Means For Cleaning Eye, Ear Or Nose Patents (Class 606/162)
  • Patent number: 11957543
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides for an ear cleaning device comprising an integral body, and a central handle portion of the integral body that supports a first whisk-like bulbous end, with the first whisk-like bulbous end being integral with the central handle portion. The first whisk-like bulbous end further comprises flexible intertwined wire-like loops used in the removal of ear was or debris. The first whisk-like bulbous end being of a size that averts insertion thereof to an ear canal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: Wares World Wide LLC
    Inventor: Giuseppina Giaquinto
  • Patent number: 11925371
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to the field of medical devices for treatment and diagnosis of paranasal sinus conditions and methods of using same. There is disclosed a device having a hollow shaft configured to be inserted into a paranasal sinus through a natural opening thereof. The hollow shaft is shaped/configured to reach a treatment area within the paranasal sinus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: SINUSAFE MEDICAL LTD
    Inventors: Nir Altman, Avinoam Gemer, Danny Hadar
  • Patent number: 11890167
    Abstract: An ear cleaner is provided that includes an elongated handle, a spoon, and a disc intermediate the spoon and the disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: Quest Products, LLC
    Inventor: Richard Carl Olson
  • Patent number: 11883009
    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: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: Aardvark Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter C. Baker, Clinton N. Slone, Michael J. Strasser, James M. Lovette, Thomas King, Richard Treadwell
  • Patent number: 11844727
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an ophthalmic knife and methods of its use for treatment of various conditions including eye diseases, such as glaucoma, using minimally invasive surgical techniques. The device is configured for cutting the tissues within the eye, for example, a trabecular meshwork (TM).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Assignees: The Regents of the University of Colorado, a body corporate, New World Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Malik Y. Kahook, Khalid Mansour, Suhail Abdullah, Eric Porteous, Vijay R. Balan
  • Patent number: 11801370
    Abstract: A cartridge having a reservoir for fluid, a tower with an interior chamber, wherein the tower has a first end proximate the reservoir, a second end distal the reservoir, a port in the second end of the tower, and an interior for conducing the fluid from the reservoir. A first rib and a second rib extend along a length of the tower, in the interior of the tower. Both the first and second ribs have second ends that are substantially adjacent the second end of the tower, and the first rib has a first end that extends along the length of the tower toward the first end of the tower further than a first end of the second rib. At least one of the first and second ribs at least partially overlaps a first via within the port and is spaced apart from the first via by a gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2023
    Inventor: James D. Anderson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11490915
    Abstract: Particular embodiments disclosed herein provide a surgical instrument comprising a device having a proximal end and a functional end configured to be inserted into a body part, an assembly having a proximal end and a distal end, a shaft coupled to the proximal end of the assembly, the shaft having a shaft housing, a bearing positioned around the assembly, wherein the bearing is configured to slide over the assembly, a hub having a sleeve tube. The basket comprises a plurality of grooved levers, each grooved lever having a proximal end received by the shaft housing and a distal end coupled to a tip of the basket, wherein compressing one or more of the plurality of grooved levers moves the bearing and the hub relative to the shaft and toward the functional end of the device, causing the sleeve tube to transition the device from the deactivated state to an activated state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: Alcon Inc.
