Surgery inventions 01/07

20070021736 - Implantation of a medical device within a lumen: A medical device implanted within a lumen of a patient, such as the esophagus, stomach, or another portion of the gastrointestinal tract, includes a device housing and a lead that extends from the device housing. An anchor member is located at a distal portion of the lead, and the lead... Agent: Shumaker & Sieffert, P. A.

20070021738 - Laparoscopic ultrasound robotic surgical system: A LUS robotic surgical system is trainable by a surgeon to automatically move a LUS probe in a desired fashion upon command so that the surgeon does not have to do so manually during a minimally invasive surgical procedure. A sequence of 2D ultrasound image slices captured by the LUS... Agent: Patent Dept Intuitive Surgical, Inc.

20070021737 - Surgical instrument guide device: An instrument guide device comprises an elongated guide shaft having proximal and distal ends and including an instrument lumen for receiving therethrough a manually operated instrument having an instrument shaft. A distal bendable member is disposed at the distal end of the guide shaft and a proximal bendable member is... Agent: David M. Driscoll, Esq.

20070021739 - Inter-atrial transseptal laser puncture (tlp) procedure:

20070021740 - Laser treatment of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (hocm):

20070021741 - Method and device for epicardial ablation: A method is disclosed for treating heart and vascular tissue with cryotreatment. A medical instrument, such as a catheter is positioned to contact a target region of cardiac tissue such as the epicardial tissue. The instrument or catheter provided includes a cryotreatment element that has thermally-transmissive properties. The cryotreatment element... Agent: Christopher & Weisberg, P.A.

20070021742 - Estimation of contact force by a medical device: A method is provided for establishing contact of a medical device against a tissue surface within a subject body, the method comprising determination of the geometrical configuration of the distal portion of the medical device, and using this together with known control variable information to determine and control the contact... Agent: Bryan K. Wheelock

20070021744 - Apparatus and method for performing ablation with imaging feedback: A method for ablating tissue is provided that comprises navigating an electrophysiology catheter to the site of the ablation, applying an ablating electrode on the electrophysiology catheter to the tissue to be ablated, applying energy to the electrode to ablate the tissue adjacent the electrode, ultrasonically imaging the site of... Agent: Bryan K. Wheelock

20070021743 - Compressible/expandable hydrophilic ablation electrode: Methods, probe assemblies and systems are provided for treating tissue a margins surrounding interstitial spaces created via the removal of tumors. The interstitial space may be in any tissue, e.g., breast tissue, and the interstitial space may be created by removing abnormal tissue. A hydrophilic electrode is compressed and introduced... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20070021746 - Ablation catheters having slidable anchoring capability and methods of using same: A catheter includes a shaft having a distal end, an expandable member secured to the distal end, and an anchoring device slidably positioned distal to the expandable member. The anchoring device having a delivery configuration and a deployed configuration. By way of one example, the anchoring device may comprise a... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20070021745 - Bipolar radio frequency ablation device with retractable insulator: An ablation device, comprises a first tubular element and a first electrode which, when in an insertion configuration, is received within the first tubular element, the first electrode being deployable from the first tubular element to anchor in a target portion of tissue at a first electrode operative position in... Agent: Fay Kaplun & Marcin, LLP

20070021747 - Plasma-generating device, plasma surgical device and use of plasma surgical device: The present invention relates to a plasma-generating device, comprising an anode, a cathode and a plasma channel which in its longitudinal direction extends at least partly between said cathode and said anode. The end of the cathode which is directed to the anode has a cathode tip tapering towards the... Agent: Jones Day

20070021748 - Plasma-generating device, plasma surgical device, use of a plasma-generating device and method of generating a plasma: The present invention relates to a plasma-generating device comprising an anode, a cathode and an elongate plasma channel which extends substantially in the direction from said cathode to said anode. The plasma channel has a throttling portion which is arranged in said plasma channel between said cathode and an outlet... Agent: Jones Day

20070021749 - High-frequency treatment instrument: A high-frequency treatment instrument 1 comprises a flexible tube 3 which is inserted into a body cavity and a treatment portion 2 which is located on the distal end of the flexible tube 3 when a high-frequency current is applied. In this high frequency treatment instrument 1, the flexible tube... Agent: Ostrolenk Faber Gerb & Soffen

20070021750 - Apparatus for connecting a longitudinal member to a bone portion: An apparatus includes a fastener engageable with a bone portion to connect a longitudinal member to the bone portion. A housing has a first passage configured to receive the longitudinal member and a second passage extending transverse to the first passage. The fastener extends through an opening in the housing... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070021751 - Bone anchor: A bone anchor adapted to secure soft tissue to bone. The anchor includes a first body section and a second body section proximal to the first body section. The first section has a non-circular cross section such that once the implant is inserted into a shaped bone tunnel it may... Agent: Arthrocare Corporation

20070021752 - Motorized surgical handpiece: A motorized surgical handpiece comprises a housing enclosing an interior containing a motor and an output shaft for being driven in rotation by the motor. The output shaft has a central longitudinal axis, a bore extending therethrough for receiving a shank of a surgical tool to be rotatably driven by... Agent: Epstein & Gerken

20070021753 - Catheter-based fastener implantation apparatus and methods: Apparatus and methods utilize an intraluminal fastener applier having a guide body with a longitudinal axis. The guide body is sized and configured for intraluminal deployment in a hollow body organ. An actuated assembly is carried by the guide body that is selectively operable to generate an implantation force to... Agent: Ryan Kromholz & Manion, S.c.

20070021754 - Method for intracorporeal lithotripsy fragmentation and apparatus for its implementation: Electro-impulse intracorporeal lithotripsy comprises bringing electrodes of a probe in immediate electrical contact with the calculus and supplying to the electrodes of very short high voltage impulses capable to ignite electrical spark discharge and establish a discharge channel within the bulk of the calculus. The channel goes through the calculus... Agent: Blank Rome LLP

20070021755 - Pull locking rotational action needle driver: A pull-locking rotational action needle driver that comprises an ergonomically designed handle and an integrated locking system that permits left and right handed surgeons to perform the surgical suturing procedure in a less complicated and more secure way by allowing more control over the suturing needle and the area to... Agent: Hector M. Reyes Rivera Ferraiuolli Torres Marchand & Rovira

20070021756 - Tissue fastening devices and related insertion tools and methods: The invention in certain aspects relates to a one-piece coil-shaped surgical fastener for fastening tissue segments, especially suitable for fastening segments of the lower esophogeal sphincter and fundus in an endoscopic procedure for the treatment of GERD. The invention also relates to related methods and devices for insertion of such... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20070021758 - Anastomotic ring applier for use in colorectal applications: A surgical tool or applier operable to deploy an anastomotic ring comprises a handle connected to an elongate shaft. The elongate shaft comprises an anastomotic ring deployment mechanism on a distal portion of the shaft. The ring deployment mechanism is moveable from an unactuated position to an actuated position. The... Agent: Frost Brown Todd, LLC

20070021759 - Flexible endoscopic anastomotic ring applier device: A surgical instrument for deploying an anastomotic ring device has a ring deployment mechanism, which is configured to receive and deploy an anastomotic ring. The instrument further comprises a flexible elongate shaft having one or more actuation cables extending therethrough. The shaft also has an imaging element, which is coupled... Agent: Frost Brown Todd, LLC

20070021760 - Methods and apparatus for securing an anchor to soft tissue: The preferred methods and devices described herein create more secure anchors in one or more segments of soft tissue that can be used as anchor points for other procedures. The device draws tissue into a fold, cuts an opening through the tissue fold and inserts an element alongside the outer... Agent: Scott Evans

20070021757 - Resposable anastomotic ring applier device: A surgical instrument that is operable to deploy an anastomotic ring device comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion comprises a ring deployment mechanism, which is configured to receive and deploy an anastomotic ring. The proximal portion comprises a mechanism that is operable to remotely actuate... Agent: Frost Brown Todd, LLC

20070021761 - Clamp device to plicate the stomach: A medical device for clamping the stomach in morbid obesity surgery consists of a silicone frame that is essentially U-shaped, having opposing legs self-hinged to a bight portion interconnecting the legs. The opposing legs have sufficient stiffness to permit limited bending and have inner surfaces that sealingly carry an inflatable... Agent: Frederick Gotha, Esq.

20070021762 - Ocular plug formed from placenta derived collagen biofabric: The present invention relates to ocular plugs formed from a biodegradable material. The plugs comprises a shaft and, optionally, a cap. The ocular plugs are intended to occlude, and to repair, discontinuities in the sclera, whether formed deliberately during injection or surgical foray into the eye, or accidentally. The method... Agent: Jones Day

20070021763 - Removable localizing wire: A localizing wire comprising an anchor portion that can change shape from a collapsed shape to an expanded shape and thereby anchor within a tissue mass. A localizing wire having an exterior portion that can lie flat against the tissue mass. A localizing wire that can be repositioned or withdrawn... Agent: Mcgarry Bair PC

20070021764 - Removable localizing wire: A localizing wire comprising an anchor portion that can change shape from a collapsed shape to an expanded shape and thereby anchor within a tissue mass. A localizing wire having an exterior portion that can lie flat against the tissue mass. A localizing wire that can be repositioned or withdrawn... Agent: Mcgarry Bair PC

20070021765 - Ultrasonic treatment apparatus, probe for the same, and method of manufacturing the apparatus and the probe: There is provided an ultrasonic treatment apparatus including an ultrasonic oscillator which generates ultrasonic waves, a probe which is connected to the ultrasonic oscillator and transmits ultrasonic oscillations generated by the ultrasonic oscillator, and a treatment portion which is formed on the probe and treats a living tissue by the... Agent: Ostrolenk Faber Gerb & Soffen

20070021766 - Surgical handpiece with compact clutch and anti-wobble coupling head: A surgical handpiece with a rotating spindle for receiving the coupling head of a surgical attachment or a cutting accessory. A gear train has plural drive heads that simultaneously rotate at different speeds. A clutch assembly has pins that move along the length of the spindle. The clutch assembly sets... Agent: Intel. Prop./ Rnd Stryker Corporation

20070021767 - Steerable endoluminal punch: This invention is a transvascularly placed punch, further including internal steerability and the ability to articulate in a direction at right angles to its longitudinal axis at or near its distal end. The punch is generally fabricated from stainless steel and includes an outer tube, an intermediate tube, a central... Agent: Eugene M. Breznock

20070021770 - Apparatus and method for percutaneous sealing of blood vessel punctures: A device for promoting hemostasis in a blood vessel puncture is employed with an introducer that accesses the puncture through an incision. The introducer has an open distal end positionable at the puncture, an external portion with an open proximal end, and an axial channel therebetween. The device includes a... Agent: Miller, Matthias & Hull

20070021768 - 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 tubular restraint. In one application, the sheath is utilized to... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070021769 - Systems and methods for forming a cavity in cancellous bone: A cavity creating device having a cavity creating axis is introduced through a percutaneous access path into a cancellous bone volume, e.g., within a vertebral body. The cavity creating device is manipulated to form a cavity in the cancellous bone volume. The manipulation includes deflecting the cavity creating device along... Agent: Ryan Kromholz & Manion, S.c.

