Surgery inventions 01/08

20080027421 - Cryoballoon treatment for postpartum hemorrhage: Systems and related methods for treating postpartum hemorrhage through insertion of a flexible and expandable cryoballoon into the intrauterine cavity, inflating it to conform to the size and shape of the cavity, pressurizing it to apply pressure on damaged tissue and/or blood vessels that are bleeding, and filling it with... Agent: Ams Research Corporation

20080027420 - Cryosurgical imaging and monitoring systems: Improved imaging and monitoring systems for use with a closed loop cryosurgical system. As described herein, various systems can be used alone or in conjunction with one another to plan and/or monitor cryosurgical procedures in order to improve cryosurgical outcomes. These systems can include computer assisted planning systems, non-ultrasound based... Agent: Ams Research Corporation

20080027422 - Closed-loop cryosurgical system and cryoprobe: A closed loop cryosurgical system utilizing a plurality of cryoprobes to perform a cryosurgical treatment. The cryoprobes individually connect to a manifold portion of the cryosurgical system with a quick-connect coupling. Each cryoprobe includes a flexible conduit portion that is vacuum insulated leaving a freeze length of a probe end... Agent: Ams Research Corporation

20080027423 - Systems for treatment of nasal tissue: Systems for the treatment of nasal tissue, particularly the nasal turbinates, are described. One method for reducing the size of the inferior nasal turbinate is to apply ultrasound energy to the tissue regions beneath the surface of the turbinate tissue. One instrument may be used to deliver ultrasound energy and... Agent: Levine Bagade Han LLP

20080027424 - Cool-tip thermocouple including two-piece hub: An ablation electrode system includes a handle assembly; a needle electrode assembly supported in and extending from the handle assembly. The needle electrode assembly includes an outer tube having at least a conductive distal tip and defining a cavity therein; and an inner tube disposed at least partially within the... Agent: Covidien

20080027427 - Bipolar electrosurgical scissors: Bipolar electrosurgical scissors for treating biological tissue include first and second scissor blades. A shearing surface and cutting edge of each blade is electrically neutral. The scissors include a pair of electrical connections for receiving electrical currents of opposing polarities. Each blade includes at least one first electrode and at... Agent: Applied Medical Resources Corporation

20080027429 - Electrosurgical treatment equipment: An electrosurgical treatment equipment comprises: (i) an treatment equipment body comprising a flexible sheath that includes an electrical insulation material and is to be inserted in an treatment equipment-passage channel of an endoscope, an electrosurgical knife arranged in the flexible sheath, and a handle section that is coupled to a... Agent: Birch Stewart Kolasch & Birch

20080027438 - Devices and methods for the minimally invasive treatment of spinal stenosis: Multiple implants and methods for the minimally invasive treatment of spinal stenosis are disclosed. A spinal implant device includes a spacer region and an attachment region. The spacer region is adapted to be positioned between first and second spinous processes of first and second vertebral bodies to limit movement of... Agent: Fred C. Hernandez

20080027432 - Multi-planar, taper lock screw: Provided is a novel multi-planar taper lock screw for connecting a connecting rod to bone. The screw is capable of multi-directional articulation while the connecting rod position can remain stable and aligned as needed. After the screw had been articulated and properly positioned, it can be locked such that the... Agent: Perry E. Van Over & Associates, PLLC

20080027439 - Cervical plate system having an insertable rotating element: A cervical plate system which includes a cervical plate having a thickness between a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, and at least one slot extending through the thickness of the plate. The system further includes a first rotating element positionable within a first slot of the cervical plate,... Agent: Kagan Binder, PLLC

20080027441 - A soft tissue fixation device: A soft tissue fixation device for use in ACL or CrCL, reconstruction has a base member provided with a passageway extending perpendicularly from its top surface through its bottom surface. The passageway is sized to allow soft tissue to be inserted through the passageway. The fixation device also includes an... Agent: Neil J. Coig

20080027443 - Biocompatible anchoring device for a soft tissue graft, method of making and method of using: The disclosure is related to orthopedic devices and procedures for interconnecting soft tissue grafts to the bony portion of an anatomy.... Agent: Bowditch & Dewey, LLP

20080027440 - Fixing device for clamping the ends of a surgical cable used for fixing bone parts: Fixing device comprising (I) a surgical cable (16) having a first and a second end and (II) at least a first (2) and a second (4) fixing plate having a first (6) resp. second (8) central hole and a first (10) resp. second (12) ring surrounding said first resp. second... Agent: Nixon & Vanderhye, PC

20080027444 - Bone anchor device: Bone anchoring devices for anchoring medical devices to bones and for reducing bone fractures are provided. The devices include a bone anchor portion designed to allow for bony ingrowth and secure fixation to a bone and an internal fastener designed to resist bony ingrowth and facility easy removal of the... Agent: Foley & Lardner LLP

20080027447 - System and method of harvesting osteochondral plugs: A method is disclosed and can include engaging a harvest guide with bony tissue and placing a cutting device within the harvest guide. The harvest guide can maintain the cutting device substantially perpendicular to a tangent through a point on the bony tissue aligned with the cutting device. The cutting... Agent: Larson Newman Abel Polansky & White, LLP

20080027449 - Adapters to convert output motion of orthopaedic bone saws and bone drills: Adapters for oscillating bone saws as well as bone drills are provided to convert the output motion of the bone saws and the bone drills. The adapters may convert oscillating motion of the bone saws to a modified oscillating motion or to an orbital motion. The adapters may also convert... Agent: Barnes & Thornburg LLP

20080027450 - Lateral edge marker: A device that provides lateral markers for the surgeon as an indication of the permissible outer boundary limits of insertion of an intervertebral motion disc into the disc space.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080027418 - Deuterated ocular solutions for ltk and other surgical eye procedures: A deuterated ocular solution is applied to an eye. The deuterated ocular solution includes deuterated water and one or more ocular drugs (such as proparacaine). A protective corneal device is applied to a cornea of the eye. The device includes a window configured to contact at least a portion of... Agent: Docket Clerk

20080027419 - Cryoprobe with integral agent delivery device: A probe for use in a cryosurgical system has an integral device for delivering a treatment agent. A representative delivery device can take on a variety of forms, including a lumen located in an outer retractable sheath surrounding the cryoprobe tip, a channel attached to the side of the cryoprobe... Agent: Ams Research Corporation

20080027426 - Surface electrode multiple mode operation: A surface electrode for ablating tissue is provided. The surface electrode comprises a base, a plurality of tissue penetrating needle electrodes extending from the surface of the base an adjustable distance, and an electrical interface coupled to the plurality of needle electrodes. The adjustability of the needle electrodes allows the... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20080027425 - Varicosis treatment apparatus: A puncturing member 2 including a puncturing part 2a for puncturing a vein in which a varicosis is formed is formed of a conductor. A counter electrode plate 5 to be allowed to be in contact with the surface of an organism and a foot switch 18 are connected to... Agent: Nixon Peabody

20080027428 - Electrosurgical system with uniformly enhanced electric field and minimal collateral damage: The present invention is directed towards an electrosurgical cutting system. The system comprises an electrically conductive blade, having an uninsulated cutting edge that is surrounded by an insulator. A source of pulsed electrical energy may be coupled to the electrically conductive blade to provide a substantially uniform and highly enhanced... Agent: Morrison & Foerster LLP

20080027431 - Coated medical device and method of making: A boron coating is applied to selected surfaces of surgical devices, including orthopedic prosthetic alloys and surgical tools to improve sliding wear and provide other benefits. The coating may be applied to CoCrMo, stainless steel, or titanium alloy components of artificial hips, knees, shoulders, and other articulating joints, which bear... Agent: Robert J. Lauf

20080027430 - Devices, systems and methods for material fixation: A material fixation system is particularly adapted to improve the tendon-to-bone fixation of hamstring autografts, as well as other soft tissue ACL reconstruction techniques. The system is easy to use, requires no additional accessories, uses only a single drill hole, and can be implanted by one person. Additionally, it replicates... Agent: Stout, Uxa, Buyan & Mullins LLP

20080027433 - Percutaneous spinal implants and methods: An apparatus includes an elongate member including a cutting edge disposed at a distal end portion of the elongate member. The cutting edge is configured to cut a portion of an implant when the elongate member moves relative to the implant.... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080027436 - Rod to rod connectors and methods of adjusting the length of a spinal rod construct: A connector for connecting a first spinal rod to a second spinal rod includes a body having a first end and a second end spaced apart from the first end. The first end of the body has a first rod opening formed therein for receiving the first spinal rod and... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080027434 - System and method for strengthening a spinous process: A system and method for repairing or reinforcing the spinous process. The system and method provide a procedure and surgical tools for injecting a flowable bone repair material into and optionally around the spinous process. The system and method include location of the guide over the spinous process, preparation of... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20080027435 - System and method for strengthening a spinous process: Systems, procedures and tools for repairing, or reinforcing the spinous process. The systems and procedures provide for injecting bone cement into and optionally around the spinous process. Additional reinforcing elements may be embedded in the bone cement inside or outside the spinous process. The procedures include positioning of the guide... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20080027437 - Tissue distraction device: An apparatus and method is provided for distracting, in a given direction, and supporting opposed endplates of a vertebral body. A plurality of wafers are consecutively inserted within the vertebral body between the two endplates to create a column of wafers. The column of wafers is oriented between the endplates... Agent: Maginot, Moore & Beck, LLP Chase Tower

20080027442 - Cranial fixation device and method for fixing same: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a cranial fixation device for fixing a skull flap to a skull. The cranial fixation device may be securely fastened inside a craniotomy-created perimeter burr hole so that a top surface of the cranial fixation device is flush with an outer... Agent: Olympic Patent Works PLLC

20080027446 - Soft tissue repair and conduit device: A soft tissue repair method. The method includes providing a flaccid tubular member having a longitudinal bore and first and second ends, the tubular member defining first and second portions integral with the tubular member. The method includes coupling the tubular member to a flexible strand, inserting the tubular member... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20080027445 - Soft tissue sock enhancement devices: A sheath for organizing soft tissue includes a first tube having a flexible body sized and shaped to receive a fixation device, and a second tube coupled to the first tube having a flexible body sized and shaped to receive a soft tissue graft. A method for implanting soft tissue... Agent: Fish & Richardson P.C. Smith & Nephew, Inc.

