Surgery inventions 12/07

20070299433 - Barrett's esophagus cryogenic ablation system: A medical device for treating esophageal tissue comprises a catheter, a balloon, placeable within the esophagus of the patient, and a refrigerant. The refrigerant is deliverable into the interior of the balloon so to place the balloon into an expanded, cooled state so that the balloon can press against and... Agent: Haynes Beffel & Wolfeld LLP

20070299435 - Apparatus and method for ablating tissue: A device for ablating cardiac tissue includes a plurality of ablation elements substantially aligned along a common axis and adjustable between first and second predetermined positions. In the first predetermined position, the plurality of ablation elements form a curved contact surface. In the second predetermined position, the plurality of ablation... Agent: Sjm/afd-wiley

20070299436 - Ablation device and method comprising movable ablation elements: A device for ablating tissue includes an elongate body, which may be flexible to wrap about a cardiac structure, and at least one movable ablation element coupled to the body. The movable ablation element is adjustable relative to the body to form an angle with a longitudinal axis thereof between... Agent: Sjm/afd-wiley

20070299437 - Device for ablation and visualization: An ablation and visualization device includes a shaft, at least one ablation element coupled to the distal end of the shaft, and a scope coupled to the shaft proximate the distal end. The scope may be a fiber optic endoscope, an infrared sensor, or an ultrasound sensor, and may be... Agent: Sjm/afd-wiley

20070299438 - Torque transfer agent for introducer and method: A kit for use in a lateral thoracotomy procedure includes an introducer having an elongated flexible body. The distal end of the introducer forms at least a partial loop in a relaxed state. A lumen extends through at least a portion of the introducer, and at least one torque imparting... Agent: Sjm/afd-wiley

20070299441 - Adjustable occipital plate: An occipital plate for use in an occipito-cervico-thoracic (OCT) construct is mounted to a patient's occipital bone. The occipital plate includes an elongate base plate oriented with a midline of the base plate longitudinal on the occipital bone. A pair of lateral sections project in opposite directions from the central... Agent: Wood, Herron & Evans (zimmer Spine)

20070299442 - Vertebral stabilizer: A system for flexibly stabilizing a vertebral column in tensile and compressive loading by connecting a first and a second vertebrae includes first means for connecting to the first vertebra and second means for connecting to the second vertebra. A flexible connector is configured to extend from and connect the... Agent: Haynes And Boone, LLP

20070299448 - Methods and devices for static or dynamic spine stabilization: Methods and devices for static or dynamic spine stabilization include an anterior plating system that allows longitudinal and pivoting motion of the plates and of the stabilized vertebras. In one embodiment a spine fixation assembly for connecting a first vertebra to a second vertebra includes a first plate configured to... Agent: Akc Patents

20070299451 - Offset tool guide for femoral head preparation: A surgical offset guide tool for making a subsequent preparation on an outer surface of a natural femoral head following a first oversize preparation is disclosed. The guide tool guides a rotary cutter about an offset axis of revolution, the axis being offset from a datum having an axis coaxial... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20070299452 - Navigated femoral neck resection guide and method: A femoral neck resection guide assembly for use in minimally invasive hip surgery is disclosed. The assembly includes a guide portion having at least two spaced resection guide surfaces for guiding a cutting tool. A bushing and fastener elements are also included in the assembly for cooperating with and fixing... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20070299428 - Multifilar flexible rotary shaft and medical instruments incorporating the same: A multifilar flexible rotary shaft includes a plurality of individual filaments which are not wound around each other or around a central core, a loose ensemble of filaments. The input ends of each filament are coupled to each other and the output ends of each filament are coupled to each... Agent: Crompton, Seager & Tufte, LLC

20070299427 - Surgical manipulator: The present invention provides a surgical manipulator including a manipulator arm, an end-effector held by the robotic arm, surgical tools held by the end-effector and manipulator joints, particularly right-angle drive devices for transmitting rotational motion in one axis to a perpendicular axis.... Agent: Ralph A. Dowell Of Dowell & Dowell P.C.

20070299429 - Ophthalmic apparatus: To irradiate a laser beam appropriately onto a patient's eye. An ophthalmic apparatus having a laser irradiation optical system irradiating a laser beam for corneal surgery onto the eye, which performs alignment of a reference axis of the optical system to have a predetermined positional relationship with the eye to... Agent: Oliff & Berridge, PLC

20070299430 - Apparatus and processes for preventing or delaying one or more symptoms of presbyopia: The present invention generally relates to an apparatus and processes for preventing or delaying presbyopia. More particularly, the present invention relates to processes and apparatus for ablating epithelial cells in the germinative zone or the pregerminative zone of the crystalline lens of the eye so that onset or progression of... Agent: Mcandrews Held & Malloy, Ltd

20070299431 - Systems and methods for treating superficial venous malformations like spider veins: Systems and methods treat superficial venous malformations, such as spider veins. The systems and methods distribute a reactive agent, e.g., a light-reactive agent such as talaporfin sodium or verteporfin, at or near an inner wall of a vein. The systems and methods activate the reactive agent by applying energy, e.g.... Agent: Ryan Kromholz & Manion, S.c.

20070299432 - Catheter with cryogenic and electrical heating ablation: A catheter includes a cryoablation tip with an electrically-driven ablation assembly for heating tissue. The cryoablation tip may be implemented with a cooling chamber through which a controllably injected coolant circulates to lower the tip temperature, and having an RF electrode at its distal end. The RF electrode may be... Agent: Christopher & Weisberg, P.A.

20070299434 - Energy based devices and methods for treatment of patent foramen ovale: Methods and apparatus for treatment of patent foramen ovale (PFO) provide for applying energy to tissues adjacent the PFO with a catheter device to substantially close the PFO acutely. Apparatus generally includes a catheter device having at least one energy transmission member at or near its distal end configured to... Agent: Cierra, Inc. & Townsend & Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070299439 - Bipolar cutting and coagulating forceps: A bipolar electrosurgical instrument comprises a handle (5), a body (1) joined to the handle, and a jaw assembly (12) joined to the body and arranged such that manipulation of the handle allows the opposed jaws of the jaw assembly to be opened and closed with respect to one another.... Agent: Nikolai & Mersereau, P.A.

20070299440 - Electrosurgical apparatus and method for coagulative treatments through radiofrequency: An apparatus for electrosurgery (1) comprising a plurality of adjacent electrodes (2-5) arranged aligned and an electrosurgical current generator (6), connected or connectable to the electrodes (2-5) to induce the flowing of an electrosurgical current through the tissue portions interposed thereamong, wherein said generator (6) powers the electrodes (2-5) so... Agent: Nixon & Vanderhye, PC

20070299446 - Apparatus and method for connecting spinal vertebras: An orthopedic implantable device articulately connecting a first spinal vertebra to an adjacent second spinal vertebra includes a pair of first components adapted to be attached to locations left and right of a midline of the first vertebra, respectively and a pair of second components adapted to be attached to... Agent: Akc Patents

20070299443 - Methods and apparatus for access to and/or treatment of the spine: Systems, devices, and methods suitable for use with procedures performed at least partially percutaneously are provided. In some procedures, two or more access devices for providing access to adjacent surgical locations within a patient are used. Certain embodiments of the access device comprise an elongate body having a distal end... Agent: Crompton, Seager & Tufte, LLC

20070299444 - Methods and apparatus for access to and/or treatment of the spine: Systems, devices, and methods suitable for use with procedures performed at least partially percutaneously are provided. In some procedures, two or more access devices for providing access to adjacent surgical locations within a patient are used. Certain embodiments of the access device comprise an elongate body having a distal end... Agent: Crompton, Seager & Tufte, LLC

20070299445 - Spine treatment devices and methods: A modular implant system and method for dynamic stabilization of a spine segment that can be implanted in a minimally invasive posterior approach. In one embodiment, the implant device has an inferior body portion configured for fixation in a sacrum or ilium and a superior body portion configured for engaging... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070299447 - Orthopaedic plate and screw assembly: Systems, devices and methods are disclosed for treating fractures and other bone maladies. The systems, devices and methods may include one or both of a stabilizing structure, such as an implant, bone plate, or other device and a fastening assembly, such as a lag screw and compression screw assembly. The... Agent: Chief Patent Counsel Smith & Nephew, Inc.

