Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080234720 | Devices, Systems and Methods for Treating Disorders of the Ear, Nose and Throat - Sinusitis, mucocysts, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, choanal atresia, fractures and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, Eustachian tubes, Lachrymal ducts and other ear, nose, throat and mouth structures are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies and endoscopic studies. Access and occluding devices may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices such asendoscopes, wires, probes, needles, catheters, balloon catheters, dilation catheters, dilators, balloons, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, suction or irrigation devices, imaging devices, sizing devices, biopsy devices, image-guided devices containing sensors or transmitters, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting or delivering devices and implants, etc. | 09-25-2008 |
20080255602 | Devices and methods for treatment of obesity - Methods, devices, tools, instruments and systems for treating a patient to induce weight loss. In one method embodiment, a device, including an expandable member in a collapsed configuration, is passed through an opening in the skin of the patient, and into the abdominal cavity of the patient. At least a portion of the expandable member is anchored relative to at least one structure in the abdominal cavity, without piercing the stomach. The expandable member is expanded to an expanded configuration in a space in the abdominal cavity to perform at least one of: prevention of expansion of the stomach of the patient into the space; and compression of a portion of the stomach. | 10-16-2008 |
20080262468 | System and Method for the Simultaneous Bilateral Treatment of Target Tissues Within the Ears Using a Guide Block Structure - Systems and methods for treating a patient having a head with a first ear and a second ear, function by mounting a support structure to the head of the patient; aligning the support structure with a target tissue in an ear canal of the first ear; stabilizing the support structure relative to the target tissue by injecting a material into the canal and hardening the material; and actuating a device while the device is supported by the support system so that the device therapeutically remodels the target tissue of the first ear. | 10-23-2008 |
20080262508 | System and Method for the Simultaneous Bilateral Placement of Pressure Equalization Tubes - Systems and methods for bilateral treatment of a patient having a head with a first ear and a second ear function by aligning a first device with a target tissue of the first ear; aligning a second device with a target tissue of the second ear; and therapeutically remodeling, with synchronization, the target tissues of the first and second ear with the first and second aligned devices, respectively. | 10-23-2008 |
20080262509 | System and Method for the Simultaneous Bilateral Integrated Tympanic Drug Delivery and Guided Treatment of Target Tissues Within the Ears - Systems and methods for treating a patient having a head with a first ear and a second ear function by mounting a support system to the head of the patient so that the support system is aligned with a target tissue of the first ear; applying a therapeutic agent to the first ear by energizing an iontophoresis electrode supported by the support system; and actuating a device while the device is supported by the support system so that the device therapeutically remodels the target tissue of the first ear. | 10-23-2008 |
20080262515 | Devices and methods for treatment of obesity - Methods, devices, tools and assemblies for treating a patient to effect weight loss. One method embodiment involves passing a device including an expandable member in a collapsed configuration and a buoyancy member through an opening in the skin of a patient and into the abdominal cavity of the patient, and anchoring at least a portion of the expandable member, relative to at least one structure in the abdominal cavity. Devices including at least one expandable member and at least one buoyancy member are provided. | 10-23-2008 |
20080262520 | Devices and methods for treatment of obesity - Methods, devices, tools, instruments and systems for treating a patient to induce weight loss. In one method embodiment, a device, including an expandable member in a collapsed configuration, is passed through an opening in the skin of the patient, and into the abdominal cavity of the patient. At least a portion of the expandable member is anchored relative to at least one structure in the abdominal cavity, without piercing the stomach. The expandable member is expanded to an expanded configuration in a space in the abdominal cavity to perform at least one of: prevention of expansion of the stomach of the patient into the space; and compression of a portion of the stomach. | 10-23-2008 |
20080262521 | Devices and methods for treatment of obesity - Methods, devices, tools, instruments and systems for treating a patient to induce weight loss. In one method embodiment, a device, including an expandable member in a collapsed configuration, is passed through an opening in the skin of the patient, and into the abdominal cavity of the patient. At least a portion of the expandable member is anchored relative to at least one structure in the abdominal cavity, without piercing the stomach. The expandable member is expanded to an expanded configuration in a space in the abdominal cavity to perform at least one of: prevention of expansion of the stomach of the patient into the space; and compression of a portion of the stomach. | 10-23-2008 |
20080262523 | Devices and methods for treatment of obesity - Methods, devices, tools, instruments and systems for treating a patient to induce weight loss. In one method embodiment, a device, including an expandable member in a collapsed configuration, is passed through an opening in the skin of the patient, and into the abdominal cavity of the patient. At least a portion of the expandable member is anchored relative to at least one structure in the abdominal cavity, without piercing the stomach. The expandable member is expanded to an expanded configuration in a space in the abdominal cavity to perform at least one of: prevention of expansion of the stomach of the patient into the space; and compression of a portion of the stomach. | 10-23-2008 |
20080275483 | Methods and Apparatus for Treating Disorders of the Ear Nose and Throat - Methods and apparatus for treating disorders of the ear, nose, throat or paranasal sinuses, including methods and apparatus for dilating ostia, passageways and other anatomical structures, endoscopic methods and apparatus for endoscopic visualization of structures within the ear, nose, throat or paranasal sinuses, navigation devices for use in conjunction with image guidance or navigation system and hand held devices having pistol type grips and other handpieces. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275509 | MOUNTS FOR IMPLANTABLE EXTRA-ARTICULAR SYSTEMS - A mount usable with an implantable extra-articular system including a body having a first end opposite a second end. The mount includes a coupling connection positioned at the first end of the mount for attaching the mount to a base component. The mount also includes a multi-dimensional articulating connection component configured at the second end of the mount. The body of the mount offsets the articulating connection component away from body anatomy when coupled to the base component. The mount also orients and aligns a link absorber that is coupled to the articulating connection component. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275552 | ADJUSTABLE ABSORBER DESIGNS FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275555 | Extra-Articular Implantable Mechanical Energy Absorbing Systems - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275556 | ADJUSTABLE ABSORBER DESIGNS FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275557 | ADJUSTABLE ABSORBER DESIGNS FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275558 | EXTRA-ARTICULAR IMPLANTABLE MECHANICAL ENERGY ABSORBING SYSTEMS AND IMPLANTATION METHOD - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one aspect, the method involves identifying link pivot locations, fixing base components and minimally invasive insertion techniques. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275559 | ADJUSTABLE ABSORBER DESIGNS FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275560 | FEMORAL AND TIBIAL BASE COMPONENTS - Various embodiments are directed to base components that are usable with implantable mechanical energy absorbing systems. According to one embodiment, the base component includes a low-profile body having a elongate, straight portion at a first end and a curved body portion at a second end. The second end is elevated as compared to the first end. An inner surface of the low-profile body has a raised portion extending along the elongate, straight portion of the low-profile body. The base component also includes a plurality of openings positioned along the low-profile body for alignment and purposes of affixation to body anatomy. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275561 | EXTRA-ARTICULAR IMPLANTABLE MECHANICAL ENERGY ABSORBING SYSTEMS AND IMPLANTATION METHOD - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one aspect, the method involves identifying link pivot locations, fixing base components and minimally invasive insertion techniques. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275562 | FEMORAL AND TIBIAL BASE COMPONENTS - Various embodiments are directed to base components that are usable with implantable mechanical energy absorbing systems. According to one embodiment, the base component includes a low-profile body having a elongate, straight portion at a first end and a curved body portion at a second end. The second end is elevated as compared to the first end. An inner surface of the low-profile body has a raised portion extending along the elongate, straight portion of the low-profile body. The base component also includes a plurality of openings positioned along the low-profile body for alignment and purposes of affixation to body anatomy. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275563 | ADJUSTABLE ABSORBER DESIGNS FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275564 | ADJUSTABLE ABSORBER DESIGNS FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275565 | ADJUSTABLE ABSORBER DESIGNS FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275567 | Extra-Articular Implantable Mechanical Energy Absorbing Systems - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275571 | EXTRA-ARTICULAR IMPLANTABLE MECHANICAL ENERGY ABSORBING SYSTEMS AND IMPLANTATION METHOD - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one aspect, the method involves identifying link pivot locations, fixing base components and minimally invasive insertion techniques. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 11-06-2008 |