20070021771 - Catheter having plurality of stiffening members: The invention includes a catheter having an elongate main body having a proximal section and a distal section. The elongate main body further includes a plurality of stiffening members disposed along the length of the elongate main body. The plurality of stiffening members includes a first stiffening member and a... Agent: Baker Botts, L.L.P.

20070021772 - Medical device balloon: The present invention relates to medical devices that can be placed in bodily conduits. The invention particularly relates to balloons and catheters using such balloons for administering treatments to widen constricted passages, deliver therapeutic agents, deliver endoprosthesis' or perform other medical procedures. The balloon catheter can include an expandable balloon... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20070021773 - Nasal-dilating device for a constricted nostril: An inconspicuous nasal-dilating device for a constricted nostril, the device being insertable into and frictionally retained in the constricted nostril. The device has a circular cross-sectional shape that is laterally squeezable to an oval shape for purposes of inserting the device into the constricted nostril and, upon being released from... Agent: Donald R. Schoonover

20070021775 - Articulating guidewire for embolic protection and methods of use: An intravascular guidewire having an articulating distal section for improved maneuverability beyond a lesion or other protrusion within a body lumen. An elongated core wire having an actuatable stop disposed thereon is adapted to have a reduced profile in a first position, and an enlarged profile in a second position.... Agent: Crompton, Seager & Tufte, LLC

20070021774 - Embolic protection and plaque removal system with closed circuit aspiration and filtering: Embolic protection and plaque removal apparatus and methods are provided wherein an aspiration device aspirates, filters and reperfuses blood using a closed fluid circuit having a bi-directional working lumen. The plaque removal device includes a plurality of self-expanding cutting elements that form cage that self-centers within the blood vessel to... Agent: Luce, Forward, Hamilton & Scripps LLP

20070021777 - Apparatus and method for removing a clip: An endoscopic apparatus comprises a pair of jaws pivotably connected to each other and movable between an open position and a closed position. The jaws comprise respective opposing gripper portions. Each gripper portion comprises a distal end, a proximal end, and an inside surface extending between the distal and proximal... Agent: Baker & Hostetler LLP

20070021776 - System and method for releasably holding a surgical instrument: The invention is directed to a system and method for releasably holding a surgical instrument (14), such as an endoscopic instrument configured for delivery through a small percutaneous penetration in a patient. The instrument comprises an elongate shaft (100) with a pair of mounting pins (116) laterally extending from the... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070021778 - Apparatus and method for delivering a closure element: An apparatus for delivering and deploying a closure element to an opening formed in a body lumen, including a delivery assembly positionable through the tissue and into the opening. The delivery assembly includes a distal locator portion and a carrier portion oriented proximal to the distal locator portion. The distal... Agent: Beyer Weaver & Thomas LLP

20070021779 - Device for surgical repair, closure, and reconstruction: A device and technique for a sutureless wound closure, which limits the risks of rupture and scarring, is described. The device includes a one-piece surgical fastener generally shaped in a curve along the width of the surgical fastener. The fastener includes a tissue insertion tongue with a plurality of tissue... Agent: Charles S. Sara Dewitt Ross & Stevens S.c.

20070021780 - Multicomponent fused suture loop and apparatus for making same: A fused loop of an elongated material, such as a surgical suture, and apparatus for making the loop are described. Portions of one or more segments of elongated material may be fused in an ultrasonic welding process to form a welded joint. Multiple materials each with different a different melting... Agent: Greenberg Traurig, LLP

20070021781 - Wedge operated retainer device and methods: This invention relates generally to retainers and methods of using retainers. In particular, the invention relates to a suture retainer adapted for application on a subject by use of an introducing device, such as a catheter. The suture retainer comprises two elements, such as wedge-shaped or substantially wedge-shaped elements, that... Agent: Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati

20070021782 - Nipple device: A nipple apparatus 10 comprises a nipple 11, and a nipple holding member 15 for holding the nipple 11. A liquid permeating member 25 is provided in the nipple holding member 15, and cap 17 is also provided at the nipple holding member 15. In the cap 17, a drug... Agent: Birch Stewart Kolasch & Birch

20070021783 - Vaporizer pacifier: A vaporizer pacifier is provided comprising a base member having an outwardly projecting stop member, a nipple having a proximal end coupled to the base member, and a substantially cylindrical compartment attached to a proximal end of the base member. The compartment comprises two substantially co-centric, cylindrical members. A first... Agent: William R. Trueba, Jr Kluger, Peretz, Kaplan & Berlin, P.l.

20070021784 - Method for spinal adjustment: The present invention discloses a method for spinal adjustment. More specifically, the present invention discloses a method for spinal adjustment for assisting a user thereof to adjust the user's spine, and with such adjustment being realized via commonly available secondary use means.... Agent: Neal R Hurd

20070016172 - Ostomy tube device, ostomy placement kit and method for an ostomy tube placement: An ostomy tube device comprises a hallow flexible tube with internal retaining member, a tapered hollow canula and a pull loop means forming leading and rear pole loop when positioned through the tapered canula. The hallow flexible tube folded over the rear pole loop and squeezed into the lumen of... Agent: Samuel A. Charukhchian

20070016173 - Protective material, clothing item and method of protection: A material and method delivering to the skin therapeutic radiation and filtering a part of the sun spectrum causing skin damage.... Agent: Ratnerprestia

20070016174 - Robotic surgical instruments with a fluid flow control system for irrigation, aspiration, and blowing: In one embodiment of the invention, a robotic surgical instrument is provided for the control of flows of one or more fluids into and out of a surgical site. The robotic surgical instrument may include a housing, a flow control system, a hollow tube, and one or more hose fittings.... Agent: Patent Dept Intuitive Surgical, Inc

20070016175 - System and method for treating connective tissue: A method and system of treating connective tissue to increase flexibility of the connective tissue or decrease tension in the connective tissue includes forming perforations in the connective tissue to at least 90% of the depth or thickness of the connective tissue and maintaining the perforations in the connective tissue.... Agent: Tarolli, Sundheim, Covell & Tummino L.L.P.

20070016176 - Laser handpiece architecture and methods: A laser handpiece is described that connects to a laser base unit. The laser handpiece receives laser energy and ancillary inputs from a connector that connects to the laser base unit. A handpiece tip on the laser handpiece directs laser energy to a target surface.... Agent: Stout, Uxa, Buyan & Mullins LLP

20070016177 - Laser ablation apparatus useful for hard tissue removal: A laser ablation apparatus including a laser source for generating laser beams in a wavelength range suitable for ablating hard dental tissue, and a scanning device including a beam deflecting element that deflects and scans the laser beams over a surface such that the laser beams impinge on the surface... Agent: Dekel Patent Ltd., David Klein

20070016178 - Laser energy delivery device with swivel handpiece: A laser energy delivery device including a laser source operatively connected to a handpiece by means of a swivel joint, the swivel joint including a first reflector mounted in a swivel arm, one portion of the swivel arm being rotatably attached to the laser source and having a window for... Agent: Dekel Patent Ltd., David Klein

20070016180 - Microwave surgical device: A medical instrument or device used to decrease blood loss during surgery and/or other medical procedures. The device includes a microwave antenna housed in a handset (or laparoscopic probe) that is placed in close proximity to the tissue of interest. The device runs in the microwave spectrum and receives power... Agent: Patula & Associates, P.C. 14th Floor

20070016181 - Microwave tissue resection tool: A medical instrument or device is used for resonant delivery of microwave power to tissue for the purpose of resection and coagulation of vessels during surgery and/or other medical procedures. The device enables delivery of large amounts of power to tissue without the need for ground pads by accomplishing an... Agent: Patula & Associates, P.C.

20070016179 - Radiation blocking patch for radio-therapy: A flexible, relatively flat and thin patch, optionally made of biodegradable material, substantially attenuates ionizing radiation from normal but sensitive anatomy during radio-therapy, particularly breast brachytherapy. The patch is of such a thickness as to substantially attenuate radiation by distance or consists of a material that has been formulated with... Agent: Thomas M. Freiburger

20070016182 - Fluid-assisted medical devices, systems and methods: Adaptors for electrically coupling between an electrosurgical generator and a bipolar electrosurgical device are provided. In one preferred embodiment, the adaptor comprises a power input connector for coupling the adaptor with a monopolar mode power output connector of the electrosurgical generator, a ground connector for coupling the adaptor with a... Agent: Merchant & Gould PC

20070016183 - Radio frequency ablation device for the destruction of tissue masses: The inventive ablation element comprises an elongated cannula having a proximal end and a distal end. The cannula defines an internal lumen within the cannula and a cannula axis. A plurality of conductors contained within the lumen, each of the conductors has a proximal end proximate the proximal end of... Agent: Roger Pitt Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Nicholson Graham LLP

20070016186 - Apparatuses and methods for transcleral cautery and subretinal drainage: Apparatuses for transcleral cautery and subretinal drainage are provided. One such embodiment includes a barrel section, a needle section extending from the barrel section, and a scleral depressor section at least partially surrounding an intermediate portion of the needle section. A cautery section may also be defined between the scleral... Agent: Thomas, Kayden, Horstemeyer & Risley, LLP

20070016185 - Medical bipolar electrode assembly with a cannula having a bipolar active tip and a separate supply electrode and medical monopolar electrode assembly with a cannula having a monopolar active tip and a separate temperature-transducer post: An electrosurgical system preferably used for denervation procedures of nerve tissue has a control unit and a pluggable electrode assembly. The electrode assembly has a preferably disposable cannula and a preservable supply electrode assembly. The cannula has a tubular body that projects axially from a preferably pointed distal end for... Agent: Howard & Howard Attorneys, P.C.