20070299449 - Bone fixation device: The present invention relates to a bioabsorbable osteosynthesis fixation device for the fixation of bone fractures or osteotomies. The fixation device comprises a tip (2), a shaft (4) and a head (3). The periphery of the shaft (4) comprises ridges (6) which extend in a direction which forms an angle... Agent: Venable LLP

20070299450 - Pedicle screw and device for injecting bone cement into bone: Disclosed is a pedicle screw used in spinal fusion surgery and a device for injecting bone cement into a spine having low bone mineral density by using the pedicle screw so as to enhance strength of the spine. The pedicle screw includes a screw rod fixedly inserted into a bone,... Agent: Greer, Burns & Crain

20070299453 - Use of vibration with polymeric bone cements: Methods of employing bone defect filling, e.g., polymeric bone cements, are provided. A feature of the subject methods is that vibration is employed in conjunction with the use of the cement, e.g., in preparation of the cement, in preparation of the target site, in delivery of the cement to the... Agent: Bozicevic, Field & Francis LLP

20070299454 - Use of vibration with orthopedic cements: Methods of employing bone defect filling, e.g., orthopedic cements, such as calcium phosphate cements and the like, are provided. A feature of the subject methods is that vibration is employed in conjunction with the use of the cement, e.g., in preparation of the cement, in preparation of the target site,... Agent: Bozicevic, Field & Francis LLP

20070299455 - Inflatable device for use in surgical protocol relating to fixation of bone: A balloon for use in compressing cancellous bone and marrow (also known as medullary bone or trabecular bone). The balloon comprises an inflatable balloon body for insertion into said bone. The body has a shape and size to compress at least a portion of the cancellous bone to form a... Agent: Daniel D. Ryan Ryan Kromholz & Manion, S.c.

20070299456 - Light responsive medical retrieval devices: A medical retrieval device comprising an elongate member that comprises a shape memory polymer. The elongate member undergoes a change in shape upon activation of the shape memory polymer with activating light.... Agent: Mayer & Williams PC

20070299457 - Ear cleaning device: The ear cleaning device is a device for removing wax from an ear. The ear cleaning device includes a shaft having opposed first and second ends. First and second cleaning heads are respectively mounted to the first and second ends of the shaft. The first cleaning head is formed from... Agent: Litman Law Offices, Ltd.

20070299458 - Renewable rotary skin lancet: A lancet device used as a puncturing tool for creating a hole in a person's skin to obtain blood for testing. The device comprises a hammer which propels needle points into skin to release a droplet of blood. The device comprises a method for adjusting the needle's penetration. The device... Agent: John Albert Epple Jr.

20070299459 - Percutaneous tissue access device: A surgical device for percutaneously accessing a tissue of interest. In an embodiment, the surgical device comprises a handle including a groove. In addition, the surgical device comprises a resilient member disposed within the groove. Further, the surgical device comprises a locking sleeve at least partially disposed within the groove... Agent: Conley Rose, P.C. David A. Rose

20070299461 - Embolic coils and related components, systems, and methods: Embolic coils, and related components, systems, and methods, are disclosed.... Agent: Fish & Richardson PC

20070299460 - Expandable structures for deployment in interior body regions: An expandable structure carried at the end of a catheter tube assembly can be contracted and/or wrapped to present a reduced profile during deployment and/or removal from a targeted tissue site.... Agent: Ryan Kromholz & Manion, S.c.

20070299462 - Nasolacrimal system irrigation and dilatation tool: A multi-functional surgical tool for the treatment of nasolacrimal stenosis or obstruction combines two elongated conduits, one of which is terminated at a distal end by an inflatable balloon. The other conduit is used for either irrigating a tracer fluid in a vessel that has been enlarged by inflation of... Agent: Charmasson, Buchaca & Leach, LLP

20070299464 - Embolization device constructed from expansile polymer: Devices for the occlusion of body cavities, such as the embolization of vascular aneurysms and the like, and methods for making and using such devices. The devices may be comprised of novel expansile materials, novel infrastructure design, or both. The devices provided are very flexible and enable deployment with reduced... Agent: Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Preston Gates Ellis LLP

20070299463 - Therapeutic intervention systems employing implantable balloon devices: A method of treating a patient comprises: introducing to a physiological locus of said patient a balloon formed from two vacuum thermoformed half-sections of a multilayer film a layer of sealing film and at least one layer of thermoplastic polymer film, wherein the vacuum thermoformed half-sections are bonded together; and... Agent: Intellectual Property / Technology Law

20070299465 - Self-opening filter with wire actuation: A distal protection device that may include a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end, a filter disposed on the guidewire, the filter including filtering material and an expandable hollow coil, and a wire at least partially disposed within the coil, wherein the filter is actuatable from a... Agent: Crompton, Seager & Tufte, LLC

20070299466 - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty device with integral embolic filter: A percutaneous transluminal angioplasty device includes an embolic filter mounted to the catheter shaft at a location distal to the angioplasty balloon. Thus the filter is downstream from the blockage and is properly positioned to capture embolic particles that may be set loose into the blood stream as the angioplasty... Agent: John S. Pratt, Esq Kilpatrick Stockton, LLP

20070299467 - Tourniquet: A tourniquet may include an elastic band having a first end and a second end, a first attachment member affixed at the first end, a second attachment member affixed at the second end; and a third attachment member, which may be attached to and slideably displaceable along the elastic band.... Agent: Foley Hoag, LLP Patent Group, World Trade Center West

20070299469 - Surgical device: A laparoscopic surgical device is provided, including a ratchet mechanism. The ratchet mechanism includes a single button or lever that may be used to release or defeat a ratchet engagement.... Agent: Allegiance Corporation

20070299468 - Tissue vitality comparator with light pipe with fiber optic imaging bundle: A surgical instrument having a tissue vitality comparator is provided to view images of tissue relative to the surgical instrument and compare the images with predetermined reference images. The surgical instrument includes a pair of jaws for capturing tissue and one or more light sources 14 illuminating the captured tissue.... Agent: Covidien

20070299470 - Seam closure device and methods: A method for tightening a cardiac support device includes forming offsets in excess material in the cardiac support device and inserting a fastener through the offsets. A device for tightening a cardiac support device includes first and second clamp members moveable into and out of mateable engagement. Each of the... Agent: Faegre & Benson LLP Patent Docketing

20070293863 - Bone bridge providing dynamic compression on bone fractures: An orthopedic bone bridge, suitable for internally fixating and stabilizing fractured bones. The bone bridge includes: first and second bone plates for attachment to bone fragments by bone screws or the like on opposite sides of a bone fracture, a pair elongate parallel hollow legs on which the plates are... Agent: William L. Johnson

20070293864 - Bone plate system providing dynamic compression: An orthopedic bone plate, suitable for internally fixating and stabilizing fractured bones, includes: an elongated structure, capable of contraction in a longitudinal direction and having at least two ends, the structure having at least two fixation points adapted to be fixated to a fractured bone with the fixation points on... Agent: William L. Johnson

20070293848 - Medical instrument: The present invention provides a medical instrument with use of a composite material, which has antithrombotic characteristics and biocompatibility, has a favorable strength per se and is excellent in handling properties. A part or the whole of a section of the medical instrument, which is brought into contact with blood,... Agent: Birch Stewart Kolasch & Birch

20070293849 - Treatment of cellulite and adipose tissue with mid-infrared radiation: A method and apparatus that will alter the fibrous strands in the fatty layers of the skin to reduce the appearance of cellulite and adipose tissue. Electromagnetic energy is used to selectively shrink or alternatively photoacoustically ablate the collagen in the constricting bands of connective tissue that causes the dimpled... Agent: Ray K. Shahani, Esq., Attorney At Law

20070293850 - Portable optical ablation system: The present invention includes an apparatus and method of surgical ablative material removal “in-vivo” or from an outside surface with a short optical pulse that is amplified and compressed using either an optically-pumped-amplifier and air-path between gratings compressor combination or a SOA and chirped fiber compressor combination, wherein the generating,... Agent: Carr & Ferrell LLP

20070293851 - Method and device for producing curved cuts in a transparent material: The invention relates to a method for forming curved cuts in a transparent material, in particular in the cornea, by the creation of optical perforations in said material using laser radiation that is focused in the material. The focal point is displaced three-dimensionally to form the cut by lining up... Agent: Patterson, Thuente, Skaar & Christensen, P.A.