    Inventors: Niels Alexander Abt, Reto Grueebler, Timo Jung, Thomas Linsi, Niccolo Maschio
  • Patent number: 11317933
    Abstract: A nasal cleaning tool incorporates a reservoir in fluid communication with a nozzle. Secured to about a distal end of the nozzle is a helical-shaped cleaning head. The reservoir in one (1) embodiment is fashioned as a deformable bulb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Inventor: Nathedra G. White
  • Patent number: 11166833
    Abstract: A line pull assembly for a prosthetic delivery device includes a rail assembly defining a rail cavity, a longitudinal axis and a hand-gripable slider assembly. The slider is mounted to the rail assembly for sliding movement along it. The slider has a body slidably mounted to the rail assembly, the body having an inner body portion within the rail cavity. A line receiver for receiving a pullable line sits within the inner body portion. A release ring is mounted around the rail assembly and is operably connected to the inner body portion. The slider is locked against sliding movement until the release ring is moved the unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the inner body portion is slideably moveable by sliding movement of the release ring to transfer a pulling force through the line receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: James Collins, Logan Smith
  • Patent number: 11141348
    Abstract: A method to treat a dry eye condition of an individual, includes: receiving a switch signal generated based on a manipulation of a control switch at a handheld device; and activating a motor in response to the switch signal to oscillate a member at an oscillation frequency, the member having an elongated configuration, and having a portion for placement outside the individual; wherein the oscillation frequency is sufficient to induce tear production when the portion of the member is applied towards a surface of a body portion of the individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: Olympic Ophthalmics, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Gertner, Jimin Zhang, Arash Sabet
  • Patent number: 11033722
    Abstract: A device for auricularly delivering and/or receiving medication which comprises an earcup, a drug cartridge or drug reservoir having active ingredients, and a fluid generator that generates a fluid having active ingredients and delivers the fluid to the earcup. A method for auricularly delivering medication which comprises the steps of receiving medication from a cartridge at a fluid generator, generating fluid comprising the medication, and passing the fluid to an earcup. A system for auricularly delivering medication comprising a headphone comprising at least one earcup, and a replaceable and consumable drug cartridge coupled to the headphone. A method for receiving medication which comprises the steps of placing an earcup on an ear, operating a headphone coupled to the earcup, and receiving fluid generated by a fluid generator, the fluid comprising active ingredients, wherein the fluid generator receives medication from a cartridge comprising active ingredients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: Sorrento Technology Holdings
    Inventor: Ji Shen
  • Patent number: 10531986
    Abstract: An ear cleaner is provided that includes an elongated handle, a spoon, and a disc intermediate the spoon and the disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Assignee: Quest Products, LLC
    Inventor: Richard Carl Olson
  • Patent number: 10449092
    Abstract: A utility device is provided for insertion into an ear. The utility device comprises a first tip portion. The first tip portion can include a first end, a base, a plurality of first ridges extending between the first end and the base, and a plurality of second ridges extending between each of the plurality of first ridges. The utility device can include an intermediate region and a central portion. The intermediate portion can connect the central portion to the first tip portion. The central portion can allow a user to grip and/or hold the utility device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Assignee: UTILITYTIP.COM LLC
    Inventor: Jake Ryan Shuman
  • Patent number: 9532793
    Abstract: A disposable hygienic nostril cleansing tool is described that consists of a dual-purpose head (cotton swab and scraper tip), flexible shaft, and cotton debris cleaner in the tool body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Paul David Lincoln Wilson
  • Patent number: 9039718
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating ocular disorders such as blepharitis, meibomitis, and dry eye syndrome. The method includes using an electromechanical device to move a swab relative to the eye to create cyclical movement that impacts debris present at the eyelid margin and effectively removes the debris from the eye to encourage healing and prevent further digression of the health of the eye. The apparatus is an electromechanical device that includes a mechanical drive unit operatively connected to a swab to create a precise relative movement of the swab to the eye to remove debris present therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Blephex, LLC
    Inventor: James M. Rynerson
  • Publication number: 20150142029
