Patents Issued in December 8, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160354200
    Abstract: Devices and methods of treating sleep disordered breathing are provided herein. The devices are designed capable of preventing collapse of an oral airway tissue during sleep while maintaining normal velopharyngeal functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Tidhar Shalon, Guy Kotlizky
  • Publication number: 20160354201
    Abstract: A transcatheter valve prosthesis includes a stent having a compressed configuration for delivery within a vasculature and an expanded configuration for deployment within a native heart valve and a prosthetic valve component disposed within and secured to the stent. A compartment is coupled to the stent, and a filtered opening into the compartment is configured to permit blood flow there-through and to trap emboli in the blood flow within the compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: James R. Keogh
  • Publication number: 20160354202
    Abstract: Disclosed is a prosthetic heart valve incorporating one or more linking elements adapted for anchoring, aligning, stabilizing, fixing, or otherwise enabling the implantation of other prosthetic devices, including other prosthetic heart valves, in or around the heart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Alan W. Heldman
  • Publication number: 20160354203
    Abstract: A prosthesis is provided for implantation at a native semilunar valve of a native valve complex, the native valve complex having three semilunar sinuses and three native commissures. The prosthesis includes a valve prosthesis support, which comprises a support structure comprising exactly three engagement arms that meet one another at three respective junctures. The engagement arms are shaped so as define three peak complexes at the three respective junctures, and three trough complexes, each of which is between two of the peak complexes. Upon implantation of the prosthesis, each of the engagement arms is at least partially disposed within a respective one of the semilunar sinuses, such that each of the peak complexes is disposed distal to and in rotational alignment with a respective one of the native commissures, and each of the trough complexes is disposed at least partially within the respective one of the semilunar sinuses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Yossi Tuval, Raphael Benary, Ido Kilemnik
  • Publication number: 20160354204
    Abstract: A prosthetic heart valve includes a stent having an expanded condition and a collapsed condition. The stent includes a plurality of distal cells, a plurality of proximal cells, a plurality of support struts coupling the proximal cells to the distal cells, and at least one support post connected to a plurality of proximal cells. The proximal cells are longitudinally spaced apart from the distal cells. Various strut configurations and connections of the struts to the proximal cells and of the proximal cells to the support post improve stent flexibility and reduce stress in the valve leaflets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: St. Jude Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter N. Braido, Yousef F. Alkhatib, Thomas M. Benson, Aaron J. Chalekian, Ott Khouengboua, Julia A. Schraut
  • Publication number: 20160354205
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to stents, valved-stents, (e.g., single-stent-valves and double stent/valved-stent systems) and associated methods and systems for their delivery via minimally-invasive surgery. The stent component comprises a first stent section (102) a second stent section (104) a third stent section (106) and a fourth stent section (108).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Jacques ESSINGER, Serge DELALOYE, Jean-Luc HEFTI, Stephane DELALOYE
  • Publication number: 20160354206
    Abstract: An annuloplasty ring having a three-dimensional discontinuous form generally arranged about an axis with two free ends that are axially offset. The ring is particularly suited for repair of the tricuspid valve, and more closely conforms to the annulus shape. The ring is more flexible in bending about radially extending axes than about the central axis. The ring may have an inner structural support covered by a pliable sleeve and/or a fabric tube. The structural support may have a varying cross-section, such as a C-shaped cross-section in a mid-section between two free ends and a rectangular cross-section at the free ends. A deliver template having a mounting ring with about the same shape as the ring facilitates implant, and may be releasably attached to a delivery handle. The deliver template may include a plurality of cutting guides for releasably attaching the annuloplasty ring thereto while presenting maximum outer surface area of the ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Patrick M. McCarthy, Richard S. Rhee, Stefan Schreck
  • Publication number: 20160354207
    Abstract: An implant for the repair of bone and cartilage that includes a cell conductive zone that contains biopolymeric fibers and an osteoconductive zone that contains biopolymeric fibers and calcium-containing mineral particles. The biopolymeric fibers from one zone overlap with the fibers in the other zone forming a stable physical and mechanical integration of the two zones, thus conferring in vivo stability to the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Shu-Tung Li, Hui-Chen Chen, Debbie Yuen
  • Publication number: 20160354208