20070293852 - Electrosurgery devices: Devices for electrosurgery by means of oxy-hydro combustion. Deleterious effects to tissue are minimized by means of control of acid-base shift reactions, which reactions can further be employed to control oxy-hydro combustion reactions. In one embodiment, radiofrequency energy in electrical connection with electrodes is employed to induce electrolysis in an... Agent: Peacock Myers, P.C.

20070293854 - Apparatus and method for ablating tissue: A control system alters one or more characteristics of an ablating element to ablate tissue. In one aspect, the control system delivers energy nearer to the surface of the tissue by changing the frequency or power. In another aspect, the ablating element delivers focused ultrasound which is focused in at... Agent: Sjm/afd-wiley

20070293853 - Apparatuses and methods for interstitial tissue removal: Apparatuses and methods for removing solid tissue from beneath a tissue surface are described. The methods rely on positioning an energy conductive element at a target site beneath the tissue surface and energizing the element so that it can vaporize tissue. The element is then moved in a pattern which... Agent: Cytyc Corporation

20070293855 - Methods and devices for ablation: An ablating device has a cover which holds an interface material such as a gel. The cover contains the interface material during initial placement of the device. The ablating device may also have a removable tip or a membrane filled with fluid. In still another aspect, the ablating device may... Agent: Sjm/afd-wiley

20070293856 - Side-port sheath for catheter placement and translation: Side-port sheaths for catheter placement and translation are disclosed. The sheaths include a side-port opening through which a gliding catheter may be deployed during diagnosis or treatment of tissue. The side-port sheath may include a suspension ribbon used to deploy, or that aids in the deployment of, the embedded gliding... Agent: Sjm/afd-wiley

20070293857 - Wire guide sphincterotome: A medical system configured for cannulation of a lumen having a stricture is provided. The medical system includes an elongate sheath having a proximal portion, a distal portion and a first lumen at least partially extending through the sheath. The medical system also includes a wire guide having a cutting... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070293858 - Electrosurgical instrument: The invention relates to an electrosurgical instrument that comprises two branches joined to one another in an articulated manner, which can be actuated to open or close in a manner corresponding to a clamping, spreading or cutting tool. The instrument further comprises electrode parts at distal ends of the branches,... Agent: Dickstein Shapiro LLP

20070293859 - Reconstruction device and method: A device for mandible distraction includes a first temporal component having a temporal end, a second temporal component having a second temporal end, and a central anterior component in between the two and in front of the mandible. The device has locations on it to place distraction and stabilization pins... Agent: Steptoe & Johnson LLP

20070293860 - Elastic element produced from radiolucent material for a medical device: An elastic element which consists of a radiolucent material and is provided for a medical device. Said elastic element is produced from an unreinforced plastic material.... Agent: Jones Day

20070293862 - Dynamic stabilization connecting member with elastic core and outer sleeve: A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having an elongate core and an outer sleeve. The core is of one-piece construction, elastic, and includes end portions for attachment to the bone anchors. The outer sleeve may include compression grooves. The... Agent: Law Office Of John C. Mcmahon

20070293861 - Grommet assembly: A connecting device is provided for use in orthopedic surgery, for example to connect a spinal rod and a vertebral screw or hook. The connector generally includes a receiver member for receiving an elongated member, and a grommet member for receiving a bone fixation member. The grommet member is inserted... Agent: Woodard, Emhardt, Moriarty, Mcnett & Henry LLP

20070293865 - Method of performing a decompressive craniectomy: A method of performing a decompressive craniectomy includes removing a bone flap from a cranium, attaching one end of a movable plate to one end of the bone flap, and attaching another end of the movable plate to the cranium. The movable plate is configured to allow the bone flap... Agent: Dla Piper US LLP

20070293866 - Bone anchor system and method of use: The present invention relates to bone anchors, particularly of the type for fixing medical devices to bone. The bone anchor system includes a bone-anchoring element that has super elastic and/or shape memory components that extend radially outward for engaging the bone.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070293867 - Method and tools for low-speed milling without irrigation and with extraction and recovery of tissue particles: Milling procedure performed on the patient's bone or other tissue in order to form in said tissue a cavity of a shape and size that allows it to house an implant (or for other purposes where the tissue must regenerate) wherein milling is performed at low speeds and without irrigation... Agent: Browdy And Neimark, P.l.l.c. 624 Ninth Street, Nw

20070293868 - Ligament-tentioning device, section template and osteotomy method: A ligament-tensioning device (1) for preparing the implantation of an articulated implant consists of a base body (5) comprising first claws (6, 6′) provided with first bearing surfaces (7, 7′) applied to a first bone part (33) and second claws (13, 13′) provided with a second bearing surfaces (10, 10′)... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20070293869 - Curved acetabular positioner, impactor and reamer handle: An acetabular instrument has a handle portion having one or more solid nonflexible drive shaft elements therethrough. The shaft elements are connected by a U-joint at one of both ends to form a flexible curved drive shaft. One end of a solid shaft element is connected to a knob so... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20070293870 - Guide assembly: A guide assembly for guiding a bone preparation tool in relation to a patient's bone in an orthopaedic surgical procedure, includes a guide member which has a first face which can be positioned against a surface of the bone which is to be prepared using a bone preparation tool, and... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070293871 - Osteotome and components thereof: An osteotome includes a penetration tool which is to be driven into a bone and a separate, elongate driving tool for use in driving the penetration tool into the bone. The penetration tool has a tapered penetration end and an opposite end including at least one curved formation. The driving... Agent: Marshall & Melhorn

20070293873 - Apparatus and methods for implanting particulate ocular implants: Apparatus and methods for implanting ocular implants in eyes are provided which include a cannula having a lumen extending therethrough, the lumen having a length and a diameter and being configured to receive an ocular implant. The ocular implant is made up of a plurality of substantially uniformly sized particles,... Agent: Stephen Donovan Allergan, Inc.

