Abstract: Intra-uterine system for inserting an active substance in an uterus, wherein the system comprises two flexible arms that extend from a central part in essentially mutually opposed directions, and retention means for the active substance, wherein during use the system is entered into the uterus, wherein an elongated housing extends from the central part at essentially equal angles with the flexible arms, wherein the housing comprises a storage container as retention means for the active substance, an outlet opening, a pump system, a control unit for controlled pumping of the active substance from the storage container through the outlet opening into the uterus and a energy storage means for supplying energy to the pump system and to the control unit.

Abstract: The invention describes methods and apparatus for creating permanent occlusion of body lumens such as the fallopian tubes. The methods and apparatus use non-surgical approaches to deliver permanent implants which create acute occlusion of desired body lumens which resolve to permanent occlusions of the lumens.

Abstract: An intrauterine device (IUD) for delivering bioactive substances in the uterine cavity includes a plastic frame affixed to a drug delivery compartment. The frame retains the IUD in the uterine cavity and prevents displacement and expulsion. The frame is shaped like the letter “omega” having two resilient arms which possess latero-lateral memory. The extremities of the arms are provided by a short side-arm which forms an angle with the rest of the arm. These prominent plastic parts facilitate the upward rotation of the arms during removal of the intrauterine device. The drug delivery compartment has an element at its upper extremity to determine the exact location of the IUD in the uterine cavity by ultrasound. The drug delivery compartment contains one or more drugs which are gradually released in the uterine cavity over extended periods of time.

Abstract: A retrievable intrauterine device for placing within the uterine cavity one or more encapsulated elements (1) capable of having interactions with the uterine fluid comprising an intrauterine device loaded with said encapsulated elements (1).

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present inventions provide stabilization devices and methods for use of the stabilization devices with minimally invasive gynecological procedures such as methods of preventing pregnancy by inserting intrafallopian contraceptive devices into the fallopian tubes.

Abstract: According to one claim of the invention, a method for occluding a fallopian tube in a vertebrate subject is described, which comprises comprising transcervically delivering a solid blocking material into the fallopian tube. In various embodiments, a fluid sealing material is delivered along with the solid blocking material. Other claims of the invention pertain to articles of manufacture, delivery devices and kits for use in occluding the fallopian tubes of a vertebrate subject.

Abstract: The present disclosure is related to an intrauterine system (insertion device) including an intrauterine device (IUD), an insertion device or applicator for inserting the IUD into the cervix of a female patient, methods related to the insertion procedure, and methods of manufacture for the insertion device.

Abstract: An intrauterine system for the retention of a biologically active compound within the uterus of a female mammal is formed by a frame defining an interior space for receipt of a deposit of the compound. The frame has an open structure allowing access to a substantial part of an outer surface of the deposit and the deposit has a rate controlling structure that controls a rate of release of the compound within the uterus. Retention elements are provided on the frame for retaining the frame within the uterus.

Abstract: A frameless copper-releasing contraceptive IUD or a hormone-releasing contraceptive IUS, includes a suture thread (3), supporting the active component(s) and an anchor (5) to be inserted in the wall of the uterus with a specially designed applicator or inserter in order to secure the IUD/IUS in the uterine cavity. The anchor consists of a knot made at one end of the thread. A tiny metal tube (6), preferably of stainless steel, is threaded onto the thread and fixed immediately below or above the anchoring knot to make the anchor visible on ultrasound and/or x-ray. The anchoring knot may be provided with a tightly fitting ogival, bell or cone-shaped cap consisting of a biodegradable polymer. The active element (2) consists for example of a succession of threaded copper cylinders.

Abstract: The recoverable intra-uterine system comprises a housing capable of containing one or a plurality of elements selected from among the group comprising an embryo, male and/or female gametes, a fertilized oocyte, and unfertilized ovum and a combination of these elements, the housing having along an axis a distal end and a proximal end, and a device for holding the recoverable intra-uterine device in the uterus. The holding device is arranged at the proximal end of the housing and includes at least one holding arm in the uterine cavity capable of taking at least two positions: —one free position in which at least one holding arm is separated from the axis; and —a retracted position in which at least one holding arm is substantially parallel to the axis. Use in medically assisted reproduction techniques.

