Abstract: An ablation catheter system and method of use is provided to endoscopically access portions of the human esophagus experiencing undesired growth of columnar epithelium. The ablation catheter system and method includes controlled depth of ablation features and use of either radio frequency spectrum, non-ionizing ultraviolet radiation, warm fluid or microwave radiation, which may also be accompanied by improved sensitizer agents.

Abstract: This is directed to improving the gaseous exchange in a lung of an individual and particularly, this is directed to improving the gaseous exchange in individuals having chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It generally includes fluidly connecting the lung to an extrapleural airway such as the trachea. In one variation, a conduit is deployed to place the lung and the trachea in fluid communication which allows trapped oxygen-reduced air to pass directly out of the lung and into the trachea. Removing nonfunctional air from the lung tends to improve the gaseous exchange of oxygen into the blood and decompress hyper-inflated lungs. Sealant and biocompatible adhesives may be provided on the exterior of the conduit to prevent side flow, leaks and to otherwise prevent air from entering spaces not intended to receive air such as the pleura space.

Abstract: An apparatus for compressing a gas and its uses are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a fixed-volume container having a hollow and a moveable element subdividing said hollow into a first variable-volume portion and a second variable-volume portion, the second variable-volume portion having an opening for introducing therein a hydraulic and/or pneumatic fluid under pressure, for causing an increase in the volume of said second variable-portion by moving said moveable element, thereby, consequently, decreasing the volume of the first variable-volume portion and compressing a gas contained therein.

Abstract: A high-frequency incision device includes a high-frequency treating wire 9, which forms a curved portion 11 so that a wire loop 10 formed by the wire 9 may be laterally tilted in a plane parallel to the center axis 7a of an actuating wire 7 when the wire 9 extends from the forward end of a flexible sheath 2.

Abstract: Systems and methods for planning a cryoablation procedure and for facilitating a cryoablation procedure utilize integrated images displaying, in a common virtual space, a three-dimensional model of a surgical intervention site based on digitized preparatory images of the site from first imaging modalities, simulation images of cryoprobes used according to an operator-planned cryoablation procedure at the site, and real-time images provided by second imaging modalities during cryoablation. The system supplies recommendations for and evaluations of the planned cryoablation procedure, feedback to an operator during cryoablation, and guidance and control signals for operating a cryosurgery tool during cryoablation. Methods are provided for generating a nearly-uniform cold field among a plurality of cryoprobes, for cryoablating a volume with smooth and well-defined borders, thereby minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Abstract: Systems and methods for planning a cryoablation procedure and for facilitating a cryoablation procedure utilize integrated images displaying, in a common virtual space, a three-dimensional model of a surgical intervention site based on digitized preparatory images of the site from first imaging modalities, simulation images of cryoprobes used according to an operator-planned cryoablation procedure at the site, and real-time images provided by second imaging modalities during cryoablation. The system supplies recommendations for and evaluations of the planned cryoablation procedure, feedback to an operator during cryoablation, and guidance and control signals for operating a cryosurgery tool during cryoablation. Methods are provided for generating a nearly-uniform cold field among a plurality of cryoprobes, for cryoablating a volume with smooth and well-defined borders, thereby minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Abstract: Systems and methods for planning a cryoablation procedure and for facilitating a cryoablation procedure utilize integrated images displaying, in a common virtual space, a three-dimensional model of a surgical intervention site based on digitized preparatory images of the site from first imaging modalities, simulation images of cryoprobes used according to an operator-planned cryoablation procedure at the site, and real-time images provided by second imaging modalities during cryoablation. The system supplies recommendations for and evaluations of the planned cryoablation procedure, feedback to an operator during cryoablation, and guidance and control signals for operating a cryosurgery tool during cryoablation. Methods are provided for generating a nearly-uniform cold field among a plurality of cryoprobes, for cryoablating a volume with smooth and well-defined borders, thereby minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods, apparatus, and kits for detection and/or treatment of vulnerable plaque of a blood vessel having a lumen surface. Detection methods include sensing a temperature differential along a lumen surface with temperature sensors that thermally couple the lumen surface. Treatment methods include controlled and safe cryogenic cooling of vulnerable plaque to inhibit release of retained fluid within the vulnerable plaque so as to inhibit acute coronary syndrome and to help maintain patency of a body lumen. Treatment methods may include additional treatments, such as primary treatments or passivation.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a hand held cardiac ablation instrument and methods for irradiating a target ablation site. The instrument can include at least one light transmitting optical fiber and a light diffusing element to create a circumferential or curvilinear lesion. A handle is provided for manual application. The handle can be substantially coaxial or otherwise aligned with the center of the circumferential housing. Light travelling through the light transmitting optical fiber or fibers is scattered in a circular pattern by the light diffusing element. The light diffusing element can include a scattering medium, a reflective end cap, and a reflective surface diametrically opposed to the target ablation site, that interact to provide a substantially uniform distribution of laser radiation throughout the circular target region.

