Abstract: An apparatus for pelvic floor muscle trigger point therapy is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a wand to facilitate the release of one or more trigger points in a pelvic floor muscle of a patient. The wand comprises a central portion extending between a first end and a second end. The central portion includes a first bend and a second bend wherein the first bend is formed between a first end region and a first central region. The second bend is formed between the first central region and a second central region. The first end is configured to be vaginally insertable while the second end configured to be rectally insertable. A power source in electrical communication with one or more switches to selectively control a vibration element during use.

Abstract: Improved methods and devices for performing an endoscopic surgery are provided. Systems are taught for operatively treating gastrointestinal disorders endoscopically in a stable, yet dynamic operative environment, and in a minimally-invasive manner. Such systems include, for example, an endoscopic surgical suite. The surgical suite can have a reversibly-expandable retractor that expands to provide a stable, operative environment within a subject. The expansion can be asymmetric around a stabilizer subsystem to maximize space for a tool and an endoscope to each be maneuvered independently to visualize a target tissue and treat the target tissue from outside the patient in a minimally invasive manner.

Abstract: A vessel closure device delivery system including a delivery device that couples to a vessel closure clip for delivering the clip onto a blood vessel and a retractable vessel locator is removeably attached to the delivery device, the distal end of the vessel locator being adapted to transition from a collapsed state suitable for insertion into a vessel and an expanded state that lodges against a wall of the vessel from inside the vessel.

Abstract: A device is provided for applying pressure on a vaginal wall of a female subject, said device being configured for insertion into a vaginal cavity of said female subject. The device includes a first deformable element, a second deformable element and a transmission element. The first deformable element has a resting-state and at least one deformed state and is configured for undergoing deformation in response to an inner body pressure. When in the resting state, the first deformable element is configured to anchor the device inside the vaginal cavity. The second deformable element has a resting-state and at least one deformed state, and is configured for undergoing deformation to apply a second pressure on the vaginal wall, such second pressure being operable to narrow a urethral portion the female subject.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for bone cavity preparation. Formed broaching members may be supported inside a bone by a rotator. The broaching members may be bowed out inside the bone to create a cavity having a shape determined by the broaching members and bone anatomy.

Abstract: A dilation device including a dilation instrument which includes a distal radially expandable section which is coupled via an elongate shank to a handling section, and an expandable covering with a closed distal end and an open proximal end, for the expansion section of the dilation instrument. The covering has a shank section extending along the shank of the dilation instrument. The open proximal end of the covering is detachably coupled to the distal end of the handling section of the dilation instrument. Furthermore, the covering is disclosed per se, which consists of a mesh material and has a shank section, which is connected to a coupling sleeve at the open proximal end.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for bone cavity preparation. Formed broaching members may be supported inside a bone by a rotator. The broaching members may be bowed out inside the bone to create a cavity having a shape determined by the broaching members and bone anatomy.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for securing a bone implant are provided. The implant may be an expandable implant. The implant may be a non-expandable implant. The implant may be for repairing a bone fracture. The implant may be secured to a bone by anchors. The implant may include anchor receiving features. The anchor receiving features may be configured to direct an anchor into cortical bone. The anchor receiving features may be configured to receive an anchor driven through cortical bone. The implant may include bone engaging members configured to engage cancellous bone. An implant may include different profiles. The different profiles may be configured to secure the implant. The profiles may be configured to support the bone. The implant may have different flexing properties configured to position the implant in the bone. The implant may be positioned to receive an anchor driven through an outside of the bone.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for securing a bone implant are provided. The implant may be an expandable implant. The implant may be a non-expandable implant. The implant may be for repairing a bone fracture. The implant may be secured to a bone by anchors. The implant may include anchor receiving features. The anchor receiving features may be configured to direct an anchor into cortical bone. The anchor receiving features may be configured to receive an anchor driven through cortical bone. The implant may include bone engaging members configured to engage cancellous bone. An implant may include different profiles. The different profiles may be configured to secure the implant. The profiles may be configured to support the bone. The implant may have different flexing properties configured to position the implant in the bone. The implant may be positioned to receive an anchor driven through an outside of the bone.

