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Surgery February patents, inventions by USPTO category 02/07

20070043336 - Medical device positioning assemblies and methods: A medical retrieval device of an embodiment of the present disclosure includes an assembly for positioning a medical device includes a sleeve having a lumen configured to accept a medical device, and a tab. The tab includes a distal portion and a proximal portion. The distal portion is configured to... Agent: Fish & NeaveIPGroup Ropes & Gray LLP

20070043337 - Occlusion device: Methods, apparatus, and systems for repairing defective occlusions are provided. One embodiment includes an elongate body having a first lumen extending from a proximal end toward a distal end of the elongate body. An elongate structure, having a lumen extending from a proximal end toward a distal end of the... Agent: Brooks & Cameron, PLLC Suite 500

20070043338 - Robotic catheter system and methods: The apparatus of one embodiment of the present invention is comprised of a flexible sheath instrument, a flexible guide instrument, and a tool. The flexible sheath instrument comprises a first instrument base removably coupleable to an instrument driver and defines a sheath instrument working lumen. The flexible guide instrument comprises... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20070043339 - Multifunction surgical footswitch: A multifunction surgical footswitch and an ophthalmic surgical system are disclosed, one embodiment of the surgical footswitch comprising: a base assembly, wherein the base assembly comprises a shroud and a heel plate; a stand-by/ready switch attached to the base assembly and operable to provide a stand-by/ready control signal to switch... Agent: Alcon

20070043340 - Method and device for preventing or reducing proliferation or migration of epithelial cells at the inside of a lens-capsule bag of a human or animal eye: The invention relates to a device for preventing or reducing proliferation or migration of epithelial cells at the inside of a lens capsule bag of a human or animal eye. The device comprises means for generating pressure pulses in a liquid medium inside the lens capsule bag during which the... Agent: Reed Smith, LLP Attn: Patent Records Department

20070043341 - Apparatus and method for laser treatment with spectroscopic feedback: A platform Smart Scalpel system using rapid real-time feedback for effecting laser treatment. The platform system includes an imaging system for rapid real-time detection of tissue characteristics, a processing system for processing the detected characteristics, and a treatment system for effecting treatment in accordance with results of the processing. The... Agent: Edwards & Angell, LLP

20070043342 - Cryoprobe with reduced adhesion to frozen tissue, and cryosurgical methods utilizing same: The present invention relates to devices and methods for cryosurgery. More particularly, the present invention relates to a cryoprobe which does not form strong adhesive or mechanical bonds with body tissues when such tissues are frozen by cooling action of the probe. Embodiments of the present invention include a cryoprobe... Agent: Martin Moynihan Prtsi, Inc.

20070043343 - Method and system for cryoablating fibroadenomas: A cryosurgical system adapted for treatment of fibroadenomas within the breast of a patient. The system includes cryoprobes and a control system which operates the cryoprobes to accomplish freezing in two stages, including a high power freeze and a low power freeze.... Agent: Crockett & Crockett

20070043344 - Occlusion apparatus: Methods, apparatus, and systems for occluding a left atrial appendage are provided. One embodiment includes an elongate body having a tissue apposition member extendably positioned within a lumen of the elongate body to appose tissue of the LAA. An energy emitting device coupled to the elongate body can be used... Agent: Brooks & Cameron, PLLC

20070043345 - Tissue ablation with irreversible electroporation: A new method for the ablation of undesirable tissue such as cells of a cancerous or non-cancerous tumor is disclosed. It involves the placement of electrodes into or near the vicinity of the undesirable tissue through the application of electrical pulses causing irreversible electroporation of the cells throughout the entire... Agent: Bozicevic, Field & Francis LLP

20070043347 - Approach for distributing interrupts from high-interrupt load devices: A method and apparatus for distributing multiple interrupts among multiple processors is disclosed. According to one embodiment, an interrupt daemon monitors the interrupt load among the processors that results from an initial mapping of the interrupts to the processors. The interrupt daemon determines whether there is a sufficient imbalance of... Agent: Hickman Palermo Truong & Becker, LLP And Sun Microsystems, Inc.

20070043346 - Radiation applicator for microwave medical treatment: A radiation applicator with a dielectric body (2) surrounding the antenna The dielectric body (2) is comprised of three sections (3, 4 and 5) with different dielectric constants to provide broad-band matching of the applicator to surrounding material. Washers (10) and (11) are mounted on the antenna to act as... Agent: Alston & Bird LLP

20070043348 - Instrument for the unipolar ablation of heart tissue: An instrument for the unipolar ablation of heart tissue comprises: an electrically conductive shaft tube (20) that is electrically insulated on the outer lateral surface; an electrical connection, which is placed at the proximal end of the shaft tube (20) and which is connected to the shaft tube (20) in... Agent: Akerman Senterfitt

20070043349 - Occlusion apparatus: Methods, apparatus, and systems for occluding a tissue opening are provided. One embodiment includes a catheter having an elongate body and a first lumen to direct hypertonic saline through an opening in the lumen to tissue of a fossa ovalis. The embodiment includes a radiofrequency (RF) electrode coupled to the... Agent: Brooks & Cameron, PLLC

20070043350 - Selective lung tissue ablation: Medical methods and systems are provided for effecting lung volume reduction by selectively ablating segments of lung tissue.... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070043351 - Vacuum coagulation probes: A surgical device integrating a suction mechanism with a coagulation mechanism is provided for improving lesion creation capabilities. The device comprises an elongate member having an insulative covering attached about means for coagulating soft tissue. Openings through the covering expose regions of the coagulation-causing elements and are coupled to lumens... Agent: Levine Bagade Han LLP

20070043352 - Single action tissue sealer: An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft, the shaft having an end effector assembly at its distal end. The end effector assembly includes two jaw members for grasping tissue therebetween. The jaw members are adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source which enable them to conduct... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070043353 - Vessel sealer and divider for use with small trocars and cannulas: An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft affixed to the housing. The shaft includes a longitudinal axis defined therethrough and a pair of jaw members attached to a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes a drive assembly for moving one of the jaw members relative to... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070043354 - Bone reposition device, method and system: A bone reposition device includes first and second bone supports for supporting first and second portions of a fracture or osteotomize bone about a fracture or osteotomize site, a plurality of sequentially connected connection members and a plurality of joints each with at least a pair of adjacent parts for... Agent: Jacobson Holman PLLC

20070043357 - Capless multiaxial screw and spinal fixation assembly and method: A spinal fixation assembly and capless multi-axial screw system and method are shown. The assembly comprises a receiver having a rotary lock which in one embodiment includes a plurality of channels which urge and lock the elongated member to the screw using a bayonet type connection.... Agent: Matthew R. Jenkins, Esq.

20070043355 - Connecting device for spinal osteosynthesis: A connecting device for spinal osteosynthesis has an osseous anchoring device, a connector that accommodates a joining shaft and is fixed to one end of the anchoring device, and a tightening device for immobilizing the joining shaft. The connecting device is characterized in that the connector is fixed to the... Agent: Bachman & Lapointe, P.C.

