Surgery inventions 02/06

20060041249 - Friction compensation in a minimally invasive surgical apparatus: Devices, systems, and methods for compensate for friction within powered automatic systems, particularly for telesurgery and other telepresence applications. Dynamic friction compensation may comprise applying a continuous load in the direction of movement of a joint, and static friction compensation may comprise applying alternating loads in positive and negative joint...

20060041250 - Catherization system and method: An artery blockage removal system including a hollow plastic tube with IR optical fibers extending longitudinally between its inner and outer walls, the end of the tube having a metal clad tip ring preferably of gold abutting against the end of the IR optical fibers, and the outer surface of...

20060041251 - Electrosurgical system and method: A system and method for performing an electrosurgical procedure are disclosed. The method includes applying an active electrode to a patient and placing a return electrode on the patient so as to create a current path in tissue of the patient between the active electrode and the return electrode. A...

20060041252 - System and method for monitoring electrosurgical instruments: A system and method for performing an electrosurgical procedure are disclosed. The method includes applying an active electrode to a patient and placing a return electrode on the patient so as to create a current path in tissue of the patient between the active electrode and the return electrode. A...

20060041253 - System and method for performing an electrosurgical procedure: A system and method for performing an electrosurgical procedure are disclosed. The method includes obtaining information indicative of at least one physical characteristic of the patient and generating a reference voltage that is derived, at least in part, from the information. The reference voltage is coupled to a body of...

20060041254 - Electrosurgical hemostat: A hemostat-type device for ablative treatment of tissue, particularly for treatment of atrial fibrillation, is constructed with features that provide easy and effective treatment. The device may include a swiveling head assembly that allows the jaws to be adjusted in pitch and/or roll. The device may include a malleable or...

20060041256 - Gerd treatment apparatus and method: A method of forming a composite lesion pattern in a tissue region at or near a sphincter comprising providing a catheter having a plurality of energy delivery devices coupled to the catheter. The catheter is introduced at least partially into the sphincter. Energy is delivered from the energy delivery devices...

20060041255 - Methods for electrosurgical tissue treatment between spaced apart electrodes: As electrosurgical prove comprises a shaft having an electrode array (12) at its distal end and a connector at its proximal end. The array (12) includes a plurality of isolated electrode terminals, and an electrosurgical power supply (28) is provided with a multiplicity of independently limited or controlled current sources...

20060041257 - Electrosurgical pencil with improved controls: An electrosurgical pencil is provided and includes an elongated housing having an electrocautery blade supported therein and extending distally from the housing. The electrocautery blade is connected to a source of electrosurgical energy. The pencil further includes a plurality of activation switches supported on the housing for activating electrocautery blade....

20060041259 - Spine stabilization system: The invention generally concerns a spine stabilization system having one or more flexible elements having an opening or slit. The flexible element may be integrally formed in a rod having ends capable of receiving fasteners. The flexible element may limit rotation, flexion-extension, or lateral bending of the spine. The slit...

20060041258 - Support system for intervertebral fusion: A support system includes a plurality of support members and a plurality of cross members. The support system is adapted to fit within an access device for insertion into a space between adjacent vertebrae. A plurality of hinges connects each cross member to at least one support member. The support...

20060041260 - Fixation system with plate having holes with divergent axes and multidirectional fixators for use therethrough: A fixation system includes a plate intended to be positioned against a bone and which includes a plurality of threaded holes for receiving the pegs. The threaded holes define respective axes at least two of which are oblique relative to each other. When the pegs are inserted axially through their...

20060041261 - Apparatus and method for attaching connective tissue to bone: Disclosed is an apparatus for attaching tissue to bone. The apparatus includes a bone anchor having a distal anchoring portion for implantation in bone and a proximal reception portion that receives a fixation member. The fixation member has a distal engagement portion for releasably engaging the proximal reception portion of...

20060041262 - Interlaced wire for implants: The disclosure is directed to a material for in vivo implantation. The material includes a compressed interlaced wire shaped into a form having a porous structure suitable for tissue ingrowth, the interlaced wire compressed from an original starting density to a final density, the final density being greater than the...

20060041263 - Suturing instrument: The suturing instrument includes an elongate member having an articulating distal portion biased offset from the elongate member, and a sheath slideably disposed about the elongate member. The user positions the sheath in contact with the articulating distal portion to actuate the distal portion relative to the elongate member. The...

20060041264 - Electroactive polymer actuated medical devices: The present invention is directed to novel apparatus for use in medical procedures relating to tubular body fluid conduits. According to a first aspect of the invention, a filter apparatus is provided for delivery over a guidewire within a tubular body conduit, such as a blood vessel. The filter apparatus...

20060041267 - Scalpel blade remover: A single-use scalpel blade remover (1) removes a blade (33) from a tang (32) of a scalpel (30) and captures it, in a single-handed operation. The remover (1) comprises a housing (2) having a detent (16), and an actuator (3) which is operatively juxtaposed with the housing (2) and moveable...

20060041265 - Shell for scalpel: A jacket for a scalpel id provided. A disposable scalpel has an elongated body with a base wall and two sidewalls forming a scalpel channel, and a blade assembly having a blade coupled to a slider, the slider structured to move the blade between a first, retracted position and second,...

20060041266 - Surgical scalpel: A surgical scalpel has a flat blade, which may have a cutting or severing edge, and an elongated ergonomic handle having distal and proximal ends and an imaginary central axis. In one preferred embodiment, of a disposable (one use) scalpel the blade is embedded in a molded plastic resin handle....

20060041268 - Surgical attachment instrument and method: A surgical attachment instrument and method according to which a housing is adapted to be coupled to a motor. A tubular member is coupled to the housing so that an end of the tubular member extends from the housing at a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance may be selectively adjusted...

20060041270 - Medical access sheath: An expandable sheath is insertable into a patient through an incision. Once inserted and advanced to the target surgical site, the sheath can be expanded to an enlarged diameter. The wall of the sheath is fabricated from a tubular structure comprising filamentous elements that extend axially and at least partially...

20060041269 - Vessel isolation device: The device utilizes a reversible body partially covered by a blood impermeable sleeve. The device has a low profile collapsed state for delivery and a expanded state for deployment. The impermeable sleeve extends from a proximal portion to a distal portion of the expandable body and generally follows the contour...

20060041271 - Vascular filter with sleeve: A covered vascular filter can be placed in a blood vessel, for the purpose of intercepting thrombus. The filter may be introduced to a desired site for medical treatment through a catheter which defines a lumen or passage and a distal port or opening. The filter tends to resiliently expand...

20060041272 - Hair-styling accessory for tightening facial features: A hairdressing tool for re-stretching facial features by pulling two locks of hair in an opposite direction. According to the invention, said tool comprises two tongs which are joined to a ring and are disposed opposite each other according to a same direction in order to block two locks of...

20060041273 - Electroactive polymer-based actuation mechanism for linear surgical stapler: Methods and devices are provided for actuating and/or articulating a surgical stapler. In one embodiment, a surgical stapler is provided having a stapling mechanism or end effector that is movably coupled to a distal end of an elongate shaft. An electrically expandable and contractible actuator, such as an electroactive polymer...