20080027448 - Surgical instrument: Disclosed is a surgical instrument for removing bone, cartilage, or similar tissue, comprising a shaft that extends in a longitudinal direction and supports a cutting plate at the distal end thereof, said cutting plate being inclined perpendicular or relative to the longitudinal direction, and a cutting element which is movably... Agent: Leffert Jay & Polglaze

20080027451 - Method and apparatus for preparing a glenoid surface: A method and apparatus for facilitating shoulder arthroplasty by providing a reference to establish version of the glenoid. In one form of the invention, a guide for positioning a guide pin to facilitate implantation of a glenoid prosthesis is provided. To properly position the guide pin, the guide is first... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20080027452 - Surgical instrument: A surgical instrument including base member adapted to be attached to a bone, a surgical device coupled to the base member and a marker removably attached to the base. The device can include guide, for instance a planar cutting surface for guiding a blade or a circular aperture for guiding... Agent: Bose Mckinney & Evans LLP James Coles

20080027453 - Tissue distraction device: An apparatus and method is provided for interbody fusion including distracting, in a given direction, and supporting opposing vertebral bodies. A plurality of wafers are consecutively inserted between the vertebral bodies to create a column of wafers. The column of wafers is oriented between the vertebral bodies so as to... Agent: Maginot, Moore & Beck, LLP Chase Tower

20080027454 - Tissue distraction device: An apparatus and method is provided for distracting, in a given direction, and supporting opposed endplates of a vertebral body. A plurality of wafers are consecutively inserted within the vertebral body between the two endplates to create a column of wafers. The column of wafers is oriented between the endplates... Agent: Maginot, Moore & Beck, LLP Chase Tower

20080027455 - Composition for injectable cement useful as bone replacement: The invention relates to a composition for injectable cement, comprising a mineral sold phase, a separate liquid phase and, optionally, microparticles of a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer. The mineral solid phase comprises a mixture of powders with the molar composition: (CP)6 (CaO)y (SrCO3)z, [CP being CaHPO42H2O, CaHPO4, Ca1-xSrxHPO4, an equimolar... Agent: Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC

20080027456 - Bone treatment systems and methods: A bone cement injector used for treating vertebral compression fractures has diamond-like coatings or amorphous carbon based coatings with a high hardness and a low coefficient of friction on an interior flow channel thereof. Such a bone cement injector includes a sensor system for sensing retrograde bone cement flows that... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080027458 - Blade plate and instruments: A blade plate, as well as instruments and methods for securing the blade plate to a bone to reduce a bone fracture. The blade plate includes a plate portion and a blade portion extending at an angle relative to the plate portion. The plate portion includes a plurality of holes... Agent: Zimmer Technology - Baker & Daniels

20080027457 - Partial aiming device for targeting an arthroscopic operation site for a medical intervention: A partial aiming device for targeting an arthroscopic operation site for a medical intervention, with a circularly arcuate element and with a first, radially extending aiming rod which can be moved along the circularly arcuate element. It is proposed that on the circularly arcuate element there is a connecting device... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20080027459 - Implant integrity measurement apparatus: Instrumentation for determining the integrity of a natural or synthetic implant includes a component that is at least temporarily attached to or constrained by a bone or tissue, and a handle coupled to the component including a force-measurement gauge. Operation of the device permits a user to push or pull... Agent: O''melveny & Myers LLP Ip&t Calendar Department La-1118

20080027461 - Intraocular lens inserter plunger: An IOL injector, comprising an injector body; and a plunger. The plunger comprises a shaft comprising a moldable material having a flexural modulus greater than 600 thousand psi, and a plunger tip. The moldable material may have a flexural modulus greater than 750 thousand psi or greater than 1 million... Agent: Bausch & Lomb Incorporated

20080027462 - Conductive keratoplasty probe guide device and methods thereof: The present invention provides a biocompatible Conductive Keratoplasty probe guide device having an arcuate member and at least one orifice capable of allowing the probe to be inserted through the orifice. Also, the present invention teaches methods related to guiding a CK probe through this probe guide device.... Agent: Catalyst Law Group, Apc

20080027460 - Insertion device for intraocular lens: An insertion device is disclosed which is suitable for use of liquid as lubricant such as normal saline. The insertion device for inserting a lens into an eye comprises a main body having a nozzle at its front end, and a pushing member for pushing the lens set in the... Agent: Morgan & Finnegan, L.L.P.

20080027463 - Adjustable surgical platform and surgical instrument using same: In one aspect, the present invention relates to a surgical instrument for providing an access to a target of interest of a living subject. In one embodiment, the surgical instrument has a bearing member, a shaft member and a probe. The bearing member has a first end portion, an opposite,... Agent: Morris Manning Martin LLP

20080027464 - Systems and methods for performing minimally invasive surgical operations: A robotic surgical system (100) includes an instrument driver (106) that is mounted on an operation table (104), and an instrument assembly (108) is operatively coupled to the instrument driver (106), wherein the instrument assembly (108) includes a flexible guide instrument and a component instrument carried in a lumen of... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20080027467 - Clip apparatus for ligaturing living tissue: A clip apparatus for ligaturing a living tissue includes a clip unit provided removably at a distal end of an insertion part inserted into a forceps channel of an endoscope, and an operating part for the unit, extending in an passage of the insertion part. The unit has a clip... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20080027465 - Surgical clip applier methods: A surgical clip applier and methods for applying surgical clips to a vessel, duct, shunt, etc., during a surgical procedure are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a surgical clip applier is provided having a housing with a trigger movably coupled thereto and an elongate shaft extending therefrom with opposed jaws... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20080027466 - Surgical clip applier methods: A surgical clip applier and methods for applying surgical clips to a vessel, duct, shunt, etc., during a surgical procedure are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a surgical clip applier is provided having a housing with a trigger movably coupled thereto and an elongate shaft extending therefrom with opposed jaws... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20080027468 - Suture needle, suture needle/suture assembly and suture passer device: A blade suture needle is adapted for use in a suture needle assembly, and with a suture passer device, for passing a suture needle assembly through tissue. The suture needle includes an elongated resilient sheet body member bounded by opposite principal surfaces. The body member includes at least one central... Agent: Foley & Lardner LLP

20080027471 - Clamp for attaching surgical aids to bone during a surgical procedure and system for doing the same: A clamp for attaching surgical operating aids has at least two clamp members arranged so as to be movable relative to one another and a securing element for fixing the clamp members in at least one locked position. The clamp members have a connecting mechanism that allow the clamp members... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080027470 - Compositions and methods for treating rotator cuff injuries: The present invention provides compositions and methods for attaching tendon to bone. The present invention provides compositions and methods for treating rotator cuff injuries. In one embodiment, a method for treating rotator cuff injuries comprises providing a composition comprising PDGF disposed in a biocompatible matrix and applying the composition to... Agent: John S. Pratt, Esq Kilpatrick Stockton, LLP

20080027469 - Surgical ring featuring a reversible diameter remote control system: The present invention concerns a surgical ring, configured to be implanted around a biological organ having a pouch or a duct shape. A surgical ring according to the present invention forms a closed loop around the organ, altering its diameter. Variations in ring diameter are reversibly controlled by a system... Agent: Allergan, Inc.

20080027472 - Anastomosis system with anvil entry hole sealer: A system for connecting the end of a graft vessel to the side of a target vessel may include an anvil configured to enter the target vessel through an anvil entry hole in the wall of the target vessel; a holder movable relative to the anvil, where that holder may... Agent: Cardica, Inc.

20080027473 - Endolumenal gastric ring with suspended impeding member: An implantable device including a supporting member, such as a ring, or series of rings, and an impeding member that is used to adjust the effective area of the created orifice after implantation. The rings may hold pleats of gastric tissue in place around their circumference to create a reinforced... Agent: Mckenna Long & Aldridge LLP

20080027474 - Adjustable lancing devices and methods: Lancing devices and methods of use are provided. Also provided are lancets for use with lancing devices. Certain embodiments of the lancing devices include a front end cap with an annular skin-engaging surface surrounding a piercing aperture.... Agent: Young & Basile, P.C.

20080027476 - Laparoscopic instruments and trocar systems and related surgical method: Laparoscopic instruments and trocars are provided for performing laparoscopic procedures entirely through the umbilicus. A generally C-shaped trocar provides increased work space between the hands of the surgeon as well as S-shaped laparoscopic instruments placed through the trocar when laparoscopic instrument-trocar units are placed through the umbilicus. In order to... Agent: Coleman Sudol Sapone, P.C.

20080027475 - Puncturing device with impedance measuring facility: A puncturing device for generating a puncturing wound for obtaining a body fluid sample of a human or animal, comprising a puncturing element drive in order to drive a puncturing element that is inserted into the puncturing device, an alternating voltage source designed to apply an alternating voltage signal with... Agent: Baker & Daniels LLP / Roche

20080027477 - Fistula grafts and related methods and systems useful for treating gastrointestinal fistulae: Described are medical graft products, systems, and methods useful for treating fistulae, particularly enterocutaneous fistulae. Certain products of the invention are configured to have portions residing in and around a primary fistula opening in a wall of the alimentary canal. One such product includes a biocompatible graft body which is... Agent: Woodard, Emhardt, Moriarty, Mcnett & Henry LLP

20080027478 - Methods for attenuating pressure waves in a patient's eye: Disclosed herein are methods of treating a patient, comprising providing a compressible attenuation device that is moveable from a first, introduction configuration to a second, implanted configuration. The attenuation device is introduced into a treatment site. In one embodiment, the treatment site is a patient's eye. The volume of the... Agent: Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, LLPIPProsecution Department

20080027479 - Dual use catheter: A catheter assembly and method includes a multi-lumen portion having a guide wire lumen and an inflation/deployment lumen. The guide wire lumen includes a distal guide wire lumen portion having a rapid exchange guide wire port, and a proximal guide wire lumen portion rotatable to selectively expose the rapid exchange... Agent: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.IPLegal Department

20080027480 - Methods and devices for rhinoplasty and treating internal valve stenosis: Methods and devices for rhinoplasty and treating nasal valve stenosis are disclosed herein. The nasal valve acts as a flow-limiter and can contribute to airway obstruction if resistance within the nasal valve is excessive. In one embodiment, a system for treating nasal valve stenosis includes a first elongate implant and... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080027482 - Elongate medical device: An elongate medical body for implanting an embolic coil at a desired position, or retrieving an embolic coil from an aneurysm, includes a flexible wire main body, and an electromagnet provided at a distal end portion of the wire main body. The electromagnet can generate a magnetic field at the... Agent: Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC

20080027481 - Vascular filter: An inferior vena cava filter (340) for use in the inferior vena cava (4) to capture thrombus (8) passing through the inferior vena cava (4) towards the heart and lungs to prevent pulmonary embolism comprises a proximal support hoop (302), a distal support hoop (312) and a plurality of support... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20080027483 - Implantable devices for controlling the size and shape of an anatomical structure or lumen: An implantable device system for controlling the dimensions of internal anatomic passages corrects physiologic dysfunctions resulting from a structural lumen which is either too large or too small. Implantable devices are disclosed which employ various mechanisms for adjusting and maintaining the size of an orifice to which they are attached.... Agent: Hogan & Hartson LLPIPGroup, Columbia Square

20080027484 - Wound closure assisting and maintaining apparatus: Provided is a wound closure assisting and maintaining apparatus that can be attached to a wide open wound of a patient and can stretch skin around the wound gradually to achieve the wound closure and maintain the wound closure during most critical postoperative period. The apparatus includes: a loop suture... Agent: Lowe Hauptman Ham & Berner, LLP

20080027485 - Suture loop construct with free floating needle and method of surgery: A system and method for tissue repair employing a continuous loop of suture attached to a free floating needle. The free floating needle is not swaged on the suture so that, after passing the suture loop construct through the tissue to be treated, the needle may be recentered if the... Agent: Dickstein Shapiro LLP

20080027486 - Minimally-invasive nipple-lift procedure and apparatus: Medical devices and methods are provided for a minimally-invasive mastoplasty procedure. In the procedure, barbed sutures are used to accomplish a nipple-lift by deploying the sutures cranially from the nipple-areolar complex to stable anatomical features higher on the chest. Additional barbed sutures may be used to accomplish a breast-lift and/or... Agent: Fliesler Meyer LLP

20080021443 - Laser device and method for machining material using laser radiation: Disclosed is a laser device for machining material, comprising a laser beam source which supplies pulsed laser radiation, and a variable deflection unit that introduces said laser radiation into the material at different, selectable points so as to create optical breakthroughs. The inventive laser device further comprises a pulse-selecting apparatus... Agent: Patterson, Thuente, Skaar & Christensen, P.A.