20070016184 - Medical-treatment electrode assembly and method for medical treatment: One medical-treatment electrode assembly includes a medical-treatment flexible electrode supported on the outer surface of a sidewall of a flexible tube which is insertable into a patient. Another assembly includes two electrodes supported on the outer surface of a flexible tube, wherein a video camera of a flexible endoscope inserted... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070016187 - Switch mechanisms for safe activation of energy on an electrosurgical instrument: Various safe switching mechanisms are provided for use with electrosurgical instruments which prevent arcing between the high-energy contacts as the high-energy source is activated. The switching mechanisms generally include a pair of high-energy contacts and a pair of activation contacts. An actuator is provided which initially engages the high-energy contacts... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070016188 - Methods and systems for performing spinal surgery: A device and method for use in spinal surgery are provided.... Agent: Carr LLP (ist)

20070016194 - Articulating spinal fixation rod and system: The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for aligning and implanting orthopedic fixation or stabilization implants within the body. In one embodiment, the system includes at least two bone anchors, at least one of which is provided with a transverse portal and a locking member. In one aspect,... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070016197 - Cross-connector assembly: Provided is a novel cross-connector assembly for interconnecting first and second bracing members or rods, one to the other. The cross-connector assembly is capable of multi-directional articulation in three dimensions, length, azimuth, and elevation and is also capable of having one end rotated along its longitudinal axis in relation to... Agent: Manelli Denison & Selter

20070016193 - Dynamic fixation device and method of use: A dynamic fixation device is provided that allows the vertebrae to which it is attached to move in flexion within the normal physiological limits of motion, while also providing structural support that limits the amount of translation motion beyond normal physiological limits. The present invention includes a flexible portion and... Agent: Sheridan Ross PC

20070016190 - Dynamic spinal stabilization system: A spinal stabilization system for installation to the posterior of the spinal column that includes a pair of anchoring members affixed to adjacent vertebrae and which may have screw threads to carry out that affixation. The anchoring members each have external head ends for the attachment of a flexible shaft... Agent: Gibbons, Del Deo, Dolan, Griffinger & Vecchione

20070016200 - Dynamic stabilization medical implant assemblies and methods: Bone screw assemblies include longitudinal connecting members that provide for dynamic stabilization, some including non-uniform portions that are configured to flex, contract or expand. Composite longitudinal connecting members include longitudinal segments made from different materials having different flexibilities. Polyaxial bone screw assemblies include change-out receivers for cooperating with replacement longitudinal... Agent: Law Office Of John C. Mcmahon

20070016201 - Elastic stabilization system for vertebral columns: A vertebral column implant for the elastic stabilization of motion segments (1, 2) comprising an eleastically bendable connecting element (5) which can be passed through the seats (4) of a number of pedicle screws (3) having offset seat axes (6a, 6b, 6c) and be anchored.... Agent: Jacobson Holman PLLC

20070016195 - Inter-cervical facet implant with implantation tool: Systems and method in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention can include an implant for positioning within a cervical facet joint for distracting the cervical spine, thereby increasing the area of the canals and openings through which the spinal cord and nerves must pass, and decreasing pressure on... Agent: Fliesler Meyer, LLP

20070016196 - Inter-cervical facet implant with implantation tool: Systems and method in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention can include an implant for positioning within a cervical facet joint for distracting the cervical spine, thereby increasing the area of the canals and openings through which the spinal cord and nerves must pass, and decreasing pressure on... Agent: Fliesler Meyer, LLP

20070016191 - Method and apparatus for spinal stabilization: A method and apparatus of limiting at least one degree of movement between a superior vertebrae and an inferior vertebrae of a patient includes advancing a distal end of a stabilization device into a pedicle of the inferior vertebrae. A proximal portion of the stabilization device is positioned such that... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070016189 - Orthopedic clamping hook assembly: An occipital clamping hook assembly includes a hook for engaging a first side of an occipital bone and a compressor movable relative to the hook for applying a compressive force to the occipital bone from a second side of the occipital bone. The occipital clamping assembly further includes a rod-receiving... Agent: Lahive & Cockfield, LLP

20070016192 - Polyaxial surgical rod fixation assembly: Provided is a surgical rod fixation assembly having a pedicle screw for insertion into spinal bone of a subject, the pedicle screw having a polyaxial mounted coupling member for driving the pedicle screw into bone on or off axis and coupling the pedicle screw to an orthopaedic device such as... Agent: Manelli Denison & Selter

20070016198 - Systems, methods and devices for placement of bone anchors and connectors: A device and method for use in spinal surgery are provided.... Agent: Carr LLP (ist)

20070016199 - Systems, methods and tools for spinal surgery: A device and method for use in spinal surgery are provided.... Agent: Carr LLP (ist)

20070016202 - Intramedullar distraction device with user actuated distraction: Presented herein is an intramedullar distraction device for bone elongation that is completely mechanical in operation, wherein a novel rotating button system allows inverting the device ratchet movement, thereby enabling the reduction of the length of the device, if needed, in order to offer the surgeon operating flexibility before finally... Agent: Fleit Kain Gibbons Gutman Bongini & Bianco

20070016203 - Intramedullary nail: The invention relates to an intramedullary nail (1) having a proximal half (2), a distal half (3) adapted for insertion into the medullary canal, and a central axis (4), whereby the distal half (3) includes three transverse bores (5, 6, 7) suitable for receiving locking screws (10). The distal half... Agent: Jones Day

20070016205 - Bone plate: A bone plate (1) having an upper side (2), a bone-sided lower side (3), a first end (11), a second end (12) and several plate holes (4) arranged between the two ends (11, 12) and connecting the upper side (2) to the lower side (3), the plate holes being provided... Agent: Jones Day

20070016206 - Cervical plate: Screw back out prevention devices to inhibit screws from reverse threading or backing out are provided. The devices include first bonding materials on either a bushing in a bore of a plate or directly on the bore and second bonding materials on the screw head. The bonding materials for a... Agent: Holland & Hart, LLP

20070016204 - Spinal buttress device and method: A spinal buttress device for installation to the anterior of the spinal column. The device has a pair of opposed ends located adjacent the anterior of adjacent vertebrae with a flexible region therebetween. Either one or both of the ends of the device can be affixed to adjacent vertebrae or... Agent: Gibbons, Del Deo, Dolan, Griffinger & Vecchione

20070016208 - Method and apparatus for internal fixation of an acromioclavicular joint dislocation of the shoulder: An apparatus and method for surgically reducing and internally fixing a shoulder acromioclavicular joint dislocation are disclosed. The apparatus preferably comprises a button and a washer, the washer being flexibly secured to the coracoid process of the scapula by means of a bone screw, the button and washer being secured... Agent: Dickstein Shapiro LLP

20070016207 - Skull pin apparatus: A skull pin for use in a halo type skull fixation device is disclosed for maintaining a patient's skull in a predetermined position. The skull pin has an elongated substantially cylindrical pin body that includes a threaded portion and a distal end portion aligned along a central axis, and a... Agent: Greenberg Traurig LLP

20070016210 - Device and method for use to create multiple bone grafts for use in fusion: The inventors provide a device and method for use to obtain multiple bone grafts using a technically easy, one-step method is provided. The primary site(s) for harvesting these bone grafts, as described herein, is the spinous process. However, any donor site to provide bone graft for any recipient fusion site... Agent: Frank H. Boehm, Jr., Md

20070016209 - Method and apparatus for performing an open wedge, high tibial osteotomy: Apparatus for performing an open wedge, high tibial osteotomy, the apparatus comprising: cutting apparatus for forming an osteotomy cut in the tibia, the cutting apparatus comprising: targeting apparatus for identifying a cutting plane through the tibia and a boundary line for terminating a cut made along the cutting plane, wherein... Agent: Pandiscio & Pandiscio, P.C.

20070016212 - Chip breakers for orthopaedic reamers: An orthopaedic reamer, including a generally hemispherical shell rotatable about an axis having a plurality of tongues. Each tongue partially defines a corresponding C-shaped opening with a substantially constant width. Each tongue includes a cutting segment. The cutting segment includes at least one notch and a plurality of cutting teeth.... Agent: Taylor & Aust, P.C.

20070016211 - Expandable surgical reaming tool: An expanding reamer for reaming or cutting a concave surface, for example, for reaming an acetabulum in preparation for implanting a prosthetic component during a hip arthroplasty. A rotating shaft cooperates with a surgical drill or other power source at one end and rotates a reamer head at the other... Agent: Pedersen & Company, PLLC

20070016213 - Instrument system for preparing a disc space between adjacent vertebral bodies to receive a repair device: An instrument system for preparing a disc space between adjacent vertebral bodies to receive a repair device includes a series of distractors for distracting the vertebral bodies in a manner that restores natural lordosis of the lumbar and cervical spine, a vertebrae immobilizing template to fix the positions of the... Agent: Todd Dawson Vp Of Legal Affairs, Zimmer Inc.

20070016214 - Tool to direct bone graft: A tool for directing bone replacement material under pressure comprising an elongated hollow tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis; the distal end including at least one opening having a deflection structure configured to deflect the bone replacement material out of the tube at an... Agent: Patterson, Thuente, Skaar & Christensen, P.A.

20070016215 - Method and device for bringing a powder and a liquid component, preferably polymer and monomer, in contact with each other for mixing thereof, preferably to form bone cement: The present invention relates to a method for bringing a powder and a liquid component, preferably polymer and monomer, in contact with each other for mixing thereof, preferably to form bone cement, wherein the powder component (P) is placed in a mixing container (1) in which the mixing shall occur... Agent: Tarolli, Sundheim, Covell & Tummino L.L.P.