20070293872 - Ocular drainage device: An ocular fluid-draining device to remove fluid from the eye, for example, in a patient after glaucoma surgery. The device includes a shunt at least partially enclosed in a conduit, a portion of the conduit being collapsible or inwardly deformable to control, reduce, or prevent fluid flow. The distal end... Agent: Wood, Herron & Evans, LLP

20070293874 - Treatment apparatus for endoscope, and endoscope system: A movable body is inserted retractably into a flexible tube being able to be inserted into a channel of an endoscope. A treatment unit has directivity projectable and retractable with respect to a far end portion of the flexible tube by the movable body. The flexible tube is raised by... Agent: Ostrolenk Faber Gerb & Soffen

20070293875 - Clip device and protective cap, and methods of using the protective cap and clip device with an endoscope for grasping tissue endoscopically: A clip device delivery apparatus for hemostasis has an introducer tube, such as an endoscope or sheath having a distal end portion and working channel receiving an operating wire detachably securing a clip device comprising tissue engaging arms and a sliding ring for closing the arms. A protective cap having... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070293876 - Medical suturing tool: A medical suturing tool 10 is composed of an insertion puncture needle 13 having an insertion hole 13a, a retrieval puncture needle 14 disposed in parallel with the insertion puncture needle 13, a lock part 15, and a surgical suture 16. A vertically elongated opening 18 is formed on the... Agent: Tyco Healthcare - Edward S. Jarmolowicz

20070293878 - Magnetic mesh support for tissue walls: A tissue wall support incorporating magnetic elements with a mesh body, and a method of holding a tissue wall support to one side of the tissue wall using a magnet on the opposite side of the tissue wall. The support may be placed adjacent one side of the tissue wall... Agent: Godfrey & Kahn S.c.

20070293879 - Tissue fixation devices including reaction causing agents: A fastener for use in fastening tissue layers in a mammalian body comprises a first member, a second member, and a connecting member fixed to each of the first and second members intermediate their ends and extending there between. One of the first and second members has a through channel... Agent: Graybeal Jackson Haley LLP

20070293877 - Method and extravenous corrector for simultaneous repair of multiple incompetent valves: A method and device for repairing incompetent venous valves and more specifically relates to repair method and an implantable support device—extravenous corrector (3), which is positionable about a dilated veins of the Sapheno-Femoral Junction (SFJ) (1) with the aim to apply an external compression force on the insufficient veins of... Agent: William J. Sapone Coleman Sudol Sapone P.C.

20070293880 - Vascular hole closure device: A device for closing an aperture in a vessel wall comprising an elongated member positionable inside the vessel against an internal opening of the aperture and having a dimension exceeding a dimension of the internal opening of the aperture to prevent egress of fluid through the aperture. At least two... Agent: Neil D. Gershon Chief Patent Counsel

20070293881 - Surgical connector systems and methods of use: A system and method of use for effecting the bypass or other anastomosis, connection, or port in a portion of a native blood vessel, duct, lumen or other tubular organ within the body of a living being. The system includes a connector assembly and a deployment instrument for carrying the... Agent: Kensey Nash Corporation

20070293882 - Pricking device for taking blood: The present invention provides a pricking device for taking blood comprising a contact element for being placed into contact with an extraction surface, an actuating element for manual actuation of the pricking device, a pricking element which is used to perforate the extraction surface, the pricking element being arranged in... Agent: Bose Mckinney & Evans LLP

20070293883 - Pricking needle device: A pricking needle device, termed a lancet, used by a patient with diabetes in sampling his/her own blood to measure his/her blood sugar value is provided. The pricking needle device includes a pricking member body and a needle end protective cap. The pricking member body, formed of synthetic resin, carries... Agent: Bell, Boyd & Lloyd, LLP

20070293884 - Follicular dissection device and method: Provided herein is an apparatus and method useful for surgical removal of mammalian tissue.... Agent: Berkeley Law & Technology Group, LLP

20070293885 - Methods and devices to curb appetite and/or to reduce food intake: The present invention relates to devices and methods of operating the devices that contribute to curbing appetite and/or reducing food intake. In some embodiments, the methods and devices of the present invention include as intestinal/duodenal insert comprising an elongated member with at least one flow reduction element that can cause... Agent: Shayglenn LLP

20070293886 - Suppository for hemorrhoid treatment: A suppository for use in an anal canal has a shaft and ring positioned on the shaft between the first end and the second end of the shaft. The ring extends outwardly of the shaft and has a diameter of between 8 and 14 millimeters. The ring has a generally... Agent: Egbert Law Offices

20070293887 - Catheter assembly: A catheter assembly comprises an elongated tubular outer catheter opening at its distal end, an elongated tubular intermediate catheter opening at its distal end and positioned in the outer catheter, an elongated inner catheter positioned in the intermediate catheter, and a head section provided at a distal part of the... Agent: Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC

20070293888 - Self-closing external vascular closure: A self-closing external vascular closure (1) for closing an arterial or venous blood vessel having a puncture opening in a human or animal body by means of autologous blood has a pressure chamber (6) that can be attached to the body in the area of the puncture opening and can... Agent: William Collard Collard & Roe, P.C.

20070293889 - Occlusion device with flexible fabric connector: An occlusion device includes a center assembly having a flexible section formed by a fabric connector. The flexible fabric connector gives the center assembly improved flexure characteristics, which allows the occlusion device to better conform to the contours of the heart.... Agent: Kinney & Lange, P.A.

20070293891 - Occlusion device with flexible polymeric connector: An occlusion device includes a center assembly having a flexible section formed by a polymeric connector. The flexible polymeric connector gives the center assembly improved torque and flexure characteristics, which allows the occlusion device to better conform to the contours of the heart.... Agent: Kinney & Lange, P.A.

20070293890 - Occlusion device with flexible wire connector: An occlusion device includes a flexible section formed by a wire connector. The flexible wire connector gives the occlusion device improved torque and flexure characteristics, which allows the device to better conform to the contours of the heart.... Agent: Kinney & Lange, P.A.

20070293892 - Surgical thread for plastic surgery and method of imparting tension to skin: A surgical thread for plastic surgery which is extremely simple in structure, is safe for human use, effectively removes sagging and wrinkling of skin, and further enables the tensing action to the skin to be maintained for a long period of time, that is, a surgical thread for plastic surgery... Agent: Kratz, Quintos & Hanson, LLP

20070287992 - Control system configured to compensate for non-ideal actuator-to-joint linkage characteristics in a medical robotic system: A medical robotic system having non-ideal actuator-to-joint linkage characteristics, includes a control system including a proximal control loop with actuator sensor feedback to control dynamic response of an actuator coupled to a distal joint which in turn, is coupled to an end effector to provide a degree of freedom movement... Agent: Patent Dept Intuitive Surgical, Inc

20070287993 - Tool with rotation lock: The invention provides surgical or diagnostic tools and associated methods that offer improved user control for operating remotely within regions of the body. These tools include a proximally-located actuator for the operation of a distal end effector, as well as proximally-located actuators for articulational and rotational movements of the end... Agent: Shayglenn LLP

20070287998 - Catheter with multi port tip for optical lesion evaluation: A catheter is adapted to ablate tissue and provide optically-based lesion qualitative and quantitative monitoring, comprising a catheter body and a tip electrode distal the catheter body adapted for ablating tissue, the tip electrode having a shell and an alignment member defining a hollow distal portion therebetween. In accordance with... Agent: Christie, Parker & Hale, LLP

20070287996 - Co-access foam/electrode introducer: Methods, medical probe kits, and systems are provided for treating a tissue region within a patient, e.g., a margin of tissue surrounding an interstitial space created by removing abnormal tissue. A delivery cannula is introduced within the patient. A hydrophilic electrode is advanced through the cannula adjacent the tissue region,... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20070287995 - Cooled ablation catheter and method of using the same: A cooled high frequency energy ablation catheter uses an expansion of a fluid inside the catheter near a tip to cool the tip. The tip is brought into contact with a contact region of the tissue to deliver high frequency energy to the contact region and underlying tissue. The contact... Agent: Senniger Powers

20070287994 - Endoscopically introducible expandable bipolar probe: A device and method for treating tissue inside a patient's body, the device includes an endoscopically introducible catheter shaft. An expandable chamber is mounted on the distal end of the catheter shaft. The chamber is defined by a flexible non-elastomeric wall. The chamber is associated with a first lumen defined... Agent: Pankaj A. Patel

