Patents Issued in August 2, 2001
  • Publication number: 20010011148
    Abstract: A process for preparing glycol monoethers from olefins comprises reacting the olefins with an epoxidizing reagent in the simultaneous presence of hydroxyl-containing organic compounds over a mixture of epoxidation catalysts and alkoxylation catalysts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Ulrich Mueller, Georg Grosch, Andreas Walch, Norbert Reiber
  • Publication number: 20010011149
    Abstract: A process for the preparation of 1,2-dichloroethane by oxychlorination of ethene in the presence of a copper-containing fixed-bed catalyst comprising a bed essentially consisting of catalyst particles which comprise, at least partially, support material impregnated with an active component and, if desired, a promoter, where the catalyst bed comprises essentially no separate inert material for dilution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Ruprecht MeiBner, Michael Hesse, Christian Walsdorff
  • Publication number: 20010011150
    Abstract: A way to supplement the electrical component of all living organisms has been discovered, and is disclosed herein. This is accomplished by passing electrical currents through elements and/or compounds in an aqueous environment. The elements and/or compounds gather electrical energy from the electrical current. The energized or magnetized elements are then given to the living organisms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Robert N. Kirschbaum
  • Publication number: 20010011151
    Abstract: A magnetic field applicator to heat magnetic substances in biological tissue, having a magnetic yoke with two pole shoes across from each other and separated from each other by a distance that defines the magnetic field exposure volume produced by the applicator, and with two magnetic coils, one assigned to each of the two pole shoes, to produce a magnetic field. The magnetic yoke and the pole shoes consist of ferrite segments assembled together. Additionally, the magnetic field applicator is composed of a magnetic yoke having two parallel vertical yoke elements of identical geometry spaced apart a distance from each other, and two transverse yoke elements disposed between said vertical yoke elements. The pole shoes, surrounded by disk-shaped magnetic coils, are attached to the center of said transverse yoke elements and oppose each other over a prescribed distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Peter Feucht
  • Publication number: 20010011152
    Abstract: A core 5 is composed of a J-shaped front core portion 1, a J-shaped rear core portion 2, a U-shaped left core portion 3, and a U-shaped right core portion 4. These core portions 1 to 4 have one-side end portions which are substantially directed in one and the same direction and which are fixed to one another to thereby form a center portion 6. A coil 7 is wound on the center portion 6. The core 5 is attached to a core support member attached closely to a patient. In use, the coil apparatus is made close or near to the patient. When the coil 7 is supplied with a pulse current, pulse-like magnetic flux is generated in the purdendal nerve and pelvic floor muscle group of the patient so that an eddy current is induced. The patient in the region where magnetic flux is generated and an eddy current is generated, is stimulated sufficiently, so that urinary incontinence treatment is performed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Norio Ishikawa, Shin Suda
  • Publication number: 20010011153
    Abstract: A system and method for determining a reference baseline of individual patient status for use in an automated collection and analysis patient care system is described. A set of collected measures is retrieved from a medical device adapted to be implanted in a patient. The collected device measures set includes individual measures which each relate to patient information recorded by the medical device adapted to be implanted during an initial time period. The collected device measures set is received from the medical device adapted to be implanted over a communications link which is interfaced to a network server. The collected device measures set is stored into a patient care record for the individual patient within a database server organized to store one or more patient care records. The collected device measures set is processed into a set of reference measures. Each reference measure is representative of at least one of measured or derived patient information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Gust H. Bardy
  • Publication number: 20010011154
    Abstract: An automatic electrophysiological measuring apparatus to automatically penetrate a glass electrode(s) into the membrane of a Xenopus Oocyte to hold the membrane potential and to automatically measure reactions to the administration of a medicine is to be provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hirokazu Kato, Jun Otomo, Sayuri Nomura, Tomoko Takeshita, Sakae Saito, shokichi Matsunami, Noboru Moriya
  • Publication number: 20010011155
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for detecting in a sample a substance which responds to an applied magnetic field, such as a paramagnetic substance. The sample is placed in an applied magnetic field, and the effect of the sample on a performance characteristic such as resonance frequency of an electrical conductor is correlated to the presence of the substance. The method and apparatus may be adapted for qualitative and quantitative determination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Uri Rapoport