20070016216 - Delivery system having a nozzle with an adjustable spacer and method of use thereof for improving line-of-sight during a medical procedure and pressurizer for improving line-of-sight during a medical procedure: The present invention provides a delivery system for use with a pressurizer to deliver a flowable material such as bone cement into an anatomical site under pressure. The delivery system includes a cartridge for holding the bone cement. A nozzle is mounted to the cartridge to convey the bone cement... Agent: Howard & Howard Attorneys, P.C.

20070016221 - Insertion instrument for an intervertebral implant: In an insertion instrument for a three-piece intervertebral implant that includes an upper part that can be placed against a vertebra, a lower part that can be placed against the adjacent vertebra, and a pivot element that can be inserted between these two parts, the instrument having two arms, disposed... Agent: Stites & Harbison PLLC

20070016217 - Instrumentation and methods for inserting an intervertebral disc prosthesis: Embodiments of instrumentation and methods are provided for the insertion of intervertebral disc prosthesis. The instrumentation of the embodiments comprises a guide comprising at least two lateral faces, at least one upper plate, at least one lower plate, at least one retainer, a cage defining an insertion axis for the... Agent: J. Scott Denko

20070016218 - Inter-cervical facet implant with implantation tool: Systems and method in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention can include an implant for positioning within a cervical facet joint for distracting the cervical spine, thereby increasing the area of the canals and openings through which the spinal cord and nerves must pass, and decreasing pressure on... Agent: Fliesler Meyer, LLP

20070016220 - Method for using dynamic lordotic guard: A lordotic guard and method for guiding a bone removal device to form an implantation space in the human spine and, if desired, for inserting a spinal implant into the implantation space.... Agent: Martin & Ferraro, LLP

20070016219 - Vertebral marker devices and installation methods: A cannulated marker device for use in a spinal fixation procedure, particularly for insertion of pedicle screws, is disclosed. The marker device is configured to be inserted over a guide wire or directly with an insertion device into the spinal bone at a desired location, and left in place without... Agent: Castellano Malm PLLC

20070016222 - Handpiece tip assembly: A tip assembly for a liquefaction surgical handpiece having a break-away or frangible tip protector. The tip protector protects the delicate tip from damage during handling and shipment, but is easily removed prior to use.... Agent: Alcon

20070016223 - Apparatus and methods for shielding body structures during surgery: An apparatus for shielding a body structure during surgical procedures which is configured for insertion into the internal passage of a support structure, and includes an elongated body portion comprising a distal tip portion configured to cover the body structure without substantially displacing the body structure. The apparatus also comprises... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070016224 - Endoscope cutting and retrieving snare instrument: An endoscopic cutting and retrieval instrument includes an elongate electrically conductive wire and an inner loop and an outer loop both connected to a distal end of the wire. The inner loop and the outer loop have a common proximal loop portion and different distal loop portions. The distal loop... Agent: Coleman Sudol Sapone, P.C.

20070016225 - Endoscope retrieval instrument assembly: A medical instrument includes an elongate tubular introducer member, an elongate slider member disposed at least partially inside the tubular member, a loop provided at a distal end of the slider member, a pouch connected to the loop so that the loop defines a mouth opening of the pouch and... Agent: Coleman Sudol Sapone, P.C.

20070016226 - Implanter: An apparatus for implanting a marker in an animal is provided, which comprises a cannula having a sharp distal end and a proximal end, a housing comprising an aperture through which adhesive can be inserted into an adhesive receiving space, and a pushrod, wherein the cannula and the housing are... Agent: Stroock & Stroock & Lavan LLP

20070016227 - Ventral hernia repair method: A method of repairing a patient's ventral hernia involves the steps of joining the patient's left and right rectus sheaths on opposite sides of the hernia, thereby closing the hernia, and cutting through the joined sheaths thereby forming one sheath interior containing the left and right rectus muscles. Next, a... Agent: Thompson Coburn, LLP

20070016228 - Surgical clip applicator and apparatus including the same: Apparatus and methods for delivering a surgical clip to a patient during a minimally invasive surgical procedure.... Agent: Henricks Slavin And Holmes LLP Suite 200

20070016230 - Gastric band: A gastric band includes a balloon shaped and dimensioned to circumscribe the stomach at a predetermined location. The balloon includes a longitudinally extending body and a supply tube is secured to the balloon for fluid communication with an internal cavity of the balloon.... Agent: Welsh & Flaxman LLC

20070016229 - Gastric band suture tab extender: A removable suture tab extender for a gastric band is shaped and dimensioned for selective attachment to a first end of the gastric band, the gastric band including a latching mechanism composed of a first latching member positioned at the first end of the gastric band and a second latching... Agent: Welsh & Flaxman LLC

20070016231 - Precurved gastric band: A low pressure, high volume gastric band includes a balloon shaped and dimensioned to circumscribe the stomach at a predetermined location and a belt extending about the balloon. The gastric band is precurved extend about the stomach and the balloon exhibits 360 degree coverage about the stomach.... Agent: Welsh & Flaxman LLC

20070016232 - Medical devices with cutting elements: Medical devices having one or more cutting elements are disclosed. In some embodiments, a medical device includes an elongated catheter configured to be inserted into a body, and a cutting element carried by the catheter. The cutting element has an alloy including from about 12% to about 16% by weight... Agent: Fish & Richardson PC

20070016233 - Vasoocclusive device for treatment of aneurysms: The three-dimensional device is adapted to be inserted into a portion of a vasculature for occluding the portion of the vasculature for use in interventional therapy and vascular surgery. The device is formed from a multi-stranded micro-cable having a plurality of flexible strands of a shape memory material and at... Agent: Fulwider Patton

20070016234 - Device for cutting the cornea of an eye: The invention relates to a device for cutting the cornea of an eye to correct the refractive power thereof, having a frame that comprises a fixation ring, which may be drawn onto the eye, as well as a receptacle, which may be coaxially displaced relative to the fixation ring and... Agent: William Collard Collard & Roe, P.C.

20070016236 - Balanced ultrasonic curved blade: Methods and devices that provide reduced transverse motion in a curved ultrasonic blade and/or ultrasonic surgical instrument with functional asymmetries. An ultrasonic blade in accordance with embodiments of the present invention includes a curved functional portion of an ultrasonic blade, wherein the center of mass of the curved functional portion... Agent: James C. Eaves Jr. Greenebaum Doll & Mcdonald PLLC

20070016235 - Ultrasonic surgical apparatus and method of driving ultrasonic treatment device: An ultrasonic surgical apparatus comprises an ultrasonic transducer for generating vibration in response to a drive signal to be given, and a treatment device having a probe to which the vibration is transferred from the ultrasonic transducer to effect treatment with the vibration. This device further comprises a signal generator... Agent: Ostrolenk Faber Gerb & Soffen

20070016237 - Trocar assembly with rotatable obturator housing: A trocar system includes a cannula having a cannula housing and a cannula sleeve extending from the cannula housing, and an obturator at least partially positionable within the cannula. The obturator includes an obturator housing adapted for mating with the cannula housing, an obturator shaft connected to the obturator housing... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070016238 - Surgical sagittal saw with quick release indexing head and low blade-slap coupling assembly: A surgical sagittal saw with a head that is able to index, rotate, relative to the longitudinal axis of the saw housing. The head has a neck that extends into an open distal end of the housing. A biasing assembly holds the head and neck sub-assembly in the open distal... Agent: Intel. Prop./ Rnd Stryker Corporation

20070016239 - Lancing device, method of making lancing device, pump mechanism, and sucking device: A lancing device according to the present invention includes: a housing; a moving body movable relatively to the housing for forward movement of a needle; a driving mechanism for forward movement of the moving body; a hollow pressing portion at a front end of the housing for contact with a... Agent: Hamre, Schumann, Mueller & Larson, P.C.

20070016241 - Balloon catheter: A catheter arrangement is described that is arranged to permit a guide wire or other structure to be fed laterally from the region of an expandable working element. The catheter includes an elongate flexible tubular member and an inflatable structure carried by a distal portion of the flexible tubular member.... Agent: Beyer Weaver & Thomas, LLP

20070016240 - Method of reducing rigidity of angioplasty balloon sections: A dilatation balloon is fabricated according to a process that forms cavities and indentations in the balloon and/or catheter sections. A length of tubing is axially elongated and radially expanded in a form to provide the requisite biaxial orientation and strength. Then, an excimer laser or another type of laser... Agent: Baker Botts, L.L.P.

20070016243 - Non-occlusive, retrievable dilation system: A device for dilating either a vessel within a body or a structure positioned within the vessel is designed so that it does not occlude or substantially hinder the flow of blood through the vessel, thereby decreasing the windsock effect in blood vessels by maintaining fluid flow through the device... Agent: Squire Sanders & Dempsey LLP

20070016242 - Percutaneous device with multiple expandable struts: A percutaneous device including a body including a plurality of deformable struts, each strut having a length and a width, the length of the strut extending along an axial length of the body and the width of the strut extending about a perimeter of the body, each strut being outwardly... Agent: Dekel Patent Ltd., David Klein

20070016245 - Embolic protection device with a filter bag that disengages from a basket: An embolic protection device includes a basket defined by a section of a set of wires arranged as a plurality of struts. These struts are coupled together at the distal end of the basket in a manner to define an opening at the distal end through which a core wire... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070016246 - Embolic protection device with an integral basket and bag: An embolic protection device includes a basket defined by a section of a set of wires arranged as a plurality of struts. These struts are coupled together at their distal ends as well as to the distal end of a core wire or mandrel. Another section of the wires spirals... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070016247 - Hydraulic controlled retractable tip filter retrieval catheter: Distal protection filter retrieval devices and methods of retrieving a distal protection filter. A filter retrieval catheter may comprise an inner tube, an outer tube disposed over the inner tube, an annular lumen disposed between the inner tube and the outer tube, and a tapered member coupled to the lumen.... Agent: Crompton, Seager & Tufte, LLC

20070016244 - Methods and apparatus for deploying ureteral stents: A ureteral decompression device comprises a guide member and an anchoring structure. The guide member may be introduced through the urethra and bladder into the ureter so that the anchor structure passes a lodged kidney stone. Once past the stone, the anchor structure can be compacted to anchor the guide... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070016248 - Medical gripping and/or cutting instrument: The invention relates to a medical gripping and/or cutting instrument with a shaft having on its distal end a tool consisting of at least two jaw members and on its proximal end a handle consisting of at least two gripping members. For opening and closing, at least one jaw member... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20070016249 - Suture device: Forceps have handles for manipulating two jaws connected to one another at a hinge point. Extending from the hinge point is the first section serving as a suture grasper. Following the first section is a second section forming a suture passer. When closed, the jaws of the first section come... Agent: Christopher J. Mcdonald Hoffman, Wasson & Gitler P.C.

