50th week of 2009 patent applcation highlights part 59 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20090306627 | UNIVERSAL PERCUTANEOUS ENDOSCOPIC GASTROSTOMY TUBE - A universal percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube that may be used with either the push or the pull insertion method. A loop extends from the tube. A void is formed in the tube at or near the proximal end of the tube. The void communicates with the internal void that acts as a conduit for material that is transported by the tube. The tube of the invention provides the option of changing technique from push method to pull method, or from pull method to push method. The device provides a mechanism at the tip or at mid catheter, thereby allowing for change over of method. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306628 | STERILE DOCKING APPARATUS AND METHOD - The present invention provides an inventive apparatus and method for docking of a male luer connector fluidly interconnected or interconnectable to a medical liquid source during one or repeated periods. As such, the invention has particular application to multiple-dose medication therapy procedures. The docking apparatus comprises a holding receptacle having a single access opening and a depressible member disposed in the holding receptacle. The holding receptacle is adapted for retentive engagement with a male luer connector (e.g. via complementary threading), wherein upon docking a nozzle of the male luer connector is isolated within the holding receptacle. An anti-bacterial material may be readily applied to a top surface of the depressible member prior to docking so that the forward edge of the nozzle of the male luer connector contacts the anti-bacterial material when docked. The docking apparatus may be provided with lateral and rearward handling members to facilitate docking procedures. Additionally, slots may be provided for interconnecting the docking apparatus to a tubing line at a patient site. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306629 | Extravasation Minimization Device - The devices and methods shown provide for the minimization of extravasation during arthroscopic surgery. The extravasation minimization device allows a surgeon to drain excess fluids from the soft tissue surrounding the surgical field while also providing a stable surgical portal for arthroscopic surgical instruments. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306630 | REDUCED-PRESSURE, LIQUID-COLLECTION CANISTER WITH MULTI-ORIENTATION FILTER - A reduced pressure treatment system includes a liquid-collection canister for collecting liquid from a tissue site to which reduced pressure treatment is applied. The canister includes a first space configured to collect the liquid from the tissue site and a filter having a frame and a non-planar filter element. The filter defines a second space within the canister separated from the first space by the filter element. The filter element substantially prevents liquid from passing from the first space into the second space. The filter element substantially allows gaseous communication between the first space and the second space when the second space is exposed to a reduced pressure. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306631 | MANIFOLD FOR ADMINISTERING REDUCED PRESSURE TO A SUBCUTANEOUS TISSUE SITE - The illustrative embodiments described herein are directed to a system, method, and apparatus for applying a reduced pressure to a subcutaneous tissue site. The apparatus includes a manifold that is adapted to be inserted for placement at the subcutaneous tissue site. The manifold may include at least one purging lumen operable to deliver a fluid to a distal portion of the manifold. The manifold may also include at least one slit at the distal portion of the manifold. The manifold may include at least one reduced-pressure lumen operable to deliver reduced pressure to the subcutaneous tissue site via the at least one slit. In one example, the manifold also includes an interlumen channel fluidly interconnecting the at least one purging lumen, the at least one reduced-pressure lumen, and the at least one slit at the distal portion of the manifold. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306632 | MEDICAMENT DELIVERY SYSTEM AND PROCESS - A system and method for delivering a substance to a selected site in the alimentary canal of a human or animal is provided. The system has an ingestible capsule comprising: a compartment for storing the substance; a receiver suitable for receiving a signal through animal tissue; a processor for storing a programmed set of instructions; an electronic power source; and at least one transmitter, disposed on a medically relevant site on the body of the human or animal, for sending a signal to the receiver, wherein the receiver further comprises a proximity based detection means for measuring proximity of the receiver to the at least one transmitter, and wherein the processor instructs the releasing means to release the substance upon recognition of a pre-programmed pattern of transmitters. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306633 | ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED CAPSULE - An electronically controlled capsule or medicament delivery system ( | 2009-12-10 |
20090306634 | Method and System for Control of Therapeutic Procedure - A method and system are described for controlling a therapeutic procedure performed on a patient. Based on patient-related information, control system ( | 2009-12-10 |
20090306635 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CALCULATING A LASER SHOT FILE FOR USE IN AN EXCIMER LASER - The invention relates to a method and apparatus for calculating a laser shot file for use in an excimer laser comprising the steps of providing information with respect to a desired ablation profile, calculating the shot density of the desired ablation profile, using a cost function for placing laser shots of the excimer laser on grid positions wherein a threshold value is determined based on the calculated shot density of the desired ablation profile. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306636 | DERMAL TREATMENT DEVICE - An applicator unit for a dermal treatment system using intense pulsed light, the applicator comprising: a compartment with an opening to the patient's skin, an optical filter unit dividing the compartment into a closed chamber and an open chamber, where the open chamber having the opening; a light-source unit mounted inside the closed chamber and operative to radiate light through the optical filter unit and through the opening on the patient's skin; and an air-cooling unit operative to cool the closed chamber. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306637 | ENERGY DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATING HOLLOW ANATOMICAL STRUCTURES - Apparatus and methods for segmental treatment of hollow anatomical structures using an optical fiber are disclosed. An elongate energy application device can absorb, scatter and/or reflect laser energy over a length of the elongate energy application device to thereby treat the hollow anatomical structure along one or more lengthened treatment segments. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306638 | Multiple sensor device for measuring tissue temperature during thermal treatment - The present invention relates to devices and methods for measuring tissue temperature during thermal treatment of a body. More particularly, the present invention relates to a thermal probe comprising a plurality of thermal sensors operable to measure tissue temperatures during thermal treatments such as cryosurgery. Embodiments of the invention enable simultaneous measurements, using a single probe, of temperatures at a plurality of positions within body tissues. A preferred embodiment enables movement of sensors with respect to tissues while the probe is immobilized by being embedded in frozen tissue. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306639 | Cryoprobe incorporating electronic module, and system utilizing same - A cryotherapy system comprises a cryoprobe comprising, for example, either an electronic module including a memory or a response module operable to respond to a query signal with a response signal. A communications interface uses these modules to establish a unique identification of the cryoprobe, and a control module regulates delivery of cryogen to the cryoprobe according to calculations at least partially based on stored data associated with that unique cryoprobe identification. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306640 | Vein Therapy Device and Method - A vapor delivery and insulation device is provided that may include any of a number of features. One feature of the device is that it can deliver vapor to the veins of a patient. The vapor can be generated within the device, in a handle of the device, or external to the device. Another feature of the device is that it can actively insulate the vapor to minimize heat transfer from a vapor delivery lumen of the device to an exterior surface of the device. The active insulation can be a vacuum or a flowing gas. Methods associated with use of the device are also covered. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306641 | FILTER FOR SIMULTANEOUS PACING AND ABLATION - Medical apparatus includes a pacing generator, which has first active and indifferent outputs and is configured to generate electrical pacing pulses between the first active and indifferent outputs for pacing a heart of a subject. A radio frequency (RF) generator has second active and indifferent outputs and is configured to generate RF electrical energy of a predetermined frequency between the second active and indifferent outputs for application to the heart of the subject simultaneously with the pacing pulses. A filter includes a first branch connected between the first and second active outputs and a second branch connected between the first and second indifferent outputs, each of the first and second branches including one or more notch filters having a high impedance in a vicinity of the frequency of the RF electrical energy. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306642 | METHOD FOR LOW TEMPERATURE ELECTROSUGERY AND RF GENERATOR - Method and apparatus for electrosurgery including tissue coagulation using very high voltage pulses of electrical energy applied to the electrosurgical probe. This minimizes heating of the surrounding tissue in the probe and is especially suitable for precise and limited coagulation and fulguration without excessive tissue charring or other damage. The power at rated load of the applied pulses to the probe is typically over 300 W and the duration of the on time is very short, so each group of pulse bursts is of relatively low duty cycle. An RF generator is also provided for delivering electrical energy to an electrosurgical probe with the proper characteristics, including fast switching times. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306643 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DELIVERY AND DETECTION OF TRANSMURAL CARDIAC ABLATION LESIONS - During cardiac wall tissue ablation with an RF catheter, the observation of an 8 to 12 ohm drop in the tissue impedance is indicative of the production of a transmural lesion. Due to a magnetic catheter's ability to stay in the same position throughout the cardiac cycle and the consistency of forces applied throughout the cardiac cycle, the impedance measurement from the distal electrode of the magnetic catheter is uniquely useful in determining the achievement of a transmural lesion. The use of this impedance measurement during ablation with a magnetic catheter can thus be used as an indication of when the ablation has achieved a successful treatment endpoint. An RF generator's impedance measurement along with knowledge of the navigational state of a magnetic catheter can thus be used to control the delivery of energy for the purpose of delivering only as much RF energy as is necessary to achieve a clinically effective lesion and to stop RF energy delivery prior to the onset of an adverse event. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306644 | SYSTEMS, ASSEMBLIES, AND METHODS FOR TREATING A BRONCHIAL TREE - Systems, assemblies, and methods to treat pulmonary diseases are used to decrease nervous system input to distal regions of the bronchial tree within the lungs. Treatment systems damage nerve tissue to temporarily or permanently decrease nervous system input. The treatment systems are capable of heating nerve tissue, cooling the nerve tissue, delivering a flowable substance that cause trauma to the nerve tissue, puncturing the nerve tissue, tearing the nerve tissue, cutting the nerve tissue, applying pressure to the nerve tissue, applying ultrasound to the nerve tissue, applying ionizing radiation to the nerve tissue, disrupting cell membranes of nerve tissue with electrical energy, or delivering long acting nerve blocking chemicals to the nerve tissue. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306645 | Electrosurgery Devices - Devices for electrosurgery by means of oxy-hydro combustion. Deleterious effects to tissue are minimized by means of control of acid-base shift reactions, which reactions can further be employed to control oxy-hydro combustion reactions. In one embodiment, radiofrequency energy in electrical connection with electrodes is employed to induce electrolysis in an aqueous salt environment, thereby producing oxygen and hydrogen, with the same energy source employed to initiate a combustion reaction. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306646 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INJECTION ENHANCEMENT OF SELECTIVE HEATING OF A DEPOSIT IN TISSUES IN A BODY - An apparatus and method for providing hyperthermia treatments in a deposit surrounded by tissue in a body is disclosed. A radio frequency antenna array is used to direct a radio frequency signal at a selected frequency into the deposit so that the radio frequency signal will have a selected wavelength in the deposit to selectively heat the deposit to a temperature greater than the surrounding tissue through resonant heating within the deposit. An injectable medium is injected in the deposit to increase a dielectric value and/or conductivity value of the deposit. The injectable medium is selected to increase a specific absorption rate of the radio frequency signal within the deposit relative to the surrounding tissue. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306647 | DYNAMICALLY CONTROLLABLE MULTI-ELECTRODE APPARATUS & METHODS - Apparatus and methods for dynamically controlling a plurality of electrodes during an electrosurgical procedure, wherein each electrode may be controlled with respect to active or return electrode mode, condition, and power level. The electrodes may be disposed within a treatment chamber of a handpiece. Each electrode may comprise a spiral inductor. The handpiece may be equipped with suction and vibration means. The treatment chamber may be configured for receiving at least a portion of the target tissue therein. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306648 | System and Method for Output Control of Electrosurgical Generator - An electrosurgical system and method are disclosed. The system includes an electrosurgical generator adapted to supply electrosurgical energy to tissue. The generator includes sensor circuitry adapted to continuously monitor tissue impedance to generate a variance impedance curve and a microprocessor adapted to calculate a slope of a segment of the variance impedance curve. The microprocessor also calculates a bubble factor that represents the rate of formation and absorption of bubbles within tissue to determine minimum tissue impedance and maximum tissue conductance. The system further includes an electrosurgical instrument which includes one or more active electrodes adapted to apply electrosurgical energy to tissue. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306649 | IRRIGATED CATHETER WITH IMPROVED IRRIGATION FLOW - An irrigated ablation catheter provides improved distribution of irrigation fluid across its tip electrode surface resulting in improved cooling and flushing of blood and proteins from the tip region. An axially directed flow of irrigation provides improved heat transfer from the tip electrode to the irrigation fluid allowing for a cooler tip electrode and larger lesions. The irrigation fluid is introduced to the catheter with improved flow by means of a standard constant flow pump. A lumen or tube within a shaft of the catheter transfers the irrigation fluid to a proximal end of the tip electrode where it exits the catheter via a flow directing member mounted on the tip electrode. In one embodiment, the flow directing member is a thin walled tube that surrounds the proximal end of the tip electrode and directs the irrigation fluid distally along an outer surface of the tip electrode. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306650 | CATHETER WITH BENDABLE TIP - A medical probe includes a flexible insertion tube, having a distal end for insertion into a body cavity of a patient, and a distal tip, which is disposed at the distal end of the insertion tube and is configured to be brought into contact with tissue in the body cavity. A coupling member couples the distal tip to the distal end of the insertion tube and includes a tubular piece of an elastic material having a helical cut therethrough along a portion of a length of the piece. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306651 | CATHETER ASSEMBLY WITH FRONT-LOADED TIP - The invention is directed to a catheter suitable for medical procedures such as cardiac ablation. The catheter includes a front-loaded catheter tip with an electrically active element. In an embodiment, a catheter includes an elongate catheter shaft assembly having an inner shaft member with a distal end and a proximal end, and an outer shaft member with a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen between the distal end and the proximal end. The inner shaft member may be inserted into the lumen of the outer shaft member along a longitudinal direction. The inner shaft member may include, at the distal end, a catheter tip member having a lateral dimension that is larger than a lateral dimension of the lumen of the outer shaft member. The catheter tip member may include at least one electrically active element. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306652 | Ablation Needle Guide - The present disclosure relates to systems and devices for positioning and placing multiple electrodes in a target surgical site. A guide block is disclosed which introduces electrodes into target tissue and includes an elongated, generally rectilinear bar having a plurality of slots defined therethrough. Each of the slots is configured to selectively receive and retain a corresponding electrode therein. The rectilinear bar is malleable and selectively bendable from a substantially linear configuration to a substantially curved configuration to facilitate positioning the guide block relative to target tissue. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306653 | ELECTRODE SHEATH FOR A CATHETER - An electrode sheath ( | 2009-12-10 |