20070287997 - Visual indicator for electrosurgical instrument fields: A device to visually indicate the presence of electric fields in electrosurgical apparatus, without the necessity of wiring or an electrical connection to the apparatus, to visually annunciate when an electrosurgical instrument is active is disclosed. This is to alert the operating surgeon, and observing personnel, that the device is... Agent: Ron Tolmei Suite 32

20070288000 - Method for aiding valve annuloplasty: The present invention provides methods for indirect imaging of the internal shape and structure of a heart. The invention can be practiced by injecting fluoroscopic contrast medium into the left atrium and ventricle of a heart, and by placing a radiopaque wire marker in the coronary sinus to provide a... Agent: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.IPLegal Department

20070288001 - Endoscopically introducible expandable cautery device: An endoscopically introducible expandable cautery device having a probe slidably received in a tube. The probe has a cauterizing end terminating in a balloon which is expandable upon inflation with fluid supplied through a first lumen in communication with a source of fluid such as a syringe. The surface of... Agent: Botkin & Hall, LLP

20070288012 - Dynamic motion spinal stabilization system and device: Provided are a system and device for dynamically stabilizing a spine. In one example, the device includes one member having one end configured to rotatably couple to a bone anchor and another end having a curved channel. Another member of the device has one end configured to rotatably couple to... Agent: Carr LLP (ist)

20070288009 - Dynamic spinal stabilization device: The present invention provides a dynamic stabilization device positionable about a portion of a spinal column. The stabilization device may generally include a first component and a second component, where the first and second components are movably coupled to one another to define an arcuate path of motion. The stabilization... Agent: Christopher & Weisberg, P.A.

20070288013 - Fixation device for an elongate spinal support element: A fixation device for connecting an elongate support element to a patient's vertebra in order to correct a spinal deformity includes a housing for the support element formed by a channel in which the element can be received. A transverse arm having a housing end and a free end is... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070288005 - Fixation of spinal prosthesis: An endoprosthesis including first and second attachment surfaces for attachment to spinal structure, and a fixation element rotatingly disposed in at least one of the attachment surfaces, the fixation element being rotatable between a stowed position, wherein the fixation element does not substantially protrude from the at least one of... Agent: David Klein Dekel Patent Ltd.

20070288002 - Locking device and method employing a posted member to control positioning of a stabilization member of a bone stabilization system: A locking device and method are provided for a bone stabilization system which includes a bone anchor, a coupling mechanism and a stabilization member, wherein the coupling mechanism couples the stabilization member to the bone anchor. The locking device includes a seating member and a posted member. The seating member... Agent: Heslin Rothenberg Farley & Mesiti P.C.

20070288003 - Locking device and method, for use in a bone stabilization system, employing a break-away interface member rigidly coupled to a seating member: A locking device employing a break away interface member rigidly coupled to a seating member for use in securing a stabilization member within a bone stabilization system. The bone stabilization system includes a bone anchor, a stabilization member, a coupling mechanism and a locking device. The locking device is structured... Agent: Heslin Rothenberg Farley & Mesiti P.C.

20070288011 - Spinal rod system: A multi-axis spinal fixation device which can use a fixed head spinal or pedicle screw in combination with a multi-axial rod assembly to achieve anatomically correct fixation of vertebrae. The orthopedic fixation can be controlled by a different combination of rod elements to provide a varied range of motion between... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20070288004 - Vertebral fixation device and tool for assembling the device: Constitutes a pedicle screw (1), a rosette (3) that fixes the pedicle screw (1) to a tulip (6), a bar that constitutes the link with other devices and a locking cap (9) associated to the closing screw (11) that is threaded on the inside of the tulip (6) and fixes... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070288016 - Bone support: A bone support is provided comprising: a hollow elongate rod 10 having trailing and leading ends; said hollow rod being insertable along at least a substantial part of the length of the interior of a bone; an elongate fixing device 14 positioned within said hollow rod 10, the elongate fixing... Agent: Michael Best & Friedrich LLP

20070288021 - Flexible joint implant: A trochlear groove implant includes a body having an articulate-bearing surface, a bone-facing surface and an edge extending therebetween for repairing a trochlear groove. The articulate-bearing surface configured to mimic a portion of a normal trochlear groove. The implant further includes at least one anchoring mechanism extending outwardly from the... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20070288020 - Soft tissue fixation device for organs proximate shankbone: A soft tissue fixation device for organs proximate shankbone includes a fixing body, a fixing plate, and a plurality of fixing components for attaching the fixing plate to the fixing body. The fixing body forms an arcuate bound portion on a side thereof. A plurality of engaging holes is defined... Agent: Troxell Law Office PLLC

20070288024 - Bone fixation: A bone fixation method including: (a) depth-penetrating a bone with a bone-fixation device, (b) by such depth-penetrating, establishing a condition of selectively variable, inclined-surface frictional contact between the device and the bone, where the magnitude of friction in such contact is variable in relation to the depth of bone penetration... Agent: Robert D. Varitz, P.C.

20070288030 - Patient specific knee alignment guide and associated method: A method of preparing a joint for a prosthesis in a patient. The method includes obtaining scan data associated with the joint of the patient, preparing a three-dimensional image of the joint based on the scan data, preparing an interactive initial surgical plan based on the scan data, sending the... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20070288032 - Method and apparatus for positioning a multiple piece prosthesis: A method and apparatus for positioning an implant system in anatomy is disclosed. The apparatus can include an alignment member operable to contact an implant portion, a bone, or other appropriate portion. The method can include using the apparatus to assist in positioning a single or multi-piece implant member. Also,... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20070287999 - Energy based devices and methods for treatment of anatomic tissue defects: Methods for treating anatomic tissue defects such as patent foramen ovale (PFO) generally involve positioning a distal end of an elongate catheter device at the site of the anatomic defect, exposing an expandable housing and energy transmission member out of the distal end of the catheter device, engaging the housing... Agent: Cierra, Inc. & Townsend & Townsend And Crew, LLP

20070288010 - Compressible fixation apparatus for spinal surgery: A spinal fixation apparatus is configured with a pair of endpieces and an intermediate compressible portion. The compressible portion may comprise a pair of mating sliders comprising toothed arms attached to the endpieces. A gear engages the toothed arms. When the gear is rotated, the sliders bring the endpieces together,... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070288007 - Methods and instrument for vertebral interbody fusion: Methods and instrumentation particularly adapted for disc space preparation for insertion of implants from an anterior approach to the spine are provided. The instruments include a guide sleeve defining a channel having overlapping cylindrical working channel portions and lateral non-distracting extensions extending from reduced thickness wall portions. The guide sleeve... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20070288008 - Semi-rigid spinal fixation apparatus: A semi-rigid spinal apparatus has a first pedicle screw array and a second pedicle screw array substantially parallel to the first pedicle screw array. A first rod array is associated with the first pedicle screw array and a second rod array is associated with the second pedicle screw array. Each... Agent: William Collard Collard & Roe, P.C.

20070288015 - Spinal plate assembly: Spinal plate assemblies, methods of fabrication, and methods of use. Such assemblies comprises blocking structures assembled to spinal plates. The blocking structure comprises an elongate band which can be against structure of the plate. The band is mounted into a continuous or intermittent channel in the plate, and extends into... Agent: Wilhelm Law Service, S.c.

20070288006 - 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.