Abstract: An intrauterine system (1) for the retention of a biologically active compound within the uterus of a female mammal is formed by a frame (16) defining an interior space (20) for receipt of a deposit of the compound (22). The frame has an open structure (18) allowing access to a substantial part of an outer surface of the deposit and the deposit has a rate controlling structure that controls a rate of release of the compound within the Uterus. Retention elements (6) are provided on the frame for retaining the frame within the uterus.

Abstract: The invention described is directed to an intracorporeal occluding device having elements with non-traumatic ends and devices, systems and methods for occluding the lumens of anatomical passageways and/or for delivering drugs or other substances to the bodies of human or animal subjects.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device adapted for occluding the ovarian pathway of a female body for sterilization purposes. The device delivers RF energy to wound tissue at a desired location within at least one fallopian tube and implants a porous foam plug adjacent to the wounded tissue at said location. Depending on the plug's pore sizes, vascularized tissue may grow into the plug to prevent or discourage the formation of scar tissue around the plug and/or a vascularized capsule may form around the plug, which limits the patient's foreign body response so that the capsule does not constrict around the plug.

Abstract: An inserter for placing a T-shaped intrauterine device inside a patient's uterus and a T-shaped intrauterine device are disclosed. The inserter includes a sleeve part and a plunger part, the sleeve part includes a tube and a first engaging member and the plunger part includes a rod, a handle attached to the rod and a second engaging member. The first and the second engaging members are configured for reversibly engaging the sleeve part and the plunger part to temporarily lock the relative position between the tube and the rod. The T-shaped intrauterine device includes a pair of wings having a relaxed extended configuration and a contracted folded configuration and an elongated contraceptive body suspended from a junction between the wings.

Abstract: An intrauterine device for applying force to a wall of a uterus to promote contraception without blocking the fallopian tubes may include an elongate member formed of a resilient material and having a default expanded configuration and a spring portion disposed approximately at a midpoint between two ends of the elongate member. The IUD may also include two tissue contact members, one tissue contact member disposed at one of the two ends of the elongate member and the other tissue contact member disposed at the other end. The tissue contact members may generate a laterally directed force against the wall of the uterus when the intrauterine device assumes its default expanded configuration.

Abstract: An intrauterine contraceptive device comprising a carrier body (1) and an active metallic alloy (4), characterized in that the active metallic alloy is of the formula ZnxCuyMnzAuk (I) or ZnxCuyMnzAgk (II), wherein x+y+z+k=100 weight %, x is in the range from approximately 18 to 30 weight %, z is in the range from approximately 0.5 to 3 weight %, and k is in the range from approximately 3 to 12 weight %, y being the balance.

Abstract: An intrauterine device and more specifically an intracervical device (ICD) for the local release of drugs in the loco-regional treatment of tumours of the uterine cervix comprises an elongated stem (2) to be positioned in the cervical canal (15), this stem consisting of an inner hollow core (3) and a coating (4) containing a gradual-release drug, the stem being attached to: a first element (5) for blocking the stem (2) inside the uterine cavity (12), and located at the cranial or upper end; a second blocking element (7, 71) positioned inside the vagina (11), against the ectocervix (16), located at the caudal or lower end of the stem (2).

Abstract: The present invention discloses an Intra Uterine Ball (IUB) device useful for a gynecological procedure or treatment. The aforesaid device comprises a hollow sleeve for at least partial insertion into the uterine cavity; and, an elongate conformable member with at least a portion comprised of shape memory alloy. The elongate member is adapted to be pushed out from said sleeve within said uterine cavity. It is the core of the invention that the elongate member is adapted to conform into a predetermined three dimensional ball-like configuration within said uterine cavity following its emergence from said sleeve, such that expulsion from said uterine cavity, malposition in said uterine cavity, and perforation of the uterine walls is prevented.

Abstract: An intrauterine device for delivering bioactive substances in the uterine cavity includes a plastic frame affixed to a drug delivery compartment. In use, the frame retains the IUD in the uterine cavity and prevents displacement and expulsion. The frame is shaped like the letter “omega” having two resilient arms which possess latero-lateral memory. The extremities of the arms are provided by a short side-arm which forms an angle with the rest of the arm. These prominent plastic parts facilitate the upward rotation of the arms during removal of the intrauterine device. Due to the resilience of the arms, the frame adapts to cavities of every size, maximizing tolerance. The drug delivery compartment has an element at its upper extremity to determine the exact location of the IUD in the uterine cavity by ultrasound. The drug delivery compartment contains one or more drugs which are gradually released in the uterine cavity over extended periods of time.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for contraception and for reducing menstrual problems and inducing amenorrhea, wherein an intrauterine delivery device is used for the controlled release of a combination of progestogen or a drug having a progestogenic activity and at least one therapeutically active substance capable of preventing or suppressing abnormal and/or irregular endometrial bleeding over a prolonged period of time.