20080021444 - Multifunction medical device and related methods of use: An embodiment of the invention may include a medical device. The medical device may include a flexible tube, an elongate member configured to cut tissue and extend from the flexible tube, and a cauterizing member configured to cauterize tissue and to move relative to the elongate member and the flexible... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20080021450 - Apparatus and method for transecting tissue on a bipolar vessel sealing instrument: An electrosurgical forceps for sealing tissue is adapted to include a pair of movable jaw members that cooperate to grasp tissue. At least one of the jaw members has a blade channel defined therein configured for sliding reception of a surgical blade assembly, the blade channel including a plurality of... Agent: Covidien

20080021451 - External fixator: An external fixator for treating a fracture of a long bone has six extension arms which are extendable out of and retractable into a main body. The six extension arms are arranged into two sets of three, with each set of three extension arms being able to support a fixation... Agent: ShewchukIPServices

20080021460 - Apparatus for insertion between anatomical structures and a procedure utilizing same: A surgical procedure and apparatus according to which force is applied to a member to compress the member, and the member is retained in its compressed state while it is inserted between two anatomical structures. The member is then allowed to move from its compressed state towards its original state... Agent: Haynes And Boone, LLP

20080021455 - Articulating sacral or iliac connector: Various methods and devices are provided for facilitating movement of a spinal connector to allow for coupling of the connector to spinal fixation elements and anchors. In one exemplary embodiment, a spinal connector is provided having a receiver head with opposed sidewalls defining a seating portion configured to seat a... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20080021463 - Device and method for introducing flowable material into a body cavity: The present invention relates to medically useful devices and methods for introducing flowable compositions into mammalian body cavities. More specifically, the devices and methods of the present invention are useful for introducing restorative compositions into intraosseous cavities. Such devices and methods are particularly useful in percutaneous vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty procedures... Agent: G. L. Loomis & Associates, Inc.

20080021459 - Dynamic constructs for spinal stabilization: Devices and methods for spinal stabilization include first and second anchors engageable to respective ones of first and second vertebrae and a connector assembly engageable with the anchors to provide a desired stabilization effect. The connector assembly can include a connecting element and a bumper element engageable to the first... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20080021458 - Minimal spacing spinal stabilization device and method: Stabilization systems for stabilizing one or more vertebral levels are provided. The systems include anchors engageable to the vertebrae and at least one connecting member that includes a window to receive the anchors and mounting portions extending from opposite ends of the connecting member into the window for engagement with... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20080021454 - Sacral or iliac connector: Methods and devices are provided for connecting a spinal fixation construct to the spine, and preferably to the ilium and/or sacrum. In one exemplary embodiment, a spinal connector is provided having an elongate configuration with opposed thru-bores formed therein. Each thru-bore can be configured to receive a bone screw for... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20080021456 - Sacral or iliac cross connector: Implantable devices and methods for correcting spinal deformities or degeneration are disclosed. The devices and methods have particular application in the spinopelvic region and on the sacrum or ilium. In one embodiment, a cross connector is provided and can include a cross member with a connector head slidably disposed thereon.... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20080021461 - Spinal stabilization and reconstruction with fusion rods: Spinal fusion rods extend along a longitudinal axis and include a rod portion and a fusion portion along the longitudinal axis. The fusion rods can be employed alone or in combination with one another and with other spinal implant components in spinal stabilization and reconstruction procedures.... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20080021462 - Spinal stabilization implants: In an exemplary embodiment, an implantable device is provided which includes a first component configured to fixably attach to a first vertebra to secure the first vertebra in a position relative to a second vertebra. The component also includes a polymeric material including a rigid-rod polymer.... Agent: Larson Newman Abel Polansky & White, LLP

20080021457 - Zygapophysial joint repair system: A kit includes a mesh material adapted to engage a zygapophysial joint, and includes an indicator associating the kit with treatment of the zygapophysial joint.... Agent: Larson Newman Abel Polansky & White, LLP

20080021475 - Orthopaedic appliances: Provided is a bone plate for the olecranon of the proximal ulna using a combination of screws and K wires. The plate is curved to fit the shape of the olecranon and is screwed in place. The plate has a locking section located in the curved section. A fastener is... Agent: Michael Molins Molins & Co.

20080021480 - System and method for spine fixation: A system for attaching first and second fixation elements at a predetermined angle relative to each other to first and second locations of a vertebra, respectively includes a first guide wire configured to be inserted into the first location of the vertebra, an angular guide system comprising first and second... Agent: Akc Patents

20080021481 - Inserter for minimally invasive joint surgery having interchangeable thread: An acetabular inserter (10) aids a surgeon in controlling the installation of an acetabular cup prosthesis (11) having a central, female aperture (13). The inserter includes an inserter head (20), a housing (12) and a locking mechanism. The housing (12) is attached to the inserter head, the housing enclosing a... Agent: Moetteli & Associates Sarl

20080021440 - Electro-mechancial strap stack in robotic arms: In one embodiment of the invention, a strap drive-train for use in a robotic arm to enable movement of a linkage assembly of the robotic arm is provided. The linkage assembly includes a plurality of links pivotally coupled in series together at a plurality of joints, respectively, for movement of... Agent: Patent Dept Intuitive Surgical, Inc

20080021442 - Method and apparatus for dermatological treatment and fractional skin resurfacing: A system and method for performing fractional resurfacing of a target area of skin using electromagnetic radiation are provided. An electromagnetic radiation is generated by an electromagnetic radiation source. The electromagnetic radiation is caused to be applied to a particular portion of a target area of skin. The electromagnetic radiation... Agent: Dorsey & Whitney LLP Intellectual Property Department

20080021441 - Method and apparatus for processing hard material: A method and apparatus are provided for processing a hard material, for example a hard biological material such as dental enamel or bone, with optical radiation. A treatment zone of the material is selectively cleaned of ablation products and other dirt to enhance processing efficiency, and a tip through which... Agent: Houston Eliseeva

20080021448 - Electrosurgical system employing multiple electrodes and method thereof: A system for heat ablation of tissue in a patient comprises a plurality of electrodes operatively connected to a source of radiofrequency energy and configured to apply RF energy to tissue at a patient site, a plurality of RF current restricting circuits, each circuit coupled between one of the plurality... Agent: Covidien

20080021447 - Instrument for electrosurgical tissue treatment: Systems and methods are provided for applying a high frequency voltage in the presence of an electrically conductive fluid to create a relatively low-temperature plasma for ablation of tissue adjacent to, or in contact with, the plasma. In one embodiment, an electrosurgical probe or catheter is positioned adjacent the target... Agent: Arthrocare Corporation

20080021446 - Internal indifferent electrode device for use with lesion creation apparatus and method of forming lesions using the same: An internal indifferent electrode device including a flexible shaft, an energy transmission device adapted to be inserted into the body supported on the shaft, and a connector adapted to mate with the power return connector of a power supply apparatus.... Agent: Henricks Slavin And Holmes LLP Suite 200

20080021445 - Transurethral needle ablation system: A one-piece, single-use disposable device for transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) of prostate tissue to alleviate BPH is disclosed. The device may include a flexible catheter tip including a rigid core and a flexible tip. The device may also include a single use lockout to help ensure that the device is... Agent: Shumaker & Sieffert, P. A.

20080021449 - Electrosurgical lesion location device: A device for localizing a target tissue mass in a body includes a tubular trocar portion having a distal end and a proximal end portion that is removably attachable to a handle portion. The trocar portion contains at least a first plurality of locator wires that are movable between a... Agent: Edward J. Lynch, Patent Attorney

20080021452 - Calcaneal plate: The present invention is a fully contoured calcaneal plate having substantially no planar surfaces except at the origin. The contoured plate includes radiused sections, one extending inferior to superior is curved inferior to superior in a shape which is close to cylindrical and which approximates the shape of the cuboid... Agent: Hudak, Shunk & Farine, Co., L.p.a.

20080021470 - Anterior cervical plate: An anterior cervical plate has a lower surface adapted to engage the cervical spine and a top surface. At least one location along the plate there are two transversely aligned bone screw holes. A locking element is pivotally mounted between these two bone screw holes for movement between an open... Agent: Wood, Herron & Evans (zimmer Spine)

20080021469 - Apparatus and method for flexible spinal fixation: Apparatus for connecting and stabilizing adjacent vertebral segments, comprising a flexible composite connecting rod extending between the segments, and connection devices for connecting the rod to the vertebral segments. The rod comprises a rod member formed of a flexible plastic material having a predetermined compression strength, and a high tensile... Agent: Nixon & Vanderhye, PC

20080021453 - Bone fixation means: The invention relates to a bone fixation means (1) comprising: A) a longtitudinal axis (3), and; B) an anchoring element (4), which can be fixed inside a bone and which has the same longitudinal axis (3) and is characterized in that; C) interacting means (5; 6) are provided on the... Agent: Jones Day

20080021468 - Interspinous process implants and methods of use: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes... Agent: Attn: Patent Group Cooley Godward Kronish LLP

20080021467 - Orthopedic fixation device and orthopedic fixation system: In order to improve an orthopedic fixation device for connecting a first anchoring element (12) which has a connecting section (26) and can be anchored in or on a bone (18) to a connecting element (14) which can be connected to a second anchoring element which can be anchored in... Agent: Ratnerprestia

20080021465 - Spine treatment devices and methods: A spine implant device for fusion or dynamic stabilization of a spine segment can include a fixation device with a shaft portion for engaging bone and a proximal end for coupling to a rod that allows for limited flexing of the proximal end relative to the shaft portion. A spine... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080021466 - Spine treatment devices and methods: A modular implant device and method for dynamic stabilization of a spine segment that can be implanted in a minimally invasive posterior approach. The implant device has superior and inferior body portions configured for engaging two spaced apart spinous processes to limit extension and, optionally, flexion while off-loading a spine... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080021464 - System and method for a spinal implant locking assembly: Provided are a system and method for a spinal implant locking assembly. In one example, the system includes a bone anchor, a polyaxial head coupled to a proximal end of the bone anchor, a spinal implant, and a locking assembly. The locking assembly may have a bearing post with a... Agent: Carr LLP (ist)

20080021471 - System and method for immobilizing adjacent spinous processes: A system and method for immobilizing adjacent spinous processes in accordance with the present invention can supplement primary fusion devices and methods by immobilizing spinous processes while bone from adjacent vertebral bodies grows together. The system requires less extensive surgical procedures than other common supplemental devices, and preferably does not... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20080021472 - System and method for immobilizing adjacent spinous processes: A system and method for immobilizing adjacent spinous processes in accordance with the present invention can supplement primary fusion devices and methods by immobilizing spinous processes while bone from adjacent vertebral bodies grows together. The system requires less extensive surgical procedures than other common supplemental devices, and preferably does not... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20080021473 - Pedicle screw constructs for spine fixation systetms: A pedicle screw coupling construct for a pedicle screw construct provides fixation of angular orientation thereof relative to a pedicle screw independent of fixation of a received spinal rod to the coupling construct. The pedicle screw construct forms one component or element in a spinal fixation system. The independent fixation... Agent: Foley & Lardner LLP

20080021474 - Methods and devices for intracorporeal bonding of implants with thermal energy: The present invention provides a method for stabilizing a fractured bone. The method includes positioning an elongate rod in the medullary canal of the fractured bone and forming a passageway through the cortex of the bone. The passageway extends from the exterior surface of the bone to the medullary canal... Agent: Paul D. Bianco: Fleit, Kain, Gibbons, Gutman, Bongini, & Bianco P.l.