20060041274 - Modified laparoscopic instruments and methods of use: Instruments and methods for performing delicate surgical procedures. The instruments include dissectors and clamps having a modified angled, fine sized tips that are adapted for use in performing delicate surgical procedures, particularly nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy....

20060041275 - Infant clothing and accessories with permanent teething element: For close to two years of a child's life, children need easy access to teething items. The problem with most teething apparatus on the market is that they are easily misplaced; they fall onto unsanitary surfaces and therefore need to be cleaned often. The present invention solves these problems by...

20060036234 - Multi-function surgical instrument: A multi-function surgical instrument is disclosed. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the surgical instrument includes a catheter, a bipolar hemostat assembly, an attachment member, and a surgical tool. The bipolar hemostat assembly includes an electrical connector at a proximal end, a bipolar electrode assembly at a...

20060036236 - Compound bipolar ablation device and method: Method and apparatus for ablating target tissue adjacent pulmonary veins of a patient. The ablation device can include a lower jaw assembly including a proximal jaw having a proximal electrode and a distal jaw having a distal electrode, and an upper jaw assembly including an upper jaw having an upper...

20060036237 - Devices and methods for selective orientation of electrosurgical devices: Devices and methods for the selective orientation of electrodes for effecting the controlled ablation, coagulation, or other modification of a target tissue in vivo with no or minimal collateral tissue damage. The subject devices are electrosurgical wands configured to only bend in a single plane. The subject methods involve use...

20060036238 - Method for indirectly ablating tissue using implanted electrode device: Methods are provided for ablating tissue by implanting a plurality of electrode devices within the tissue to be treated and exposing the implanted electrode devices with RF energy conveyed from a separate electrode device. In this manner, a greater region of tissue is ablated than what would normally be ablated...

20060036235 - Tuna device with integrated saline resevoir: Methods and apparatus for ablating a target tissue are discussed. Such methods and apparatus include those that simplify tissue ablation. For example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator, such as a trigger mechanism, coupled to a power source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the...

20060036239 - Combination argon plasma coagulation and electrocautery device and method: A combination argon plasma coagulation (APC) and monopolar electrosurgical device and method are shown. An electrosurgical tool such as a spatula, hook, ball, or the like has a neck and a plurality of members biased to an open position. The electrosurgical tool is connected to the shaft having a channel...

20060036246 - Device and method for correcting a spinal deformity: A device and method for correcting a spinal deformity are provided....

20060036247 - Distractor for use in spinal surgery: Apparatus and a method of inserting spinal implants is disclosed in which an intervertebral space is first distracted, a hollow sleeve having teeth at one end is then driven into the vertebrae adjacent that disc space. A drill is then passed through the hollow sleeve removing disc and bone in...

20060036244 - Implant assembly and method for use in an internal structure stabilization system: A stabilization assembly is described that stabilizes bony structures such as vertebrae. The stabilization assembly is partially formed by a poly-axial assembly which includes an anchor connected to a poly axial connector assembly head, where the poly-axial connector-assembly head includes a slide ring mounted in the head and a connector...

20060036243 - Replacement facet joint and method: Prostheses and methods for repair of a cervical fact joint. The articulating surfaces of the natural facets of the facet joint are removed only a sufficient amount to allow the insertion of flat or slightly curvilinear portions of protheses therebetween in an overlapping relationship. The portions are so inserted and...

20060036242 - Screw and rod fixation system: The present invention provides a stabile construct to facilitate connecting a spinal fixation rod to a plurality of vertebral bodies. The construct or implant comprises a housing and an insert. The housing and insert are shaped to cooperatively engage the bone screw and rod to provide a stable construct that...

20060036241 - Spinal surgery system and method: Apparatus and method for minimally invasive spinal surgery employs an elongated flexible guide element inserted so as to pass in through a first lateral posterior incision, through the spinal column anterior to the spinal cord, and out through a second lateral posterior incision contralateral to said first incision. The guide...

20060036245 - Surgical base unit and retractor support mechanism: A method and apparatus for exerting force on a first bone with respect to a fulcrum, which may be a second bone. A pedicle screw with a central threaded socket is inserted into the first bone, and a threaded closure top is driven into the central threaded socket of the...

20060036240 - System and method for dynamic skeletal stabilization: There is disclosed a system and method for dynamic stabilization which provides for distraction of the inter-vertebral space while still allowing a patient a substantial range of motion. In one embodiment, an inter-vertebral dynamic brace is used to maintain proper distraction. The dynamic brace is designed to allow the vertebrae...

20060036248 - Fixation elements: The present invention provides a device for treating fractures of a bone and methods for treating a facture, particularly fractures of the femur, that uses an intramedullary nail or a bone plate and a sliding compression fixation element. Certain features of various fixation elements described herein lessen the rotational forces...

20060036250 - Antero-lateral plating systems for spinal stabilization: A plating system for stabilization of a bony segment includes a plate engageable to at least first and second bony elements. For spinal stabilization, the plate is attached to the antero-lateral portions of at least first and second vertebrae and is structured to facilitate engagement of the plate to the...

20060036249 - Bone plate with screw lock: A bone plate for stabilizing adjacent vertebrae or ends of a bone has a span for extending across the discontinuity. The span has brackets for attaching to the bone. The brackets have countersunk bores terminating in apertures through which bone screws are placed in the bone. A lock screw aperture...

20060036251 - Systems and methods for the fixation or fusion of bone: A stem-like bone fixation device allows for bony in-growth on its surface and across fracture fragments or between bones that are to be fused....

20060036253 - Implant device: An implant and sleeve combination for at least partial insertion into a bone and/or cartilage. The implant includes a lower portion and the sleeve includes a cavity designed to at least partially receive the lower portion of the implant....

20060036252 - Polyaxial screw: A polyaxial screw is used to secure orthopedic appliances to bone, particularly the spine. The polyaxial screw has a shaft including a helical screw thread for securing the screw to bone. One end of the shaft has a reverse tapered head tapering toward and away from the shaft from an...

20060036254 - Reducing instrument for spinal surgery: An instrument is provided for use in orthopedic surgery for reduction of a connecting member such as a spinal rod toward an anchor. The reducing instrument includes an actuating assembly, a shaft assembly extending distally from the actuating assembly, and a distal engaging assembly. The distal engaging assembly includes a...

20060036256 - Spine stabilization device and method: A spine stabilization device is provided including an elongate member coupled to a spinous proces. One aspect includes a dynamic stabilizer in a stabilization device....

20060036255 - System and method for positioning a connecting member adjacent the spinal column in minimally invasive procedures: A spinal surgical system includes at least two extenders extending proximally from respective ones of first and second anchors engaged to the spinal column. A connecting member is positionable between the at least two extenders such that the connecting member extends between the at least two extenders. The connecting member...

20060036258 - Sizing distractor and method for implanting an interspinous implant between adjacent spinous processes: Systems and methods in accordance with the present invention can be applied to distract adjacent interspinous processes and measure a distraction height, so that an appropriately sized implant can be positioned between interspinous processes to relieve pain associated with at least one of the spinal column and associated structures. A...