    Abstract: A bone implant includes (a) a first layer provided over a first outer surface of the bone implant and being formed of a first material which is one of water-soluble and degradable in body fluids, the first layer having a first thickness and (b) a second layer provided over an outer periphery of the first layer and being formed of a biocompatible material, the second layer having a second thickness smaller than the first thickness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Goetz THORWARTH, Cyril VOISARD
  • Publication number: 20160354209
    Abstract: Methods and systems for installing a glenosphere using a patient specific instrument within a joint are discussed. For example, a method for implanting a glenosphere comprises installing first and second pins in a glenoid cavity using a patient specific instrument that sets a distance between the guide pins, installing an implant at the location of the second guide pin, and guiding a glenosphere onto the implant using a helper connected to the first pin. In another example, a glenosphere helper comprises a cup shaped body having an interior surface for engaging at least a portion of an outer surface of the glenosphere, and a flange extending from the cup to receive a guide pin at a point, the flange extending from the cup shaped body such that the point is positioned outside a periphery of the glenosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: William Van Kampen, Steve Dunstan, Jean-Sebastien Merette, Anselm Jakob Neurohr
  • Publication number: 20160354210
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a novel method for accessing the spinal disc space, instrumentation for discectomy and implantation of spinal implants, and unique designs for intervertebral spinal implants. In particular, the present disclosure describes modular interlocking spinal implants that can be assembled during surgery, for the purpose of implantation between vertebral bodies that is unique to the disc space, creating vertebral stabilization, correction of spinal scoliosis, reducing segmental motion, greater arthrodesis potential, reduction of pain, and other benefits. The present disclosure provides increased permutation of implant shapes to match a subject specific spinal disease.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Hoan Phan Tran
  • Publication number: 20160354211
    Abstract: An expandable spinal prosthesis is disclosed, including a first surface having a first plurality of tissue anchors; a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface having a second plurality of tissue anchors; a first wall between the first and second surfaces, and a second wall between the first and second surfaces, the second wall located opposite the first wall and being movable with respect to the first wall. A surgical instrument is also provided, including an elongated shaft defining a proximal end and a distal end; a first prosthesis engagement element accessible from the proximal end and extending from the distal end; and a second prosthesis engagement element accessible from the proximal end and extending from the distal end, the second prosthesis engagement element including a plurality of gear teeth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Evan PACKER, James Scott HAY
  • Publication number: 20160354212
    Abstract: A spinal implant formed from a hinged distractor having an upper and lower support body that is hinged by use of pinions. An insert body is constructed and arranged to slide between the section to expand both in height and width, and to maintain a space therebetween. The insert body includes a leading edge that is tapered to allow ease of insertion. A trailing edge that extends beyond a front edge of the upper support body will cause the insert body to be locked into position. A trailing edge engages the rear of the upper support body to prevent over insertion. A lower surface of the insert body may include locking surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Matthew G. Baynham
  • Publication number: 20160354213
    Abstract: A methodology for grafting together adjacent bony structures is provided using an implant device having an endplate with an inner disc portion and outer ring portion spaced from the inner disc portion by a connecting wall disposed there between. An endplate interior surface includes a retaining structure for securing the endplate to one of the bony structures, and endplate an exterior surface has an integrally formed socket. A ball-joint rod has a longitudinally extending body and an end, and at least a portion of the ball-joint rod end is curvilinear in shape. The curvilinear ball-joint rod end is rotatably disposed in the endplate socket to fixedly interconnect the bony structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: John A. Cowan
  • Publication number: 20160354214
    Abstract: The disclosure provides apparatus and methods of use pertaining to a bidirectional biomechanical prosthetic finger assembly. In one embodiment, the assembly includes an eccentric metacarpophalangeal (MCP) pivot configured for swivelable attachment to a hand of a user, a distal coupler, and an articulation assembly rotatively coupled therebetween. A ring configured to receive a user's residual finger is disposed upon the articulation assembly, and may be adjusted to a target location based on a length of the residual finger. The articulation assembly is configured to utilize vertical movements of the residual finger within the ring to articulate the distal coupler within a plane parallel to an x-z plane, and the MCP pivot is configured to utilize lateral movements of the residual finger within the ring to articulate the distal coupler within a plane parallel to an x-y plane. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Robert Thompson, JR., Jon Bengtsson, Anthony Charles Peto, Sydney Tye Minnis, Eric Dennis Klumper, Bradley Arthur Crittenden