20070043358 - Coupling assemblies for spinal implants: The forces exerted on a spinal implant by one or more coupling assemblies are controlled to facilitate the use of the implant in spinal stabilization and other procedures. The coupling assemblies are structured to distribute the forces exerted on the implant while engaging the implant to the coupling assembly and... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070043356 - Dynamic spine stabilization device with travel-limiting functionality: Spinal stabilization devices, systems and methods are provided that include a stabilization member including a first structural member that mounts to a pedicle screw, a second structural member adjacent the first structural member and that can move away therefrom, a resilient element mounted between the structural members and that elongates... Agent: Mccarter & English, LLP Financial Centre, Suite 304a

20070043360 - Pedicle screw based vertebral body stabilization apparatus: A pedicle screw stabilization device comprises a superior and inferior pedicle screw anchor with a shaped memory alloy spacer therebetween.... Agent: Holland & Hart, LLP

20070043363 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: An apparatus includes an elongate member having a portion configured to be deformed from a first configuration to a second configuration. In one variation, the apparatus includes an outer body, having a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration, and an inner body. A portion of the outer body is configured... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20070043361 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: An apparatus includes a shaft, a rod, a portion of which is disposed within the shaft, a first knob and a second knob. The first knob is coupled to the shaft and configured to engage the rod such that the rod translates within the shaft when the first knob is... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20070043362 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: An apparatus includes an elongate member having a portion configured to be deformed from a first configuration to a second configuration. In one variation, the apparatus includes an outer body, defining an interior region, and an inner body. A portion of the outer body is configured to be disposed between... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20070043365 - Rod extension for extending fusion construct: In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a rod extension for extending a fusion construct is provided. The rod extension allows a surgeon to connect a stabilization rod implant to at least a portion of a patient's spine, and also to connect the stabilization rod implant to an existing... Agent: Sheridan Ross PC

20070043364 - Spinal correction system with multi-stage locking mechanism: In a rod fixation system of the type used to treat various spinal conditions, the same fastener is used to lock both a polyaxial screw and a rod in position. A spinal correction device according to the invention, adapted for use with a rod and a polyaxial screw having a... Agent: John G. Posa Gifford, Krass, Groh, Sprinkle,

20070043359 - Systems and methods for stabilization of bone structures: Methods, systems, devices and tools for placing bone stabilization components in a patient are provided. The systems and devices have a reduced number of discrete components that allow placement through small incisions and tubes. More particularly, the present invention is directed to systems and methods of treating the spine, which... Agent: Bozicevic, Field & Francis LLP

20070043369 - Anterior vertebral plate with underside locking mechanism: Provided is a device, system, and method for the fixation of the spine. In particular, the present invention provides a system that includes a low profile anterior vertebral plate and screws for fixation and stabilization of the cervical spine, the anterior vertebral plate having a selectable locking mechanism embedded in... Agent: Manelli Denison & Selter

20070043368 - Distal humeral plate: A bone plate is provided for the distal humerus, the plate having a main shank portion with one or more screw holes. The main shank portion bends to form an off-axis shank portion that is free of screw holes. The off-axis portion twists 90 degrees to form a distal shank... Agent: Michael Molins Molins & Co.

20070043366 - Housing for a locking element and locking element: A locking element and a corresponding housing are disclosed, for the locking of the locking element in housing. The locking element includes a locking piece, for example a head, with a peripheral outer surface, running essentially in the direction of a longitudinal axis with at least one clamping surface extending... Agent: Welsh & Katz, Ltd

20070043367 - Orthopaedic appliances: Provided is a bone plate for the olecranon of the proximal ulna using a combination of screws and K wires. The plate is curved to fit the shape of the olecranon and is screwed in place. The plate has a locking section located in the curved section. A fastener is... Agent: Michael Molins Molins & Co.

20070043370 - Callus elongating/regenerating device: In a callus elongating/regenerative device (1), a plate (3) is provided in a bar-shaped fashion to move in a three-dimensional direction depending on a pre-mutilated bone shape so as to bridge a mutilated bone portion (2). A bone cut end (8) is severed to produce two bone pieces (4) which... Agent: Morgan Lewis & Bockius LLP

20070043371 - Sternal closure clamp device: A sternal closure clamp device for securing and retaining longitudinally divided halves of a sternum, the device having four laterally extending engagement members that are positioned in inter-rib spaces on both sides of the sternum. The engagement members are connected to a centralized main body in a manner that allows... Agent: Rogers Towers, P.A.

20070043372 - Bone screw: The invention concerns a bone screw comprising a head (2), a stem (3) and a thread (4) provided in the form of turns on the stem (3). A plurality of first turns (6) comprising smooth cutting edges (7) extend towards the head (2) from the free end (5) of the... Agent: The Firm Of Karl F Ross

20070043373 - Devices and method for widening bone cavities: An widening device for bone cavities extends from a proximal end to a distal end along an extension axis, said distal end having an elastically deformable element suitable to pass from a relaxed configuration for placing the distal end within an osteal body to a deformed configuration for forming a... Agent: Hogan & Hartson LLPIPGroup, Columbia Square

20070043374 - System and devices for the repair of a vertebral disc defect: A system for repairing a vertebral disc defect, such as hernia or bulge, a full or partial tear in the annulus, or a weakened annulus wall as a result of an excision procedure. The system introduces a treatment device arranged to repair the defect, and may prevent the leakage of... Agent: Kensey Nash Corporation

20070043375 - Method and system for determining resection guidelines for joint replacement surgical procedures: A method and system for utilizing a plurality of linear laser beams to project guidelines onto a skeletal joint for resection of the joint during surgical joint replacement procedures. The method comprises projecting a linear laser beam along the long axis of a limb at one end of the joint,... Agent: John A. Franczyk Hussan Egan Bendersky & Franczyk

20070043376 - Bone and cartilage implant delivery device: A method and device for inserting an implant of synthetic material or healthy bone or cartilage into a bone or cartilage defect of unknown depth. The device includes an inner shaft within a hollow outer shaft. One end of the inner shaft of the device is suitable for inserting into... Agent: Greenlee Winner And Sullivan P C

20070043377 - Two members cerclage tool: A bone cerclage tool for conformally slidably abut a device circumferentially against a bone, such that unnecessary exposure or stripping of soft tissue away from the bone and/or significant spreading of the incision is minimized. This bone cerclage tool makes very simple to encircle a bone with a suture, wire,... Agent: Alberto Angel Fernandez Dell'oca

20070043379 - Bone screw/driver assembly and method: An assembly and method for attaching a medical device, or other structure, to a bone, according to which two projections are formed on one end of a driver that extend in two corresponding recesses, respectively, formed in the head of the screw to drivingly engage the driver and the screw.... Agent: Haynes And Boone, LLP

20070043378 - Instrument for inserting, adjusting and removing a surgical implant: An instrument for inserting, adjusting and engaging an implant, such as a polyaxial screw of a spinal fixation system, includes at least one retractable tab for engaging a corresponding recess on the implant and a shaft that moves relative to the retractable tab. The movable shaft selectively moves the tab... Agent: Lahive & Cockfield, LLP

20070043380 - Gastric instrument sleeve to prevent cross contamination of stomach content and provide fixation and repeatable path: A transgastric instrument provides a sterile and repeatable pathway to and through a gastric wall for the purpose of facilitating endoscopic transgastric procedures. The instrument includes at least one guide tube having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end being shaped and dimensioned for positioning adjacent a... Agent: Welsh & Flaxman LLC

20070043381 - Medical device deployment instrument: A deployment device for deploying a medical device in-a body passageway. The deployment device designed to deploy at least a portion of a proximal end of the medical device before partially or fully deploying a distal end of the medical device.... Agent: Fay, Sharpe, Fagan, Minnich & Mckee, LLP

20070043382 - Thermal separation of impurities from the scalp, hair, and skin: Presented is a simple, novel, process of removing impurities from the scalp, hair, and skin. The process consists of, simultaneously, freezing the impurities with dry, chilled air, freeing the frozen impurities by abrading, and removing the frozen impurities by vacuum suctioning.... Agent: Sharon Ann Cheney

20070043383 - Epilator: The invention is directed to an epilator apparatus for the removal of hair. The epilator apparatus comprises a tape, which adheres to the hairs as the apparatus is moved relative to the skin. The motion of the apparatus relative to the skin feeds the tape into the plucking zone where... Agent: Fish & Richardson PC

