VASOMODULATING ELECTRODES - A guide catheter system includes a guide catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, an outer wall and a first, second and third electrode wherein the first, second and third electrodes are spaced longitudinally apart from each other on the outer wall of the catheter, and an electrical impulse generator connected to the guide catheter wherein the electrical impulse generator includes a circuit for selecting an adjacent pair of electrodes to use as a bipolar electrode system to send an electrical impulse and a method of use thereof to treat vasospasm. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299444 | Percutaneous Leads with Laterally Displaceable Portions, and Associated Systems and Methods - Percutaneous leads with laterally displaceable sections, and associated systems and methods are disclosed. A device in accordance with a particular embodiment includes a lead body that in turn includes first, second and third percutaneous portions. The first portion can carry an electrical contact, the second portion can be spaced apart from the first portion, and the third portion can be positioned between the first and second portions along a deployment axis. The third portion can have a stiffness in a direction transverse to the deployment axis that is less than a stiffness of both the first and second portions transverse to the deployment axis, and a diameter that is less than corresponding diameters of the first and second portions. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299445 | SENSOR-ASSISTED CATHETER-BASED PROCEDURES - Methods, systems and devices for effectively and safely accessing and verifying a target site within a vessel or body cavity undergoing a catheter-based procedure or treatment. The present invention further includes the accurate delivery an instrument, an implantable device and/or materials to the target site. The present invention is particularly useful for transvenously assessing the suitability of a target site within the coronary vasculature for placement of a pacing electrode and transvenously placing the pacing electrode at the target site. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299446 | Durable fine wire lead for therapeutic electrostimulation and sensing - A cardiac pacemaker, other CRT device or neurostimulator has one or more fine wire leads. Formed of a glass, silica, sapphire or crystalline quartz fiber with a metal buffer cladding, a unipolar lead can have an outer diameter as small as about 300 microns or even smaller. The buffered fibers are extremely durable, can be bent through small radii and will not fatigue even from millions of iterations of flexing. Bipolar leads can include several conductors side by side within a glass/silica fiber, or can be concentric metal coatings in a structure including several fiber layers. An outer protective sheath of a flexible polymer material can be included. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299447 | DEPLOYABLE EPICARDIAL ELECTRODE AND SENSOR ARRAY - Minimally invasive deployable epicardial array devices are provided. The devices include deployable platform comprising two or more effectors, such as sensors and actuators, where the devices are configured to be deployed at an epicardial location via a minimally invasive, e.g., sub-xiphoid approach. In embodiments of the present invention, at least one area of the electrode patch is an electrical control area that comprises a series of effectors, e.g., sensors and/or electrodes. Other embodiments provide localized physical constraint and dynamic mechanical stimulation of the heart to effectuate physical and biological responses. Still other embodiments provide both of these functions. Also provided are methods of using the devices, as well as systems and kits that include the devices. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299448 | ANEURYSM TREATMENT SYSTEM - An aneurysm treatment system includes a sleeve with a breach or a breachable facet disposed therein. The facet allows a guide structure to breach the sleeve and to deliver a portion of the sleeve continuously to an aneurysm. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299449 | Kit for inserting a cavity-treatment element and method for preparing an associated treatment element - The kit comprises an implantable treatment element ( | 2009-12-03 |
20090299450 | MULTI-LAYER BALLOON DESIGN FOR USE IN COMBINATION WITH CATHETER ASSEMBLIES, AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - An expandable medical device having a static state and at least one expanded state, the expandable medical device in the static state including at least one first inner layer and at least one second outer layer, the outer layer having an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer layer having a closed lattice in the inner surface or the outer surface of the outer layer, wherein the lattice is open when the expandable medical device is in the at least one expanded state, and methods of making the same. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299451 | DEVICE FOR LOADING SELF-EXPANDING STENTS - A device upon which a self-expanding stent may be crimped is utilized to safely load the self-expanding stent directly into a transfer tube or a delivery tube. The device comprises a compliant member, an expandable member, an expansion member and a retrieval member. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299452 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ABLUMINALLY COATING MEDICAL DEVICES - A stent crimping and coating apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of crimping blades positioned in a radial array and collectively forming a central crimping lumen, wherein the plurality of crimping blades radially movable to alter the diameter of the central crimping lumen. Each of the crimping blades includes a first surface configured to at least in part define the central crimping lumen. One or more of the crimping blades includes a fluid channel extending therein and a plurality of openings in fluid communication with the fluid channel. The plurality of openings are located at the first surface of the one or more crimping blades and adapted to discharge a fluid into the central crimping lumen. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299453 | STENT CRIMPING DEVICE - A crimping fixture for crimping a stent onto a balloon of a catheter is disclosed. The crimping fixture includes a flexible elastomeric body having a crimping lumen and one or more inflation lumens extending through the flexible elastomeric body. The flexible elastomeric body is elastically stretched such that a pre-crimped stent may be placed in the crimping lumen. The inflation lumens are then pressurized with a fluid to impart an inward crimping force onto the stent to crimp the stent to a balloon. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299454 | Staggered Two Balloon Bifurcation Catheter Assembly and Methods - A catheter assembly and related methods directed to stent delivery systems that include a stent and a catheter assembly having first and second balloons. The stent includes a side branch aperture and expandable structure defining the side branch aperture. The expandable structure is configured to move into a radial outward orientation relative to a sidewall of the stent. The portions of the first and second balloons are positioned within the stent in a generally coaxial arrangement with the first balloon extending distally from the distal open end of the stent and the second balloon extending proximally from the proximal open end of the stent. The expandable structure of the stent is moved towards the radial outward orientation by advancing the second balloon at least partially distally through the side branch aperture. In some arrangements, the second balloon is at least partially inflated when advanced through the side branch aperture. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299455 | Rotatable catheter assembly - Embodiments of the present disclosure include methods and systems for a catheter assembly including a catheter shaft, a balloon positioned on the catheter shaft, where the balloon has a first balloon waist, a first lead extending longitudinally through the catheter shaft, and a first sealing member adjacent the first balloon waist and coupled to the first lead, where the first lead can provide electrical current to reversibly transition the first sealing member from a nonactivated state to an activated state in response to a temperature change in the first sealing member, and where at least a portion of the balloon rotates relative the catheter shaft in the nonactivated state and the first sealing member engages the first balloon waist to form a fluid tight seal and to prevent rotation of the balloon relative the catheter shaft in the activated state. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299456 | Delivery system with helical shaft - A delivery system is provided for releasing a medical device within a body cavity. The delivery system may be used in an intravascular procedure to implant a self-expandable stent. A helical structure on the shaft of the delivery system engages the inner surface of the stent. As a result, the stent may be released by rotating the shaft relative to the stent which pushes the stent forward from the distal end of the shaft. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299457 | ENDOLUMENAL DEVICE FOR DELIVERING AND DEPLOYING AN ENDOLUMENAL EXPANDABLE PROSTHESIS - An endolumenal device ( | 2009-12-03 |
20090299458 | BALLOON CATHETER FOR MULTIPLE ADJUSTABLE STENT DEPLOYMENT - A catheter configured to carry one or more stents and having an inflatable balloon for expanding a stent surrounding the balloon. The catheter is characterized in having a positioner for moving the one or more stents relative to the balloon torn a first position in which the stent does not surround the balloon to a second position in which the stent surrounds the balloon. Also disclosed is a method for deploying a stent at a desired location in the vascular system. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299459 | SCORED CATHETER DEVICE - A catheter device including an elongate tubular shaft having a consistent material composition for a substantial proportion of its length. The device includes a proximal shaft portion having a first flexibility and a distal shaft portion having a second flexibility, wherein the second flexibility is greater than the first flexibility and wherein at least the distal shaft portion comprises at least one score in a surface thereof. The device includes a wholly external wire guide structure secured to the tubular shaft by a figure-eight polymer sleeve. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299460 | Bifurcated Stent and Delivery System - A delivery system has a stent and a balloon The stent has a first section made of a plurality of interconnected framework members which define a plurality of potential side branches. The balloon is a dual lumen balloon that can inflate from the proximal end to the distal end with a plurality of protrusions and/or herniations. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299461 | BALLOON CATHETER FOR MULTIPLE ADJUSTABLE STENT DEPLOYMENT - A catheter configured to carry one or more stents and having an inflatable balloon for expanding a stent surrounding the balloon. The catheter is characterized in having a positioner for moving the one or more stents relative to the balloon from a first position in which the stent does not surround the balloon to a second position in which the stent surrounds the balloon. Also disclosed is a method for deploying a stent at a desired location in the vascular system. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299462 | ENDOVASCULAR GRAFT INCLUDING SUBSTRUCTURE FOR POSITIONING AND SEALING WITHIN VASCULATURE - An endovascular graft having an improved positioning mechanism capable of positioning and securing a bifurcated graft into a bifurcated vessel described. The graft can include a sleeve affixed to graft that is used in combination with a contralateral wire loop for placement of the graft within vasculature. The graft may include a structure for post deployment positioning into the bifurcated aneurysm area. Furthermore, the endovascular graft may be configured to form a sealing pocket that expands with induced fluid pressure and prevents fluid leaks at an attachment site. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299463 | Modified Surface For An Implantable Device And A Method Of Producing The Same - Implantable devices, such as stents, having a surface modified with TiN | 2009-12-03 |
20090299464 | Reducing Bioabsorbtion Time of Polymer Coated Implantable Medical Devices Using Polymer Blends - Described herein is a system and method for reducing the risk of late thrombosis associated with drug eluting stent therapy. The stents described herein have polymeric blend coatings that can be tailored to have specific degradation times once implanted into the vasculature. The polymeric blends can have at least two polymers with different weight average molecular weights, thereby giving them degradation times that can tailored depending on the weight average molecular weights of the various polymers in the blend. The coatings can have bioactive agents dispersed on or within them which can be eluted in sync with the degradation time of the blended polymeric coating. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299465 | Absorbable / biodegradable tubular stent and methods of making the same - Medicated or unmedicated, absorbable/biodegradable, polymeric tubular stents for temporary placement in body lumens maintain patency and provide dimensional stability at the biological site. The stent design is based on a radially fluted, tubular form having grooves or flutes along its entire length for expansion to a predetermined diameter after deployment, using a balloon catheter, into a tubular body lumen through outward deformation of the fluted wall. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299466 | Local Delivery of Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitors - Disclosed are medical devices and methods for the local delivery and treatment of vascular conditions. The methods and treatments involve local delivery of at least one matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor. The vascular conditions described herein include plaque rupture, aneurysm, stenosis, restenosis, atherosclerosis and combinations thereof. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299467 | MEDICAL IMPLANT COMPRISING A BIOLOGICAL SUBSTRATE AND A DIAMOND-LIKE CARBON COATING - Described is an implant for use in medical applications and methods of making and using the implant. The implant includes a hydrated substrate and a diamond-like carbon coating on the substrate. The substrate may be a biological substrate, such as collagen or elastin. The implant may be used to replace or restore the function of damaged tissue in a patient requiring such treatment. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299468 | ENDOPROSTHESIS COATING - An endoprosthesis, e.g., a stent (e.g., a drug eluting stent), includes a surface, a first layer having a polyelectrolyte deposited on the surface, a plurality of polymeric particles deposited on the first layer, and a coating of a porous material deposited on the plurality of polymeric particles. At least one particle of the plurality of polymeric particles includes a polymer matrix and a drug distributed in the polymer matrix. A method of making the endoprosthesis is also disclosed. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299469 | CONE-SHAPED AORTIC ROOT REPLACEMENT GRAFT AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING SAME - A new aortic root replacement graft or apparatus is disclosed and method for making and using same. The graft or apparatus includes a substantially straight and uniform cylindrical conduit having an outwardly flared end section so that a diameter of the cylindrical section is less than a diameter of a distal end of the flared end section. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299470 | Quick-Release Annuloplasty Ring Holder - A holder for an annuloplasty ring having a template defining a proximal face opposite the distal face, and a peripheral edge about which the annuloplasty ring conforms. The annuloplasty ring anchors to the template using one or more flexible filaments. The template includes a single cutting well on its proximal face over which the flexible filament is suspended. Desirably, the single cutting well is located adjacent the peripheral edge so as to be away from any handle connections for ease of access. The flexible filament emerges above the proximal face of the template at only one location at the cutting well, thus presenting a one cut quick-release structure that is highly visible to the surgeon. The annuloplasty ring may have a relatively rigid inner core surrounded by a suture-permeable cover, and the peripheral edge may be formed by a lower axial wall and an upper radial ledge that projects outward from the rigid inner core but not quite as far as a sewing margin of the ring. The ring and holder may be for mitral annuloplasty rings and generally have a D shape in plan view, and may be three-dimensional with upward anterior and posterior bows. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299471 | Device And Method For Improving The Function Of A Heart Valve - A device for improving the function of a heart valve comprises: a support member formed from a shape memory material, and a restraining member providing a restraining action on a course of the support member. The support member may abut one side of the valve conforming to the shape of the valve annulus upon said shape memory material assuming an activated shape while the restraining member restrains the course of the support member. The restraining action is removable for allowing the support member to assume a desired, altered course. The restraining member may be biodegradable to be degraded within a patient or may be detachable from the support member to be withdrawn. The support member according to another embodiment presents a shape change in that an increased cross-section is associated with a shortened length of the support member. The support member according to yet another embodiment has a first and a second activated shape. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299472 | LIGHTWEIGHT BREAST PROSTHESIS - A lightweight breast prosthesis is formed as an enclosed body having therein at least two compartments chamber, wherein one of the compartments chamber is filled with silicone gel, and the other compartment chamber or compartments chamber are filled with a substance lighter than silicone gel. Thus, the breast prosthesis, which is soft and tender like silicone gel but lighter than a breast prosthesis made entirely of silicone gel, can serve either as a complete prosthetic breast or as a breast shape-supplementing pad for locally supplementing the breast shape or making up a partially removed breast. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299473 | Lightweight implantable prosthetic device - A reduced weight implantable prosthesis, including, an outer surface shell for encapsulating the prosthesis, a gel mixture comprising a mixture of a cohesive gel and micro-spheres for filling the shell, one or more inner volumes internal to the shell which do not contain the gel mixture; and wherein the gel mixture contains less than 60% by volume of micro-spheres mixed into the cohesive gel. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299474 | Impacted orthopedic support implant - This invention relates to a porous bone implant ( | 2009-12-03 |
20090299475 | BONE GRAFT SUBSTITUTE - To provide a bone graft substitute having an appropriate absorption period in a living body and high osteoconductivity, the bone graft substitute contains a carbonate apatite and an osteoinductive factor, the osteoinductive factor is preferably at least one kind selected from a group including BMP (a bone morphogenetic protein), GDF (a growth differentiation factor), TGF-β (a transformation growth factor), FGF (a fibroblast growth factor), IGF (an insulin-like growth factor), PDGF (a platelet-derived growth factor), BDNF (a brain-derived nerve growth factor), and NGF (a nerve growth factor), and the bone graft substitute has open pores, preferably having a diameter of 50 to 1000 μm and/or a diameter of 0.001 to 5 μm, with porosity of 20 to 80%. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299476 | TISSUE PROSTHESIS - A tissue prosthesis system includes an envelope ( | 2009-12-03 |
20090299477 | Method and Apparatus for Implantation Between Two Vertebral Bodies - A method and system to assist in a planning and navigation of procedure. Generally, the system allows for image acquisition of a selected area of the anatomy. The images may then be used to mark various points to determine true anatomical definitions and planes. The definitions may assist in positioning a prosthesis. | 2009-12-03 |
20090299478 | Lordotic Implant for Posterior Approach - An intervertebral implant for positioning in a lordotic disc space that avoids any unnecessary cutting of bone and therefore, any unwanted subsidence, is provided. Specifically, the implant can work particularly well between the L5-S1 juncture. The implant comprises an inferior component, and a superior component, wherein the superior component has an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein an expandable component is situated between the upper portion and the lower portion, and the implant has a profile that changes from a relatively flat profile to a relatively angled profile. A method for inserting an intervertebral implant into a lordotic intervertebral disc space from a posterior approach without unnecessary bone removal, and without resulting subsidence also is provided. | 2009-12-03 |