  • Publication number: 20160354215
    Abstract: The disclosure provides apparatus and methods of use pertaining to a bidirectional biomechanical prosthetic finger assembly. One embodiment includes a metacarpophalangeal (MCP) pivot configured for swivelable attachment to a hand of a user, a distal coupler, and an articulation assembly rotatively coupled therebetween. A multiple-finger ring configured to receive a user's residual finger and at least one adjacent finger is disposed upon the articulation assembly, and may be adjusted to a target location based on a length of the residual finger. The articulation assembly is configured to utilize vertical movements of the residual and/or adjacent finger(s) within the multiple-finger ring to articulate the distal coupler within a plane parallel to an x-z plane, and the MCP pivot is configured to utilize lateral movements of the residual finger within the ring to articulate the distal coupler within a plane parallel to an x-y plane. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Robert Thompson, JR., Jon Bengtsson, Anthony Charles Peto, Sydney Tye Minnis, Eric Dennis Klumper, Bradley Arthur Crittenden
  • Publication number: 20160354216
    Abstract: Provided herein are devices and methods for connecting a transcutaneous external prosthetic device to a bone, such as a bone of an amputee. The device is a two-piece transcutaneous implant device to provide reversible connection for ease of implantation, reliability, and relatively easy access for removal, while maximizing tissue ingrowth to reduce risk of infection and attendant adverse outcomes. The devices provided herein comprise a prosthetic interface and a bone anchor. A through-hole that traverses a longitudinal length of the prosthetic interface and at least a longitudinal portion of the bone anchor receives a fastener to reversibly connect the prosthetic interface to the bone anchor implanted in bone. A connector may connect to a failsafe element which, in turn, connects to an external prosthetic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Ronald Hugate
  • Publication number: 20160354217
    Abstract: A vascular graft having a sealing layer and a tapered length portion. The sealing layer provides the vascular graft with low bleed characteristics subsequent to a needle puncture such as with a dialysis needle or a suture needle. The sealing layer in the tapered length portion has varying wall thickness along the tapered length portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Marc A. Schlaud, Timothy T. Stringer
  • Publication number: 20160354218
    Abstract: A stent assembly includes support rings each having interconnected circumferentially alternating inner prongs and outer prongs. The inner prongs define an inner diameter around a longitudinal axis. The outer prongs define an outer diameter greater than the inner diameter. A graft engages the support rings and follows a waving peripheral path. The graft may be a billowing graft. A second graft may surround the first graft such that tunnels are defined between the first graft and second graft. A method of making a stent assembly includes diametrically expanding the support rings onto a mandrel, engaging a graft with the support rings, and removing the support rings and graft from the mandrel permitting the stent assembly to contract to a neutral state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Ali Shahriari
  • Publication number: 20160354219
    Abstract: A coil-reinforced medical device delivery mechanism including a stiff proximal end for enhanced pushability and a soft distal end, including a free floating tip portion, for increased maneuverability and decreased breakage. The system utilizes a non-compliant balloon mounted on a flexible, single lumen shaft device with a support mandrel construction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Gregory Sullivan, Stephen Griffin
  • Publication number: 20160354220
    Abstract: Improved devices and components for securing and retrieving an implantable medical device including at least one of a flanged tip disposed at a distal end of the implantable medical device; a halo retrieval tip disposed at a distal end of the implantable medical device; an external leash disposed at least one of a proximal end, a midportion, and a distal end of the implantable medical device; and an internal leash disposed within an inflatable balloon of the implantable medical device. A method of retrieving an implantable medical device, comprising: securing a retrieval device to at least one of the components described herein; and removing the implantable medical device from a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Outhit Bouasaysy, Mark Ashby
  • Publication number: 20160354221
    Abstract: A hemorrhoid relief product that provides an intergluteal spacer for the selective pressure adjustment, relief, and/or pressure application to portions of hemorrhoidal tissue in and or around the perianal. The product optionally includes adhesive to secure the device in place. The product includes a cavity for positioning over hemorrhoidal tissue to provide pressure adjustment, and may also include at least one nub for selectively applying and/or adjusting pressure to areas. The product may include a trapezoidal, or other, cross-section for easier fit, as well as a split end for adherence to multiple gluteal cheeks and anatomy in the relevant area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Theodore F. Martin
  • Publication number: 20160354222
