Abstract: The invention provides endoluminal coil delivery systems and methods for positioning a coil within a body lumen. In particular, the device uses a mechanical latch in the form of jaws to positively engage the coil during positioning. The coil may be restrained in a straight configuration from within the coil, using an internal coilwire, or from outside using a catheter. Thus, the mechanism for releasing the coil to form its relaxed convoluted shape is separate from the mechanism for disengaging the coil from the delivery system. The use of an internal core wire allows a coil having a helical outer surface to be torqued against a fallopian tube or other body lumen wall, thereby firmly anchoring the coil in the target position prior to disengaging the delivery system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for imaging a narrow body lumen, the method comprising maintaining separation between a distal end of an optical viewing scope and a lumen wall with a spacing structure which extends distally from the distal end of an access catheter. Optional spacing structures include distal cages and a guidewire which is fixed to and extends distally from the access catheter body. The invention is particularly beneficial during retrograde imaging of the fallopian tube, as it prevents the tubal wall from coming into such close proximity to a falloposcope as to produce "white-out" on the imaging monitor.

Abstract: An improved endoscope prevents abrasion of a fiberoptic image guide with a braid reinforced sheath. Abrasion of fiberoptic image guides within articulating endoscopes quickly wear through a conventional fiberoptic mantle, decreasing the useful life of the endoscope. Preferably, the sheath comprises a metal braid disposed within a polyimide, which effectively protects the image guide from abrasion against the endoscope components and substantially extends useful life.

Abstract: The invention provides endoluminal coil delivery systems and methods for positioning a coil within a body lumen. In particular, the device uses a mechanical latch in the form of jaws to positively engage the coil during positioning. The coil may be restrained in a straight configuration from within the coil, using an internal coilwire, or from outside using a catheter. Thus, the mechanism for releasing the coil to form its relaxed convoluted shape is separate from the mechanism for disengaging the coil from the delivery system. The use of an internal core wire allows a coil having a helical outer surface to be torqued against a fallopian tube or other body lumen wall, thereby firmly anchoring the coil in the target position prior to disengaging the delivery system.

Abstract: The present invention sets forth a guidewire-type device which can be axially moved via application of axial force and/or by application of torquing force. The device is used for accessing regions within a body. The device is used to attach to subject material within a body, and, if desired, to remove the subject material. In particular, the device and method of the invention are advantageously utilized by health care practitioners for use in accessing tortuous and difficult body areas, such as fallopian tubes.

Abstract: A mechanism for manipulating the distal end of an elongate medical device, wherein steering is accomplished by a single wire which extends from the proximal to the distal end of the device, the wire being anchored at an eccentric location relative to the central axis of the device containing said steering mechanism. Advantageously, a device comprising the steering mechanism also comprises at least one through lumen extending substantially from the proximal to the distal end of the device whereby a device or materials can be moved to the distal end of the device.

Abstract: A device for alleviating problems associated with urinary incontinence in female patients that has an external, magnetically retained, elastically expandable receptacle which includes a rim that can be formed to fit between the labia of a female circumscribing the urthra outlet with a rear portion inserted in the vagina using magnetically attractable elements implanted at the foward portion of the labia. The set of implanted elments mate with a set of elements mounted on the receptacle rim and the sets of elements are magnetically attractable to each other. Suitable sealing jels can be used around the edges of the rim. The receptacle includes an anterior collection cylinder, which is folded when empty and which is sufficiently expandable so that it will unfold and hold voided volumes adequately to permit rapid voiding without causing pressures that break the seals of the rim. The collection cylinder can be drained when convenient.