  • Publication number: 20010011156
    Abstract: A driver apparatus is provided for use with a biopsy instrument, the driver apparatus including a housing and an insertion mechanism including a carriage movably associated with the housing and adapted to support the biopsy instrument to affect longitudinal movement of at least a portion of the biopsy instrument. A linear motion control mechanism is also included that is adapted to move a tissue cutting element of the biopsy instrument from a first position to a second position relative to a tissue receiving portion of the biopsy instrument. Further, a tissue retract mechanism is included which facilitates removal of a tissue specimen from the biopsy instrument without removing the entire biopsy instrument from a surgical site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Frank J. Viola, James Dale, Arthur C. Stickney
  • Publication number: 20010011157
    Abstract: A sampling apparatus for interstitial fluid includes a pressure ring surrounding a collection needle. The pressure ring and needle are movable relative to one another for the ring to first engage a patient's skin surface prior to insertion of the needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Integ, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott T. Latterell, Paul D. Brinda, Michael E. Hilgers, Michael J. Shoup, Thomas B. Hoegh, Brian J. Erickson
  • Publication number: 20010011158
    Abstract: A method of joining two members of a medical device wherein at least one of the members has a thin layer of joinable material deposited on the surface thereof by vapor deposition, preferably, physical vapor deposition. A guidewire for advancement of intraluminal medical devices may be manufactured by depositing a thin layer of joinable material on the surface of a component which is made from a reactive alloy with a tenacious oxide layer. The thin layer of joinable material facilitates joining difficult to bond materials with other components of the guidewire. Physical vapor deposition may also be used to treat components of medical devices, such as distal guidewire segments, in order to alter their mechanical properties. Specifically, a pseudoelastic alloy segment may be made shapeable by vapor deposition of a non-pseudoelastic metal thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Johathan M. Howland
  • Publication number: 20010011159
    Abstract: The Chest-positioner/pad Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation System (CCPRS) provides improved resuscitation during one-person or two-person CPR. The simple, compact, portable and cost-effective system provides for manual, mechanical or electrical driven external chest compressions via a socket connection to a chest-positioner/pad unit. The chest-positioner/pad unit provides greater control of compression positioning providing adequate and reproducible chest compressions while preventing rib fractures and damage to vital internal organs. A module gives providers feedback to enable a provider to apply an appropriate compressive force in an appropriate direction, recurringly under emergency conditions. The present invention also provides improved blood circulation, oxygenation and gas exchange by expanding the chest past its normal relaxation point during diastole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Elroy T. Cantrell, Johannes Spijkerman
  • Publication number: 20010011160
    Abstract: A first drive shaft having a pair of eccentric shaft portions at its middle part and a second drive shaft on which a pair of eccentric cum bodies having eccentric cum portions are provided, are provided in a holding body. A pair of arms are provided on the eccentric shaft portions of the first drive shaft so as to freely oscillate and main massage rollers are provided on each of the arms. The kneading movement is assigned to the main massage rollers by a drive mechanism by selectively rotating the first drive shaft or the second drive shaft. Each arm is composed of an arm housing having a first opening portion, and an arm cover which forms a holding portion having a second opening portion, being bonded to the arm housing and holding a slider so as to freely slide between the bonded surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: France Bed Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshio Oguma, Shoji Oshita
  • Publication number: 20010011161
    Abstract: A medical probe device of this invention comprising a catheter having a control end and a probe end. The probe end includes a stylet guide housing having at least one stylet port and stylet guide means for directing a flexible stylet outward through at least one stylet port and through intervening tissue to targeted tissues. A stylet is positioned in at least one of said stylet guide means, the stylet comprising a non-conductive sleeve having a RF electrode lumen and an optional a fluid supply lumen and a temperature sensor lumen therein. At least one portion of an opposed surface of the electrode lumen and the electrode can be spaced apart to define a liquid supply passageway for delivery of medicament liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: VIDAMED, INC.