Abstract: A frame of an intrauterine system which includes an elongate member having at its first end a transverse member including a first wing and a second wing, first ends of the wings being attached to the elongate member. The first and second wings are symmetrically bent towards a second end of the elongate member so that an angle a formed between the elongate member and the first or second wing is 10°-60°. The second ends of the wings are symmetrically bent towards the elongate member by an angle ? that is 40°-140°.

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present inventions provide stabilization devices and methods for use of the stabilization devices with minimally invasive gynecological procedures such as methods of preventing pregnancy by inserting intrafallopian contraceptive devices into the fallopian tubes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel intrauterine systems and to methods for manufacturing these systems. An intrauterine system according to the invention comprises a reservoir and a continuous, closed and flexible frame.

Abstract: An intrauterine system (1) for the retention of a biologically active compound within the uterus of a female mammal is formed by a frame (16) defining an interior space (20) for receipt of a deposit of the compound (22). The frame has an open structure (18) allowing access to a substantial part of an outer surface of the deposit and the deposit has a rate controlling structure that controls a rate of release of the compound within the Uterus. Retention elements (6) are provided on the frame for retaining the frame within the uterus.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved rim designs for diaphragms or any similar intravaginal device and methods for producing same. The rim designs of the present invention improve, among other characteristics of the rim, structural durability, manufacturability, ease of insertion, comfort in use, and ease of removal of intravaginal devices. These designs incorporate one or more recesses in the inner portion of a rim piece that provide an attachment site for a separate dome piece. Attachment within a recess shields the exposed outer edge of the dome material from contact with epithelial surfaces and improves comfort and safety. In certain embodiments of the invention, a thinned inner portion of the rim serves as a handle that can be easily grasped by a finger to remove the device from the vagina. These devices are useful in providing a protective cervical barrier for contraception and disease prevention, to deliver beneficial agents, and as a means to collect and remove substances from the vagina.

Abstract: The invention relates to an drug delivery device and a method for delivering multiple drugs over a prolonged period of time. The drug delivery device has two or more unitary segments comprising a drug-permeable polymeric substance, wherein at least one of the segments further comprises a pharmaceutically active agent. The invention also relates to a method for the treatment of a benign ovarian secretory disorder in a female mammal, a method of contraception, and a method of relieving the symptoms associated with menopausal, perimenopausal and post-menopausal periods in a woman.

Abstract: Devices, such as medical devices for inhibiting conception, and methods of using and/or making these devices. In one aspect of the disclosure, a medical device has a delivery system and a first insert, which is removably coupled to the delivery system and which is designed to be deployed within a portion of a first fallopian tube, and a second insert, which is removably coupled to the delivery system and which is designed to be deployed within a portion of a second fallopian tube. Other aspects of the disclosure include, among other things, inserts made from one or more polymers; inserts which are designed to pierce and remain in place; and inserts which are implanted through a fluid delivery system.

Abstract: A container for dispensing fluids, powders, medications, or aerosolized contents in pre-measured amounts at the moment of delivery. The container can be used to apply a condom or condom like device to the penis in the correct-way-on direction. A detachably-attached polymer or latex film, which serves as the vehicle of delivery, and which could be a condom is located at one end and is rolled over the outside of the package which may or may not have a leak proof layer. To dispense the condom on a penis or fit the film on any extremity, the extremity is inserted into the package and by virtue either of such insertion and/or by virtue of flexing the package to fracture an internal frangible membrane. The membrane may be attached to, or a part of a reservoir that is adhered to the inner walls of the package.

