Patents by Inventor R. Joseph Todd

R. Joseph Todd has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Prostheses and methods for promoting nerve regeneration and for inhibiting the formation of neuromas
    Patent number: 4778467
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to prosthesis and methods for promoting nerve regeneration. The proximal and distal ends of a severed nerve are brought into close proximity and are enclosed by a tubular prosthesis. In one preferred embodiment, a epineurial or endoneurial monosuture is used to hold the nerve ends in close proximity. A tight seal is formed between the prosthesis and the injured nerve so as to isolate the injured nerve within the prosthesis from the rest of the body of the host. Additionally, in one preferred embodiment, nerve grafts may be incorporated into the prosthesis and nerve regeneration promoting substances may be incorporated within the nerve graft to further enhance nerve regeneration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1988
    Assignee: The University of Utah
    Inventors: Larry J. Stensaas, R. Joseph Todd, Philip M. Triolo
  • Prostheses and methods for promoting nerve regeneration
    Patent number: 4662884
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to prostheses and methods for promoting nerve regeneration. The proximal and distal ends of a severed nerve are brought into close proximity and are enclosed by a tubular prosthesis. In one preferred embodiment, a monosuture is used to hold the nerve ends in close proximity. A tight seal is formed between the prosthesis and the injured nerve so as to isolate the injured nerve within the prosthesis from the rest of the body of the host. Additionally, in one preferred embodiment, nerve grafts may be incorporated into the prosthesis and nerve regeneration promoting substances may be incorporated within the nerve graft to further enhance nerve regeneration. Prostheses and methods for inhibiting the formation of neuromas are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1987
    Assignee: University of Utah Research Foundation
    Inventors: Larry J. Stensaas, R. Joseph Todd, Philip M. Triolo