Prosthesis (i.e., artificial body members), parts thereof, or aids and accessories therefor inventions 07/07

20070173919 - Device for performing a cutting-balloon intervention: The invention relates to a device for performing a cutting-balloon intervention that includes a cutting-balloon catheter with an expandable balloon having axially arranged knives, with the cutting-balloon catheter having a pre-mounted stent.... Agent: Siemens Corporation Intellectual Property Department

20070173925 - Flexible expandable stent: A flexible, expandable stent assembly comprised of a generally cylindrically shaped channel, having a longitudinal axis, and having a plurality of openings therein. The openings are defined by longitudinally aligned circumferential arrays of generally “hairpin-like curved web arrays or bends of metal, creating a plurality of circumferentially disposed “Palm Tree”... Agent: Mills & Onello LLP

20070173927 - Self-expandable shape memory alloy stent and method for fabricating the same: A self-expandable shape memory alloy stent includes first and second wires made of super-elastic shape memory alloy. The first wire extends downwardly from the top to the bottom of the stent without interlocking with itself but extends upwardly from the bottom to the top of the stent while interlocking with... Agent: Ladas & Parry

20070173928 - Aneurysm sealing device: A device useful for treating an aneurysm having a neck comprises a first inflatable disc and a second inflatable disc, said second inflatable disc being adjacent to said first inflatable disc and in fluid communication therewith. The inflatable discs are sized and constructed such that when the inflatable discs are... Agent: Conley Rose, P.C. David A. Rose

20070173929 - Percutaneous endoprosthesis using suprarenal fixation and barbed anchors: An endoprosthetic device for treating abdominal aortic aneurysms using suprarenal fixation. A stent ring is anchored in an area above the renal arties using self-flaring barbs that project during the nitinol expansion process. Sutures extend from the stent ring to an area below the renal arties to a bifurcated trunk... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070173933 - Capsular bag for artifical vitreous body and method for manufacturing the same: A capsular bag for artificial vitreous body is made up of one selected from the group comprising polysiloxane, polyurethane, styrene triblock copolymer thermoplastic elastomers, hydroxyethyl methacrylate, polyvinyl alcohol, poly(lactide-co-glycolide) and hyaluronic acid ester. A method for manufacturing the capsular bag for artificial vitreous body is performed with dip-molding, effectively improving... Agent: Charles E. Baxley, Esq.

20070173949 - Bonding system for orthopedic implants: A biocompatible bonding material is applied as an intermediary to attach prosthesis to boney tissue. The bonding material has the strength and rapid setting characteristics of PMMA cement, and is incorporated by the supporting bone as the boney ingrowth and osteogenic growth processes take place. In one embodiment, the bonding... Agent: Werner & Axenfeld, LLP

20070173917 - Composite structure and process for producing the same: A composite structure comprising two polytetrafluoroethylene porous layers and a framework structural member having a plurality of gaps or openings, the framework structural member being disposed between the two polytetrafluoroethylene porous layers, wherein the composite structure is structured such that the polytetrafluoroethylene porous layers are united together by being adhered... Agent: Mcdermott Will & Emery LLP

20070173918 - Apparatus and methods for locating an ostium of a vessel: Apparatus and methods for locating an ostium of a branch vessel include a delivery catheter having a distal end sized for introduction into the branch, and locator elements including first ends fixed to the distal end and second ends free from the distal ends. The locator elements are compressible from... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20070173920 - Bifurcation stent delivery system: The present invention is drawn to a system for deploying a stent at a bifurcation. In one embodiment, the system includes a stepped balloon which has a first section of a first diameter, and a second section of a second diameter. The first portion is sized to deploy a first... Agent: Vidas, Arrett & Steinkraus, P.A.

20070173922 - Endovascular graft coatings: An endovascular graft, e.g., having both an expandable stent portion and a stent cover portion positioned within and/or surrounding the expandable portion, the graft itself and/or a stent cover portion being coated with a bioactive agent adapted to promote initial thrombus formation, preferably followed by long term fibrous tissue ingrowth.... Agent: Surmodics, Inc.

20070173921 - Flared stents and apparatus and methods for delivering them: Apparatus and methods are provided for securing a stent-graft deployed within an aorta relative to a renal artery. A distal end of a delivery device may be introduced into the aorta, the distal end carrying a stent thereon. The distal end may be advanced through an opening in the stent-graft... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20070173924 - Axially-elongating stent and method of deployment: A stent is capable of expanding both radially and axially during deployment. The stent can be balloon expandable or self expanding. In the balloon expandable version, circumferentially expandable structures are connected with folded links. When stent pulled axially, those links allow axial expansion without reducing radial expansion. A specially designed... Agent: Dan Gelbart

20070173923 - Drug reservoir stent: Drug reservoir stents and methods of making and using the same are described. Such drug reservoir stents are prepared by applying a sacrificial material to one or more surfaces of the strut filaments of a drug delivery stent and applying a durable coating material to the surface of the sacrificial... Agent: Perkins Coie LLP

20070173926 - Anchoring system for medical implant: Embodiments of the invention provide a medical implant, and method for deploying the same, configured for placement in a body lumen such as a coronary sinus, as may be desired to treat a regurgitant mitral valve. The implant includes a proximal anchor, a distal anchor, and an elongate bridge extending... Agent: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

20070173931 - Method and apparatus for tissue connection: A tissue connecting device is provided. The device comprise an elongate delivery device having a lumen, a proximal end, and a distal end. The distal end is configured to engage tissue and advance said device into tissue. At least one anchor deliverable through a lumen of the elongate delivery device.... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20070173930 - Translumenal apparatus, system, and method: Methods, apparatus, and systems for altering the configuration of a heart valve. Methods, apparatus, and systems include the use of a cord delivered into the heart by a delivery catheter that can be manipulated by a receiving catheter so as to improve the heart valve function.... Agent: Brooks & Cameron, PLLC Suite 500

20070173932 - Prosthetic mitral valve: An improved prosthetic mitral valve is provided having advantageous hemodynamic performance, nonthrombogenicity, and durability. The valve includes a valve body having an inflow annulus and an outflow annulus. Commissural attachment locations are disposed adjacent the outflow annulus. An anterior leaflet and a posterior leaflet of the valve are shaped differently... Agent: Oppenheimer Wolff & Donnelly LLP

20070173934 - Devices to protect features on an implant and methods of use: Protectors and methods of mounting protectors to features on implants within patients. The protectors attach to the features and provide protection to the patient by preventing or reducing injury that may be caused by the feature. The protectors may also be removable such that the feature can be exposed during... Agent: Coats & Bennett, PLLC