    Abstract: A splint for immobilization of a limb of a patient. The splint includes an outer immobilization construct extending in a longitudinal direction of the limb, an inner immobilization construct in contact with the limb, a splint binder binding the outer immobilization construct in place around the second wrapping construct, and an expandable air cuff disposed between the outer immobilization construct and the second immobilization construct, which upon inflation exerts pressure on the second immobilization construct to conform the inner immobilization construct to the limb. With the splint, a method for immobilizing the limb includes placing a conformable restraint over the limb, securing an inflatable air cuff over the conformable restraint, and pressurizing the inflatable air cuff to thereby exert a controlled pressure on the limb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: Umm Al-Qura University
    Inventor: Badr ALSOLAMI
  • Publication number: 20160354223
    Abstract: A device for tightening an article about a limb includes a tension member that is guided about the article and that is tensionable to close or tighten the article about the limb. The device also includes a tightening mechanism that is configured to tension the tension member to close or tighten the article and that is further configured to maintain the tension of the tension member so that the article remains closed or tightened about the limb. The device further includes a tension limiting mechanism that prevents loosening of the tension member's tension beyond a determined threshold so that the article remains closed or tightened about the limb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: Boa Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Burns, James Capra, Jesse Cotterman, Michael Nickel, William Furman O'Dell, Mark Soderberg, Aaron Ventruini
  • Publication number: 20160354224
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing stretch resistant plantar fascia support system is provided. The stretch resistant plantar fascia support system is adhesively applied to the foot of a patient for providing relief from plantar fasciitis. A portion of the stretch resistant plantar fascia support system is adhesively attached to the bottom surface of the foot for reducing stress on the plantar fascia.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: Applied BioKinetics LLC
    Inventor: Donald P. Bushby
  • Publication number: 20160354225
    Abstract: A cross-joint-segmental elastic assistive device comprises: at least a pair of mutually isolated and opposite separators, such separators respectively having a shield face and a contact face, an elastic connector extending along an elastic force direction and having at least an elastic active section and fixed connection sections respectively located on the both sides of the elastic active section, with each of the fixed connection sections individually being connectedly fixed to one of the separators; and a plurality of fixers connectedly fixing the fixed connection sections of the elastic connector respectively to the separators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Yu-Hung Pan
  • Publication number: 20160354226
    Abstract: A trunk orthosis including a bandage that is designed to be put on a patient's trunk, and a supporting device which is connected to the bandage. The supporting device is designed as a frame with frame sections that are hingedly or elastically secured to one another, are spring-biased, and are pre-stressed by the bandage when worn on the patient's trunk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: OTTO BOCK HEALTHCARE GMBH
    Inventors: Matthias VOLLBRECHT, Klaus LIDOLT, Alexander VON ASCHEBERG
  • Publication number: 20160354227
    Abstract: A custom oral splint that is operatively secured to the maxilla and mandible of a subject/patient to assist in reduction and provide maintenance of reduction of maxillary and mandibular fractures in the edentulous or partially edentulous subject/patient. In this difficult patient population, there are very limited options for maxillomandibular fixation, and none provide stable reduction of fractures. The novel device minimizes operative time and equipment, as well as offers the ability to transition the patient from rigid fixation to elastics postoperatively. The novel device is custom-designed for each patient's degree of bone atrophy, ensuring a high quality, and effective product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: University of South Florida
    Inventors: Summer Joy Decker, Jonathan Michael Ford, Jessica Allen Ching
  • Publication number: 20160354228
    Abstract: A device for healing of decubitus and other non-healing ulcers includes a protective wrap that has air filled bubbles that cushion and relive pressure on a patient that is wrapped therein. In one embodiment, a full body wrap covers almost all of the patient. A torso only embodiment allows the patient's legs to remain free while providing healing for any ulcer located on the torso. In use, the patient is easily rolled into different positions to relieve pressure by simply rotating them since they are enclosed in a cylindrical wrap. The patient lies on the open protective wrap and then a left and right portion is wrapped around the patient and secured using a hook and loop fastener. The protective wrap is used and disposed of. The wrap may be cleaned and used again, but should not be used with multiple patients.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Abbas M. HUSAIN
  • Publication number: 20160354229
