Prosthesis (i.e., artificial body members), parts thereof, or aids and accessories therefor inventions 02/08

20080051869 - Catheter system and method for delivering medical devices: A system for delivering a medical device, such as an angioplasty balloon, includes two catheter shafts. The distal portion of a first shaft includes a first balloon and is narrower than the proximal portion. A second catheter shaft includes a second balloon and is connected to a medial portion of... Agent: Squire, Sanders & Dempsey L.L.P.

20080051866 - Drug delivery devices and methods: A biocompatible material may be configured into any number of implantable medical devices including intraluminal stents. Polymeric materials may be utilized to fabricate any of these devices, including stents. The stents may be balloon expandable or self-expanding. The polymeric materials may include additives such as drugs or other bioactive agents... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080051867 - Multiple in vivo implant delivery device: A delivery catheter for providing the percutaneous delivery of a plurality of vascular stents. One or more stops are provided in the delivery catheter between each of the plurality of stents. The stops be radiopaque to assist in deploying the stents at desired locations within the vasculature of a patient.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080051872 - Biocorrodible metallic implant having a coating or cavity filling made of a peg/plga copolymer: A stent made of a biocorrodible metallic material having a coating or cavity filling comprising a diblock or triblock copolymer made of (i) a poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) block and (ii) a polyethylene glycol block.... Agent: Powell Goldstein LLP

20080051876 - Intravascular stent: An expandable stent for implanting in a body lumen, such as a coronary artery, peripheral artery, or other body lumen. In one aspect, the stent includes a butterfly pattern to which connecting links are attached. In another aspect, the stent embodies a non-directional structure. One embodiment is a stent in... Agent: Fulwider Patton, LLP (abbott)

20080051881 - Medical devices comprising porous layers for the release of therapeutic agents: In accordance with an aspect of the invention, implantable or insertable medical devices are provided in which a porous layer is disposed over a therapeutic-agent-containing region. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, medical devices are fabricated by a method in which a porous layer is deposited over a... Agent: Mayer & Williams PC

20080051882 - Medical device for intra-lumenal delivery of pharmaceutical agents: The present invention relates to intra-lumenal drug delivery devices. The device, such as a stent, is coated or impregnated with a pharmaceutical agent suitable for use in treatment of restenosis, pulmonary hypertension, and cancer. Suitable pharmaceutical agents include vasodilators and chemotherapeutics.... Agent: John Richard Merkling

20080051886 - Method and device for vision correction via dual-optics accommodating intraocular lens: Method and design of a dual-optics accommodating intraocular lens (IOL) for vision correction of adult and pediatric eyes after cataract surgeries are disclosed. For adult eyes, a positive accommodation amplitude greater than 3.5 diopter and preferably 4.0 to 10.0 diopter may be achieved by optimal configurations having the positive-power front-optics... Agent: J. T. Lin

20080051890 - Intervertebral implants with attachable flanges and methods of use: Vertebral implants for spacing apart vertebral members. The implants may include a spacer with a first side and a second side that contact the vertebral members. A sidewall may extend between the first and second sides. Two or more mounts are positioned along the sidewall. A flange may be connected... Agent: Coats & Bennett, PLLC

20080051896 - Expandable spinous process distractor: An expandable device is positioned surgically between spinous processes, permitting the incremental distraction of posterior spinal elements when the device is filled with a hardenable material.... Agent: Shoemaker And Mattare, Ltd

20080051910 - Method and apparatus for positioning a bone prosthesis using a localization system: Methods and apparatus using a surgical navigation system to position the femoral component of a prosthetic hip during hip joint replacement surgery without separately affixing a marker to the femur. The navigation system acquires the center of rotation of the hip joint as well as at least one point on... Agent: Synnestvedt & Lechner, LLP

20080051911 - Stent with antimicrobial drainage lumen surface: Medical devices for implantation in a body vessel are provided. A medical device can include a support member enclosing an antimicrobial coating defining a drainage lumen extending through the support member. The antimicrobial coating preferably includes a metal alloy comprising beryllium, nickel, copper, cobalt and/or silicon. The metal alloy is... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/indy/cook

20080051868 - Bioabsorbable polymeric medical device: In embodiments there is described a cardiovascular tube-shaped lockable and expandable bioabsorbable scaffold having a low immunogenicity manufactured from a crystallizable bioabsorbable polymer composition or blend.... Agent: Kelley Drye & Warren LLP

20080051870 - Marker element for the precise implantation of stents: The present invention concerns a marker element (1) for marking one or more boundaries of a section of a stent (2) with a mesh (20), the marker element (1) including a radiopaque material and being fitted on a device (5) for the delivery of the self-expanding stent (2) into a... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20080051871 - Medical devices for delivering a therapeutic agent and method of preparation: A device useful for localized delivery of a therapeutic agent includes a structure including a porous polymeric material and an elutable therapeutic agent in the form of a solid, gel, or neat liquid, which is dispersed in at least a portion of the porous polymeric material. A method for making... Agent: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.IPLegal Department

20080051873 - Bioabsorbable polymeric medical device: In embodiments there is described a cardiovascular tube-shaped lockable and expandable bioabsorbable scaffold having a low immunogenicity manufactured from a crystallizable bioabsorbable polymer composition or blend.... Agent: Kelley Drye & Warren LLP

20080051874 - Bioabsorbable polymeric medical device: In embodiments there is described a cardiovascular tube-shaped lockable and expandable bioabsorbable scaffold having a low immunogenicity manufactured from a crystallizable bioabsorbable polymer composition or blend.... Agent: Kelley Drye & Warren LLP

20080051875 - Bioabsorbable polymeric medical device: In embodiments there is described a cardiovascular tube-shaped lockable and expandable bioabsorbable scaffold having a low immunogenicity manufactured from a crystallizable bioabsorbable polymer composition or blend.... Agent: Kelley Drye & Warren LLP

20080051877 - Stent designs for use in peripheral vessels: Stent designs for use in peripheral vessels, such as the carotid arteries, are disclosed. The stents consist of a plurality of radially expandable cylindrical elements generally aligned on a common longitudinal stent axis and interconnected by one or more interconnecting members placed so that the stent is flexible in a... Agent: Baker Botts L.L.P.

