| Patent application number | Description | Published |
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| 20080234658 | Device and Methods for Controlling Blood Perfusion Pressure Using a Retrograde Cannula - Devices and methods are disclosed for the control of blood perfusion pressure within a blood vessel that undergoes arterialization. A cannula is introduced that contains a stenosis that either resorbs or is removed in time, allowing a gradual increase in blood pressure between two blood passages connected at either ends of the cannula. Particular emphasis has been made with the use of the cannula for the vessels in the heart. | 09-25-2008 |
| 20080294041 | Devices, Systems and Methods for Determining Sizes of Vessels - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for determining the cross sectional area of a vessel. Through a combination of fluid injection with different conductivities and measurement of the resultant conductances, parallel tissue conductance measure is obtained that assists in determining the cross sectional area, taking into account the presence of a stent. | 11-27-2008 |
| 20080300672 | Devices and Methods for Magnetic Tissue Support - Devices and methods are disclosed for providing tissue support within the body. A metallic component and a magnetic component are used and allowed to interact through the body of the tissue such that the attractive forces between these components provides the external support needed by that tissue to properly function within its position. Such a technique is described with respect to the particular example of correction of aneurysms. | 12-04-2008 |
| 20090082698 | DEVICES, METHODS, AND SYSTEMS FOR SIZING OF A GASTRIC POUCH - Devices, methods, and systems for measuring the size of gastric pouches. At least some embodiments include a catheter comprising an outer elongate tube, an inner elongate tube disposed within the outer elongate tube, a proximal balloon attached to the outer elongate tube, a distal balloon having a first end attached to the outer elongate tube and a second end attached to the inner elongate tube, at least two detection electrodes positioned on the outer elongate tube relative to at least two excitation electrodes, and a pressure transducer positioned on the outer elongate tube. | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090099211 | TREATMENTS FOR CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE - Methods and pharmaceutical preparations for treating heart failure by administering to a human or animal subject a therapeutically effective amount of at least one substance selected from the group consisting of a) SOD mimics (e.g., Tempol), b) NADPH oxidase inhibitors (e.g., Apocynin) and c) other substance that inhibit or reduce the amount of superoxide present in the affected tissues (e.g., the subjects heart and/or blood vessels) and/or increase levels of nitric oxide. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090177211 | HOMEOSTATIC TISSUE APPARATUS - A device for supporting a tissue, the device has a shaft having a longitudinal axis and at least two atraumatic clamps coupled to the shaft. Each atraumatic clamp may have at least two oppositely polarized magnets. An atraumatic clamp may also have a mounting structure for the magnets. In at least one embodiment, the atraumatic clamps are mounted along the shaft so that when the shaft is positioned relative to a tissue having a length, the clamps may clamp the tissue so that the length of tissue positioned between the clamps is maintained substantially constant. | 07-09-2009 |
| 20090204029 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING PHASIC CARDIAC CYCLE MEASUREMENTS - The disclosure of the present application provides for systems and methods for determining a phasic change in a vessel and vessel compliance. In at least one exemplary method for determining a phasic change in a vessel, the method comprises the steps of introducing a device into a site within a vessel, operating the device in connection with two or more fluid injections in the vessel to obtain two or more conductance values, calculating a parallel conductance value and a total conductance value, and calculating a phasic change in at least one vessel parameter based in part upon the calculated parallel conductance value and the calculated total conductance value. In an exemplary method for determining vessel compliance, the method comprises, in part, the steps of calculating a first vessel parameter and a second vessel parameter based on at least two conductance values, calculating a change in vessel parameter based upon the first and second vessel parameters, and calculating vessel compliance based upon the relationship between the change in vessel parameter and a change in pressure during a cardiac cycle. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090204134 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR REMOVING STENOTIC LESIONS FROM VESSELS - The present application provides various devices, systems, and methods for removing stenotic lesions from vessels. In at least one embodiment of an exemplary device, the device comprises at least one sizing portion and at least one treatment portion. Such a device may be useful to, for example, remove a stenotic lesion from a vessel by positioning the device within a vessel lumen, operating the sizing portion to obtain luminal size parameter data, operating the treatment portion at a location within the vessel lumen at or near a stenotic lesion, and ceasing operation of the treatment portion when the luminal size parameter data indicates a preferred luminal size parameter. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090216133 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING VESSEL COMPLIANCE - The disclosure of the present application provides for systems and methods for determining a phasic change in a vessel and vessel compliance. In at least one exemplary method for determining a phasic change in a vessel, the method comprises the steps of introducing a device into a site within a vessel, operating the device in connection with two or more fluid injections in the vessel to obtain two or more conductance values, calculating a parallel conductance value and a total conductance value, and calculating a phasic change in at least one vessel parameter based in part upon the calculated parallel conductance value and the calculated total conductance value. In an exemplary method for determining vessel compliance, the method comprises, in part, the steps of calculating a first vessel parameter and a second vessel parameter based on at least two conductance values, calculating a change in vessel parameter based upon the first and second vessel parameters, and calculating vessel compliance based upon the relationship between the change in vessel parameter and a change in pressure during a cardiac cycle. | 08-27-2009 |
| 20090240268 | MAGNETIC DEVICES FOR ORGAN REMODELING - A device, system and method for providing tissue and organ restriction. A magnetic device is described with respect to restricting gastric capacity while avoiding nutritional deficiencies and other complications. Additionally, a system is described for the automate restriction of gastric capacity using a magnetic device and a sensor | 09-24-2009 |
| 20090281650 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DESIGNING ENERGY EFFICIENT MICROFLUIDIC CHANNEL DEVICES - In at least one embodiment, a method for diagnosing vascular disease is provided, the method comprising the steps of obtaining a vessel image showing a vasculature of a vessel identifying at least two measurements from the vasculature of the vessel, the measurements relating to at least two parameters, calculating a relationship between the at least two parameters from the at least two measurements to generate one or more vasculature data points, and comparing the one or more vasculature data points to data relative to a model vasculature to determine the extent of vascular disease. In an another embodiment, a method for diagnosing vascular disease in a patient's vascular tree is provided, the method comprising the steps of generating a model vascular tree from a minimum energy hypothesis calculation, and comparing the patient's vascular tree with the model vascular tree to determine the extent of vascular disease. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090312789 | MAGNETIC DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SEPTAL OCCLUSION - A magnetic device and method are disclosed for providing a safer and more reliable technique for closing a hole or rupture in the septum of the heart. A device is disclosed with proximal and distal occluders that are connected to one another via a catheter and are inserted on either side of the hole or rupture. Also disclosed are two patches that are placed on either side of the hole or rupture with at least one of the patches being composed of magnetic material with the other being magnetic or metallic. | 12-17-2009 |
| 20090319020 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR PROMOTING ENDOTHELIALIZATION - Devices, systems, and methods for promoting endothelialization and preventing restenosis are disclosed. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein promote endothelialization and prevent restenosis by reducing local blood flow turbulence. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein promote endothelialization and prevent restenosis by directing endothelial progenitor cells to a targeted site using magnetic and other means. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090322749 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EXTRACTING A CURVE-SKELETON FROM A VOLUMETRIC IMAGE OF A VESSEL - An accurate analysis of the spatial distribution and intravascular pattern of blood flow in any organ must be based on detailed morphometry (diameters, lengths, vessel numbers, branching pattern, branching angles, etc.) of the organ vasculature. Despite the significance of detailed morphometric data, there is relative scarcity of database on vascular anatomy, mainly because the process is extremely labor intensive. Novel methods in the form of a segmentation algorithm for semi-automation of morphometric data extraction are provided. The extraction algorithm is based on a topological analysis of a vector field generated by the normal vectors of the extracted vessel wall. With this approach, special focus is made on achieving the highest accuracy of the measured values, with excellent results when compared to manual measurements of the main trunk of the coronary arteries with microscopy. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20100010355 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR MAPPING ORGAN PROFILES - Devices, systems, and methods for the localization of body lumen junctions and other intraluminal structure are disclosed. Various embodiments permit clinicians to identify and locate lesions and/or anatomical structures within a lumen and accurately place leads and/or devices within a lumen, through determining the intralumen conductance and/or cross-sectional area at a plurality of locations within the body lumen. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100010368 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING AORTIC LESIONS - Devices, systems, and methods for the localization of body lumen junctions and other intraluminal structure are disclosed. Various embodiments permit clinicians to identify and locate lesions and/or anatomical structures within a lumen and accurately place leads and/or devices within a lumen, through determining the intralumen conductance and/or cross-sectional area at a plurality of locations within the body lumen. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100010488 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EPICARDIAL NAVIGATION - Systems and methods for navigating a catheter along the epieardial surface of the heart are disclosed. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein are useful for epieardial ablation, Various embodiments permit ablation of the epieardial surface of the heart using an external ablation catheter in the pericardial space and an internal guide catheter within the heart. Such a configuration allows the clinician to precisely target for ablation specific locations on the cardiac tissue. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100010503 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PLACING HEART LEADS - Devices, systems, and methods for the localization of body lumen junctions and other intraluminal structure are disclosed. Various embodiments permit clinicians to identify and locate lesions and/or anatomical structures within a lumen and accurately place leads and/or devices within a lumen, through determining the intralumen conductance and/or cross-sectional area at a plurality of locations within the body lumen. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100022946 | ENDOVASCULAR PERIAORTIC MAGNETIC GLUE DELIVERY - The disclosure of the present application includes assemblies, systems, and methods for preventing endoleak and migration. In an embodiment of an assembly for delivering a magnetic glue-like substance, the assembly comprises a catheter defining a catheter, a needle positioned within the catheter, and a needle wire, whereby a magnetic glue-like substance may be injected through a needle wire to a target site. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100030055 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS TO EVALUATE CARDIOVASCULAR FUNCTION - Devices and methods are disclosed which relate to the detection of cardiovascular efficiency and risk of disease. The rate of volumetric change of the heart can be determined by measuring the parallel conductance across electrodes attached to the heart. Measurements from a lumen would consider the total conductance. The rate of volumetric or lumen cross-section area change can then be compared to an average model to determine the health of a patient. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100041981 | APPLICATIONS OF SCALING LAWS OF TREE STRUCTURES - In at least one embodiment, a method for diagnosing vascular disease is provided, the method comprising the steps of obtaining a vessel image showing a vasculature of a vessel, identifying at least two measurements from the vasculature of the vessel, the measurements relating to at least two parameters, calculating a relationship between the at least two parameters from the at least two measurements to generate one or more vasculature data points, and comparing the one or more vasculature data points to data relative to a model vasculature to determine the extent of vascular disease. In an another embodiment, a method for diagnosing vascular disease in a patient's vascular tree is provided, the method comprising the steps of generating a model vascular tree from a minimum energy hypothesis calculation, and comparing the patient's vascular tree with the model vascular tree to determine the extent of vascular disease. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100082050 | DEVICES FOR ORGAN RESTRICTION - Implantable devices for providing tissue and/or organ restriction. Embodiments of an implantable magnetic device are described with respect to restricting gastric capacity while avoiding nutritional deficiencies and other complications. In at least one embodiment, the device comprises first and second bars that are biased to magnetically attract each other and engage a portion of tissue therebetween. In at least one embodiment, the device may comprise at least one strap and one or more pins, the pins configured to provide an amount of space between the first and second bars so that the tissue disposed therebetween is not overly compressed. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100082058 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING LOCAL BLOOD PRESSURE - A device for exposing a blood vessel to increased pressure, the device comprising an anchor capable of being positioned within a lumen of a blood vessel, and a particle capable of expanding, said particle in contact with the anchor. In at least one embodiment, the anchor is further capable of expanding so that the expanded anchor spans across a cross-sectional area of the lumen of the blood vessel. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100087919 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VALVE ANNULUS REMODELING - Systems and methods for remodeling the annulus of a valve are disclosed. At least some embodiments disclosed herein are useful for resizing the mitral valve annulus in a safe and effective way. Such remodeling can be used to treat mitral valve regurgitation. At least some of the disclosed embodiments adjust the size of a valve annulus using magnetic forces. Other embodiments may include mechanisms for the manual adjustment of the annulus. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100094256 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR LOCALIZED DRUG DELIVERY - Devices, systems, and methods for localized drug delivery. In at least one embodiment of a method of localized drug delivery, the method comprises the steps of placing a resorbable device within a tube, introducing the tube within a mammalian body at or near a tissue and/or organ within the mammalian body, and anchoring the resorbable device to the tissue and/or organ. Devices and systems useful for performing such a method are also disclosed herein, wherein an exemplary device comprises at least one drug release portion having at least one drug to be released over time and a binder intermixed with the at least one drug, and at least one resorbable anchor portion coupled to the at least one drug release portion. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100106185 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR ENDOSCOPIC GASTRIC MAGNETIC RESTRICTION - A device, system and method for providing tissue and organ restriction. A device is described with respect to restricting gastric capacity while avoiding nutritional deficiencies and other complications. Additionally, a system and method are described for using the device to restrict gastric capacity to perform a non surgical gastric procedure. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100152607 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR MEASURING PARALLEL TISSUE CONDUCTANCE, LUMINAL CROSS-SECTIONAL AREAS, FLUID VELOCITY, AND/OR DETERMINING PLAQUE VULNERABILITY USING TEMPERATURE - Devices, systems, and methods for measuring parallel tissue conductance, luminal cross-sectional areas, fluid velocity, and/or determining plaque vulnerability using temperature. In at least one embodiment of a device to obtain a parallel tissue conductance within a luminal organ, the device comprises an elongated body having a longitudinal axis extending from a proximal end to a distal end, a pair of excitation electrodes located on the elongated body at or near the distal end, a pair of detection electrodes located on the elongated body in between the pair of excitation electrodes, and a thermistor positioned along the longitudinal axis, located near the distal end and positioned proximal to the first excitation electrode and the second excitation electrode. | 06-17-2010 |
| 20100160719 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR PERICARDIAL ACCESS - Devices, systems, and methods for accessing tissue, including the internal and external tissues of the heart, are disclosed. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein provide access to the external surface of the heart through the pericardial space for localized delivery of leads to the heart tissue. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein provide access to the pericardial space for removal of accumulated fluid. In addition, various disclosed embodiments provide devices, systems, and methods for engaging a tissue, for removing fluid from a space within a body, and for the delivery of substances to a targeted site for therapeutic purposes. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100168651 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR MYOCARDIAL INFARCT BORDER ZONE REINFORCEMENT - Devices, systems, and methods for myocardial infarct border zone reinforcement. In at least one embodiment of a suction/infusion catheter for facilitating myocardial infarct border zone reinforcement, the catheter comprises one or more apertures defined along a portion of the catheter at or near a distal end of the catheter, a first configuration when the suction/infusion catheter is at least partially extended from a delivery catheter, and a second configuration when the at least one suction/infusion catheter is positioned within the delivery catheter, the second configuration different from the first configuration, wherein the suction/infusion catheter, when introduced into a pericardial space surrounding a heart at or near a myocardial infarct border zone, is operable to inject a glue-like substance through a lumen of the suction/infusion catheter and out from the one or more apertures to deliver the glue-like substance into the pericardial space at or near the myocardial infarct border zone. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100168655 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR REMOVING FLUID FROM A BODILY TISSUE - Devices, systems, and methods for removing fluid from a bodily tissue. In at least one embodiment of a catheter for use with a vacuum source for removing fluid from a mammalian tissue, the catheter comprises an elongated tube comprising a proximal end, a distal end, an outer wall positioned circumferentially along a length of the tube, and an inner wall positioned circumferentially along the length of the tube and defining a lumen within the tube, wherein the inner wall defines at least one suction channel along the length of the tube, one or more apertures defined along the tube, wherein the one or more apertures extend from the outer wall of the tube to the inner wall of the tube, the one or more apertures present at or near the distal end of the tube, wherein at least one of the one or more apertures is/are in communication with the at least one suction channel, and a vacuum port in communication with the proximal end of the tube, the vacuum port being operatively connected to the at least one suction channel and capable of operative connection to a vacuum source. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100168761 | DEVICES FOR ACCESSING THE PERICARDIAL SPACE SURROUNDING THE HEART - Devices for accessing the pericardial space surrounding the heart. In at least one embodiment of a delivery catheter for use in accessing a pericardial space surrounding the external surface of a heart, the delivery catheter comprises comprising an elongated tube comprising a wall extending from a proximal end of the tube to a distal end of the tube, a first lumen, and a steering channel extending from a proximal end of the tube to a distal end of the tube, the steering channel forming an orifice at the distal end of the tube, and a steering wire system at least partially located in the steering channel, the steering wire system comprising at least two steering wires attached to the wall of the tube within the steering channel and a controller attached to a proximal end of each of the at least two steering wires, wherein the first lumen extends from approximately the proximal end of the tube to or near the distal end of the tube, the first lumen having a bend, relative to the tube, at or near the distal end of the tube and an outlet through the wall of the tube at or near the distal end of the tube. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100168791 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CLOSING A HOLE IN CARDIAC TISSUE - Systems and methods for closing a hold in cardiac tissue. In at least one embodiment of a system for closing a hole in cardiac tissue, the system comprises an engagement catheter having a first and second lumen extending therethrough, an elongated wire capable of insertion into the second lumen of the engagement catheter, a plug capable of insertion into the second lumen of the engagement catheter; an elongated shaft capable of insertion into the second lumen of the engagement catheter, wherein the elongated wire is sized for slidable insertion through the lumen of the shaft and the hole of the plug. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100168836 | BALLOON SIZING OF VALVE ANNULUS FOR PERCUTANEOUS VALVES - Balloon sizing of valve annulus for percutaneous valves. In at least one embodiment of a device to size a valve annulus of the present disclosure, the device comprises an elongated body extending from a proximal end to a distal end and having a lumen therethrough, a balloon positioned along the elongated body at or near the distal end, a detector and a pressure transducer positioned along the elongated body within the balloon, and a suction/infusion port defined within the elongated body within the balloon. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100168840 | METHODS FOR REMOVING A VALVE FROM A VESSEL - Methods for removing a valve from a bodily vessel. In at least one method for removing a valve from a bodily vessel, the method comprises the steps of introducing an umbrella device into a vessel, positioning the umbrella device within an aperture within the valve, deploying a first umbrella of the umbrella device on a first side of the valve to engage the valve at the first side of the valve, deploying a second umbrella of the umbrella device on a second side of the valve to engage the valve at the second side of the valve, operating a mechanical drill of the umbrella device to grind the valve, collapsing the first umbrella and the second umbrella to facilitate withdrawal of the umbrella device from the vessel, and withdrawing the umbrella device from the vessel. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100172554 | IMAGE-BASED EXTRACTION FOR VASCULAR TREES - An accurate analysis of the spatial distribution and intravascular pattern of blood flow in any organ must be based on interpolated gradient located within back plane detailed morphometry (diameters, lengths, of cube defined by neighboring voxels vessel numbers, branching pattern, branching angles, etc.) of the organ vasculature. Despite the significance of detailed morphometric data, there is relative scarcity of database on vascular anatomy, mainly because the process is extremely labor intensive. Novel methods in the form of a segmentation algorithm for semi-automation of morphometric data extraction are provided. The extraction algorithm is based on a topological analysis of a vector field generated by the normal vectors of the extracted vessel wall. With this approach, special focus is made on achieving the highest accuracy of the measured values, with excellent results when compared to manual measurements of the main trunk of the coronary arteries with microscopy. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100174271 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR REMOVING CONTRAST FROM LUMINAL ORGANS - Devices, systems, and methods for removing contrast from luminal organs. In at least one embodiment of a device for removing contrast from luminal organs of the present disclosure, the device comprises an elongated body having at least one lumen extending therethrough and an aperture defined along the elongated body, said aperture configured to facilitate withdrawal of contrast from a mammalian luminal organ, a first detector for detecting a contrast present within the mammalian luminal organ, the detector positioned at or near a distal end of the elongated body, an inflatable balloon coupled to the elongated body proximal to the detector, and a second detector for detecting balloon inflation, the second detector positioned along the elongated body within the balloon. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100174295 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR ORGAN RESTRICTION - A device, system and method for providing tissue and organ restriction. Embodiments of an implantable magnetic device are described with respect to restricting gastric capacity while avoiding nutritional deficiencies and other complications. Further, a delivery device is described for facilitating the delivery of the magnetic device to a targeted site. Additionally, methods are described for delivering the magnetic devices to a stomach. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100179376 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR DEFORMING A BODY CHANNEL - Devices, system and methods for deforming body channels are disclosed herein. At least some embodiments described may be used to deform a body channel so as to decrease or prevent the normal intrachannel flow of material within the body channel. Such deformation may be used to treat such maladies as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100185044 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ASSISTING HEART FUNCTION - Devices and methods for assisting heart function. In at least one embodiment of a device for assisting heart function, the device comprises at least two electromagnetic plates having an inner surface, a cardiac processor electrically coupled to at least one of the at least two electromagnetic plates, a bladder having an inner chamber, the bladder attached to an inner surface of at least one of the at least two electromagnetic plates, a source of gas in communication with the inner chamber of the bladder, and at least one catheter having a proximal end and a distal end and having a lumen therethrough, the at least one catheter defining at least one aperture positioned therethrough at or near the distal end of the at least one catheter and comprising a pericardial balloon coupled to the at least one catheter at or near the distal end of the at least one catheter, the proximal end of the at least one catheter in communication with the inner chamber of the bladder. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100185140 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR PROMOTION OF INFARCT HEALING AND REINFORCEMENT OF BORDER ZONE - Devices, systems, and methods for accessing tissue, including the internal and external tissues of the heart, are disclosed. At feast some of the embodiments disclosed herein provide access to the tissues surrounding the heart to facilitate myocardial infarct healing and border zone reinforcement. In at least one embodiment, a suction/infusion catheter is used to provide localized suction to an area of myocardial infarct. In another embodiment, a suction infusion catheter is used to deliver a glue-like substance and magnetic cells to a myocardial infarct border zone. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100185141 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SECURING A CATHETER WITHIN A HEART - Devices and methods for securing a catheter within a heart. In at least one embodiment of an apparatus for securing a catheter within a heart, the apparatus comprises a catheter having a proximal end and a distal end and at least one lumen defined therethrough, the catheter defining at least one aperture positioned therethrough at or near the distal end of the catheter, at least one balloon coupled to the catheter and positioned externally to the catheter, and a conduit having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the conduit coupled to the at least one balloon, wherein when the catheter is positioned within an aperture in an atrial wall and when the at least one balloon is positioned at or near the aperture in the atrial wall, inflation of the at least one balloon causes the catheter to be held in place at the atrial wall. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100185235 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CLOSING AN APERTURE IN A BODILY TISSUE - Systems and methods for closing an aperture in a bodily tissue. In at least one embodiment of a system for closing an aperture in a targeted mammalian tissue, the system comprises a first catheter having a lumen defined therethrough, a coil positioned within the lumen of the first catheter, and a shaft positioned within the lumen of the catheter, the shaft operable to position the coil at the targeted tissue, wherein the coil may be positioned within the aperture of the targeted tissue to close said aperture. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100191264 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DIAGNOSING AND DELIVERING THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS IN THE PERITONEAL CAVITY - A device and system are described that are capable of isolating at least one targeted tissue and forming an anastomosis between two internal body structures though a completely endoscopic procedure. Further, the device and system described generally comprise two tubular members that are capable of moving in a telescopic fashion relative to one another. Additionally, a method is described for using the device and/or system to bypass the duodenum from digestion. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100198211 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR VALVE REMOVAL - Devices, systems, and methods for percutaneous and mini-invasive valve removal are provided. In at least one embodiment of a device for removing a valve, said device comprises a catheter, two mesh umbrellas coupled thereto, a cauterizing mechanism operable to excise a valve from a vessel, and a mechanical drill operable to grind said excised valve to allow for removal of the ground excised valve by way of an enclosure created by the two mesh umbrellas. In another embodiment, a temporary stent valve is positioned near the valve to be excised to avoid aortic insufficiency during valve excision. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100198329 | ENDOGRAFT DEVICES AND METHODS FOR USING THE SAME - Various endograft assemblies and methods for using the same. In at least one embodiment of an endograft assembly of the present disclosure, the endograft assembly comprises an endograft and a tube defining one or more tube openings coupled to said endograft. In another embodiment of an endograft assembly of the present disclosure, the endograft assembly comprises an endograft, a sponge sheath coupled to the endograft, and a reservoir bag coupled to the sponge sheath, said reservoir bag capable of receiving fluid from the sponge sheath. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100222651 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING ISOMETRIC AND ISOTONIC ACTIVITY OF LUMINAL ORGANS - Devices, systems, and methods for determining isometric and isotonic activity of luminal organs. In an exemplary method for detecting a luminal organ response to mechanical stimulation of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of maintaining a luminal organ at a first internal pressure, increasing the first internal pressure of the luminal organ, and measuring a first organ parameter change in response to the increase in internal pressure. In an exemplary system for detecting a luminal organ response to mechanical stimulation of the present disclosure, the system comprises a first conduit having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen therethrough, the distal end sized and shaped to fit within a luminal organ, a pressure transducer, and at least one pressurized vessel capable of introducing a fluid into the lumen of the first conduit, wherein the first conduit, the pressure transducer, and the at least one pressurized vessel are either directly or indirectly coupled to one another so that a pressure of a fluid present within the first conduit can be measured using the pressure transducer. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100222786 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR REMOVING TARGETED LESIONS FROM VESSELS - Devices, systems, and methods for removing targeted lesions from vessels. In at least one embodiment of a device for removing a stenotic lesion from a vessel, the device comprises a sizing portion capable of measuring a luminal size parameter when at least part of the device is positioned within a lumen of a luminal organ, a typing portion, wherein at least part of the at least one typing portion is capable of physically touching a portion of the luminal organ or a structure therein, and a treatment portion capable of removing at least part of a stenotic lesion from the luminal organ. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100286718 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR PERCUTANEOUS TRANS-SEPTAL LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE OCCLUSION - Systems and methods for occluding an atrial appendage are provided herein. In an exemplary embodiment of a system for occluding an atrial appendage, the system comprises a first device comprising a tube and a balloon and a second device comprising a tube, a loop, and optionally a shaft coupled to the loop. In an exemplary method for occluding an atrial appendage, the method comprises the steps of introducing at least a portion of a first device into a heart, introducing at least a portion of a second device into a pericardial space surrounding the heart, positioning the balloon of the first device at least partially within an atrial appendage cavity, inflating the balloon to displace blood present within the atrial appendage cavity, positioning the loop of the second device around the atrial appendage, tightening the loop around the atrial appendage, deflating the balloon to allow for ultimate removal of the first device from the atrial appendage cavity, and separating the loop from the second device so that the loop remains positioned and tightened around the atria appendage. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100299077 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR APPLYING SCALING LAWS OF TREE STRUCTURES - In at least one embodiment, a method for determining the resistance of a flow within at least a portion of a vessel is provided, with the method comprising the steps of obtaining a biological tree image showing a structure of at least part of a biological tree, identifying a length of a vessel portion and a diameter of a stem vessel proximal to the vessel crown from the biological tree image, and calculating resistance based upon at least the length of a vessel portion and a diameter of a stem vessel proximal to the vessel crown. In another embodiment, a method for determining vessel volume is provided, with the method comprising the steps of obtaining a biological tree image showing a structure of at least part of a biological tree, identifying a diameter of a stem segment and a length of a stem segment from the biological tree image, and calculating cumulative crown volume based upon at least the diameter of the stem segment and the length of the stem segment. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20110046437 | TISSUE RESTORATION DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Tissue restoration devices, systems, and methods. In at least one embodiment, an implantable restraining device of the present disclosure comprises a first engaging component and a second engaging component, each component configured for laparoscopic insertion into a body cavity, a first swivel arm defining a first bend and a second swivel arm defining a second bend, the first swivel arm coupled to the first engaging component at a first pivot point and coupled to the second engaging component at a second pivot point, and the second swivel arm coupled to the first engaging component at a third pivot point and coupled to the second engaging component at a fourth pivot point, and a first interconnection arm and a second interconnection arm, the first interconnection arm connected to the first swivel arm relative to the first bend, and the second interconnection arm connected to the second swivel arm relative to the second bend. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110046641 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TISSUE RESTORATION - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for providing chronic or temporary tissue support and/or restoration that does not require that the targeted tissue be severed and/or punctured. A device having two components and at least one connector for maintaining a prescribed distance between the two components is described. Such devices, systems and methods may be used on any tissue of a body and may be delivered through laparoscopic and/or endoscopic procedures. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110060182 | SYSTEMS FOR ENGAGING A BODILY TISSUE AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Systems for engaging a bodily tissue and methods of using the same. In at least one embodiment of an exemplary system for use with a vacuum source for engaging a tissue of the present disclosure, the system comprises an engagement catheter comprising a proximal end, a distal end, first and second lumens extending between the proximal end and the distal end, and a skirt operatively connected to the distal end, an inducer sheath having a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a lumen extending therethrough, the inducer sheath configured so that it is capable of insertion into the second lumen of the engagement catheter, a dilator comprising a tapered tip at a distal end and a hollow channel extending therethrough, the dilator sized and shaped for insertion into the lumen of the inducer sheath, and a vacuum port located at the proximal end of the engagement catheter, the vacuum port being operatively connected to the first lumen of the engagement catheter and capable of operative connection to a vacuum source. In various embodiments, the systems further comprise an inflatable balloon at or near the distal portion of the inducer sheath. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110130744 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR ACCESSING THE EPICARDIAL SURFACE OF THE HEART - Devices, systems, and methods for accessing the internal and external tissues of the heart are disclosed. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein provide access to the external surface of the heart through the pericardial space for localized delivery of leads to the heart tissue. In addition, various disclosed embodiments provide devices, systems, and methods for closing a hole in cardiac tissue. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110144572 | STEERING ENGAGEMENT CATHETER DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Steering engagement catheter devices, systems, and methods of using the same for accessing tissue, including the internal and external tissues of the heart, are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, a steering engagement catheter is provided, comprising an elongated tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and a first wall positioned circumferentially along a length of the elongated tube, the elongated tube configured such that a delivery catheter is capable of at least partial insertion into the elongated tube, at least one steering wire having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the steering wire coupled to the first wall of the elongated tube at or near the distal end of the elongated tube, and a controller operably coupled to the at least one steering wire at or near the proximal end of the at least one steering wire. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110178383 | DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR DETERMINING FRACTIONAL FLOW RESERVE - Devices and systems for determining fractional flow reserve. In at least one embodiment of a device for determining fractional flow reserve of a fluid within a luminal organ, the device comprises an elongated body sized and shaped to fit within a luminal organ, and at least two sensors positioned along the elongated body a predetermined distance from one another, wherein the device is operable to detect a first fluid with a first parameter having a first value using at least one of the at least two sensors when the device is positioned within the luminal organ, and wherein the device is further operable to detect a second fluid having a second parameter, wherein the second parameter of the second fluid has a second value different from the first value, upon introduction of the second fluid within the luminal organ at or near the at least two sensors, and wherein the device is further operable to determine fractional flow reserve when the device is positioned within the luminal organ at or near a stenosis, wherein the fractional flow reserve is based upon a flow velocity obtained by the device, a mean aortic pressure within the luminal organ, and at least one cross-sectional area at or near the stenosis. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110178417 | METHODS FOR DETERMINING FRACTIONAL FLOW RESERVE - Devices, systems, and methods for determining fractional flow reserve. At least one method for determining fractional flow reserve of the present disclosure comprises the steps positioning a device comprising at least two sensors within a luminal organ at or near a stenosis, wherein the at least two sensors are separated a predetermined distance from one another, operating the device to determine flow velocity of a second fluid introduced into me luminal organ to temporarily displace a first fluid present within the luminal organ, and determining fractional flow reserve at or near the stenosis based upon the flow velocity, a mean aortic pressure within the luminal organ, and at least one cross-sectional area at or near the stenosis. Devices and systems useful for performing such exemplary methods are also disclosed herein. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110196255 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR MEASURING PARALLEL TISSUE CONDUCTANCE, LUMINAL CROSS-SECTIONAL AREAS, FLUID VELOCITY, AND/OR DETERMINING PLAQUE VULNERABILITY USING TEMPERATURE - Devices, systems, and methods for measuring parallel tissue conductance, luminal cross-sectional areas, fluid velocity, and/or determining plaque vulnerability using temperature. In at least one embodiment of a method to obtain parallel tissue conductance, the method comprises the steps of inserting at least part of a detection device into a luminal organ, applying current thereto, obtaining a native temperature measurement, injecting a solution of a known conductivity into the luminal organ, detecting a temperature change indicative of the fluid within the luminal organ, measuring an output conductance, and calculating a parallel tissue conductance based upon the output conductance and the conductivity of the injected solution. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110196282 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR AUTORETROPERFUSION - Devices, systems, and methods for autoretroperfusion. In at least one embodiment of a perfusion system of the present disclosure, the system comprises a first catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, and a first lumen therethrough, the distal end configured for insertion into a luminal organ of a patient, a coupler defining an outlet port and a first port, the coupler configured to engage the proximal end of the first catheter at the outlet port and to receive blood from a blood supply through the first port, a first tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen therethrough, the distal end of the first tube configured to engage the first port of the coupler and to receive the blood from the blood supply, and a first flow regulator in communication with one or more of the coupler and the first tube, the first flow regulator operable to regulate a flow and/or a pressure of the blood through at least part of the system, wherein the system is configured to permit the blood from the blood supply to flow through the first tube, the coupler, and the first catheter into the patient to treat a patient condition. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110208109 | AUTORETROPERFUSION DEVICES AND SYSTEMS - Devices, systems, and methods for providing retroperfusion to at least one ischemic tissue in a minimally invasive manner are disclosed. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein enable an anastomosis to be formed between a vein and an artery without the use of sutures and through a non-invasive procedure. In addition, various disclosed embodiments provide a cannula device comprising a Y-configuration for bifurcating arterial flow between an anastomosis and the underlying artery. The devices, systems and methods herein can further provide simultaneous autoretroperfusion therapy to more than one area of an ischemic tissue. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110224720 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR CLOSING A HOLE IN CARDIAC TISSUE - Devices, systems, and methods for closing a hole in cardiac tissue. In at least one embodiment of a device for occluding a tissue aperture of the present disclosure, the device comprises a body comprising a proximal end, a distal end, a sidewall, and at least one marker, the body tapered towards the distal end and defining a body aperture therethrough capable of receiving an elongated member. In at least one embodiment, the body further comprises a diaphragm positioned at or near one or more of the proximal end of the body and/or the distal end of the body. In another embodiment, the diaphragm comprises a plurality of sheaths, wherein the plurality of sheaths sealably obstruct the body aperture. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110230952 | ENDOPROSTHESIS ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS FOR USING THE SAME - Endoprosthesis assemblies and methods for using the same. In at least one embodiment of an endoprosthesis assembly of the present disclosure, the endoprosthesis assembly comprises an endoprosthesis comprising an impermeable inner wall defining an endoprosthesis lumen sized and shaped to permit fluid to flow therethrough, a distal balloon positioned at or near a distal end of the endoprosthesis, the distal balloon capable of inflation to anchor the distal end of the endoprosthesis within a luminal organ, and a proximal balloon positioned at or near a proximal end of the endoprosthesis, the proximal balloon capable of inflation to anchor the proximal end of the endoprosthesis within the luminal organ, wherein when the endoprosthesis assembly is positioned within the luminal organ at or near an aneurysm sac, inflation of the distal balloon and the proximal balloon effectively isolates the aneurysm sac and prevents fluid within the aneurysm sac from flowing past the distal balloon and the proximal balloon and into other areas of vasculature adjacent to the aneurysm sac. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110245593 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TISSUE RESTORATION - Devices and methods for tissue restoration. In at least one exemplary embodiment of an implantable restraining device of the present disclosure, the device comprises a first engaging component and a second engaging component at least substantially parallel to one another, a first swivel arm, comprising a first fixed arm, a first expandable arm, and a first hub, wherein the first fixed arm is pivotally connected to the first engaging component at or near a first fixed arm first end and is coupled to the first hub at or near a first fixed arm second end, and wherein the first expandable arm is pivotally connected to the second engaging component at or near a first expandable arm first end and is connected to the first hub at or near a first expandable arm second end by way of a first hub bracket, a second swivel arm, comprising a second fixed arm, a second expandable arm, and a second hub, wherein the second fixed arm is pivotally connected to the first engaging component at or near a second fixed arm first end and is coupled to the second hub at or near a second fixed arm second end, and wherein the second expandable arm is pivotally connected to the second engaging component at or near a second expandable arm first end and is connected to the second hub at or near a second expandable arm second end by way of a second hub bracket. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110245800 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR TRANSEPTAL ATRIAL PUNCTURE USING AN ENGAGEMENT CATHETER PLATFORM - Multichannel systems for engaging a bodily tissue and methods of using the same. In at least one embodiment of an exemplary multichannel system for engaging a tissue of the present disclosure, the system comprises an engagement catheter comprising a proximal end, a distal end, and defining a first lumen and second lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end, an inducer sheath having a proximal portion and a distal portion, and defining a lumen extending therethrough, the inducer sheath configured for insertion into the second lumen of the engagement catheter, and a dilator defining a first channel and a second channel extending therethrough and a tapered tip at the distal end of the dilator, the dilator sized and shaped for inserted into the lumen of the inducer sheath. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110245860 | METHODS TO SIZE A GASTRIC POUCH - Methods to size a gastric pouch. In at least one embodiment for measuring the size of a gastric pouch of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of introducing a catheter into an esophagus, the catheter comprising an outer elongate tube, an inner elongate tube disposed within the outer elongate tube, a proximal balloon attached to the outer elongate tube, a distal balloon having a first end attached to the outer elongate tube and a second end attached to the inner elongate tube, at least two detection electrodes positioned on the outer elongate tube between at least two excitation electrodes, and a pressure transducer positioned on the outer elongate tube, locating the gastroesophageal junction using the proximal balloon, adjusting the distal balloon axially to a desired balloon length, injecting a fluid into the distal balloon to extend the distal balloon circumferentially, and determining a size variable of the gastric pouch. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110275934 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO OBTAIN A MYOCARDIAL MASS INDEX INDICATIVE OF AN AT-RISK MYOCARDIAL REGION - Systems and methods to obtain a myocardial mass index indicative of an at-risk myocardial region. In at least one embodiment, a method for diagnosing a risk of cardiac disease is provided, the method comprising the steps of identifying a luminal cross-sectional area of a side branch vessel, identifying a luminal cross-sectional area of a main artery most proximal to the side branch vessel, determining a myocardial region at risk for infarct from side branch occlusion relative to a mass perfused by the most proximal artery, wherein such region is based on a relationship between the cross-sectional areas of the side branch and the most proximal main artery, and diagnosing a risk of cardiac disease based on a diameter of the side branch and the size of the myocardial region at risk for infarct perfused by the side branch. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110282586 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO DETERMINE OPTIMAL DIAMETERS OF VESSEL SEGMENTS IN BIFURCATION - Systems and methods to determine optimal diameters of vessel segments in bifurcation. In at least one embodiment of a method for determining a diameter of a segment of a bifurcated vessel of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of identifying a diameter of a first segment of a bifurcated vessel, identifying a diameter of a second segment of the bifurcated vessel, and determining a diameter of a third segment of the bifurcated vessel based upon the diameter of the first segment and the diameter of the second segment, wherein the determination is further based upon an exponential relationship of or about 7/3 for each diameter. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110313341 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR ORGAN RETROPERFUSION - Devices, systems, and methods for organ retroperfusion. In at least one embodiment of a method of organ perfusion of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of positioning at least part of a first catheter having a cannula within an artery of a patient, the first catheter configured to permit arterial blood to flow therethrough and further configured to permit a portion of the arterial blood to flow through the cannula, positioning at least part of a second catheter within a vein of the patient at or near a target organ, the second catheter configured to receive some or all of the portion of the arterial blood, and connecting the cannula of the first catheter to a portion of the second catheter so that some or all of the portion of the arterial blood flowing through the cannula is provided into the vein to treat a condition or disease of the target organ. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20120041471 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR THE PREVENTION OF STROKE - The disclosure of the present application provides devices, systems, and methods for the prevention of stroke. In at least one embodiment of a device of the present application, the device comprises an extension portion sized and shaped to fit within an artery extending from an aortic arch, and a flange portion sized and shaped to prevent the device from advancing into the artery extending from the aortic arch in which the device may be positioned. In at least one embodiment of a system for preventing stroke of the present application, the system comprises a hypotube, a folder coupled to a distal end of the hypotube, a sleeve positioned circumferentially around the hypotube proximal to the folder, and a stent, wherein a first part of the stent may be positioned within the folder, and wherein a second part of the stent may be positioned within the sleeve. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120089046 | Methods for Measuring Cross-Sectional Areas in Luminal Organs - Methods for measuring cross-sectional areas in luminal organs. In at least one embodiment of a method for measuring a size parameter of a targeted treatment site of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of introducing an impedance device into a treatment site, the impedance device selected from the group consisting of an impedance catheter and an impedance wire; injecting a first solution of a first compound having a first conductivity into the treatment site; measuring a first conductance value at the treatment site using the impedance device, the first conductance value indicative of a bolus of the first solution, and calculating a size parameter of the treatment site based in part upon the first conductivity of the first solution, the first conductance | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120108926 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR TRANSRADIAL ACCESS - Devices, systems, and methods for transradial access. In at least one embodiment of a device for providing access to a vessel or other luminal organ of the present disclosure, the device comprises a needle having a needle tip, a sheath positioned around at least part of the needle, the sheath defining an aperture at a distal sheath end, and a protractor in communication with the needle, whereby engagement of the protractor causes the needle tip to protract from the sheath, and whereby release of the protractor causes the needle tip to retract into the sheath. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109164 | ATRAUMATIC CLAMP - A device for clamping a tissue, the device having a clamp ( | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109190 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR CLOSING AN APERTURE IN A BODILY TISSUE - Devices, systems, and methods for closing an aperture in a bodily tissue. In at least one exemplary embodiment of an aperture closure device of the present disclosure, the aperture closure device comprises an elongated body extending from a proximal end to a distal end, and a closure portion coupled to the elongated body, the closure portion configured to fit within an aperture of a bodily tissue and comprising a material capable of autoexpansion within said aperture. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120116317 | ENGAGEMENT CATHETER SYSTEMS AND DEVICES AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - An engagement catheter for use with a vacuum source for engaging a tissue. An embodiment of the engagement catheter includes a first lumen extending between a proximal end and a distal end, a skirt operatively connected to the distal end, the skirt having a distal end with a circumference larger than the outer circumference of the engagement catheter, a suction port located at or near the distal end of the engagement catheter, the suction port configured to allow the distal end of the skirt to removably engage a surface of a bodily tissue, and a vacuum port located at the proximal end of the engagement catheter and capable of operative connection to a vacuum source, wherein when a vacuum source is operatively attached to the vacuum port, the skirt is capable of forming a reversible seal with the surface of the bodily tissue. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120130151 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS TO FACILITATE HEART FUNCTION - Devices, systems, and methods for accessing tissue, including the internal and external tissues of the heart, are disclosed. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein provide access to the internal and external tissues of the heart to assist heart function. In at least one embodiment, a suction/infusion catheter is used to deliver gas to a pericardial space surrounding a heart. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120130320 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR MYOCARDIAL INFARCT BORDER ZONE REINFORCEMENT - Devices, systems, and methods for myocardial infarct border zone reinforcement. In at least one embodiment of a suction/infusion catheter for facilitating myocardial infarct border zone reinforcement, the catheter includes one or more apertures defined along a portion of the catheter at or near a distal end of the catheter, a first configuration when the suction/infusion catheter is at least partially extended from a delivery catheter, and a second configuration when the at least one suction/infusion catheter is positioned within the delivery catheter, the second configuration different from the first configuration, wherein the suction/infusion catheter, when introduced into a pericardial space surrounding a heart at or near a myocardial infarct border zone, is operable to inject a glue-like substance through a lumen of the suction/infusion catheter and out from the one or more apertures to deliver the glue-like substance into the pericardial space at or near the myocardial infarct border zone. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120172746 | Methods to Generate Luminal Organ Profiles Using Impedance - Methods to generate luminal organ profiles using impedance. One embodiment of such a method comprises the steps of introducing an impedance device having at least two detection electrodes positioned in between at least two excitation electrodes into a treatment site of a luminal organ at a first position, measuring a first treatment site conductance at the first position using the impedance device and at least two injections of solutions having different conductivities, moving the impedance device to a second position in the luminal organ, measuring a second treatment site conductance at the second position using the impedance device and the at least two injections of solutions having different conductivities, calculating a first position cross-sectional area using the first treatment site conductance and a second position cross-sectional area using the second treatment site conductance, and constructing a profile of the treatment site. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120191181 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR LOCALIZATION OF A PUNCTURE SITE RELATIVE TO A MAMMALIAN TISSUE OF INTEREST - Systems and methods for localization of a puncture site on an atrial wall relative to a mammalian tissue of interest. In at least one embodiment, such a system includes a bodily access system, having an engagement catheter with an open distal end, a first lumen therethrough, and configured to reversibly attach to a first tissue using suction, a puncture device, configured to fit at least partially within the first lumen, and a scanner configured to identify at least a portion of the bodily access system when positioned within the luminal organ and further configured to identify a distance between a second tissue and a portion of the bodily access system. When such a system is used in connection with a therapeutic procedure, the distance between the second tissue and the portion of the bodily access system is used to facilitate a puncture of the first tissue at a desired location. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120277725 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ENGAGING HEART TISSUE - A system for engaging heart tissue includes an engagement catheter defining a first lumen therethrough and having a suction port at or near a distal end and a vacuum port at or near a proximal end, a delivery catheter defining a delivery catheter lumen therethrough and configured for slidable insertion into the first lumen of the engagement catheter, and an implantable device capable of insertion into the delivery catheter lumen such that at least part of the implantable device extends from a delivery catheter distal end upon implantation into a patient, where the suction port is operable to removably attach to a targeted tissue on an interior wall of a heart of the patient after the engagement catheter has been advanced through a blood vessel and into the heart, thereby forming a reversible seal with the targeted tissue when a vacuum source is operatively coupled to the vacuum port. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120289951 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CRYOBLATION OF A TISSUE - Systems and methods for cryoablation of a tissue. In at least one embodiment of a cryoablation system of the present disclosure, the cryoablation system comprises an expandable stent comprising a proximal end and a distal end, a sidewall defining a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end, and a cryoablation chamber at the distal end, the expandable stent configured to permit blood flow therethrough, and a cryoablation device comprising at least one coolant tube at least partially positioned within the cryoablation chamber, wherein the at least one coolant tube is operable to produce a cryogenic environment sufficient to ablate at least a portion of a tissue engaged within the cryoablation chamber. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120296368 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING BLOOD PERFUSION PRESSURE - Devices and methods for controlling blood perfusion pressure. In an exemplary device for controlling blood perfusion pressure within a vessel of the present disclosure, the device comprises an elongated body having a lumen, a proximal end configured for placement in a first area having a first blood pressure, and a distal end configured for placement in a second area having a second blood pressure, partial occluder positioned within the lumen of the elongated body between the proximal end and the distal end, the partial occluder configured so not to fully occlude a blood vessel, wherein the partial occluder is configured to equalize the first blood pressure at the first area with the second blood pressure at the second area. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20130006343 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR INVERTING AND CLOSING THE LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE - Devices, systems, and methods for inverting and closing the left atrial appendage. In at least one embodiment of a method for closing a left atrial appendage of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of inverting a distal portion of a left atrial appendage, and constraining the inverted distal portion of the left atrial appendage using a device configured to fit within an interior of the left atrial appendage. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130030318 | SINGLE INJECTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO OBTAIN PARALLEL TISSUE CONDUCTANCES WITHIN LUMINAL ORGANS - Single injection systems and methods to obtain parallel tissue conductances within luminal organs. In at least one embodiment of a single solution injection method to obtain a parallel tissue conductance within a luminal organ of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of introducing at least part of a detection device into a luminal organ at a first location, the detection device having a detector, applying current to the detection device using a stimulator, introducing a first signal having a first frequency and a second signal having a second frequency through the detection device, and injecting a solution having a known conductivity into the luminal organ at or near the detector of the detection device. Such a method may further comprise the steps of measuring an output conductance of the first signal and the second signal at the first location using the detector, and calculating a parallel tissue conductance at the first location based in part upon the output conductance and the conductivity of the injected solution. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130053883 | COIL OCCLUSION DEVICES AND SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Coil occluder devices and systems and methods of using the same. In an exemplary embodiment of an occluder system of the present disclosure, the occluder system comprises an occluder device comprising a coil having at least a first, uncompressed configuration and a second, compressed configuration, wherein the coil in the first, uncompressed configuration is configured to fit within a delivery mechanism sized and shaped to fit within a mammalian luminal organ, and wherein the coil in the second, compressed configuration is configured to occlude a mammalian luminal organ, and a delivery mechanism sized and shaped to fit within the mammalian luminal organ, the delivery mechanism configured to receive the coil in the first, uncompressed configuration within a lumen defined within the delivery mechanism. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130060133 | NON-INVASIVE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING FRACTIONAL FLOW RESERVE - Non-invasive systems and methods for determining fractional flow reserve. At least one method of determining fractional flow reserve within a luminal organ of the present disclosure comprising the steps of positioning a monitoring device external to a luminal organ and near a stenosis, the monitoring device capable of determining at least one characteristic of the stenosis, operating the monitoring device to determine the at least one characteristic of the stenosis, and determining fractional flow reserve at or near the stenosis based upon the at least one characteristic determined by the monitoring device. | 03-07-2013 |
| 20130073025 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ASSISTING VALVE FUNCTION, REPLACING VENOUS VALVES, AND PREDICTING VALVE TREATMENT SUCCESS - Devices and methods for assisting valve function, replacing venous valves, and predicting valve treatment successes. In at least one embodiment of an endograft valve device of the present disclosure, the device comprises an endograft body configured for expansion from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration within a luminal organ and comprising a first portion having a proximal end defining a proximal end aperture and a distal end defining a distal end aperture, the first portion tapering toward the distal end so that the distal end aperture has a relatively smaller cross-sectional area than the proximal end aperture when the valve device is expanded, and a valve portion positioned at or near the distal end of the first portion, the valve portion configured to receive fluid flowing through the distal end aperture of the first portion. | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130085109 | METHODS OF CARDIOVASCULAR PATIENT TREATMENT USING SUBSTANCES SUFFICIENT TO REDUCE ACTIN DEPOLYMERIZATION - Methods of cardiovascular patient treatment using substances sufficient to reduce actin depolymerization. In an exemplary embodiment of a method of treating a patient of the present disclosure, the method comprises the step of administering a therapeutically effective dose of a substance that reduces actin depolymerization within a vasculature of a patient to treat a cardiovascular condition of the patient. In at least one embodiment, the substance the substance is selected from the group consisting of jasplakinolide, Jasplaskinolide V, and Amphidinolide H. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130090555 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING FRACTIONAL FLOW RESERVE IN THE PRESENCE OF A CATHETER - Devices, systems, and methods for obtaining fractional flow reserve in the presence of a catheter. In an exemplary embodiment of a method of determining a fractional flow reserve in the presence of a catheter, the method comprises the steps of obtaining measurements of an inner luminal organ diameter proximal to, at, and distal to a stenosis and a length of the stenosis, obtaining a pressure drop measurement at the stenosis using a catheter, calculating a volumetric flow of fluid through the inner luminal organ at the stenosis based upon the pressure drop measurement at the stenosis using the catheter, the inner luminal organ diameter proximal to and distal to the stenosis, the length of the stenosis, and a difference between a known outer diameter of the catheter and a known outer diameter of a guidewire, and determining a stenotic pressure drop at the stenosis corresponding to dimensions of the guidewire as a function of the calculated volumetric flow of fluid through the inner luminal organ at the stenosis, wherein the stenotic pressure drop is indicative of a fractional flow reserve at or near the stenosis. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130096455 | DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR OBTAINING CONDUCTANCE DATA AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING AND USING THE SAME - Devices and systems for obtaining conductance data and methods of manufacturing and using the same. In at least one embodiment of a device of the present disclosure, the device is an elongated body with at least one groove defined therein, the at least one groove configured to receive one or more conductor wires therein. In another embodiment, the device is an elongated core body having a plurality of conductive elements positioned thereon and a coating to result in a device having an overall round-cross section. | 04-18-2013 |
| 20130096494 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR AUTO-RETROPERFUSION OF THE CEREBRAL VENOUS SYSTEM - Devices, systems, and methods for auto-retroperfusion of the cerebral venous system. In an exemplary embodiment of a catheter for controlling blood perfusion pressure of the present disclosure, the catheter comprises a body having a proximal open end, a distal end, a lumen extending between the proximal open end and the distal end, and a plurality of orifices disposed thereon, each of the orifices in fluid communication with the lumen, at least one expandable balloon, each of the at least one expandable balloons coupled with the body, having an interior that is in fluid communication with the lumen and adapted to move between an expanded configuration and a deflated configuration, and at least one sensor coupled with the distal end of the body, each of the at least one sensors adapted to gather data relating to a fluid flowing through the lumen, wherein the catheter is configured to be coupled to a flow unit for regulating the flow and pressure of a fluid. | 04-18-2013 |