20070043384 - Method and apparatus for endoscopically performing gastric reduction surgery in a single pass: A gastric reduction apparatus provides for the secure attachment of multiple fasteners into the gastric wall, the fasteners being linked with a flexible member in a manner permitting the reduction of the effective size of an individual's stomach. The apparatus includes an applicator head including a proximal end and a... Agent: Welsh & Flaxman LLC

20070043385 - Suturing device and method: A suturing device and method allows a physician to remotely suture biological tissue. The device includes an elongate body, first and second arms operably connected to the elongated body, whereby each arm mounts an end portion of a suture, and first and second needles, each needle having a distal end... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070043386 - Tissue penetration device: A method is provided for controlling a lancet velocity profile. A velocity of a moving lancet is measured at a known position. The measured velocity of the lancet is compared with an appropriate velocity for the lancet at the known position. A force is applied to the lancet to adjust... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20070043387 - Surgical method for treating a vessel wall: A tool that has an introducer having a space therein and a distal aperture at the distal end thereof, and a spike movable within the introducer, may be used in a surgical method for treating a vessel wall. A tissue plug may be removed from the vessel wall with the... Agent: Brian A. Schar Director Of Intellectual Property Cardica, Inc.

20070043388 - Vaginal dilator: A vaginal dilator comprising a plurality of spaced markings wherein at least two types of marking are employed which are distinguishable from each other by touch and/or sight.... Agent: Nixon & Vanderhye, PC

20070043389 - System for treating chronic total occlusion caused by lower extremity arterial disease: A system for the treatment of lower extremity arterial chronic total occlusion (CTO) incorporates remote access of the guide-wire, at least one specifically shaped catheter, and a wire-capture dilation balloon catheter. A capture balloon catheter serves to capture the wire used to traverse the CTO. The capture balloon has a... Agent: Mccarter & English, LLP

20070043390 - Delivery catheter: A delivery catheter, for delivering an embolic protection filter through a vasculature over a guidewire, comprises a distal pod (1) which acts as a restraining sheath to restrain the embolic protection filter in a collapsed configuration during delivery. The pod (1) has a proximal portion (2), a distal portion (3)... Agent: Sughrue Mion, PLLC

20070043391 - Occlusion device and method of for its production: An occlusion device and manufacturing includes of thin wires or threads made from a shape-memory material. In the expanded state, the occlusion device exhibits a proximal and a distal retention area as well as a cylindrical crosspiece interposed therebetween. Because the proximal retention area of braiding exhibits a form which... Agent: Akerman Senterfitt

20070038201 - Enhanced noninvasive collagen remodeling: A method and apparatus for treatment of skin or other tissue, using a source of thermal, electromagnetic radiation, electrical current, ultrasonic, mechanical or other type of energy, to cause minimally-invasive thermally-mediated effects in skin or other tissue which stimulates a wound-healing response, in conjunction with topical agents or other wound... Agent: Ray K. Shahani, Esq. Twin Oaks Office Plaza

20070038202 - Method of preventing the induction of aberrations in laser refractive surgery systems: The invention relates to a method of preventing the induction of aberrations in laser refractive surgery systems. Standard laser refractive surgery systems successfully correct low-order refractive errors (myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism), but induce spherical aberration and, by extension, other high-order aberrations, which result in a worsening of vision quality. Said... Agent: Klauber & Jackson, LLC

20070038203 - Materials and methods for ablation of the endometrium: A system for ablating tissue lining a body cavity, comprises a source of diffusive medium including a plurality of scattering particles suspended therein and a medium introduction device coupled to the source of diffusive medium, a distal end of the medium introduction device being insertable into the body cavity for... Agent: Fay Kaplun & Marcin, LLP

20070038205 - Apparatus and method for effecting radiation treatment on a pre-selected anatomical portion of an animal body: The invention relates to an apparatus for effecting radiation treatment on a pre-selected anatomical portion of an animal body comprising: a group of n hollow treatment channels being inserted at one or more pre-planned positions in said pre-selected anatomical portion; a group of m delivery channels to be connected to... Agent: Birch Stewart Kolasch & Birch

20070038204 - Photoreactive system and methods for prophylactic treatment of atherosclerosis: A method of manufacture and medical apparatus that provides an apparatus useful in illuminating at least a portion of a lumen of a body. The apparatus includes an elongated flexible member and a polymer encasement portion encasing a plurality of light emitters. The light emitters may be electrically coupled to... Agent: Seed Intellectual Property Law Group PLLC

20070038206 - Photocosmetic device: An apparatus is disclosed for use by a consumer in a non-medical setting that uses at least one low power optical radiation source in a suitable device that can be positioned over a treatment area for a substantial period of time or can be moved over the treatment area one... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070038207 - Surgical system that ablates soft tissue: A surgical system that ablates soft tissue. The system may include a fiber laser oscillator as the gain medium that emits electromagnetic radiation. The system may process the electromagnetic radiation, and direct the electromagnetic radiation on to the soft tissue to be ablated. Due at least in part to the... Agent: Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLP

20070038208 - Apparatus and method for protecting nontarget tissue of a patient during electrocautery surgery: An apparatus for protecting a nontarget body tissue of a patient during electrocautery surgery, an electrocautery probe being adapted to provide an electrical field to electrocauterize a target body tissue of the patient, includes a stent. The stent is adapted to detect the electrical field and to produce a field... Agent: Tarolli, Sundheim, Covell & Tummino L.L.P.

20070038209 - Method and system for controlling output of rf medical generator: A closed-loop control system is disclosed for use with an electrosurgical generator that generates electrosurgical energy. The closed loop control system includes a user interface for allowing a user to select at least one pre-surgical parameter, such as the type of surgical instrument operatively connected to the generator, the type... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070038210 - Method and system for conductive keratoplasty: Improved operational process and procedure for conductive keratoplasty (CK). CK spots are placed at different locations on the cornea depending on the thickness of the cornea. The spots preferably are 80-95% of the thickness of the cornea. Keratoplasty probes with larger tips can be utilized.... Agent: Artz & Artz, P.C.

20070038211 - Method and system for conductive keratoplasty: Improved corrective procedures for conductive keratoplasty are disclosed. Over correction can be relieved by the addition of one or two spots along one of the rings on the cornea.... Agent: Artz & Artz, P.C.

20070038212 - Method of treating spider veins: An electrocautery instrument in accordance with the present invention facilitates a relatively non-invasive procedure for treating small varicose and spider veins. In the furtherance of this and other objectives, an electrocautery device is provided that does not have to be inserted or into the veins in order to satisfactorily treat... Agent: Bryan W. Bockhop, Esq.

20070038213 - High-frequency treatment tool: A high-frequency treatment tool comprising: a flexible sheath to be inserted into a treatment tool insertion channel of an endoscope; a treatment tool body provided inside the flexible sheath and comprising: a flexible cord; and a high-frequency knife to which a high-frequency current is applied, formed to the front end... Agent: Birch Stewart Kolasch & Birch

20070038214 - Minimally invasive surgical hook apparatus: A cautery hook includes a proximal portion, a shank portion, and a distal hook portion. The shank portion is connected to the proximal portion at a bent knee protruding generally on a front side of the cautery hook. The distal hook portion is connected to the shank portion at an... Agent: Patent Dept Intuitive Surgical, Inc

20070038215 - Medical instrument: A medical instrument, in particular a resectoscope, comprises a distal first work element which is used for treating body tissue and which can be connected via an elongate work element holder to a handle at a proximal end for moving the work element, the handle having a carriage which is... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20070038216 - Minimal incision maximal access mis spine instrumentation and method: a minimal incision maximal access system allows for maximum desirable work space exposure within the incision along with maximum access to the operative field utilizing a minimum incision as small as the width of the working tube. Instead of multiple insertions of dilating tubes the design is a streamlined single... Agent: Harrington & Harrington Curtis L. Harrington

20070038217 - Orthopaedic fixation clamp and method: An orthopaedic fixation clamp for use in an external fixation system and its method of use are presented.... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20070038218 - Sternal closure device: A sternal closure device for securing and retaining longitudinally divided halves of a sternum, the device having two sets of anterior and posterior longitudinally extended brace members with brace joining mechanisms extending through the sternal halves to join the anterior brace members to the posterior brace members, such that the... Agent: Rogers Towers, P.A.

20070038219 - Bone anchoring element: A bone anchoring element includes a shaft for anchoring in a bone, the shaft having a tubular body. The shaft comprises a plurality of barb elements, wherein each barb element is formed as continuous one-piece part with the tubular body. Each each barb element is moveable between a first position... Agent: Christie, Parker & Hale, LLP

20070038220 - Absorbable fastener for hernia mesh fixation: A method of forming and deploying an improved absorbable fastener for hernia mesh fixation is disclosed. The absorbable fastener of the present invention functions to securely fasten tough, non macro-porous, and relative inelastic mesh to soft tissue. The fastener is formed from co-polymers of lactide and glycolide.... Agent: John I. Shipp

20070038221 - Orthopaedic ligament fixation system: A ligament fixation system comprising an expandable screw (11) with an atraumatic thread. The screw is expanded by insertion of an expansion screw (12) into a threaded longitudinal bore of the expandable screw to cause radial expansion of the screw. The system includes an insertion tool (32) having an outer... Agent: Robert M. O'keefe O'keefe, Egan & Peterman

20070038222 - Tissue repair system: A repair system including a closure prosthesis and deployment device, and associated methods for repairing any imperfection including a flaw, hole, tear, bulge, or, in some cases, a deliberate cut or incision in any tissue including an intervertebral disc is disclosed. The prosthesis has first and second side portions with... Agent: Plumsea Law Group, LLC

20070038223 - Computer-assisted knee replacement apparatus and method: A computer-assisted knee replacement apparatus and method comprises a knee replacement application for assisting, guiding, and planning a unicondylar knee replacement procedure. The apparatus and method cooperates with a tracking system to determine implant sizing and location. The apparatus and method also cooperates with the tracking system to determine required... Agent: Bose Mckinney & Evans LLP James Coles

20070038224 - Electroactive polymer-based flexing access port: Methods and devices are disclosed for providing access through tissue to a surgical site, such as anatomical cavities ranging in size from the abdomen to small blood vessels, such as veins and arteries, epidural, pleural and subarachnoid spaces, heart ventricles, as well as spinal and synovial cavities. In one exemplary... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070038225 - Thrombus removal device: A thrombi removal device includes a shaft with a distal end and a proximal end and a helical coil attached at one end to the distal end of the shaft and extending in the distal direction from the shaft. The coil has a plurality of body portions with turns or... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070038226 - Embolectomy procedures with a device comprising a polymer and devices with polymer matrices and supports: Embolectomy procedures can be performed under conditions to effectively remove thrombus/emboli with little risk of injuring the vessel wall and while effectively capturing and removing emboli. Desired embolectomy devices present a polymer matrix against the vessel wall. Suction can be used to facilitate the embolectomy process and to remove emboli... Agent: Dardi & Associates, PLLC

20070038227 - Method and device for extracting objects from the body: A device for extracting objects from the body, such as urinary stones, using a low pressure inflatable toroidal balloon that serves to engulf the object during extraction while dilating and protecting the passageway. The balloon loads onto an ureteroscope prior to insertion, rather than through the ureteroscope as do existing... Agent: Gauthier & Connors LLP

20070038228 - Depilation device with a depilation tape: In a depilation device (1) with a reel (16) for accommodating a tape roll (15) formed by winding up of a depilation tape (2), said reel (16) advantageously performs a dual function, such that the reel (16) is designed both for un-reeling the depilation tape (2) from the tape roll... Agent: Philips Intellectual Property & Standards

20070038229 - Flexible endoscopic knot tying apparatus: A flexible endoscope has an elongate, narrow tube with at least three distinct interior bores. A first of the bores is provided to accommodate surgical devices typically provided in endoscopes. The second and third bores of the flexible tube mount a flexible suture holder and a flexible grasper in the... Agent: Thompson Coburn, LLP

20070038230 - Steerable suture passing device: A method for suturing soft tissue in arthroscopic or endoscopic procedures. The method includes inserting a bendable steerable arm in a straightened configuration through an incision, curving the steerable arm, piercing the tissue, deploying a suture holder from a bore of the steerable arm, moving the suture holder relative to... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20070038231 - Methods and apparatus for treating disc herniation and preventing the extrusion of interbody bone graft: Methods and apparatus for treating disc herniation provide a conformable device which assumes a first shape associated with insertion and a second shape or expanded shape to occlude the defect which typically follows partial discectomy. The device may take different forms according to the invention, including patches size to cover... Agent: O'melveny & Myers LLP

20070038232 - Apparatus and method for securing the stomach to the diaphragm for use, for example, in treating hiatal hernias and gastroesophageal reflux disease: A patient's stomach may be secured to the patient's diaphragm. A method to accomplish this includes visualizing a wall of a patient's stomach adjacent the patient's diaphragm from within the patient's stomach, inserting a fastener deployment apparatus down the patient's esophagus and into the mammalian's stomach, and fastening the patient's... Agent: Graybeal Jackson Haley LLP

20070038233 - Surgical clips, systems and methods thereof: A surgical clip that is used to temporary occlude a blood vessel of a patient. The clip has a pair of longitudinally extending members that are spring biased to a closed position to squeeze therebetween the blood vessel of the patient. The members have a first region adjacent the biasing... Agent: Gibbons, Del Deo, Dolan, Griffinger & Vecchione

20070038234 - Instrumentation for conductive keratoplasty: Improved instrumentation for conductive keratoplasty. The keratoplast probes have longer tips, particularly for use with patients having thick corneas. A kit or group of probes having tips of different lengths can be provided. Alternate embodiments include keratoplast probes with a pair or more of tips, or a ring containing a... Agent: Artz & Artz, P.C.

20070038235 - Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue: A tissue penetrating system has a housing member. A plurality of penetrating members are positioned in the housing member. A tissue stabilizing member is coupled to the housing. A penetrating member sensor is coupled to the plurality of penetrating members. The penetrating member sensor is configured to provide information relative... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20070038236 - Tool for coring portions of one or more hair follicles: An improved tool for coring a portion of one or more hair follicles incorporates a mechanism that translates distal pushing forces that are applied to its handle to concomitant rotational movement of a hollow coring needle. Preferably, the force translation mechanism is realized by a helical threaded interface or a... Agent: Gordon & Jacobson, P.C.

20070038237 - Electroactive polymer-based lumen traversing device: Methods and devices are provided for traversing a lumen of a tubular body part, such as the large or small intestine, the colon, the bladder, the stomach, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the methods and devices utilize electroactive polymers that are selectively actuated to move a device through a lumen.... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070038238 - Electroactive polymer-based percutaneous endoscopy gastrostomy tube and methods of use: Embodiments of the present invention generally provide methods and devices for providing percutaneous access to a tissue. In one exemplary embodiment, a PEG tube is provided having an elongate member with a proximal end adapted to be positioned adjacent to a tissue surface, a distal end adapted to be inserted... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070038239 - Asymmetrically inflating flexi-tip gastroplasty calibration tube: A gastric band positioning tubular apparatus including an extended tube (4) having a series of lumens (11, 12) therein; an asymmetrically inflating balloon (3) located substantially at a distal end of the extended tube and interconnected with one of said series of lumens for the application of a positive air... Agent: Brooks Kushman P.C.

20070038240 - Catheter balloon having impregnated balloon skirt sections: A balloon catheter and a method of making a balloon catheter, having a balloon with a first layer and a second layer, the first layer having at least one impregnated section impregnated with a polymeric material compatible with a polymeric material forming the catheter shaft. At least a portion of... Agent: Fulwider Patton

20070038242 - Emboli filter: An emboli filter for deployment in a body lumen to capture emboli entrained in a fluid flowing through the lumen includes a flexible elongated member sized to be passed through the lumen. A filter media is carried on and substantially surrounding the elongated member. The filter media has a first... Agent: Popovich, Wiles & O'connell, PA 650 Third Avenue South

20070038241 - Embolic protection device having inflatable frame: An embolic protection device for capturing emboli during treatment of a stenotic lesion in a body vessel is provided. The device includes an inflatable frame having a deployed state and an undeployed state and a filter attached to the inflatable frame for capturing emboli. The inflatable frame includes a distal... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070038243 - Tactical combat tourniquet: A tourniquet is provided which is specifically structured to be easily and quickly applied to an extremity of a body and to be securely positioned in place on the extremity, the tourniquet being particularly structured for self-use by a wounded person under the stressful conditions of the battlefield and being... Agent: Morriss O'bryant Compagni, P.C.

20070038245 - Dilator: An apparatus and a method for sealing a puncture in a tubular tissue structure or the wall of a body cavity are provided.... Agent: Baker & Daniels LLP

20070038244 - Method and apparatus for sealing access: An apparatus and a method for sealing a puncture in a tubular tissue structure or the wall of a body cavity are provided.... Agent: Baker & Daniels LLP

20070038246 - Four component wound closure device with locking strip: The present invention includes a first and a second interlaced component, each having an adhesive-backed wound edge pad for attachment to the skin of a patient adjacent to a laceration or incision to be closed. Each of the wound edge pads is attached to an opposing tension adjusting pad that... Agent: Kevin M. Farrell

20070038247 - Wound closure kit and method of using the same: The present invention includes a first and a second interlaced component, each having a permeable adhesive-backed wound edge pad for attachment to the skin of a patient adjacent to a laceration or incision to be closed. Each of the permeable wound edge pads is attached to an opposing tension adjusting... Agent: Kevin Farrell Pierce Atwood

20070038248 - Surgical stapling device with tissue tensioner: A circular stapling device particularly suited for surgical treatment of internal hemorrhoids is provided. The stapling device includes a distal head portion having an anvil and a shell assembly. A tissue tensioner device including a tissue engagement member is movably positioned between the anvil and the shell assembly and is... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070038249 - Suture for wound closure, tissue approximation, tissue support, suspension and/or fixation: A suture assembly includes an elongated flexible body which may be either a single filament for a multiple strand braided or woven body, supporting a plurality of shaped tissue-engaging elements in a generally spaced arrangement thereon. A curved body having a sharp point is joined to one end of the... Agent: Roy A. Ekstrand

20070032781 - Reduction of hair growth: The growth of hair can be reduced by heating the skin sufficiently to retard hair growth but without altering the hair growth cycle.... Agent: Fish & Richardson P.C.

20070032782 - Method and apparatus for eye alignment: In an ophthalmic laser system preferably intended for photoablative refractive surgery, a component apparatus that is preferably an optical coherence tomography device for measuring corneal pachymetry makes its measurement when the First and Second Purkinje reflections of the OCT probe beam are detected, otherwise, the reflection signal is not strong... Agent: Bausch & Lomb Incorporated

20070032783 - Method and apparatus for inflating and deflating balloon catheters: A system and method for controlling the inflation, ablation, and deflation of a balloon catheter. The system includes a balloon catheter, a console, a pressurized gas or liquid inflation source, and an umbilical system to deliver pressurized coolant to the balloon catheter. The system may include controller that monitors the... Agent: Christopher & Weisberg, P.A.

20070032784 - Targeted muscle ablation for reducing signs of aging: A method and system for delivering energy to affect the signs of aging is described. Energy is delivered to a target volume of a muscle such that the energy creates a lesion in the target volume. A characteristic of the lesion is controlled to affect movement of the muscle.... Agent: Fish & Richardson PC

20070032785 - Tissue evacuation device: A tissue evacuation device may be designed to provide a high-energy fluid (e.g., a heated vapor) to targeted tissue for breaking down the targeted tissue, such as the nucleus of an intervertebral disc. An inner tube positioned within an outer tube, having a nozzle coupled to distal ends of the... Agent: Carr LLP (ist)

20070032786 - Device and method for ablation of cardiac tissue: Methods for delivering precise amounts of fluid into cardiac tissue for the purpose of facilitating ablation of the tissue along a desired lesion line. One method injects fluid through a hollow needle. The injected fluid can be a highly conductive fluid injected in conjunction with radiofrequency ablation to create an... Agent: James R. Keogh Medtronic, Inc.

20070032787 - Process and device for the treatment of atrial arrhythmia: A process for preventing atrial premature contractions originating within a pulmonary vein from being conducted into the left atrium of a human heart. More specifically, an ablation lesion is formed which electrically isolates the located source of the atrial premature contraction in the pulmonary vein from connection with the left... Agent: St. Jude Medical, Atrial Fibrillation Division

20070032788 - Sphincter treatment apparatus: An apparatus treats tissue at or near a sphincter. The apparatus has an elongated member having at least one lumen including an inflation lumen, and a basket assembly including a first and a second arm. An inflatable member is coupled to the inflation lumen and has a deployed and a... Agent: Ryan Kromholz & Manion, S.c.

20070032789 - Integrated three-port receptacle and method for connecting hand and foot switched electrosurgical accessories: A three-port receptacle connects both single-prong and three-prong electrical connectors of electrosurgical accessories to an electrosurgical generator. The receptacle includes two control ports for accepting the two control prongs of the three-prong connector and an energy-delivery port for accepting the energy-conducting prong of the three-prong connector. The energy-delivery port also... Agent: John R Ley, LLC

20070032790 - Apparatus for treating spinal stenosis: A device for treating spinal stenosis having an implant body structure sized and configured to be positioned between the spinous processes of two adjacent vertebrae. The device may have a body portion having a first end portion, a second end portion and a sleeve between the first and second end... Agent: Jones Day

20070032791 - Expandable support device and method of use: An expandable support device, such as an ultra thin expanding stent device, for tissue repair is disclosed. The expandable support device can be used to repair hard or soft tissue, such as bone or vertebral discs. A method of repairing tissue is also disclosed. The expandable support device can have... Agent: Levine Bagade Han LLP

20070032793 - Anchor/suture used for medical procedures: For suture tying in a medical procedure including the use of an anchor that includes a suture locking device that includes a sliding pin guided by axial side slots formed in the locking device that forces the suture where the two ends thereof are inserted into the interior of the... Agent: Norman Friedland

20070032792 - Surgical suture anchor element: A surgical suture anchor element serves for anchoring at least one suture in a bore. An elongated body has a central bore for receiving a tool. The central bore is surrounded by a jacket of considerable substance. For receiving the suture, slits or channels or eyelet members are alternatively provided... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20070032794 - Process and device for treating vertebral bodies: The invention concerns a process for treating of vertebral body (70) with the following steps: introducing a trocar (10) and a trocar jacket (20) into the vertebral body (70), removing the trocar (10), introducing the same or a different biopsy and cement cannula (30) into the trocar jacket, extracting spongiosa... Agent: Akerman Senterfitt