20070016250 - Closure devices, related delivery methods, 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... Agent: Fish & NeaveIPGroup Ropes & Gray LLP

20070016251 - Monofilament sutures made from a composition containing ultra high molecular weight polyethylene: The present disclosure provides surgical sutures made from a composition including an ultra high molecular weight polyethylene. Methods for producing such sutures and uses thereof are also provided.... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070016252 - Primary dental eruption teether: A teether is provided for a baby which includes a physiologically acceptable deformable polymeric composition which conforms to the shape of the teeth and gums of a baby during use. The deformed teether retains its deformed shape after use by the baby.... Agent: Paul J. Cook

20070016253 - Primary dental teether: A teether is provided for a baby which includes a physiologically acceptable preformed polymeric composition which is preformed to the shape of the teeth and gums of a teething baby. The teether retains its preformed shape after use by the baby.... Agent: Paul J. Cook

20070010800 - Medical device control system: A control system for allowing a physician to control the orientation of a medical device or a medical instrument in a variety of directions with one hand. An actuator selectively tensions one or more control cables having ends secured at or adjacent a distal tip of the medical device in... Agent: Christensen, O'connor, Johnson, Kindness, PLLC

20070010801 - Medical device control system: A control system for allowing a user to control the orientation of a medical device or a medical instrument in a variety of directions. An actuator selectively tensions one or more control cables having ends secured at or adjacent a distal tip of the medical device in order to bend... Agent: Christensen, O'connor, Johnson, Kindness, PLLC

20070010802 - Surgical instrument: The present invention relates to an instrument such as a surgical instrument including an insert bearing an identification code of the surgical instrument, arranged in a closed cavity in the surgical instrument.... Agent: Leydig Voit & Mayer, Ltd

20070010803 - Laser machining: The invention relates to an adapter for coupling a laser treatment device to an object for treatment, whereby the adapter has an input side, which may be fixed relative to the laser treatment device, by a locking mechanism and which may be fixed to the object, for alignment of the... Agent: Patterson, Thuente, Skaar & Christensen, P.A.

20070010804 - Ophthalmologic device for breaking down eye tissue: An ophthalmological apparatus (1) comprises a base station (11) having a light source (51) for generating light pulses, and an application head (3) which can be mounted on an eye (2) having a light projector (58) for the focussed projection of the light pulses for punctiform breakdown of eye tissue... Agent: Oliff & Berridge, PLC

20070010806 - Energy based devices and methods for treatment of patent foramen ovale: Methods and apparatus for treatment of patent foramen ovale (PFO) provide for applying energy to tissues adjacent the PFO with a catheter device to substantially close the PFO acutely. Apparatus generally includes a catheter device having at least one energy transmission member at or near its distal end configured to... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070010805 - Method and apparatus for the treatment of tissue: A method and apparatus is disclosed for determining the success of a proposed HIFU Treatment, of an ongoing HIFU Treatment, and/or of a completed HIFU Treatment. An energy density of a given HIFU Treatment may be used as a comparison factor between the given HIFU Treatment and other HIFU Treatments... Agent: Baker & Daniels LLP

20070010807 - Apparatus and methods for modulating the size of an implantable sling: The invention provides methods and devices for modulating the size of an implantable sling.... Agent: Fish & NeaveIPGroup Ropes & Gray LLP

20070010811 - energy delivery device for treating tissue: An electrode assembly adapted to be coupled with a handpiece and powered to treat skin and underlying tissues. A sensor is coupled to the energy delivery device. The sensor may comprise, for example, a force sensor or a thermal sensor.... Agent: Wood, Herron & Evans, LLP

20070010810 - Ablation and micro-needles: A device permits effective engagement of micro-needles with a cutaneous layer thereby to permit for a substance to pass effectively to the cutaneous layer. A flexible or non-flexible material supports an array of micro-needles for receiving the surface of the cutaneous layer so that the proximal ends of the micro-needles... Agent: Greenberg Traurig LLP

20070010808 - Fuse-electrode electrosurgical apparatus: An electrosurgical apparatus for performing a surgical procedure on a target site, comprising a shaft having a distal end portion, the distal end portion comprising an active electrode including a fuse leg, the fuse leg adapted to break and disable the instrument upon applying a voltage differential between the active... Agent: Arthrocare Corporation

20070010809 - Methods and apparatus for treating back pain: Apparatus and methods for treating back pain of a patient by denervation of an intervertebral disc or a region of the posterior longitudinal ligament by the controlled application of heat to a target tissue. In one embodiment, the invention may include a procedure combining both decompression of a disc, and... Agent: Arthrocare Corporation

20070010812 - Electrosurgical devices and methods for selective cutting of tissue: Methods and devices for cutting or coagulating. A device comprises a) an elongate member having a distal end, b) at least one foot member extending from the distal end of the elongate member, said foot member having a upper surface and a lower surface, c) an electrically and thermally insulating... Agent: Robert D Buyan Stout Uxa Buyan & Mullins

20070010813 - Interspinous process implant having deployable wing and method of implantation: 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: Fliesler Meyer, LLP

20070010814 - Device for extending bones: A device for extending bones, comprising two elements that can be displaced in relation to one another and that are interconnected by at least one drive element. When the two elements are displaced axially in relation to one another, they are guided in a manner that prevents relative radial torsion.... Agent: Bachman & Lapointe, P.C.

20070010815 - Fixation systems with modulated stiffness: The invention provides a fixation device for implantation in a patient to provide support to a body component. The fixation device includes an outer construct forming a pocket and a slurry disposed in the pocket. The slurry is comprised of magnetic particles. The slurry is responsive to an electric field... Agent: Hunton & Williams LLP Intellectual Property Department

20070010817 - Multi-axial bone plate system: An orthopedic bone plate system having a bone plate for placement adjacent one or more vertebral bodies. The system further includes a locking element including a compression member and a fixation member wherein the compression member includes an aperture and at least one deformable portion. A bone fastener is also... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20070010816 - Tool driver, coupler and associated method: A tool driver for use in orthopaedics to install an implant into bone with a power source is provided. The tool driver includes an expandable connector cooperable with the implant for holding the implant to the expandable connector. The tool driver also includes a drive connector for connecting the tool... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070010818 - Surgical system for joints: A surgical kit including a surgical guide system for drilling bones at a joint, a surgical implant for attachment to the bones at the joint, and a surgical implant for attachment to the bones at the joint.... Agent: Mcandrews Held & Malloy, Ltd

20070010819 - Bone fixing device and method for distracting a fracture and jig and method for insertion of a bone fixing device: A bone fixing device and a method of distracting a fracture are described. The bone fixing device has threads at both a leading end and a trailing end, and the pitch of the threads are greater at the trailing end. This causes the leading end of the bone fixing device... Agent: Gregory J. Lavorgna Drinker Biddle & Reath

20070010820 - Medical fixation devices with improved torsional drive head: The present invention provides a fixation device that includes an elongate shank defining a longitudinal axis and having at least one engaging member for applying the fixation device within tissue and securing the fixation device in the tissue once implanted formed thereon, and a drive head having a proximal end,... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070010821 - Screwdriver, kit and associated method: A screwdriver for use in orthopaedics to install a screw into bone with a power tool is provided. The screwdriver includes an expandable connector cooperable with the screw for holding the screw to the expandable connector. The screwdriver also includes a drive connector for connecting the screwdriver to the power... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070010822 - Bone removal tool: A bone preparation device for preparing a bone surface for receiving an implant.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070010823 - Arthroscopic shaver system: A system for providing aspiration and irrigation during a medical procedure with an arthroscopic shaver.... Agent: Crockett & Crockett Suite 400

20070010824 - Products, systems and methods for delivering material to bone and other internal body parts: Disclosed are products, systems, and methods for delivering a material to an internal body part such as bone. In one variation, the product comprises a segmented plunger having a plurality of segments, where the plurality of cylindrical segments are sized for urging a material through an access member to thereby... Agent: Kilpatrick Stockton LLP - 55461

20070010825 - Acetabular liner extraction device, kit and associated method: An extraction device for removing a liner from an acetabular cup is provided. The extraction device includes a jaw and a handle. The jaw is for cooperation with the liner and including a portion of the jaw for penetrating into the liner. The handle is operably associated with the jaw... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070010826 - Posterior prosthetic spinal disc replacement and methods thereof: The present invention relates generally to a prosthetic spinal disc for replacing a damaged disc between two vertebrae of a spine. The present invention also relates to a method for implanting a prosthetic spinal disc via posterior or posterior lateral implantation. Other surgical approaches for implanting the prosthetic disc may... Agent: Castellano Malm PLLC

20070010827 - Glaucoma stent system: Surgical methods and related medical devices for treating glaucoma are disclosed. The method comprises trabecular bypass surgery, which involves bypassing diseased trabecular meshwork with the use of a stent implant. The stent implant is inserted into an opening created in the trabecular meshwork by a piercing member that is slidably... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070010828 - Material for mechanical skin resurfacing techniques: An article such as a disposable pad suitable for transferring mechanical energy from a handheld device to skin placed in contact with the article. The article has properties to reliably transfer mechanical energy to the skin, including one or more of Abrasiveness, Compressibility, Displacement, and Surface Roughness.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070010829 - Method and apparatus for applying a knot to a suture: A knot placement device allows a physician to apply a knot for securing two or more suture ends extending from an incision in a vessel or organ of a patient relative to each other in order to seal an opening in the vessel or organ. The knot placement device has... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070010830 - Systems, devices, and methods for minimally invasive pelvic surgery: The invention, in various embodiments, provides systems, devices, and methods for treating urinary incontinence.... Agent: Fish & NeaveIPGroup Ropes & Gray LLP

20070010831 - Biomimetic biosynthetic nerve implant: A biomimetic biosynthetic nerve implant (BNI) that uses a hydrogel-based, transparent, multi-channel matrix as a 3-D substrate for nerve repair is disclosed. Novel scaffold-casting devices were designed for reproducible fabrication of grafts containing several micro-conduits, and further tested in vivo using a sciatic nerve animal model and repair of the... Agent: Vinson & Elkins, L.L.P.