Abstract: The present invention relates to ultrasonically detectable intrauterine systems and to a method for enhancing ultrasound detection of these systems. An intrauterine system having an inert metal coating on at least part of the body of the intrauterine system or at least one inert metal clip, pin, ring or sleeve fixedly positioned on the body of the intrauterine system is described.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of use or treatment are disclosed for creating intrauterine adhesions resulting in amenorrhea. In particular, the apparatus relates to an easily deployed intrauterine implant that readily and consistently reduces or eliminates abnormal intrauterine bleeding. In addition, the apparatus is also used as a uterine marker device for visualizing endometrial tissue thickness and potential changes. The method of the present invention serves as a supplement to or a replacement for conventional hysterectomy or ablation/resection procedures used to treat menorrhagia.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a kit for the prevention of conception and infection by sexually transmitted infections, said kit comprising the combination of a barrier-type device, a vaginal applicator, and a prophylactic agent. The present invention also relates to a barrier-type device for the prevention of conception and infection by sexually transmitted infections. The present invention also relates to a vaginal applicator useful for depositing a prophylactic agent in divided doses and in multiple directions over the barrier-type device and over a desired area of the cervix and the vagina.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of use or treatment are disclosed for creating intrauterine adhesions resulting in amenorrhea. In particular, the apparatus relates to an easily deployed intrauterine implant that readily and consistently reduces or eliminates abnormal intrauterine bleeding. In addition, the apparatus is also used as a uterine marker device for visualizing endometrial tissue thickness and potential changes. The method of the present invention serves as a supplement to or a replacement for conventional hysterectomy or ablation/resection procedures used to treat menorrhagia.

Abstract: A T-shaped intrauterine device includes a longitudinal branch constituting a body of the T, to the upper higher of which is connected a transversal stem constituting the arms of the T. The body of the T is made up of a fiber that releases an active substance. The fiber constituting the body of the T presents a transverse channel on its upper part. The arms are inserted by force into the channel to form two equal arms on opposite side of the body. The stem forming the arms presents a curved form so that a wedging force exercised by the body on the stem is such that the latter is usually held in the channel in a position where the arms are oriented downwards of the body, while it is allowed to pivot in the channel until the arms are oriented upwards of the body under the effect of constraint exercised on the arms at the time of the extraction from the womb by an extraction wire of the device.

Abstract: Contraceptive intrauterine devices made of thin film shape memory alloy materials. The devices are formed in three-dimensional shapes which contact uterus tissue of a human or other mammal to prevent conception. In certain embodiments, structural features such as tails, fenestrations, ridges or grooves are formed on the devices to enhance the contraceptive effect.

Abstract: The Kegel exercising device and method for exercising the Kegel muscle may be employed by a female to prevent incontinence, enhance sensitivity during sexual activity and improve genital health. The Kegel exercising device has two spheres respectively for insertion into the vaginal and anal cavities, and an intermediate curved portion which provides resistance against the front wall and the back wall of the Kegel muscle simultaneously. The device of the current invention thus permits a user to exercise the Kegel muscle without having to manipulate the device with her hands.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to devices and processes related to estrus synchronization. Particular embodiments of devices and processes of the present invention slowly release progesterone over a period of time for estrus synchronization.

Abstract: A retrievable intrauterine device for placing within the uterine cavity one or more encapsulated elements (1) capable of having interactions with the uterine fluid comprising an intrauterine device loaded with said encapsulated elements (1).

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to devices and processes related to estrus synchronization. Particular embodiments of devices and processes of the present invention slowly release progesterone over a period of time for estrus synchronization.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an intrauterine device comprising a support 41, and constituents 42, 43 releasing an active ingredient. In accordance with the invention, the active ingredient is constituted by copper with a surface area of 100 to 250 mm2 and by a steroid from the progesterone family with a release rate in the range 10% to 70% of the minimum release rate employed for the steroid concerned when it is used as a contraceptive active ingredient. With the device of the invention, contraceptive efficacy is very high and side effects are substantially reduced.

Abstract: Methods and devices for occlusion of the fallopian tubes of a woman. The method involves thermally damaging the lining of the utero-tubal junction with relatively low power, followed by placement of a reticulated foam plug. In one embodiment, vascularized tissue grows into the plug and prevents or discourages formation of scar tissue around the plug. Another embodiment with a relatively small foam pore size encourages formation of a vascularized capsule around the plug. The presence of this vascularized capsule limits the patient's foreign body response, so that the capsule does not constrict around the plug. Also presented is a catheter designed for wounding the epithelial layer of the utero-tubal junction, and a method of using the catheter to form a long yet shallow lesion in the utero-tubal junction.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of use or treatment are disclosed for creating intrauterine adhesions resulting in amenorrhea. In particular, the apparatus relates to an easily deployed intrauterine implant that readily and consistently reduces or eliminates abnormal intrauterine bleeding. In addition, the apparatus is also used as a uterine marker device for visualizing endometrial tissue thickness and potential changes. The method of the present invention serves as a supplement to or a replacement for conventional hysterectomy or ablation/resection procedures used to treat menorrhagia.