20080051878 - Stent for treating vulnerable plaque: An intravascular stent assembly for implantation in a body lumen, such as a coronary artery, is designed to treat a lesion with vulnerable plaque by reducing the fibrous cap stresses. The stent includes distal, proximal, and center sections where the center section is configured to treat the vulnerable plaque. The... Agent: Fulwider Patton, LLP (abbott)

20080051865 - Medical devices, drug coatings and methods for maintaining the drug coatings thereon: Medical devices, and in particular implantable medical devices, may be coated to minimize or substantially eliminate a biological organism's reaction to the introduction of the medical device to the organism. The medical devices may be coated with any number of biocompatible materials. Therapeutic drugs, agents or compounds may be mixed... Agent: Woodcock Washburn LLP

20080051879 - Methods of treating venous valve related conditions with a flow-modifying implantable medical device: Implantable medical devices adapted to modify fluid flow within a body vessel are provided herein. The medical devices may include a fluid flow restricting channel configured to reduce longitudinal fluid flow in a retrograde direction or in an antegrade direction. Preferably, the medical devices are flow-modifying devices that reduce fluid... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/indy/cook

20080051880 - Drug delivery after biodegradation of the stent scaffolding: Disclosed is a stent comprising a bioabsorbable polymeric scaffolding; and a plurality of depots in at least a portion of the scaffolding, wherein the plurality of depots comprise a bioabsorbable material, wherein the degradation rate of all or substantially all of the bioabsorbable polymer of the scaffolding is faster than... Agent: Squire, Sanders & Dempsey LLP

20080051883 - Medical devices, drug coatings and methods for maintaining the drug coatings thereon: Medical devices, and in particular implantable medical devices, may be coated to minimize or substantially eliminate a biological organism's reaction to the introduction of the medical device to the organism. The medical devices may be coated with any number of biocompatible materials. Therapeutic drugs, agents or compounds may be mixed... Agent: Woodcock Washburn LLP

20080051884 - Medical devices, drug coatings and methods for maintaining the drug coatings thereon: Medical devices, and in particular implantable medical devices, may be coated to minimize or substantially eliminate a biological organism's reaction to the introduction of the medical device to the organism. The medical devices may be coated with any number of biocompatible materials. Therapeutic drugs, agents or compounds may be mixed... Agent: Woodcock Washburn LLP

20080051885 - Medical devices, drug coatings and methods for maintaining the drug coatings thereon: Medical devices, and in particular implantable medical devices, may be coated to minimize or substantially eliminate a biological organism's reaction to the introduction of the medical device to the organism. The medical devices may be coated with any number of biocompatible materials. Therapeutic drugs, agents or compounds may be mixed... Agent: Woodcock Washburn LLP

20080051887 - Materials and methods for improved bone tendon bone transplantation: Disclosed herein is an improved Bone Tendon Bone graft for use in orthopedic surgical procedures. Specifically exemplified herein is a Bone Tendon Bone graft comprising one or more bone blocks having a groove cut into the surface thereof, wherein said groove is sufficient to accommodate a fixation screw. Also disclosed... Agent: Mcandrews Held & Malloy, Ltd

20080051888 - Synthetic structure for soft tissue repair: Synthetic structures for fibrous soft tissue repair include a polymeric fibrillar structure that exhibits mechanical properties of the human fibrous soft tissue.... Agent: Carter, Deluca, Farrell & Schmidt, LLP

20080051889 - Cartilage implant: A cartilage implant for replacing a portion of the cartilage adjacent to a skeletal joint. In one exemplary embodiment, the cartilage implant includes a bearing portion and a drape. The bearing portion is configured to replace a portion of the cartilage adjacent to a skeletal joint. In one exemplary embodiment,... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20080051891 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: A method includes positioning a medical device within a body between adjacent spinous processes, moving the medical device from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration within the body using an actuator removably coupled to the medical device, and removing the actuator from the body while the medical device remains... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080051892 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: A method includes positioning a medical device within a body between adjacent spinous processes, moving the medical device from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration within the body using an actuator removably coupled to the medical device, and removing the actuator from the body while the medical device remains... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080051893 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: A method includes positioning a medical device within a body between adjacent spinous processes, moving the medical device from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration within the body using an actuator removably coupled to the medical device, and removing the actuator from the body while the medical device remains... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080051894 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: A method includes moving a spinal implant such that a central portion of the spinal implant is disposed between adjacent spinous processes, radially extending a proximal portion of the spinal implant on a first side of the adjacent spinous processes such that movement of the proximal portion between the adjacent... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080051895 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: An apparatus includes a support member and a retention member. The support member has at least a portion configured to be disposed between a first spinous process and a second spinous process. The retention member is movably coupled to an end portion of the support member. The retention member is... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080051897 - Methods and instrumentation for disc replacement: Various exemplary instruments for introducing an implant using a posterolateral approach are also provided, as well as various exemplary methods for using such instruments. In general, the instruments are configured to interconnect to an implant and/or to a guide member such that the components are all docked relative to one... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20080051907 - Anatomic implants designed to minimize instruments and surgical techniques: A method of implanting a vertebral implant in a void between a pair of vertebral endplates comprises positioning the vertebral implant between the vertebral endplates and coupling an implantation tool to the vertebral implant. The method further comprises actuating the implantation tool to generate alternating motion relative to the vertebral... Agent: Haynes And Boone, LLP

20080051898 - Interspinous process implants and methods of use: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080051899 - Interspinous process implants and methods of use: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080051902 - Modular intervertebral disc prosthesis and method of replacing an intervertebral disc: An intervertebral disc prosthesis is provided. The prosthesis includes a first and second plate containing modular anchors that are moveable from a radially un-extended position in a non-deployed configuration to a radially extended position in a deployed configuration. A method of replacing a natural intervertebral disc with a prosthetic disc... Agent: Kenyon & Kenyon LLP

20080051903 - Nucleus pulposus implant: A nucleus pulposus implant that can be converted to an interbody fusion cage is provided. Kits including the nucleus pulposus implant and other delivery components are also provided. Methods of delivering the implant into a damaged disc space are also provided.... Agent: Kenyon & Kenyon LLP

20080051906 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: An apparatus includes a support member and a retention member. The support member has at least a portion configured to be disposed between a first spinous process and a second spinous process. The retention member is movably coupled to an end portion of the support member. The retention member is... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080051901 - Spinal prosthesis with multiple pillar anchors: An intervertebral prosthesis includes a first component adapted to engage a first vertebra and a second component adapted to engage a second vertebra. A row of pillars is disposed on at least one of the components. The row of pillars is adapted to enter a groove and anchor the prosthesis... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20080051900 - Spinal prosthesis with offset anchors: An implanted intervertebral prosthesis includes first and second components adapted to attach to a first vertebra and a second vertebra, respectively, that define an intervertebral space. The prosthesis includes a first anchor structure on the first component adapted to enter a grove formed in the first vertebra, and a second... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20080051904 - Supplemental spine fixation device and method: A supplemental spine fixation device and method is used in association with a primary spine fixation device. The supplemental spine fixation device includes a guide and spacer for distracting apart adjacent spinous processes and the device has hook members which hook about the first and second spinous processes. With the... Agent: James F. Zucherman

20080051905 - Supplemental spine fixation device and method: A supplemental spine fixation device and method is used in association with a primary spine fixation device. The supplemental spine fixation device includes a guide and spacer for distracting apart adjacent spinous processes and the device has hook members which hook about the first and second spinous processes. With the... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080051908 - System and method for adjusting the thickness of a prosthesis: The present invention relates to a system and method for adjusting a thickness of a prosthesis (e.g., a knee implant). In one embodiment, a knee prosthesis for implantation in a patient is provided, comprising: a tibial tray, wherein the tibial tray comprises an upper surface and a lower surface, and... Agent: Greenberg Traurig, LLP

20080051909 - Wrist implants: An implant system and apparatus configured to permit motion of the wrist in at least one physiological direction, as well as in a dart thrower's motion, and constrain motion of the wrist in at least one non-physiological direction are provided. The implant according to one embodiment includes a distal component... Agent: Darby & Darby P.C.