    Abstract: A wearable limb restraint comprises a resilient flexible cord having a first end and a second end. A magnet is disposed at each of the first end and the second end of the cord. The magnets are configured to removably attach to each other one in order to form a closed loop with the cord.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Gregory L. Ruff
  • Publication number: 20160354230
    Abstract: A female urination aid allowing hygienic upright urination includes a ring. A shell is coupled to an inner perimeter of the ring. The shell is collapsible and has a bottom, which is open. The bottom has a circumference that is dimensionally smaller than the inner perimeter, such that the shell is funnel shaped. A grasp is coupled to the shell proximate to the bottom. The ring is configured for sealable placement around a vulva of a user. The grasp is configured for grasping by the user to deploy the shell from a collapsed positioned to an extended position. The bottom of the shell is distally positioned relative to the ring, such that the shell is configured to direct urine away from the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Muhammad Abuhaikal
  • Publication number: 20160354231
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a system for improving a user's breathing includes a mask configured to be positioned on a user's face to deliver gas to the user, a first oral appliance arch configured to be worn in the user's mouth on the user's mandibular dentition, a first tension element coupled to the first oral appliance arch, an adjustment device coupled to the mask, and a control system. The adjustment device is configured to receive the first tension element and to adjust the position of the first tension element to adjust the forward position of the first oral appliance arch, such that the when the mask is positioned on the user's face and the first oral appliance arch is worn on a user's mandibular dentition, the forward position of the user's mandible is adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: W. Keith Thornton, Alastair E. McAuley
  • Publication number: 20160354232
    Abstract: A cooling pad and system for patient care. The cooling pad includes an upper chamber, a lower chamber, and an intermediate chamber interposed between the upper chamber and the lower chamber. The upper chamber has an internal space and an inlet to accommodate a first cooling medium provided from an external source. The intermediate chamber contains a second cooling medium for transferring hypothermia from the upper chamber to the lower chamber. The lower chamber contains a third cooling medium to deliver hypothermia to the patient's skin. The cooling system can include one or more cooling pads adapted to be positioned on the patient's head and/or neck, and one or more containers for storing the first cooling medium and supplying the first cooling medium to the cooling pad(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Renato Rozental
  • Publication number: 20160354233
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the treatment of injuries or pain associated with the neck, spine, lower back, sacrum or central nervous system. Apparatus can also be used to cool and relax the body. The particular embodiment utilizes a neck wrap that is activated to produce an endothermic reaction to draw heat from, or apply cold to, the neck, spine and central nervous system. A clear or transparent layer is also used to help with visual inspection. In another embodiment a neck wrap contains ice cubes to draw heat from, or apply cold to, the neck, spine and central nervous system. Layers are used to accomplish different applications and colors are used to associate with selected sport teams colors or camouflaged as may be required in a battlefield environment. Another embodiment utilizes a similar device and design for a lower back wrap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Stanley Sansone, Dylan J. Sansone
  • Publication number: 20160354234
    Abstract: A system and method for adding or removing heat from a heat exchange fluid circulating between an external heat exchanger and an intravascular heat exchange catheter is described. The system includes a two stage cooling system providing for a high rate of cooling in one stage and a lower rate of cooling in a second stage. Both stages may be used to provide maximal cooling while the second stage is used to provide improved control of the cooling rate as a target temperature is approached. The second stage may also be used to provide heat to the heat exchange fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: ZOLL CIRCULATION, INC.
    Inventor: Jeremy Dabrowiak
  • Publication number: 20160354235
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for temperature modification of a patient, or selected regions thereof, including an induced state of hypothermia. The temperature modification is accomplished using an in-dwelling heat exchange catheter within which a fluid heat exchange medium circulates. A heat exchange cassette is attached to the circulatory conduits of the catheter, the heat exchange cassette being sized to engage a cavity within a control unit. The control unit includes a heater/cooler device for providing heated or cooled fluid to a heat exchanger in thermal communication with the fluid heat exchange medium circulating to the heat exchange catheter, a user input device, and a processor connected to receive input from various sensors around the body and the system. A temperature control scheme for ramping the body temperature up or down without overshoot is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: ZOLL CIRCULATION, INC.