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cerumen removal apparatus for mechanically removing cerumen from an ear canal, comprising: a device body having a distal end and a proximal end interconnected by a main longitudinal axis; said distal end comprising at least one collector head for amassing said cerumen; said proximal end comprising at least one rotating mechanism adapted to rotate said at least one collector head; wherein said rotation of said collector head amasses said cerumen and removes said cerumen from said ear canal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Miri Fahn, Amir Kraitzer
  • Publication number: 20150127036
    Abstract: A device for removing mucus (dried or wet) from a nostril of a subject or for removing earwax (dry or wet) from an ear canal of a subject includes a handle portion or grip portion to facilitate manipulation of the device, at least one of a bowl or a loop at an end of the handle portion, and a stop located between the handle portion and the bowl or loop. The bowl or loop is sized and configured for insertion into a nostril or an ear canal of the subject, and the stop is sized to prevent insertion of the stop into the nostril or ear canal and to limit the extent that the bowl or loop can be inserted into the nostril or ear canal, thereby reducing or eliminating the potential for accidental injury or extreme discomfort to the subject during use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventor: Nina D. Farzin
  • Publication number: 20150039003
    Abstract: A disposable hygienic nostril cleansing tool is described that consists of a dual-purpose head (cotton swab and scraper tip), flexible shaft, and cotton debris cleaner in the tool body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: Paul David Lincoln Wilson
  • Patent number: 8945142
    Abstract: Delivery systems and methods of creating an accessory maxillary ostium and implanting a ventilation tube for purposes of ventilation, irrigation, infusion or procedural work are described. The delivery systems include an introducer and an associated ventilation tube. An irrigation and/or infusion catheter may be advanced through the ventilation tube in order to irrigate or express the contents of the sinus cavities. A secondary irrigation and/or infusion catheter or a balloon catheter may be advanced through an outer irrigation and/or infusion catheter, deeply into the sinus cavity, in order to irrigate or express the contents of the sinus cavities. Moreover, the balloon catheter may alternatively or additionally be employed to for dilation of the natural ostium. Still further, a device for delivering drugs, fluids or the like, may be coupled to the ventilation tube for delivery of same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Darin Schaeffer, Patrick C. Melder, Kathryn Evert, Cleve Koehler, Kem Hawkins, Thomas Cherry, Chase Wooley
  • Patent number: 8936562
    Abstract: A pet ear cleaning device is disclosed for gently cleaning an animal's ears. The device can be used for home or veterinary use. The pet ear cleaning device comprises a nozzle, a liquid reservoir in fluid communication with the nozzle, an internal pump assembly, and a tip for cleaning a pet's ear. A user would press a manual dispensing component which would activate the internal pump assembly which would then draw fluid from the liquid reservoir and transfer it to the nozzle. The liquid reservoir is typically a reusable reservoir that a user would re-fill with ear cleaning solution when empty, or it can be a replacement cartridge. Further, the nozzle typically comprises threads on its end for retaining the cleaning tip on the nozzle. After use, a user would discard the tip via a manually operated discard component that allows a user to remove the soiled tip hands free.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: EZ Ears, LLC
    Inventor: Louis J. Kokenis
  • Publication number: 20150018861
    Abstract: An ear cleaning device is provided for removing debris from an ear. In one form, the ear cleaning device includes a shaft, a head connected to the shaft, and a contiguous pocket structure of the head. The contiguous pocket structure includes a plurality of pockets that may be configured to receive debris. In another form, the ear cleaning device has a handle, a bulbous cleaner connected to the handle, and a solid inner core of the bulbous cleaner. The bulbous cleaner has two or more spaced, longitudinal walls disposed outward of the inner core that are configured to remove debris with turning of the ear cleaning device about a longitudinal axis of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Richard Carl Olson
  • Publication number: 20150005793
    Abstract: A device sized to be handled by a user for cleaning wax from an ear. The device includes a central handle that facilitates handling by the user. A first wire loop extends outward from the first end of the handle, and a second wire loop extends outward from the second end of the handle. The wire loops are deformable to allow the user to tailor the shape and size for insertion into the ear and removal of wax.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: Andrew D. Collins, John Edward Collins
  • Publication number: 20140324082
    Abstract: The present invention describes an earwax removal device having varying structures to provide different earwax removal capabilities. In all designs, the overall contour of the earwax-extracting member resembles the dimensions of the external auditory canal and is flexible enough to conform to it during insertion. Each engages and collects wax using the pressure of insertion and rotation effects. Embodiments include a club-like member having multiple protrusions and extractions to collect wax along its sides, and an opening in the tip that leads to a channel to collect wax; a flexible spiral member to compress when the device is inserted in an ear and thereby extract wax as it expands when the device is removed; a screw-like structure to laterally move wax and grind as it rotates; a multi-channel structure to cut and collect wax simultaneously; and a shovel-like structure to effectively shear and scrape wax from an ear canal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Steven Burres
  • Patent number: 8808317
    Abstract: One embodiment of an apparatus for cleaning a nasal cavity includes a housing member and a hollow cleaning member. The housing member includes a first orifice, a second orifice and a chamber communicated with the first orifice and the second orifice. The chamber may be adapted to store fluid therein. The hollow cleaning member may be adapted to be received in the second orifice. The hollow cleaning member includes a head portion adapted to be received in the chamber of the housing member and a handle configured to fill the fluid from the chamber into the head portion. The head portion filled with the fluid is capable of cleaning the nasal cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventor: Carl Braunagel
  • Publication number: 20140214062
    Abstract: An instrument for removing debris from an eye during the treatment of an ocular disorder has a swab and a rigid member. The swab includes a tip portion sized to provide access to the debris on an eyelid of the eye. The rigid member has a distal end portion affixed to the swab and a proximal end portion with a cross-sectional member profile. The cross-sectional member profile is non-circular and has a first groove. The first groove extends longitudinally along the proximal end portion for cooperating with a chuck such that rotation of the proximal end portion within the chuck is inhibited.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventors: James RYNERSON, John R. CHOATE
  • Publication number: 20140200600
    Abstract: Ear Brush Cleaner© drawings based on an over the counter [OTC] interdental floss instrument. The ‘Flair or Flange’ concept: Ear Brush Cleaner© is to have a flair or flange in function similar to the one I've shown in my drawings that restricts its insertion into the ear canal, to be at a distance as to not contact the ear drum. The bristle filaments are to be flexible and soft as to not cause soft tissue damage as well as offering the option of combining an absorbent capability should that option be desired. This, along with ‘our sensation of proprioception’ adds yet another layer of protection to the inner ear. All of the attributes of the Ear Brush Cleaner© with its Flair or flange, makes this the only practical, safe and effective product for the removal of ear wax from the ear canal without contributing to injury of the ear drum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventor: Marc Blatstein
  • Patent number: 8777972
    Abstract: The present invention describes an earwax removal device having varying structures to provide different earwax removal capabilities. In all designs, the overall contour of the earwax-extracting member resembles the dimensions of the external auditory canal and is flexible enough to conform to it during insertion. Each engages and collects wax using the pressure of insertion and rotation effects. Embodiments include a club-like member having multiple protrusions and extractions to collect wax along its sides, and an opening in the tip that leads to a channel to collect wax; a flexible spiral member to compress when the device is inserted in an ear and thereby extract wax as it expands when the device is removed; a screw-like structure to laterally move wax and grind as it rotates; a multi-channel structure to cut and collect wax simultaneously; and a shovel-like structure to effectively shear and scrape wax from an ear canal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Steven Burres
  • Patent number: 8740922
    Abstract: An ear pipe used as an alternative medicine practice to remove excess ear wax, debris, and other undesirable contaminants from the ear canal. The ear pipe includes a generally hollow body, wherein the hollow body includes a bowl, a midsection, and a proximal end. The ear pipe may be used by bringing a unit of ear pipe fuel to a smoldering state within the bowl, holding the ear pipe with a user's hand, and inserting the proximal end of the pipe into a user's ear to allow warm air/smoke to enter the ear canal and create temperatures high enough to cause the excess ear wax, debris, and other undesirable contaminants to drain from the ear canal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Wally's Natural Products
    Inventors: Russell Lee Sheppard, Troy Healy
  • Patent number: 8728107
    Abstract: A method of removing cerumen or a foreign body from an ear canal utilizes an articulating ear curette.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Bionix Development Corporation
    Inventors: James J. Huttner, Josh Noble
  • Publication number: 20140052164
    Abstract: An instrument for removing debris from an eye during the treatment of an ocular disorder has a swab and a rigid member. The swab includes a tip portion sized to provide access to the debris on an eyelid of the eye. The rigid member has a distal end portion affixed to the swab and a proximal end portion with a cross-sectional member profile. The cross-sectional member profile is non-circular and has a first groove. The first groove extends longitudinally along the proximal end portion for cooperating with a chuck such that rotation of the proximal end portion within the chuck is inhibited.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: RySurg, LLC
    Inventor: James M. Rynerson
  • Publication number: 20140052163
    Abstract: An earwax cleaner includes a bag-shaped holding portion and a soft earwax picking sleeve. The rear section of the bag-shaped holding portion is provided with a resilient bag-shaped body, and the front section is a pipe with an opening. The earwax picking sleeve has a reduced mouth at the distal end and a plurality of protrusions on an outer wall thereof. The earwax picking sleeve is fitted on the pipe of the holding portion. The opening of the pipe is aligned with the mouth of the earwax picking sleeve to form an open end for the air in the bag-shaped body of the holding portion to pass in and out. When in use, the pipe is inserted in the ear and the holding portion is slightly turned with the protrusions to pick the earwax from the wall of the ear to be collected in the bag-shaped body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Inventor: SHYH-JEN LAI
  • Patent number: 8641488
    Abstract: A smoke capture adapter comprising: a first adapter part having a first generally ring-shaped portion with a first cylindrical inner surface for securely engaging a laser apparatus having a beam propagation axis, the first generally ring-shaped portion being oriented such that the beam propagation axis passes through a region bound the first generally ring-shaped portion and a tubular outlet extending from said first generally ring-shaped portion for communicating with a vacuum tube; a second adapter part rotatably connected to the first adapter part and arranged to rotate generally about the beam propagation axis having a second generally ring-shaped portion adjacent the first generally ring-shaped portion, the first and second generally ring-shaped portions defining a generally toroidal cavity and an inlet in fluid communication with the cavity; the tubular outlet and inlet in fluid communication through the cavity; whereby the position of the inlet relative to the first adapter part may be adjusted by rota
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Buffalo Filter LLC
    Inventors: Kyrylo Shvetsov, Anthony Lizauckas, III
  • Publication number: 20140031845
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating ocular disorders such as blepharitis, meibomitis, and dry eye syndrome. The method includes using an electromechanical device to move a swab relative to the eye to create cyclical movement that impacts debris present at the eyelid margin and effectively removes the debris from the eye to encourage healing and prevent further digression of the health of the eye. The apparatus is an electromechanical device that includes a mechanical drive unit operatively connected to a swab to create a precise relative movement of the swab to the eye to remove debris present therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventor: James M. Rynerson
  • Publication number: 20140031846
    Abstract: A swab applicator for collecting debris and other materials from small and hard to reach spaces and cavities and applying materials to selected areas, including small and hard to reach spaces and cavities. The swab applicator includes an elongated member having two opposite ends having respective end members extending from the ends. One of the end member loops to form one or more through openings and has a surface made from or covered with an absorbent material. The other end member is different from the first end member and, in one configuration, is a wad mounted on the end of the elongated member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventors: Colson Edme, Ginette Aubin-Edme
  • Publication number: 20130310861
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of removing scar tissue from an eye that includes inserting a device including an array of micro-rods into an eye, wherein at least one glass micro-rod of the array of glass micro-rods includes a sharp feature; contacting a scar tissue with the array of micro-rods; and removing the array of micro-rods and the scar tissue from the eye. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a medical device for engaging a tissue including and an array of glass micro-rods, wherein at least one glass micro-rod of the array of glass micro-rods includes a sharp feature opposite a base of the array of glass micro-rods that is connected to the cannula, wherein the sharp feature of the at least one micro-rod is angled from a plane that is normal to a face of the base of the array of glass micro-rods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicants: University of Tennessee Research Foundation, UT-Battelle, LLC
    Inventors: UT-Battelle, LLC, University of Tennessee Research Foundation
  • Publication number: 20130304103
    Abstract: The present invention describes an earwax removal device having varying structures to provide different earwax removal capabilities. In all designs, the overall contour of the earwax-extracting member resembles the dimensions of the external auditory canal and is flexible enough to conform to it during insertion. Each engages and collects wax using the pressure of insertion and rotation effects. Embodiments include a club-like member having multiple protrusions and extractions to collect wax along its sides, and an opening in the tip that leads to a channel to collect wax; a flexible spiral member to compress when the device is inserted in an ear and thereby extract wax as it expands when the device is removed; a screw-like structure to laterally move wax and grind as it rotates; a multi-channel structure to cut and collect wax simultaneously; and a shovel-like structure to effectively shear and scrape wax from an ear canal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: Steven Burres
  • Patent number: 8574250
    Abstract: Ear candle with an air-permeable retaining member disposed at least partially within the ear candle, wherein the retaining member comprises a wall and an interior space, wherein at least two lamellas directed into the interior space are disposed on the wall, wherein the at least two lamellas are disposed opposite from each other in the interior space, and wherein the at least two lamellas are configured so as to overlap in the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Udo Leander Leschik
  • Patent number: 8562556
    Abstract: A device for nasal lavage is described. The device ejects a gentle flow of fluid under pressure. The fluid stream provides a high quantity of fluid at low pressure. The low pressure fluid stream is more comfortable for a user than a high pressure fluid stream that are delivered by various types of pressurized cans of solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Inventor: Ketan C. Mehta
  • Publication number: 20130218182
    Abstract: Ear candle with an air-permeable retaining member disposed at least partially within the ear candle, wherein the retaining member comprises a wall and an interior space, wherein at least two lamellas directed into the interior space are disposed on the wall, wherein the at least two lamellas are disposed opposite from each other in the interior space, and wherein the at least two lamellas are configured so as to overlap in the axial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventor: Udo Leander Leschik
  • Publication number: 20130211434
    Abstract: A tubular, soft, absorbent, pliable, latex-free gauze device for use on the index finger to clean and dry inner and outer areas of the ear, including the folds and crevices. The device, being applied to the index finger, can be inserted into the ear only up to the auricular cartilage and does not enter the ear canal. It has sufficient size, shape, and absorbency to effectively clean and dry large areas of the ear as well as the smaller areas, including folds and crevices. The device preferably is seamed along one or both sides and the seams terminate spaced from the open end to define slits that facilitate placement of the device on a finger. The device can be used on multiple sides by rotating it on the finger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventor: Leanne Leach
  • Publication number: 20130190647
    Abstract: A disposable dual ended ear curette incorporates specialized tip configurations and a depth measurement system. The ear curette may comprise a central handle portion; a first tip extending from one end of the handle portion and including an annular array of projections; and a second tip extending from an opposed end of the handle portion and including a blade member having a first lateral scraping edge on one edge of the blade member positioned adjacent a concave surface of the blade member, and a second lateral scraping edge on an opposed edge of the blade member. The ear curette may further include a sequence of spaced, visible measurement indicia on each tip, configured to provide an operator with a visual indication of the depth of operation of the associated tip in a patient's ear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: AEROLIB HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS
    Inventors: Deepak Pahuja, Ryan Scott Bookhamer
  • Publication number: 20130184684
    Abstract: A nasal cleaning apparatus is described that may include a nasal cleaning portion and a grip portion. The nasal cleaning portion may include a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a front wall extending between the proximal end portion and the distal end portion, and a back wall. The back wall may be attached to the front wall along at least a portion of the periphery of the front wall and/or back wall. An internal space may be at least partially defined between the front wall and the back wall. An opening may be in the proximal end portion. The opening may be in communication with the internal space. The grip portion may include a handle and an extension member. The extension member may extend from a distal end portion of said handle, through the opening of the nasal cleaning portion, and into the internal space of the nasal cleaning portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventor: Mark J. Yardley
  • Publication number: 20130023914
    Abstract: A device for accessing a body orifice is disclosed. The device may include a speculum body having an outer shell and an inner shell nested within the outer shell. A plurality of fluidic channels may be defined in the interstitial space between the inner and outer shells. The outer shell may be configured as an optical waveguide. The inner shell central bore may be configured for viewing and suction. The device may include a speculum body having a tapered shape. The body may be expandable to expand muscles surrounding a body orifice. Programmable controllers, viewing, recording, and communications systems are also described. Methods of using and forming the devices are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: CLEAREAR, INC.
    Inventors: Stephanie Lily TRUONG, Vandana JAIN, Evan LUXON
  • Publication number: 20120316587
    Abstract: An ear pipe used as an alternative medicine practice to remove excess ear wax, debris, and other undesirable contaminants from the ear canal. The ear pipe includes a generally hollow body, wherein the hollow body includes a bowl, a midsection, and a proximal end. The ear pipe may be used by bringing a unit of ear pipe fuel to a smoldering state within the bowl, holding the ear pipe with a user's hand, and inserting the proximal end of the pipe into a user's ear to allow warm air/smoke to enter the ear canal and create temperatures high enough to cause the excess ear wax, debris, and other undesirable contaminants to drain from the ear canal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventors: Russell Lee Sheppard, Troy Healy
  • Patent number: 8328830
    Abstract: An ear cleaning device that creates a negative pressure within the patient's ear to draw fluid thereinto and provide cleansing thereof so as to substantially reduce the risk of damage to the tympanic membrane. The ear cleaning device includes a first container and a second container mechanically operably coupled together and in general axial alignment. Additionally, an ear chamber is included that is operably intermediate the first container and the second container. The ear chamber further includes a membrane to create a hermetic seal around a patient's ear. The first container is configured to receive a store a desired cleaning fluid. Operably coupled to the second container is a pressure reducing device. The ear cleaning device utilizes a hermetic seal between the second container, ear chamber and first container to transport the fluid from the first container into the ear chamber wherein the fluid is introduced in the ear canal of the patient and is subsequently collected within the second container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Sudhir Pandit
  • Publication number: 20120296355
    Abstract: The present invention describes an earwax removal device having varying structures to provide different earwax removal capabilities. In all designs, the overall contour of the earwax-extracting member resembles the dimensions of the external auditory canal and is flexible enough to conform to it during insertion. Each engages and collects wax using the pressure of insertion and rotation effects. Embodiments include a club-like member having multiple protrusions and extractions to collect wax along its sides, and an opening in the tip that leads to a channel to collect wax; a flexible spiral member to compress when the device is inserted in an ear and thereby extract wax as it expands when the device is removed; a screw-like structure to laterally move wax and grind as it rotates; a multi-channel structure to cut and collect wax simultaneously; and a shovel-like structure to effectively shear and scrape wax from an ear canal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventor: Steven Burres
  • Publication number: 20120265226
    Abstract: A nasal cleanser in the form of a glove for the pointing finger, made from a cotton/polyester blend of fabric that is white in color. The fabric is stitched or glued together by hand or machinery in the form of a glove for the finger with one open and one closed end. The closed end resembles the rounded shape of the finger tip. The glove is wider at the open end, making it easier for the user to insert the finger into the glove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Barrington Walters
  • Publication number: 20120226156
    Abstract: A method of evaluating dry eye in humans wherein the flow of naturally occurring secretion to the eye is reduced or stopped due to the presence of an obstruction of a meibomian gland in the eyelid involves applying a pressure to the eyelid that mimics pressure applied during blinking; and simultaneously imaging the glands to diagnose the condition of the meibomian gland. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: TEARSCIENCE, INC.
    Inventors: Stephen M. Grenon, Timothy R. Willis, Benjamin T. Gravely, Donald R. Korb
  • Publication number: 20120203256
    Abstract: A method of removing cerumen or a foreign body from an ear canal utilizes an articulating ear curette.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: Bionix Development Corporation
    Inventors: James J. Huttner, Josh Noble
  • Publication number: 20110282243
    Abstract: Provided is a swab 1 in which a fiber lump portion 2 is disposed at one end or both ends of a stick 4, and an adhesive layer is disposed partially or entirely on the surface of the fiber lump portion 2, and a flocked layer 3 covering the adhesive layer is disposed by flocking fiber thereon in a brush shape. The swab 1 has a soft texture and excellent elasticity, and also has superior fluid retention performance and fluid release performance. Therefore, the swab is suitable for taking biological specimens, applying chemical agents to the affected parts, cleaning human bodies or equipment (for example, ear cleaning), applying cosmetic materials, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: SANYO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hiroshi NAKATANI