20080021477 - Orthopedic plate having threaded holes for locking screws or pegs and non-threaded holes for a variable axis locking mechanism: An orthopedic plate system comprises a plurality of fasteners such as pegs or screws and a plate having two sets of holes for the fasteners. The first set of at least one hole includes internal threads that receive a fastener having a head which includes external threads that mate with... Agent: Hudak, Shunk & Farine, Co., L.p.a.

20080021476 - Spinal fusion system utilizing an implant plate having at least one integral lock and ratchet lock: Spinal fusion system and method utilizing an implant plate and screw, wherein at least one pawl is mounted on or integral with at least one of said plate and becomes operatively related to the screw after the screw is inserted in the implant plate to prevent the screw from moving... Agent: Matthew R. Jenkins, Esq.

20080021478 - Orthopaedic reamer assembly: An orthopaedic reamer assembly includes a reamer with a generally hemispherical shell having a concave side and at least one attachment feature associated with the concave side. A driver is attachable to the reamer. The driver includes a shaft with a reamer end. The reamer end removably attaches to at... Agent: Taylor & Aust, P.C.

20080021479 - Guide pin placement for hip resurfacing: An instrument for guide pin placement in a femoral head and neck of a patient, the instrument having a reference pin guide member and a retrograde pin guide member adjustably attached to the reference pin guide member. The reference guide pin member has a bore configured for use in positioning... Agent: Wright Medical Technology, Inc.

20080021482 - Atraumatic circumcision device and method to use same: A disposable neonatal circumcision device that secures the foreskin of the penis in a precise location, applies radially circumferential clamping, and delivers a longitudinal circumferential cutting device along the path precisely controlled by the device itself, not the operator, ensuring the incision to the clamped foreskin is made in the... Agent: Greenberg Traurig, LLP

20080021483 - Operation control system and operation control method: According to the invention, an infrared communication port of a system controller performs infrared communication with a mobile remote controller, which allows function assignment to the mobile remote controller. The mobile remote controller requests controllable appliance list data to the system controller in response to an operation on a key... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20080021484 - Apparatus and method for manipulating or retracting tissue and anatomical structure: Integrated systems and associated methods for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchoring devices for such purposes.... Agent: Steptoe & Johnson LLP

20080021485 - Apparatus and method for manipulating or retracting tissue and anatomical structure: Integrated systems and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchoring devices for such purposes.... Agent: Steptoe & Johnson LLP

20080021486 - Method and apparatus for tissue resection: A resection device includes an elongated probe shaft and a tissue resection member disposed at a distal end of the elongated probe shaft. The tissue resection member has a cutting surface configured for being placed in contact with tissue. In one aspect of the invention, at least one ejection port... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20080021487 - Endoscopic cutting instrument with axial and rotary motion: Disclosed herein is an endoscopic surgical assembly having improved cutting efficiency. In particular, the present invention provides an endoscopic shaver assembly configured for automated axial as well as rotational motion so as to enhance tissue resection.... Agent: Smith Patent Consulting Consulting, LLC

20080021488 - Medical instrument for cutting tissue: A medical instrument for cutting tissue comprises a tubular outer shaft which, in the area of its distal end, has at least one window with at least one blade, and further comprises a tubular inner shaft which is rotatable about a longitudinal axis, is received in the outer shaft and... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20080021489 - Angled tissue cutting instrument having variably positionable cutting window and indexing tool for use therewith: An angled tissue cutting instrument includes an outer member having an elongate body with a bend and a forward end, and a distal tip rotatably mounted on the forward end. The distal tip and body are rotatable relative to one another about a central longitudinal axis of the tip to... Agent: Epstein & Gerken

20080021490 - Method and apparatus for body fluid sampling and analyte sensing: A method of controlling a penetrating member is provided. The method comprises providing a lancing device comprising a penetrating member driver having a position sensor and a processor that can determine the relative position and velocity of the penetrating member based on measuring relative position of the penetrating member with... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20080021493 - Lancing device and method of sample collection: A lancing device and method for self-collecting a sample of body fluid by penetrating a body tissue at a sampling site. The invention includes a housing geometry configured for ease of use at different sampling sites on the body, even by persons having reduced dexterity and/or poor vision. Depth of... Agent: Jackson & Co., LLP

20080021491 - Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue: A tissue penetrating system has a housing member, a plurality of penetrating members positioned in the housing member and a plurality of sample chambers. Each sample chamber is associated with a penetrating member. A tissue stabilizing member has a tissue interface surface configured to be applied to a tissue surface... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20080021492 - Method and apparatus for penetrating tissue: A body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site includes a single drive force generator. A plurality of penetrating members are operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves each of the members along a path out of a housing with a penetrating member exit, into... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20080021494 - System for withdrawing body fluid: The present invention relates to a compression device for stimulating the efflux of a body fluid from a body part. The device has a compression unit with a pressure-application region made of a deformable material, the region being formed to generate a repulsive force between the body part and the... Agent: The Law Office Of Jill L. Woodburn, L.L.C. Jill L. Woodburn

20080021495 - Mri visible catheter balloon: Medical devices or components thereof, and particularly intracorporeal devices for therapeutic or diagnostic uses, which are formed at least in part of a polymeric material and a ferromagnetic or paramagnetic material, so that the medical device or component thereof is visible on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. In one embodiment,... Agent: Fulwider Patton, LLP (abbott)

20080021496 - Embedded earlobe expander: The Embedded Earlobe Expander (EEE) differs from the solid cylindrical earlobe-stretching devices, or “plugs,” presently used in that its outer perimeter has partitioned arcs connected by moveable screws to the center of the cylinder. Like a conventional solid plug, the EEE is inserted into an existent earlobe aperture, but the... Agent: Fernando Omar Narvaez

20080021497 - Endoluminal filter: In one embodiment of the present invention there is provided a filter having a first elongate member having a first section and a second section; a second elongate member having a first section and a second section; a first rounded frame formed by the first sections; a second rounded frame... Agent: Shayglenn LLP

20080021498 - Disposable acupressure relief band: A disposable adhesive acupressure band for nausea relief in humans, dogs & cats, including a raised contact button on an adhesive lamination positioned over an acupressure point after peel off of a top liner centered about a cutout on the band through which the contact button extends from a bottom... Agent: Charles I. Brodsky

20080021499 - Surgical instrument: A surgical instrument of the present invention comprises an insertion unit; an operating unit provided on one end of the insertion unit; a treatment unit provided so as to protrude from the other end of the insertion unit; a first shaft member for transmitting turning force to the treatment unit... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20080021500 - Method and apparatus for laparoscopic aortic repair by-intravascular devices: Medical methods and apparatus for locating and securing intravascular devices, substantially grafts or stents-grafts, via a laparoscopic duct created by a surgical procedure to approach a blood vessel lumen. A stapler including a tubular body having at its distal end a head with a die and die lid and at... Agent: Ostrolenk Faber Gerb & Soffen

20080021501 - High strength suture with uhmwpe and polybutester: A high strength abrasion resistant surgical suture material with improved tie down characteristics. The suture features a multifilament cover formed of strands of ultra high molecular weight long chain polyethylene braided with polybutester. Selected nylon fibers in the cover may be provided in a color contrasting with the other cover... Agent: Dickstein Shapiro LLP

20080015553 - Steering laser treatment system and method of use: A system and method for delivering therapeutic laser energy onto selected treatment locations of the retina following a predetermined spatial distribution pattern using one single laser beam. A beam steering mechanism and control system delivers the laser energy sequentially to treatment locations forming a pre-selected treatment layout pattern. The invention... Agent: Jaime Zacharias

20080015556 - Apparatus and method for adjustable fractional optical dermatological treatment: A fractional treatment system can be configured with a laser wavelength that is selected such that absorption of the laser wavelength within the tissue increases as the tissue is heated by the laser (e.g., 1390-1425 nm). Desirably, the laser wavelength is primarily absorbed within a treated region of skin by... Agent: Reliant / Fenwick C/o Fenwick & West, LLP

20080015561 - Mesh leak detection system for a medical device: The present invention provides a surgical device including an elongate body defining a fluid flow path therethrough. An expandable element may be coupled to the elongate body and placed in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. Moreover, the surgical device may include a first leak detection element at least... Agent: Christopher & Weisberg, P.A.

20080015567 - Treatment device: A treatment device of this invention has a pair of first, second jaws capable of opening/closing with respect to each other at the tip end portion and comprises a tissue pressing portion in the relatively dull shape provided on a surface portion of the first jaw opposite to the second... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20080015572 - Method for energy-based stimulation of acupuncture meridians: According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a method of weight loss involving acupuncture includes the steps of placing a plurality of EBS acupuncture needles at a plurality of predetermined locations of the body corresponding to acupuncture meridians; and energizing each of the plurality of EBS acupuncture needles to... Agent: Covidien

20080015573 - Medical device: The medical device, suitable for cutting and/or coagulating portions of human and animal tissues, comprises sheath means; cutting means slidingly insertable into said sheath means and defining a proximal extremity and an opposing distal extremity, said cutting means further comprising cannula means which have longitudinal passage means and administration means... Agent: William Collard Collard & Roe, P.C.

20080015575 - Vessel sealing instrument with pre-heated electrodes: An electrode assembly having a pair of opposing first and second jaw members is provided. Each jaw member includes an electrically conductive tissue sealing surface extending along a length thereof, each tissue sealing surface is adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the tissue sealing surfaces... Agent: Covidien

20080015581 - Cervical fixation device: A cervical fixation device, for insertion between a pair of adjacent cervical vertebrae, includes a frame comprised of a first material. The frame has a generally rectangular proximal end and a generally rectangular distal end. The distal end is connected to the proximal end by at least one upper arch... Agent: Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld L.L.P.

20080015578 - Orthopedic implants comprising bioabsorbable metal: An implantable device comprises at least one component composed of a bioabsorbable metal. The component has desirable structural/mechanical properties upon implant, and then begins to degrade at a time after implant, and is absorbed partially or completely over time.... Agent: Krieg Devault LLP

20080015586 - Pedicle screw system: The present invention provides a pedicle screw system, which may include a bone fixation element having an elongate body. The elongate body may include a threaded segment having one or more spiral-oriented grooves, a neck segment adjacent to the threaded segment, and a head segment which is able to receive... Agent: Christopher & Weisberg, P.A.

20080015577 - Spinal correction device: A spinal correction device for correcting scoliosis includes multiple implants that are each adapted to fit on an individual vertebra of the spine. Each implant includes a body and a protrusion extending from a face of the body. A hole in the body extends from a face of the body... Agent: Morgan & Finnegan, L.L.P.