| 20130165818 | DEVICES AND SYSTEMS TO SIZE A LUMINAL ORGAN - Devices and systems to size a luminal organ. At least some embodiments include a catheter comprising an outer elongate tube, an inner elongate tube disposed within the outer elongate tube, a proximal balloon attached to the outer elongate tube, a distal balloon having a first end attached to the outer elongate tube and a second end attached to the inner elongate tube, electrodes positioned on the outer elongate tube, and a pressure transducer positioned on the outer elongate tube. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130184553 | SINGLE INJECTION METHODS FOR OBTAINING CONDUCTANCE MEASUREMENTS WITHIN LUMINAL ORGANS USING IMPEDANCE DEVICES - Single injection methods for obtaining conductance measurements within luminal organs using impedance devices. In at least one method embodiment, the method is performed by introducing at least part of an impedance device into a mammalian luminal organ, the impedance device comprising an elongated body and a detector positioned along the elongated body, obtaining conductance measurements indicative of a fluid native to the mammalian luminal organ and indicative of a fluid injection while the detector is present within and outside of the lumen of the outer sheath, and calculating a size parameter of the mammalian luminal organ based in part upon some of the obtained conductance measurements. | 07-18-2013 |
| 20130218156 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR EPICARDIAL NAVIGATION - Devices, systems, and methods for epicardial navigation. In at least one exemplary embodiment of a system for navigating an elongated body on a surface of a tissue of the present disclosure, the system comprises (a) an internal elongated body comprising a distal end and a first element positioned at or near the distal end of the internal elongated body, the internal elongated body devoid of an ablation contact, and (b) an external elongated body comprising a distal end and a second element and an ablation contact positioned at or near the distal end of the external elongated body, the ablation contact being configured to remove or destroy tissue, wherein when a portion of the external elongated body is positioned on or adjacent to a first surface of a tissue and when a portion of the internal elongated body is positioned on or adjacent to an opposing surface of the tissue, manipulation of the internal elongated body directs movement of the external elongated body to a first location to facilitate removal or destruction of tissue at the first surface at a first location. | 08-22-2013 |
| 20130237743 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ASSISTING CARDIAC FUNCTION - Devices and methods for assisting cardiac function. In an exemplary embodiment of a device for assisting heart function of the present disclosure, the device comprises a first plate and an opposing second plate, each plate having an inner surface, a cardiac processor coupled to at least one of the first plate and the second plate, a bladder having an inner chamber and disposed between the inner surfaces, and a first catheter having a proximal end in communication with the inner chamber of the bladder and a distal end having a first pericardial balloon coupled thereto, wherein a gas and/or a liquid within the inner chamber of the bladder can be injected into the first pericardial balloon upon compression of the first plate relative to the second plate, and wherein the gas and/or the liquid can be removed from the first pericardial balloon upon retraction of the first plate relative to the second plate. | 09-12-2013 |
| 20130267867 | DEVICES FOR DETECTING ORGAN CONTENTS USING IMPEDANCE AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME TO PROVIDE VARIOUS THERAPIES - Devices for detecting organ contents using impedance and methods of using the same to provide various therapies. In an exemplary embodiment of a device for detecting organ contents of the present disclosure, the device comprises a body having a detector coupled thereto, the device configured for placement at or near an outside of an organ and operable to detect contents on an inside of the organ using impedance. | 10-10-2013 |
| 20130282037 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR REMOVING STENOTIC LESIONS FROM VESSELS - The present application provides various devices, systems, and methods for removing stenotic lesions from vessels. In at least one embodiment of an exemplary device of the present disclosure, the device comprises at least one treatment portion operable to remove at least part of a stenotic lesion, and at least one sizing portion operable to measure a first luminal size parameter when positioned and operated at a first location and further operable to measure a second luminal size parameter when positioned and operated at a second location, wherein the device comprises an elongated body selected from the group consisting of a catheter and a wire. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130317392 | VALVE APERTURE SIZING DEVICES AND METHODS - Valve aperture sizing devices and methods. In an exemplary method to size a valve aperture, the method comprises introducing at least part of a first device into a luminal organ at a valve aperture, the first device having a balloon positioned thereon, inflating the balloon within the valve aperture until a point of apposition is achieved, and obtaining a first valve aperture measurement based upon the point of apposition. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130331762 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS FOR ORGAN RETROPERFUSION ALONG WITH REGIONAL MILD HYPOTHERMIA - Systems, devices, and methods for organ retroperfusion along with regional mild hypothermia. In at least one embodiment of a method of organ perfusion of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of positioning at least part of a first catheter having a cannula within an artery of a patient, the first catheter configured to permit arterial blood to flow therethrough and further configured to permit a portion of the arterial blood to flow through the cannula, positioning at least part of a second catheter within a vein of the patient at or near a target organ, the second catheter configured to receive some or all of the portion of the arterial blood, connecting the cannula of the first catheter to a portion of the second catheter so that some or all of the portion of the arterial blood flowing through the cannula is provided into the vein to treat a condition or disease of the target organ, and reducing and/or regulating a temperature of blood flowing through the cannula using a regional hypothermia system operably coupled to the cannula. | 12-12-2013 |
| 20130338468 | METHODS FOR GENERATING LUMINAL ORGAN PROFILES USING IMPEDANCE - Methods to generate luminal organ profiles using impedance. One embodiment of such a method comprises the steps of introducing an impedance device having at least two detection electrodes positioned in between at least two excitation electrodes into a treatment site of a luminal organ at a first position, measuring a first treatment site conductance at the first position using the impedance device and at least two injections of solutions having different conductivities, moving the impedance device to a second position in the luminal organ, measuring a second treatment site conductance at the second position using the impedance device and the at least two injections of solutions having different conductivities, calculating a first position cross-sectional area using the first treatment site conductance and a second position cross-sectional area using the second treatment site conductance, and constructing a profile of the treatment site. | 12-19-2013 |
| 20130338530 | BODY LUMEN JUNCTION LOCALIZATION - Devices, systems, and methods for the localization of body lumen junctions and other intraluminal structure are disclosed. Various embodiments permit clinicians to identify the locations of intraluminal structures and medical devices during non-surgical medical techniques, such as cardiac ablation, by determining the intralumen conductance and/or cross-sectional area at a plurality of locations within the body lumen | 12-19-2013 |
| 20140018831 | ATRIAL APPENDAGE OCCLUSION SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Atrial appendage occlusion systems and methods of using the same. In an exemplary embodiment of a system for occluding an atrial appendage of a heart, the system comprises a first device and a second device, wherein the first device comprises a first tube sized and shaped for insertion into the heart and a balloon coupled to the first tube, wherein the balloon is capable of inflation and deflation, wherein the second device comprises a second tube sized and shaped for insertion into a pericardial space surrounding the heart, the second tube comprising a lumen extending at least partially from a second tube distal end to a second tube proximal end and a loop sized and shaped to fit at least partially within the lumen of the second tube, wherein the loop is capable of protraction from the second tube distal end, and wherein the loop of the second device is configured for placement around the atrial appendage and to be secured around the atrial appendage. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140025038 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS FOR TRANSEPTAL ATRIAL PUNCTURE USING AN ENGAGEMENT CATHETER PLATFORM - Multichannel systems for engaging a bodily tissue and methods of using the same. In at least one embodiment of an exemplary multichannel system for engaging a tissue of the present disclosure, the system comprises an engagement catheter comprising a proximal end, a distal end, and defining a first lumen and second lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end, an inducer sheath having a proximal portion and a distal portion, and defining a lumen extending therethrough, the inducer sheath configured for insertion into the second lumen of the engagement catheter, and a dilator defining a first channel and a second channel extending therethrough and a tapered tip at the distal end of the dilator, the dilator sized and shaped for inserted into the lumen of the inducer sheath. | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140039538 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR CONTROLLING BLOOD PERFUSION PRESSURE ALONG WITH REGIONAL MILD HYPOTHERMIA - Methods and devices for controlling blood perfusion pressure along with regional mild hypothermia. In at least one embodiment of a device for controlling blood perfusion pressure within a vessel of the present disclosure, the device comprises an elongated body having a lumen, a proximal end configured for placement in a first area having a first blood pressure, and a distal end configured for placement in a second area having a second blood pressure, a partial occluder positioned within the lumen of the elongated body between the proximal end and the distal end, the partial occluder configured so not to fully occlude a blood vessel and to equalize the first blood pressure at the first area with the second blood pressure at the second area, and a regional hypothermia system operably coupled thereto, the regional hypothermia system operable to reduce and/or regulate a temperature of a bodily fluid flowing therethrough. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140052224 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SELECTIVE AUTO-RETROPERFUSION ALONG WITH REGIONAL MILD HYPOTHERMIA - Systems and methods for selective auto-retroperfusion along with regional mild hypothermia. In at least one embodiment of a system for providing a retroperfusion therapy to a venous vessel of the present disclosure, the system comprises a catheter for controlling blood perfusion pressure, the catheter comprising a body having a proximal open end, a distal end, a lumen extending between the proximal open end and the distal end, and a plurality of orifices disposed thereon, each of the orifices in fluid communication with the lumen, and at least one expandable balloon, each of the at least one expandable balloons coupled with the body, having an interior that is in fluid communication with the lumen, and adapted to move between an expanded configuration and a deflated configuration, and a flow unit for regulating the flow and pressure of a bodily fluid, and a regional hypothermia system operably coupled to the catheter, the regional hypothermia system operable to reduce and/or regulate a temperature of the bodily fluid flowing therethrough. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140066738 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS FOR MAPPING ORGAN PROFILES - Devices, systems, and methods for the localization of body lumen junctions and other intraluminal structure are disclosed. Various embodiments permit clinicians to identify and locate lesions and/or anatomical structures within a lumen and accurately place leads and/or devices within a lumen, through determining the intralumen conductance and/or cross-sectional area at a plurality of locations within the body lumen. | 03-06-2014 |