20080281156 | Methods and Apparatus for Treating Disorders of the Ear Nose and Throat - Methods and apparatus for treating disorders of the ear, nose, throat or paranasal sinuses, including methods and apparatus for dilating ostia, passageways and other anatomical structures, endoscopic methods and apparatus for endoscopic visualization of structures within the ear, nose, throat or paranasal sinuses, navigation devices for use in conjunction with image guidance or navigation system and hand held devices having pistol type grips and other handpieces. | 11-13-2008 |
20080287908 | Ethmoidotomy System and Implantable Spacer Devices Having Therapeutic Substance Delivery Capability for Treatment of Paranasal Sinusitis - Substance delivering spacer devices may comprise expandable reservoirs that are implantable in paranasal sinuses and other cavities, openings and passageways of the body to maintain patency and to provide sustained local delivery of a therapeutic or diagnostic substance. Also provided are sinus penetrator devices and systems for performing ethmoidotomy procedures or for creating other openings in the walls of paranasal sinuses or other anatomical structures. | 11-20-2008 |
20080319424 | Devices and Methods for Delivering Therapeutic Substances for the Treatment of Sinusitis and Other Disorders - Devices and methods for delivering drugs and other therapeutic or diagnostic substances to desired locations within the bodies of human or non-human animal subjects. An implantable delivery device comprising a reservoir is initially attached to a deliver catheter or delivery tool and is introduced into the body and positioned at a desired site. A therapeutic or diagnostic substance is then introduced into the reservoir and the delivery catheter or deliver tool is then removed, leaving the implantable delivery device implanted within the body. The substance is then delivered from the reservoir at a rate that causes the desire diagnostic or therapeutic effect. Also provided are substance eluting stents that elute substance from a selected surface of the stent (e.g., the outer surface) but not from another surface of the stent (e.g., the inner surface). | 12-25-2008 |
20090005763 | Implantable Devices and Methods for Delivering Drugs and Other Substances to Treat Sinusitis and Other Disorders - Implantable devices and methods for delivering drugs and other substances to locations within the body of a human or animal subject to treat or diagnose sinusitis and a variety of other disorders. The invention includes implantable substance delivery devices that comprise reservoirs and barriers that control the rate at which substances pass out of the reservoirs. The delivery devices may be advanced into the body using guidewires, catheters, ports, introducers and other access apparatus. In some embodiments the delivery devices may be loaded with one or more desired substance before their introduction into the body. In other embodiments the delivery devices are loaded and/or reloaded with a desired substance after the delivery device has been introduced into the body. | 01-01-2009 |
20090012547 | Devices and methods for treatment of obesity - Methods, devices, tools and assemblies for treating a patient to effect weight loss. One method embodiment involves passing a device including an expandable member in a collapsed configuration and a buoyancy member through an opening in the skin of a patient and into the abdominal cavity of the patient, and anchoring at least a portion of the expandable member, relative to at least one structure in the abdominal cavity. Devices including at least one expandable member and at least one buoyancy member are provided. | 01-08-2009 |
20090012554 | Devices and methods for treatment of obesity - Methods, devices, tools and assemblies for treating a patient to effect weight loss. One method embodiment involves passing a device including an expandable member in a collapsed configuration and a buoyancy member through an opening in the skin of a patient and into the abdominal cavity of the patient, and anchoring at least a portion of the expandable member, relative to at least one structure in the abdominal cavity. Devices including at least one expandable member and at least one buoyancy member are provided. | 01-08-2009 |
20090012555 | Devices and methods for treatment of obesity - Methods, devices, tools and assemblies for treating a patient to effect weight loss. One method embodiment involves passing a device including an expandable member in a collapsed configuration and a buoyancy member through an opening in the skin of a patient and into the abdominal cavity of the patient, and anchoring at least a portion of the expandable member, relative to at least one structure in the abdominal cavity. Devices including at least one expandable member and at least one buoyancy member are provided. | 01-08-2009 |
20090018523 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA AND OTHER CONDITIONS - Devices, systems and methods for compressing, cutting, incising, reconfiguring, remodeling, attaching, repositioning, supporting, dislocating or altering the composition of tissues or anatomical structures to alter their positional or force relationship to other tissues or anatomical structures. In some applications, the invention may be used to used to improve patency or fluid flow through a body lumen or cavity (e.g., to limit constriction of the urethra by an enlarged prostate gland). | 01-15-2009 |
20090018553 | MULTI-ACTUATING TRIGGER ANCHOR DELIVERY SYSTEM - A single trigger system and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchor devices for such purposes. | 01-15-2009 |
20090018665 | SURGICAL IMPLANTATION METHOD AND DEVICES FOR AN EXTRA-ARTICULAR MECHANICAL ENERGY ABSORBING APPARATUS - A surgical implantation approach for preparing a patient and precisely and effectively placing an energy absorbing apparatus relative to the patient's anatomy. Various surgical implantation apparatus and methods for achieving proper device-to-anatomy juxtapositional relationships are employed in the implantation approach. | 01-15-2009 |
20090028923 | Implantable Devices and Methods for Treating Sinusitis and Other Disorders - Devices, systems and methods for stenting, spacing, draining, ventilating and/or delivering drugs and other therapeutic or diagnostic substances to desired locations within the bodies of human or non-human animal subjects, including methods and systems for treating paranasal sinusitis and ethmoid disease. | 01-29-2009 |
20090036910 | Devices and Methods for Treatment of Obesity - Implantable devices, instruments, kits and methods for treatment of obesity. One or more devices can be implanted adjacent to or in contact with the stomach to occupy a space to prevent the stomach from expanding into that space as food is taken into the stomach. Alternatively, one or more devices may be implanted and expanded to displace at least a portion of the wall of the stomach to decrease the internal volume of the stomach that is available to receive food. Devices may be anchored to one or more internal structures at one or more locations without piercing through the wall of the stomach. Devices can be implanted using minimally invasive methods, such as percutaneous or laparoscopic methods. Delivery instruments are also provided. An intra-gastric sizing device is provided to facilitate implantation of an extra-gastric device in some method embodiments. | 02-05-2009 |
20090060977 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA AND OTHER CONDITIONS - Devices, systems and methods for compressing, cutting, incising, reconfiguring, remodeling, attaching, repositioning, supporting, dislocating or altering the composition of tissues or anatomical structures to alter their positional or force relationship to other tissues or anatomical structures. In some applications, the invention may be used to used to improve patency or fluid flow through a body lumen or cavity (e.g., to limit constriction of the urethra by an enlarged prostate gland). | 03-05-2009 |
20090093823 | Devices, Systems and Methods Useable for Treating Sinusitis - Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.) into the paranasal sinuses or other structures in the ear, nose or throat. Specific devices (e.g., tubular guides, guidewires, balloon catheters, tubular sheaths) are provided as are methods for manufacturing and using such devices to treat disorders of the ear, nose or throat. | 04-09-2009 |
20090099588 | Devices and methods for treatment of obesity - Implantable devices, methods of implantation and tools for performing the implantations. A device includes a volume occupying member having a working configuration such that, when the device is implanted into the abdominal cavity of the patient, the device performs at least one of: prevention of expansion of the stomach of the patient into a space occupied by the volume occupying member in the abdominal cavity; and compression of a portion of the stomach. A device is configured to have substantially neutral buoyancy or a slightly positive buoyancy when implanted in the abdominal cavity external of the stomach. An attachment member is connected to the volume occupying member, and at least a portion of the attachment member is configured to encourage tissue ingrowth from at least one internal abdominal structure when held in contact therewith. | 04-16-2009 |
20090182360 | Device, System and Method for Interstitial Transvascular Intervention - Method and apparatus for utilizing the vascular system as a conduit to reach other vascular and extravascular locations within the body. Included are methods for revascularization wherein the extravascular passageways are formed to permit blood flow between vascular locations. Also included are methods for performing transvascular interstitial surgery (TVIS) wherein extravascular passageways are formed from a blood vessel to another vascular or non-vascular intracorporeal location. Also disclosed are devices usable for forming extravascular passageways in accordance with the invention, or for modifying, valving, maintaining or closing such passageways. | 07-16-2009 |
20090187098 | Devices, Systems and Methods for Diagnosing and Treating Sinusitis and Other Disorders of the Ears, Nose, and/or Throat - Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies, endoscopic studies and transillumination studies. Devices and methods for visually confirming the positioning of a distal end portion of an illuminating device placed within a patient include inserting a distal end portion of an illuminating device internally into a patient, emitting light from the distal end portion of the illuminating device, observing transillumination resulting from the light emitted from the distal end portion of the illuminating device that occurs on an external surface of the patient, and correlating the location of the observed transillumination on the external surface of the patient with an internal location of the patient that underlies the location of observed transillumination, to confirm positioning of the distal end portion of the illuminating device. | 07-23-2009 |