20070288014 - Spine treatment devices and methods: The invention relates generally to implant systems and methods for treating spine disorders, and more particularly to least invasive implant systems configured for re-distributing loads on a spine segment while still allowing spine flexion, extension, lateral bending and torsion. The implant system can include implants configured for spanning bi-lateral intercostal... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070288017 - Intramedullary pin for insertion into the medullary space of a femur: An intramedullary pin for insertion into the medullary space of the femur through the lateral compacta of the trochanter major. The pin has a proximal pin section and an adjoining distal pin section. Each pin section includes one or more bores for one or more bone screws. The proximal pin... Agent: Jones Day

20070288018 - Expandable spinal implant: An expandable spinal implant including a first member and a second member. The first member has first and second arms. The first and second members are pivotally coupled to each other for relative movement about a rotation axis between a closed position for inserting the implant into a spine and... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20070288019 - Intramedullary nail: An intramedullary nail having a distal end is introducible into a medullary space. A medullary nail segment which is oriented towards the distal end and has a diameter D, a proximal end, at least two cross holes having a borehole axis and a central line formed by a line connecting... Agent: Jones Day

20070288022 - Bone reconstruction plate with improved fatigue resistance: A bone reconstruction plate is formed of a longitudinally extending plate defining one or more attachment bores. Within one or more of the attachment bores, one or more ridges are disposed around at least a portion of the interior of the one or more attachment bores, whereby the one or... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20070288023 - Soft tissue repair using tissue augments and bone anchors: Repair and reattachment of damaged soft tissue to bone is facilitated by positioning a biologic or synthetic tissue augment between the soft tissue and the broad footprint of a two-point fixation suture/anchor geometry. Interaction of the tissue augment with the soft tissue is promoted by compression of the augment against... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070288025 - Bone screw: In order to improve a bone screw with a shaft defining a longitudinal axis and with a head which can be brought into engagement with a bone screw receiving means of a bone plate for the releasable connection of the bone screw to the bone plate, wherein a securing element... Agent: Ratnerprestia

20070288026 - Methods and apparatus for access to and/or treatment of the spine: Systems, devices, and methods suitable for use with procedures performed at least partially percutaneously are provided. In some procedures, two or more access devices for providing access to adjacent surgical locations within a patient are used. Certain embodiments of the access device comprise an elongate body having a distal end... Agent: Crompton, Seager & Tufte, LLC

20070288027 - Bioabsorbable tissue tack with oval-shaped head and method of tissue fixation using the same: A bioabsorbable, cannulated tissue tack having an oblong head is used in sutureless soft tissue fixation to bone, particularly in arthroscopic shoulder surgery. A plurality of ribs are formed along the shaft of the tack. Repair of the glenohumeral joint is performed by installing the tack through a hole formed... Agent: Dickstein Shapiro LLP

20070288028 - Implantable intervertebral disc shearing device: An implantable device for stabilizing joints is provided. The stabilizing device, or implant, includes an elongated body and at least two bone cutting surfaces. The bone cutting surfaces are adapted to cut bone upon rotation of the body about its longitudinal axis between two bones. The device is adapted to... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20070288029 - Milling system for resecting a joint articulation surface: A milling system for use in resecting at least a portion of a joint articulation surface of a bone includes an alignment guide having a top surface and an opposing bottom surface with an opening extending therebetween. Fasteners are used to secure the alignment guide to the bone so that... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20070288031 - Offset drill guide and arthroscopic method: A cannulated offset drill guide and surgical methods for repairing Bankart lesions. The cannulated offset drill guide comprising a shaft which is offset from the guide center line by about 1 to 3 mm, more preferably of about 1.5 mm. The cannulated offset drill guide is provided at its proximal... Agent: Dickstein Shapiro LLP

20070282311 - Multi-joint fixture system: A multi-joint fixture including a proximal base unit, one or more arms serially connected by electromagnetically lockable ball joints, and a distal hub. The ball joints unlock when not powered. A centering mechanism biases the ball joints toward a neutral position. A control system activates the electromagnetic brake with a... Agent: The Law Office Of John A. Griecci

20070282312 - Ophthalmologic apparatus: An ophthalmologic apparatus having a light projector for projecting femtosecond laser pulses for breaking down eye tissue, respectively focused onto a focal surface, comprises optical means for producing pulse processing areas (E) that are respectively formed on the focal surface by one of the femtosecond laser pulses, and have an... Agent: Oliff & Berridge, PLC

20070282315 - Medical or cosmetic hand-held laser device: A medical or cosmetic hand-held laser device with an optical waveguide device is subdivided into a first section and a second section arranged at an angle thereto for emitting laser radiation onto a treatment area. To deflect the laser beam from the first section into the second section as effectively... Agent: Klarquist Sparkman, LLP

20070282316 - Method of prophylactically treating an artery to make it resistant to the subsequent development of atherosclerosis: The present invention provides a method for prophylactically treating a vessel region at risk for the development of vulnerable plaque with cryogenic energy. In general, a cryogenic catheter is inserted into the patient's vascular network and manipulated towards a treatment site. The catheter is then activated so as to cool... Agent: John Christopher Christopher & Weisberg, P.A.

20070282317 - Implantable microphone for treatment of neurological disorders: A system and method is described for adjunct electrical neuromodulation therapy of urinary incontinence and neurological disorders. In response to a detected event sensed by an implantable microphone, a targeted component is selectively stimulated by electrical stimulation pulses, or a therapeutically effective amount of a selected drug may be delivered... Agent: Bromberg & Sunstein LLP

20070282320 - System and method for controlling tissue heating rate prior to cellular vaporization: A system and method for performing electrosurgical procedures are disclosed. The system includes an electrosurgical generator adapted to supply energy at an output level to tissue and to transmit an interrogatory signal to obtain initial tissue impedance to derive a starting impedance value. The electrosurgical generator includes a microprocessor adapted... Agent: Covidien

20070282323 - Hard tissue ablation system: An electrosurgical system and method for treating hard and soft tissues in the body comprises a shaft, a distal end section, an active electrode associated with the distal end section, a first fluid supply adapted to deliver a first electrically conductive fluid to the target site, and a second fluid... Agent: Arthrocare Corporation

20070282327 - High-frequency treatment instrument:

20070282326 - Treatment instrument for endoscope: There is provided a treatment instrument, which is provided with a flexible sheath configured such that at least a part thereof is formed of a flexible tube, an operation wire inserted into the flexible sheath to be movable in an axial direction of the flexible sheath, a front-end treatment member... Agent: Greenblum & Bernstein, P.L.C

20070282329 - Bipolar high-frequency incision tool for an endoscope: A bipolar high-frequency incision tool for an endoscope is provided having a flexible insertion portion configured to be inserted into a body cavity. First and second elongated electrodes are mounted to a distal end of the insertion portion so as to be movable between an open position and a closed... Agent: Greenblum & Bernstein, P.L.C

20070282331 - Bipolar high-frequency incision tool for an endoscope: A bipolar high-frequency incision tool for an endoscope having a flexible insertion portion configured to be inserted into a body cavity. First and second elongated electrodes mounted to a distal end of the insertion portion so as to be movable between an open position and a closed position. The first... Agent: Greenblum & Bernstein, P.L.C

20070282330 - Bipolar high-frequency treatment tool for an endoscope: A bipolar high-frequency treatment tool for an endoscope having a flexible insertion portion configured to be inserted into a body cavity. First and second elongated electrodes mounted to a distal end of the insertion portion so as to be movable between an open position and a closed position. The first... Agent: Greenblum & Bernstein, P.L.C

20070282335 - Mechanism for assembly of ultrasonic instrument: An ultrasonic clamp coagulator system that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation and clamping of tissue during surgical procedures. An elongated portion of the instrument can be configured for endoscopic applications and has an outside diameter of less than 6 mm. The system includes a one-piece torque wrench that... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070282332 - Tissue pad for ultrasonic surgical instrument: An ultrasonic clamp coagulator assembly that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation and clamping of tissue during surgical procedures. An elongated portion of the instrument can be configured for endoscopic applications and has an outside diameter of less than 6 mm. The construction includes a clamping mechanism, including a... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070282334 - Ultrasonic blade support: An ultrasonic clamp coagulator assembly that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation and clamping of tissue during surgical procedures. An elongated portion of the instrument can be configured for endoscopic applications and has an outside diameter of less than 6 mm. The construction includes an outer sheath and an... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070282333 - Ultrasonic waveguide and blade: An ultrasonic clamp coagulator assembly that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation and clamping of tissue during surgical procedures. An elongated portion of the instrument can be configured for endoscopic applications and has an outside diameter of less than 6 mm. The construction includes a waveguide and blade that... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070282336 - Bipolar high-frequency treatment tool for endoscope: A high-frequency treatment tool for an endoscope includes a connector configured to be connected to an inserting portion of an endoscope and further configured to be inserted into a body cavity through an endoscope, and first and second electrodes mounted to a distal end of the connector and movable between... Agent: Greenblum & Bernstein, P.L.C

