Abstract: A method for inhibiting hyperplasia at an anastomotic junction of a vascular fistula or vascular graft comprises exposing the anastomotic junction to vibrational energy at a mechanical index and for a time sufficient to inhibit hyperplasia. Kits are described comprising the catheter or a probe suitable for performing the methods together with instructions for use setting forth the methods. The methods and kits are particularly suitable for treating anastomotic junctions formed to provide vascular access for hemodialysis, hemofiltration, and the like. The methods and kits are also suitable for treating other vascular grafts, such as those formed during cardiac bypass graft surgery, vascular repair, and the like.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a stent provides a folded strut section that provides both structural rigidity and reduction in foreshortening of the stent mechanism. A flexible section provides flexibility for delivery of the stent mechanism. In a second embodiment, flexible section columns are angled with respect to each other, and to the longitudinal axis of the stent. These relatively flexible sections are oppositely phased in order to negate any torsion along their length. In yet another embodiment, the flexible connector can take on an undulating shape (like an “N”), but such that the longitudinal axis of the connector is not parallel with the longitudinal axis of the stent. Finally, a new method is disclosed for making stents. The method consists of performing a standard photochemical machining process of cutting, cleaning and coating the tube with a photoresist.

Abstract: A Y-shaped stent, or bifurcated stent, for stenting bifurcated vessels consists of a first generally cylindrical distal branch defining a first flow path for fluid flow, and a second generally cylindrical distal branch defining a second flow path for fluid flow. The first and second distal branches are interconnected by one or more bending elements at a carina junction, each of the bending elements being flexible such that the first and second distal branches are capable of pivoting about the bending elements at the carina junction, thus defining an angle of varying degree. A generally cylindrical proximal branch defines a third flow path for fluid flow. The proximal branch is attached to the first and second distal branches proximate the carina junction such that the first and second distal branches and the proximal branch are in communication with each other.

Abstract: This invention provides smooth delivery and accurate positioning of prostheses in the body. In embodiments, systems are provided that include elongate members extending generally along the axis of a supporting catheter to a free ends. The elongate members extend through openings in the prosthesis to maintain the position of the prosthesis on the catheter. The prosthesis can be released from the catheter by relative axial motion of the catheter and the elongate members such that the free ends are removed from the openings in the prosthesis. In embodiments, the elongate members hold the distal end of a self-expanding stent at a desired axial location and in radial compaction as a restraining sheath is withdrawn. The friction between the sheath and stent puts the stent under tension, which reduces the radial force on the sheath wall, allowing smoother retraction. Proximal portions of the stent radially expand and axially shorten.

Abstract: Disclosed is an instrument, valve prosthesis and procedure for the minimally invasive implantation of a sutureless anti-reflux valve in a patient for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Self-anchoring or stapleable one-way anti-reflux valve prostheses are provided, which may be implanted proximate a patient's gastroesophageal junction without open or laparoscopic surgery. An instrument for the peroral insertion, positioning and fixing of the valve prosthesis to the tissue of the esophagus is described for the implantation of either the self-anchoring or stapleable prosthesis.

Abstract: The invention relates to joint prosthesis elements, to a method of manufacturing prostheses, and to a kit for putting said prostheses into place. The prosthesis element which is put into place in a resection in the joint surface is defined by a contact surface C, a fixing surface F and, interconnecting said surfaces, a peripheral surface P which co-operates with a projecting rim R of the resection. An anchoring element A projects from the fixing face and penetrates into a corresponding anchoring hole D.

Abstract: The present invention provides radially-expandable stents that, in various embodiments, may reduce the bending stresses/strains associated with the compressed state of self-expanding stents and/or may prevent longitudinal expansion/contraction of radially expandable stents between the compressed and expanded states. In addition, stents according to the present invention preferably exhibit increased longitudinal flexibility in both the compressed and expanded states. The present invention also includes delivery systems in which threading of the guidewire through the delivery system may be simplified. In addition, the delivery systems according to the present invention may also incorporate a balloon to assist in radially expanding the stent and/or seating of the stent in the lumen during deployment without removing the stent delivery catheter.

Abstract: An adaptive sensory-motor encoder equipped with a central control unit for signal processing functions, monitoring functions, checking functions and/or external intervention functions. The encoder has a group of adaptive spatio-temporal filters for the purpose of converting sensor signals into stimulation pulse sequences, and it is equipped with an interface for coupling the encoder with an implantable microstructure for stimulation of nerve or glial tissue. The interface is executed in bi-directional design. Thus, along with control of nerve cells and administration of active substances, monitoring of sensor signals and biophysical parameters of spontaneous activity recorded at the implant site is also possible.

Abstract: Shaped, composite bodies are provided. One portion of the shaped bodies comprises an RPR-derived porous inorganic material, preferably a calcium phosphate. Another portion of the composite bodies is a different solid material, preferably metal, glass, ceramic or polymeric. The shaped bodies are especially suitable for orthopaedic and other surgical use.

Abstract: An endoluminal stent contains a hollow passageway for the circulation of fluids to treat vascular walls affected with malignant growths or experiencing restenosis. The hollow passageway stent can have one or a plurality of passageways and is configured in a tubular shape with numerous coils, providing an empty tubular lumen through the center of the stent to allow blood flow. The stent is connected to a removable catheter that conducts fluid to the stent. Fluid flow may be regulated by valves incorporated in either the stent and/or the catheter. The stent and catheter are connected to avoid leakage of the fluid. Cryogenic, heated or radioactive fluids are circulated through the stent to treat the affected sites. A method of delivering drugs to the vascular wall is also provided by creating a stent with porous outer walls to allow diffusion of the drug.