    Inventors: Stuart D. Edwards, Hugh R. Sharkey, Ingemar H. Lundquist, Ronald G. Lax, James Allen Baker
  • Publication number: 20010011162
    Abstract: Multipurpose fluid applicators, particularly suitable for surgical purposes, are disclosed. The applicators are specifically designed for dispensing various combinations of sterile pressurized gas, suction, irrigation and sealant agents, including a mixed liquid sealant agent. Preferred embodiments employ a dual-acting valve selectively to control the flow of gas or suction which valve is capable of simultaneously varying flow from a source and the venting of that flow to atmosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Gordon Howard Epstein
  • Publication number: 20010011163
    Abstract: An adapter includes a syringe carrier adapted to seat at least a portion of the syringe. The syringe carrier includes at least one rearward facing abutment member to abut at least one forward facing surface on a syringe. The syringe carrier includes an opening therein to allow a drive member of an injector to communicate forward force to the plunger through abutment without connective engagement between the drive member and the plunger. The adapter further includes a releasable mounting mechanism positioned to the rear of the syringe carrier to mount the adapter in a desired position relative to the front wall of the injector. An adapter includes a first section and a second section that are rotatable relative to each other about a hinge axis generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the adapter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: William J. Nolan, Michael A. Spohn, John Haury, Anthony S. McCoppin, Frank A. Lazzaro, Robert J. Ashcraft, James Albert Dedig, Christopher J. Blue, David H. Berry
  • Publication number: 20010011164
    Abstract: A catheter anchoring system is provided to securely anchor to a patient's skin a catheter and fluid supply tube interconnection. The anchoring system comprises a retainer configured to receive a catheter adaptor in a variety of positions. The adaptor interconnects the catheter and the fluid supply tube. In one embodiment the adaptor takes the form of a conical-shaped fitting permanently attached to the collar and includes a radially extending member that projects from the adaptor. The anchoring system additionally includes a flexible, adhesive anchor pad which supports a tube clip, as well as the retainer. The retainer includes a channel that is configured to receive the adaptor in a snap-fit manner. The retainer also includes a plurality of lateral slots. Each slot is sized to receive and to capture the radically extending member (e.g., an annular collar) of the adaptor to prevent the adaptor from sliding within the channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Steven F. Bierman
  • Publication number: 20010011165
    Abstract: This invention is in the general field of surgical instruments. It relates specifically to catheters which may be used in cardiovascular and endovascular procedures to deliver diagnostic, therapeutic, or vaso-occlusive agents to a target site within a human or animal body which is accessible by a system of natural passageways within that body. The catheters are coated in such a way that they are exceptionally slippery and the coating is very durable. The invention also relates to methods of coating the catheters and to methods of applying lubricious coatings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Erik T. Engelson, Robert Hergenrother, Joseph Eder
  • Publication number: 20010011166
    Abstract: An external medical drainage system is provided which has a slide interface between a mounting assembly to a pole, and a disposable drip assembly and a stopcock which snap-fits to the mounting assembly. The mounting assembly includes a clamp which is fastenable to the pole, and a support rail affixed to the clamp and which has a longitudinal slot that defines an open-face elongated channel. The drip assembly includes a key adjustably positionable within the channel, a graduated cylinder supported by the key, a drainage bag fluidly connected to the graduated cylinder, tubing extending from the graduated cylinder opposite the drainage bag, and a stopcock associated with the tubing and fixed to a clip. The stopcock clip snap-fits into clip-accepting notches of the clamp. A portion of the key disposed within the channel has a cross-sectioned configuration substantially matching the cross section of the channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Derek J. Harper, Lawrence L. Hampton
  • Publication number: 20010011167