20070282339 - Variable connector: A spinal fixation system connector for maintaining a predetermined positions of a spinal linkage members fastened to vertebrae of a patient. The connector includes a body having first and second openings extending along first and second axes, respectively. The connector includes a first fastener for fastening the first member in... Agent: Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal LLP

20070282344 - Bone drill and methods of use: A radiolucent bone drill and/or impact drill is provided, which includes a first portion connected to a second portion. The first portion defines a first axis and the second portion defines a second axis. The second axis is disposed at an angle relative to the first axis. A third portion... Agent: Mark S. Leonardo, Esq. Brown Rudnick Berlack Israels LLP

20070282345 - Cavity creation device and methods of use: A cavity drill is provided, which is configured for use with a bone drill. The cavity drill includes a body. The bone drill has a first portion movably connected to a second portion. A third portion is movably connected to the second portion. The body is mounted with the third... Agent: Mark S. Leonardo, Esq. Brown Rudnick Berlack Israels LLP

20070282313 - Method and apparatus to guide laser corneal surgery with optical measurement: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is used to map the surface elevation and thickness of the cornea. The OCT maps are used to plan laser procedures for the treatment of an irregular, opacified or weakened cornea, and in the treatment of refractive errors. In the excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) procedure,... Agent: Hogan & Hartson L.L.P.

20070282314 - Dermatological treatment apparatus: A dermatological treatment platform is disclosed that incorporates an actively Q-switched laser and intense pulsed light source. The platform comprises: a power supply having an electrical energy source, a capacitive energy store for receiving energy from the energy source, a power outlet, and a electronically controlled switch that can selectively... Agent: Taylor Russell & Russell, P.C.

20070282318 - Subcutaneous thermolipolysis using radiofrequency energy: Disclosed herein are systems and methods that reduce, remove, shape, and/or sculpt sub-dermal fat layers by selectively heating fat tissue, or that reduce the appearance of cellulite, using low frequency RF energy applied through one or more skin contacting electrode carried on a handpiece. The handpiece is manipulated manually or... Agent: Stallman & Pollock LLP

20070282319 - Center fed dipole for use with tissue ablation systems, devices and methods: The present invention relates to systems and devices for delivering energy to tissue for a wide variety of applications, including medical procedures (e.g., tissue ablation, resection, cautery, vascular thrombosis, treatment of cardiac arrhythmias and dysrhythmias, electrosurgery, tissue harvest, etc.). In particular, the present invention relates to systems and devices for... Agent: Medlen & Carroll, LLP

20070282321 - Computerized electrical signal generator: The invention relates to a medical probe signal generator. More particularly, it relates to a medical probe signal generator architecture. The present invention further relates to a system including a medical probe signal generator having an automatic probe type detector for detecting an identifier and at least one instrument cable... Agent: Dimock Stratton LLP

20070282322 - High frequency power source: A high frequency electrosurgical power generator configured to produce electrical power at a frequency of about 1 to about 14 MHz and preferably having an essentially sinusoidal waveform with a voltage level up to 1,000 Vrms, and a current level up to 5 Amps. The output of the high frequency... Agent: Edward J. Lynch Duane Morris LLP

20070282324 - Apparatus and method for diagnosis and therapy of electrophysiological disease: The invention provides apparatus and methods for mapping conduction pathways and creating lesions in the heart wall for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. The apparatus may include at least one epicardial ablation probe having a plurality of electrodes for creating a lesion. The apparatus and method facilitate the formation of... Agent: Sjm/afd-wiley

20070282325 - Composite material braided insulator: A ablation probe includes a first electrode; a second electrode; and a dielectric element. The dielectric element is located between the first electrode and the second electrode. The dielectric element includes a fiber braid within another material.... Agent: Fay Kaplun & Marcin, LLP

20070282328 - High-frequency treatment instrument: A high-frequency treatment instrument for performing a high-frequency treatment on a pathological lesion portion includes an elongated flexible sheath 2, a pair of arm portions 3A and 3B which is disposed in the sheath 2 so as to freely extend and retract, which is in a closed state in the... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20070282337 - Rod reducer: A rod reducer is adapted for inserting a rod into position within an orthopedic device. The rod reducer is configured for use with one hand and does not obstruct the surgeon's view of the surgical field during use.... Agent: Fish & Richardson, PC

20070282338 - Unilateral fixator: A unilateral fixator for adjustment of a first bone portion relative to a second bone portion. The fixator includes a telescopically adjustable strut having first and second ends and a strut axis, and first and second compound joints. The first compound joint is coupled to the first end of the... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20070282340 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: A method provides for the insertion of an implant between adjacent bone structures. For example, an implant is inserted between adjacent spinous processes. The implant can be advanced within a body to a location between adjacent bone structures with an insertion tool and guided by a path defined by a... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20070282342 - Articulated bone screw: The bone screw has a head, a shaft and a longitudinal axis. The shaft comprises a proximal section adjacent to the head and a distal section secured to the proximal section by a cardan or cardan-like joint, the distal section being suitable for introduction into the bone and being provided... Agent: Jones Day

20070282341 - Bone screw: A bone screw (10) having a lead portion (12) and a tail portion (14), each comprising a root and a thread (22, 24) (having a thread lead) formed on the root. The thread on each of the lead and tail portions has an approximately constant diameter along a significant portion... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20070282343 - Bone cutter: A bone cutter for cutting a bone by pulling a wire wrapped around the bone is provided. With the bone cutter, it is easy to fix a cutting wire at a part to be cut of a bone and, when the bone is cut, the bone neither vibrates nor moves.... Agent: Westerman, Hattori, Daniels & Adrian, LLP

20070282346 - Systems and methods for treating vertebral bodies: A filler instrument comprises a first chamber section having a first cross sectional area and a second chamber section having a second cross sectional area less than the first cross sectional area. The second chamber section communicates with the first chamber section. The first chamber section includes an inlet for... Agent: Ryan Kromholz & Manion, S.c.

20070282347 - Navigated orthopaedic guide and method: A navigated orthopaedic guide is provided for establishing datums used to position subsequent components during an orthopaedic surgical procedure.... Agent: John F. Hoffman, Esq. Baker & Daniels LLP

20070282348 - Ophthalmic microsurgical instrument: An ophthalmic microsurgical instrument for scraping or selectively removing tissue membrane from the retina, or other areas of the eye, is provided with a rod-like solid silicone tip, the front most portion of which is coated with a plurality of micron size sapphire chips providing an abrasive surface, both the... Agent: Kenneth Watov, Esq. Watov & Kipnes, P.C.