20090192439 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA AND OTHER CONDITIONS - Devices, systems and methods for compressing, cutting, incising, reconfiguring, remodeling, attaching, repositioning, supporting, dislocating or altering the composition of tissues or anatomical structures to alter their positional or force relationship to other tissues or anatomical structures. In some applications, the invention may be used to used to improve patency or fluid flow through a body lumen or cavity (e.g., to limit constriction of the urethra by an enlarged prostate gland). | 07-30-2009 |
20090204128 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA AND OTHER CONDITIONS - Devices, systems and methods for compressing, cutting, incising, reconfiguring, remodeling, attaching, repositioning, supporting, dislocating or altering the composition of tissues or anatomical structures to alter their positional or force relationship to other tissues or anatomical structures. In some applications, the invention may be used to used to improve patency or fluid flow through a body lumen or cavity (e.g., to limit constriction of the urethra by an enlarged prostate gland). | 08-13-2009 |
20090222025 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR RETRACTING, LIFTING, COMPRESSING, SUPPORTING OR REPOSITIONING TISSUES OR ANATOMICAL STRUCTURES - Devices, systems and methods for retracting, lifting, compressing, supporting or repositioning tissues, organs, anatomical structures, grafts or other structures within the body of human or animal subjects for the purpose of treating a diseases or disorders and/or for cosmetic or reconstructive purposes and/or for research and development purposes or other purposes. | 09-03-2009 |
20090272388 | MINIMALLY-INVASIVE METHODS FOR IMPLANTING OBESITY TREATMENT DEVICES - Tools, devices and methods for treating a patient. An incision or puncture is made though the patient's skin and a delivery tract is made through an opening formed by the incision or puncture, subcutaneous fat and fascia, far into the patient's abdominal cavity. A guide member is inserted through the delivery tract and a distal end portion of the guide member is positioned at a target location within the abdominal cavity. An implantable device is delivered with the aid of the guide member, and the implantable device is attached to at least one internal body structure. A fillable member of the implantable device is at least partially filled with fluid. The guide member is removed and an adjustment member is attached to a conduit in fluid communication with the fillable member. The attachment member is anchored to an internal body structure and the incision or puncture is closed. | 11-05-2009 |
20090275945 | SHEATHS FOR EXTRA-ARTICULAR IMPLANTABLE SYSTEMS - Various embodiments are directed to a sheath for covering one or more components of an extra-articular implantable mechanical energy absorbing system. The sheath is generally an elongated structure having an inner space extending the length thereof. In use, the sheath can exclude the energy absorbing system from surrounding tissue and facilitate creating a capsule for its operation. Materials and dimensions are selected to achieve these purposes. The ends of the sheath include various attachment mechanisms for securing the sheath to one or more components of an extra-articular implantable mechanical energy absorbing system. | 11-05-2009 |
20090275972 | MINIMALLY-INVASIVE METHODS FOR IMPLANTING OBESITY TREATMENT DEVICES - Tools, devices and methods for treating a patient. An incision or puncture is made though the patient's skin and a delivery tract is made through an opening formed by the incision or puncture, subcutaneous fat and fascia, far into the patient's abdominal cavity. A guide member is inserted through the delivery tract and a distal end portion of the guide member is positioned at a target location within the abdominal cavity. An implantable device is delivered with the aid of the guide member, and the implantable device is attached to at least one internal body structure. A fillable member of the implantable device is at least partially filled with fluid. The guide member is removed and an adjustment member is attached to a conduit in fluid communication with the fillable member. The attachment member is anchored to an internal body structure and the incision or puncture is closed. | 11-05-2009 |
20090276044 | SHEATHS FOR EXTRA-ARTICULAR IMPLANTABLE SYSTEMS - Various embodiments are directed to a sheath for covering one or more components of an extra-articular implantable mechanical energy absorbing system. The sheath is generally an elongated structure having an inner space extending the length thereof. In use, the sheath can exclude the energy absorbing system from surrounding tissue and facilitate creating a capsule for its operation. Materials and dimensions are selected to achieve these purposes. The ends of the sheath include various attachment mechanisms for securing the sheath to one or more components of an extra-articular implantable mechanical energy absorbing system. | 11-05-2009 |
20090281376 | DEVICES, SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE ABDOMINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES - Apparatus, tools, device and methods provided for treating a patient including: making an incision or puncture though the patient's skin; establishing an initial tract through an opening formed by the incision or puncture; inserting a guide member having a flexible distal portion and a distal tip into the initial tract and extending the initial tract to form a delivery tract leading to a target location within the patient's body; wherein said distal tip and at least a portion of a remainder of said guide member are transparent and delivering an obturator and conduit assembly over said guide member to place a distal end of the conduit of said obturator and conduit assembly in a location at or near the target location, said obturator having been inserted into said conduit prior to delivering said assembly over said guide member such that a distal end of said obturator extends distally out of a distal opening of said conduit; wherein said obturator comprises a central lumen adapted to closely follow said guide member while sliding thereover. | 11-12-2009 |
20090281377 | DEVICES, TOOLS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING MINIMALLY INVASIVE ABDOMINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES - Methods, systems, devices and assemblies are provided for treating a patient by: making an incision or puncture though the patient's skin over the abdominal cavity; establishing an initial tract through an opening formed by the incision or puncture; advancing an instrument through the tract; contacting a distal end portion of the instrument against an inner surface of the abdominal cavity; driving at least one stitching needle through the inner surface of the abdominal cavity; continuing the driving until the at least one stitching needle exits the inner surface of the abdominal cavity; anchoring a suture carried by each of the at least one stitching needle to a suture anchor at an exit location, respectively; and applying tension to each of the sutures. | 11-12-2009 |
20090281386 | DEVICES, SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE ABDOMINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES - Apparatus, tools, device and methods provided for treating a patient including: making an incision or puncture though the patient's skin; establishing an initial tract through an opening formed by the incision or puncture; inserting a guide member having a flexible distal portion and a distal tip into the initial tract and extending the initial tract to form a delivery tract leading to a target location within the patient's body; wherein said distal tip and at least a portion of a remainder of said guide member are transparent and delivering an obturator and conduit assembly over said guide member to place a distal end of the conduit of said obturator and conduit assembly in a location at or near the target location, said obturator having been inserted into said conduit prior to delivering said assembly over said guide member such that a distal end of said obturator extends distally out of a distal opening of said conduit wherein said obturator comprises a central lumen adapted to closely follow said guide member while sliding thereover. | 11-12-2009 |
20090281498 | DEVICES, SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE ABDOMINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES - Apparatus, tools, device and methods provided for treating a patient including: making an incision or puncture though the patient's skin; establishing an initial tract through an opening formed by the incision or puncture; inserting a guide member having a flexible distal portion and a distal tip into the initial tract and extending the initial tract to form a delivery tract leading to a target location within the patient's body; wherein said distal tip and at least a portion of a remainder of said guide member are transparent and delivering an obturator and conduit assembly over said guide member to place a distal end of the conduit of said obturator and conduit assembly in a location at or near the target location, said obturator having been inserted into said conduit prior to delivering said assembly over said guide member such that a distal end of said obturator extends distally out of a distal opening of said conduit wherein said obturator comprises a central lumen adapted to closely follow said guide member while sliding thereover. | 11-12-2009 |
20090281500 | DEVICES, SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE ABDOMINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES - Apparatus, tools, device and methods provided for treating a patient, including: making an incision or puncture though the patient's skin; establishing an initial tract through an opening formed by the incision or puncture; inserting a guide member having a flexible distal portion and a distal tip into the initial tract and extending the initial tract to form a delivery tract leading to a target location within the patient's body; wherein said distal tip and at least a portion of a remainder of said guide member are transparent; and delivering an obturator and conduit assembly over said guide member to place a distal end of the conduit of said obturator and conduit assembly in a location at or near the target location, said obturator having been inserted into said conduit prior to delivering said assembly over said guide member such that a distal end of said obturator extends distally out of a distal opening of said conduit; wherein said obturator comprises a central lumen adapted to closely follow said guide member while sliding thereover. | 11-12-2009 |