Abstract: An apparatus for burning calories of an individual. The apparatus includes a cooling mechanism adapted to cool the individual's temperature. The apparatus includes a controlling mechanism for controlling the rate at which the cooling mechanism cools the individual. A method for burning calories in an individual. The method includes the steps of applying a fluid in regard to the individual. Then there is the step of cooling the individual at the controlled rate with the fluid.

Abstract: A tissue anchor having a length of filament held so that an applied force greater than a threshold force will cause the filament to move longitudinally, while an applied force less than the threshold force will not move the filament, and methods of attaching soft tissue to bone using such an anchor.

Abstract: An electrosurgical medical device and technique for creating thermal welds in the transected margin of engaged tissue. The working end of the invention carries a bi-polar electrode arrangement that provides a novel type of Rf current flow for tissue welding described as an subfascial-to-fascial (or medial-to-surface) bi-polar approach. The working end of the device carries an openable and closable jaw assembly with paired first and second jaws for engaging tissue. The paired jaws have an axial channel for receiving a sliding (blade) member for transecting the captured tissue. The paired jaws carry electrode surfaces having a common polarity so that Rf current will not flow directly between the jaws which engage the surface or fascial tissue layers. The transecting member, when fully extended after transecting the captured tissue, carries an elongate electrode of an opposing polarity that engages the medial or subfascial layers of the tissue.

Abstract: A laser eye surgery system includes a laser for producing a laser beam capable of making refractive corrections, an optical system for shaping and conditioning the laser beam, a digital micromirror device (DMD) for reflecting the shaped and conditioned beam toward the eye, and a computer system for controlling the mirrors of the DMD. The computer system utilizes at least one polynomial equation to generate a smooth refraction correction profile.

Abstract: A phototherapy system and method for automatically replacing a failed light source with a new light source once a failure of a first light source is detected. This system permits the new light source to assume a coaxially aligned position with the proximal end portion of a light transmission medium in place of the failed light source without any manual input by the user. In addition, an improved coupling system is provided for coupling the light transmission medium to the illumination device housing the light sources. The coupling system prevents pull out of the light transmission medium from the illumination device over nearly all rotational angles of the proximal end of the light transmission medium relative to the housing, and over only a relatively small range of angles will some degree of pull out force enable the light transmission medium to be decoupled from the illumination device.

Abstract: A system for laser treatment of the eye comprises one or more diffractive optical elements for producing unique treatment segments within an ablation zone on the eye. The treatment segments may be annular, pie-shaped, or have other geometries or patterns selected to apply energy in a particular manner, usually in a non-overlapping manner so that energy dosages can be precisely controlled. In a first embodiment of the system, a single diffractive optical element is used and a beam expander expands or converges the beam to achieve the different treatment segments. In a second embodiment, a plurality of diffractive optical elements are used, each of which produces a single treatment segment.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for fast precise material processing and modification which minimizes collateral damage. Utilizing optimized, pulsed electromagnetic energy parameters leads to an interaction regime which minimizes residual energy deposition. Advantageously, removal of cumulative pulse train residual energy is further maximized through the rapid progression of the ablation front which move faster than the thermal energy diffusion front, thus ensuring substantial removal of residual energy to further minimize collateral thermal damage.

Abstract: The invention relates to a surgical instrument for minimally invasive surgery, in particular in the form of pincers or forceps. The instrument comprises at least two gripping elements, which for the purpose of gripping can be moved like forceps towards one another in a gripping direction or apart from one another in the opposite direction. At least one gripping element comprises at one end a first limb and a second limb, and at least one flexible bending region. The limbs are spaced apart from one another in the gripping direction with at least the first limb of each gripping element disposed within a guide sleeve and movable in a longitudinal direction of the guide sleeve, relative to the second limb of the gripping element in such a way that during a relative movement of the limbs with respect to one another the associated gripping element can be moved in the gripping direction.

Abstract: A myocardial revascularization system that includes a laser energy source (e.g., a semiconductor laser), an outer guide member providing access to a patient's heart, and an optical fiber. The optical fiber is coupled to receive laser energy pulses from the source, is slidably located within the guide member, and is extendible from the distal end of the guide member. A drive motor is connected to the fiber to automatically move the distal end of the optical fiber with respect to the distal end of the guide member. A controller controls the drive motor to automatically move the fiber in synchronism with firing of the laser energy, and automatically calibrates the position of the distal end of the fiber with respect to the distal end of the catheter. The fiber has, at its tip, an enlargened portion with a front surface coated with a heat absorbing material that is nonmetallic and is partially transparent to the pulses. The outer guide member is 7 French or smaller and has a deflectable distal end.

Abstract: A mask element for masking an operative element supported on a support body. The mask element includes a main body, including a side wall defining an interior bore and a side wall opening and an element within the side wall opening adapted to retain conductive liquid.

Abstract: A controlled process for thoroughly curing light-activated surgical and dental composites is presented using a hand-held, self-contained, cordless, rechargeable laser instrument. At least one micro laser generates focused single wavelength blue laser light of at most 480 nm, and enhances efficiency and control of curing. The process of use includes switching from stand-by mode to curing mode of operation of the instrument to save time during surgical and dental procedures.