20080015588 - Transverse connector: A crosslink or connecting assembly is provided to secure multiple spinal rods in relation to each other. The connecting assembly is disposed transversely between two spinal rods and has moveable components for rotating, pivoting, and extending portions of the connecting device in order to accommodate the positioning of the spinal... Agent: Fitch Even Tabin And Flannery

20080015589 - Bone plate with 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

20080015592 - Cam/compression lock plate: A bone plate is disclosed herein. The bone plate generally comprises a bone facing surface, an outward facing surface opposite the bone facing surface, and at least one hole extending through the bone plate from the outward facing surface to the bone facing surface. An arced compression surface is provided... Agent: Maginot, Moore & Beck, LLP Chase Tower

20080015590 - Implant device with placement indicia: An implant having alignment indicia is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the implant is generally elongated and comprises a first end portion and a second end portion with a plurality of fixation holes formed therein. The first end portion is configured for attachment to a bone on a first side... Agent: Maginot, Moore & Beck, LLP Chase Tower

20080015591 - Threaded guide for an orthopedic fixation plate: A short guide for temporary fixation to a fastener hole in a bone plate, includes a bottom threaded portion, a top portion, and a central passage for guiding an orthopedic device. The threaded end is preferably provided with a triple lead taper thread. The central passage is sized for receiving... Agent: Gordon & Jacobson, P.C.

20080015595 - Screw-comprising two threads with different pitches, used to join two bone segments: Self-compressing screws, especially self-threading screws, include a screw shaft having an axis of revolution, the screw shaft being provided with two threads that are centered on the axis of revolution, and a first envelope in the form of a rotary hollow cylinder defined by the thread,... Agent: Young & Thompson

20080015598 - Novel skin staples: The present disclosure provides composite staples which include legs made of a bioabsorbable shape memory material capable of gripping tissue upon application in vivo and holding the staple in place.... Agent: Covidien

20080015599 - Unicondylar knee implants and insertion methods therefor: A method of preparing a knee joint for receiving a unicondylar knee implant includes preparing a first seating surface at a proximal end of a tibia, and providing a combination bur template and spacer block, the bur template having an upper end, a lower end and a curved surface extending... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20080015600 - Unicondylar knee implants and insertion methods therefor: A method of balancing extension and flexion gaps in a knee joint includes preparing a tibial component seating surface at a proximal end of a tibia, extending the knee joint and measuring an extension gap between the tibial component seating surface and a distal end of a femur, and flexing... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20080015601 - Reduction device and method of use: A reduction device and a method for using such a device are provided. In one example, the reduction device includes a sleeve, a coupling member configured to couple to a surgical device, and a linkage assembly. The linkage assembly may include multiple links pivotally coupled to the sleeve and coupling... Agent: Carr LLP (ist)

20080015602 - Cutting block for bone resection: A cutting block having a base, and a top connected to the base via four walls is disclosed. Each wall has an outwardly facing surface to guide a cutting tool. Each wall also has an attachment hole where a tracker may be attached. The cutting block is floated on the... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20080015605 - High tibial osteotomy guide: A cutting block for use in a bone osteotomy procedure is disclosed, and includes a first cutting guide surface, a second cutting guide surface, and a third cutting guide surface. The first, second, and third cutting guide surfaces are adapted to be temporarily affixed to a bone having a first... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20080015603 - High tibial osteotomy system: A cutting block for use in a bone osteotomy procedure is disclosed, and includes a first cutting guide surface, a second cutting guide surface, and a third cutting guide surface. The first, second, and third cutting guide surfaces are adapted to be temporarily affixed to a bone having a first... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20080015604 - Method for performing a high tibial osteotomy: A cutting block for use in a bone osteotomy procedure is disclosed, and includes a first cutting guide surface, a second cutting guide surface, and a third cutting guide surface. The first, second, and third cutting guide surfaces are adapted to be temporarily affixed to a bone having a first... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20080015606 - Unicondylar knee implants and insertion methods therefor: A system for forming keel openings in tibial bone includes a plurality of templates having different sizes, each template having a top surface, a bottom surface and a central opening extending between the top and bottom surfaces. The system includes a bone cutting instrument for forming the keel openings and... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20080015607 - Unicondylar knee implants and insertion methods therefor: A system for resecting a posterior region of a femoral condyle includes a posterior resection guide having a main body with an upper end and a lower end, a cutting instrument guide surface provided on the main body, and a series of anchor pin holes extending through the main body.... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20080015551 - Movable pin ultrasonic transducer: An ultrasonic tool is disclosed with a handpiece (300, 500, 806) containing coils (304A-304D; 504A-504D; 804A-804B) that produce an electromagnetic field that vibrates a magnetic rod (102, 702A, 702B, 820) of a moveable pin transducer (MPT) 100 disposed within the handpiece. Ultrasonic vibrations are produced when the coils are selectively... Agent: Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP

20080015552 - Surgical tool kit: A tool kit for interchanging tools within an at least partially closed area is provided. The tool kit includes at least one tool, each tool being preferably provided within a tubular housing, and adapted to pivot out from the tool kit so that they can be attached to a receiving... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080015557 - Apparatus and method for adjustable fractional optical dermatological treatment: In a fractional treatment system, an adjustable mechanism can be used to adjust the beam shape, beam numerical aperture, beam focus depth, and/or beam size to affect the treatment depth and or the character of the resulting lesions. Adjustment of these parameters can improve the efficiency and efficacy of treatment.... Agent: Reliant / Fenwick C/o Fenwick & West, LLP

20080015555 - Method and apparatus for dermatological treatment and fractional skin resurfacing: A system and method for performing fractional resurfacing of a target area of skin using electromagnetic radiation are provided. An electromagnetic radiation is generated by an electromagnetic radiation source. The electromagnetic radiation is caused to be applied to a particular portion of a target area of skin. The electromagnetic radiation... Agent: Dorsey & Whitney LLP Intellectual Property Department

20080015554 - Treatment of skin with light and a benefit agent to mitigate acne: The present invention relates to treatment of the skin and, more particularly, to the application of light to the skin, followed by the optical application of a benefit agent to said skin.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080015559 - Endovascular treatment device having a fiber tip spacer: An endovascular laser treatment device designed to be used with an optical fiber to treat venous diseases such as varicose veins is provided. The device includes a spacer that positions the distal end of the optical fiber away from the inner wall of the blood vessel during delivery of laser... Agent: Harry Ahn, Esq. Abelman, Frayne & Schwab

20080015558 - Laser-assisted guidewire having a variable stiffness shaft: Embodiments of the present invention comprise a fiber optic guidewire having a hypotube with a plurality of openings that provide variable stiffness and tracking characteristics between at least one proximal segment and one distal segment of the guidewire. In some embodiments, the guidewire further comprises a mandrel disposed within the... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20080015560 - Light diffusing tip: A light diffusing tip is provided The light diff-using tip comprises a housing and a monolithic light scattering medium disposed within the housing The monolithic light scattering medium comprises a first scattering region at a first position, the scattering region having a first scattering property and a second scattering region... Agent: Larson Newman Abel Polansky & White, LLP

20080015563 - Apparatus and method for creating, maintaining, and controlling a virtual electrode used for the ablation of tissue: An apparatus and a method for producing a virtual electrode within or upon a tissue to be treated with radio frequency alternating electric current. An apparatus in accord with the present disclosure includes a supply of a conductive or electrolytic fluid to be provided to the patient, an alternating current... Agent: Dicke, Billig & Czaja, PLLC Attn: Md Matters

20080015564 - Method and system for programming and controlling an electrosurgical generator system: An electrosurgical generator system includes an electrical generator having an RF stage for outputting electrical energy having at least one waveform for performing an electrosurgical procedure. The system further includes at least one control module executable on at least one processor which controls at least one parameter of the outputted... Agent: Mark Farber, Esq. United States Surgical,

20080015562 - Transmural ablation systems and methods: A method of applying ablation energy to achieve transmurality including applying ablation energy at a starting power to a tissue site and monitoring the impedance of the tissue site. The power applied to the tissue site can be increased in response to detection of a power plateau or application of... Agent: Intellectual Property Group Fredrikson & Byron, P.A.

20080015565 - Electrosurgical apparatus and methods for ablating tissue: Electrosurgical methods and apparatus for the controlled ablation of tissue from a target site of a patient. The instrument includes a shaft having a proximal and distal end portion and an active electrode on the distal end portion, a return electrode arranged on the shaft spaced from the active electrode,... Agent: Arthrocare Corporation

20080015566 - Surgical sealing and cutting apparatus: An electrosurgical apparatus for sealing and cutting tissue includes forceps and a power supply. The forceps include jaws that are pivotal about a pin and at least one blade disposed between the jaws. A shaft connects a handle to the jaws for moving the jaws while also conducting electric current... Agent: Howard & Howard Attorneys, P.C.

20080015568 - Dynamic contact assessment for electrode catheters: An electrode catheter and a method for assessing catheter-tissue contact for tissue ablation are disclosed. An exemplary electrode catheter comprises a flexible catheter shaft. At least one piezoelectric sensor is oriented coaxial to the flexible catheter shaft. The at least one piezoelectric sensor is responsive to movement of the flexible... Agent: St. Jude Medical, Atrial Fibrillation Division

20080015570 - Hollow conductive coaxial cable for radio frequency based tissue ablation system: A hollow coaxial cable adapted for conduction of radio frequency (RF) energy, particularly microwave energy, has a proximal end and a distal end and comprises coaxial inner and outer conductors extending substantially the entire length of the cable from the proximal end to a distal end portion of the cable... Agent: Procopio, Cory, Hargreaves & Savitch LLP

20080015569 - Methods and apparatus for treatment of atrial fibrillation: Apparatus and methods for the treatment of atrial fibrillation are described herein where tissue to be ablated may be monitored under direct visualization. Such a system may include a deployment catheter and an attached imaging hood deployable into an expanded configuration. In use, the imaging hood is placed against or... Agent: Levine Bagade Han LLP

20080015571 - Methods and systems for treating tumors using electroporation: A system is provided for treating tumor tissue sites of a patient. At least first and second mono-polar electrodes are configured to be introduced at or near the tumor tissue site of the patient. A voltage pulse generator is coupled to the first and second mono-polar electrodes. The voltage pulse... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20080015574 - Electrosurgical cutting device: A method and device for incising tissue from the gastrointestinal tract are described. The device is an electrosurgical cutting device. The electrosurgical cutting device includes a catheter and multiple electrically conductive cutting wires extending through a lumen of the catheter. The wires are movable between a retracted position and an... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione

20080015576 - Large diameter bone anchor assembly: Bone anchor assemblies having a large diameter for fixing a spinal connection element to bone and methods of assembly are described. The assembly includes a receiver member for receiving the spinal connection element, a bone-engaging shank for engaging bone and a sleeve member for retaining the head of the shank... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080015583 - Facet arthroplasty devices and methods: Devices and surgical methods treat various types of adult spinal pathologies, such as degenerative spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, degenerative lumbar scoliosis, and kyphoscoliosis. Various types of spinal joint replacement prostheses, surgical procedures for performing spinal joint replacements, and surgical instruments are used to perform the surgical procedures.... Agent: Shayglenn LLP

20080015579 - Large diameter bone anchor assembly: Bone anchor assemblies having a large diameter for fixing a spinal connection element to bone and methods of assembly are described. The assembly includes a receiver member for receiving the spinal connection element, a bone-engaging shank for engaging bone, a retaining member for retaining the head of the shank within... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080015580 - Large diameter bone anchor assembly: A bone anchor assembly is described having a large diameter for fixing a spinal connection element to bone. The assembly includes a receiver member for receiving the spinal connection element, a bone-engaging shank for engaging bone and a first and second insert for retaining the head of the shank within... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080015582 - 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

