Means Moved By Person To Introduce And Remove Material Patents (Class 604/36)
  • Patent number: 11969331
    Abstract: Systems and methods for the intravascular treatment of clot material within a blood vessel of a human patient are disclosed herein. A method in accordance with embodiments of the present technology can include, for example, positioning a distal portion of a catheter proximate to the clot material within the blood vessel. The method can further include coupling a pressure source to the catheter via a tubing subsystem including a valve or other fluid control device and, while the valve is closed, activating the pressure source to charge a vacuum. The valve can then be opened to apply the vacuum to the catheter to thereby aspirate at least a portion of the clot material from the blood vessel and into the catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2024
    Assignee: Inari Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Ben Merritt, Jacqueline Macias, Brian Michael Strauss, Thomas Tu, John Coleman Thress, Paul Lubock
  • Patent number: 11889995
    Abstract: Irrigation and/or aspiration devices and methods may be configured to aspirate and irrigate alone, sequentially, or concurrently. The devices and methods may provide a base with a removable head, and adapted for partial or complete separation of the irrigation and aspiration functions. The devices and methods can be configured to aspirate and/or irrigate the nasal and sinus cavities. The devices and methods may be manually and/or automatically controlled. The devices and methods may include removable, and/or replaceable, and/or refillable, and easily cleanable reservoirs for aspirant and irrigant. The device head and/or aspirant reservoir may comprise a diagnostic device, i.e., test device and/or container after use of the devices and methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: Aardvark Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter C. Baker, Clinton N. Slone, Michael J. Strasser, James M. Lovette, Thomas King, Richard Treadwell
  • Patent number: 11826075
    Abstract: An elongated medical assembly is configured to be maneuverable proximate to a first biological feature of a patient. The elongated medical assembly is also configured to facilitate movement along an elongated length of the elongated medical assembly of a first medical device and a second medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Medical Device Limited
    Inventors: Jackie Leung, Eduardo Moriyama, Gareth Davies, Kaylie Lau
  • Patent number: 11813058
    Abstract: A dressing system is disclosed which has a sponge and a near infrared spectroscopy sensor positioned adjacent to the sponge for monitoring oxygenation levels of tissue adjacent to the sponge. The dressing system may further include a tube coupled to the sponge for removing fluid from the sponge. The dressing system comprises: a sponge; and a tensioning system coupled to the sponge. The tensioning system further comprises a central longitudinal member coupled to the sponge; and at least one tensioning member coupled to the central longitudinal member. A sequential compression system comprises: an envelope sleeve dressing; and a bladder that is both expandable and retractable. A tissue filler system is also described and includes a plurality of tubes; wherein each of the plurality of tubes further comprises apertures; and a pump coupled to at least one of the tubes which obviates the need for any sponge or wound screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: J&M Shuler Medical Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Simms Shuler
  • Patent number: 11596422
    Abstract: An adjustable bowel treatment arm (110) features a telescoping shaft (112) having a proximal end and a distal end. A handle (118) is secured to the distal end of the telescoping shaft, while a pivot junction (122) positioned at the proximal end of the telescoping shaft. A stem has a proximal end and a distal end, where the distal end of the stem is attached to the pivot junction. A head (124) is attached to the proximal end of the stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: Hollister Incorporated
    Inventors: Jerome A. Henry, William K. Arnold, Stephen Collum, Denise Gamblin, Ruchi Seth, Adam Foley, Malford E. Cullum
  • Patent number: 11547628
    Abstract: Systems and methods for nasal irrigation are provided in which a nasal irrigation device includes a source of saline solution, an effluent receptacle, a nasal interface, a vacuum source, a fluid passageway to communicate the source of saline solution with the effluent receptacle through the nasal interface and a nasal cavity of a user, and a switch and valve assembly for selectively controlling the vacuum source and flow of the saline solution through the fluid passageway. The source of saline solution is disposed relative to the device to provide gravitational inducement of the saline solution to the nasal interface in engagement to the device user's nostrils. A combination of the gravitational inducement and a relative vacuum from the effluent receptacle generates a fluid flow for irrigating, cleansing and massaging the nasal cavity and ostia of the user. The entire device is assembled as a hand-held device for convenient lifting and disposal against the user's nostrils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Assignee: RHINOSYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Martin R. Hoke, Paul R. Metcalfe