20090306654 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR THE CONTROLLED THERMAL ABLATION OF TUMORS BY MEANS OF HIGH-FREQUENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY - A device for the thermal ablation (TA) by means of high frequency electromagnetic energy comprising a hollow element ( | 2009-12-10 |
20090306655 | CATHETER ASSEMBLY WITH FRONT-LOADED TIP AND MULTI-CONTACT CONNECTOR - The invention is directed to a catheter suitable for medical procedures such as cardiac ablation. The catheter includes a front-loaded catheter tip with an electrically active element. The catheter can include an elongate catheter shaft assembly having an inner shaft member with a distal end and a proximal end, and an outer shaft member with a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen between the distal end and the proximal end. The inner shaft member can be inserted into the lumen of the outer shaft member along a longitudinal direction. The inner shaft member can include, at the distal end, a catheter tip member having a lateral dimension that is larger than a lateral dimension of the lumen of the outer shaft member. The catheter tip member includes at least one electrically active element, and the proximal end of the inner shaft member has at least one electrode disposed on the external surface of the shaft member, such that when inserted into a handle, the electrode electrically contacts an electrical connector element. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306656 | Therapy apparatus for thermal sclerosing of body tissue - The application arrangement according to the invention for applying a high frequency current for thermal sclerosing of body tissue, includes:
| 2009-12-10 |
20090306657 | SPLIT FLEXIBLE TUBE BIASING AND DIRECTIONAL ATHERECTOMY DEVICE AND METHOD - The invention provides a rotational atherectomy system, device and method comprising a flexible, elongated, rotatable catheter tube that is split into two elements, a biasing element and a cutting element, distally and wherein the biasing element and cutting element are capable of forming a first and retracted position for insertion into a lumen and a second and expanded position for ablation. The biasing element is biased in the expanded position, thereby placing a biasing force against the lumen wall and pressing the cutting element against the opposite side of the lumen wall for directional cutting and/or grinding, either by rotation, axial translation, vibration or a combination thereof. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306658 | MANUALLY ARTICULATING DEVICES - A surgical device is disclosed. The device includes an elongate shaft having a distal end coupled to a proximal end of an articulation joint, and an actuation wire extending through the elongate shaft and the articulation joint. The device further includes an end effector having a distal tip coupled to a distal end of the articulation joint and receiving therethrough a distal end of the actuation wire. The end effector includes a hook knife disposed adjacent the distal tip and having a proximal end connected to the distal end of the actuation wire. The actuation wire is translatable along a longitudinal axis of the elongate shaft to extend and retract the distal end of the hook knife relative to the distal tip of the end effector, and the articulation joint is laterally articulatable relative to the longitudinal axis of the elongate shaft to allow the end effector to be angularly oriented relative to the elongate shaft. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306659 | Surface Ablation Process With Electrode Cooling Methods - A bipolar electrode assembly includes a substrate having proximal and distal ends and supports first electrode and second electrodes. The first and second electrodes are disposed in an interwoven configuration across the surface of the substrate from the proximal to distal ends. A cooling medium is disposed interposed between the first and second electrodes from the proximal to distal ends. The first and second electrodes each include a plurality of finger-like prongs which either extend lengthwise or transversely or the first and second electrodes extend spiral inwardly along the surface of the substrate. The prongs of the first electrode intermesh with the prongs of the second electrode. Each prong is separated by the cooling medium. First and second electrodes may be disposed in a lengthwise alternating configuration across the surface of the substrate with a cooling medium disposed in vertical registration thereunder. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306660 | Vessel Sealing Instrument - A bipolar electrosurgical instrument for clamping, grasping, manipulating, and sealing tissue includes first and second shafts each having a jaw member extending from a distal end thereof and a handle disposed at a proximal end thereof. The handle being operable to effect movement of the jaw members relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. The bipolar instrument is connectable to a source of electrical energy having a first electrical potential connected to one of the jaw members and a second electrical potential connected to the other of the jaw members such that the jaw members are capable of selectively conducting energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a seal. Both the first and second electrical potentials are transmitted to the jaw members through the first shaft. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306661 | Clamping Element and Insert Therefor - An insert ( | 2009-12-10 |
20090306662 | HEAD FIXATION DEVICE - Head fixation devices and methods of fixating heads of patients for surgical procedures. The head fixation devices generally respectively comprise a skull clamp, a skull clamp arc assembly movable relative to the skull clamp, and a plurality of skull pins operable to engage and fixate heads of patients during neurosurgical and cervical spine procedures. The skull clamp can comprise a single skull pin on each end of the clamp. The two skull pins apply substantially equal compressive forces to the head of a patient. The skull clamp arc assembly, and an arc skull pin thereof, is pivotable to engage and disengage the patient's head for additional fixation support of the head. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306663 | Bone Fixation Device - A bone fixation device and a method of securing the same in a fractured bone. The device has a rod and at least one bone engaging member The rod and at least one bone engaging member bridge a region of fracture with the end of the at least one bone engaging member engaging with the bone of a patient to secure the device across the fracture. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306664 | Bone Fixation Assemblies and Methods of Use - Intramedullary rod and blade assemblies and methods of implanting said assemblies are disclosed herein. The assemblies provided herein are useful in treating distal, proximal fractures, among other conditions, in large bones including, but not limited to: femurs, tibias, and humeri. Preferred assemblies can include an intramedullary rod having a proximal end and coupling means configured to securely attach to a blade, such that no portion of the rod or the coupling means extend into the fractured fragment beyond the blade. Further preferred assemblies include intramedullary rods that connect in the center of the internal blade, or substantially so, such that the rod and blade form a “T-shape,” or substantially so. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306665 | System and Method for Locating of Distal Holes of an Intramedullary Nail - Systems and methods for use with a hollow intramedullary nail having a proximal end, a distal end and at least one distal hole formed in the nail's wall adjacent said distal end and having a hole axis, for detecting a location of said distal hole when the nail is implanted into a intramedullary canal of a bone. The system includes a jig adapted for being mounted on said bone so as to constitute a bridge between the proximal end of said nail and a distal end of said bone, and having a positioning head with a guiding axis oriented generally perpendicular to the nail longitudinal axis, adapted for receiving therein at least a drill bit so that the drill bit's axis is aligned with said guiding axis, the positioning head being movable to bring said guiding axis into different spatial positions with respect to said hole axis. The system may further include at least one of the following: a disposable member insertable into said nail and having a nail light source for emitting light along said distal hole axis so as to create an illuminated spot on an outer surface of said bone, said nail light source is of a kind providing collimated light and, said member further includes means for positioning an axis of a collimated beam created by said light along said hole axis; viewing optics mountable in said positioning head along said guiding axis for viewing said illuminated spot; an alignment pin having a pin proximal end, a pin distal end, and a pin axis, and being adapted for mounting in said positioning head so that said pin axis is aligned with said guiding axis and so that the pin distal end faces towards the bone, where the pin further includes reference marks on its outer surface, visible in X-ray images. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306666 | INTRAMEDULLARY NAIL WITH OBLIQUE OPENINGS - An intramedullary nail for use in a medullary canal of a long bone is provided. The nail includes a body defining a longitudinal axis of the body and an external periphery of the body for fitting in the medullary canal of the long bone. The body has a first internal wall thereof defining a first opening through the body. The first opening defines a first opening centerline. The body has a second internal wall of the body defining a second opening through the body. The second opening defines a second opening centerline. The first opening centerline and the second opening centerline are oblique with respect to each other. The longitudinal axis of the body and the first opening centerline form an acute angle between the longitudinal axis of the body and the first opening centerline. The longitudinal axis of the body and the second opening centerline forming an acute angle between the longitudinal axis of the body and the second opening centerline. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306667 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CERVICAL FUSION - A cervical spinal fixation system that offers a strong and stable construct for maximum fusion augmentation and yet is versatile enough for any patient and is easy to use. A method of implanting a fusion plate is disclosed where the plate includes at least two primary fastener openings. In one embodiment the method includes the step of the throat of the patient being opened which provides access to the spinal column of the patient. The fusion plate can be inserted into the throat opening, and the fusion plate is then positioned on the spinal column. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306668 | Crimp Pliers - A device for securing cable around a bone comprises first and second handles pivotally coupled to one another and a first distal member a proximal end of which is pivotally coupled to a distal end of the first handle, the first distal member including a first crimp engaging protrusion in combination with a second distal member a proximal end of which is pivotally coupled to a distal end of the second handle, the second distal member including a second crimp engaging protrusion, and a depth level including an abutting surface, the first and second distal members being pivotally coupled to one another so that, when the first and second handles are drawn toward one another, the proximal ends of the first and second distal members are moved apart from one another, drawing the first and second protrusions toward one another to compress a crimp located therebetween. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306669 | Autologous bone collection device having enhanced suction efficiency - A bone piece collector wherein a blade ( | 2009-12-10 |
20090306670 | Unicondylar Knee Instrument System - The present invention provides for an apparatus for cutting a tibia, a stylus, an apparatus for cutting a femur, an apparatus for aligning a femoral cutting guide, and an ankle clamp in support of a unicondylar knee surgery. The present invention further provides for a method of preparing a femoral condyle of a femur for the implantation of a unicondylar femoral knee implant. The apparatus for cutting a tibia includes a unicondylar tibial resection guide that is adjustably connectable to a unicondylar tibial alignment guide and configured to operate concurrently with the tibial alignment guide. The apparatus for cutting a femur includes a spacer block and a cutting guide configured to operate concurrently with the spacer block. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306671 | Facet joint implants and delivery tools - A spinal joint distraction system is disclosed and may include a driver assembly with a tubular shaft, a pair of implant holder arms, an implant distractor, an internal actuator, and a distractor knob, the system also including a delivery device with a tubular shaft, a receiving assembly, and a pair of forks, where the delivery device is adapted for slidable insertion of the driver assembly, the system also including an implant, a chisel, and an injector. Several embodiments of an implant are disclosed as well a method of placing an implant. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306672 | Alif inserter/distractor - Apparatus and method for an instrument for use in an anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) procedure for distraction of adjacent vertebrae and insertion of a vertebral body replacement (VBR) implant. The instrument includes a hollow body having a proximal end and a distal end, an inserter shaft positioned within the body configured to removably engage a VBR implant near the distal end of the body, an actuatable handle coupled to the body, the handle being configured to engage the inserter shaft to advance the VBR implant in a distal direction during handle actuation, and a pair of opposed distraction arms removably coupled to the distal end of the body, the distraction arms having paddle tips configured to fit between adjacent vertebrae, the distraction arms being movable from a closed position to an open position during distal advancement of the VBR implant between the distraction arms. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306673 | KIT AND METHOD FOR FIXATING A PROSTHESIS OR PART THEREOF AND/OR FILLING OSSEOUS DEFECTS - Kit of parts, comprising:
| 2009-12-10 |
20090306674 | DEVICE FOR PREPARING BONE CEMENT - A device for use in the provision of bone cement to a bone cavity of a patient that includes a syringe body, and a tube that communicates with the syringe body. The tube is configured to supply bone cement from within the syringe body to the bone cavity. The tube comprises a polymer loaded with a thermochromic material. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306675 | DRILL GUIDE ASSEMBLY - A drill guide assembly having an elongated body is configured with a first and second arm members extending from the elongated body. The second arm member is configured and adapted to be longitudinally movable along the elongated body towards and away from the first arm member for reducing fractured bones for repair. A guide housing provided on the second arm member is fitted with a removable sleeve. The removable sleeve is provided with a longitudinal bore for guiding a guide wire or a drill bit for drilling into the bones. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306676 | Methods and compositions for articular repair - Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for producing articular repair materials and for repairing an articular surface. In particular, methods for providing articular repair systems. Also provided are articular surface repair systems designed to replace a selected area cartilage, for example, and surgical tools for repairing articular surfaces. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306677 | REMOVAL OF TUBULAR TISSUE SUPPORTS - The invention provides a process by which tubular tissue supports (stents) can be removed from hollow organs of humans or of animals after heating to a temperature below the transition temperature Ttrans until softening occurs. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306678 | DEVICE FOR RETRIEVING A FOREIGN OBJECT LOCATED IN A BODY VESSEL - In at least one embodiment of the present invention, a retrieval device for entrapping and retaining a foreign object located in a body vessel for its extraction therefrom is provided. The device comprises a cage having a proximal end and a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending between the proximal and distal ends. The cage is radially expandable about the longitudinal axis to define an expanded state and to form an opening at the distal end for receiving the foreign object. The cage is collapsible to define a collapsed state and to retain the foreign object therein such that the foreign object is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis. Extending proximally from the proximal end of the cage is a cable for retrieval of the device in the collapsed state. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306679 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING ACETABULAR COMPONENT POSITIONING - An instrument for establishing orientation of a pelvic prosthesis comprises a tri-pod having an angularly adjustable guide rod on it. The tips of the legs define a plane, and the guide rod is set by the surgeon to a defined orientation with respect to this plane on the basis of preoperative studies. In use, two of the legs of the instrument are positioned by the surgeon at defined anatomical locations on the pelvis (e.g., a point in the region of the posterior/inferior acetabulum and a point on the anterior superior iliac spine). The third leg then lands on the pelvis at a point determined by the position of the first two points, as well as by the separations between the third leg and the other two legs. The separations are adjustable, but are preferably fixed percentages of the separation between the first and second legs. The position of the guide rod then defines with respect to the actual pelvis the direction for insertion of a prosthesis. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306680 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SELECTING FOLLICULAR UNITS FOR HARVESTING - A system and method for selecting follicular units for hair harvesting using imaging and processing techniques are provided. The method of selecting an order of harvesting follicular units is based on a combination of one or more policies and filters that are generally designed to improve a speed, quality and efficacy of the harvesting process. The method of the present invention may be implemented with various hair harvesting and transplantation systems, including manual, partially automated and fully automated systems. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306681 | TISSUE TACK - A tissue fixation device includes a tack having at least two flexible arms on a first end of said anchor. A deployment device for deploying a tissue fixation device, wherein the deployment device is a deployment gun. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306682 | Multiple Clip Deployment Magazine - An apparatus for deployment of multiple hemostatic clips, comprises a shaft connected to a handle and a control linkage operatively connected to the handle in combination with a magazine disposed at a distal end of the shaft, the magazine containing a plurality of clips arranged in a chain rotatable within the magazine, wherein a proximal-most one of the clips is coupled to the control linkage, a distal portion of the magazine being contoured to permit opening of a distal-most one of the clips during a distal stroke of the control linkage, and to assist closing and locking of the distal-most clip during a proximal stroke of the control linkage, the magazine including an expanded chamber sized to allow opening in any rotational orientation of a next clip located immediately proximal to the distal-most clip to a degree sufficient to disengage the distal-most clip. A method for deploying multiple hemostatic clips, comprises positioning a distal end of a magazine containing a clip chain over selected target tissue and actuating a control link of the magazine in a distal stroke to open and distally translate a distal-most clip of the clip chain in combination with orienting the open distal-most clip in a desired orientation to grasp the target tissue and actuating the control link in a proximal stroke to close and lock the distal-most clip over the target tissue. The control link is further actuated in the proximal stroke to move a next clip immediately proximal to the distal-most clip into an expanded portion of the magazine sized to allow the next clip to open to a degree sufficient to release the distal-most clip regardless of a circumferential orientation of the next clip. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306683 | ENDOSCOPIC DROP OFF BAG - A specimen retrieval device may comprise the specimen retrieval bag for retrieval biological materials, a hybrid shaft, a first collapsible arm, and a second collapsible arm. The hybrid shaft may comprise a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end is flexible, and wherein the proximal end is rigid. The first collapsible arm may be located at the distal end of the hybrid shaft, and may include a first portion. The second collapsible arm may be located at the distal end of the hybrid shaft, may include a first portion and a second portion. The second portion of the second collapsible arm may extend distally beyond the first portion of the second collapsible arm. The specimen retrieval bag may have an open end and a closed end, and may be configured to be retained upon the first collapsible arm and the second collapsible arm. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306684 | Method and Apparatus for Passing a Suture - A suture pushing device includes a handle, a shaft extending from the handle, and a suturing head at the distal end of the shaft. The suturing head includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw and/or the second jaw have a tissue cutting edge adapted to cut an opening in a tissue. A blunt suture pushing member advances from within the shaft, through the suturing head, and through the cut opening in the tissue to place a suture. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306685 | NONINVASIVE TRANS-CATHETER METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REMOTE SUTURE PLACEMENT SUCH AS FOR SEPTAL DEFECT REPAIR, LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE CLOSURE, PACEMAKER ELECTRODE PLACEMENT, MITRAL VALVE REPAIR, AND OTHER INNER-CARDIAC AND INNER-ARTERIAL APPLICATIONS - A noninvasive trans-catheter method and apparatus for remote suture placement can be used in a variety of inner cardiac applications. For example, a method of non-invasive transcatheter atrial septal defect repair comprises the steps of: advancing a positioning member along a catheter into the Atrial Septal Defect, wherein at least one suture deploying lumen is coupled to the positioning member with a piercing member within the suture deploying lumen; deploying the positioning member within the Atrial Septal Defect to align each suture deploying lumen with tissue adjacent the Atrial Septal Defect; and piercing the tissue adjacent the Atrial Septal Defect with the piercing member to secure a suture line through the tissue. A repair patch may be advanced along suture lines to repair the defect and secured into place with the suture lines. The apparatus is also applicable for left atrial appendage closure, mitral valve repair and pacemaker electrode placement. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306686 | MEDICAL HOLDING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USING MEDICAL HOLDING APPARATUS - A medical holding apparatus provided with an anchor member composed of a tying-up portion to be tied up to an intracorporeal tissue and a first connection portion; and a locking member composed of a holding portion for holding another intracorporeal tissue, a medical instrument or a drug and a second connection portion, in which the first connection portion and the second connection portion can be detachably connected to each other. A method of using the medical holding apparatus comprising steps of inserting the anchor member into a lumen of a cylindrical member; bringing the cylindrical member distal end close to a predetermined intracorporeal tissue surface; pushing the anchor member from the cylindrical member proximal end side so as to project the anchor member out of the cylindrical member distal end and tying up the anchor member to the intracorporeal tissue; holding another intracorporeal tissue, the medical instrument or the drug by the holding portion of the locking member; and connecting the second connection portion to the first connection portion by a magnetic force and the like. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306687 | SCLERAL BUCKLING BAND AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - A scleral buckling band and a method for making the same are described. The scleral buckling band is used for an ophthalmic operation, which is biocompatible and has a slender cylindrical structure formed by a decomposable and absorbable material. When being implanted into human body, the scleral buckling band is degraded and absorbed by the human body, without causing any immune response. After the patient is recovered, the scleral buckling band does not need to be taken out through another operation. Meanwhile, the decomposition rate of the scleral buckling band within the human body can be controlled through different preparation manners, so as to cater to different recovery speeds of different patients. Furthermore, the scleral buckling band contains different medicine, and after being implanted into human body and being decomposed, the scleral buckling band releases different specific medicine as time elapsed. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306688 | QUILTED IMPLANTABLE GRAFT - Described are embodiments of a multilaminate or multiple layer implantable surgical graft comprising remodelable collagenous sheet material, the graft including one or more interweaving members to stitch together the graft to help prevent the layers from delaminating or separating during handling and the initial stages of remodeling. The interweaving members may comprise lines of suture, thread, individual stitches, strips of material, etc. that are woven through the layers of biomaterial in a desired pattern. In one embodiment, the interweaving members comprise a pharmacologically active substance, such as a drug, growth factors, etc. to elicit a desired biological response in the host tissue. In another embodiment, the graft further comprises a reinforcing material, such as a synthetic mesh, within the layers of remodelable biomaterial and stitched together by one or more interweaving members. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306689 | BIDIRECTIONAL EXPANDABLE HEAD FOR ROTATIONAL ATHERECTOMY DEVICE - A rotational atherectomy device that includes an expandable head that can clean a blockage from vessel larger than its rest diameter, in which the drive shaft may rotate in two opposite directions and may have different abrasive characteristics for each rotation direction. In one direction, the head may be configured for cutting and/or slicing, which may be well suited to removing particularly soft blockage material. In the other direction, the head may be configured for grinding, scraping and/or sanding, which may be well suited to removing particularly hard blockage material. The head includes one or more arms that are pivotally or hingedly attached to the drive shaft. One or more abrasive elements are disposed on or are attached to the one or more arms. The abrasive elements have a cutting feature, such as a sharpened edge that cuts like a razor blade when the drive shaft is rotated in the “cutting” direction. The abrasive elements also have a grinding feature, such as an abrasive material disposed on the abrasive element adjacent to the sharpened edge, which grinds away a blockage when the drive shaft is rotated in the “grinding” direction. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306690 | ABRASIVE NOSE CONE WITH EXPANDABLE CUTTING AND SANDING REGION FOR ROTATIONAL ATHERECTOMY DEVICE - An rotational atherectomy apparatus for abrading tissue, comprising: a flexible, elongated, rotatable drive shaft having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end; a nose cone operatively attached proximate the distal end of the drive shaft comprising a distal tapered section and a plurality of elongate, flexible members adjacent to the distal tapered section of the drive shaft, each member in the plurality being fixed at both a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end; a proximal mount rotatable with the drive shaft and fixedly connected to the proximal ends of all the flexible members in the plurality; and a distal mount axially separated from the proximal mount and fixedly connected to the distal ends of all the flexible members in the plurality. When the axial separation of the proximal and distal mounts is reduced by pulling the distal tapered section proximally, each member in the plurality bows outward from the drive shaft and expands radially in an at least partially elliptical profile. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306691 | CUTTING AND CORING ATHERECTOMY DEVICE AND METHOD - The invention provides a rotational and/or axially translatable atherectomy system, device and method comprising a flexible, elongated drive shaft or catheter comprising an expandable and collapsible conical coil with a cutting edge on the coil's large diameter proximal end. When retracted, the coil's sections are collapsed around each other, held together in the retracted position by a sheath that, when distally retracted, allows the coil to automatically expand. The coil is expanded at a point distal to the occlusion, then pulled proximally to cut the occluding material near the lumen wall. The proximal pulling force may be combined with low-speed rotation and/or translation and/or axial vibration at low to ultrasonic frequency. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306692 | ELECTROFORMED LIQUID JET SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - Certain embodiments of the invention provide a variety of methods of manufacturing a liquid jet-forming surgical instrument. According to these methods, a nozzle assembly of the instrument is electroformed on a mandrel. The nozzle assembly includes a nozzle providing a jet-opening, wherein the nozzle is shaped to form a liquid jet. In some embodiments, the mandrel includes a first mandrel portion and a second mandrel portion. Once the nozzle assembly is formed, the mandrel may be removed from the nozzle assembly. The nozzle assembly may in certain embodiments be coupled to an outlet of the pressure tube. In certain embodiments, an inlet of an evacuation tube is positioned such that a jet-receiving opening of the evacuation tube is positioned opposite the jet-opening of the nozzle. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306693 | Ultrasound Liquid Blade Scalpel Device - An ultrasound assisted liquid blade cutting device such as a scalpel that may be used for routine surgical operations is disclosed in this invention. The ultrasound scalpel comprises an ultrasound generator, ultrasound transducer, transducer tip, a cavity on the transducer tip using a liquid spray shaped to form a cutting surface. The spray serves as a carrier medium for the applied ultrasound energy which enhances the features and performance of the scalpel. Ultrasonic energy transmitted from the transducer tip assists the transport of the liquid to a liquid blade formed outside of the cavity. The ultrasound energy focuses and activates the liquid to allow cutting of tissue with the liquid blade. This device may be utilized for cutting through skin and/other soft tissues during surgical operations, thereby enhancing cutting efficacy, decreasing and/or eliminating necrosis formation. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306694 | Ultrasound Liquid Blade Scalpel Method - An ultrasound assisted liquid blade cutting device such as a scalpel that may be used for routine surgical operations is disclosed in this invention. The ultrasound scalpel comprises an ultrasound generator, ultrasound transducer, transducer tip, a cavity on the transducer tip using a liquid spray shaped to form a cutting surface. The spray serves as a carrier medium for the applied ultrasound energy which enhances the features and performance of the scalpel. Ultrasonic energy transmitted from the transducer tip assists the transport of the liquid to a liquid blade formed outside of the cavity. The ultrasound energy focuses and activates the liquid to allow cutting of tissue with the liquid blade. This device may be utilized for cutting through skin and/other soft tissues during surgical operations, thereby enhancing cutting efficacy, decreasing and/or eliminating necrosis formation. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306695 | Permanent Magnet Lancing Device - A lancing device and a method for using the lancing device includes a plunger mechanism having a permanent magnet housed therein. The lancing device includes a movable element having at least one attracting object and at least one repelling object. The attracting object attracts the permanent magnet to move the plunger into a retracted position. The repelling object repels the permanent magnet to move the plunger into a lancing position to pierce the skin of a test subject. The use of the permanent magnet in the plunger mechanism reduces or eliminates multiple punctures due to plunger bounce or oscillation that can occur while a body fluid sample is being drawn. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306696 | Lancet - The present invention relates to a lancet | 2009-12-10 |
20090306697 | BLADED/BLADELESS OBTURATOR FOR USE IN A SURGICAL TROCAR ASSEMBLY - An obturator assembly is provided and generally includes an obturator housing and a support tube extending distally from the obturator housing. A shield nose is affixed to a distal end of the support tube. The shield nose defines a truncated cavity and having a concave center portion. An obturator member is movably mounted relative to the support tube. A cutting blade is provided having at least one cutting edge and is affixed to a distal end of the obturator member. The cutting blade is movable within the truncated cavity. The shield nose has at least one slot formed through the concave center portion and in communication with the truncated cavity for allowing passage of the at least one cutting edge therethrough. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306698 | Surgical obturator - In a surgical obturator with a tubular housing, with a blade carrier displaceable in the tubular housing in the longitudinal direction between an advanced cutting position and a retracted protected position, a blade with a cutting edge being held on the blade carrier, the cutting edge being guided in a correspondingly extending guide of the tubular housing, with a protective cap engaging over the blade and being displaceable in the tubular housing in the longitudinal direction between an advanced rest position in which the blade is completely covered in its protected position and a retracted work position, the protective cap having a slit through which the cutting edge of the blade passes and, in the work position of the protective cap, projects over the latter, and with a retracting device arranged in the tubular housing and displacing the blade from the cutting position to the protected position, the retracting device being activatable by displacement of the protective cap from the work position to the rest position, in order to reduce the size of the retracting device, it is proposed that the retracting device comprise a switching element which fixes the blade in the cutting position and, upon activation, releases the blade for displacement to the rest position, the switching element being mounted in the tubular housing so as to be freely rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the tubular housing and immovable in the longitudinal direction, and the switching element being rotatable, upon displacement of the blade carrier and/or the protective cap in the longitudinal direction of the tubular housing, by means of a cam guide which is operative between the switching element, on the one hand, and the blade carrier and/or the protective cap, on the other hand. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306699 | Blunt Dissector for Separating Blood Vessels from Surrounding Tissue - A blunt dissector for separating a blood vessel from surrounding tissues in a body comprises a longitudinal rod having a proximal end, a distal end, and an internal passage for conducting insufflation gas between the proximal and distal ends. An interior sleeve is mounted within the longitudinal rod for receiving an endoscope at the proximal end. A transparent tip is mounted to the distal end of the longitudinal rod. A handle is mounted to the proximal end of the longitudinal rod. The longitudinal rod has an outer surface along substantially all of the longitudinal rod between the proximal and distal ends consisting essentially of a fluoropolymer. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306700 | Balloon Catheter - A balloon catheter comprises a long shaft including an inner pipe and an outer pipe, and a balloon provided at a distal end of the shaft, a distal end of the balloon being connected to the inner pipe, a proximal end of the balloon being connected to the outer pipe, and the balloon being inflated and deflated according to pressure of fluid supplied to an inside of the balloon. The balloon is molded in advance such that the balloon is inflated by pressure only to an extent in which a film of the balloon is not stretched, such that the balloon becomes a curved shape having a curved part between the proximal end and the distal end of the balloon, and such that the balloon, when deflated, is folded so as to be in a straight shape, in which the curved part is hidden, and wound around the inner pipe. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306701 | Vascular access sheath with integrated return electrode - Described herein are vascular access sheaths having an integrated electrode therein. Also described are assemblies comprising the sheaths as well as methods of making and using the vascular access sheaths. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306702 | Device for the Removal of Thrombi - The invention relates to a device provided with one or several distal elements ( | 2009-12-10 |