20070173937 - Cervical motion preservation device: A system of reconstruction for a spinal joint is directed to a modular implant assembly that includes an upper part and a lower part. The upper and lower parts each comprise a unitary body having an approximately ninety degree bend defining vertical and horizontal components. Each vertical component has a... Agent: Lawrence Cruz

20070173938 - Interbody cage system: An interbody cage system includes an interbody cage having a proximal end, a distal end, and an interior. The interbody cage system also includes an insertion tool. A portion of the insertion tool extends into the proximal end and the interior.... Agent: Foley & Lardner LLP

20070173936 - Intervertebral disc prosthesis: An intervertebral disc prosthesis comprises a first plate including a socket and a second plate comprising a recess. A core is sandwiched between the socket and the recess. The core includes a domed surface and a plug portion. The first plate is configured to rotate upon the domed surface of... Agent: Maginot, Moore & Beck, LLP Chase Tower

20070173935 - Nucleus pulposus augmentation pretreatment technique: This invention is directed to an intra-operative technique to improve attachment and/or prevent expulsion of nucleus pulposus replacement/augmentation devices and/or to seal fissures in the annulus fibrosus of intervertebral discs.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070173939 - Systems and methods for fixation of bone with an expandable device: Apparatus, systems and methods for providing fixation to an interior body region of a patient are provided. The apparatus includes an expandable cage which is inserted into a body region, such as cancellous bone of a vertebra, in a first geometry, and transitioned to a second geometry. Delivery devices and... Agent: Bozicevic, Field & Francis LLP

20070173940 - Vertebral fusion device and method: A device for facilitating bone fusion of two vertebrae. The device is sized and shaped to at least extend between the two vertebrae to be fused, and includes an outer wall member disposed about an inner portion. A space between the outer wall member and the inner compartment is adapted... Agent: Wood, Herron & Evans (zimmer Spine)

20070173942 - Intervertebral prosthetic disc: An intervertebral prosthetic disc is disclosed and can be installed within an intervertebral space between an inferior vertebra and a superior vertebra. The intervertebral prosthetic disc includes a superior component that can be configured to engage the superior vertebra and an inferior component that can be configured to engage the... Agent: Larson Newman Abel Polansky & White, LLP

20070173941 - Intervertebral prosthetic disc and method of installing same: An intervertebral prosthetic disc that is configured to be installed within an intervertebral space that can be established between an inferior vertebra and a superior vertebra is disclosed. The intervertebral prosthetic disc includes an inferior articular half that can be configured to engage the inferior vertebra and a superior articular... Agent: Larson Newman Abel Polansky & White, LLP

20070173943 - Artificial nucleus pulposus and method of injecting same: The present invention relates to an artificial nucleus pulposus implant that is injected minimally invasively into the nucleus cavity of the annulus fibrosus to restore the normal anatomical and physiological function of the spine in the affected disc segment. In one aspect of the invention, a device is disclosed for... Agent: Gary R Dulak

20070173944 - Endoprosthesis with intermediate part: The invention relates to an endoprosthesis for replacement of a joint, 2 slide surfaces having different contours and correspondingly determining movement planes for in each case 1 bearing being formed by an intermediate part 2. Provision is made according to the invention for a clamping bracket to enclose the slide... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20070173945 - Shoulder arthroplasty system: An implant system for total shoulder arthroplasties, hemi shoulder arthroplasties, and “reverse” total shoulder arthroplasties including a humeral stem having an enlarged head portion with interfaces adapted to removably receive various modular interchangeable components, such as articulating liners, spacers, and adapter inserts. The humeral stem functions as a universal platform... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20070173946 - Inlaid articular implant: A method is provided for performing a total knee arthroplasty. The method includes making a primary incision near a knee joint of a patient and resecting medial and lateral condyles of the femur of the leg to create at least one femoral cut surface. The resecting step is performed without... Agent: Paul D. Bianco: Fleit, Kain, Gibbons, Gutman, Bongini, & Bianco P.l.

20070173947 - surgical instrumentation kit for inserting an ankle prosthesis: A surgical instrument including at least one tibial phantom generally corresponding to at least certain features of the tibial implant. The tibial phantom includes a top surface adapted to move freely against the prepared bottom end of the tibia. At least one talus phantom generally corresponding to at least certain... Agent: Faegre & Benson LLP Patent Docketing

20070173948 - Porous metal cup with cobalt bearing surface: An acetabular cup assembly can include a cup portion and a bearing. The cup portion can include a porous metal outer layer having a first thickness and a solid titanium inner layer having a second thickness. A mating feature can be formed between the cup portion and the bearing. The... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20070173950 - Modification of chemical forces of bone constructs: The present invention relates to a method for enhancing ingrowth of host bone comprising: modifying a bone graft structure to provide an ionic gradient to produce a modified bone graft structure; and implanting the modified bone graft structure. The present invention also relates to a method of enhancing the binding... Agent: Fox Rothschild LLP Princeton Pike Corporate Center

20070173951 - Tissue substitute material: Fibre-reinforced material that substitutes for cartilage-like tissue, consisting of a hydrophilic, relatively elastic fibre structure and a matrix of polymerised hydrogel. The fibre/matrix bonding is increased by saturating the fibre in the monomer solution before polymerisation of the hydrogel. The fibre preferably consists of a material based on polyurethane. More... Agent: The Webb Law Firm, P.C.

20070173952 - Implant and method of producing the same, and a system for implantation: The present invention relates to a coated implant for in vivo-anchoring of implants to a biological tissue or another implant, which coated implant comprises an implant having a pre-treated surface and on said pre-treated surface one or more layers of ceramic material chemically and/or mechanically bound to said pre-treated surface.... Agent: Wiggin And Dana LLP Attention: Patent Docketing

20070173953 - Closed position maintainable selector valve, knee torque device using the valve, and artificial leg: A selector valve capable of maintaining a closed position for a while even if an operating force to a valve element (80) is eliminated when the selector valve (10) is switched from a closed position (braking state) to an open position. The valve element (80) of the selector valve (10)... Agent: Ronald R Santucci Frommer Lawrence & Haug

20070173954 - Subtalar implant and methods of use thereof: The present invention provides a subtalar implant as well as methods of use thereof for the purpose of correcting podiatric disorders such as various types of flat foot conditions relating to the subtalar joint. The subtalar implant is capable of threaded engagement with a positioning element used to position and... Agent: The Webb Law Firm, P.C.

20070173955 - Wrist device for use with a prosthetic limb: A multi-axis wrist device is provided for use with a prosthetic limb. The wrist device includes a base plate that is configured for attachment to a prosthetic limb. A cross piece, having first and second axes, can be coupled to the base plate. A prosthetic attachment can be coupled to... Agent: Thorpe North & Western, LLP.