20060036259 - Spine treatment devices and methods: A device and method of spine distraction is provided....

20060036257 - Tibial spacer blocks and femoral cutting guide: The present invention relates to one or more tibial spacer blocks used during knee arthroplasty, each configured to be temporarily positioned upon a resected proximal portion of a tibia (essentially mimicking the tibial component of the knee prosthesis), for performing a range of motion analysis and for checking flexion and...

20060036261 - Insertion guide for a spinal implant: A spinal implant insertion guide is disclosed. The insertion guide includes at least one channel suitable for receiving and facilitating movement of a spinal implant into an intervertebral space between two vertebrae and a portion suitable for insertion into the intervertebral space. In embodiments for use with spinal implant having...

20060036260 - Instrument for guiding a rod into an implant in a spinal fixation system: An instrument for guiding a spinal rod into a rod-receiving portion of an implant comprises a linear portion comprising two relatively moveable shafts, an actuator portion coupled to the linear portion for moving the spinal rod relative to the implant and a handle portion for moving the shafts to actuate...

20060036262 - Loading device for loading a lens folding cartridge with an intraocular lens, lens folding cartridge and set for implantation: The loading device to load a lens folding cartridge with an intraocular lens comprises a support with a seat to receive the still empty lens folding cartridge. To guide and hold the lens folding cartridge a cylindrical opening is provided which encloses the back portion of the injecting nozzle. In...

20060036263 - Neuroaneurysm occlusion and delivery device and method of using same: A delivery device for delivering an implantable endoprosthesis with an occlusion region for occluding fluid flow to a desired location in a body lumen. The delivery device includes an outer sleeve and an inner tube terminating at a distal tip. The distal tip is made of one of a dissolvable,...

20060036264 - Rigidly guided implant placement: A system for guiding an implant to an optimal placement within a patient includes a trajectory guide for guiding instruments along a selected trajectory and a trajectory fixation device for fixing the trajectory guide in a selected position. The trajectory guide defines a path configured to align with the selected...

20060036265 - Helical suturing device: An apparatus for repairing a tear in an annulus fibrosus of a spinal disc includes a hollow, helically-shaped suturing needle and a retriever. The needle is used to insert a suture along a helical pathway bridging the tear. The retriever is used to retrieve one end of the suture from...

20060036266 - Endoprosthesis for reparative anaplastic surgery: The inventive strip-shaped endoprosthesis (1) for reparative anaplastic surgery includes a cover (2) whose surface (3) is provided with protrusions (4) which are embodied in the form of inclined conical barbs (6) having flexible and elastic sharpened ends (5). The protruded barbs are differently disposed on the endoprosthesis surface in...

20060036267 - Methods and apparatus for performing malabsorptive bypass procedures within a patient's gastro-intestinal lumen: Methods and apparatus for performing malabsorptive bypass procedures within a patient's gastrointestinal lumen are described comprising, for example, gastroenterostomy procedures that are preferably performed in an endoscopic or laparoscopic fashion. Anastomosis between the patient's stomach and intestine allows food to bypass at least a portion of the patient's stomach and/or...

20060036268 - Surgical stapling device with tissue tensioner: A circular stapling device particularly suited for surgical treatment of internal hemorrhoids is provided. The stapling device includes a distal head portion having an anvil and a shell assembly. A tissue tensioner device including a tissue engagement member is movably positioned between the anvil and the shell assembly and is...

20060036269 - Surgical blade for use with a surgical tool for making incisions for scleral eye implants: A surgical blade is disclosed for use with a surgical tool for making incisions in the sclera of an eye to form a scleral pocket to receive a scleral prosthesis. The surgical blade comprises a rotatable support arm capable of being rotated by the surgical tool and a detachable curved...

20060036270 - Nucleus chopper and splitter: A surgical instrument which both incises and splits the nucleus of a lens has a pair of spring steel segments slidably received in a metallic tube. Each segment terminates in a tip. As the spring steel segments are drawn into the tube the tips come together to form a cutting...

20060036272 - Spinal ligament modification: A method for treating stenosis in a spine comprises percutaneously accessing the epidural space in a stenotic region of interest, compressing the thecal sac in the region of interest to form a safety zonem, inserting a tissue removal tool into tissue in the working zone, using the tool to percutaneously...

20060036271 - Spinal ligament modification devices: A method for treating stenosis in a spine comprises percutaneously accessing the epidural space in a stenotic region of interest, compressing the thecal sac in the region of interest to form a safety zonem, inserting a tissue removal tool into tissue in the working zone, using the tool to percutaneously...

20060036274 - One-piece vessel harvester: The invention provides a system and method for harvesting a vessel section. The system comprises an endoscope, a harvesting tool, and an elongated instrument including a transparent distal nose portion, an intermediate portion having a recessed working area, and a proximal portion having at least one passageway to allow the...

20060036273 - Spinal surgery system and method: Apparatus and method for minimally invasive spinal surgery employs an elongated flexible guide element inserted so as to pass in through a first lateral posterior incision, through the spinal column anterior to the spinal cord, and out through a second lateral posterior incision contralateral to said first incision. The guide...

20060036277 - Apparatus and method for developing an anatomic space for laparoscopic hernia repair and patch for use therewith: An apparatus for creating an anatomic space in tissue in a body comprises an introducer and a sheath. The tubular sheath may surround the introducer, and may have a weakened region along its longitudinal axis. A handle may be provided on the sheath. The handle may be adapted to be...

20060036275 - Balloon catheter with self-actuating purging valve: A system for treating a vascular condition comprises a catheter having at least one lumen, a stem received within a distal portion of the lumen, a sealing member positioned on the stem, and a balloon operably attached to a distal portion of the catheter. The stem includes a proximal body...

20060036276 - Expandable percutaneous sheath: Disclosed is an expandable percutaneous sheath, for introduction into the body while in a first, low cross-sectional area configuration, and subsequent expansion to a second, enlarged cross-sectional configuration. The sheath is maintained in the first, low cross sectional configuration by a removable tubular restraint. In one application, the sheath is...

20060036278 - Nasal support device for domestic mammals and method: The present disclosure provides a device and method for facilitating air flow in the nasal passage of a domestic animal. The nasal support device (NSD) disclosed herein is useful for facilitating air flow during rest, physical exertion, respiratory ailment, etc. The NSD secures to the nose of a domestic animal...

20060036281 - Metallic coils enlaced with biological or biodegradable or synthetic polymers or fibers for embolization of a body cavity: The invention provides for vaso-occlusive coils comprising fibers....

20060036279 - Single wire intravascular filter: Single-wire intravascular filters for use in filtering blood clots within the body are disclosed. An intravascular filter in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention can include a single filter wire defining a first end section, a second end section, and one or more filter loops adapted to...

20060036280 - Systems and methods for severing occlusive elements from a delivery catheter: The present invention advantageously provides alternative systems and methods for severing implantable occlusive devices, particularly hydratable polymeric filaments, from delivery catheters during and/or subsequent to intraluminal delivery, advancement, and/or positioning of occluding filaments into treatment sites. One method for severing an occlusive element from an intraluminal delivery catheter comprises positioning...