20080051912 - Metatarsal implant: The present invention comprises a metatarsal head implant comprising a generally convex, hollow portion that fits over the metatarsal head of the great toe, a serrated stem, and one or more locking screws. The implant of the present invention may work in conjunction with either the patient's existing phalanx or... Agent: Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP

20080046066 - Alignment sheath apparatus and method: The invention is direction to an alignment apparatus comprising a central sheath, an alignment sheath, and at least one stent. The central sheath and the alignment sheath each have a wall and a distal end where the wall of the alignment sheath is engaged to the wall of the central... Agent: Vidas, Arrett & Steinkraus, P.A.

20080046069 - Flexible delivery system: An articulated device for advancing a medical implant along a catheter comprises a plurality of segments (1, 12) arranged one after the other in line, each segment being hingeably connected to a single adjacent segment if it is at the end of the line and otherwise to two adjacent segments,... Agent: Dewitt Ross & Stevens S.c.

20080046073 - Non-coagulative vascular shunt: An implantable shunt for the repair of a blood vessel, which is capable of remaining in place temporarily or for extended periods, which comprises a hollow tube, and flanges positioned at regular intervals along the tube's length, ending at both ends. The shunt is made of non-coagulative material. In operation,... Agent: Naval Medical Research Center Attn: (code 00l)

20080046076 - Two optical elements which, in combination, form a lens of variable optical power for application as an intraocular lens: The invention relates to an artificial intra ocular lens of variable optical power, comprising at least two optical elements which can be shifted relative to each other in a direction extending perpendicular to the optical axis wherein the optical elements have such a shape that they exhibit, in combination, different... Agent: The Webb Law Firm, P.C.

20080046077 - Multiocular intraocular lens systems: An accommodating intraocular lens having anteriorly and posteriorly movable extended portions, such as T-shaped haptics, extending from a central optic to be implanted within a human eye, and a second optic spaced from the posterior optic. The first optic is intended to be implanted in the capsular bag, and the... Agent: Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, LLPIPProsecution Department

20080046078 - Silicone based ocular prosthesis, and method for making same: The present invention provides a silicone-based ocular prosthesis. In one aspect, the prosthesis includes a posterior sclera portion fabricated from a white-tinted silicone material. The sclera portion is formed from a molding process. The prosthesis also includes an anterior iris portion placed on the sclera portion. The prosthesis further includes... Agent: Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC

20080046092 - Coil embolization device with stretch resistance fiber: A vasoocclusive embolic device deployment system for use in the placement of an embolic coil at a treatment site within a vessel. The embolic coil includes an elongated stretch resistant fiber having its distal end attached to the distal end of the embolic coil. The stretch resistant fiber extends cylindrically... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080046093 - Stretch resistant embolic coil: A vasoocclusive embolic device deployment system for use in the placement of an embolic coil at a treatment site within a vessel. The embolic coil includes an elongated stretch resistant fiber having one distal end bonded to the distal end of the embolic coil. The stretch resistant fiber includes portions... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080046095 - Placental tissue grafts and improved methods of preparing and using the same: A method for preparing placenta membrane tissue grafts for medical use, includes obtaining a placenta from a subject, cleaning the placenta, separating the chorion tissue from the amniotic membrane, mounting a selected layer of either the chorion tissue or the amniotic membrane onto a drying fixture, dehydrating the selected layer... Agent: Morris Manning Martin LLP

20080046064 - Endoprosthesis deployment methods for treating vascular bifurcations: A device and method for treating pathological narrowing of fluid-carrying conduits of the human body (such as blood vessels) in an area of a bifurcation is disclosed. In particular, a stent system comprising a pair of dissimilar stents, one of which is particularly suited for treating a widened portion of... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080046063 - Stent deployment device: A stent deployment device (110) is provided for deploying a stent in a lumen of a patient. The device can include a catheter (112), a first balloon (122) positioned near a distal end of the catheter and a second balloon (123) adjacent to the first balloon. Alternatively, the second balloon... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/indy/cook

20080046065 - Iliac extension with flared cuff: A leg extension (10) for a stent grafting system to connect between an aortic graft and an iliac graft. The leg extension is a tubular body (12) of a biocompatible graft material with self-expanding stents connected along the length of the tubular body and the tubular body having a distal... Agent: Cook Group Patent Office

20080046068 - Balloon expandable bioabsorbable drug eluting flexible stent: A biocompatible material may be configured into any number of implantable medical devices including intraluminal stents. Polymeric materials may be utilized to fabricate any of these devices, including stents. The stents may be balloon expandable or self-expanding. The polymeric materials may include additives such as drugs or other bioactive agents... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080046067 - Stent: A stent 2 comprising a ring-shaped stent unit 4 formed by a zigzag-shaped threadlike material 10 continuing in the circumferential direction and expandable in the radius direction R from a contracted state. At least one of turned edge portions 8a and 8b of the zigzag-shaped threadlike material 10 composing said... Agent: Birch Stewart Kolasch & Birch

20080046071 - Biomedical valve devices, support frames for use in such devices, and related methods: Biomedical valve devices, support frames for use in such devices, methods of making such devices, and methods of treating animals, including humans, for valve-related conditions are described. The biomedical valve devices can includes a native tissue valve attached to a support frame or a tissue attached to a support frame... Agent: Dunlap, Codding & Rogers, P.C.