    Inventors: David J. Scott, Ben F. Brian, Lloyd F. Wright, Leo A. Chin, Edward W. Hollmen, Daniel W. Seegars, Mark A. Logan
  • Publication number: 20160354236
    Abstract: A method for treating acute coronary syndromes (i.e., unstable angina or non-Q-wave MI) or transient ischemic attacks in a human or animal patient by placing a heat exchange apparatus in the patient=s vasculature and using that heat exchange apparatus to cool the patient to a temperature (e.g. 30-36 degrees C.) at which platelet inhibition (i.e., inhibition of platelet activation and/or aggregation and/or adhesion) occurs. Anti-shivering drugs or anesthesia may be administered to patients whose body temperature is cooled below that patient=s shivering threshold (typically approximately 35.5 degrees C.). If it is determined that platelet inhibition is no longer desirable, such as when the patient is about to undergo a surgical or interventional procedure wherein bleeding could be problematic, the hypothermia-induced platelet inhibition may be rapidly reversed by using the intravascular heat exchange apparatus to re-warm the patient=s body to normothermia or near normothermia.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Michael W. Dae, Timothy R. Machold, Wade A. Keller
  • Publication number: 20160354237
    Abstract: Methods, devices, and systems employ cryolysis of oropharyngeal adipose tissues to selectively remove fat cells from the tissues causing obstructive sleep apnea. In various embodiments, a chilled liquid—e.g., a liquid or air—is applied to the target tissue at a temperature and for a duration sufficient to cause cryolysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Donald A. GONZALES, Anthony NATALE
  • Publication number: 20160354238
    Abstract: The invention provides a positioning device for use in an examination, procedure or surgery of the eye. The positioning device includes an incurvate body with an upper peripheral edge having a first arc length, a lower peripheral edge having a second arc length, and a curved lateral portion therebetween. The lower peripheral edge has an arc length that is longer than the first arc length, as well as one to eight indentations of a size effective to receive a surgical instrument. The incurvate body of the positioning device of the invention is configured to engage at least a portion of the eye posterior to the corneal limbus and beneath which the pars plana is located. The positioning device can also include a handle pivotably attached to the incurvate body. The positioning device can be used to stabilize the eye as well as assist in accurate positioning of instruments during eye examination, procedure or surgery involving the anterior or posterior segment of the eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: SAMIR SAYEGH
  • Publication number: 20160354239
    Abstract: The invention concerns an ocular iontophoresis device for delivering at least one active substance to an eyeball, comprising: a wall defining a tubular-shaped body delimitating laterally a reservoir configured for receiving the active substance(s), the wall comprising a circular distal end configured for being positioned on an ocular surface of the eyeball and surrounding the cornea and a part of the sclera of the eyeball, a first electrode configured to be positioned in front of the sclera, said first electrode being configured for delivering a first current density to the active substance(s) of the reservoir, the first electrode defining an annular-shaped first surface that is arranged in a peripheral part of the reservoir, a second electrode configured to be positioned in front of the cornea, said second electrode being configured for delivering a second current density to the active substance(s) of the reservoir, the second electrode defining a disk-shaped second surface that is arranged in a central part
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: OPIA TECHNOLOGIES
    Inventor: Pierre Roy
  • Publication number: 20160354240
    Abstract: A device for the delivery of eye drops to one or both eyes of a patient includes a frame for placement over the patient's eyes, a holder for a commercially available eye drop bottle and a fluid delivery means. The eye drop delivery device can include a video camera to monitor the opening and closing of the eyes and a processor or a connector to a remote processor with software to receive input from the camera and deliver output to the delivery means to start and stop delivery of eye drops to the patient's eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Anuj Chauhan, Carrie Chauhan
  • Publication number: 20160354241
    Abstract: Laser assisted cataract surgery methods and devices utilize one or more treatment laser beams to create a shaped opening in the anterior lens capsule of the eye when performing a capsulorrhexis procedure. A light absorbing agent may be applied to the anterior lens capsule to facilitate laser thermal separation of tissue along a treatment beam path on the lens capsule. Relative or absolute reflectance from the eye, and optionally from a surgical contact lens, may be measured to confirm and optionally quantify the presence of the light absorbing agent, before the treatment beam is applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: David H. MORDAUNT, Kingman YEE
  • Publication number: 20160354242
    Abstract: A system for ophthalmic surgery on an eye includes: a pulsed laser which produces a treatment beam; an OCT imaging assembly capable of creating a continuous depth profile of the eye; an optical scanning system configured to position a focal zone of the treatment beam to a targeted location in three dimensions in one or more floaters in the posterior pole. The system also includes one or more controllers programmed to automatically scan tissues of the patient's eye with the imaging assembly; identify one or more boundaries of the one or more floaters based at least in part on the image data; iii. identify one or more treatment regions based upon the boundaries; and operate the optical scanning system with the pulsed laser to produce a treatment beam directed in a pattern based on the one or more treatment regions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Daniel V. Palanker, Mark S. Blumenkranz, David H. Mordaunt, Dan E. Andersen
  • Publication number: 20160354243
    Abstract: A method of irrigating a surgical site and aspirating fluid from the surgical site. The method includes directing a fluid through an aspiration conduit in a phacoemulsification hand piece using a vacuum pressure created from a pump in the hand piece interfacing with the aspiration conduit and directing an irrigation fluid through an irrigation conduit in the hand piece using a pressure created from the pump interfacing with the irrigation conduit. The method also includes increasing an irrigation fluid flow through the irrigation conduit by activating the pump in the hand piece, detecting a pressure associated with a surgical site using a sensor, and controlling intraocular pressure (IOP) by adjusting the pump speed based on the detected pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Partha Chandrakant, Daniel J. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20160354244
    Abstract: Placing an intraocular shunt ab externo into an eye can include inserting the shunt into the eye and either before and/or after insertion, ballooning a target outflow region of the eye to permit an outflow end of the shunt to be enveloped within the ballooned target outflow region. An injector docking device can optionally be used to guide insertion of the needle and shunt into the eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Christopher HORVATH, Laszlo O. ROMODA
  • Publication number: 20160354245
    Abstract: Placing an intraocular shunt ab externo into an eye can include inserting the shunt into the eye and either before and/or after insertion, ballooning a target outflow region of the eye to permit an outflow end of the shunt to be enveloped within the ballooned target outflow region. An injector docking device can optionally be used to guide insertion of the needle and shunt into the eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Christopher HORVATH, Laszlo O. ROMODA
  • Publication number: 20160354246
    Abstract: An ophthalmic system may comprise an imaging device having a field of view oriented toward the eye of the patient; a patient interface housing defining a passage therethrough, having a distal end coupled to one or more seals configured to be directly engaged with one or more surfaces of the eye of the patient, and wherein the proximal end is configured to be coupled to the patient workstation such that at least a portion of the field of view of the imaging device passes through the passage; and two or more registration fiducials coupled to the patient interface housing in a predetermined geometric configuration relative to the patient interface housing within the field of view of the imaging device such that they may be imaged by the imaging device in reference to predetermined geometric markers on the eye of the patient which may also be imaged by the imaging device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Phillip Gooding, Michael Wiltberger, Christine Beltran, Jonathan Talamo
  • Publication number: 20160354247
    Abstract: A system for ophthalmic surgery on an eye includes: a pulsed laser which produces a treatment beam; an OCT imaging assembly capable of creating a continuous depth profile of the eye; an optical scanning system configured to position a focal zone of the treatment beam to a targeted location in three dimensions in one or more floaters in the posterior pole. The system also includes one or more controllers programmed to automatically scan tissues of the patient's eye with the imaging assembly; identify one or more boundaries of the one or more floaters based at least in part on the image data; iii. identify one or more treatment regions based upon the boundaries; and operate the optical scanning system with the pulsed laser to produce a treatment beam directed in a pattern based on the one or more treatment regions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Daniel V. Palanker, Mark S. Blumenkranz, David H. Mordaunt, Dan E. Andersen
  • Publication number: 20160354248
    Abstract: A microsurgical device and methods of its use can be used for treatment of various conditions including eye diseases, such as glaucoma, using minimally invasive surgical techniques. A dual-blade device can be used for cutting the trabecular meshwork (“TM”) in the eye. The device tip provides entry into the Schlemm's canal via its size (i.e., for example, 0.2-0.3 mm width) and configuration where a ramp elevates the TM away from the outer wall of the Schlemm's canal and guides the TM to first and second lateral elements for creating first and second incisions through the TM. The dimensions and configuration of the blade is such that an entire strip of TM is removed without leaving TM leaflets behind and without causing collateral damage to adjacent tissues.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Malik Y. KAHOOK
  • Publication number: 20160354249
    Abstract: Goggles are providing having a lens arrangement having two side end regions, a frame, a head holding arrangement, and two coupling arrangements for the releasable connection thereof to one another. Each coupling arrangement includes a first coupling device arranged on the lens arrangement and a respective second coupling device, which is arranged on the head holding arrangement and has a head holding arrangement part receiver to partly receive the respective first coupling device and a pivotable holding body with a holding device. Each holding body and each first coupling device of the respective coupling arrangement, in the assembled state of the goggles, have an articulated connection to one another by at least one joint projection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Harald FRANK, Michael BRANDIS, Johannes KAILAS, Manfred TAUBER