    Abstract: A collection device for enabling the patient to self-collect substances from the body, such as fluids, secretions, cells, and infectious and non-infectious agents, takes the form in the case of substances from the genital, anal or urinary regions of a sanitary napkin used in a conventional manner in an undergarment and which comprises a porous outer sleeve open ended at one longitudinal end thereof and including upper and lower sheets. An outer surface of the lower sheet is provided with an impermeable sheet coated with an adhesive covered, before use of the sanitary napkin, with a removable protective peel-off strip. The sanitary napkin also comprises between the upper and lower sheet an absorbent layer and a removable sampling strip or filter, the latter being slidably received in the outer sleeve and extending between the upper sheet and the absorbent layer and protruding from the open end of the sleeve for removal from the sanitary napkin once bodily substances have collected thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Celine Bouchard, Carol Morin, Michel Fortier
  • Publication number: 20010011168
    Abstract: A pull-on disposable diaper is provided, in vicinity of transversely opposite side edges in a rear waist region, with fastening tape strips adapted to hold the diaper in its rolled up state for disposal after the diaper has been used, each of the tape strips includes a first portion extending longitudinally of the diaper parallel to the associated one of transversely opposite side edges and a second portion branched from the first portion and extends longitudinally of the diaper, longitudinally opposite end regions of the first portion are bonded to edges of waist- and leg-openings, and an anchoring zone adapted to be separably anchored on the outer peripheral surface of the rolled up diaper is defined on the second portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Takaaki Shimada, Seiji Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20010011169
    Abstract: This invention relates to absorbent tampons. More particularly, the invention relates to an improved absorbent tampon having improved leakage performance. Tampons, having a primary absorbent member which is constructed from an absorbent material compressed to a self-sustaining form and a mass of secondary absorbent material are disclosed. The mass of secondary absorbent material is preferably located generally proximate the withdrawal end of the primary absorbent member, and is preferably substantially non-compress, and preferably of a smaller diameter than the primary absorbent member. The mass of secondary absorbent material may be a multiple pieces or one piece. The secondary absorbent material may be attached to the primary absorbent member, the withdrawal cord, or both, or may be integral with one or both of these members. The withdrawal cord of the tampon may have absorbent and non-absorbent zones, especially when the mass of secondary absorbent material is attached to the withdrawal cord.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Fiona M. Taylor, Thomas W. Osborn, Kevin C. Strong, Gavin J. Broad, Karen A. Kreutz, George A.M. Butterworth
  • Publication number: 20010011170
    Abstract: A method of performing a surgical procedure on a body includes providing a cannula having a tubular structure with first and second tubular portions defining first and second passages for receiving surgical instruments. The second tubular portion is inserted inside the body and the first tubular portion is inserted so that the first tubular portion extends from an exterior of the body to inside the body. The second tubular portion expands to increase the cross-sectional area of the second passage in the second tubular portion while the second tubular portion is inside the body. The cross-sectional area of the first passage in the first tubular portion is maintained. The first tubular portion has a first thickness and the second tubular portion has a second thickness different than the first thickness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Endius Incorporated
    Inventors: Thomas W. Davison, Timothy E. Taylor, Adam Sher
  • Publication number: 20010011171
    Abstract: A drug delivery device including a needle assembly facilitates making intradermal injections using a variety of drug container types such as a syringe. A hub supports the needle while a limiter surrounds the needle. The limiter includes a skin engaging surface that is adapted to be received against the skin of an animal to be intradermally injected. A forward end of the needle extends beyond the skin engaging surface a selected distance to limit a depth that the needle penetrates into the animal's skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Paul G. Alchas
  • Publication number: 20010011172