  • Patent number: 11090194
    Abstract: An external ear canal pressure regulation device including a fluid flow generator, an earpiece having an axial earpiece bore, and a valved conduit fluidicly coupled to the fluid flow generator and the axial earpiece bore, whereby the earpiece has a compliant earpiece external surface configured to sealably engage an external ear canal as a barrier between an external ear canal pressure and an ambient pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: Nocira, LLC
    Inventors: David George, George Buckler, Timothy A. Crown, David Brice Sullivan
  • Patent number: 11058860
    Abstract: A valve is disclosed, the valve comprising a housing having an first opening and a second opening, and an elastomeric member positioned in the housing, the elastomeric member comprising a thickness, a continuous peripheral wall projecting from the thickness, and a slit extending through the thickness, a continuous portion of the peripheral wall creating a continuous sealable contact with the housing and partitioning the housing into an upper section and a lower section, the elastomeric member configured such that upon creating a pressure differential between the upper section and the lower section of the housing causes either: (i) the peripheral wall to deflect from the housing permitting fluid flow around the elastomeric member; or (ii) the slit to open permitting fluid flow through the elastomeric member. Methods using the valve are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: POLY MEDICURE LIMITED
    Inventors: Theodore J. Mosler, Edward P. Browka
  • Patent number: 10286202
    Abstract: A valve is disclosed, the valve comprising a housing having an first opening and a second opening, and an elastomeric member positioned in the housing, the elastomeric member comprising a thickness, a continuous peripheral wall projecting from the thickness, and a slit extending through the thickness, a continuous portion of the peripheral wall creating a continuous sealable contact with the housing and partitioning the housing into an upper section and a lower section, the elastomeric member configured such that upon creating a pressure differential between the upper section and the lower section of the housing causes either: (i) the peripheral wall to deflect from the housing permitting fluid flow around the elastomeric member; or (ii) the slit to open permitting fluid flow through the elastomeric member. Methods using the valve are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: POLY MEDICURE LIMITED
    Inventors: Theodore J. Mosler, Edward P. Browka
  • Patent number: 10220123
    Abstract: An irrigation tool that includes a handle configured for grasping by a hand of a user of the tool having a handgrip displaceable using the hand in a manner that selectively controls the rate of flow of irrigation fluid discharged from the tool. The handgrip includes a compressible chamber mounted to the handle via at least one fluid coupling with the chamber compressible by manually squeezing the handgrip to discharge irrigation fluid. The chamber can be provided by a bulb in operable cooperation with a fluid coupling that provides an irrigation fluid flow-modulating control valve arrangement responsive to the magnitude and rate of applied squeezing force. The tool can include an aspirator having a suction passage integrally formed in the handle with a suction control valve operable using the same hand used to control irrigation fluid flow producing a hand-held hand operated combination irrigation and suction tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: Camodo, LLC
    Inventors: Charles J. Monty, Philippe A. Capraro, Thomas S. Doig
  • Patent number: 9757284
    Abstract: A method of making an absorbent composite that includes a first fabric, a second fabric, and particles positioned between the two fabrics and absorbent articles made from the absorbent composite. The particles are secured between the two fabric using adhesive, thermal plastic or combinations thereof. The fabrics are bonded together in a manner that limits particle movement between the fabrics. The bond pattern may define pockets or other shapes. In applications in which the bond pattern forms pockets, the particles may be positioned in the pockets. The particles may be SAP particles or other particles with advantageous properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: DSG Technology Holdings Ltd.