20090281556 | DEVICES, TOOLS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING MINIMALLY INVASIVE ABDOMINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES - Methods, systems, devices and assemblies are provided for treating a patient by: making an incision or puncture though the patient's skin over the abdominal cavity; establishing an initial tract through an opening formed by the incision or puncture; advancing an instrument through the tract; contacting a distal end portion of the instrument against an inner surface of the abdominal cavity; driving at least one stitching needle through the inner surface of the abdominal cavity, continuing the driving until the at least one stitching needle exits the inner surface of the abdominal cavity, anchoring a suture carried by each of the at least one stitching needle to a suture anchor at an exit location, respectively; and applying tension to each of the sutures. | 11-12-2009 |
20090281563 | DEVICES, TOOLS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING MINIMALLY INVASIVE ABDOMINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES - Methods, systems, devices and assemblies are provided for treating a patient by: making an incision or puncture though the patient's skin over the abdominal cavity; establishing an initial tract through an opening formed by the incision or puncture; advancing an instrument through the tract; contacting a distal end portion of the instrument against an inner surface of the abdominal cavity; driving at least one stitching needle through the inner surface of the abdominal cavity; continuing the driving until the at least one stitching needle exits the inner surface of the abdominal cavity; anchoring a suture carried by each of the at least one stitching needle to a suture anchor at an exit location, respectively; and applying tension to each of the sutures. | 11-12-2009 |
20090287227 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE ,METHODS FOR IMPLANTING OBESITY TREATMENT DEVICES - Methods, systems, devices and assemblies are provided for treating a patient by: making an incision or puncture though the patient's skin over the abdominal cavity; establishing an initial tract through an opening formed by the incision or puncture; advancing an instrument through the tract; contacting a distal end portion of the instrument against an inner surface of the abdominal cavity; driving at least one stitching needle through the inner surface of the abdominal cavity; continuing the driving until the at least one stitching needle exits the inner surface of the abdominal cavity; anchoring a suture carried by each of the at least one stitching needle to a suture anchor at an exit location, respectively; and applying tension to each of the sutures. | 11-19-2009 |
20090318976 | IMPLANTABLE BRACE FOR PROVIDING JOINT SUPPORT - Internal braces and methods of implanting same. A brace can be implanted on one side of a joint, or a pair of braces can be implanted, one on each opposite side of a joint. Each brace supports the joint over at least a portion of its range of motion. Distraction may be provided, or load sharing can be accomplished without distraction. Relative axial rotation of the bones connected by the brace may be permitted. One or more compliant members may be provided in the brace. | 12-24-2009 |
20100016836 | Methods and Apparatus for Acute or Chronic Delivery or Substances or Apparatus to Extravascular Treatment Sites - Methods and apparatus for delivery of substances or apparatus to target sites located outside blood vessels within the body of a human or animal patient. A vessel wall penetrating catheter is inserted into the vasculature, positioned and oriented within a blood vessel near the target extravascular site and a penetrator is advanced from the catheter so as to penetrate outwardly through the wall of the blood vessel in the direction of the target site. Thereafter, a delivery catheter is passed through a lumen of the penetrator to the target site. A desired substance or apparatus is then delivered to or obtained from the target site. In some applications, the penetrator may be retracted into the vessel wall penetrating catheter and the vessel wall penetrating catheter may be removed, leaving the delivery catheter in place for chronic or continuous delivery of substance(s) to and/or obtaining of information or samples from the target site. Alternatively, a delivery catheter having an occlusion member or balloon may be advanced into a vein or venule and the occlusion member or balloon may be used to occlude the lumen of the vein or venule during and after injection of a substance through the catheter, such that the substance will not be carried away by normal venous blood flow and will remain in the vein or venule for a sufficient period of time to have its intended effect (e.g. to enter adjacent tissues through capillary beds drained by that vein or venule). | 01-21-2010 |
20100030113 | Paranasal Ostium Finder Devices and Methods - Devices and methods for locating sinus ostia and positioning a guide wire within the sinus ostia. The subject devices comprise a shaft having a distal end, a proximal end, a curved region located between the distal and proximal ends, and an interior channel, an extensible and retractable guide wire movably mounted within the interior channel and a probe tip joined to the guide wire. Certain devices further include expandable portions for engaging and treating body anatomy. | 02-04-2010 |
20100030262 | ANCHOR DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH REPLACEABLE CARTRIDGE - A system and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchor devices for such purposes. | 02-04-2010 |
20100042046 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS USEABLE FOR TREATING SINUSITIS - Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.) into the paranasal sinuses or other structures in the ear, nose or throat. Specific devices (e.g., tubular guides, guidewires, balloon catheters, tubular sheaths) are provided as are methods for manufacturing and using such devices to treat disorders of the ear, nose or throat. | 02-18-2010 |
20100076269 | Systems and Methods for Treating Sinuses - Systems and methods for treating paranasal sinuses in a head of a patient include, for example, forming an opening through a canine fossa into a maxillary paranasal sinus and performing a procedure such as a balloon catheter dilation of the maxillary sinus ostium. In some embodiments, one or more procedures other than a balloon dilation procedure may be performed. In some embodiments, a combination of balloon dilation and one or more other procedures may be performed. Various approaches involve employing medical devices to accomplish alternative treatment modalities as well as taking alternative routes to the interventional site. | 03-25-2010 |
20100094259 | Catheters and Related Devices for Forming Passageways Between Blood Vessels or Other Anatomical Structures - The inventions described in this patent application include i) a torqueable introducer sheath which is useable in conjunction with a transvascular passageway forming catheter to effect precise rotational control of the catheter; ii) an anchorable guide catheter which is useable in conjunction with an intravascular imaging catheter and a transvascular passageway-forming catheter to effect precise positioning and aiming of the passageway-forming catheter; iii) a passageway forming catheter having a torqueable proximal portion to facilitate precise rotational positioning of the distal portion of the catheter; iv) a deflectable-tipped passageway forming catheter, v) various markers and other apparatus useable in conjunction with any of the passageway-forming catheters to facilitate precise positioning and aiming of the catheter, and vi) an apparatus which may be formed within a catheter to prevent a member, apparatus of flow of material from being inadvertently advanced through a lumen of the catheter. | 04-15-2010 |
20100099946 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING DISORDERS OF THE EAR NOSE AND THROAT - A device for dilating an ostium of a paranasal sinus of a human or animal subject may include: a handle; an elongate shaft having a proximal end coupled with the handle and extending to a distal end; a guidewire disposed through at least a portion of the shaft lumen; a dilator having a non-expanded configuration and an expanded configuration; and a slide member coupled with at least one of the guidewire or the dilator through the longitudinal opening of the shaft for advancing the guidewire and/or the dilator relative to the shaft. | 04-22-2010 |
20100100181 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DIAGNOSING AND TREATING SINUSITUS ANDOTHER DISORDERS OF THE EARS, NOSE AND/OR THROAT - Sinusitis, enlarged nasal turbinates, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, allergic conditions, facial fractures and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies, endoscopic studies and transillumination studies. Access and occluder devices may be used to establish fluid tight seals in the anterior or posterior nasal cavities/nasopharynx and to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g., scopes, guidewires, catheters, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting devices, substance delivery implants, etc. | 04-22-2010 |
20100106247 | Extra-Articular Implantable Mechanical Energy Absorbing Systems - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 04-29-2010 |
20100106248 | Extra-Articular Implantable Mechanical Energy Absorbing Systems - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 04-29-2010 |
20100114066 | IMPLANTABLE DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING DRUGS AND OTHER SUBSTANCES TO TREAT SINUSITIS AND OTHER DISORDERS - Implantable devices and methods for delivering drugs and other substances to locations within the body of a human or animal subject to treat or diagnose sinusitis and a variety of other disorders. The invention includes implantable substance delivery devices that comprise reservoirs and barriers that control the rate at which substances pass out of the reservoirs. The delivery devices may be advanced into the body using guidewires, catheters, ports, introducers and other access apparatus. In some embodiments the delivery devices may be loaded with one or more desired substance before their introduction into the body. In other embodiments the delivery devices are loaded and/or reloaded with a desired substance after the delivery device has been introduced into the body. | 05-06-2010 |
20100114322 | Extra-Articular Implantable Mechanical Energy Absorbing Systems and Implantation Method - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one aspect, the method involves identifying link pivot locations, fixing base components and minimally invasive insertion techniques. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 05-06-2010 |
20100121308 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING THERAPEUTIC SUBSTANCES FOR THE TREATMENT OF SINUSITIS AND OTHER DISORDERS - Devices and methods for delivering drugs and other therapeutic or diagnostic substances to desired locations within the bodies of human or non-human animal subjects. An implantable delivery device comprising a reservoir is initially attached to a deliver catheter or delivery tool and is introduced into the body and positioned at a desired site. A therapeutic or diagnostic substance is then introduced into the reservoir and the delivery catheter or deliver tool is then removed, leaving the implantable delivery device implanted within the body. The substance is then delivered from the reservoir at a rate that causes the desire diagnostic or therapeutic effect. Also provided are substance eluting stents that elute substance from a selected surface of the stent (e.g., the outer surface) but not from another surface of the stent (e.g., the inner surface). | 05-13-2010 |