20070010834 - Components, systems and methods for forming anastomoses using magnetism or other coupling means: Anastomotic components may be attached to hollow bodies or vessels by magnetic or mechanical force to create an anastomosis, form a port in a vessel, or repair a diseased vessel lumen. Anastomoses are created by coupling a first connection to an end of a vessel and then attracting it to... Agent: James R. Keogh Medtronic, Inc

20070010836 - Endoscopic fundoplication devices and methods for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: Endoscopic devices and methods used for fastening multiple tissue layers, such as, for example, an endoscopic fundoplication procedure, are disclosed. The endoluminal device includes a tissue fastener, a flexible needle having means for grasping and releasing a portion of the tissue fastener, and a deflector for deflecting and guiding the... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20070010835 - Eversion apparatus and methods: Surgical eversion apparatus for preparing a conduit for anastomosis in a human patient comprises an everting member having a loop shaped portion adapted to be inserted into an end portion of a conduit harvested from a human patient and configured to fold a portion of the conduit end portion over... Agent: James R. Keogh Medtronic, Inc.

20070010832 - Method and apparatus for radical prostatectomy anastomosis including an anchor for engaging a body vessel and deployable sutures: A radical prostatectomy anastomosis device including a cartridge having a plurality of anchors (174) slidably disposed in a plurality of distally angled radial channels formed in the cartridge and a pusher assembly operatively coupled within the cartridge. The pusher assembly being configured and adapted to push each of the plurality... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070010833 - Method for interconnecting hollow bodies: An apparatus constructed from a super elastic material and having magnetic properties is provided for joining together at least two hollow bodies. The apparatus comprises a frame having at least one magnet mounted to an end thereof. The frame is substantially tubular and is preferably constructed from super elastic materials... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070010837 - Magnetic frame for connecting hollow bodies: An apparatus constructed from a super elastic material and having magnetic properties is provided for joining together at least two hollow bodies. The apparatus comprises a frame having at least one magnet mounted to an end thereof. The frame is substantially tubular and is preferably constructed from super elastic materials... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070010838 - Surgical stapling instrument having a firing lockout for an unclosed anvil: A surgical instrument for laparoscopic and endoscopic clinical procedures simultaneously severs and staples tissue clamped in an end effector comprising an elongate channel, which holds a staple cartridge, and a pivotally attached anvil. An E-beam firing bar engages the channel and selectively engages the anvil during distal firing movements, wherein... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070010839 - Load-controlled device for a patterned skin incision of constant depth: A skin incision device has a casing with a bottom surface and a slot formed therein, a cover positioned on the casing and slidable in a direction toward the bottom surface, a blade positioned in the casing adjacent the slot, an actuator cooperative to a position between the cover and... Agent: Egbert Law Offices

20070010840 - Methods and devices for cutting tissue at a vascular location: A tissue cutting device includes a sizing element which detects the diameter of the vessel in which the cutting device is positioned. The sizing element is coupled to the cutting element so that the amount of the cutting element that is exposed varies in response to movement of the sizing... Agent: Hoekendijk & Lynch, LLP

20070010841 - Lancet assembly: The present invention provides a lancet assembly comprising an internal housing, an external housing and a slider unit. The internal housing comprises an internal shaft configured to receive a sharp carrier of the slider unit. The sharp carrier comprises a shoulder that engages a lever arm of the shaft. When... Agent: Lawrence Y.d. Ho & Associates Pte Ltd

20070010843 - Medical apparatus with cannula and releasable handle assembly for accessing remote anatomical sites: A medical apparatus (29) for accessing a remote anatomical site is provided. The medical apparatus (29) includes a handle assembly (33) for releasably retaining a cannula (31). The handle assembly (33) includes a collar (40) slidable along a body portion (37) between a lock position for holding catches (36) on... Agent: Howard & Howard Attorneys, P.C.

20070010842 - Safety trocar obturator: A trocar obturator for minimal invasive surgery (see FIG. 34) comprising: an apex knife adapted to carrying out an initial incision in a body cavity wall and a knife protecting shield movable between retracted and extended-protecting positions during patient's tissue penetrating. There is a means for locking the shield in... Agent: Daniel J Swirsky

20070010845 - Directionally controlled expandable device and methods for use: Systems and methods for directionally controlling expansion of an expandable device are described. One such device includes an expandable body comprising a first wall portion and a second wall portion. The first wall portion comprises a high elasticity material. The second wall portion comprises a material having an elasticity lower... Agent: Kilpatrick Stockton LLP - 55461

20070010846 - Method of manufacturing an expandable member with substantially uniform profile: A method includes heating a first portion of a tubular member to a first temperature greater than a temperature of a second portion of the tubular member. The first portion of the tubular member is different from the second portion of the tubular member. The tubular member is stretched after... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20070010844 - Radiopaque expandable body and methods: Systems and methods for radioscopic visualization of the positioning of an expandable body in an interior body region are described. One such system includes a radiopaque marking pattern in communication with the expandable body. The radiopaque marking pattern can be configured to allow for visualizing radioscopically the orientation and movement... Agent: J. Michael Boggs Kilpatrick Stockton LLP

20070010847 - Balloon dilation catheter having transition from coaxial lumens to non-coaxial multiple lumens: A shaft for a balloon dilation catheter comprises a proximal portion wherein a guidewire tubular member is disposed coaxially within an outer tubular member. Connected thereto is a shaft transitional portion, wherein the guidewire member is disposed within the outer member, as is at least one distal tubular member not... Agent: Howison & Arnott, L.l.p

20070010848 - Systems and methods for providing cavities in interior body regions: Systems and methods for providing a cavity in an interior body region are described. In one described method, a spring disposed between a first plate and a second plate is compressed. The compressed spring is inserted into a cannula comprising a cannula distal end. The spring is decompressed, at least... Agent: Kilpatrick Stockton LLP

20070010849 - Embolic coil delivery system with spring wire release mechanism: A medical device for placing an embolic device 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 retained within the delivery catheter by a mechanical interlocking mechanism which... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070010850 - Stretch resistant embolic coil delivery system with mechanical release mechanism: A medical device for placing an embolic device 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 retained within the delivery catheter by a mechanical interlocking mechanism which... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070010853 - Apparatus and methods for positioning a vascular sheath: An apparatus for positioning an introducer sheath includes a sheath having a distal end including first and second ports, the second port being located distally from the first port. An obturator is slidable within the sheath that includes a distal region that sealingly engages an interior surface of the sheath.... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20070010852 - Closure devices, related delivery methods, 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... Agent: Fish & NeaveIPGroup Ropes & Gray LLP

20070010851 - Tubular patent foramen ovale (pfo) closure device with catch system: The present invention provides a device for occluding an anatomical aperture, such as an atrial septal defect (ASD) or a patent foramen ovale (PFO). The occluder includes two sides connected by a central tube. The occluder is formed from a tube, which is cut to produce struts in each side.... Agent: Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale And Dorr LLP

20070010854 - Surgical staple: A generally U-shaped surgical staple comprises a base 10 and a pair of generally “L”-shaped legs 12 extending substantially perpendicularly from opposite ends of the base respectively. The legs 12 in use of the staple are bent through approximately 90° relative to the base. To effect a greater compression of... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070010855 - Facial lifting needle and method thereof: The present invention concerns a facial lifting needle having a horizontal solid surgical steel needle with two tips at each end of the needle. Both tips have single bevel (one bevel). An opening is located at 6 mm distal from one of the tips. The opening is configured to deliver... Agent: Defillo & Associates, Inc.

20070010856 - Antimicrobial sutures and methods of making them: Multifilament sutures are prepared by permeating the suture with an antimicrobial solution and applying an antimicrobial coating to the suture.... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070010857 - Tissue anchor, anchoring system and methods of using the same: A tissue anchor includes an anchor member formed from a generally flexible material. An activation member, which may be a tensioning member, causes proximal and distal end portions of the anchor member to move toward each other into a shortened configuration suitable for anchoring against the tissue. The tissue anchor... Agent: Wood, Herron & Evans, LLP

20070005045 - Indicator for tool state and communication in multi-arm robotic telesurgery: Medical and/or robotic devices, systems and methods can provide an indicator associated with each manipulator assembly of a multi-arm telerobotic or telesurgical system. The exemplary indicator comprises a multi-color light emitting diode (LED) mounted to a manipulator moving an associated surgical instrument, allowing the indicator to display any of a... Agent: Patent Dept Intuitive Surgical, Inc

20070005046 - Methods and apparatus for presbyopia correction using ultraviolet and infrared lasers: Presbyopia is treated by a system using various lasers to remove a portion of the scleral tissue and increase the accommodation of the presbyopic patient's eye. Stable accommodation is achieved by the filling of the sub-conjunctiva tissue to the laser-ablated scleral areas. The proposed laser wavelength ranges from ultraviolet to... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070005047 - Hair modification using converging light: Embodiments of methods and systems for hair treatment are disclosed. According to various embodiments, light is used to shave, trim, or otherwise modify hair shafts.... Agent: Searete LLC

20070005048 - Method and apparatus for cryogenically treating lesions on biological tissue: The invention relates to a method, a cryosurgical probe, and a cryosurgical instrument for freezing a lesion on biological tissue. The method involves repeated cycles of freezing and thawing of the tissue to ensure maximum treatment effectiveness. The cryosurgical probe may be positioned on an end of a cryosurgical instrument,... Agent: Nixon Peabody, LLP

20070005049 - Apparatus and method of treating urinary incontinence by heating urethra: A method for treating urinary in continence, especially in women, is provided. The method involves reshaping the urethral lumen to improve coaptation, attenuating or dissipating stress-induced pressure pulses in the urethral lumen, of both. An apparatus and a system useful in the method are also provided.... Agent: Ams Research Corporation