    Inventors: Patrick King Yu Tsang, Kuo-Shu Edward Chang, Andrew C. Wright
  • Patent number: 9724474
    Abstract: A syringe with a filter is disclosed. When liquid medicine for treatment such as an analgesic is suctioned into the syringe by using a syringe needle and then injected into a human body through the syringe needle, foreign substances generated in an ampule and the like are filtered in the syringe prior to the liquid medicine being injected into the human body as the foreign substances are suctioned into the syringe through the syringe needle. In addition, the filter is configured so that the filter can be installed into the syringe with ease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Zamat Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Keun-Bae Kim
  • Patent number: 9314570
    Abstract: A filter needle for a syringe including a syringe needle having a needle, a fixing member for fixing the needle and an inner space formed in the fixing member, and a syringe body having a cylinder, a piston and a front end separably installed in the inner space of the fixing member of the syringe needle, is provided. The filter needle includes a filter structure installed in the inner space of the fixing member of the syringe needle and including an one-way inlet path having an inlet and an one-way outlet path having an outlet, each of which has a check valve function, and a filter installed in the outlet path at a rear end of the outlet to filter a foreign substance, which is input through the inlet together with a medicament liquid, from the medicament liquid such that the medicament liquid is only injected into a patient through the outlet when injecting the medicament liquid into the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: ZAMART CO., LTD
    Inventor: Keun-Bae Kim
  • Patent number: 9265883
    Abstract: Disclosed is a filter needle in which a filter structure is embedded in the inner space of a fixing member of a syringe needle. The filter structure has an inlet and an outlet, each of which functions as a check valve, and an inlet path and an outlet path provided with a filter, wherein the inlet path and the outlet path are formed at the rear end of the filter structure. Thus, when a medicament liquid flows out from the ampoule and injected into a patient, foreign substances, such as powder generated during the opening of an ampoule, which otherwise might be introduced into the main body of a syringe and injected into a patient, are filtered by a filter. The filter needle enables the medicament liquid to be injected into the patient without exchanging the syringe. The filter needle is integrally formed of medical silicone to enable easy assembly and safety during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: ZAMART CO., LTD
    Inventor: Keun-Bae Kim
  • Patent number: 9033911
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus provide a therapeutic fluid to devices implanted in the body, for example to containers of devices implanted in the eye of a patient. The methods and apparatus may comprise an injector to increase an amount of therapeutic agent injected into the device implanted in the eye, or a structure to receive the therapeutic fluid within the device implanted in the eye, or combinations thereof. The device implanted in the eye may comprise a reservoir chamber having a fluid with a density different than the therapeutic fluid, and the apparatus can be adapted to at least partially separate the implanted device fluid from therapeutic fluid within the reservoir chamber to increase and amount of therapeutic fluid placed in the reservoir chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: ForSight Vision4, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene de Juan, Jr., Yair Alster, Kathleen Cogan Farinas, K. Angela MacFarlane, Cary J. Reich, Randolph E. Campbell, Darren Doud, Signe Erickson, Mike Barrett, David Batten, Christina Skieller, Greg Stine
  • Patent number: 9022971
    Abstract: An apparatus that includes two syringes, or a “double barrel syringe,” includes one syringe that injects or infuses while the other syringe aspirates. In the double barrel syringe, injection and aspiration may be effected by a single action. The double barrel syringe may include a handle with two members. A first member of such a handle includes one arm that pivotally couples to a plunger of a first syringe and another arm that pivotally couples to a barrel of a second syringe. A second member of the handle includes one arm that pivotally couples to a barrel of the first syringe and another arm that pivotally couples to a plunger of the second syringe. Methods for injecting or infusing simultaneously with aspirating are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Control Medical Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Shawn P. Fojtik
  • Patent number: 8905032
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. H. Chu, Jianmin Li, Hamid Davoudi
  • Patent number: 8827891
    Abstract: A device that can be delivered into a body cavity to manipulate tissue intracorporeally while being controlled extracorporeally and a method of using the device to perform a single-port laparoscopic or natural orifice surgery. The device is being capable of being passed through an interior diameter of a single port into the body cavity. The device comprises an anchor or suspension element that is attachable or mountable to the tissue intracorporeally, a guide element attached to the anchor or suspension element that allows for manipulation of at least one structure in at least one direction, and at least one structure attached to a suture or thread that is passable through the interior diameter of the port and positionable by the guide element. The structure is controllable extracorporeally by manipulating the suture or thread so that the structure moves in at least one direction intracorporeally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Yale University
    Inventor: Kurt Eric Roberts
  • Patent number: 8814841
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring a volume of a wound are described, the method comprising the steps of: applying a dressing over a wound, the volume of which is to be measured, the dressing including at least a sealing drape over the wound so as to create a sealed wound cavity; creating a vacuum in said wound cavity by vacuum pump means so as to produce a predetermined vacuum in the wound cavity; measuring a volume of air extracted from said wound cavity in producing said predetermined vacuum; and, calculating a volume of said wound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew PLC
    Inventor: Edward Hartwell
  • Patent number: 8808226
    Abstract: A device for irrigating a body cavity is disclosed. The device comprises a first pump and a second pump being operatively linked via a manually-operated actuator member. The actuator member has at least a mode in which the actuator member activates the first pump to eject an initial volume of fluid out of the device, and a mode in which the actuator member activates the second pump to eject fluid out of the device and simultaneously activates the first pump to withdraw fluid into the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Hospitech Respiration Ltd.