20100121357 | Tissue Penetrating Catheters having Integral Imaging Transducers and Their Methods of Use - A catheter device that is useable to penetrate from a blood vessel in which the catheter device is positioned to a target location comprises a flexible catheter advanceable into the first blood vessel, a tissue penetrator lumen adapted to receive an operative tissue penetrator which is usable to penetrate from the blood vessel to the target location when properly aimed. Further said catheter including an imaging transducer fixedly mounted on or within the catheter body to provide an imaging signal from which an image of the target location can be obtained. The catheter device may include an imageable marker on the catheter to form on the image obtainable from the imaging signal a penetrator path indication that indicates the path that will be followed by the tissue penetrator when the tissue penetrator exits from the catheter. Alternatively, or addition thereto, the imaging transducer may comprise a plurality of imaging elements which are located so that the penetrator path indication can be obtained. A method of utilizing such a catheter device to bypass an arterial obstruction is also disclosed. | 05-13-2010 |
20100121457 | EXTRA-ARTICULAR IMPLANTABLE MECHANICAL ENERGY ABSORBING SYSTEMS AND IMPLANTATION METHOD - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one aspect, the method involves identifying link pivot locations, fixing base components and minimally invasive insertion techniques. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 05-13-2010 |
20100137996 | FEMORAL AND TIBIAL BASE COMPONENTS - Various embodiments are directed to base components that are usable with implantable mechanical energy absorbing systems. According to one embodiment, the base component includes a low-profile body having a elongate, straight portion at a first end and a curved body portion at a second end. The second end is elevated as compared to the first end. An inner surface of the low-profile body has a raised portion extending along the elongate, straight portion of the low-profile body. The base component also includes a plurality of openings positioned along the low-profile body for alignment and purposes of affixation to body anatomy. | 06-03-2010 |
20100145449 | ADJUSTABLE ABSORBER DESIGNS FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device. | 06-10-2010 |
20100152730 | MUCOSAL TISSUE DRESSING AND METHOD OF USE - A method and apparatus for reducing or eliminating pain after surgical procedures related to mucosal tissue, including tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, or other pharyngeal operations. Certain embodiments provide a biodegradable film or covering that serves as a mechanical barrier to reduce pain caused, for example, by friction between solid food and healing tissue in the first few days after surgery. Some embodiments include a method for increasing the adhesion between tissue and the film or covering. | 06-17-2010 |
20100174138 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS USEABLE FOR TREATING SINUSITIS - Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.) into the paranasal sinuses or other structures in the ear, nose or throat. Specific devices (e.g., tubular guides, guidewires, balloon catheters, tubular sheaths) are provided as are methods for manufacturing and using such devices to treat disorders of the ear, nose or throat. | 07-08-2010 |
20100174308 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS USEABLE FOR TREATING SINUSITIS - Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.) into the paranasal sinuses or other structures in the ear, nose or throat. Specific devices (e.g., tubular guides, guidewires, balloon catheters, tubular sheaths) are provided as are methods for manufacturing and using such devices to treat disorders of the ear, nose or throat. | 07-08-2010 |
20100198191 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TREATING TARGET TISSUE WITHIN THE EUSTACHIAN TUBE - Methods and systems for accessing a Eustachian tube of a patient are disclosed. The system includes a guide configured for passing into a nasal passage of the patient to position a distal tip of the catheter at or near a Eustachian tube, the guide having a distal tip with a bend having an angle between 30 and 90 degrees; and a guidewire configured to pass through the guide into the Eustachian tube. A device for providing therapy to the Eustachian tube is passed through the guide. | 08-05-2010 |
20100198247 | Devices, Systems and Methods for Treating Disorders of the Ear, Nose and Throat - Sinusitis, mucocysts, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, choanal atresia, fractures and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, Eustachian tubes, Lachrymal ducts and other ear, nose, throat and mouth structures are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies and endoscopic studies. Access and occluding devices may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices such asendoscopes, wires, probes, needles, catheters, balloon catheters, dilation catheters, dilators, balloons, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, suction or irrigation devices, imaging devices, sizing devices, biopsy devices, image-guided devices containing sensors or transmitters, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting or delivering devices and implants, etc. | 08-05-2010 |
20100210901 | Devices, Systems and Methods For Diagnosing and Treating Sinusitis and Other Disorders of the Ears, Nose and/or Throat - Sinusitis, enlarged nasal turbinates, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, allergic conditions, facial fractures and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies, endoscopic studies and transillumination studies. Access and occluder devices may be used to establish fluid tight seals in the anterior or posterior nasal cavities/nasopharynx and to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g., scopes, guidewires, catheters, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting devices, substance delivery implants, etc. | 08-19-2010 |
20100217296 | Silent Effusion Removal - A method is disclosed for clearing effusion from an ear. The method may include applying liquid to an ear canal, which is proximal to a perforated tympanic membrane, which is proximal to a middle ear containing effusion, applying an ear device to seal and pressurize the liquid inside the ear canal, the ear device regulating the amount of pressure inside the ear canal, and inducing a Eustachian tube, which is distal to the middle ear, to open, which causes the fluid to displace the effusion into the Eustachian tube. | 08-26-2010 |
20100240951 | Integrated Handle Assembly for Anchor Delivery System - Integrated systems and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchor devices for such purposes. | 09-23-2010 |
20100268245 | Devices, Systems and Methods for Treating Disorders of the Ear, Nose and Throat - Sinusitis, mucocysts, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, choanal atresia, fractures and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, Eustachian tubes, Lachrymal ducts and other ear, nose, throat and mouth structures are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies and endoscopic studies. Access and occluding devices may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices such asendoscopes, wires, probes, needles, catheters, balloon catheters, dilation catheters, dilators, balloons, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, suction or irrigation devices, imaging devices, sizing devices, biopsy devices, image-guided devices containing sensors or transmitters, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting or delivering devices and implants, etc. | 10-21-2010 |
20100298862 | Apparatus and Methods for Dilating and Modifying Ostia of Paranasal Sinuses and Other Intranasal or Paranasal Structures - Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.) into the paranasal sinuses or other structures in the ear, nose or throat. | 11-25-2010 |
20100305697 | System and Method For Treatment of Non-Ventilating Middle Ear by Providing a Gas Pathway Through the Nasopharynx - Methods and devices for providing a gas pathway between the nasopharynx and the Eustachian tube are provided. One device may include a lumen with a valve. A portion of the valve may be tethered to adjacent muscle. Another portion of the valve may be tethered to adjacent cartilage. When the muscle contracts the valve may open through movement of the tethers, and provide a gas pathway between the nasopharynx and the Eustachian tube. | 12-02-2010 |
20100324471 | Systems and Methods for Delivering Drugs to Selected Locations Within the Body - A transvascular system for delivering a drug to a tissue region from a blood vessel includes a catheter having a distal portion with puncturing, orientation, drug delivery, and imaging elements. The puncturing element is deployable for penetrating the vessel wall to access the tissue region. The orientation element has a predetermined relationship with the puncturing element, the imaging element detecting the location of the orientation element with respect to the tissue region to orient the puncturing element. The catheter is percutaneously introduced into the vessel, the puncturing element is oriented towards the tissue region, the puncturing element is deployed to access the tissue region, and the drug is delivered to the tissue region. An ablation device may also be deployed to create a cavity or fluid reservoir in the tissue region for receiving the drug therein, or an indwelling catheter may be advanced into and left in the tissue region. | 12-23-2010 |
20110054493 | Multi-Actuating Trigger Anchor Delivery System - A single trigger system and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchor devices for such purposes. | 03-03-2011 |
20110060214 | Systems and Methods for Performing Image Guided Procedures Within the Ear, Nose, Throat and Paranasal Sinuses - Devices, systems and methods for performing image guided interventional and surgical procedures, including various procedures to treat sinusitis and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, ears, nose or throat. | 03-10-2011 |
20110060422 | Adjustable Absorber Designs for Implantable Device - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device. | 03-10-2011 |
20110137415 | Extra-Articular Implantable Mechanical Energy Absorbing Systems and Implantation Method - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one aspect, the method involves identifying link pivot locations, fixing base components and minimally invasive insertion techniques. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 06-09-2011 |