20090306703 | EMBOLUS BLOOD CLOT FILTER WITH POST DELIVERY ACTUATION - A removable blood clot filter includes a number of locator members and anchor members, and a bio-resorbable structure that causes locator members and/or anchor members to deploy to an initial configuration which changes when the bio-resorbable structure is resorbed. The bio-resorbable structure causes the filter locator members and/or anchor members to press against the vessel wall sufficient to locate and anchor the filter upo delivery. After the bio-resorbable structure is resorbed, the locator member's and/or anchor members change shape to apply less pressure against the vessel wall. The bio-resorbable structure may be activated by exposure to radiation so that actuation of the locator members and/or anchor members can be enabled or initiated by a clinician. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306704 | SPIRAL SHAPED FILTER - In one embodiment of the present invention there is provided a filter having a first spiral support member having a first end and a second end, a second spiral support member positioned adjacent the first spiral support member to form an open loop between the first end and the second end of the first spiral support member; and a filtering structure attached to the open loop. In another embodiment of the present invention there is provided a filter having a first spiral support member having a first end and a second end; a second spiral support member positioned adjacent the first spiral support member to form a loop between the first end and the second end; a material covering a portion of the first and the second spiral support members; and a structure attached to the loop. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306705 | Functional Metallicity Ion Band - A pair of functional metal ion bands are provided. The pair of functional metal ion bands are attached to meridians and acupoints of the human body in a simple manner to induce a smooth flow of current in the body, thereby rapidly changing a disease condition to a normal state. The pair of functional metal ion bands comprise a gold-colored thin metal plate as a positive electrode and a silver-colored thin metal plate as a negative electrode wherein the gold-colored thin metal plate is composed of Cu and a metal selected from Ag, Au and Pt and the silver-colored thin metal plate is made of an alloy of Al, Si, Fe, Cu, Mn, Mg and Zn. The pair of functional metal ion bands are manufactured by processing each of the thin metal plates to have a thickness of 1 μm to 1 cm and a diameter of 1 mm to 50 cm, and attaching the processed metal plate to one side of a soft adhesive fabric using an adhesive. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306706 | OCCLUSION ELEMENT FOR OPENINGS IN THE HEART, IN PARTICULAR AN ASD OCCLUSION ELEMENT - An occlusion element ( | 2009-12-10 |
20090306707 | Joining and/or Sealing Tissues Through Photo-Activated Cross-Linking of Matrix Proteins - A method of joining and/or scaling tissues in a surgical procedure or medical treatment, comprising the steps of: (1) applying a matrix protein, a photoactivatable metal-ligand complex and an electron acceptor to a tissue portion; (2) irradiating said tissue portion to photactivate the photoactivatable metal-ligand complex: thereby initiating a cross-linking reaction of the matrix protein to seal said tissue portion or join said tissue portion to an adjacent tissue portion. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306708 | Mechanically pivoting cartridge channel for surgical instrument - A surgical instrument including a frame, an elongate portion, a drive beam and an end effector is disclosed. The elongate portion extends distally from the frame. The drive beam is disposed at least partially within the elongate portion and is translatable with respect to the elongate portion. The end effector is disposed adjacent a distal end of the elongate portion and includes first and second jaw members. The first jaw member is movable with respect to the second jaw member. The first jaw member includes a proximal camming surface and a distal camming surface thereon. A surgical fastener cartridge is disposed in the first jaw member. an actuation portion of the drive beam has an upper member arranged to contact the distal camming surface causing approximation of the jaw members. Proximal translation of the drive beam causes the actuation portion of the drive beam to contact the proximal camming surface effecting opening of the jaw members. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306709 | SURGICAL REPAIR PRODUCT COMPRISING UHMWPE FILAMENTS - The invention relates to an elongate surgical repair product comprising a cable of which bending stiffness can be lowered, which fibrous member is a heat-set cable comprising at least 50 mass % of high-performance polyethylene yarn. The product shows very high tenacity, combined with a relatively high initial bending stiffness that is significantly reduced upon bending or flexing the member, without significant dimensional change; and allows both easy and well-controlled handling and good knot tying characteristics. The invention also relates to a method of making said clongate product. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306710 | DEVICES FOR TENSIONING BARBED SUTURES AND METHODS THEREFOR - A device for tensioning barbed sutures used for securing tissue or prosthetic devices includes a handle, and a shaft having a proximal end connected with the handle and a distal end remote therefrom. The distal end of the shaft includes a pressure applying surface for pressing against the tissue and the prosthetic devices. The tensioning device includes a pair of grooves extending through the shaft from the pressure applying surface at the distal end of the shaft toward the proximal end of the shaft. A barbed suture is tensioned by aligning a first section of the suture in the first groove and a second section of the suture in the second groove. After the first and second suture sections are aligned in the grooves, the proximal ends of the sections may be pulled for applying tension to the suture. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306711 | Method for Tissue Fixation - A method for securing a strand to a fixation member for arthroscopic fixation, wherein the fixation member includes a channel on an exterior surface and an aperture therethrough. The method includes passing a strand having first and second ends through a flexible sleeve, passing the sleeve through the aperture of the fixation member in a first direction, tensioning the strand, and pulling the sleeve in a second direction different than the first direction to secure the sleeve to the fixation member without tying the strand on the fixation member. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306712 | TEETH CLEANING PACIFIER HAVING A CONVEX TEAT BODY - A pacifier with a shield and a teat element. The teat element includes a shaft adjacent to the shield and solid in cross-section in the region of contact with the jaw and/or the teeth. A teat member adjoins the shaft in its end section which faces away from the shield so that the contour of the teat element, starting from the shaft, has a club-shape which corresponds substantially to known hollow-body teats. A convex hollow teat body is provided as a teat member which is substantially annular. The longitudinal axis of the annular teat body runs substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinally extending axis of the teat element or the hollow teat body is designed to be substantially closed-walled so as to form a cavity. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306713 | SPINAL SUPPORT DEVICE - A spinal support device for providing a guide to a user lying with the user's back on a surface for positioning the user's spine correctly over the surface. The device includes an elongated guide body having a first tubular portion, a second portion, and a third tubular portion parallel to the first tubular portion, wherein the first and third tubular portions are at least partially filled with a filler material such that the second portion forms a gutter or trough between the first and third tubular portions of the guide body. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306714 | METHOD OF PRODUCING A SUPPORT ARTICLE, A SUPPORT ARTICLE, AND A SUPPORT DEVICE INCORPORATING THE SAME - A method of producing a support article for part of the human body, in particular the back, comprises the steps of obtaining an array of electronically encoded points defined in 3D corresponding to points on a surface of the body part utilizing a non-contact 3D digitiser. The array of points are converted into data readable by a computer aided manufacturing device. The data is adjusted to alter the surface prior to forming the article. The support article is formed incorporating the surface from the adjusted data using the computer aided manufacturing device. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306715 | INTERSPINOUS PROCESS SPACER - An interspinous process spacer is generally rectangular and may have an upper face that generally opposes a lower face, front and back sides that generally oppose each other, an end side, and a nose that generally opposes the end side. The spacer preferably has rounded edges between the upper face and the front, end, and back sides and between the lower face and the front, end, and back sides. The nose of the spacer is preferably asymmetrical and tapers integrally, distally, and inwardly from the first and second faces to form a generally pointed or rounded distal tip. A spacer may be inserted laterally into the interspinous space through a small, posterior midline incision, allowing the preservation of the supraspinous ligament. One or more spacers may be placed between spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae, and result in distraction of the spinous processes which may limit extension of the spine. Implantation of an interspinous process may inhibit or prevent the narrowing of the spinal canal and neural foramen at the level of treatment, thereby relieving pain symptoms. Preservation of the supraspinous ligament may provide additional stability, for example by keeping the implant from migrating posteriorly. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306716 | Implant and implant system - In order to improve an implant for the dorsal stabilization of a human or animal spinal column, comprising an attachment device for placing in position against and/or fixing to spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae of the spinal column, such that it can be used for the dynamic dorsal stabilization of the spinal column, it is suggested that the implant comprise at least one spacer element which is associated with the attachment device and designed in such a manner that it alters its external shape and/or its elastic properties as a result of a change in ambient conditions and/or forces acting on it. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306717 | FLUID-POWERED ELONGATION INSTRUMENTATION FOR CORRECTING ORTHOPEDIC DEFORMITIES - Growing rod systems and methods for correcting spinal deformities include at least one growing rod assembly and at least one fluid delivery assembly. Each growing rod assembly includes a fluid actuator that is operable to extend first and second rod segments in opposite directions along the spine. The fluid actuator can be provided by, for example, a piston-cylinder actuator. Each fluid delivery assembly includes a fluid pump operably connectable to a fluid line, which in turn is connected to the fluid actuator. In one embodiment, the fluid actuator is of a linear design. In another embodiment, two linear or curvilinear fluid actuators are provided back-to-back and connected by a connecting rod that mounts to the mid-spine and is contourable. In another embodiment, the fluid actuator is of a curvilinear design to generally conform the normal spine. And in another embodiment, the fluid actuator includes a fluid-over-fluid shock absorber. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306718 | FILAMENT AND CAP SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THE FIXATION OF BONE FRACTURES - A lagwire system and method for facilitating the fixation of bone fractures is disclosed. The lagwire system includes an anchor component, a wire, a threaded sleeve, a tubular sleeve and a cap. The threaded sleeve, tubular sleeve and cap are operable to slide along the length of the wire. The threaded sleeve and tubular sleeve may be integrally formed. The wire may comprise a filament to allow at least some movement of the bone fractures. The cap may comprise a tapered interior operable to restrict further movement of the cap relative to the wire. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306719 | STRUCTURE AND METHOD FOR DRIVING A PEDICLE SCREW WITH AN ATTACHED SUPPORT ROD FOR SPINAL OSTEOSYNTHESIS - Improvements for a pedicle screw that is pre-connected to a support rod by an articulation joint so that the pedicle screw can be installed with the support rod attached to it. A first driven interlock element is joined to the pedicle screw. A driver interlock element is formed at a first end of the support rod and is matingly engageable with the driven interlock element of the pedicle screw. The support rod is retained in the joint in a manner that allows it to be pivoted between a position that is substantially coaxial with the pedicle screw and an installed position transverse to the pedicle screw. The support rod, when aligned coaxially with the pedicle screw is able to slide axially within the articulation joint to permit engagement of the driver interlock element of the rod with the driven interlock element of the screw. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306720 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW - A fastening system for bone screws used in spinal fixation systems for reshaping the spine of a patient. The bone screw has threads on one end for anchoring in the spine. The other end has a spherical head with a multi sided recess formed therein for engagement with an appropriate driving tool. The system includes a stabilizing rod, a saddle member, a cap member and a set screw with at least one bone screw having a outer diameter that exceeds the diameter of a cavity formed in the saddle, wherein placement of the bone screw is made possible by matching the threads of the set screw to the threads of the bone screw. The head of the bone screw providing proper positioning of the stabilization rod within the patient. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306721 | RETRACTION TUBE FOR USE WITH CAPLESS PEDICLE SCREW - A retractor system and method for locating and placing a polyaxial screw while substantially simultaneously retracting tissue is shown and described. The retractor has a channel that facilitates introducing a rod into the polyaxial screw. Various embodiments are shown, including one which utilized a reducer for moving the rod in the retractor. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306722 | CONNECTOR FOR ATTACHING AN ALIGNMENT ROD TO A BONE STRUCTURE - A connector for a spinal alignment system includes a base, a hook, a guide aperture, and a locking portion. The base includes a channel extending therethrough to receive a fixation rod. The hook extends from the base. The guide aperture is adapted to receive a bone fastener and the locking portion is adapted to engage the bone fastener. The guide aperture extends through one of the base and the hook and the locking portion is located in the other of the base and the hook. The locking portion is coaxial with the guide aperture such that the guide aperture guides a shaft of the bone fastener into alignment with the locking portion when the bone fastener is received by the guide aperture. The bone fastener cooperates with the base and hook to form a tension band construct that resists opposing forces acting on the construct. A rod locking fastener engages the channel and the fixation rod to secure the fixation rod in the channel. The rod locking fastener and the base include mating surfaces that cooperate with each other to resist the force exerted by the fixation rod onto the rod locking fastener when the fixation rod is secured in the channel. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306723 | Bone Plate Comprising at Least One Screw to Be Fixed at a Stable Angle - Disclosed is a bone plate comprising at least one screw that is to be fixed at a stable angle to at least one through-hole and at least one bone screw which is provided with an external thread in the top region. Said external thread tapers more in the screwing direction than a mating thread of the through-hole embodied as an internal thread such that the top of the bone screw is clamped in a stable direction in a torsion-proof manner when the bone screw is screwed in. The bone plate is configured elastically in at least one area adjoining the through-hole such that the material of the bone plate is not deformed in the ductile area because of the expansion resulting from the head of the bone screw being screwed in. As a consequence, the area surrounding the through-hole is not overstretched in any position of the bone screw along the entire length of the threads because of the interaction between the external thread of the top of the bone screw and the internal thread of the plate while the torsion-proof condition is maintained. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306724 | Orthopedic plates for use in clavicle repair and methods for their use - The present invention relates to a series of orthopedic plates for use in repair of a clavicle. The plate has a Y-shaped profile or an X-shaped profile which includes an elongate central trunk with a complex contour and wither one or two terminal pairs of arms that have a first arm and a second arm that form differing angles and lengths relative to the trunk portion of the plate. The arms include locking screw holes where the screws converge toward each other to provide for multiplanar fixatio but which do not impinge. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306725 | MAGNESIUM-BASED MEDICAL DEVICE AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - A magnesium-based medical device which can adjust a degree of corrosion within a wide range of period such that the device can maintain a sufficient strength only during a desired period and disappears within a desired period thereafter and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. A magnesium-based medical device of the present invention is a magnesium-based medical device in which a base material is made of magnesium or a magnesium alloy, wherein a corrosion-resistant film is formed on a surface of the base material, and variation in surface hardness of the formed corrosion-resistant film in the in-plane direction is less than 21 in terms of a dispersion value of Vickers hardness. | 2009-12-10 |
20090306726 | DEVICE FOR FIXATION OF A BONE FRACTURE - The present invention relates to a device for fixation of a bone fracture. The device comprises at least one appliance ( | 2009-12-10 |