    Inventor: Israel Deutsch
  • Patent number: 8784300
    Abstract: Pleural empyema removal devices are provided and enable the removal of empyema from the pleural cavity of a human or veterinary patient. The pleural empyema removal devices may be coupled with one or more additional devices, such as suction source, gas source, light source and/or camera source, and monitor. The devices and systems including the devices facilitate the removal of empyema from the pleural cavity of a patient while providing protections from damage to untargeted tissues. The devices, systems, and methods can be used in the treatment process to treat pleural empyema resulting from pleural effusions and infections stemming from various illnesses and disorders, such as pneumonia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Children's Hospital & Research Center Oakland
    Inventors: Olajire Idowu, Sunghoon Kim
  • Patent number: 8740874
    Abstract: A catheter includes an elongate body having first and second chambers extending within the elongate body from a proximal end to an intermediate section, the first chamber having a first opening and the second chamber having a second opening at the intermediate section. The catheter also includes a valve structure that may have first and second barrier elements to open or close the first and second openings, respectively. The first and the second barrier elements may be coupled by a connecting structure moving within an opening in a guide structure. Alternatively, the first and the second barrier elements may be coupled in a U-shaped structure that moves over the guide structure. To permit flushing of the chambers when the first and second openings are closed, the first and second chambers may also be connected by a connecting channel defined by an opening in a wall of the elongate body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Phase One Medical, LLC
    Inventor: Adrian C. Ravenscroft
  • Patent number: 8622953
    Abstract: A selective filtering collection and delivery system for collecting and delivering autogenous bone to and from a surgical site is provided. The selective filtering collection device includes a suction nozzle, suction nozzle assembly and a vacuum source. Disposed in parallel between the suction nozzle assembly and the vacuum source are a removable filter cartridge and a filter bypass tube. A switch on the suction nozzle assembly may be actuated to provide suction to the suction nozzle through either the bypass tube or through the filter cartridge. When suction is applied through the filter cartridge, autogenous bone is collected on a filter medium within the cartridge. Additionally, the cartridge may be removed and directly placed into a delivery device. The delivery device includes a ratchet system that actuates a plunger base to accurately extrude the bone material from the filter cartridge into the desired surgical location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventors: Richard A. Hynes, J. Todd Strong
  • Patent number: 8622997
    Abstract: A system in accordance with embodiments of the present invention includes a cannula interconnected to a collection vessel by a flexible conduit. The collection vessel can comprise an impermeable or permeable collection vessel. The collection vessel is contained within a collection container, and can feature a tapered end. An air inlet may be provided in the flexible conduit and/or in a collection canister lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Ronald D. Shippert
  • Publication number: 20130324918
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus provide a therapeutic fluid to devices implanted in the body, for example to containers of devices implanted in the eye of a patient. The methods and apparatus may comprise an injector to increase an amount of therapeutic agent injected into the device implanted in the eye, or a structure to receive the therapeutic fluid within the device implanted in the eye, or combinations thereof. The device implanted in the eye may comprise a reservoir chamber having a fluid with a density different than the therapeutic fluid, and the apparatus can be adapted to at least partially separate the implanted device fluid from therapeutic fluid within the reservoir chamber to increase and amount of therapeutic fluid placed in the reservoir chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: Eugene de Juan, JR., Yair Alster, Kathleen Cogan Farinas, K. Angela MacFarlane, Cary J. Reich, Randolph E. Campbell, Darren Doud, Signe Erickson, Mike Barrett, David Batten, Christina Skieller, Greg Stine
  • Patent number: 8573228