20110144425 | Apparatus and Method for Manipulating or Retracting Tissue and Anatomical Structure - Integrated systems and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchoring devices for such purposes. | 06-16-2011 |
20110152607 | Apparatus and Method for Manipulating or Retracting Tissue and Anatomical Structure - Integrated systems and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchoring devices for such purposes. | 06-23-2011 |
20110160740 | Tissue Removal in The Paranasal Sinus and Nasal Cavity - Sinusitis, tumors, infections, fractures and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches. Access devices may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices such catheters, balloon catheters, dilation catheters, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, suction or irrigation devices and biopsy devices. | 06-30-2011 |
20110190758 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA AND OTHER CONDITIONS - Devices, systems and methods for compressing, cutting, incising, reconfiguring, remodeling, attaching, repositioning, supporting, dislocating or altering the composition of tissues or anatomical structures to alter their positional or force relationship to other tissues or anatomical structures. In some applications, the invention may be used to used to improve patency or fluid flow through a body lumen or cavity (e.g., to limit constriction of the urethra by an enlarged prostate gland). | 08-04-2011 |
20110264216 | Unlinked Implantable Knee Unloading Device - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system is an unlinked structure which facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 10-27-2011 |
20120071824 | Devices, Systems and Methods for Treating Disorders of the Ear, Nose and Throat - Sinusitis, mucocysts, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, choanal atresia, fractures and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, Eustachian tubes, Lachrymal ducts and other ear, nose, throat and mouth structures are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies and endoscopic studies. Access and occluding devices may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices such asendoscopes, wires, probes, needles, catheters, balloon catheters, dilation catheters, dilators, balloons, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, suction or irrigation devices, imaging devices, sizing devices, biopsy devices, image-guided devices containing sensors or transmitters, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting or delivering devices and implants, etc. | 03-22-2012 |
20120071857 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING DISORDERS OF THE SINUSES - A medical device for the treatment of a sinus opening includes a handle, a grooming sheath, a rail, a guide wire, a balloon catheter and a balloon catheter movement mechanism. A method for treating a sinus opening includes inserting a medical device for the treatment of a sinus opening partially into a patient's anatomy, positioning a guide wire operatively extending from a rail of the medical device into a sinus opening of the patient, advancing a balloon catheter from an annular lumen of the medical device and along both the rail of the medical device and the guide wire with a balloon catheter movement mechanism, and inflating the balloon catheter. | 03-22-2012 |
20120116522 | ADJUSTABLE ABSORBER DESIGNS FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device. | 05-10-2012 |
20120136449 | Adjustable Absorber Designs For Implantable Device - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint. The system includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. There is also an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the load manipulating characteristics of the energy absorbing device. | 05-31-2012 |
20120172838 | Systems and Methods for Delivering Drugs to Selected Locations Within the Body - Systems and methods for delivering drugs or other substances to target locations outside of blood vessel lumens or other body lumens. In some embodiments, a catheter having a penetrator is advanced into the body lumen and the penetrator is then advanced from the catheter toward a target location outside of that body lumen. The substance is then delivered through a the penetrator itself or through a delivery catheter that has been advanced through the penetrator to the target location. In other embodiments, the blood vessel or other body lumen is blocked at spaced-apart first and second locations and a quantity of the substance is introduced into the closed-off body lumen between the blocked first and second locations. The substance then diffuses into or through the wall of the vessel or body conduit to reach the target location. | 07-05-2012 |
20120179273 | EXTRA-ARTICULAR IMPLANTABLE MECHANICAL ENERGY ABSORBING SYSTEMS AND IMPLANTATION METHOD - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one aspect, the method involves identifying link pivot locations, fixing base components and minimally invasive insertion techniques. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 07-12-2012 |
20120184983 | Apparatus and Methods for Dilating and Modifying Ostia of Paranasal Sinuses and Other Intranasal or Paranasal Structures - Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.) into the paranasal sinuses or other structures in the ear, nose or throat. | 07-19-2012 |
20120221106 | Extra-Articular Implantable Load Sharing Systems - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 08-30-2012 |
20120245419 | Devices, Systems and Methods For Diagnosing and Treating Sinusitis and Other Disorders of the Ears, Nose and/or Throat - Sinusitis, enlarged nasal turbinates, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, allergic conditions, facial fractures and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies, endoscopic studies and transillumination studies. Access and occluder devices may be used to establish fluid tight seals in the anterior or posterior nasal cavities/nasopharynx and to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g., scopes, guidewires, catheters, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting devices, substance delivery implants, etc. | 09-27-2012 |
20120245456 | Adapter for Attaching Electromagnetic Image Guidance Components to a Medical Device - Devices and methods wherein an adapter is used to attach an electromagnetic image guidance component to a medical device such that an electromagnetic image guidance system may be used to track the location of the medical device within the body of a human or animal subject. | 09-27-2012 |
20120245600 | ANCHOR DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH REPLACEABLE CARTRIDGE - A system and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchor devices for such purposes. | 09-27-2012 |
20120253378 | Devices and Methods for Treatment of Obesity - Devices, methods for treatment of obesity, as well as instruments and tools used in placing, adjusting and maintaining devices for treatment of obesity. Various embodiments of devices that are implanted extra-gastrically are provided. Various embodiments of devices that are implanted intra-gastrically are provided. Methods include laparoscopic, percutaneous and/or trans-oral methods. Alternatively, devices describe can generally also be implanted by open surgical procedures. | 10-04-2012 |
20120283766 | Devices and Methods for Treatment of Obesity - Methods, devices, tools, instruments and systems for treating a patient to induce weight loss. In one method embodiment, a device, including an expandable member in a collapsed configuration, is passed through an opening in the skin of the patient, and into the abdominal cavity of the patient. At least a portion of the expandable member is anchored relative to at least one structure in the abdominal cavity, without piercing the stomach. The expandable member is expanded to an expanded configuration in a space in the abdominal cavity to perform at least one of: prevention of expansion of the stomach of the patient into the space; and compression of a portion of the stomach. | 11-08-2012 |
20120310145 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THE SIMULTANEOUS BILATERAL INTEGRATED TYMPANIC DRUG DELIVERY AND GUIDED TREATMENT OF TARGET TISSUES WITHIN THE EARS - Systems and methods for treating a patient having a head with a first ear and a second ear function by mounting a support system to the head of the patient so that the support system is aligned with a target tissue of the first ear; applying a therapeutic agent to the first car by energizing an iontophoresis electrode supported by the support system; and actuating a device while the device is supported by the support system so that the device therapeutically remodels the target tissue of the first ear. | 12-06-2012 |
20130013067 | Transcutaneous Joint Unloading Device and Method - Various methods for treating a joint are disclosed herein. According to one method, a joint is surgically treated by performing a surgical repair treatment on tissue within the joint capsule; implanting a load reducing device at the joint and entirely outside of the joint capsule to reduce load transmitted by the treated tissue to allow for the tissue within the joint capsule to heal; and partially unloading the joint during healing of the surgical repair site. | 01-10-2013 |
20130068235 | TONGUE RETAINING ORAL APPLIANCE - An oral appliance includes a frame for mounting to a user's teeth and a tongue contacting retaining member extending from the frame and configured in use to limit movement of the tongue toward the user's throat when the user is exercising or sleeping to maintain an open air passageway. The retaining member is positioned relative to the frame such that in use the retaining member contacts the tongue in a zone behind the second molars and in front of the pharyngeal reflex region of the tongue. The retaining member is further configured to lightly contact the tongue, and to apply a restraining force to the tongue as the tongue begins to move toward the user's throat during exercise or as the user falls asleep. | 03-21-2013 |
20130090544 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THE SIMULTANEOUS BILATERAL TREATMENT OF TARGET TISSUES WITHIN THE EARS USING A GUIDE BLOCK STRUCTURE - Systems and methods for treating a patient having a head with a first ear and a second car, function by mounting a support structure to the head of the patient; aligning the support structure with a target tissue in an ear canal of the first ear; stabilizing the support structure relative to the target tissue by injecting a material into the canal and hardening the material; and actuating a device while the device is supported by the support system so that the device therapeutically remodels the target tissue of the first ear. | 04-11-2013 |