20070005051 - Ablation catheter with adjustable virtual electrode: An ablation catheter has a virtual electrode tip including a fluid manifold structure for operably varying the active area of the virtual electrode. An array of apertures in the distal end of the catheter form the virtual electrode structure. A movable plug slides within the fluid manifold and seals against... Agent: Heimbecher & Assoc., LLC

20070005053 - Ablation catheter with contoured openings in insulated electrodes: An array of ring electrodes or a wire electrode is mounted about the outside surface of the distal end of the ablation catheter. Substantially all of the outer surface of each ring or wire electrode is covered by an electrically insulating coating. The insulating surface coating on each ring defines... Agent: Heimbecher & Assoc., LLC

20070005055 - Electrosurgical blade: An electrosurgical blade includes a conductive element that is surrounded by an insulation layer except at a conductor edge portion of the conductive element. The conductor edge portion and insulation layer each have unique geometric shapes and composition of the parts to reduce or eliminate the production of smoke and... Agent: Hansen Huang Technology Law Group, LLP

20070005057 - Electrosurgical blade with profile for minimizing tissue damage: An electrosurgical blade for use in electrosurgery includes a body having at least one conductive element that is surrounded by an insulation layer except at a conductor edge portion of the conductive element. The profile of the electrosurgical blade is configured to concentrate the flow of electrosurgical energy in a... Agent: Hansen Huang Technology Law Group, LLP

20070005054 - Electrosurgical instrument: An electrosurgical instrument is disclosed for simplifying making incisions and other treatments using electrosurgery. The electrosurgical instrument comprises a body having at least one conductive element that is surrounded by an insulation layer except at a conductor edge portion of the conductive element. The conductor edge portion and insulation layer... Agent: Hansen Huang Technology Law Group, LLP

20070005056 - Electrosurgical instrument with blade profile for reduced tissue damage: An electrosurgical instrument includes a body having at least one conductive element that is surrounded by an insulation layer except at a conductor edge portion of the conductive element. The profile of the electrosurgical instrument is configured to concentrate the flow of electrosurgical energy in a concentration region to facilitate... Agent: Hansen Huang Technology Law Group, LLP

20070005058 - Electrosurgical instrument with needle electrode: An electrosurgical instrument includes a conductive element in the form of a needle that is surrounded by an insulation layer except at a conductor tip portion of the conductive element. The conductor tip portion and insulation layer each have unique geometric shapes and composition of the parts to reduce or... Agent: Hansen Huang Technology Law Group, LLP

20070005059 - Electrosurgical needle electrode: An electrosurgical needle includes a body having at least one conductive element in the form of a needle that is surrounded by an insulation layer except at a conductor tip portion of the conductive element. The conductor tip portion and insulation layer each have unique geometric shapes and composition of... Agent: Hansen Huang Technology Law Group, LLP

20070005050 - Heat exchange catheter and method of use: An inlet flow of heat exchange fluid flows from an inflow housing inlet section, and through an inflow housing main section. It then flows through an inlet fluid passageway formed between an inner balloon and a discharge tube. The flow continues around a distal end of the inner balloon, thus... Agent: Lawrence N. Ginsberg

20070005060 - Method for conducting electrosurgery with increased crest factor: A method for conducting electrosurgery using increased crest factors employs an electrosurgical instrument having at least one conductive element that is surrounded by an insulation layer except at a conductor edge portion of the conductive element. The conductor edge portion and insulation layer each having unique geometric shapes and composition... Agent: Hansen Huang Technology Law Group, LLP

20070005052 - Treatment and diagnostic catheters with hydrogel electrodes: Straight and curved catheters for treatment or diagnoses of tissue, including cardiac tissue, using hydrogel virtual electrodes and hydrogel sensing electrodes are disclosed. Each catheter comprises at least one conductive hydrogel electrode, whether a virtual electrode or a sensing electrode. Hydrogel virtual electrodes may be used to deliver ablative energy... Agent: Heimbecher & Assoc., LLC

20070005061 - Transvaginal uterine artery occlusion: Uterine artery occlusion is performed for the treatment of uterine fibroid using a tool which is introduced through the vaginal wall to the exterior of the uterus. The tool carried clamping elements which may be positioned over the uterine artery. Electrodes or other energy applying devices on the clamping elements... Agent: Glenn Patent Group

20070005064 - Intervertebral prosthetic device for spinal stabilization and method of implanting same: A prosthetic device and a method for inserting same between adjacent vertebrae, according to which two connected members are provided, one of which is formed by a relatively flexible material and the other of which is formed by a relatively stiff material.... Agent: Haynes And Boone, LLP

20070005062 - Multi-directional spinal stabilization systems and methods: Systems and methods for multi-directional stabilization of a spinal column segment are provided. The systems include one or more motion preserving constructs that are engaged to adjacent vertebrae and extend trans-axially between the vertebrae obliquely to the central axis of the spinal column. The systems permit motion of at least... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070005063 - Multi-level multi-functional spinal stabilization systems and methods: Systems and methods for multi-level, multi-functional stabilization of a spinal column segment are provided. The systems include one or more constructs having a motion preserving portion that permits motion of at least a portion of a vertebral level and a motion preventing portion that substantially prevents motion of at least... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070005065 - Aiming arm hole shaped to perform an incision through, and method to use that same: A specially shaped hole in an aiming device which enables the surgeon to perform an incision through the aiming device transverse hole in a plane that contains nail hole axis. Incision is therefore important to prevent undesirable side pull stress over the drill guide inserted through the aiming device transverse... Agent: Jones Day

20070005066 - Modular nut plate: A modular nut plate includes a carrier configured for mounting the nut plate and fastener components selectably connectable to the carrier. Multiple nut plates can be linked together end to end.... Agent: Illinois Tool Works Inc.

20070005067 - Arthoscopic method and apparatus for tissue attachment to bone: Bone constructs of a patient are used to arthroscopically attach sutures to torn or dysfunctional tissue. Suture is passed through intersecting tunnels formed in the bone. An end of the suture extends from each of the tunnels, and the ends are used to secure the tissue to the bone, such... Agent: B. Craig Killough Barnwell Whaley Patterson & Helms, LLC

20070005068 - Knotless suture anchor: A suture anchor for securing a suture to a bone, comprising a tubular housing for disposition in a hole in a bone, the tubular housing being configured for selective expansion; and an expander for expanding the tubular housing; whereby when a suture is disposed between the tubular housing and a... Agent: Mark J. Pandiscio Pandiscio & Pandiscio, P.C.

20070005070 - Self-centering screw and retaining screw driver for use in surgery: The present invention relates to an orthopedic screw and a corresponding screw driver wherein the screw has a torque driving head with a rounded side a spherical wall for multiaxial use, a self starting, self tapping insertion tip and a threaded portion including a cancellous thread. The threaded portion has... Agent: Hudak, Shunk & Farine Co. Lpa

20070005069 - Suture anchor with improved torsional drive head: The present invention provides a suture anchor that includes an elongate shank defining a longitudinal axis and having at least one engaging member for applying the suture anchor within the bone and securing the suture anchor in the bone once implanted formed thereon, and a drive head having a proximal... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070005071 - System and method for locating resorbable tissue fixation devices: A system and method is disclosed for locating resorbable plastic tissue fixation devices during arthroscopic surgery through the use of fluorescence or phosphorescence.... Agent: Crockett & Crockett

20070005072 - Pedicle punch: A pedicle punch used to establish pilot holes in vertebra pedicles when deployed thereon during pedicle screw insertion processes comprising a proximal end, a distal end, a shaft, a lip, a radiation opaque center core, and a radiation translucent outer layer. The proximal end acts as a handle for the... Agent: Thomas A. O'rourke, Esq. Bodner & O' Rourke, LLP

20070005074 - Method of minimally invasive shoulder replacement surgery: The present invention provides a method and devices for shoulder replacement surgery that spares the rotator cuff. The method utilizes two anterosuperior passages to gain access to the glenohumeral joint, neither of which requires transaction of the rotator cuff. In addition a transhumeral portal created through the second anterosuperior passage... Agent: Gregory B. Beggs Law Offices Of Gregory B. Beggs

20070005073 - Multi-positionable cut guide: A multi-positionable cut guide including a bone attachment device, base, and guide member. Bone attachment device is adapted to be coupled to the bone and has a base receiving portion. Base includes a mounting portion slideably coupled to base receiving portion such that base is slideable relative to attachment device... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20070005075 - Telescoping plunger assembly: A bone filler mixing and delivery device includes a mixing section adapted to mix components to form bone filler. A syringe barrel is coupled to the mixing section and has an opening through which the bone filler can be dispensed. A controllable portal can be manipulated to open a flow... Agent: Fish & Richardson P.C.

