Abstract: A bi-flow nasal stent comprising: first and second tube-like elements; and a bridge connecting the first and second tube-like elements; wherein each of the first and second tube-like elements comprises a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending therebetween, and further wherein each of the first and second tube-like elements comprises top side, a medial side, a bottom side, and a lateral side collectively forming the tube-like element; wherein the bridge connects the proximal end of the medial side of the first tube-like element to the proximal end of the medial side of the second tube-like element; and wherein each of the first and second tube-like elements comprises first and second V-shaped cutouts at the distal end of the tube-like element, with the first V-shaped cutout extending proximally in the top side of the tube-like element and the second V-shaped cutout extending proximally in the bottom side of the tube-like element, with the first and second V-shaped cutouts being diametrically opposed

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for altering the shape of a target tissue structure of a subject, e.g., a nasal septum or other nasal tissue that include securing a first end of a shaping element to tissue adjacent the structure; manipulating the tissue to alter a shape of the structure; and applying a force to the shaping element to maintain the altered shape of the structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a nasal plug for diverting airflow from a natural flow path in a person's nostril. In some circumstances, the airflow is channeled and directed to a specific location in a person's nasal or sinus cavity. The person may adjust and self-select a preferred airflow path by adjusting the nasal plug's location in the nostril, e.g., rotating the plugs. A kit may include two plugs, which may be used singly or in combination with each other and are independently adjustable/rotatable. A method for reducing nasal discomfort or improving nasal functions by diverting channeled airflow in a nostril is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a probe cable assembly comprising a probe interface configured to couple to a measurement interface and to receive a differential signal, a measurement output interface configured to output the differential signal, and a cable arrangement electrically arranged between the probe interface and the measurement output interface and configured to conduct the differential signal between the probe interface and the measurement output interface, the cable arrangement comprising a cable, a plurality of magnetic elements arranged around at least a section of the length of the cable, wherein each magnetic element is separated by a gap from adjacent magnetic elements, and a plastically deformable guiding element configured to fix the cable arrangement with a predetermined relative position between the probe interface and the measurement output interface.

Abstract: A nasal dilator device comprises a substantially U-shaped body including a central portion arranged to span a septum of a nose when worn by a user and first and second leg members extending from the central portion in a first plane, a first cantilever rib member extending outward from the U-shaped body in a second plane and a second 5 cantilever rib member extending outward from the U-shaped body in a third plane, wherein the first and second cantilever rib members extend away from each other.

Abstract: A nasal dilator device comprises a substantially U-shaped body including a central portion arranged to span a septum of a nose when worn by a user and first and second leg members extending from the central portion in a first plane. The device further comprises a first cantilever rib member extending outward from the U-shaped body in a second plane and a second cantilever rib member extending outward from the U-shaped body in a third plane, wherein the first and second cantilever rib members extend away from each other. The device further comprises a first intermediate section connecting an end of the first leg member to a proximal end of the first cantilever rib member, wherein the first intermediate section extends between the first plane and second plane and a second intermediate section connecting an end of the second leg member to a proximal end of the second cantilever rib member, wherein the second intermediate section extends between the first plane and the third plane.

Abstract: A medical device for facilitating post-operative nasal reshaping includes a nose splint comprising a rigid curved surface shaped to fit over a dorsum of a patient's nose, the nose splint having a proximal surface and a distal surface; a tubular sleeve hingably attached to the distal surface of the nose splint; a pair of malleable arms movably coupled to the tubular sleeve, the pair of malleable arms configured to extend into a supratip of the patient's nose via the patient's nostrils; and an adjustable thumb nut coupled to the tubular sleeve and the pair of malleable arms, wherein the thumb nut is configured such that adjustment of the thumb nut moves the pair of malleable arms in a direction orthogonal to the distal surface of the nose splint.

Abstract: An internal nasal dilator approximates a U-shape having a bight section and two elongated members with end pads. Each member can be custom formed for comfortable and secure placement in the respective nostrils. Insertion is limited when the bight section of the U contacts the bottom of the user's columella. The upper ends of the members transition to widened areas or pads that face outwardly and are shaped and sized to urge the outer wall of their respective nostril outwardly to dilate the nostril to facilitate breathing. The lower portions of the members have inwardly directed projections at a predetermined distance from the bight; these projections overlie the upper ledge of the columella to interfere with or block withdrawal of the dilator unless a sufficient downward force is exerted to enable the projections to slide off and past the ledge of the columella to allow the dilator to be withdrawn.

Abstract: A flexible endoscope of the present invention includes a catheter portion and a connection plug. The catheter portion includes an image guide, a light guide, and a catheter tube that surrounds the image guide and the light guide in a longitudinal direction, and the connection plug includes a hollow cover that accommodates the proximal end of the catheter tube, a flexible tube that protrudes from the hollow cover and through which the catheter tube is passed, a first connection terminal that is connected to the light guide extending from the proximal end of the catheter tube, and a second connection terminal that is connected to the image guide extending from the proximal end of the catheter tube. The image guide and the light guide are slidable inside the catheter tube, and at least one of the image guide and the light guide is arranged curved inside the hollow cover of the connection plug.

Abstract: A nasal splint and methods for using such splints are provided. The nasal splint may include an elongate generally planar member comprising first and second ends, and a first outer surface and an opposite second outer surface; a tubular airway extending along the first outer surface at least partially between the first and second ends, thereby defining a lumen having an opening adjacent the first end; and a structure on one of the elongate member and tubular airway adjacent the first end supporting a feature that is spaced apart from the first outer surface and configured to support a suture across the opening when the suture is directed through the elongate member adjacent the first end and the feature.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein to a device for improving respiration comprising at least one nasal insert provided to be inserted into a nostril of a user, wherein the at least one nasal insert comprises a conical base body, a through-hole extending along the main axis of the base body, and a spiral element arranged on the inside of the base body and extending from the base of the base body to the tip of the base body.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a network interface and a processor. The network interface receives event data that identifies a content ID and a message authentication code. The content ID identifies a content within a webcast or a virtual event. The processor generates a content hash, at least in part based on the content ID. The network interface transmits a content request and receives the content. The content request identifies the content hash and the message authentication code.

Abstract: Described here are expandable devices and methods for using them. The devices generally comprise a hub and a plurality of legs extending therefrom. In some variations, the hub may comprise one or more domed portions, tapered portions, or the like. The legs may comprise one or more straight segments, one or more curved segments, or a combination thereof. The devices may comprise one or more polymers, and/or one or more portions of the device may be configured to biodegrade. In other variations, the device may be configured to release one or more drugs therefrom. Additionally, in some variations the devices may be configured to be self-expandable from a low-profile configuration to an expanded configuration.

Abstract: The intention of this invention, a nasal dilator, is disclosed for internal positioning within each single nostril, providing an unobstructed through air passage, between the Maxilla and the exterior septal cartilage. An open framework is disclosed for positioning internally within and dilating both nostrils together, and is constructed as two connected elongated loops, having two posterior ends extending beyond the bone structure, or, Maxilla, and two anterior ends, connected by the convex handle. Since every nostril is sensitive, and has unique dimensions, even on the same person, and the septum can be wider or narrower, the device material is flexible, but upon squeezing or expanding the posterior ends of the elongated loop ends or of the connecting member-convex handle, by finger pressure, the device will retain an altered flexible shape, to increase or decrease the nasal openings for comfort, as desired.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a method receives a request for a segment of video from a client. The request is associated with an identity. The method maps the segment to a variant value in a representation for the identity and selects a variant for the segment from a plurality of variants based on the variant value in the representation. A first segment of a first variant of the plurality of variants includes a first marker and a second segment of a second variant of the plurality of variants includes a second marker. The variant of the segment is then delivered to the client.

Abstract: A method and device for non-surgically repairing and augmenting internal nasal valve ligaments of a patient. The method and device comprise tunneling a working device subcutaneously into the ligaments of the nasal valve and the surrounding soft tissues and periosteum of the adjacent bony structures, causing a tightening of the nasal valve ligaments and repositioning the nasal valve in adjustable fashion. A device comprising a barbed elongate implant is introduced by tunneling subcutaneously into the nasal valve ligament allowing for structural re-positioning of the nasal valve cartilage structures and tightening of the ligaments, which is adjustable intra-operatively and allows for structural support of the nose and/or causes a change in the external shape of the nose.

Abstract: Nasal implants and nasal implant delivery tools are described herein. The nasal implants and tools can be used to deliver the implant in a minimally invasive way. The delivery tools can be adapted to separate the upper lateral cartilage from the septum and to place an implant between the septum and the upper lateral cartilage. The implant can be configured to be placed between the upper lateral cartilage and the septum. The implant system can include a first longitudinal body adapted to engage with upper lateral cartilage and the septum on a first side of the septum and a second longitudinal body adapted to engage with upper lateral cartilage and the septum on a second side of the septum.

Abstract: A tamponade for nasal cavities or sinus cavities for tamponading a cavity of the nasal tract in the region of an ostium leading to the cavity with uniform force, comprising a thin-walled balloon which is made from a soft foil-like, only slightly expandable, smoothly folding polyurethane material, with a wall thickness in the range of 5 to 50 ?m, which is already completely shaped with the required tamponade dimensions or greater at the time of production, and can therefore be expanded without application of filling pressure, and said balloon occupies the respective, generally irregular-shaped cavity and the ostium of same when in the filled condition, through the development of forces that are as uniform as possible on the structures exposed to the balloon in such a way that a distal segment of the balloon is located inside the cavity where a tamponade is to be applied, a proximal segment of the balloon is located upstream of the cavity and a transostial segment of the balloon extends through the ostium and c

Abstract: This invention provides a nasal device comprising: a main body being tubular in shape having a hollow structure which extends from the end of front side to the end of rear side, wherein the main body is insertable into a nasal cavity; a front opening portion at the end of a front side of the main body and is configured to open the hollow structure towards the outside of the nasal device; a rear opening portion at the end of a rear side of the main body and is configured to open the hollow structure towards the outside of the nasal device; and a pressing portion placed at the rear end of the main structure and can move sideways from the rear end view in between a protruding position of the main body and an overlapping position that overlaps with the hollow structure.

Abstract: Devices and methods for creating a breathing passage and/or for maintaining a position of a septum. An exemplary device includes a base member, a first side member extending upward away from a first edge of the base member and being configured to contact a septum of a nasal cavity, and a second side member extending upward away from a second edge of the base member and being configured to contact a turbinate. The first and/or second side members are made of a flexible material. An exemplary method includes inserting a septum support into one side of a nasal cavity for creating a breathing passage, placing a first side member and a second side member of the septum support into contact with a septum and a turbinate, respectively. The first and second side members are biased away from one another such that pressure is applied to the septum.

Abstract: A method using one or two inflatable balloon packs for the treatment of epistaxis (nosebleed) from any internal area of the nose. The balloon packing is adapted to be received in and apply pressure to all aspects of the nasal cavity on inflation with a suitable fluid. The anterior (forward) balloon packing has a channel extending between its front and rear aspects to allow passage of a second, posterior (rearward) balloon packing; said posterior packing is adapted to apply pressure to the nasopharynx upon inflation with a suitable fluid. Said method has a means of tensioning packing to continuously apply pressure necessary to control bleeding.

Abstract: A nose clip structure includes a nose frame and nose pads. The nose frame includes two arms and a connecting portion. The connecting portion interconnects the two arms to make the two arms bend flexibly. The nose pads are disposed on the two arms of the nose frame, and has an anti-off body adapted to engage with the wing of the swimmer's nose for preventing falling-off of the nose clip structure.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a method for treatment of nonvascular body lumen strictures such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), urethral strictures, ureteral strictures, prostate cancer, esophageal strictures, sinus strictures, biliary tract strictures, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The method involves delivering, preferably via drug coated balloon catheters, of anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative drugs (rapamycin or paclitaxel and their analogues) and one or more additives.

Abstract: A nasal spray delivery guide including a pair of guide elements spaced apart from one another and configured to be at least partially inserted into respective nostrils of a patient, and a flexible connector element attached to and extending between the guide elements. Each guide element includes an aperture extending therethrough from a base end to a tip end of the guide element. A method for delivering a nasal spray into a patient's nose includes the steps of providing the nasal spray delivery guide, inserting the guide elements at least partially into respective nostrils of the patient, inserting at least a portion of a nasal spray delivery device into one of the guide elements, and activating the nasal spray delivery device to deliver a nasal spray to a lateral wall of the respective nasal cavity.

Abstract: Devices for nasal insertion may include an open-ended tubular element which extends along a central tube axis between a first end and a second end, the first end being larger than the second end, and in which the tubular element includes at least one spiral strut extending from the first end to the second end, and/or a nodule having an internal face, a rounded external face, and a stalk extending from the internal face and terminating in an anchor sufficiently larger than a receptacle in the tubular element and sufficiently deformable as to be pressed through the receptacle to affix the nodule to the tubular element.

Abstract: A method includes inserting into a patient organ a catheter including a position sensor, a device and a handle. The position sensor is attached to a distal end of the catheter. The device is movable along the catheter. The handle includes a control for navigating the device along the catheter to a target location in the patient organ. Based on a location of the position sensor, a target position of the control on the handle that corresponds to the target location of the device is estimated. A marker is set to mark the target position of the control on the handle, and the device is navigated to the target location by setting the control to the marker.

Abstract: The present invention provides a nasal dilator including: two intranasal stents (1) and a connecting band (2), wherein each of two ends of the connecting band (2) being symmetrically connected to one intranasal stent (1), each intranasal stent (1) having an elastic band-shape structure, each intranasal stent (1) has a straight-line shape, an arc-line shape, a bow shape, or a fold-line shape in a cross section perpendicular to a width direction of the elastic banded structure, each intranasal stent (1), along a length direction of the elastic band-shape structure, comprises: a nasal septum supporting section (3), a bending section (4), and a nasal alar dilating section (5), each intranasal stent (1) has a generally C-shape in a cross-section perpendicular to a central axis of nasal passages, wherein an opening of the C-shape faces towards a nasal base (11).

Abstract: A rhinological implant for straightening the nasal septum is fastened on both sides of a septum (S), separating left and right sides of a nasal cavity of a human nose, on the outer surface of the septum (S), in the left and the right sides of the nasal cavity. Before implantation, the implant is folded up from an initially flat blank into an implantable three-dimensional shape. The implant has a central back section which in an implanted state wraps around the free lower edge of the septum. Two side sections are provided on either side of the central back section to extend symmetrically with respect to the central back section. In the implanted state, the two side sections bear via the entire surface against the two diametrically opposed outer surfaces of the septum (S).

Abstract: A sinus passage expansion device includes a pair of protruding tubular members connected to a base member. Each tubular member is split into hollow half portions each providing outwardly bulging forms which emulate an inner profile of a nasal cavity. The members are preferably made using a material having shape changing temperature sensitive properties. The base provides screen-covered apertures.

Abstract: A nasal insert including an antimicrobial agent is inserted into the nose to eliminate or reduce undesirable microbes in the area just inside the nose. Pads of the nasal insert can be formed from a blended polymer compound with a microbial agent. Processing of the pre-polymer results in the microbial agent being trapped in the polymer. A blowing agent or CO2 gas can be introduced in the process after decompression, and before molding to improve attraction of liquid born microbes to the nasal insert.

Abstract: A nasal dilator comprises magnets. The nasal dilator is a set comprising two bodies. Each of the two bodies has a first leg having at a distal portion thereof a magnet; and a second leg connected to the first leg via a bridge comprising flexible material. Each of the two bodies are designed so as to allow said body to be clamped to an ala nasi of a human nose between the distal portions of said first leg and said second leg. The magnets of the bodies are aligned such that with a body clamped to the ala nasi of a nose, the magnet is oriented at an angle to a plane defined by the ala nasi area clamped between said two distal portions of said first leg and second leg. Thanks to the repelling action of the magnets, the alae nasi are pushed apart, resulting in improved ease of breathing.

Abstract: A fixture is provided for attachment to a device to be inserted into a nasal cavity. Further, the fixture is a nasal cavity insertion device fixture formed of a wire rod. The fixture includes a first wire rod part, a second wire rod part, and a third wire rod part. The second wire rod part is connected to the first wire rod part and formed by folding back the wire rod so as to be opposed to the first wire rod part. The third wire rod part is connected to the second wire rod part and formed by bending the wire rod so as to be disposed oppositely to a side of the second wire rod part facing the first wire rod part.

Abstract: A nasal cavity insertion device is provided that includes a tubular main body part, at least one elastically deforming part disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the tubular main body part, and a water soluble holding part. The water soluble holding part holds the elastically deforming part in a diameter-reduced state.

Abstract: A spring-biased nasal molding device for presurgical molding of cleft lip deformities, the device having a V-shaped spring member joined to a pair of intra-nasal shaping members for insertion in a nostril, and having an extra-nasal shaping member to be positioned external to the nostril connected to each intra-nasal shaping member, wherein the intra-nasal and extra-nasal shaping members are brought together by the spring member to mold the nasal anatomy into the desired shape.

Abstract: A nasal breathing assist device includes one or two open-ended tubular elements each extending along a central tube axis between a relatively large first end and a relatively small second end, and at least one non-resilient tab extends from the first end toward the second end of the tubular element. In embodiments with two tubular elements, a coupler element extends between the first ends of the tubular elements. Each tubular element may further include a liner-shaped filter having a liner portion extending along a central axis between a relatively large end and a relatively small end, and a filter medium spanning at least one of the relatively large end and the relatively small end. The filter is adapted to snap-fit in the tubular element. The tubular element may further include at least one stiffening element affixed to the tubular element.

Abstract: A nasal dilator is constructed as a single body truss having a resilient member structure comprising a plurality of overlaid, island-placed, or overlapping resilient members. Methods of mass producing dilator devices, individual resilient members, and overlapped, overlaid, and island-placed resilient member structures are also disclosed.

Abstract: A balloon dilation catheter includes a substantially rigid inner guide member and a movable shaft coupled to a balloon that is slidably mounted on the substantially rigid inner guide member. To treat a sinus cavity of a subject using the balloon dilation the substantially rigid inner guide member is advanced into a drainage pathway of the sinus (e.g., frontal recess) of the subject via a nasal passageway. The shaft and balloon are advanced in a distal direction over the substantially rigid inner guide member to place the balloon in the drainage pathway. The balloon is inflated to expand or otherwise remodel the drainage pathway.

Abstract: A breathing system is provided which enhances the ability of a user to breathe through the user's nasal passageways. The breathing system generally includes a bridge member and a pair of nasal appliques which are attachable to the lateral portions of the user's nose. The bridge member is positionable adjacent the appliques to activate the system and impart a dilating force onto the user's nose. The system may be deactivated by removing the bridge member from the appliques, and thereby removing the dilating force from the user's nose.

Abstract: A nasal insert including an antimicrobial agent is inserted into the nose to eliminate or reduce undesirable microbes in the area just inside the nose. Pads of the nasal insert can be formed from a blended polymer compound with a microbial agent. Processing of the pre-polymer results in the microbial agent being trapped in the polymer. A blowing agent or CO2 gas can be introduced in the process after decompression, and before molding to improve attraction of liquid born microbes to the nasal insert.

Abstract: An improved adjustable nasal dilator device insertable within the nasal cavity of a human being to improve the flow of air through the nasal passage. The device includes a body, a top and bottom frame ends interconnected by a series of spaced flexible ribs. The top and bottom frame ends are open and substantially circular, and the diameter of the bottom frame end is greater than the corresponding diameter of the top frame end to provide a body shape for convenient insertion within a nasal cavity.

Abstract: A tab lead including a first insulating film made of resin is adhered to one of surfaces of a part of a region of a metal plate in a length direction of the metal plate and a second insulating film made of resin is adhered to the other surface of the part of the region. Both end portions of the first insulating film and both end portions of the second insulating film are integrally welded to each other. First protruding portions protruding outward in a thickness direction of the first insulating film are formed at regions of the first insulating film corresponding to both widthwise side edges of the metal plate and vicinities thereof. Second protruding portions protruding outward in a thickness direction of the second insulating film are formed at regions of the second insulating film corresponding to both widthwise side edges of the metal plate and vicinities thereof.

Abstract: A gripping system for use in treating the sinus cavity is described. The system includes a handle for single handed operation that includes access to the sinus cavity and treatment by dilation of an anatomical passageway within the ear, nose or throat. The handle contains a guide catheter or seeker for proper placement of the system and further includes a balloon catheter cartridge for treatment of the cavity. The handle may further contain a guidewire cartridge to ensure proper access of the cavity or a stabilizing feature for incorporation of an endoscope.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a device and method for facilitating air flow in the nasal passage of a domestic animal. The nasal support device (NSD) disclosed herein is useful for facilitating air flow during rest, physical exertion, respiratory ailment, etc. The NSD secures to the nose of a domestic animal to support the unsupported lateral vestibular walls of the nasal passages by lifting or stenting.

Abstract: A method of dilating an infundibular space within the human head includes directing at least a distal portion of an elongate member of a medical device into a nasal cavity of the human head, the distal portion including a piercing tip and an expandable portion. The piercing tip is directed through tissue of an uncinate process or tissue near an uncinate process and into an ethmoid infundibulum and the expandable portion of the distal end is expanded within the ethmoid infundibulum.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for a device having a first member and a second member coupled to the first member where the second member is configured to modify a configuration of a human or animal orifice or conduit. In some embodiments, the first member is a shaft and the second member is an inflatable membrane system configured to facilitate inflation or deflation of the inflatable membrane system. In some embodiments, the first member is a U-shaped member with end members configured for insertion to an internal nasal valve. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: A surgical sheath for use in endoscopic trans-nasal or intra-ocular surgery has an angle section joined to a conical section, with the conical section having a central axis not parallel to a central axis of the angle section. A body section is joined to the angle section, with the body section having a length at least twice the length of the angle section. The conical section, the angle section and the body section may be a flexible or compliant material. The sheath reduces collateral trauma to the tissues in the surgical pathway.

Abstract: A balloon dilation catheter includes a substantially rigid inner guide member and a movable shaft coupled to a balloon that is slidably mounted on the substantially rigid inner guide member. To treat a sinus cavity of a subject using the balloon dilation the substantially rigid inner guide member is advanced into a drainage pathway of the sinus (e.g., frontal recess) of the subject via a nasal passageway. The shaft and balloon are advanced in a distal direction over the substantially rigid inner guide member to place the balloon in the drainage pathway. The balloon is inflated to expand or otherwise remodel the drainage pathway.

Abstract: Described here are self-expanding devices and methods of using and making them. The devices may be useful in a variety of locations within the body, for a number of different uses. In some variations, the devices have a first compressed configuration enabling low profile delivery through a delivery device, a second expanded configuration for apposition against tissue, and comprise either a single continuous filament or at least two non-intersecting filaments. In some variations, the device is formed into a shape having a series of peaks and valleys. At least one of the peaks and valleys may have a loop at then end thereof. At least a portion of these devices may be capable of biodegrading over a predetermined period of time, and the devices may be configured for drug delivery. Methods of treating one or more sinus cavities are also described here.

Abstract: Methods and devices for maintaining nasal passages open after nasal surgery are provided. The post-operative device includes a first tubular member with a first proximal end and a first distal end, and a second tubular member with a second proximal end and a second distal end, where the first proximal end is connected to the second proximal end with a bridging member. The method includes inserting the post-operative device into the nasal passages and before, during or after inserting the device into the nasal passages, adjusting the medical device to accommodate the nasal passages by manipulating a flexible member of the medical device.

Abstract: Dilators and methods for dilating a stenotic recess of a frontal sinus in a subject using minimally invasive insertion procedures are provided. Also provided are devices and methods for inserting said dilator into a stenotic opening of a paranasal sinus in a subject. The dilators, devices and methods can be used to treat sinusitis and other nasal and/or sinus disorders.