20060036282 - Closure devices, related delivery methods and tools, and related methods of use: A device for sealing a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in the heart is provided. The device includes a left atrial anchor adapted to be placed in a left atrium of the heart, a right atrial anchor adapted to be placed in a right atrium of the heart, and an elongate...

20060036283 - Apparatus and method for anchoring sutures: A suture anchor having a conical surface and a bore in which an end of an insertion tool is inserted. The insertion end of the insertion tool is made of material having elastic properties. The bore and base of the suture anchor are angled with respect to the central axis...

20060036284 - Pfo closure devices and related methods of use: Devices and methods for sealing a passageway formed by a patent foramen ovale (PFO track) in the heart are provided. One method includes providing an abrading device to the PFO track and abrading the tissue within the PFO track. The abraded tissue forming the PFO track is then held together...

20060036285 - Pacifier: A pacifier includes a nipple, a shield and a handle. The nipple comprises a pair of wings extending longitudinally along a bulbous end of the nipple. The wings allow for air to exit and enter the space between the palate and the nipple to prevent a vacuum therebetween. Alternatively, the...

20060030841 - Articulated surgical instrument for performing minimally invasive surgery with enhanced dexterity and sensitivity: An articulated surgical instrument for enhancing the performance of minimally invasive surgical procedures. The instrument has a high degree of dexterity, low friction, low inertia and good force reflection. A unique cable and pulley drive system operates to reduce friction and enhance force reflection. A unique wrist mechanism operates to...

20060030840 - Grip strength with tactile feedback for robotic surgery: Surgical robots and other telepresence systems have enhanced grip actuation for manipulating tissues and objects with small sizes. A master/slave system is used in which an error signal or gain is artificially altered when grip members are near a closed configuration....

20060030839 - Pedicle screw and operating device thereof: Disclosed is a spine fixation apparatus, more particularly, a pedicle screw implanted into a spine and an operating device for the pedicle screw capable of easily inserting a rod to a head section of the pedicle screw in order to securely fix the spine. The pedicle screw has a head...

20060030842 - Probe for an optical near field microscope with improved scattered light suppression and method for producing the same: The invention relates to a probe for an optical near field microscope, said probe comprising a planar carrier carrying a probe tip at least partially consisting of a transparent material. The invention also relates to a method of producing one such probe. The object of the invention is to provide...

20060030843 - Endovascular cryotreatment catheter: An elongated catheter device with a distal balloon assembly is adapted for endovascular insertion. Coolant injected through the device may, in different embodiments, directly cool tissue contacting the balloon, or may cool a separate internal chamber. In the first case, the coolant also inflates the balloon, and spent coolant is...

20060030845 - Electrosurgical treatment in conjunction with monitoring: An electrosurgical apparatus comprising an energy source operable to concurrently provide a first signal and a second signal, said first and second signals having different frequencies; and a signal processor operable to receive a third signal from a patient's body, to process said third signal, and to produce an output...

20060030844 - Transparent electrode for the radiofrequency ablation of tissue: A novel transparent electrode that uses a conductive coating to allow delivery of current to the heart as well as outward imaging through the electrode is described. The embodiments disclose a catheter incorporating an endoscope, whose imaging tip is coated with a conductive coating that is transparent in the endoscopic...

20060030846 - Tissue localizing and separating assembly: A tissue separator assembly has an elongate tubular member and a tissue separator device located at a distal end of the elongate tubular member. An elongate coupler extends through the lumen of the elongate tubular member and has a distal coupler end. A tissue localization assembly has an elongate member...

20060030847 - Surgical biopsy device: A surgical biopsy apparatus for cutting tissue comprising a housing having a longitudinal axis, first and second members movable from a retracted position to an extended position with respect to the housing, a third member slidably positioned and extendable with respect to the first member, a fourth member slidably positioned...

20060030848 - Ultrasonic clamp coagulator apparatus having an improved clamping end-effector: An ultrasonic surgical clamp coagulator apparatus is configured to effect cutting, coagulation and clamping of tissue by cooperation of a clamping mechanism of the apparatus with an associated ultrasonic end-effector. The clamping mechanism includes a pivotal clamp arm, which cooperates with the end-effector for gripping tissue. The clamp arm is...

20060030849 - Methods and apparatus for coagulating and/or constricting hollow anatomical structures: An energy delivering probe is used for thermally coagulating and/or constricting hollow anatomical structures (HAS) including, but not limited to, blood vessels such as perforator veins. The probe includes a shaft and at least two electrodes where at least one of the electrodes has a generally spherical or toroidal geometry....

20060030850 - Methods and apparatuses for percutaneous implant delivery: A method for treating the spine. A guidewire is advanced through the skin of a patient along a percutaneous path to a target location of a vertebra. An implant is advanced over the guidewire to the target location of the vertebra. The implant is coupled with the vertebra at the...

20060030851 - Implant subsidence control: An interbody device for the fixation and support of adjacent bone bodies includes a body for implantation at a location between the two vertebrae and one or more protrusions extending from the body. The protrusion(s) are configured for engagement with one of the vertebrae upon implantation and for progressive penetration...

20060030852 - Anchoring system for fixing objects to bones: An anchoring system for mounting an object (O) to a bone (B), comprising first (M) and second (F) anchoring members each having proximal and distal ends. The proximal ends are adapted to hold the object (O) to the bone (B) and are spaced from each other with the first and...

20060030853 - Methods and apparatus for pinplasty bone resection: Methods and apparatus for performing arthoplasty utilizes a plurality of apertures created in a bone, each aperture having a cross section defined perpendicular to an axis of the aperture that intersects a plane of a resected surface to be created in the bone and also intersects a peripheral rim border...

20060030855 - Methods and apparatus for improved profile based resection: Alignment guides, cutting guides, cutting tools and soft tissue management techniques for profile based resection (PBR) arthroplasty facilitate intraoperative and postoperative efficacy and ease of use. In one embodiment, a manual alignment guide is provided that permits less invasive incisions by providing soft tissue accommodating contours or reliefs. In another...

20060030854 - Methods and apparatus for wireplasty bone resection: A cutting tool to be utilized in the resection or removal of bone tissue from patients includes a handle that tensions a wire or cable-like cutting member with a small diameter between at least two features on the handle to present a thin cutting profile. The design of the cutting...

20060030856 - Dual distractor inserter: In one embodiment, there is disclosed a surgical instrument for inserting an implant, the surgical instrument including an inserter assembly and a distractor assembly....

20060030857 - Methods and apparatus for intervertebral disc prosthesis insertion: A method for inserting an intervertebral disc prosthesis into a space between two vertebrae involves inserting the prosthesis partway into the space under constraint to prevent endplates of the prosthesis from articulating, releasing the prosthesis from constraint, and inserting the unconstrained prosthesis farther into the space. In some embodiments, the...