    Abstract: A volar fixation system includes a T-shaped plate intended to be positioned against the volar side of the radial bone, a plurality of bone screws for securing the plate along an non-fractured portion of the radial bone, and a plurality of bone pegs which extend from the plate and into bone fragments of a Colles' fracture. The plate is a T-shaped plate including a plurality of screw holes and a plurality of threaded peg holes. According to a preferred aspect of the invention, pegs can be articulated through a range of angles within respective peg holes and fixed at a desired angle within the range. The volar plate is positioned against the radius and screws are inserted through the screw holes to secure the volar plate to the radius. The bone fragments are aligned, and the holes are drilled through the peg holes into the fragments. The pegs are inserted through the peg holes and into the drilled holes in the bone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2000
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Hand Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Jorge L. Orbay, James Leone
  • Publication number: 20010011173
    Abstract: A device for postoperative fixation back into the cranium of a plug of bone removed therefrom during a surgical operation. The device comprises a pin (11) and two concavoconvex disks (21 & 22) of a physiologically compatible metal or metal compound. The pin has a flat head (111) at one end and one (21) of the disks comes to rest against the head. Each disk has row of teeth (213 & 223), extending along the edge of the concave side and a bore (211 & 221) through the center. The shaft (112) of the pin fits into the bores. The disks can be mounted on the shaft with the teeth on each one facing the teeth on the other. The second disk can be fastened to the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Karl-Dieter Lerch
  • Publication number: 20010011174
    Abstract: A balloon for use in compressing cancellous bone and marrow (also known as medullary bone or trabecular bone) against the inner cortex of bones whether the bones are fractured or not. The balloon comprises an inflatable, non-expandable balloon body for insertion into said bone. The body has a shape and size to compress at least a portion of the cancellous bone to form a cavity in the cancellous bone and to restore the original position of the outer cortical bone, if fractured or collapsed. The balloon is prevented from applying excessive pressure to the outer cortical bone. The wall or walls of the balloon are such that proper inflation the balloon body is achieved to provide for optimum compression of all the bone marrow. The balloon is able to be folded so that it can be inserted quickly into a bone. The balloon can be made to have a suction catheter. The main purpose of the balloon is the forming or enlarging of a cavity or passage in a bone, especially in, but not limited to, vertebral bodies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Kyphon Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Reiley, Arie Scholten, Karen Talmadge
  • Publication number: 20010011175
    Abstract: A system for utilizing and registering at least two surgical navigation systems during stereotactic surgery. The system comprises a first surgical navigation system defining a first patient space, a second surgical navigation system defining a second patient space, and a translation device to register the coordinates of the first patient space to the coordinates of the second patient space. The translation device comprises a rigid body, at least one component for a first navigation system placed in or on the rigid body, and at least one component for a second navigation system placed in or on the rigid body, in known relation to the at least one component for the first navigation system. The translation device is positioned in a working volume of each of the at least two navigation systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Medtronic Surgical Navigation Technologies
    Inventors: Mark W. Hunter, Paul Kessman
  • Publication number: 20010011176
    Abstract: A handpiece tip having a set of longitudinally vibrating piezoelectric elements. To obtain oscillatory or torsional movement, a deep, spiral groove is cut on the exterior of the tip shaft. The groove translates longitudinal vibrations into oscillatory or torsional vibrations, and does not require the use of a specialized handpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Mikhail Boukhny
  • Publication number: 20010011177
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a method of bonding thermoplastic catheter parts to a metallic member such as hypotubing and the product formed. The polymeric material is hot pressed against the metallic member with sufficient pressure to ensure plastic deformation of the polymeric material. A fluid tight bond is formed which can withstand pressures of up to 650 psi.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric D. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20010011178