Abstract: A chemical composition, method and product for administration into the vaginal canal. The composition, method and product are effective in preventing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, including the spread of AIDS.

Abstract: Methods and devices for occlusion of the fallopian tubes of a women. The method involves thermally damaging the lining of the utero-tubal junction with relatively low power, followed by placement of a reticulated foam plug. In one embodiment, vascularized tissue grows into the plug and prevents or discourages formation of scar tissue around the plug. Another embodiment with a relatively small foam pore size encourages formation of a vascularized capsule around the plug. The presence of this vascularized capsule limits the patient's foreign body response, so that the capsule does not constrict around the plug. Also presented is a catheter designed for wounding the epithelial layer of the utero-tubal junction, and a method of using the catheter to form a long yet shallow lesion in the utero-tubal junction.

Abstract: The present invention reveals a device, a kit and a method for simultaneously delivering and distributing at least one beneficial agent to both the cervical and vaginal lumen sides of a vagina. The device is made of a flexible circular rim and a flexible dome. The device can exist in either a relaxed state or in a compressed state. In the compressed state, pouches are formed for carrying and delivering the beneficial agent to both the cervical and vaginal lumen sides of the vagina.

Abstract: A method and composition for effecting chemical necrosis of a tissue lining of a mammalian body cavity, particularly a uterine endometrium, by delivering a caustic tissue necrosing composition, e.g., a silver nitrate and dextran paste, to the tissue to be necrosed and allowing the paste to remain in contact with the target tissue for a period of time sufficient to chemically necrose substantially the entirety of the tissue lining, and then contacting the caustic composition with a deactivating agent, e.g., an aqueous sodium chloride solution, thereby rendering the caustic composition non-caustic, and then rinsing the cavity. Compositions and methods for delivering medicaments are also disclosed.

Abstract: An improved sponge device is presented having one loop-chord placed entirely within or through the sponge device to facilitate insertion and removal of an attached ovoid sponge device into and from a body cavity. The improved sponge device can be cylindrical or egg-shaped like design,--which shall be utilized depending upon manufacturing capabilities available. The improved sponge device can be impregnated with; specific spermicides, anti-infectives, lubricants, hormones, antioxidants, amino acids, and other appropriate medicaments, to allow release of impregnated solution(s) from the device into the body cavity. Closely controlled impregnation and/or coating of the sponge device is achieved by a method of manufacture employing one or more methods for impregnating and one or more methods for possible lubrication.

Abstract: An intrauterine device to be used as a contraceptive means designed for insertion into female dogs, that comprises a body and four diverging branches, two of which emerge from the bottom end of the body and the other two exit from the top end of the body substantially in the shape of a V, with both of the branches in the top end having a length that is 4-5 times greater than the length of the body and with each branch of the top end terminating in the shape of a half wedge; the device further having a copper filament wound on the body, and on each of the top end branches, and also having an eyelet in the bottom end of the body for the nylon thread. A method for insertion of said intrauterine device is also provided.

Abstract: A method and composition for effecting chemical necrosis of a tissue lining of a mammalian body cavity, particularly a uterine endometrium, by delivering a caustic tissue necrosing composition, e.g., a silver nitrate and dextran paste, to the tissue to be necrosed and allowing the paste to remain in contact with the target tissue for a period of time sufficient to chemically necrose substantially the entirety of the tissue lining, and then contacting the caustic composition with a deactivating agent, e.g., an aqueous sodium chloride solution, thereby rendering the caustic composition non-caustic, and then rinsing the cavity. Compositions and methods for delivering medicaments are also disclosed.

Abstract: Intravaginal delivery system including a flexible support means, and a delivery means carried by the support means and containing an active agent wherein the support means comprises a core member substantially in the form of an open ring, and the delivery means comprises at least one polymer body which encircles the core member in a beltwise manner along a portion of a length of the core member.

Abstract: In the process for preparing an intravaginal application system for the controlled release of substances, a milled sheet of silicone rubber containing the substances is inserted into one mold component of a split mold. The core of the system is arranged on this milled sheet and is covered with a second milled sheet of the same type. The mold is then closed and the milled sheets are vulcanized at a maximum temperature of 120.degree. C.