20080046070 - Chemically treated extracellular matrices for affecting the cellular response: Described are preferred prosthetic valve devices including an extracellular matrix (ECM) material coated with a microtubule inhibiting agent and affixed to a stent. The stent is configured such that the coated ECM material is formed into one or more leaflets. In preferred embodiments, the prosthetic valve devices are configured for... Agent: Woodard, Emhardt, Moriarty, Mcnett & Henry LLP

20080046072 - Bifurcation stent and method of positioning in a body lumen: A method of deploying a bifurcation stent at a vascular bifurcation of a main vessel into first and second branch vessels includes: positioning a bifurcation stent at a vascular bifurcation, the bifurcation stent expandable from a reduced diameter to an expanded diameter, the bifurcation stent comprising a first end, a... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080046075 - Accommodating intraocular lens system and method: An accommodating intraocular lens is provided having optical parameters that are altered in-situ, wherein an optic portion of the lens includes a lens piston that alters the shape of a lens element of the lens to alter the optical power of the lens, responsive to forces applied to a haptic... Agent: Shayglenn LLP

20080046074 - Accommodating intraocular lens system having spherical aberration compensation and method: An accommodating intraocular lens includes an optic portion, a haptic portion. The optic portion of the lens includes an actuator that deflects a lens element to alter the optical power of the lens responsive to forces applied to the haptic portion of the lens by contraction of the ciliary muscles... Agent: Shayglenn LLP

20080046079 - Orbital implant: An orbital implant includes a body of bioactive material having macropores of at least 400 μm, and a cap of bioactive material having substantially no pores or only micropores smaller than 50 μm. The cap covers a portion of the body.... Agent: Snell & Wilmer L.L.P. (main)

20080046080 - Method for forming packaged microelectronic devices and devices thus obtained: A packaged microelectronic device (20) is provided comprising at least one electrode (10) comprising a chip (18) embedded in a package. The chip (18) comprises a back electrode (17) located at a first side of the chip (18), and electronic circuitry (14) located at a second side of the chip... Agent: Mcdonnell Boehnen Hulbert & Berghoff LLP

20080046084 - Anterior cervical spine instrumentation and related surgical method: In various exemplary embodiments, the present invention provides a set of less invasive cervical spine instruments that are used to achieve cervical disc decompression, bone preparation, and the alignment of one or more matched sized bone grafts prior to cervical plate placement. This set of less invasive cervical spine instruments,... Agent: Clements Walker

20080046086 - Interspinous process implant having a thread-shaped wing and method of implantation: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a spacer and a frame having a central body and a helical shaped wing extending from the central body. The frame can be positioned near about adjacent spinous processes, and can be rotated... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080046085 - Interspinous process implant having deployable wings and method of implantation: An embodiment of a system in accordance with the present invention can include an implant having a spacer with a thickness and a wing, wherein a first configuration of the wing has a first height substantially similar to the thickness and wherein the wing is adapted to be selectably arranged... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080046087 - Interspinous process implant including a binder and method of implantation: Systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention can include an implant comprising a spacer for defining a minimum space between adjacent spinous processes, a distraction guide for piercing and distracting an interspinous ligament during implantation, and a binder for limiting or preventing flexion motion of the targeted motion... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080046081 - Interspinous process implants and methods of use: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080046090 - Intervertebral allograft spacer: An allogenic intervertebral implant for fusing vertebrae is disclosed. The implant is a piece of allogenic bone conforming in size and shape with a portion of an end plate of a vertebra. The implant has a wedge-shaped profile to restore disc height and the natural curvature of the spine. The... Agent: Stroock & Stroock & Lavan, LLP

20080046082 - Intervertebral disc and nucleus prosthesis: A prosthetic implant for replacing a nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disk includes upper and lower endwalls of discoid cross-section, each having an antero-posterior diameter less than its transverse diameter, and an hourglass-shaped sidewall connecting the peripheries of the upper endwall and lower endwall to enclose an interior volume filled... Agent: Miles & Stockbridge PC

20080046083 - Spinal implant: An intervertebral disc prosthesis for installation in, a spinal column includes a first intervertebral plate for engaging one or both of the inferior vertebral endplate and the inferior ring apophysis of a superior vertebral body. A second intervertebral plate for engages one or both of the superior vertebral endplate and... Agent: Pearne & Gordon LLP

20080046088 - Spine distraction implant and method: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080046089 - Spine distraction implant and method: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080046091 - Implant anchoring device: An anchor for securing an implant within bone. In one embodiment, the anchor is used to aid in securing an acetabular cup within an acetabulum. The anchor may be implanted within an ischial defect of the pelvis, and is attached to an outer surface of the acetabular cup shell. The... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20080046094 - Linear tension material for plastic surgery: The present invention relates to a linear tension material for surgery used to pull skin tissue. An object of the present invention is to provide a linear tension material for plastic surgery which prevents permanent deformation due to excessive elongation and fatigue and of which a portion besides united portions... Agent: Intellectual Property Law Group LLP

20080046096 - Instrumented prosthetic foot: The present invention discloses an instrumented prosthetic foot for use with an actuated leg prosthesis controlled by a controller, the instrumented prosthetic foot comprising a connector to connect the instrumented prosthetic foot to the leg prosthesis, an ankle structure connected to the connector, a ground engaging member connected to the... Agent: Seyfarth Shaw LLP

20080039919 - Prosthesis and deployment catheter for treating vascular bifurcations: A stepped balloon catheter prosthesis deployment system is disclosed for placement of a prosthesis across an Os opening from a main body lumen to a branch body lumen. The prosthesis comprises a radially expansible support at one end, a circumferentially extending link at the other end and at least one... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080039920 - Tethered self-expanding stent delivery system: The present invention relates to devices, systems and methods to maintain self-expanding stents in a compressed form during delivery to and positioning at a treatment site. The devices, systems and methods of the present invention can provide for more accurate stent positioning and can improve the deliverability of self-expanding stents.... Agent: Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Preston Gates Ellis LLP Attn: Daniel S. Kim

20080039924 - Channeled self-expanding stent delivery system: The present invention relates to devices, systems and methods to maintain self-expanding stents in a compressed form during delivery to and positioning at a treatment site. The devices, systems and methods of the present invention can provide for more accurate stent positioning and can improve the deliverability of self-expanding stents.... Agent: Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Preston Gates Ellis LLP Attn: Daniel S. Kim

20080039926 - Stent graft sealing zone connecting structure: An endoluminal prosthesis useful for treatment of an abdominal aortic aneurysm includes a main body portion and two leg portions. The main body portion includes a graft material coupled to stents. The stents include an upper supra renal stent and sealing stents. The sealing length between the top of the... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080039928 - Slotted self-expanding stent delivery system: The present invention relates to devices, systems and methods to maintain self-expanding stents in a compressed form during delivery to and positioning at a treatment site. The devices, systems and methods of the present invention can provide for more accurate stent positioning and can improve the deliverability of self-expanding stents.... Agent: Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Preston Gates Ellis LLP Attn: Daniel S. Kim