20080015585 - Minimally invasive spine restoration systems, devices, methods and kits: The invention discloses methods, devices, systems and kits for repairing, replacing and/or augmenting natural facet joint surfaces and/or facet capsules. An implantable facet joint device of one embodiment comprises a cephalad facet joint element and a caudal facet joint element. The cephalad facet joint element includes a member adapted to... Agent: Shayglenn LLP

20080015584 - Screw and rod fixation assembly and device: The present invention provides for a screw and rod fixation assembly for fixing a screw and, optionally, a rod. The screw and rod fixation assembly includes a screw, fixing mechanism, a substantially annular ring, rod seating mechanism, and locking mechanism. The present invention also provides for a fixing mechanism for... Agent: Ratnerprestia

20080015587 - Locking nail system for arthrodesis reconstruction in calcaneus fractures: A locking nail system for arthrodesis reconstruction of calcaneus fractures that is comprised of a nail (1), several calcaneus-talar screws (2), a guide (3), guide tubes, bit, depth gauge, cannulated screwdriver, diapason impactor, bit with limiter and reference guide-pin, the principal object of which is the reconstruction of severe comminuted... Agent: Greenblum & Bernstein, P.L.C

20080015593 - Bone plate: A bone plate has at least one plate hole whose hole axis runs obliquely in relation to the underside of the plate. The hole axis has an elevation angle (ε) in relation to the plane of the underside of the plate which is different from 90°, and in which plate... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione

20080015594 - Methods for attaching connective tissues to bone using a multi-component anchor: An innovative bone anchor and methods for securing connective tissue, such as tendons, to bone are disclosed which permit a suture attachment which lies entirely beneath the cortical bone surface, and wherein the suturing material between the connective tissue and the bone anchor is oriented in a direction generally transverse... Agent: Richard Batt

20080015597 - Large diameter bone anchor assembly: A bone anchor assembly is described having a large diameter for fixing a spinal connection element to bone. The assembly includes a receiver member for receiving the spinal connection element, a bone-engaging shank for engaging bone, a plurality of inserts for retaining the head of the shank within the receiver... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080015596 - Large diameter multiple piece bone anchor assembly: A bone anchor assembly is described having a large diameter for connecting a spinal connection element to bone. The assembly includes a receiver member for receiving the spinal connection element, a bone-engaging member and a core shaft for coupling the receiver member to the bone-engaging sleeve.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080015608 - Burr guide assembly: A burr guide assembly for guiding a burr tool during a procedure in which the burr tool is used to cut a bone. The burr guide assembly comprises a housing which can be fastened to the bone and a guide sleeve which is pivotally mounted in the housing. The guide... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080015609 - Instrument system for use with an interspinous implant: A surgical instrument system comprises surgical instruments for use with an implantable interspinous device having at least one pair of wings for securing the implantable device to a spinous process. The instrument system may include a surgical instrument for expanding or spreading the pair of wings to accommodate the spinous... Agent: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner LLP

20080015610 - System for delivering a prosthesis to a luminal os: An embodiment of the invention provides a prosthesis delivery system comprising a delivery catheter having an expandable member and a prosthesis carried over the expandable member. The prosthesis includes a radially expandable scaffold section and at least two anchors extending axially from an end thereof; and means for capturing at... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080015611 - Medical manipulator: A medical manipulator comprises a working unit (10) that performs operations, an operating unit (20) that generates instructions, a drive unit (50) that drives the working unit on the basis of instructions given thereto by the operating unit, a power transmission mechanism (60) for transmitting driving force of the drive... Agent: Oblon, Spivak, Mcclelland Maier & Neustadt, P.C.

20080015612 - Positioning system for a nerve stimulator needle: A target nerve or nerve plexus registration point is located utilizing a nerve stimulator needle positioned in a bore of a carrier. The carrier is configured with an electrically nonconductive smooth curved surface at a distal end of the bore. The needle tip is fixed in an operative cutaneous electrode... Agent: Natter & Natter

20080015613 - System and method for endoscopic treatment of tissue: A system and method for endoscopic treatment of tissue is disclosed. An endoscope has an operating channel. A mounting component has a first threading channel that fits into the operating channel of the endoscope. A ligating barrel fits onto a distal end of the endoscope. An elongate medical instrument is... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20080015614 - Methods and articles for treatment of rectal prolapse: Improved methods and devices for treatment of rectal prolapse are provided. A suturing console for suturing the rectal fascia at, to, or about the sacral vertebral fascia is disclosed. A method of repairing prolapsed rectum via a vaginal incision or perineal incision is also disclosed.... Agent: Ams Research Corporation

20080015616 - Orthopedic implants having ordered microgeometric surface patterns: An orthopedic implant includes an implant element for surgical insertion into a bone of a patient, the implant element having a microgeometric repetitive surface pattern in the form of alternating ridges and grooves, each having a fixed or established width in a range of about 2.0 to about 25 microns... Agent: Melvin K. Silverman

20080015615 - Surgical clip advancement mechanism: A surgical clip applier and methods for applying surgical clips to a vessel, duct, shunt, etc., during a surgical procedure are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a surgical clip applier is provided having a housing with a trigger movably coupled thereto and an elongate shaft extending therefrom with opposed jaws... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20080015617 - Compression anastomosis ring assembly and applicator for use therewith: A compression anastomosis ring (CAR) assembly for use in joining severed organ wall portions of a hollow organ. The assembly comprises a first portion which includes an anvil ring and a second portion which comprises a bottom ring, at least one ring element, and at least one spring element formed... Agent: Pearne & Gordon LLP

20080015618 - Devices and methods for treating morbid obesity: A surgical method of treating morbid obesity via bariatric procedures, carried out endoluminally and transluminally using endoscopic devices that are introduced through natural body openings without the necessity of creating any incisions in the abdominal wall.... Agent: Kevin D. Mccarthy Roach Brown Mccarthy & Gruber, P.C.

20080015619 - Occlusion device and surgical instrument and method for its implantion/explantation: An occlusion device includes a braiding of thin wires or threads tapering to the diameter of a catheter used for an intravascular implantation/explantation procedure and having a proximal retention area, a distal retention area at which ends of the wires or threads converge into a holder, and a cylindrical crosspiece... Agent: Akerman Senterfitt

20080015620 - Method for differentiating between burdened and cracked ultrasonically tuned blades: A method for differentiating between ultrasonically tuned blades which are broken or cracked, and blades which are gunked by evaluating measured impedance differences. The method is performed irrespective of the age of the hand piece/blade, the temperature or specific type of hand piece or blade, and is not affected by... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080015621 - Surgical endoscopic cutting device and method for its use: A surgical endoscopic cutting device includes cutting elements fitted in a protective tube. The device has an inlet for fluid, a discharge outlet for tissue and fluid, and a further outlet that discharges most of the fluid.... Agent: Fish & Richardson P.C. Smith & Nephew, Inc.

20080015622 - Trimmer for cutting a coiled strand: A cutting device for trimming a coiled strand, such as an arterial, urinary or other intraluminal stent made from metal or plastic wire, has a pair of articulating arms connected at a pivot joint. One of the arms has a holding jaw for holding the coiled strand. A second of... Agent: Philip S. Johnson

20080015623 - Electromechanical pricking aid for taking liquid samples: A portable lancing aid for providing liquid samples comprises a lancet system having at least one lancet, a tensioning device, and an electromechanical actuator. The tensioning device can be tensioned by the electromechanical actuator. The portable lancing aid may further include an energy source for storing electrical energy that is... Agent: Bose Mckinney & Evans LLP

20080015624 - Puncture device: The present invention provides a puncture device and an administration device in which a puncture needle can be stuck certainly to a predetermined region of a skin. The puncture device and the administration device of the present invention are provided with a puncture needle moving means for retaining aforesaid puncture... Agent: Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC

20080015626 - Method and device for remodeling the uncinate process: A method of remodeling the uncinate process associated with a paranasal sinus includes positioning at least one shim member in the infundibulum, the shim member deforming the uncinate process and widening at least a portion of the infundibulum. The infundibulum space may be dilated with a dilating member. Dilation may... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20080015625 - Shapeable for steerable guide sheaths and methods for making and using them: Apparatus and methods are provided for providing access to a body lumen, e.g., to deliver a pacing lead within a patient's heart. The apparatus includes a tubular member including a proximal end, a distal end sized for insertion into a body lumen, and a lumen extending therebetween. An elongate member... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20080015627 - Removable anchored lung volume reduction devices and methods: An intra-bronchial device may be placed in an air passageway of a patient to collapse a lung portion associated with the air passageway. The device includes an obstructing member that prevents air from being inhaled into the lung portion to collapse the lung portion, and an anchoring device that anchors... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080015629 - Direct access atherectomy devices and methods of use: An atherectomy device comprising cannula systems having lumens adapted for insertion of a blood filter and an atherectomy catheter useful for performing atherectomy directly on a patient's cardiovascular tissue. Other embodiments include alumen for arterial perfusion useful in providing oxygenated blood to the aorta during cardiopulmonary bypass. The distal end... Agent: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

20080015628 - Electroporation vascular device and method: A particle-removing medical device includes an outer, hollow tube having a tube distal end and a porous braided structure having a distal part and a proximal part. Structure, housed within the tube and having a distal end positioned distally of the tube distal end, is used to move the braided... Agent: Haynes Beffel & Wolfeld LLP

20080015630 - Portable device for the enhancement of circulation: A portable device for enhancing circulation in a limb by applying intermittent squeezing force on the limb, the device comprising at least one inflatable fluid-cell having a proximal face and a distal face; a rigid member juxtaposed with the distal face of the air-cell, the rigid member is having two... Agent: Moore & Van Allen PLLC

20080015632 - Device, kit, and a method for handling a medical implant: A medical device for handling an implant, the medical device comprising a loading section adapted to be loaded with an insert element to be inserted into a hole formed in an implant, and a guiding section adapted to be guided by a pin inserted into the hole formed in the... Agent: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz & Mentlik

20080015631 - Surgical instrument: A surgical instrument that includes an instrument shaft having proximal and distal ends, a tool disposed from the distal end of the instrument shaft, a control handle disposed from the proximal end of the instrument shaft, a distal motion member for coupling the distal end of the instrument shaft to... Agent: David M. Driscoll, Esq.

20080015633 - Systems and methods for treating septal defects: A system for treating a septal defect having an implantable treatment apparatus and devices for delivering the implantable treatment apparatus, devices for controlling delivery of the treatment apparatus and methods for treating a septal defect are provided. The implantable treatment apparatus is preferably implantable through a septal wall or portion... Agent: Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, LLPIPProsecution Department

20080015634 - Medical instrument: The invention relates to a medical instrument having on its proximal end a shaft with a handle consisting of two gripping members and on its distal end a tool consisting of two jaw members and in which, to open and close the tool, at least one jaw member can rotate... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20080015636 - Single disc intraluminal patent foramen ovale closure device: A device and method for deploying a mechanical closure device for closing a passageway in a body, for example a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in a heart. The single disc mechanical closure device is comprise of a distal and proximal anchor constrained by a closure line to facilitate mechanical closure... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080015635 - Single disc occlusionary patent foramen ovale closure device: The present invention is a method and device for closing a passageway in a body, for example a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in a heart, and related methods of using such closure devices for closing the passageway.... Agent: Philip S. Johnson Johnson & Johnson

20080015637 - Multi-nail hemorrhage occluder pin, hemorrhage occulder pin applicator: A multi-nail hemorrhage occluder pin is disclosed for effectively securing to the presacral bleeding defect to stop the bleeding during a proctectomy by means of the application of a metal hemorrhage occluder pin applicator. The multi-nail hemorrhage occluder pin has a head, and nails respectively formed of a series of... Agent: Troxell Law Office PLLC

20080015638 - Minimally-invasive surgical method: A method for performing anastomosis between a graft vessel and a coronary artery of the heart of a patient may include providing a stabilizer, a suspension attached to the stabilizer, and an anastomosis tool that includes an anvil and a staple holder movable relative to one another, where that anastomosis... Agent: Cardica, Inc.