20060030858 - Methods and devices for retracting tissue in minimally invasive surgery: Minimally invasive methods and devices are described for providing access to a surgical site proximate the anterior region of a patient's spine. In an exemplary embodiment, the device is a cannula that includes a distal end adapted to mate with the anterior surface of a vertebra. An exemplary method includes...

20060030860 - Artificial disc inserter: An instrument for inserting an implant is provided. The implant includes a protrusion having a protrusion width for extending into a portion of a bone structure. The instrument includes an elongated member and a first member connected to the elongated member. The first member is adapted for selectively engaging the...

20060030862 - Intervertebral prosthesis placement instrument: The invention concerns an intervertebral prosthesis placement instrument which can be used to facilitate accurate positioning of a spinal disc prosthesis between adjacent spinal vertebrae. The instrument (10) has opposed jaws 12 formed with tips (24) that are shaped for insertion between the vertebrae. The jaws can be moved apart...

20060030861 - Methods and devices for retracting tissue in minimally invasive surgery: Minimally invasive methods and devices are described for providing access to a surgical site proximate the anterior region of a patient's spine. In an exemplary embodiment, the device is a cannula that includes a distal end adapted to mate with the anterior surface of a vertebra. An exemplary method includes...

20060030859 - Targeting apparatus for bone fixation device: Apparatus is provided for use with a bone fixation device. The apparatus includes a targeting device, adapted to aid in fixation of the bone fixation device to a bone of a subject. The targeting device includes a coupling element, adapted to couple the targeting device to the bone fixation device....

20060030864 - Catheter with splittable wall shaft and peel tool: A method and apparatus for uncoupling a wire guide from and elongate medical device comprising a catheter shaft having a wire guide lumen extending there through, wherein the material surrounding the wire guide lumen is selected or adapted to facilitate splittability for removal of the wire guide. The catheter shaft...

20060030863 - Implanted bronchial isolation device delivery devices and methods: Disclosed is a delivery system for insertion into a lung. The delivery system includes an elongate endoscope having a proximal end and a distal end and defining an internal lumen. The endoscope is configured to articulate in one or more directions. The system further includes a catheter that includes an...

20060030865 - Retrieval device: A device for retrieval of a foreign body, such as an undeployed stent from a vessel of a patient, has a central shaft for receiving a guidewire therein. A balloon support extends from the central shaft and has a free end carrying an inflatable balloon. The inflatable balloon is arranged...

20060030866 - Sequential heart valve leaflet repair device and method of use: A heart valve and tissue repair device for independently, selectively and sequentially grasping heart valve leaflets and independently, selectively and sequentially applying one or more fasteners thereto is disclosed. The device includes a leaflet engaging tip having one or more graspers capable of individually and sequentially grasping leaflets, and one...

20060030867 - Device and method for repairing tissue: A tissue-stapling device for repairing tissue is provided. The device has two guiding elements movable with respect to each other. Self-deployable wings are located on the outside of the inner guiding element, which are used for stabilizing tissue parts with respect to the device. A self-deployable clip with two or...

20060030868 - Laparoscopic port site closure tool: A device is provided to assist in closing an incision through body tissue that comprises a tubular body sized for introduction through the incision and carrying a plurality of stabilizer elements at the distal end thereof. The stabilizer elements are configured to be deployed within the body cavity to engage...

20060030869 - Adhesive anastomosis connection system: A method of performing an anastomosis, comprising, juxtaposing two blood vessels to be anastomosed using an juxtaposition device, to a desired configuration in which at least one vessel is an end vessel; applying an adhesive to said vessels while they are in said configuration, said adhesive being sufficient to ensure...

20060030870 - Trocar with retractable cutting surface: A trocar having a cutting shaft with a cutting surface at a distal end. The cutting shaft moves longitudinally with respect to an obturator such that in one position the cutting surface is in an exposed position suitable for application of a piercing force. Upon interruption of the piercing force...

20060030871 - Vascular tunneler: The present invention is a tunneling device for vascular tunneling procedures. The invention includes a tunneling device and a tunneling tip. The tunneling device includes a tissue-separating source of energy at the tunneling tip. The preferred source of energy is ultrasonic movement at the distal tip of the tunneler. Preferably...

20060030872 - Dilation introducer for orthopedic surgery: The dilation introducer has a locked assembled configuration for placement of the dilation introducer against a patient's bone tissue to be treated, and an unlocked, collapsed configuration for dilating the patient's soft tissue down to the bone tissue to be treated to a desired degree of dilation to permit minimally...

20060030873 - Nosebleed lip pack: A device for treatment of nosebleeds having an elongated body configured to be positioned between the upper gum and the portion of the face below the nose and above the top lip of a human. When so positioned intra-orally, the device exerts pressure on an area of nasal vascularization of...

20060030874 - Catheter with a polyimide distal tip: A catheter having an elongated shaft which has a multilayered distal tip with a first layer formed of a polyimide first material and a second layer formed of a polymeric second material. In one embodiment the multilayered distal tip is a separate member, distal to the distal end of a...

20060030877 - Distal filtration devices and methods of use during aortic procedures: Methods and devices for surgical repair of an aortic aneurysm are described. The devices comprise an elongate member having one or more expandable filters or membranes mounted at a distal end. In certain embodiments, the devices also include aspiration and flushing capability to assist in removal of embolic debris. In...

20060030876 - Embolic filter device and related systems and methods: An embolic filter system includes a filter device that is adapted to be positioned over a guidewire and locked onto the guidewire at the position. The filter device may be locked over the guidewire outside of the patient, and then the locked assembly is advanced within a delivery sheath to...

20060030875 - Non-entangling vena cava filter: An implantable vessel filter device having a plurality of radially expandable legs with hooks, and a center-post configured to prevent entanglement of the radially expandable legs when they are compressed against the center-post. In one variation, the filter device comprises a first set of legs, forming a first filter basket...

20060030878 - Radiopaque distal embolic protection device: The present invention is a radiopaque distal embolic protection device for use in a lumen of a patient's body, such as a blood vessel. The protection device has an expandable and retractable filter attached to a distal portion of a guidewire. At least a portion of the filter has a...

20060030879 - System and method for applying acupressure via clothing: A method of applying acupressure to a person, comprises determining at least one specific area on an article of clothing that, when worn by said person, covers a specific known acupoint on the body, and securing pellet in place on said one specific area with an adhesive tape. The wearer...

20060030880 - Anesthesia intubating forceps: Forceps with a pair of scissor-like arms that are pivotally connected to each other and that continue past the pivot to form a catheter guide. At least two and preferably three bends are disposed in the arms immediately before the pivot, which allow the medical professional to place the guiding...

20060030881 - Ventricular partitioning device: This invention is directed to a partitioning device for separating a patient's heart chamber into a productive portion and a non-productive portion. The device is particularly suitable for treating patients with congestive heart failure. The partitioning device has a frame-reinforced, expandable membrane which separates the productive and non-productive portions of...

20060030882 - Transvenous staples, assembly and method for mitral valve repair: A mitral valve staple device treats mitral regurgitation of a heart. The device includes first and second leg portions, each leg portion terminating in a tissue piercing end, and a connection portion extending between the first and second leg portions. The connection portion has an initial stressed and distorted configuration...