20080039939 - Method of constructing artificial joint: The present invention relates to a method of preparing a cartilage, comprising adhering cell masses onto the surface of a carrier shaped into a desired form and culturing the cell masses under conditions which induce differentiation of the cell masses into a cartilage tissue; and a method of preparing an... Agent: Birch Stewart Kolasch & Birch

20080039944 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: A method includes percutaneously disposing an implant in a first configuration between adjacent spinous processes, the outermost surface of the implant being uniform and defining a first diameter in the first configuration, the implant being coupled to an expansion tool, moving a distal portion of the implant such that the... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080039942 - Spinal implant: A spinal implant that includes a plurality of components adapted for use as an implant in a disc. Each component is configured to be inserted into a void of a disc and each component complimentarily abuts at least one other component to form the implant. A method treating a spinal... Agent: Robert Deberardine Abbott Laboratories

20080039950 - Expanding trial stem for orthopaedic surgery: A trial device and a method for using the device in surgery are disclosed. The device includes a body including a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion has a post or trunion projecting therefrom. The distal portion extends from the proximal portion and includes a first arm... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20080039921 - Balloon catheter: A balloon catheter is provided for the implantation of a stent in a mammalian duct or cavity, comprising an elongate distal section and an expandable first balloon accommodating the section, further comprising means for the supply of a pressure medium for the expansion of the balloon, and means for heating... Agent: Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC

20080039923 - Stent-graft with positioning anchor: A positioning anchor is provided for a stent-graft for implantation to treat a damaged body lumen. The positioning anchor is generally tubular surrounding a primary fluid conduit. Arms extend laterally from the generally tubular structure of the anchor surrounding lateral fluid conduits. The form of these arms is preferably custom... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20080039922 - Systems and devices for reducing the size of an internal tissue opening: A medical system for treating an internal tissue opening can include a closure device and associated delivery device. The closure device can include a multi-cellular body portion operatively associated with a first anchor and a second anchor. The closure device can be configured to apply lateral force to tissue of... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20080039925 - Stent graft indwelling device and fixed chip: A stent graft indwelling device (1) comprising a dilator (10) and a sheath (30) in which the dilator (10) and a stent graft (60) are to be loaded, the stent graft indwelling device (1) having a wire (40) or a fixed chip (20) as means for adjusting the insertion angle... Agent: Oblon, Spivak, Mcclelland Maier & Neustadt, P.C.

20080039927 - Balloon/self-expanding stent graft: An intraluminal prosthesis for strengthening a lumen. The prosthesis may include a tubular graft (50) comprising a hollow flexible body (20). A self-expanding stent (19) may be coupled to the body (20) that provides enough outward radial force to expand the body. The prosthesis also includes a tubular stent (17).... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/indy/cook

20080039930 - Detachable self-expanding aneurysm cover device: A self-expanding aneurysm cover device which takes the form of an outwardly biased cylindrical skeletal frame in which the proximal end of the cylindrical skeletal frame forms a loop which extends at an oblique angle to the axis of the cylindrical skeletal frame. A positioning tab extends from the proximal... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080039929 - Devices for reducing the size of an internal tissue opening: A medical system for treating an internal tissue opening can include a closure device and associated delivery device. The closure device can include a body portion operatively associated with a first anchor and a second anchor. The body portion can include a plurality of segments defining a multi-cellular structure. The... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20080039932 - High strength vacuum deposited nitinol alloy films and method of making same: A vacuum deposition method for fabricating high-strength nitinol films by sputter depositing nickel and titanium from a heated sputtering target, and controlling the sputter deposition process parameters in order to create high-strength nitinol films that exhibit shape memory and/or superelastic properties without the need for precipitation annealing to attenuate the... Agent: Rosenbaum & Associates, P.C.

20080039931 - Hydrophilic shape memory insertable medical articles: Insertable medical articles with a shape memory property having a body member formed of crosslinked hydrophilic polymers are described.... Agent: Kagan Binder, PLLC

20080039933 - Implantable intraluminal device and method of using same in treating aneurysms: A method and apparatus for reducing blood flow to an aneurysm proximate to a bifurcation having a source blood vessel a first branch vessel and a second branch vessel, the method comprising: providing a first mesh-like tube of bio-compatible material, the first mesh-like tube exhibiting a porosity index pre-selected to... Agent: Martin D. Moynihan Prtsi, Inc.

20080039934 - Interchangeable prosthetic valve: The invention relates to a prosthetic valve (50) which is endoluminally placeable and comprises a tubular support (52) radially deformable with respect to a main axis (X-X) from an unfolded implanting position to a folded setting position a flexible plug (52) connected to the tubular support (52) and deformable between... Agent: Wenderoth, Lind & Ponack, L.L.P.

20080039935 - Methods and apparatus for mitral valve repair: Methods and apparatus for mitral valve repair are disclosed herein where the posterior mitral leaflet is supported or buttressed in a frozen or immobile position to facilitate the proper coaptation of the leaflets. An implantable apparatus may be advanced and positioned intravascularly beneath the posterior leaflet of the mitral valve.... Agent: Levine Bagade Han LLP

20080039936 - Retinal prosthesis with side mounted inductive coil: The invention is a retinal prosthesis with an inductive coil mounted to the side of the eye by means of a strap around the eye. This allows for close coupling to an external coil and movement of the entire implanted portion with movement of the eye ball.... Agent: Scott B. Dunbar Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.

20080039937 - Focusable artificial lens for an eye: An artificial lens for an eye (10) is described. Previously, artificial lenses implanted into an eye within the framework of eye surgery have always had a fixed, unchangeable focal width. According to the present invention, an artificial lens for an eye is now provided, in which the focal width can... Agent: Kriegsman & Kriegsman

20080039938 - Retinal prosthesis with side mounted inductive coil: The invention is a retinal prosthesis with an inductive coil mounted to the side of the eye by means of a strap around the eye. This allows for close coupling to an external coil and movement of the entire implanted portion with movement of the eye ball.... Agent: Scott B. Dunbar Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.