20080015639 - Anchorless non-invasive force dissipation system for orthopedic instrumentation: An anchorless non-invasive force dissipation device for orthopedic instrumentation including a base having a patient contacting surface, the patient contacting surface including a surface area adapted for external placement on a patient's body, and an instrument alignment mechanism operably connected to and selectively positionable relative to the base, the instrument... Agent: Patterson, Thuente, Skaar & Christensen, P.A.

20080009838 - Compact capstan: A compact capstan includes a drum, a coupled hub, a passage extending through the drum and hub, and a shaft extending through the drum and hub. The shaft engages the passage such that the shaft can transmit a torsional force to the drum and the hub which are free to... Agent: Patent Dept Intuitive Surgical, Inc

20080009841 - Auto-control laser scanning system for dermatology treatment: This invention is an auto control laser scanning system for dermatology treatment. This system would get the designated therapeutic area firstly by the photography device, and then transfer the image to the driver device. Additionally, choosing the range of the designated curing area by either manually or automatically, and after... Agent: Kamrath & Associates P.A.

20080009844 - Device for laser surgery: The invention refers to a device for laser surgery comprising a laser and means for coupling laser light of the laser into an optical fiber, wherein the laser is a solid-state layer, which may emit laser light which at maximum intensity has a wavelength in the ragne of 1100 and... Agent: Plumsea Law Group, LLC

20080009846 - Electrosurgical return electrode with an involuted edge: An electrosurgical return electrode is disclosed. The electrosurgical return electrode includes a conductive pad. The conductive pad includes a perimeter which has at least one involuted peripheral edge which is configured to reduce the current density of the conductive pad at the perimeter of the conductive pad. The involuted peripheral... Agent: Covidien

20080009848 - Hook shaped ultrasonic cutting blade: An ultrasonic surgical blade has a blade body and a shank. The shank is fixed at one end to the blade body and is operatively connectable at an opposite end to a source of ultrasonic vibrations. The shank has a longitudinal axis. The blade body is eccentrically disposed relative to... Agent: Coleman Sudol Sapone, P.C.

20080009851 - Variable geometry cooling chamber: The present invention provides a medical device that may include a catheter body having proximal and distal portions, a fluid injection lumen disposed within elongate body, and a guidewire lumen disposed within the elongate body. A tip portion defining a cavity in fluid communication with the fluid injection lumen may... Agent: Christopher & Weisberg, P.A.

20080009852 - Ablation with echogenic insulative sheath: Tissue ablation probes are provided. Each tissue ablation probe comprises an electrically conductive probe shaft, at least one tissue ablation electrode carried by a distal end of the probe shaft, and an electrically insulative outer sheath disposed on the probe shaft. The sheath is at least partially composed of polyether... Agent: VistaIPLaw Group LLP

20080009854 - Resecting device: A resecting device is disclosed. The resecting device comprises: a handle having a jaw trigger slidably engaged with said handle and mechanically engaged with a spring mechanism communicating a biasing force to said jaw trigger; a fixed shaft portion having a first and a second end, wherein said fixed shaft... Agent: Law Office Of Jay R. Hamilton, PLC.

20080009856 - Endoscopic treatment instrument: An endoscopic treatment instrument is provided which includes: a sheath 2 having electrical insulating properties; a pair of arm portions 3A and 3B which are disposed opposite to each other, which protrude and retract with respect to the sheath 2, and which accordingly open and close to thereby hold an... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20080009857 - Treatment instrument for endoscope: Treatment instrument 1 for endoscope is provided with a treatment portion 4 at the distal end of an elongated flexible insertion portion 3. The treatment portion 4 is configured such that the substantially cylindrical shaped distal end insertion portion 27 extends integrally from the treatment portion body 21, and the... Agent: Scully Scott Murphy & Presser, PC

20080009858 - Laparoscopic instrument tip and method of specimen collection: A unique laparoscopy instrument tip and method which allows simultaneous gasping, cauterization, dissection, containment, enclosure and removal of body tissue. Mechanisms for grasping, holding, manipulating, cauterizing, dissecting, encasement in an enclosed cavity and removing the tissue are provided in one implement allowing easy, safe and quick performance of the procedure.... Agent: Furr Law Firm

20080009860 - System and method for controlling electrode gap during tissue sealing: An electrosurgical system for sealing tissue is disclosed that includes an electrosurgical forceps. The forceps includes a drive rod and an end effector assembly coupled to the drive rod at a distal end thereof. The end effector assembly includes jaw members wherein longitudinal reciprocation of the drive rod moves the... Agent: Covidien

20080009863 - Pedicle screw distractor and associated method of use: A distractor for pedicle screws aids surgeons in counteracting the compressive force on a spacer between the pedicle screws and assists in the process of seating the spacer as part of a spinal dynamic stabilization system. The distractor cooperates with existing instrumentation to distract the pedicle screw heads for simple,... Agent: Wood, Herron & Evans (zimmer Spine)

20080009862 - Removable polyaxial housing for a pedicle screw: A polyaxial body is selectively removable from a pedicle screw in a spinal fixation system without disruption of the screw's placement in the patient's spine. The polyaxial body according to various embodiments of this invention may be locked relative to the screw head and coupled to the spine rod without... Agent: Wood, Herron & Evans (zimmer Spine)

20080009868 - Device and method for treating compression fractures: Apparatus for treating a bone with a compression fracture, includes a coil having a compressed state and an expanded state and which is insertable into the bone when in its compressed state, and an expansion tool arranged to be coupled to the coil when the coil is present in the... Agent: Frishauf, Holtz, Goodman & Chick, PC

20080009871 - Bone plate clamp: A bone plate clamp includes a C-shaped frame with opposing arms spaced apart about a bridge portion. One arm includes a threaded bore into which an adjustable clamping screw having a clamping end is inserted. The clamping screw defines a longitudinal drill guide. The opposite arm has a V-shaped surface... Agent: Gordon & Jacobson, P.C.

20080009873 - Trochanteric nail with locking opening: A trochanteric nail for insertion in an intramedullary canal of a bone for treating bone fractures. The nail may include an elongate body having a head portion and a stem portion. One or more openings may be provided in the head portion for receiving an anchoring member, such as a... Agent: Burgess Law Office, PLLC

20080009874 - Method and apparatus for reaming an acetabulum: A method and apparatus for repairing a cavity in bone may can include a longitudinal shaft having a distal end and a proximal end. A cutting tool can be selectively attachable to the distal end. A one-piece guide can have a body defining an opening and including a locator member... Agent: Harness, Dickey & Pierce, P.L.C

20080009878 - Fissure repair: A fissure repair (60) device for a spinal disc is provided, the device including a first portion (61), a second portion (62a, 62b) and a variable link (63a, 63b) between the first portion and second portion, in which the first and second portions are portions of a common element, one... Agent: Jonathan Spangler Nu Vasive, Inc.

20080009839 - Ophthalmic phototherapy device and associated treatment method: An ophthalmic phototherapy device (10) and associated phototherapy treatment method for promoting healing of damaged or diseased eye tissue. The ophthalmic phototherapy device (10) includes a light emitting mechanism (12) for transmitting light of at least one preselected wavelength to the eye tissue, whereby the light transmitted to the damaged... Agent: Pitts And Brittian P C

20080009840 - Methods and systems for tracking a torsional orientation and position of an eye: Methods and systems for tracking a position and torsional orientation of a patient's eye. In one embodiment, the present invention provides methods and software for registering a first image of an eye with a second image of an eye. In another embodiment, the present invention provides methods and software for... Agent: Townsend And Townsend And Crew, LLP

20080009842 - Method and apparatus for emr treatment: A method and apparatus are provided for performing a therapeutic treatment on a patient's skin by concentrating applied radiation of at least one selected wavelength at a plurality of selected, three-dimensionally located, treatment portions, which treatment portions are within non-treatment portions. The ratio of treatment portions to the total volume... Agent: Dorsey & Whitney LLP Intellectual Property Department

20080009843 - Surgical ablation system with chest wall platform: A surgical ablation system and method of treatment for creating lesions in tissue, including cardiac tissue for the treatment of arrhythmias and other diseases are disclosed. The ablation system includes a chest wall platform, introducer sheath, and ablation device. The system provides a stable platform for entering the heart while... Agent: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

20080009845 - Cryosurgical probe with adjustable sliding apparatus: A cryosurgical probe assembly that includes a gas delivery assembly, including a stem and a fluid conduit subassembly bonded to the stem. The fluid conduit subassembly delivers and returns cooling fluid used for cryogenic cooling. The fluid conduit subassembly, comprises a shaft for providing a heat exchange surface for cryogenic... Agent: Lawrence N. Ginsberg

20080009847 - Methods for electrosurgical treatment of spinal tissue: Systems, apparatus, and methods for treating spinal tissue and other body structures in open and endoscopic spine surgery to relieve symptoms, such as neck or back pain. In particular, the present invention provides methods for the controlled heating of various tissues in or around the vertebral column, including various interspinous... Agent: Arthrocare Corporation

20080009849 - Electrosurgical generator and system: An electrosurgical system includes a generator for generating radio frequency power, and an electrosurgical instrument including at least three electrodes and. The generator includes a radio frequency output stage having at least a pair of RF output lines, and a power supply coupled to the output stage for supplying power... Agent: Nixon & Vanderhye, PC

20080009850 - Electrosurgical generator and system: An electrosurgical system includes a generator for generating radio frequency power, and an electrosurgical instrument including at least three electrodes and. The generator includes a radio frequency output stage having at least a pair of RF output lines, and a power supply coupled to the output stage for supplying power... Agent: Nixon & Vanderhye, PC

20080009853 - Ablation device with sensor: An electrosurgical device having a distal tip for creating a lesion on tissue includes a first electrode and a second electrode that are parallel for the delivery of RF energy to tissue. A sensor electrode is provided parallel to and spaced away from the first electrode a different distance than... Agent: Cook, Alex, Mcfarron, Manzo, Cummings & Mehler Ltd

20080009855 - Device for resection and/or ablation of organic tissue by means of high-frequency current: A device for resection and/or ablation of organic tissue by means of high-frequency current comprises, at the distal end, a loop that can be acted upon by high-frequency voltage and, in the proximal direction from the loop, at least one helix that can likewise be acted upon by high-frequency voltage,... Agent: St. Onge Steward Johnston & Reens, LLC

20080009859 - Transseptal left atrial access and septal closure: Methods, systems, and devices for transseptal access into the left atrium of a heart. In one embodiment an apparatus for transseptal left atrial access comprised of a catheter adapted for insertion into a vessel and one or more RF devices adapted to be extendable from the distal end of said... Agent: Perkins Coie LLP Patent-sea