| 20140148751 | PERIPHERAL ARTERIALIZATION DEVICES AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Peripheral arterialization devices and methods of using the same. In an exemplary embodiment of a catheter for facilitating venous arterialization of the present disclosure, the catheter comprises an elongated body extending from a proximal end to a distal end and having a lumen defined therethrough along a longitudinal length of the elongated body, the elongated body configured to attach to a graft at or near the proximal end of the elongated body and further configured to permit fluid to flow through the graft, through the lumen, and out of one or more apertures defined within the elongated body at or near the distal end to facilitate venous arterialization upon at least partial implantation of the catheter into a vein of a patient. | 05-29-2014 |
| 20140188125 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR VALVE REMOVAL - Devices, systems, and methods for valve removal. In an embodiment of an umbrella device for removing a valve of the present disclosure, the umbrella device comprises an elongated shaft having a distal end, a first umbrella comprising a first mesh, the first umbrella coupled to the shaft at or near the distal end of the shaft, a second umbrella comprising a second mesh, the second umbrella coupled to the shaft proximal to the first umbrella, and a mechanical drill rotatably coupled to the shaft and positioned between the first umbrella and the second umbrella. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140200428 | IMPEDANCE DEVICES AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME TO OBTAIN LUMINAL ORGAN MEASUREMENTS - Impedance devices and methods of using the same to obtain luminal organ measurements. In at least one embodiment of an impedance device of the present disclosure, the impedance device comprises an elongated body having a distal body end, and a first electrode located along the elongated body at or near the distal body end, the first electrode configured to obtain one or more conductance values within a mammalian luminal organ within an electric field, wherein a measured parameter of the mammalian luminal organ can be calculated based in part upon the one or more conductance values obtained by the first electrode. | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140200598 | DEVICES AND SYSTEMS CONFIGURED TO FIT AROUND A TISSUE OR ORGAN AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Devices and systems to fit around a tissue or organ and methods of using the same. In at least one embodiment of an implantable device of the present disclosure, the implantable device comprises a first engaging component comprising a first rigid inner plate at least partially surrounded by a first flexible coating, a second engaging component comprising a second rigid inner plate at least partially surrounded by a coating selected from the group consisting of the first flexible coating and the second flexible coating, a first c-ring and a second c-ring coupled to the engaging components, and a cover flap coupled to either the first engaging component or the second engaging component and capable of either further coupling to the second engaging component when initially coupled to the first engaging component or further coupling to the first engaging component when initially coupled to the second engaging component. | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140206973 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR EPICARDIAL CARDIAC MONITORING - Devices, systems, and methods for remotely monitoring physiologic cardiovascular data are disclosed. At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein provide access to the external surface of the heart through the pericardial space for the delivery of the sensor to the epicardial surface of the heart. In addition, various disclosed embodiments provide for a memory device capable of receiving the physiologic cardiovascular data collected by the sensors and transmitting such data wirelessly to a remote location. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140222129 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS TO MEASURE PARALLEL TISSUE CONDUCTANCE, LUMINAL CROSS-SECTIONAL AREAS, FLUID VELOCITY, AND/OR DETERMINE PLAQUE VULNERABILITY USING TEMPERATURE - Devices, systems, and methods to measure parallel tissue conductance, luminal cross-sectional areas, fluid velocity, and/or determine plaque vulnerability using temperature. In at least one embodiment of a method to obtain parallel tissue conductance, the method comprises the steps of inserting at least part of a detection device into a luminal organ, applying current thereto, obtaining a native temperature measurement, injecting a solution of a known conductivity into the luminal organ, detecting a temperature change indicative of the fluid within the luminal organ, measuring an output conductance, and calculating a parallel tissue conductance based upon the output conductance and the conductivity of the injected solution. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140257078 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR APPLYING SCALING LAWS OF TREE STRUCTURES - Methods are provided for determining flow resistance within at least a portion of a vessel, whereby at least a partial biological tree image is obtained and resistance is calculated therefrom based upon at least the length of a defined vessel portion and a diameter of a stem vessel at a location proximal to a vessel crown. Methods are also provided for determining vessel volume, whereby at least a partial biological tree image is obtained and cumulative crown volume is calculated based on at least the diameter and length of the stem segment. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140275961 | METHODS FOR THE NON-INVASIVE DETERMINATION OF HEART AND PULMONARY PRESSURES - The disclosure of the present application provides methods for the noninvasive determination of cardiac and pulmonary pressures based off of patient-specific medical images and one or more computations. In one exemplary embodiment, the method comprises noninvasively generating a patient-specific medical image of at least a portion of a heart, determining a free vibration measurement from the left ventricular free wall based on the patient-specific image, and performing at least one computation using the free vibration measurement to noninvasively determine a cardiac or pulmonary pressure. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276121 | IMPEDANCE DEVICES AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME IN CONNECTION WITH A MAMMALIAN VASCULATURE - Impedance devices and methods of using the same in connection with a mammalian vasculature. In an embodiment of a method for determining vessel compliance, the method comprises the steps of introducing at least part of an impedance device into a site within a vessel, the impedance device comprising an elongated body having a distal body end, and a first electrode located along the elongated body at or near the distal body end, providing electrical current to the first electrode and a first external electrode not coupled to the elongated body to generate the electric field, the first external electrode positioned upon or within a mammalian body having the vessel therein, operating the impedance device to obtain two or more conductance values within the electric field, and calculating vessel compliance based upon the relationship between a change in vessel parameter and a change in pressure during a cardiac cycle. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140276191 | IMPEDANCE DEVICES AND METHODS TO USE THE SAME TO OBTAIN LUMINAL ORGAN MEASUREMENTS - Impedance devices and methods to use the same to obtain luminal organ measurements. In at least one embodiment of an impedance device of the present disclosure, the impedance device comprises an elongated body having a distal body end, and a first electrode located along the elongated body at or near the distal body end, the first electrode configured to obtain one or more conductance values within a mammalian luminal organ within an electric field, wherein a measured parameter of the mammalian luminal organ can be calculated based in part upon the one or more conductance values obtained by the first electrode. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140316289 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS TO DETERMINE FRACTIONAL FLOW RESERVE - Devices, systems, and methods to determine fractional flow reserve. At least one method for determining fractional flow reserve of the present disclosure comprises the steps positioning a device comprising at least two sensors within a luminal organ at or near a stenosis, wherein the at least two sensors are separated a predetermined distance from one another, operating the device to determine flow velocity of a second fluid introduced into me luminal organ to temporarily displace a first fluid present within the luminal organ, and determining fractional flow reserve at or near the stenosis based upon the flow velocity, a mean aortic pressure within the luminal organ, and at least one cross-sectional area at or near the stenosis. Devices and systems useful for performing such exemplary methods are also disclosed herein. | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140330211 | ENGAGEMENT AND DELIVERY CATHETER SYSTEMS - A system for engaging heart tissue includes an engagement catheter defining a first lumen therethrough and having a suction port at or near a distal end and a vacuum port at or near a proximal end, a delivery catheter defining a delivery catheter lumen therethrough and configured for slidable insertion into the first lumen of the engagement catheter, and an implantable device capable of insertion into the delivery catheter lumen such that at least part of the implantable device extends from a delivery catheter distal end upon implantation into a patient, where the suction port is operable to removably attach to a targeted tissue on an interior wall of a heart of the patient after the engagement catheter has been advanced through a blood vessel and into the heart, thereby forming a reversible seal with the targeted tissue when a vacuum source is operatively coupled to the vacuum port. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140378885 | INTESTINAL DEVICES AND METHODS FOR FACILITATING WEIGHT LOSS - Intestinal devices and methods for facilitating weight loss. In at least one embodiment of a method of patient treatment of the present disclosure, the method comprises the step of positioning a device, that is configured to reduce or limit localized intestinal distension, around a portion of an intestine of a patient. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20150039079 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ASSISTING VALVE FUNCTION, REPLACING VENOUS VALVES, AND PREDICTING VALVE TREATMENT SUCCESS - Devices and methods for assisting valve function, replacing venous valves, and predicting valve treatment successes. In at least one exemplary embodiment of an endograft body configured for expansion within a luminal organ of the present disclosure, the endograft body comprises (a) a first portion having a proximal end defining a proximal end aperture and a distal end defining a distal end aperture, the first portion configured to increase a velocity of fluid flowing therethrough, (b) a second portion having a second portion proximal end defining a second portion proximal end aperture and a second portion distal end defining a second portion distal end aperture. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150080855 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS FOR LOCALIZED DRUG DELIVERY - Devices, systems, and methods for localized drug delivery. In at least one embodiment of a method of localized drug delivery, the method comprises the steps of placing a resorbable device within a tube, introducing the tube within a mammalian body at or near a tissue and/or organ within the mammalian body, and anchoring the resorbable device to the tissue and/or organ. Devices and systems useful for performing such a method are also disclosed herein, wherein an exemplary device comprises at least one drug release portion having at least one drug to be released over time and a binder intermixed with the at least one drug, and at least one resorbable anchor portion coupled to the at least one drug release portion. | 03-19-2015 |