20080039940 - Biological tissue sheet, method of forming the same and transplantation method by using the sheet: A biological tissue sheet which is expected as exerting a favorable therapeutic effect and a high safety in transplantation. The biological tissue sheet formed by (a) preparing in vivo-derived cells; (b) sowing the in vivo-derived cells on amniotic membrane; and (c) culturing and proliferating the in vivo-derived cells in the... Agent: Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge LLP

20080039941 - Bone growth promoting implant: A stem-like bone implant includes longitudinal structural members and tension cables that provide curvature control and support, and rigidity against bending and buckling. The longitudinal structural members and tension cables may become an integral part of a composite regenerated bone having a substantially increased strength over natural bone. The flexibility... Agent: Andrew Lowes, Esq. Haynes And Boone LLP

20080039947 - Interspinous process implants and methods of use: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080039943 - Set for treating the degeneracy of an intervertebral disc: an elongate connection piece (16); and two fastening members (18, 20) for fastening the head of each of said screws to one of the ends of said connection piece, by which means it is possible to avoid excessive mechanical stresses being applied to the intervertebral disc.... Agent: Leffert, Jay & Polglaze

20080039948 - Spacer for insertion between two vertebrae: A spacer for insertion between two vertebrae includes a variable axial length and comprises a first member having a hollow interior and a tubular wall and a second member having a hollow interior and a tubular wall the second member being slidable within the first member in an axial direction... Agent: Christie, Parker & Hale, LLP

20080039945 - Spine distraction implant and method: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080039946 - Spine distraction implant and method: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080039949 - Artificial joint element and gripping tool equipped with the same: The invention relates to an artificial joint element (1) for use in one or more single joints in a system of joints that consists of a combination of several kinematically coupled single joints, (series connection), in particular for use in one or more human finger joints. Said element comprises an... Agent: Arnold International

20080039951 - Orthopaedic materials derived from keratin: The invention provides a biocompatible material derived from keratin that is useful for many aspects of medical treatment of bone. The keratin material is preferably S-sulfonated and enriched in intermediate filament proteins of high molecular weight. The keratin material may be porous for use as a bone replacement and augmentation... Agent: Bacon & Thomas, PLLC

20080039952 - Devices for reducing the size of an internal tissue opening: A medical system for treating an internal tissue opening can include a closure device and associated delivery device. The closure device can include a body portion operatively associated with a first anchor and a second anchor. The body portion can include a plurality of segments defining a multi-cellular structure. The... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20080039955 - Compositions and methods for the treatment and repair of defects or lesions in articular cartilage using synovial-derived tissue or cells: Compositions and methods are provided for treatment of cartilage defects in animals and humans. The compositions of the invention include synovial tissue, synovial cells and matrices containing synovial (or cambium) tissue or cells for use in filling a cartilage defect. The matrix and synovial tissue or cell preparations may also... Agent: Ropes & Gray LLP Patent Docketing 39/41

20080039953 - Devices for reducing the size of an internal tissue opening: A medical system for treating an internal tissue opening can include a closure device and associated delivery device. The closure device can include a body portion operatively associated with a first anchor and a second anchor. The body portion can include a plurality of segments defining a multi-cellular structure. A... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20080039954 - Expandable cartilage implant: The present invention relates to a method for repairing cartilage defects in a patient. According to the current invention, a porous material having at least expandable or compressible properties is implanted into a cartilage defect.... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20080033521 - Double-wire non-trapping angioplasty catheter: The invention provides a catheter, which can be introduced into the coronary arteries over two or more wires. The catheter can be used for coronary, as well as for peripheral angioplasty, in particular near bifurcations. The catheter is of the rapid-exchange or over-the-wire type. The catheter allows procedures, in which... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080033522 - Implantable medical device with particulate coating: Medical devices for implantation in a body vessel, and methods of using and making the same, are provided. A medical device can include a frame with a vessel-engaging region on at least a portion of the medical device. The vessel-engaging region may be a particulate coating configured and adapted to... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/indy/cook

20080033531 - Endoprosthesis and method for producing same: An endoprosthesis, in particular, an intraluminal endoprosthesis, e.g., a stent, having a basic mesh and a functional element attached to a carrier structure, the functional element having a different material composition than the material of the basic mesh in at least a portion of its volume. The carrier structure is... Agent: Powell Goldstein LLP

20080033530 - Marker alloy: A marker alloy foreign implant made of a biodegradable metallic material and having the composition MgxYbyMz wherein x is equal to 10-60 atomic percent; y is equal to 40-90 atomic percent; z is equal to 0-10 atomic percent; M is one or more element selected from the group consisting of... Agent: Powell Goldstein LLP

20080033528 - Stent, stent removal and repositioning device, and associated methods: A removable stent for placement within a lumen is provided. The stent includes a scaffolding of struts formed from a tube of memory material and having a proximal end, a distal end, and an interior region. The stent includes at least two flexible elements independently secured to the scaffolding and... Agent: Alston & Bird LLP

20080033533 - Marker composite for medical implants: An x-ray marker for medical implants made of a biocorrodible metallic material, wherein the x-ray marker composite comprises 1-40 weight parts of a carrier matrix having a melting point greater than or equal to 43° C., which comprises 90 weight-percent or more triglycerides; and 60-99 weight parts of a radiopaque... Agent: Powell Goldstein LLP

20080033536 - Stability of biodegradable metallic stents, methods and uses: A biodegradable metallic stent having improved stability properties after implantation of the stent, methods for producing such a stabilized stent, methods for improving the stabilization of a biodegradable metallic stent, and a method for improving the stability of a biodegradable metallic stent by using vasodilator active ingredients.... Agent: Powell Goldstein LLP

20080033535 - Stent having a structure made of a biocorrodible metallic material: A stent having a structure made of a biocorrodible metallic material, having multiple web sections connected to one another, with a support structure made of a number of first web sections connected to one another, designed to assume a function supporting the vascular wall or preserving the mechanical integrity of... Agent: Powell Goldstein LLP

20080033537 - Biodegradable stent having an active coating: A stent having a main body made of a biodegradable material and an active coating applied to the main body, which comprises a biodegradable carrier matrix and at least one pharmaceutically active substance embedded in the carrier matrix.... Agent: Powell Goldstein LLP

20080033538 - Implant made of a biocorrodible metallic material having a coating made of an organosilicon compound: An implant made of a biocorrodible metallic material having a coating made of an organosilicon compound.... Agent: Powell Goldstein LLP

20080033539 - Stent having genistein-containing coating or cavity filling: A stent made of a biocorrodible metallic material and having a coating or cavity filling which contains genistein.... Agent: Powell Goldstein LLP

20080033541 - Artificial mitral valve: An artificial mitral valve is made of a short piece of elastomeric tubing having a one round end and one flattened end. The tubing can be rolled up to a small diameter and fits snuggly into the mitral valve opening when expanded. The tubing attaches to a few rings made... Agent: Dan Gelbart

20080033545 - Heart valve holder for use in valve implantation procedures: A valve holder for a prosthetic valve having a stent with a stent base and multiple commissure posts projecting from the stent base, the valve holder including a central base portion, a plurality of legs radially extending from the central base portion, each leg comprising a first prong portion spaced... Agent: Kagan Binder, PLLC

20080033564 - Artificial joint: An artifieial joint includes a condyle and a jointzsocket having a socket eleinent and an inlay whose associated functional surfaces functionally interlinked. The functional surface facing the joint socket has circular, concave section contours. the orbital radii of the joint deviating fromn each other in a main fltnetional plane relative... Agent: Darby & Darby P.C.

