Patents by Inventor S. Ward Casscells

S. Ward Casscells has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Heat treatment of inflamed tissue
    Patent number: 5906636
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for treating inflammation in body tissues. More specifically, certain disclosed methods relate to selectively inducing apoptosis in inflammatory immune cells. The methods are particularly suitable for treating inflamed atherosclerotic plaques. The techniques generally involve heating the cells with a catheter that is equipped to produce infrared radiation. The cells are heated for a sufficient time and at a sufficient temperature to induce programmed cell death.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Texas Heart Institute
    Inventors: S. Ward Casscells, III, James T. Willerson