20070005077 - Driver instrument for use in a surgical application: A surgical instrument for driving a threaded member into a substrate generally includes a drive shaft, a support member and a biasing member. The drive shaft includes a distal end portion configured for releasable engagement with the threaded member. The drive shaft is axially coupled with the support member in... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070005076 - Medical screwdrivers and methods: The invention provides a medical screwdriver having a sleeve that can be coupled to the medical screwdriver without the need to align the sleeve to the medical screwdriver. The medical screwdriver includes a body portion having a receiver, a drive shaft, a sleeve, and a coupling connecting the sleeve to... Agent: Ams Research Corporation

20070005078 - System for abrading skin to remove outer portions thereof: A system for abrading skin to remove outer portions thereof includes an apparatus having a skin abrading head with a head portion and a skin abrading brush. The outer head portion has a rim for placement in contact with the skin along with the bristles of the brush. Air flow... Agent: Thomas R. Lampe Bielen, Lampe & Thoeming

20070005079 - System, apparatus, and method for repairing septal defects: An apparatus and method for repairing septal defects includes advancing a catheter to the site of the defect, grasping opposing edges of the defect, passing one or more suture lines through the opposing edges, and tightening the suture lines. The catheter can include one or more vacuum ports, with the... Agent: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

20070005080 - Bolt action fastener delivery assembly: An assembly that delivers tissue fasteners for deployment in tissue comprises a stylet that guides a fastener into tissue. The stylet has a proximal end. The assembly further includes a bolt attached to the proximal end of the stylet, a receiver that slidingly receives the bolt permitting linear movement of... Agent: Graybeal Jackson Haley LLP

20070005081 - System, apparatus, and method for fastening tissue: A tissue fastening device includes a suture clip holder and a suture cutter. A suture clip can be releasably secured to the suture clip holder, and a suture line or lines can pass through the clip and adjacent the suture cutter. A first movement of a control handle causes the... Agent: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

20070005082 - Apparatus and method for manipulating stomach tissue and treating gastroesophageal reflux disease: Stomach tissue is manipulated to form, for example, a restored flap of a gastroesophageal flap valve. The manipulation includes gripping stomach tissue from within the stomach while the stomach is inflated to promote visualization and stabilization of the gripped stomach tissue. Once the stomach tissue is gripped, the stomach is... Agent: Graybeal Jackson Haley LLP

20070005083 - Occlusion device: An obturator for a bronchial tube or tubule of a human or animal lung comprises a blocking element (92) and a securing element (90). The blocking element serves to seal the tube or tubule against the passage of fluid past the obturator when the obturator is disposed in a bronchial... Agent: Fish & Richardson, PC

20070005084 - Minimally invasive coring vein harvester: The invention provides a system and method for harvesting a vessel section. The system comprises a vessel support member, a handle, and a tubular cutting device. The vessel support member is introduced into the vessel section to be harvested. The tubular cutting device may comprise an outer tubular member or... Agent: Jeffrey J. Hohenshell

20070005086 - Adjustable trocar washer: An adjustable trocar washer is provided to facilitate sealing an incision in skin. The adjustable trocar washer is configured for use with a trocar or cannula assembly. The adjustable trocar washer generally includes a compressible collar and a skirt formed at the distal end of the compressible collar for sealing... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070005085 - Subcutaneous tunneller: The invention provides an orchidopexy tunneller (10) for us in orchidopexy surgery. The tunneller comprises an arcuate elongate body (12) having a tunneling head (14), and attachment means (16) at the opposite end thereof for attachment with a testicle to be repositioned in the human body by the tunneller during... Agent: Brooks Kushman P.C.

20070005088 - Implantation of a deformable prosthesic device: One embodiment is directed to instrumentation for performance of a spinal implantation procedure. In one form, this instrumentation includes: a tube device with an inner surface defining a passage from a proximal end portion to a distal end portion, a conveyor including a threaded conveying rod to be received in... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070005087 - Thin bladed obturator with curved surfaces: A surgical obturator includes an obturator member having a distal end and a proximal end, and a blade member adjacent the distal end of the obturator member. The blade member includes first and second surfaces intersecting to define a peripheral cutting edge. At least one, preferably, both, of the first... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070005089 - Beveled access apparatus with locking ribs elements: A surgical access apparatus includes an access member dimensioned for positioning within body tissue. The access member includes an outer wall defining a longitudinal opening along a longitudinal axis of the access member. The outer wall includes at least one locking element projecting radially outwardly from the outer wall. The... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070005090 - Device and method for vascular tamponade following percutaneous puncture: A device for vascular tamponade includes a compression portion and a curvilinear articulating arm coupled to the compression portion. A method for vascular tamponade includes: manually applying a desired pressure proximate a puncture in a vessel by positioning a compression member to apply pressure against skin of a patient, the... Agent: Steptoe & Johnson LLP

20070005091 - Infra-epidermic subcision device for blunt dissection of sub-epidermic tissues: A dermatological device for subcision of sub-epidermic tissues. The device is provided with a blunt dermis contacting surface enabling the operator to lift or cause traction to the skin from underneath the skin, after placement of the dermal contacting surface of the device under the skin. By mere skin lifting... Agent: Filiberto P. Zadini

20070005092 - Balloon catheters with increased column strength: An intravascular balloon catheter that may include, for example, a first elongate member having a proximal end, an opening at the distal end and a lumen therebetween, a balloon defining a cavity, the balloon having a proximal waist sealingly attached to the first elongate member proximal the distal end, a... Agent: Crompton, Seager & Tufte, LLC

20070005093 - System for tissue dissection and retraction: A system for tissue dissection and retraction is disclosed herein. A tissue dissection assembly generally comprises an elongate body shaft, an actuation member movable relative to the elongate body shaft, and at least one dissector arm member having at least a first end attached to the elongate body shaft, wherein... Agent: Johney U. Han

20070005094 - Device and methods for treating paranasal sinus conditions: Described here are paranasal sinus devices for treating paranasal sinus conditions. The devices include a cavity member, ostial member, and nasal portion. One or more of the cavity member, ostial member, and nasal portion may deliver an active agent for sustained release to treat the paranasal sinus condition. Exemplary paranasal... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20070005099 - Chemically based vascular occlusion device deployment: A vascular occlusion device deployment system for placing an occlusion device at a preselected site within the vasculature of a patient. The deployment system employing a pusher having a lumen with an opening at the distal end of the pusher. A vascular occlusion device is connected to the distal end... Agent: Cook, Alex, Mcfarron, Manzo, Cummings & Mehler Ltd

20070005098 - Chemically based vascular occlusion device deployment with gripping feature: A vascular occlusion device deployment system for placing an occlusion device at a preselected site within the vasculature of a patient. The deployment system employs a pusher including a gripper located at the distal end of the pusher to releasably retain a vascular occlusion device. The gripper is expanded by... Agent: Cook, Alex, Mcfarron, Manzo, Cummings & Mehler Ltd

20070005102 - Device for loading an embolic protection filter into a catheter: A transvascular embolic protection system for safely capturing and retaining embolic material released during an interventional procedure comprises an embolic protection device (1) and a delivery catheter (2) for delivery of the embolic protection device (1) to a desired location in the vascular system. A pack (4) is provided to... Agent: Rissman Jobse Hendricks & Oliverio, LLP

20070005103 - Emboli capturing device having a netted outer surface: An emboli capture device with a netted wall for capturing emboli during treatment during of a stenotic lesion in a body vessel is disclosed. The device comprises an expandable stent having a partially-expanded state, a fully-expanded state and a closed state. The expandable stent includes a continuous filament configured about... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070005096 - Embolic protection system: An embolic protection system 1 comprises a guidewire 99 for advancing through a vasculature, the guidewire 99 having a distal end and a proximal end; an embolic protection filter 1 having a filter body 41 with a distal end and a proximal end, the filter body 41 providing for a... Agent: Sughrue Mion, PLLC

20070005101 - Filter catheter: A filter retrieval catheter for retrieving an embolic protection filter (50) from a vasculature. The catheter comprises a catheter shaft (2) having a rapid exchange guidewire opening (4) in a sidewall of the catheter shaft (2) to facilitate rapid exchange of the catheter over a guidewire (5). To prevent buckling... Agent: Rissman Jobse Hendricks & Oliverio, LLP

20070005097 - Intravascular filter: Intravascular filters such as embolic protection filters can be configured to capture embolic debris when deployed within a patient's vasculature. In particular, intravascular filters such as embolic protection filters can be configured to reduce or eliminate emboli becoming ensnared in the stagnant flow patterns that can otherwise arise near a... Agent: Crompton, Seager & Tufte, LLC

20070005100 - Laser-based vascular occlusion device detachment system: A vascular occlusion device deployment system for placing an occlusion device at a preselected site within the vasculature of a patient. The deployment system employing light energy transferred through an optical fiber to sever a securing filament attaching the occlusion device to the deployment system, thereby releasing the occlusion device... Agent: Cook, Alex, Mcfarron, Manzo, Cummings & Mehler Ltd

20070005095 - Removable vena cava filter having inwardly positioned anchoring hooks in collapsed configuration: The present invention involves a removable filter for capturing thrombi in a blood vessel. The filter comprises a plurality of primary struts and a plurality of secondary struts. The plurality of primary struts has first ends attached together along a longitudinal axis. Each primary strut has an arcuate segment extending... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione

20070005104 - Slideable vascular filter: A collapsible medical device for use, e.g., as a vascular filter. The device includes a mandrel having a distal end and a stop spaced proximally of the distal end. A proximal length of the mandrel extends proximally of the stop and a distal length of the mandrel extends distally of... Agent: Popovich, Wiles & O'connell, PA 650 Third Avenue South

20070005105 - Temporary vascular filter: The present invention provides a method of deploying a medical filter within a channel in a patient's body and filter systems which can be used in such a method. Such a filter may include a radially expandable body 52 having an opening 56 in a proximal length thereof. In one... Agent: Popovich, Wiles & O'connell, PA 650 Third Avenue South

20070005106 - Systems and methods to facilitate muscular benefit using vascular occlusion: Systems, devices, and methods for facilitating muscular benefit using vascular occlusion are described. A device for providing vascular occlusion to a limb of an individual is described herein. The device is comprised of an inflatable band member, a pressure-inducing device, and a pressure control device. The device is adapted to... Agent: Schwegman, Lundberg, Woessner & Kluth, P.A.

20070005107 - Military emergency tourniquet: The military emergency tourniquet is a device for rapidly and easily reducing or stopping blood flow to a limb. The tourniquet utilizes a closed loop system and includes a twistable strap, a base including two opposing entry apertures and an exit aperture, a windlass and at least one receiving loop.... Agent: David R Preston & Associates Apc

20070005108 - Vacuum holder for juxtaposing body tissues: The tissue holding device of the present invention is composed of at least two, substantially hollow, adjustable suction clamps, configured for one-sided clamping, that detachably adhere to the surface of the tissue by way of at least one suction opening in each suction clamp. The suction clamps are mechanically associated... Agent: Mark Friedman Bill Polkinghorn

20070005109 - Barbed suture: A barbed monofilament and a method for making the same is provided. The barbed monofilament has a substantially triangular primary cross-section defined by a periphery including first, second and third points of said triangle, and further has a plurality of barbs formed therein. Successive barbs are staggered around the periphery... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070005110 - Braided barbed suture: A suture assembly and a method for making the same is provided. The suture assembly includes a plurality of unbarbed filamentary elements intertwined with one another and at least one barbed filamentary element having a longitudinal axis and having plurality of barbs extending outwardly therefrom in a first direction less... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson