Surgery inventions 09/07

20070225701 - Esophagus isolation device: An esophagus isolation catheter for deflecting an esophagus of a patient away from an ablation site in the left atrium of the patient's heart is provided. The catheter comprises an elongated catheter body and a deflectable section. In one embodiment, the catheter comprises a deflectable intermediate section mounted at the... Agent: Christie, Parker & Hale, LLP

20070225704 - Electromechanically driven external fixator and methods of use: A device for electromechanically and/or electro-pneumatically positioning a fractured bone having a first clamping unit adapted for attachment to the bone by at least one first bone fastener, a second clamping unit adapted for attachment to the bone by at least one second bone fastener, and at least one of:... Agent: Gary P. Topolosky

20070225711 - Low top bone fixation system and method for using the same: An exemplary tulip assembly configured to be coupled to a head of a bone fixation device includes an inner tulip member including a lower portion configured to couple the head of the bone fixation device and an upper portion including a plurality of flexible protrusions extending from the lower portion.... Agent: Rader, Fishman & Grauer PLLC

20070225709 - Single prong in situ spreader: Spinal instrumentation and methods are adapted for use with implanted pedicle screws having exposed heads with opposing surfaces between a bony surface and a rod-capturing through bore. The instrumentation includes a spreader having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end including a pair of handles and the... Agent: Gifford, Krass, Sprinkle,anderson & Citkowski, P.c

20070225717 - Cervical pop rivet locking mechanism: An orthopedic device includes an implant member with a thru-bore having an entry diameter, an intermediate diameter, and an exit diameter. According to one embodiment the intermediate diameter of the thru-bore is larger than both the entry diameter and the exit diameter. Additionally, the orthopedic device includes a screw assembly... Agent: Rader, Fishman & Grauer PLLC

20070225718 - Rotolock cervical plate locking mechanism: According to one exemplary embodiment, an orthopedic bone fixation device for stabilizing a plurality of bone segments includes a bone plate and a screw assembly. The bone plate includes a body defining at least one thru-bore, wherein the thru-bore is defined to include a central cavity, the central cavity includes... Agent: Rader, Fishman & Grauer PLLC

20070225724 - Non-pedicle based interspinous spacer: Spinal distraction apparatus includes at least one plate member having upper and lower surfaces adapted for placement between opposing upper and lower spinous processes having outer lateral surfaces. A pair of scissoring elements are hingedly affixed to the plate member to engage with the lateral surfaces of the spinous processes.... Agent: Gifford, Krass, Sprinkle,anderson & Citkowski, P.c

20070225690 - Medical system and medical display apparatus: A medical system is provided with a plurality of medical devices, a panel portion including a display unit which displays information with respect to the plurality of medical devices and a sensor unit which detects an input operation, an information storage unit which stores graphical user interface information for display... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20070225691 - Method and apparatus for aligning a mask with the visual axis of an eye: A method is provided for increasing the depth of focus of an eye of a patient. A visual axis of the eye is aligned with an instrument axis of an ophthalmic instrument. The ophthalmic instrument has an aperture through which the patient may look along the instrument axis. A first... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070225692 - Methods and systems for laser calibration and eye tracker camera alignment: The present invention provides methods, systems, and apparatus for calibrating a laser ablation system, such as an excimer laser system for selectively ablating a cornea of a patient's eye. The invention also facilitates alignment of eye tracking cameras that measure a position of the eye during laser eye surgery. A... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070225693 - Treatment and diagnostic systems for the eye: The invention refers to a system to treat and/or diagnose a patient's eye. The system in this invention comprises several devices for the treatment and/or diagnosis of the eye as well as means for the logical linking of the devices with each other, such as systems for the spatial positioning... Agent: Patterson, Thuente, Skaar & Christensen, P.A.

20070225694 - Intubation device for enteral feeding: An intubation device is provided for use with a guide apparatus having a track that is adapted to be associated with an endoscope such that bending of the track is substantially decoupled from bending of the endoscope. The intubation device includes an elongated, flexible tube and a mating member attached... Agent: Thompson Hine L.L.P. Intellectual Property Group

20070225695 - Light diffuser and process for producing the same: A light diffuser (10), which is particularly suitable for introducing diffuse light into a tissue, is produced by interpenetration of a diffuser material in a liquid state into a boundary layer (4) of a porous shaping material, by which process a diffuser surface is formed having a surface structure which... Agent: Rankin, Hill, Porter & Clark LLP

20070225696 - Surgical apparatus for laser ablation of soft tissue: A method for photoselective vaporization of prostate tissue includes delivering laser radiation to the treatment area on the tissue, via an optical fiber for example, wherein the laser radiation has a wavelength and irradiance in the treatment area on the surface of the tissue sufficient because vaporization of a substantially... Agent: Haynes Beffel & Wolfeld LLP

20070225697 - Apparatus and methods for cardiac ablation: An adjustable surgical clamp including one or more ablation elements creates a circular lesion in a first operating mode and a linear lesion in a second operating mode. A “box” lesion surrounding all four pulmonary veins may be formed by using the clamp to create two complimentary C-shaped lesions about... Agent: Law Office Of Alan W. Cannon

20070225699 - Electrosurgery system: An electrosurgery system includes an electrosurgical generator (10) coupled to or part of an electrosurgical instrument, the generator being operable to generate electrosurgical power in low frequency (typically at 1 MHz) and high frequency bands (typically at 2.45 GHz) either simultaneously or individually. The generator includes a load-responsive control circuit... Agent: Oliff & Berridge, PLC

20070225698 - System and method for generating radio frequency energy: An electrosurgical generator is disclosed. The electrosurgical generator includes a power supply for generating a DC voltage. The electrosurgical generator also includes a first parallel inductor-capacitor circuit being driven by a first signal at a first predetermined frequency and a second parallel inductor-capacitor inductor-capacitor circuit driven by a second signal... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070225700 - Apparatus for argon-plasma coagulation: The invention relates to an apparatus for argon-plasma coagulation in which working gas is supplied to a tissue that is to be treated by passage through gas-supply devices (20) in a supply-flow direction, and the working gas flows out of a distal end of the gas-supply devices. This apparatus for... Agent: Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld L.L.P.

20070225702 - Apparatus and method of performing radiofrequency cauterization and tissue removal: An apparatus for cauterizing and severing tissue from a patient's body is provided. The apparatus includes a sheath and a cauterization device. The sheath is adapted for insertion into the body. The sheath has a tubular cross-section and includes longitudinally spaced proximal and distal ends. The cauterization device includes a... Agent: Tarolli, Sundheim, Covell & Tummino L.L.P.

20070225703 - Flexible tissue removal devices and methods: A device for modifying tissue in a patient may include: an elongate body having a rigid proximal portion and a flexible distal portion having first and second major surfaces; a proximal handle coupled with the proximal portion of the body; one or more tissue modifying members disposed along the first... Agent: Shay Law Group LLP

20070225705 - Methods and devices for treating fractured and/or diseased bone using an expandable bio-absorbable structure that remains within the bone: A percutaneous path is created into a bone having an interior volume occupied, at least in part, by a cancellous bone, e.g., a vertebral body. An expandable bio-absorbable structure is introduced into the cancellous bone by deployment of a tool through the percutaneous path into the cancellous bone. The expandable... Agent: Ryan Kromholz & Manion, S.c.

20070225708 - Dynamic stabilization device for bones or vertebrae: A dynamic stabilization device for bones or vertebrae is provided which includes at least two bone anchoring elements, at least one connection element, connecting the bone anchoring elements. Each bone anchoring element includes a shank portion to be anchored in the bone or in the vertebra and a head portion... Agent: Christie, Parker & Hale, LLP

20070225707 - Orthopedic spinal devices fabricated from two or more materials: This invention relates to medical devices including spinal orthopedic implants and surgical instruments including a component having at least two materials providing differing performance characteristics in a unitary structure. The differing materials can be bonded or fused to one another at an atomic level to be joined to form a... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070225706 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: Spinal implants and methods for the placement thereof are disclosed herein. In one variation, the implant includes a support member, a proximal retention member, and a distal retention member. The support member is configured to be disposed between adjacent spinous processes. The proximal retention member has a first configuration in... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20070225710 - Spinal stabilization device: A flexible connection unit for use in a spinal fixation device, including: a longitudinal member having first end portion, a second end portion and a flexible member interposed between the first end portion and the second end portion, at least one of the first end portion and the second end... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20070225712 - Systems and methods for posterior dynamic stabilization of the spine: A spinal cross-connector for connecting two stabilization rods installed in a patient's spine is provided. The cross-connector includes novel rod attachment elements dynamically connected together by connector elements. The cross-connector provides multi-dimensional adjustability for easy and accurate installation with full lock-down.... Agent: Rimas Lukas Vertiflex, Inc.

20070225713 - Systems and methods for posterior dynamic stabilization of the spine: A spinal cross-connector for connecting two stabilization rods installed in a patient's spine is provided. The cross-connector includes novel rod attachment elements dynamically connected together by connector elements. The cross-connector provides multi-dimensional adjustability for easy and accurate installation with full lock-down.... Agent: Rimas Lukas Vertiflex, Inc.

20070225715 - Fastening system for internal fixation: A bone fracture fixation system comprises a bone plate configured to bear against a proximal surface of the bone and a plurality of elongated tension elements, each sized to pass through an opening in the bone plate and through the bone from the proximal surface to a distal surface thereof.... Agent: Maginot, Moore & Beck, LLP Chase Tower

20070225716 - Fastening system for internal fixation: A bone fracture fixation system comprises a bone plate configured to bear against a proximal surface of the bone and a plurality of elongated tension elements, each sized to pass through an opening in the bone plate and through the bone from the proximal surface to a distal surface thereof.... Agent: Maginot, Moore & Beck, LLP Chase Tower

20070225714 - System for the minimally invasive treatment of a bone fracture, especially of a proximal humeral or femoral fracture: The invention relates to a system for the minimally invasive treatment of a bone fracture, especially of a proximal humeral or femoral fracture. The inventive system has an osteosynthesis plate having a supporting section in the cortical substance and an additional fastening section on the bone. A second linking section... Agent: Jordan And Hamburg LLP

20070225719 - Method and apparatuses for securing suture: Various suture anchors and surgical methods are provided. A two-part suture anchor is provided having a continuously threaded anchor body defining an axial bore and a pin. The pin includes a tip and a plate defining at least two suture receiving openings aligned in a single plane that is perpendicular... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20070225720 - Angled surgical driver: An angular surgical driver including a first rotatable member, a second rotatable member, an angled housing and a plurality of pins. The first rotatable member and second rotatable member are angularly associated with each other. The angled housing is rotatably connected to the first rotatable member and the second rotatable... Agent: Taylor & Aust, P.C.

20070225721 - Method and apparatus for reducing femoral fractures: An improved method and apparatus for reducing a hip fracture utilizing a minimally invasive procedure which does not require incision of the quadriceps. A femoral implant in accordance with the present invention achieves intramedullary fixation as well as fixation into the femoral head to allow for the compression needed for... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20070225722 - Acetabular reamer: An orthopaedic cutting tool which includes a partially hemispherical shell having a shell radius, and a base including a first circumferential base segment and a second circumferential base segment. The shell has a first part on one side of the first circumferential base segment and the second circumferential base segment,... Agent: Taylor & Aust, P.C.

20070225723 - Reduced profile orthopaedic reamer: An orthopaedic reamer, which includes a reamer with a partially hemispherical shell which has a base including three circumferential base segments. The shell has three cutouts each extending to the base. Each of the three circumferential base segments are separated from another of the three circumferential base segments by one... Agent: Taylor & Aust, P.C.

20070225725 - Modular acetabular component inserter: A modular acetabular component inserter and method are provided for inserting an acetabular component into a surgical site. The modular acetabular component inserter includes a body defining an acetabular component engagement portion and a handle. Various adapters are mountable to the engagement portion to convert the inserter for use with... Agent: John F. Hoffman, Esq. Baker & Daniels LLP

20070225726 - Instruments for delivering spinal implants: A method, apparatus, and system are provided to place an insert in a space between boney structures. The insert may be rotatably coupled to the delivery instrument. The delivery instrument may comprise a body and an articulating member. The articulating member may slidably interact with the insert to rotate the... Agent: Carr LLP (ist)

20070225727 - Transparent tissue-visualizng preparation: Described is a highly safe means to improve visibility of transparent tissues of the eye, i.e., the vitreous body, the lens or the cornea, in a surgical operation on them. The means comprises fine particles of a macromolecular compound, in particular, those one gram of which cannot be dissolved in... Agent: Hamre, Schumann, Mueller & Larson, P.C.

20070225728 - Intubation system for use with an endoscope: An intubation system is provided for use with an endoscope. The intubation system includes a guide apparatus having a track that is adapted to be associated with the endoscope such that bending of the track is substantially decoupled from bending of the endoscope. The intubation system also includes a positioning... Agent: Mark P. Levy

20070225730 - Iris basket: A medical device includes a sheath defining a lumen, an elongate member disposed within the lumen, and a basket including a plurality of legs connected to the elongate member. A distal end of each of the plurality of legs moves along a length of an adjacent one of the plurality... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20070225729 - Medical device basket legs of a plurality of materials: A medical device includes a sheath defining a lumen, an elongate member disposed within the lumen, and a basket connected to a distal end of the elongate member. The basket is retractable within and extendable from the lumen. The basket includes a plurality of legs and each of the plurality... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20070225731 - Method and system for tracking tools in computer-assisted surgery: A system for tracking a bone-altering tool in computer-assisted surgery, comprising a first trackable reference secured to a first bone, with a first frame of reference being associated with the first trackable reference. A bone-altering tool is securable to the first bone in a secured configuration. Sensors track the trackable... Agent: Ogilvy Renault LLP

20070225732 - Electrical dermabrasion device: An electrical dermabrasion device for exfoliating a foot includes a hollow main body; an abrasion unit connected to the main body, for exfoliating the foot; and a driving unit incorporated in a hollow portion of the main body, for rotating the abrasion unit.... Agent: Hoffmann & Baron, LLP

20070225733 - Device and method: A device is provided to remove a depilatory composition and depilated hair 18 from the skin (20). The device (2) is moved in the direction of arrow (22) over the skin (20), and has fins (12) which remove the depilatory composition and depilated hair. During this movement non-depilatory compositions, for... Agent: Trask Britt

20070225734 - Systems and methods for less invasive resolution of maladies of tissue including the appendix, gall bladder, and hemorrhoids: Systems and methods for transanal inversion and removal of the gall bladder, appendix, and hemorrhoids.... Agent: Rogitz & Associates

20070225735 - Method and apparatus for passing a suture: A suture pushing device includes a handle, a shaft extending from the handle, and a suturing head at the distal end of the shaft. The suturing head includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw and/or the second jaw have a tissue cutting edge adapted to cut... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20070225736 - Suture tensioning device: The present invention generally provides devices and methods for tensioning a length of suture. In one embodiment, a suture tensioning device is provided having a shaft and a suture grasping member. A knotting element can be removably coupled to a distal end of the shaft, and it can be adapted... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070225738 - Aneurysm coil and method of assembly: An occlusion device for occluding blood flow in a vessel is provided, having a generally helical member with a pair of end portions and an intermediate portion therebetween. The intermediate portion defines a varying coil pitch so that the helical member has a varying stiffness along the intermediate portion.... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070225737 - Surgical fastener and instrument: A surgical fastener including a filament formed into a generally helical shape around a fastener axis and having a plurality of coils. The proximal end of the filament has an engagement member and the distal end of the filament has a penetrating tip. The engagement member may be driven to... Agent: Thompson Hine L.L.P. Intellectual Property Group

20070225739 - Neuro thrombectomy catheter: An elongate tubular body extends between a rotatable cutter and a control. The cutter is connected to the control with a rotatable element. A vacuum is applied through an annular passage defined between the tubular body and the rotatable element. The tubular body has a sufficiently small outside diameter and... Agent: Knobbe, Martens, Olson & Bear, LLP

20070225740 - Endoscopic pulley knife instrument for transecting ligaments or fascia: An instrument adapted to be placed over the tip of an endoscope has a rearward-facing blade which can be deployed by manipulating an actuator. The actuator is connected to the blade by a flexible tensile member like a cable or wire, which enables one to make and use curved or... Agent: Shoemaker And Mattare, Ltd

20070225742 - Lancet assembly: The present invention provides a lancet assembly which dispenses with the removal of a resin cover encapsulating a pricking element. Upon inserting a lancet structure 200 into a lancet holder 100, a force which separates a lancet cover 214 encapsulating the sharp tip portion 232 of the pricking element 220... Agent: Wenderoth, Lind & Ponack, L.L.P.

20070225741 - Lancet device for forming incision: The incision device (20) comprises a housing (22), and a lancet guide assembly having lancet guides (72, 74) and a lancet body (38). The lancet body (38) further comprises a lancet blade (24). The lancet blade (24) is covered by a removable protective cover (88) having a stopper (100) which... Agent: Wenderoth, Lind & Ponack, L.L.P.

20070225743 - Mountable top-loading surgical retractor: A mountable, top-loading retractor device that is quickly and easily mountable to a surgical tool support frame. The device has two main sections a mount assembly for attaching to the support frame, and a top-loading retractor assembly pivotably linked to the mount assembly. The mount assembly has opposed upper and... Agent: Moetteli & Associates Sarl

20070225745 - Methods and apparatus for treating uterine fibroids: Minimally invasive surgical instruments and procedures for treating fibroids within avascular space, particularly uterine fibroids, by interrupting the blood supply to the fibroid, are disclosed. One embodiment of a dissection instrument for detaching the fibroid comprises fluid delivery into the avascular space to expand the space and detach the fibroid... Agent: Ams Research Corporation

20070225744 - Cavity enlarger method and apparatus: A device and method for enlarging and supporting a body cavity are disclosed. One embodiment of the device comprises a tubular, distending balloon having first and second distending members, spaced apart from one another, wherein the distending members are inflatable. A tubular connector interconnects the first and second distending members... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070225746 - Catheter shaft with a lubricious surface: A catheter which has an elongated shaft having a layer of an ultra high molecular weight polyolefin, such as a melt-extruded ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The UHMWPE, forming at least in part a surface of the shaft, facilitates sliding a blood/contrast coated device along the shaft surface, and... Agent: Fulwider Patton LLP

20070225747 - Methods and devices to induce controlled atelectasis and hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction: Lung conditions are treated by implanting a flow restrictor in a passageway upstream from a diseased lung segment. The restrictor will create an orifice at the implantation site which inhibits air exchange with the segment to induce controlled atelectasis and/or hypoxia. Controlled atelectasis can induce collapse of the diseased segment... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070225748 - Distal protection filter with improved wall apposition: In accordance with the present invention, a distal protection and embolic material retrieval device with improved apposition to both large and small vessel walls of varying geometries for enhancing the filtering of embolic material during intravascular procedures while allowing for the passage of blood is provided. The device includes a... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070225750 - Embolic protection systems: An embolic protection device comprising an expandable structure and a catheter. The catheter has a distal region and a working channel dimensioned to slideably receive an interventional device. The expandable structure is attached to the distal region of the catheter. The expandable structure has an expandable working channel extension and... Agent: Popovich, Wiles & O'connell, PA 650 Third Avenue South

20070225749 - Methods and devices for restoring blood flow within blocked vasculature: The devices and methods described herein to clearing of blockages within body lumens, such as the vasculature, by addressing the frictional resistance on the obstruction prior to attempting to translate and/or mobilize the obstruction within the body lumen.... Agent: Levine Bagade Han LLP

20070225751 - 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 comprising 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: Sughrue Mion, PLLC

20070225752 - 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 comprising 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: Sughrue Mion, PLLC

20070225753 - Attenuation device for treating glaucoma: Disclosed herein is an attenuation device, comprising a flexible housing and a high vapor pressure media having a permeability of less than 1 ml/day at body temperature through the outer wall of the flexible housing. In one embodiment, the high vapor pressure media comprises perfluorooctylbromide. In another embodiment, the high... Agent: Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, LLPIPProsecution Department

20070225754 - Medical instrument having an engagement mechanism: A medical instrument includes a shaft having a channel extending therethrough and an actuating element extending through the channel. The instrument further includes an end effector disposed on the distal end of the shaft and operatively connected to the distal end of the actuating element, wherein the actuating element is... Agent: Thompson Hine L.L.P. Intellectual Property Group

20070225755 - Closure device: A medical closure device (20) is provided, comprising a tubular member (21) provided with first struts (22) that extend between a first end portion (24) and a central portion (25) and second struts (23) that extend between said central portion (25) and a second end portion (26), each strut being... Agent: Foley And Lardner LLP Suite 500

20070225757 - Closure device: A medical closure device (20) is provided, which comprises a tubular member (21) provided with a first set of struts (22) that extend between a first end portion (24) and a central portion (25) and a second set of struts (23) that extend between said central portion (25) and a... Agent: Foley And Lardner LLP Suite 500

20070225758 - Closure device: A medical closure device (20) is provided, which comprises a tubular member (21) provided with a first set of struts (22) that extend between a first end portion (24) and a central portion (25) and second set of struts (23) that extend between said central portion (25) and a second... Agent: Foley And Lardner LLP Suite 500

20070225756 - Closure device and insertion assembly: A medical apparatus (100) is provided, comprising a closure device (102), which comprises a locking member (130) and a tubular member (121) having a distal set of struts (122) and a proximal set of struts (123), said struts being provided with a hinge section, and an insertion assembly (101), which... Agent: Foley And Lardner LLP Suite 500

20070225759 - Method for delivering a medical device to the heart of a patient: A method is provided for delivering a medical device to the heart of a patient including the steps of providing a medical device such as an occluder; providing a delivery equipment for delivering the medical device to the heart; performing a transthoracic puncture; introducing the delivery equipment and the device... Agent: Mcdonnell Boehnen Hulbert & Berghoff LLP

20070225760 - Occlusion device and method for its manufacture: The present invention relates to an occlusion device (1) consisting of a braiding (2) of thin wires or threads (4) which is given a suitable form in a molding and heat treatment procedure. The occlusion device (1) has a proximal retention area (6) and a distal retention area (8), whereby... Agent: Cesari And Mckenna, LLP

20070225761 - Localized delivery of a therapeutic agent by barbed staples: A barbed staple having a therapeutic agent.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070225762 - Self closing tissue fastener: A self-closing tissue fastener for use in wound closure and surgery has, in an annular configuration, a central ring; tissue-piercing spines projecting from a first side of the ring; and stabilizing members projecting from a second side of the ring. The fastener can be carried on the inside of a... Agent: Denis Labombard Sandbox LLC

20070225763 - Marked suture: Disclosed herein is a suture material formed of a flexible strand of suture having at least one marking thereon. The marking is one that is indicative of at least one use characteristic of the suture.... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070225764 - Insert molded suture anchor: An insert-molded suture anchor has a biodegradable polymer body molded around a loop of suture. A tapered end disposed on the proximal end of the body is received into a recess in the distal end of a hand driver. Anchoring ribs are formed along the remaining length of the anchor.... Agent: Dickstein Shapiro LLP

20070219543 - Intrastromal refractive correction systems and methods: Devices, systems, and methods for laser eye surgery selectively ablate tissues within the cornea of an eye along one or more target surfaces, so that corneal tissue bordered by the laser incision surface(s) can be mechanically removed. An appropriate tissue-shaping surface can be selected based on the regular refractive error... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070219542 - Surgical procedure and instrumentation for intrastromal implants of lens or strengthening materials: A surgical procedure for implanting a lens or strengthening material in a cornea without making a flap as is done in Lasik procedures. A femtosecond laser or some future developed laser which has the same ability is modified to cut a pocket in the stroma layer of a cornea with... Agent: Ronald Craig Fish

20070219546 - Devices and methods for creating continuous lesions: The present invention discloses devices and methods for creating multiple lesions using ablation devices in anatomical regions such as the heart, for example to treat cardiac arrhythmias. The present invention discloses methods and devices to create continuous lesions using area ablation devices. The present invention discloses various embodiments of reference... Agent: Microcube

20070219558 - Method and apparatus for arthroscopic surgery using suture anchors: Methods and apparatus for dual row arthroscopic connective tissue repair surgeries. The methods and apparatus include a first type of suture anchor for a first row of anchors and a second type of anchor for a second row of anchors, where the second type of anchor includes a suture capture... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070219559 - Indicator device for use with a surgical guide instrument: Instruments for use in resecting, reshaping, and preparing the end of a bone to receive an implant. The instruments may be equipped with indicator devices in the form of light-emitting devices to project an indicator onto the bone. Examples of such instruments may be a cut guide equipped with a... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20070219561 - Distractor system: According to one aspect of the present invention, a computer assisted orthopaedic surgery system for performing joint replacement or resurfacing surgeries includes a computer that contains software that is adapted to permit an operator of the system to physically evaluate post-operative laxity and stiffness of a joint based on planned... Agent: Darby & Darby P.C.

20070219539 - Flexible hollow shaft for a medical instrument: A flexible shaft to be received in a curved shank of a medical instrument has a hollow shaft having a wall with cuttings therein such that said hollow shaft can also transmit rotary forces in a curved state. Said hollow shaft has a proximal end for coupling to a drive... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20070219540 - Sub-dermal laser skin treatment: A method and system for skin tightening comprises a hollow cannula that contains an optical fiber connected to a laser source. The cannula is inserted subcutaneously into a patient so that the end of the fiber is located within the tissue underlying the dermis. The source emits an output pulse... Agent: Hamilton, Brook, Smith & Reynolds, P.C.

20070219541 - System and method for ophthalmic laser surgery on a cornea: A system and method for ophthalmic laser surgery is disclosed. An optical scanner is employed to create a thickness profile for the cornea. A lens is placed in contact with the anterior surface of the cornea. The thickness profile is then used to identify a scan region within the cornea,... Agent: Connolly Bove Lodge & Hutz LLP

20070219544 - Cooled laser fiber for improved thermal therapy: In one embodiment, the disclosure is directed to an integrated apparatus for delivering energy to a tissue. The integrated apparatus included a housing having a distal end and a tubular structure located within the housing forming a first annulus between the tubular structure and the housing. The tubular structure is... Agent: Larson Newman Abel Polansky & White, LLP

20070219545 - Probe based low temperature lesion formation apparatus, systems and methods: Probe based low temperature lesion formation apparatus, systems and methods include, in one embodiment, a surgical probe having a relatively short shaft (e.g., between 3-12 cm) defining a distal portion and a proximal portion, an inflatable cryogenic element, defining an exterior surface, associated with the distal portion of the shaft;... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20070219547 - Neuro-stimulation and ablation system: The invention provides a system for treating chronic pain including a lead configured and adapted to be percutaneously implanted into an epidural space of a spinal cord, a stimulation generator that delivers electrical stimulation to the spinal cord through the lead to precisely locate the treatment area, and an ablation... Agent: Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge LLP

20070219548 - Microwave apparatus for controlled tissue ablation: Apparatus for controlled tissue ablation includes an elongated relatively flexible antenna with a first, strip-like, conductor having opposite faces and proximal and distal ends, a dielectric spacer covering one face of the first conductor, and a second, serpentine, conductor composed of a series of similar segments positioned flush against the... Agent: Cesari And Mckenna, LLP

20070219549 - Surgical instrument: A device for morcellating tissue within a body cavity of a patient comprises a stationary tube (8) having a distal end portion (12), and a bipolar electrosurgical electrode assembly (13) located at the distal end of the tube. The electrosurgical electrode assembly (13) comprises first and second electrodes (14, 16)... Agent: Nixon & Vanderhye, PC

20070219550 - Device and system for surgical dissection and/or guidance of other medical devices into body: A device for dissecting tissue and/or guidance of a second device to a desired physiological location, the device comprising: an elongate shaft comprising a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the distal portion comprises a plurality of segments that articulate with respect to one another; and a handle attached... Agent: Kagan Binder, PLLC

20070219551 - Medical device with flexible printed circuit: A catheter or lead having a flexible printed circuit for conveying signals and/or energy. Each trace may be in electrical connection with one or more external electrical contacts. More specifically, each trace is typically electrically connected to a single contact. The traces and contacts may assist in diagnosis and/or detection... Agent: St. Jude Medical, Atrial Fibrillation Division

20070219553 - Internal pedicle insulator implants assemblies and methods of use: It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments Internal pedicle insulator implants, assemblies and related methods are provided. A representative method includes: placing an implant at least partially about an intermediate portion of the fixture, the implant having an inner surface; driving a distal end of the implant into tissue... Agent: Thomas, Kayden, Horstemeyer & Risley, LLP

20070219554 - Spinal stabilization systems and methods: A spinal stabilization system may be formed in a patients. In some embodiments, a minimally invasive procedure may be used to form a spinal stabilization system in a patient Bone fastener assemblies may be coupled to vertebrae. Each bone fastener assembly may include a bone fastener and a collar. The... Agent: Robert Deberardine Abbott Laboratories

20070219552 - Spine distraction implant and method: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20070219555 - Percutaneous technique and implant for expanding the spinal canal: The present invention expands a spinal canal by drilling a cylindrical passage in each pedicle of a vertebra, making a circumferential pedicle cut (osteotomy) through each pedicle from within the passage, separating each pedicle cut by inserting an implant into the passage which distracts the pedicle cut to expand the... Agent: Blank Rome LLP

20070219556 - System and methods for posterior dynamic stabilization of the spine: A spinal cross-connector for connecting two stabilization rods installed in a patient's spine is provided. The cross-connector includes novel rod attachment elements dynamically connected together by connector elements. The cross-connector provides multi-dimensional adjustability for easy and accurate installation with full lock-down.... Agent: Rimas Lukas Vertiflex, Inc.

20070219557 - Soft tissue fixation: A surgical device includes an anchor body defining a cavity and an opening to the cavity, and a flexible member extending through the opening and having a sliding knot disposed within the cavity. The flexible member is movable through the anchor body in a first direction while movement of the... Agent: Norman F. Hainer, Jr. Smith & Nephew, Inc.

20070219560 - Femoral reference tibial cut guide: A femoral reference tibial cut guide for cutting the proximal tibia to receive a tibial implant. The cut guide references the femur to determine the appropriate tibial resection.... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20070219562 - Method and apparatus for implanting a prosthesis: A method and apparatus for implanting various portions of a prosthesis into an anatomy. The instruments can include portions that allow for positive and rigid engagement with a selected prosthesis member to allow for positioning it relative to the anatomy. Further, various instruments can include portions that allow it to... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20070219564 - Implanting device and method of using same: A device for implanting at least one object beneath the skin of a patient includes a handle for grasping the device during insertion of an object. The handle may have a distal end, a proximal end, and an angled track formed on the handle. The angled track may have a... Agent: Pepper Hamilton LLP

20070219563 - Reprocessing indicator ink for medical instruments: A medical instrument includes a body member, wherein ink is applied to the body member. The ink is reactive with ethylene oxide gas so as to change the appearance of the ink when exposed to ethylene oxide gas.... Agent: Welsh & Flaxman LLC

20070219565 - Kinetic anchoring deployment system: A kinetic anchoring deployment system utilizing a high-impulse, high-velocity anchor launching mechanism is described herein. The assembly generally has a handle, a flexible elongate body, and a launch assembly thereupon. The launch assembly uses a number of different mechanisms for creating a high-impulse shock wave for launching a carriage carrying... Agent: Levine Bagade Han LLP

20070219566 - Tissue capturing and suturing device and method: A combination tissue apposition and suture capturing device (100) for performing endoscopic procedures typically in the gastro-esophageal tract. The device (100) is particularly adapted for forming multiple plications used in a gastroplasty procedure devised to cure or ameliorate gastro-esophageal reflux disease. The device include a tissue sewing capsule (102) attached... Agent: Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Preston Gates Ellis LLP (formerly Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Nicholson Graham)

20070219567 - Suture pushing apparatus: A suture pushing apparatus includes an elongated shaft defining proximal and distal ends, and having a suture pushing member adjacent the distal end thereof. The suture pushing member includes first and second retainer members extending in a general longitudinal direction relative to a longitudinal axis defined by the elongated shaft... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070219569 - Hernia repair method: An article of manufacture suitable for positioning a sheet of mesh material over tissue is described. In one embodiment, the article comprises a surgical tack having a hook-type material such as Velcro® material carried by the tack, e.g., secured to the top of the head thereof. A plurality of such... Agent: Boyle Fredrickson S.c.

20070219568 - Monofilament, surgical mesh having improved flexibility and biocompatibility, and process for preparing the same: The present invention relates to a monofilament with a segmented pie structure formed by conjugated spinning of degradable polymers and non-degradable polymers, a hernia mesh having improved flexibility and biocompatibility, and a preparation method thereof. More specifically, the hernia mesh of the present invention having improved flexibility and biocompatibility is... Agent: LexyoumeIPGroup, LLC

20070219570 - Obesity treatment tools and methods: Various obesity treatment tools and methods are described herein, as well as treatments for other gastric-related diseases, e.g., GERD. Treatment includes reducing the size of the stomach pouch to limit the caloric intake as well as to provide an earlier feeling of satiety. This may be done by creating a... Agent: Fulwider Patton LLP

20070219571 - Endoscopic plication devices and methods: Described herein are endoscopic plicators passed transorally into the stomach and used to plicate stomach tissue by engaging tissue from inside of the stomach and drawing it inwardly. In the disclosed embodiments, the tissue is drawn inwardly into a vacuum chamber, causing sections of serosal tissue on the exterior of... Agent: Stallman & Pollock LLP

20070219572 - Integrated device for diagnostic purposes: The present invention provides an integrated measuring device that includes a blood collection system for collecting blood for diagnostic purposes. The blood collection system comprises an electric motor which provides energy for propelling a lancet. The blood collection system comprises a mechanical energy store in which the electric energy that... Agent: Bose Mckinney & Evans LLP

20070219573 - Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue: A tissue penetrating system includes a plurality of penetrating members each having a tip. A penetrating member driver is coupled to the plurality of penetrating members. A support is provided with a plurality of openings. Each opening receives a penetrating member. Each tip of a penetrating member is uncovered during... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20070219574 - Method and apparatus for a multi-use body fluid sampling device with analyte sensing: A device for use with a penetrating member driver to penetrate tissue is provided. A plurality of penetrating members are coupled to a single cartridge and are operatively couplable to the penetrating member driver. The penetrating members are movable to extend radially outward from the cartridge to penetrate tissue. A... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20070219575 - Orthonostric device and method of forming the same: There is herein described an orthonostric device in the form of a nasal stent for insertion in the nostril of a patient for the correction of abnormalities and stenosis of the nostril. The stent is formed so that it can be expanded or contracted laterally by means of a tool... Agent: Dennison, Schultz & Macdonald

20070219576 - Reversibly and radially expandable electroactive polymer element for temporary occlusion of a vessel: An occlusion device is formed of an electroactive polymer element mounted on an elongated shaft. The electroactive polymer element includes an outer electrode, an inner electrode, and an electroactive polymer film disposed between the inner and outer electrodes. The electroactive polymer element may be formed in a hollow, generally cylindrical... Agent: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.IPLegal Department

20070219578 - Aneurysm coil delivery system: Devices and methods for treating an aneurysm include a single unit having an access element and an occlusion element, the access element providing access to the aneurysm for introducing treatment objects such as coils therethrough while the occlusion element blocks the treatment objects from protruding into the vessel. The access... Agent: Daniel J Swirsky

20070219579 - Distal protection device: The present invention provides, in certain aspects, devices and methods for protecting the body from downstream embolization. In one embodiment, a distal protection device comprises a shaft and a jacket with the shaft being received within the jacket. The device also includes a filter, which is supported by a wire... Agent: Woodard, Emhardt, Moriarty, Mcnett & Henry LLP

20070219577 - Sprayed in delivery sheath tubes: Embolic protection filtering devices and methods for making and using the same. An example filtering device includes a filter wire and a filter coupled to the filter wire. The filter can include a filter loop and a filter membrane coupled to the filter loop. A plurality of tubular members may... Agent: Crompton, Seager & Tufte, LLC

20070219580 - Low-cost contour cuff for surgical tourniquet systems: A low-cost contour cuff for surgical tourniquet systems comprises: a sheath containing an inflatable bladder, the sheath having an arcuate shape, an outer surface and a centerline equidistant between first and second side edges; a securing strap non-releasably attached to the outer surface and formed of substantially inextensible material having... Agent: Hancock Hughey LLP

20070219581 - Bending action member, multi-slider linkage mechanism, actuator and manipulator: The front end portion of a bending action member and manipulator is constituted of multi-slider linkage mechanism which starts the operation of a second articulation portion at its rear end side after the bending action of a first articulation portion on the front end side ends. A guide link portion... Agent: Westerman, Hattori, Daniels & Adrian, LLP

20070219582 - Device for manipulation and placement of flexible implants: A novel surgical instrument for holding a flexible implant is provided, as is a novel flexible implant to be held by such instrument. The novel surgical instrument comprises flexible implant hooks. The flexible implant comprises one or more apertures, which are used to hang the flexible implant on the flexible... Agent: Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati

20070219584 - Anastomosis device and related methods: Described are methods and devices relating to reconnecting the urethra and bladder after a radical prostatectomy, wherein the devices incorporate tissue approximating structure to maintain contact between a severed bladder neck tissue and a severed urethral stump tissue, preferably without the use of sutures.... Agent: Kagan Binder, PLLC

20070219583 - System and method for facilitating hemostatis with an absorbable sponge: The present invention provides for a method and apparatus to provide hemostasis at a blood vessel puncture site, having a hemostasis material and a clot formation accelerator, wherein said clot formation accelerator is substantially dispersed throughout said hemostasis material.... Agent: Miller, Matthias & Hull

20070219585 - System for administering reduced pressure treatment having a manifold with a primary flow passage and a blockage prevention member: A reduced pressure delivery system is provided and includes a primary manifold, a blockage prevention member, and first and second conduits in fluid communication with the primary manifold. The primary manifold includes a flexible wall surrounding a primary flow passage and is adapted to be placed in proximity to a... Agent: Kinetic Concepts, Inc. Attn: Legal Department Intellectual Property

20070219586 - Suture needle and suture assembly: The present invention provides a suture needle and suture assembly for use in surgery. The suture needle comprises a curvilinear, arched shaft tapering at both ends to form tips for impalement. A groove for housing the suture is provided on the needle approximately equally remotely located from the tips and... Agent: Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC

20070219587 - Surgical thread for plastic, dermatologic, and reconstructive surgery and for surgical sutures: A surgical thread to be used for plastic, dermatological, cosmetic, operations as well as for general surgery, emergency surgery, and all of specialized surgeries is provided with inclined projections or thorns or hooks or protrusions that have manifold shapes and predetermined size and are distributed along a spiral as well... Agent: Young & Thompson

20070213692 - Force action feedback in surgical instruments: A surgical instrument includes a holding section, a tool removably attachable to the holding section, and at least one load sensor. The at least one sensor is operative to measure a mechanical load exerted by the tool on the instrument.... Agent: Don W. Bulson (brainlab)

20070213702 - Medical procedure carried out via a natural opening: A medical procedure carried out via a natural opening, comprising: fastening the distal end of thread members to a tissue in a body cavity in proximity to a targeted incision site via a first introduction member that is inserted into a body cavity through a natural opening of an examination... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20070213703 - Electrode for radio frequency tissue ablation: Provided is an electrode for radio frequency tissue ablation, including: a grip provided with a switch for power control; a hollow electrode connected to one side of the grip, coated with an insulating material, and having an internal space; an electrode needle part provided in one end of the hollow... Agent: Squire, Sanders & Dempsey L.l.p

20070213722 - Dual action rod reducing and locking device and method: Provided is a dual action surgical instrument for use in orthopedic surgical procedures that is capable of reducing a rod into position in a rod receiving notch in the head of a bone screw with a first action and subsequently locking the rod into the receiving notch by a second... Agent: Perry E. Van Over & Associates, PLLC

20070213723 - Spinal cross-connector: A cross-connector assembly construct and a method of locking comprises a flexible clip contacting a longitudinal member; a housing component contacting the flexible clip, wherein the housing component comprises a conical ramp towards a bottom end of the housing component; a locking mechanism contacting the housing component and adapted to... Agent: Gibb & Rahman, LLC

20070213730 - Cannulated suture anchor system: A system and associated method for arthroscopic repair is particularly adapted in reattaching a ligament and/or tendon to cortical bone of the shoulder. A suture anchor system includes a suture anchor, preferably, a screw anchor, and an installation tool for installing the suture anchor in tissue. The suture anchor defines... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070213732 - Orthopedic screw system: An orthopedic screw system. The screw system comprises an outer member and an inner screw. The outer member has a longitudinal inner channel that defines an interior sidewall and is provided with screw threads on its exterior and interior sidewalls. An inner screw has threads constructed and arranged to engage... Agent: Patentbest

20070213736 - Countersink for use in orthopedic surgery: A drill having a head that has a modified egg shape. The distal most end of the drill head is rounded and has a smaller diameter with a cutting bevel which flares into an area having a maximum diameter that is slightly larger than the diameter of the corresponding screw... Agent: Hudak, Shunk & Farine Co. Lpa

20070213738 - Instruments for total knee arthroplasty: An instrument assembly for resecting a distal femur for receipt of a knee implant, comprising an intramedullary rod and resection instruments. A valgus portion of the intramedullary rod has series of engagement members positioned to provide a plurality of engagement positions for use in fixing the resection instruments on the... Agent: Wright Medical Technology, Inc.

20070213691 - Medical-engineering coupling mechanism for connecting two medical instruments: The invention relates to a medical-engineering coupling mechanism for connecting two medical instruments, instruments, in particular instruments for endoscopic surgery, having a coupling plug and a coupling socket for inserting the coupling plug, so that the coupling socket and the coupling plug can be secured to one another by at... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20070213693 - Selective ophthalmic laser treatment: An ophthalmic laser system which produces controlled bursts of laser pulses and incorporates a system control processor that calculates the likely tissue effects and the total treatment time based on selected laser treatment parameters. The system incorporates a graphical user interface that displays the likely tissue effects to the user... Agent: Intellectual Property Group Fredrikson & Byron, P.A.

20070213695 - Continuous skin contact handpiece system for cooling during controlled emmission of light and a method thereof: A skin contact handpiece system for cooling an internal light source and treated skin, during controlled emission of light from the source combines an internal air-cooled light source adapted to controllably emit light towards the treated skin while preserving the absorption characteristic of the emitted light; and a liquid-cooled skin... Agent: Browdy And Neimark, P.l.l.c. 624 Ninth Street, Nw

20070213696 - 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

20070213694 - Self-contained controlled pulsed light emitter for diverse skin care and treatment and a method thereof: A self-contained controlled pulsed light emitter useful for skin care, dermal applications and topical treatment, is adapted to selectively optimize broadband light spectrum via electronic manipulation, without physically changing light sources; and to maintain such spectrum regardless of the change of the light energy via time discharge. The emitter includes... Agent: Browdy And Neimark, P.l.l.c. 624 Ninth Street, Nw

20070213697 - Output energy control for lasers: Devices, systems, and methods control pulse energies of excimer and other lasers, particularly for refractive correction in which a pulse rate, pulse energy, or other parameters of a pulsed laser is varied during use. A calibration laser mode may be used to fire a series of laser pulses to characterize... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070213698 - 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

20070213699 - Cryogenic system: A cryosurgical system and method for supplying cryogen to a probe. The system including a container filled with cryogen and having bellows of a pump submerged within said cryogen. Conduits fluidly interconnect the bellows and a probe that is outside the container to permit the cryogen to be forced from... Agent: Lawrence N. Ginsberg

20070213700 - Electrosurgical method and system for treating foot ulcer: An electrosurgical method for treating foot ulcer, including diabetic foot ulcer, comprising: positioning an active electrode in close proximity to the ulcer, the active electrode being disposed on a distal end of an electrosurgical shaft; applying a high-frequency voltage potential difference across the active electrode and a return electrode in... Agent: Arthrocare Corporation

20070213701 - Implanting devices and methods thereof: An implantation device is disclosed, with the implantation device including an introducer member having an opening and a substantially flexible catheter located in an inner portion of the introducer member. The catheter selectively extends from the introducer member and is configured to both contain and selectively deliver an implantable member.... Agent: Weide & Miller, Ltd.

20070213704 - Electrical discharge devices and techniques for medical procedures: A medical instrument coupled to first and second energy means and a computer controller for the controlled volumetric removal of thin tissue layers. The system provides a source for introducing a gas to controllably form and capture transient gas volumes in a microchannel structure at the working surface of the... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070213705 - Insulated needle and system: The present invention relates to a needle for directly emitting energy to dermal or sub-dermal tissue in a patient. In the presently preferred embodiment, the needle includes an elongated shaft that is provided with a pointed end, a first shaft section, and a second shaft section. The first and second... Agent: The Ollila Law Group LLC

20070213706 - Bipolar forceps having monopolar extension: An endoscopic forceps for treating tissue includes a housing having a shaft affixed thereto which has first and second jaw members attached to a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes an actuator for moving jaw members relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070213707 - Bipolar forceps having monopolar extension: An endoscopic forceps for treating tissue includes a housing having a shaft affixed thereto which has first and second jaw members attached to a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes an actuator for moving jaw members relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070213708 - Bipolar forceps having monopolar extension: An endoscopic forceps for treating tissue includes a housing having a shaft affixed thereto which has first and second jaw members attached to a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes an actuator for moving jaw members relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070213710 - Methods and apparatus for hemostasis following arterial catheterization: A method for producing hemostasis of an artery of a patient having a puncture following arterial catheterization including introducing a hemostasis device including at least one electrode into the vicinity of the puncture, supplying an electric current to the at least one electrode, thereby heating blood in the vicinity of... Agent: Patton Boggs LLP

20070213709 - Tissue coagulation method and device using inert gas: A gas-enhanced electrosurgical method and apparatus for coagulating tissue. The apparatus includes a first tube with a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the first tube is configured to receive pressurized ionizable gas. The distal end of the first tube is configured to deliver ionized gas... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070213712 - Bipolar electrosurgical instrument for sealing vessels: A bipolar electrosurgical instrument has opposable seal surfaces on its jaws for grasping and sealing vessels and vascular tissue. Inner and outer instrument members allow arcuate motion of the seal surfaces. An open lockbox provides a pivot with lateral support to maintain alignment of the lateral surfaces. Ratchets on the... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070213711 - Method and apparatus for surgical electrocautery: The invention provides a surgical electrocautery method and apparatus that achieves sealing along the entire tissue length, and that also is able to deliver adequate force to produce an effective electrocautery seal. This problem is solved by using an incompressible fluid contained in a sac or sacs positioned to support... Agent: Glenn Patent Group

20070213713 - Tool system for adapting a bone plate: A tool system for working on a bone plate is described. The tool system includes a first tool and a second tool, used at the same time as the first tool to shorten or bend the bone plate. Each of the two tools includes one or more introduction openings with... Agent: Howard & Howard Attorneys, P.C.

20070213717 - Biological fusion in the vertebral column: Methods are provided for treating a spinal condition. One method includes promoting fusion of an area of a vertebral column by introducing a biological treatment into the area to be fused. Another method includes causing damage in the area to be fused so as to induce a healing response. Other... Agent: Haynes And Boone, LLP

20070213720 - Dynamic interbody device: A dynamic interbody device for a human spine is provided to stabilize a human spine. In some embodiments, the dynamic interbody device includes a first member and a second member. In some embodiments, dynamic interbody device includes a first member, a second member and a third member. In some embodiments,... Agent: Meyertons, Hood, Kivlin, Kowert & Goetzel, P.C.

20070213716 - Methods and instruments for spinal derotation: Derotation instrument assemblies and systems are provided to facilitate positioning one or more vertebrae of a spinal column into a desired alignment. The instrument assemblies and systems include implant holders engageable to respective implants engaged to vertebrae of the spinal column, transverse bridges to connect implant holders associated with a... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070213721 - Spinal cross-connector: An assembly and a method of locking a longitudinal member to a cross-connector assembly construct, wherein the assembly comprises a longitudinal member; a flexible clip contacting the longitudinal member; a housing component contacting the flexible clip; a locking mechanism contacting the housing component; and a connecting member contacting the housing... Agent: Gibb & Rahman, LLC

20070213715 - Spinal derotation instruments and methods: Derotation instrument assemblies and systems are provided to facilitate positioning one or more vertebrae of a spinal column into a desired alignment. The instrument assemblies and systems include implant holders engageable to respective implants engaged to vertebrae of the spinal column, transverse bridges to connect implant holders associated with a... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070213724 - Spinal prostheses: An article including a spinal prosthesis having a unitary body with at least three attachment points attachable to spinal structure, the unitary body including a flexure assembly positioned between first and second attachment members, wherein flexure of the flexure assembly permits movement of the first attachment member relative to the... Agent: David Klein Dekel Patent Ltd.

