Abstract: An induction heating apparatus includes a first interventional device and a second interventional device. The first interventional device includes an electrically conductive material. The first interventional device is adapted for implantation inside a body and for receiving an alternating current. The second interventional device comprises a magnetically conductive material. The second interventional device is adapted for implantation inside the body in close proximity to the first interventional device. With both devices placed inside the body, the second interventional device magnetically couples with the first interventional device and the second interventional device generates heat upon the application of the alternating current to the first interventional device thereby heating the body site.

Abstract: A biopsy system comprises a first placeholder element insertable through tissue to a first selected location in a patient's body, the first placeholder element including a first element guide and a tissue sampling element insertable to the first selected location via the first element guide for obtaining a sample of tissue from the first selected location, the tissue sampling element being removable from the first element guide while leaving the first placeholder element at the first selected location in combination with a tissue treatment element insertable to the first selected location via the first element guide.

Abstract: A surgical device for use in a minimally invasive procedure to treat urinary incontinence can include a dilator coupled to a curved needle at one end and a sling at the opposite end. Urinary incontinence can be treated minimally invasively. One treatment includes positioning the sling on an anterior portion of the urethra to provide proper coaptation to the urethra.

Abstract: The present invention includes a method and apparatus for adhering tissue to one another. In an embodiment of the present invention the two tissues to be joined, for example the lower esophagus and the fundus of the stomach, are first placed adjacent to one another. Next a first restraint is placed near the outside surface of one of the tissues and a second restraint is placed near the outside surface of the other tissue. An irritant is then placed between the two adjacent tissues. The restraints, and consequently the tissue surfaces, are then drawn together. As the touching irritated tissue surfaces heal they will become bonded to one another and their need for the mechanical fastening of the restraints, to secure them together, will be diminished.

Abstract: Implant delivery systems are disclosed. In general overview, an exemplary system includes any number of the following: a delivery device, a sling assembly, guide members, and connectors that interconnect the above. Embodiments of all the above components and their combinations are disclosed. Methods of using the above system in suprapubic, prepubic, transvaginal, trans-obturator and other approaches are also disclosed.

Abstract: Implant delivery systems are disclosed. In general overview, an exemplary system includes any number of the following: a delivery device, a sling assembly, guide members, and connectors that interconnect the above. Embodiments of all the above components and their combinations are disclosed. Methods of using the above system in suprapubic, prepubic, transvaginal, trans-obturator and other approaches are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention, in various embodiments, provides systems, devices, and methods for treating urinary incontinence.

Abstract: An injectable or insertable dosage form comprising a biodisintegrable binder and an ablation agent in a concentration effective to cause tissue necrosis. The injectable dosage form is a solid or semi-solid dosage form. Due to the solid or semi-solid nature of the dosage form, retention at the site of injection or insertion is improved, thereby improving delivery efficiency of the ablation agents within the dosage form and/or reducing the nonspecific tissue damage associated with the dosage form.

Abstract: A needle biopsy system for marking a sampling site is described.

Abstract: A sling in accordance with the invention includes a synthetic material and a non-synthetic material positioned adjacent thereto. The non-synthetic material may be wrapped around or may be attached to the synthetic material. Additionally, the non-synthetic material may include slits. Methods for making such slings are also described.

Abstract: A medical device for use within a body cavity comprising an elongated body portion and a retention module. The retention module comprises a fixation element and a tether connector. The tether connector and fixation element permit the device to move a predetermined distance longitudinally. The tether connector reduces ureteral reflux, and minimizes irritation and patient discomfort. The fixation element and the tether connector further function as a graspable structure for removal of the stent.

Abstract: Bone anchor implantation devices and methods for their use are disclosed. The bone anchor implantation devices and methods find particular application in maintaining or improving urinary continence by suspending or stabilizing the bladder neck. The devices and methods simplify procedures for suspending or stabilizing the bladder neck and further reduce their invasiveness.

Abstract: A blood reservoir having a rigid shell portion defining a cavity and a flexible membrane attached with a liquid tight seal to the shell portion around the periphery of the shell. The assembled reservoir forming a liquid tight and variable volume with blood inlet and outlet ports integrally formed in the rigid shell portion. The shell portion further including a rib member laterally extending across the bottom of the rigid shell. The rib member is positioned adjacent the blood outlet port to force the flexible membrane to bridge the blood outlet port to further facilitate drainage from the reservoir.