Abstract: A malleable polysaccharide soft tissue filler for filling tissue cavities or voids such as those resulting from tumor removal or other tissue resection. The soft tissue filler includes a first cross-linking polysaccharide, preferably a beta-D glucan, and a second cross-linking polysaccharide. The soft tissue filler is both porous and malleable and can be formed to accommodate the tissue cavity or void. The soft tissue filler can include an embedded marker for locating on medical imaging. Methods of making the soft tissue filler including lyophilizing an aqueous polysaccharide suspension are disclosed. The second cross-linking polysaccharide provides for increased structural integrity in a high-porosity and malleable soft tissue filler in which the respective cross-linking polysaccharides synergistically provide structural scaffolding for one another. Methods of use are also disclosed.

Abstract: A malleable polysaccharide soft tissue filler for filling tissue cavities or voids such as those resulting from tumor removal or other tissue resection. The soft tissue filler includes a first cross-linking polysaccharide, preferably a beta-D glucan and a second cross-linking polysaccharide. The soft tissue filler is both porous and malleable and can be formed to accommodate the tissue cavity or void. The soft tissue filler can include an embedded marker for locating on medical imaging. Methods of making the soft tissue filler including lyophilizing an aqueous polysaccharide suspension are disclosed. The second cross-linking polysaccharide provides for increased structural integrity in a high-porosity and malleable soft tissue filler in which the respective cross-linking polysaccharides synergistically provide structural scaffolding for one another. Methods of use are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and devices for treating female urinary incontinence by injecting bulking material into the female urethral wall. Some devices include a handle, an elongate member attached to the handle, and a vacuum generating syringe removably secured to the handle. The elongate member can include a distal portion projecting distally from the handle, the distal portion having a wide proximal region, a narrowing shoulder, and a narrow distal region. The elongate member can include one or more vacuum ports on either side of the shoulder region. The shoulder can include a distally facing needle aperture allowing passage of a needle for injecting bulking agent. A rotatable connection between the elongate member and the handle facilitates rotatable positioning of the elongate member to permit injection of bulking material at different locations around the urethral wall.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of modifying the lower esophagus by injecting biocompatible particles in a biocompatible carrier into a submucosal tissue site of the lower esophagus of a patient. The method may be used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease by optimizing the closing function of the lower esophageal sphincter.

Abstract: A biocompatible graft material and a method for making the same are disclosed. The method of making the graft material involves freezing and subsequently thawing a donated tissue sample in a bleach solution. The tissue is then washed in a detergent solution, treated with antimicrobial agents, and soaked in a hypertonic solution. The tissue is thereafter treated with sodium hydroxide and later hydrogen peroxide to yield the desired biocompatible graft material.

Abstract: The present invention provides a biocompatible injectable material that may be used in a variety of medical applications, including tissue marking, tissue modifying and embolizing procedures.

Abstract: An improved Luer-lock fitting for hypodermic needles and methods for using the fitting to inject suspended solids into a body. The improved fitting includes a lumen having a curvedly tapered, distally decreasing throat region, which is believed to provide improved flow of suspended solids into the hypodermic needles. One fitting includes at least two threads to provide a more secure fitting able to withstand higher injection pressures. Another fitting includes rounded wings better able to withstand jarring by endoscope eyepieces and resisting being dislodged from position. One method includes injecting suspended solids into soft tissue such as sphincter mechanisms. One method includes injecting suspended solids into tissue surrounding a mechanism to correct defects.

Abstract: Described are methods of tissue marking using microparticles that have carbon surfaces, and that contain a contrast agent. Preferred microparticles include a permanently radiopaque particle substrate and a pyrolytic carbon surface.

Abstract: Described are methods of tissue marking using microparticles that have carbon surfaces, and that contain a contrast agent. Preferred microparticles include a permanently radiopaque particle substrate and a pyrolytic carbon surface.

Abstract: Described are methods of embolization using an embolizing agent composition that includes microparticles with carbon surfaces, and comprising a contrast agent. Preferred microparticles include a permanently radiopaque particle substrate and a pyrolytic carbon surface.

Abstract: An improved biocompatible composition consisting of physiologically-stable, isotropic carbon beads or particles carried in a lubricative suspension, solution, other fluid or gel. The composition is intended to be delivered into the body through a small-bored needle, cannula, or other catheter into a tissue site for the purpose of augmenting the tissue. In particular, the composition is useful for augmenting tissue in the area of the cardiac orifice of the stomach to reduce gastric reflux, in the area of the internal or external sphincter of the anal canal to reduce fecal incontinence or in the area of urethral tissue for the purpose of treating urinary incontinence.