20060030883 - Device for creating and maintaining infusion passages in tissue: Methods and devices are disclosed for the in-vivo creation and maintenance of contiguous fluid passages in tissue through the use of tissue buttressing portions with interrupted perimeter walls. These portions can be formed from hollow fiber or extruded components. One end of the tissue-buttressing portion is connected to a hollow...

20060030885 - Apparatuses and methods for heart valve repair: A medical device for treating a heart having a faulty heart valve is disclosed. The medical device comprises a ligature including a first anchoring member and a second anchoring member is used. The ligature is percutaneously deployable into a patient with a faulty heart valve wherein the first anchoring member...

20060030886 - Methods for obtaining hemostasis of percutaneous wounds: This invention relates to novel methods, kits, and devices for stopping hemorrhaging of percutaneous wounds. The inventive subject matter involves insertion of a purse-string suture around the wound, insertion of the free two ends of the suture through a tension collar, manual tightening of the tension collar until hemostasis is...

20060030884 - Suture anchor and approximating device: An elastically curved suture anchor is resiliently straightened and delivered into tissue by a needle. When the needle is withdrawn, resumption of the curvature provides leverage for anchor rotation as the attached suture is pulled to fasten the anchor within the tissue. A fin at the proximal end of the...

20060025754 - Middle ear reconstruction process and apparatus for performing the process: Erosion of elements of the ossicular chain in the middle ear, resulting in hearing loss, is corrected by creating a bridge between the eroded elements, employing a bone cement formed as a paste of a self-hardening material, which is molded into an elongated bridge, secured at its two ends to...

20060025755 - Surgical cooling system and method: The present invention provides a system for cooling a body part during surgery that includes a surgical cooling solution generator for producing a surgical cooling solution such as an ice slush from a working solution, a surgical cooling solution transport system for transporting the surgical cooling solution, an applicator configured...

20060025756 - Methods of using high intensity focused ultrasound to form an ablated tissue area: A method of thermal ablation using high intensity focused ultrasound energy includes the steps of positioning one or more ultrasound emitting members within a patient, emitting ultrasound energy from the one or more ultrasound emitting members, focusing the ultrasound energy, ablating with the focused ultrasound energy to form an ablated...

20060025757 - Multielectrode electrosurgical instrument: An improved electrosurgical instrument and method is disclosed for simplifying making incisions and other treatments using electrosurgery. The electrosurgical instrument comprises a body having more than two electrodes with at least two electrodes having alternating current power supplied to them such that they comprise a bipolar alternating current configuration and...

20060025758 - Radio-frequency generator for powering an ablation device: An apparatus and method for use in performing ablation of organs and other tissues includes a radio frequency generator which provides a radio frequency signal to ablation electrodes. The power level of the radio frequency signal is determined based on the subject area of ablation. The radio frequency signal is...

20060025759 - Intelligent selection system for electrosurgical instrument: An intelligent selection system for operating an electrosurgical instrument for use by a surgeon that depends primarily on the surgical procedure to be employed. The operating mode as well as other operating parameters can be controlled by the handpiece chosen by the surgeon to perform the procedure. Each handpiece is...

20060025760 - Blood detector for controlling anesu and method therefor: A method and electrosurgical system for optically detecting blood and controlling an electrosurgical generator are provided. An optical blood detection system is used for optically detecting blood and may be included as an integral part of the overall electrosurgical system's circuitry, or may be designed as a separate unit that...

20060025763 - Ablation catheter with cooled linear electrode: The ablation catheter is comprised of a guiding catheter and an inner catheter. The guiding catheter is comprised of a shaft section which is attached to an articulating section at its distal end and a first handle at its proximal end. The inner catheter is comprised of an elongated central...

20060025762 - Ablation probe with stabilizing member: A surgical ablation probe assembly particularly suitable for ablating tissue on a surface of a patient's heart having an ablation member and a stabilizing member for guiding the probe assembly to an intracorporeal location such as a surface of the patient's heart. The elongated ablation member generally has at least...

20060025761 - Linear-array radio frequency resections: An apparatus and method for ablation of a resection plane in an organ of the body, is disclosed. A linear-array probe with a plurality of tines penetrates a cross-section of the organ. A radio frequency generator is connected to the linear-array probe via wire conductors. The radio frequency generator generates...

20060025764 - Systems and methods for performing simultaneous ablation: A system for treating tissue includes first and second ablation devices each including a plurality of wire electrodes and coupled to a generator in parallel. In one embodiment, the generator includes first and second terminals coupled in parallel to one another, and the first and second ablation devices are connected...

20060025765 - Electrosurgical systems and methods: An electrosurgical device includes a plurality of electrodes for forming a plurality of bipolar circuits usable for affecting a patient's tissue during a surgical operation. At least one of said electrodes is operable as an active electrode in one of said bipolar circuits and as a return electrode in another...

20060025766 - Energy based partial circumferential hemorrhoid repair device: An energy based partial circumferential hemorrhoid repair device including an actuator assembly, and an energy based partial circumferential hemorrhoid repair device head assembly operatively connected to the actuator assembly, wherein the head assembly includes a proximal electrode assembly and a distal electrode assembly, and further wherein at least one of...

20060025770 - Device for stabilizing bones: A device pivotally connects two stabilizing parts to a bone. The device comprises at least one bone fixing element with a central axis, an anchor part designed to be fixed in or onto the bone, and a head part that can be attached to both stabilizing parts. The two stabilizing...

20060025771 - Helical reverse angle guide and advancement structure with break-off extensions: A spinal fixation device combines an anchor member with an open receiver, such as a polyaxial bone screw or a hook, with a rotatable closure that operably clamps a spinal fixation rod to the anchor member. The anchor member has spaced apart arms forming a rod receiving channel. The arms...

20060025767 - Orthopedic rod system: A tulip-shaped rod-receiving member in a spinal rod system is provided with a transverse slot accessible from the top of the tulip member for placing the rod therein until the rod seats. A locking assembly includes a cap having inclined surfaces that cooperate with inclined surfaces on the rod-receiving member...

20060025769 - Surgical devices and methods for vertebral shifting utilizing spinal fixation systems: Multifunction surgical devices and methods that can be used for implanting a spinal fixation system. Surgical devices of the invention can be used for positioning a bone engaging element with respect to a component of a spinal fixation system and for attaching the bone engaging element to the component of...

20060025768 - Top loading spinal fixation device and instruments for loading and handling the same: A system for introducing an elongated spinal rod comprising a bone fastener having a head, the head including a top end, a bottom end, and a pair of side walls connected at the bottom end defining an elongated U-shaped channel having a first longitudinal axis and a top opening located...

20060025772 - Bone fusion plate: A carpal fusion plate for use in fusion of the bones of the midcarpus or other bones. The fusion plate is concave and defines at least one round countersunk screw hole and at least one tapered elongate slotted aperture. The tapered elongate slotted aperture is narrower peripherally and broader centrally....