20070168014 - Stent delivery system: One preferred embodiment includes a stent delivery system including a retractable sheath and an outer stability sheath. The stability sheath freely rotates relative to the retractable sheath, relieving compression forces caused by twisting of stability sheath in when in a tortuous conformation.... Agent: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

20070168019 - Intravascular deliverable stent for reinforcement of vascular abnormalities: A catheter deliverable stent/graft especially designed to be used in a minimally invasive surgical procedure for treating a variety of vascular conditions such as aneurysms, stenotic lesions and saphenous vein grafts, comprises an innermost tubular structure and at least one further tubular member in coaxial arrangement. In one embodiment, the... Agent: Nikolai & Mersereau, P.A.

20070168043 - Percutaneous cervical disc reconstruction: Methods and devices for fixing a defect in a vertebral disc of a patient. One method includes inserting a guide wire into a disc using an anterior approach to create a path. At least a portion of the herniated nucleus pulposus is removed. A disc reconstruction device is then advanced... Agent: O'melveny & Myers LLP

20070168009 - Expandable function data storage device: An expandable function data storage device includes a first main body and a second main body. The first main body has a memory circuit unit. Its first end is exposed outside and has a first signal communication port and its second end has a second signal transmission port. The second... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20070168012 - Coated implantable medical device: Methods of making coated implantable medical devices are provided. The methods include positioning a first layer comprising a bioactive on at least a portion of a structure, and positioning at least one porous layer over the first layer. The at least one porous layer has a thickness adequate to provide... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/indy/cook

20070168011 - Detachable therapeutic material: The invention provides implantable devices comprising a biocompatible material that provides a structural function or therapeutic function or both. The devices are configured to be detachable or releasable from a distal portion of a delivery instrument such as a catheter.... Agent: Levine Bagade Han LLP

20070168010 - Hinged stent: A stent delivery system is provided that comprises an inner member and an expandable balloon mounted on the inner member. A stent, which is mounted around at least a portion of the expandable balloon, comprises a plurality of alternating, hingedly-coupled crown sections and strut sections. Each adjacent crown section and... Agent: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.IPLegal Department

20070168013 - Vascular graft and deployment system: A vascular graft includes a main portion and a branch portion that is coupled to the main portion by an articulating joint. The vascular graft may be inserted into the thoracic aorta with the branch portion positioned within a branch vessel and the main portion positioned within the thoracic aorta.... Agent: Mcdermott Will & Emery LLP

20070168016 - Magnetic resonance-compatible medical implant: The invention relates to a medical implant or instrument, particularly a vascular endoprosthesis (stent), comprising a deformable structural part. In order to provide an implant of this type that is magnetic resonance-compatible and can be easily and economically produced, the invention provides that the structural part has a two-layer or... Agent: William Collard Collard & Roe, P.C.

20070168017 - Percutaneous endovascular apparatus for repair of aneurysms and arterial blockages: An endovascular apparatus is provided for treating the effects of vascular disease including aneurysms and arterial blockages using a percutaneous, minimally invasive technique. In one embodiment the endovascular apparatus includes a tubular sleeve having a cranial end, a first caudal branch, and a second caudal branch such that the tubular... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070168015 - Stent: A stent comprises a metallic, relatively radiolucent carrier structure and at least one marker element which includes comparatively radiopaque material. The radiopaque material is completely enclosed by a cover layer of a material other than the radiopaque material, the cover layer including metal or a metal compound. The stent may... Agent: Hahn Loeser & Parks, LLP

20070168018 - Intravascular deliverable stent for reinforcement of abdominal aortic aneurysm: A stent/graft especially designed to be used in a minimally invasive surgical procedure for treating an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) comprises an innermost tubular structure of a length (L1) formed by braiding a relatively few strands of shape memory alloy wire. The pick and pitch of the braid are such... Agent: Nikolai & Mersereau, P.A.

20070168020 - Bifurcated stent and delivery system: A bifurcated stent includes a first stent section and a second stent section. The first stent section is balloon expandable, has an unexpanded configuration, an expanded configuration, and a tubular wall defining a secondary opening. The secondary stent section is self-expanding and an end of the secondary stent section is... Agent: Vidas, Arrett & Steinkraus, P.A.

20070168021 - Porous three dimensional nest scaffolding: The invention provides porous three dimensional scaffold structures that may be used to deliver a bioactive agent, such as cells, into a location within the body. In one example form, the porous three dimensional structure may be a stent. In another example form, the porous three dimensional structure may be... Agent: Quarles & Brady LLP

20070168023 - Diagnostic kit to assist with heart valve annulus adjustment: A diagnostic device for determining the amount of change required in a coronary sinus to reduce valve regurgitation. The device includes a distal tube having a distal anchor at a distal end portion of the distal tube, a proximal tube having a proximal anchor at a distal end portion of... Agent: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

20070168024 - Percutaneous transcatheter heart valve: The present invention provides improved devices and methods for replacing or repairing a malfunctioning heart valve. In particular, improved minimally invasive methods and devices are provided for percutaneous transcatheter implantation of expansible prosthetic heart valves within or adjacent a valved anatomic site within the heart. In one embodiment, an expansible... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070168022 - Heart valve: An embodiment of a valve has a frame defining cusps at a downstream end. Valve leaflets are attached to the frame and arranged to allow fluid flow within the frame in a downstream direction but not in an upstream direction. A sewing ring is provided at the downstream end of... Agent: Drinker Biddle & Reath Attn: Intellectual Property Group

20070168025 - Artificial cornea: The present invention relates to a keratoprosthesis or artificial cornea which is designed as a light weight disc resembling a human cornea. The keratoprosthesis is maintained in the eye after surgery and is preferably adapted to reduce complications after surgery such as infection, rejection or necrosis.... Agent: Nields & Lemack

20070168026 - Intraocular lens injector and intraocular lens injecting system including the same: An intraocular lens injector for injecting a foldable intraocular lens in an eye includes: an inserting portion that includes an outlet for the intraocular lens and is inserted through an incision made on the eye; a lens place portion where the intraocular lens is placed and which is formed on... Agent: Sughrue-265550

20070168027 - Accommodating diffractive intraocular lens: A series of deformable, accommodating intraocular lenses is disclosed, where the series subtends a range of nominal powers. The capsular bag of the eye exerts a distorting force on the lens, thereby changing its power and allowing for accommodation. A full accommodation range is the lens power that brings a... Agent: Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. Legal Department

20070168028 - Posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens: A posterior chamber phakic lens made from an elastomeric, foldable, highly biocompatible and permeable material. The lens has a generally circular optic and a plurality of integrally formed, filament-like haptics. The haptics project posteriorly from the optic and contain a raised feature or ridge that is sandwiched between the posterior... Agent: Alcon

20070168030 - Osteoimplant and method for making same: A method of manufacturing an osteoinductive osteoimplant is provided which comprises the steps of: demineralizing part or all of at least one surface of a monolithic section of cortical bone to a depth of at least about 100 microns; and, configuring the monolithic section of cortical bone to provide an... Agent: Dorsey & Whitney LLP Intellectual Property Department

20070168029 - Prostheses, tools and methods for replacement of natural facet joints with artificial facet joint surfaces: Cephalad and caudal vertebral facet joint prostheses and methods of use are provided. The cephalad prostheses are adapted and configured to be attached to a lamina portion of a vertebra without blocking a pedicle portion of the cephalad vertebra.... Agent: Shay Law Group LLP

20070168031 - Devices and methods for disc replacement: The present disclosure concerns implants to at least partially replace the nucleus of a spinal disc. In one embodiment, a prosthetic structure is provided which includes a bag having a fixation component, the bag operable to contain at least one internal implant within the bag. In another embodiment, a bag... Agent: Wood, Herron & Evans (zimmer Spine)

20070168032 - Flexible vertebral implant: A vertebral implant for replacing a biological disk includes a top and bottom plate. The implant further includes flexible coupling that couples together the plates while allowing the same degree of freedom in all axes of motion as the original biological disk.... Agent: Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, PLLC

20070168035 - Prosthetic facet and facet joint replacement device: Spinal stabilization devices, systems, and methods are described. Foramenal spacers including a rigid member adapted to maintain the integrity of the foramenal space. Facet joint stabilizing members and prosthetic facet joints that augment or replace the native facet joint are also described. Lateral spinal stabilization systems that may be attached... Agent: E. Thomas Wheelock

20070168034 - Prosthetic intervertebral discs having stiff end plates and a compressible polymeric core: A prosthetic intervertebral disc and methods for using the same are provided. The subject prosthetic discs are characterized by including top and bottom endplates separated by a fibrous compressible element that includes an annular region and a nuclear region. The two plates are held together at least one fiber wound... Agent: E. Thomas Wheelock

20070168033 - Prosthetic intervertebral discs having substantially rigid end plates and fibers between those end plates: Prosthetic intervertebral discs and methods for using the same are described. The subject prosthetic discs include upper and lower endplates separated by a compressible core member. The prosthetic discs described herein include one-piece, two-piece, three-piece, and four-piece structures. The subject prosthetic discs exhibit stiffness in the vertical direction, torsional stiffness,... Agent: E. Thomas Wheelock

20070168036 - Spinal motion preservation assemblies: Spinal motion preservation assemblies adapted for use in a spinal motion segment are disclosed including the process for delivering and assembling the spinal motion preservation assemblies in the spinal motion segment via an axial channel created with a trans-sacral approach. Many of the spinal motion preservation assemblies make use of... Agent: The Eclipse Group

20070168037 - Orthopedic implant: A orthopedic implant includes an endplate having a tapered thickness, a second endplate, and a spacer disc positioned between two endplates. The disc can include polypropylene.... Agent: Steptoe & Johnson LLP

20070168038 - Materials, devices and methods for treating multiple spinal regions including the interbody region: A method of treating a spinal condition includes placing disc replacement material in an intervertebral disc, thereby altering a loading characteristic of an adjacent vertebrae, and supporting the adjacent vertebrae by applying a bone filling material to either a superior or inferior vertebral body adjacent to the intervertebral disc. The... Agent: Haynes And Boone, LLP

20070168039 - Materials, devices and methods for treating multiple spinal regions including vertebral body and endplate regions: A method of treating a spinal condition includes treating a degenerated disc with an interbody repair system, attaching bone anchors to posterior bone portions of the pair of vertebrae, and extending a posterior device between the bone anchors to prevent hyper-extension. The method further includes reinforcing a vertebral body with... Agent: Haynes And Boone, LLP

20070168040 - Motion disc spike seating instrument: A seating device having a shaft and a U-shaped head for interposition between the prosthetic endplates of an intervertebral motion disc which, upon pivoting, more fully seats the teeth of the prosthetic endplates that lie upon the outer surfaces of the endplates.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070168042 - Devices and methods for disc replacement: The present disclosure concerns implants to at least partially replace the nucleus of a spinal disc. In one embodiment, a prosthetic structure is provided which includes a bag having a fixation component, the bag operable to contain at least one internal implant within the bag. In another embodiment, a bag... Agent: Wood, Herron & Evans (zimmer Spine)

20070168041 - Method and instruments for intervertebral disc augmentation through a pedicular approach: A method of replacing a nucleus pulposus in an intervertebral disc by filling the disc with a flowable augmentation material through a throughbore in a pedicle.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070168044 - Self-aligning tissue growth guide: The present invention relates to artificial tissue growth guides comprising a core and an outer sleeve, which facilitates the regeneration of damaged tissues, such as nerves. The core is fixed to the sleeve at two attachment sites so that cells seeded within the core produce mechanical tension between the attachment... Agent: Nixon & Vanderhye, PC

20070168045 - Double-wall prosthetic limb assembly: The present invention relates to a double wall prosthetic limb assembly, a vacuum attachment plate component of the outer-wall socket and a method for fabricating double wall prosthetic limb assemblies. The method involves the use of a prefabricated tooling system for fabricating a dual socket for a prosthetic limb. In... Agent: Taft, Stettinius & Hollister LLP

20070162101 - Medical delivery system for delivery of a medically useful payload: The present disclosure concerns a delivery system for delivering a medically useful payload through the vasculature to a site of interest in the patient's body. The medically useful payload may be a therapeutic device, such as a stent, and it may be a diagnostic tool, such as an imaging device.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070162110 - Bioabsorbable drug delivery devices: A bioabsorbable drug delivery device and various methods of making the same. The devices are preferably formed from bioabsorbable materials using low temperature fabrication processes, whereby drugs or other bio-active agents are incorporated into or onto the device and degradation of the drugs or other agents during processing is minimized.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070162119 - Tympanic membrane prosthesis and a tool for manufacturing the prosthesis: A prefabricated tympanic membrane prosthesis includes a piece of collagen sheet processed with a diluted solution of formalin. The piece of collagen sheet is molded on a forming surface of a tool having a shape resembling a natural tympanic membrane of a human subject. The piece of collagen sheet is... Agent: Gardner Groff Santos & Greenwald, P.C.

20070162128 - Intervertebral spacer and insertion tool: An implant for placing in the spine is disclosed. The implant has a tool engaging surface on its trailing end configured for intimate engagement with an insertion tool. The insertion tool configuration is particularly suited for implants made of brittle materials including bone and bone substitutes. Also disclosed is an... Agent: Haynes And Boone, LLP

20070162100 - System and method for loading implanter with prosthesis: A system includes a prosthesis receiving portion having an opening at a first end that is spaced axially apart from a second end by a sidewall portion. The sidewall portion has a substantially smooth, radially inner sidewall that tapers from a first diameter at the opening to a second diameter... Agent: Tarolli, Sundheim, Covell & Tummino L.L.P.