    Abstract: A system includes (i) a needle for insertion into a port of an implantable infusion device, and (ii) a receiver apparatus having a port location signal receiver module capable of receiving a signal from the implantable infusion device regarding spatial orientation of the port. The system further includes a processor operably coupled to the receiver apparatus and capable of determining the orientation of the needle relative to the port based on the received signal. The system also includes a display operably coupled to the processor. The processor is configured to cause the display to graphically render trajectory of the needle relative to the port. The port is graphically rendered as a target structure having a reference area. The needle is graphically rendered as an object moveable relative to the target structure. Occupation of the reference area by the object indicates trajectory alignment of the port and the needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott L. Kalpin
  • Patent number: 8512302
    Abstract: An aspiration flow control device includes a housing having at least one vacuum port, at least one aspiration port, and an ejection port. The at least one vacuum port is adapted to be connected to a vacuum source, and the aspiration port is adapted to be connected to an aspiration line for receiving fluids from a surgical site. The device further includes a rotating structure having at least three vanes, which structure is configured to rotate within the housing. The at least three vanes divide an enclosed volume within the housing into at least three rotating fluid collection chambers. During rotation of the rotating structure, at least one fluid collection chamber is in communication with at least one vacuum port and the aspiration port through which fluid is received, and at least one other fluid collection chamber is simultaneously in communication with the ejection port through which fluid is expelled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Bausch & Lomb Incorporated
    Inventor: Lutz Andersohn
  • Patent number: 8486003
    Abstract: The invention relates to an inserter for a medical device e.g. an infusion set or the like for intermittent or continuous administration of a therapeutical substance, such as e.g. insulin. The inserter comprises a needle hub comprising an insertion needle and two elastic elements assuring automatic insertion and automatic retraction of the insertion needle. Activation of the first elastic element (11) cause a penetrating member (6A) to be inserted sub- or transcutaneously into the skin of a patient, and the second elastic element (12) cause the penetrating member (6A) to be retracted from the skin of the patient. The first elastic element (11) is in an unloaded state before activation and upon activation the first elastic element (11) energizes the second elastic element (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Unomedical A/S
    Inventor: Jens Egebjerg Nielsen
  • Patent number: 8475419
    Abstract: Described herein is an automated fluid drain control apparatus and method which comprises a first collection chamber which is connected to a drain that has been inserted into the subarachnoid area in lumbar region of the body. The volume of fluid into the first collection chamber is controlled as a function of time by being constantly measured such that too much fluid will not be drained from the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Beckersmith Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Jan Eckermann
  • Patent number: 8444614
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are devices, systems and methods for using such devices and systems for treating incisions and wounds. In an aspect, disclosed is a device having a generally planar tension relief module and a flexible sealant structure sized to cover the tension relief module, the flexible sealant structure comprising a lower adhesive surface. The tension relief module includes a conduit structure having a plurality of support structures on an upper surface of the conduit structure and at least one opening extending through the conduit structure from a lower surface to the upper surface. At least a portion of the conduit structure is adapted to be aligned with a longitudinal axis of the incision. The tension relief module also includes opposing adhesive structures coupled to the conduit structure. The lower adhesive surface of the flexible sealant structure and the upper surface of the conduit structure form a flow pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Spiracur, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Wu, Dean Hu, Sumona Nag
  • Patent number: 8435221
    Abstract: A surgical tissue therapy device includes a sealant layer and a collection chamber. The sealant layer functions so as to create a sealed enclosure or space between it and the surface of a patient by forming, preferably, an airtight seal around a surgical area of skin trauma. The closed incision tissue therapy device also comprises a collection chamber, which may comprise an elongate tubular chamber with a plurality of longitudinally spaced openings. The collection chamber may be configured to be in fluid communication with the sealant layer and the area of skin trauma and functions as to distribute the negative pressure applied to a surgically closed area of skin trauma. Preferably, the pressure under the sealant layer is reduced by expanding the volume of the enclosure space and thereby decreasing the density of air molecules under the sealant layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Spiracur, Inc.
    Inventors: Dean Hu, Moshe Pinto, Kenton Fong, Akshay Mavani, Kenneth Wu
  • Patent number: 8414549
    Abstract: A personal cleaning apparatus includes a housing that has a bottom wall and a peripheral wall. The peripheral wall has an upper edge defining an opening into the housing. A conduit has a first end and a second end and a perimeter wall extending between the first and second ends. The first and second ends are open. The upper edge of the peripheral wall is integrally attached to and coextensive with the conduit and the conduit is in fluid communication with an interior of the housing. An applicator includes a body portion and a top wall. The body portion has an open distal end with respect to the top wall that is positioned in the conduit. The top wall has a plurality of apertures extending therethrough. The housing may be filled with fluid, the applicator inserted into a person's body and the housing squeezed to eject the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher Y. Thomas, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8409159
    Abstract: A surgical tissue therapy device includes a sealant layer and a collection chamber. The sealant layer functions so as to create a sealed enclosure, or space between it and the surface of a patient, by forming an airtight seal around a surgical area of skin trauma. The closed incision tissue therapy device also comprises a collection chamber, which may comprise an elongate tubular chamber with a plurality of longitudinally spaced openings. The collection chamber may be configured to be in fluid communication with the sealant layer and the area of skin trauma and functions as to distribute the negative pressure applied to a surgically closed area of skin trauma. Preferably, the pressure under the sealant layer is reduced by expanding the volume of the enclosure space and thereby decreasing the density of air molecules under the sealant layer. The collection material may comprise a material and/or a configuration that permits length changes based upon the length of the corresponding surgical wound or incision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Spiracur, Inc.
    Inventors: Dean Hu, Kenton Fong, Moshe Pinto, Kenneth Wu, Craig McGreevy, Brendan Donohoe
  • Patent number: 8398604
    Abstract: Disclosed are devices, systems and methods for treating an incision. The device includes a generally planar tension relief module, comprising a central structure in fluid communication with the incision, wherein at least a portion of the central structure is adapted to be aligned with a longitudinal axis of the incision; and opposing adhesive structures coupled to the central structure and a flexible sealant structure comprising a lower adhesive surface and sized to seal over the tension relief module forming a sealed flow pathway. The opposing adhesive structures are adapted to be stretched from a relaxed configuration to a first tensile configuration and to return towards the relaxed configuration from the first tensile configuration into a second tensile configuration and impart a contracting force in a direction that is towards the opposing adhesive structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Spiracur, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Wu, Dean Hu, Sumona Nag
  • Patent number: 8389023
    Abstract: Novel methods for the chemical ablation of tissue (e.g. prostatic tissue) are described. These methods include the steps of: (a) providing one or more solid salt dosage form comprising 50-100% w/w salt; and (b) inserting one or more of such solid salt dosage forms into the tissue. The solid salt dosage form is optionally inserted into the tissue under real-time ultrasonic observation. An advantage of the present invention is its ability to eliminate toxic byproducts. For example, where NaCl-based solid salt dosage forms are used to effect localized chemical ablation, the concentration is ultimately reduced to the level of normal saline (i.e., about 0.9%) upon absorption by the body of the subject being treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph V. DiTrolio
  • Patent number: 8366656
    Abstract: A syringe comprises a barrel with a plunger in slidable and sealing engagement therein, and a needle attached to one end of the barrel. The barrel has an aspiration device in the form of manually-operable resilient portions, which can be operated to cause a pressure differential in the barrel, the pressure differential then being used to perform aspiration. The resilient portions are preferably formed by localized reductions of wall thickness in the external surface of the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Star Syringe Limited
    Inventors: Graham John Madin, Marc Andrew Koska
  • Patent number: 8360065
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. H. Chu, Jianmin Li, Hamid Davoudi
  • Patent number: 8348910
    Abstract: An apparatus (1) for cleansing wounds (5) in which irrigant fluid from a reservoir connected to a conformable wound dressing (2) and wound exudate from the dressing are moved by a device (18) (which may be a single pump or two pumps) for moving fluid through a flow path (6, 7, 9, 10) which passes through the dressing with a means for providing simultaneous aspiration and irrigation of the wound, and means for supplying thermal energy to the fluid in the wound. The former provides a desired balance of fluid at a controlled nominal flow rate that removes materials deleterious to wound healing, while distributing materials that are beneficial in promoting wound healing over the wound bed. The latter maintains a temperature at the wound bed under the wound dressing at a level that promotes wound healing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew PLC
    Inventors: Patrick Lewis Blott, Edward Yerbury Hartwell, Julian Lee-Webb, Derek Nicolini, Clare Green, Robin Paul Martin
  • Patent number: 8337450
    Abstract: An apparatus that includes two syringes, or a “double barrel syringe,” includes one syringe that injects or infuses while the other syringe aspirates. In the double barrel syringe, injection and aspiration may be effected by a single action. The double barrel syringe may include a handle with two members. A first member of such a handle includes one arm that pivotally couples to a plunger of a first syringe and another arm that pivotally couples to a barrel of a second syringe. A second member of the handle includes one arm that pivotally couples to a barrel of the first syringe and another arm that pivotally couples to a plunger of the second syringe. Methods for injecting or infusing simultaneously with aspirating are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Control Medical Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Shawn P. Fojtik
  • Patent number: 8333744
    Abstract: Apparatus for the provision of topical negative pressure therapy to a user is described, the apparatus comprising a device and a waste canister connected thereto, the waste 5 canister being operably connected for receiving wound exudate to a wound dressing by an aspiration conduit which is releasably connected to the dressing, wherein the waste canister has a blank connector portion thereon for sealably receiving a disconnected dressing end of the aspiration conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventors: Edward Hartwell, Carl Saxby
  • Patent number: 8251945
    Abstract: A device for suctioning material out of an instrument channel during an endoscopic procedure. The device includes a biopsy valve having a first end, a second end, and an outer circumferential surface. The biopsy valve defines an internal passage leading from the first end to the second end, wherein the first end is adapted for connection to an endoscope instrument channel inlet port. Tubing connects the biopsy valve second end to a suction source connector disposed remote from the biopsy valve. A flow controller is fixed to the tubing and disposed between the biopsy valve second end and the suction source connector. The device may include an irrigation port and an instrument entry port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: U.S. Endoscopy Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Dean J. Secrest, Christopher J. Kaye, Paul Davis, John P. Winstanley
  • Patent number: 8246590
    Abstract: A surgical tissue therapy device includes a sealant layer and a collection chamber. The sealant layer functions so as to create a sealed enclosure or space between it and the surface of a patient by forming, preferably, an airtight seal around a surgical area of skin trauma. The closed incision tissue therapy device also comprises a collection chamber, which may comprise an elongate tubular chamber with a plurality of longitudinally spaced openings. The collection chamber may be configured to be in fluid communication with the sealant layer and the area of skin trauma and functions as to distribute the negative pressure applied to a surgically closed area of skin trauma. Preferably, the pressure under the sealant layer is reduced by expanding the volume of the enclosure space and thereby decreasing the density of air molecules under the sealant layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Spiracur, Inc.
    Inventors: Dean Hu, Moshe Pinto, Kenton Fong, Akshay Mavani, Kenneth Wu
  • Patent number: 8246591
    Abstract: A wound dressing for use in negative wound pressure therapy includes a cover layer for positioning over a wound to define a reservoir over the wound in which a reduced pressure may be maintained. At least one vacuum port is affixed to the cover layer and includes a conduit receiving portion configured to receive a fluid conduit to provide fluid communication between the fluid conduit and the reservoir. The at least one vacuum port is configured to receive the fluid conduit from a plurality of directions relative to the cover layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Richard M. Braga, Malcolm G. Bock, Kristin L. Watson
  • Patent number: 8168848
    Abstract: A wound dressing member is provided for use in a vacuum bandage connected to a vacuum source and for use with a wound having a wound surface. The member may include a top surface and a bottom surface adapted to be in contact with and generally conform to the wound surface. The member may further include a plurality of discrete holes formed in the bottom surface and at least one discrete opening formed in the top surface. A port of the member may be provided to communicate with the vacuum source, each discrete hole, and the at least one discrete opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: KCI Medical Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Lockwood, Robert Petrosenko
  • Patent number: 8062286
    Abstract: A system in accordance with embodiments of the present invention includes a cannula interconnected to a collection vessel by a flexible conduit. The collection vessel can comprise one or more syringe bodies. The syringe bodies are provided with tissue removed from a body using the cannula by a tissue transfer channel. As a result, multiple syringe bodies can be loaded with tissue, without requiring manual handling of that tissue. Alternatively or in addition, a collection bag can be provided for receiving tissue removed from a body using a cannula. The tissue collection bag can include a filter. A collection vessel comprising a collection bag can be used in combination with a collection vessel comprising one or more syringe bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald D. Shippert
  • Patent number: 8048046
    Abstract: A system for subatmospheric pressure therapy in connection with the healing of a surgical wound is disclosed. The system may be portable or semi-portable, thereby providing the subject with the ability to be partially or completely ambulatory through the course of the treatment. The system includes a wound dressing dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed of a subject and a portable subatmospheric pressure mechanism dimensioned to be carried or worn by the subject. The subatmospheric pressure mechanism includes a housing, a vacuum source at least partially disposed within the housing and in fluid communication with the fluid conduit, a filter in fluid communication with the vacuum source, and a collection canister for collecting exudates from the wound bed removed under subatmospheric pressure. An elevation member is mounted with respect to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Michael D. Hudspeth, Michael C. Dorsey, Kenneth M. Breitweiser, James M. Harr
  • Patent number: 8034369
    Abstract: The invention provides a controlled release bioactive agent delivery device for treatment of an eye that includes a body member having a direction of extension, a longitudinal axis along the direction of extension, and a proximal end and a distal end, wherein at least a portion of the body member deviates from the direction of extension, and a polymeric coated composition in contact with a surface of the body member, the polymeric coated composition including a first polymer, a second polymer, and a bioactive agent. The first polymer and the second polymer are hydrophobic, and the body member has a length such that, upon placement of the device at an implantation site within a posterior segment of an eye, the device does not enter a central visual field of the eye. The invention also provides methods method of delivering bioactive agent to a posterior region of an eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Surmodics, Inc.
    Inventors: Aron B. Anderson, Laurie R. Lawin, Byron C. Shen, Eugene de Juan, Signe E. Varner, Ralph A. Chappa
  • Patent number: 8029497
    Abstract: A mucous suction device, comprising in combination, a longitudinally elongated, generally tubular, one-piece plastic body, the body having an axially elongated tapered, first portion extending toward an inlet proximate one end of the body, the body having an axially elongated second portion extending toward an outlet proximate an opposite end of the body, radially outwardly extending annular retention rings in said body second portion, said rings having sharp annular peripheries and said rings being axially resiliently flexible and axially spaced apart, and there being body side porting between said body first and second portions, said side porting being manually controllable to control suction exertion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Neotech Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig R. McCrary, Thomas R. Thornbury, Arnold M. Heyman
  • Patent number: 8021680
    Abstract: The invention provides a controlled release bioactive agent delivery device that includes a body member having a direction of extension, a longitudinal axis along the direction of extension, and a proximal end and a distal end, wherein at least a portion of the body member deviates from the direction of extension, and a polymeric coated composition in contact with the body member, the polymeric coated composition including a first polymer, a second polymer, and a bioactive agent, wherein the first polymer comprises polyalkyl(meth)acrylate, aromatic poly(meth)acrylate, or a combination of polyalkyl(meth)acrylate and aromatic poly(meth)acrylate, and wherein the second polymer comprises poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate). The invention also provides methods of delivering a bioactive agent to a patient in a controlled release manner, as well as methods of making a controlled release bioactive agent delivery device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Surmodics, Inc.
    Inventors: Aron B. Anderson, Laurie R. Lawin, Byron C. Shen, Eugene de Juan, Signe E. Varner, Ralph A. Chappa
  • Patent number: 8007481
    Abstract: A portable system for subatmospheric pressure therapy in connection with healing a surgical wound is provided. The system includes a wound dressing dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed of a subject, and a collection canister in fluid communication with the wound dressing. The canister includes a base defining a fluid receiving cavity and having a fluid inlet port and a vacuum port. The fluid inlet port is configured for fluid communication with a wound dressing. The system further includes a cover selectively engageable to the base, e.g., in a snap-fit manner. The cover is configured to receive a control unit and has a vent assembly for exhausting the control unit. A seal member is interposed relative to the base and the cover to establish and maintain a substantial sealed relationship between the two components when assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Wayne Schuessler, Ricky A. Sisk