    Abstract: Medical balloons and balloon preforms are made by methods which include the step of selectively removing material from the proximal and/or distal ends of a segment. In the case of a thermoplastic material characterized by one or more glass transition temperatures, the segment may optionally be maintained at a temperature below the glass transition temperature of the segment during the material removal step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Daniel Keith Tomaschko, Daniel James Horn, Xiao Kang Zhang, Nao Pao Lee
  • Publication number: 20010011179
    Abstract: A catheter assembly including a balloon which incorporates a reverse-cone design for improved stent delivery. The reverse-cone design provides an inflatable area which extends longitudinally over the balloon waist. When folded or deflated, the portions of the balloon extending over the waist in conjunction with the waists provide a bulky mass onto which a stent may be securely crimped without the use of additional structure under the balloon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: SciMed Life System, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel O. Adams
  • Publication number: 20010011180
    Abstract: The invention is a dilation catheter which comprises an elongated catheter shaft, a guide wire tube, and an angioplasty balloon. The distal end of the balloon is attached to the distal portion of the guide wire tube, and the proximal portion of the balloon is attached to the distal portion of the catheter shaft. A stiffening wire is attached to the inner wall of the catheter shaft at a plurality of points along its length. The distal extremity of the guide wire tube is decreased in size relative to the proximal portion of the guide wire tube. A fluid is contained within the guide wire lumen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: AVE Connaught
    Inventors: Thomas K. Fitzmaurice, Paul Gilson, Patrick J. E. Duane
  • Publication number: 20010011181
    Abstract: A thrombus filter which can be securely fixed at a selected location in the vascular system of a patient and removed when no longer required. The thrombus filter includes a body portion and a plurality of struts, each strut having a joined end and a free end. The joined end of each strut is fixably attached to the body portion. The struts radiate outwardly from the body member such that the thrombus filter is generally conical in shape. The free end of each strut includes an anchor member. A weakened portion is disposed proximate the free end of each strut. When removal of the thrombus filter is desired, forces are applied to the thrombus filter causing the struts to break at the weakened portions proximate the free ends. When breaking of the struts has been accomplished, the thrombus filter may be freely pulled into the lumen of the retrieval catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Kristian DiMatteo
  • Publication number: 20010011182
    Abstract: A device for the removal of a blockage in a passageway such as a dialysis graft or in a body passageway includes a catheter for reception and aspiration of the blockage and an occlusion engaging element distal of the distal end of the catheter which occlusion engaging element is supported on a wire that extends through the catheter. At the distal end of the catheter, there is a device such as a multi-wing malecot expansion device that is expanded after the catheter is placed in position so as to block the occlusion from passing around the outside of the catheter. The support wire can be a movable core guide wire which has a braided device on its distal end. When the core is as distal as possible of the distal end of the shell, the braid is in a collapsed minimum diameter state for insertion through the catheter and through the occlusion. Proximal movement of the core causes the braid to expand to the wall of the graft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: William Dubrul, Richard Eustis Fulton
  • Publication number: 20010011183
    Abstract: A thin film capacitor for use in an implantable defibrillator. A first dielectric polymer filmlayer has a metallized film on one side thereof. A second dielectric polymer film layer has a metallized film on one side thereof. The first and second layers are overlain on each other and wound spirally with the metallized film of one layer adjacent the dielectric polymer of the other layer. The beginnings and ends of the first and second metallized films are offset from the respective beginnings and ends of the first and second polymer film layers. The dielectric layers can be tapered in increasing thickness toward the respective beginnings and ends of the layers. The dielectric layers can themselves comprise at least two layers of differing polymer materials, the preferred materials being polyvinylidene fluoride and polyester for improved energy density and self-healing properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Intermedics Inc.
    Inventor: Mohammed Zafar Amin Munshi
  • Publication number: 20010011184
    Abstract: A method is provided of localizing a drug action where the drug is present throughout a vascular system. The localization occurs to within a volume of blood in a blood vessel, the vascular system having an initial temperature substantially within a first temperature range. A temperature-specific enzyme is delivered throughout a vascular system including a volume of blood in a blood vessel, the temperature-specific enzyme having a working temperature within a prespecified temperature range that does not substantially overlap the first temperature range. A heat transfer element is delivered to a blood vessel in fluid communication with the volume of blood. The temperature of the heat transfer element is adjusted such that the volume of blood in the blood vessel is heated or cooled to the prespecified temperature range. In this way, the action of the temperature-specific enzyme is substantially limited to the volume of blood heated or cooled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: John D. Dobak, Juan C. Lasheras
  • Publication number: 20010011185
    Abstract: A selective organ heat transfer device with deep irregularities in a turbulence-inducing exterior surface. The device can have a plurality of elongated, articulated segments, each having a turbulence-inducing exterior surface. A flexible joint connects adjacent elongated, articulated segments. The flexible joint may be a rubber tube or a metal tube of a predetermined thickness. An inner lumen is disposed within the heat transfer segments. The inner lumen is capable of transporting a pressurized working fluid to a distal end of the heat transfer element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: John D. Dobak, Juan C. Lasheras
  • Publication number: 20010011186
    Abstract: An absorbent thermal bag made in accordance with the principles of the present invention includes an absorbent pad operatively associated with a thermal bag which can be regenerated in situ. The junction of the absorbent pad and the thermal bag defines an unobstructed perimeter area that is an area of the absorbent pad that extends beyond the thermal bag. The unobstructed perimeter area provides an area of improved absorption and allows the side-by-side simultaneous placement of the thermal bag and the absorbent pad on a wound site. The thermal bag can contain endothermic materials such as ice for cold therapy or, alternatively, exothermic materials for heat therapy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Daniel Kohout
  • Publication number: 20010011187
    Abstract: A multiple-sided medical device comprises a closed frame of a single piece of wire or other resilient material and having a series of bends and interconnecting sides. The device has both a flat configuration and a second, folded configuration that comprises a self-expanding stent. The stent is pushed from a delivery catheter into the lumen of a duct or vessel. One or more barbs are attached to the frame of the device for anchoring or to connect additional frames. A covering of fabric or other flexible material such as DACRON, PTFE, or collagen, is sutured or attached to the frame to form an occlusion device, a stent graft, or an artificial valve such as for correcting incompetent veins in the lower legs and feet. A partial, triangular-shaped covering over the lumen of the device allows the valve to open with normal blood flow and close to retrograde flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Dusan Pavcnik, Frederick S. Keller, Josef Rosch, Thomas A. Osborne
  • Publication number: 20010011188
    Abstract: An expandable, intraluminal tubular stent is provided for insertion and expansion within the lumen of a vessel. The stent includes a plurality of longitudinal struts. A series of arcuate or V-shaped end links are connected between the ends of the longitudinal struts. A series of deformable cross-links are circumferentially connected between adjacent longitudinal struts at a center portion of the longitudinal struts to permit the stent to be expanded from a first smaller diameter into a second larger diameter upon insertion into the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Joel L. Berry, James E. Moore
  • Publication number: 20010011189
    Abstract: A venous valve device and method of formation are described to provide antegrade blood flow in the deep venous vessels of the leg or in other venous vessels of the body having incompetent or irreversibly dysfunctional valves. A venous valve is formed in situ from autologous vein conduit not having a valve present locally. An overlap region is formed by attaching two opposing walls of the vein together in a generally axial direction forming two tubular regions. One region provides antegrade blood flow and the other region provides a sinus cavity that is filled during the initiation of retrograde blood flow. A valve cusp is formed by attaching vessel wall together forming a commissure that extends between the two overlap regions. A single valve cusp moves toward the sinus cavity to allow antegrade blood flow and moves away from the sinus cavity to block retrograde blood flow. Inlet and outlet transition regions can be formed to provide hemodynamic antegrade blood flow through the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: William J. Drasler, Joseph M. Thielen
  • Publication number: 20010011190
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a polymeric prosthesis precoated with a bone cement compatible polymer. The bone cement compatible polymer coating, is provided by an activated powder mixture of polymethyl methacrylate and ultra high molecular weight polyethylene which is bonded to the outer surface of the prosthesis by sintering. Once bonded to a polymeric prosthesis in accordance with the present invention, the precoat strengthens the interface between a bone cement and a prosthesis when the prosthesis is later implanted. The inner layer of the prosthesis may be provided of cross-linked UHMWPE powder sintered with virgin UHMWPE powder or fibers to provide a intermediate layer(s) of the coating present on the prosthesis. The precoat also decreases the likelihood that the prosthesis will loosen and break away from the cement over time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Joon B. Park
  • Publication number: 20010011191
    Abstract: The disclosure provides fusion implants, instruments and methods for insertion of the implants between opposing vertebral bodies to facilitate stabilization or arthrodesis of an intervertebral joint. A cross section through the longitudinal dimension of the implant is substantially configured in an “I” shape. In addition to other features, the implants of the invention provide a reduced contact surface area with the interior surface of a bore formed for receiving the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Sulzer Spine-Tech Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas W. Kohrs
  • Publication number: 20010011192
    Abstract: A modular glenoid assembly is provided for attachment to a glenoid surface of a scapula. The modular glenoid assembly includes a base adapted to couple with the glenoid surface and a bearing insert. The base includes a lip that defines a channel. The bearing insert includes a bearing surface adapted to engage a head portion of a humeral component and a tab. The tab is formed to be received within the channel and engage the lip when the insert is moved in a superior direction into position against the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Ondrla, James A. Caywood
  • Publication number: 20010011193
    Abstract: A shoulder endoprosthesis for fractures of the upper end of the humerus, comprising a humeral stem, adapted to be accommodated in an intramedullary canal of the humerus and provided with multiple longitudinal ribs, and a humeral proximal part, which is suitable to couple to one end of the stem, is provided with a plurality of lateral fins and has, at an upper end, a portion for engagement with a humeral head which is suitable to reconstruct the head of the humerus of the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: CREMASCOLI ORTHO S.A.
    Inventor: Livio Nogarin
  • Publication number: 20010011194
    Abstract: Graphical user interface methods are described. In a player/recorder system, a graphical user interface method allows central control of one or more tracks of a plurality of audio processing modules. The plurality of audio processing modules are connected to a computer system having a processor and a display. The method includes the steps of generating a first display portion on the display by the processor, the first display portion including one or more control boxes to control a corresponding one or more tracks of the plurality of audio processing modules and generating a second display portion on the display by the processor, the second display including a central control mechanism for controlling all of the one or more tracks of the audio processing modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 1997
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: JEFFREY M. CLAAR, ROGER M. DUVALL
  • Publication number: 20010011195
    Abstract: A recording and/or reproducing apparatus includes a microphone, a semiconductor memory, an operating section and a controller. An output signal from the microphone is written in the semiconductor memory and the written signals are read out from the semiconductor memory. The operating section performs input processing for writing a digital signal outputted by an analog/digital converter, reading out the digital signal stored in the semiconductor memory and for erasing the digital signal stored in the semiconductor memory. The control section controls the writing of the microphone output signal in the semiconductor memory based on an input from the operating section and the readout of the digital signal stored in the semiconductor memory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Kenichi Iida
  • Publication number: 20010011196
    Abstract: In a process information management system for effectively managing process information, the system comprises an application information file 26 for storing application information relating at least each main part for each kind of product, wherein, by selecting the application information which is stored in the application information file 26, the application information is added as information classification information for designating the selected application information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 1998
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Applicant: HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: MASAO NAGAOKA, TOYOZOU MORINAKA, ISAO ISOMURA
  • Publication number: 20010011197
    Abstract: An in-line programming (ILP) system and method for programming and testing programmable integrated circuit devices (PICs) and performing the assembly of printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs). Printed circuit boards enter and leave the ILP system on a conveyor system. PICs are loaded into the ILP system, and the ILP system automatically programs and tests the PICs and places them onto the PCBs as the PCBs arrive on the conveyor. The programming and testing operations are performed by the same piece of equipment that performs the PCBA assembly operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: William H. White