20070162102 - Sterile cover for compressible stents used in percutaneous device delivery systems: A stent cover for enclosing a compressible stent during a stent crimping process, the stent cover having an outer sheath with a proximal end, a distal end, an end portion at the distal end of the sheath having a first diameter, and a stent-retaining portion adjacent to the end portion... Agent: Kagan Binder, PLLC

20070162103 - Implantable device with remodelable material and covering material: Medical devices for implantation within a body vessel can include a remodelable material, such as an extracellular matrix material, positioned within a lumen defined by an outer covering material. The covering material is preferably substantially non-remodelable, and can be supported by a radially expandable frame. The medical device can also... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/indy/cook

20070162104 - Stent for blood flow improvement: Luminal endoprosthesis formed of a multi-layer braided framework. The framework is devoid of any cover layer, and formed of a plurality of stabilized layers of biocompatible metal wires which are interlaced, forming a lattice, a plurality of wires of a given layer being integrated in the lattice of the adjacent... Agent: Christie, Parker & Hale, LLP

20070162105 - Avoiding stress-induced martensitic transformation in nickle titanium alloys used in medical devices: A process for assembling a medical device made from a nickel-titanium alloy for use in a mammalian body while avoiding the formation of stress-induced martensite and a medical device used in combination with a delivery system for deployment into the mammalian body are disclosed. By heating the nickel-titanium alloy of... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20070162106 - System and methods for endovascular aneurysm treatment: Embodiments provide methods and systems for treating aneurysms using filling structures filled with a curable medium. An embodiment of a method comprises positioning at least one double-walled filling structure across the aneurysm and filling the structure(s) with a filling medium so that an outer wall conforms to the inside of... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070162107 - Methods and apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. The apparatus includes a replacement valve and an anchor having an expandable braid. In some embodiments, the expandable braid is fabricated from a single strand of wire. In some embodiments, the expandable braid comprises at least... Agent: Shay Law Group LLP

20070162108 - Implantable medical device using palladium: The present invention provides an improved implantable medical device comprising at least one portion made of a radiopaque material selected from the group consisting of various palladium alloys, including a palladium alloy having, by weight, rhenium in the range of up to about 20 percent, and preferably rhenium at about... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070162109 - Intraluminal stent graft: A modular intraluminal stent graft. The intraluminal stent graft is bifurcated having a primary section and a secondary section extending therefrom. The primary section tapers from a larger diameter at an upstream end to a smaller diameter at a downstream end. The downstream end of the primary section has a... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070162111 - Apparatus and method for replacing a cardiac valve: An apparatus for replacing a cardiac valve includes a first ring assembly and a second ring assembly. The first ring assembly includes a first magnetic member. The second ring assembly includes a second magnetic member and is magnetically attachable to the first magnetic member to sealingly attach the first and... Agent: Tarolli, Sundheim, Covell & Tummino L.L.P.

20070162112 - Annuloplasty prosthesis with an auxetic structure: An annuloplasty prosthesis including an inner tubular member having a lateral wall and exhibiting auxetic behavior when subject to a tensile stress along the longitudinal axis of at least one of its portions. The auxetic behavior may be obtained by perforating the tubular member with apertures of desired shape, thus... Agent: Faegre & Benson LLP Patent Docketing

20070162113 - Prosthetic cardiac valves and systems and methods for implanting thereof: Implantable prosthetic valve systems and methods for implanting them are provided. Magnets are employed within one or more components of the valve systems to facilitate anchoring of the prosthetic valve at a target implant site, delivery of the prosthetic valve to the target implant site or both.... Agent: Jeffrey J. Hohenshell Medtronic, Inc.

20070162114 - Diaphragm for implantation in the anterior section of a human eye: The diaphragm consists of essentially rigid planar elements that are divided on at least one fold line (14). The division is bridged with an elastic material that enters into an adhesive connection with the planar elements, that allows the diaphragm to be folded in half elastically, and the latter is... Agent: Thomas M. Galgano, Esq. Galgano & Associates, PLLC

20070162115 - Fixation ring for endocapsulary or extracapsulary prosthetic reconstruction in the anterior section region of the human eye: The fixation ring has a flat annular body that has a central circular aperture (10). Two haptic stirrups (18) that lie opposite one another are attached to the annular body, which are angled upward from the ring plane, and outwards parallel to it. The annular body can be folded in... Agent: Thomas M Galgano Galgano & Burke

20070162116 - Method for locating optimum presbyopia implant location: A method for implanting a corrective element into the sclera of an eye for the treatment of presbyopia comprises the steps of (a) identifying an optimum implantation location by pressing against different alternative locations along the sclera until a marked shifting of the equator of the crystalline lens is observed,... Agent: Sheldon Mak Rose & Anderson PC

20070162117 - Iris prothesis system: Diaphragms that can be implanted in the anterior section of a human eye, individually or combined with one another, in order to create an artificial pupil opening, are part of a modular iris prosthesis system. At least one diaphragm that can be implanted in endocapsulary manner, at least one diaphragm... Agent: Thomas M Galgano Galgano & Burke

20070162118 - Posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens: A phakic intraocular lens includes a body having a flat anterior-facing surface and a curved posterior-facing surface that defines the optical power of the lens. The lens allows fluid to flow between the phakic lens and the iris and between the phakic lens and the natural lens. An enlarged outer... Agent: Fred Zollinger Iii

20070162120 - Surgical device forming a surgical prosthesis: A surgical device for supporting a mammalian organ in need of support, and in particular for treating urinary incontinence is disclosed, comprising at least one first support element of elongate shape for exerting a supporting action on said organ; and at least one first traction filiform element, to be fastened... Agent: Lucas & Mercanti, LLP

20070162121 - Method for repair and reconstruction of ruptured ligaments or tendons and for treatment of ligament and tendon injuries: A method and a means for repair and reconstruction of ruptured ligaments and tendons by in vivo or ex vivo repair and reconstruction surgical procedures. The method comprises providing a biodegradable sleeve placed around the frayed edges of an injured ligament or tendon for protecting the ligament or tendon injury... Agent: Peters Verny , L.L.P.

20070162124 - Arthroscopic implants with integral fixation devices and method for use: An implant useful for reconstructing a knee that has sustained a rupture or tear of an anterior cruciate ligament. The implant has first and second opposed member connected by a replacement graft. The members may have external screw threads. In addition there is a method of reconstructing a knee using... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070162123 - Materials and methods for ligament reconstruction: Methods and devices are provided for fixing a ligament graft in a bone tunnel. In general, the methods and devices involve affixing a ligament graft within a bone tunnel using an adhesive. A fixation device can be inserted through the ligament graft in a direction transverse to an axis of... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070162122 - Methods for ligament reconstruction: Methods and devices are provided for fixing a ligament graft in a bone tunnel. In general, the methods and devices involve affixing a ligament graft within a bone tunnel using an adhesive. A fixation device can be inserted through the ligament graft in a direction transverse to an axis of... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070162125 - Tissue graft fixation: A surgical device includes a member having first and second opposing surfaces. The member includes an intermediate portion in which the first surface has a recessed surface portion. The intermediate portion defines a hole extending from the recessed surface portion to the second surface. End portions extend from the intermediate... Agent: Fish & Richardson P.C. Smith & Nephew, Inc.

20070162129 - Adjustable insertion device for a vertebral implant: Methods and devices for connecting an insertion device to an implant. The insertion device includes a body having first and second ends. The first end may be configured to connect with the implant. The first end may be selectively positionable between orientations to provide for the connection. Methods of positioning... Agent: Coats & Bennett, PLLC

20070162133 - Concentric interior insert ball and dual socket joint: A constrained spinal implant is inserted between adjacent vertebrae to function as an disk prosthesis. The prosthesis has two plates fastened to adjacent vertebrae facing each other. The facing sides of the plates each have a depending skirt formed as concentric arcs of about 90 degrees. The skirts are either... Agent: Mchale & Slavin, P.A.

20070162126 - End device for a vertebral implant: An end device attached to an implant and methods of use. The end device comprises a base having a receiving area, an opening, and at least one gate that is selectively positionable between open and closed orientations. The implant is sized to fit through the opening and into the receiving... Agent: Coats & Bennett, PLLC

20070162132 - Flexible elongated chain implant and method of supporting body tissue with same: Implants and methods for augmentation, preferably by minimally invasive procedures and means, of body tissue, including in some embodiments repositioning of body tissue, for example, bone and, preferably vertebrae are described. The implant may comprise one or more chain linked bodies inserted into the interior of body tissue. As linked... Agent: Jones Day

20070162127 - Instruments and techniques for delivering non-rigid implant members in surgical procedures: Instruments and techniques for implanting non-rigid implants are provided that include positively engaging the implant between distal and proximal ends of the implant at least adjacent the distal end of the insertion instrument while deploying the implant longitudinally and distally from the insertion instrument.... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070162130 - Intervertebral disc prosthesis and instrumentation for insertion of the prosthesis between the vertebrae: The present invention relates to an intervertebral disc prosthesis and insertion instrumentation, the prosthesis comprising at least first and second osseous anchoring means, the first osseous anchoring means disposed proximal to the periphery of the plate on which it is situated and the second osseous anchoring means being offset along... Agent: J. Scott Denko

20070162134 - Intervertebral implant, insertion tool and method of inserting same: An intervertebral implant, alone and in combination with an insertion tool for inserting same and a method for inserting same. The implant has upper and lower parts which have universal movement relative to each other. Each of the upper and lower parts also has a surface engaging an adjacent vertebrae.... Agent: Stites & Harbison PLLC

20070162135 - Mechanical apparatus and method for artificial disc replacement: The present invention relates to a device and method which may be used to reinforce the native annulus during spinal surgery. The device is a catheter based device which is placed into the inter-vertebral space following discectomy performed by either traditional surgical or endoscopic approaches. The distal end of the... Agent: Michael E. Klicpera

20070162131 - Repair of spinal annular defects: The invention relates to the repair of spinal annular defects. An apparatus comprises a scaffold comprised of a biodurable, resiliently compressible, elastomeric reticulated composition to obliterate spinal/vertabral connective tissue defects, to obliterate spinal-annular nuclear tissue defects, and for spinal annulo-nucleoplasty regeneration. The implant comprises an at least partially cylindrical member.... Agent: Wolf, Block, Shorr And Solis-cohen LLP

20070162136 - Nucleus pulposus trial device and technique: A nucleus pulposus trial device for assessing the size, shape and location of a disc space.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070162137 - Intervertebral disk implant: The invention relates to intervertebral disc implants that imitate the natural freedom of movement and facilitate translational and/or rotational displacements of the intervertebral disc in relation to the base plate, independently of the possible displacements of the base plate in relation to the intervertebral disc. To achieve said displacements, the... Agent: Amin, Turocy & Calvin, LLP

20070162139 - Trial intervertebral distraction spacers: An orthopedic spacer device comprising a spacer body having an external surface that includes at least two relative angle designation marks such that a rotational angle of the spacer body relative to a known reference is determinable.... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20070162138 - Vertebral implant and insertion tool: A vertebral implant and insertion tool for placing implants in the spine are disclosed. The implant has a tool engaging surface configured for intimate engagement with the insertion tool. The insertion tool configuration is particularly suited for being gripped at a plurality of angles. The insertion tool having a gripping... Agent: Haynes And Boone, LLP

20070162140 - Method and apparatus for reconstructing a joint: The present invention provides a new and improved method and apparatus for reconstructing a joint. More particularly, the present invention provides a new and improved joint prothesis comprising a stem, a neck angled off the stem, and a head set at the end of the neck, wherein the stem, neck... Agent: Mark J. Pandiscio Pandiscio & Pandiscio, P.C.

20070162141 - Modular humeral prostheisis and method: A modular humeral prosthesis for replacement of the humeral head of a humerus. The prosthesis generally comprises a stem to be fitted to a resected humerus; a head sized and configured to approximate the humeral head; and an intermediate connecting member for connecting the stem to the head. The intermediate... Agent: Chief Patent Counsel Smith & Nephew, Inc.

20070162143 - Biologic modular tibial and femoral component augments for use with total knee arthroplasty: The use of biologic and/or biologically reabsorbable materials to provide temporary stability after a surgical joint procedure is provided. Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide biologic and/or biologically reabsorbable cam and/or post linings mounted to respective knee prosthesis components. Such linings are reabsorbed after a time sufficient for patient tissue... Agent: Taft, Stettinius & Hollister LLP

20070162144 - Biologic modular tibial and femoral component augments for use with total knee arthroplasty: The use of biologic and/or biologically reabsorbable materials to provide temporary stability after a surgical joint procedure is provided. Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide biologic and/or biologically reabsorbable cam and/or post linings mounted to respective knee prosthesis components. Such linings are reabsorbed after a time sufficient for patient tissue... Agent: Taft, Stettinius & Hollister LLP

20070162142 - Knee surgery method and apparatus: A device for positively clamping to the patella for use in knee surgical procedures such as total or partial knee arthroplasty to aid in determining the position of the center of the patellar implant and the amount of resection of the posterior patella for to achieve optimal tracking of the... Agent: Faegre & Benson LLP Patent Docketing

20070162145 - Modular bone implant, tool, and method: Modular bone implants, means of assembly, and their method of use are presented.... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20070162146 - Acetabular implant and method for the production of said implant: A cotyloid implant including a screwable cup receiving an articular insert. The cup is provided with screwing elements (11) on the periphery thereof and more particularly in the equatorial area (2) thereof, the elements being used to penetrate the bone material of the acetabular cup during screwing. The cup includes... Agent: Young & Thompson

20070162147 - Orthopaedic joint assembly with rigidly locked fastener, kit and associated method: An orthopaedic joint assembly for attachment to a bone is provided. The joint assembly includes a body having an interior wall defining an opening in the body and a fastener. The fastener has a portion of the fastener fitted through the opening of the body. The fastener is rigidly connected... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070162150 - Modular prosthetic implant for upper and lower extremity amputees: The invention is generally directed to the novel and unique modular implant that provides an improved surface for interfacing with an external prosthesis. The implant includes a stem, an optional extension member connected to the stem, a prosthetic condyle, or in the case of application to other levels of cut... Agent: Barlow, Josephs & Holmes, Ltd.

20070162149 - Prosthesis for replacing the surface in the area of the ball of ball-and-socket joints: A prosthesis for replacing a surface in an area of a ball of a ball-and-socket joint includes a spherical shell section having an outer surface that is configured to lie in an articular fossa and is for attachment to a surface. The shell section having a cavity for receiving a... Agent: Darby & Darby P.C.

20070162151 - Resorbable macroporous bioactive glass scaffold and method of manufacture: A resorbable, macroporous bioactive glass scaffold comprising approximately 24-45% CaO, 34-50% SiO2, 0-25% Na2O, 5-17% P2O5, 0-5% MgO and 0-1% CaF2 by mass percent, produced by mixing with pore forming agents and specified heat treatments.... Agent: Rogers Towers, P.A.

20070162148 - Polymeric stent useful for the treatment of the salivary gland ducts and method for using the same: A polymeric stent, especially useful in surgical endoscopy and for the treatment of salivary gland ducts comprising; an elongated tube (1), wherein the proximal end (3) of said tube is having a funnel-like shape; and wherein said funnel further comprise at least one gorge (5a), which enables the suturing of... Agent: Lowe Hauptman Berner, LLP

20070162152 - Artificial joints using agonist-antagonist actuators: Artificial limbs and joints which behave like a biological limbs and joints employ a synthetic actuator which consume negligible power when exerting zero force, consume negligible power when outputting force at constant length (isometric) and while performing dissipative, nonconservative work, are capable of independently engaging flexion and extension tendon-like, series... Agent: Charles G. Call

20070162154 - Prosthetic member orthopedic cover: An orthopedic cover for a prosthetic member including a hollow flexible body portion, a generally tapered cylindrical body adapted for being received over the prosthetic member, an upper opening having a depth sufficient to allow articulation of a prosthetic knee of the prosthetic member and a width sufficient to allow... Agent: Winstead Sechrest & Minick P.C.

20070162153 - Prosthetic sock providing graduated thickness and tibial crest load reduction for an amputee limb remnant: A prosthetic sock configured to accommodate a transtibial amputee's residuum volume reductions which occur over time and are greater distally than proximally. It is also applicable to other amputee limbs and other levels of amputation of the leg and arm. The sock provides better compensation for the increased distal volume... Agent: Dorothy S. Morse

20070156228 - Prosthetic stent graft for treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm: A prosthetic stent graft including a trunk with a vascular graft bifurcated into two flow channels. The flow channels have a first taper angle, decreasing area along its length between the bifurcation point and an outlet. A leg section of the stent graft includes a tubular vascular graft. An inlet... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070156240 - Spinal fusion device: A spinal fusion device abutting and fixed between adjacent vertebrae. The spinal fusion device includes a support frame. The support frame has a plurality of extending bodies, each radially extending from a center of the support frame. A predetermined gap exists between every two adjacent extending bodies, receiving a bone... Agent: Quintero Law Office, PC

20070156222 - Adjustable and detached stent deployment device: The present disclosure is directed to a device for housing and retaining a delivery system for a self-expanding implant while providing means for actuating the delivery system.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070156224 - Handle system for deploying a prosthetic implant: A handle system of a delivery catheter for the deployment of prosthetic implants includes a first stationary portion, at least one guide rail secured to the first stationary portion and extending generally longitudinally with the handle system, and a generally cylindrical second rotating portion rotably connected to the first stationary... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070156223 - Stent delivery system with improved delivery force distribution: A stent delivery system that helps equalize delivery forces throughout a vascular prosthesis during delivery thereof to an intended treatment site. The delivery system comprises a catheter having a lumen therethrough, an inner core over which the one or more stents or stent grafts is mounted for delivery from the... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070156221 - Stent positioning system: There is provided a stent positioning system, including an inflatable balloon (22) for expanding a stent, the balloon, in its collapsed state, fitting into and being adapted to carry the stent in its pre-expanded condition; stent locator means slidably accommodated in a guide catheter and adapted to change its shape... Agent: Sughrue Mion, PLLC

20070156226 - Apparatus and methods for delivery of multiple distributed stents: Blood vessels and other body lumens are stented using multiple, discreet stent structures. Stent structures may be balloon expandable or self-expanding and are delivered by a delivery catheter which is repositioned to spaced-apart delivery sights. By coating the stents with particular biologically active substances, hyperplasia within and between the implanted... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP (client No 021629-000000)

20070156225 - Automated control mechanisms and methods for custom length stent apparatus: Methods and apparatus for delivering prosthetic segments to a body lumen, utilize a delivery device having an elongated flexible member including proximal and distal ends, a plurality of prosthetic segments arranged near the distal end and axially along the elongated flexible member and an outer sheath slidably disposed over at... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP (client No 021629-000000)

20070156227 - Migration resistant prosthetic stent graft for treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm: A prosthetic stent graft for the treatment of AAA includes a plurality of graft legs, each secured in a deployed position by a sealing gasket within a stent segment of the sealing gasket and to one side of a framing bracket. The framing bracket traverses the diameter of the stent... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070156229 - \"d\"-shape stent for treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm: A bifurcated prosthetic stent graft has two stent grafts with co-located respective first ends, and disparately located respective second ends. Each stent grafts includes a first stent segment at the first end of the stent graft having a semicircular portion and a diameter portion connecting the ends of the semicircular... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070156230 - Stents with radiopaque markers: Various embodiments of stents with radiopaque markers disposed within depots in the stent, are described herein.... Agent: Squire, Sanders & Dempsey LLP

20070156231 - Bioerodible endoprostheses and methods of making the same: Endoprostheses are disclosed.... Agent: Fish & Richardson PC