20130102876 | Port System and Methods - An implantable port system which in at least one embodiment includes a base having an upper surface configured to be positioned under and in contact with a first tissue surface in a body, and a port housing having a lower surface configured to be positioned over a second tissue surface above the first tissue surface. The base and the port housing may be separate from one another and do not contact each other at the time of positioning the base. The base and port may be connected together upon positioning the port in contact with the second tissue surface. A method of implanting a port system may include installing at least a portion of a base of the system beneath a tissue layer in a body, and attaching a port housing to the base at a location above the tissue layer, wherein the port housing is not in contact with the base during the installation of a least a part of the base system beneath the tissue layer. | 04-25-2013 |
20130150977 | Spacers for Redistributing Forces for the Patella - Implant apparatus and methods directed toward treating conditions involving the knee joint and the patella specifically are disclosed. Full range of motion of the knee joint and tissue integrity are maintained in treatment approaches involving implanting a joint surface load reducing implant proximate the joint to change the direction of the tendons or muscles exerting forces on the joints. | 06-13-2013 |
20130165873 | METHODS, DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR TREATING AND/OR DIAGNOSIS OF DISORDERS OF THE EAR, NOSE AND THROAT - A method for irrigating a paranasal sinus may involve advancing a distal portion of a sinus irrigation catheter through an ostium of a paranasal sinus into the sinus and passing fluid through multiple ports disposed at different locations along a length of the catheter distal portion into the sinus. A flexible irrigation catheter device for irrigating a paranasal sinus may include: an elongate catheter body having a proximal end, a distal end, a lumen therebetween, and a tapered distal portion extending proximally from the distal end of the catheter body; a proximal hub coupled with the proximal end of the catheter body for connecting to a source of irrigation fluid; multiple side ports disposed along the catheter body closer to the distal end than the proximal end and in fluid communication with the lumen; and a distal end port at the distal end of the catheter body. | 06-27-2013 |
20130178698 | METHODS, INSTRUMENTS AND DEVICES FOR EXTRAGASTIC REDUCTION OF STOMACH VOLUME - Methods, instruments and systems are provided for separating opposite walls of the stomach by extragastric application of suction. Plication of the stomach can be performed between the separated walls after which the separate walls are brought back toward one another. In another aspect, methods, instruments, devices and systems are provided for reducing the effective volume of a stomach by performing one or more extragastric plications of the stomach. | 07-11-2013 |
20130178877 | Methods, Instruments and Devices for Extragastric Reduction of Stomach Volume - Methods, instruments and systems are provided for separating opposite walls of the stomach by extragastric application of suction. Plication of the stomach can be performed between the separated walls after which the separate walls are brought back toward one another. In another aspect, methods, instruments, devices and systems are provided for reducing the effective volume of a stomach by performing one or more extragastric plications of the stomach. | 07-11-2013 |
20130184532 | ENDOSCOPIC METHOD FOR VIEWING A SINUS OPENING - The invention is an endoscopic method for viewing a target portion of a patient's anatomy with access through the oral or nasal cavity. The method includes adjusting a variable direction of view endoscope to a direction of view of between about 0 degrees and 20 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the endoscope and a shaft orientation pointing toward the target portion of the patient's anatomy. The endoscope is then introduced straight into the oral or nasal cavity of a patient until the endoscope is positioned in the back of the cavity. The direction of view is adjusted to view the target portion of the patient's anatomy. | 07-18-2013 |
20130190872 | SHEATHS FOR EXTRA-ARTICULAR IMPLANTABLE SYSTEMS - Various embodiments are directed to a sheath for covering one or more components of an extra-articular implantable mechanical energy absorbing system. The sheath is generally an elongated structure having an inner space extending the length thereof. In use, the sheath can exclude the energy absorbing system from surrounding tissue and facilitate creating a capsule for its operation. Materials and dimensions are selected to achieve these purposes. The ends of the sheath include various attachment mechanisms for securing the sheath to one or more components of an extra-articular implantable mechanical energy absorbing system. | 07-25-2013 |
20130197638 | FEMORAL AND TIBIAL BASE COMPONENTS - Various embodiments are directed to base components that are usable with implantable mechanical energy absorbing systems. According to one embodiment, the base component includes a low-profile body having a elongate, straight portion at a first end and a curved body portion at a second end. The second end is elevated as compared to the first end. An inner surface of the low-profile body has a raised portion extending along the elongate, straight portion of the low-profile body. The base component also includes a plurality of openings positioned along the low-profile body for alignment and purposes of affixation to body anatomy. | 08-01-2013 |
20130204079 | Apparatus and Method for Manipulating or Retracting Tissue and Anatomical Structure - Integrated systems and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchoring devices for such purposes. | 08-08-2013 |
20130211489 | Methods, Systems and Devices for Treatment of Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency and Multiple Sclerosis - Methods and devices for relieving stenoses in, or otherwise improving blood flow through, body lumens. Although applicable in a variety of different body lumens, the methods and devices of this invention are specifically useable for relieving stenoses in, or otherwise improving blood flow through, veins which drain blood from the brain for treatment of multiple sclerosis or other neurodegenerative disorders that are caused, triggered or exacerbated by venous occlusion or venous insufficiency. | 08-15-2013 |
20130245608 | IMPLANTABLE DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATING SINUSITIS AND OTHER DISORDERS - Devices, systems and methods for stenting, spacing, draining, ventilating and/or delivering drugs and other therapeutic or diagnostic substances to desired locations within the bodies of human or non-human animal subjects, including methods and systems for treating paranasal sinusitis and ethmoid disease. | 09-19-2013 |
20130253574 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA AND OTHER CONDITIONS - Devices, systems and methods for compressing, cutting, incising, reconfiguring, remodeling, attaching, repositioning, supporting, dislocating or altering the composition of tissues or anatomical structures to alter their positional or force relationship to other tissues or anatomical structures. In some applications, the invention may be used to improve patency or fluid flow through a body lumen or cavity (e.g., to limit constriction of the urethra by an enlarged prostate gland). | 09-26-2013 |
20130261388 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING DISORDERS OF THE EAR NOSE AND THROAT - A device for dilating an ostium of a paranasal sinus of a human or animal subject may include: a handle; an elongate shaft having a proximal end coupled with the handle and extending to a distal end; a guidewire disposed through at least a portion of the shaft lumen; a dilator having a non-expanded configuration and an expanded configuration; and a slide member coupled with at least one of the guidewire or the dilator through the longitudinal opening of the shaft for advancing the guidewire and/or the dilator relative to the shaft. | 10-03-2013 |
20130281982 | IMPLANTABLE DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING DRUGS AND OTHER SUBSTANCES TO TREAT SINUSITIS AND OTHER DISORDERS - Implantable devices and methods for delivering drugs and other substances to locations within the body of a human or animal subject to treat or diagnose sinusitis and a variety of other disorders. The invention includes implantable substance delivery devices that comprise reservoirs and barriers that control the rate at which substances pass out of the reservoirs. The delivery devices may be advanced into the body using guidewires, catheters, ports, introducers and other access apparatus. In some embodiments the delivery devices may be loaded with one or more desired substance before their introduction into the body. In other embodiments the delivery devices are loaded and/or reloaded with a desired substance after the delivery device has been introduced into the body. | 10-24-2013 |
20130289730 | IMPLANTABLE BRACE FOR PROVIDING JOINT SUPPORT - Internal braces and methods of implanting same. A brace can be implanted on one side of a joint, or a pair of braces can be implanted, one on each opposite side of a joint. Each brace supports the joint over at least a portion of its range of motion. Distraction may be provided, or load sharing can be accomplished without distraction. Relative axial rotation of the bones connected by the brace may be permitted. One or more compliant members may be provided in the brace. | 10-31-2013 |
20130303968 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TREATMENT OF NON-VENTILATING MIDDLE EAR BY PROVIDING A GAS PATHWAY THROUGH THE NASOPHARYNX - Methods and devices for providing a gas pathway between the nasopharynx and the Eustachian tube are provided. One device may include a lumen with a valve. A portion of the valve may be tethered to adjacent muscle. Another portion of the valve may be tethered to adjacent cartilage. When the muscle contracts the valve may open through movement of the tethers, and provide a gas pathway between the nasopharynx and the Eustachian tube. | 11-14-2013 |
20130325052 | Apparatus and Methods for Dilating and Modifying Ostia of Paranasal Sinuses and Other Intranasel or Paranasal Structures - Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.) into the paranasal sinuses or other structures in the ear, nose or throat. | 12-05-2013 |
20140005473 | Integrated Handle Assembly for Anchor Delivery System | 01-02-2014 |
20140034065 | TONGUE RETAINING ORAL APPLIANCE - An oral appliance includes a frame for mounting to a user's teeth and a tongue contacting retaining member extending from the frame and configured in use to limit movement of the tongue toward the user's throat when the user is exercising or sleeping to maintain an open air passageway. The retaining member is positioned relative to the frame such that in use the retaining member contacts the tongue in a zone behind the second molars and in front of the pharyngeal reflex region of the tongue. The retaining member is further configured to lightly contact the tongue, and to apply a restraining force to the tongue as the tongue begins to move toward the user's throat during exercise or as the user falls asleep. | 02-06-2014 |