Abstract: The Balloon Immobilization Device for Radiation Treatment of the present invention includes a catheter assembly with radiopaque markers and one or more lumina. The catheter assembly consists of a flexible tube and inflatable balloon. The flexible tube has distal and proximal ends, with one or more separate lumina within and along the length of the flexible tube. At least one lumen is in fluid communication with the exterior of the flexible tube at the distal end and the interior of the inflatable balloon and at least one lumen in fluid communication with the exterior of the flexible tube at the distal end and the exterior of the flexible tube at the proximal end. The inflatable balloon varies in shape and size and is made of a radiopaque material having varying degrees of radiopacity. Radiopaque markers are located at different locations on the balloon and flexible tube.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for securing a bone implant are provided. The implant may be an expandable implant. The implant may be a non-expandable implant. The implant may be for repairing a bone fracture. The implant may be secured to a bone by anchors. The implant may include anchor receiving features. The anchor receiving features may be configured to direct an anchor into cortical bone. The anchor receiving features may be configured to receive an anchor driven through cortical bone. The implant may include bone engaging members configured to engage cancellous bone. An implant may include different profiles. The different profiles may be configured to secure the implant. The profiles may be configured to support the bone. The implant may have different flexing properties configured to position the implant in the bone. The implant may be positioned to receive an anchor driven through an outside of the bone.

Abstract: An endoluminal occluding device consisting of a conical-shaped structure which is attached to a threaded central tubular element is capable of occluding a body lumen immediately after placement. When deployed within a body lumen, such as a fallopian tube, the conical-shaped structure extends radially outward from the central tubular element, thereby acutely occluding the body lumen, and, in the case of the fallopian tubes, preventing conception. As the acute occlusion device is being implanted into a body lumen, it is rotated, as the screw threads, which embed into the body lumen wall, advance the device within the body lumen to the desired located. Once implanted and deployed into a body lumen, the acute occlusion device provides immediate occlusion of the body lumen. A proximal anchor prevents the endoluminal device from migrating into the body lumen once it has been deployed.

Abstract: There is disclosed medical apparatus of the type for use in surgery such as transanal endoscopic microsurgery, as well as methods of providing access to, inspecting and enabling surgery within a body passage. In one embodiment of the invention, medical apparatus in the form of a rectal expander (10) is disclosed, the expander (10) being adapted for location at least partly within a body passage such as the rectum (12) of a patient (14), the expander (10) having a leading end (18) and an access area in the form of an opening (20) for access from the expander (10) into the rectum (12), at least part of the opening (20) being spaced from the leading end (18), and the expander (10) being controllably movable between collapse and expansion positions, for expanding the rectum (12).

Abstract: A stoma dilation device that includes a tubular support and an inflatable dilation portion located on the tubular support. The inflatable dilation portion includes a stiffening portion and inflation lumen. The device may have a retention portion configured to have a diameter upon full, unrestrained inflation that is greater than the diameter of the dilation portion. The device is designed to be placed in a patient to dilate the stoma for the installation of a catheter feeding tube. The device may be placed and withdrawn with the use of an endoscope which need be inserted into the patient only one time. The single insertion of the endoscope significantly reduces the trauma to the patient in comparison with multiple endoscope insertion methods.

Abstract: Radiation diagnosis devices, systems and methods are in general catheter form and include at least one diagnostic balloon that provides at least one diagnosis function and assists in placement of at least one radiation detector at a desired diagnosis location within an existing body cavity or at a percutaneous site. Data collected by the detector that is positioned as determined by the medical professional allows the medical professional to monitor radiation levels, either residual from a prior radiation treatment, during a brachytherapy treatment at the diagnostic catheter insertion site or in adjoining site, or during externally administered radiation.

Abstract: A hinged vaginal strengthening device has three points of resistance along its length, which correspond with the three layers of pelvic musculature. The device is inserted into a vagina and compressed by the pelvic floor musculature, in accordance with various regimens to achieve goals such as decreasing vaginal gap or overcoming painful intercourse. The device is of various dimensions, thereby allowing a user to progress through multiple steps to achieve their goal of increasing or decreasing their vaginal space, as well as increasing muscle tone.