20070282349 - 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

20070282350 - Device for arranging wire leads from medical testing apparatus: A portable lead alignment device is provided for aligning, organizing and storing in a pre-assembled fashion the leads extending from an EKG apparatus. The device includes an elongate flexible support with at least one linear array of chest lead alignment tunnels disposed thereon. Each tunnel snugly accommodates a chest lead... Agent: Casella & Hespos

20070282351 - Medical suturing tool with gripping device: A suture retrieval puncture needle for a medical suturing tool includes an outer hollow needle member and an inner suture gripping element movable within the outer hollow needle member. The inner suture gripping element is deployable at least partially externally to the outer hollow needle member for retrieval of a... Agent: Tyco Healthcare - Edward S. Jarmolowicz

20070282352 - Closure device and methods for making and using them: A method for closing an opening in a wall of a body lumen using a clip can include advancing a distal end of an elongate member within the body lumen, the elongate member having a distal portion that assists in presenting the wall for receiving a clip having a plurality... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20070282353 - Endoscopic apparatus having a clip device: A hemostatic clip delivery system cooperable with an elevator of an endoscope and a method of treating a target with the system are disclosed. The system comprises a delivery apparatus comprising an operating wire, an outer sheath and a handle. The operating wire is cooperable with the elevator of the... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070282354 - Adevice for suturing intracardiac defects: In accordance with the present invention there is provided a suturing device. The suturing device includes a length of suture that will be delivered to the site of the PFO and placed through the tissue adjacent the opening to close the PFO. As described in greater detail below, the suture... Agent: Shu-ki Yeung

20070282355 - Release mechanisms for a clip device: A clip device for hemostasis includes a clip having a proximal end portion and at least two arm portions extending from the proximal end portion and provided with a tendency to open. A sliding ring is provided for closing the arm portions of the clip. A first retainer is attached... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20070282356 - Transgastric method for carrying out a partial fundoplication: The invention is a transgastric method for the endoscopic partial fundoplication for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The method makes use of an articulated endoscope, which is introduced through the mouth and esophagus into the stomach of the patient. A cutting tool is introduced through the working channel... Agent: Kevin D. Mccarthy Roach Brown Mccarthy & Gruber, P.C.

20070282357 - Blunt needles with means for locating and occluding vessels: A device for occluding a blood vessel, comprises a blunt dissection needle and a first occlusion clip releasably mounted to a distal end of the blunt dissection needle, the first occlusion clip being biased to assume a clamped configuration in combination with a retaining element which, in a first configuration,... Agent: Fay Kaplun & Marcin, LLP

20070282358 - Steerable medical instrument: A steerable medical instrument includes a control handle, a shaft, steering control wires, and an end effector at the distal end of the shaft. The end effector is a separate component engineered to distribute the stress and strain of bending moments along the length of the end effector to achieve... Agent: Proskauer Rose LLP

20070282359 - Vascular ablation apparatus and method: An apparatus for the treatment of venous stasis includes an elongated intraluminal member shaped and dimensioned for passage through vessels of a subject. The intraluminal member includes a proximal end and a distal end. A conduit extends from proximate the proximal end of the intraluminal member to proximate the distal... Agent: Welsh & Flaxman LLC

20070282360 - Tongue scraper: A tongue cleaning device includes a sponge-like tip that is fluidically connected to a refillable reservoir that will contain mouthwash or the like. A scraper is located adjacent to the tip and a check valve in the reservoir prevents fluid from flowing away from the tip in the event the... Agent: Sung I. Oh, Professional Law Corporation

20070282361 - Surgical cutting instrument: A surgical cutting instrument is proposed which, by virtue of its geometric shape, can be used for all types of tissue. Surgical cutting instrument of great length, consisting of an outer tube (10) which, in the end area, is connected to an outer head part (11) which has a laterally... Agent: Calvin G Covell Tarolli Sundheim Covell & Tummino

20070282362 - Sampler device: A sampler device for extraction, collection and delivery of a blood sample, includes a lancet (50) carried by a piston (40) which is movable in a cylinder (30), a mechanism (60,70) arranged to drive the piston for expelling of the lancet out from the cylinder in the distal direction and... Agent: Young & Thompson

20070282363 - Annular cutter for body organs: An annular cutter comprising a tubular body with a cutting blade rotational around a central axis, and a finger slot at the upper end of the axis. The cutting blade cuts out a portion of a body organ as the tubular body is turned repeatedly while it is kept in... Agent: Pepi Dakov

20070282364 - Method and system for harvesting donor strips: A tool and method are provided, wherein prongs with sharpened points extend downward from lower workpiece arms, the sharpened prong points aligned into a linear spaced edge array vertically and generally along a dissection plane. Prong outer curvilinear surfaces engage and move engaged tissue outward away from the dissection plane... Agent: Driggs, Hogg & Fry Co. L.p.a.

20070282366 - Materials formable in situ within a medical device: Certain embodiments of the invention include forming a material in situ by introducing into a space within a patient a water soluble polymer precursor of at least about 10,000 molecular weight solubilized in a flowable aqueous solution. Functional groups on the polymer precursor undergo covalent bonding in situ to form... Agent: Dardi & Associates, PLLC

20070282365 - Dilating trocar: Dilating trocar (40) (see FIG. 14) comprises cannula (42) containing carrier (51) with pivotable dilating members (49, 50) of small transversal dimensions protruding distally of the cannula. Obturator (63) is housed inside the carrier and has sharp element (70) with underspringed protective shield (71) protrudind distally of the dilating members.... Agent: Daniel J Swirsky

20070282367 - Catheter having a soft distal tip: The present invention relates to a catheter for POBA or stent delivery applications. More specifically, the present invention relates to a balloon catheter having a soft distal tip member and methods for manufacturing the same.... Agent: Workman Nydegger

20070282369 - Embolic protection device: An embolic protection system 1 comprises a guidewire 99 for advancing through a vasculature, the guidewire 99 having a distal end and a proximal end; an embolic protection filter 1 having a filter body 41 with a distal end and a proximal end, the filter body 41 providing for a... Agent: Sughrue Mion, PLLC

20070282370 - Embolic protection system: A retrieval catheter 1 comprises a distal tubular sheath 2 with a reception space 5 into which an embolic protection filter 10 may be retrieved. An elongate connector 10 extends proximally from the sheath 2 to allow a clinician to control movement of the sheath 12. The sheath 2 is... Agent: Sughrue Mion, PLLC

20070282368 - Filter element for embolic protection device: A collapsible filter element (105) for a transcatheter embolic protection device (100) comprises a collapsible filter body (30) which is movable between a collapsed stored position for movement through a vascular system and an expanded position for extension across a blood vessel such that blood passing through the blood vessel... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner , L.L.P.

20070282372 - Guide forceps device for use with vertebral treatment device, system and methods of use: A forceps is provided, which is adapted for treating a vertebral body. The forceps has a handle including an actuator pivotably connected therewith. A shaft extends from the handle with the proximal end being operatively engageable with the actuator. An elongated member extends through the shaft and has a proximal... Agent: Mark S. Leonardo, Esq. Brown Rudnick Berlack Israels LLP

20070282371 - Surgical instrument: The surgical instrument includes a distal tool, a rigid or flexible elongated shaft that supports the distal tool, and a proximal handle or control member, where the tool and the handle are coupled to the respective distal and proximal ends of the elongated shaft via distal and proximal bendable motion... Agent: David M. Driscoll

20070282373 - Hemostatic pressure plug: An apparatus to intervascularly promote hemostasis at a blood vessel puncture site with an inner lumen pressure and an outer lumen pressure has a flexible plug having a center, a top surface, and a bottom surface, and a release mechanism coupled to the center to position and release the flexible... Agent: Miller, Matthias & Hull

20070282374 - Tissue attachment device, system, and method: The present disclosure relates generally to devices, systems, and methods for use with tissue, more particularly the present disclosure relates to a device including a frame with a surface defining a pinch point region with a predefined shape. The device also includes a tab with an opening defining an anchor... Agent: Brooks, Cameron & Huebsch, PLLC

20070282375 - Soft body tissue remodeling methods and apparatus: An implant structure for use in pulling two soft body tissue areas closer together in a patient (e.g., two points along or adjacent to the patient's mitral valve annulus) includes at least two tissue anchor structures that are respectively implantable into the two tissue areas. A tether structure links the... Agent: Ropes & Gray LLP Patent Docketing 39/361