Abstract: The composition includes an antimicrobial monomer represented by formula CH2?C(R1)—C(O)—O-Q-N+(R)2CnH2n+1(X—), a non-fluorinated crosslinking monomer having at least two acrylate groups, methacrylate groups, or a combination thereof, a polar monomer having at least one of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, or a carboxylate salt thereof, and a nonpolar monomer represented by formula CH2?C(R1)—C(O)—O—R2. The antimicrobial monomer, the non-fluorinated crosslinking monomer, the polar monomer, and the nonpolar monomer together account for greater than 95 percent by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. The article includes a film having a plurality of pendent groups represented by formula —C(O)—O-Q-N+(R)2CnH2n+1(X—) covalently bonded in a crosslinked non-fluorinated acrylic network. A method of making an article is also described.

Abstract: A surgical system for performing gastrointestinal procedures is disclosed. The system includes an elongated body defining an endoscope lumen. The body is adapted to be inserted into the esophagus with a proximal end extending from a body orifice. A working member includes at least one side disposed suction cavity and a cutting device configured to excise a surface layer from the tissue that is captured in the suction cavity. One or more needles are also provided in the working portion, which can be used to apply suture to the captured tissue and/or to inject fluid into the captured tissue prior to excision. Particular applications may be to treat Barrett's esophagus, to treat GERD, or for performing gastroplasty in the stomach.

Abstract: Among other things, embodiments of devices (and parts thereof) are disclosed that can be used in treating Barrett's esophagus. Embodiments may have a suction cavity or window portion having elongated planar floor and ramped end surfaces with suction holes on one or both end surfaces. Examples include one or more fluid injection needles and parts for controlling fluid injection rate based on the rate of needle withdrawal. Embodiments can include one or more injection needles and receiving holes, with the ability to allow injectate to flow into tissue before withdrawing the needle(s), and/or lockout mechanism to prevent resection of tissue by a cutting mechanism prior to injection of fluid. Methods for treatment are also disclosed, and can include inserting a needle completely through tissue, and injecting fluid into tissue while withdrawing the needle back through the tissue, and/or injecting fluid into tissue while moving the needle forward through tissue.

Abstract: Among other things, embodiments of devices (and parts thereof) are disclosed that can be used in treating Barrett's esophagus. Embodiments may have a suction cavity or window portion having elongated planar floor and ramped end surfaces with suction holes on one or both end surfaces. Examples include one or more fluid injection needles and parts for controlling fluid injection rate based on the rate of needle withdrawal. Embodiments can include one or more injection needles and receiving holes, with the ability to allow injectate to flow into tissue before withdrawing the needle(s), and/or lockout mechanism to prevent resection of tissue by a cutting mechanism prior to injection of fluid. Methods for treatment are also disclosed, and can include inserting a needle completely through tissue, and injecting fluid into tissue while withdrawing the needle back through the tissue, and/or injecting fluid into tissue while moving the needle forward through tissue.

Abstract: A system for performing minimally invasive gastrointestinal procedures includes an excision device 100 and a suturing device 200. The excision device 100 has a proximally tapered suction cavity 131 with extendable wires 160 to prevent capture of unwanted tissue. The suturing device 200 uses a squeeze trigger 202 to drive an array of circular needles 232.

Abstract: Dilators configured to be used over the top of conventional endoscopes are disclosed. Dilator 100 includes a dilating surface 340 and an endoscope outlet 342 at its distal end, the inner diameter of which is chosen to closely approximate the outer diameter of the endoscope. In use, the endoscope may serve as a guide to the dilator 100 both during initial and during dilation of, for example, an esophageal stricture. A safety handle 310 is also provided which gives feedback to the operator based on the amount of applied axial force, which helps to reduce the chances of injury.

Abstract: A surgical system for performing gastrointestinal procedures is disclosed. The system includes an elongated body defining an endoscope lumen. The body is adapted to be inserted into the esophagus with a proximal end extending from a body orifice. A working member includes at least one side disposed suction cavity and a cutting device configured to excise a surface layer from the tissue that is captured in the suction cavity. One or more needles are also provided in the working portion, which can be used to apply suture to the captured tissue and/or to inject fluid into the captured tissue prior to excision. Particular applications may be to treat Barrett's esophagus, to treat GERD, or for performing gastroplasty in the stomach.