Abstract: The teachings provided herein are directed to a methods and devices for treating a hemorrhoid in a subject in a manner that produces substantially less post-procedural pain in the subject, the method minimizing or avoiding a removing or a necrosis of a rectal tissue fold.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of apparatus and method for effecting at least one anatomical structure of a body can be provided. For example, at least one first arrangement can be provided which is structured to be at least partially inserted into the body and including an opening. In addition, at least one second arrangement can be provided which configured to increase and/or decrease a size of the opening by a motion thereof in a first direction. Further, at least one third arrangement can be provided which can be coupled to the second arrangement(s), and configured to move at least in a second direction which is at least approximately parallel to the second direction.

Abstract: The present invention provides various systems, a kit, and a method for accessing, sampling within, and visualization of areas within the mediastinal cavity for assisting a surgeon in performing a mediastinoscopy procedure. The access system includes one or more preferably toroidal balloons that can be expanded to dilate and protect the inner walls of a bodily conduit. Instruments pass through hollow spaces within the expanded toroidal balloons. The proximally positioned balloons are expanded first and the unexpanded balloons to be positioned distally are passed through them and subsequently expanded. The sampling system includes an instrument with a rounded head having two or more jaws and a slit therein at the distal end of an elongated tubular body. The visualization system includes a 360° camera that can be positioned from proximal to distal a target site and can also do a U-turn about its axis of extension.

Abstract: A method of treating early papillomavirus infection of an orifice of a human or animal body including any canal associated with an orifice, comprising applying a viral inactivation agent to the orifice and/or canal in an amount effective to inactivate a portion of the virus infecting the orifice or canal. Apparatus is also disclosed.

Abstract: A rectal balloon apparatus has a shaft with a fluid passageway extending therethrough. A balloon is affixed over an end of the shaft such that the fluid passageway communicates with an interior of the balloon. The balloon has a laterally flat surface thereon when inflated. The laterally flat surface of the balloon has a longitudinal groove formed thereon. The balloon having a pair of bulges formed thereon when the balloon is inflated. A ring is affixed to the shaft adjacent the balloon. The shaft has a plurality of holes formed thereon opening to an interior of the balloon.

Abstract: A device and method for minimizing exposure of soft mucosa tissues to radiation, the device including a low-volume intracavity balloon catheter having multiple expansion portions, including an isometrically expanding portion and a substantially planar anterior portion.

Abstract: A probe including a housing, a rectal muscle air bag, a rectal tube, an anal muscle air bag, and an anal tube is provided. The rectal muscle air bag mounts to the housing a first distance from a non-insertion end. A rectal tube is connected to the rectal muscle air bag at a first end and to a first pressure sensor at a second end. The anal muscle air bag is mounted to the housing a second distance from the non-insertion end. The anal tube is connected to the anal muscle air bag at a first end and to a second pressure sensor at a second end. The first distance is selected to position the rectal muscle air bag adjacent a rectal muscle, and the second distance is selected to position the anal muscle air bag adjacent an anal muscle when the housing is inserted in the rectum.

Abstract: A composite anoscope for ano-rectal diagnostic and surgery, wherein the anoscope (2) also comprises an internal component (1), to be inserted therein, and a suitably shorter external component (3), ending with a conic frustum mantle (18), wherein the anoscope (2) is to be inserted. The three components (1, 2, 3) are all conic frustum shaped hollow bodies having circular cross-section. The internal component (1), when inserted in the anoscope (2), forms therewith a single body having a compact and smooth external surface and an ogival tip. The external component (3) is provided close to its mouth with slotted wings (19, 20), to be fixed to the perianal skin for securing the whole composite anoscope during the diagnostic and surgical operations.