20060025773 - Headless compression screw with integrated reduction-compression instrument: A bone screw is provided having first and second threaded portions of different diameter separated by a middle portion that is unthreaded so that the bone screw may be inserted into a pair of adjacent bone fragments and used to compress the fragments together by driving the screw into a...

20060025774 - Minimally invasive collapsible surgical reamer: A preferred acetabular reamer is disclosed for cutting a bone socket, defining an apex and rotatable about a drive axis. The reamer has a domed support portion adjacent the apex and a plurality of cutting members, which may be of the cheese grater or bladed type, each pivotally mounted on...

20060025775 - Femoral neck resection guide and method: A femoral neck resection guide for use in minimally invasive hip surgery is disclosed. The femoral neck resection guide includes at least two spaced resection guide surfaces for guiding a cutting tool and means for attaching the guide surfaces to a portion of the cut section of the neck of...

20060025776 - Apparatus and method for anterior cruciate repair: A system and method for repairing anterior cruciate injuries in animals is disclosed. The system includes a fixture used to locate a pilot hole in a tibia, a drill guide used to locate and drill additional holes in the tibia, an angle gauge used to position the drill guide so...

20060025777 - Surgical instrument for the introduction of a multi-component intervertebral prosthesis: The invention concerns a surgical instrument for the introduction of an intervertebral prosthesis (10) consisting of at least three components, namely, two prosthesis plates (14, 16) and a prosthesis core (12), which has a U-shaped holder (30) at the distal end of a gripping element (20) into which holder the...

20060025778 - Methods and apparatus for artificial disc replacement (adr) insertion and other surgical procedures: Improved methods and apparatus render ADR insertion safer and more precise. Certain surgical instruments according to the invention include a level enabling a user to align the instrument for proper placement of a surgical implant. A different surgical instrument includes two or more scopes mounted relative to the instrument permitting...

20060025779 - Tube insertion device and method therefor: A tube insertion device that allows for an elongate tube to be retained or clamped within a portion the tube insertion device without substantially increasing an outer diameter of the tube insertion device....

20060025780 - Dual endoscopic polypectomy instrument arrangement: A polypectomy instrument for the resection and withdrawal of a polyp tissue from a body lumen. The instrument comprises a dual handle arrangement on a first proximal end of the polypectomy instrument and a plurality of working channels on a distal end of the dual handle arrangement. Each of the...

20060025781 - Laparoscopic instruments and methods utilizing suction: A surgical dilator extractor is introduced into the abdominal cavity through a trocar cannula and expanded, forming a tissue receiving space, at the distal end. The tissue that is to be extracted is then suctioned to the dilator. The tissue is then removed from the cavity by the surgeon applying...

20060025782 - Eliminator a personal appliance to assist in fecal evacuation for patients with rectal hernia (rectocele): The invention consists of a bent flat member, which, properly inserted in the vagina, may be used to help a patient affected with rectocele (hernia) eliminate fecal matter, which otherwise may remain in the pocket formed by the hernia, and cause medical problems. The instrument is washable and may be...

20060025783 - Minimally invasive medical implant and insertion device and method for using the same: A medical device including an implant and inserter and a method for using the same. One embodiment includes an implant for implantation within a patient, and a first inserter for inserting the implant. The first inserter has a distal end region including a tissue penetrating distal tip, a proximal end...

20060025784 - Delivery devices and methods for heart valve repair: Devices, systems and methods facilitate positioning of a cardiac valve annulus treatment device, thus enhancing treatment of the annulus. Methods generally involve advancing an anchor delivery device through vasculature of the patient to a location in the heart for treating the valve annulus, contacting the anchor delivery device with a...

20060025787 - Devices and methods for heart valve repair: Methods and devices provide constriction of a heart valve annulus to treat cardiac valve regurgitation and other conditions. Embodiments typically include a device for attaching a cinching or tightening apparatus to a heart valve annulus to reduce the circumference of the annulus, thus reducing valve regurgitation. Tightening devices may include...

20060025786 - Method for autologous transplantation: The present invention describes various support matrices to which cells can adhere and proliferate. Such support matrices are useful for implantation in a wound site to promote healing and regeneration of damaged tissue. The present invention further describes an article including a membrane having at least one layer having a...

20060025785 - Tissue repair device with a bioabsorbable support member: The present invention is a composite medical device having a non-bioabsorbable implantable tissue repair or reconstruction component and a resilient bioabsorbable support member component that aids in deployment and placement of the implantable component at a surgical site. Following deployment, the support member component is readily bioabsorbed and removed from...

20060025788 - Anastomotic leg arrangement: A leg compacting system for compacting inwards a group of legs (228) of an anastomotic connector towards a central location thereof, comprising, a coupler for coupling to a delivery system on which said connector is mounted; and a plurality of leg confiners (820), said leg confiners (820) configured to selectively...

20060025789 - Methods and devices for tissue reconfiguration: A method includes advancing an apparatus having an elongated member transorally into the stomach. The apparatus includes a distal end effector having first and second members configured to engage tissue. The first and second members are movable relatively toward one another generally in a first plane. The method includes moving...

20060025790 - Operation element, operation set and method for use thereof: This invention provides an operation element for use in by-pass surgery, comprising a ring shaped element having windings, preferably at least one-and-a-half winding, at least partly of wire material in close proximity, provided with at least one sharpened end....

20060025791 - Tongue cleaning device: A tongue cleaning device includes a debris retention feature that helps the user remove debris from the tongue. In one embodiment, the feature is a suction system that removes the debris from the working area of the device. In another embodiment, the feature is a recess positioned adjacent the working...

20060025794 - Apparatus and methods for clearing obstructions from surgical cutting instruments: The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for facilitating removal of obstructions from a surgical cutting instrument during a surgical procedure. The apparatus of the present invention is configured to interrupt flow in aspiration tubing when obstructions are detected in the cutting instrument. The apparatus then causes compression of...

20060025792 - Surgical instrument attachment system: A surgical implement for use with a handpiece of a surgical instrument for performing a surgical treatment, comprises: an outer tube member including an outer hub and an outer tube extending longitudinally from the outer hub, the outer tube and the outer hub defining a longitudinal bore, the outer hub...

20060025793 - Surgical instrument attachment system: A surgical implement for use with a hand-piece of a surgical instrument for performing a surgical treatment, comprises: an outer tube member including an outer hub and an outer tube extending longitudinally from the outer hub, the outer tube and the outer hub defining a longitudinal bore, the outer hub...

20060025795 - Apparatus for the percutaneous marking of a lesion: A biopsy marking apparatus for placing a radiopaque marker at the location of a percutaneous biopsy. The biopsy marking apparatus comprises an introducer in combination with a radiopaque marker. The introducer ejects the radiopaque marker at the location of the biopsy. The introducer is configured to completely eject the radiopaque...

20060025796 - Methods and apparatus for minimally invasive recovery of bone and/or other tissue: Methods and apparatus are provided for minimally invasive recovery of bone and other tissues. The methods include separating bone or other tissue from surrounding tissue in a minimally invasive fashion. The methods may be used for recovering an essentially intact bone from a donor with reduced detriment to the aesthetic...

20060025797 - Cannula for in utero surgery: A cannula, a straightener, and a cannula and straightener combination for insertion into tissue, the cannula including an elongated rigid hollow tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and a passageway extending therebetween. The distal end includes a memory of directionality to bend about a radius. The cannula straightener...

20060025799 - Endoscopically placed gastric balloon (epgb) device and method for treating obesity involving the same: An endoscopically placed gastric balloon (EPGB) includes a gastric balloon. The EPGB is insertable in a patient and anchored in position between the lock and a portal. A port section enables the gastric balloon to be filled with mass containing a liquid medium during treatment, resulting in a patient receiving...

20060025798 - Method and apparatus for fecal continence: Apparatus and method for adjustably restricting a selected body lumen such as an anal canal of a patient to passively treat fecal incontinence. The apparatus in various examples comprises a plurality of expandable elements. Each of the elements is comprised of a membrane of biocompatible material enclosing a volume. The...

20060025800 - Method and device for surgical ventricular repair: Embodiments disclose a method for repairing a heart of a human. A method may include introducing a collapsed reinforcing element through the skin into the vascular system of the human. The method may include delivering the reinforcing element into a left ventricle through the arteries. Once inside the left ventricle,...

20060025806 - Apparatus and methods for aspirating emboli: Apparatus and methods for aspirating emboli from a vascular filter or stent within a patient's circulatory system are provided. A filter sac of the vascular filter permits blood flow and captures emboli from the flow. The aspiration device removes emboli from within or proximal to the vascular filter or stent...

20060025802 - Embolic coil delivery system with u-shaped fiber release mechanism: A medical device for placing an embolic device, such as an embolic coil, at a predetermined site within a vessel of the body including a delivery catheter and a flexible pusher member slidably disposed within the lumen of the catheter. An embolic device is releasably disposed within the distal end...

20060025803 - Embolic device delivery system with retractable partially coiled-fiber release: A medical device for placing an embolic device, such as an embolic coil, at a predetermined site within a vessel of the body including a delivery catheter and a flexible pusher member slidably disposed within the lumen of the catheter. An embolic device having a headpiece coupled to the proximal...

20060025801 - Embolic device deployment system with filament release: A medical device for placing an embolic device, such as an embolic coil, at a predetermined site within a vessel of the body including a delivery catheter and a flexible pusher member movably disposed within the catheter. An embolic device is detachably coupled to the pusher member and is retained...

20060025804 - Filter membrane with increased surface area: A filtering device with an increased surface area, and method of making and using the same. The present invention comprises a filtering device including an elongate shaft and a filter coupled to the shaft. The filter may include a filter membrane configured to have an increased surface area....

20060025805 - Filter retrieval catheter: Methods and devices for retrieving a filter fixed to a guidewire disposed within a blood vessel are disclosed. A catheter for retrieving a filter fixed to a guidewire disposed within a blood vessel in accordance with the present invention includes an elongate shaft and a housing fixed to the elongate...

20060025807 - One hand tourniquet with locking mechanism: Provided is a tourniquet having two opposing and pivotally movable plates. The plates comprise a clamp that pinches an elastomeric cord. The plates are pivotally biased together by a spring. The cord is attached to a back end of the clamp. A free end of the cord is squeezed by...

20060025808 - Vagal nerve bulking arrangement: A method for the appetite suppression of an individual comprising the steps of introducing a bulking material between the vagal nerve area and the stomach wall of a patient undergoing appetite suppression treatment to reduce production levels of ghrelin in the patient's system....

20060025814 - Medical device: A medical device includes a portion which is expected to be subjected to an irreversible structural change due to an air pressure difference when the medical device is placed in a negative pressure in a sterilizing process. By the irreversible change of the aforementioned portion, an alarm display is exposed,...

20060025810 - Surgical instrument incorporating an electrically actuated articulation locking mechanism: A surgical instrument particularly suited to endoscopic use articulates an end effector by including an articulation mechanism in an elongate shaft that incorporates an electrically actuated polymer (EAP) articulation locking mechanism actuator. Thereby, additional options for articulation become feasible, especially those that are actively powered and would otherwise dissipate heat...

20060025809 - Surgical instrument incorporating an electrically actuated articulation mechanism: A surgical instrument particularly suited to endoscopic use articulates an end effector by including an articulation mechanism in an elongate shaft that incorporates an electrically actuated polymer (EAP) actuator for remotely articulating the end effector....

20060025811 - Surgical instrument incorporating an electrically actuated articulation mechanism: A surgical instrument particularly suited to endoscopic use articulates an end effector by including an articulation mechanism in an elongate shaft that incorporates an electrically actuated polymer (EAP) actuator for remotely articulating the end effector. In particular, a flexible neck to a frame of the elongate neck may be laterally...

20060025812 - Surgical instrument incorporating an electrically actuated pivoting articulation mechanism: A surgical instrument particularly suited to endoscopic use articulates an end effector by including an articulation mechanism in an elongate shaft that incorporates an electrically actuated polymer (EAP) actuator for remotely articulating the end effector. Pivoting connections between a distal frame portion and a proximal frame portion are actuated by...

20060025813 - Surgical stapling instrument having an electroactive polymer actuated medical substance dispenser: A surgical stapling and severing instrument enables minimally invasive surgical procedures by having upper and lower jaws (i.e., anvil and staple channel) that are positioned with an elongate shaft and handle through a surgical opening, and in particular through a cannula of a trocar. A pair of fluid bladders (lift...

20060025815 - Lung device with sealing features: This invention relates generally to a design of lung devices for safely performing a transthoracic procedure. In particular, the invention provides devices and methods of using these devices to access the thoracic cavity with minimal risk of causing pneumothorax or hemothorax. More specifically, the invention enables diagnostic and therapeutic access...

20060025816 - Surgical stapling instrument having an electroactive polymer actuated buttress deployment mechanism: A surgical instrument for being endoscopically or laparoscopically inserted to a surgical site for simultaneous stapling and severing of tissue includes electrically actuated deployment of buttress pads held on inner surfaces of upper and lower jaws of a staple applying assembly. Thereby, thick or thin layers may be stapled and...

20060025817 - Electroactive polymer-based articulation mechanism for linear stapler: Methods and devices are provided for actuating and/or articulating a surgical stapler. In one embodiment, a surgical stapler is provided having a stapling mechanism or end effector that is movably coupled to a distal end of an elongate shaft. An electrically expandable and contractible actuator, such as an electroactive polymer...

20060025818 - Strong, flexible suture material: The present invention provides for a suture comprising a flexible foraminous cover made of a polymeric material, and a core within the cover made of a cushioning material. The cover material is preferably formed of uhmw polyethylene, nylon or polypropylene. The cushioning material is preferably polyester, PTFE or nylon. Preferably,...

20060025819 - T-type suture anchoring devices and methods of using same: Suture anchoring devices are disclosed, including a T-tag anchoring device that is suitably small enough to fit into the hollow tip of a needle and, furthermore, provide protection to the suture against being cut or otherwise damaged by the sharp edge of the needle tip. One disclosed device includes a...