Abstract: A method of controlling ablation volume depth includes providing a treatment apparatus. The apparatus comprises a housing having a proximal and distal end including a tissue contacting surface. The housing defines an interior with an energy delivery device positionable in the interior. The energy delivery device includes at least one electrode with a tissue penetrating distal end and is configured to be advanced from the interior into a target tissue site to define an ablation volume. An advancement device is coupled to the energy delivery device and is configured to advance the at least one electrode. The at least one electrode is advanced to a selected deployment depth beneath a tissue surface while avoiding a critical structure. Energy is delivered from the energy delivery device. An ablation volume is created at a controlled depth below the tissue surface responsive to the deployment depth while minimizing injury to the critical structure.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and compositions for amplifying RNA sequences by (a) hybridizing to a target RNA a first primer comprising a 3′ target RNA hybridizing sequence and a first 5′ defined amplifyable sequence; (b) extending the first primer with a reverse transcriptase to form a first cDNA strand; (c) hybridizing to the first cDNA strand a second primer comprising a 3′ random cDNA hybridizing sequence and a second 5′ defined amplifyable sequence; (d) extending the second primer with a DNA polymerase to form a second cDNA strand; and (e) amplifying the second cDNA strand with a third primer comprising the first 5′ defined amplifyable sequence.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing transmyocardial revascularization provides a closed-chest formation of a channel in a wall of a heart. An articulating scope in one embodiment includes a flexible distal portion which provides for a coupling of a surface of the heart to the distal portion. The articulating distal portion is coupled to a control member to provide articulation. Movement of the control member causes deflection, including articulation, of the generally flexible working end of the scope. The coupler may be a two way valve to provide both vacuum and flushing solutions. The articulating scope can be supported by a scope holder that is table mounted or mounted to the patient. An access port provides for the introduction of tools and instruments. An adaptor couples the access port with a handle. The handle provides a working channel for the introduction of an energy delivery device.

Abstract: A TMR energy delivery device is introduced through a first minimally invasive penetration of a patient's chest. Sufficient energy if delivered from the wave guide to the wall of the heart to form a channel through at least a portion of the wall. The device includes a visualization device or camera with a rigid portion and a distal end portion that is flexible, a cup member coupled to a distal end of the flexible distal portion, and a vacuum source coupled to the cup member for providing mechanical stability against the heart wall.

Abstract: A heart stabilizer and suture control device for stabilizing the heart and for occluding a preselected portion of coronary artery by developing a downward force on the heart and simultaneously developing an upward force across a coronary artery in a predetermined position. The device has at least two stabilization pads, the stabilization pads each having an operative size and shape, and each having a first end and a second end and a lower contacting surface. The second ends have suture retaining grooves, and the stabilization pad has a suture locking means for securing the distal end of a suture means thereto. The device also comprises a linking member locking the two stabilization pads an operative distance apart. The device has suture means with a proximal end coupled to the linking member and extending from the first end to the suture retaining groove of the second end, the suture means having a distal end which can be locked to the stabilization pad with the suture locking means thereon.

Abstract: A drug delivery apparatus for dispensing a predetermined amount of one or more drugs into a laser created opening in the human body, the apparatus consisting of a laser delivery means such as an optical fiber or fiber bundle, a drug conduit which transfers the one or more drugs, drug solutions or other substances to the distal end of the laser delivery means, and the laser delivery means disposed essentially coaxially with the drug conduit. Laser delivery means is used to create a TMR channel or other opening in the body. Dispensed drug or other substance travels through the drug conduit and emanates from the drug conduit to be delivered into the TMR channel or other laser created opening. Drug is dispensed by manually or automatically activating an electric motor which actuates a piston element. A method of use is also disclosed.

Abstract: A labeling apparatus connectable to an item for designating a manufacturer's preferred style of an item, the item's color family and the manufacturer's suggested color contrasting intensity for matching of second items relative to said preferred style. Described is the method of using such labeling apparatus in selecting items matching in style, color family, and color contrasting intensity.

Abstract: A drug delivery apparatus for dispensing predetermined volumes of drug, drug solution or other substances into an opening, such as a TMR channel in the human heart, or other laser treated area within the human body, the apparatus consisting of a bifurcated needle with a laser inlet for guiding a laser delivery means, such as an optical fiber or fiber bundle, to adjacent a surface of the human heart or other body structure for creating an opening, such as a TMR channel, or other laser treated area thereon. A drug inlet is for receiving the drug and transmitting the drug to the TMR channel or other laser treated area. Optionally, a piercing tip and/or suction device assists in positioning the apparatus adjacent the tissue to be treated. Drug is dispensed by manually or automatically actuating a piston or syringe element. A method of use is also disclosed.