20080033565 - Simulator for evaluating artifical joint specimens and associated method: A single drive shaft simulator and method is disclosed that allows up to four independent actions to be imposed on a test specimen such as an artificial joint specimen. These motions about mutually orthogonal axes are provided, and a constant compressive force and/or dynamic force may also be applied. The... Agent: Fay Sharpe LLP

20080033567 - Knee joint prosthesis used in total knee arthroplasty: A knee joint prosthesis used in total knee arthroplasty having tibial components (5) and tibial bearing inserts (20) with predetermined shapes that allow for an additional degree of freedom in both an anterior-posterior direction and rotation. The tibial bearing inserts (20) include a predeterminedly-shaped extension (17), such as a sphere... Agent: Edward M. Livingston, Pa

20080033572 - Bone graft composites and methods of treating bone defects: Bone graft compositions comprising demineralized bone matrix, calcium phosphate, collagen and bioinductive cellular solution. Methods to repair and heal defective and missing bone using the bone graft compositions are also described.... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20080033575 - Reversibly deformable implant: The present invention provides an implant for positioning within a particularly dimensioned body cavity. The implant is reversibly deformable between an expanded state and a compressed state. The implant is constructed and arranged for insertion within the body cavity when in its compressed state, and pressurelessly conforms to the cavity... Agent: Mchale & Slavin, P.A.

20080033576 - X-ray marker for medical implants made of a biocorrodible metallic material: An x-ray marker for medical implants made of a biocorrodible metallic material, the x-ray marker comprises a boride or carbide of the elements tantalum or tungsten.... Agent: Powell Goldstein LLP

20080033578 - Prosthetic foot with variable medial/lateral stiffness: A foot plate for a prosthetic foot includes a sole plate and a layer with laterally variable stiffness disposed above the sole plate. The layer has a medial portion and a lateral portion. The lateral portion has a stiffness different than a stiffness of the medial portion, such as a... Agent: Thorpe North & Western, LLP.

20080033524 - Heated balloon assembly for delivery of polymeric stents: A medical device such as a stent with a catheter, delivery balloon and a resistive heater for the balloon is disclosed. The resistive heater may be on top of, inside of the balloon or within the materials that make up the balloon. Resistive heaters may include metal foils, metallic printed... Agent: Squire, Sanders & Dempsey LLP

20080033523 - Stent crack reduction: A medical device such as a stent with a catheter, delivery balloon and an infrared energy source is disclosed. The infrared energy source heats the delivery balloon, and/or the stent to a temperature above body temperature, thereby increasing the flexibility of the stent such that formation of cracks in the... Agent: Squire, Sanders & Dempsey LLP

20080033526 - Stent-catheter assembly with a releasable connection for stent retention: Medical assemblies with a releasable connection and methods of constructing such medical assemblies are disclosed. The medical assemblies generally comprise a stent, a catheter assembly having catheter body a balloon, and a releasable connection between the stent and the catheter assembly that releases the stent from the catheter assembly in... Agent: Squire, Sanders & Dempsey LLP

20080033525 - Vessel treatment devices: A catheter system for treating lesions is provided. The system is suitable for treatment of bifurcation lesions, has a low profile and provides substantially predictable translational and rotational positioning. In one embodiment, the system includes a fixed wire balloon catheter and a partially attached guidewire lumen, wherein the guidewire lumen... Agent: Daniel J Swirsky

20080033527 - Methods and systems for monitoring an endoprosthetic implant: A prosthetic implant includes a graft having a wall defining a passage. A plurality of sensors are integrated with the graft. The sensors are configured to detect at least one structural characteristic of the graft. A power source is operatively coupled to the sensors and configured to provide power to... Agent: Patrick W. Rasche Armstrong Teasdale LLP

20080033532 - Laser cut intraluminal medical devices: Laser cut bioabsorbable intraluminal devices or stents and methods for forming such an intraluminal device or stent. A precursor sheet or tube of bioabsorbable material is laser cut in the presence of an inert gas to form an intraluminal medical device or stent having a desired geometry or pattern. The... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080033529 - Stent island removal: A tool for removing islands from a stent is disclosed. The tool includes a tube with at least one exit hole in communication with the center of the tube, and the tube being connected to a pressurized fluid source. A stent island is located over the exit hole and is... Agent: Squire, Sanders & Dempsey LLP

20080033534 - Flexible barb for anchoring a prosthesis: A system for anchoring an endoluminal prosthesis comprises a barb. The barb comprises a base, a retractable body extending distally from the base towards a distal anchor, and a hinge disposed between the base and the anchor and spaced apart from the base. The anchor pivots about the hinge between... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20080033540 - Methods to prepare polymer blend implantable medical devices: Methods and devices relating to polymer blend implantable medical devices are disclosed.... Agent: Squire, Sanders & Dempsey LLP

20080033542 - Annuloplasty instrument: A device for repairing a heart valve comprises an implantation instrument. The implantation instrument comprises a first support ring, and a second support ring connected to said first support ring to form a coiled configuration. The first support ring is configured to abut one side of the valve and the... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20080033543 - Foldable prostheses, multiple component prosthetic heart valve assemblies, and apparatus and methods for delivering them: Multiple component heart valves and apparatus and methods for implanting them are provided. The heart valve generally includes a first annular prosthesis and a second valve prosthesis. The first prosthesis includes an annular member compressible from a relaxed condition to a contracted condition to facilitate delivery into a biological annulus,... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20080033544 - Prosthetic heart valve sizer assembly with flexible sizer body: A method for evaluating a valve annulus to determine a size of a prosthetic heart valve to be sewn to the valve annulus during heart valve replacement surgery. The prosthetic heart valve includes an annular extension having a first flexibility and a sewing ring having a second flexibility. A flexible... Agent: Dicke, Billig & Czaja, PLLC Attn: Md Matters

20080033546 - Methods and apparatus for improving vision: Transmittance of light through a pupil or to the retina of a patient's eye is controlled to improve night vision. In one example, this involves providing an ocular device in the form of a contact lens having a central, disk shaped clear window having a diameter that is custom designed... Agent: Law Office Of Harry J. Macey

20080033547 - Intraocular lens system with injectable accommodation material: The invention relates to a intraocular lens system having a flexible anterior lens accommodation material behind the lens. The accommodation material may comprise of one or more macromers, which, when polymerized, adjust the properties of the accommodation material. The anterior lens is flexible such that the curvature of the lens... Agent: Fulbright & Jaworski, LLP

20080033548 - Bone tissue engineering by ex vivo stem cells ongrowth into three-dimensional trabecular metal: Adult autologous stem cells cultured on a porous, three-dimensional tissue scaffold-implant for bone regeneration by the use of a hyaluronan and/or dexamethasone to accelerate bone healing alone or in combination with recombinant growth factors or transfected osteogenic genes. The scaffold-implant may be machined into a custom-shaped three-dimensional cell culture system... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20080033549 - Graft ligament strand tensioner: A graft ligament strand tensioner comprising: a body; and a pair of suture rails connected to the body, wherein each suture rail comprises a grooved outer channel for receiving a suture loop and a central mandrel for receiving a suture loop, wherein the separation of a suture loop received by... Agent: Mark J. Pandiscio Pandiscio & Pandiscio, P.C.

20080033550 - Process for producing collagen sponge, process for producing artificial skin, artificial skin and cell tissue culture substrate: It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for producing a collagen sponge and a method for producing an artificial skin which can give a high yield through simplified steps, no inferior goods being produced in the finally-obtained collagen sponges and artificial skins; and an artificial... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione

20080033551 - Biocompatible surface modifications for metal orthopedic implants: A biocompatible implant comprising a surface layer metallurgically bonded to a substrate and incorporating one or more tissue-growth enhancing materials such as calcium or phosphorus therein. The implant may formed by a submerged arc welding process, or other suitable methods.... Agent: Chernoff, Vilhauer, Mcclung & Stenzel

20080033553 - Interspinous process implants and methods of use: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080033552 - Sensor device: Provided is an intervertebral implant which is fixedly placed between spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae to maintain a predetermined space between the spinous processes and to prevent a relative displacement between superior and inferior facets of adjacent vertebrae. The intervertebral implant includes a spacer having two opposing notches for receiving... Agent: Nath & Associates

20080033554 - Intervertebral implant: The inventive intervertebral implant (1), in particular an artificial intervertebral disc comprises a central axis (2), a top part (3) and a lower part (4), wherein A) the top part (3) is provided with a top apposition surface (5) which rests on a base plate of a superimposed vertebral body,... Agent: Stroock & Stroock & Lavan, LLP

20080033555 - Cervical prosthesis and instrument set: A cervical prosthesis includes a lower cover plate which is configured to be connected to a lower vertebral body, an upper cover plate which is configured to be connected to an upper vertebral body, and a prosthesis core which forms a hinged connection between the upper cover plate and lower... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20080033558 - Interspinous process implants and methods of use: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080033559 - Interspinous process implants and methods of use: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080033560 - Interspinous process implants and methods of use: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080033561 - Intervertebral disc annulus stent: A stent, or device for repair and reconstruction of the spinal disc wall, or annulus fibrosus, after surgical incision or pathologic rupture, which is inserted through an aperture into the subannular space. The stent has radial extensions which are caused or allowed to expand into an expanded configuration to bridge... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20080033556 - Intervertebral implant: s

20080033557 - Intervertebral spacer for cervical vertebrae: An intervertebral spacer for placing between two adjacent, upper and lower cervical vertebrae, the spacer being characterized in that it comprises a spacer body and retention means for retaining the spacer body in position against said vertebrae, the retention means comprising a strap and fastener means that are removable and... Agent: Merchant & Gould PC

20080033562 - Posteriorly inserted artificial disc and an artificial facet joint: Lumbar disc and facet joint replacement prosthesis are provided. The lumbar disc prosthesis includes first member having a vertebral disc contact surface and a recessed portion on an opposing surface thereof and a second member having a vertebral disc contact surface and a protruding portion on an opposing surface thereof.... Agent: Christopher & Weisberg, P.A.

20080033563 - Total disc implant: A total disc implant (TDI) is provided for total replacement of a spinal disc or discs in a human patient or other mammal, wherein the TDI is designed to maintain a substantially full range of natural motion (ROM) following implantation. The TDI generally comprises, in one preferred form, upper and... Agent: Kelly Lowry & Kelley, LLP

20080033566 - Elbow prosthesis: A prosthetic joint kit, particularly well suited for an elbow, transmits load through the prosthetic joint through a pair of spherically shaped bearing surfaces so as to transmit load over a relatively large area rather than at a point or over a line of contact. The prosthetic joint kit may... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20080033568 - Hip joint prosthesis with a shaft to be inserted into the femur: A hip-joint prosthesis includes a shaft which is configured to be inserted into the femur and whose surface has an osteoinductive finish. This finish is provided exclusively in the metaphyseal portion of the shaft and laterally from the line delineating the maximum antero-posterior dimension of the shaft cross section. This... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20080033571 - Method and system: A system for use by a surgeon during implantation of a femoral head resurfacing prosthesis in a patient which will locate the correct position for the femoral head resurfacing prosthesis. The system comprises a computer having memory for holding data relating to the size and shape of at least one... Agent: Senniger Powers

20080033573 - Medical implant or medical implant part comprising porous uhmwpe and process for producing the same: The invention provides a medical implant or medical implant part comprising porous ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene having a weight average molecular weight of about 400,000 atomic mass units or more and a porosity of about 15% to about 65%. The invention further provides a process for producing a medical implant... Agent: Leydig Voit & Mayer, Ltd

20080033574 - Endoscopic gastric bypass: An endoscopic device separates ingested food from gastric fluids or gastric fluids and digestive enzymes, to treat obesity. In a particular embodiment a gastric bypass stent comprises a tubular member and two or more stent members defining a lumen. The tubular member has a substantially liquid impervious coating or covering... Agent: Wolf, Block, Shorr And Solis-cohen LLP

20080033569 - Bioelectromagnetic interface system: Lumen-traveling biological interface devices and associated methods and systems are described. Lumen-traveling biological interface devices capable of traveling within a body lumen may include a propelling mechanism to produce movement of the lumen-traveling device within the lumen, electrodes or other electromagnetic transducers for detecting biological signals and electrodes, coils or... Agent: Searete LLC Clarence T. Tegreene

20080033570 - Prostatic stent placement device: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for maintaining urine flow during and after urological procedures. The invention includes a stent for long term insertion into a patient's urinary tract, a Foley catheter which is used to support the stent during placement, a positioning shaft which is used to... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20080033577 - Hip resurfacing component: A femoral component (1) for a hip resurfacing arthroplasty comprising a femoral cap (2), adapted to engage with a cup (3) which is set into a pelvic bone (15), the femoral cap having a convex (4) surface and a concave surface (5), and a stem (6) attached to the concave... Agent: Mccarter & English , LLP Stamford Office

20080033579 - Foot prosthesis having cushioned ankle: A simple, inexpensive prosthetic foot is provided incorporating a cushioned ankle including an ankle block formed of a resilient material or bladder having desired compliance and energy return characteristics. The ankle block is sandwiched between a foot element and an ankle element. One or more openings extends through the ankle... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP