Abstract: Systems and methods for revitalizing aging skin using electromagnetic energy that is delivered using a plurality of needles that are capable of penetrating the skin to desired depths. A particular aspect is the capability to spare zones of tissue from thermal exposure. This sparing of tissue allows new tissue to be regenerated while the heat treatment can shrink the collagen and tighten the underlying structures. Additionally, the system is capable of delivering therapeutically beneficial substances either through the penetrating needles or through channels that have been created by the penetration of the needles.

Abstract: A patch device worn by a user is disclosed that is configured to sense the presence of a harmful substance in the environment and to deliver an antidote to that substance into the user without the intervention of the user. The patch device incorporates a sensing mechanism configured to sense a presence of the harmful substance in the environment surrounding the patch device. On sensing the presence of the harmful substance, the sensor triggers a delivery mechanism, which causes the therapeutic agent to be injected into the user. The therapeutic agent acts to antidote the effects of the harmful substance within the user. The patch device could be used for protection against exposure to substances such as nerve gas and pesticides. The patch could be used to deliver the therapeutic agent either subcutaneously or transdermally.

Abstract: The invention discloses a method of treatment for drug addiction, comprising administering a therapeutic agent to a patient. The therapeutic agent is delivered in an inactive state and is converted into its active form in the presence of a narcotic. The conversion produces at least one unpleasant side effect for the patient. The therapeutic agent is implanted in the form of a depot, and maybe a prodrug or microspheres. The agent may be injectable or may be packaged in the form of bioerodible sticks. The agent may also be delivered via a surgical method. The disclosed method can also be used to detect the consumption of a banned substance.

Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing or minimizing post-surgical complications are described. By applying energy to tissues under specifically controlled conditions, the formation of adhesions in response to cutting or other damage of those tissue may be eliminated or significantly reduced. According to an embodiment of the method of the invention, energy application is controlled to heat the tissue within a range of 61 to 100 degrees centigrade. In one embodiment, the system of the invention includes an easily manipulated applicator, having a scissor-like configuration and a controller for the energy application.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for applying RF energy to injured tissue, particularly the peritoneum, in order to prevent harmful post-surgical adhesions. One aspect of the invention is RF energy delivery systems employing trocars, which are designed for use in laparotomies and laparoscopies. Another aspect of the invention is an RF delivery system comprising a surgical sheet with one or more electrodes for delivering the RF energy to the injured tissue resulting from conventional surgical incisions into the abdominal wall. Additionally, another aspect of the invention provides methods for controlling the treatment dosage of RF heat to the injured tissue using parameters such as treatment time, change in tissue temperature, and change in tissue impedance.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for applying RF energy to injured tissue, particularly the peritoneum, in order to prevent harmful post-surgical adhesions. One aspect of the invention is RF energy delivery systems employing trocars, which are designed for use in laparotomies and laparoscopies. Another aspect of the invention is an RF delivery system comprising a surgical sheet with one or more electrodes for delivering the RF energy to the injured tissue resulting from conventional surgical incisions into the abdominal wall. Additionally, another aspect of the invention provides methods for controlling the treatment dosage of RF heat to the injured tissue using parameters such as treatment time, change in tissue temperature, and change in tissue impedance.

Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing or minimizing post-surgical complications are described. By applying energy to tissues under specifically controlled conditions, the formation of adhesions in response to cutting or other damage of those tissue may be eliminated or significantly reduced. According to an embodiment of the method of the invention, energy application is controlled to heat the tissue within a range of 61 to 100 degrees centigrade. In one embodiment, the system of the invention includes an easily manipulated applicator, having a scissor-like configuration and a controller for the energy application.

Abstract: Surgical complications can be minimized by reducing, or eliminating, the release of substances such as TGF-&bgr; from a surgical site by immediately sealing the edges of a surgically-made puncture or incision site. In one system, a treatment device includes an electrically conductive surface that is connected to a source of electrical energy and which can be placed in contact with the edge of a surgical incision or perforation site such that, when the conductive surface is electrically activated, it operates to heat the cellular material at the edge of the surgical incision or perforation site to inhibit (i.e., reduce) the formation of complicating connective tissue bridges. The source of electrical energy is, preferably, a radio-frequency generator.