Abstract: A method of using a neuro decompression device is disclosed that significantly reduces fibroplasia proximate to nerve tissue. The device used in the method utilizes particular surface topographies to disrupt scar tissue formation around nerves, and may include one or more drugs to influence tissue growth.

Abstract: A gastrostomy device including a tubular portion having an outer end and an inner end, and an internal bolster integrally attached to the tubular portion inner end and resiliently movable between an installation configuration and a deployed configuration. The internal bolster has an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface surrounds the tubular portion inner end and is generally convex in shape. The outer surface includes a planar portion and a concave portion that extends from the planar portion. The bolster is placed in an installation configuration by the cooperative action of a rod member and a suture member. The rod member is inserted into a pocket provided on the outer surface of the bolster, and the suture member is wrapped around internal bolster to keep the internal bolster generally aligned with the tubular portion axis.

Abstract: A neuro decompression device is disclosed that significantly reduces fibroplasia proximate to nerve tissue. The device utilizes particular surface topographies to disrupt scar tissue formation around nerves, and which may include one or more drugs to influence tissue growth.

Abstract: A gastric access device having an external bolster and a tubular body. The tubular body has an integral bolster portion at one end and an integral dilator portion at an opposite end. An incision extending from an external body surface to an internal body cavity is formed and the gastric access device is inserted through the incision such that the bolster portion is in contact with an inner body surface surrounding the internal body cavity, the tubular body lies within and projects outwardly from the incision, and the dilator portion is on the outside or exterior of the body. The external bolster is slid or pushed down over the dilator portion and the projecting portion of the tubular body and into contact with the external surface of the body. The projecting portion of the tubular body is clamped and subsequently severed to disconnect the dilator portion from the tubular body.

Abstract: A surgical tool for use in initial placement of a gastrostomy device in a patient includes an obturator, a cannula and an outer flexible tubular member. A pointed end of the obturator and an adjacent dilator cooperate to incise a tract through the abdominal and stomach walls of the patient. The obturator is removed, leaving the cannula and outer tubular member in place. A deformable section of the flexible tubular member is expanded by movement of the cannula. The outwardly deformed section is then pulled up against the inner wall of the stomach wherein the thickness of the stomach and abdominal walls can be measured by use of visible scale indicia carried on the external surface of the flexible tubular member. Subsequent to the noted measurement, a guidewire or pull wire is passed through a lumen provided by the cannula. The guidewire is used for placing a gastrostomy device of suitable size in the incised tract.

Abstract: A drug diffusion polymer system for the sustained release of drugs includes a composition comprising a polymeric matrix containing a uniform dispersion of a matrix expander and a drug. The matrix expander and drug are each present in the form of solid particulate. Upon exposure to body fluid or water, the matrix expander swells to cause the ingress of fluid into the polymeric matrix for solubilizing and diffusing the drug. Devices may incorporate such drug diffusion compositions as a coating or as a primary material of construction. Such devices may be formed by molding the compositions at room or elevated temperatures depending on the polymer used.