20080009864 - Instruments and methods for reduction of vertebral bodies: A spinal stabilization system may be formed in a patient. 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

20080009866 - Methods and systems for constraint of spinous processes with attachment: Spinal implants for limiting flexion of the spine are implanted between a superior spinous process and an inferior spinous process or sacrum. The implants include upper straps which are placed over the upper spinous process, while the lower portions of the implant are attached to the adjacent vertebra or sacrum.... Agent: Stallman & Pollock LLP

20080009867 - Orthopedic implant apparatus: Apparatuses are disclosed for use in orthopedic surgery, for example for procedures in which a support member is connected to the spine. A connector member for connecting to an orthopedic implant and a support member is provided. A sleeve fits around the implant, and a locking member or mechanism connects... Agent: Woodard, Emhardt, Moriarty, Mcnett & Henry LLP

20080009861 - Sacroiliac joint immobilization: Improved tools and procedures relate to the immobilization of the sacroiliac joint for the treatment of pain associated with the joint. Kits comprise, for example, a guide element and an immobilization element of a biocompatible material with a size and shape suitable for placement within the sacroiliac joint. Suitable immobilization... Agent: Dardi & Associates, PLLC

20080009865 - Variable laminoplasty implant: A vertebral implant comprising a first base configured for securing to a first cut portion of a vertebra, and second base configured for securing to a second cut portion of the vertebra. A connecting member is configured to associate the first and second bases at a preselected spacing from each... Agent: Nutter Mcclennen & Fish LLP

20080009869 - Intramedullary nail: An intramedullary nail, particular for use with a tibia, may have a proximal end part, a distal end part adapted to be introduced into a medullary space, and a central section. The central section includes a first curved section having a first length with a first radius of curvature, and... Agent: Jones Day

20080009870 - Bone plate assembly provided with screw locking mechanisms: One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a bone plate assembly that includes a bone plate, bone screw(s) received in aperture(s) in the bone plate, and screw fixation member(s). The screw fixation member(s) may, alone or in conjunction with the bone plate, fix the bone screw(s) in place... Agent: Greenberg Traurig, LLP

20080009872 - Resorbable surgical fixation device: The present invention provides an improved contourable surgical fixation device that is made from a resorbable material and useful in bone reconstruction. In one embodiment, the fixation device may be made of a polymeric material. The fixation device comprises a plurality of spaced-apart fastening plates, links interconnecting the plates, and... Agent: Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP

20080009875 - Medical device with dual expansion mechanism: Apparatuses and methods for accessing a tissue and expanding an apparatus within the tissue are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a first expandable member and a second expandable member disposed within the first expandable member. The first expandable member is configured to disrupt a body when in an... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080009876 - Medical device with expansion mechanism: Apparatuses and methods for accessing a tissue and expanding an apparatus within the tissue are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a first elongate body having a distal end portion that includes a plurality of cutting portions, a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The plurality of cutting... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080009877 - Medical device with expansion mechanism: Apparatuses and methods for accessing a tissue and expanding an apparatus within the tissue are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method includes rotating a distal end portion of an expandable medical device within a biological body such that at least a portion of tissue within the biological body is... Agent: Cooley Godward Kronish LLP Attn: Patent Group

20080009881 - Artificial spinal disc, insertion tool, and method of insertion: An artificial spinal disc is provided for unilateral insertion from the posterior side of the patient and includes a pair of plate members with a bearing associated with one plate member and a depression associated with the other for permitting limited flexibility of patient movement. An outrigger is provided which... Agent: Hovey Williams LLP

20080009879 - Equipment for removing cement from bone cavities: The equipment for removing cement from bone cavities consists of an elongated body, hollow inside, that can be inserted inside a cement-filled bone cavity, and at least one rod for extracting the elongated body buried in the cement, that can be inserted inside the elongated body. The elongated body comprises... Agent: Dykema Gossett PLLC

20080009880 - Pivotable vetrebral spacer: According to one exemplary embodiment, a pivotable interbody spacer system includes an insertion instrument configured to manipulate a pivotable interbody spacer during surgical insertion, wherein the insertion instrument includes means for coupling the interbody spacer and a means for fixing the angular position of the interbody spacer. According to one... Agent: Rader, Fishman & Grauer PLLC

20080009882 - Multifunctional catheter handle: The invention is directed to a multifunctional catheter handle. The handle comprises a handle body and a core mounted within the handle body. A piston is provided having a distal end mounted in the handle body and a proximal end extending outside the handle body, to which a catheter body... Agent: Christie, Parker & Hale, LLP

20080009883 - Snare retrieval device: A snare for retrieving objects from a body cavity during a medical procedure comprises a guide element having a proximal end and a distal end, a loop provided on the guide element near the distal end and a flexible element provided on the guide element near the distal end and... Agent: Mcgarry Bair PC

20080009884 - Handle for lithotripsy basket device: A lithotriptor system and method configured to provide both direct compressive force and a compressive force with mechanical advantage by providing at least one lever mechanism.... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20080009885 - Skin and adipose tissue treatment by nonfocalized opposing side shock waves: The present invention is a device for the destruction of adipose tissue comprising two or more ultrasound generators positioned on opposing sides of the treatment area each generating a non-focused wave that converge forming a interferential clash zone with the treatment area therein. Ultrasound generators are contained within a handpiece... Agent: Michael I Kroll

20080009886 - Suction cup: A suction clip and system and method therefor. The suction clip is configured for deployment from a catheter to provide for hemostasis of injured tissue. The suction clip preferably includes a flexible distal rim configured to form sealing contact with tissue to be treated and a proximal check valve to... Agent: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione/chicago/cook

20080009887 - Automated surgical connector: Surgical tools for off-pump surgery are described herein. In an embodiment, a surgical connector for coupling an organ to a medical device comprises an inner body. The surgical connector further comprises an outer hollow body slidably disposed around said inner body. Moreover, the connector comprises a distal sealing member disposed... Agent: Conley Rose, P.C. David A. Rose

20080009888 - Low profile tissue anchors, tissue anchor systems, and methods for their delivery and use: Tissue anchors include a flat, broad, and large contact surface for engagement with a portion of tissue. Several embodiments of composite tissue anchors include a support element and an overlay element. Tissue anchor assemblies include two or more tissue anchors, a connector, and a cinching mechanism. In some embodiments, the... Agent: Levine Bagade Han LLP

20080009889 - Conduit cuff: The primary object of the present invention is to provide an improved anastomotic connection between a conduit and a vessel by use of a cuff attached to one end of the conduit. By using a cuff, the conduit can be connected to a vessel without first cutting the vessel and... Agent: Jim Pokorney

20080009890 - Scalpel with retractable blade: A scalpel is provided having a handle with a longitudinally extending cavity therein, and a blade carrier movable longitudinally within the cavity relative to the handle between an operative position in which a blade carried thereby is in an extended position in which it is exposed for use at an... Agent: Meyertons, Hood, Kivlin, Kowert & Goetzel, P.C.

20080009891 - Surgical coring system: Novel surgical tools and methods for off-pump surgery are described herein. A novel coring system is disclosed which employs a balloon catheter and a coring tool which is adapted to be threaded on to a guide wire. The guide wire serves as a track upon which the coring tool is... Agent: Conley Rose, P.C. David A. Rose

20080009893 - Lancing device with releasable threaded enclosure: A lancing device having a body and an endcap, the body and the endcap being connected to one another by a threaded coupling. One or the other of the body and the endcap has a threaded collar with at least one slot formed therein to permit the collar to flex... Agent: Gardner Groff Greenwald & Villanueva. PC

20080009892 - Method and apparatus for a multi-use body fluid sampling device with sterility barrier release: A device for use with a gripper is provided. A cartridge is provided that defines a plurality of cavities. A plurality of penetrating members are at least partially contained in the cavities of the cartridge. The penetrating members are slidably movable to extend outward from the cartridge to penetrate tissue.... Agent: Heller Ehrman LLP

20080009894 - Two-mode trocar assembly: An obturator assembly for penetrating tissue and being at least partially positionable within a cannula assembly includes an obturator housing, an obturator shaft connected to the obturator housing and defining a longitudinal axis, a penetrating member adjacent the distal end of the obturator shaft and an obturator shield mounted about... Agent: Covidien

20080009895 - Vessel cutting tool: The present invention is an improved cutting tool to reliably and safely cut a circular hole through the wall of a body vessel. Unlike prior art, the vessel cutting tool can measure the thickness of the vessel wall before cutting the hole, measure the depth of tool penetration during cutting,... Agent: Jim Pokomey

20080009896 - Micro-implanter for hair follicle: A micro-implanter for hair follicle includes a plunger and a hair follicle holding tube coaxially fitted around the plunger. A hair follicle may be positioned in the hair follicle holding tube below the plunger. The plunger is provided at a lower end with a stopper for limiting a depth by... Agent: Bruce H. Troxell Suite 1404

20080009897 - Nasal stimulator: The invention relates to a nasal stimulator which is used to dilate and stimulate the elevator muscle of the nose wing. The invention is designed to improve nasal breathing in persons suffering from nasal collapse, who, consequently, breathe mainly through the mouth.... Agent: Defillo & Associates, Inc.

20080009898 - Treatment for high pressure bleeding: High-pressure bleeding wounds (and other bleeding wounds) may be treated by applying direct pressure directly in the bleeding wound, such as by applying a back pressure in a confined space around and in the wound. Certain substances and articles may be inserted into the wound, and the wound may be... Agent: Whitham, Curtis & Christofferson & Cook, P.C.

20080009899 - Double-layered cupping can with smoldering function: A double-layered cupping can includes a first can component and a second can component. The first can component is a hollow thermal conductor, with a sucking opening on the bottom. The sucking opening uses the suction induced by heated air to suck to the human acupuncture point. The second can... Agent: Rosenberg, Klein & Lee

20080009900 - Surgical grasping device: Disclosed herein are methods and devices for securing soft tissue to a rigid material such as bone. A surgical device having a jaw assembly with a sharpened beak-shaped tip and an aperture suitable for receiving a suture anchor is described. The surgical device includes slots in the side of the... Agent: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

20080009901 - Photochemical tissue bonding: Photochemical tissue bonding methods include the application of a photosensitizer to a tissue, e.g., cornea, followed by irradiation with electromagnetic energy to produce a tissue seal. The methods are useful for wound repair, or other tissue repair.... Agent: Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge LLP

20080009903 - Suture with filaments formed of polyether-ketone variant: A high strength abrasion resistant surgical suture material with improved tie down characteristics and tissue compliance with braided yarns formed of ether-ketone variant. The suture features a multifilament jacket formed of braided yarns of ether-ketone variant, optionally braided with yarns of polyester, silk, nylon, ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene or aramid... Agent: Dickstein Shapiro LLP

20080009902 - Sutures and fibrosing agents: Sutures are used in combination with fibrosing agents to induce or stimulate fibrosis that between the sutures and the host tissues into which the sutures are inserted. Compositions and methods are described for use in lifting tissue, closing wound, and other applications.... Agent: Seed Intellectual Property Law Group PLLC

20080009904 - Soft tissue fixation: The present disclosure relates to a surgical device including 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 anchor body includes at least two longitudinally extending slots on an... Agent: Norman F. Hainer, Jr. Smith & Nephew, Inc.