20070213719 - Spinal stabilization device: An implant for stabilizing adjacent vertebrae, the implant includes a stabilizing body expandable along a longitudinal axis from a first size state to a second size state. A cavity is defined in the stabilizing body for receiving a quantity of curable filler material sufficient to expand the stabilizing body from... Agent: Wood, Herron & Evans (zimmer Spine)

20070213714 - Surgical instruments and techniques for percutaneous placement of spinal stabilization elements: Systems and methods for positioning a connecting element adjacent the spinal column in minimally invasive procedures include instruments that guide the connecting element from a location remote from one or more anchors to a location proximate to the one or more anchors. The instruments include extensions mountable to anchors, and... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070213718 - Treatment of the vertebral column: A method is provided for treating a spinal condition. The method includes introducing a biological treatment into an area of a vertebral column, and mechanically unloading the treated area by applying a load-bearing device to the anterior region, the anterior column region, the posterior region, or the spinous process region... Agent: Haynes And Boone, LLP

20070213725 - Intra-medullary implant with active compression: An Intra-Medullary implant includes: an elongated rigid body having a first end and a second end, adapted to be inserted longitudinally into a bony canal, the body having a generally axial passage through at least a portion of said body; at least one movable slide, movably received in said passage... Agent: William L. Johnson

20070213729 - Flexible bone plates and methods for dynamic spinal stabilization: A plating system and method include a bone plate with at least a first vertebral engaging portion and a second vertebral engaging portion connected by flexible intermediate portions to permit translation of the vertebrae to which the bone plate is attached. The bone plate may further include a guide assembly... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070213727 - Method and apparatus for bone fracture fixation: Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and apparatus for fixing bone with an osteosynthesis splint. In embodiments of the present invention, a splint may be introduced into a bone at a fracture site, or may enter the rib at an opening near a fracture site and extend along... Agent: Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt, P.C. Pacwest Center, Suite 1900

20070213728 - Methods and devices for retaining bone plate anchors: A plating system and method include a bone plate with at least a first hole therethrough between an upper surface and a lower surface of the bone plate to receive an anchor for engaging the plate to a bony segment. The system and method also include a retaining member engageable... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070213726 - Transbuccal plate holding cannula: The present invention relates to a transbuccal plate holding cannula used in osteofixation procedures. The transbuccal plate holding cannula of the present invention can be releasibly secured to a bone plate such that tools and fasteners may be passed through the plate holding cannula in order to secure the bone... Agent: Woodcock Washburn LLP

20070213731 - Pedicle screws for osteoporosis: A bone screw for osteoporosis is disclosed.... Agent: Globus Medical, Inc. Attn: Brian Malm

20070213733 - Mechanical tissue modification devices and methods: A device for modifying one or more tissues in a patient's spine may include: an elongate, at least partially flexible body having a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein at least the distal portion has dimensions that allow it to be passed into an epidural space and between target... Agent: Baxano, Inc. & Townsend And Townsend And Crew

20070213735 - Powered tissue modification devices and methods: A device for modifying tissue in a spine may include: a shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion, the distal portion having dimensions which allow it to be passed into an epidural space of the spine and between target and non-target tissues; at least one distal force application... Agent: Baxano, Inc. & Townsend And Townsend And Crew

20070213734 - Tissue modification barrier devices and methods: A method for preventing unwanted damage to tissue in a spine of a patient during a tissue modification procedure may involve: advancing at least a distal portion of at least one barrier member over at least one guide member into an epidural space of the patient's spine; positioning at least... Agent: Baxano, Inc. & Townsend And Townsend And Crew

20070213737 - Insertion tool for an intervertebral spacer providing multiple angles of insertion: An insertion tool for an intervertebral spacer includes an extending portion having a surface shaped to engage a complementary surface of a trailing end of the spacer and configured to be insertable within an opening in the spacer. While the extending portion is disposed within the spacer's trailing end, the... Agent: Mcdermott, Will & Emery

20070213739 - Method for using dynamic lordotic guard with movable extensions for creating an implantation space posteriorly in the lumbar spine: 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. The guard has a body having a first portion and a second portion in pivotal relationship to one... Agent: Martin & Ferraro, LLP

20070213740 - Obesity treatment tools and methods: Various obesity treatment tools and methods are described herein, as well as treatments for other gastric-related diseases, e.g., GERD. Treatment includes reducing the size of the stomach pouch to limit the caloric intake as well as to provide an earlier feeling of satiety. This may be done by creating a... Agent: Fulwider Patton LLP

20070213741 - Follicular extraction punch and method: Provided herein is an instrument and method useful to incise in to the skin to a precise depth and at a specific angle with respect to the surface of the skin of a patient, for the extraction of individual follicular groups or individual follicular units. An instrument according to the... Agent: Berkeley Law & Technology Group, LLP

20070213742 - Surgical hair trimmer: A surgical hair trimmer is provided including a handle assembly including a power source, a drive motor connected to the power source and having a drive shaft extending therefrom, and a release mechanism configured and adapted for single handed operation; and a blade assembly including a pair of blades wherein... Agent: Carter, Deluca, Farrell & Schmidt, LLP

20070213743 - Surgical apparatus and method: Surgical method and apparatus for resectioning tissue, preferably lumenal tissue, with a remaining portion of an organ being anastomized with staples or other fastening means, preferably endolumenally. The apparatus may be inserted via a naturally occurring body orifice or a surgical incision and then advanced using either endoscopic or radiological... Agent: Fay Kaplun & Marcin, LLP

20070213744 - Suture material for pneumatic suture instrument: The surgical suturing instrument incorporates a pressurized fluid suture feed system for passing a suture through the instrument and the tissues to be joined thereby. A fluid jet in communication with a suture feed conduit selectively entrains a suture in a stream of pressurized fluid, which carries the suture through... Agent: Smith, Gambrell & Russell

20070213745 - Ligating apparatus: The ligating apparatus has the thread receiving portion 50 movably disposed back and forth at the distal end of the inserting part body. Outer circumference of the thread receiving portion 50 forms the loop holding portion 52 around which the knot forming loop 51 formed from the ligature 40 is... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20070213746 - Medical knot pusher: The invention relates to a medical knot pusher having a shaft, a handle on the proximal end of the shaft, and a guide device on the distal end of the shaft, for holding and guiding surgical sewing material, as well as with an additional cutting device positioned on the shaft... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20070213747 - Surgical compression clips: A surgical clip assembly which includes a pair of generally linear compression elements for securing tissue between them and for applying to the secured tissue a compression force. The clip assembly has an initial, open position in which the linear compression elements may be positioned about tissue to be secured... Agent: Pearne & Gordon LLP

20070213748 - Obesity treatment tools and methods: Various obesity treatment tools and methods are described herein, as well as treatments for other gastric-related diseases, e.g., GERD. Treatment includes reducing the size of the stomach pouch to limit the caloric intake as well as to provide an earlier feeling of satiety. This may be done by creating a... Agent: Fulwider Patton LLP

20070213749 - Medical procedure performed inside abdominal cavity: A medical procedure performed inside an abdominal cavity includes: performing a first treatment at a target position inside the abdominal cavity by a first apparatus that has been introduced percutaneously into the abdominal cavity; and performing a second treatment, using a second apparatus that has been introduced into the abdominal... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20070213750 - Composite staple for completing an anastomosis: An anastomosis staple comprising of a plurality of vessel engaging members and a binding structure holding the vessel engaging members together is described. The binding structure has at least one bioabsorbable element. The binding structure is rigid enough to allow for deployment and quickly resorbs to avoid problems associated with... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20070213751 - Transdermal magnetic coupling gastric banding: A transdermally actuated gastric banding assembly is provided which includes an adjustable gastric band, a drive assembly and a transmission assembly positioned between the driver assembly and the adjustable gastric band. The drive assembly includes an internal component configured to be mounted within the body of the patient and an... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070213752 - Cutting blade for medical devices: An athertome assembly comprises a series of spanning and descending members extended between a segmented base and a cutting surface. This athertome assembly configuration provides both flexibility and structural strength which facilitates the implantation of medical devices.... Agent: Vidas, Arrett & Steinkraus, P.A.

20070213753 - Stent-cleaning assembly and method: An assembly and method for removing occlusive material from a stent. The assembly includes an elongate catheter with an elongate flexible shaft disposed therethrough and a cleaning end disposed distally upon the shaft. The cleaning end is configured to engage and dislodge the occlusive material.... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070213754 - Incision instrument, incision apparatus, and organ incision method: The incision instrument of the present invention includes: a substantially rod-shaped electrode that has one end and the other end; a cable that has one end that is electrically connected to the electrode; and a connecting portion that is provided at the other end of the cable and is connectable... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20070213755 - Device for minimally invasive internal tissue removal: A medical device for severing and removing small amounts of internal tissue for biopsy sampling or other purposes is disclosed. Versions of the device may include a hollow probe having a piecing tip, a tissue receiving aperture and a vacuum lumen; a cutter within the probe having a cutting edge... Agent: Frost Brown Todd, LLC

20070213756 - Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue: A tissue penetrating system includes a plurality of penetrating members each having a tip. A penetrating member driver is coupled to the plurality of penetrating members. A support is provided with a plurality of openings. Each opening receives a penetrating member. Each tip of a penetrating member is uncovered during... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20070213757 - Laparoscopic trocar and facial closure systems and methods: A laparoscopic trocar and facial closure system. A trocar having a shaft member and a pointed tip, a telescoping cannular assembly having a pair of sleeve members, a needle receptor assembly having another sleeve member that is positioned over the shaft member, a needle actuation mechanism with a needle actuation... Agent: Dickinson Wright PLLC

20070213758 - Method and apparatus for improving mitral valve function: A method and apparatus for reducing mitral regurgitation. The apparatus is inserted into the coronary sinus of a patient in the vicinity of the posterior leaflet of the mitral valve, the apparatus being adapted to straighten the natural curvature of at least a portion of the coronary sinus in the... Agent: Mark J. Pandiscio Pandiscio & Pandiscio, P.C.

20070213760 - Non-compliant medical balloon having an integral woven fabric layer: A non-compliant medical balloon may be changed from a deflated state to an inflated state by increasing pressure within the balloon. The non-compliant medical balloon is composed of a woven fabric layer composed of at least two woven fabric fibers forming an angle. The angle remains substantially unchanged when the... Agent: Howison & Arnott, L.l.p

20070213759 - Puncture resistant balloon catheter: A puncture resistant balloon catheter device and a method of using the device is described. The device is a balloon catheter having a puncture resistant cover disposed over the balloon. The cover is capable of moving between a deflated state and an expanded state. The cover inhibits piercing of the... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione

20070213762 - Balloon cones and waists thinning methodology: Medical balloons and balloon preforms are made by methods which include the step of selectively removing material from the proximal and/or distal ends of a segment. In the case of a thermoplastic material characterized by one or more glass transition temperatures, the segment may optionally be maintained at a temperature... Agent: Vidas, Arrett & Steinkraus, P.A.

20070213761 - Minimally invasive intravascular treatment device: A device for treating a target area of a vessel wall of a vessel within a man or animal body, the device comprising: an expandable portion for radially expanding the device from a contracted configuration allowing travel within the vessel to the target area to an expanded configuration allowing treatment... Agent: The Webb Law Firm, P.C.