20070032795 - Stereotactic upper body fixation and positioning device: The present invention provides a positioning device for radiation therapy equipment. In particularly, a stereotactic upper body fixation and positioning device for use in conjunction with a patient positioning couch and delivery system of a radiation therapy machine to provide precise, verifiable, and adjustable positioning in the three rotational axes... Agent: Michael Best & Friedrich, LLP

20070032796 - Patent foramen ovale closure device with steerable delivery system: The present invention relates to a delivery system for delivering a device for closing a passageway in a body, for example a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in a heart. The delivery system has an elongate member having a proximal and distal end. A deflectable needle assembly having luminal and abluminal... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070032797 - Single pass gastric restriction with a corkscrew style wall anchor: A gastric reduction apparatus endoscopically draws stomach walls into apposition. The apparatus includes an applicator body having a proximal end and a distal end. The applicator body also includes a suction slot shaped and dimensioned for housing a corkscrew anchor. A firing mechanism is associated with the corkscrew anchor for... Agent: Welsh & Flaxman LLC

20070032799 - Vascular suturing device: A surgical device for suturing vascular vessels is described, as well as methods for suturing tissue employing the surgical device. The device includes a distal member for insertion into a vascular vessel puncture wound. The distal member contains a suture and needle engaging fitting. At least one needle is advanced... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20070032798 - Vascular suturing device with needle capture: A surgical device of suturing vascular vessels is described, as well as methods for suturing tissue employing the surgical device. The device includes at least one needle advanceable through tissue and into a needle capture element within a distal end of the surgical device to draw lengths of suture material... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20070032802 - Access and closure device and method: Devices and methods for accessing and closing vascular sites are disclosed. Self-sealing closure devices and methods are disclosed. A device that can make a steep and controlled access path into a vascular lumen is disclosed. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20070032803 - Access and closure device and method: Devices and methods for accessing and closing vascular sites are disclosed. Self-sealing closure devices and methods are disclosed. A device that can make a steep and controlled access path into a vascular lumen is disclosed. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20070032804 - Access and closure device and method: Devices and methods for accessing and closing vascular sites are disclosed. Self-sealing closure devices and methods are disclosed. A device that can make a steep and controlled access path into a vascular lumen is disclosed. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20070032800 - Apparatus for single pass gastric restriction: A gastric reduction apparatus that facilitates the creation of a transoral linear passageway through the stomach includes an elongated body including a proximal end and a distal end. The elongated body is generally sinusoidal shaped with at least one tissue engaging surface oriented such that a needle will pass therethrough.... Agent: Welsh & Flaxman LLC

20070032801 - Vascular suturing device: A surgical device of suturing vascular vessels is described, as well as methods for suturing tissue employing the surgical device. The device includes at least one needle advanceable through tissue to drawn lengths of suture material which can then be used to close various puncture wounds, particularly in vascular tissue.... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20070032806 - Biological membrane-carrying aneurysm clip: An aneurysm clip has a biological membrane and a metal clip. The membrane is harvested from an animal, crosslinked, and then has its antigens minimized. The membrane also has an active layer coupled thereto. The metal clip has a first clip bar and a second clip bar that are attached... Agent: Raymond Sun

20070032805 - Oxydized cellulose prosthesis: The present invention relates to a three-dimensional prosthetic fabric comprising a first face and a second face, the said first face and the said second face being opposite each other and separated by the thickness of the said fabric, the said first face being porous, characterized in that the said... Agent: Oliff & Berridge, PLC

20070032807 - Method and clamp for gastric reduction surgery: A method for gastric reduction surgery includes the step of applying at least one clamp to the stomach in a manner forming a gastric pouch. The clamp includes a clamp body shaped and dimensioned to create a gastric pouch with a standard size from approximately 15 cc to approximately 30... Agent: Welsh & Flaxman LLC

20070032808 - System and method for addressing total occlusion in a vascular environment: An apparatus for addressing an occlusion in a vascular environment is provided that includes a wire and a tip coupled to the wire and operable to burrow into an occlusion in a vascular environment. The apparatus also includes a coil section disposed between the wire and the tip and operable... Agent: Baker Botts L.L.P.

20070032809 - Steerable sphincterotome and methods for cannulation, papillotomy and sphincterotomy: The present invention relates to methodology of and apparatus for accurately positioning devices for performing endoscopic cannulation, papillotomy and sphincterotomy and similar procedures. The sphincterotome with a steerable or adjustable distal segment of the present invention allows the physician to control the position of the distal tip of the device... Agent: Fulbright & Jaworski Market Square

20070032810 - Medical cutting and/or holding instrument: The invention relates to a medical cutting and/or holding instrument having a shaft, a handle consisting of two gripping members on the proximal end of the shaft, and a push-pull rod for activating a tool that is positioned on the distal end of the shaft and consists of two jaw... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20070032811 - Medical cutting and/or holding instrument: The invention relates to a medical cutting and/or holding instrument having a shaft, a handle consisting of two gripping members that is positioned on the proximal end of the shaft, and a push-pull rod mounted in a guide groove of the shaft to actuate a tool consisting of two jaw... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20070032813 - Lancing device with pivoting end cap: An endcap for a lancing device, having a base portion and pivoting tip member pivotally mounted to the base portion. The base portion and the pivoting tip member each having openings therethrough which, when aligned, allow passage of a lancet tip. After lancing the skin at a sampling site, the... Agent: Gardner Groff Santos & Greenwald, P.C.

20070032812 - Method and apparatus for a tissue penetrating device user interface: A tissue penetrating system is provided. The system may include a housing, a penetrating members positioned in the housing, and a visual display on the housing, the visual display having at lease one visual indicator positioned next to a corresponding marking on the housing. In one embodiment, the visual display... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20070032814 - Cervical medical device, system and method: A device and method for dilating a cervical canal. The device includes an elongated member with an expandable anchoring component attached to its distal tip. An expandable dilating member is attached to the elongated member proximally of the anchoring component for dilating the cervical canal. The anchoring component can be... Agent: Crockett & Crockett

20070032816 - Removable filter head: A filter for use within the lumen of a blood vessel that includes a plurality of interconnected intraluminal filter elements adapted to flexibly convert between a filter configuration and an open configuration. The filter further includes a removable filter head having a retainer and a stopper movable between a first... Agent: Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP

20070032815 - Single operator sheath catheter: A sheath catheter used to compress and/or retrieve a filter from a body lumen. The sheath catheter includes an elongate proximal shaft and a distal recovery sheath. The proximal shaft includes a central lumen that accommodates a shaft portion of a solid core wire to provide the catheter with better... Agent: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.IPLegal Department

20070032817 - Support frame for an embolic protection device: An embolic protection device comprises a collapsible filter element for delivery through a vascular system of a patient. The filter element comprises a collapsible filter body and a filter support frame contacting the filter body. The collapsible filter body has an inlet end and an outlet end, the inlet end... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, L.L.P.

20070032818 - Surgical tourniquet cuff for limiting usage to improve safety: A surgical tourniquet cuff for limiting usage to improve safety, comprises: an inflatable portion having a length sufficient for encircling a patient's limb at a desired location; cuff connector means communicating pneumatically with the inflatable portion and adapted near an end for connecting to a tourniquet instrument to establish a... Agent: Patrick W. Hughey

20070032819 - Surgical tourniquet cuff system: A surgical tourniquet cuff system includes a tourniquet cuff with a cuff connector for communicating pneumatically with the cuff and for releasably connecting to a tourniquet instrument connector to establish a pneumatic passageway between the cuff connector and the tourniquet instrument connector. A tourniquet instrument supplies pressurized gas through the... Agent: Patrick W. Hughey

20070032820 - Patent foramen ovale closure device: A device and method for deploying a mechanical closure device for closing a passageway in a body, for example a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in a heart. The deployment device has a first tubular structure having proximal and distal ends. A second tubular structure is substantially coaxial to and slideably... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070032821 - Patent foramen ovale closure device: The present invention is a method and device for closing a passageway in a body, for example a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in a heart, and related methods of using such closure devices for closing the passageway. The closure device includes a closure line having a first and a second... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070032822 - Fasteners for use with gastic restriction: A fastener is used during endoscopic procedures in which a suture is used in creating a predefined pouch through tissue apposition within the stomach. The fastener includes a fastener body having a tissue anchor for selectively securing the fastener body to tissue. The fastener body also includes a connection aperture... Agent: Welsh & Flaxman LLC

20070032825 - Apparatus and method for securing a suture: The present invention provides a method of securing a suture. The method includes providing a retainer having first and second sections. The first section has a central post, and the second section has a central bore dimensioned to receive the central post. The method also includes moving a suture through... Agent: Paul D. Bianco: Fleit, Kain, Gibbons, Gutman, Bongini, & Bianco P.l.

20070032823 - Tissue puncture closure device with coiled automatic tamping system: A method and apparatus for sealing a puncture or incision formed percutaneously in a tissue with an anchor, a sealing plug and a filament or other mechanism connecting the anchor and sealing plug. The method and apparatus provide for automatic tamping and/or cinching of the sealing plug when the apparatus... Agent: L. Grant Foster Holland & Hart LLP

20070032824 - Tissue puncture closure device with track plug: Method and apparatus for sealing a puncture and/or incision formed percutaneously in a tissue are disclosed. The sealing may be facilitated by an anchor, a sealing plug and an incision track plug. A filament or other connector may attach the anchor to the sealing plug and the incision track plug.... Agent: L. Grant Foster Holland & Hart LLP

20070027438 - System and method for compensating a corneal dissection: A system and method for dissecting a transparent material utilizes pre-dissection diagnostic information about the transparent material. Specifically, in the system and method, a prototypic dissection path is planned to achieve a desired result. Then, the topology of the transparent material is defined and analyzed to calculate a predicted result... Agent: Neil K. Nydegger Nydegger & Associates

20070027439 - Laser corneal flap cutting system and associated methods: A method for performing wavefront-guided laser surgery on a cornea includes the step of calculating a corneal flap configuration based upon collected anatomical information on an eye and wavefront data on a cornea of the eye. Such data may be collected by, for example, an aberrometer, although this is not... Agent: Alcon

20070027440 - Apparatus and method for photocosmetic and photodermatological treatment: This invention relates to apparatus for using a lamp for treatment of a patient's skin, which lamp is more efficient then prior such devices and to methods of using lamps for various skin treatments. The apparatus improves efficiency by minimizing photon leakage and by other enhancements. The invention also includes... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070027441 - Dual filter multiple pulse photo-dermatological device with pre/post optical heating, quasi-logarithmic spacing, and laser rod spectrum infusion: Method and apparatus to treat unwanted dermatological conditions on a specific area of the body. The area of treatment is exposed to a specific pattern of multi-wavelength light which may have an added infusion of a particular wavelength from a unique non-collimated laser rod optical insertion. The light is generated... Agent: Brown, Rudnick, Berlack & Israels, LLP.

20070027442 - Ophthalmic device positioning system and associated methods: A system and method for determining an optimal position of an eye relative to an ophthalmic device are disclosed. One embodiment of the method includes receiving data comprising an image of a surface of an eye with the eye at a first position relative to an ophthalmic device. An edge... Agent: Alcon

20070027443 - Hand piece for the delivery of light and system employing the hand piece: The invention described here is an improved hand piece for the delivery of light and a system employing the hand piece. The hand piece typically includes a body and an optical element such as an optical fiber coextensive with the body. The system can include a remote light source and... Agent: Dobrusin & Thennisch PC

20070027444 - Cryosurgical instrument and its accessory system: The invention proposes a cryosurgical instrument and its accessory system operating on the base of a refrigerant evaporation. The invention comprises combination of some technical solutions. Flow in a central lumen of the cryosurgical instrument has oscillating character; the refrigerant is provided on the internal surface of the distal cryotip... Agent: Bruce E. Lilling Lilling & Lilling P.C.

20070027445 - Methods and apparatus for non-invasively treating patent foramen ovale using high intensity focused ultrasound: Methods and apparatus are provided that enable a physician to image tissue within the body that is to be ablated, and then to ablate that tissue using a device having an ultrasound imaging system and an aligned high intensity focused ultrasound system.... Agent: Luce, Forward, Hamilton & Scripps LLP

20070027446 - Method of removing a tattoo: A cosmetic method of removing a tattoo from skin tissue is disclosed. The method uses a source of thermal energy with a low thermal time constant, and comprises the step of operating the thermal energy source to form first and second adjacent regions of thermally-modified tissue. The first region overlies... Agent: Oliff & Berridge, PLC

20070027449 - Electrosurgical device and methods: A method and apparatus are disclosed for delivering energy substantially distal to an electrosurgical device. Embodiments of a device of the present invention may comprise an elongate member having one or more electrically insulated portions and a distal face comprising one or more electrically exposed conductive portions for delivering energy... Agent: Dimock Stratton LLP

20070027448 - Multipolar, virtual-electrode catheter with at least one surface electrode and method for ablation: Virtual-electrode catheters and methods for using such virtual-electrode catheters are disclosed. For example, bipolar and multipolar, virtual-electrode catheters having at least one internal electrode and at least one surface electrode, and methods of using these catheters for treatment of cardiac arrhythmias via, for example, radiofrequency (RF) ablation are disclosed. The... Agent: Heimbecher & Assoc., LLC

20070027447 - Seal for medical instrument: A laparoscopic tube end for interfacing a tube with a tip may include an attachment portion to attach to the tip, and a tapered flare portion to frictionally abut the tip when the tip is attached to the tube end.... Agent: Greenblum & Bernstein, P.L.C

20070027450 - Devices and methods for mobilization of the uterus: An electrocautery device comprises first and second continuous loop electrode structures. The electrodes are typically coupled together at one end, permitting the electrodes to be introduced anteriorly and posteriorly over a uterine body. The electrodes may be clamped together, and radiofrequency energy may be delivered through the clamped electrodes to... Agent: Glenn Patent Group

20070027451 - Method for treatment of hypertrophic palatine tonsils: A method and apparatus are taught in which tonsils are be treated by using an applicator in a bipolar design. This means that no neutral electrode (i.e. no separate return electrode) is necessary.... Agent: Beck And Tysver P.l.l.c.

20070027452 - Insertion instrument for non-linear medical devices: The invention provides an insertion instrument and methods for rotatably inserting an insertable medical device into a target region of the body. In particular, the instrument can be used in a method for rotatably inserting a medical device having a helical shape into a portion of the eye. The instrument... Agent: Kagan Binder, PLLC

20070027454 - Access and closure device and method: Devices and methods for accessing and closing vascular sites are disclosed. Self-sealing closure devices and methods are disclosed. A device that can make a steep and controlled access path into a vascular lumen is disclosed. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20070027455 - Access and closure device and method: Devices and methods for accessing and closing vascular sites are disclosed. Self-sealing closure devices and methods are disclosed. A device that can make a steep and controlled access path into a vascular lumen is disclosed. Methods for using the device are also disclosed.... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20070027453 - Anti-inversion trocar seal: The invention is directed to a trocar seal adapted to form a seal around a surgical instrument, the trocar seal comprising a housing having an axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end and forming a working channel sized and configured to receive the surgical instrument; an elastomeric... Agent: Applied Medical Resources Corporation

20070027456 - Integrated medical apparatus for non-traumatic grasping, manipulating and closure of tissue: The integrated medical apparatus includes an operator handle end and a multi-prong grasping member positioned within and movable relative to a grasper lumen that extends from the handle end, wherein the grasping prongs are moved between an open and closed position by relative axial movement between the prongs of the... Agent: Blynn L. Shideler The Blk Law Group

20070027457 - Band blade suture remover apparatus and method: Apparatuses and methods for grasping, holding, cutting, and removing knotted sutures from the surface of the skin of humans and animals are disclosed, wherein the band blade suture remover apparatus performs suture removal in a one-handed, single motion to minimize pain to the patient, eliminate fearful-appearing surgical apparatus for children,... Agent: Carol Walborn

20070027458 - Surgical clip applier having clip chamber with clip chain: A surgical clip applier includes a clip chamber defined at the distal end of the instrument. A clip chain of at least two clips is provided in the clip chamber. The clip chain is coupled such that both relatively distal and proximal movement of the proximalmost clip of the clip... Agent: Gordon & Jacobson, P.C.

20070027459 - Method and system for configuring and data populating a surgical device: A system and method for configuring a surgical device are disclosed, one embodiment of the system comprising; an interface operable to receive data; a portable component, comprising an identifier operable to store and transmit a set of data; a memory, the memory storing criteria; and a controller, wherein the controller,... Agent: Alcon

20070027460 - Implantable remodelable materials comprising magnetic material: Devices, materials and methods for using the same for modifying or monitoring a valve within a body are provided herein. Devices comprising a magnetic material and magnetically-activated implantable devices are described. Methods of modifying a valve in the body, for a valve within a body vessel are also provided.... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/indy/cook

20070027461 - Tissue connector apparatus and methods: A tissue connector assembly having a flexible member and a surgical clip releasably coupled to the flexible member. A needle may be secured to one end portion of the flexible member with the surgical clip coupled to the other end portion of the flexible member. A locking device may be... Agent: James R. Keogh Medtronic, Inc.

20070027462 - Corneal surgical apparatus: A corneal surgical apparatus for incising a cornea in a flap shape, includes: a body portion; and a cutting head unit that is movable back and forth with respect to the body portion and includes a blade holder for holding a blade oscillationally. The cutting head unit includes a cornea... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20070027463 - Cutting device and method of use: A cutting device for cutting through biological tissue at a controlled depth without damaging underlying tissue includes a holding member to be held by a user for operating the cutting device; a cutting blade coupled to the holding member, the cutting blade including a cutting edge for cutting through the... Agent: Procopio, Cory, Hargreaves & Savitch LLP

20070027464 - Device for resecting spinal tissue: A device for excising tissue. In an embodiment, the device comprises an outer sleeve. In addition, the device comprises an inner tubular member slidingly received within the outer sleeve. Further the device comprises a cutting head connected to a distal end of the inner tubular, wherein the cutting head comprises... Agent: Conley Rose, P.C.

20070027465 - Vestibular canal plug: An apparatus to reduce the sensitivity of the vestibular system to stimulation. The apparatus comprises a plugging device configured to constrain the movement of endolymph fluid within a semicircular canal, and a control module coupled to the plugging device that causes the plugging device to maintain a set actuated position.... Agent: Fish & Richardson PC

20070027467 - Devices and methods for stricture dilation: Various methods and devices for dilating strictures in a lumen are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, a stricture dilation device is provided having an elongate shaft with at least one electrically expandable actuator coupled thereto and adapted to radially expand to dilate a stricture in a lumen.... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070027466 - Electroactive polymer-based tissue apposition device and methods of use: Methods and devices for positioning tissues in apposition to each other are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a tissue apposition device is provided having a flexible shaft with at least one expandable element coupled thereto, and a positioning element adapted to axially move the expandable element relative to the elongate... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070027468 - Surgical instrument with an articulating shaft locking mechanism: A surgical instrument particularly suited to endoscopic use articulates an end effector by including a laterally sliding member in a proximal portion of a shaft that pivots the end effector to a selected side. Differentially opposing actuating forces (e.g., hydraulic, fluidic, mechanical) act against the laterally sliding member without binding... Agent: Frost Brown Todd, LLC

20070027469 - Surgical stapling and cutting device and method for using the device: A medical device includes a control handle having an articulation joint actuator, a surgical end effector, and a passive articulating joint connecting the end effector to the control handle. The articulation joint actuator, when unactuated, holds the passive articulation joint and, thereby, the end effector, in a substantially fixed articulation... Agent: Gregory L. Mayback, P.A.

20070027471 - Methods and apparatus for treating disc herniation and preventing the extrusion of interbody bone graft: Methods for treating an annulus fibrosis having a defect include inserting a flexible device into the defect. The flexible device is advanced distally beyond an outer layer of the annulus fibrosus. The flexible device is then expanded such that a width of the flexible device is larger than the defect,... Agent: O'melveny & Myers LLP

20070027470 - Surgical instrument: According to one exemplary embodiment, a surgical instrument for insertion in an incision during surgical treatment and removal of tissue includes an elongated body having a distal tip that terminates at a distal end. The distal tip has a plug feature that has a varying diameter that increases from the... Agent: Darby & Darby P.C.

20070027472 - Medical devices and methods useful for applying bolster material: Described are medical devices useful for applying a bolster material to a surgical fastening device such as a stapler, and related methods of manufacture and use. The devices include an applicator element for receipt between arms of the stapler, and a bolster material, desirably a remodelable extracellular matrix material, coupled... Agent: Woodard, Emhardt, Moriarty, Mcnett & Henry LLP

20070027473 - Luminal anastomotic device and method: An end to end anastomotic stapling device connects two lumen sections avoiding constriction at the anastomotic ring. An intraluminal end to end anastomotic stapler includes an expanding head and anvil designed to fire an anastomotic ring having an inner diameter at least equal to the nominal inner diameter of the... Agent: Blynn L. Shideler The Blk Law Group

20070027474 - Pressure limiting forceps: Forceps of the tips that are commonly used in surgical procedures having pressure limiting means that is effective after the tissue or material is firmly grasped by the platforms or tips, thus causing pressure being applied and competent damage to the tissue or material being handled by the forceps.... Agent: Alfred E. Miller

20070027475 - Scaled suture thread: A suture thread having a textured exposed surface, wherein the texture of the exposed surface enables the suture thread to easily move in a first longitudinal direction, but resist movement in a second longitudinal direction. The texture of the exposed surface being formed by imprinting or by cutting microscopic, angled... Agent: John M. Manion Ryan Kromholz & Manion, S.c.

20070027477 - Suture pin device: 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

20070027476 - System and method for all-inside suture fixation for implant attachment and soft tissue repair: A system for repairing a meniscus includes a suture that includes a first anchor, a second anchor, and a flexible portion connecting the first anchor and the second anchor. The flexible portion includes a self-locking slide knot between the first anchor and the second anchor. The system also includes a... Agent: Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLP

20070027478 - Expanding orthopedic pacifier: An orthopedic pacifier defining a shield adapted to remain outside of the mouth, a bulb adapted to be located in the mouth and on which the child sucks. The bulb is adapted to expand or move upward and outward as the child sucks on it, to counteract inward pressure of... Agent: Mirick, O'connell, Demallie & Lougee

20070027479 - Feeding pacifier with removable fluid source: An apparatus for feeding a child includes a pacifier having a mouthpiece and a shield. A fluid source is releasably coupled to the pacifier such that the fluid source is completely supported and retained by the pacifier. The consumable fluid is dispensed from the fluid source through the mouthpiece of... Agent: Tillman Wright, PLLC

20070027480 - Fitness device: The Fitness Device comprises a back contacting member and a leg contacting member, with a pivotally mounted contacting member that is attached to said back contacting member. When driven by a motor or hand-operated power source, said pivotally mounted contacting member causes the position of said back contacting member relative... Agent: Brown, Rudnick, Berlack & Israels, LLP.