20140074065 | Bioabsorbable Spacers and Spacer Delivery Systems for Use in the Ear, Nose and Throat - A spacer for delivery into the natural or man-made openings to the frontal, maxillary, sphenoid, anterior or posterior ethmoid sinuses, or other cells or cavities, anatomical regions such as nostrils, nasal cavities, nasal meatus, and other passageways such as the Eustachian tubes, naso-lachrymal ducts or airway is described. The bioabsorbable polymeric spacers maintain the opening and/or are useful for delivering drugs or other substances to the natural or man-made openings. | 03-13-2014 |
20140156013 | Unlinked Implantable Knee Unloading Device - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system is an unlinked structure which facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 06-05-2014 |
20140156021 | Unlinked Implantable Knee Unloading Device - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system is an unlinked structure which facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 06-05-2014 |
20140172097 | Extra-Articular Implantable Mechanical Energy Absorbing Systems and Implantation Method - A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one aspect, the method involves identifying link pivot locations, fixing base components and minimally invasive insertion techniques. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. | 06-19-2014 |
20140180222 | Catheters, Systems and Methods for Percutaneous in Situ Arterio-Venous Bypass - A system of catheter devices and methods for forming channels or passageways between a luminal anatomical structure (e.g., a blood vessel) and a target location (e.g., another blood vessel, an organ, a mass of tissue, etc.) for the purpose of rerouting blood flow or for delivering a substance or instrument, etc. to the target location. | 06-26-2014 |
20140200443 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING DISORDERS OF THE EAR, NOSE AND THROAT - Sinusitis, mucocysts, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, choanal atresia, fractures and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, Eustachian tubes, Lachrymal ducts and other ear, nose, throat and mouth structures are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies and endoscopic studies. Access and occluding devices may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices such asendoscopes, wires, probes, needles, catheters, balloon catheters, dilation catheters, dilators, balloons, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, suction or irrigation devices, imaging devices, sizing devices, biopsy devices, image-guided devices containing sensors or transmitters, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting or delivering devices and implants, etc. | 07-17-2014 |
20140236207 | Catheters and Related Devices for Forming Passageways Between Blood Vessels or Other Anatomical Structures - The inventions described in this patent application include i) a torqueable introducer sheath which is useable in conjunction with a transvascular passageway forming catheter to effect precise rotational control of the catheter; ii) an anchorable guide catheter which is useable in conjunction with an intravascular imaging catheter and a transvascular passageway-forming catheter to effect precise positioning and aiming of the passageway-forming catheter; iii) a passageway forming catheter having a torqueable proximal portion to facilitate precise rotational positioning of the distal portion of the catheter; iv) a deflectable-tipped passageway forming catheter, v) various markers and other apparatus useable in conjunction with any of the passageway-forming catheters to facilitate precise positioning and aiming of the catheter, and vi) an apparatus which may be formed within a catheter to prevent a member, apparatus of flow of material from being inadvertently advanced through a lumen of the catheter. | 08-21-2014 |
20140249507 | Systems and Methods for Delivering Drugs to Selected Locations Within the Body - A transvascular system ( | 09-04-2014 |
20140277446 | Implantation Approach and Instrumentality for an Energy Absorbing System - A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint and a method of implantation includes a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint and a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint. | 09-18-2014 |
20140288414 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ACUTE OR CHRONIC DELIVERY OF SUBSTANCES OR APPARATUS TO EXTRAVASCULAR TREATMENT SITES - Methods and apparatus for delivery of substances or apparatus to target sites located outside blood vessels within the body of a human or animal patient. A vessel wall penetrating catheter is inserted into the vasculature, positioned and oriented within a blood vessel near the target extravascular site and a penetrator is advanced from the catheter so as to penetrate outwardly through the wall of the blood vessel in the direction of the target site. Thereafter, a delivery catheter is passed through a lumen of the penetrator to the target site. A desired substance or apparatus is then delivered to or obtained from the target site. In some applications, the penetrator may be retracted into the vessel wall penetrating catheter and the vessel wall penetrating catheter may be removed, leaving the delivery catheter in place for chronic or continuous delivery of substance(s) to and/or obtaining of information or samples from the target site. Alternatively, a delivery catheter having an occlusion member or balloon may be advanced into a vein or venule and the occlusion member or balloon may be used to occlude the lumen of the vein or venule during and after injection of a substance through the catheter, such that the substance will not be carried away by normal venous blood flow and will remain in the vein or venule for a sufficient period of time to have its intended effect (e.g. to enter adjacent tissues through capillary beds drained by that vein or venule). | 09-25-2014 |
20140296708 | Systems and Methods for Delivering Drugs to Selected Locations Within the Body - A transvascular system ( | 10-02-2014 |
20140296898 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS USEABLE FOR TREATING SINUSITIS - Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.) into the paranasal sinuses or other structures in the ear, nose or throat. Specific devices (e.g., tubular guides, guidewires, balloon catheters, tubular sheaths) are provided as are methods for manufacturing and using such devices to treat disorders of the ear, nose or throat. | 10-02-2014 |
20140324093 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS USEABLE FOR TREATING SINUSITIS - Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.) into the paranasal sinuses or other structures in the ear, nose or throat. Specific devices (e.g., tubular guides, guidewires, balloon catheters, tubular sheaths) are provided as are methods for manufacturing and using such devices to treat disorders of the ear, nose or throat. | 10-30-2014 |
20140343498 | PARANASAL OSTIUM FINDER DEVICES AND METHODS - Devices and methods for locating sinus ostia and positioning a guide wire within the sinus ostia. The subject devices include a shaft having a distal end, a proximal end, a curved region located between the distal and proximal ends, and an interior channel, an extensible and retractable guide wire movably mounted within the interior channel and a probe tip joined to the guide wire. Certain devices further include expandable portions for engaging and treating body anatomy | 11-20-2014 |
20140350465 | Devices and Methods for Delivering Therapeutic Substances for the Treatment of Sinusitis and Other Disorders - Devices and methods for delivering drugs and other therapeutic or diagnostic substances to desired locations within the bodies of human or non-human animal subjects. An implantable delivery device comprising a reservoir is initially attached to a deliver catheter or delivery tool and is introduced into the body and positioned at a desired site. A therapeutic or diagnostic substance is then introduced into the reservoir and the delivery catheter or deliver tool is then removed, leaving the implantable delivery device implanted within the body. The substance is then delivered from the reservoir at a rate that causes the desire diagnostic or therapeutic effect. Also provided are substance eluting stents that elute substance from a selected surface of the stent (e.g., the outer surface) but not from another surface of the stent (e.g., the inner surface). | 11-27-2014 |
20140350526 | MUSCOSAL TISSUE DRESSING AND METHOD OF USE - A method and apparatus for reducing or eliminating pain after surgical procedures related to mucosal tissue, including tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, or other pharyngeal operations. Certain embodiments provide a biodegradable film or covering that serves as a mechanical barrier to reduce pain caused, for example, by friction between solid food and healing tissue in the first few days after surgery. Some embodiments may include one or more therapeutic substances for locally reducing pain, facilitating healing and/or otherwise treating mucosal tissue at or near a tonsil bed. | 11-27-2014 |
20140358231 | Methods of Implanting Transcutaneous Joint Unloading Devices - Various methods for treating a joint are disclosed herein. According to one method, a joint is surgically treated by performing a surgical repair treatment on tissue within the joint capsule; implanting a load reducing device at the joint and entirely outside of the joint capsule to reduce load transmitted by the treated tissue to allow for the tissue within the joint capsule to heal; and partially unloading the joint during healing of the surgical repair site. | 12-04-2014 |
20140364725 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING IMAGE GUIDED PROCEDURES WITHIN THE EAR, NOSE, THROAT AND PARANASAL SINUSES - Devices, systems and methods for performing image guided interventional and surgical procedures, including various procedures to treat sinusitis and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, ears, nose or throat. | 12-11-2014 |
20150088188 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS USEABLE FOR TREATING FRONTAL SINUSITIS - Devices, systems and methods wherein a dilator, such as a balloon or other expandable member, is positionable within the frontal sinus ostium and adjacent frontal recess and useable to dilate the frontal sinus ostium and substantially all of the frontal sinus recess without requiring repositioning and repeated re-expansion of the dilator. One balloon catheter device of the invention comprises a catheter body that is less than about 50 cm in length (and in some embodiments less than 25 cm in length and a semi-compliant or non-compliant balloon on the catheter body. The balloon may have a working length of about 12 mm to about 30 mm and a width at its widest point when fully inflated of about 2 mm to about 7 mm. Such balloon may be constructed to withstand inflation pressures of about 12 atmospheres. In some embodiments, the dilator is advanced through or over a guide (e.g., guidewire or guide catheter) that has a preformed shape. | 03-26-2015 |