20070213765 - Device to create proximal stasis: A method and system of performing an intravascular procedure at a treatment site in a vessel of a patient. A device creates a seal to prevent the flow of blood during the treatment of vascular disease. A seal may be formed between the distal inside diameter of a sheath or... Agent: Popovich, Wiles & O'connell, PA 650 Third Avenue South

20070213763 - Intravascular platforms and associated devices: An intravascular platform for supporting an intravascular device includes two loops of wire each configured to assume a shape lying generally on a virtual cylinder of given diameter. The two loops are interconnected by at least one connecting wire which maintains the loops axially spaced from each other. Also disclosed... Agent: Dr. Mark M. Friedman C/o Bill Polkinghorn - Discovery Dispatch

20070213764 - Occlusive cinching devices and methods of use: Methods and devices for blocking orifices and occluding cavities within a patient are provided. The device in one variation comprises first and second tubular members attached to a collapsible sealing element. The device can be placed through an orifice and the collapsible sealing element can be collapsed to seal the... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20070213767 - Minimally invasive surgical assembly and methods: A minimally invasive surgical assembly includes an outer hollow needle which may be used in puncturing skin to insert and advance the surgical instrument into the body, and a coaxial surgical instrument having a shaft which extends through the outer hollow needle. The outer diameter of the needle may be... Agent: Powley & Gibson, P.C.

20070213766 - Minimally invasive surgical assembly and methods: A minimally invasive surgical assembly broadly includes an outer hollow needle which has an outer diameter of approximately 2 mm or smaller, and a coaxial surgical instrument having a shaft which extends through the outer hollow needle. The coaxial surgical instrument includes end effectors at the end of the shaft... Agent: Gordon & Jacobson, P.C.

20070213768 - Compositions and devices including same useful for anastomosis: A composition-of-matter is provided. The composition-of-matter comprising a mixture of albumin and a plasticizer. Also provided is a medical devices, a portion of a medical device, a solder or an adhesive composed of such a composition-of-matter and a method of manufacturing same.... Agent: Mark M Friedman Polkinghorn

20070213769 - Surgical instrument: The invention relates to a surgical instrument comprising a handling part and a tool part that encompasses at least one movably mounted tool which is actuated via a force-transmitting and/or actuating mechanism. Said force-transmitting and/or actuating mechanism is operated from the handling part and is provided with a fluid-operated drive... Agent: Lipsitz & Mcallister, LLC

20070213770 - Tapered suture: A tapered suture having a core region of a first diameter and at least one tail region of a second diameter, the second diameter being smaller than the first diameter. In one embodiment, the core region is in the center of the suture strand, between two ends of a smaller... Agent: Dickstein Shapiro LLP

20070208341 - Electro-surgical forceps having fully copper-plated tines and process for manufacturing same: An electro-surgical forceps has a pair of tines. At least one of the tines has an inner core of a metal such as stainless steel, nickel, titanium, aluminum, or alloys such as sterling silver, and an outer plating of copper or a copper alloy having a thermal conductivity and an... Agent: Weingarten, Schurgin, Gagnebin & Lebovici LLP

20070208348 - Surgical instrument for scraping and collecting bone particles: The surgical instrument comprises a handle (10), which bears a blade (20) having a scraping edge (21), and a collection chamber (R) of shaved material. In the invention, the collection chamber (R) exhibits a mouth (S) for communication with an external environment, located in proximity of the scraping edge (21),... Agent: Browdy And Neimark, P.l.l.c. 624 Ninth Street, Nw

20070208325 - Method of transplanting a cornea: A method of transplanting a cornea from a donor to a recipient is disclosed. An undercut is incised within stromal tissue of the donor cornea. Following formation of the undercut, the donor cornea is grafted onto a recipient. The undercut may be formed before or after the cornea is removed... Agent: Connolly Bove Lodge & Hutz LLP

20070208326 - Tissue treatment system: A hair removal device (22) includes a cooling surface (34) which is used to contact the skin (6) prior to exposure to hair tissue-damaging laser light (74) passing from a radiation source (36) through a recessed window (46). The window is laterally offset from the cooling surface and is spaced... Agent: Stallman & Pollock LLP

20070208327 - Method and system for monitoring ablation of tissues: A method of monitoring heat damage to a tissue during a heat ablation procedure is disclosed. The method comprising: providing images of the tissue, extracting at least one parameter being indicative of a biological response to heat, and using the parameter(s) for determining the heat damage to the tissue.... Agent: Martin Moynihan C/o Anthony Castorina

20070208328 - Contra-angel rotating handpiece having tactile-feedback tip ferrule: An illumination device is described containing optical fibers that transmit electromagnetic energy from a source to a target. Additional optical fibers return reflected electromagnetic energy from the target. High-level electromagnetic energy can be used for cutting, reforming, or treating a surface. Low-level electromagnetic energy illuminates the surface.... Agent: Stout, Uxa, Buyan & Mullins LLP

20070208329 - Ablative treatment of atrial fibrillation via the coronary sinus: Ablation instruments and techniques are disclosed for accessing portions of the heart wall via the coronary sinus. While shielding the major portion of the sinus and/or the circumflex coronary artery from ablative energy, the present invention provides access to the heart wall to treat atrial fibrillation. In particular, the present... Agent: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

20070208330 - Electrothermal instrument for sealing and joining or cutting tissue: An instrument and method are provided for sealing and joining or hemostatically dividing tissue, which is particularly suitable for laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery. The instrument makes use of the controlled application of a combination of heat and pressure to seal adjacent tissues, to join adjacent tissues, or to anastomose tissues,... Agent: Wolf, Block, Shorr And Solis-cohen LLP

20070208331 - Systems and methods of treatment within a gastrointestinal lumen: A method includes identifying an area of interest within a gastrointestinal lumen based on a virtual imaging modality. Energy is applied using an external energy source directed at the area of interest sufficient to disrupt at least a portion of an undesired tissue. In another embodiment, the method includes introducing... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20070208332 - Pen-type electrosurgical instrument: An electrocautery device is disclosed. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the electrocautery electrode/tip is provided with a hollow, conductive tube terminating at its distal end in a ball point type tip. Fluid, preferably conductive fluid, is applied to the proximal end of the hollow electrode/tip, and expelled... Agent: James R. Keogh Medtronic, Inc.

20070208333 - Electrosurgical generator: An electrosurgical generator that can be used, for example, to provide radio-frequency (RF) energy for localized tissue coagulation, cutting, ablation, and to create lesions in nervous tissue. The generator can provide controls for line power, RF power, setting temperature and/or power, for selecting preset temperature and power combinations, and for... Agent: Fish & Richardson P.C. Smith & Nephew, Inc.

20070208336 - Ablation device and system for guiding ablation device into body: A device for ablating tissue at a desired location in a body, the device comprising: a pair of floating jaws moveable between a spaced apart open position and a closed position, the pair of jaws comprising at least one ablating element for ablating tissue located between the jaws; a handle... Agent: Kagan Binder, PLLC

20070208334 - Internally located return electrode electrosurgical apparatus, system and method: A bipolar, plasma-generating electrosurgical apparatus and system wherein the return electrode is enclosed within an electrosurgical shaft, and the active electrode is located on the outside surface of the shaft such that in treating the tissue, the tissue is exposed to plasma generated on the active electrode, but is minimally... Agent: Arthrocare Corporation

20070208335 - Internally located return electrode electrosurgical apparatus, system and method: A bipolar, plasma-generating electrosurgical apparatus and system wherein the return electrode is enclosed within an electrosurgical shaft, and the active electrode is located on the outside surface of the shaft such that in treating the tissue, the tissue is exposed to plasma generated on the active electrode, but is minimally... Agent: Arthrocare Corporation

20070208338 - Apparatus for retrieving a tissue volume with improved positioning precursor assembly: Apparatus for retrieving a tissue volume of a variety utilizing an electrosurgically excited cable implemented capture component which performs in combination with an improved precursor assembly. Where that assembly is electrosurgically excited, then it is located and dimensioned to avoid arc-over with the capture component cables. A precursor assembly also... Agent: Mueller And Smith, Lpa Mueller-smith Building

20070208337 - Manifold for gas enhanced surgical instruments: There is disclosed a fluid supply manifold for use with various surgical instruments, such as, electrosurgical instruments. The fluid supply manifold includes two or more connection ports for receipt of sources of fluid supply by either bulk sources or sources contained within canisters. The manifold may include a mixing chamber... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070208339 - System and method for controlling electrosurgical snares: A system and method for controlling electrosurgical snares are disclosed. The system includes an electrosurgical instrument having an elongate tubular sheath having proximal and distal ends, the sheath having a longitudinal axis defined therethrough and a shaft having proximal and distal ends. The shaft extends through and is axially movable... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070208340 - Device and method for treating tissue: A device for creating a pattern of perforations in a tissue, comprising a treating surface coupled to a distal end of the elongated member and configured to be positioned adjacent one or more tissue planes, a plurality of electrodes extending outwardly from at least one surface of the treating surface... Agent: Intellectual Property Group Fredrikson & Byron, P.A.

20070208342 - Connector: A connector comprising at least one pair of apertures for receiving a fixation means, such as a screw, a load bearing filament extending continuously along a predefined circuitous path which extends between and around each of the apertures of said pair of apertures, said load bearing filament extending around each... Agent: Jonathan Spangler Nu Vasive, Inc.

20070208344 - Devices for securing elongated spinal connecting elements in bone anchors: Devices and methods include an anchor assembly engageable to a vertebra and a connecting element positionable through a receiver of the anchor assembly. The assembly includes an engaging member for engaging the connecting element in the receiver. The engaging member includes a plurality of elongated arcuate projecting members extending about... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070208343 - Implant used in stabilising operations on the thoracic and lumbar vertebral column: An implant used in stabilising operations on the thoracic and lumbar vertebral column for restoring the load-bearing capacity of the vertebral column is provided. An insertion region of the implant (I) comprises a wedge-shaped distraction part (C), which permits the vertebral bodies to be pushed apart in order to increase... Agent: Volpe And Koenig, P.C.