Abstract: Tissue manipulation devices are disclosed. In various forms, the devices include tissue manipulation arms that are arranged in a position suitable to enable the device to be inserted into the colon then, upon application of at least one actuation motion thereto, at least some of the tissue manipulation arms are moved to deployed positions wherein they contact corresponding portions of the colon to thereby expand the colon. Various devices are actuatable by various forms of actuation forces. In various embodiments, the tissue manipulation arms may be movable along corresponding axes that are transverse to an insertion axis and may also be rotated about the insertion axis as well as be moved in directions that are substantially parallel to the insertion axis.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a hollow member having a sidewall provided with a window and a closure member movably connected to the hollow member for alternately covering and uncovering the window. The hollow member has a first clamping surface along an edge of the window, while the closure member has a second clamping surface opposing the first clamping surface and disposable substantially adjacent thereto in a clamping or closure configuration of the instrument. The instrument additionally comprises a tissue occlusion component mounted to at least one of the hollow member and the closure member for acting on tissues gripped between the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface, to couple the tissues to each other.

Abstract: Various embodiments of methods and devices for drying coated stents in an oven are described herein.

Abstract: A device for surgical operations on a prolapse, comprising a hollow stretcher body (2) having a prevalent development direction along a longitudinal axis (A) and being insertable in an orifice, the stretcher body (2) exhibiting a through-window (7), defining an area of intervention and realising a communication between an internal cavity (3) of the stretcher body (2) and a portion of a prolapse, a mobile wall (8) defining the through-window (7) in combination with the stretcher body (2) and being slidably associated to the stretcher body (2) in order to open and/or close the through window (7) between a configuration of minimum extension and a configuration of maximum extension of the through-window (7); characterized in that it comprises means for blocking (10) which act between the mobile wall (8) and the stretcher body (2) in order to maintain the through-window (7) stably in the configuration of minimum extension during insertion of the stretcher body (2).

Abstract: A rectal balloon apparatus comprises a shaft having a fluid passageway extending therethrough. A rectal gas relieving lumen may be positioned with the shaft for removal of rectal gas. A motion detecting sensor and a radiation detecting sensor may be positioned with the balloon, the shaft, and/or the rectal gas release lumen.

Abstract: A device and system for reducing pain, bleeding and/or distension of hemorrhoids during defecation is provided.

Abstract: The teachings provided herein are directed to a methods and devices for treating a hemorrhoid in a subject in a manner that produces substantially less post-procedural pain in the subject, the method minimizing or avoiding a removing or a necrosis of a rectal tissue fold.

Abstract: Gastrointestinal apparatus (10) is provided, including a guiding element (16) and an inflatable mechanical device (96), adapted to pull the guiding element (16) through a colon of a patient. A gastrointestinal tool (12) is shaped to define a bore (14) therethrough, and the guiding element (16) is adapted to pass through the bore (14). Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: A rectal balloon apparatus has a shaft with a fluid passageway extending therethrough. A balloon is affixed over an end of the shaft such that the fluid passageway communicates with an interior of the balloon. The balloon has a laterally flat surface thereon when inflated. The laterally flat surface of the balloon has a longitudinal groove formed thereon. The balloon has a radiation sensor positioned within the groove and a plurality of fiducial markers positioned on a surface of the balloon. A stopper is slidably mounted on the shaft.

Abstract: The present invention provides an instrument for anorectal surgery, comprising a hollow main body, a suture junction disposed at a rear end of the main body and an inserting guider disposed at a front end of the main body. At an operating position, all or part of mucosa and tissues can get through the main body. At least one opening is made in the wall of the main body, and all or part of the mucosa and tissues can get into a hollow interior of the main body through the opening. Because of the openings on the wall of the main body, the present invention can be operated to perform the anorectal surgery of local and non-annular cutting, which facilitates a quick surgical operation, further allays the pain of the patients, and a better operation effect is obtained.

Abstract: A rectal balloon apparatus comprises a shaft having a fluid passageway extending therethrough. A rectal gas relieving lumen may be positioned with the shaft for removal of rectal gas. A motion detecting sensor and a radiation detecting sensor may be positioned with the balloon, the shaft, and/or the rectal gas release lumen.

Abstract: Medical devices and related methods are disclosed for delivering an implant into the body of a patient. The devices include a damping assembly having an internal chamber with a varying inner diameter, and a piston slideably disposed therein. The piston is operably connected with a catheter portion such that movement of the piston is associated with concurrent movement of the catheter for implant delivery. The varying inner diameter of the damping assembly results in a decrease in damping force during implant delivery, thus providing a substantially constant velocity of implant delivery.

Abstract: A prostate immobilizer has a shaft with a fluid passageway extending therethrough, a balloon affixed over an end of the shaft such that the fluid passageway communicates with an interior of the balloon, a lumen extending within the shaft so as to have an end opening adjacent an end of the balloon, and a device for locking a position of the shaft. The device has a positioning member having a stem portion extending from a head portion, and a locking member having a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking member cooperates with the stem portion of the positioning member so as to fix a position on the shaft. A channel is formed in the head portion so as to receive the shaft therein.

Abstract: Devices and methods for intra-vaginal bowel control.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a hollow member having a sidewall provided with a window and a closure member movably connected to the hollow member for alternately covering and uncovering the window. The hollow member has a first clamping surface along an edge of the window, while the closure member has a second clamping surface opposing the first clamping surface and disposable substantially adjacent thereto in a clamping or closure configuration of the instrument. The instrument additionally comprises a tissue occlusion component mounted to at least one of the hollow member and the closure member for acting on tissues gripped between the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface, to couple the tissues to each other.

Abstract: An anoscope kit comprising an anoscope having a plurality of spaced apart fingers having free ends and a dilator removably positionable within the anoscope to aid insertion of the anoscope. The dilator has a proximal region, an intermediate region and a distal region, the distal region including an enlarged distal head. A ramped surface extends from the enlarged distal head toward the intermediate region, the intermediate region having an outer surface to contact the fingers of the dilator.

Abstract: A rectal thermal monitor for transrectal prostate temperature measurement includes a handle arranged in a proximal end portion of the monitor for gripping by a user, an elongate shaft extending from the handle, and an expandable distal probe portion arranged on a distal end of the shaft. The distal probe portion is arranged at a position opposite the handle portion, and is shaped to facilitate insertion through an anal sphincter and into a rectum of a patient. A cover element, is provided for covering at least a portion of the distal probe portion, and is made from a resilient material. A temperature sensing element is arranged within the distal probe portion, beneath the cover element, and is adapted and configured to sense a temperature of the prostate of the patient through the rectum wall of the patient. Further, and actuator can be provided to actuate the expandable distal probe portion, to increase a diameter thereof.

Abstract: A reusable temperature sensing probe assembly comprises a temperature sensor strip extending from one end of a handle. The temperature sensor strip carries at least one temperature sensor for measuring temperature within a body cavity of a person, such as the rectum. The handle/temperature sensor strip is reversibly positionable within a unitary balloon/sleeve assembly comprised of a balloon portion and a sleeve portion. The balloon portion is comprised of a first interior space configured to hold the temperature sensor stip and a second interior space separate from the first interior space that is configured for inflation. An inflation tube has one portion sealed within the second interior space of the balloon portion and a second portion which extends through the sleeve portion for connection to a fluid source.

Abstract: Disclosed is an indwelling fecal diverting device. The device comprises an elongate tube formed, at an upper end thereof, with a tubular body part; a pair of fixing balloons attached up and down to an outer surface of the tubular body part such that a clamping portion is defined between the fixing balloons; and a tube opening and closing balloon attached to an inner surface of the tubular body part. An injection passage is defined in the tube so that a remedial liquid can be injected through the injection passage to the outside of the tube to medically treat an anastomosed portion of an intestinal tract of a patient. The indwelling fecal diverting device is fitted into the intestinal tract of the patient, air is supplied into the fixing balloons to inflate them, and the intestinal tract is clamped around the clamping portion using a clamping band.