20070156232 - Medical device with coating that promotes endothelial cell adherence: This invention provides compositions and methods for producing a medical device coated with a matrix and an antibody which reacts with an endothelial cell antigen. The matrix coating the medical device may be composed of synthetic material, such as polyurethane, poly-L-lactic acid, cellulose ester or polyethylene glycol. In another embodiment,... Agent: Kelley Drye & Warren LLP

20070156234 - Apparatus, system, and method for delivering an annuloplasty ring: An annuloplasty ring and ring holder combination includes a generally triangular-shaped ring and a generally T-shaped holder. The ring holder has a base portion forming the top of the T shape and engaging against a first segment of the ring, with a radial arm extending from the base portion and... Agent: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

20070156235 - Method and apparatus for improving mitral valve function: A method and apparatus for reducing mitral regurgitation. The apparatus is inserted into the coronary sinus of a patient in the vicinity of the posterior leaflet of the mitral valve, the apparatus being adapted to straighten the natural curvature of at least a portion of the coronary sinus in the... Agent: Mark J. Pandiscio Pandiscio & Pandiscio, P.C.

20070156233 - Percutaneous atrioventricular valve and method of use: An apparatus for percutaneously replacing a diseased cardiac valve includes an expandable support member for positioning in an atrial chamber. The expandable support member includes at least one anchoring portion for anchoring in at least one opening that extends from the atrial chamber and a main body portion located adjacent... Agent: Tarolli, Sundheim, Covell & Tummino L.L.P.

20070156236 - Accommodating intraocular lens: An Accommodating Intraocular Lens (AIOL) is disclosed herein, that is comprised of a flexible optic and a flexible haptic rim that conforms to the human eye capsule. The spherical or custom shape of the optic is engineered to be maintained during accommodation through the mechanical/optic design of the implant and... Agent: Rutan & Tucker, LLP. Hani Z. Sayed

20070156237 - Facet joint and spinal ligament replacement: An implantable device for stabilizing at least a portion of a spinal column. The implantable device comprises an implantable artificial facet joint and one or more artificial ligaments connecting the implanted artificial facet joint to a third vertebra disposed adjacent to either the first or the second vertebra. The artificial... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070156238 - Multi-layered matrix, method of tissue repair using the same, and multi-layered implant prepared thereof: A multi-layered matrix, a method of tissue repair using the same, and multi-layered implant prepared thereof are provided. The multi-layered matrix comprises a first element and a second element connected thereto, and the second element comprises a hollow cavity. The first and the second elements are composed of a composite... Agent: Birch Stewart Kolasch & Birch

20070156239 - Minimally invasive apparatus to manipulate and revitalize spinal column disc: A method and apparatus are provided to manipulate and revitalize a spinal column disc while minimizing or preventing the removal of material comprising the disc. The method allows a device to be inserted in the disc either through a pre-existing rupture or through an opening formed in the front, back,... Agent: Tod R Nissle

20070156241 - Systems and methods for the fixation or fusion of bone: Various bone fixation/fusion devices are sized and configured to be placed across fracture fragments or between bones that are to be fused.... Agent: Ryan Kromholz & Manion, S.c.

20070156242 - Devices and methods for the treatment of bone fracture: A device for treating vertebral bone including a releasably closed, removable filling member which can be placed within a plane separating superior and inferior portions of a vertebral body and oriented to promote its stabilization and realignment upon expansion of the filling member along the plane via injection of filler... Agent: White & Case LLP Patent Department

20070156243 - Intervertebral spacer device having engagement hole pairs: Instrumentation for implanting an artificial intervertebral disc includes static trials and a dynamic trial for determining the appropriate size of disc to be implanted, static trial holders for manipulating the static trials, inserter/impactors for inserting and removing the static trials and for inserting the artificial intervertebral discs, repositioners/extractors for repositioning... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20070156244 - Intervertebral disc annulus stent: A device for repair and reconstruction of the spinal intervertebral disc wall, or annulus fibrosus, after surgical incision or pathologic rupture, which is inserted through an aperture into the disc. The device can be affixed to surrounding tissue employing a variety of means.... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20070156245 - Method and apparatus for the treatment of the intervertebral disc annulus: The present invention provides methods and devices for treating the annulus of an intervertebral disc. The methods and devices can employ an expandable treatment device which is deployed at least partially in the subannular space. Fixation devices and methods are also disclosed, which help to secure the treatment device in... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20070156246 - Shoulder joint prosthetic system: In a first aspect the present invention provides a glenoid prosthesis assembly for use in shoulder joint arthroplasty to address conditions where deterioration of the rotator cuff mechanism of the shoulder joint is severe, the assembly comprising a first shell component to be affixed to a scapula by fixing means,... Agent: Bradley N Ruben

20070156247 - Bone replacement material: A bone replacement material that can be introduced or packed into a bone defective part smoothly, reliably and safely is provided. The bone replacement material is formed into a pellet and a plurality of the pellets are packed into the bone defective part Each pellet defined by a plurality of... Agent: Greenblum & Bernstein, P.L.C

20070156249 - High velocity spray technique for medical implant components: Method of providing a desired material on at least a portion of a surface of a substrate of a component, such as a medical implant component. The method may comprise the steps of arranging the component in a holding fixture which is capable of holding the component at atmospheric or... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20070156250 - Orthopedic implants coated with pyrolytic carbon: An orthopedic implant having a metal substrate with an articulating surface includes a coating for the articulating surface made of pyrolytic carbon. Typically, the substrate is made of a metal such as titanium or stainless steel, or alloys thereof. The pyrolytic carbon coating preferably is applied by vapor deposition.... Agent: Rankin, Hill, Porter & Clark, LLP

20070156251 - Bioresorbable inflatable devices, incision tool and method for tissue expansion and tissue regeneration: Bioresorbable inflatable devices and tunnel incision tool and methods for treating and enlarging a tissue or an organ or a tube or a vessel or a cavity. The device is composed of a hollow expanding pouch made of a resorbable material or a perforated material that can be attached to... Agent: Dr. Mark M. Friedman C/o Bill Polkinghorn - Discovery Dispatch

20070156248 - Bioerodible self-deployable intragastric implants: Described herein are bioerodible, biodegradable, or digestible self-deploying intragastric implants that may be swallowed. Once swallowed, the implants undergo self-expansion in the stomach and apply a suitable pressure against the stomach wall to provide a feeling of satiety to the individual. The implants then dissolve or are disassembled perhaps using... Agent: E. Thomas Wheelock

20070156252 - Actuator assebmly for prosthetic or orthotic joint: A system and method associated with the movement of a limb. In one example, the system, such as a prosthetic or orthotic system, includes an actuator that actively controls, or adjusts, the angle between a foot unit and a lower limb member. The actuator preferably selectively locks during... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP