Abstract: A surgical alignment device is shown that is controlled remotely through the use of an actuator, where the actuator in turn controls at least one local adjustment device. The alignment device is suited for neurosurgery, although it is not exclusively limited to neurosurgery. The alignment device includes an insertion guide that is coupled to the local adjustment device, the insertion guide being used to guide a device such as a catheter into a patient. The alignment device may also be coupled to a control module such as a microcomputer that controls the orientation of the insertion guide in response to inputs from the surgeon as to a location of interest within the patient.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment relates to a medical device that includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery for providing power to the medical device. The lithium-ion battery includes a positive electrode comprising a current collector, a first active material, and a second active material. The lithium-ion battery also includes a negative electrode comprising a current collector and a third active material, the third active material comprising a titanate material. The first active material, second active material, and third active materials are configured to allow doping and undoping of lithium ions. The second active material exhibits charging and discharging capacity below a corrosion potential of the current collector of the negative electrode and above a decomposition potential of the first active material.

Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, examples of a shunt passer or like surgical instrument configured for receiving different-sized positioning locators of an image guided surgical system. In one example, the surgical instrument includes portions having different diameters for receiving the different-sized affixation mechanisms for the positioning locators.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for ablating a target tissue are discussed. Such methods and apparatus include those that simplify tissue ablation. For example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator, such as a trigger mechanism, coupled to a power source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes the electrode to be introduced into the target tissue and causes energy to be delivered from the power supply to the tissue via the electrode. By way of additional example, a tissue ablation device having an actuator coupled to a fluid source and an electrode is discussed. A single step of engaging the actuator causes conductive fluid to flow from the fluid source to the target tissue location and causes the electrode to be introduced to the target tissue location. The fluid source may be a conductive fluid, such as saline, which may increase the efficiency of ablation. Various other configurations and methods that simplify tissue ablation are also discussed.

Abstract: A medical device known as an implantable infusion device is configured for implanting in humans to deliver a therapeutic substance such as pharmaceutical compositions, genetic materials, and biologics to treat a variety of medical conditions such as pain, spasticity, cancer, and many other conditions. The infusion device incorporates a motor coil connector and mechanical sealing system between the clean motor compartment and the potentially corrosive pump compartment that provides a reliable electrical connection between the motor coil and the motor drive electronics. The motor coil connector provides for bonding of a very small diameter coil wire to one end of the connector and a highly corrosion resistant connection at the other end of the connector. Additionally, the motor coil connector and mechanical sealing system provides a seal against harmful corrosion materials that could emanate from the pump compartment and reach the motor compartment and cause malfunction of the motor.

Abstract: The invention provides a transurethral ablation device comprising a catheter sized for insertion into a urethra of a male patient. A distal end of the catheter defines a lateral cavity. A vacuum line applies vacuum pressure to the cavity to capture a portion of the urethra and a portion of the prostate into the cavity. An ablation probe has a distal tip mounted within the catheter adjacent the cavity, and is movable for insertion into the captured portion of the prostate. The ablation probe can be inserted with an orientation substantially parallel to the urethral wall. Alternatively, multiple ablation probes can be provided for simultaneous use in ablating tissue with a target site in the prostate. A suction cannula may be used to remove ablated tissue from the target site.