Abstract: A hemorrhoid pressure relief device having fluid fill inside a tube made of a supple, soft, and yet highly tensile strong material produces a gentle support and counter pressure over the hemorrhoid bulge resulting in a lowering of the differential pressure across the tissue wall of the hemorrhoid, instantly reducing pain. Due to the fluidity of the liquid fill the device conforms to the contour of the hemorrohidal bulge and the adjacent buttocks cheeks, while being held in place, naturally keeping the buttocks cheeks from rubbing against the homorrhoidal bulge. Owing to the cooling capacity of the fluid fill, the device provides further pain relief. The device is simple and easy to use. Due to its simplicity, the manufacturing cost is inexpensive and can be afforded by most people. The device is disposable and thus is sanitary.

Abstract: A probe including a housing, a rectal muscle air bag, a rectal tube, an anal muscle air bag, and an anal tube is provided. The rectal muscle air bag mounts to the housing a first distance from a non-insertion end. A rectal tube is connected to the rectal muscle air bag at a first end and to a first pressure sensor at a second end. The anal muscle air bag is mounted to the housing a second distance from the non- insertion end. The anal tube is connected to the anal muscle air bag at a first end and to a second pressure sensor at a second end. The first distance is selected to position the rectal muscle air bag adjacent a rectal muscle, and the second distance is selected to position the anal muscle air bag adjacent an anal muscle when the housing is inserted in the rectum.

Abstract: Tissue manipulation devices are disclosed. In various forms, the devices include tissue manipulation arms that are arranged in a position suitable to enable the device to be inserted into the colon then, upon application of at least one actuation motion thereto, at least some of the tissue manipulation arms are moved to deployed positions wherein they contact corresponding portions of the colon to thereby expand the colon. Various devices are actuatable by various forms of actuation forces. In various embodiments, the tissue manipulation arms may be movable along corresponding axes that are transverse to an insertion axis and may also be rotated about the insertion axis as well as be moved in directions that are substantially parallel to the insertion axis.

Abstract: A rectal stimulation device for stimulating peristalsis includes a balloon having an interior, a squeeze bulb having an interior and an insertion portion having a distal end and providing flow communication between the interior of the squeeze bulb and the interior of the balloon. The balloon, the squeeze bulb and the insertion portion define a closed fluid system. The balloon overlies the insertion portion distal end. A fluid is disposed in the closed fluid system. The distal end and the balloon are inserted into a rectum of a user, and pressure is applied to the squeeze bulb to urge fluid from the interior off the squeeze bulb to the interior of the balloon to distend the balloon.

Abstract: A rectal balloon apparatus has a shaft with a fluid passageway extending therethrough. A balloon is affixed over an end of the shaft such that the fluid passageway communicates with an interior of the balloon. The balloon has a laterally flat surface thereon when inflated. The laterally flat surface of the balloon has a longitudinal groove formed thereon. A valve assembly is affixed to the shaft at an end opposite the balloon. The valve assembly selectively allows a fluid to pass therethrough to move the balloon from a non-inflated condition to an inflated condition. A fluid introducing means is removably attached to the valve assembly to introduce the fluid into the valve assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for massaging a prostate includes a body having a substantially ellipsoid shape and sized to fit in a rectum through a sphincter, wherein the body comprises a head portion and a neck portion, wherein the head portion is configured to contact the prostate through the rectum wall when inserted in the rectum, and wherein the neck portion has a tapered section with gradually reducing diameters distal to the head portion; and a retainer bar joined the body at one end of the neck portion to form a substantially T-shaped structure, wherein the retainer bar comprises two contact points for contacting a first acupressure point, which is located in the perineum region between the anus and the scrotum, and a second acupressure point, which is located about midway between the anus and the lower end of the coccyx.

Abstract: A manually manipulatable tool for removing a fecal impaction, the tool is adapted for insertion into a patient's rectum to engage and penetrate the impaction. The tool is fitted with flexible, arcuately configured elements collapsible at least partially during insertion into the rectum and penetration of the fecal impaction, withdrawal of the tool deploying the elements to exert traction on the impaction thus facilitating withdrawal of at least portions of the impaction. A body member of the tool is preferably elongated and can optionally be provided with a longitudinally extending lumen for introduction of an enema solution concurrently with or independently of impaction removal.