20070208345 - Instruments and method for preparing an intervertebral space for receiving an artificial disc implant: Instruments and methods for preparing an intervertebral space for receiving an implant. An adjustable trial implant has an adjustable stop mechanism having a stop member connected thereto to vary the distance that a body portion of the trial implant can move into the intervertebral space. Cutting tools for forming cutouts... Agent: Stites & Harbison PLLC

20070208346 - Instruments and method for preparing an intervertebral space for receiving an artificial disc implant: Instruments and methods for preparing an intervertebral space for receiving an implant. An adjustable trial implant has an adjustable stop mechanism having a stop member connected thereto to vary the distance that a body portion of the trial implant can move into the intervertebral space. Cutting tools for forming cutouts... Agent: Stites & Harbison PLLC

20070208347 - Spine distraction implant and method: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20070208349 - Single use resection guide: Single use or disposable cutting blocks and methods for utilizing same are disclosed. The blocks are preferably constructed of polymer and/or other suitable low cost and light weight materials. The blocks may be adapted for use with low friction cutting instruments, as well as other such cutting instruments. Several differently... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20070208351 - Implantable medical endoprosthesis delivery system with hub: Medical device delivery systems, components, and methods are provided.... Agent: Fish & Richardson PC

20070208350 - Implantable medical endoprosthesis delivery systems: Implantable medical endoprosthesis delivery systems, as well as related components and methods, are provided.... Agent: Fish & Richardson PC

20070208352 - Instrument guide system: A system is provided to align a surgical guide instrument over a burr hole in a patient's body. Adjustments of a surgical instrument can be made in x, y, z, and angular directions using the system. An instrument guide unit can include an instrument guide for guiding a surgical instrument... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20070208353 - Instruments and techniques for controlled removal of epidermal layers: An instrument and technique for the removal of epidermal layers in a controlled manner utilizing a hand-held instrument with a working end that (i) a vacuum aspiration system, (ii) a source for delivery of a sterile fluids or pharmacological agents to the skin; and (iii) a skin interface surface in... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070208354 - Device and method: A device for removing a composition from the skin, for example a depilatory composition, has a handle (1), which carries a non-shaving head (2) which is moved over the skin to effect removal of the composition. There is a zone of flexure (5) which extends laterally across the head separating... Agent: Trask Britt

20070208355 - Barbed tissue connector: A barbed bodily tissue connector for insertion into tissue comprises an elongated body having a substantially polygonal periphery in cross-section including at least three sides. Each side meets an adjacent side at an edge of the elongated body. A plurality of barbs project from the edges of the body. The... Agent: Michael G. Johnston Moore & Van Allen

20070208356 - Method and apparatus for providing suture in a passageway: A surgical apparatus may include a guide apparatus to be used in an arthroscopic procedure and to interact with a passageway through a body portion formed by intersecting first and second holes that may lead into the body portion from different positions, e.g., from two different locations on a bone.... Agent: Wolf Greenfield & Sacks, P.C.

20070208357 - Apparatus and methods for treating tissue: Apparatus and methods are provided for thermally and/or mechanically treating tissue, such as valvular structures, to reconfigure or shrink the tissue in a controlled manner. The apparatus comprises a catheter in communication with an end effector which induces a temperature rise in an annulus of tissue surrounding the leaflets of... Agent: Levine Bagade Han LLP

20070208358 - Tack and tack applier: A surgical tack is disclosed for securing a surgical mesh material to body tissue. The tack includes a pair of legs and an arcuate cross-member. A surgical tack applier is also disclosed, for applying the surgical tack. The applier includes an elongate tubular portion having a jacket with a main... Agent: United States Surgical, A Division Of Tyco Healthcare Group Lp

20070208359 - Method for stapling tissue: A method for stapling tissue using the steps of providing a surgical stapling device having a handle with a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end having an end effector disposed thereon, which is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The end effector comprising a staple... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070208360 - Methods and devices for reducing hollow organ volume: Methods and devices for providing a minimally-invasive placement of a mechanical structure for reducing the volume of a hollow body organ. Anchors may be secured within the hollow body organ and then cinched together using a tensioning member to form a stricture within the hollow body organ. In another embodiment... Agent: Fulwider Patton LLP

20070208361 - Atherectomy catheter: An atherectomy catheter includes an outer tube; an inner tube which is inserted into the outer tube rotatably about an axis thereof and axially movably; a removing member fixed to a distal portion of the inner tube and accommodated in the outer tube to drill and remove an occlusive material... Agent: Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC

20070208362 - Microkeratome with a detachable head: A microkeratome that includes a latch assembly that couples a head to a hand piece. The latch assembly allows the head to be readily detached from the hand piece and sterilized. There is no need to also sterilize the hand piece. The microkeratome also has a ring assembly that is... Agent: The Eclipse Group

20070208363 - Device and method of minimally invasive tattooing and tattoo removal: A method of tattooing includes removing substantially an epidermis cell layer, without substantially removing a corresponding basal cell layer, at a skin area where a tattoo is desired. A tattoo is applied on or near the basal cell layer of the skin area. Ink from the tattoo has an enhanced... Agent: Jackson & Co., LLP

20070208364 - Variably flexible insertion device and method for variably flexing an insertion device: A variably flexible insertion device includes a hollow body having a proximal end with an entrance for receiving an instrument and a distal end with a tip for protrusion of the instrument. A device transitions the hollow body between a relatively flexible condition and a relatively stiff condition. Tendons within... Agent: Lerner Greenberg Stemer LLP

20070208365 - New method to make tube-in-tube balloon: A tube-in-tube assembled parison for preparation of an elongated medical device. The parison if formed by assembling in tube-in-tube fashion a first tube of orientable polymer material and a second tube formed of orientable polymer material disposed around the first tube, with an adhesive tie layer disposed between the first... Agent: Vidas, Arrett & Steinkraus, P.A.

20070208367 - Method and apparatus for increasing blood flow through an obstructed blood vessel: A method of increasing blood flow through an obstructed blood vessel includes providing an expandable member substantially made of a mesh having a plurality of interstices. The expandable member has a proximal member end and a distal member end spaced longitudinally apart by a tubular member body. The expandable member... Agent: Tarolli, Sundheim, Covell & Tummino L.L.P.

20070208366 - Minimally invasive tissue expander systems and methods: A tissue expander system for expanding tissue, skin and muscle along a pathway to a surgical site through a minimally invasive incision includes a tissue expander having a plurality of arms adapted to bear against tissue, the plurality of arms coupled at a first end to an actuating member and... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070208368 - Recanalizing occluded vessels using controlled antegrade and retrograde tracking: A method and systems for treating chronic total occlusions, particularly those that are difficult to treat, is disclosed. In this approach, recanalizing the CTO is achieved using a combined antegrade and retrograde approach. The proximal end of the occlusion is penetrated using an antegrade wire, using a traditional approach. Using... Agent: Thelen Reid Brown Raysman & Steiner LLP

20070208369 - Nasal support device for animals and method: Devices and methods for facilitating air flow in the nasal passages of domestic animals are disclosed. The devices include support devices for supporting unsupported tissues of the nasal passages which facilitate air flow during rest, physical exertion, respiratory ailment. etc. Components and methods to facilitate application of the support device... Agent: Merchant & Gould P.C. 3100 Norwest Center

20070208371 - Devices and methods for removing obstructions from a patient and methods for making obstruction removing devices: The present invention provides an obstruction removing device and a method for making the obstruction removing device. The method includes two mandrels with an elongate element being wound around the first mandrel and then wrapped around the second mandrel. The mandrels are movable relative to one another so that the... Agent: Hoekendijk & Lynch, LLP

20070208374 - Embolic protection devices: An embolic protection device for use in a blood vessel when an interventional procedure is being performed in a stenosed or occluded region to capture any embolic material which may be created and released into the bloodstream during the procedure. The device includes a filtering assembly having a self-expanding strut... Agent: Fulwider Patton, LLP (abbott)

20070208372 - Embolic protection system: An assembly for loading a collapsible embolic protection filter 1 into a catheter 2, comprises a catheter 2 defining a reception space at a distal end of the catheter 2 for receiving a collapsed embolic protection filter 1; and a separate removable pushing device 8 for delivering the embolic protection... Agent: Sughrue Mion, PLLC

20070208373 - Embolic protection systems having radiopaque filter mesh: A device for filtering emboli from blood flowing through a lumen defined by the walls of a vessel in a patient's body. The filter element is expandable from a collapsed configuration when the filter element is restrained to an expanded configuration when the filter element is unrestrained. The filter element... Agent: Popovich, Wiles & O'connell, PA 650 Third Avenue South

20070208370 - Vascular filter device: A vascular filter for capturing and breaking apart particles in the blood. The vascular filter includes a filter body and an agitation member disposed within the filter body. Movement of the agitation member acts on particles trapped within the filter body for enhancing the dissolution of the particles, thereby reducing... Agent: Pui Tong Ho

20070208375 - Surgical device: The invention provides a surgical device which can control a position and an attitude of a multi degree of freedom type grip portion (forceps) in a dummy manner on the basis of an operation of an operator in an operating portion. In a surgical device provided with a leading end... Agent: Antonelli, Terry, Stout & Kraus, LLP

20070208376 - Occlusion device with internal fastener: An occlusion device comprises a plurality of wires made of shape memory material, braided to form an expanded shape having a first end and a second end, a first fastener coupled to the plurality of wires at the first end, and a second fastener coupled to the plurality of wires... Agent: Van Pelt, Yi & James LLP

20070208377 - Suture method: A method is provided for performing a procedure to reposition a portion of a breast using a suture including a plurality of barbs. The barbs on a first portion of the suture adjacent a first end of the suture permit movement of the suture through tissue in a direction of... Agent: Moore & Van Allen PLLC

20070208378 - Suture anchor and methods for implanting same: Surgical devices such as implants or suture fastenings are assembled from a plurality of discrete components, one of which components includes a heat bondable plastic material for bonding the components together. At least two components are bonded to each other by the applying heat to the heat bondable plastic material... Agent: Paul D. Bianco: Fleit, Kain, Gibbons, Gutman, Bongini, & Bianco P.l.

20070208379 - Kessler project: Kessler Project is a pacifier that can be filled with distilled water or the like and then be refrigerated or frozen. The preferred embodiment of the invention utilizes a mouth guard, a nipple, a ring, a cap, and a base. To use the preferred embodiment of Kessler Project, an individual... Agent: Raymond M. Galasso Galasso & Associates Lp

20070208380 - Pacifier tooth and gum cleaning device: The invention relates to the field of infant or toddlers cleaning device in the form of a pacifier. In particular, the modified nipple of the pacifier contains a bristle surface intended to allow an infant or toddler to easily, independently cleanse all of the surfaces of the upper and lower... Agent: Barbara S. Ebner